1
|
Jiang C, Wu J. Hypothesis: hematogenous metastatic cancer cells of solid tumors may disguise themselves as memory macrophages for metastasis. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1412296. [PMID: 39035733 PMCID: PMC11257992 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1412296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024] Open
Abstract
German pathologist Otto Aichel suggested, a century ago, that the cancer cell acquired its metastatic property from a leukocyte via cell-cell fusion. Since then, several revised versions of this theory have been proposed. Most of the proposals attribute the generation of the metastatic cancer cell to the fusion between a primary cancer cell and a macrophage. However, these theories have not addressed several issues, such as dormancy and stem cell-like self-renewal, of the metastatic cancer cell. On the other hand, recent studies have found that, like T- and B-/plasma cells, macrophages can also be categorized into naïve, effector, and memory/trained macrophages. As a memory/trained macrophage can enter dormancy/quiescence, be awakened from the dormancy/quiescence by acquainted primers, and re-populate via stem cell-like self-renewal, we, therefore, further specify that the macrophage fusing with the cancer cell and contributing to metastasis, belongs with the memory/trained macrophage, not other subtypes of macrophages. The current theory can explain many puzzling clinical features of cancer, including the paradoxal effects (recurrence vs. regression) of microbes on tumors, "spontaneous" and Coley's toxin-induced tumor regression, anticancer activities of β-blockers and anti-inflammatory/anti-immune/antibiotic drugs, oncotaxis, surgery- and trauma-promoted metastasis, and impact of microbiota on tumors. Potential therapeutic strategies, such as Coley's toxin-like preparations, are proposed. This is the last article of our trilogy on carcinogenesis theories.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chuo Jiang
- School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
- Central Laboratories, Shanghai Clinical Research Center Xuhui Central Hospital, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiaxi Wu
- Central Laboratories, Shanghai Clinical Research Center Xuhui Central Hospital, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- Office of Industrial Cooperation, Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Giatromanolaki A, Michos GD, Xanthopoulou E, Koukourakis MI. HLA-class-I expression loss, tumor microenvironment and breast cancer prognosis. Cell Immunol 2024; 399-400:104816. [PMID: 38507936 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellimm.2024.104816] [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: 12/07/2023] [Revised: 03/03/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
Loss of HLA-class-I molecule expression by cancer cells is a frequent event in human tumors that may lead to immune evasion from cytotoxic T-cells. We examined the expression patterns of HLA-class-I molecules in a series of 175 patients with operable breast cancer (BCa). Extensive loss of BCa cell HLA-class-I expression was noted 76.6 % of patients (27.5 % complete loss). A significant association of HLA-preservation with high TIL-density (p = 0.001) was documented. Preservation of HLA was evident only in BCa carcinomas with low HIF1α expression and high TIL-density. Cell line experiments (MCF7 and T47D) showed that induction of HLAs in cancer cells following incubation with lymphocytes or IFNγ, was abrogated under hypoxic conditions. HLA-preservation was linked with better distant metastasis-free survival (p = 0.01), which was confirmed also in multivariate analysis (p = 0.02, HR 3.17). Studying the expression of HLA-class-I molecules in parallel with TIL-density and HIF1α expression may identify subgroups of BCa patients who would benefit from immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Giatromanolaki
- Department of Pathology, University Hospital of Alexandroupolis, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Georgios D Michos
- Department of Pathology, University Hospital of Alexandroupolis, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Erasmia Xanthopoulou
- Department of Radiotherapy / Oncology, University Hospital of Alexandroupolis, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Michael I Koukourakis
- Department of Radiotherapy / Oncology, University Hospital of Alexandroupolis, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
McWhorter R, Bonavida B. The Role of TAMs in the Regulation of Tumor Cell Resistance to Chemotherapy. Crit Rev Oncog 2024; 29:97-125. [PMID: 38989740 DOI: 10.1615/critrevoncog.2024053667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/12/2024]
Abstract
Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are the predominant cell infiltrate in the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). TAMs are central to fostering pro-inflammatory conditions, tumor growth, metastasis, and inhibiting therapy responses. Many cancer patients are innately refractory to chemotherapy and or develop resistance following initial treatments. There is a clinical correlation between the level of TAMs in the TME and chemoresistance. Hence, the pivotal role of TAMs in contributing to chemoresistance has garnered significant attention toward targeting TAMs to reverse this resistance. A prerequisite for such an approach requires a thorough understanding of the various underlying mechanisms by which TAMs inhibit response to chemotherapeutic drugs. Such mechanisms include enhancing drug efflux, regulating drug metabolism and detoxification, supporting cancer stem cell (CSCs) resistance, promoting epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), inhibiting drug penetration and its metabolism, stimulating angiogenesis, impacting inhibitory STAT3/NF-κB survival pathways, and releasing specific inhibitory cytokines including TGF-β and IL-10. Accordingly, several strategies have been developed to overcome TAM-modulated chemoresistance. These include novel therapies that aim to deplete TAMs, repolarize them toward the anti-tumor M1-like phenotype, or block recruitment of monocytes into the TME. Current results from TAM-targeted treatments have been unimpressive; however, the use of TAM-targeted therapies in combination appears promising These include targeting TAMs with radiotherapy, chemotherapy, chemokine receptor inhibitors, immunotherapy, and loaded nanoparticles. The clinical limitations of these strategies are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Benjamin Bonavida
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, & Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Johnson Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90025-1747, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Hekmatirad S, Moloudizargari M, Fallah M, Rahimi A, Poortahmasebi V, Asghari MH. Cancer-associated immune cells and their modulation by melatonin. Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol 2023; 45:788-801. [PMID: 37489565 DOI: 10.1080/08923973.2023.2239489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Rapidly growing evidence suggests that immune cells play a key role in determining tumor progression. Tumor cells are surrounded by a microenvironment composed of different cell populations including immune cells. The cross talk between tumor cells and the neighboring microenvironment is an important factor to take into account while designing tumor therapies. Despite significant advances in immunotherapy strategies, a relatively small proportion of patients have successfully responded to them. Therefore, the search for safe and efficient drugs, which could be used alongside conventional therapies to boost the immune system against tumors, is an ongoing need. In the present work, the modulatory effects of melatonin on different components of tumor immune microenvironment are reviewed. METHODS A thorough literature review was performed in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. All published papers in English on tumor immune microenvironment and the relevant modulatory effects of melatonin were scrutinized. RESULTS Melatonin modulates macrophage polarization and prevents M2 induction. Moreover, it prevents the conversion of fibroblasts into cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and prevents cancer cell stemness. In addition, it can affect the payload composition of tumor-derived exosomes (TEXs) and their secretion levels to favor a more effective anti-tumor immune response. Melatonin is a safe molecule that affects almost all components of the tumor immune microenvironment and prevents them from being negatively affected by the tumor. CONCLUSION Based on the effects of melatonin on normal cells, tumor cells and microenvironment components, it could be an efficient compound to be used in combination with conventional immune-targeted therapies to increase their efficacy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shirin Hekmatirad
- Department of Toxicology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Marjan Fallah
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medicinal Plant Research Centre, Islamic Azad University, Amol, Iran
| | - Atena Rahimi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Vahdat Poortahmasebi
- Department of Bacteriology and Virology, School of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hossein Asghari
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Mandt T, Bangar A, Sauceda C, Das M, Moderbacher C, Ghani M, Webster N, Newton I. Stimulating Antitumoral Immunity by Percutaneous Cryoablation and Combination Immunoadjuvant Therapy in a Murine Model of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. J Vasc Interv Radiol 2023; 34:1516-1527.e6. [PMID: 37178816 PMCID: PMC10852103 DOI: 10.1016/j.jvir.2023.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To test the hypothesis that antitumoral immunity can be induced after cryoablation (cryo) of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) through coadministration of the immunostimulant CpG and an immune checkpoint (programmed cell death 1 [PD-1]) inhibitor. MATERIALS AND METHODS Sixty-three immunocompetent C57BL/6J mice were generated with 2 orthotopic HCC tumor foci: 1 for treatment and 1 to observe for antitumoral immunity. Tumors were treated with incomplete cryo alone or intratumoral CpG and/or a PD-1 inhibitor. The primary endpoint was death or when the following criteria for sacrifice were met: tumor > 1 cm (determined using ultrasound) or moribund state. Antitumoral immunity was assessed using flow cytometry and histology (tumor and liver) as well as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (serum). Analysis of variance was used for statistical comparisons. RESULTS At 1 week, the nonablated satellite tumor growth was reduced by 1.9-fold (P = .047) in the cryo + CpG group and by 2.8-fold (P = .007) in the cryo + CpG + PD-1 group compared with that in the cryo group. Compared with cryo alone, the time to tumor progression to endpoints was also prolonged for cryo + CpG + PD-1 and cryo + CpG mice, with log-rank hazard ratios of 0.42 (P = .031) and 0.27 (P < .001), respectively. Flow cytometry and histology showed increased cytotoxic T-cell infiltration (P = .002) and serum levels of the proinflammatory cytokine interferon-γ (P = .015) in tumors and serum of cryo + CpG mice compared with those in tumors and serum of mice treated with cryo alone. High serum levels of the anti-inflammatory cytokine tumor growth factor-β and the proangiogenesis chemokine C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 1 were correlated with a shorter time to endpoints and faster tumor growth. CONCLUSIONS Cryo combined with the immunostimulant CpG promoted cytotoxic T-cell infiltration into tumors, slowed tumor growth, and prolonged the time to progression to endpoints in an aggressive murine HCC model.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tyler Mandt
- Health Department of Radiology, University of California San Diego, San Diego
| | - Amandip Bangar
- Health Department of Radiology, University of California San Diego, San Diego
| | - Consuelo Sauceda
- Health Department of Radiology, University of California San Diego, San Diego
| | - Manasi Das
- Health Department of Radiology, University of California San Diego, San Diego
| | | | - Mansur Ghani
- Health Department of Radiology, University of California San Diego, San Diego
| | - Nicholas Webster
- San Diego Veteran's Affairs, University of California San Diego, San Diego
| | - Isabel Newton
- San Diego Veteran's Affairs, University of California San Diego, San Diego.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Wen M, Li Y, Qin X, Qin B, Wang Q. Insight into Cancer Immunity: MHCs, Immune Cells and Commensal Microbiota. Cells 2023; 12:1882. [PMID: 37508545 PMCID: PMC10378520 DOI: 10.3390/cells12141882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer cells circumvent immune surveillance via diverse strategies. In accordance, a large number of complex studies of the immune system focusing on tumor cell recognition have revealed new insights and strategies developed, largely through major histocompatibility complexes (MHCs). As one of them, tumor-specific MHC-II expression (tsMHC-II) can facilitate immune surveillance to detect tumor antigens, and thereby has been used in immunotherapy, including superior cancer prognosis, clinical sensitivity to immune checkpoint inhibition (ICI) therapy and tumor-bearing rejection in mice. NK cells play a unique role in enhancing innate immune responses, accounting for part of the response including immunosurveillance and immunoregulation. NK cells are also capable of initiating the response of the adaptive immune system to cancer immunotherapy independent of cytotoxic T cells, clearly demonstrating a link between NK cell function and the efficacy of cancer immunotherapies. Eosinophils were shown to feature pleiotropic activities against a variety of solid tumor types, including direct interactions with tumor cells, and accessorily affect immunotherapeutic response through intricating cross-talk with lymphocytes. Additionally, microbial sequencing and reconstitution revealed that commensal microbiota might be involved in the modulation of cancer progression, including positive and negative regulatory bacteria. They may play functional roles in not only mucosal modulation, but also systemic immune responses. Here, we present a panorama of the cancer immune network mediated by MHCI/II molecules, immune cells and commensal microbiota and a discussion of prospective relevant intervening mechanisms involved in cancer immunotherapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Minting Wen
- School of Life Science, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Yingjing Li
- School of Life Science, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Xiaonan Qin
- School of Life Science, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Bing Qin
- School of Life Science, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Qiong Wang
- School of Life Science, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Han YP, Lin HW, Li H. Cancer Stem Cells in Tumours of the Central Nervous System in Children: A Comprehensive Review. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3154. [PMID: 37370764 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15123154] [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: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a subgroup of cells found in various kinds of tumours with stem cell characteristics, such as self-renewal, induced differentiation, and tumourigenicity. The existence of CSCs is regarded as a major source of tumour recurrence, metastasis, and resistance to conventional chemotherapy and radiation treatment. Tumours of the central nervous system (CNS) are the most common solid tumours in children, which have many different types including highly malignant embryonal tumours and midline gliomas, and low-grade gliomas with favourable prognoses. Stem cells from the CNS tumours have been largely found and reported by researchers in the last decade and their roles in tumour biology have been deeply studied. However, the cross-talk of CSCs among different CNS tumour types and their clinical impacts have been rarely discussed. This article comprehensively reviews the achievements in research on CSCs in paediatric CNS tumours. Biological functions, diagnostic values, and therapeutic perspectives are reviewed in detail. Further investigations into CSCs are warranted to improve the clinical practice in treating children with CNS tumours.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Peng Han
- Department of Neurosurgery, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, National Children's Medical Center, Shanghai 201102, China
| | - Hou-Wei Lin
- Department of Paediatric Urology, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, China
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, Jiaxing Women and Children Hospital Affiliated to Jiaxing University, Jiaxing 314001, China
| | - Hao Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, National Children's Medical Center, Shanghai 201102, China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Nahas GR, Sherman LS, Sinha G, El Far MH, Petryna A, Munoz SM, Silverio KA, Shaker M, Neopane P, Mariotti V, Rameshwar P. Increased expression of musashi 1 on breast cancer cells has implication to understand dormancy and survival in bone marrow. Aging (Albany NY) 2023; 15:3230-3248. [PMID: 36996499 PMCID: PMC10449290 DOI: 10.18632/aging.204620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) stem cells (CSCs) resist treatment and can exist as dormant cells in tissues such as the bone marrow (BM). Years before clinical diagnosis, BC cells (BCCs) could migrate from the primary site where the BM niche cells facilitate dedifferentiation into CSCs. Additionally, dedifferentiation could occur by cell autonomous methods. Here we studied the role of Msi 1, a RNA-binding protein, Musashi I (Msi 1). We also analyzed its relationship with the T-cell inhibitory molecule programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) in CSCs. PD-L1 is an immune checkpoint that is a target in immune therapy for cancers. Msi 1 can support BCC growth through stabilization of oncogenic transcripts and modulation of stem cell-related gene expression. We reported on a role for Msi 1 to maintain CSCs. This seemed to occur by the differentiation of CSCs to more matured BCCs. This correlated with increased transition from cycling quiescence and reduced expression of stem cell-linked genes. CSCs co-expressed Msi 1 and PD-L1. Msi 1 knockdown led to a significant decrease in CSCs with undetectable PD-L1. This study has implications for Msi 1 as a therapeutic target, in combination with immune checkpoint inhibitor. Such treatment could also prevent dedifferentiation of breast cancer to CSCs, and to reverse tumor dormancy. The proposed combined treatment might be appropriate for other solid tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- George R. Nahas
- Department of Medicine, Hematology-Oncology, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Lauren S. Sherman
- Department of Medicine, Hematology-Oncology, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
- Rutgers School of Graduate Studies at New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Garima Sinha
- Department of Medicine, Hematology-Oncology, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
- Rutgers School of Graduate Studies at New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Markos H. El Far
- Department of Medicine, Hematology-Oncology, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Andrew Petryna
- Department of Medicine, Hematology-Oncology, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
- Rutgers School of Graduate Studies at New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Steven M. Munoz
- Department of Medicine, Hematology-Oncology, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Kimberly A. Silverio
- Department of Medicine, Hematology-Oncology, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
- Rutgers School of Graduate Studies at New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Maran Shaker
- Department of Medicine, Hematology-Oncology, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
- Rutgers School of Graduate Studies at New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Pujan Neopane
- Department of Medicine, Hematology-Oncology, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Veronica Mariotti
- Department of Medicine, Hematology-Oncology, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Pranela Rameshwar
- Department of Medicine, Hematology-Oncology, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Desai N, Hasan U, K J, Mani R, Chauhan M, Basu SM, Giri J. Biomaterial-based platforms for modulating immune components against cancer and cancer stem cells. Acta Biomater 2023; 161:1-36. [PMID: 36907233 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2023.03.004] [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: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023]
Abstract
Immunotherapy involves the therapeutic alteration of the patient's immune system to identify, target, and eliminate cancer cells. Dendritic cells, macrophages, myeloid-derived suppressor cells, and regulatory T cells make up the tumor microenvironment. In cancer, these immune components (in association with some non-immune cell populations like cancer-associated fibroblasts) are directly altered at a cellular level. By dominating immune cells with molecular cross-talk, cancer cells can proliferate unchecked. Current clinical immunotherapy strategies are limited to conventional adoptive cell therapy or immune checkpoint blockade. Targeting and modulating key immune components presents an effective opportunity. Immunostimulatory drugs are a research hotspot, but their poor pharmacokinetics, low tumor accumulation, and non-specific systemic toxicity limit their use. This review describes the cutting-edge research undertaken in the field of nanotechnology and material science to develop biomaterials-based platforms as effective immunotherapeutics. Various biomaterial types (polymer-based, lipid-based, carbon-based, cell-derived, etc.) and functionalization methodologies for modulating tumor-associated immune/non-immune cells are explored. Additionally, emphasis has been laid on discussing how these platforms can be used against cancer stem cells, a fundamental contributor to chemoresistance, tumor relapse/metastasis, and failure of immunotherapy. Overall, this comprehensive review strives to provide up-to-date information to an audience working at the juncture of biomaterials and cancer immunotherapy. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Cancer immunotherapy possesses incredible potential and has successfully transitioned into a clinically lucrative alternative to conventional anti-cancer therapies. With new immunotherapeutics getting rapid clinical approval, fundamental problems associated with the dynamic nature of the immune system (like limited clinical response rates and autoimmunity-related adverse effects) have remained unanswered. In this context, treatment approaches that focus on modulating the compromised immune components within the tumor microenvironment have garnered significant attention amongst the scientific community. This review aims to provide a critical discussion on how various biomaterials (polymer-based, lipid-based, carbon-based, cell-derived, etc.) can be employed along with immunostimulatory agents to design innovative platforms for selective immunotherapy directed against cancer and cancer stem cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nimeet Desai
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Telangana, India
| | - Uzma Hasan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Telangana, India; Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Telangana, India
| | - Jeyashree K
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Telangana, India
| | - Rajesh Mani
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Telangana, India
| | - Meenakshi Chauhan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Telangana, India
| | - Suparna Mercy Basu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Telangana, India
| | - Jyotsnendu Giri
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Telangana, India.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
TRUONG NC, HUYNH NT, PHAM KD, PHAM PV. Roles of cancer stem cells in cancer immune surveillance. MINERVA BIOTECHNOLOGY AND BIOMOLECULAR RESEARCH 2023. [DOI: 10.23736/s2724-542x.23.02944-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/31/2023]
|
11
|
Manni W, Min W. Signaling pathways in the regulation of cancer stem cells and associated targeted therapy. MedComm (Beijing) 2022; 3:e176. [PMID: 36226253 PMCID: PMC9534377 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 08/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are defined as a subpopulation of malignant tumor cells with selective capacities for tumor initiation, self-renewal, metastasis, and unlimited growth into bulks, which are believed as a major cause of progressive tumor phenotypes, including recurrence, metastasis, and treatment failure. A number of signaling pathways are involved in the maintenance of stem cell properties and survival of CSCs, including well-established intrinsic pathways, such as the Notch, Wnt, and Hedgehog signaling, and extrinsic pathways, such as the vascular microenvironment and tumor-associated immune cells. There is also intricate crosstalk between these signal cascades and other oncogenic pathways. Thus, targeting pathway molecules that regulate CSCs provides a new option for the treatment of therapy-resistant or -refractory tumors. These treatments include small molecule inhibitors, monoclonal antibodies that target key signaling in CSCs, as well as CSC-directed immunotherapies that harness the immune systems to target CSCs. This review aims to provide an overview of the regulating networks and their immune interactions involved in CSC development. We also address the update on the development of CSC-directed therapeutics, with a special focus on those with application approval or under clinical evaluation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wang Manni
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduP. R. China
| | - Wu Min
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine and Health SciencesUniversity of North DakotaGrand ForksNorth DakotaUSA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Ma XY, Hill BD, Hoang T, Wen F. Virus-inspired strategies for cancer therapy. Semin Cancer Biol 2022; 86:1143-1157. [PMID: 34182141 PMCID: PMC8710185 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2021.06.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Revised: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
The intentional use of viruses for cancer therapy dates back over a century. As viruses are inherently immunogenic and naturally optimized delivery vehicles, repurposing viruses for drug delivery, tumor antigen presentation, or selective replication in cancer cells represents a simple and elegant approach to cancer treatment. While early virotherapy was fraught with harsh side effects and low response rates, virus-based therapies have recently seen a resurgence due to newfound abilities to engineer and tune oncolytic viruses, virus-like particles, and virus-mimicking nanoparticles for improved safety and efficacy. However, despite their great potential, very few virus-based therapies have made it through clinical trials. In this review, we present an overview of virus-inspired approaches for cancer therapy, discuss engineering strategies to enhance their mechanisms of action, and highlight their application for overcoming the challenges of traditional cancer therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Yin Ma
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
| | - Brett D Hill
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
| | - Trang Hoang
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
| | - Fei Wen
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Xavier FCA, Silva JC, Rodini CO, Rodrigues MFSD. Mechanisms of immune evasion by head and neck cancer stem cells. FRONTIERS IN ORAL HEALTH 2022; 3:957310. [PMID: 35982868 PMCID: PMC9378780 DOI: 10.3389/froh.2022.957310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Different mechanisms are involved in immune escape surveillance driven by Oral and Head and Neck Cancer Stem Cells (HNCSCs). The purpose of this review is to show the most current knowledge regarding the main impact of HNCSCs on tumor evasion through immunosuppression, CSCs phenotypes and environmental signals, highlighting strategies to overcome immune evasion. The main results drive the participation of cell surface receptors and secreted products and ligands, the crosstalk between cells, and genetic regulation. The reduction in CD8+ T cell recruitment and decreased effector of anti-PD-1 therapy by cells expressing BMI1 is a key event; Natural Killer cell ligands and cytokines needed for its activation and expansion are crucial to control tumor growth and to target CSCs by immunotherapy; CSCs expressing ALDH1 are related to increased expression of PD-L1, with a positive link between DNMT3b expression; CD276 expression in CSCs can act as a checkpoint inhibitor and together with Activator Protein 1 (AP-1) activation, they create continuous positive feedback that enables immune evasion by suppressing CD8+ T cells and prevent immune cell infiltration in head and neck cancer. These data demonstrate the relevance of the better understanding of the interaction between HNCSCs and immune cells in the tumor microenvironment. The ultimate clinical implication is to ground the choice of optimized targets and improve immune recognition for ongoing treatments as well as the response to approved immunotherapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Flávia Caló Aquino Xavier
- Laboratory of Oral Surgical Pathology, School of Dentistry, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, BA, Brazil
| | - Jamerson Carvalho Silva
- Laboratory of Oral Surgical Pathology, School of Dentistry, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, BA, Brazil
| | - Camila Oliveira Rodini
- Department of Biological Sciences, Bauru School of Dentistry, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Liao F, Zhang J, Hu Y, Najafabadi AH, Moon JJ, Wicha MS, Kaspo B, Whitfield J, Chang AE, Li Q. Efficacy of an ALDH peptide-based dendritic cell vaccine targeting cancer stem cells. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2022; 71:1959-1973. [DOI: 10.1007/s00262-021-03129-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
|
15
|
Regulation of the Cancer Stem Phenotype by Long Non-Coding RNAs. Cells 2022; 11:cells11152352. [PMID: 35954194 PMCID: PMC9367355 DOI: 10.3390/cells11152352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Revised: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells are a cell population within malignant tumors that are characterized by the ability to self-renew, the presence of specific molecules that define their identity, the ability to form malignant tumors in vivo, resistance to drugs, and the ability to invade and migrate to other regions of the body. These characteristics are regulated by various molecules, such as lncRNAs, which are transcripts that generally do not code for proteins but regulate multiple biological processes through various mechanisms of action. LncRNAs, such as HOTAIR, H19, LncTCF7, LUCAT1, MALAT1, LINC00511, and FMR1-AS1, have been described as key regulators of stemness in cancer, allowing cancer cells to acquire this phenotype. It has been proposed that cancer stem cells are clinically responsible for the high recurrence rates after treatment and the high frequency of metastasis in malignant tumors, so understanding the mechanisms that regulate the stem phenotype could have an impact on the improvement of cancer treatments.
Collapse
|
16
|
Sahoo OS, Pethusamy K, Srivastava TP, Talukdar J, Alqahtani MS, Abbas M, Dhar R, Karmakar S. The metabolic addiction of cancer stem cells. Front Oncol 2022; 12:955892. [PMID: 35957877 PMCID: PMC9357939 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.955892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSC) are the minor population of cancer originating cells that have the capacity of self-renewal, differentiation, and tumorigenicity (when transplanted into an immunocompromised animal). These low-copy number cell populations are believed to be resistant to conventional chemo and radiotherapy. It was reported that metabolic adaptation of these elusive cell populations is to a large extent responsible for their survival and distant metastasis. Warburg effect is a hallmark of most cancer in which the cancer cells prefer to metabolize glucose anaerobically, even under normoxic conditions. Warburg's aerobic glycolysis produces ATP efficiently promoting cell proliferation by reprogramming metabolism to increase glucose uptake and stimulating lactate production. This metabolic adaptation also seems to contribute to chemoresistance and immune evasion, a prerequisite for cancer cell survival and proliferation. Though we know a lot about metabolic fine-tuning in cancer, what is still in shadow is the identity of upstream regulators that orchestrates this process. Epigenetic modification of key metabolic enzymes seems to play a decisive role in this. By altering the metabolic flux, cancer cells polarize the biochemical reactions to selectively generate "onco-metabolites" that provide an added advantage for cell proliferation and survival. In this review, we explored the metabolic-epigenetic circuity in relation to cancer growth and proliferation and establish the fact how cancer cells may be addicted to specific metabolic pathways to meet their needs. Interestingly, even the immune system is re-calibrated to adapt to this altered scenario. Knowing the details is crucial for selective targeting of cancer stem cells by choking the rate-limiting stems and crucial branch points, preventing the formation of onco-metabolites.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Om Saswat Sahoo
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of technology, Durgapur, India
| | - Karthikeyan Pethusamy
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | | | - Joyeeta Talukdar
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Mohammed S. Alqahtani
- Radiological Sciences Department, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
- BioImaging Unit, Space Research Centre, Michael Atiyah Building, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Mohamed Abbas
- Electrical Engineering Department, College of Engineering, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
- Computers and communications Department, College of Engineering, Delta University for Science and Technology, Gamasa, Egypt
| | - Ruby Dhar
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Subhradip Karmakar
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Rezayatmand H, Razmkhah M, Razeghian-Jahromi I. Drug resistance in cancer therapy: the Pandora's Box of cancer stem cells. Stem Cell Res Ther 2022; 13:181. [PMID: 35505363 PMCID: PMC9066908 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-022-02856-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Drug resistance is the main culprit of failure in cancer therapy that may lead to cancer relapse. This resistance mostly originates from rare, but impactful presence of cancer stem cells (CSCs). Ability to self-renewal and differentiation into heterogeneous cancer cells, and harboring morphologically and phenotypically distinct cells are prominent features of CSCs. Also, CSCs substantially contribute to metastatic dissemination. They possess several mechanisms that help them to survive even after exposure to chemotherapy drugs. Although chemotherapy is able to destroy the bulk of tumor cells, CSCs are left almost intact, and make tumor entity resistant to treatment. Eradication of a tumor mass needs complete removal of tumor cells as well as CSCs. Therefore, it is important to elucidate key features underlying drug resistance raised by CSCs in order to apply effective treatment strategies. However, the challenging point that threatens safety and specificity of chemotherapy is the common characteristics between CSCs and normal peers such as signaling pathways and markers. In the present study, we tried to present a comprehensive appraisal on CSCs, mechanisms of their drug resistance, and recent therapeutic methods targeting this type of noxious cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Mahboobeh Razmkhah
- Shiraz Institute for Cancer Research, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Iman Razeghian-Jahromi
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, 3rd Floor, Mohammad Rasoolallah Research Tower, Namazi Hospital, Shiraz, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Hsieh HL, Yu MC, Cheng LC, Yeh TS, Tsai MM. Molecular mechanism of therapeutic approaches for human gastric cancer stem cells. World J Stem Cells 2022; 14:76-91. [PMID: 35126829 PMCID: PMC8788185 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v14.i1.76] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2021] [Revised: 05/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer (GC) is a primary cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide, and even after therapeutic gastrectomy, survival rates remain poor. The presence of gastric cancer stem cells (GCSCs) is thought to be the major reason for resistance to anticancer treatment (chemotherapy or radiotherapy), and for the development of tumor recurrence, epithelial–mesenchymal transition, and metastases. Additionally, GCSCs have the capacity for self-renewal, differentiation, and tumor initiation. They also synthesize antiapoptotic factors, demonstrate higher performance of drug efflux pumps, and display cell plasticity abilities. Moreover, the tumor microenvironment (TME; tumor niche) that surrounds GCSCs contains secreted growth factors and supports angiogenesis and is thus responsible for the maintenance of the growing tumor. However, the genesis of GCSCs is unclear and exploration of the source of GCSCs is essential. In this review, we provide up-to-date information about GCSC-surface/intracellular markers and GCSC-mediated pathways and their role in tumor development. This information will support improved diagnosis, novel therapeutic approaches, and better prognosis using GCSC-targeting agents as a potentially effective treatment choice following surgical resection or in combination with chemotherapy and radiotherapy. To date, most anti-GCSC blockers when used alone have been reported as unsatisfactory anticancer agents. However, when used in combination with adjuvant therapy, treatment can improve. By providing insights into the molecular mechanisms of GCSCs associated with tumors in GC, the aim is to optimize anti-GCSCs molecular approaches for GC therapy in combination with chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or other adjuvant treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hsi-Lung Hsieh
- Department of Nursing, Division of Basic Medical Sciences, Chang-Gung University of Science and Technology, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
- Research Center for Chinese Herbal Medicine, College of Human Ecology, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
- Department of Neurology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Chin Yu
- Department of General Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
- Department of General Surgery, New Taipei Municipal TuCheng Hospital, New Taipei 236, Taiwan
| | - Li-Ching Cheng
- Department of Nursing, Division of Basic Medical Sciences, Chang-Gung University of Science and Technology, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
| | - Ta-Sen Yeh
- Department of General Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Ming Tsai
- Department of Nursing, Division of Basic Medical Sciences, Chang-Gung University of Science and Technology, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
- Research Center for Chinese Herbal Medicine, College of Human Ecology, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
- Department of General Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chiayi 613, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Comparetti EJ, Ferreira NN, Ferreira LMB, Kaneno R, Zucolotto V. Immunomodulatory properties of nanostructured systems for cancer therapy. J Biomed Mater Res A 2022; 110:1166-1181. [PMID: 35043549 DOI: 10.1002/jbm.a.37359] [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: 09/19/2021] [Revised: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Based on statistical data reported in 2020, cancer was responsible for approximately 10 million deaths. Furthermore, 17 million new cases were diagnosed worldwide. Nanomedicine and immunotherapy have shown satisfactory clinical results among all scientific and technological alternatives for the treatment of cancer patients. Immunotherapy-based treatments comprise the consideration of new alternatives to hinder neoplastic proliferation and to reduce adverse events in the body, thereby promoting immune destruction of diseased cells. Additionally, nanostructured systems have been proven to elicit specific immune responses that may enhance anti-tumor activity. A new generation of nanomedicines, based on biomimetic and bioinspired systems, has been proposed to target tumors by providing immunomodulatory features and by enabling recovery of human immune destruction capacity against cancer cells. This review provides an overview of the aspects and the mechanisms by which nanomedicines can be used to enhance clinical procedures using the immune modulatory responses of nanoparticles (NPs) in the host defense system. We initially outline the cancer statistics for conventional and new treatment approaches providing a brief description of the human host defense system and basic principles of NP interactions with monocytes, leukocytes, and dendritic cells for the modulation of antitumor immune responses. A report on different biomimetic and bioinspired systems is also presented here and their particularities in cancer treatments are addressed, highlighting their immunomodulatory properties. Finally, we propose future perspectives regarding this new therapeutic strategy, highlighting the main challenges for future use in clinical practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Edson J Comparetti
- Nanomedicine and Nanotoxicology Group, Physics Institute of São Carlos, University of São Paulo, São Carlos, Brazil
| | - Natalia N Ferreira
- Nanomedicine and Nanotoxicology Group, Physics Institute of São Carlos, University of São Paulo, São Carlos, Brazil
| | - Leonardo M B Ferreira
- Nanomedicine and Nanotoxicology Group, Physics Institute of São Carlos, University of São Paulo, São Carlos, Brazil
| | - Ramon Kaneno
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Biosciences of Botucatu, São Paulo State University, Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Valtencir Zucolotto
- Nanomedicine and Nanotoxicology Group, Physics Institute of São Carlos, University of São Paulo, São Carlos, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Wilczyński JR. Cancer Stem Cells: An Ever-Hiding Foe. EXPERIENTIA SUPPLEMENTUM (2012) 2022; 113:219-251. [PMID: 35165866 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-91311-3_8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells are a population of cells enable to reproduce the original phenotype of the tumor and capable to self-renewal, which is crucial for tumor proliferation, differentiation, recurrence, and metastasis, as well as chemoresistance. Therefore, the cancer stem cells (CSCs) have become one of the main targets for anticancer therapy and many ongoing clinical trials test anti-CSCs efficacy of plenty of drugs. This chapter describes CSCs starting from general description of this cell population, through CSCs markers, signaling pathways, genetic and epigenetic regulation, role of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) transition and autophagy, cooperation with microenvironment (CSCs niche), and finally role of CSCs in escaping host immunosurveillance against cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jacek R Wilczyński
- Department of Gynecologic Surgery and Gynecologic Oncology, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Wei R, Quan J, Li S, Liu H, Guan X, Jiang Z, Wang X. Integrative Analysis of Biomarkers Through Machine Learning Identifies Stemness Features in Colorectal Cancer. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:724860. [PMID: 34568334 PMCID: PMC8456021 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.724860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Cancer stem cells (CSCs), which are characterized by self-renewal and plasticity, are highly correlated with tumor metastasis and drug resistance. To fully understand the role of CSCs in colorectal cancer (CRC), we evaluated the stemness traits and prognostic value of stemness-related genes in CRC. Methods: In this study, the data from 616 CRC patients from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) were assessed and subtyped based on the mRNA expression-based stemness index (mRNAsi). The correlations of cancer stemness with the immune microenvironment, tumor mutational burden (TMB), and N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA methylation regulators were analyzed. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was performed to identify the crucial stemness-related genes and modules. Furthermore, a prognostic expression signature was constructed using the Lasso-penalized Cox regression analysis. The signature was validated via multiplex immunofluorescence staining of tissue samples in an independent cohort of 48 CRC patients. Results: This study suggests that high-mRNAsi scores are associated with poor overall survival in stage IV CRC patients. Moreover, the levels of TMB and m6A RNA methylation regulators were positively correlated with mRNAsi scores, and low-mRNAsi scores were characterized by increased immune activity in CRC. The analysis identified 34 key genes as candidate prognosis biomarkers. Finally, a three-gene prognostic signature (PARPBP, KNSTRN, and KIF2C) was explored together with specific clinical features to construct a nomogram, which was successfully validated in an external cohort. Conclusion: There is a unique correlation between CSCs and the prognosis of CRC patients, and the novel biomarkers related to cell stemness could accurately predict the clinical outcomes of these patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ran Wei
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jichuan Quan
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Shuofeng Li
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Hengchang Liu
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xu Guan
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Zheng Jiang
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xishan Wang
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Ghosh S, Juin SK, Bhattacharyya Majumdar S, Majumdar S. Crucial role of glucosylceramide synthase in the regulation of stem cell-like cancer cells in B16F10 murine melanoma. Mol Carcinog 2021; 60:840-858. [PMID: 34516706 DOI: 10.1002/mc.23347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 08/15/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells render a complex cascade of events that facilitates highly invasive melanoma malignancy. Interplay between immunocytes and cancer stem cells within tumor microenvironment with the participation of sphingolipid signaling mediators skews the immune evasion strategies toward metastatic neoplasm. In this context, we aimed to explore the functional aspect of glucosylceramide synthase (GCS), a key enzyme of sphingolipid biosynthesis in the maintenance of melanoma stem cell-like cancer cells (CSCs). Our findings demonstrated that tumor hypoxia was responsible for elevated GCS expression in melanoma, which was correlated with substantially increased melanoma CSCs. Moreover, hypoxia-induced TGF-β from TAMs and Tregs promoted GCS induction in B16F10 murine melanoma CSCs via PKCα signaling and facilitated the expansion of melanoma CSCs. Interestingly, GCS ablation hindered the immunosuppressiveness of TAMs and Tregs. Therefore, our study for the first time demonstrated a novel paracrine pathway of melanoma CSC maintenance and tumorigenicity, exploiting the bidirectional signaling with immunocytes. Furthermore, our study showed that the combinatorial immunotherapy involving immunomodulators like Mw and DTA-1 repressed CSC pool affecting GCS functions in advanced-stage B16F10 murine melanoma tumor. Moreover, GCS inhibition sensitized conventional chemotherapeutic drug-resistant melanoma CSCs to the genotoxic drugs paving the way toward selective melanoma treatment. Better therapeutic efficacy with inhibition of GCS and CSC depletion suggests a crucial role of GCS in melanoma treatment, therefore, implying its application concerning clinical challenges of chemotherapy resistance leading to prolonged survival.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sweta Ghosh
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Bose Institute, Kolkata, India
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Modulating cell differentiation in cancer models. Biochem Soc Trans 2021; 49:1803-1816. [PMID: 34436513 DOI: 10.1042/bst20210230] [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: 06/14/2021] [Revised: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Cancer has been traditionally viewed as a disease characterised by excessive and uncontrolled proliferation, leading to the development of cytotoxic therapies against highly proliferating malignant cells. However, tumours frequently relapse due to the presence of slow-cycling cancer stem cells eluding chemo and radiotherapy. Since these malignant stem cells are largely undifferentiated, inducing their lineage commitment has been proposed as a potential intervention strategy to deplete tumours from their most resistant components. Pro-differentiation approaches have thus far yielded clinical success in the reversion of acute promyelocytic leukaemia (APL), and new developments are fast widening their therapeutic applicability to solid carcinomas. Recent advances in cancer differentiation discussed here highlight the potential and outstanding challenges of differentiation-based approaches.
Collapse
|
24
|
Hazini A, Fisher K, Seymour L. Deregulation of HLA-I in cancer and its central importance for immunotherapy. J Immunother Cancer 2021; 9:e002899. [PMID: 34353849 PMCID: PMC8344275 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2021-002899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
It is now well accepted that many tumors undergo a process of clonal selection which means that tumor antigens arising at various stages of tumor progression are likely to be represented in just a subset of tumor cells. This process is thought to be driven by constant immunosurveillance which applies selective pressure by eliminating tumor cells expressing antigens that are recognized by T cells. It is becoming increasingly clear that the same selective pressure may also select for tumor cells that evade immune detection by acquiring deficiencies in their human leucocyte antigen (HLA) presentation pathways, allowing important tumor antigens to persist within cells undetected by the immune system. Deficiencies in antigen presentation pathway can arise by a variety of mechanisms, including genetic and epigenetic changes, and functional antigen presentation is a hard phenomenon to assess using our standard analytical techniques. Nevertheless, it is likely to have profound clinical significance and could well define whether an individual patient will respond to a particular type of therapy or not. In this review we consider the mechanisms by which HLA function may be lost in clinical disease, we assess the implications for current immunotherapy approaches using checkpoint inhibitors and examine the prognostic impact of HLA loss demonstrated in clinical trials so far. Finally, we propose strategies that might be explored for possible patient stratification.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ahmet Hazini
- Department of Oncology, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxfordshire, UK
| | - Kerry Fisher
- Department of Oncology, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxfordshire, UK
| | - Len Seymour
- Department of Oncology, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxfordshire, UK
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Zhang Q, Yu J, Chen Q, Yan H, Du H, Luo W. Regulation of pathophysiological and tissue regenerative functions of MSCs mediated via the WNT signaling pathway (Review). Mol Med Rep 2021; 24:648. [PMID: 34278470 PMCID: PMC8299209 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2021.12287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Tissues have remarkable natural capabilities to regenerate for the purpose of physiological turnover and repair of damage. Adult mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are well known for their unique self-renewal ability, pluripotency, homing potential, paracrine effects and immunomodulation. Advanced research of the unique properties of MSCs have opened up new horizons for tissue regenerative therapies. However, certain drawbacks of the application of MSCs, such as the low survival rate of transplanted MSCs, unsatisfactory efficiency and even failure to regenerate under an unbalanced microenvironment, are concerning with regards to their wider therapeutic applications. The activity of stem cells is mainly regulated by the anatomical niche; where they are placed during their clinical and therapeutic applications. Crosstalk between various niche signals maintains MSCs in homeostasis, in which the WNT signaling pathway plays vital roles. Several external or internal stimuli have been reported to interrupt the normal bioactivity of stem cells. The irreversible tissue loss that occurs during infection at the site of tissue grafting suggests an inhibitory effect mediated by microbial infections within MSC niches. In addition, MSC-seeded tissue engineering success is difficult in various tissues, when sites of injury are under the effects of a severe infection despite the immunomodulatory properties of MSCs. In the present review, the current understanding of the way in which WNT signaling regulates MSC activity modification under physiological and pathological conditions was summarized. An effort was also made to illustrate parts of the underlying mechanism, including the inflammatory factors and their interactions with the regulatory WNT signaling pathway, aiming to promote the clinical translation of MSC-based therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qingtao Zhang
- Department of Stomatology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310085, P.R. China
| | - Jian Yu
- Department of Stomatology, Zhejiang Hospital, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310030, P.R. China
| | - Qiuqiu Chen
- Department of Stomatology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310085, P.R. China
| | - Honghai Yan
- Department of Stomatology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310085, P.R. China
| | - Hongjiang Du
- Department of Stomatology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310085, P.R. China
| | - Wenjing Luo
- Department of General Dentistry, Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Lei MML, Lee TKW. Cancer Stem Cells: Emerging Key Players in Immune Evasion of Cancers. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:692940. [PMID: 34235155 PMCID: PMC8257022 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.692940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are subpopulations of undifferentiated cancer cells within the tumor bulk that are responsible for tumor initiation, recurrence and therapeutic resistance. The enhanced ability of CSCs to give rise to new tumors suggests potential roles of these cells in the evasion of immune surveillance. A growing body of evidence has described the interplay between CSCs and immune cells within the tumor microenvironment (TME). Recent data have shown the pivotal role of some major immune cells in driving the expansion of CSCs, which concurrently elicit evasion of the detection and destruction of various immune cells through a number of distinct mechanisms. Here, we will discuss the role of immune cells in driving the stemness of cancer cells and provide evidence of how CSCs evade immune surveillance by exerting their effects on tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), dendritic cells (DCs), myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), T-regulatory (Treg) cells, natural killer (NK) cells, and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs). The knowledge gained from the interaction between CSCs and various immune cells will provide insight into the mechanisms by which tumors evade immune surveillance. In conclusion, CSC-targeted immunotherapy emerges as a novel immunotherapy strategy against cancer by disrupting the interaction between immune cells and CSCs in the TME.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martina Mang Leng Lei
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Terence Kin Wah Lee
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong.,State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Shrestha R, Bridle KR, Cao L, Crawford DHG, Jayachandran A. Dual Targeting of Sorafenib-Resistant HCC-Derived Cancer Stem Cells. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 28:2150-2172. [PMID: 34208001 PMCID: PMC8293268 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol28030200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Revised: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Sorafenib, an oral multi-tyrosine kinase inhibitor, has been the first-line therapy for the treatment of patients with advanced HCC, providing a survival benefit of only three months in approximately 30% of patients. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a rare tumour subpopulation with self-renewal and differentiation capabilities, and have been implicated in tumour growth, recurrence and drug resistance. The process of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) contributes to the generation and maintenance of the CSC population, resulting in immune evasion and therapy resistance in several cancers, including HCC. The aim of this study is to target the chemoresistant CSC population in HCC by assessing the effectiveness of a combination treatment approach with Sorafenib, an EMT inhibitor and an immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI). A stem-cell-conditioned serum-free medium was utilised to enrich the CSC population from the human HCC cell lines Hep3B, PLC/PRF/5 and HepG2. The anchorage independent spheres were characterised for CSC features. The human HCC-derived spheres were assessed for EMT status and expression of immune checkpoint molecules. The effect of combination treatment with SB431542, an EMT inhibitor, and siRNA-mediated knockdown of programmed cell death protein ligand-1 (PD-L1) or CD73 along with Sorafenib on human HCC-derived CSCs was examined with cell viability and apoptosis assays. The three-dimensional spheres enriched from human HCC cell lines demonstrated CSC-like features. The human HCC-derived CSCs also exhibited the EMT phenotype along with the upregulation of immune checkpoint molecules. The combined treatment with SB431542 and siRNA-mediated PD-L1 or CD73 knockdown effectively enhanced the cytotoxicity of Sorafenib against the CSC population compared to Sorafenib alone, as evidenced by the reduced size and proliferation of spheres. Furthermore, the combination treatment of Sorafenib with SB431542 and PD-L1 or CD73 siRNA resulted in an increased proportion of an apoptotic population, as evidenced by flow cytometry analysis. In conclusion, the combined targeting of EMT and immune checkpoint molecules with Sorafenib can effectively target the CSC tumour subpopulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ritu Shrestha
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4120, Australia; (R.S.); (K.R.B.); (L.C.); (D.H.G.C.)
- Gallipoli Medical Research Institute, Greenslopes Private Hospital, Brisbane, QLD 4120, Australia
| | - Kim R. Bridle
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4120, Australia; (R.S.); (K.R.B.); (L.C.); (D.H.G.C.)
- Gallipoli Medical Research Institute, Greenslopes Private Hospital, Brisbane, QLD 4120, Australia
| | - Lu Cao
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4120, Australia; (R.S.); (K.R.B.); (L.C.); (D.H.G.C.)
- Gallipoli Medical Research Institute, Greenslopes Private Hospital, Brisbane, QLD 4120, Australia
| | - Darrell H. G. Crawford
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4120, Australia; (R.S.); (K.R.B.); (L.C.); (D.H.G.C.)
- Gallipoli Medical Research Institute, Greenslopes Private Hospital, Brisbane, QLD 4120, Australia
| | - Aparna Jayachandran
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4120, Australia; (R.S.); (K.R.B.); (L.C.); (D.H.G.C.)
- Gallipoli Medical Research Institute, Greenslopes Private Hospital, Brisbane, QLD 4120, Australia
- Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute, Ballarat, VIC 3350, Australia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +61-4-2424-8058
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Khalaf K, Hana D, Chou JTT, Singh C, Mackiewicz A, Kaczmarek M. Aspects of the Tumor Microenvironment Involved in Immune Resistance and Drug Resistance. Front Immunol 2021; 12:656364. [PMID: 34122412 PMCID: PMC8190405 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.656364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 199] [Impact Index Per Article: 66.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a complex and ever-changing "rogue organ" composed of its own blood supply, lymphatic and nervous systems, stroma, immune cells and extracellular matrix (ECM). These complex components, utilizing both benign and malignant cells, nurture the harsh, immunosuppressive and nutrient-deficient environment necessary for tumor cell growth, proliferation and phenotypic flexibility and variation. An important aspect of the TME is cellular crosstalk and cell-to-ECM communication. This interaction induces the release of soluble factors responsible for immune evasion and ECM remodeling, which further contribute to therapy resistance. Other aspects are the presence of exosomes contributed by both malignant and benign cells, circulating deregulated microRNAs and TME-specific metabolic patterns which further potentiate the progression and/or resistance to therapy. In addition to biochemical signaling, specific TME characteristics such as the hypoxic environment, metabolic derangements, and abnormal mechanical forces have been implicated in the development of treatment resistance. In this review, we will provide an overview of tumor microenvironmental composition, structure, and features that influence immune suppression and contribute to treatment resistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Khalil Khalaf
- Department of Cancer Diagnostics and Immunology, Greater Poland Cancer Center, Poznań, Poland
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Doris Hana
- Department of Cancer Diagnostics and Immunology, Greater Poland Cancer Center, Poznań, Poland
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Jadzia Tin-Tsen Chou
- Department of Cancer Diagnostics and Immunology, Greater Poland Cancer Center, Poznań, Poland
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Chandpreet Singh
- Department of Cancer Diagnostics and Immunology, Greater Poland Cancer Center, Poznań, Poland
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Andrzej Mackiewicz
- Department of Cancer Diagnostics and Immunology, Greater Poland Cancer Center, Poznań, Poland
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Mariusz Kaczmarek
- Department of Cancer Diagnostics and Immunology, Greater Poland Cancer Center, Poznań, Poland
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Lin T, Peng W, Mai P, Zhang E, Peng L. Human Gastric Cancer Stem Cell (GCSC) Markers Are Prognostic Factors Correlated With Immune Infiltration of Gastric Cancer. Front Mol Biosci 2021; 8:626966. [PMID: 34113647 PMCID: PMC8185345 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.626966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The prognosis of patients with gastric cancer (GC) is still unsatisfying. Numerous markers of gastric cancer stem cells (GCSCs) have been identified and were thought to be related to cancer aggressiveness. However, the roles of GCSC markers in GC patients’ prognosis and immune infiltration remain unknown. Expression of GCSC markers was analyzed using Oncomine and Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA). Their associations with clinicopathological parameters were analyzed using UALCAN and LinkedOmics. Alternations and protein expression of GCSC markers were analyzed by cBioPortal and the Human Protein Atlas databases, respectively. The prognostic significance of GCSC markers was evaluated using Kaplan-Meier plotter. Correlations between the expression of GCSC markers and immune infiltration along with biomarkers of tumor-infiltrating immune cells (TIICs) were assessed combined Tumor Immune Estimation Resource and GEPIA. GeneMANIA was used to discover the interactive genes of GCSC markers, and enrichment analysis was performed using Database for Annotation, Visualization, and Integrated Discovery server. We identified six GCSC markers significantly up-expressed in GC, compared with normal stomach tissues. Among them, the overexpression of ICAM1, THY1, and CXCR4 significantly indicated adverse, while EPCAM indicated beneficial clinicopathological features of GC patients. The up-regulation of CXCR4 showed unfavorable prognostic significance, whereas EPCAM and TFRC showed the opposite. The six GCSC markers were all correlated with the infiltration and activation of distinct TIICs. Especially, ICAM1, THY1, and CXCR4 showed strongly positive correlations with tumor-associated macrophages. Besides, chemokine, Toll-like receptor, NF-kappa B, and HIF-1 signaling pathways might be involved in the regulation of GCSC markers on cancer development. This study proposed that GCSC markers might be promising targets of GC treatment to weaken cancer stem-like properties and strengthen anticancer immunity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tong Lin
- The Fourth Clinical Medical School, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, China
| | - Wenya Peng
- The Fourth Clinical Medical School, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, China
| | - Peipei Mai
- The Fourth Clinical Medical School, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, China
| | - E Zhang
- The Fourth Clinical Medical School, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, China
| | - Lisheng Peng
- Department of Science and Education, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Lone SN, Bhat AA, Wani NA, Karedath T, Hashem S, Nisar S, Singh M, Bagga P, Das BC, Bedognetti D, Reddy R, Frenneaux MP, El-Rifai W, Siddiqi MA, Haris M, Macha MA. miRNAs as novel immunoregulators in cancer. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2021; 124:3-14. [PMID: 33926791 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2021.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2021] [Revised: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The immune system is a well-known vital regulator of tumor growth, and one of the main hallmarks of cancer is evading the immune system. Immune system deregulation can lead to immune surveillance evasion, sustained cancer growth, proliferation, and metastasis. Tumor-mediated disruption of the immune system is accomplished by different mechanisms that involve extensive crosstalk with the immediate microenvironment, which includes endothelial cells, immune cells, and stromal cells, to create a favorable tumor niche that facilitates the development of cancer. The essential role of non-coding RNAs such as microRNAs (miRNAs) in the mechanism of cancer cell immune evasion has been highlighted in recent studies. miRNAs are small non-coding RNAs that regulate a wide range of post-transcriptional gene expression in a cell. Recent studies have focused on the function that miRNAs play in controlling the expression of target proteins linked to immune modulation. Studies show that miRNAs modulate the immune response in cancers by regulating the expression of different immune-modulatory molecules associated with immune effector cells, such as macrophages, dendritic cells, B-cells, and natural killer cells, as well as those present in tumor cells and the tumor microenvironment. This review explores the relationship between miRNAs, their altered patterns of expression in tumors, immune modulation, and the functional control of a wide range of immune cells, thereby offering detailed insights on the crosstalk of tumor-immune cells and their use as prognostic markers or therapeutic agents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Saife N Lone
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Kashmir, Ganderbal, Jammu & Kashmir, India
| | - Ajaz A Bhat
- Molecular and Metabolic Imaging Laboratory, Cancer Research Department, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar
| | - Nissar A Wani
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Kashmir, Ganderbal, Jammu & Kashmir, India
| | | | - Sheema Hashem
- Molecular and Metabolic Imaging Laboratory, Cancer Research Department, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar
| | - Sabah Nisar
- Molecular and Metabolic Imaging Laboratory, Cancer Research Department, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar
| | - Mayank Singh
- Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Institute Rotary Cancer Hospital (BRAIRCH), AIIMS, New Delhi, India
| | - Puneet Bagga
- Diagnostic Imaging, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Bhudev Chandra Das
- Amity Institute of Molecular Medicine and Stem Cell Research, Amity University, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Davide Bedognetti
- Laboratory of Cancer Immunogenomics, Cancer Research Department, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar; Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy; College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ravinder Reddy
- Department of Radiology, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
| | | | - Wael El-Rifai
- Department of Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Mushtaq A Siddiqi
- Watson-Crick Centre for Molecular Medicine, Islamic University of Science and Technology, India
| | - Mohammad Haris
- Molecular and Metabolic Imaging Laboratory, Cancer Research Department, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar; Laboratory Animal Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Muzafar A Macha
- Watson-Crick Centre for Molecular Medicine, Islamic University of Science and Technology, India.
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Witte KE, Hertel O, Windmöller BA, Helweg LP, Höving AL, Knabbe C, Busche T, Greiner JFW, Kalinowski J, Noll T, Mertzlufft F, Beshay M, Pfitzenmaier J, Kaltschmidt B, Kaltschmidt C, Banz-Jansen C, Simon M. Nanopore Sequencing Reveals Global Transcriptome Signatures of Mitochondrial and Ribosomal Gene Expressions in Various Human Cancer Stem-like Cell Populations. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13051136. [PMID: 33800955 PMCID: PMC7962028 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13051136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Revised: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Cancer is the leading cause of death in the industrialized world. In particular, so-called cancer stem cells (CSCs) play a crucial role in disease progression, as they are known to contribute to tumor growth and metastasis. Thus, CSCs are heavily investigated in a broad range of cancers. Nevertheless, global transcriptomic profiling of CSC populations derived from different tumor types is rare. We established three CSC populations from tumors in the uterus, brain, lung, and prostate and assessed their global transcriptomes using nanopore full-length cDNA sequencing, a new technique to assess insights into global gene profile. We observed common expression in all CSCs for distinct genes encoding proteins for organelles, such as ribosomes, mitochondria, and proteasomes. Additionally, we detected high expressions of inflammation- and immunity-related genes. Conclusively, we observed high similarities between all CSCs independent of their tumor of origin, which may build the basis for identifying novel therapeutic strategies targeting CSCs. Abstract Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are crucial mediators of tumor growth, metastasis, therapy resistance, and recurrence in a broad variety of human cancers. Although their biology is increasingly investigated within the distinct types of cancer, direct comparisons of CSCs from different tumor types allowing comprehensive mechanistic insights are rarely assessed. In the present study, we isolated CSCs from endometrioid carcinomas, glioblastoma multiforme as well as adenocarcinomas of lung and prostate and assessed their global transcriptomes using full-length cDNA nanopore sequencing. Despite the expression of common CSC markers, principal component analysis showed a distinct separation of the CSC populations into three clusters independent of the specific type of tumor. However, GO-term and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis revealed upregulated genes related to ribosomal biosynthesis, the mitochondrion, oxidative phosphorylation, and glycolytic pathways, as well as the proteasome, suggesting a great extent of metabolic flexibility in CSCs. Interestingly, the GO term “NF-kB binding” was likewise found to be elevated in all investigated CSC populations. In summary, we here provide evidence for high global transcriptional similarities between CSCs from various tumors, which particularly share upregulated gene expression associated with mitochondrial and ribosomal activity. Our findings may build the basis for identifying novel therapeutic strategies targeting CSCs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kaya E. Witte
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Biology, University of Bielefeld, Universitätsstrasse 25, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany; (B.A.W.); (L.P.H.); (A.L.H.); (J.F.W.G.); (B.K.); (C.K.)
- Forschungsverbund BioMedizin Bielefeld, OWL (FBMB e.V.), Maraweg 21, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany; (C.K.); (F.M.); (M.B.); (J.P.); (C.B.-J.); (M.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-521-106-5629
| | - Oliver Hertel
- Department of Cell Culture Technology, Faculty of Technology, University of Bielefeld, Universitätsstrasse 25, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany; (O.H.); (T.N.)
- Center for Biotechnology-CeBiTec, University of Bielefeld, Universitätsstrasse 27, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany; (T.B.); (J.K.)
| | - Beatrice A. Windmöller
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Biology, University of Bielefeld, Universitätsstrasse 25, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany; (B.A.W.); (L.P.H.); (A.L.H.); (J.F.W.G.); (B.K.); (C.K.)
- Forschungsverbund BioMedizin Bielefeld, OWL (FBMB e.V.), Maraweg 21, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany; (C.K.); (F.M.); (M.B.); (J.P.); (C.B.-J.); (M.S.)
| | - Laureen P. Helweg
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Biology, University of Bielefeld, Universitätsstrasse 25, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany; (B.A.W.); (L.P.H.); (A.L.H.); (J.F.W.G.); (B.K.); (C.K.)
- Forschungsverbund BioMedizin Bielefeld, OWL (FBMB e.V.), Maraweg 21, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany; (C.K.); (F.M.); (M.B.); (J.P.); (C.B.-J.); (M.S.)
| | - Anna L. Höving
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Biology, University of Bielefeld, Universitätsstrasse 25, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany; (B.A.W.); (L.P.H.); (A.L.H.); (J.F.W.G.); (B.K.); (C.K.)
- Heart and Diabetes Centre NRW, Institute for Laboratory and Transfusion Medicine, Ruhr-University Bochum, 32545 Bad Oeynhausen, Germany
| | - Cornelius Knabbe
- Forschungsverbund BioMedizin Bielefeld, OWL (FBMB e.V.), Maraweg 21, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany; (C.K.); (F.M.); (M.B.); (J.P.); (C.B.-J.); (M.S.)
- Heart and Diabetes Centre NRW, Institute for Laboratory and Transfusion Medicine, Ruhr-University Bochum, 32545 Bad Oeynhausen, Germany
| | - Tobias Busche
- Center for Biotechnology-CeBiTec, University of Bielefeld, Universitätsstrasse 27, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany; (T.B.); (J.K.)
| | - Johannes F. W. Greiner
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Biology, University of Bielefeld, Universitätsstrasse 25, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany; (B.A.W.); (L.P.H.); (A.L.H.); (J.F.W.G.); (B.K.); (C.K.)
- Forschungsverbund BioMedizin Bielefeld, OWL (FBMB e.V.), Maraweg 21, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany; (C.K.); (F.M.); (M.B.); (J.P.); (C.B.-J.); (M.S.)
| | - Jörn Kalinowski
- Center for Biotechnology-CeBiTec, University of Bielefeld, Universitätsstrasse 27, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany; (T.B.); (J.K.)
| | - Thomas Noll
- Department of Cell Culture Technology, Faculty of Technology, University of Bielefeld, Universitätsstrasse 25, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany; (O.H.); (T.N.)
- Center for Biotechnology-CeBiTec, University of Bielefeld, Universitätsstrasse 27, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany; (T.B.); (J.K.)
| | - Fritz Mertzlufft
- Forschungsverbund BioMedizin Bielefeld, OWL (FBMB e.V.), Maraweg 21, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany; (C.K.); (F.M.); (M.B.); (J.P.); (C.B.-J.); (M.S.)
- Scientific Director of the Protestant Hospital of Bethel Foundation, University Medical School OWL at Bielefeld, Bielefeld University, Campus Bielefeld-Bethel, Maraweg 21, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Morris Beshay
- Forschungsverbund BioMedizin Bielefeld, OWL (FBMB e.V.), Maraweg 21, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany; (C.K.); (F.M.); (M.B.); (J.P.); (C.B.-J.); (M.S.)
- Department for Thoracic Surgery and Pneumology, Protestant Hospital of Bethel Foundation, University Medical School OWL at Bielefeld, Bielefeld University, Campus Bielefeld-Bethel, Burgsteig 13, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Jesco Pfitzenmaier
- Forschungsverbund BioMedizin Bielefeld, OWL (FBMB e.V.), Maraweg 21, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany; (C.K.); (F.M.); (M.B.); (J.P.); (C.B.-J.); (M.S.)
- Department of Urology and Center for Computer-Assisted and Robotic Urology, Protestant Hospital of Bethel Foundation, University Medical School OWL at Bielefeld, Bielefeld University, Campus Bielefeld-Bethel, Burgsteig 13, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Barbara Kaltschmidt
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Biology, University of Bielefeld, Universitätsstrasse 25, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany; (B.A.W.); (L.P.H.); (A.L.H.); (J.F.W.G.); (B.K.); (C.K.)
- Forschungsverbund BioMedizin Bielefeld, OWL (FBMB e.V.), Maraweg 21, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany; (C.K.); (F.M.); (M.B.); (J.P.); (C.B.-J.); (M.S.)
- Molecular Neurobiology, Faculty of Biology, Bielefeld University, Universitätsstrasse 25, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Christian Kaltschmidt
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Biology, University of Bielefeld, Universitätsstrasse 25, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany; (B.A.W.); (L.P.H.); (A.L.H.); (J.F.W.G.); (B.K.); (C.K.)
- Forschungsverbund BioMedizin Bielefeld, OWL (FBMB e.V.), Maraweg 21, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany; (C.K.); (F.M.); (M.B.); (J.P.); (C.B.-J.); (M.S.)
| | - Constanze Banz-Jansen
- Forschungsverbund BioMedizin Bielefeld, OWL (FBMB e.V.), Maraweg 21, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany; (C.K.); (F.M.); (M.B.); (J.P.); (C.B.-J.); (M.S.)
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, and Perinatal Center, Protestant Hospital of Bethel Foundation, University Medical School OWL at Bielefeld, Bielefeld University, Campus Bielefeld-Bethel, Burgsteig 13, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Matthias Simon
- Forschungsverbund BioMedizin Bielefeld, OWL (FBMB e.V.), Maraweg 21, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany; (C.K.); (F.M.); (M.B.); (J.P.); (C.B.-J.); (M.S.)
- Department of Neurosurgery and Epilepsy Surgery, Protestant Hospital of Bethel Foundation, University Medical School OWL at Bielefeld, Bielefeld University, Campus Bielefeld-Bethel, Burgsteig 13, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Shukla A, Cloutier M, Appiya Santharam M, Ramanathan S, Ilangumaran S. The MHC Class-I Transactivator NLRC5: Implications to Cancer Immunology and Potential Applications to Cancer Immunotherapy. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22041964. [PMID: 33671123 PMCID: PMC7922096 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22041964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Revised: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The immune system constantly monitors the emergence of cancerous cells and eliminates them. CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs), which kill tumor cells and provide antitumor immunity, select their targets by recognizing tumor antigenic peptides presented by MHC class-I (MHC-I) molecules. Cancer cells circumvent immune surveillance using diverse strategies. A key mechanism of cancer immune evasion is downregulation of MHC-I and key proteins of the antigen processing and presentation machinery (APM). Even though impaired MHC-I expression in cancers is well-known, reversing the MHC-I defects remains the least advanced area of tumor immunology. The discoveries that NLRC5 is the key transcriptional activator of MHC-I and APM genes, and genetic lesions and epigenetic modifications of NLRC5 are the most common cause of MHC-I defects in cancers, have raised the hopes for restoring MHC-I expression. Here, we provide an overview of cancer immunity mediated by CD8+ T cells and the functions of NLRC5 in MHC-I antigen presentation pathways. We describe the impressive advances made in understanding the regulation of NLRC5 expression, the data supporting the antitumor functions of NLRC5 and a few reports that argue for a pro-tumorigenic role. Finally, we explore the possible avenues of exploiting NLRC5 for cancer immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Akhil Shukla
- Department of Immunology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1H 5N4, Canada; (A.S.); (M.C.); (M.A.S.); (S.R.)
| | - Maryse Cloutier
- Department of Immunology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1H 5N4, Canada; (A.S.); (M.C.); (M.A.S.); (S.R.)
| | - Madanraj Appiya Santharam
- Department of Immunology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1H 5N4, Canada; (A.S.); (M.C.); (M.A.S.); (S.R.)
| | - Sheela Ramanathan
- Department of Immunology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1H 5N4, Canada; (A.S.); (M.C.); (M.A.S.); (S.R.)
- CRCHUS, Centre Hospitalier de l’Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1H5N4, Canada
| | - Subburaj Ilangumaran
- Department of Immunology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1H 5N4, Canada; (A.S.); (M.C.); (M.A.S.); (S.R.)
- CRCHUS, Centre Hospitalier de l’Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1H5N4, Canada
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-819-346-1110 (ext. 14834)
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Gastrospheres as a Model of Gastric Cancer Stem Cells Skew Th17/Treg Balance toward Antitumor Th17 Cells. J Immunol Res 2021; 2020:6261814. [PMID: 33426090 PMCID: PMC7775146 DOI: 10.1155/2020/6261814] [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: 06/05/2020] [Revised: 12/05/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Gastrosphere, an enriched cellular population with stem-like properties believed to be responsible for an escape from immune-mediated destruction. Th17 and Treg cells play a major role in gastric cancer; however, their interaction with gastrospheres remained elusive. Method Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were isolated from healthy donors and were cultured with conditioned media of MKN-45 (parental) cells as well as gastrospheres' conditioned media in the context of mixed lymphocyte reaction and in the presence of anti-CD3/CD28 beads. The proliferation was evaluated using CFSE staining; the percentages of CD4+CD25+FoxP3+ Treg and CD4+IL-17+ Th17 cells and IFN-γ+cells and the production of IL-17, TGF-β, and IL-10 were assessed by flow cytometry and ELISA, respectively. Finally, the cytotoxic potential of induced immune cells was measured by examining the secretion of lactate dehydrogenase from target cells. Results The results revealed a decreased expansion of PBMCs postexposure to gastrospheres' conditioned medium which was concomitant with an increased percentage of Th17 and an enhanced Th17 to Treg ratio. The conditioned media of gastrospheres enhanced the secretion of IL-10 and IL-17 and decreased TGF-β. Interestingly, immune cells induced by gastrospheres showed significant cytotoxicity in terms of producing IFN-γ and death induction in target cells. All these changes were related to the upregulation of IL-6, IL-10, and IL-22 in gastrospheres compared to parental cells. Conclusion Our study showed that the condition media of gastrospheres can potentially induce Th17 with increasing in their cytotoxic effect. Based on our knowledge, the present study is the first study that emphasizes the role of gastrospheres in the induction of antitumor Th17 cells. However, it should be confirmed with complementary studies in vivo.
Collapse
|
34
|
Chen P, Hsu WH, Han J, Xia Y, DePinho RA. Cancer Stemness Meets Immunity: From Mechanism to Therapy. Cell Rep 2021; 34:108597. [PMID: 33406434 PMCID: PMC7839836 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2020.108597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 126] [Impact Index Per Article: 42.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Revised: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are self-renewing cells that facilitate tumor initiation, promote metastasis, and enhance cancer therapy resistance. Transcriptomic analyses across many cancer types have revealed a prominent association between stemness and immune signatures, potentially implying a biological interaction between such hallmark features of cancer. Emerging experimental evidence has substantiated the influence of CSCs on immune cells, including tumor-associated macrophages, myeloid-derived suppressor cells, and T cells, in the tumor microenvironment and, reciprocally, the importance of such immune cells in sustaining CSC stemness and its survival niche. This review covers the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the symbiotic interactions between CSCs and immune cells and how such heterotypic signaling maintains a tumor-promoting ecosystem and informs therapeutic strategies intercepting this co-dependency.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peiwen Chen
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; Department of Cancer Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Wen-Hao Hsu
- Department of Cancer Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Jincheng Han
- Department of Cancer Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Yan Xia
- Department of Cancer Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Ronald A DePinho
- Department of Cancer Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Chowdhury S, Ghosh S. Cancer Stem Cells. Stem Cells 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/978-981-16-1638-9_7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
|
36
|
The Tumor Microenvironment as a Driving Force of Breast Cancer Stem Cell Plasticity. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12123863. [PMID: 33371274 PMCID: PMC7766255 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12123863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2020] [Revised: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Breast cancer stem cells are a subset of transformed cells that sustain tumor growth and can metastasize to secondary organs. Since metastasis accounts for most cancer deaths, it is of paramount importance to understand the cellular and molecular mechanisms that regulate this subgroup of cells. The tumor microenvironment (TME) is the habitat in which transformed cells evolve, and it is composed by many different cell types and the extracellular matrix (ECM). A body of evidence strongly indicates that microenvironmental cues modulate stemness in breast cancer, and that the coevolution of the TME and cancer stem cells determine the fate of breast tumors. In this review, we summarize the studies providing links between the TME and the breast cancer stem cell phenotype and we discuss their specific interactions with immune cell subsets, stromal cells, and the ECM. Abstract Tumor progression involves the co-evolution of transformed cells and the milieu in which they live and expand. Breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) are a specialized subset of cells that sustain tumor growth and drive metastatic colonization. However, the cellular hierarchy in breast tumors is rather plastic, and the capacity to transition from one cell state to another depends not only on the intrinsic properties of transformed cells, but also on the interplay with their niches. It has become evident that the tumor microenvironment (TME) is a major player in regulating the BCSC phenotype and metastasis. The complexity of the TME is reflected in its number of players and in the interactions that they establish with each other. Multiple types of immune cells, stromal cells, and the extracellular matrix (ECM) form an intricate communication network with cancer cells, exert a highly selective pressure on the tumor, and provide supportive niches for BCSC expansion. A better understanding of the mechanisms regulating these interactions is crucial to develop strategies aimed at interfering with key BCSC niche factors, which may help reducing tumor heterogeneity and impair metastasis.
Collapse
|
37
|
García-Heredia JM, Carnero A. Role of Mitochondria in Cancer Stem Cell Resistance. Cells 2020; 9:E1693. [PMID: 32679735 PMCID: PMC7407626 DOI: 10.3390/cells9071693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Revised: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSC) are associated with the mechanisms of chemoresistance to different cytotoxic drugs or radiotherapy, as well as with tumor relapse and a poor prognosis. Various studies have shown that mitochondria play a central role in these processes because of the ability of this organelle to modify cell metabolism, allowing survival and avoiding apoptosis clearance of cancer cells. Thus, the whole mitochondrial cycle, from its biogenesis to its death, either by mitophagy or by apoptosis, can be targeted by different drugs to reduce mitochondrial fitness, allowing for a restored or increased sensitivity to chemotherapeutic drugs. Once mitochondrial misbalance is induced by a specific drug in any of the processes of mitochondrial metabolism, two elements are commonly boosted: an increment in reactive nitrogen/oxygen species and, subsequently, activation of the intrinsic apoptotic pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- José Manuel García-Heredia
- Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla (IBIS), Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío, Universidad de Sevilla, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Avda. Manuel Siurot s/n, 41013 Seville, Spain
- Departamento de Bioquímica Vegetal y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Sevilla, Avda. de la Reina Mercedes 6, 41012 Seville, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer, CIBERONC, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Amancio Carnero
- Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla (IBIS), Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío, Universidad de Sevilla, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Avda. Manuel Siurot s/n, 41013 Seville, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer, CIBERONC, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Huang J, Li JJ. Multiple Dynamics in Tumor Microenvironment Under Radiotherapy. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2020; 1263:175-202. [PMID: 32588328 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-44518-8_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) is an evolutionally low-level and embryonically featured tissue comprising heterogenic populations of malignant and stromal cells as well as noncellular components. Under radiotherapy (RT), the major modality for the treatment of malignant diseases [1], TME shows an adaptive response in multiple aspects that affect the efficacy of RT. With the potential clinical benefits, interests in RT combined with immunotherapy (IT) are intensified with a large scale of clinical trials underway for an array of cancer types. A better understanding of the multiple molecular aspects, especially the cross talks of RT-mediated energy reprogramming and immunoregulation in the irradiated TME (ITME), will be necessary for further enhancing the benefit of RT-IT modality. Coming studies should further reveal more mechanistic insights of radiation-induced instant or permanent consequence in tumor and stromal cells. Results from these studies will help to identify critical molecular pathways including cancer stem cell repopulation, metabolic rewiring, and specific communication between radioresistant cancer cells and the infiltrated immune active lymphocytes. In this chapter, we will focus on the following aspects: radiation-repopulated cancer stem cells (CSCs), hypoxia and re-oxygenation, reprogramming metabolism, and radiation-induced immune regulation, in which we summarize the current literature to illustrate an integrated image of the ITME. We hope that the contents in this chapter will be informative for physicians and translational researchers in cancer radiotherapy or immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jie Huang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Jian Jian Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA. .,NCI-Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Abstract
The Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) is frequently expressed at elevated levels in different forms of cancer and expression often correlates positively with cancer progression and poor prognosis. Different mutant forms of this protein also contribute to cancer heterogeneity. A constitutively active form of EGFR, EGFRvIII is one of the most important variants. EGFR is responsible for the maintenance and functions of cancer stem cells (CSCs), including stemness, metabolism, immunomodulatory-activity, dormancy and therapy-resistance. EGFR regulates these pathways through several signaling cascades, and often cooperates with other RTKs to exert further control. Inhibitors of EGFR have been extensively studied and display some anticancer efficacy. However, CSCs can also acquire resistance to EGFR inhibitors making effective therapy even more difficult. To ameliorate this limitation of EGFR inhibitors when used as single agents, it may be of value to simultaneously combine multiple EGFR inhibitors or use EGFR inhibitors with regulators of other important cancer phenotype regulating molecules, such as STAT3, or involved in important processes such as DNA repair. These combinatorial approaches require further experimental confirmation, but if successful would expand and improve therapeutic outcomes employing EGFR inhibitors as one arm of the therapy.
Collapse
|
40
|
Choi KU, Kim A, Kim JY, Kim KH, Hwang C, Lee SJ, Park WY, Jung S, Choi HJ, Kim K. Differences in immune-related gene expressions and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes according to chemotherapeutic response in ovarian high-grade serous carcinoma. J Ovarian Res 2020; 13:65. [PMID: 32513298 PMCID: PMC7278194 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-020-00667-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2019] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND High-grade serous carcinoma (HGSC) of the ovary is the most common subtype of epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) and has an overall poor prognosis. There is increasing awareness of the importance of immune cell populations and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) in various immune pathways in the tumor microenvironment. The present study evaluated immune-related gene expressions and TIL levels, as well as associated chemotherapeutic responses, to elucidate the correlation between gene expression and TIL levels in HGSC. MATERIALS AND METHODS Fresh tissue samples from 12 HGSC patients were included in this study. Depending on their response to adjuvant chemotherapy, the patients were divided into two groups: chemosensitive (CS) or chemoresistant (CR). The expression levels of 770 genes were analyzed using the nCounter® PanCancer Immune Profiling Panel of the NanoString nCounter® Analysis System. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) was performed to validate the NanoString data obtained. The TIL levels in representative sections were examined via hematoxylin and eosin staining. Gene and TIL levels were subsequently correlated with the chemotherapeutic response. RESULTS Several genes were differentially expressed in the two study groups. Eleven representative genes were selected for further evaluation. Of those, 9 genes (IRF1, CXCL9, LTB, CCL5, IL-8, GZMA, PSMB9, CD38, and VCAM1) were significantly overexpressed in the CS group; whereas expressions of 2 genes (CD24 and CD164) were increased in the CR group. Results of qPCR were consistent with those of the NanoString nCounter® analysis. Stromal TIL levels were significantly associated with adjuvant chemotherapeutic response (p = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Significant differences between the CS and CR groups were observed in the expression levels of immune-related genes. Immune-related gene expressions were significantly higher in the CS group, which also had higher levels of TILs. We, therefore, suggest that, in patients with HGSC, immune-related gene expressions and TIL levels may be associated with chemotherapeutic sensitivity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kyung Un Choi
- Department of Pathology, Pusan National University Hospital, 179 Gudeok-ro, Seo-gu, Busan, 49241, Republic of Korea.,Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Pusan National University, 49 Busandaehak-ro, Mulguem-eup, Yangsan-si, Gyeongsangnam-do, 50612, Republic of Korea
| | - Ahrong Kim
- Department of Pathology, Pusan National University Hospital, 179 Gudeok-ro, Seo-gu, Busan, 49241, Republic of Korea.,Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Pusan National University, 49 Busandaehak-ro, Mulguem-eup, Yangsan-si, Gyeongsangnam-do, 50612, Republic of Korea
| | - Jee Yeon Kim
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Pusan National University, 49 Busandaehak-ro, Mulguem-eup, Yangsan-si, Gyeongsangnam-do, 50612, Republic of Korea.,Department of Pathology, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, 20 Geumo-ro, Mulguem-eup, Yangsan-si, Gyeongsangnam-do, 50612, Republic of Korea
| | - Ki Hyung Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Pusan National University Hospital, 179 Gudeok-ro, Seo-gu, Busan, 49241, Republic of Korea
| | - Chungsu Hwang
- Department of Pathology, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, 20 Geumo-ro, Mulguem-eup, Yangsan-si, Gyeongsangnam-do, 50612, Republic of Korea
| | - So Jung Lee
- Department of Pathology, Pusan National University Hospital, 179 Gudeok-ro, Seo-gu, Busan, 49241, Republic of Korea
| | - Won Young Park
- Diagnostic Pathology Center, Busan-Gyeongnam Reference Lab., Seegene Medical Foundation, 297 Jungang-daero, Dong-gu, Busan, 48792, Republic of Korea
| | - Sejin Jung
- Department of Pathology, Pusan National University Hospital, 179 Gudeok-ro, Seo-gu, Busan, 49241, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye Jeong Choi
- Department of Pathology, Ulsan University Hospital, 877 Bangeojinsunhwando-ro, Dong-gu, Ulsan, 44033, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyungbin Kim
- Department of Pathology, Pusan National University Hospital, 179 Gudeok-ro, Seo-gu, Busan, 49241, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Ullah M, Meziani S, Shah S, Kaci R, Pimpie C, Pocard M, Mirshahi M. Differentiation of cancer cells upregulates HLA‑G and PD‑L1. Oncol Rep 2020; 43:1797-1804. [PMID: 32236615 PMCID: PMC7160553 DOI: 10.3892/or.2020.7572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Accepted: 02/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
A tumor contains special types of cells that have characteristics similar to stem cells that aid in tumor initiation, evasion and proliferation and are often resistant to chemotherapy. These cancer stem cells can be differentiated to eradicate their stemness and proliferative capacity by differentiating agents. This study investigated the effect of differentiation on the expression of two immune checkpoint inhibitors, human leukocyte antigen-G (HLA-G) and programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1). Two cancer cell lines (OVCAR-3-NIH and KATO-III) were treated with adipocyte and neurocyte differentiation media for 14 days. Bone-marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) were used as control healthy stem cells. We found that the cancer cell lines (OVCAR-3-NIH and KATO-III) when subjected to differentiation lost their proliferation ability. BM-MSC proliferation was not halted but was decreased in the adipocyte differentiation media. There was no decrease in the CD90 stem cell marker in the BM-MSCs; however, both cancer cell lines showed decreased CD90 stem cell marker. A significant increase in HLA-G was noted for both the cancer cell lines following adipocyte differentiation. No effect was found for BM-MSCs. Moreover, an increase in PD-L1 in cancer cell lines was found following neurocyte differentiation. Moreover, we found that differentiation resulted in decreased PD-L1 expression in BM-MSCs. Differentiation therapy of cancer stem cells may result in increased immunosuppression ability, hence causing hindrance in the removal of cancer cells. Moreover, the differentiation of healthy stem cells can result in increased immunogenic reactivity owing to a decrease in PD-L1 expression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matti Ullah
- CAP‑Paris Tech., INSERM U1275, Lariboisière Hospital, 75010 Paris, France
| | - Sarah Meziani
- CAP‑Paris Tech., INSERM U1275, Lariboisière Hospital, 75010 Paris, France
| | - Shahid Shah
- CAP‑Paris Tech., INSERM U1275, Lariboisière Hospital, 75010 Paris, France
| | - Rachid Kaci
- CAP‑Paris Tech., INSERM U1275, Lariboisière Hospital, 75010 Paris, France
| | - Cynthia Pimpie
- CAP‑Paris Tech., INSERM U1275, Lariboisière Hospital, 75010 Paris, France
| | - Marc Pocard
- CAP‑Paris Tech., INSERM U1275, Lariboisière Hospital, 75010 Paris, France
| | - Massoud Mirshahi
- CAP‑Paris Tech., INSERM U1275, Lariboisière Hospital, 75010 Paris, France
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Clayton SM, Archard JA, Wagner J, Farwell DG, Bewley AF, Beliveau A, Birkeland A, Rao S, Abouyared M, Belafsky PC, Anderson JD. Immunoregulatory Potential of Exosomes Derived from Cancer Stem Cells. Stem Cells Dev 2020; 29:327-335. [PMID: 31856674 PMCID: PMC7081244 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2019.0197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2019] [Accepted: 12/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs) are malignancies that originate in the mucosal lining of the upper aerodigestive tract. Despite advances in therapeutic interventions, survival rates among HNSCC patients have remained static for years. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are tumor-initiating cells that are highly resistant to treatment, and are hypothesized to contribute to a significant fraction of tumor recurrences. Consequently, further investigations of how CSCs mediate recurrence may provide insights into novel druggable targets. A key element of recurrence involves the tumor's ability to evade immunosurveillance. Recent published reports suggest that CSCs possess immunosuppressive properties, however, the underlying mechanism have yet to be fully elucidated. To date, most groups have focused on the role of CSC-derived secretory proteins, such as cytokines and growth factors. Here, we review the established immunoregulatory role of exosomes derived from mixed tumor cell populations, and propose further study of CSC-derived exosomes may be warranted. Such studies may yield novel insights into new druggable targets, or lay the foundation for future exosome-based diagnostics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shannon M. Clayton
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, California
| | - Joehleen A. Archard
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, California
| | - Joseph Wagner
- University of California Drug Discovery Consortium, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, California
| | - D. Gregory Farwell
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, California
| | - Arnaud F. Bewley
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, California
| | - Angela Beliveau
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, California
| | - Andrew Birkeland
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, California
| | - Shyam Rao
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, California
| | - Marianne Abouyared
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, California
| | - Peter C. Belafsky
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, California
| | - Johnathon D. Anderson
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, California
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Bruschini S, di Martino S, Pisanu ME, Fattore L, De Vitis C, Laquintana V, Buglioni S, Tabbì E, Cerri A, Visca P, Alessandrini G, Facciolo F, Napoli C, Trombetta M, Santoro A, Crescenzi A, Ciliberto G, Mancini R. CytoMatrix for a reliable and simple characterization of lung cancer stem cells from malignant pleural effusions. J Cell Physiol 2020; 235:1877-1887. [PMID: 31397494 PMCID: PMC6916247 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.29121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2019] [Accepted: 07/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a subpopulation with the properties of extensive self-renewal, capability to generate differentiated cancer cells and resistance to therapies. We have previously shown that malignant pleural effusions (MPEs) from patients with non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) represent a valuable source of cancer cells that can be grown as three-dimensional (3D) spheroids enriched for stem-like features, which depend on the activation of the Yes-associated protein-transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (YAP-TAZ)/Wnt-βcatenin/stearoyl-CoA desaturase 1 (SCD1) axis. Here, we describe a novel support, called CytoMatrix, for the characterization of limited amounts of cancer cells isolated from MPEs of patients with NSCLC. Our results show that this synthetic matrix allows an easy and fast characterization of several epithelial cellular markers. The use of CytoMatrix to study CSCs subpopulation confirms that SCD1 protein expression is enhanced in 3D spheroids when compared with 2D adherent cell cultures. YAP/TAZ nuclear-cytoplasmic distribution analysed by CytoMatrix in 3D spheroids is highly heterogeneous and faithfully reproduces what is observed in tumour biopsies. Our results confirm and extend the robustness of our workflow for the isolation and phenotypic characterization of primary cancer cells derived from the lung MPEs and underscore the role of SCD1.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Bruschini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical MedicineMagna Graecia University of CatanzaroCatanzaroItaly
| | | | - Maria Elena Pisanu
- High Resolution NMR Unit, Core FacilitiesIstituto Superiore di SanitàRomeItaly
| | - Luigi Fattore
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of RomeLaboratory Affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia‐Fondazione Cenci BolognettiRomeItaly
| | - Claudia De Vitis
- Department of Clinical and Molecular MedicineSapienza University of RomeRomeItaly
| | | | | | - Eugenio Tabbì
- Department of Clinical and Molecular MedicineSapienza University of RomeRomeItaly
| | - Andrea Cerri
- Preclinical Models and New Therapeutic Agents UnitIRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer InstituteRomeItaly
| | - Paolo Visca
- Phatology UnitIRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer InstituteRomeItaly
| | | | - Francesco Facciolo
- Thoracic Surgery UnitIRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer InstituteRomeItaly
| | - Christian Napoli
- Department of Medical Surgical Sciences and Translational MedicineSapienza University of RomeRomeItaly
| | - Marcella Trombetta
- Tissue Engineering and Chemistry for Engineering Lab, Department of EngineeringUniversity Campus Bio‐MedicoRomeItaly
| | | | - Anna Crescenzi
- Section of PathologyUniversity Hospital Campus Bio‐Medico of RomeRomeItaly
| | - Gennaro Ciliberto
- Scientific DirectionIRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer InstituteRomeItaly
| | - Rita Mancini
- Department of Clinical and Molecular MedicineSapienza University of RomeRomeItaly
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Cell repopulation, rewiring metabolism, and immune regulation in cancer radiotherapy. RADIATION MEDICINE AND PROTECTION 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.radmp.2020.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
|
45
|
Castagnoli L, De Santis F, Volpari T, Vernieri C, Tagliabue E, Di Nicola M, Pupa SM. Cancer Stem Cells: Devil or Savior-Looking behind the Scenes of Immunotherapy Failure. Cells 2020; 9:E555. [PMID: 32120774 PMCID: PMC7140486 DOI: 10.3390/cells9030555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2020] [Revised: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 02/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Although the introduction of immunotherapy has tremendously improved the prognosis of patients with metastatic cancers of different histological origins, some tumors fail to respond or develop resistance. Broadening the clinical efficacy of currently available immunotherapy strategies requires an improved understanding of the biological mechanisms underlying cancer immune escape. Globally, tumor cells evade immune attack using two main strategies: avoiding recognition by immune cells and instigating an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Emerging data suggest that the clinical efficacy of chemotherapy or molecularly targeted therapy is related to the ability of these therapies to target cancer stem cells (CSCs). However, little is known about the role of CSCs in mediating tumor resistance to immunotherapy. Due to their immunomodulating features and plasticity, CSCs can be especially proficient at evading immune surveillance, thus potentially representing the most prominent malignant cell component implicated in primary or acquired resistance to immunotherapy. The identification of immunomodulatory properties of CSCs that include mechanisms that regulate their interactions with immune cells, such as bidirectional release of particular cytokines/chemokines, fusion of CSCs with fusogenic stromal cells, and cell-to-cell communication exerted by extracellular vesicles, may significantly improve the efficacy of current immunotherapy strategies. The purpose of this review is to discuss the current scientific evidence linking CSC biological, immunological, and epigenetic features to tumor resistance to immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Castagnoli
- Department of Research, Molecular Targeting Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori di Milano, Via Amadeo 42, 20133 Milan, Italy; (L.C.); (E.T.)
| | - Francesca De Santis
- Department of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Unit of Immunotherapy and Anticancer Innovative Therapeutics, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori di Milano, Via Venezian 1, 20133 Milan, Italy; (F.D.S.); (T.V.); (M.D.N.)
| | - Tatiana Volpari
- Department of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Unit of Immunotherapy and Anticancer Innovative Therapeutics, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori di Milano, Via Venezian 1, 20133 Milan, Italy; (F.D.S.); (T.V.); (M.D.N.)
| | - Claudio Vernieri
- Department of Medical Oncology and Hematology, FIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Via Venezian 1, 20133 Milan, Italy;
- IFOM, FIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology, via Adamello 16, 20139 Milan, Italy
| | - Elda Tagliabue
- Department of Research, Molecular Targeting Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori di Milano, Via Amadeo 42, 20133 Milan, Italy; (L.C.); (E.T.)
| | - Massimo Di Nicola
- Department of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Unit of Immunotherapy and Anticancer Innovative Therapeutics, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori di Milano, Via Venezian 1, 20133 Milan, Italy; (F.D.S.); (T.V.); (M.D.N.)
| | - Serenella M. Pupa
- Department of Research, Molecular Targeting Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori di Milano, Via Amadeo 42, 20133 Milan, Italy; (L.C.); (E.T.)
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Abou Khouzam R, Goutham HV, Zaarour RF, Chamseddine AN, Francis A, Buart S, Terry S, Chouaib S. Integrating tumor hypoxic stress in novel and more adaptable strategies for cancer immunotherapy. Semin Cancer Biol 2020; 65:140-154. [PMID: 31927131 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2020.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2019] [Revised: 12/10/2019] [Accepted: 01/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Immunotherapy is poised to become an increasingly utilized therapy in the treatment of cancer. However, several abnormalities in the tumor microenvironment (TME) that can thwart the efficacy of immunotherapies have been established. Microenvironmental hypoxia is a determining factor in shaping aggressiveness, metastatic potential and treatment resistance of solid tumors. The characterization of this phenomenon could prove beneficial for determining a patient's treatment path and for the introduction of novel targetable factors that can enhance therapeutic outcome. Indeed, the ablation of hypoxia has the potential to sensitize tumors to immunotherapy by metabolically remodeling their microenvironment. In this review, we discuss the intrinsic contributions of hypoxia to cellular plasticity, heterogeneity, stemness and genetic instability in the context of immune escape. In addition, we will shed light on how managing hypoxia can ameliorate response to immunotherapy and how integrating hypoxia gene signatures could play a role in this pursuit.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raefa Abou Khouzam
- Thumbay Research Institute for Precision Medicine, Gulf Medical University, Ajman, 4184, United Arab Emirates.
| | - Hassan Venkatesh Goutham
- Thumbay Research Institute for Precision Medicine, Gulf Medical University, Ajman, 4184, United Arab Emirates.
| | - Rania Faouzi Zaarour
- Thumbay Research Institute for Precision Medicine, Gulf Medical University, Ajman, 4184, United Arab Emirates.
| | - Ali N Chamseddine
- Département d'Oncologie Médicale, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus Grand Paris, Villejuif, France.
| | - Amirtharaj Francis
- Thumbay Research Institute for Precision Medicine, Gulf Medical University, Ajman, 4184, United Arab Emirates.
| | - Stéphanie Buart
- INSERM UMR 1186, Integrative Tumor Immunology and Genetic Oncology, Gustave Roussy, EPHE, Faculty. De médecine Univ. Paris-Sud, University Paris-Saclay, Villejuif F-94805, France
| | - Stéphane Terry
- INSERM UMR 1186, Integrative Tumor Immunology and Genetic Oncology, Gustave Roussy, EPHE, Faculty. De médecine Univ. Paris-Sud, University Paris-Saclay, Villejuif F-94805, France.
| | - Salem Chouaib
- Thumbay Research Institute for Precision Medicine, Gulf Medical University, Ajman, 4184, United Arab Emirates; INSERM UMR 1186, Integrative Tumor Immunology and Genetic Oncology, Gustave Roussy, EPHE, Faculty. De médecine Univ. Paris-Sud, University Paris-Saclay, Villejuif F-94805, France.
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Proinflammatory cytokine TNFα promotes HPV-associated oral carcinogenesis by increasing cancer stemness. Int J Oral Sci 2020; 12:3. [PMID: 31911577 PMCID: PMC6946657 DOI: 10.1038/s41368-019-0069-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2019] [Revised: 11/25/2019] [Accepted: 11/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
High-risk human papillomaviruses (HPVs) are involved in the development of several human cancers, including oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinomas. However, many studies have demonstrated that HPV alone is not sufficient for the oncogenic transformation of normal human epithelial cells, indicating that additional cofactors are required for the oncogenic conversion of HPV-infected cells. Inasmuch as chronic inflammation is also closely associated with carcinogenesis, we investigated the effect of chronic exposure to tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα), the major proinflammatory cytokine, on oncogenesis in two immortalized oral keratinocyte cell lines, namely, HPV16-immortalized and human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT)-immortalized cells. TNFα treatment led to the acquisition of malignant growth properties in HPV16-immortalized cells, such as (1) calcium resistance, (2) anchorage independence, and (3) increased cell proliferation in vivo. Moreover, TNFα increased the cancer stem cell-like population and stemness phenotype in HPV16-immortalized cells. However, such transforming effects were not observed in hTERT-immortalized cells, suggesting an HPV-specific role in TNFα-promoted oncogenesis. We also generated hTERT-immortalized cells that express HPV16 E6 and E7. Chronic TNFα exposure successfully induced the malignant growth and stemness phenotype in the E6-expressing cells but not in the control and E7-expressing cells. We further demonstrated that HPV16 E6 played a key role in TNFα-induced cancer stemness via suppression of the stemness-inhibiting microRNAs miR-203 and miR-200c. Overexpression of miR-203 and miR-200c suppressed cancer stemness in TNFα-treated HPV16-immortalized cells. Overall, our study suggests that chronic inflammation promotes cancer stemness in HPV-infected cells, thereby promoting HPV-associated oral carcinogenesis.
Collapse
|
48
|
Gastric Cancer Stem Cells: Current Insights into the Immune Microenvironment and Therapeutic Targets. Biomedicines 2020; 8:biomedicines8010007. [PMID: 31935894 PMCID: PMC7168269 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines8010007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2019] [Revised: 12/27/2019] [Accepted: 01/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer (GC) is a leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are known to be involved in chemotherapy resistance and the development of metastases. Although CSCs harbor self-renewal and tumorigenic abilities, the immune microenvironment surrounding CSCs provides various factors and supports the maintenance of CSC properties. The current review summarizes the accumulating findings regarding the relationship between the immune microenvironment and gastric CSCs (GCSCs), which will support the possibility of developing novel therapeutic strategies for targeting GCSCs.
Collapse
|
49
|
Lo Re O, Mazza T, Giallongo S, Sanna P, Rappa F, Vinh Luong T, Li Volti G, Drovakova A, Roskams T, Van Haele M, Tsochatzis E, Vinciguerra M. Loss of histone macroH2A1 in hepatocellular carcinoma cells promotes paracrine-mediated chemoresistance and CD4 +CD25 +FoxP3 + regulatory T cells activation. Am J Cancer Res 2020; 10:910-924. [PMID: 31903159 PMCID: PMC6929991 DOI: 10.7150/thno.35045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2019] [Accepted: 10/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Rationale: Loss of histone macroH2A1 induces appearance of cancer stem cells (CSCs)-like cells in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). How CSCs interact with the tumor microenvironment and the adaptive immune system is unclear. Methods: We screened aggressive human HCC for macroH2A1 and CD44 CSC marker expression. We also knocked down (KD) macroH2A1 in HCC cells, and performed integrated transcriptomic and secretomic analyses. Results: Human HCC showed low macroH2A1 and high CD44 expression compared to control tissues. MacroH2A1 KD CSC-like cells transferred paracrinally their chemoresistant properties to parental HCC cells. MacroH2A1 KD conditioned media transcriptionally reprogrammed parental HCC cells activated regulatory CD4+/CD25+/FoxP3+ T cells (Tregs). Conclusions: Loss of macroH2A1 in HCC cells drives cancer stem-cell propagation and evasion from immune surveillance.
Collapse
|
50
|
Veschi V, Verona F, Lo Iacono M, D'Accardo C, Porcelli G, Turdo A, Gaggianesi M, Forte S, Giuffrida D, Memeo L, Todaro M. Cancer Stem Cells in Thyroid Tumors: From the Origin to Metastasis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2020; 11:566. [PMID: 32982967 PMCID: PMC7477072 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.00566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Thyroid tumors are extremely heterogeneous varying from almost benign tumors with good prognosis as papillary or follicular tumors, to the undifferentiated ones with severe prognosis. Recently, several models of thyroid carcinogenesis have been described, mostly hypothesizing a major role of the thyroid cancer stem cell (TCSC) population in both cancer initiation and metastasis formation. However, the cellular origin of TCSC is still incompletely understood. Here, we review the principal epigenetic mechanisms relevant to TCSC origin and maintenance in both well-differentiated and anaplastic thyroid tumors. Specifically, we describe the alterations in DNA methylation, histone modifiers, and microRNAs (miRNAs) involved in TCSC survival, focusing on the potential of targeting aberrant epigenetic modifications for developing novel therapeutic approaches. Moreover, we discuss the bidirectional relationship between TCSCs and immune cells. The cells of innate and adaptive response can promote the TCSC-driven tumorigenesis, and conversely, TCSCs may favor the expansion of immune cells with protumorigenic functions. Finally, we evaluate the role of the tumor microenvironment and the complex cross-talk of chemokines, hormones, and cytokines in regulating thyroid tumor initiation, progression, and therapy refractoriness. The re-education of the stromal cells can be an effective strategy to fight thyroid cancer. Dissecting the genetic and epigenetic landscape of TCSCs and their interactions with tumor microenvironment cells is urgently needed to select more appropriate treatment and improve the outcome of patients affected by advanced differentiated and undifferentiated thyroid cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Veschi
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Stomatological Sciences (DICHIRONS), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Francesco Verona
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Stomatological Sciences (DICHIRONS), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Melania Lo Iacono
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Stomatological Sciences (DICHIRONS), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Caterina D'Accardo
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Gaetana Porcelli
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Stomatological Sciences (DICHIRONS), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Alice Turdo
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Miriam Gaggianesi
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Stomatological Sciences (DICHIRONS), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Stefano Forte
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Mediterranean Institute of Oncology (IOM), Catania, Italy
| | - Dario Giuffrida
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Mediterranean Institute of Oncology (IOM), Catania, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Memeo
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Mediterranean Institute of Oncology (IOM), Catania, Italy
| | - Matilde Todaro
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
- *Correspondence: Matilde Todaro
| |
Collapse
|