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Mei L, Liao K, Chen H, Zhang Y, Zhang Z, Li Q, Li M. Application of Nanomaterials and Related Drug Delivery Systems in Autophagy. Molecules 2024; 29:3513. [PMID: 39124918 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29153513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2024] [Revised: 07/12/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Autophagy, a lysosomal self-degradation pathway, plays a critical role in cellular homeostasis by degrading endogenous damaged organelles and protein aggregates into recyclable biological molecules. Additionally, it detoxifies extracellular toxic substances, including drugs and toxic materials, thereby preserving the stability of the intracellular environment. The swift progression of nanotechnology has led to an increased focus on understanding the relationship between nanomaterials and autophagy. The effects of various nanomaterials and nano drug delivery systems on autophagy and their biological functions have been preliminarily assessed, revealing that modulation of intracellular autophagy levels by these agents represents a novel cellular response mechanism. Notably, autophagy regulation based on nanomaterials or nano drug delivery systems for a range of diseases is currently the subject of extensive research. Given the close association between autophagy levels and tumors, the regulation of autophagy has emerged as a highly active area of research in the development of innovative tumor therapies. This review synthesizes the current understanding of the application of nanomaterials or nano drug delivery systems on autophagy and their potential biological functions, suggesting a new avenue for nanomaterial-based autophagy regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Mei
- Engineering Research Center for Pharmaceuticals and Equipment of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Industrial Institute of Antibiotics, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University, Chengdu 610106, China
| | - Kai Liao
- Engineering Research Center for Pharmaceuticals and Equipment of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Industrial Institute of Antibiotics, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University, Chengdu 610106, China
| | - Haiyan Chen
- Engineering Research Center for Pharmaceuticals and Equipment of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Industrial Institute of Antibiotics, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University, Chengdu 610106, China
| | - Yifan Zhang
- Engineering Research Center for Pharmaceuticals and Equipment of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Industrial Institute of Antibiotics, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University, Chengdu 610106, China
| | - Zihan Zhang
- Engineering Research Center for Pharmaceuticals and Equipment of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Industrial Institute of Antibiotics, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University, Chengdu 610106, China
| | - Qiangwei Li
- Engineering Research Center for Pharmaceuticals and Equipment of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Industrial Institute of Antibiotics, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University, Chengdu 610106, China
| | - Man Li
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
- Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug, Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
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2
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Bachari A, Nassar N, Schanknecht E, Telukutla S, Piva TJ, Mantri N. Rationalizing a prospective coupling effect of cannabinoids with the current pharmacotherapy for melanoma treatment. WIREs Mech Dis 2024; 16:e1633. [PMID: 37920964 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.1633] [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: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
Melanoma is one of the leading fatal forms of cancer, yet from a treatment perspective, we have minimal control over its reoccurrence and resistance to current pharmacotherapies. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) has recently been accepted as a multifaceted homeostatic regulator, influencing various physiological processes across different biological compartments, including the skin. This review presents an overview of the pathophysiology of melanoma, current pharmacotherapy used for treatment, and the challenges associated with the different pharmacological approaches. Furthermore, it highlights the utility of cannabinoids as an additive remedy for melanoma by restoring the balance between downregulated immunomodulatory pathways and elevated inflammatory cytokines during chronic skin conditions as one of the suggested critical approaches in treating this immunogenic tumor. This article is categorized under: Cancer > Molecular and Cellular Physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ava Bachari
- The Pangenomics Lab, School of Science, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Nazim Nassar
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ellen Schanknecht
- The Pangenomics Lab, School of Science, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Terrence Jerald Piva
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Nitin Mantri
- The Pangenomics Lab, School of Science, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
- The UWA Institute of Agriculture, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
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3
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Llorente A, Loughran RM, Emerling BM. Targeting phosphoinositide signaling in cancer: relevant techniques to study lipids and novel avenues for therapeutic intervention. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1297355. [PMID: 37954209 PMCID: PMC10634348 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1297355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Phosphoinositides serve as essential players in numerous biological activities and are critical for overall cellular function. Due to their complex chemical structures, localization, and low abundance, current challenges in the phosphoinositide field include the accurate measurement and identification of specific variants, particularly those with acyl chains. Researchers are intensively developing innovative techniques and approaches to address these challenges and advance our understanding of the impact of phosphoinositide signaling on cellular biology. This article provides an overview of recent advances in the study of phosphoinositides, including mass spectrometry, lipid biosensors, and real-time activity assays using fluorometric sensors. These methodologies have proven instrumental for a comprehensive exploration of the cellular distribution and dynamics of phosphoinositides and have shed light on the growing significance of these lipids in human health and various pathological processes, including cancer. To illustrate the importance of phosphoinositide signaling in disease, this perspective also highlights the role of a family of lipid kinases named phosphatidylinositol 5-phosphate 4-kinases (PI5P4Ks), which have recently emerged as exciting therapeutic targets for cancer treatment. The ongoing exploration of phosphoinositide signaling not only deepens our understanding of cellular biology but also holds promise for novel interventions in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Brooke M. Emerling
- Cancer Metabolism and Microenvironment Program, Sanford Burnham Prebys, La Jolla, CA, United States
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4
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Fratta E, Giurato G, Guerrieri R, Colizzi F, Dal Col J, Weisz A, Steffan A, Montico B. Autophagy in BRAF-mutant cutaneous melanoma: recent advances and therapeutic perspective. Cell Death Discov 2023; 9:202. [PMID: 37386023 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-023-01496-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Macroautophagy, hereafter referred to as autophagy, represents a highly conserved catabolic process that maintains cellular homeostasis. At present, the role of autophagy in cutaneous melanoma (CM) is still controversial, since it appears to be tumor-suppressive at early stages of malignant transformation and cancer-promoting during disease progression. Interestingly, autophagy has been found to be often increased in CM harboring BRAF mutation and to impair the response to targeted therapy. In addition to autophagy, numerous studies have recently conducted in cancer to elucidate the molecular mechanisms of mitophagy, a selective form of mitochondria autophagy, and secretory autophagy, a process that facilitates unconventional cellular secretion. Although several aspects of mitophagy and secretory autophagy have been investigated in depth, their involvement in BRAF-mutant CM biology has only recently emerged. In this review, we aim to overview autophagy dysregulation in BRAF-mutant CM, along with the therapeutic advantages that may arise from combining autophagy inhibitors with targeted therapy. In addition, the recent advances on mitophagy and secretory autophagy involvement in BRAF-mutant CM will be also discussed. Finally, since a number of autophagy-related non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) have been identified so far, we will briefly discussed recent advances linking ncRNAs to autophagy regulation in BRAF-mutant CM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Fratta
- Immunopathology and Cancer Biomarkers Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO), IRCCS, Aviano, Italy.
| | - Giorgio Giurato
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Genomics, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana", University of Salerno, 84081, Baronissi, SA, Italy
- Genome Research Center for Health - CRGS, 84081, Baronissi, SA, Italy
| | - Roberto Guerrieri
- Immunopathology and Cancer Biomarkers Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO), IRCCS, Aviano, Italy
| | - Francesca Colizzi
- Immunopathology and Cancer Biomarkers Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO), IRCCS, Aviano, Italy
| | - Jessica Dal Col
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana", University of Salerno, 84081, Baronissi, SA, Italy
| | - Alessandro Weisz
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Genomics, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana", University of Salerno, 84081, Baronissi, SA, Italy
- Genome Research Center for Health - CRGS, 84081, Baronissi, SA, Italy
- Molecular Pathology and Medical Genomics Program, AOU 'S. Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi d'Aragona' University of Salerno and Rete Oncologica Campana, 84131, Salerno, Italy
| | - Agostino Steffan
- Immunopathology and Cancer Biomarkers Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO), IRCCS, Aviano, Italy
| | - Barbara Montico
- Immunopathology and Cancer Biomarkers Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO), IRCCS, Aviano, Italy.
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Beretti F, Gatti M, Zavatti M, Bassoli S, Pellacani G, Maraldi T. Reactive Oxygen Species Regulation of Chemoresistance and Metastatic Capacity of Melanoma: Role of the Cancer Stem Cell Marker CD271. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11041229. [PMID: 37189846 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11041229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BRAF mutations are present in 30-50% of cases of cutaneous melanoma, and treatment with selective BRAF and MEK inhibitors has been introduced. However, the development of resistance to these drugs often occurs. Chemo-resistant melanoma cells show increased expression of CD271, a stem cell marker that features increased migration. Concordantly, resistance to the selective inhibitor of oncogenic BRAFV600E/K, vemurafenib, is mediated by the increased expression of CD271. It has recently been shown that the BRAF pathway leads to an overexpression of the NADPH oxidase Nox4, which produces reactive oxygen species (ROS). Here, we examined in vitro how Nox-derived ROS in BRAF-mutated melanoma cells regulates their drug sensitivity and metastatic potential. We demonstrated that DPI, a Nox inhibitor, reduced the resistance of a melanoma cell line (SK-MEL-28) and a primary culture derived from a BRAFV600E-mutated biopsy to vemurafenib. DPI treatment affected the expression of CD271 and the ERK and Akt signaling pathways, leading to a drop in epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), which undoubtedly promotes an invasive phenotype in melanoma. More importantly, the scratch test demonstrated the efficacy of the Nox inhibitor (DPI) in blocking migration, supporting its use to counteract drug resistance and thus cell invasion and metastasis in BRAF-mutated melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Beretti
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Martina Gatti
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Manuela Zavatti
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Sara Bassoli
- Department of Dermatology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Giovanni Pellacani
- Department of Dermatology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
- Department of Clinical Internal, Anesthesiological and Cardiovascular Sciences, Dermatology Clinic, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Tullia Maraldi
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
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6
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Schanknecht E, Bachari A, Nassar N, Piva T, Mantri N. Phytochemical Constituents and Derivatives of Cannabis sativa; Bridging the Gap in Melanoma Treatment. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24010859. [PMID: 36614303 PMCID: PMC9820847 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is deadly, physically impairing, and has ongoing treatment deficiencies. Current treatment regimens include surgery, targeted kinase inhibitors, immunotherapy, and combined approaches. Each of these treatments face pitfalls, with diminutive five-year survival in patients with advanced metastatic invasion of lymph and secondary organ tissues. Polyphenolic compounds, including cannabinoids, terpenoids, and flavonoids; both natural and synthetic, have emerging evidence of nutraceutical, cosmetic and pharmacological potential, including specific anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and palliative utility. Cannabis sativa is a wellspring of medicinal compounds whose direct and adjunctive application may offer considerable relief for melanoma suffers worldwide. This review aims to address the diverse applications of C. sativa's biocompounds in the scope of melanoma and suggest it as a strong candidate for ongoing pharmacological evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen Schanknecht
- The Pangenomics Lab, School of Science, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC 3083, Australia
| | - Ava Bachari
- The Pangenomics Lab, School of Science, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC 3083, Australia
| | - Nazim Nassar
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC 3083, Australia
| | - Terrence Piva
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC 3083, Australia
| | - Nitin Mantri
- The Pangenomics Lab, School of Science, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC 3083, Australia
- UWA Institute of Agriculture, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
- Correspondence:
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Yadav V, Jobe N, Satapathy SR, Mohapatra P, Andersson T. Increased MARCKS Activity in BRAF Inhibitor-Resistant Melanoma Cells Is Essential for Their Enhanced Metastatic Behavior Independent of Elevated WNT5A and IL-6 Signaling. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14246077. [PMID: 36551563 PMCID: PMC9775662 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14246077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Treatment of melanoma with a BRAF inhibitor (BRAFi) frequently initiates development of BRAFi resistance, leading to increased tumor progression and metastasis. Previously, we showed that combined inhibition of elevated WNT5A and IL-6 signaling reduced the invasion and migration of BRAFi-resistant (BRAFi-R) melanoma cells. However, the use of a combined approach per se and the need for high inhibitor concentrations to achieve this effect indicate a need for an alternative and single target. One such target could be myristoylated alanine-rich C-kinase substrate (MARCKS), a downstream target of WNT5A in BRAFi-sensitive melanoma cells. Our results revealed that MARCKS protein expression and activity are significantly elevated in PLX4032 and PLX4720 BRAFi-R A375 and HTB63 melanoma cells. Surprisingly, neither WNT5A nor IL-6 contributed to the increases in MARCKS expression and activity in BRAFi-R melanoma cells, unlike in BRAFi-sensitive melanoma cells. However, despite the above findings, our functional validation experiments revealed that MARCKS is essential for the increased metastatic behavior of BRAFi-R melanoma cells. Knockdown of MARCKS in BRAFi-R melanoma cells caused reductions in the F-actin content and the number of filopodia-like protrusions, explaining the impaired migration, invasion and metastasis of these cells observed in vitro and in an in vivo zebrafish model. In our search for an alternative explanation for the increased activity of MARCKS in BRAFi-R melanoma cells, we found elevated basal activities of PKCα, PKCε, PKCι, and RhoA. Interestingly, combined inhibition of basal PKC and RhoA effectively impaired MARCKS activity in BRAFi-R melanoma cells. Our results reveal that MARCKS is an attractive single antimetastatic target in BRAFi-R melanoma cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vikas Yadav
- Cell and Experimental Pathology, Department of Translational Medicine, Lund University, Clinical Research Centre, Skåne University Hospital, SE 20213 Malmö, Sweden
- Correspondence: (V.Y.); (T.A.); Tel.: +46-40-391167 (V.Y. & T.A.)
| | - Njainday Jobe
- Cell and Experimental Pathology, Department of Translational Medicine, Lund University, Clinical Research Centre, Skåne University Hospital, SE 20213 Malmö, Sweden
| | - Shakti Ranjan Satapathy
- Cell and Experimental Pathology, Department of Translational Medicine, Lund University, Clinical Research Centre, Skåne University Hospital, SE 20213 Malmö, Sweden
| | - Purusottam Mohapatra
- Cell and Experimental Pathology, Department of Translational Medicine, Lund University, Clinical Research Centre, Skåne University Hospital, SE 20213 Malmö, Sweden
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education & Research (NIPER), Guwahati 781101, Assam, India
| | - Tommy Andersson
- Cell and Experimental Pathology, Department of Translational Medicine, Lund University, Clinical Research Centre, Skåne University Hospital, SE 20213 Malmö, Sweden
- Correspondence: (V.Y.); (T.A.); Tel.: +46-40-391167 (V.Y. & T.A.)
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8
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Bustos SO, Leal Santos N, Chammas R, Andrade LNDS. Secretory Autophagy Forges a Therapy Resistant Microenvironment in Melanoma. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:234. [PMID: 35008395 PMCID: PMC8749976 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14010234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is the most aggressive skin cancer characterized by high mutational burden and large heterogeneity. Cancer cells are surrounded by a complex environment, critical to tumor establishment and progression. Thus, tumor-associated stromal components can sustain tumor demands or impair cancer cell progression. One way to manage such processes is through the regulation of autophagy, both in stromal and tumor cells. Autophagy is a catabolic mechanism that provides nutrients and energy, and it eliminates damaged organelles by degradation and recycling of cellular elements. Besides this primary function, autophagy plays multiple roles in the tumor microenvironment capable of affecting cell fate. Evidence demonstrates the existence of novel branches in the autophagy system related to cytoplasmic constituent's secretion. Hence, autophagy-dependent secretion assembles a tangled network of signaling that potentially contributes to metabolism reprogramming, immune regulation, and tumor progression. Here, we summarize the current awareness regarding secretory autophagy and the intersection with exosome biogenesis and release in melanoma and their role in tumor resistance. In addition, we present and discuss data from public databases concerning autophagy and exosome-related genes as important mediators of melanoma behavior. Finally, we will present the main challenges in the field and strategies to translate most of the pre-clinical findings to clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvina Odete Bustos
- Center for Translational Research in Oncology (LIM24), Instituto do Câncer do Estado de São Paulo, Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, Sao Paulo 01246-000, Brazil; (N.L.S.); (R.C.)
| | | | | | - Luciana Nogueira de Sousa Andrade
- Center for Translational Research in Oncology (LIM24), Instituto do Câncer do Estado de São Paulo, Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, Sao Paulo 01246-000, Brazil; (N.L.S.); (R.C.)
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Iozzo M, Sgrignani G, Comito G, Chiarugi P, Giannoni E. Endocannabinoid System and Tumour Microenvironment: New Intertwined Connections for Anticancer Approaches. Cells 2021; 10:cells10123396. [PMID: 34943903 PMCID: PMC8699381 DOI: 10.3390/cells10123396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The tumour microenvironment (TME) is now recognised as a hallmark of cancer, since tumour:stroma crosstalk supports the key steps of tumour growth and progression. The dynamic co-evolution of the tumour and stromal compartments may alter the surrounding microenvironment, including the composition in metabolites and signalling mediators. A growing number of evidence reports the involvement of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in cancer. ECS is composed by a complex network of ligands, receptors, and enzymes, which act in synergy and contribute to several physiological but also pathological processes. Several in vitro and in vivo evidence show that ECS deregulation in cancer cells affects proliferation, migration, invasion, apoptosis, and metastatic potential. Although it is still an evolving research, recent experimental evidence also suggests that ECS can modulate the functional behaviour of several components of the TME, above all the immune cells, endothelial cells and stromal components. However, the role of ECS in the tumour:stroma interplay remains unclear and research in this area is particularly intriguing. This review aims to shed light on the latest relevant findings of the tumour response to ECS modulation, encouraging a more in-depth analysis in this field. Novel discoveries could be promising for novel anti-tumour approaches, targeting the microenvironmental components and the supportive tumour:stroma crosstalk, thereby hindering tumour development.
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10
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Clinical Translation of Combined MAPK and Autophagy Inhibition in RAS Mutant Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222212402. [PMID: 34830283 PMCID: PMC8623813 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222212402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
RAS (rat sarcoma virus) mutant cancers remain difficult to treat despite the advances in targeted therapy and immunotherapy. Targeted therapies against the components of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways, including RAS, RAF, MEK, and ERK, have demonstrated activity in BRAF mutant and, in limited cases, RAS mutant cancer. RAS mutant cancers have been found to activate adaptive resistance mechanisms such as autophagy during MAPK inhibition. Here, we review the recent clinically relevant advances in the development of the MAPK pathway and autophagy inhibitors and focus on their application to RAS mutant cancers. We provide analysis of the preclinical rationale for combining the MAPK pathway and autophagy and highlight the most recent clinical trials that have been launched to capitalize on this potentially synthetic lethal approach to cancer therapy.
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11
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The Role of Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase Catalytic Subunit Type 3 in the Pathogenesis of Human Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222010964. [PMID: 34681622 PMCID: PMC8535862 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222010964] [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: 08/13/2021] [Revised: 10/02/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase catalytic subunit type 3 (PIK3C3), the mammalian ortholog of yeast vesicular protein sorting 34 (Vps34), belongs to the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) family. PIK3C3 can phosphorylate phosphatidylinositol (PtdIns) to generate phosphatidylinositol 3-phosphate (PI3P), a phospholipid central to autophagy. Inhibition of PIK3C3 successfully inhibits autophagy. Autophagy maintains cell survival when modifications occur in the cellular environment and helps tumor cells resist metabolic stress and cancer treatment. In addition, PIK3C3 could induce oncogenic transformation and enhance tumor cell proliferation, growth, and invasion through mechanisms independent of autophagy. This review addresses the structural and functional features, tissue distribution, and expression pattern of PIK3C3 in a variety of human tumors and highlights the underlying mechanisms involved in carcinogenesis. The implications in cancer biology, patient prognosis prediction, and cancer therapy are discussed. Altogether, the discovery of pharmacological inhibitors of PIK3C3 could reveal novel strategies for improving treatment outcomes for PIK3C3-mediated human diseases.
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12
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Hill D, Cosgarea I, Reynolds N, Lovat P, Armstrong J. Research Techniques Made Simple: Analysis of Autophagy in the Skin. J Invest Dermatol 2021; 141:5-9.e1. [PMID: 33342508 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2020.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2020] [Revised: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Autophagy is required for normal skin homeostasis and its disordered regulation is implicated in a range of cutaneous diseases. Several well-characterized biomarkers of autophagy are used experimentally to quantify autophagic activity or clinically to correlate autophagy with disease progression. This article discusses the advantages and limitations of different approaches for measuring autophagy as well as the techniques for modulating autophagy. These include analysis of endogenous LC3, a central autophagy regulatory protein, and measurement of LC3 flux using a dual-fluorescent reporter, which provides a quantitative readout of autophagy in cell culture systems in vitro and animal models in vivo. Degradation of SQSTM1/p62 during autophagy is proposed as an alternative biomarker allowing the analysis of autophagy both experimentally and clinically. However, the complex regulation of individual autophagy proteins and their involvement in multiple pathways means that several proteins must be analyzed together, preferably over a time course to accurately interpret changes in autophagic activity. Genetic modification of autophagy proteins can be used to better understand basic autophagic mechanisms contributing to health and disease, whereas small molecule inhibitors of autophagy regulatory proteins, lysosomal inhibitors, or activators of cytotoxic autophagy have been explored as potential treatments for skin disorders where autophagy is defective.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Hill
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Wellbeing, University of Sunderland, Sunderland, United Kingdom
| | - Ioana Cosgarea
- Translation and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom; Newcastle Dermatology, Newcastle Hospitals NHS Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom; Newcastle Oncology, Newcastle Hospitals NHS Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Nick Reynolds
- Translation and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom; Newcastle Dermatology, Newcastle Hospitals NHS Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Penny Lovat
- Translation and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom; AMLo Biosciences Ltd, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Jane Armstrong
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Wellbeing, University of Sunderland, Sunderland, United Kingdom.
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13
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Li Z, Zheng W, Wang H, Cheng Y, Fang Y, Wu F, Sun G, Sun G, Lv C, Hui B. Application of Animal Models in Cancer Research: Recent Progress and Future Prospects. Cancer Manag Res 2021; 13:2455-2475. [PMID: 33758544 PMCID: PMC7979343 DOI: 10.2147/cmar.s302565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Animal models refers to the animal experimental objects and related materials that can simulate human body established in medical research. As the second-largest disease in terms of morbidity and mortality after cardiovascular disease, cancer has always been the focus of human attention all over the world, which makes it a research hotspot in the medical field. At the same time, more and more animal models have been constructed and used in cancer research. With the deepening of research, the construction methods of cancer animal models are becoming more and more diverse, including chemical induction, xenotransplantation, gene programming, and so on. In recent years, patient-derived xenotransplantation (PDX) model has become a research hotspot because it can retain the microenvironment of the primary tumor and the basic characteristics of cells. Animal models can be used not only to study the biochemical and physiological processes of the occurrence and development of cancer in objects but also for the screening of cancer drugs and the exploration of gene therapy. In this paper, several main tumor animal models and the application progress of animal models in tumor research are systematically reviewed. Finally, combined with the latest progress and development trend in this field, the future research of tumor animal model was prospected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhitao Li
- Department of General Surgery, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Wubin Zheng
- Department of General Surgery, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Hanjin Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Ye Cheng
- Department of General Surgery, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yijiao Fang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China
| | - Fan Wu
- Department of General Surgery, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Guoqiang Sun
- Department of General Surgery, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Guangshun Sun
- Department of General Surgery, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Chengyu Lv
- Department of General Surgery, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Bingqing Hui
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
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14
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Anti-Cancer Potential of Cannabinoids, Terpenes, and Flavonoids Present in Cannabis. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12071985. [PMID: 32708138 PMCID: PMC7409346 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12071985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Revised: 07/17/2020] [Accepted: 07/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, and even more since its legalization in several jurisdictions, cannabis and the endocannabinoid system have received an increasing amount of interest related to their potential exploitation in clinical settings. Cannabinoids have been suggested and shown to be effective in the treatment of various conditions. In cancer, the endocannabinoid system is altered in numerous types of tumours and can relate to cancer prognosis and disease outcome. Additionally, cannabinoids display anticancer effects in several models by suppressing the proliferation, migration and/or invasion of cancer cells, as well as tumour angiogenesis. However, the therapeutic use of cannabinoids is currently limited to the treatment of symptoms and pain associated with chemotherapy, while their potential use as cytotoxic drugs in chemotherapy still requires validation in patients. Along with cannabinoids, cannabis contains several other compounds that have also been shown to exert anti-tumorigenic actions. The potential anti-cancer effects of cannabinoids, terpenes and flavonoids, present in cannabis, are explored in this literature review.
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15
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Lin L, Ding D, Xiao X, Li B, Cao P, Li S. Trametinib potentiates TRAIL-induced apoptosis via FBW7-dependent Mcl-1 degradation in colorectal cancer cells. J Cell Mol Med 2020; 24:6822-6832. [PMID: 32352219 PMCID: PMC7299726 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.15336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2019] [Revised: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Trametinib is a MEK1/2 inhibitor and exerts anticancer activity against a variety of cancers. However, the effect of Trametinib on colorectal cancer (CRC) is not well understood. In the current study, our results demonstrate the ability of sub-toxic doses of Trametinib to enhance TRAIL-mediated apoptosis in CRC cells. Our findings also indicate that Trametinib and TRAIL activate caspase-dependent apoptosis in CRC cells. Moreover, Mcl-1 overexpression can reduce apoptosis in CRC cells treated with Trametinib with or without TRAIL. We further demonstrate that Trametinib degrades Mcl-1 through the proteasome pathway. In addition, GSK-3β phosphorylates Mcl-1 at S159 and promotes Mcl-1 degradation. The E3 ligase FBW7, known to polyubiquitinate Mcl-1, is involved in Trametinib-induced Mcl-1 degradation. Taken together, these results provide the first evidence that Trametinib enhances TRAIL-mediated apoptosis through FBW7-dependent Mcl-1 ubiquitination and degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Lin
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Dapeng Ding
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Xiaoguang Xiao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Bing Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Penglong Cao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Shijun Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
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16
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Gong C, Xia H. Resveratrol suppresses melanoma growth by promoting autophagy through inhibiting the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. Exp Ther Med 2020; 19:1878-1886. [PMID: 32104244 PMCID: PMC7027143 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2019.8359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2019] [Accepted: 11/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Resveratrol (RV) is a natural polyphenolic phytoalexin derived from peanuts, red grape skins and red wine, and has been demonstrated to alleviate multiple types of malignancies. However, how RV achieves this in melanoma is unknown. The aim of present study was to investigate the role of RV in melanoma, using Cell Counting Kit-8, flow cytometry and western blot analysis. RV inhibited melanoma cell viability, migration and invasion counteracting melanoma progression. In addition, proteins associated with autophagy, including Beclin 1 and microtubule-associated protein 1A/1B-light chain 3 (LC3)-II/I, were upregulated, whereas p62 expression was downregulated in RV-treated cells. The number of LC3+ puncta, which can be applied to represent autophagosome formation, increased following RV treatment, suggesting that RV may trigger autophagy in melanoma cells. Treatment with the autophagy inhibitor, 3-methyladenine, reversed the RV-dependent inhibition of viability, migration and invasion of melanoma cells. RV treatment also reduced the ratios of phosphorylated (p)-AKT/AKT and p-mTOR/mTOR in melanoma cells. In conclusion, these findings suggested that RV may inhibit the viability and migration of melanoma cells through inhibiting the AKT/mTOR pathway, thus triggering autophagy. This indicated that RV may serve as an innovative therapeutic for melanoma treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changhua Gong
- Department of Pharmacy, People's Hospital of Zhenhai, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315202, P.R. China
| | - Honglei Xia
- Department of Pharmacy, People's Hospital of Zhenhai, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315202, P.R. China
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17
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Dissecting Mechanisms of Melanoma Resistance to BRAF and MEK Inhibitors Revealed Genetic and Non-Genetic Patient- and Drug-Specific Alterations and Remarkable Phenotypic Plasticity. Cells 2020; 9:cells9010142. [PMID: 31936151 PMCID: PMC7017165 DOI: 10.3390/cells9010142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Revised: 12/29/2019] [Accepted: 01/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The clinical benefit of MAPK pathway inhibition in BRAF-mutant melanoma patients is limited by the development of acquired resistance. Using drug-naïve cell lines derived from tumor specimens, we established a preclinical model of melanoma resistance to vemurafenib or trametinib to provide insight into resistance mechanisms. Dissecting the mechanisms accompanying the development of resistance, we have shown that (i) most of genetic and non-genetic alterations are triggered in a cell line- and/or drug-specific manner; (ii) several changes previously assigned to the development of resistance are induced as the immediate response to the extent measurable at the bulk levels; (iii) reprogramming observed in cross-resistance experiments and growth factor-dependence restricted by the drug presence indicate that phenotypic plasticity of melanoma cells largely contributes to the sustained resistance. Whole-exome sequencing revealed novel genetic alterations, including a frameshift variant of RBMX found exclusively in phospho-AKThigh resistant cell lines. There was no similar pattern of phenotypic alterations among eleven resistant cell lines, including expression/activity of crucial regulators, such as MITF, AXL, SOX, and NGFR, which suggests that patient-to-patient variability is richer and more nuanced than previously described. This diversity should be considered during the development of new strategies to circumvent the acquired resistance to targeted therapies.
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18
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Ho CJ, Gorski SM. Molecular Mechanisms Underlying Autophagy-Mediated Treatment Resistance in Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:E1775. [PMID: 31717997 PMCID: PMC6896088 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11111775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2019] [Revised: 10/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite advances in diagnostic tools and therapeutic options, treatment resistance remains a challenge for many cancer patients. Recent studies have found evidence that autophagy, a cellular pathway that delivers cytoplasmic components to lysosomes for degradation and recycling, contributes to treatment resistance in different cancer types. A role for autophagy in resistance to chemotherapies and targeted therapies has been described based largely on associations with various signaling pathways, including MAPK and PI3K/AKT signaling. However, our current understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the role of autophagy in facilitating treatment resistance remains limited. Here we provide a comprehensive summary of the evidence linking autophagy to major signaling pathways in the context of treatment resistance and tumor progression, and then highlight recently emerged molecular mechanisms underlying autophagy and the p62/KEAP1/NRF2 and FOXO3A/PUMA axes in chemoresistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cally J. Ho
- Canada’s Michael Smith Genome Sciences Centre, BC Cancer, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1L3, Canada;
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC V5A 1S6, Canada
| | - Sharon M. Gorski
- Canada’s Michael Smith Genome Sciences Centre, BC Cancer, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1L3, Canada;
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC V5A 1S6, Canada
- Centre for Cell Biology, Development, and Disease, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC V5A 1S6, Canada
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19
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Comprehensive Analysis of ERK1/2 Substrates for Potential Combination Immunotherapies. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2019; 40:897-910. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2019.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2019] [Revised: 09/10/2019] [Accepted: 09/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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20
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Sciarretta F, Fulci C, Palumbo C, Rotili D, Tentori L, Graziani G, Caccuri AM. Effects of Glutathione Transferase-Targeting Nitrobenzoxadiazole Compounds in Relation to PD-L1 Status in Human Melanoma Cells. Chemotherapy 2019; 64:138-145. [PMID: 31639786 DOI: 10.1159/000503339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2019] [Accepted: 09/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND PD-L1 is a membrane protein with inhibitory effects on immune responses, whose expression has been correlated with high aggressiveness and the propensity of melanoma to metastasize. The nitrobenzoxadiazole (NBD) NBDHEX and its analog MC3181 are endowed with strong antitumor activity towards melanoma and a significant ability to reduce its adhesion and invasiveness. Therefore, we investigated whether PD-L1 status could affect cell sensitivity to the cytotoxic effects of NBDs. We then evaluated the effects of NBDHEX on PD-L1 expression and autophagy in melanoma cells. We used the BRAF-mutated A375 melanoma cell line and an A375 variant population enriched for PD-L1+ cells as a model. The cytotoxic effects of NBDs were evaluated in comparison to those of the BRAF inhibitor vemurafenib and the autophagy inhibitor chloroquine. METHODS The effect of NBDHEX on autophagy was determined by measuring LC3-II and p62 protein levels by Western blot. The cytotoxic activity of the compounds was evaluated by sulforhodamine B assay. PD-L1 expression and plasma membrane localization were analyzed by FACS and Western blot analysis. RESULTS NBDHEX behaves as a late-autophagy inhibitor in A375 melanoma cells, as previously found in other tumor cell lines. NBDHEX and MC3181 showed strong and comparable cytotoxic activity in both parental and PD-L1+ A375 cells, with IC50 values in the sub-micromolar range. Conversely, cells sorted for high PD-L1 expression had lower sensitivity to both the BRAF inhibitor vemurafenib and the autophagy inhibitor chloroquine. NBDHEX treatment did not change the total expression and cell surface localization of PD-L1 in both parental and PD-L1+ A375 cells. CONCLUSIONS Our data suggest that NBDs may represent a promising treatment strategy for melanoma with elevated PD-L1 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Sciarretta
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara Fulci
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Camilla Palumbo
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Dante Rotili
- Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, University of "Sapienza,", Rome, Italy
| | - Lucio Tentori
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Grazia Graziani
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Caccuri
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy, .,The NAST Centre for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology and Innovative Instrumentation, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy,
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21
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Hill D, Chen L, Snaar-Jagalska E, Chaudhry B. Embryonic zebrafish xenograft assay of human cancer metastasis. F1000Res 2018; 7:1682. [PMID: 30473782 PMCID: PMC6234738 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.16659.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer metastasis is the most important prognostic factor determining patient survival, but currently there are very few drugs or therapies that specifically inhibit the invasion and metastasis of cancer cells. Currently, human cancer metastasis is largely studied using transgenic and immunocompromised mouse xenograft models, which are useful for analysing end-point tumour growth but are unable to accurately and reliably monitor in vivo invasion, intravasation, extravasation or secondary tumour formation of human cancer cells. Furthermore, limits in our ability to accurately monitor early stages of tumour growth and detect micro-metastases likely results in pain and suffering to the mice used for cancer xenograft experiments. Zebrafish ( Danio rerio) embryos, however, offer many advantages as a model system for studying the complex, multi-step processes involved during cancer metastasis. This article describes a detailed method for the analysis of human cancer cell invasion and metastasis in zebrafish embryos before they reach protected status at 5 days post fertilisation. Results demonstrate that human cancer cells actively invade within a zebrafish microenvironment, and form metastatic tumours at secondary tissue sites, suggesting that the mechanisms involved during the different stages of metastasis are conserved between humans and zebrafish, supporting the use of zebrafish embryos as a viable model of human cancer metastasis. We suggest that the embryonic zebrafish xenograft model of human cancer is a tractable laboratory model that can be used to understand cancer biology, and as a direct replacement of mice for the analysis of drugs that target cancer invasion and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Hill
- Institute of Cellular Medicine, Newcastle University, UK, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4HH, UK.,Institute of Genetic Medicine, Newcastle University, UK, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 3BZ, UK
| | | | | | - Bill Chaudhry
- Institute of Genetic Medicine, Newcastle University, UK, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 3BZ, UK
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22
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Hill D, Chen L, Snaar-Jagalska E, Chaudhry B. Embryonic zebrafish xenograft assay of human cancer metastasis. F1000Res 2018; 7:1682. [PMID: 30473782 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.16659.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer metastasis is the most important prognostic factor determining patient survival, but currently there are very few drugs or therapies that specifically inhibit the invasion and metastasis of cancer cells. Currently, human cancer metastasis is largely studied using transgenic and immunocompromised mouse xenograft models, which are useful for analysing end-point tumour growth but are unable to accurately and reliably monitor in vivo invasion, intravasation, extravasation or secondary tumour formation of human cancer cells. Furthermore, limits in our ability to accurately monitor early stages of tumour growth and detect micro-metastases likely results in pain and suffering to the mice used for cancer xenograft experiments. Zebrafish ( Danio rerio) embryos, however, offer many advantages as a model system for studying the complex, multi-step processes involved during cancer metastasis. This article describes a detailed method for the analysis of human cancer cell invasion and metastasis in zebrafish embryos before they reach protected status at 5 days post fertilisation. Results demonstrate that human cancer cells actively invade within a zebrafish microenvironment, and form metastatic tumours at secondary tissue sites, suggesting that the mechanisms involved during the different stages of metastasis are conserved between humans and zebrafish, supporting the use of zebrafish embryos as a viable model of human cancer metastasis. We suggest that the embryonic zebrafish xenograft model of human cancer is a tractable laboratory model that can be used to understand cancer biology, and as a direct replacement of mice for the analysis of drugs that target cancer invasion and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Hill
- Institute of Cellular Medicine, Newcastle University, UK, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4HH, UK.,Institute of Genetic Medicine, Newcastle University, UK, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 3BZ, UK
| | | | | | - Bill Chaudhry
- Institute of Genetic Medicine, Newcastle University, UK, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 3BZ, UK
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