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Chu X, Tian W, Ning J, Xiao G, Zhou Y, Wang Z, Zhai Z, Tanzhu G, Yang J, Zhou R. Cancer stem cells: advances in knowledge and implications for cancer therapy. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:170. [PMID: 38965243 PMCID: PMC11224386 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01851-y] [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: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs), a small subset of cells in tumors that are characterized by self-renewal and continuous proliferation, lead to tumorigenesis, metastasis, and maintain tumor heterogeneity. Cancer continues to be a significant global disease burden. In the past, surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy were the main cancer treatments. The technology of cancer treatments continues to develop and advance, and the emergence of targeted therapy, and immunotherapy provides more options for patients to a certain extent. However, the limitations of efficacy and treatment resistance are still inevitable. Our review begins with a brief introduction of the historical discoveries, original hypotheses, and pathways that regulate CSCs, such as WNT/β-Catenin, hedgehog, Notch, NF-κB, JAK/STAT, TGF-β, PI3K/AKT, PPAR pathway, and their crosstalk. We focus on the role of CSCs in various therapeutic outcomes and resistance, including how the treatments affect the content of CSCs and the alteration of related molecules, CSCs-mediated therapeutic resistance, and the clinical value of targeting CSCs in patients with refractory, progressed or advanced tumors. In summary, CSCs affect therapeutic efficacy, and the treatment method of targeting CSCs is still difficult to determine. Clarifying regulatory mechanisms and targeting biomarkers of CSCs is currently the mainstream idea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianjing Chu
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Wentao Tian
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Jiaoyang Ning
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Gang Xiao
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Yunqi Zhou
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Ziqi Wang
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Zhuofan Zhai
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Guilong Tanzhu
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China.
| | - Jie Yang
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China.
- Department of Dermatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China.
| | - Rongrong Zhou
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China.
- Xiangya Lung Cancer Center, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, 410008, China.
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Alhasan BA, Morozov AV, Guzhova IV, Margulis BA. The ubiquitin-proteasome system in the regulation of tumor dormancy and recurrence. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2024; 1879:189119. [PMID: 38761982 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2024.189119] [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: 01/01/2024] [Revised: 05/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
Tumor recurrence is a mechanism triggered in sparse populations of cancer cells that usually remain in a quiescent state after strict stress and/or therapeutic factors, which is affected by a variety of autocrine and microenvironmental cues. Despite thorough investigations, the biology of dormant and/or cancer stem cells is still not fully elucidated, as for the mechanisms of their reawakening, while only the major molecular patterns driving the relapse process have been identified to date. These molecular patterns profoundly interfere with the elements of cellular proteostasis systems that support the efficiency of the recurrence process. As a major proteostasis machinery, we review the role of the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) in tumor cell dormancy and reawakening, devoting particular attention to the functions of its components, E3 ligases, deubiquitinating enzymes and proteasomes in cancer recurrence. We demonstrate how UPS components functionally or mechanistically interact with the pivotal proteins implicated in the recurrence program and reveal that modulators of the UPS hold promise to become an efficient adjuvant therapy for eradicating refractory tumor cells to impede tumor relapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bashar A Alhasan
- Institute of Cytology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Tikhoretsky Ave. 4, 194064 St. Petersburg, Russia.
| | - Alexey V Morozov
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Vavilov Street 32, 119991 Moscow, Russia.
| | - Irina V Guzhova
- Institute of Cytology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Tikhoretsky Ave. 4, 194064 St. Petersburg, Russia.
| | - Boris A Margulis
- Institute of Cytology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Tikhoretsky Ave. 4, 194064 St. Petersburg, Russia.
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Sun T, Liu B, Cai L, Zhou Y, Yang W, Li Y. Suberanilohydroxamic acid (SAHA), a HDAC inhibitor, suppresses the effect of Treg cells by targeting the c-Myc/CCL1 pathway in glioma stem cells and improves PD-L1 blockade therapy. J Neurooncol 2024; 168:457-471. [PMID: 38652401 DOI: 10.1007/s11060-024-04689-0] [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: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE A strong immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) represents the major barrier responsible for the failure of current immunotherapy approaches in treating Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM). Within the TME, the regulatory T cells (Tregs) exert immunosuppressive effects on CD8+ T cell - mediated anti-cancer immune killing. Consequently, targeting and inhibiting their immunosuppressive function emerges as an effective therapeutic strategy for GBM. The present study aimed to investigate the mechanisms and effects of Suberanilohydroxamic Acid (SAHA), a histone deacetylase inhibitor, on immunosuppressive Tregs. METHODS The tumor-infiltrating immune cells in the immunocompetent GBM intracranial implanted xenograft mouse model were analyzed by immunohistochemistry and flow cytometry techniques. The mRNA expressions were assessed through the RT-qPCR method, while the related protein expressions were determined using western blot, ELISA, immunofluorescence (IF), and flow cytometry techniques. The relationship between c-Myc and C-C motif Chemokine Ligand 1 (CCL1) promotor was validated through a dual-luciferase reporter assay system and chromatin immunoprecipitation. RESULTS SAHA suppressed effectively tumor growth and extended significantly overall survival in the immunocompetent GBM intracranial xenograft mouse model. Additionally, it promoted the infiltration of CD8+ T lymphocytes while suppressed the infiltration of CD4+ CD25+ Tregs. Furthermore, SAHA enhanced anti-PD-L1 immune therapy in the intracranial xenograft of mice. Mechanistically, SAHA exerted its effects by inhibiting histone deacetylase 2 (HDAC2), thereby suppressing the binding between c-Myc and the CCL1 promotor. CONCLUSION SAHA inhibited the binding of c-Myc with the CCL1 promoter and then suppressed the transcription of CCL1.Additionally, it effectively blocked the interplay of CCL1-CCR8, resulting in reduced activity of Tregs and alleviation of tumor immunosuppression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Sun
- The Department of Neurosurgery and Brain and Nerve Research Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Bin Liu
- The Department of Neurosurgery and Brain and Nerve Research Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
- The Department of Neurosurgery at Qinghai Provincial People's Hospital, Xining, Qinghai Province, China
| | - Lize Cai
- The Department of Neurosurgery and Brain and Nerve Research Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Youxin Zhou
- The Department of Neurosurgery and Brain and Nerve Research Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Wei Yang
- The State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School of Radiation Medicine and Protection, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Radiation Medicine at, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China.
| | - Yanyan Li
- The Department of Neurosurgery and Brain and Nerve Research Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China.
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Wang K, Chen X, Lin P, Wu J, Huang Q, Chen ZN, Tian J, Wang H, Tian Y, Shi M, Qian M, Hui B, Zhu Y, Li L, Yao R, Bian H, Zhu P, Chen R, Chen L. CD147-K148me2-Driven Tumor Cell-Macrophage Crosstalk Provokes NSCLC Immunosuppression via the CCL5/CCR5 Axis. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024:e2400611. [PMID: 38873823 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202400611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2024] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
Immunosuppression is a major hallmark of tumor progression in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Cluster of differentiation 147 (CD147), an important pro-tumorigenic factor, is closely linked to NSCLC immunosuppression. However, the role of CD147 di-methylation in the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) remains unclear. Here, di-methylation of CD147 at Lys148 (CD147-K148me2) is identified as a common post-translational modification (PTM) in NSCLC that is significantly associated with unsatisfying survival outcomes among NSCLC sufferers, especially those in the advanced stages of the disease. The methyltransferase NSD2 catalyzes CD147 to generate CD147-K148me2. Further analysis demonstrates that CD147-K148me2 reestablishes the immunosuppressive TME and promotes NSCLC progression. Mechanistically, this modification promotes the interaction between cyclophilin A (CyPA) and CD147, and in turn, increases CCL5 gene transcription by activating p38-ZBTB32 signaling, leading to increased NSCLC cell-derived CCL5 secretion. Subsequently, CD147-K148me2-mediated CCL5 upregulation facilitates M2-like tumor-associated macrophage (TAM) infiltration in NSCLC tissues via CCL5/CCR5 axis-dependent intercellular crosstalk between tumor cells and macrophages, which is inhibited by blocking CD147-K148me2 with the targeted antibody 12C8. Overall, this study reveals the role of CD147-K148me2-driven intercellular crosstalk in the development of NSCLC immunosuppression, and provides a potential interventional strategy for PTM-targeted NSCLC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Wang
- Department of Cell Biology of National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine and Department of Clinical Immunology of Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
- State Key Laboratory of New Targets Discovery and Drug Development for Major Diseases, China
| | - Xiaohong Chen
- Department of Cell Biology of National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine and Department of Clinical Immunology of Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
- State Key Laboratory of New Targets Discovery and Drug Development for Major Diseases, China
| | - Peng Lin
- Department of Cell Biology of National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine and Department of Clinical Immunology of Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
- State Key Laboratory of New Targets Discovery and Drug Development for Major Diseases, China
| | - Jiao Wu
- Department of Cell Biology of National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine and Department of Clinical Immunology of Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
- State Key Laboratory of New Targets Discovery and Drug Development for Major Diseases, China
| | - Qiang Huang
- State Key Laboratory of New Targets Discovery and Drug Development for Major Diseases, China
- School of Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Zhi-Nan Chen
- Department of Cell Biology of National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine and Department of Clinical Immunology of Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
- State Key Laboratory of New Targets Discovery and Drug Development for Major Diseases, China
| | - Jiale Tian
- Department of Cell Biology of National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine and Department of Clinical Immunology of Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
- State Key Laboratory of New Targets Discovery and Drug Development for Major Diseases, China
| | - Hao Wang
- Department of Cell Biology of National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine and Department of Clinical Immunology of Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
- State Key Laboratory of New Targets Discovery and Drug Development for Major Diseases, China
| | - Ye Tian
- Department of Cell Biology of National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine and Department of Clinical Immunology of Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
- State Key Laboratory of New Targets Discovery and Drug Development for Major Diseases, China
| | - Mingyan Shi
- Department of Cell Biology of National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine and Department of Clinical Immunology of Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
- State Key Laboratory of New Targets Discovery and Drug Development for Major Diseases, China
| | - Meirui Qian
- Department of Cell Biology of National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine and Department of Clinical Immunology of Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
- State Key Laboratory of New Targets Discovery and Drug Development for Major Diseases, China
| | - Bengang Hui
- Department of Cell Biology of National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine and Department of Clinical Immunology of Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
- State Key Laboratory of New Targets Discovery and Drug Development for Major Diseases, China
- Department of Thoracic Surgery of Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Yumeng Zhu
- Department of Cell Biology of National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine and Department of Clinical Immunology of Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
- State Key Laboratory of New Targets Discovery and Drug Development for Major Diseases, China
| | - Ling Li
- Department of Cell Biology of National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine and Department of Clinical Immunology of Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
- State Key Laboratory of New Targets Discovery and Drug Development for Major Diseases, China
| | - Rui Yao
- Department of Cell Biology of National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine and Department of Clinical Immunology of Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
- State Key Laboratory of New Targets Discovery and Drug Development for Major Diseases, China
| | - Huijie Bian
- Department of Cell Biology of National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine and Department of Clinical Immunology of Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
- State Key Laboratory of New Targets Discovery and Drug Development for Major Diseases, China
| | - Ping Zhu
- Department of Cell Biology of National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine and Department of Clinical Immunology of Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
- State Key Laboratory of New Targets Discovery and Drug Development for Major Diseases, China
| | - Ruo Chen
- Department of Cell Biology of National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine and Department of Clinical Immunology of Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
- State Key Laboratory of New Targets Discovery and Drug Development for Major Diseases, China
| | - Liang Chen
- State Key Laboratory of New Targets Discovery and Drug Development for Major Diseases, China
- School of Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
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Kan LK, Drill M, Jayakrishnan PC, Sequeira RP, Sanfilippo PG, McLean C, Hunn M, Williams DA, O'Brien TJ, Drummond KJ, Monif M. P2X7 receptor antagonism by AZ10606120 significantly depletes glioblastoma cancer stem cells in vitro. Brain Res Bull 2024; 215:110996. [PMID: 38857832 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2024.110996] [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: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 06/01/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
Glioblastoma is the most aggressive and lethal primary brain malignancy with limited treatment options and poor prognosis. Self-renewing glioblastoma cancer stem cells (GSCs) facilitate tumour progression, resistance to conventional treatment and tumour recurrence. GSCs are resistant to standard treatments. There is a need for novel treatment alternatives that effectively target GSCs. The purinergic P2X receptor 7 (P2X7R) is expressed in glioblastomas and has been implicated in disease pathogenesis. However, the roles of P2X7R have not been comprehensively elucidated in conventional treatment-resistant GSCs. This study characterised P2X7R channel and pore function and investigated the effect of pharmacological P2X7R inhibition in GSCs. Immunofluorescence and live cell fluorescent dye uptake experiments revealed P2X7R expression, and channel and pore function in GSCs. Treatment of GSCs with the P2X7R antagonist, AZ10606120 (AZ), for 72 hours significantly reduced GSC numbers, compared to untreated cells. When compared with the effect of the first-line conventional chemotherapy, temozolomide (TMZ), GSCs treated with AZ had significantly lower cell numbers than TMZ-treated cultures, while TMZ treatment alone did not significantly deplete GSC numbers compared to the control. AZ treatment also induced significant lactate dehydrogenase release by GSCs, indicative of treatment-induced cytotoxic cell death. There were no significant differences in the expression of apoptotic markers, Annexin V and cleaved caspase-3, between AZ-treated cells and the control. Collectively, this study reveals for the first time functional P2X7R channel and pore in GSCs and significant GSC depletion following P2X7R inhibition by AZ. These results indicate that P2X7R inhibition may be a novel therapeutic alternative for glioblastoma, with effectiveness against GSCs resistant to conventional chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liyen K Kan
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Matthew Drill
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Richard P Sequeira
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Paul G Sanfilippo
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Catriona McLean
- Department of Pathology, The Alfred, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Martin Hunn
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Alfred, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - David A Williams
- Department of Physiology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Terence J O'Brien
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Department of Neurology, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Department of Neurology, The Alfred, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Katharine J Drummond
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mastura Monif
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Department of Physiology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Department of Neurology, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Department of Neurology, The Alfred, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
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Zhou H, Gui J, Zhu L, Mi Y. The Role and Mechanism of the Histone Methyltransferase G9a in Tumors: Update. Onco Targets Ther 2024; 17:449-462. [PMID: 38832355 PMCID: PMC11146345 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s451108] [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: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Methylation-mediated gene silencing is closely related to the occurrence and development of human tumors. The euchromatic histone lysine methyltransferase 2 (EHMT2, also known as G9a) is highly expressed in many tumors and is generally considered to be an oncogene, which is associated with the poor outcome of many tumors. Combined immunotherapy and immune checkpoint blockade therapy also have good efficacy and certain safety. However, there are still many difficulties in the drugs targeting G9a, and the combined effect and safety of G9a with many drugs is still under study. This article aims to summarize the role and mechanism of G9a and its inhibitors in tumors in the past two years, and to understand the application prospect of G9a from the perspective of diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hangsheng Zhou
- Wuxi Medical College, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu Province, 214122, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu Province, 214122, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jiandong Gui
- Wuxi Medical College, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu Province, 214122, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu Province, 214122, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lijie Zhu
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu Province, 214122, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yuanyuan Mi
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu Province, 214122, People’s Republic of China
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Lin H, Liu C, Hu A, Zhang D, Yang H, Mao Y. Understanding the immunosuppressive microenvironment of glioma: mechanistic insights and clinical perspectives. J Hematol Oncol 2024; 17:31. [PMID: 38720342 PMCID: PMC11077829 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-024-01544-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM), the predominant and primary malignant intracranial tumor, poses a formidable challenge due to its immunosuppressive microenvironment, thereby confounding conventional therapeutic interventions. Despite the established treatment regimen comprising surgical intervention, radiotherapy, temozolomide administration, and the exploration of emerging modalities such as immunotherapy and integration of medicine and engineering technology therapy, the efficacy of these approaches remains constrained, resulting in suboptimal prognostic outcomes. In recent years, intensive scrutiny of the inhibitory and immunosuppressive milieu within GBM has underscored the significance of cellular constituents of the GBM microenvironment and their interactions with malignant cells and neurons. Novel immune and targeted therapy strategies have emerged, offering promising avenues for advancing GBM treatment. One pivotal mechanism orchestrating immunosuppression in GBM involves the aggregation of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), glioma-associated macrophage/microglia (GAM), and regulatory T cells (Tregs). Among these, MDSCs, though constituting a minority (4-8%) of CD45+ cells in GBM, play a central component in fostering immune evasion and propelling tumor progression, angiogenesis, invasion, and metastasis. MDSCs deploy intricate immunosuppressive mechanisms that adapt to the dynamic tumor microenvironment (TME). Understanding the interplay between GBM and MDSCs provides a compelling basis for therapeutic interventions. This review seeks to elucidate the immune regulatory mechanisms inherent in the GBM microenvironment, explore existing therapeutic targets, and consolidate recent insights into MDSC induction and their contribution to GBM immunosuppression. Additionally, the review comprehensively surveys ongoing clinical trials and potential treatment strategies, envisioning a future where targeting MDSCs could reshape the immune landscape of GBM. Through the synergistic integration of immunotherapy with other therapeutic modalities, this approach can establish a multidisciplinary, multi-target paradigm, ultimately improving the prognosis and quality of life in patients with GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Lin
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function Restoration and Neural Regeneration, Shanghai Clinical Medical Center of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Chaxian Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function Restoration and Neural Regeneration, Shanghai Clinical Medical Center of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Ankang Hu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function Restoration and Neural Regeneration, Shanghai Clinical Medical Center of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Duanwu Zhang
- Children's Hospital of Fudan University, and Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, International Co-Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Ministry of Science and Technology, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China.
| | - Hui Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
- Institute for Translational Brain Research, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function Restoration and Neural Regeneration, Shanghai Clinical Medical Center of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
| | - Ying Mao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function Restoration and Neural Regeneration, Shanghai Clinical Medical Center of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
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8
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Wang S, Gu S, Chen J, Yuan Z, Liang P, Cui H. Mechanism of Notch Signaling Pathway in Malignant Progression of Glioblastoma and Targeted Therapy. Biomolecules 2024; 14:480. [PMID: 38672496 PMCID: PMC11048644 DOI: 10.3390/biom14040480] [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: 01/26/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most aggressive form of glioma and the most common primary tumor of the central nervous system. Despite significant advances in clinical management strategies and diagnostic techniques for GBM in recent years, it remains a fatal disease. The current standard of care includes surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy, but the five-year survival rate for patients is less than 5%. The search for a more precise diagnosis and earlier intervention remains a critical and urgent challenge in clinical practice. The Notch signaling pathway is a critical signaling system that has been extensively studied in the malignant progression of glioblastoma. This highly conserved signaling cascade is central to a variety of biological processes, including growth, proliferation, self-renewal, migration, apoptosis, and metabolism. In GBM, accumulating data suggest that the Notch signaling pathway is hyperactive and contributes to GBM initiation, progression, and treatment resistance. This review summarizes the biological functions and molecular mechanisms of the Notch signaling pathway in GBM, as well as some clinical advances targeting the Notch signaling pathway in cancer and glioblastoma, highlighting its potential as a focus for novel therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shenghao Wang
- Cancer Center, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China;
| | - Sikuan Gu
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China; (S.G.); (J.C.); (Z.Y.)
| | - Junfan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China; (S.G.); (J.C.); (Z.Y.)
| | - Zhiqiang Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China; (S.G.); (J.C.); (Z.Y.)
| | - Ping Liang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, China
| | - Hongjuan Cui
- Cancer Center, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China;
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China; (S.G.); (J.C.); (Z.Y.)
- Department of Neurosurgery, Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, China
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Yang H, Zhou H, Fu M, Xu H, Huang H, Zhong M, Zhang M, Hua W, Lv K, Zhu G. TMEM64 aggravates the malignant phenotype of glioma by activating the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 260:129332. [PMID: 38232867 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.129332] [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: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/06/2024] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
Transmembrane protein 64 (TMEM64), a member of the family of transmembrane protein, is an α-helical membrane protein. Its precise role in various types of tumors, including glioma, is unclear. This study used immunohistochemical (IHC) staining, western blotting, and quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) techniques to show that TMEM64 expression was significantly higher in glioma cells and tissues compared to normal cells and tissues, respectively. Additionally, a correlation between high TMEM64 expression and higher grade as well as a worse prognosis was found. TMEM64 enhanced cell proliferation and tumorigenicity while inhibiting glioma cell apoptosis in vitro and in vivo, according to loss- and gain-of-function studies. Mechanistically, it was discovered that TMEM64 increased the malignant phenotype of gliomas by accelerating the translocation of β-catenin from the cytoplasm to the nucleus, thereby activating the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Stimulation with the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway activator CHIR-99021 successfully reversed the malignant phenotype of glioma; however, these effects were inhibited upon TMEM64 silencing. Stimulation with the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway inhibitor XAV-939 successfully rescued the malignant phenotype of glioma, which was promoted upon TMEM64 overexpression. Our results provide that TMEM64 as a novel prognostic biomarker and a potential treatment target for glioma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Yang
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Enzymology and Mechanism of Major Diseases, College of Life Sciences, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu 241001, Anhui, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Non-coding RNA Basic and Clinical Transformation (Wannan Medical College), Wuhu 241001, Anhui, China; Auhui Provincial Engineering Research Centre for Molecular Detection and Diagnostics, College of Life Sciences, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu 241001, Anhui, China
| | - Hanyu Zhou
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Non-coding RNA Basic and Clinical Transformation (Wannan Medical College), Wuhu 241001, Anhui, China; Key Laboratory of Non-coding RNA Transformation Research of Anhui Higher Education Institution (Wannan Medical College), Wuhu 241001, Anhui, China; Central Laboratory, Yijishan Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu 241001, Anhui, China; Clinical Research Center for Critical Respiratory Medicine of Anhui Province, Yijishan Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu 241001, Anhui, China
| | - Minjie Fu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China; Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function Restoration and Neural Regeneration, Shanghai, China
| | - Hao Xu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China; Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function Restoration and Neural Regeneration, Shanghai, China
| | - Haoyu Huang
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Non-coding RNA Basic and Clinical Transformation (Wannan Medical College), Wuhu 241001, Anhui, China; Key Laboratory of Non-coding RNA Transformation Research of Anhui Higher Education Institution (Wannan Medical College), Wuhu 241001, Anhui, China; Central Laboratory, Yijishan Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu 241001, Anhui, China; Clinical Research Center for Critical Respiratory Medicine of Anhui Province, Yijishan Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu 241001, Anhui, China
| | - Min Zhong
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Non-coding RNA Basic and Clinical Transformation (Wannan Medical College), Wuhu 241001, Anhui, China; Key Laboratory of Non-coding RNA Transformation Research of Anhui Higher Education Institution (Wannan Medical College), Wuhu 241001, Anhui, China; Central Laboratory, Yijishan Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu 241001, Anhui, China; Clinical Research Center for Critical Respiratory Medicine of Anhui Province, Yijishan Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu 241001, Anhui, China
| | - Mengying Zhang
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Non-coding RNA Basic and Clinical Transformation (Wannan Medical College), Wuhu 241001, Anhui, China; Key Laboratory of Non-coding RNA Transformation Research of Anhui Higher Education Institution (Wannan Medical College), Wuhu 241001, Anhui, China; Central Laboratory, Yijishan Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu 241001, Anhui, China; Clinical Research Center for Critical Respiratory Medicine of Anhui Province, Yijishan Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu 241001, Anhui, China
| | - Wei Hua
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China; Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function Restoration and Neural Regeneration, Shanghai, China.
| | - Kun Lv
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Enzymology and Mechanism of Major Diseases, College of Life Sciences, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu 241001, Anhui, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Non-coding RNA Basic and Clinical Transformation (Wannan Medical College), Wuhu 241001, Anhui, China; Auhui Provincial Engineering Research Centre for Molecular Detection and Diagnostics, College of Life Sciences, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu 241001, Anhui, China; Key Laboratory of Non-coding RNA Transformation Research of Anhui Higher Education Institution (Wannan Medical College), Wuhu 241001, Anhui, China; Central Laboratory, Yijishan Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu 241001, Anhui, China.
| | - Guoping Zhu
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Enzymology and Mechanism of Major Diseases, College of Life Sciences, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu 241001, Anhui, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Non-coding RNA Basic and Clinical Transformation (Wannan Medical College), Wuhu 241001, Anhui, China; Auhui Provincial Engineering Research Centre for Molecular Detection and Diagnostics, College of Life Sciences, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu 241001, Anhui, China.
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Wang M, Yu F, Zhang Y, Li P. Novel insights into Notch signaling in tumor immunity: potential targets for cancer immunotherapy. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1352484. [PMID: 38444855 PMCID: PMC10912471 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1352484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Notch signaling pathway is a highly conserved system of cell-to-cell communication that participates in various biological processes, such as stem cell maintenance, cell fate decision, cell proliferation and death during homeostasis and development. Dysregulation of Notch signaling has been associated with many aspects of cancer biology, such as maintenance of cancer stem-like cells (CSCs), cancer cell metabolism, angiogenesis and tumor immunity. Particularly, Notch signaling can regulate antitumor or pro-tumor immune cells within the tumor microenvironment (TME). Currently, Notch signaling has drawn significant attention in the therapeutic development of cancer treatment. In this review, we focus on the role of Notch signaling pathway in remodeling tumor immune microenvironment. We describe the impact of Notch signaling on the efficacy of cancer immunotherapies. Furthermore, we summarize the results of relevant preclinical and clinical trials of Notch-targeted therapeutics and discuss the challenges in their clinical application in cancer therapy. An improved understanding of the involvement of Notch signaling in tumor immunity will open the door to new options in cancer immunotherapy treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Man Wang
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | | | | | - Peifeng Li
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
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