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Lefler DS, Manobianco SA, Bashir B. Immunotherapy resistance in solid tumors: mechanisms and potential solutions. Cancer Biol Ther 2024; 25:2315655. [PMID: 38389121 PMCID: PMC10896138 DOI: 10.1080/15384047.2024.2315655] [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: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
While the emergence of immunotherapies has fundamentally altered the management of solid tumors, cancers exploit many complex biological mechanisms that result in resistance to these agents. These encompass a broad range of cellular activities - from modification of traditional paradigms of immunity via antigen presentation and immunoregulation to metabolic modifications and manipulation of the tumor microenvironment. Intervening on these intricate processes may provide clinical benefit in patients with solid tumors by overcoming resistance to immunotherapies, which is why it has become an area of tremendous research interest with practice-changing implications. This review details the major ways cancers avoid both natural immunity and immunotherapies through primary (innate) and secondary (acquired) mechanisms of resistance, and it considers available and emerging therapeutic approaches to overcoming immunotherapy resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel S. Lefler
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Steven A. Manobianco
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Babar Bashir
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology, and Cancer Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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2
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Zhang X, An M, Zhang J, Zhao Y, Liu Y. Nano-medicine therapy reprogramming metabolic network of tumour microenvironment: new opportunity for cancer therapies. J Drug Target 2024; 32:241-257. [PMID: 38251656 DOI: 10.1080/1061186x.2024.2309565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
Metabolic heterogeneity is one of the characteristics of tumour cells. In order to adapt to the tumour microenvironment of hypoxia, acidity and nutritional deficiency, tumour cells have undergone extensive metabolic reprogramming. Metabolites involved in tumour cell metabolism are also very different from normal cells, such as a large number of lactate and adenosine. Metabolites play an important role in regulating the whole tumour microenvironment. Taking metabolites as the target, it aims to change the metabolic pattern of tumour cells again, destroy the energy balance it maintains, activate the immune system, and finally kill tumour cells. In this paper, the regulatory effects of metabolites such as lactate, glutamine, arginine, tryptophan, fatty acids and adenosine were reviewed, and the related targeting strategies of nano-medicines were summarised, and the future therapeutic strategies of nano-drugs were discussed. The abnormality of tumour metabolites caused by tumour metabolic remodelling not only changes the energy and material supply of tumour, but also participates in the regulation of tumour-related signal pathways, which plays an important role in the survival, proliferation, invasion and metastasis of tumour cells. Regulating the availability of local metabolites is a new aspect that affects tumour progress. (The graphical abstract is by Figdraw).
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojie Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Min An
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Juntao Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Yumeng Zhao
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Yanhua Liu
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
- Key Laboratory of Hui Ethnic Medicine Modernization, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
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Jiang C, Zhang S, Jiang L, Chen Z, Chen H, Huang J, Tang J, Luo X, Yang G, Liu J, Chi H. Precision unveiled: Synergistic genomic landscapes in breast cancer-Integrating single-cell analysis and decoding drug toxicity for elite prognostication and tailored therapeutics. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2024; 39:3448-3472. [PMID: 38450906 DOI: 10.1002/tox.24205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Globally, breast cancer, with diverse subtypes and prognoses, necessitates tailored therapies for enhanced survival rates. A key focus is glutamine metabolism, governed by select genes. This study explored genes associated with T cells and linked them to glutamine metabolism to construct a prognostic staging index for breast cancer patients for more precise medical treatment. METHODS Two frameworks, T-cell related genes (TRG) and glutamine metabolism (GM), stratified breast cancer patients. TRG analysis identified key genes via hdWGCNA and machine learning. T-cell communication and spatial transcriptomics emphasized TRG's clinical value. GM was defined using Cox analyses and the Lasso algorithm. Scores categorized patients as TRG_high+GM_high (HH), TRG_high+GM_low (HL), TRG_low+GM_high (LH), or TRG_low+GM_low (LL). Similarities between HL and LH birthed a "Mixed" class and the TRG_GM classifier. This classifier illuminated gene variations, immune profiles, mutations, and drug responses. RESULTS Utilizing a composite of two distinct criteria, we devised a typification index termed TRG_GM classifier, which exhibited robust prognostic potential for breast cancer patients. Our analysis elucidated distinct immunological attributes across the classifiers. Moreover, by scrutinizing the genetic variations across groups, we illuminated their unique genetic profiles. Insights into drug sensitivity further underscored avenues for tailored therapeutic interventions. CONCLUSION Utilizing TRG and GM, a robust TRG_GM classifier was developed, integrating clinical indicators to create an accurate predictive diagnostic map. Analysis of enrichment disparities, immune responses, and mutation patterns across different subtypes yields crucial subtype-specific characteristics essential for prognostic assessment, clinical decision-making, and personalized therapies. Further exploration is warranted into multiple fusions between metrics to uncover prognostic presentations across various dimensions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenglu Jiang
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Shengke Zhang
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Lai Jiang
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Zipei Chen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Haiqing Chen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Jinbang Huang
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Jingyi Tang
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Xiufang Luo
- Geriatric department, Dazhou Central Hospital, Dazhou, China
| | - Guanhu Yang
- Department of Specialty Medicine, Ohio University, Athens, Ohio, USA
| | - Jie Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Dazhou Central Hospital, Dazhou, China
| | - Hao Chi
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
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Wang B, Pei J, Xu S, Liu J, Yu J. A glutamine tug-of-war between cancer and immune cells: recent advances in unraveling the ongoing battle. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2024; 43:74. [PMID: 38459595 PMCID: PMC10921613 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-024-02994-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Glutamine metabolism plays a pivotal role in cancer progression, immune cell function, and the modulation of the tumor microenvironment. Dysregulated glutamine metabolism has been implicated in cancer development and immune responses, supported by mounting evidence. Cancer cells heavily rely on glutamine as a critical nutrient for survival and proliferation, while immune cells require glutamine for activation and proliferation during immune reactions. This metabolic competition creates a dynamic tug-of-war between cancer and immune cells. Targeting glutamine transporters and downstream enzymes involved in glutamine metabolism holds significant promise in enhancing anti-tumor immunity. A comprehensive understanding of the intricate molecular mechanisms underlying this interplay is crucial for developing innovative therapeutic approaches that improve anti-tumor immunity and patient outcomes. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of recent advances in unraveling the tug-of-war of glutamine metabolism between cancer and immune cells and explore potential applications of basic science discoveries in the clinical setting. Further investigations into the regulation of glutamine metabolism in cancer and immune cells are expected to yield valuable insights, paving the way for future therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bolin Wang
- Lung Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Research Unit of Radiation Oncology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jinli Pei
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Research Unit of Radiation Oncology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Shengnan Xu
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Research Unit of Radiation Oncology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jie Liu
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China.
- Research Unit of Radiation Oncology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China.
| | - Jinming Yu
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China.
- Research Unit of Radiation Oncology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China.
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Muranaka H, Akinsola R, Billet S, Pandol SJ, Hendifar AE, Bhowmick NA, Gong J. Glutamine Supplementation as an Anticancer Strategy: A Potential Therapeutic Alternative to the Convention. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1057. [PMID: 38473414 PMCID: PMC10930819 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16051057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2024] [Revised: 03/02/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Glutamine, a multifaceted nonessential/conditionally essential amino acid integral to cellular metabolism and immune function, holds pivotal importance in the landscape of cancer therapy. This review delves into the intricate dynamics surrounding both glutamine antagonism strategies and glutamine supplementation within the context of cancer treatment, emphasizing the critical role of glutamine metabolism in cancer progression and therapy. Glutamine antagonism, aiming to disrupt tumor growth by targeting critical metabolic pathways, is challenged by the adaptive nature of cancer cells and the complex metabolic microenvironment, potentially compromising its therapeutic efficacy. In contrast, glutamine supplementation supports immune function, improves gut integrity, alleviates treatment-related toxicities, and improves patient well-being. Moreover, recent studies highlighted its contributions to epigenetic regulation within cancer cells and its potential to bolster anti-cancer immune functions. However, glutamine implementation necessitates careful consideration of potential interactions with ongoing treatment regimens and the delicate equilibrium between supporting normal cellular function and promoting tumorigenesis. By critically assessing the implications of both glutamine antagonism strategies and glutamine supplementation, this review aims to offer comprehensive insights into potential therapeutic strategies targeting glutamine metabolism for effective cancer management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayato Muranaka
- Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; (H.M.); (R.A.); (S.B.); (S.J.P.); (A.E.H.); (N.A.B.)
- Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Rasaq Akinsola
- Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; (H.M.); (R.A.); (S.B.); (S.J.P.); (A.E.H.); (N.A.B.)
- Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Sandrine Billet
- Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; (H.M.); (R.A.); (S.B.); (S.J.P.); (A.E.H.); (N.A.B.)
- Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Stephen J. Pandol
- Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; (H.M.); (R.A.); (S.B.); (S.J.P.); (A.E.H.); (N.A.B.)
- Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Andrew E. Hendifar
- Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; (H.M.); (R.A.); (S.B.); (S.J.P.); (A.E.H.); (N.A.B.)
- Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Neil A. Bhowmick
- Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; (H.M.); (R.A.); (S.B.); (S.J.P.); (A.E.H.); (N.A.B.)
- Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
- Department of Research, VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA 90073, USA
| | - Jun Gong
- Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; (H.M.); (R.A.); (S.B.); (S.J.P.); (A.E.H.); (N.A.B.)
- Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
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Borde S, Matosevic S. Metabolic adaptation of NK cell activity and behavior in tumors: challenges and therapeutic opportunities. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2023; 44:832-848. [PMID: 37770314 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2023.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023]
Abstract
The adaptation of natural killer (NK) cells to conditions in the microenvironment of tumors is deeply affected by their metabolic activity, itself a result of nutrient availability and the metabolism of the cancer cells themselves. Elevated rates of glycolysis and lipid metabolism in cancers not only lead to the accumulation of immunosuppressive byproducts but also contribute to an environment of elevated concentrations of extracellular metabolites. This results in altered NK cell bioenergetics through changes in transcriptional and translational profiles, ultimately affecting their pharmacology and impairing NK cell responses. However, understanding the metabolic processes that drive alterations in immunological signaling on NK cells remains both difficult and vastly underexplored. We discuss the varied and complex drivers of NK cell metabolism in homeostasis and the tumor microenvironment (TME), challenges associated with their targetability, and unexplored therapeutic opportunities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shambhavi Borde
- Department of Industrial and Physical Pharmacy, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Sandro Matosevic
- Department of Industrial and Physical Pharmacy, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA; Center for Cancer Research, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA.
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Wang B, Pei J, Xu S, Liu J, Yu J. System analysis based on glutamine catabolic-related enzymes identifies GPT2 as a novel immunotherapy target for lung adenocarcinoma. Comput Biol Med 2023; 165:107415. [PMID: 37657356 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2023.107415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In recent years, targeting glutamine metabolism has gained attention as a promising therapeutic approach. Glutamine catabolic-related enzymes play a crucial role in modulating glutamine metabolism and influencing immune responses in the tumor immune microenvironment (TME). However, current literature on the function of glutamine catabolic enzymes in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is limited. METHODS We validated the glutamine dependency of LUAD cells in vitro, followed by transcriptome data to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs), with transcriptome and single-cell data analysis utilized to explore the role of such genes within the tumor immune microenvironment. We performed employed subcutaneous injection of lewis lung carcinoma cells in C57BL/6 mice to confirm the role of candidate genes in tumor growth and anti-tumor immunity. RESULTS Our study revealed that glutamine is essential for the growth of LUAD cells. Subsequently, we identified four DEGs - glutamate pyruvate transaminase 1 (GPT1), glutamate pyruvate transaminase 2 (GPT2), glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase 1 (GOT1), and glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase 2 (GOT2) - in LUAD patients, which were highly expressed in tumor tissue and associated with an immunosuppressive TME. Single-cell sequencing analysis detected high expression levels of GOT1 and GOT2 in immune and stromal cell subpopulations, while GPT1 and GPT2 showed relatively lower expression. Based on the lower immune score and lower expression in immune and stromal cells, we validated the role of GPT2 in vivo for modulating the TME and tumor growth. Inhibition of GPT2 resulted in suppressed tumor growth and increased the expression of CD4 and CD8. Additionally, GPT2 inhibitors induced a stronger antitumor immunity when used in combination with anti-programmed cell death ligand 1. CONCLUSION This study is the first to show the critical role of glutamine catabolic-related enzymes in the TME, and identified GPT2 as a promising therapeutic target for inhibiting tumor growth and improving anti-tumour immune responses for LUAD. Additional studies will be required to define the roles glutamine catabolic-related enzymes play in LUAD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bolin Wang
- Lung Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Department of Radiation Oncology and Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences Jinan, Shandong, China; Research Unit of Radiation Oncology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jinli Pei
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences Jinan, Shandong, China; Research Unit of Radiation Oncology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Shengnan Xu
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences Jinan, Shandong, China; Research Unit of Radiation Oncology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jie Liu
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences Jinan, Shandong, China; Research Unit of Radiation Oncology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China.
| | - Jinming Yu
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences Jinan, Shandong, China; Research Unit of Radiation Oncology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China.
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8
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Ye Y, Yu B, Wang H, Yi F. Glutamine metabolic reprogramming in hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Mol Biosci 2023; 10:1242059. [PMID: 37635935 PMCID: PMC10452011 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2023.1242059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a lethal disease with limited management strategies and poor prognosis. Metabolism alternations have been frequently unveiled in HCC, including glutamine metabolic reprogramming. The components of glutamine metabolism, such as glutamine synthetase, glutamate dehydrogenase, glutaminase, metabolites, and metabolite transporters, are validated to be potential biomarkers of HCC. Increased glutamine consumption is confirmed in HCC, which fuels proliferation by elevated glutamate dehydrogenase or upstream signals. Glutamine metabolism also serves as a nitrogen source for amino acid or nucleotide anabolism. In addition, more glutamine converts to glutathione as an antioxidant in HCC to protect HCC cells from oxidative stress. Moreover, glutamine metabolic reprogramming activates the mTORC signaling pathway to support tumor cell proliferation. Glutamine metabolism targeting therapy includes glutamine deprivation, related enzyme inhibitors, and transporters inhibitors. Together, glutamine metabolic reprogramming plays a pivotal role in HCC identification, proliferation, and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanyan Ye
- Department of Ultrasound, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Bodong Yu
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Nanchang University, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Hua Wang
- Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Clinical and Translational Cancer Research, Nanchang, China
| | - Fengming Yi
- Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Clinical and Translational Cancer Research, Nanchang, China
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Jiménez-Alonso JJ, López-Lázaro M. Dietary Manipulation of Amino Acids for Cancer Therapy. Nutrients 2023; 15:2879. [PMID: 37447206 DOI: 10.3390/nu15132879] [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: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer cells cannot proliferate and survive unless they obtain sufficient levels of the 20 proteinogenic amino acids (AAs). Unlike normal cells, cancer cells have genetic and metabolic alterations that may limit their capacity to obtain adequate levels of the 20 AAs in challenging metabolic environments. However, since normal diets provide all AAs at relatively constant levels and ratios, these potentially lethal genetic and metabolic defects are eventually harmless to cancer cells. If we temporarily replace the normal diet of cancer patients with artificial diets in which the levels of specific AAs are manipulated, cancer cells may be unable to proliferate and survive. This article reviews in vivo studies that have evaluated the antitumor activity of diets restricted in or supplemented with the 20 proteinogenic AAs, individually and in combination. It also reviews our recent studies that show that manipulating the levels of several AAs simultaneously can lead to marked survival improvements in mice with metastatic cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Miguel López-Lázaro
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Seville, 41012 Sevilla, Spain
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10
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Fatima Z, Abonofal A, Stephen B. Targeting Cancer Metabolism to Improve Outcomes with Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOTHERAPY AND PRECISION ONCOLOGY 2023; 6:91-102. [PMID: 37214204 PMCID: PMC10195018 DOI: 10.36401/jipo-22-27] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors have revolutionized the treatment paradigm of several cancers. However, not all patients respond to treatment. Tumor cells reprogram metabolic pathways to facilitate growth and proliferation. This shift in metabolic pathways creates fierce competition with immune cells for nutrients in the tumor microenvironment and generates by-products harmful for immune cell differentiation and growth. In this review, we discuss these metabolic alterations and the current therapeutic strategies to mitigate these alterations to metabolic pathways that can be used in combination with checkpoint blockade to offer a new path forward in cancer management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zainab Fatima
- Department of Hospice and Palliative Care, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Abdulrahman Abonofal
- Department of Medicine, Section of Hematology/Oncology, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Bettzy Stephen
- Department of Investigational Cancer Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
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11
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Metabolic reprogramming of glutamine involved in tumorigenesis, multidrug resistance and tumor immunity. Eur J Pharmacol 2023; 940:175323. [PMID: 36535492 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2022.175323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Glutamine, as the most abundant amino acid in the body, participates in the biological synthesis of nucleotides and other non-essential amino acids in the process of cell metabolism. Recent studies showed that glutamine metabolic reprogramming is an important signal during cancer development and progression. This metabolic signature in cancer cells can promote the development of cancer by activating multiple signaling pathways and oncogenes. It can also be involved in tumor immune regulation and promote the development of drug resistance to tumors. In this review, we mainly summarize the role of glutamine metabolic reprogramming in tumors, including the regulation of multiple signaling pathways. We further discussed the promising tumor treatment strategy by targeting glutamine metabolism alone or in combination with chemotherapeutics.
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12
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Benito-Lopez JJ, Marroquin-Muciño M, Perez-Medina M, Chavez-Dominguez R, Aguilar-Cazares D, Galicia-Velasco M, Lopez-Gonzalez JS. Partners in crime: The feedback loop between metabolic reprogramming and immune checkpoints in the tumor microenvironment. Front Oncol 2023; 12:1101503. [PMID: 36713558 PMCID: PMC9879362 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1101503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a complex and constantly changing cellular system composed of heterogeneous populations of tumor cells and non-transformed stromal cells, such as stem cells, fibroblasts, endothelial cells, pericytes, adipocytes, and innate and adaptive immune cells. Tumor, stromal, and immune cells consume available nutrients to sustain their proliferation and effector functions and, as a result of their metabolism, produce a wide array of by-products that gradually alter the composition of the milieu. The resulting depletion of essential nutrients and enrichment of by-products work together with other features of the hostile TME to inhibit the antitumor functions of immune cells and skew their phenotype to promote tumor progression. This review briefly describes the participation of the innate and adaptive immune cells in recognizing and eliminating tumor cells and how the gradual metabolic changes in the TME alter their antitumor functions. In addition, we discuss the overexpression of the immune checkpoints and their ligands as a result of nutrient deprivation and by-products accumulation, as well as the amplification of the metabolic alterations induced by the immune checkpoints, which creates an immunosuppressive feedback loop in the TME. Finally, the combination of metabolic and immune checkpoint inhibitors as a potential strategy to treat cancer and enhance the outcome of patients is highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesus J Benito-Lopez
- Laboratorio de Investigacion en Cancer Pulmonar, Departamento de Enfermedades Cronico-Degenerativas, Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Respiratorias "Ismael Cosio Villegas", Mexico City, Mexico
- Posgrado en Ciencias Biologicas, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Mario Marroquin-Muciño
- Laboratorio de Investigacion en Cancer Pulmonar, Departamento de Enfermedades Cronico-Degenerativas, Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Respiratorias "Ismael Cosio Villegas", Mexico City, Mexico
- Laboratorio de Quimioterapia Experimental, Departamento de Bioquimica, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biologicas, Instituto Politecnico Nacional, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Mario Perez-Medina
- Laboratorio de Investigacion en Cancer Pulmonar, Departamento de Enfermedades Cronico-Degenerativas, Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Respiratorias "Ismael Cosio Villegas", Mexico City, Mexico
- Laboratorio de Quimioterapia Experimental, Departamento de Bioquimica, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biologicas, Instituto Politecnico Nacional, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Rodolfo Chavez-Dominguez
- Laboratorio de Investigacion en Cancer Pulmonar, Departamento de Enfermedades Cronico-Degenerativas, Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Respiratorias "Ismael Cosio Villegas", Mexico City, Mexico
- Posgrado en Ciencias Biologicas, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Dolores Aguilar-Cazares
- Laboratorio de Investigacion en Cancer Pulmonar, Departamento de Enfermedades Cronico-Degenerativas, Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Respiratorias "Ismael Cosio Villegas", Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Miriam Galicia-Velasco
- Laboratorio de Investigacion en Cancer Pulmonar, Departamento de Enfermedades Cronico-Degenerativas, Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Respiratorias "Ismael Cosio Villegas", Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Jose S Lopez-Gonzalez
- Laboratorio de Investigacion en Cancer Pulmonar, Departamento de Enfermedades Cronico-Degenerativas, Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Respiratorias "Ismael Cosio Villegas", Mexico City, Mexico
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Cooper AJL, Dorai T, Pinto JT, Denton TT. α-Ketoglutaramate-A key metabolite contributing to glutamine addiction in cancer cells. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1035335. [PMID: 36404951 PMCID: PMC9671947 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.1035335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Arthur J. L. Cooper
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, United States
| | - Thambi Dorai
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, United States
- Department of Urology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, United States
| | - John T. Pinto
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, United States
| | - Travis T. Denton
- Department Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Washington State University Health Sciences Spokane, Spokane, WA, United States
- Department of Translational Medicine and Physiology, Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University Health Sciences Spokane, Spokane, WA, United States
- Steve Gleason Institute for Neuroscience, Washington State University Health Sciences Spokane, Spokane, WA, United States
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14
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Yahsi B, Gunaydin G. Immunometabolism – The Role of Branched-Chain Amino Acids. Front Immunol 2022; 13:886822. [PMID: 35812393 PMCID: PMC9259854 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.886822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunometabolism has been the focus of extensive research over the last years, especially in terms of augmenting anti-tumor immune responses. Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are a subset of CD4+ T cells, which have been known for their immunosuppressive roles in various conditions including anti-tumor immune responses. Even though several studies aimed to target Tregs in the tumor microenvironment (TME), such approaches generally result in the inhibition of the Tregs non-specifically, which may cause immunopathologies such as autoimmunity. Therefore, specifically targeting the Tregs in the TME would be vital in terms of achieving a successful and specific treatment. Recently, an association between Tregs and isoleucine, which represents one type of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), has been demonstrated. The presence of isoleucine seems to affect majorly Tregs, rather than conventional T cells. Considering the fact that Tregs bear several distinct metabolic features in the TME, targeting their immunometabolic pathways may be a rational approach. In this Review, we provide a general overview on the potential distinct metabolic features of T cells, especially focusing on BCAAs in Tregs as well as in their subtypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Berkay Yahsi
- School of Medicine, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Gurcan Gunaydin
- Department of Basic Oncology, Cancer Institute, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
- *Correspondence: Gurcan Gunaydin,
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15
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Gregorio JD, Petricca S, Iorio R, Toniato E, Flati V. MITOCHONDRIAL AND METABOLIC ALTERATIONS IN CANCER CELLS. Eur J Cell Biol 2022; 101:151225. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejcb.2022.151225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
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16
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Combining PEGylated mito-atovaquone with MCT and Krebs cycle redox inhibitors as a potential strategy to abrogate tumor cell proliferation. Sci Rep 2022; 12:5143. [PMID: 35332210 PMCID: PMC8948292 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-08984-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Glycolytic and mitochondrial oxidative metabolism, which are two major energy sources in tumors, are potential targets in cancer treatment. Metabolic reprogramming from glycolysis to mitochondrial oxidative metabolism and vice versa is an adaptive strategy with which tumor cells obtain energy to survive and thrive under the compromised conditions of glycolysis and mitochondrial respiration. Developing highly potent, nontoxic, and tumor-selective oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) inhibitors may help advance therapeutic targeting of mitochondrial drugs in cancer. The FDA-approved antimalarial drug atovaquone (ATO), a mitochondrial complex III inhibitor, was repurposed in cancer treatment. Here, we developed a new class of PEGylated mitochondria-targeted ATO (Mito-(PEG)n-ATO). Depending on the PEGylation chain length (n), Mito-PEG-ATO analogs inhibit both mitochondrial complex I- and complex III-induced oxygen consumption in human pancreatic (MiaPaCa-2) and brain (U87MG) cancer cells. Mito-PEG5-ATO is one of the most potent antiproliferative mitochondria-targeted compounds (IC50 = 38 nM) in MiaPaCa-2 cells, and is more effective than other inhibitors of OXPHOS in MiaPaCa-2 and U87MG cells. Furthermore, we show that the combined use of the most potent OXPHOS-targeted inhibitors (Mito-PEG5-ATO) and inhibitors of monocarboxylate transporters (MCT-1 and MCT-4), Krebs cycle redox metabolism, or glutaminolysis will synergistically abrogate tumor cell proliferation. Potential clinical benefits of these combinatorial therapies are discussed.
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17
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Circ_0001093 promotes glutamine metabolism and cancer progression of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma by targeting miR-579-3p/glutaminase axis. J Bioenerg Biomembr 2022; 54:119-134. [PMID: 35322289 DOI: 10.1007/s10863-022-09935-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Increasing studies indicate that circular RNAs (circRNAs) play critical roles in tumor metabolism of multiple cancers. However, the contribution of circRNAs in glutamine metabolism of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) remains elusive. The objective of this research was to investigate the role and mechanism of circRNA hsa_circ_0001093 (circ_0001093) in the glutamine metabolism and tumorigenesis of ESCC. Circ_0001093, microRNA-579-3p (miR-579-3p) and glutaminase (GLS) expressions in ESCC tissues and cell lines were measured by qRT-PCR, tissue array or Western blot. Cell proliferation, invasion and migration were assessed by CCK-8 or transwell assays. Glutamine consumption, glutamate and ATP production were detected by indicated assay kits. The relationships between circ_0001093 and miR-579-3p or GLS mRNA were investigated by bioinformatics analysis, RNA pull-down, luciferase reporter and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays. Here, we found that circ_0001093 expression was up-regulated in ESCC tissues and cell lines. Increased circ_0001093 expression predicted an unfavourable prognosis, and was associated with the lymph node metastasis, TNM staging and tumor size in ESCC tissues. Circ_0001093 knockdown suppressed cell proliferation, invasion, migration and glutamine metabolism of ESCC cells, while circ_0001093 over-expression showed the opposite effects. Mechanistically, circ_0001093 acted as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) by sponging miR-579-3p, thereby increasing GLS expression. Furthermore, the inhibitory effects of circ_0001093 knockdown on the invasion, migration and glutamine metabolism were partly rescued by miR-579-3p inhibition or GLS over-expression in ESCC cells. Additionally, miR-579-3p expression was down-regulated in ESCC tissues, while GLS expression was up-regulated. In conclusion, this study first provides evidence that the circ_0001093/miR-579-3p/GLS regulatory network can affect glutamine metabolism and malignant phenotype of ESCC, which can further impact ESCC progression.
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18
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Halama A, Suhre K. Advancing Cancer Treatment by Targeting Glutamine Metabolism—A Roadmap. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14030553. [PMID: 35158820 PMCID: PMC8833671 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14030553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Dysregulated glutamine metabolism is one of the metabolic features evident in cancer cells when compared to normal cells. Cancer cells utilize glutamine for energy generation as well as the synthesis of other molecules that are critical for cancer growth and progression. Therefore, drugs targeting glutamine metabolism have been extensively investigated. However, inhibition of glutamine metabolism in cancer cells results in the activation of other metabolic pathways enabling cancer cells to survive. In this review, we summarize and discuss the targets in glutamine metabolism, which has been probed in the development of anticancer drugs in preclinical and clinical studies. We further discuss pathways activated in response to glutamine metabolism inhibition, enabling cancer cells to survive the challenge. Finally, we put into perspective combined treatment strategies targeting glutamine metabolism along with other pathways as potential treatment options. Abstract Tumor growth and metastasis strongly depend on adapted cell metabolism. Cancer cells adjust their metabolic program to their specific energy needs and in response to an often challenging tumor microenvironment. Glutamine metabolism is one of the metabolic pathways that can be successfully targeted in cancer treatment. The dependence of many hematological and solid tumors on glutamine is associated with mitochondrial glutaminase (GLS) activity that enables channeling of glutamine into the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, generation of ATP and NADPH, and regulation of glutathione homeostasis and reactive oxygen species (ROS). Small molecules that target glutamine metabolism through inhibition of GLS therefore simultaneously limit energy availability and increase oxidative stress. However, some cancers can reprogram their metabolism to evade this metabolic trap. Therefore, the effectiveness of treatment strategies that rely solely on glutamine inhibition is limited. In this review, we discuss the metabolic and molecular pathways that are linked to dysregulated glutamine metabolism in multiple cancer types. We further summarize and review current clinical trials of glutaminolysis inhibition in cancer patients. Finally, we put into perspective strategies that deploy a combined treatment targeting glutamine metabolism along with other molecular or metabolic pathways and discuss their potential for clinical applications.
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Elliott T. Immunotherapy advances: One year on. IMMUNOTHERAPY ADVANCES 2022; 2:ltac001. [PMID: 35919492 PMCID: PMC9327108 DOI: 10.1093/immadv/ltac001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Tim Elliott
- Centre for Immuno-oncology, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, UK
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Markovska A, Schipper HS, Boes M. Harnessing immunometabolism for cardiovascular health and cancer therapy. IMMUNOTHERAPY ADVANCES 2021; 1:ltab021. [PMID: 35919737 PMCID: PMC9327100 DOI: 10.1093/immadv/ltab021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Angela Markovska
- Center for Translational Immunology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Henk S Schipper
- Center for Translational Immunology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Wilhelmina Children’s Hospital, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Marianne Boes
- Center for Translational Immunology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Department of Pediatric Immunology, Wilhelmina Children’s Hospital, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
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