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Rahmati M, Moghtaderi H, Mohammadi S, Al-Harrasi A. Aryl hydrocarbon receptor dynamics in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma: From immune modulation to therapeutic opportunities. World J Exp Med 2024; 14:96269. [DOI: 10.5493/wjem.v14.i3.96269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2024] [Revised: 05/26/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is a substantial global health burden. Immune escape mechanisms are important in ESCC progression, enabling cancer cells to escape the surveillance of the host immune system. One key player in this process is the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor (AhR), which influences multiple cellular processes, including proliferation, differentiation, metabolism, and immune regulation. Dysregulated AhR signaling participates in ESCC development by stimulating carcinogenesis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and immune escape. Targeting AhR signaling is a potential therapeutic approach for ESCC, with AhR ligands showing efficacy in preclinical studies. Additionally, modification of AhR ligands and combination therapies present new opportunities for therapeutic intervention. This review aims to address the knowledge gap related to the role of AhR signaling in ESCC pathogenesis and immune escape.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mina Rahmati
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran 1316943551, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hassan Moghtaderi
- Natural and Medical Sciences Research Center, University of Nizwa, Nizwa 616, Ad Dakhiliyah, Oman
| | - Saeed Mohammadi
- Natural and Medical Sciences Research Center, University of Nizwa, Nizwa 616, Ad Dakhiliyah, Oman
| | - Ahmed Al-Harrasi
- Natural and Medical Sciences Research Center, University of Nizwa, Nizwa 616, Ad Dakhiliyah, Oman
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Watanabe M. ANGPTL2: Is it a Novel Therapeutic Target Related to Tumor-Associated Macrophages in Esophageal Cancer? Ann Surg Oncol 2024:10.1245/s10434-024-16135-6. [PMID: 39240396 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-024-16135-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2024] [Accepted: 08/19/2024] [Indexed: 09/07/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Masayuki Watanabe
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Cancer Institute Hospital of Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo, Japan.
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Zhao Q, Su X, Xue J, Liu Y, Zhu J, Cai X, Qin S. First-line treatment with KN046, chemotherapy and palliative radiotherapy for advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma: an open-label, dose escalation, and dose expansion phase Ib trial. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2024; 73:194. [PMID: 39105827 PMCID: PMC11303366 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-024-03769-4] [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: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024]
Abstract
There is growing evidence to suggest that radiotherapy might enhance the efficacy of immunotherapy. This study aimed to assess the possibility of KN046, a bispecific antibody targeting PD-L1 and CTLA-4, combined with chemotherapy and palliative radiotherapy for advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). In this open-label, phase Ib trial, patients with advanced ESCC were administered chemotherapy with palliative radiotherapy, and KN046 in the predefined escalation dosages of 1, 3, or 5 mg/kg (every 3 weeks during chemotherapy cycles and every 2 weeks during KN046 maintenance). The chemotherapy regimen constituted cisplatin (75 mg/m2 i.v., d1) and paclitaxel (135-175 mg/m2 ivgtt., d1). Radiotherapy specifics, including site, timing, dose, and fragmentation pattern, were at the investigator's discretion. The primary outcome was dose-limiting toxicity (DLT). From May 2019 to April 2021, 25 patients were enrolled across the dosage groups: 3 in 1 mg/kg, 12 in 3 mg/kg, and 10 in 5 mg/kg. No DLT was observed during the dose escalation. The objective response rate was 41.7% (95%CI 22.1-63.4), while the disease control rate was 87.5% (95%CI 67.6-97.3). At a median follow-up of 11.8 months, the median progression-free survival was 7.8 months (95%CI 5.2-9.7) and median overall survival was 15.9 months (95%CI 8.4-NE). Serious adverse events were reported in 48.0% of patients, predominantly leukopenia (16%), immune-mediated enterocolitis (12%), immune-mediated pneumonitis (8%), and neutropenia (8%). Combining KN046 with chemotherapy and palliative radiotherapy might be feasible, showing a favorable safety profile and notable efficacy in advanced ESCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Zhao
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215000, China
| | - Xi Su
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai Chest Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Jiao Xue
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215000, China
| | - Yandong Liu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215000, China
| | - Jiaxing Zhu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215000, China
| | - Xuwei Cai
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai Chest Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200030, China.
| | - Songbing Qin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215000, China.
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Zhang Y, Li Z, Huang Y, Xu Y, Zou B. Advancements in immunotherapy for advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma: a comprehensive review of current strategies and future directions. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2024; 20:971-984. [PMID: 38884604 DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2024.2368194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Esophageal cancer (EC), particularly esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC), is characterized by high incidence and poor prognosis worldwide, necessitating novel therapeutic approaches like immunotherapy. This review explores the impact of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) on ESCC, especially focusing on PD-1/PD-L1 and CTLA-4 inhibitors. Our literature search, conducted across databases including PubMed, Web of Science, and EMBASE, from January 2010 to December 2023, aimed at identifying advancements, challenges, and future directions in the use of immunotherapy for ESCC. AREAS COVERED We provide a detailed analysis of clinical trials evaluating the efficacy of ICIs as monotherapy and in combination with chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and targeted therapy for locally advanced ESCC. Our findings highlight the significant survival benefits offered by ICIs, albeit with varying efficacy across patient populations, emphasizing the need for precise biomarkers to tailor treatment strategies. EXPERT OPINION The integration of immunotherapy into the ESCC treatment paradigm represents a significant shift, improving survival outcomes. Future research should focus on optimizing combination therapies and novel immunotherapeutic agents, incorporating genetic and tumor microenvironment analyses to enhance patient selection and treatment efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Division of Thoracic Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P.R. China
| | - Zheng Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Division of Thoracic Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P.R. China
| | - Ying Huang
- College of Management, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, P.R. China
| | - Yong Xu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Division of Thoracic Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P.R. China
| | - Bingwen Zou
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Division of Thoracic Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P.R. China
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Ren W, Fang Y, He Y, Ren Y, Wang M, Xu A, Ruan J, Tao Q. Efficacy and Safety of Programmed Death 1/Programmed Death-Ligand 1 Plus Cytotoxic T-Lymphocyte-Associated Antigen 4 Inhibitors for Advanced or Metastatic Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: A Meta-analysis Based on Randomized Controlled Trials. Ther Drug Monit 2024; 46:422-433. [PMID: 38840327 PMCID: PMC11232942 DOI: 10.1097/ftd.0000000000001228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This meta-analysis aims to investigate the efficacy and safety of programmed death 1 (PD-1)/programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) combined with cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated antigen 4 (CTLA-4) inhibitors for patients with advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). METHODS Authors conducted a comprehensive search of PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Scopus, and Medline for randomized controlled trials comparing the prognosis and safety of PD-1/PD-L1 plus CTLA-4 inhibitors with other therapies for advanced or metastatic NSCLC. Hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used as effect sizes. The primary outcomes of this study were overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival. RESULTS A total of 4943 patients diagnosed with stage III/IV advanced or metastatic NSCLC were included in the analysis of the 6 randomized controlled trials. The results showed that patients receiving dual immunotherapy with PD-1/PD-L1 plus CTLA-4 inhibitors had a longer survival time compared with the control group (HR = 0.88, P = 0.044). However, no statistically significant difference was observed in progression-free survival (HR = 0.95, P = 0.579). Subgroup analysis revealed better OS in the interventional group for patients aged >65 years (HR = 0.88, P = 0.076), smokers (HR = 0.81, P = 0.036), and those with a tumor mutational burden (TMB) ≥20 mut/Mb (HR = 0.66, P < 0.001). Conversely, the control group demonstrated superior OS in patients with TMB <20 mut/Mb (HR = 1.14, P = 0.048). In addition, the statistical results indicated a lower incidence rate of any-grade anemia in the dual immunotherapy group compared with the control group (RR = 0.32, P = 0.04). CONCLUSIONS This meta-analysis demonstrates the effectiveness and safety of dual immunotherapy with PD-1/PD-L1 plus CTLA-4 inhibitors for treating advanced or metastatic NSCLC. Its efficacy is influenced by certain clinical and pathological factors, such as age, smoking status, and TMB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Ren
- General Family Medicine, Ningbo Yinzhou No. 2 Hospital, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yingying Fang
- The First Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yujing He
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yifeng Ren
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Ningbo Yinzhou No. 2 Hospital, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China ; and
| | - Minfang Wang
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Anyi Xu
- The First Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jiale Ruan
- The First Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qinghua Tao
- Emergency Medical Center, Ningbo Yinzhou No. 2 Hospital, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
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Wang J, Lin F, Zhou Y, Cong Y, Yang S, Wang S, Guan X. Chemopreventive effect of modified zeng-sheng-ping on oral squamous cell carcinoma by regulating tumor associated macrophages through targeting tnf alpha induced protein 6. BMC Complement Med Ther 2024; 24:287. [PMID: 39068492 PMCID: PMC11283705 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-024-04593-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is the most common malignancy of the head and neck. Zeng-Sheng-Ping, composed of Sophora tonkinensis Gagnep., Bistorta officinalis Delarbre, Sonchus arvensis L., Prunella vulgaris L., Dioscorea bulbifera L., and Dictamnus dasycarpus Turcz., was regarded as an anti-cancer drug with significant clinical efficacy, but was discontinued due to liver toxicity. Our research group developed a modified Zeng-Sheng-Ping (ZSP-M) based on original Zeng-Sheng-Ping that exhibited high efficiency and low toxicity in preliminary investigations, although its pharmacodynamic mechanism is still unclear. Here, we aimed to elucidate the pharmacodynamic material basis of ZSP-M and investigate its chemopreventive effect on OSCC by modulating tumor associated macrophages (TAMs). METHODS Components of ZSP-M were characterized using ultra-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Chemopreventive effect induced by ZSP-M against experimental oral cancer was investigated using the 4-nitroquinoline N-oxide precancerous lesion mouse model. RNA sequencing analysis was used to gain a global transcriptional view of the effect of ZSP-M treatment. A cell co-culture model was used to study the targeted effect of ZSP-M on TAMs and the biological properties of OSCC cells and to detect changes in TAM phenotypes. The binding of ZSP-M active compounds to TNF alpha induced protein 6 (TNFAIP6) protein was analyzed by molecular docking and dynamic simulation. RESULTS Forty main components of ZSP-M were identified, the most abundant of which were flavonoids. ZSP-M inhibited the degree of epithelial dysplasia in precancerous lesions by inhibiting the expression of the TNFAIP6 and CD163 proteins in the precancerous lesions of the tongue. ZSP-M inhibited proliferation, colony formation, migration and invasion of SCC7 cells by targeting TAMs. ZSP-M reduced the expression of CD163+ cells, inhibited the expression of TNFAIP6 protein, Arg1 mRNA and Il10 mRNA in TAMs, and reduced IL-10 cytokine release in the co-culture environment. This effect was maintained after the addition of recombinant TNFAIP6 protein. Computer simulations showed that trifolirhizin and maackiain are well-connected to TNFAIP6. CONCLUSIONS ZSP-M counteracts the immunosuppressive action of TAMs by specific targeting of TNFAIP6, thereby exerting chemopreventive activity of OSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaqi Wang
- Department of Oral Medicine, Beijing Stomatological Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Feiran Lin
- Department of Oral Medicine, Beijing Stomatological Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Yongxiang Zhou
- Department of Oral Medicine, Beijing Stomatological Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Yuyi Cong
- Department of Oral Medicine, Beijing Stomatological Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Sen Yang
- Department of Oral Medicine, Beijing Stomatological Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Sujuan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Xiaobing Guan
- Department of Oral Medicine, Beijing Stomatological Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100050, China.
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Horino T, Horiguchi H, Yumoto S, Kadomatsu T, Hara Y, Yagi T, Baba Y, Miyamoto Y, Baba H, Oike Y. Angiopoietin-Like Protein 2 Expression in Tumor Cells Supports Tumor-Associated Macrophage-Induced Tumor Progression in Esophageal Cancer. Ann Surg Oncol 2024:10.1245/s10434-024-15557-6. [PMID: 38981990 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-024-15557-6] [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: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tumor-associated macrophages (TAM), a major component of the tumor microenvironment, play key roles in tumor formation and progression; however, mechanisms underlying TAM-induced tumor progression are complex and not well known. We previously reported that tumor cell-derived angiopoietin-like protein 2 (ANGPTL2) functions as a tumor promoter in some cancer contexts. METHODS We examined ANGPTL2 expression in paraffin-embedded tumor samples from resected specimens of 221 patients with esophageal cancer. Patients were subdivided into four groups based on immunohistochemistry scores described above: ANGPTL2-low/TAM-low, ANGPTL2-low/TAM-high, ANGPTL2-high/TAM-low, and ANGPTL2-high/TAM-high groups. Gene expression datasets of esophageal cancer cell lines were obtained from the cancer cell line encyclopedia public database. RESULTS In this study, we demonstrate that TAM infiltration is associated with poor prognosis in patients with esophageal cancer whose tumor cells show relatively higher ANGPTL2 expression levels; however, TAM infiltration did not affect prognosis in patients with ANGPTL2-low-expressing esophageal cancer, suggesting that ANGPTL2 expression in esophageal cancer cells is required for TAM-induced tumor progression. Our analysis of public datasets indicates a potential positive correlation of ANGPTL2 expression levels with that of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β, a TAM-activating factor, in esophageal cancer cell lines. CONCLUSION We conclude that ANGPTL2 signaling in tumor cells supports TAM-induced tumor progression and contributes to poor prognosis in patients with esophageal cancer. These findings overall provide novel insight into pro-tumor ANGPTL2 functions and illustrate the essential role of cancer cell/TAM crosstalk in cancer progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taichi Horino
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, 1-1-1 Honjo, Kumamoto, 860-8556, Japan
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Haruki Horiguchi
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, 1-1-1 Honjo, Kumamoto, 860-8556, Japan.
- Department of Aging and Geriatric Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan.
| | - Shinsei Yumoto
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, 1-1-1 Honjo, Kumamoto, 860-8556, Japan
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Kadomatsu
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, 1-1-1 Honjo, Kumamoto, 860-8556, Japan
- Center for Metabolic Regulation of Healthy Aging (CMHA), Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Hara
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Taisuke Yagi
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
- Department of Surgery, Saiseikai Kumamoto Hospital, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Yoshifumi Baba
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
- Division of Translational Research and Advanced Treatment Against Gastrointestinal Cancer, Kumamoto University Hospital, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Yuji Miyamoto
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
- Center for Metabolic Regulation of Healthy Aging (CMHA), Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Hideo Baba
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
- Center for Metabolic Regulation of Healthy Aging (CMHA), Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Yuichi Oike
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, 1-1-1 Honjo, Kumamoto, 860-8556, Japan.
- Department of Aging and Geriatric Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan.
- Center for Metabolic Regulation of Healthy Aging (CMHA), Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan.
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Zhang D, Jiang D, Jiang L, Ma J, Wang X, Xu X, Chen Z, Jiang M, Ye W, Wang J, Meng W, Qiu W, Hou Y, Huang J, Jiao Y, Liu Y, Liu Z. HLA-A + tertiary lymphoid structures with reactivated tumor infiltrating lymphocytes are associated with a positive immunotherapy response in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Br J Cancer 2024; 131:184-195. [PMID: 38762674 PMCID: PMC11231239 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-024-02712-9] [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: 01/06/2024] [Revised: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapy provides remarkable clinical benefits for multiple cancer types. However, the overall response rate to ICB therapy remains low in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). This study aimed to identify biomarkers of ICB therapy for ESCC and interrogate its potential clinical relevance. METHODS We investigated gene expression in 42 treatment-naïve ESCC tumor tissues and identified differentially expressed genes, tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes and immune-related genes signatures associated with differential immunotherapy responses. We systematically assessed the tumor microenvironment using the NanoString GeoMx digital spatial profiler, single-cell RNA-seq and multiplex immunohistochemistry in ESCC. Finally, we evaluated the associations between HLA-A-positive tertiary lymphoid structures (TLSs) and patients' responses to ICB in 60 ESCC patients. RESULTS Tumor infiltrating B lymphocytes and several immune-related gene signatures, such as the antigen presenting machinery (APM) signature, are significantly elevated in ICB treatment responders. Multiplex immunohistochemistry identified the presence of HLA-A+ TLSs and showed that TLS-resident cells increasingly express HLA-A as TLSs mature. Most TLS-resident HLA-A+ cells are tumor-infiltrating T (TIL-T) or tumor-infiltrating B (TIL-B) lymphocytes. Digital spatial profiling of spatially distinct TIL-T lymphocytes and single-cell RNA-seq data from 60 ESCC tumor tissues revealed that CXCL13-expressing exhausted TIL-Ts inside TLSs are reactivated with elevated expression of the APM signature as TLSs mature. Finally, we demonstrated that HLA-A+ TLSs and their major cellular components, TIL-Ts and TIL-Bs, are associated with a clinical benefit from ICB treatment for ESCC. CONCLUSIONS HLA-A+ TLSs are present in ESCC tumor tissues. TLS-resident TIL-Ts with elevated expression of the APM signature may be reactivated. HLA-A+ TLSs and their major cellular components, TIL-Ts and TIL-Bs, may serve as biomarkers for ICB-treated ESCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dandan Zhang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Shanghai Xuhui Central Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Dongxian Jiang
- Department of Pathology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Liping Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 100021, Beijing, China
| | - Jiakang Ma
- MOE Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Shanghai Xuhui Central Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaobing Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 100021, Beijing, China
| | - Xingyu Xu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Shanghai Xuhui Central Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ziqiang Chen
- MOE Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Shanghai Xuhui Central Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Mengping Jiang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Shanghai Xuhui Central Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenjing Ye
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jie Wang
- Departments of Thoracic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Weida Meng
- MOE Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Shanghai Xuhui Central Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenqing Qiu
- Shanghai Xuhui Central Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Yingyong Hou
- Department of Pathology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing Huang
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yuchen Jiao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 100021, Beijing, China.
| | - Yun Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Shanghai Xuhui Central Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Zhihua Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 100021, Beijing, China.
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Lee DK, Park SR, Kim YH, Lee YG, Shin SJ, Ahn BC, Lee SS, Lim SM, Kim HR, Cho BC, Hong MH. A phase 2 study of spartalizumab (PDR001) among patients with recurrent or metastatic esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (KCSG HN18-17, K-MASTER project 12). Oncoimmunology 2024; 13:2371563. [PMID: 38919826 PMCID: PMC11197908 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2024.2371563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Spartalizumab (PDR001) is a humanized IgG4 monoclonal antibody targeting programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1). We conducted a single-arm, phase 2 trial to investigate the efficacy and safety of spartalizumab in patients with refractory esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). Patients with histologically confirmed ESCC who experienced disease progression after platinum-based chemotherapy received 300 mg of intravenous spartalizumab every three weeks until disease progression or occurrence of unacceptable toxicity. The primary endpoint was centrally assessed objective response according to the Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors, version 1.1. Adverse events were closely monitored throughout the study. From March 2020 through April 2021, 44 patients with ESCC were enrolled. Of the 44 patients, the objective response rate was 20.5% (95% confidence interval: 8.5-32.4). With a median follow-up of 10.9 months, median progression-free survival and overall survival were 3.2 months and 11.2 months, respectively. In addition, the median duration of response was 24.7 months. The most common grade 3 or 4 adverse event was grade 3 dysphagia (eight [18%] patients). Biomarker analyses explored programmed cell death ligand 1 and CD20 as potential predictive markers for PD-1 blockade. Spartalizumab showed promising activity with a manageable safety profile, indicating its potential as a new treatment option for patients with refractory ESCC. Trial registration The trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov under the identifier NCT03785496.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Ki Lee
- Department of Pharmacology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sook Ryun Park
- Department of Oncology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yeul Hong Kim
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yun-Gyoo Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Su-Jin Shin
- Department of Pathology, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Beung-Chul Ahn
- Center for Lung Cancer, National Cancer Center, Goyang-si, South Korea
| | - Sung Sook Lee
- Inje University Haeundae Paik Hospital, Inje University College of Medicine, Busan, South Korea
| | - Sun Min Lim
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei Cancer Center, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hye Ryun Kim
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei Cancer Center, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Byoung Chul Cho
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei Cancer Center, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Min Hee Hong
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei Cancer Center, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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10
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Hsu HC, Lee YS, Imbang TI, Liu TC, Hung SI. SLC11A1 predicts the overall survival of patients with colorectal cancer. Am J Cancer Res 2024; 14:2839-2851. [PMID: 39005670 PMCID: PMC11236786 DOI: 10.62347/vtyu3157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a significant contributor to cancer-related mortality, emphasizing the critical need for identifying biomarkers that can improve clinical management and patient outcomes. In this retrospective study, we analyzed tumor samples from 25 patients with metastatic CRC, categorized based on long-term (> 50 months) or short-term (< 10 months) survival. Employing the PanCancer Immune Profile Panel, encompassing 770 genes, in the discovery dataset, we identified 54 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) within the tumor microenvironment of metastatic CRC. Validation of potential biomarkers was performed using two publicly available RNA-based sequencing datasets (TCGA 1 (n=371) and TCGA 2 (n=566)). Univariate COX regression unveiled that three significant biomarkers were associated with overall survival in CRC within the discovery dataset, which were SLC11A1 (hazard ratio (HR): 4.09, P=0.012), TNFSF11 (HR: 3.67, P=0.02), and MEF2C (HR: 0.34, P=0.037). Kaplan-Meier survival curve analyses confirmed the correlation between SLC11A1 expression and overall survival in CRC across the discovery set (P=0.0071) and the two independent datasets (TCGA 1 (P=0.0016) and TCGA 2 (P=0.025)). Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis demonstrated an area under the curve ranging from 0.64 to 0.76, with sensitivity of 59% to 87% and specificity of 60% to 73% for predicting CRC overall survival. Immunohistochemistry staining further validated the strong expression of SLC11A1 protein in CRC tumor cells, with high expression correlating with short-term survival. These findings suggest that SLC11A1 serves as a predictive biomarker for overall survival in CRC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hung-Chih Hsu
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Chang Gung Memorial HospitalLinkou Branch, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung UniversityLinkou, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
| | - Yun-Shien Lee
- Genomic Medicine Research Core Laboratory, Chang Gung Memorial HospitalLinkou Branch, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
- Department of Biotechnology, Ming-Chuan UniversityTaoyuan 333, Taiwan
| | - Titilianty I Imbang
- Cancer Vaccine and Immune Cell Therapy Core Lab, Chang Gung Immunology Consortium, Department of Medical Research, Chang Gung Memorial HospitalLinkou Branch, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
| | - Ting-Chia Liu
- Institute of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung UniversityTaipei 112, Taiwan
| | - Shuen-Iu Hung
- Cancer Vaccine and Immune Cell Therapy Core Lab, Chang Gung Immunology Consortium, Department of Medical Research, Chang Gung Memorial HospitalLinkou Branch, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
- Institute of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung UniversityTaipei 112, Taiwan
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11
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Bhat AA, Gupta G, Dahiya R, Thapa R, Gahtori A, Shahwan M, Jakhmola V, Tiwari A, Kumar M, Dureja H, Singh SK, Dua K, Kumarasamy V, Subramaniyan V. CircRNAs: Pivotal modulators of TGF-β signalling in cancer pathogenesis. Noncoding RNA Res 2024; 9:277-287. [PMID: 38505309 PMCID: PMC10945146 DOI: 10.1016/j.ncrna.2024.01.013] [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: 12/07/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024] Open
Abstract
The intricate molecular landscape of cancer pathogenesis continues to captivate researchers worldwide, with Circular RNAs (circRNAs) emerging as pivotal players in the dynamic regulation of biological functions. The study investigates the elusive link between circRNAs and the Transforming Growth Factor-β (TGF-β) signalling pathway, exploring their collective influence on cancer progression and metastasis. Our comprehensive investigation begins by profiling circRNA expression patterns in diverse cancer types, revealing a repertoire of circRNAs intricately linked to the TGF-β pathway. Through integrated bioinformatics analyses and functional experiments, we elucidate the specific circRNA-mRNA interactions that modulate TGF-β signalling, unveiling the regulatory controls governing this crucial pathway. Furthermore, we provide compelling evidence of the impact of circRNA-mediated TGF-β modulation on key cellular processes, including epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), migration, and cell proliferation. In addition to their mechanistic roles, circRNAs have shown promise as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers, as well as potential molecular targets for cancer therapy. Their ability to modulate critical pathways, such as the TGF-β signalling axis, underscores their significance in cancer biology and clinical applications. The intricate interplay between circRNAs and TGF-β is dissected, uncovering novel regulatory circuits that contribute to the complexity of cancer biology. This review unravels a previously unexplored dimension of carcinogenesis, emphasizing the crucial role of circRNAs in shaping the TGF-β signalling landscape.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asif Ahmad Bhat
- School of Pharmacy, Suresh Gyan Vihar University, Jagatpura, Mahal Road, Jaipur, India
| | - Gaurav Gupta
- School of Pharmacy, Suresh Gyan Vihar University, Jagatpura, Mahal Road, Jaipur, India
- School of Pharmacy, Graphic Era Hill University, Dehradun, 248007, India
- Centre of Medical and Bio-allied Health Sciences Research, Ajman University, Ajman, Ajman, 346, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rajiv Dahiya
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad & Tobago
| | - Riya Thapa
- School of Pharmacy, Suresh Gyan Vihar University, Jagatpura, Mahal Road, Jaipur, India
| | - Archana Gahtori
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shri Guru Ram Rai University, Dehradun, 248001, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Moyad Shahwan
- Centre of Medical and Bio-allied Health Sciences Research, Ajman University, Ajman, Ajman, 346, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Ajman University, Ajman, 346, United Arab Emirates
| | - Vikas Jakhmola
- Uttaranchal Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Uttaranchal University, Dehradun, 248007, India
| | - Abhishek Tiwari
- Pharmacy Academy, IFTM University, Lodhipur-Rajput, Moradabad, (U.P.), 244102, India
| | - Mahish Kumar
- Department of Pharmaceutics, ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga, Punjab, India
| | - Harish Dureja
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, Haryana, 124001, India
| | - Sachin Kumar Singh
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, 144411, India
- Faculty of Health, Australian Research Centre in Complementary and Integrative Medicine, University of Technology, Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Kamal Dua
- Faculty of Health, Australian Research Centre in Complementary and Integrative Medicine, University of Technology, Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, 2007, Australia
- Discipline of Pharmacy, Graduate School of Health, University of Technology, Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Vinoth Kumarasamy
- Department of Parasitology and Medical Entomology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, 56000, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Vetriselvan Subramaniyan
- Pharmacology Unit, Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University, Jalan Lagoon Selatan, Bandar Sunway, 47500, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
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12
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Lu Z, Fan P, Huo W, Feng Y, Wang R. Genomic profiles and their relationships with clinical characteristics and immune features in cervical cancer. Transl Oncol 2024; 44:101923. [PMID: 38432114 PMCID: PMC10920960 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2024.101923] [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: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 02/18/2024] [Accepted: 02/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to investigate the genomic alteration profiles of cervical cancer patients, examine the correlation between mutation patterns and clinical and immune attributes, and discover novel targets for treatment of individuals with cervical cancer. METHODS We performed targeted next-generation sequencing of tumor tissues and blood samples obtained from 45 cervical cancer patients to analyze somatic alterations, mutation patterns, and HLA alleles comprehensively. Additionally, we used flow cytometry to assess expression levels of immune checkpoint genes. RESULTS Notably, genes such as AR (78%), KMT2D (76%), and NOTCH1 (62%) exhibited higher mutation frequencies. Moreover, the tumor mutation burden (TMB) was significantly greater in HPV-positive cervical cancer patients than in HPV-negative patients (P=0.029). BMI (P=0.047) and mutations in BARD1 (P=0.034), CEP290 (P=4E-04), and SLX4 (P=0.0128) were identified as predictors of shorter overall survival in cervical cancer patients. Furthermore, the present study revealed significant upregulation of PD-1 (P=0.027) and Tim-3 (P=0.048) in the high mutant-allele tumor heterogeneity (MATH) cohort. In the elderly cervical cancer patient population, HLA-A03:01 emerged as a high-risk allele (OR=3.2, P<0.0001); HLA-C07:02 (OR=0.073, P=0.02) and HLA-B*07:02 (OR=0.257, P=0.037) were associated with a reduced risk among patients with low TMB. CONCLUSIONS This study offers insights into the mutation characteristics of cervical cancer patients and identifies potential therapeutic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zinan Lu
- Xinjiang Medical University Affiliated Tumor Hospital, Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunotherapy and Radiotherapy, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Urumqi, Xinjiang 830011, China; Key Laboratory of Oncology of Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, Urumqi, Xinjiang 830011, China
| | - Peiwen Fan
- Xinjiang Medical University Affiliated Tumor Hospital, Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunotherapy and Radiotherapy, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Urumqi, Xinjiang 830011, China; Key Laboratory of Oncology of Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, Urumqi, Xinjiang 830011, China; State Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis, Prevention and Treatment of High Incidence Diseases in Central Asia, The Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, Xinjiang 830011, China
| | - Wen Huo
- Xinjiang Medical University Affiliated Tumor Hospital, Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunotherapy and Radiotherapy, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Urumqi, Xinjiang 830011, China; Key Laboratory of Oncology of Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, Urumqi, Xinjiang 830011, China
| | - Yaning Feng
- Xinjiang Medical University Affiliated Tumor Hospital, Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunotherapy and Radiotherapy, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Urumqi, Xinjiang 830011, China; Key Laboratory of Oncology of Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, Urumqi, Xinjiang 830011, China; State Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis, Prevention and Treatment of High Incidence Diseases in Central Asia, The Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, Xinjiang 830011, China
| | - Ruozheng Wang
- Xinjiang Medical University Affiliated Tumor Hospital, Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunotherapy and Radiotherapy, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Urumqi, Xinjiang 830011, China; Key Laboratory of Oncology of Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, Urumqi, Xinjiang 830011, China; Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Radiotherapy Clinical Research and Training Center, The Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, Xinjiang 830011, China.
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13
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Chen M, Liu H, Hong B, Xiao Y, Qian Y. MIF as a potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarker for triple-negative breast cancer that correlates with the polarization of M2 macrophages. FASEB J 2024; 38:e23696. [PMID: 38787620 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202400578r] [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: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) is a proinflammatory cytokine that plays a crucial role in antitumor immunity. However, the role of MIF in influencing the tumor microenvironment (TME) and prognosis of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) remains to be elucidated. Using R, we analyzed single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data of 41 567 cells from 10 TNBC tumor samples and spatial transcriptomic data from two patients. Relationships between MIF expression and immune cell infiltration, clinicopathological stage, and survival prognosis were determined using samples from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and validated in a clinical cohort using immunohistochemistry. Analysis of scRNA-seq data revealed that MIF secreted by epithelial cells in TNBC patients could regulate the polarization of macrophages into the M2 phenotype, which plays a key role in modulating the TME. Spatial transcriptomic data also showed that epithelial cells (tumor cells) and MIF were proximally located. Analysis of TCGA samples confirmed that tumor tissues of patients with high MIF expression were enriched with M2 macrophages and showed a higher T stage. High MIF expression was significantly associated with poor patient prognosis. Immunohistochemical staining showed high MIF expression was associated with younger patients and worse clinicopathological staging. MIF secreted by epithelial cells may represent a potential biomarker for the diagnosis and prognosis of TNBC and may promote TNBC invasion by remodeling the tumor immune microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengting Chen
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Stomatology Hospital, School of Stomatology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedical Research of Zhejiang Province, Cancer Center of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hongsen Liu
- Stomatology Hospital, School of Stomatology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedical Research of Zhejiang Province, Cancer Center of Zhejiang University, Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Devices of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Bo Hong
- Department of Pathology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yufei Xiao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yun Qian
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Stomatology Hospital, School of Stomatology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedical Research of Zhejiang Province, Cancer Center of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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14
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Zhao YX, Zhao HP, Zhao MY, Yu Y, Qi X, Wang JH, Lv J. Latest insights into the global epidemiological features, screening, early diagnosis and prognosis prediction of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. World J Gastroenterol 2024; 30:2638-2656. [PMID: 38855150 PMCID: PMC11154680 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v30.i20.2638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/27/2024] Open
Abstract
As a highly invasive carcinoma, esophageal cancer (EC) was the eighth most prevalent malignancy and the sixth leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide in 2020. Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is the major histological subtype of EC, and its incidence and mortality rates are decreasing globally. Due to the lack of specific early symptoms, ESCC patients are usually diagnosed with advanced-stage disease with a poor prognosis, and the incidence and mortality rates are still high in many countries, especially in China. Therefore, enormous challenges still exist in the management of ESCC, and novel strategies are urgently needed to further decrease the incidence and mortality rates of ESCC. Although the key molecular mechanisms underlying ESCC pathogenesis have not been fully elucidated, certain promising biomarkers are being investigated to facilitate clinical decision-making. With the advent and advancement of high-throughput technologies, such as genomics, proteomics and metabolomics, valuable biomarkers with high sensitivity, specificity and stability could be identified for ESCC. Herein, we aimed to determine the epidemiological features of ESCC in different regions of the world, especially in China, and focused on novel molecular biomarkers associated with ESCC screening, early diagnosis and prognosis prediction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Xin Zhao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Honghui Hospital, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710054, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - He-Ping Zhao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Honghui Hospital, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710054, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Meng-Yao Zhao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Honghui Hospital, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710054, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Yan Yu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Honghui Hospital, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710054, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Xi Qi
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Honghui Hospital, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710054, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Ji-Han Wang
- Institute of Medical Research, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi’an 710072, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Jing Lv
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Honghui Hospital, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710054, Shaanxi Province, China
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15
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Shi H, Chen L, Wang T, Zhang W, Liu J, Huang Y, Li J, Qi H, Wu Z, Wang Y, Chen H, Zhu Y, Li Q. Nur77-IRF1 axis inhibits esophageal squamous cell carcinoma growth and improves anti-PD-1 treatment efficacy. Cell Death Discov 2024; 10:254. [PMID: 38789431 PMCID: PMC11126585 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-024-02019-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The nuclear receptor Nur77 plays paradoxical roles in numerous cancers. However, whether Nur77 inhibits esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) growth and affects immunological responses against ESCC has not been determined. The functional role of Nur77 in ESCC was investigated in this study using human ESCC cell lines, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), cell proliferation and colony formation assays, flow cytometry analysis, western blotting and animal models. The target gene controlled by Nur77 was verified using dual-luciferase reporter assays, chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis and functional rescue experiments. To examine the clinical importance of Nur77, 72 human primary ESCC tissues were subjected to immunohistochemistry. Taken together, these findings showed that, both in vitro and in vivo, Nur77 dramatically reduced ESCC cell growth and triggered apoptosis. Nur77 directly interacts with the interferon regulatory factor 1 (IRF1) promoter to inhibit its activity in ESCC. Pharmacological induction of Nur77 using cytosporone B (CsnB) inhibited ESCC cell proliferation and promoted apoptosis both in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, CsnB increased CD8+ T-cell infiltration and cytotoxicity to inhibit the formation of ESCC tumors in an immunocompetent mouse model. In ESCC tissues, Nur77 expression was downregulated, and IRF1 expression was increased; moreover, their expression levels were negatively related. IRF1 and Nur77 were strongly correlated with overall survival. These findings suggested that Nur77 targets and regulates the IRF1/PD-L1 axis to serve as a tumor suppressor in ESCC. Graphical abstract of the regulatory mechanism of Nur77 overexpression downregulates IRF1 in the inhibition of ESCC progression and enhance anti-PD-1 therapy efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huanying Shi
- Department of Pharmacy, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, No.12 Urumqi Middle Road, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Lu Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, No.12 Urumqi Middle Road, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Tianxiao Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, No.12 Urumqi Middle Road, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Wenxin Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, No.12 Urumqi Middle Road, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Jiafeng Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, No.12 Urumqi Middle Road, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Yuxin Huang
- Department of Pharmacy, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, No.12 Urumqi Middle Road, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Jiyifan Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, No.12 Urumqi Middle Road, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Huijie Qi
- Department of Pharmacy, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, No.12 Urumqi Middle Road, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Zimei Wu
- Department of Pharmacy, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, No.12 Urumqi Middle Road, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Yi Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, No.12 Urumqi Middle Road, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Haifei Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, No.12 Urumqi Middle Road, Shanghai, 200040, China.
| | - Yongjun Zhu
- Department of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, No.12 Urumqi Middle Road, Shanghai, 200040, China.
| | - Qunyi Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, No.12 Urumqi Middle Road, Shanghai, 200040, China.
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16
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Ko KP, Zhang S, Huang Y, Kim B, Zou G, Jun S, Zhang J, Zhao Y, Martin C, Dunbar KJ, Efe G, Rustgi AK, Nakagawa H, Zhang H, Liu Z, Park JI. Tumor niche network-defined subtypes predict immunotherapy response of esophageal squamous cell cancer. iScience 2024; 27:109795. [PMID: 38741711 PMCID: PMC11089351 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.109795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite the promising outcomes of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), resistance to ICI presents a new challenge. Therefore, selecting patients for specific ICI applications is crucial for maximizing therapeutic efficacy. Herein, we curated 69 human esophageal squamous cell cancer (ESCC) patients' tumor microenvironment (TME) single-cell transcriptomic datasets to subtype ESCC. Integrative analyses of the cellular network and transcriptional signatures of T cells and myeloid cells define distinct ESCC subtypes characterized by T cell exhaustion, and interleukin (IL) and interferon (IFN) signaling. Furthermore, this approach classifies ESCC patients into ICI responders and non-responders, as validated by whole tumor transcriptomes and liquid biopsy-based single-cell transcriptomes of anti-PD-1 ICI responders and non-responders. Our study stratifies ESCC patients based on TME transcriptional network, providing novel insights into tumor niche remodeling and potentially predicting ICI responses in ESCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyung-Pil Ko
- Department of Experimental Radiation Oncology, Division of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Shengzhe Zhang
- Department of Experimental Radiation Oncology, Division of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Yuanjian Huang
- Department of Experimental Radiation Oncology, Division of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Bongjun Kim
- Department of Experimental Radiation Oncology, Division of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Gengyi Zou
- Department of Experimental Radiation Oncology, Division of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Sohee Jun
- Department of Experimental Radiation Oncology, Division of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Jie Zhang
- Department of Experimental Radiation Oncology, Division of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Yahui Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Cecilia Martin
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Karen J. Dunbar
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Gizem Efe
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Anil K. Rustgi
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Hiroshi Nakagawa
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Haiyang Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin, Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhihua Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Jae-Il Park
- Department of Experimental Radiation Oncology, Division of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Houston Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Program in Genetics and Epigenetics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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17
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Huang H, Jiang Y, Liu J, Luo D, Yuan J, Mu R, Yu X, Sun D, Lin J, Chen Q, Li X, Jiang M, Xu J, Chu B, Yin C, Zhang L, Ye Y, Cao B, Wang Q, Zhang Y. Jag1/2 maintain esophageal homeostasis and suppress foregut tumorigenesis by restricting the basal progenitor cell pool. Nat Commun 2024; 15:4124. [PMID: 38750026 PMCID: PMC11096375 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-48347-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Basal progenitor cells are crucial for maintaining foregut (the esophagus and forestomach) homeostasis. When their function is dysregulated, it can promote inflammation and tumorigenesis. However, the mechanisms underlying these processes remain largely unclear. Here, we employ genetic mouse models to reveal that Jag1/2 regulate esophageal homeostasis and foregut tumorigenesis by modulating the function of basal progenitor cells. Deletion of Jag1/2 in mice disrupts esophageal and forestomach epithelial homeostasis. Mechanistically, Jag1/2 deficiency impairs activation of Notch signaling, leading to reduced squamous epithelial differentiation and expansion of basal progenitor cells. Moreover, Jag1/2 deficiency exacerbates the deoxycholic acid (DCA)-induced squamous epithelial injury and accelerates the initiation of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) in the forestomach. Importantly, expression levels of JAG1/2 are lower in the early stages of human esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) carcinogenesis. Collectively, our study demonstrates that Jag1/2 are important for maintaining esophageal and forestomach homeostasis and the onset of foregut SCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haidi Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Joint International Research Laboratory of Metabolic and Developmental Sciences, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, PR China
| | - Yu Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Joint International Research Laboratory of Metabolic and Developmental Sciences, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, PR China
| | - Jiangying Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Joint International Research Laboratory of Metabolic and Developmental Sciences, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, PR China
| | - Dan Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Joint International Research Laboratory of Metabolic and Developmental Sciences, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, PR China
| | - Jianghong Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Joint International Research Laboratory of Metabolic and Developmental Sciences, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, PR China
| | - Rongzi Mu
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Joint International Research Laboratory of Metabolic and Developmental Sciences, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, PR China
| | - Xiang Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Joint International Research Laboratory of Metabolic and Developmental Sciences, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, PR China
| | - Donglei Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Joint International Research Laboratory of Metabolic and Developmental Sciences, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, PR China
| | - Jihong Lin
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, PR China
| | - Qiyue Chen
- Department of Gastric Surgery, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, PR China
- Department of General Surgery, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, PR China
| | - Xinjing Li
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Joint International Research Laboratory of Metabolic and Developmental Sciences, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, PR China
| | - Ming Jiang
- Center for Genetic Medicine, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310030, Zhejiang, PR China
| | - Jianming Xu
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Bo Chu
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, PR China
| | - Chengqian Yin
- Institute of Cancer Research, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, 518107, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Institute of Cancer Research, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, 518107, Guangdong, PR China
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, School of Chemical Biology and Biotechnology, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, 518055, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Youqiong Ye
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, PR China
| | - Bo Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Joint International Research Laboratory of Metabolic and Developmental Sciences, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, PR China
| | - Qiong Wang
- Department of Histoembryology, Genetics and Developmental Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of Chinese Ministry of Education, Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Cellular Homeostasis and Human Diseases, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, PR China.
| | - Yongchun Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Joint International Research Laboratory of Metabolic and Developmental Sciences, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, PR China.
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Lu J, Qin Z, Ma J, Yao N, Qu W, Cui L, Yuan S, Yao Y. PD-1 inhibitors plus chemotherapy as first-line therapy for stage IV ESCC. J Chemother 2024; 36:258-263. [PMID: 37592822 DOI: 10.1080/1120009x.2023.2247206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023]
Abstract
To evaluate the anti-tumor efficacy and tolerability of programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) inhibitors plus chemotherapy versus chemotherapy alone as first-line therapy for unresectable esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) patients at stage IV in a real-world cohort. All unresectable ESCC patients at stage IV who initiated first-line therapy with PD-1 inhibitors plus chemotherapy between August 2018 and March 2021 in a general hospital in China were retrospectively analyzed in this study. Propensity score matching (1:1) with control patients receiving chemotherapy alone was performed. Overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were assessed by the Kaplan-Meier method. In this study, fifty patients (n = 25 each group) were included, all of whom could be evaluated for efficacy. PD-1 inhibitors plus chemotherapy exhibited better OS than chemotherapy alone (median 15.8 vs 12.4 months, hazard ratio [HR] 0.46 [95% CI 0.23-0.95]; P = 0.036). The median PFS for the PD-1 inhibitors plus chemotherapy group was 8.7 months compared with 6.1 months for the chemotherapy group (HR 0.48 [95% CI 0.26-0.90]; P = 0.014). Adverse events (AEs) of grade 3 or above related to treatment were found in 24.0% and 32.0% of the PD-1 inhibitors plus chemotherapy and chemotherapy alone groups, respectively. PD-1 inhibitors plus chemotherapy exhibited durable anti-tumor activity and relatively controllable safety as first-line therapy for unresectable ESCC patients at stage IV, but these results need to be confirmed by further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaying Lu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Affiliated Wuxi People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, China
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Zhaohui Qin
- Research Center for Medical and Health Emergency Rescue, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Ji Ma
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Nan Yao
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Wanxi Qu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Li Cui
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Shiwang Yuan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Yuanhu Yao
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Affiliated Wuxi People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, China
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Mi Y, Chen L, Wang C, Miao Y, Song C, Su J, Wang L. AURKA knockdown inhibits esophageal squamous cell carcinoma progression through ferroptosis. Heliyon 2024; 10:e28365. [PMID: 38571661 PMCID: PMC10987997 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e28365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Aurora kinase A, as a pro-carcinogenic in gastric cancer and glioma kinase, is enhanced in several human tumors. However, it's regulatory mechanism in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) remains unclear. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the expression status, functional roles, and molecular mechanisms of AURKA in ESCC development. AURKA expression was analyzed by the screening of the GEO database and detected using an immunohistochemical method. The biological function of AURKA on ESCC was evaluated in vitro and in vivo. Western blot assay, malondialdehyde (MDA), iron, and glutathione (GSH) kits were utilized to assess changes in ferroptosis. Database analysis results showed that AURKA was a differential gene in ESCC and was highly expressed in human ESCC tissues. Functionally, AURKA knockdown decreased ESCC cell proliferation, invasion, and metastasis both in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, when AURKA was knockdown, cells were more correctly blocked in the G2/M phase, and the ferroptosis-related MDA and Fe increased, whereas the GSH reduced. Consistently, Glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) and solute carrier family 7a member 11 (SLC7A11) expression were downregulated by AURKA knockdown. However, ferroptosis inhibitor partially restore ESCC cell proliferation, invasion, and metastasis caused by AURKA knockdown. AURKA knockdown enhances ferroptosis and acts against cancer progression in ESCC. AURKA acts as a tumor-promoting gene and may serve as potential target for ESCC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Mi
- Department of Emergency, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050011, Hebei, China
| | - Liying Chen
- Department of Physiology, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, 050200, Hebei, China
| | - Cong Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, Hebei, China
| | - Yuxin Miao
- Department of Physiology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, Hebei, China
| | - Chuntao Song
- Department of Emergency, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050011, Hebei, China
| | - Jie Su
- Department of Emergency, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050011, Hebei, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050011, Hebei, China
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20
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Liao W, Lu J, Xu Y, Yang C, Chen H, Cai S, Liu L, Chen S. The Role of Infiltrated T Lymphocyte in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Insights into Clinicopathological Characteristics and Prognosis. J Inflamm Res 2024; 17:2195-2204. [PMID: 38623468 PMCID: PMC11018136 DOI: 10.2147/jir.s446682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Background To compare and analyze the presence of CD4+ and CD8 + lymphocyte infiltrates in Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) tissue versus adjacent tissue and their clinical significance. Methods We enrolled a total of 152 patients diagnosed with OSCC, all of whom had confirmed diagnoses through pathological reports. Clinical and demographics data were extracted from medical records. Tissue microarrays were constructed and immunohistochemical staining for CD4 and CD8 was performed. Findings The average number of infiltrating CD4+ T cells in OSCC tumor tissue was 1026.22±1163.36 cells/mm2, which did not significantly differ from the count in adjacent tissue, which was 1163.36±1013.23 cells/mm2. However, the number of CD8+ T cell infiltration in tumor tissue was significantly higher than in adjacent tissue (655.25±705.70 vs 504.56±659.26 cells/mm2, p = 0.026). We observed that, among patients who consumed alcohol, the CD4+ T cell infiltration in tumor tissue being significantly lower than that in adjacent tissue (P=0.036). Moreover, the CD8+ T cell infiltration in cancer tissue was significantly higher than in adjacent tissue for T1-2 patients (p=0.005). Patients with higher CD8+ T cell in tumor tissue exhibited significantly improved overall survival (p = 0.043). Multivariate analyses revealed that alcohol consumption had a significant impact on the number of CD4+T lymphocytes in tumor tissue (OR = 0.403, P = 0.033) while T stage was the independent factor affecting CD8+ T lymphocyte infiltration in tumor tissue (OR = 0.459, P = 0.031). Interpretation OSCC patients with a higher number of CD8+ T lymphocyte infiltration in tumor tissue exhibited an improved prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Liao
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Intensive Care Unit, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jiaxuan Lu
- Hospital of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yuyuan Xu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Chulin Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hongjie Chen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shaohang Cai
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lili Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Pathology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shuwei Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
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21
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Nie Y, Yao G, Wei Y, Wu S, Zhang W, Xu X, Li Q, Zhou F, Yang Z. Single-cell transcriptome sequencing analysis reveals intra-tumor heterogeneity in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2024. [PMID: 38572681 DOI: 10.1002/tox.24243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2023] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is a prevalent malignant tumor of the digestive system that poses a significant threat to human life and health. It is crucial to thoroughly investigate the mechanisms of esophageal carcinogenesis and identify potential key molecular events in its carcinogenesis. Single-cell transcriptome sequencing is an emerging technology that has gained prominence in recent years for studying molecular mechanisms, which may help to further explore the underlying mechanisms of the ESCC tumor microenvironment in depth. The single-cell dataset was obtained from GSE160269 in the Gene Expression Omnibus database, including 60 tumor samples and four paracancer samples. The single-cell data underwent dimensional reduction clustering analysis to identify clusters and annotate expression profiles. Subcluster analysis was conducted for each cellular taxon. Copy number variation analysis of tumor cell subpopulations was performed to primarily identify malignant cells within them. A proposed chronological analysis was performed to obtain the process of cell differentiation. In addition, cell communication, transcription factor analysis, and tumor pathway analysis were also performed. Relevant risk models and key genes were established by univariate COX regression and LASSO analysis. The key genes obtained from the screen were subjected to appropriate silencing and cellular assays, including CCK-8, 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine, colony formation, and western blot. Single-cell analysis revealed that normal samples contained a large number of fibroblasts, T cells, and B cells, with fewer other cell types, whereas tumor samples exhibited a relatively balanced distribution of cell types. Subclassification analysis of immune cells, fibroblasts, endothelial cells, and epithelial cells revealed their specific spatial characteristics. The prognostic risk model, we constructed successfully, achieved accurate prognostic stratification for ESCC patients. The screened key gene, UPF3A, was found to be significantly associated with the development of ESCC by cellular assays. This process might be linked to the phosphorylation of ERK and P38. Single-cell transcriptome analysis successfully revealed the distribution of cell types and major expressed factors in ESCC patients, which could facilitate future in-depth studies on the therapeutic mechanisms of ESCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanliu Nie
- Tumor Research and Therapy Center, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Guangyue Yao
- Tumor Research and Therapy Center, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yanjun Wei
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Weifang People's Hospital, Weifang, China
| | - Sheng Wu
- The Fourth Clinical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medicine University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Wentao Zhang
- Postgraduate School, Shandong First Medical University(Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences), Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoying Xu
- Shandong First Medical University, College of Basic Medicine, Shandong First Medical University-Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiang Li
- Tumor Research and Therapy Center,Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Fengge Zhou
- Tumor Research and Therapy Center,Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhe Yang
- Tumor Research and Therapy Center, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Tumor Research and Therapy Center,Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
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22
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Xin Q, Wang D, Wang S, Zhang L, Liang Q, Yan X, Fan K, Jiang B. Tackling Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma with ITFn-Pt(IV): A Novel Fusion of PD-L1 Blockade, Chemotherapy, and T-cell Activation. Adv Healthc Mater 2024; 13:e2303623. [PMID: 38142309 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202303623] [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: 10/21/2023] [Revised: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/25/2023]
Abstract
PD-1/PD-L1 blockade immunotherapy has gained approval for the treatment of a diverse range of tumors; however, its efficacy is constrained by the insufficient infiltration of T lymphocytes into the tumor microenvironment, resulting in suboptimal patient responses. Here, a pioneering immunotherapy ferritin nanodrug delivery system denoted as ITFn-Pt(IV) is introduced. This system orchestrates a synergistic fusion of PD-L1 blockade, chemotherapy, and T-cell activation, aiming to augment the efficacy of tumor immunotherapy. Leveraging genetic engineering approach and temperature-regulated channel-based drug loading techniques, the architecture of this intelligent responsive system is refined. It is adept at facilitating the precise release of T-cell activating peptide Tα1 in the tumor milieu, leading to an elevation in T-cell proliferation and activation. The integration of PD-L1 nanobody KN035 ensures targeted engagement with tumor cells and mediates the intracellular delivery of the encapsulated Pt(IV) drugs, culminating in immunogenic cell death and the subsequent dendritic cell maturation. Employing esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) as tumor model, the potent antitumor efficacy of ITFn-Pt(IV) is elucidated, underscored by augmented T-cell infiltration devoid of systemic adverse effects. These findings accentuate the potential of ITFn-Pt(IV) for ESCC treatment and its applicability to other malignancies resistant to established PD-1/PD-L1 blockade therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Xin
- Nanozyme Medical Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Daji Wang
- Nanozyme Synthesis Center, Key Laboratory of Quantitative Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Shenghui Wang
- Nanozyme Medical Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Lirong Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, Henan, 450001, China
| | - Qian Liang
- CAS Engineering Laboratory for Nanozyme, Key Laboratory of Biomacromolecules (CAS), CAS Center for Excellence in Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Xiyun Yan
- Nanozyme Medical Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
- CAS Engineering Laboratory for Nanozyme, Key Laboratory of Biomacromolecules (CAS), CAS Center for Excellence in Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
- Nanozyme Laboratory in Zhongyuan, Zhengzhou, Henan, 451163, China
| | - Kelong Fan
- Nanozyme Medical Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
- CAS Engineering Laboratory for Nanozyme, Key Laboratory of Biomacromolecules (CAS), CAS Center for Excellence in Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
- Nanozyme Laboratory in Zhongyuan, Zhengzhou, Henan, 451163, China
| | - Bing Jiang
- Nanozyme Medical Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
- Nanozyme Laboratory in Zhongyuan, Zhengzhou, Henan, 451163, China
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Ma Y, Yu J, Ma X, Li Q, Su Q, Cao B. Efficacy and adverse events of immune checkpoint inhibitors in esophageal cancer patients: Challenges and perspectives for immunotherapy. Asia Pac J Clin Oncol 2024; 20:180-187. [PMID: 37171038 DOI: 10.1111/ajco.13961] [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: 10/24/2022] [Revised: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Esophageal cancer (EC) is the seventh most common cancer worldwide. Patients with EC have a generally poor prognosis mainly due to the lack of effective treatments. Cancer immunotherapy is a promising novel treatment option for EC. This literature review investigated the clinical efficacy of immunotherapy either alone or in combination with chemotherapy or targeted therapy. In addition, we analyzed the adverse events associated with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). In conclusion, ICIs increase the efficacy of EC treatments, thereby improving the outcomes of EC patients. The findings of this study may help enhance the response to immunotherapy, diminish toxicity, and thus eventually improve medical care for patients with EC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingjie Ma
- Department of Oncology, Cancer Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Junxian Yu
- Department of Pharmacy, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Xiaoting Ma
- Department of Oncology, Cancer Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Qin Li
- Department of Oncology, Cancer Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Qiang Su
- Department of Oncology, Cancer Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Bangwei Cao
- Department of Oncology, Cancer Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, P. R. China
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24
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Zhang D, Zhou Y, Jiao C, Kong H, Zhao Z, Li Y. Circ_0050444 represses esophageal squamous cell carcinoma progression through sponging miR-486-3p to upregulate C10orf91. Cell Cycle 2024; 23:693-702. [PMID: 38867541 PMCID: PMC11229726 DOI: 10.1080/15384101.2024.2357909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) ranks as the fourth leading cause of tumor-related deaths in China. Circ_0050444 has been revealed to be downregulated in ESCC tissues, however, its function and molecular mechanism underlying ESCC progression is unknown. Therefore, we attempted to clarify the functional role and molecular mechanism of circ_0050444 underlying ESCC progression. RT-qPCR and RNase R digestion assays were used to evaluate circ_0050444 expression and stability characteristics in ESCC cells. Gain-of-function assays were conducted to clarify circ_0050444 role in ESCC cell malignant behaviors. Bioinformatics and mechanism experiments were performed to assess the relationship between circ_0050444 or C10orf91 and miR-486-3p in ESCC cells. Rescue assays were conducted to evaluate the regulatory function of the circ_0050444-miR-486-3p-C10orf91 axis in ESCC cellular processes. Circ_0050444 expression was found to be downregulated both in ESCC patient tissues and cell lines. Functionally, circ_0050444 overexpression repressed ESCC cell proliferative, migratory, and invasive capabilities in cultured cells. Mechanistically, circ_0050444 was found to be competitively bound with miR-486-3p to upregulate C10orf91 in ESCC cells. Moreover, the impact of circ_0050444 elevation on ESCC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion was countervailed by C10orf91 silencing. Circ_0050444 presents downregulation and functions as a tumor suppressor in ESCC progression. Circ_0050444 suppresses ESCC proliferation, migration, and invasion through sponging miR-486-3p to upregulate C10orf91, providing a potential new direction for seeking therapeutic plans for ESCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongli Zhang
- The Affiliated Taizhou People’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Taizhou School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Taizhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yan Zhou
- The Affiliated Taizhou People’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Taizhou School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Taizhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chenyang Jiao
- The Affiliated Taizhou People’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Taizhou School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Taizhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Hongfang Kong
- The Affiliated Taizhou People’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Taizhou School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Taizhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhibin Zhao
- The Affiliated Taizhou People’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Taizhou School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Taizhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yujiang Li
- The Affiliated Taizhou People’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Taizhou School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Taizhou, Jiangsu, China
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Lin W, Si X, Zhao Z, Chen F, Xu J, Huang W, Lin J, Chen Z, Huang Z. Applying Untargeted Lipidomics to Evaluate the Efficacy of Combined Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy and Immunotherapy for Esophageal Squamous Carcinoma Treatment. J Proteome Res 2024; 23:663-672. [PMID: 38175711 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jproteome.3c00527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is an aggressive malignant tumor with a poor prognosis due to insidious symptoms that make early diagnosis difficult. Despite the combination of multiple treatment modalities, the recurrence and mortality rates of ESCC remain high. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy combined with immunotherapy is an emerging treatment modality that improves the prognosis of patients with ESCC. However, owing to the presence of hyperprogression and pseudoprogression, the currently used methods cannot accurately evaluate the efficacy of this therapy in patients, thus creating an evaluation bias and depriving these patients of the opportunity to benefit. We used untargeted lipidomics to identify the differences in lipid composition between cancer specimens and normal tissue specimens in the neoadjuvant chemotherapy combined with the immunotherapy group and the surgery-alone group of esophageal cancer patients and constructed a prediction model based on sphingomyelin 12:1;2O/30:0 and triglyceride (TG) 60:3 | TG 18:0_24:1_18 using a machine learning approach, which helps to better evaluate the neoadjuvant efficacy of combination therapy and better guide the treatment of ESCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weijie Lin
- Department of Gastrointestinal and Esophageal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou 362000, China
| | - Xianzhe Si
- Department of Gastrointestinal and Esophageal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou 362000, China
| | - Zhihuang Zhao
- Department of Gastrointestinal and Esophageal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou 362000, China
| | - Feng Chen
- Department of Gastrointestinal and Esophageal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou 362000, China
| | - Jie Xu
- Department of Gastrointestinal and Esophageal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou 362000, China
| | - Wenbo Huang
- Department of Gastrointestinal and Esophageal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou 362000, China
| | - Jianqing Lin
- Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou 362000, China
| | - Zhiyao Chen
- Department of Gastrointestinal and Esophageal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou 362000, China
| | - Zhijun Huang
- Department of Gastrointestinal and Esophageal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou 362000, China
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Wang H, Wang H, Chen J, Liu P, Xiao X. Overexpressed FAM111B degrades GSDMA to promote esophageal cancer tumorigenesis and cisplatin resistance. Cell Oncol (Dordr) 2024; 47:343-359. [PMID: 37672204 DOI: 10.1007/s13402-023-00871-0] [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] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chemotherapeutic agents such as cisplatin are commonly used in patients with clinically unresectable or recurrent esophageal cancer (ESCA). However, patients often develop resistance to cisplatin, which in turn leads to a poor prognosis. Studies have shown that FAM111B may be involved in the development of tumors as an oncogene or tumor suppressor gene. However, the pathological role and corresponding mechanism of FAM111B in ESCA are still unclear. METHODS The GEPIA web tool, ENCORI Pan-Cancer Analysis Platform and UALCAN-TCGA database were used to study the expression of FAM111B in ESCA. CCK-8, angiogenesis, Transwell and xenograft assays were applied to explore the biological function of FAM111B in ESCA. Western blot, RT-qPCR, and RNA-seq analyses were applied to study the FAM111B/GSDMA axis in the progression of ESCA cells. CCK-8 and xenograft assays were used to study the role of the FAM111B/GSDMA axis in determining the sensitivity of ESCA to cisplatin. RESULTS Our results demonstrated that FAM111B is highly expressed in ESCA tissues compared to normal tissues. We showed that FAM111B promotes the progression of ESCC cells by binding to GSDMA and that the trypsin protease domain is essential for the activity of FAM111B. Furthermore, we showed that the FAM111B/GSDMA axis regulates cisplatin sensitivity in ESCA. CONCLUSIONS Overall, we identified a novel FAM111B/GSDMA axis regulating ESCA tumorigenesis and chemosensitivity, at least in ESCC cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiqin Wang
- Department of Geriatrics, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Hunan Clinical Medical Research Center for Geriatric Syndrome, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Haohui Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Early Diagnosis and Precise Treatment of Lung Cancer, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Jiajing Chen
- Department of Geriatrics, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Hunan Clinical Medical Research Center for Geriatric Syndrome, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Pian Liu
- Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Cancer Center, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
- Institute of Radiation Oncology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
| | - Xiaoxiong Xiao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
- Xiangya Lung Cancer Center, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Changsha, Hunan, China.
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Kato M, Sawayama H, Komohara Y, Hisano Y, Nakamura H, Ohuchi M, Ogawa K, Miyamoto Y, Yoshida N, Baba H. Complete pathologic response after laparoscopic hepatectomy following treatment with nivolumab and ipilimumab for anticancer drug-resistant MSI-high colon cancer liver metastasis consisting of poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma with squamous differentiation: A case report. Clin J Gastroenterol 2024; 17:57-64. [PMID: 37874527 DOI: 10.1007/s12328-023-01855-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
A 56-year-old man referred to our hospital for cecum cancer. Enhanced computed tomography (CT) found swollen reginal lymph nodes and liver metastasis. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) revealed a solitary lesion on liver (S2). We performed a laparoscopic ileocolic resection and liver partial resection. Tumor pathology showed that these tumors were moderate-differentiated adenocarcinoma (pT3N2bM1 Stage IVA). Genetic examination revealed MSI-high, KRAS wild type, and BRAF wild type. After surgery, two liver metastases were found in S4 and S7 as new lesion in EOB-MRI. We started chemotherapy with the FOLFOFIRI plus bevacizumab regimen, but two liver metastases were enlarged after six cycles of chemotherapy. As a second-line treatment, nivolumab and ipilimumab combination therapy was started. After three cycles of these therapy, both of these tumors shrinkage were observed. We performed laparoscopic liver resection. In specimens, there were no malignant cells. Pathological study revealed that in the initial surgery specimen, PD-L1 protein was detected in both primary and metastatic lesions, and HLA-DR, CK5/6 in liver. No recurrence was observed at 6 months after the surgery. In conclusion, we reported the case of anticancer drug-resistant MSI-high colon cancer liver metastasis was resected after treatment with immune-checkpoint inhibitors and a pathological complete response was found.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moeko Kato
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, 1-1-1, Honjo, Chuo-Ku, Kumamoto, 860-8556, Japan
- Department of Surgery, Kumamoto General Hospital, 10-10, Toricho, Yatushiro, Kumamoto, 866-0856, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Sawayama
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, 1-1-1, Honjo, Chuo-Ku, Kumamoto, 860-8556, Japan
- Department of Surgery, Kumamoto General Hospital, 10-10, Toricho, Yatushiro, Kumamoto, 866-0856, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Komohara
- Department of Cell Pathology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Yuki Hisano
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, 1-1-1, Honjo, Chuo-Ku, Kumamoto, 860-8556, Japan
| | - Hiro Nakamura
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, 1-1-1, Honjo, Chuo-Ku, Kumamoto, 860-8556, Japan
| | - Mayuko Ohuchi
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, 1-1-1, Honjo, Chuo-Ku, Kumamoto, 860-8556, Japan
| | - Katsuhiro Ogawa
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, 1-1-1, Honjo, Chuo-Ku, Kumamoto, 860-8556, Japan
| | - Yuji Miyamoto
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, 1-1-1, Honjo, Chuo-Ku, Kumamoto, 860-8556, Japan
| | - Naoya Yoshida
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, 1-1-1, Honjo, Chuo-Ku, Kumamoto, 860-8556, Japan
| | - Hideo Baba
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, 1-1-1, Honjo, Chuo-Ku, Kumamoto, 860-8556, Japan.
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28
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Su X, Fu C, Liu F, Bian R, Jing P. T-cell exhaustion prediction algorithm in tumor microenvironment for evaluating prognostic stratification and immunotherapy effect of esophageal cancer. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2024; 39:592-611. [PMID: 37493251 DOI: 10.1002/tox.23887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023]
Abstract
Esophageal cancer (EC) is a common digestive malignancy that ranks sixth in cancer deaths, with a 5-year survival rate of 15%-25%. As a result, reliable prognostic biomarkers are required to accurately predict the prognosis of EC. T-cell exhaustion (TEX) is associated with poorer prognosis and immune infiltration in EC. In this study, nine risk genes were finally screened to constitute the prognostic model using least absolute shrinkage and selection operator analysis. Patients were divided into two groups based on the expression of the TEX-related genes: high-risk group and low-risk group. The expression of TEX-related genes differed significantly between the two groups. The findings revealed that the risk model developed was highly related to the clinical prognosis and amount of immune cell infiltration in EC patients. It was also significantly correlated with the therapeutic sensitivity of multiple chemotherapeutic agents in EC patients. Subsequently, we successfully constructed drug-resistant cell lines KYSE480/CDDP-R and KYSE180/CDDP-R to verify the correlation between PD-1 and drug resistance in EC. Then, we examined the mRNA and protein expression levels of PD-1 in parental and drug-resistant cells using qPCR and WB. It was found that the expression level of PD-1 was significantly increased in the plasma red of drug-resistant cells. Next, we knocked down PD-1 in drug-resistant cells and found that the resistance of EC cells to CDDP was significantly reduced. And the proportion of apoptotic cells in cells treated with 6 μM CDDP for 24 h was significantly in increase. The TEX-based risk model achieved good prediction results for prognosis prediction in EC patients. And it was also significantly associated with the level of immune cell infiltration and drug therapy sensitivity of EC patients. Additionally, the downregulation of PD-1 may be associated with increased drug sensitivity in EC and enhanced T-cell infiltration. The high-risk group had lower TIDE scores, indicating that the high-risk group benefits more after receiving immunotherapy. Thus, the TEX-based risk model can be used as a novel tumor prognostic biomarker.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangyu Su
- School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Oncology, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Chenchun Fu
- Department of Oncology, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Fei Liu
- Department of Oncology, Luhe People's Hospital of Nanjing, Nanjing, China
| | - Rongrong Bian
- Department of Oncology, Luhe People's Hospital of Nanjing, Nanjing, China
| | - Ping Jing
- Department of Gastroenterology, Luhe People's Hospital of Nanjing, Nanjing, China
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29
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Wang H. The RNA m6A writer RBM15 contributes to the progression of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma by regulating miR-3605-5p/KRT4 pathway. Heliyon 2024; 10:e24459. [PMID: 38312624 PMCID: PMC10835169 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e24459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer progression can be modulated by N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification. RNA binding motif protein 15 (RBM15) is an essential RNA m6A writer that influences carcinogenesis, however its significance in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is uncertain. This research is intended to examine how RBM15 regulates the development of ESCC. We performed qRT-PCR analysis to evaluate the expression of RBM15, microRNA (miR-3605-5p) as well as keratin 4 (KRT4) in ESCC. Target relationship between miR-3605-5p and KRT4 was validated by dual luciferase reporter assay. Western blotting analyzed the protein levels of KRT4, p53, and p21. To demonstrate that RBM15 is responsible for the m6A alteration of miR-3605-5p, RIP and Me-RIP experiments were carried out concurrently. m6A content was measured by m6A quantification assay. Cell growth and migration were assessed using the CCK-8 and transwell assays. In addition, the role of RBM15 in vivo was examined using a mouse tumor xenograft model. RBM15 and miR-3605-5p were both substantially expressed in ESCC, however KRT4 was not expressed highly. Overexpressed RBM15 triggered cell proliferation and migration in ESCC. Besides, RBM15/m6A could mediate pri-3605-5p to form the mature miR-3605-5p, and miR-3605-5p further targeted KRT4. Further investigations showed that upregulation of KRT4 overturned the promoting impact of RBM15 overexpression on cell proliferation as well as on cell migration in ESCC by activating p53 signaling pathway. This work implied the carcinogenic activity of RBM15/m6A in ESCC via miR-3605-5p/KRT4 pathway, providing a novel m6A modification pattern in the tumorigenesis of ESCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan Wang
- General practice section, Wuhan University of Science and Technology Hospital, Wuhan, 430070, Hubei, China
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30
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Roy S, Pan Z, Abu Qarnayn N, Alajmi M, Alatawi A, Alghamdi A, Alshaoosh I, Asiri Z, Batista B, Chaturvedi S, Dehinsilu O, Edduweh H, El-Adawy R, Hossen E, Mojra B, Rana J. A robust optimal control framework for controlling aberrant RTK signaling pathways in esophageal cancer. J Math Biol 2024; 88:14. [PMID: 38180543 DOI: 10.1007/s00285-023-02033-0] [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: 04/02/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
This study presents a new framework for obtaining personalized optimal treatment strategies targeting aberrant signaling pathways in esophageal cancer, such as the epidermal growth factor (EGF) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) signaling pathways. A new pharmacokinetic model is developed taking into account specific heterogeneities of these signaling mechanisms. The optimal therapies are designed to be obtained using a three step process. First, a finite-dimensional constrained optimization problem is solved to obtain the parameters of the pharmacokinetic model, using discrete patient data measurements. Next, a sensitivity analysis is carried out to determine which of the parameters are sensitive to the evolution of the variants of EGF receptors and VEGF receptors. Finally, a second optimal control problem is solved based on the sensitivity analysis results, using a modified pharmacokinetic model that incorporates two representative drugs Trastuzumab and Bevacizumab, targeting EGF and VEGF, respectively. Numerical results with the combination of the two drugs demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed framework.
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Affiliation(s)
- Souvik Roy
- Department of Mathematics, The University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, TX, 76019-0407, USA.
| | - Zui Pan
- College of Nursing and Health Innovation, The University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, TX, 76019-0407, USA
| | - Naif Abu Qarnayn
- Department of Mathematics, The University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, TX, 76019-0407, USA
| | - Mesfer Alajmi
- Department of Mathematics, The University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, TX, 76019-0407, USA
| | - Ali Alatawi
- Department of Mathematics, The University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, TX, 76019-0407, USA
| | - Asma Alghamdi
- Department of Mathematics, The University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, TX, 76019-0407, USA
| | - Ibrahem Alshaoosh
- Department of Mathematics, The University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, TX, 76019-0407, USA
| | - Zahra Asiri
- Department of Mathematics, The University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, TX, 76019-0407, USA
| | - Berlinda Batista
- Department of Mathematics, The University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, TX, 76019-0407, USA
| | - Shreshtha Chaturvedi
- Department of Mathematics, The University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, TX, 76019-0407, USA
| | - Olusola Dehinsilu
- Department of Mathematics, The University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, TX, 76019-0407, USA
| | - Hussein Edduweh
- Department of Mathematics, The University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, TX, 76019-0407, USA
| | - Rodina El-Adawy
- Department of Mathematics, The University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, TX, 76019-0407, USA
| | - Emran Hossen
- Department of Mathematics, The University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, TX, 76019-0407, USA
| | - Bardia Mojra
- Department of Computer Science, The University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, TX, 76019-0407, USA
| | - Jashmon Rana
- Department of Mathematics, The University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, TX, 76019-0407, USA
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31
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Qian T, Liu D, Cao G, Chen Z, Zhang Q. Neoadjuvant PD-1 Plus Chemotherapy for Locally Advanced Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Technol Cancer Res Treat 2024; 23:15330338241231610. [PMID: 38497137 PMCID: PMC10946079 DOI: 10.1177/15330338241231610] [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: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clinical studies have shown that programmed cell death-1 (PD-1) inhibitors can activate T cells and inhibit cancer growth. Therefore, the use of a PD-1 inhibitor plus chemotherapy as neoadjuvant chemotherapy for locally advanced esophageal cancer is worth further exploration. METHODS Patients with locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma were enrolled in this study to receive two cycles of a preoperative combination of toripalimab, paclitaxel, and cisplatin. Efficacy was evaluated after two treatment cycles. The patients' postoperative pathological staging was analyzed and compared. Surgery was performed within 42 days of the start date of the last chemotherapy cycle. RESULTS Neoadjuvant immunochemotherapy achieved a high pathologic complete response (pCR) rate (29.0%), major pathological response rate (41.9%), and objective response rate (80.6%) and demonstrated statistically significant downstaging after neoadjuvant therapy (P < .05) with manageable treatment-related adverse effects. No significant association was found between PD-L1 level and pCR (P = .365). In addition, R0 resection was achieved in all 31 (100%) patients during surgery. For all the included patients, the one-year progression-free survival rate was 87.1% (95% CI: 75.3%-98.9%), the one-year overall survival (OS) rate was 96.8% (95% CI: 79.8%-95.9%), and the two-year OS rate was 83.9% (95% CI: 71.6%-92.2%). CONCLUSIONS Our findings indicate that this combination may be a potential neoadjuvant therapy regimen in this setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Qian
- Department of Oncology, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital & Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research & The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Delin Liu
- Department of Oncology, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital & Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research & The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Guochun Cao
- Department of Oncology, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital & Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research & The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhipeng Chen
- Department of Oncology, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital & Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research & The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Qin Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, Cancer Institute of Jiangsu Province, Nanjing, China
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32
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Hu J, Liu Q, Feng B, Lu Y, Chen K. Deciphering the Hypoxia-immune interface in esophageal squamous carcinoma: a prognostic network model. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1296814. [PMID: 38148838 PMCID: PMC10751000 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1296814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The rapid progress and poor prognosis of the exercise of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCA) bring great challenges to the treatment. Hypoxia in the tumor microenvironment has become a key factor in the pathogenesis of tumors. However, due to the lack of clear therapeutic targets, hypoxia targeted therapy of ESCA is still in the exploratory stage. Methods To bridge this critical gap, we mined a large number of gene expression profiles and clinical data on ESCA from public databases. First, weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) and functional enrichment analysis were performed. We next delved into the relationship between hypoxia and apoptotic cell interactions. Meanwhile, using LASAS-Cox regression, we designed a robust prognostic risk score, which was subsequently validated in the GSE53625 cohort. In addition, we performed a comprehensive analysis of immune cell infiltration and tumor microenvironment using cutting-edge computational tools. Results Hypoxia-related genes were identified and classified by WGCNA. Functional enrichment analysis further elucidated the mechanism by which hypoxia affected the ESCA landscape. The results of the interaction analysis of hypoxia and apoptotic cells revealed their important roles in driving tumor progression. The validation results of the prognostic risk score model in the GSE53625 cohort obtained a good area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, and the risk score was independently verified as a significant predictor of ESCA outcome. The results of immune cell infiltration and tumor microenvironment analysis reveal the profound impact of immune cell dynamics on tumor evolution. Conclusion Overall, our study presents a pioneering hypoxiacentered gene signature for prognostication in ESCA, providing valuable prognostic insights that could potentially revolutionize patient stratification and therapeutic management in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Hu
- Department of Medical Oncology of The Eastern Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qilong Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology of The Eastern Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bi Feng
- Department of Medical Oncology of The Eastern Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yanling Lu
- Department of Medical Oncology of The Eastern Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kai Chen
- Department of Medical Oncology of The Eastern Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
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Chen J, Zhu Y, Zhao D, Zhang L, Zhang J, Xiao Y, Wu Q, Wang Y, Zhan Q. Co-targeting FAK and Gli1 inhibits the tumor-associated macrophages-released CCL22-mediated esophageal squamous cell carcinoma malignancy. MedComm (Beijing) 2023; 4:e381. [PMID: 37846367 PMCID: PMC10576977 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.381] [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: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is a frequently seen esophageal tumor type in China. Activation of signaling proteins and relevant molecular mechanisms in ESCC are partially explored, impairing the antitumor efficiency of targeted therapy in ESCC treatment. Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs)-released C-C motif chemokine 22 (CCL22) can activate intratumoral focal adhesion kinase (FAK), thus promoting the progression of ESCC. Here, we demonstrated that highly secreted CCL22 by TAMs (CCL22-positive TAMs) induced ESCC cell stemness and invasion through facilitating transcriptional activity of intratumoral glioma-associated oncogene 1 (Gli1), a downstream effector for Hedgehog (HH) pathway. Mechanistically, FAK-activated protein kinase B (AKT) mediated Gli1 phosphorylation at its Ser112/Thr115/Ser116 sites and released Gli1 from suppressor of fused homolog, the endogenous inhibitor of Gli1 to activate downstream stemness-associated factors, such as SRY-box transcription factor 2 (SOX2), Nanog homeobox (Nanog), or POU class 5 homeobox (OCT4). Furthermore, inhibition of FAK activity by VS-4718, the FAK inhibitor, enhanced antitumor effect of GDC-0449, the HH inhibitor, both in xenografted models and in vitro assays. Clinically, CCL22/Gli1 axis is used to evaluate ESCC prognosis. Overall, our study establishes the communication of FAK with HH pathway and offers the novel mechanism related to Gli1 activation independent of Smoothened as well as the rationale for the anti-ESCC combination treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Chen
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing)Laboratory of Molecular OncologyPeking University Cancer Hospital & InstituteBeijingChina
- Peking University International Cancer InstitutePeking UniversityBeijingChina
- Research Unit of Molecular Cancer ResearchChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingChina
- Soochow University Cancer InstituteSuzhouChina
| | - Yanmeng Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing)Laboratory of Molecular OncologyPeking University Cancer Hospital & InstituteBeijingChina
| | - Di Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing)Laboratory of Molecular OncologyPeking University Cancer Hospital & InstituteBeijingChina
- Peking University International Cancer InstitutePeking UniversityBeijingChina
- Research Unit of Molecular Cancer ResearchChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Lingyuan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing)Laboratory of Molecular OncologyPeking University Cancer Hospital & InstituteBeijingChina
| | - Jing Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing)Laboratory of Molecular OncologyPeking University Cancer Hospital & InstituteBeijingChina
| | - Yuanfan Xiao
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing)Laboratory of Molecular OncologyPeking University Cancer Hospital & InstituteBeijingChina
| | - Qingnan Wu
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing)Laboratory of Molecular OncologyPeking University Cancer Hospital & InstituteBeijingChina
- Peking University International Cancer InstitutePeking UniversityBeijingChina
- Research Unit of Molecular Cancer ResearchChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Yan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing)Laboratory of Molecular OncologyPeking University Cancer Hospital & InstituteBeijingChina
- Peking University International Cancer InstitutePeking UniversityBeijingChina
- Research Unit of Molecular Cancer ResearchChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Qimin Zhan
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing)Laboratory of Molecular OncologyPeking University Cancer Hospital & InstituteBeijingChina
- Peking University International Cancer InstitutePeking UniversityBeijingChina
- Research Unit of Molecular Cancer ResearchChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingChina
- Soochow University Cancer InstituteSuzhouChina
- Institute of Cancer ResearchShenzhen Bay LaboratoryShenzhenChina
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34
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Han D, Han Y, Guo W, Wei W, Yang S, Xiang J, Che J, Zhu L, Hang J, van den Ende T, van Laarhoven HWM, Li B, Ye Y, Li H. High-dimensional single-cell proteomics analysis of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma reveals dynamic alterations of the tumor immune microenvironment after neoadjuvant therapy. J Immunother Cancer 2023; 11:e007847. [PMID: 38016720 PMCID: PMC10685958 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2023-007847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dynamic alterations of the tumor immune microenvironment in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) after different neoadjuvant therapies were understudied. METHODS We used mass cytometry with a 42-antibody panel for 6 adjacent normal esophageal mucosa and 26 tumor samples (treatment-naïve, n=12; postneoadjuvant, n=14) from patients with ESCC. Single-cell RNA sequencing of previous studies and bulk RNA sequencing from The Cancer Genome Atlas were analyzed, flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence analyses were performed. RESULTS Poor tumor regression was observed in the neoadjuvant chemotherapy group. Radiotherapy-based regimens enhanced CD8+ T cells but diminished regulatory T cells and promoted the ratio of effector memory to central memory T cells. Immune checkpoint blockade augmented NK cell activation and cytotoxicity by increasing the frequency of CD16+ NK cells. We discovered a novel CCR4+CCR6+ macrophage subset that correlated with the enrichment of corresponding chemokines (CCL3/CCL5/CCL17/CCL20/CCL22). We established a CCR4/CCR6 chemokine-based model that stratified ESCC patients with differential overall survival and responsiveness to neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy combined with immunotherapy, which was validated in two independent cohorts of esophageal cancer with neoadjuvant treatment. CONCLUSIONS This work reveals that neoadjuvant therapy significantly regulates the cellular composition of the tumor immune microenvironment in ESCC and proposes a potential model of CCR4/CCR6 system to predict the benefits from neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy combined with immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dingpei Han
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yichao Han
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Guo
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Wei
- Department of Esophageal Surgery, Department of Thoracic Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Su Yang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jie Xiang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiaming Che
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Lianggang Zhu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Junbiao Hang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Tom van den Ende
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Hanneke W M van Laarhoven
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Bin Li
- Center for Immune-Related Diseases at Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine of Ruijin Hospital, Department of Thoracic Surgery of Ruijin Hospital, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Clinical Translational Research Center, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Integrated TCM & Western Medicine, Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Youqiong Ye
- Center for Immune-Related Diseases at Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine of Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hecheng Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Piroozkhah M, Gholinezhad Y, Piroozkhah M, Shams E, Nazemalhosseini-Mojarad E. The molecular mechanism of actions and clinical utilities of tumor infiltrating lymphocytes in gastrointestinal cancers: a comprehensive review and future prospects toward personalized medicine. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1298891. [PMID: 38077386 PMCID: PMC10704251 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1298891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers remain a significant global health burden, accounting for a substantial number of cases and deaths. Regrettably, the inadequacy of dependable biomarkers hinders the precise forecasting of patient prognosis and the selection of appropriate therapeutic sequencing for individuals with GI cancers, leading to suboptimal outcomes for numerous patients. The intricate interplay between tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) and the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) has been shown to be a pivotal determinant of response to anti-cancer therapy and consequential clinical outcomes across a multitude of cancer types. Therefore, the assessment of TILs has garnered global interest as a promising prognostic biomarker in oncology, with the potential to improve clinical decision-making substantially. Moreover, recent discoveries in immunotherapy have progressively changed the landscape of cancer treatment and significantly prolonged the survival of patients with advanced cancers. Nonetheless, the response rate remains constrained within solid tumor sufferers, even when TIL landscapes appear comparable, which calls for the development of our understanding of cellular and molecular cross-talk between TIME and tumor. Hence, this comprehensive review encapsulates the extant literature elucidating the TILs' underlying molecular pathogenesis, prognostic significance, and their relevance in the realm of immunotherapy for patients afflicted by GI tract cancers. Within this review, we demonstrate that the type, density, and spatial distribution of distinct TIL subpopulations carries pivotal implications for the prediction of anti-cancer treatment responses and patient survival. Furthermore, this review underscores the indispensable role of TILs in modulating therapeutic responses within distinct molecular subtypes, such as those characterized by microsatellite stability or programmed cell death ligand-1 expression in GI tract cancers. The review concludes by outlining future directions in TIL-based personalized medicine, including integrating TIL-based approaches into existing treatment regimens and developing novel therapeutic strategies that exploit the unique properties of TILs and their potential as a promising avenue for personalized cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moein Piroozkhah
- Basic and Molecular Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Yasaman Gholinezhad
- School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mobin Piroozkhah
- Basic and Molecular Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Elahe Shams
- Basic and Molecular Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ehsan Nazemalhosseini-Mojarad
- Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Ning XY, Ma JH, He W, Ma JT. Role of exosomes in metastasis and therapeutic resistance in esophageal cancer. World J Gastroenterol 2023; 29:5699-5715. [PMID: 38075847 PMCID: PMC10701334 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v29.i42.5699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Esophageal cancer (EC) has a high incidence and mortality rate and is emerging as one of the most common health problems globally. Owing to the lack of sensitive detection methods, uncontrollable rapid metastasis, and pervasive treatment resistance, EC is often diagnosed in advanced stages and is susceptible to local recurrence. Exosomes are important components of intercellular communication and the exosome-mediated crosstalk between the cancer and surrounding cells within the tumor microenvironment plays a crucial role in the metastasis, progression, and therapeutic resistance of EC. Considering the critical role of exosomes in tumor pathogenesis, this review focused on elucidating the impact of exosomes on EC metastasis and therapeutic resistance. Here, we summarized the relevant signaling pathways involved in these processes. In addition, we discussed the potential clinical applications of exosomes for the early diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of EC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing-Yu Ning
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, Anhui Province, China
| | - Jin-Hu Ma
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, Anhui Province, China
| | - Wei He
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, Anhui Province, China
| | - Jun-Ting Ma
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, Anhui Province, China
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Sheng G, Wang T, Gao Y, Wu H, Wu J. m6A regulator-mediated methylation modification patterns and tumor microenvironment immune infiltration with prognostic analysis in esophageal cancer. Sci Rep 2023; 13:19670. [PMID: 37952076 PMCID: PMC10640615 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-46729-1] [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: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Esophageal cancer is a highly malignant disease with poor prognosis. Despite recent advances in the study of esophageal cancer, there has been only limited improvement in the treatment and prognosis. N6-methyladenosine (m6A), a type of RNA modification, has been extensively investigated and is involved in many biological behaviors, including tumorigenesis and progression. Thus, more research on m6A modification may increase our understanding of esophageal cancer pathogenesis and provide potential targets. In our study, we integrated the public data of esophageal cancer from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene-Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases. Unsupervised clustering analysis was used to classify patients into different groups. Gene set variation analysis (GSVA) was performed in a nonparametric and unsupervised mode. We evaluated immune cell infiltration by single sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA). Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) among m6A clusters were identified using Empirical Bayesian approach. Both multivariate and univariate Cox regression models were used for prognostic analysis. We provided an overview of gene variation and expression of 23 m6A regulators in esophageal cancer, as well as their effects on survival. Based on the overall expression level of m6A regulators, patients were classified into three m6A clusters (A-C) with different immune cell infiltration abundance, gene expression signatures and prognosis. Among m6A clusters, we identified 206 DEGs, according to which patients were classified into 4 gene clusters (A-D). Quantitative m6A score was calculated for each patient based on those DEGs with significant impact on survival. The infiltration of all types of immune cells except type 2 T helper (Th2) cells were negatively correlated with m6A score. M6Acluster C exhibited the lowest m6A score, the most abundant immune cell infiltration, and the worst prognosis, suggesting an immune excluded phenotype. Consistently, gene cluster D with the lowest m6A score showed the worst prognosis. In short, patients with esophageal cancer showed different m6A modification patterns. Quantitative scoring indicated that patients with the lowest m6A score exhibited the most abundant immune cell infiltration and the poorest prognosis. This m6A scoring system is promising to assess m6A modification pattern, characterize immune infiltration and guide personalized treatment and prognostic prediction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaohong Sheng
- Department of Orthopedics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Jiefang Avenue 1095, Wuhan, China
| | - Tianqi Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Jiefang Avenue 1095, Wuhan, China
| | - Yuan Gao
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Jiefang Avenue 1095, Wuhan, China
| | - Hua Wu
- Department of Orthopedics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Jiefang Avenue 1095, Wuhan, China.
- Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Taiyuan, China.
| | - Jianhong Wu
- Gastrointestinal Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Jiefang Avenue 1095, Wuhan, China.
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Cheng P, Cios KJ, Varkhedi M, Barker VR, Yeagley M, Chobrutskiy A, Chobrutskiy BI, Blanck G. An immunoinformatics assessment of the cancer testis antigen, DDX53, as a potential early esophageal cancer antigen. Oncoscience 2023; 10:59-66. [PMID: 37953875 PMCID: PMC10637345 DOI: 10.18632/oncoscience.590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
T-lymphocytes have been implicated in facilitating a pro-inflammatory, pro-tumorigenic microenvironment that worsens prognosis for esophageal carcinoma (ESCA). In this study, we identified tumor resident, T-cell receptor (TCR) complementarity determining region-3 (CDR3) amino acid sequences and employed an algorithm particularly suited to the big data setting to evaluate TCR CDR3-cancer testis antigen (CTA) chemical complementarities. Chemical complementarity of the ESCA TCR CDR3s and the cancer testis antigen DDX53 represented a disease-free survival (DFS) distinction, whereby the upper fiftieth percentile complementarity group correlated with worse DFS. The high TCR CDR3-DDX53 complementarity group also represented a greater proportion of tumor samples lacking DDX53 expression. These data and analyses raise the question of whether the TCR CDR3-DDX53 chemical complementarity assessment detected an ESCA immune response that selected for DDX53-negative cells?
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Cheng
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida (FL) 33612, USA
| | - Konrad J. Cios
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida (FL) 33612, USA
| | - Mallika Varkhedi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida (FL) 33612, USA
| | - Vayda R. Barker
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida (FL) 33612, USA
| | - Michelle Yeagley
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida (FL) 33612, USA
| | - Andrea Chobrutskiy
- Department of Pediatrics, Oregon Health and Science University Hospital, Portland, Oregon (OR) 97239, USA
| | - Boris I. Chobrutskiy
- Department of Internal Medicine, Oregon Health and Science University Hospital, Portland, Oregon (OR) 97239, USA
| | - George Blanck
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida (FL) 33612, USA
- Department of Immunology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida (FL) 33612, USA
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Azumi Y, Koma YI, Tsukamoto S, Kitamura Y, Ishihara N, Yamanaka K, Nakanishi T, Miyako S, Urakami S, Tanigawa K, Kodama T, Nishio M, Shigeoka M, Kakeji Y, Yokozaki H. IFI16 Induced by Direct Interaction between Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinomas and Macrophages Promotes Tumor Progression via Secretion of IL-1α. Cells 2023; 12:2603. [PMID: 37998338 PMCID: PMC10670642 DOI: 10.3390/cells12222603] [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: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), one of the major components of the tumor microenvironment, contribute to the progression of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). We previously established a direct co-culture system of human ESCC cells and macrophages and reported the promotion of malignant phenotypes, such as survival, growth, and migration, in ESCC cells. These findings suggested that direct interactions between cancer cells and macrophages contribute to the malignancy of ESCC, but its underlying mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, we compared the expression levels of the interferon-induced genes between mono- and co-cultured ESCC cells using a cDNA microarray and found that interferon-inducible protein 16 (IFI16) was most significantly upregulated in co-cultured ESCC cells. IFI16 knockdown suppressed malignant phenotypes and also decreased the secretion of interleukin-1α (IL-1α) from ESCC cells. Additionally, recombinant IL-1α enhanced malignant phenotypes of ESCC cells through the Erk and NF-κB signaling. Immunohistochemistry revealed that high IFI16 expression in human ESCC tissues tended to be associated with disease-free survival and was significantly associated with tumor depth, lymph node metastasis, and macrophage infiltration. The results of this study reveal that IFI16 is involved in ESCC progression via IL-1α and imply the potential of IFI16 as a novel prognostic factor for ESCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuki Azumi
- Division of Pathology, Department of Pathology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe 650-0017, Japan; (Y.A.); (S.T.); (N.I.); (K.Y.); (T.N.); (S.M.); (S.U.); (T.K.); (M.N.); (M.S.); (H.Y.)
- Division of Gastro-Intestinal Surgery, Department of Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe 650-0017, Japan; (Y.K.); (K.T.); (Y.K.)
| | - Yu-ichiro Koma
- Division of Pathology, Department of Pathology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe 650-0017, Japan; (Y.A.); (S.T.); (N.I.); (K.Y.); (T.N.); (S.M.); (S.U.); (T.K.); (M.N.); (M.S.); (H.Y.)
| | - Shuichi Tsukamoto
- Division of Pathology, Department of Pathology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe 650-0017, Japan; (Y.A.); (S.T.); (N.I.); (K.Y.); (T.N.); (S.M.); (S.U.); (T.K.); (M.N.); (M.S.); (H.Y.)
| | - Yu Kitamura
- Division of Gastro-Intestinal Surgery, Department of Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe 650-0017, Japan; (Y.K.); (K.T.); (Y.K.)
| | - Nobuaki Ishihara
- Division of Pathology, Department of Pathology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe 650-0017, Japan; (Y.A.); (S.T.); (N.I.); (K.Y.); (T.N.); (S.M.); (S.U.); (T.K.); (M.N.); (M.S.); (H.Y.)
- Division of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe 650-0017, Japan
| | - Keitaro Yamanaka
- Division of Pathology, Department of Pathology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe 650-0017, Japan; (Y.A.); (S.T.); (N.I.); (K.Y.); (T.N.); (S.M.); (S.U.); (T.K.); (M.N.); (M.S.); (H.Y.)
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Surgery Related, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe 650-0017, Japan
| | - Takashi Nakanishi
- Division of Pathology, Department of Pathology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe 650-0017, Japan; (Y.A.); (S.T.); (N.I.); (K.Y.); (T.N.); (S.M.); (S.U.); (T.K.); (M.N.); (M.S.); (H.Y.)
- Division of Gastro-Intestinal Surgery, Department of Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe 650-0017, Japan; (Y.K.); (K.T.); (Y.K.)
| | - Shoji Miyako
- Division of Pathology, Department of Pathology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe 650-0017, Japan; (Y.A.); (S.T.); (N.I.); (K.Y.); (T.N.); (S.M.); (S.U.); (T.K.); (M.N.); (M.S.); (H.Y.)
- Division of Gastro-Intestinal Surgery, Department of Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe 650-0017, Japan; (Y.K.); (K.T.); (Y.K.)
| | - Satoshi Urakami
- Division of Pathology, Department of Pathology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe 650-0017, Japan; (Y.A.); (S.T.); (N.I.); (K.Y.); (T.N.); (S.M.); (S.U.); (T.K.); (M.N.); (M.S.); (H.Y.)
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe 650-0017, Japan
| | - Kohei Tanigawa
- Division of Gastro-Intestinal Surgery, Department of Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe 650-0017, Japan; (Y.K.); (K.T.); (Y.K.)
| | - Takayuki Kodama
- Division of Pathology, Department of Pathology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe 650-0017, Japan; (Y.A.); (S.T.); (N.I.); (K.Y.); (T.N.); (S.M.); (S.U.); (T.K.); (M.N.); (M.S.); (H.Y.)
| | - Mari Nishio
- Division of Pathology, Department of Pathology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe 650-0017, Japan; (Y.A.); (S.T.); (N.I.); (K.Y.); (T.N.); (S.M.); (S.U.); (T.K.); (M.N.); (M.S.); (H.Y.)
| | - Manabu Shigeoka
- Division of Pathology, Department of Pathology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe 650-0017, Japan; (Y.A.); (S.T.); (N.I.); (K.Y.); (T.N.); (S.M.); (S.U.); (T.K.); (M.N.); (M.S.); (H.Y.)
| | - Yoshihiro Kakeji
- Division of Gastro-Intestinal Surgery, Department of Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe 650-0017, Japan; (Y.K.); (K.T.); (Y.K.)
| | - Hiroshi Yokozaki
- Division of Pathology, Department of Pathology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe 650-0017, Japan; (Y.A.); (S.T.); (N.I.); (K.Y.); (T.N.); (S.M.); (S.U.); (T.K.); (M.N.); (M.S.); (H.Y.)
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Qiao X, Cheng Z, Xue K, Xiong C, Zheng Z, Jin X, Li J. Tumor-associated macrophage-derived exosomes LINC01592 induce the immune escape of esophageal cancer by decreasing MHC-I surface expression. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2023; 42:289. [PMID: 37915049 PMCID: PMC10621170 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-023-02871-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/21/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND TAMs (tumor-associated macrophages) infiltration promotes the progression of esophageal cancer (EC). However, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. METHODS Abnormal expression of LINC01592 from EC microarrays of the TCGA database was analyzed. LINC01592 expression level was validated in both EC cell lines and tissues. Stable LINC01592 knockdown and overexpression of EC cell lines were established. In vitro and in vivo trials were conducted to test the impact of LINC01592 knockdown and overexpression on EC cells. RNA binding protein immunoprecipitation (RIP), RNA pulldown assays, and Immunofluorescence (IF) were used to verify the combination of E2F6 and LINC01592. The combination of E2F6 and NBR1 was verified through the utilization of ChIP and dual luciferase reporter assays. RESULTS LINC01592 is carried and transferred by exosomes secreted by M2-TAMs to tumor cells. The molecular mechanism underlying the promotion of NBR1 transcription involves the direct binding of LINC01592 to E2F6, which facilitates the nuclear entry of E2F6. The collaborative action of LINC01592 and E2F6 results in improved NBR1 transcription. The elevation of NBR1 binding to the ubiquitinated protein MHC-I via the ubiquitin domain caused a higher degradation of MHC-I in autophagolysosomes and a reduction in MHC-I expression on the exterior of cancerous cell. Consequently, this caused cancerous cells to escape from CD8+ CTL immune attack. The tumor-promoting impacts of LINC01592, as well as the growth of M2-type macrophage-driven tumors, were significantly suppressed by the interruption of E2F6/NBR1/MHC-I signaling through the effect of siRNA or the corresponding antibody blockade. Significantly, the suppression of LINC01592 resulted in an upregulation of MHC-I expression on the tumor cell membrane, thereby enhancing the efficacy of CD8+ T cell reinfusion therapy. CONCLUSIONS The investigation conducted has revealed a significant molecular interaction between TAMs and EC via the LINC01592/E2F6/NBR1/MHC-I axis, which facilitates the progression of malignant tumors. This suggests that a therapeutic intervention targeting this axis may hold promise for the treatment of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinwei Qiao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, Hubei, China
| | - Zaixing Cheng
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, Hubei, China
| | - Kaming Xue
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, Hubei, China
| | - Cui Xiong
- Department of Endocrinology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, Hubei, China
| | - Zhikun Zheng
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, Hubei, China
| | - Xin Jin
- Department of Urology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410011, Hunan, China
| | - Jinsong Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, Hubei, China.
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Huang H, Li N, Liang Y, Li R, Tong X, Xiao J, Tang H, Jiang D, Xie K, Fang C, Chen S, Li G, Wang B, Wang J, Luo H, Guo L, Ma H, Jiang W, Feng Y. Multi-omics analyses reveal spatial heterogeneity in primary and metastatic oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Clin Transl Med 2023; 13:e1493. [PMID: 38009315 PMCID: PMC10679972 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.1493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Biopsies obtained from primary oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) guide diagnosis and treatment. However, spatial intra-tumoral heterogeneity (ITH) influences biopsy-derived information and patient responsiveness to therapy. Here, we aimed to elucidate the spatial ITH of ESCC and matched lymph node metastasis (LNmet ). METHODS Primary tumour superficial (PTsup ), deep (PTdeep ) and LNmet subregions of patients with locally advanced resectable ESCC were evaluated using whole-exome sequencing (WES), whole-transcriptome sequencing and spatially resolved digital spatial profiling (DSP). To validate the findings, immunohistochemistry was conducted and a single-cell transcriptomic dataset was analysed. RESULTS WES revealed 15.72%, 5.02% and 32.00% unique mutations in PTsup , PTdeep and LNmet , respectively. Copy number alterations and phylogenetic trees showed spatial ITH among subregions both within and among patients. Driver mutations had a mixed intra-tumoral clonal status among subregions. Transcriptome data showed distinct differentially expressed genes among subregions. LNmet exhibited elevated expression of immunomodulatory genes and enriched immune cells, particularly when compared with PTsup (all P < .05). DSP revealed orthogonal support of bulk transcriptome results, with differences in protein and immune cell abundance between subregions in a spatial context. The integrative analysis of multi-omics data revealed complex heterogeneity in mRNA/protein levels and immune cell abundance within each subregion. CONCLUSIONS This study comprehensively characterised spatial ITH in ESCC, and the findings highlight the clinical significance of unbiased molecular classification based on multi-omics data and their potential to improve the understanding and management of ESCC. The current practices for tissue sampling are insufficient for guiding precision medicine for ESCC, and routine profiling of PTdeep and/or LNmet should be systematically performed to obtain a more comprehensive understanding of ESCC and better inform treatment decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haitao Huang
- Department of Thoracic Surgerythe First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhouChina
- Institute of Thoracic Surgerythe First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhouChina
| | - Na Li
- Shenzhen Engineering Center for Translational Medicine of Precision Cancer Immunodiagnosis and TherapyYuceBio Technology Co., LtdShenzhenChina
| | - Yingkuan Liang
- Department of Thoracic SurgeryNanjing Medical University Affiliated Cancer HospitalNanjingChina
| | - Rutao Li
- Department of Thoracic SurgeryDushu Lake Hospital Affiliated to Soochow UniversitySuzhouChina
| | - Xing Tong
- Department of Pathologythe First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhouJiangsuChina
| | - Jinyuan Xiao
- Shenzhen Engineering Center for Translational Medicine of Precision Cancer Immunodiagnosis and TherapyYuceBio Technology Co., LtdShenzhenChina
| | - Hongzhen Tang
- Shenzhen Engineering Center for Translational Medicine of Precision Cancer Immunodiagnosis and TherapyYuceBio Technology Co., LtdShenzhenChina
| | - Dong Jiang
- Department of Thoracic Surgerythe First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhouChina
- Institute of Thoracic Surgerythe First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhouChina
| | - Kai Xie
- Department of Thoracic Surgerythe First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhouChina
- Institute of Thoracic Surgerythe First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhouChina
| | - Chen Fang
- Department of Thoracic Surgerythe First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhouChina
- Institute of Thoracic Surgerythe First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhouChina
| | - Shaomu Chen
- Department of Thoracic Surgerythe First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhouChina
- Institute of Thoracic Surgerythe First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhouChina
| | - Guangbin Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgerythe First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhouChina
- Institute of Thoracic Surgerythe First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhouChina
| | - Bin Wang
- Department of Thoracic SurgeryDushu Lake Hospital Affiliated to Soochow UniversitySuzhouChina
| | - Jiaqian Wang
- Shenzhen Engineering Center for Translational Medicine of Precision Cancer Immunodiagnosis and TherapyYuceBio Technology Co., LtdShenzhenChina
| | - Haitao Luo
- Shenzhen Engineering Center for Translational Medicine of Precision Cancer Immunodiagnosis and TherapyYuceBio Technology Co., LtdShenzhenChina
| | - Lingchuan Guo
- Department of Pathologythe First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhouJiangsuChina
| | - Haitao Ma
- Department of Thoracic Surgerythe First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhouChina
- Department of Thoracic SurgeryDushu Lake Hospital Affiliated to Soochow UniversitySuzhouChina
| | - Wei Jiang
- Department of Thoracic SurgeryDushu Lake Hospital Affiliated to Soochow UniversitySuzhouChina
| | - Yu Feng
- Department of Thoracic Surgerythe First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhouChina
- Institute of Thoracic Surgerythe First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhouChina
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Zhang J, Dong Y, Di S, Xie S, Fan B, Gong T. Tumor associated macrophages in esophageal squamous carcinoma: Promising therapeutic implications. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 167:115610. [PMID: 37783153 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Esophageal squamous carcinoma (ESCC) is a prevalent and highly lethal malignant tumor, with a five-year survival rate of approximately 20 %. Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are the most prominent immune cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME), comprising over 50 % of the tumor volume. TAMs can be polarized into two distinct phenotypes, M1-type and M2-type, through interactions with cancer cells. M2-type TAMs are more abundant than M1-type TAMs in the TME, contributing to tumor progression, such as tumor cell survival and the construction of an immunosuppressive environment. This review focuses on the role of TAMs in ESCC, including their polarization, impact on tumor proliferation, angiogenesis, invasion, migration, therapy resistance, and immunosuppression. In addition, we discuss the potential of targeting TAMs for clinical therapy in ESCC. A thorough comprehension of the molecular biology about TAMs is essential for the development of innovative therapeutic strategies to treat ESCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiale Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, the Sixth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China; Department of Thoracic Surgery, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yanxin Dong
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, the Sixth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China; Department of Thoracic Surgery, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shouyin Di
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, the Sixth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Shun Xie
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, the Sixth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Boshi Fan
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, the Sixth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China.
| | - Taiqian Gong
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, the Sixth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China.
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Liu M, Ma Y, Guo Y, Ma Y, Bao X, Lu X. LEPRE1 shapes a non-flamed tumour immune landscape and predicts the prognosis in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Clin Transl Med 2023; 13:e1473. [PMID: 37997529 PMCID: PMC10667621 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.1473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Meng Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis, Prevention and Treatment of High Incidence Diseases in Central AsiaAffiliated Tumor Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous RegionUrumqiPR China
- The Clinical Medical Research Center of Breast and Thyroid Tumor in Xinjiang,Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous RegionUrumqiPR China
| | - Yu Ma
- Department of Clinical LaboratoryThe Fourth People’ Hospital of Urumqi, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous RegionUrumqiPR China
| | - Yunquan Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis, Prevention and Treatment of High Incidence Diseases in Central AsiaAffiliated Tumor Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous RegionUrumqiPR China
| | - Yue Ma
- Department of PharmacyXinjiang Medical University, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous RegionUrumqiPR China
| | - Xinxin Bao
- Department of PharmacyXinjiang Medical University, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous RegionUrumqiPR China
| | - Xiaomei Lu
- Clinical Medical Research Institute, First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous RegionUrumqiPR China
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Kawasaki K, Noma K, Kato T, Ohara T, Tanabe S, Takeda Y, Matsumoto H, Nishimura S, Kunitomo T, Akai M, Kobayashi T, Nishiwaki N, Kashima H, Maeda N, Kikuchi S, Tazawa H, Shirakawa Y, Fujiwara T. PD-L1-expressing cancer-associated fibroblasts induce tumor immunosuppression and contribute to poor clinical outcome in esophageal cancer. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2023; 72:3787-3802. [PMID: 37668710 PMCID: PMC10576702 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-023-03531-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
The programmed cell death 1 protein (PD-1)/programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) axis plays a crucial role in tumor immunosuppression, while the cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) have various tumor-promoting functions. To determine the advantage of immunotherapy, the relationship between the cancer cells and the CAFs was evaluated in terms of the PD-1/PD-L1 axis. Overall, 140 cases of esophageal cancer underwent an immunohistochemical analysis of the PD-L1 expression and its association with the expression of the α smooth muscle actin, fibroblast activation protein, CD8, and forkhead box P3 (FoxP3) positive cells. The relationship between the cancer cells and the CAFs was evaluated in vitro, and the effect of the anti-PD-L1 antibody was evaluated using a syngeneic mouse model. A survival analysis showed that the PD-L1+ CAF group had worse survival than the PD-L1- group. In vitro and in vivo, direct interaction between the cancer cells and the CAFs showed a mutually upregulated PD-L1 expression. In vivo, the anti-PD-L1 antibody increased the number of dead CAFs and cancer cells, resulting in increased CD8+ T cells and decreased FoxP3+ regulatory T cells. We demonstrated that the PD-L1-expressing CAFs lead to poor outcomes in patients with esophageal cancer. The cancer cells and the CAFs mutually enhanced the PD-L1 expression and induced tumor immunosuppression. Therefore, the PD-L1-expressing CAFs may be good targets for cancer therapy, inhibiting tumor progression and improving host tumor immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kento Kawasaki
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kita-ku, Okayama, 700-8558, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Noma
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kita-ku, Okayama, 700-8558, Japan.
| | - Takuya Kato
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kita-ku, Okayama, 700-8558, Japan
| | - Toshiaki Ohara
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kita-ku, Okayama, 700-8558, Japan
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama, Japan
| | - Shunsuke Tanabe
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kita-ku, Okayama, 700-8558, Japan
| | - Yasushige Takeda
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kita-ku, Okayama, 700-8558, Japan
| | - Hijiri Matsumoto
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kita-ku, Okayama, 700-8558, Japan
| | - Seitaro Nishimura
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kita-ku, Okayama, 700-8558, Japan
| | - Tomoyoshi Kunitomo
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kita-ku, Okayama, 700-8558, Japan
| | - Masaaki Akai
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kita-ku, Okayama, 700-8558, Japan
| | - Teruki Kobayashi
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kita-ku, Okayama, 700-8558, Japan
| | - Noriyuki Nishiwaki
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kita-ku, Okayama, 700-8558, Japan
| | - Hajime Kashima
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kita-ku, Okayama, 700-8558, Japan
| | - Naoaki Maeda
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kita-ku, Okayama, 700-8558, Japan
| | - Satoru Kikuchi
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kita-ku, Okayama, 700-8558, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Tazawa
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kita-ku, Okayama, 700-8558, Japan
- Center for Innovative Clinical Medicine, Okayama University Hospital, Okayama, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Shirakawa
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kita-ku, Okayama, 700-8558, Japan
- Department of Surgery, Hiroshima City Hiroshima Citizens Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Toshiyoshi Fujiwara
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kita-ku, Okayama, 700-8558, Japan
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Yang C, Plum PS, Gockel I, Thieme R. Pan-cancer analysis and in vitro validation of the oncogenic and prognostic roles of AURKA in human cancers. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1186101. [PMID: 37965456 PMCID: PMC10642189 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1186101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Aurora kinase A (AURKA) plays a pivotal role in regulating cell mitosis and tumor progression. However, its prognostic significance across diverse cancer types remains relatively unexplored. Methods We conducted a comprehensive analysis of AURKA expression in various cancers using data from The Cancer Genome Atlas, Genotype-Tissue Expression, and The Human Protein Atlas databases. Our investigation encompassed an exploration of the associations between AURKA expression and clinical characteristics, shedding light on potential functional roles of AURKA. Additionally, we delved into the relationship between AURKA and the tumor microenvironment. To substantiate the role of AURKA, we carried out in vitro experiments in esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC), prostate cancer (PRAD), and pancreatic cancer (PAAD) cells. Results Our analysis revealed that AURKA is prominently overexpressed in a majority of the cancer types under investigation. Elevated AURKA expression correlated closely with poorer prognosis and advanced tumor stages. AURKA was found to be associated with key pathways involved in the cell cycle and arachidonic acid metabolism. Moreover, AURKA expression exhibited significant correlations with immunoregulatory genes and immune cell profiles. Notably, in vitro experiments demonstrated that silencing AURKA expression resulted in reduced cell viability in EAC, PRAD, and PAAD cells, as well as a decrease in clone formation, cell cycle elongation, diminished cell invasion and reduced spheroid size in EAC cells (OE33 and OE19). Conclusion Our study elucidates the oncogenic role of AURKA and underscores its prognostic value across a spectrum of cancers, including EAC. These findings suggest that AURKA holds promise as a predictive biomarker for EAC and various other tumor types.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - René Thieme
- Department of Visceral, Transplant, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, University Hospital of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
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Yao Y, Xuan H, Wang J, Gong L, Gao W. Integrative analysis of tertiary lymphoid structures and immune microenvironment in patients with esophageal carcinoma. TUMORI JOURNAL 2023; 109:466-480. [PMID: 37249074 DOI: 10.1177/03008916231176857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is one of the most common upper gastrointestinal malignancies worldwide. Tertiary lymphoid structures (TLS) are tumor-infiltrating immune cells aggregates coupled with stromal cells which are similar to secondary lymphoid organs. The objective of this study is to explore the predictive effects of two common genes associated with TLS models on prognosis and immunotherapy effects in ESCC patients. METHODS Clinical information for ESCC patients in the TCGA(The Cancer Genome Altas) cohort and GSE 53625 were collected. All of the samples were classified as either high score group or low score group based on two TLS signatures, and the association between TLS signatures and survival, clinical indicators, genomic burden, stemness indices analysis, tumor microenvironment and immunotherapy response were performed. Furthermore, the mature TLS was also assessed in ESCC tissue microarray. RESULTS In our study, we quantified the score of TLS_9 and TLS_12, respectively, reflecting the different statuses of TLS (TLS_9 = B and T cells in TLSs; TLS_12 = neogenesis of TLSs). Subsequently, we explored the effect of TLS score on ESCC tumor microenvironment quantified by multiple algorithms. We found that a correlation analysis indicated that TLS_9 and TLS_12 were all positively correlated with CD8+ T cell, NK cells, CD4+ T cells, M1 macrophages and so on. Meanwhile, some cells present a different correlation pattern of TLS_9 and TLS_12, including activated CD4+ memory T cells and Tgd cells. Immune-related analysis revealed that the TLS_12 and TLS_9 scores were all positively correlated with immune dysfunction, yet negatively correlated with immune exclusion. Following this, the biological roles of TLS_9 and TLS_12 scores were investigated. Also, we noticed that the TLS score could significantly affect the CAFs infiltration and be associated with the genomic burden and tumor stemness. In addition, we explored the prognostic value of mature TLS through tissue microarray (TMA). Our result displayed ESCC patients with the presence of mature TLS had a better prognosis than ESCC patients without it. CONCLUSIONS Our study indicated that ESCC patients with the presence of TLS had better outcomes and an inflamed immune microenvironment. In addition, both TLS-9 and TLS-12 gene signatures could be used as potential biomarkers for the immunotherapy of ESCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanshan Yao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Clinical Geriatric Medicine, Huadong Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Haojie Xuan
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Clinical Geriatric Medicine, Huadong Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Clinical Geriatric Medicine, Huadong Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Libao Gong
- Department of abdominal oncology, The cancer center of the fifth affiliated hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, Guangdong Province 519000, China
| | - Wen Gao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Clinical Geriatric Medicine, Huadong Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Li J, Liu J, Li J, Feng A, Nie Y, Yang Z, Zhang W. A risk prognostic model for patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma basing on cuproptosis and ferroptosis. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2023; 149:11647-11659. [PMID: 37405477 PMCID: PMC10465684 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-023-05005-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cuproptosis, a form of copper-dependent programmed cell death recently presented by Tsvetkov et al., have been identified as a potential therapeutic target for refractory cancers and ferroptosis, a well-known form describing iron-dependent cell death. However, whether the crossing of cuproptosis-related genes and ferroptosis-related genes can introduce some new idea, thus being used as a novel clinical and therapeutic predictor in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) remains unknown. METHODS We collected ESCC patient data from the Gene Expression Omnibus and the Cancer Genome Atlas databases and used Gene Set Variation Analysis to score each sample based on cuproptosis and ferroptosis. We then performed weighted gene co-expression network analysis to identify cuproptosis and ferroptosis-related genes (CFRGs) and construct a ferroptosis and cuproptosis-related risk prognostic model, which we validated using a test group. We also investigated the relationship between the risk score and other molecular features, such as signaling pathways, immune infiltration, and mutation status. RESULTS Four CFRGs (MIDN, C15orf65, COMTD1 and RAP2B) were identified to construct our risk prognostic model. Patients were classified into low- and high-risk groups based on our risk prognostic model and the low-risk group showed significantly higher survival possibilities (P < 0.001). We used the "GO", "cibersort" and "ESTIMATE" methods to the above-mentioned genes to estimate the relationship among the risk score, correlated pathways, immune infiltration, and tumor purity. CONCLUSION We constructed a prognostic model using four CFRGs and demonstrated its potential clinical and therapeutic guidance value for ESCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianan Li
- Tumor Research and Therapy Center, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Jixuan Liu
- Department of Pathology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Jixian Li
- Tumor Research and Therapy Center, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Alei Feng
- Tumor Research and Therapy Center, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuanliu Nie
- Tumor Research and Therapy Center, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhe Yang
- Tumor Research and Therapy Center, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
| | - Wentao Zhang
- Tumor Research and Therapy Center, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
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Baba Y, Hara Y, Toihata T, Kosumi K, Iwatsuki M, Iwagami S, Miyamoto Y, Yoshida N, Komohara Y, Baba H. Relationship between gut microbiome Fusobacterium nucleatum and LINE-1 methylation level in esophageal cancer. Esophagus 2023; 20:704-712. [PMID: 37173453 DOI: 10.1007/s10388-023-01009-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We previously demonstrated the relationship of human microbiome Fusobacterium nucleatum with unfavorable clinical outcomes and inferior chemotherapeutic responses in esophageal cancer. Global DNA methylation is associated with the occurrence and development of various cancers. In our previous study, LINE-1 hypomethylation (i.e., global DNA hypomethylation) was associated with a poor prognosis in esophageal cancer. As the gut microbiota may play crucial roles in the DNA methylation of host cells, we hypothesized that F. nucleatum might influence LINE-1 methylation levels in esophageal cancer. METHODS We qualified the F. nucleatum DNA using a quantitative PCR assay and LINE-1 methylation via a pyrosequencing assay using formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded specimens from 306 esophageal cancer patients. RESULTS Intratumoral F. nucleatum DNA was detected in 65 cases (21.2%). The LINE-1 methylation scores ranged from 26.9 to 91.8 (median = 64.8) in tumors. F. nucleatum DNA was related to the LINE-1 hypomethylation of tumor lesions in esophageal cancer (P < 0.0001). The receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed that the area under the curve was 0.71 for F. nucleatum positivity. Finally, we found that the impact of F. nucleatum on clinical outcomes was not modified by LINE-1 hypomethylation (P for interaction = 0.34). CONCLUSIONS F. nucleatum alters genome-wide methylation levels in cancer cells, which may be one of the mechanisms by which F. nucleatum affects the malignant behavior of esophageal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshifumi Baba
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, 1-1-1 Honjo, Chuo-Ku, Kumamoto, 860-8556, Japan.
- Department of Next-Generation Surgical Therapy Development, Kumamoto University Hospital, 1-1-1 Honjo, Chuo-Ku, Kumamoto, 860-8556, Japan.
| | - Yoshihiro Hara
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, 1-1-1 Honjo, Chuo-Ku, Kumamoto, 860-8556, Japan
| | - Tasuku Toihata
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, 1-1-1 Honjo, Chuo-Ku, Kumamoto, 860-8556, Japan
| | - Keisuke Kosumi
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, 1-1-1 Honjo, Chuo-Ku, Kumamoto, 860-8556, Japan
- Department of Next-Generation Surgical Therapy Development, Kumamoto University Hospital, 1-1-1 Honjo, Chuo-Ku, Kumamoto, 860-8556, Japan
| | - Masaaki Iwatsuki
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, 1-1-1 Honjo, Chuo-Ku, Kumamoto, 860-8556, Japan
| | - Shiro Iwagami
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, 1-1-1 Honjo, Chuo-Ku, Kumamoto, 860-8556, Japan
| | - Yuji Miyamoto
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, 1-1-1 Honjo, Chuo-Ku, Kumamoto, 860-8556, Japan
| | - Naoya Yoshida
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, 1-1-1 Honjo, Chuo-Ku, Kumamoto, 860-8556, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Komohara
- Department of Cell Pathology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, 1-1-1 Honjo, Chuo-Ku, Kumamoto, 860-8556, Japan
| | - Hideo Baba
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, 1-1-1 Honjo, Chuo-Ku, Kumamoto, 860-8556, Japan
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Li Y, Xing S, Chen F, Li Q, Dou S, Huang Y, An J, Liu W, Zhang G. Intracellular Fusobacterium nucleatum infection attenuates antitumor immunity in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Nat Commun 2023; 14:5788. [PMID: 37723150 PMCID: PMC10507087 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-40987-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Currently, the influence of the tumor microbiome on the effectiveness of immunotherapy remains largely unknown. Intratumoural Fusobacterium nucleatum (Fn) functions as an oncogenic bacterium and can promote tumor progression in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). Our previous study revealed that Fn is a facultative intracellular bacterium and that its virulence factor Fn-Dps facilitates the intracellular survival of Fn. In this study, we find that Fn DNA is enriched in the nonresponder (NR) group among ESCC patients receiving PD-1 inhibitor and that the serum antibody level of Fn is significantly higher in the NR group than in the responder (R) group. In addition, Fn infection has an opposite impact on the efficacy of αPD-L1 treatment in animals. Mechanistically, we confirm that Fn can inhibit the proliferation and cytokine secretion of T cells and that Fn-Dps binds to the PD-L1 gene promoter activating transcription factor-3 (ATF3) to transcriptionally upregulate PD-L1 expression. Our results suggest that it may be an important therapeutic strategy to eradicate intratumoral Fn infection before initiating ESCC immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiqiu Li
- Department of Microbial and Biochemical Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shan Xing
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fangfang Chen
- Department of Microbial and Biochemical Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qifan Li
- Department of Microbial and Biochemical Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shuheng Dou
- Department of Microbial and Biochemical Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuying Huang
- Department of Microbial and Biochemical Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jun An
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Yuedong Hospital, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Wanli Liu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Ge Zhang
- Department of Microbial and Biochemical Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
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Liu Y. Perioperative immunotherapy for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma: Now and future. World J Gastroenterol 2023; 29:5020-5037. [PMID: 37753366 PMCID: PMC10518742 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v29.i34.5020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Esophageal cancer (EC) ranks among the most prevalent malignant tumors affecting the digestive tract. Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) stands as the prevailing pathological subtype, encompassing approximately 90% of all EC patients. In clinical stage II-IVA locally advanced ESCC cases, the primary approach to treatment involves a combination of neoadjuvant therapy and surgical resection. Despite concerted efforts, the long-term outcomes for ESCC patients remain unsatisfactory, with dismal prognoses. However, recent years have witnessed remarkable strides in immunotherapy, particularly in the second- and first-line treatment of advanced or metastatic ESCC, with the development of monoclonal antibodies that inhibit programmed death 1 or programmed death ligand 1 demonstrating encouraging responses and perioperative clinical benefits for various malignancies, including ESCC. This comprehensive review aims to present the current landscape of perioperative immunotherapy for resectable ESCC, focusing specifically on the role of immune checkpoint inhibitors during the perioperative period. Additionally, the review will explore promising biomarkers and offer insights into future prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Liu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Central Hospital of Wuhan, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430011, Hubei Province, China
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