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Guo T, Xu J. Cancer-associated fibroblasts: a versatile mediator in tumor progression, metastasis, and targeted therapy. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2024; 43:1095-1116. [PMID: 38602594 PMCID: PMC11300527 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-024-10186-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
Tumor microenvironment (TME) has been demonstrated to play a significant role in tumor initiation, progression, and metastasis. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are the major component of TME and exhibit heterogeneous properties in their communication with tumor cells. This heterogeneity of CAFs can be attributed to various origins, including quiescent fibroblasts, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), adipocytes, pericytes, endothelial cells, and mesothelial cells. Moreover, single-cell RNA sequencing has identified diverse phenotypes of CAFs, with myofibroblastic CAFs (myCAFs) and inflammatory CAFs (iCAFs) being the most acknowledged, alongside newly discovered subtypes like antigen-presenting CAFs (apCAFs). Due to these heterogeneities, CAFs exert multiple functions in tumorigenesis, cancer stemness, angiogenesis, immunosuppression, metabolism, and metastasis. As a result, targeted therapies aimed at the TME, particularly focusing on CAFs, are rapidly developing, fueling the promising future of advanced tumor-targeted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianchen Guo
- Women's Reproductive Health Laboratory of Zhejiang Province, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, Zhejiang, China
| | - Junfen Xu
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, Zhejiang, China.
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2
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Guillard J, Schwörer S. Metabolic control of collagen synthesis. Matrix Biol 2024:S0945-053X(24)00094-5. [PMID: 39084474 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2024.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2024] [Revised: 07/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/26/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) is present in all tissues and crucial in maintaining normal tissue homeostasis and function. Defects in ECM synthesis and remodeling can lead to various diseases, while overproduction of ECM components can cause severe conditions like organ fibrosis and influence cancer progression and therapy resistance. Collagens are the most abundant core ECM proteins in physiological and pathological conditions and are predominantly synthesized by fibroblasts. Previous efforts to target aberrant collagen synthesis in fibroblasts by inhibiting pro-fibrotic signaling cascades have been ineffective. More recently, metabolic rewiring downstream of pro-fibrotic signaling has emerged as a critical regulator of collagen synthesis in fibroblasts. Here, we propose that targeting the metabolic pathways involved in ECM biomass generation provides a novel avenue for treating conditions characterized by excessive collagen accumulation. This review summarizes the unique metabolic challenges collagen synthesis imposes on fibroblasts and discusses how underlying metabolic networks could be exploited to create therapeutic opportunities in cancer and fibrotic disease. Finally, we provide a perspective on open questions in the field and how conceptual and technical advances will help address them to unlock novel metabolic vulnerabilities of collagen synthesis in fibroblasts and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julien Guillard
- Section of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Biological Sciences Division
| | - Simon Schwörer
- Section of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Biological Sciences Division; Committee on Cancer Biology, Committee on Molecular Metabolism and Nutrition, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA.
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3
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Rodríguez-Bejarano OH, Parra-López C, Patarroyo MA. A review concerning the breast cancer-related tumour microenvironment. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2024; 199:104389. [PMID: 38734280 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2024.104389] [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: 03/11/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is currently the most common malignant tumour in women and one of the leading causes of their death around the world. New and increasingly personalised diagnostic and therapeutic tools have been introduced over the last few decades, along with significant advances regarding the study and knowledge related to BC. The tumour microenvironment (TME) refers to the tumour cell-associated cellular and molecular environment which can influence conditions affecting tumour development and progression. The TME is composed of immune cells, stromal cells, extracellular matrix (ECM) and signalling molecules secreted by these different cell types. Ever deeper understanding of TME composition changes during tumour development and progression will enable new and more innovative therapeutic strategies to become developed for targeting tumours during specific stages of its evolution. This review summarises the role of BC-related TME components and their influence on tumour progression and the development of resistance to therapy. In addition, an account on the modifications in BC-related TME components associated with therapy is given, and the completed or ongoing clinical trials related to this topic are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oscar Hernán Rodríguez-Bejarano
- Health Sciences Faculty, Universidad de Ciencias Aplicadas y Ambientales (U.D.C.A), Calle 222#55-37, Bogotá 111166, Colombia; Molecular Biology and Immunology Department, Fundación Instituto de Inmunología de Colombia (FIDIC), Carrera 50#26-20, Bogotá 111321, Colombia; PhD Programme in Biotechnology, Faculty of Sciences, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Carrera 45#26-85, Bogotá 111321, Colombia
| | - Carlos Parra-López
- Microbiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Carrera 45#26-85, Bogotá 111321, Colombia.
| | - Manuel Alfonso Patarroyo
- Molecular Biology and Immunology Department, Fundación Instituto de Inmunología de Colombia (FIDIC), Carrera 50#26-20, Bogotá 111321, Colombia; Microbiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Carrera 45#26-85, Bogotá 111321, Colombia.
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4
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Xu W, Ye J, Cao Z, Zhao Y, Zhu Y, Li L. Glucocorticoids in lung cancer: Navigating the balance between immunosuppression and therapeutic efficacy. Heliyon 2024; 10:e32357. [PMID: 39022002 PMCID: PMC11252876 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e32357] [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: 03/22/2024] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Glucocorticoids (GCs), a class of hormones secreted by the adrenal glands, are released into the bloodstream to maintain homeostasis and modulate responses to various stressors. These hormones function by binding to the widely expressed GC receptor (GR), thereby regulating a wide range of pathophysiological processes, especially in metabolism and immunity. The role of GCs in the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) of lung cancer (LC) has been a focal point of research. As immunosuppressive agents, GCs exert a crucial impact on the occurrence, progression, and treatment of LC. In the TIME of LC, GCs act as a constantly swinging pendulum, simultaneously offering tumor-suppressive properties while diminishing the efficacy of immune-based therapies. The present study reviews the role and mechanisms of GCs in the TIME of LC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Zhendong Cao
- Department of Respiration, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Jiangsu Second Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine), Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210017, China
| | - Yupei Zhao
- Department of Respiration, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Jiangsu Second Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine), Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210017, China
| | - Yimin Zhu
- Department of Respiration, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Jiangsu Second Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine), Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210017, China
| | - Lei Li
- Department of Respiration, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Jiangsu Second Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine), Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210017, China
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5
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Golo M, Newman PLH, Kempe D, Biro M. Mechanoimmunology in the solid tumor microenvironment. Biochem Soc Trans 2024; 52:1489-1502. [PMID: 38856041 DOI: 10.1042/bst20231427] [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: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a complex and dynamic ecosystem that adjoins the cancer cells within solid tumors and comprises distinct components such as extracellular matrix, stromal and immune cells, blood vessels, and an abundance of signaling molecules. In recent years, the mechanical properties of the TME have emerged as critical determinants of tumor progression and therapeutic response. Aberrant mechanical cues, including altered tissue architecture and stiffness, contribute to tumor progression, metastasis, and resistance to treatment. Moreover, burgeoning immunotherapies hold great promise for harnessing the immune system to target and eliminate solid malignancies; however, their success is hindered by the hostile mechanical landscape of the TME, which can impede immune cell infiltration, function, and persistence. Consequently, understanding TME mechanoimmunology - the interplay between mechanical forces and immune cell behavior - is essential for developing effective solid cancer therapies. Here, we review the role of TME mechanics in tumor immunology, focusing on recent therapeutic interventions aimed at modulating the mechanical properties of the TME to potentiate T cell immunotherapies, and innovative assays tailored to evaluate their clinical efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Golo
- EMBL Australia, Single Molecule Science node, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Peter L H Newman
- EMBL Australia, Single Molecule Science node, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Daryan Kempe
- EMBL Australia, Single Molecule Science node, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Maté Biro
- EMBL Australia, Single Molecule Science node, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
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6
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Shender VO, Anufrieva KS, Shnaider PV, Arapidi GP, Pavlyukov MS, Ivanova OM, Malyants IK, Stepanov GA, Zhuravlev E, Ziganshin RH, Butenko IO, Bukato ON, Klimina KM, Veselovsky VA, Grigorieva TV, Malanin SY, Aleshikova OI, Slonov AV, Babaeva NA, Ashrafyan LA, Khomyakova E, Evtushenko EG, Lukina MM, Wang Z, Silantiev AS, Nushtaeva AA, Kharlampieva DD, Lazarev VN, Lashkin AI, Arzumanyan LK, Petrushanko IY, Makarov AA, Lebedeva OS, Bogomazova AN, Lagarkova MA, Govorun VM. Therapy-induced secretion of spliceosomal components mediates pro-survival crosstalk between ovarian cancer cells. Nat Commun 2024; 15:5237. [PMID: 38898005 PMCID: PMC11187153 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-49512-6] [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: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer often develops resistance to conventional therapies, hampering their effectiveness. Here, using ex vivo paired ovarian cancer ascites obtained before and after chemotherapy and in vitro therapy-induced secretomes, we show that molecules secreted by ovarian cancer cells upon therapy promote cisplatin resistance and enhance DNA damage repair in recipient cancer cells. Even a short-term incubation of chemonaive ovarian cancer cells with therapy-induced secretomes induces changes resembling those that are observed in chemoresistant patient-derived tumor cells after long-term therapy. Using integrative omics techniques, we find that both ex vivo and in vitro therapy-induced secretomes are enriched with spliceosomal components, which relocalize from the nucleus to the cytoplasm and subsequently into the extracellular vesicles upon treatment. We demonstrate that these molecules substantially contribute to the phenotypic effects of therapy-induced secretomes. Thus, SNU13 and SYNCRIP spliceosomal proteins promote therapy resistance, while the exogenous U12 and U6atac snRNAs stimulate tumor growth. These findings demonstrate the significance of spliceosomal network perturbation during therapy and further highlight that extracellular signaling might be a key factor contributing to the emergence of ovarian cancer therapy resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria O Shender
- Center for Precision Genome Editing and Genetic Technologies for Biomedicine, Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Center of Physical-Chemical Medicine of Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, 119435, Russian Federation.
- Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Center of Physical-Chemical Medicine of the Federal Medical and Biological Agency, Moscow, 119435, Russian Federation.
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 117997, Russian Federation.
| | - Ksenia S Anufrieva
- Center for Precision Genome Editing and Genetic Technologies for Biomedicine, Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Center of Physical-Chemical Medicine of Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, 119435, Russian Federation
- Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Center of Physical-Chemical Medicine of the Federal Medical and Biological Agency, Moscow, 119435, Russian Federation
| | - Polina V Shnaider
- Center for Precision Genome Editing and Genetic Technologies for Biomedicine, Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Center of Physical-Chemical Medicine of Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, 119435, Russian Federation
- Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Center of Physical-Chemical Medicine of the Federal Medical and Biological Agency, Moscow, 119435, Russian Federation
- Faculty of Biology; Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, 119991, Russian Federation
| | - Georgij P Arapidi
- Center for Precision Genome Editing and Genetic Technologies for Biomedicine, Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Center of Physical-Chemical Medicine of Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, 119435, Russian Federation
- Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Center of Physical-Chemical Medicine of the Federal Medical and Biological Agency, Moscow, 119435, Russian Federation
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 117997, Russian Federation
- Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology (State University), Dolgoprudny, 141701, Russian Federation
| | - Marat S Pavlyukov
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 117997, Russian Federation
| | - Olga M Ivanova
- Center for Precision Genome Editing and Genetic Technologies for Biomedicine, Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Center of Physical-Chemical Medicine of Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, 119435, Russian Federation
- Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Center of Physical-Chemical Medicine of the Federal Medical and Biological Agency, Moscow, 119435, Russian Federation
| | - Irina K Malyants
- Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Center of Physical-Chemical Medicine of the Federal Medical and Biological Agency, Moscow, 119435, Russian Federation
- Faculty of Chemical-Pharmaceutical Technologies and Biomedical Drugs, Mendeleev University of Chemical Technology of Russia, Moscow, 125047, Russian Federation
| | - Grigory A Stepanov
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine, Siberian Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, 630090, Russian Federation
- Department of Natural Sciences, Novosibirsk State University, Novosibirsk, 630090, Russia
| | - Evgenii Zhuravlev
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine, Siberian Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, 630090, Russian Federation
| | - Rustam H Ziganshin
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 117997, Russian Federation
| | - Ivan O Butenko
- Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Center of Physical-Chemical Medicine of the Federal Medical and Biological Agency, Moscow, 119435, Russian Federation
| | - Olga N Bukato
- Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Center of Physical-Chemical Medicine of the Federal Medical and Biological Agency, Moscow, 119435, Russian Federation
| | - Ksenia M Klimina
- Center for Precision Genome Editing and Genetic Technologies for Biomedicine, Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Center of Physical-Chemical Medicine of Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, 119435, Russian Federation
- Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Center of Physical-Chemical Medicine of the Federal Medical and Biological Agency, Moscow, 119435, Russian Federation
| | - Vladimir A Veselovsky
- Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Center of Physical-Chemical Medicine of the Federal Medical and Biological Agency, Moscow, 119435, Russian Federation
| | | | | | - Olga I Aleshikova
- National Medical Scientific Centre of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Perinatal Medicine named after V.I. Kulakov, Moscow, 117198, Russian Federation
- Russian Research Center of Roentgenology and Radiology, Moscow, 117997, Russian Federation
| | - Andrey V Slonov
- Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Center of Physical-Chemical Medicine of the Federal Medical and Biological Agency, Moscow, 119435, Russian Federation
| | - Nataliya A Babaeva
- National Medical Scientific Centre of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Perinatal Medicine named after V.I. Kulakov, Moscow, 117198, Russian Federation
- Russian Research Center of Roentgenology and Radiology, Moscow, 117997, Russian Federation
| | - Lev A Ashrafyan
- National Medical Scientific Centre of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Perinatal Medicine named after V.I. Kulakov, Moscow, 117198, Russian Federation
- Russian Research Center of Roentgenology and Radiology, Moscow, 117997, Russian Federation
| | | | - Evgeniy G Evtushenko
- Faculty of Chemistry; Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, 119991, Russian Federation
| | - Maria M Lukina
- Center for Precision Genome Editing and Genetic Technologies for Biomedicine, Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Center of Physical-Chemical Medicine of Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, 119435, Russian Federation
- Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Center of Physical-Chemical Medicine of the Federal Medical and Biological Agency, Moscow, 119435, Russian Federation
| | - Zixiang Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University; Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Artemiy S Silantiev
- Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Center of Physical-Chemical Medicine of the Federal Medical and Biological Agency, Moscow, 119435, Russian Federation
| | - Anna A Nushtaeva
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine, Siberian Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, 630090, Russian Federation
| | - Daria D Kharlampieva
- Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Center of Physical-Chemical Medicine of the Federal Medical and Biological Agency, Moscow, 119435, Russian Federation
| | - Vassili N Lazarev
- Center for Precision Genome Editing and Genetic Technologies for Biomedicine, Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Center of Physical-Chemical Medicine of Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, 119435, Russian Federation
- Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Center of Physical-Chemical Medicine of the Federal Medical and Biological Agency, Moscow, 119435, Russian Federation
| | - Arseniy I Lashkin
- Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Center of Physical-Chemical Medicine of the Federal Medical and Biological Agency, Moscow, 119435, Russian Federation
| | - Lorine K Arzumanyan
- Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Center of Physical-Chemical Medicine of the Federal Medical and Biological Agency, Moscow, 119435, Russian Federation
| | - Irina Yu Petrushanko
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119991, Russian Federation
| | - Alexander A Makarov
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119991, Russian Federation
| | - Olga S Lebedeva
- Center for Precision Genome Editing and Genetic Technologies for Biomedicine, Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Center of Physical-Chemical Medicine of Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, 119435, Russian Federation
- Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Center of Physical-Chemical Medicine of the Federal Medical and Biological Agency, Moscow, 119435, Russian Federation
| | - Alexandra N Bogomazova
- Center for Precision Genome Editing and Genetic Technologies for Biomedicine, Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Center of Physical-Chemical Medicine of Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, 119435, Russian Federation
- Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Center of Physical-Chemical Medicine of the Federal Medical and Biological Agency, Moscow, 119435, Russian Federation
| | - Maria A Lagarkova
- Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Center of Physical-Chemical Medicine of the Federal Medical and Biological Agency, Moscow, 119435, Russian Federation
| | - Vadim M Govorun
- Research Institute for Systems Biology and Medicine, Moscow, 117246, Russian Federation
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7
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Santi A, Kay EJ, Neilson LJ, McGarry L, Lilla S, Mullin M, Paul NR, Fercoq F, Koulouras G, Rodriguez Blanco G, Athineos D, Mason S, Hughes M, Thomson G, Kieffer Y, Nixon C, Blyth K, Mechta-Grigoriou F, Carlin LM, Zanivan S. Cancer-associated fibroblasts produce matrix-bound vesicles that influence endothelial cell function. Sci Signal 2024; 17:eade0580. [PMID: 38470957 DOI: 10.1126/scisignal.ade0580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
Intercellular communication between different cell types in solid tumors contributes to tumor growth and metastatic dissemination. The secretome of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) plays major roles in these processes. Using human mammary CAFs, we showed that CAFs with a myofibroblast phenotype released extracellular vesicles that transferred proteins to endothelial cells (ECs) that affected their interaction with immune cells. Mass spectrometry-based proteomics identified proteins transferred from CAFs to ECs, which included plasma membrane receptors. Using THY1 as an example of a transferred plasma membrane-bound protein, we showed that CAF-derived proteins increased the adhesion of a monocyte cell line to ECs. CAFs produced high amounts of matrix-bound EVs, which were the primary vehicles of protein transfer. Hence, our work paves the way for future studies that investigate how CAF-derived matrix-bound EVs influence tumor pathology by regulating the function of neighboring cancer, stromal, and immune cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Santi
- Cancer Research UK Scotland Institute, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, Università degli Studi di Firenze, viale Morgagni 50, 50134 Firenze, Italy
| | - Emily J Kay
- Cancer Research UK Scotland Institute, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK
| | - Lisa J Neilson
- Cancer Research UK Scotland Institute, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK
| | - Lynn McGarry
- Cancer Research UK Scotland Institute, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK
| | - Sergio Lilla
- Cancer Research UK Scotland Institute, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK
| | - Margaret Mullin
- College of Medical, Veterinary, and Life Sciences, Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK
| | - Nikki R Paul
- Cancer Research UK Scotland Institute, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK
| | | | - Grigorios Koulouras
- Cancer Research UK Scotland Institute, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
| | | | | | - Susan Mason
- Cancer Research UK Scotland Institute, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK
| | - Mark Hughes
- Cancer Research UK Scotland Institute, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK
| | - Gemma Thomson
- Cancer Research UK Scotland Institute, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK
| | - Yann Kieffer
- Equipe Labellisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, Institut Curie, PSL Research University, 26, rue d'Ulm, 75005 Paris, France
- INSERM, U830, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Colin Nixon
- Cancer Research UK Scotland Institute, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK
| | - Karen Blyth
- Cancer Research UK Scotland Institute, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
| | - Fatima Mechta-Grigoriou
- Equipe Labellisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, Institut Curie, PSL Research University, 26, rue d'Ulm, 75005 Paris, France
- INSERM, U830, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Leo M Carlin
- Cancer Research UK Scotland Institute, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
| | - Sara Zanivan
- Cancer Research UK Scotland Institute, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
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8
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Gu Y, Chen Q, Yin H, Zeng M, Gao S, Wang X. Cancer-associated fibroblasts in neoadjuvant setting for solid cancers. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2024; 193:104226. [PMID: 38056580 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2023.104226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Therapeutic approaches for cancer have become increasingly diverse in recent times. A comprehensive understanding of the tumor microenvironment (TME) holds great potential for enhancing the precision of tumor therapies. Neoadjuvant therapy offers the possibility of alleviating patient symptoms and improving overall quality of life. Additionally, it may facilitate the reduction of inoperable tumors and prevent potential preoperative micrometastases. Within the TME, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) play a prominent role as they generate various elements that contribute to tumor progression. Particularly, extracellular matrix (ECM) produced by CAFs prevents immune cell infiltration into the TME, hampers drug penetration, and diminishes therapeutic efficacy. Therefore, this review provides a summary of the heterogeneity and interactions of CAFs within the TME, with a specific focus on the influence of neoadjuvant therapy on the microenvironment, particularly CAFs. Finally, we propose several potential and promising therapeutic strategies targeting CAFs, which may efficiently eliminate CAFs to decrease stroma density and impair their functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanan Gu
- Department of Radiology, Zhongshan Hospital and Shanghai Institute of Medical Imaging, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Department of Interventional Radiology, Zhongshan Hospital Fudan University Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Qiangda Chen
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Cancer Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Hanlin Yin
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Cancer Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Mengsu Zeng
- Department of Radiology, Zhongshan Hospital and Shanghai Institute of Medical Imaging, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Shanshan Gao
- Department of Radiology, Zhongshan Hospital and Shanghai Institute of Medical Imaging, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.
| | - Xiaolin Wang
- Department of Radiology, Zhongshan Hospital and Shanghai Institute of Medical Imaging, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Department of Interventional Radiology, Zhongshan Hospital Fudan University Shanghai, 200032, China.
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9
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Ling L, Wen Y, Xiong Y, Liu X, Chen J, Liu T, Zhang B. Anisomycin inhibits the activity of human ovarian cancer stem cells via regulating antisense RNA NCBP2-AS2/MEK/ERK/STAT3 signaling. J Gene Med 2024; 26:e3571. [PMID: 37483091 DOI: 10.1002/jgm.3571] [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: 04/07/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ovarian cancer stem cells (OCSCs) are the main cause of relapse and drug resistance in patients with ovarian cancer. Anisomycin has been shown to be an effective antitumor agent, but its mechanism of action in ovarian cancer remains elusive. METHODS CD44+/CD133+ human OCSCs were isolated from human ovarian cancer tissues. OCSCs were interfered with using anisomycin and specific small-interfering RNA (siRNA). Microarray assay, MTT, in vivo tumorigenic experiments, transwell assay, cell cycle assay, colony formation assay, angiogenesis assay, and hematoxylin and eosin staining were used to detect the mechanism of anisomycin with respect to inhibiting the activity of OCSCs. Expression of the NCBP2-AS2/mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK)/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) pathway was examined using western blotting, a quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR) and immunofluorescence staining. Bioinformatics analysis was used for predictive analysis of NCBP2-AS2 expression in urogenital tumors. RESULTS Microarray analysis showed that treatment with anisomycin significantly decreased the expression of antisense RNA NCBP2-AS2 in OCSCs. In vitro cellular experiments showed that interfering with endogenous antisense RNA NCBP2-AS2 using siRNA distinctly inhibited the proliferation, migration and angiogenesis of OCSCs, whereas in vivo animal experiments revealed decreased tumorigenesis in nude mice. Moreover, the results of RT-qPCR and western blotting demonstrated that both anisomycin treatment and NCBP2-AS2 silencing led to significant reductions in the mRNA and protein expression levels of NCBP2-AS2, MEK, ERK and STAT3. From a bioinformatic point of view, antisense RNA NCBP2-AS2 exhibited significantly differential expression between urogenital tumors and normal controls, and a similar expression pattern was found in the genes NCBP2, RPL35A, DNAJC19 and ECE2, which have similarity to NCBP2-AS2. CONCLUSIONS Anisomycin suppresses the in vivo and in vitro activity of human OCSCs by downregulating the antisense RNA NCBP2-AS2/MEK/ERK/STAT3 signaling pathway, whereas the antisense RNA NCBP2-AS2 and genes with similarity have the potential to serve as markers for clinical diagnosis and prognosis of urogenital tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lele Ling
- Department of Acupuncture, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yichao Wen
- Shanghai Geriatric Institute of Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ying Xiong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Liu
- Department of Dermatology, Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Juan Chen
- Gongli Hospital Affiliated to the Second Military Medicical University in Pudong New Area of Shanghai City, Shanghai, China
| | - Te Liu
- Shanghai Geriatric Institute of Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Bimeng Zhang
- Department of Acupuncture, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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10
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Qian C, Liu C, Liu W, Zhou R, Zhao L. Targeting vascular normalization: a promising strategy to improve immune-vascular crosstalk in cancer immunotherapy. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1291530. [PMID: 38193080 PMCID: PMC10773740 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1291530] [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: 09/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Blood vessels are a key target for cancer therapy. Compared with the healthy vasculature, tumor blood vessels are extremely immature, highly permeable, and deficient in pericytes. The aberrantly vascularized tumor microenvironment is characterized by hypoxia, low pH, high interstitial pressure, and immunosuppression. The efficacy of chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy is affected by abnormal blood vessels. Some anti-angiogenic drugs show vascular normalization effects in addition to targeting angiogenesis. Reversing the abnormal state of blood vessels creates a normal microenvironment, essential for various cancer treatments, specifically immunotherapy. In addition, immune cells and molecules are involved in the regulation of angiogenesis. Therefore, combining vascular normalization with immunotherapy may increase the efficacy of immunotherapy and reduce the risk of adverse reactions. In this review, we discussed the structure, function, and formation of abnormal vessels. In addition, we elaborated on the role of the immunosuppressive microenvironment in the formation of abnormal vessels. Finally, we described the clinical challenges associated with the combination of immunotherapy with vascular normalization, and highlighted future research directions in this therapeutic area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Qian
- Department of Pathology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Pathology & Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Tumor Pathology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chaoqun Liu
- Department of Pathology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Pathology & Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Tumor Pathology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Weiwei Liu
- Department of Pathology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Pathology & Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Tumor Pathology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Rui Zhou
- Department of Pathology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Pathology & Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Tumor Pathology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Liang Zhao
- Department of Pathology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Pathology & Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Tumor Pathology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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11
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Abou Khouzam R, Janji B, Thiery J, Zaarour RF, Chamseddine AN, Mayr H, Savagner P, Kieda C, Gad S, Buart S, Lehn JM, Limani P, Chouaib S. Hypoxia as a potential inducer of immune tolerance, tumor plasticity and a driver of tumor mutational burden: Impact on cancer immunotherapy. Semin Cancer Biol 2023; 97:104-123. [PMID: 38029865 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2023.11.008] [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: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 11/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
In cancer patients, immune cells are often functionally compromised due to the immunosuppressive features of the tumor microenvironment (TME) which contribute to the failures in cancer therapies. Clinical and experimental evidence indicates that developing tumors adapt to the immunological environment and create a local microenvironment that impairs immune function by inducing immune tolerance and invasion. In this context, microenvironmental hypoxia, which is an established hallmark of solid tumors, significantly contributes to tumor aggressiveness and therapy resistance through the induction of tumor plasticity/heterogeneity and, more importantly, through the differentiation and expansion of immune-suppressive stromal cells. We and others have provided evidence indicating that hypoxia also drives genomic instability in cancer cells and interferes with DNA damage response and repair suggesting that hypoxia could be a potential driver of tumor mutational burden. Here, we reviewed the current knowledge on how hypoxic stress in the TME impacts tumor angiogenesis, heterogeneity, plasticity, and immune resistance, with a special interest in tumor immunogenicity and hypoxia targeting. An integrated understanding of the complexity of the effect of hypoxia on the immune and microenvironmental components could lead to the identification of better adapted and more effective combinational strategies in cancer immunotherapy. Clearly, the discovery and validation of therapeutic targets derived from the hypoxic tumor microenvironment is of major importance and the identification of critical hypoxia-associated pathways could generate targets that are undeniably attractive for combined cancer immunotherapy approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raefa Abou Khouzam
- Thumbay Research Institute for Precision Medicine, Gulf Medical University, Ajman 4184, United Arab Emirates.
| | - Bassam Janji
- Department of Cancer Research, Luxembourg Institute of Health, Tumor Immunotherapy and Microenvironment (TIME) Group, 6A, rue Nicolas-Ernest Barblé, L-1210 Luxembourg city, Luxembourg.
| | - Jerome Thiery
- INSERM UMR 1186, Integrative Tumor Immunology and Immunotherapy, Gustave Roussy, Faculty of Medicine, University Paris-Saclay, 94805 Villejuif, France.
| | - Rania Faouzi Zaarour
- Thumbay Research Institute for Precision Medicine, Gulf Medical University, Ajman 4184, United Arab Emirates.
| | - Ali N Chamseddine
- Gastroenterology Department, Cochin University Hospital, Université de Paris, APHP, Paris, France; Ambroise Paré - Hartmann Private Hospital Group, Oncology Unit, Neuilly-sur-Seine, France.
| | - Hemma Mayr
- Swiss Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary (HPB) and Transplantation Center, University Hospital Zurich, Raemistrasse 100, Zurich, Switzerland; Department of Surgery & Transplantation, University and University Hospital Zurich, Raemistrasse 100, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Pierre Savagner
- INSERM UMR 1186, Integrative Tumor Immunology and Immunotherapy, Gustave Roussy, Faculty of Medicine, University Paris-Saclay, 94805 Villejuif, France.
| | - Claudine Kieda
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Innovative Therapies, Military Institute of Medicine-National Research Institute, 04-141 Warsaw, Poland; Centre for Molecular Biophysics, UPR 4301 CNRS, 45071 Orleans, France; Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, 01-004 Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Sophie Gad
- Ecole Pratique des Hautes Etudes (EPHE), Paris Sciences Lettres University (PSL), 75014 Paris, France; UMR CNRS 9019, Genome Integrity and Cancers, Gustave Roussy, Paris-Saclay University, 94800 Villejuif, France.
| | - Stéphanie Buart
- INSERM UMR 1186, Integrative Tumor Immunology and Immunotherapy, Gustave Roussy, Faculty of Medicine, University Paris-Saclay, 94805 Villejuif, France.
| | - Jean-Marie Lehn
- Institut de Science et d'Ingénierie Supramoléculaires (ISIS), Université de Strasbourg, 8 allée Gaspard Monge, Strasbourg, France.
| | - Perparim Limani
- Swiss Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary (HPB) and Transplantation Center, University Hospital Zurich, Raemistrasse 100, Zurich, Switzerland; Department of Surgery & Transplantation, University and University Hospital Zurich, Raemistrasse 100, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Salem Chouaib
- Thumbay Research Institute for Precision Medicine, Gulf Medical University, Ajman 4184, United Arab Emirates; INSERM UMR 1186, Integrative Tumor Immunology and Immunotherapy, Gustave Roussy, Faculty of Medicine, University Paris-Saclay, 94805 Villejuif, France.
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12
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Zhang G, Ji P, Xia P, Song H, Guo Z, Hu X, Guo Y, Yuan X, Song Y, Shen R, Wang D. Identification and targeting of cancer-associated fibroblast signature genes for prognosis and therapy in Cutaneous melanoma. Comput Biol Med 2023; 167:107597. [PMID: 37875042 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2023.107597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) play pivotal roles in tumor invasion and metastasis. However, studies on CAF biomarkers in Cutaneous Melanoma (CM) are still scarce. This study aimed to explore the potential CAF biomarkers in CM, propose the potential therapeutic targets, and provide new insights for targeted therapy of CAFs in CM. METHODS We utilized weighted gene co-expression network analysis to identify CAF signature genes in CM, and conducted comprehensive bioinformatics analysis on the CAF risk score established by these genes. Moreover, single-cell sequencing analysis, spatial transcriptome analysis, and cell experiments were utilized for verifying the expression and distribution pattern of signature genes. Furthermore, molecular docking was employed to screen potential target drugs. RESULTS FBLN1 and COL5A1, two crucial CAF signature genes, were screened to establish the CAF risk score. Subsequently, a comprehensive bioinformatic analysis of the CAF risk score revealed that high-risk score group was significantly enriched in pathways associated with tumor progression. Besides, CAF risk score was significantly negatively correlated with clinical prognosis, immunotherapy response, and tumor mutational burden in CM patients. In addition, FBLN1 and COL5A1 were further identified as CAF-specific biomarkers in CM by multi-omics analysis and experimental validation. Eventually, based on these two targets, Mifepristone and Dexamethasone were screened as potential anti-CAFs drugs. CONCLUSION The findings indicated that FBLN1 and COL5A1 were the CAF signature genes in CM, which were associated with the progression, treatment, and prognosis of CM. The comprehensive exploration of CAF signature genes is expected to provide new insight for clinical CM therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guokun Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Gansu, 730000, China.
| | - Pengfei Ji
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Gansu, 730000, China.
| | - Peng Xia
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Gansu, 730000, China.
| | - Haoyun Song
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Gansu, 730000, China.
| | - Zhao Guo
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Gansu, 730000, China.
| | - Xiaohui Hu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Gansu, 730000, China.
| | - Yanan Guo
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Gansu, 730000, China.
| | - Xinyi Yuan
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Gansu, 730000, China.
| | - Yanfeng Song
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Gansu, 730000, China.
| | - Rong Shen
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Gansu, 730000, China.
| | - Degui Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Gansu, 730000, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Therapy of Gastrointestinal Tumor, Gansu, 730000, China.
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13
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Xie J, Mo T, Li R, Zhang H, Liang G, Ma T, Chen J, Xie H, Wen X, Hu T, Xian Z, Pan W. The m 7G Reader NCBP2 Promotes Pancreatic Cancer Progression by Upregulating MAPK/ERK Signaling. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:5454. [PMID: 38001714 PMCID: PMC10670634 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15225454] [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: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
PDAC is one of the most common malignant tumors worldwide. The difficulty of early diagnosis and lack of effective treatment are the main reasons for its poor prognosis. Therefore, it is urgent to identify novel diagnostic and therapeutic targets for PDAC patients. The m7G methylation is a common type of RNA modification that plays a pivotal role in regulating tumor development. However, the correlation between m7G regulatory genes and PDAC progression remains unclear. By integrating gene expression and related clinical information of PDAC patients from TCGA and GEO cohorts, m7G binding protein NCBP2 was found to be highly expressed in PDAC patients. More importantly, PDAC patients with high NCBP2 expression had a worse prognosis. Stable NCBP2-knockdown and overexpression PDAC cell lines were constructed to further perform in-vitro and in-vivo experiments. NCBP2-knockdown significantly inhibited PDAC cell proliferation, while overexpression of NCBP2 dramatically promoted PDAC cell growth. Mechanistically, NCBP2 enhanced the translation of c-JUN, which in turn activated MEK/ERK signaling to promote PDAC progression. In conclusion, our study reveals that m7G reader NCBP2 promotes PDAC progression by activating MEK/ERK pathway, which could serve as a novel therapeutic target for PDAC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiancong Xie
- Department of General Surgery (Pancreatic Hepatobiliary Surgery), The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China; (J.X.); (H.Z.); (T.M.)
| | - Taiwei Mo
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou 510630, China;
- Department of General Surgery (Colorectal Surgery), The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China; (R.L.); (G.L.); (J.C.); (H.X.); (X.W.); (T.H.)
| | - Ruibing Li
- Department of General Surgery (Colorectal Surgery), The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China; (R.L.); (G.L.); (J.C.); (H.X.); (X.W.); (T.H.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, Guangdong Institute of Gastroenterology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China
- Biomedical Innovation Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China
| | - Hao Zhang
- Department of General Surgery (Pancreatic Hepatobiliary Surgery), The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China; (J.X.); (H.Z.); (T.M.)
| | - Guanzhan Liang
- Department of General Surgery (Colorectal Surgery), The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China; (R.L.); (G.L.); (J.C.); (H.X.); (X.W.); (T.H.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, Guangdong Institute of Gastroenterology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China
- Biomedical Innovation Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China
| | - Tao Ma
- Department of General Surgery (Pancreatic Hepatobiliary Surgery), The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China; (J.X.); (H.Z.); (T.M.)
| | - Jing Chen
- Department of General Surgery (Colorectal Surgery), The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China; (R.L.); (G.L.); (J.C.); (H.X.); (X.W.); (T.H.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, Guangdong Institute of Gastroenterology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China
- Biomedical Innovation Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China
| | - Hanlin Xie
- Department of General Surgery (Colorectal Surgery), The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China; (R.L.); (G.L.); (J.C.); (H.X.); (X.W.); (T.H.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, Guangdong Institute of Gastroenterology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China
- Biomedical Innovation Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China
| | - Xiaofeng Wen
- Department of General Surgery (Colorectal Surgery), The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China; (R.L.); (G.L.); (J.C.); (H.X.); (X.W.); (T.H.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, Guangdong Institute of Gastroenterology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China
- Biomedical Innovation Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China
| | - Tuo Hu
- Department of General Surgery (Colorectal Surgery), The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China; (R.L.); (G.L.); (J.C.); (H.X.); (X.W.); (T.H.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, Guangdong Institute of Gastroenterology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China
- Biomedical Innovation Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China
| | - Zhenyu Xian
- Department of General Surgery (Colorectal Surgery), The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China; (R.L.); (G.L.); (J.C.); (H.X.); (X.W.); (T.H.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, Guangdong Institute of Gastroenterology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China
- Biomedical Innovation Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China
| | - Weidong Pan
- Department of General Surgery (Pancreatic Hepatobiliary Surgery), The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China; (J.X.); (H.Z.); (T.M.)
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14
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Cai Z, Chen L, Chen S, Fang R, Chen X, Lei W. Single-cell RNA sequencing reveals pro-invasive cancer-associated fibroblasts in hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma. Cell Commun Signal 2023; 21:292. [PMID: 37853464 PMCID: PMC10585865 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01312-z] [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: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (HPSCC) has the worst prognosis among all head-and-neck cancers, and treatment options are limited. Tumor microenvironment (TME) analysis can help identify new therapeutic targets and combined treatment strategies. METHODS Six primary HPSCC tissues and two adjacent normal mucosae from six treatment-naïve patients with HPSCC were analyzed using scRNA-seq. Cell types were curated in detail, ecosystemic landscapes were mapped, and cell-cell interactions were inferred. Key results were validated with The Cancer Genome Atlas and cell biology experiments. RESULTS Malignant HPSCC epithelial cells showed significant intratumor heterogeneity. Different subtypes exhibited distinct histological features, biological behaviors, and spatial localization, all affecting treatment selection and prognosis. Extracellular matrix cancer-associated fibroblasts (mCAFs) expressing fibroblast activation protein were the dominant CAFs in HPSCC tumors. mCAFs, constituting an aggressive CAF subset, promoted tumor cell invasion, activated endothelial cells to trigger angiogenesis, and synergized with SPP1+ tumor associated macrophages to induce tumor progression, ultimately decreasing the overall survival of patients with HPSCC. Moreover, the LAMP3+ dendritic cell subset was identified in HPSCC and formed an immunosuppressive TME by recruiting Tregs and suppressing CD8+ T cell function. CONCLUSIONS mCAFs, acting as the communication center of the HPSCC TME, enhance the invasion ability of HPSCC cells, mobilizing surrounding cells to construct a tumor-favorable microenvironment. Inhibiting mCAF activation offers a new anti-HPSCC therapeutic strategy. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhimou Cai
- Department of Otolaryngology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, No. 58 Zhongshan Er Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, P.R. China
| | - Lin Chen
- Department of Otolaryngology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, No. 58 Zhongshan Er Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, P.R. China
| | - Siyu Chen
- Department of Otolaryngology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, No. 58 Zhongshan Er Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, P.R. China
| | - Ruihua Fang
- Department of Otolaryngology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, No. 58 Zhongshan Er Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, P.R. China
| | - Xiaolin Chen
- Department of Otolaryngology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, No. 58 Zhongshan Er Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, P.R. China
| | - Wenbin Lei
- Department of Otolaryngology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, No. 58 Zhongshan Er Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, P.R. China.
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15
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Zhao Z, Li T, Sun L, Yuan Y, Zhu Y. Potential mechanisms of cancer-associated fibroblasts in therapeutic resistance. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 166:115425. [PMID: 37660643 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite continuous improvements in research and new cancer therapeutics, the goal of eradicating cancer remains elusive because of drug resistance. For a long time, drug resistance research has been focused on tumor cells themselves; however, recent studies have found that the tumor microenvironment also plays an important role in inducing drug resistance. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are a main component of the tumor microenvironment. They cross-talk with cancer cells to support their survival in the presence of anticancer drugs. This review summarizes the current knowledge of the role of CAFs in tumor drug resistance. An in-depth understanding of the mechanisms underlying the cross-talk between CAFs and cancer cells and insight into the importance of CAFs in drug resistance can guide the development of new anticancer strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zehua Zhao
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Dalian University of Technology (Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University), Shenyang, China
| | - Tianming Li
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Dalian University of Technology (Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University), Shenyang, China
| | - Liping Sun
- Tumor Etiology and Screening Department of Cancer Institute and General Surgery, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Etiology and Prevention in Liaoning Education Department, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China; Key Laboratory of GI Cancer Etiology and Prevention in Liaoning Province, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China.
| | - Yuan Yuan
- Tumor Etiology and Screening Department of Cancer Institute and General Surgery, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Etiology and Prevention in Liaoning Education Department, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China; Key Laboratory of GI Cancer Etiology and Prevention in Liaoning Province, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China.
| | - Yanmei Zhu
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Dalian University of Technology (Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University), Shenyang, China.
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16
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Sanwlani R, Kang T, Gummadi S, Nedeva C, Ang CS, Mathivanan S. Bovine milk-derived extracellular vesicles enhance doxorubicin sensitivity in triple negative breast cancer cells by targeting metabolism and STAT signalling. Proteomics 2023; 23:e2200482. [PMID: 37376799 DOI: 10.1002/pmic.202200482] [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: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
Metastatic triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) has a low 5-year survival rate of below 30% with systemic chemotherapy being the most widely used treatment. Bovine milk-derived extracellular vesicles (MEVs) have been previously demonstrated to have anti-cancer attributes. In this study, we isolated bovine MEVs from commercial milk and characterised them according to MISEV guidelines. Bovine MEVs sensitised TNBC cells to doxorubicin, resulting in reduced metabolic potential and cell-viability. Label-free quantitative proteomics of cells treated with MEVs and/or doxorubicin suggested that combinatorial treatment depleted various pro-tumorigenic interferon-inducible gene products and proteins with metabolic function, previously identified as therapeutic targets in TNBC. Combinatorial treatment also led to reduced abundance of various STAT proteins and their downstream oncogenic targets with roles in cell-cycle and apoptosis. Taken together, this study highlights the ability of bovine MEVs to sensitise TNBC cells to standard-of-care therapeutic drug doxorubicin, paving the way for novel treatment regimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahul Sanwlani
- Department of Biochemistry, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Taeyoung Kang
- Department of Biochemistry, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sriram Gummadi
- Department of Biochemistry, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Christina Nedeva
- Department of Biochemistry, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ching-Seng Ang
- The Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Suresh Mathivanan
- Department of Biochemistry, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Mokoala KMG, Lawal IO, Maserumule LC, Bida M, Maes A, Ndlovu H, Reed J, Mahapane J, Davis C, Van de Wiele C, Popoola G, Giesel FL, Vorster M, Sathekge MM. Correlation between [ 68Ga]Ga-FAPI-46 PET Imaging and HIF-1α Immunohistochemical Analysis in Cervical Cancer: Proof-of-Concept. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3953. [PMID: 37568769 PMCID: PMC10417683 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15153953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Hypoxia leads to changes in tumor microenvironment (upregulated CAFs) with resultant aggressiveness. A key factor in the physiological response to hypoxia is hypoxia-inducible factor-1alpha (HIF-1α). [68Ga]Ga-FAPI PET imaging has been demonstrated in various cancer types. We hypothesized that [68Ga]Ga-FAPI PET may be used as an indirect tracer for mapping hypoxia by correlating the image findings to pathological analysis of HIF-1α expression. The [68Ga]Ga-FAPI PET/CT scans of women with cancer of the cervix were reviewed and the maximum and mean standardized uptake value (SUVmax and SUVmean) and FAPI tumor volume (FAPI-TV) were documented. Correlation analysis was performed between PET-derived parameters and immunohistochemical staining as well as between PET-derived parameters and the presence of metastasis. Ten women were included. All patients demonstrated tracer uptake in the primary site or region of the primary. All patients had lymph node metastases while only six patients had distant visceral or skeletal metastases. The mean SUVmax, SUVmean, and FAPI-TV was 18.89, 6.88, and 195.66 cm3, respectively. The average FAPI-TV for patients with additional sites of metastases was higher than those without. Immunohistochemistry revealed varying intensities of HIF-1α expression in all tested samples. There was a positive correlation between the presence of skeletal metastases and staining for HIF-1α (r=0.80;p=0.017). The presence of skeletal metastasis was correlated to the HIF-1⍺ staining (percentage distribution). Furthermore, the FAPI-TV was a better predictor of metastatic disease than the SUVmax.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kgomotso M. G. Mokoala
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0028, South Africa; (K.M.G.M.); (I.O.L.); (L.C.M.); (A.M.); (H.N.); (J.R.); (C.D.); (C.V.d.W.)
| | - Ismaheel O. Lawal
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0028, South Africa; (K.M.G.M.); (I.O.L.); (L.C.M.); (A.M.); (H.N.); (J.R.); (C.D.); (C.V.d.W.)
- Nuclear Medicine Research Infrastructure (NuMeRI), Steve Biko Academic Hospital, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
| | - Letjie C. Maserumule
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0028, South Africa; (K.M.G.M.); (I.O.L.); (L.C.M.); (A.M.); (H.N.); (J.R.); (C.D.); (C.V.d.W.)
| | - Meshack Bida
- National Health Laboratory Services, Department of Anatomical Pathology, Pretoria 0001, South Africa;
| | - Alex Maes
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0028, South Africa; (K.M.G.M.); (I.O.L.); (L.C.M.); (A.M.); (H.N.); (J.R.); (C.D.); (C.V.d.W.)
- Katholieke University Leuven, 3000 Kortrijk, Belgium
| | - Honest Ndlovu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0028, South Africa; (K.M.G.M.); (I.O.L.); (L.C.M.); (A.M.); (H.N.); (J.R.); (C.D.); (C.V.d.W.)
| | - Janet Reed
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0028, South Africa; (K.M.G.M.); (I.O.L.); (L.C.M.); (A.M.); (H.N.); (J.R.); (C.D.); (C.V.d.W.)
| | - Johncy Mahapane
- Department of Radiography, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0028, South Africa;
| | - Cindy Davis
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0028, South Africa; (K.M.G.M.); (I.O.L.); (L.C.M.); (A.M.); (H.N.); (J.R.); (C.D.); (C.V.d.W.)
| | - Christophe Van de Wiele
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0028, South Africa; (K.M.G.M.); (I.O.L.); (L.C.M.); (A.M.); (H.N.); (J.R.); (C.D.); (C.V.d.W.)
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, University Ghent, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Gbenga Popoola
- Lincolnshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, St George’s, Lincoln, Lincolnshire LN1 1FS, UK;
| | - Frederik L. Giesel
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Medical Faculty, University Hospital Dusseldorf, Heinrich-Heine-University, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany;
| | - Mariza Vorster
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University of Kwazulu Natal, Durban 4001, South Africa;
| | - Mike M. Sathekge
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0028, South Africa; (K.M.G.M.); (I.O.L.); (L.C.M.); (A.M.); (H.N.); (J.R.); (C.D.); (C.V.d.W.)
- Nuclear Medicine Research Infrastructure (NuMeRI), Steve Biko Academic Hospital, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
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18
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Xiao Z, Wang R, Wang X, Yang H, Dong J, He X, Yang Y, Guo J, Cui J, Zhou Z. Impaired function of dendritic cells within the tumor microenvironment. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1213629. [PMID: 37441069 PMCID: PMC10333501 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1213629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Dendritic cells (DCs), a class of professional antigen-presenting cells, are considered key factors in the initiation and maintenance of anti-tumor immunity due to their powerful ability to present antigen and stimulate T-cell responses. The important role of DCs in controlling tumor growth and mediating potent anti-tumor immunity has been demonstrated in various cancer models. Accordingly, the infiltration of stimulatory DCs positively correlates with the prognosis and response to immunotherapy in a variety of solid tumors. However, accumulating evidence indicates that DCs exhibit a significantly dysfunctional state, ultimately leading to an impaired anti-tumor immune response due to the effects of the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). Currently, numerous preclinical and clinical studies are exploring immunotherapeutic strategies to better control tumors by restoring or enhancing the activity of DCs in tumors, such as the popular DC-based vaccines. In this review, an overview of the role of DCs in controlling tumor progression is provided, followed by a summary of the current advances in understanding the mechanisms by which the TME affects the normal function of DCs, and concluding with a brief discussion of current strategies for DC-based tumor immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhihua Xiao
- Department of Pharmacy, Zhuhai People’s Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University), Zhuhai, China
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ruiqi Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Zhuhai People’s Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University), Zhuhai, China
| | - Xuyan Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Zhuhai People’s Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University), Zhuhai, China
| | - Haikui Yang
- Department of Pharmacy, Zhuhai People’s Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University), Zhuhai, China
| | - Jiamei Dong
- Department of Pharmacy, Zhuhai People’s Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University), Zhuhai, China
| | - Xin He
- Department of Pharmacy, Zhuhai People’s Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University), Zhuhai, China
| | - Yang Yang
- Department of Pharmacy, Zhuhai People’s Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University), Zhuhai, China
| | - Jiahao Guo
- Department of Pharmacy, Zhuhai People’s Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University), Zhuhai, China
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiawen Cui
- Department of Pharmacy, Zhuhai People’s Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University), Zhuhai, China
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhiling Zhou
- Department of Pharmacy, Zhuhai People’s Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University), Zhuhai, China
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19
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Cervantes-Villagrana RD, García-Jiménez I, Vázquez-Prado J. Guanine nucleotide exchange factors for Rho GTPases (RhoGEFs) as oncogenic effectors and strategic therapeutic targets in metastatic cancer. Cell Signal 2023; 109:110749. [PMID: 37290677 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2023.110749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2023] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Metastatic cancer cells dynamically adjust their shape to adhere, invade, migrate, and expand to generate secondary tumors. Inherent to these processes is the constant assembly and disassembly of cytoskeletal supramolecular structures. The subcellular places where cytoskeletal polymers are built and reorganized are defined by the activation of Rho GTPases. These molecular switches directly respond to signaling cascades integrated by Rho guanine nucleotide exchange factors (RhoGEFs), which are sophisticated multidomain proteins that control morphological behavior of cancer and stromal cells in response to cell-cell interactions, tumor-secreted factors and actions of oncogenic proteins within the tumor microenvironment. Stromal cells, including fibroblasts, immune and endothelial cells, and even projections of neuronal cells, adjust their shapes and move into growing tumoral masses, building tumor-induced structures that eventually serve as metastatic routes. Here we review the role of RhoGEFs in metastatic cancer. They are highly diverse proteins with common catalytic modules that select among a variety of homologous Rho GTPases enabling them to load GTP, acquiring an active conformation that stimulates effectors controlling actin cytoskeleton remodeling. Therefore, due to their strategic position in oncogenic signaling cascades, and their structural diversity flanking common catalytic modules, RhoGEFs possess unique characteristics that make them conceptual targets of antimetastatic precision therapies. Preclinical proof of concept, demonstrating the antimetastatic effect of inhibiting either expression or activity of βPix (ARHGEF7), P-Rex1, Vav1, ARHGEF17, and Dock1, among others, is emerging.
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20
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Manzi J, Hoff CO, Ferreira R, Pimentel A, Datta J, Livingstone AS, Vianna R, Abreu P. Targeted Therapies in Colorectal Cancer: Recent Advances in Biomarkers, Landmark Trials, and Future Perspectives. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15113023. [PMID: 37296986 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15113023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
In 2022, approximately 600,000 cancer deaths were expected; more than 50,000 of those deaths would be from colorectal cancer (CRC). The CRC mortality rate in the US has decreased in recent decades, with a 51% drop between 1976 and 2014. This drop is attributed, in part, to the tremendous therapeutic improvements, especially after the 2000s, in addition to increased social awareness regarding risk factors and diagnostic improvement. Five-fluorouracil, irinotecan, capecitabine, and later oxaliplatin were the mainstays of mCRC treatment from the 1960s to 2002. Since then, more than a dozen drugs have been approved for the disease, betting on a new chapter in medicine, precision oncology, which uses patient and tumor characteristics to guide the therapeutic choice. Thus, this review will summarize the current literature on targeted therapies, highlighting the molecular biomarkers involved and their pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joao Manzi
- Miami Transplant Institute, Jackson Memorial Hospital, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Camilla O Hoff
- Miami Transplant Institute, Jackson Memorial Hospital, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Raphaella Ferreira
- Miami Transplant Institute, Jackson Memorial Hospital, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Agustin Pimentel
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Jashodeep Datta
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Alan S Livingstone
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Rodrigo Vianna
- Miami Transplant Institute, Jackson Memorial Hospital, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Phillipe Abreu
- Miami Transplant Institute, Jackson Memorial Hospital, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
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21
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Schwörer S, Cimino FV, Ros M, Tsanov KM, Ng C, Lowe SW, Carmona-Fontaine C, Thompson CB. Hypoxia Potentiates the Inflammatory Fibroblast Phenotype Promoted by Pancreatic Cancer Cell-Derived Cytokines. Cancer Res 2023; 83:1596-1610. [PMID: 36912618 PMCID: PMC10658995 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-22-2316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023]
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) are a major cell type in the stroma of solid tumors and can exert both tumor-promoting and tumor-restraining functions. CAF heterogeneity is frequently observed in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), a tumor characterized by a dense and hypoxic stroma that features myofibroblastic CAFs (myCAF) and inflammatory CAFs (iCAF) that are thought to have opposing roles in tumor progression. While CAF heterogeneity can be driven in part by tumor cell-produced cytokines, other determinants shaping CAF identity and function are largely unknown. In vivo, we found that iCAFs displayed a hypoxic gene expression and biochemical profile and were enriched in hypoxic regions of PDAC tumors, while myCAFs were excluded from these regions. Hypoxia led fibroblasts to acquire an inflammatory gene expression signature and synergized with cancer cell-derived cytokines to promote an iCAF phenotype in a HIF1α-dependent fashion. Furthermore, HIF1α stabilization was sufficient to induce an iCAF phenotype in stromal cells introduced into PDAC organoid cocultures and to promote PDAC tumor growth. These findings indicate hypoxia-induced HIF1α as a regulator of CAF heterogeneity and promoter of tumor progression in PDAC. SIGNIFICANCE Hypoxia in the tumor microenvironment of pancreatic cancer potentiates the cytokine-induced inflammatory CAF phenotype and promotes tumor growth. See related commentary by Fuentes and Taniguchi, p. 1560.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Schwörer
- Section of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Francesco V Cimino
- Cancer Biology and Genetics Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Manon Ros
- Center for Genomics and Systems Biology, New York University, New York, New York
| | - Kaloyan M Tsanov
- Cancer Biology and Genetics Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Charles Ng
- Cancer Biology and Genetics Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Scott W Lowe
- Cancer Biology and Genetics Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase, Maryland
| | | | - Craig B Thompson
- Cancer Biology and Genetics Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
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22
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Maimaiti A, Feng Z, Liu Y, Turhon M, Xie Z, Baihetiyaer Y, Wang X, Kasimu M, Jiang L, Wang Y, Wang Z, Pei Y. N7-methylguanosin regulators-mediated methylation modification patterns and characterization of the immune microenvironment in lower-grade glioma. Eur J Med Res 2023; 28:144. [PMID: 36998056 PMCID: PMC10061823 DOI: 10.1186/s40001-023-01108-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
N7-methylguanosine (m7G) modification signature has recently emerged as a crucial regulator of tumor progression and treatment in cancer. However, there is limited information available on the genomic profile of lower-grade gliomas (LGGs) related to m7G methylation modification genes' function in tumorigenesis and progression. In this study, we employed bioinformatics methods to characterize m7G modifications in individuals with LGG from The Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas (CGGA) and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). We used gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), single sample GSEA (ssGSEA), CIBERSORT algorithm, ESTIMATE algorithm, and TIDE to evaluate the association between m7G modification patterns, tumor microenvironment (TME) cell infiltration properties, and immune infiltration markers. The m7G scoring scheme using principal component analysis (PCA) was employed to investigate the m7G modification patterns quantitatively. We examined the m7G modification hub genes' expression levels in normal samples, refractory epilepsy samples, and LGG samples using immunohistochemistry, western-blotting, and qRT-PCR. Our findings revealed that individuals with LGG could be categorized into two groups based on m7G scores (high and low) according to the properties of m7G. Moreover, we observed that high m7G score was associated with significant clinical benefit and prolonged survival duration in the anti-PD-1 cohort, while low m7G score was associated with improved prognostic outcomes and increased likelihood of complete or partial response in the anti-PD-L1 cohort. Different m7G subtypes also showed varying Tumor Mutational Burden (TMB) and immune profiles and might have distinct responses to immunotherapy. Furthermore, we identified five potential genetic markers that were highly correlated with the m7G score signature index. These findings provide insight into the features and classification associated with m7G methylation modifications and may aid in improving the clinical outcome of LGG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aierpati Maimaiti
- Department of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgery Centre, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, No. 137, South Liyushan Road, Xinshi District, Urumqi, 830054, Xinjiang, China
| | - Zhaohai Feng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgery Centre, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, No. 137, South Liyushan Road, Xinshi District, Urumqi, 830054, Xinjiang, China
| | - Yanwen Liu
- Department of Medical Laboratory, Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps Hospital, Urumqi, 830002, Xinjiang, China
| | - Mirzat Turhon
- Department of Neurointerventional Surgery, Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100070, China
- Department of Neurointerventional Surgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100070, China
| | - Zhihao Xie
- The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130041, Jilin, China
| | - Yilimire Baihetiyaer
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830054, Xinjiang, China
| | - Xixian Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgery Centre, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, No. 137, South Liyushan Road, Xinshi District, Urumqi, 830054, Xinjiang, China
| | - Maimaitijiang Kasimu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgery Centre, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, No. 137, South Liyushan Road, Xinshi District, Urumqi, 830054, Xinjiang, China
| | - Lei Jiang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgery Centre, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, No. 137, South Liyushan Road, Xinshi District, Urumqi, 830054, Xinjiang, China
| | - Yongxin Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgery Centre, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, No. 137, South Liyushan Road, Xinshi District, Urumqi, 830054, Xinjiang, China.
| | - Zengliang Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgery Centre, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, No. 137, South Liyushan Road, Xinshi District, Urumqi, 830054, Xinjiang, China.
- People's Hospital of Mongolian Autonomous Prefecture of Bayingolin, Korla, 841000, Xinjiang, China.
| | - Yinan Pei
- Department of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgery Centre, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, No. 137, South Liyushan Road, Xinshi District, Urumqi, 830054, Xinjiang, China.
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23
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Wieder R. Fibroblasts as Turned Agents in Cancer Progression. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15072014. [PMID: 37046676 PMCID: PMC10093070 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15072014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 03/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Differentiated epithelial cells reside in the homeostatic microenvironment of the native organ stroma. The stroma supports their normal function, their G0 differentiated state, and their expansion/contraction through the various stages of the life cycle and physiologic functions of the host. When malignant transformation begins, the microenvironment tries to suppress and eliminate the transformed cells, while cancer cells, in turn, try to resist these suppressive efforts. The tumor microenvironment encompasses a large variety of cell types recruited by the tumor to perform different functions, among which fibroblasts are the most abundant. The dynamics of the mutual relationship change as the sides undertake an epic battle for control of the other. In the process, the cancer “wounds” the microenvironment through a variety of mechanisms and attracts distant mesenchymal stem cells to change their function from one attempting to suppress the cancer, to one that supports its growth, survival, and metastasis. Analogous reciprocal interactions occur as well between disseminated cancer cells and the metastatic microenvironment, where the microenvironment attempts to eliminate cancer cells or suppress their proliferation. However, the altered microenvironmental cells acquire novel characteristics that support malignant progression. Investigations have attempted to use these traits as targets of novel therapeutic approaches.
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24
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Yuan Q, Chu Y, Li X, Shi Y, Chen Y, Zhao J, Lu J, Liu K, Guo Y. CAFrgDB: a database for cancer-associated fibroblasts related genes and their functions in cancer. Cancer Gene Ther 2023:10.1038/s41417-023-00603-4. [PMID: 36922546 DOI: 10.1038/s41417-023-00603-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023]
Abstract
As one of the most essential components of the tumor microenvironment (TME), cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) interact extensively with cancer cells and other stromal cells to remodel TME and participate in the pathogenesis of cancer, which earmarked themselves as new promising targets for cancer therapy. Numerous studies have highlighted the heterogeneity and versatility of CAFs in most cancer types. Thus, the identification and appropriate use of CAF-related genes (CAFGenes) in the context of specific cancer types will provide critical insights into disease mechanisms and CAF-related therapeutic targets. In this study, we collected and curated 5421 CAFGenes identified from small- or large-scale experiments, encompassing 4982 responsors that directly or indirectly participate in cancer malignant behaviors managed by CAFs, 1069 secretions that are secreted by CAFs and 281 regulators that contribute in modulating CAFs in human and mouse, which covered 24 cancer types. For these human CAFGenes, we performed gene expression and prognostic marker-based analyses across 24 cancer types using TCGA data. Furthermore, we provided annotations for CAF-associated proteins by integrating the knowledge of protein-protein interaction(s), drug-target relations and basic annotations, from 9 public databases. CAFrgDB (CAF related Gene DataBase) is free for academic research at http://caf.zbiolab.cn and we anticipate CAFrgDB can be a useful resource for further study of CAFs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Yuan
- Department of Pathophysiology, State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Yi Chu
- Department of Pathophysiology, State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Xiaoyu Li
- Department of Pathophysiology, State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Yunshu Shi
- Department of Pathophysiology, State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Yingying Chen
- Department of Pathophysiology, State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Jimin Zhao
- Department of Pathophysiology, State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Jing Lu
- Department of Pathophysiology, State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Kangdong Liu
- Department of Pathophysiology, State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China. .,China-US (Henan) Hormel Cancer Institute, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, China.
| | - Yaping Guo
- Department of Pathophysiology, State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China.
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25
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Gong W, Guo Y, Yuan H, Chai R, Wan Z, Zheng B, Hu X, Chen B, Gao S, Dai Q, Yu P, Tu S. Loss of exosomal miR-200b-3p from hypoxia cancer-associated fibroblasts promotes tumorigenesis and reduces sensitivity to 5-Flourouracil in colorectal cancer via upregulation of ZEB1 and E2F3. Cancer Gene Ther 2023:10.1038/s41417-023-00591-5. [PMID: 36890211 DOI: 10.1038/s41417-023-00591-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/10/2023]
Abstract
Hypoxia-mediated tumor progression is a major clinical challenge in human cancers including colorectal cancer (CRC). In addition, exosome-mediated transfer of miRNAs from cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) to cancer cells could promote tumor progression. However, the mechanisms by which hypoxia CAFs promotes CRC progression remain largely unknown. CAFs and normal fibroblasts (NFs) were isolated from CRC tissues and adjacent normal tissues. Next, exosomes were isolated from the supernatant of CAFs that cultured under normoxia (CAFs-N-Exo) and hypoxia (CAFs-H-Exo). RNA-sequencing was then performed to identify differentially expressed miRNAs (DEMs) between CAFs-N-Exo and CAFs-H-Exo. Compared with exosomes derived from normoxia CAFs, exosomes derived from hypoxic CAFs were able to promote CRC cell proliferation, migration, invasion, stemness and reduce the sensitivity of CRC cells to 5-fluorouracil (5-FU). In addition, miR-200b-3p levels were dramatically decreased in exosomes derived from hypoxic CAFs. Remarkably, increasing exosomal miR-200b-3p in hypoxic CAFs reversed the promoting effects of hypoxic CAFs on CRC cell growth in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, miR-200b-3p agomir could inhibit CRC cell migration, invasion, stemness and increase the sensitivity of SW480 cells to 5-FU via downregulating ZEB1 and E2F3. Collectively, loss of exosomal miR-200b-3p in hypoxia CAFs could contribute to CRC progression via upregulation of ZEB1 and E2F3. Thus, increasing exosomal miR-200b-3p might serve as an alternative approach for the treatment of CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjing Gong
- General Surgery, Cancer Center, Department of Colorectal Surgery, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, PR China
| | - Yang Guo
- General Surgery, Cancer Center, Department of Colorectal Surgery, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, PR China
| | - Hang Yuan
- General Surgery, Cancer Center, Department of Colorectal Surgery, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, PR China
| | - Rui Chai
- General Surgery, Cancer Center, Department of Colorectal Surgery, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, PR China
| | - Ziang Wan
- General Surgery, Cancer Center, Department of Colorectal Surgery, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, PR China
| | - Boan Zheng
- General Surgery, Cancer Center, Department of Colorectal Surgery, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, PR China
| | - Xinye Hu
- General Surgery, Cancer Center, Department of Colorectal Surgery, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, PR China
| | - Bingchen Chen
- General Surgery, Cancer Center, Department of Colorectal Surgery, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, PR China
| | - Shan Gao
- General Surgery, Cancer Center, Department of Colorectal Surgery, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, PR China
| | - Qiaoqiong Dai
- General Surgery, Cancer Center, Department of Colorectal Surgery, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, PR China
| | - Peng Yu
- General Surgery, Cancer Center, Department of Colorectal Surgery, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, PR China
| | - Shiliang Tu
- General Surgery, Cancer Center, Department of Colorectal Surgery, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, PR China.
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26
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Secretome of Stromal Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts (CAFs): Relevance in Cancer. Cells 2023; 12:cells12040628. [PMID: 36831295 PMCID: PMC9953839 DOI: 10.3390/cells12040628] [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: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 02/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The cancer secretome reflects the assortment of proteins released by cancer cells. Investigating cell secretomes not only provides a deeper knowledge of the healthy and transformed state but also helps in the discovery of novel biomarkers. Secretomes of cancer cells have been studied in the past, however, the secretome contribution of stromal cells needs to be studied. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are one of the predominantly present cell populations in the tumor microenvironment (TME). CAFs play key role in functions associated with matrix deposition and remodeling, reciprocal exchange of nutrients, and molecular interactions and signaling with neighboring cells in the TME. Investigating CAFs secretomes or CAFs-secreted factors would help in identifying novel CAF-specific biomarkers, unique druggable targets, and an improved understanding for personalized cancer diagnosis and prognosis. In this review, we have tried to include all studies available in PubMed with the keywords "CAFs Secretome". We aim to provide a comprehensive summary of the studies investigating role of the CAF secretome on cancer development, progression, and therapeutic outcome. However, challenges associated with this process have also been addressed in the later sections. We have highlighted the functions and clinical relevance of secretome analysis in stromal CAF-rich cancer types. This review specifically discusses the secretome of stromal CAFs in cancers. A deeper understanding of the components of the CAF secretome and their interactions with cancer cells will help in the identification of personalized biomarkers and a more precise treatment plan.
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Pei L, Liu Y, Liu L, Gao S, Gao X, Feng Y, Sun Z, Zhang Y, Wang C. Roles of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in anti- PD-1/PD-L1 immunotherapy for solid cancers. Mol Cancer 2023; 22:29. [PMID: 36759842 PMCID: PMC9912573 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-023-01731-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 51.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, breakthroughs have been made in tumor immunotherapy. However, tumor immunotherapy, particularly anti-PD-1/PD-L1 immune checkpoint inhibitors, is effective in only a small percentage of patients in solid cancer. How to improve the efficiency of cancer immunotherapy is an urgent problem to be solved. As we all know, the state of the tumor microenvironment (TME) is an essential factor affecting the effectiveness of tumor immunotherapy, and the cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in TME have attracted much attention in recent years. As one of the main components of TME, CAFs interact with cancer cells and immune cells by secreting cytokines and vesicles, participating in ECM remodeling, and finally affecting the immune response process. With the in-depth study of CAFs heterogeneity, new strategies are provided for finding targets of combination immunotherapy and predicting immune efficacy. In this review, we focus on the role of CAFs in the solid cancer immune microenvironment, and then further elaborate on the potential mechanisms and pathways of CAFs influencing anti-PD-1/PD-L1 immunotherapy. In addition, we summarize the potential clinical application value of CAFs-related targets and markers in solid cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liping Pei
- grid.412633.10000 0004 1799 0733Department of Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052 Henan China ,grid.412633.10000 0004 1799 0733Henan Institute of Interconnected Intelligent Health Management, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052 Henan China
| | - Yang Liu
- grid.414008.90000 0004 1799 4638Department of Radiotherapy, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, 450008 China
| | - Lin Liu
- Department of Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China. .,Henan Institute of Interconnected Intelligent Health Management, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China.
| | - Shuochen Gao
- grid.412633.10000 0004 1799 0733Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052 Henan China
| | - Xueyan Gao
- grid.412633.10000 0004 1799 0733Department of Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052 Henan China
| | - Yudi Feng
- grid.412633.10000 0004 1799 0733Department of Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052 Henan China
| | - Zhenqiang Sun
- Henan Institute of Interconnected Intelligent Health Management, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China. .,Department of Colorectal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China.
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China.
| | - Chengzeng Wang
- Department of Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China. .,Henan Institute of Interconnected Intelligent Health Management, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China.
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Ries A, Flehberger D, Slany A, Pirker C, Mader JC, Mohr T, Schelch K, Sinn K, Mosleh B, Hoda MA, Dome B, Dolznig H, Krupitza G, Müllauer L, Gerner C, Berger W, Grusch M. Mesothelioma-associated fibroblasts enhance proliferation and migration of pleural mesothelioma cells via c-Met/PI3K and WNT signaling but do not protect against cisplatin. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2023; 42:27. [PMID: 36683050 PMCID: PMC9869633 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-022-02582-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pleural mesothelioma (PM) is an aggressive malignancy with poor prognosis. Unlike many other cancers, PM is mostly characterized by inactivation of tumor suppressor genes. Its highly malignant nature in absence of tumor driving oncogene mutations indicates an extrinsic supply of stimulating signals by cells of the tumor microenvironment (TME). Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are an abundant cell type of the TME and have been shown to drive the progression of several malignancies. The aim of the current study was to isolate and characterize patient-derived mesothelioma-associated fibroblasts (Meso-CAFs), and evaluate their impact on PM cells. METHODS Meso-CAFs were isolated from surgical specimens of PM patients and analyzed by array comparative genomic hybridization, next generation sequencing, transcriptomics and proteomics. Human PM cell lines were retrovirally transduced with GFP. The impact of Meso-CAFs on tumor cell growth, migration, as well as the response to small molecule inhibitors, cisplatin and pemetrexed treatment was investigated in 2D and 3D co-culture models by videomicroscopy and automated image analysis. RESULTS Meso-CAFs show a normal diploid genotype without gene copy number aberrations typical for PM cells. They express CAF markers and lack PM marker expression. Their proteome and secretome profiles clearly differ from normal lung fibroblasts with particularly strong differences in actively secreted proteins. The presence of Meso-CAFs in co-culture resulted in significantly increased proliferation and migration of PM cells. A similar effect on PM cell growth and migration was induced by Meso-CAF-conditioned medium. Inhibition of c-Met with crizotinib, PI3K with LY-2940002 or WNT signaling with WNT-C59 significantly impaired the Meso-CAF-mediated growth stimulation of PM cells in co-culture at concentrations not affecting the PM cells alone. Meso-CAFs did not provide protection of PM cells against cisplatin but showed significant protection against the EGFR inhibitor erlotinib. CONCLUSIONS Our study provides the first characterization of human patient-derived Meso-CAFs and demonstrates a strong impact of Meso-CAFs on PM cell growth and migration, two key characteristics of PM aggressiveness, indicating a major role of Meso-CAFs in driving PM progression. Moreover, we identify signaling pathways required for Meso-CAF-mediated growth stimulation. These data could be relevant for novel therapeutic strategies against PM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Ries
- Center for Cancer Research and Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Borschkegasse 8a, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Daniela Flehberger
- Center for Cancer Research and Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Borschkegasse 8a, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Astrid Slany
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, University of Vienna, Waehringer Straße 38, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Christine Pirker
- Center for Cancer Research and Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Borschkegasse 8a, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Johanna C Mader
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, University of Vienna, Waehringer Straße 38, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Thomas Mohr
- Center for Cancer Research and Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Borschkegasse 8a, 1090, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, University of Vienna, Waehringer Straße 38, 1090, Vienna, Austria
- Joint Metabolome Facility, University of Vienna and Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 38, 1090, Vienna, Austria
- ScienceConsult - DI Thomas Mohr KG, Enzianweg 10a, 2353, Guntramsdorf, Austria
| | - Karin Schelch
- Center for Cancer Research and Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Borschkegasse 8a, 1090, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, Vienna, 1090, Austria
| | - Katharina Sinn
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, Vienna, 1090, Austria
| | - Berta Mosleh
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, Vienna, 1090, Austria
| | - Mir Alireza Hoda
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, Vienna, 1090, Austria
| | - Balazs Dome
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, Vienna, 1090, Austria
- National Korányi Institute of Pulmonology, Korányi Frigyes u. 1, Budapest, 1122, Hungary
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Institute of Oncology, Semmelweis University, Rath Gyorgy u. 7-9, Budapest, 1122, Hungary
| | - Helmut Dolznig
- Institute of Medical Genetics, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Straße 10, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Georg Krupitza
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Leonhard Müllauer
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Christopher Gerner
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, University of Vienna, Waehringer Straße 38, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Walter Berger
- Center for Cancer Research and Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Borschkegasse 8a, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Michael Grusch
- Center for Cancer Research and Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Borschkegasse 8a, 1090, Vienna, Austria.
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Are Antisense Long Non-Coding RNA Related to COVID-19? Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10112770. [PMID: 36359290 PMCID: PMC9687826 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10112770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Fighting external pathogens relies on the tight regulation of the gene expression of the immune system. Ferroptosis, which is a distinct form of programmed cell death driven by iron, is involved in the enhancement of follicular helper T cell function during infection. The regulation of RNA is a key step in final gene expression. The present study aimed to identify the expression level of antisense lncRNAs (A2M-AS1, DBH-AS1, FLVCR1-DT, and NCBP2AS2-1) and FLVCR1 in COVID-19 patients and its relation to the severity of the disease. COVID-19 patients as well as age and gender-matched healthy controls were enrolled in this study. The expression level of the antisense lncRNAs was measured by RT-PCR. Results revealed the decreased expression of A2M-AS1 and FLVCR1 in COVID-19 patients. Additionally, they showed the increased expression of DBH-AS1, FLVCR1-DT, and NCBP2AS2. Both FLVCR1-DT and NCBP2AS2 showed a positive correlation with interleukin-6 (IL-6). DBH-AS1 and FLVCR1-DT had a significant association with mortality, complications, and mechanical ventilation. A significant negative correlation was found between A2M-AS1 and NCBP2AS2-1 and between FLVCR1 and FLVCR1-DT. The study confirmed that the expression level of the antisense lncRNAs was deregulated in COVID-19 patients and correlated with the severity of COVID-19, and that it may have possible roles in the pathogenesis of this disease.
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Yuan H, Chen B, Chai R, Gong W, Wan Z, Zheng B, Hu X, Guo Y, Gao S, Dai Q, Yu P, Tu S. Loss of exosomal micro-RNA-200b-3p from hypoxia cancer-associated fibroblasts reduces sensitivity to 5-flourouracil in colorectal cancer through targeting high-mobility group box 3. Front Oncol 2022; 12:920131. [PMID: 36276139 PMCID: PMC9581251 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.920131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypoxia-mediated tumor progression is a major problem in colorectal cancer (CRC). MicroRNA (miR)-200b-3p can attenuate tumorigenesis in CRC, while exosomal miRNAs derived from cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) can promote cancer progression. Nevertheless, the function of exosomal miR-200b-3p derived from CAFs in CRC remains unclear. In this study, CAFs and normal fibroblasts (NFs) were isolated from CRC and adjacent normal tissues. Next, exosomes were isolated from the supernatants of CAFs cultured under normoxia and hypoxia. Cell viability was tested using the cell counting kit-8 assay, and flow cytometry was used to assess cell apoptosis. Cell invasion and migration were evaluated using the transwell assay. Dual-luciferase was used to investigate the relationship between miR-200b-3p and high-mobility group box 3 (HMBG3). Reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) was performed to determine the miR-200b-3p and HMBG3 level. Our results found that the miR-200b-3p level was sharply reduced in CRC tissues compared to adjacent normal tissues. Additionally, the miR-200b-3p level was reduced in exosomes derived from hypoxic CAFs compared to exosomes derived from CAFs under normoxia. Exosomes derived from hypoxic CAFs weakened the sensitivity of CRC cells to 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) compared to hypoxic CAFs-derived exosomes. However, hypoxic CAFs-derived exosomes with upregulated miR-200b-3p increased the sensitivity of CRC cells to 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) compared to hypoxic CAFs-derived exosomes. In addition, HMBG3 was identified as the downstream target of miR-200b-3p in CRC cells, and its overexpression partially reversed the anti-tumor effect of the miR-200b-3p agomir on CRC via the mediation of the β-catenin/c-Myc axis. Furthermore, compared to exosomes derived from normoxia CAFs, exosomes derived from hypoxic CAFs weakened the therapeutic effects of 5-FU on CRC in vivo via the upregulation of HMGB3 levels. Collectively, the loss of exosomal miR-200b-3p in hypoxia CAFs reduced the sensitivity to 5-FU in CRC by targeting HMGB3. Thus, our research outlines a novel method for the treatment of CRC.
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Rimal R, Desai P, Daware R, Hosseinnejad A, Prakash J, Lammers T, Singh S. Cancer-associated fibroblasts: Origin, function, imaging, and therapeutic targeting. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2022; 189:114504. [PMID: 35998825 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2022.114504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 07/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) is emerging as one of the primary barriers in cancer therapy. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) are a common inhabitant of the TME in several tumor types and play a critical role in tumor progression and drug resistance via different mechanisms such as desmoplasia, angiogenesis, immune modulation, and cancer metabolism. Due to their abundance and significance in pro-tumorigenic mechanisms, CAF are gaining attention as a diagnostic target as well as to improve the efficacy of cancer therapy by their modulation. In this review, we highlight existing imaging techniques that are used for the visualization of CAF and CAF-induced fibrosis and provide an overview of compounds that are known to modulate CAF activity. Subsequently, we also discuss CAF-targeted and CAF-modulating nanocarriers. Finally, our review addresses ongoing challenges and provides a glimpse into the prospects that can spearhead the transition of CAF-targeted therapies from opportunity to reality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahul Rimal
- Max Planck Institute for Medical Research (MPImF), Jahnstrasse 29, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Prachi Desai
- DWI-Leibniz Institute for Interactive Materials, RWTH Aachen University, Forkenbeckstrasse 50, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Rasika Daware
- Department of Nanomedicine and Theranostics, Institute for Experimental Molecular Imaging, Faculty of Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Aisa Hosseinnejad
- DWI-Leibniz Institute for Interactive Materials, RWTH Aachen University, Forkenbeckstrasse 50, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Jai Prakash
- Department of Advanced Organ Bioengineering and Therapeutics, Section: Engineered Therapeutics, Technical Medical Centre, University of Twente, 7500AE Enschede, the Netherlands.
| | - Twan Lammers
- Department of Nanomedicine and Theranostics, Institute for Experimental Molecular Imaging, Faculty of Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany.
| | - Smriti Singh
- Max Planck Institute for Medical Research (MPImF), Jahnstrasse 29, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany.
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Kugeratski FG, Santi A, Zanivan S. Extracellular vesicles as central regulators of blood vessel function in cancer. Sci Signal 2022; 15:eaaz4742. [PMID: 36166511 DOI: 10.1126/scisignal.aaz4742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Blood vessels deliver oxygen and nutrients that sustain tumor growth and enable the dissemination of cancer cells to distant sites and the recruitment of intratumoral immune cells. In addition, the structural and functional abnormalities of the tumor vasculature foster the development of an aggressive tumor microenvironment and impair the efficacy of existing cancer therapies. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have emerged as major players of tumor progression, and a growing body of evidence has demonstrated that EVs derived from cancer cells trigger multiple responses in endothelial cells that alter blood vessel function in tumors. EV-mediated signaling in endothelial cells can occur through the transfer of functional cargos such as miRNAs, lncRNAs, cirRNAs, and proteins. Moreover, membrane-bound proteins in EVs can elicit receptor-mediated signaling in endothelial cells. Together, these mechanisms reprogram endothelial cells and contribute to the sustained exacerbated angiogenic signaling typical of tumors, which, in turn, influences cancer progression. Targeting these angiogenesis-promoting EV-dependent mechanisms may offer additional strategies to normalize tumor vasculature. Here, we discuss the current knowledge pertaining to the contribution of cancer cell-derived EVs in mechanisms regulating blood vessel functions in tumors. Moreover, we discuss the translational opportunities in targeting the dysfunctional tumor vasculature using EVs and highlight the open questions in the field of EV biology that can be addressed using mass spectrometry-based proteomics analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda G Kugeratski
- Department of Immunology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77054, USA
| | - Alice Santi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, Università degli Studi di Firenze, 50134 Firenze, Italy
| | - Sara Zanivan
- CRUK Beatson Institute, Switchback Road, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Switchback Road, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
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Park SG, Ji MJ, Ham IH, Shin YH, Lee SM, Lee CH, Kim E, Hur H, Park HM, Kim JY. Secretome analysis reveals reduced expression of COL4A2 in hypoxic cancer-associated fibroblasts with a tumor-promoting function in gastric cancer. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2022:10.1007/s00432-022-04361-y. [PMID: 36125535 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-022-04361-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are major components of the tumor microenvironment (TME). Hypoxic TME is known to promote tumor progression. However, how a hypoxic condition regulates CAFs remains elusive. METHODS To investigate the underlying mechanism involved in the regulation of gastric cancer (GC) progression by hypoxic CAFs, we performed secretome profiling. Normoxic or hypoxic CAFs conditioned media (CM) were filter-concentrated and in-gel trypsin digested. Resulting peptides were analyzed with LC-MS/MS. RESULTS We observed that CM derived from hypoxic CAFs could promote migration of a panel of GC cell lines (AGS, SNU668, SNU638). Mass spectrometry analysis of hypoxic or normoxic CAFs CM identified 1595 proteins, of which 19 proteins (10 upregulated and 9 downregulated) were differentially expressed in the hypoxic secretome. We focused on COL4A2, whose expression was significantly decreased in hypoxic CAFs in HIF-1α-independent manner. Silencing of COL4A2 expression in normoxic CAFs phenocopied the effect of hypoxic CAFs in promoting GC cell migration. CONCLUSIONS The reduced expression of COL4A2 in a hypoxic environment might be associated with the tumor-promoting role of hypoxic CAFs in GC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seo-Gyu Park
- Graduate School of Analytical Science and Technology (GRAST), Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Mi-Jung Ji
- Advanced Analysis and Data Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, 02456, Republic of Korea
| | - In-Hye Ham
- Department of Surgery, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, 16499, Republic of Korea.,Inflammaging Translational Research Cancer, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, 16499, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoon-Hee Shin
- Graduate School of Analytical Science and Technology (GRAST), Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Su-Min Lee
- Graduate School of Analytical Science and Technology (GRAST), Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Chang Hoon Lee
- Therapeutics and Biotechnology Division, Drug Discovery Platform Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Daejeon, 34114, Republic of Korea.,R and D center, SCBIO Co. Ltd, Daejeon, 34050, Republic of Korea
| | - Eunjung Kim
- Natural Product Informatics Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Gangneung, 25451, Republic of Korea
| | - Hoon Hur
- Department of Surgery, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, 16499, Republic of Korea.,Inflammaging Translational Research Cancer, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, 16499, Republic of Korea.,Department of Biomedical Science, Graduated School of Ajou University, Suwon, 16499, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun-Mee Park
- Advanced Analysis and Data Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, 02456, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Young Kim
- Graduate School of Analytical Science and Technology (GRAST), Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea.
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Chan Wah Hak CML, Rullan A, Patin EC, Pedersen M, Melcher AA, Harrington KJ. Enhancing anti-tumour innate immunity by targeting the DNA damage response and pattern recognition receptors in combination with radiotherapy. Front Oncol 2022; 12:971959. [PMID: 36106115 PMCID: PMC9465159 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.971959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Radiotherapy is one of the most effective and frequently used treatments for a wide range of cancers. In addition to its direct anti-cancer cytotoxic effects, ionising radiation can augment the anti-tumour immune response by triggering pro-inflammatory signals, DNA damage-induced immunogenic cell death and innate immune activation. Anti-tumour innate immunity can result from recruitment and stimulation of dendritic cells (DCs) which leads to tumour-specific adaptive T-cell priming and immunostimulatory cell infiltration. Conversely, radiotherapy can also induce immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory mediators that can confer radioresistance. Targeting the DNA damage response (DDR) concomitantly with radiotherapy is an attractive strategy for overcoming radioresistance, both by enhancing the radiosensitivity of tumour relative to normal tissues, and tipping the scales in favour of an immunostimulatory tumour microenvironment. This two-pronged approach exploits genomic instability to circumvent immune evasion, targeting both hallmarks of cancer. In this review, we describe targetable DDR proteins (PARP (poly[ADP-ribose] polymerase); ATM/ATR (ataxia-telangiectasia mutated and Rad3-related), DNA-PKcs (DNA-dependent protein kinase, catalytic subunit) and Wee1 (Wee1-like protein kinase) and their potential intersections with druggable immunomodulatory signalling pathways, including nucleic acid-sensing mechanisms (Toll-like receptors (TLR); cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon genes (STING) and retinoic acid-inducible gene-I (RIG-I)-like receptors), and how these might be exploited to enhance radiation therapy. We summarise current preclinical advances, recent and ongoing clinical trials and the challenges of therapeutic combinations with existing treatments such as immune checkpoint inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Antonio Rullan
- Targeted Therapy Team, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, United Kingdom
| | - Emmanuel C. Patin
- Targeted Therapy Team, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, United Kingdom
| | - Malin Pedersen
- Targeted Therapy Team, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, United Kingdom
| | - Alan A. Melcher
- Translational Immunotherapy Team, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, United Kingdom
| | - Kevin J. Harrington
- Targeted Therapy Team, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, United Kingdom
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Integrated Analysis of Tumor Mutation Burden and Immune Infiltrates in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12081918. [PMID: 36010268 PMCID: PMC9406847 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12081918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumor mutation burdens (TMBs) act as an indicator of immunotherapeutic responsiveness in various tumors. However, the relationship between TMBs and immune cell infiltrates in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is still obscure. The present study aimed to explore the potential diagnostic markers of TMBs for HCC and analyze the role of immune cell infiltration in this pathology. We used OA datasets from The Cancer Genome Atlas database. First, the “maftools” package was used to screen the highest mutation frequency in all samples. R software was used to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) according to mutation frequency and perform functional correlation analysis. Then, the gene ontology (GO) enrichment analysis was performed with “clusterProfiler”, “enrichplot”, and “ggplot2” packages. Finally, the correlations between diagnostic markers and infiltrating immune cells were analyzed, and CIBERSORT was used to evaluate the infiltration of immune cells in HCC tissues. As a result, we identified a total of 359 DEGs in this study. These DEGs may affect HCC prognosis by regulating fatty acid metabolism, hypoxia, and the P53 pathway. The top 15 genes were selected as the hub genes through PPI network analysis. SRSF1, SNRPA1, and SRSF3 showed strong similarities in biological effects, NCBP2 was demonstrated as a diagnostic marker of HCC, and high NCBP2 expression was significantly correlated with poor over survival (OS) in HCC. In addition, NCBP2 expression was correlated with the infiltration of B cells (r = 0.364, p = 3.30 × 10−12), CD8+ T cells (r = 0.295, p = 2.71 × 10−8), CD4+ T cells, (r = 0.484, p = 1.37 × 10−21), macrophages (r = 0.551, p = 1.97 × 10−28), neutrophils (r = 0.457, p = 3.26 × 10−19), and dendritic cells (r = 0.453, p = 1.97 × 10−18). Immune cell infiltration analysis revealed that the degree of central memory T-cell (Tcm) infiltration may be correlated with the HCC process. In conclusion, NCBP2 can be used as diagnostic markers of HCC, and immune cell infiltration plays an important role in the occurrence and progression of HCC.
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Kim I, Choi S, Yoo S, Lee M, Kim IS. Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts in the Hypoxic Tumor Microenvironment. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14143321. [PMID: 35884382 PMCID: PMC9320406 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14143321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Cancers have regions of low oxygen concentration where hypoxia-related signaling pathways are activated. The hypoxic tumor microenvironment has been widely accepted as a hallmark of cancer and shown to be a critical factor in the crosstalk between cancer and stromal cells. Fibroblasts are one of the most abundant cellular components in the tumor stroma and are also significantly affected by oxygen deprivation. In this case, we discuss the molecular and cellular mechanisms that regulate fibroblasts under hypoxic conditions and their effect on cancer development and progression. Unraveling these regulatory mechanisms could be exploited in developing potential fibroblast-specific therapeutics for cancer. Abstract Solid cancers are composed of malignant cells and their surrounding matrix components. Hypoxia plays a critical role in shaping the tumor microenvironment that contributes to cancer progression and treatment failure. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are one of the most prominent components of the tumor microenvironment. CAFs are highly sensitive to hypoxia and participates in the crosstalk with cancer cells. Hypoxic CAFs modulate several mechanisms that induce cancer malignancy, such as extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling, immune evasion, metabolic reprogramming, angiogenesis, metastasis, and drug resistance. Key signaling molecules regulating CAFs in hypoxia include transforming growth factor (TGF-β) and hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs). In this article, we summarize the mechanisms underlying the hypoxic regulation of CAFs and how hypoxic CAFs affect cancer development and progression. We also discuss the potential therapeutic strategies focused on targeting CAFs in the hypoxic tumor microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iljin Kim
- Department of Pharmacology and Research Center for Controlling Intercellular Communication, Inha University College of Medicine, Incheon 22212, Korea; (S.C.); (S.Y.)
- Correspondence: (I.K.); (I.-S.K.)
| | - Sanga Choi
- Department of Pharmacology and Research Center for Controlling Intercellular Communication, Inha University College of Medicine, Incheon 22212, Korea; (S.C.); (S.Y.)
| | - Seongkyeong Yoo
- Department of Pharmacology and Research Center for Controlling Intercellular Communication, Inha University College of Medicine, Incheon 22212, Korea; (S.C.); (S.Y.)
| | - Mingyu Lee
- Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA;
| | - In-San Kim
- KU-KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Korea
- Medicinal Materials Research Center, Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Korea
- Correspondence: (I.K.); (I.-S.K.)
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Hu J, Li X, Yang L, Li H. Hypoxia, a key factor in the immune microenvironment. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 151:113068. [PMID: 35676780 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The physical and chemical pressures in the tumor microenvironment (TME) play an important role in tumor development by regulating stromal elements, including immune cells. Hypoxia can induce a cascade of events in tumor initiation and development via immune regulation. As a dangerous factor, hypoxia activates multiple signaling pathways to reshape the immune microenvironment, leading to immunosuppression. Consequently, targeting hypoxia in the TME is a potential strategy to prevent immune escape and inhibit malignant tumor progression. In this review, we summarized the role of hypoxia-induced factors in the tumor immune escape process and provide a novel pathway to restrain tumor progression and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingyao Hu
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang 110032, China.
| | - Xinyu Li
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang 110032, China.
| | - Liang Yang
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang 110032, China.
| | - Hangyu Li
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang 110032, China.
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Georgatzakou HT, Fortis SP, Papageorgiou EG, Antonelou MH, Kriebardis AG. Blood Cell-Derived Microvesicles in Hematological Diseases and beyond. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12060803. [PMID: 35740926 PMCID: PMC9220817 DOI: 10.3390/biom12060803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Microvesicles or ectosomes represent a major type of extracellular vesicles that are formed by outward budding of the plasma membrane. Typically, they are bigger than exosomes but smaller than apoptotic vesicles, although they may overlap with both in size and content. Their release by cells is a means to dispose redundant, damaged, or dangerous material; to repair membrane lesions; and, primarily, to mediate intercellular communication. By participating in these vital activities, microvesicles may impact a wide array of cell processes and, consequently, changes in their concentration or components have been associated with several pathologies. Of note, microvesicles released by leukocytes, red blood cells, and platelets, which constitute the vast majority of plasma microvesicles, change under a plethora of diseases affecting not only the hematological, but also the nervous, cardiovascular, and urinary systems, among others. In fact, there is evidence that microvesicles released by blood cells are significant contributors towards pathophysiological states, having inflammatory and/or coagulation and/or immunomodulatory arms, by either promoting or inhibiting the relative disease phenotypes. Consequently, even though microvesicles are typically considered to have adverse links with disease prognosis, progression, or outcomes, not infrequently, they exert protective roles in the affected cells. Based on these functional relations, microvesicles might represent promising disease biomarkers with diagnostic, monitoring, and therapeutic applications, equally to the more thoroughly studied exosomes. In the current review, we provide a summary of the features of microvesicles released by blood cells and their potential implication in hematological and non-hematological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hara T. Georgatzakou
- Laboratory of Reliability and Quality Control in Laboratory Hematology (HemQcR), Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Health & Caring Sciences, University of West Attica (UniWA), 12243 Egaleo, Greece; (H.T.G.); (S.P.F.); (E.G.P.)
| | - Sotirios P. Fortis
- Laboratory of Reliability and Quality Control in Laboratory Hematology (HemQcR), Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Health & Caring Sciences, University of West Attica (UniWA), 12243 Egaleo, Greece; (H.T.G.); (S.P.F.); (E.G.P.)
| | - Effie G. Papageorgiou
- Laboratory of Reliability and Quality Control in Laboratory Hematology (HemQcR), Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Health & Caring Sciences, University of West Attica (UniWA), 12243 Egaleo, Greece; (H.T.G.); (S.P.F.); (E.G.P.)
| | - Marianna H. Antonelou
- Department of Biology, Section of Cell Biology and Biophysics, National & Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA), 15784 Athens, Greece
- Correspondence: (M.H.A.); (A.G.K.); Tel.: +30-210-727-4873 (M.H.A.); +30-210-538-5813 (A.G.K.)
| | - Anastasios G. Kriebardis
- Laboratory of Reliability and Quality Control in Laboratory Hematology (HemQcR), Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Health & Caring Sciences, University of West Attica (UniWA), 12243 Egaleo, Greece; (H.T.G.); (S.P.F.); (E.G.P.)
- Correspondence: (M.H.A.); (A.G.K.); Tel.: +30-210-727-4873 (M.H.A.); +30-210-538-5813 (A.G.K.)
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Feng B, Wu J, Shen B, Jiang F, Feng J. Cancer-associated fibroblasts and resistance to anticancer therapies: status, mechanisms, and countermeasures. Cancer Cell Int 2022; 22:166. [PMID: 35488263 PMCID: PMC9052457 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-022-02599-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are critical components of the tumor microenvironment (TME) with diverse functions such as extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling, modulation of metabolism and angiogenesis, and crosstalk with both cancer cells and infiltrating immune cells by production of growth factors, cytokines, and chemokines. Within the TME milieu, CAFs exhibit morphological and functional transitions with relatively specific markers and hold tremendous potential to facilitate tumorigenesis, development, and resistance towards multiple therapeutic strategies including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapy, anti-angiogenesis therapy, immunotherapy, and endocrine therapy. Accordingly, CAFs themselves and the downstream effectors and/or signaling pathways are potential targets for optimizing the sensitivity of anti-cancer therapies. This review aims to provide a detailed landscape of the role that CAFs play in conferring therapeutic resistance in different cancers and the underlying mechanisms. The translational and therapeutic perspectives of CAFs in the individualized treatment of malignant tumors are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing Feng
- Jiangsu Cancer Hospital & Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research & The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 42 Baiziting, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Jianzhong Wu
- Jiangsu Cancer Hospital & Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research & The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 42 Baiziting, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Bo Shen
- Jiangsu Cancer Hospital & Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research & The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 42 Baiziting, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Feng Jiang
- Jiangsu Cancer Hospital & Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research & The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 42 Baiziting, Nanjing, 210009, China.
| | - Jifeng Feng
- Jiangsu Cancer Hospital & Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research & The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 42 Baiziting, Nanjing, 210009, China.
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Tian L, Long F, Hao Y, Li B, Li Y, Tang Y, Li J, Zhao Q, Chen J, Liu M. A Cancer Associated Fibroblasts-Related Six-Gene Panel for Anti-PD-1 Therapy in Melanoma Driven by Weighted Correlation Network Analysis and Supervised Machine Learning. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:880326. [PMID: 35479936 PMCID: PMC9035939 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.880326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Melanoma is a highly aggressive skin cancer with a poor prognosis and mortality. Immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapy (e.g., anti-PD-1 therapy) has opened a new horizon in melanoma treatment, but some patients present a non-responsive state. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) make up the majority of stromal cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME) and have an important impact on the response to immunotherapy. There is still a lack of identification of CAFs-related predictors for anti-PD-1 therapy, although the establishment of immunotherapy biomarkers is well underway. This study aims to explore the potential CAFs-related gene panel for predicting the response to anti-PD-1 therapy in melanoma patients and elucidating their potential effect on TME. Methods Three gene expression datasets from melanoma patients without anti-PD-1 treatment, in a total of 87 samples, were downloaded from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) as the discovery sets (GSE91061) and validation sets (GSE78220 and GSE122220). The CAFs-related module genes were identified from the discovery sets by weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA). Concurrently, we utilized differential gene analysis on the discovery set to obtain differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Then, CAFs-related key genes were screened with the intersection of CAFs-related module genes and DEGs, succeeded by supervised machine learning-based identification. As a consequence of expression analysis, gene set enrichment analysis, survival analysis, staging analysis, TME analysis, and correlation analysis, the multidimensional systematic characterizations of the key genes were uncovered. The diagnostic performance of the CAFs-related gene panel was assessed by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves in the validation sets. Eventually, the CAFs-related gene panel was verified by the expression from the single-cell analysis. Results The six-gene panel associated with CAFs were finally identified for predicting the response to anti-PD-1 therapy, including CDK14, SYNPO2, TCF4, GJA1, CPXM1, and TFPI. The multigene panel demonstrated excellent combined diagnostic performance with the area under the curve of ROC reaching 90.5 and 75.4% ~100% in the discovery and validation sets, respectively. Conclusion Confirmed by clinical treatment outcomes, the identified CAFs-related genes can be used as a promising biomarker panel for prediction to anti-PD-1 therapy response, which may serve as new immunotherapeutic targets to improve survival outcomes of melanoma patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luyao Tian
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnostics, College of Laboratory Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Fei Long
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnostics, College of Laboratory Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Youjin Hao
- Cell Biology and Bioinformatics, College of Life Sciences, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, China
| | - Bo Li
- Cell Biology and Bioinformatics, College of Life Sciences, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yinghong Li
- Key Laboratory on Big Data for Bio Intelligence, Chongqing University of Posts and Telecommunications, Chongqing, China
| | - Ying Tang
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnostics, College of Laboratory Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jing Li
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnostics, College of Laboratory Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Qi Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnostics, College of Laboratory Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Juan Chen
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnostics, College of Laboratory Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- *Correspondence: Juan Chen
| | - Mingwei Liu
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnostics, College of Laboratory Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Mingwei Liu
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Ding X, Liu H, Yuan Y, Zhong Q, Zhong X. Roles of GFPT2 Expression Levels on the Prognosis and Tumor Microenvironment of Colon Cancer. Front Oncol 2022; 12:811559. [PMID: 35330716 PMCID: PMC8940194 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.811559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Recently, increasing evidence has suggested that Glutamine-fructose-6-phosphate transaminase 2 (GFPT2) is related to carcinogenesis. However, the potential roles of GFPT2 in colon cancer still need to be fully investigated. Methods We examined the protein levels of GFPT2 by immunohistochemistry (IHC) in tissues collected from 83 patients with colon cancer. We further detected GFBPT2 protein levels by Western Blot assay. We checked the relationship between GFPT2 expression levels and overall survival (OS), stromal and immune scores and immune components from The Cancer Gene Atlas (TCGA) database. GFBP2-related pathways were validated in the Cancer Cell Line Encyclopedia (CCLE) database. Expression of GFPT2 in single cell subpopulations was calculated from The Tumor Immune Single Cell Center (TISCH). The levels of GFPT2 and drug sensitivity data were performed from CellMiner dataset. Results GFPT2 was highly expressed and correlated with poor pathological features in 83 colon cancer patients. Moreover, increased GFPT2 expression was significantly associated with poorer OS in 329 colon adenocarcinoma (COAD) patients. Gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis showed the differentially expressed genes of GFPT2 were mostly enriched in focal adhesion, ECM receptor interaction, JAK/STAT signaling pathway and immune related pathways. In addition, GFPT2 expression was correlated with the tumor microenvironment (TME). GFPT2 expression was linked to cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs)-associated factors and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related factors. GFPT2 was positively correlated with immunosuppressive cells and regulated immunosuppressive factors and T-cell exhaustion. Finally, our data suggested that the expression of GFPT2 may be a judgment of the sensitivity of a certain class of drugs. Conclusions Our work reveals the roles of GFPT2 in tumorigenesis, particularly in immune response, TME and drug resistance, which are crucial for the development of customized cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaorong Ding
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Huaian No.1 People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Huai'an, China
| | - Hua Liu
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Huaian No.1 People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Huai'an, China
| | - Ying Yuan
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Huaian No.1 People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Huai'an, China
| | - Qin Zhong
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Huaian No.1 People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Huai'an, China
| | - Xiaomin Zhong
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Huaian No.1 People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Huai'an, China
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Bête Noire of Chemotherapy and Targeted Therapy: CAF-Mediated Resistance. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14061519. [PMID: 35326670 PMCID: PMC8946545 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14061519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Revised: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Tumor cells struggle to survive following treatment. The struggle ends in either of two ways. The drug combination used for the treatment blocks the proliferation of tumor cells and initiates apoptosis of cells, which is a win for the patient, or tumor cells resist the effect of the drug combination used for the treatment and continue to evade the effect of anti-tumor drugs, which is a bête noire of therapy. Cancer-associated fibroblasts are the most abundant non-transformed element of the microenvironment in solid tumors. Tumor cells play a direct role in establishing the cancer-associated fibroblasts’ population in its microenvironment. Since cancer-associated fibroblasts are activated by tumor cells, cancer-associated fibroblasts show unconditional servitude to tumor cells in their effort to resist treatment. Thus, cancer-associated fibroblasts, as the critical or indispensable component of resistance to the treatment, are one of the most logical targets within tumors that eventually progress despite therapy. We evaluate the participatory role of cancer-associated fibroblasts in the development of drug resistance in solid tumors. In the future, we will establish the specific mode of action of cancer-associated fibroblasts in solid tumors, paving the way for cancer-associated-fibroblast-inclusive personalized therapy. Abstract In tumor cells’ struggle for survival following therapy, they resist treatment. Resistance to therapy is the outcome of well-planned, highly efficient adaptive strategies initiated and utilized by these transformed tumor cells. Cancer cells undergo several reprogramming events towards adapting this opportunistic behavior, leading them to gain specific survival advantages. The strategy involves changes within the transformed tumors cells as well as in their neighboring non-transformed extra-tumoral support system, the tumor microenvironment (TME). Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts (CAFs) are one of the components of the TME that is used by tumor cells to achieve resistance to therapy. CAFs are diverse in origin and are the most abundant non-transformed element of the microenvironment in solid tumors. Cells of an established tumor initially play a direct role in the establishment of the CAF population for its own microenvironment. Like their origin, CAFs are also diverse in their functions in catering to the pro-tumor microenvironment. Once instituted, CAFs interact in unison with both tumor cells and all other components of the TME towards the progression of the disease and the worst outcome. One of the many functions of CAFs in influencing the outcome of the disease is their participation in the development of resistance to treatment. CAFs resist therapy in solid tumors. A tumor–CAF relationship is initiated by tumor cells to exploit host stroma in favor of tumor progression. CAFs in concert with tumor cells and other components of the TME are abettors of resistance to treatment. Thus, this liaison between CAFs and tumor cells is a bête noire of therapy. Here, we portray a comprehensive picture of the modes and functions of CAFs in conjunction with their role in orchestrating the development of resistance to different chemotherapies and targeted therapies in solid tumors. We investigate the various functions of CAFs in various solid tumors in light of their dialogue with tumor cells and the two components of the TME, the immune component, and the vascular component. Acknowledgment of the irrefutable role of CAFs in the development of treatment resistance will impact our future strategies and ability to design improved therapies inclusive of CAFs. Finally, we discuss the future implications of this understanding from a therapeutic standpoint and in light of currently ongoing and completed CAF-based NIH clinical trials.
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Ayoub NM, Jaradat SK, Al-Shami KM, Alkhalifa AE. Targeting Angiogenesis in Breast Cancer: Current Evidence and Future Perspectives of Novel Anti-Angiogenic Approaches. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:838133. [PMID: 35281942 PMCID: PMC8913593 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.838133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Angiogenesis is a vital process for the growth and dissemination of solid cancers. Numerous molecular pathways are known to drive angiogenic switch in cancer cells promoting the growth of new blood vessels and increased incidence of distant metastasis. Several angiogenesis inhibitors are clinically available for the treatment of different types of advanced solid cancers. These inhibitors mostly belong to monoclonal antibodies or small-molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitors targeting the classical vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and its receptors. Nevertheless, breast cancer is one example of solid tumors that had constantly failed to respond to angiogenesis inhibitors in terms of improved survival outcomes of patients. Accordingly, it is of paramount importance to assess the molecular mechanisms driving angiogenic signaling in breast cancer to explore suitable drug targets that can be further investigated in preclinical and clinical settings. This review summarizes the current evidence for the effect of clinically available anti-angiogenic drugs in breast cancer treatment. Further, major mechanisms associated with intrinsic or acquired resistance to anti-VEGF therapy are discussed. The review also describes evidence from preclinical and clinical studies on targeting novel non-VEGF angiogenic pathways in breast cancer and several approaches to the normalization of tumor vasculature by targeting pericytes, utilization of microRNAs and extracellular tumor-associate vesicles, using immunotherapeutic drugs, and nanotechnology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nehad M. Ayoub
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology (JUST), Irbid, Jordan
- *Correspondence: Nehad M. Ayoub,
| | - Sara K. Jaradat
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology (JUST), Irbid, Jordan
| | - Kamal M. Al-Shami
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Harrison School of Pharmacy, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, United States
| | - Amer E. Alkhalifa
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology (JUST), Irbid, Jordan
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Thiery J. Modulation of the antitumor immune response by cancer-associated fibroblasts: mechanisms and targeting strategies to hamper their immunosuppressive functions. EXPLORATION OF TARGETED ANTI-TUMOR THERAPY 2022; 3:598-629. [PMID: 36338519 PMCID: PMC9630350 DOI: 10.37349/etat.2022.00103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are highly heterogeneous players that shape the tumor microenvironment and influence tumor progression, metastasis formation, and response to conventional therapies. During the past years, some CAFs subsets have also been involved in the modulation of immune cell functions, affecting the efficacy of both innate and adaptive anti-tumor immune responses. Consequently, the implication of these stromal cells in the response to immunotherapeutic strategies raised major concerns. In this review, current knowledge of CAFs origins and heterogeneity in the tumor stroma, as well as their effects on several immune cell populations that explain their immunosuppressive capabilities are summarized. The current development of therapeutic strategies for targeting this population and their implication in the field of cancer immunotherapy is also highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerome Thiery
- INSERM, UMR 1186, 94800 Villejuif, France,Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, 94805 Villejuif, France,University Paris Saclay, Faculty of Medicine, 94270 Le Kremlin Bicêtre, France,Correspondence: Jerome Thiery, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, 114 rue Edouard Vaillant, 94805 Villejuif, France.
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Li C, Teixeira AF, Zhu HJ, Ten Dijke P. Cancer associated-fibroblast-derived exosomes in cancer progression. Mol Cancer 2021; 20:154. [PMID: 34852849 PMCID: PMC8638446 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-021-01463-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
To identify novel cancer therapies, the tumor microenvironment (TME) has received a lot of attention in recent years in particular with the advent of clinical successes achieved by targeting immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). The TME consists of multiple cell types that are embedded in the extracellular matrix (ECM), including immune cells, endothelial cells and cancer associated fibroblasts (CAFs), which communicate with cancer cells and each other during tumor progression. CAFs are a dominant and heterogeneous cell type within the TME with a pivotal role in controlling cancer cell invasion and metastasis, immune evasion, angiogenesis and chemotherapy resistance. CAFs mediate their effects in part by remodeling the ECM and by secreting soluble factors and extracellular vesicles. Exosomes are a subtype of extracellular vesicles (EVs), which contain various biomolecules such as nucleic acids, lipids, and proteins. The biomolecules in exosomes can be transmitted from one to another cell, and thereby affect the behavior of the receiving cell. As exosomes are also present in circulation, their contents can also be explored as biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of cancer patients. In this review, we concentrate on the role of CAFs-derived exosomes in the communication between CAFs and cancer cells and other cells of the TME. First, we introduce the multiple roles of CAFs in tumorigenesis. Thereafter, we discuss the ways CAFs communicate with cancer cells and interplay with other cells of the TME, and focus in particular on the role of exosomes. Then, we elaborate on the mechanisms by which CAFs-derived exosomes contribute to cancer progression, as well as and the clinical impact of exosomes. We conclude by discussing aspects of exosomes that deserve further investigation, including emerging insights into making treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitor blockade more efficient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Li
- Oncode Institute and Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Adilson Fonseca Teixeira
- Department of Surgery, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Hong-Jian Zhu
- Department of Surgery, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Peter Ten Dijke
- Oncode Institute and Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands.
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Duan S, Wang S, Huang T, Wang J, Yuan X. circRNAs: Insight Into Their Role in Tumor-Associated Macrophages. Front Oncol 2021; 11:780744. [PMID: 34926295 PMCID: PMC8671731 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.780744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Currently, it is well known that the tumor microenvironment not only provides energy support for tumor growth but also regulates tumor signaling pathways and promotes the proliferation, invasion, metastasis, and drug resistance of tumor cells. The tumor microenvironment, especially the function and mechanism of tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), has attracted great attention. TAMs are the most common immune cells in the tumor microenvironment and play a vital role in the occurrence and development of tumors. circular RNA (circRNA) is a unique, widespread, and stable form of non-coding RNA (ncRNA), but little is known about the role of circRNAs in TAMs or how TAMs affect circRNAs. In this review, we summarize the specific manifestations of circRNAs that affect the tumor-associated macrophages and play a significant role in tumor progression. This review helps improve our understanding of the association between circRNAs and TAMs, thereby promoting the development and progress of potential clinical targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saili Duan
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha City, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Shan Wang
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha City, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Tao Huang
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha City, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Junpu Wang
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha City, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- *Correspondence: Junpu Wang, ; Xiaoqing Yuan,
| | - Xiaoqing Yuan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Breast Tumor Center, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Junpu Wang, ; Xiaoqing Yuan,
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47
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Molecular Mechanisms and Cellular Contribution from Lung Fibrosis to Lung Cancer Development. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222212179. [PMID: 34830058 PMCID: PMC8624248 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222212179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic, progressive, fibrosing interstitial lung disease (ILD) of unknown aetiology, with a median survival of 2–4 years from the time of diagnosis. Although IPF has unknown aetiology by definition, there have been identified several risks factors increasing the probability of the onset and progression of the disease in IPF patients such as cigarette smoking and environmental risk factors associated with domestic and occupational exposure. Among them, cigarette smoking together with concomitant emphysema might predispose IPF patients to lung cancer (LC), mostly to non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), increasing the risk of lung cancer development. To this purpose, IPF and LC share several cellular and molecular processes driving the progression of both pathologies such as fibroblast transition proliferation and activation, endoplasmic reticulum stress, oxidative stress, and many genetic and epigenetic markers that predispose IPF patients to LC development. Nintedanib, a tyrosine–kinase inhibitor, was firstly developed as an anticancer drug and then recognized as an anti-fibrotic agent based on the common target molecular pathway. In this review our aim is to describe the updated studies on common cellular and molecular mechanisms between IPF and lung cancer, knowledge of which might help to find novel therapeutic targets for this disease combination.
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Elwakeel E, Weigert A. Breast Cancer CAFs: Spectrum of Phenotypes and Promising Targeting Avenues. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:11636. [PMID: 34769066 PMCID: PMC8583860 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Activationof the tumor-associated stroma to support tumor growth is a common feature observed in different cancer entities. This principle is exemplified by cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), which are educated by the tumor to shape its development across all stages. CAFs can alter the extracellular matrix (ECM) and secrete a variety of different molecules. In that manner they have the capability to affect activation, survival, proliferation, and migration of other stromal cells and cancer cell themselves. Alteration of the ECM, desmoplasia, is a common feature of breast cancer, indicating a prominent role for CAFs in shaping tumor development in the mammary gland. In this review, we summarize the multiple roles CAFs play in mammary carcinoma. We discuss experimental and clinical strategies to interfere with CAFs function in breast cancer. Moreover, we highlight the issues arising from CAFs heterogeneity and the need for further research to identify CAFs subpopulation(s) that can be targeted to improve breast cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eiman Elwakeel
- Institute of Biochemistry I, Faculty of Medicine, Goethe-University Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt, Germany;
| | - Andreas Weigert
- Institute of Biochemistry I, Faculty of Medicine, Goethe-University Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt, Germany;
- Frankfurt Cancer Institute, Goethe-University Frankfurt, 60596 Frankfurt, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt, Germany
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49
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Zheng H, Liu H, Li H, Dou W, Wang X. Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis Identifies a Cancer-Associated Fibroblast Signature for Predicting Prognosis and Therapeutic Responses in Gastric Cancer. Front Mol Biosci 2021; 8:744677. [PMID: 34692770 PMCID: PMC8531434 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.744677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are the most prominent cellular components in gastric cancer (GC) stroma that contribute to GC progression, treatment resistance, and immunosuppression. This study aimed at exploring stromal CAF-related factors and developing a CAF-related classifier for predicting prognosis and therapeutic effects in GC. Methods: We downloaded mRNA expression and clinical information of 431 GC samples from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and 330 GC samples from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) databases. CAF infiltrations were quantified by the estimate the proportion of immune and cancer cells (EPIC) method, and stromal scores were calculated via the Estimation of STromal and Immune cells in MAlignant Tumors using Expression data (ESTIMATE) algorithm. Stromal CAF-related genes were identified by weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA). A CAF risk signature was then developed using the univariate and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator method (LASSO) Cox regression model. We applied the Spearman test to determine the correlation among CAF risk score, CAF markers, and CAF infiltrations (estimated via EPIC, xCell, microenvironment cell populations-counter (MCP-counter), and Tumor Immune Dysfunction and Exclusion (TIDE) algorithms). The TIDE algorithm was further used to assess immunotherapy response. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) was applied to clarify the molecular mechanisms. Results: The 4-gene (COL8A1, SPOCK1, AEBP1, and TIMP2) prognostic CAF model was constructed. GC patients were classified into high– and low–CAF-risk groups in accordance with their median CAF risk score, and patients in the high–CAF-risk group had significant worse prognosis. Spearman correlation analyses revealed the CAF risk score was strongly and positively correlated with stromal and CAF infiltrations, and the four model genes also exhibited positive correlations with CAF markers. Furthermore, TIDE analysis revealed high–CAF-risk patients were less likely to respond to immunotherapy. GSEA revealed that epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), TGF-β signaling, hypoxia, and angiogenesis gene sets were significantly enriched in high–CAF-risk group patients. Conclusion: The present four-gene prognostic CAF signature was not only reliable for predicting prognosis but also competent to estimate clinical immunotherapy response for GC patients, which might provide significant clinical implications for guiding tailored anti-CAF therapy in combination with immunotherapy for GC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hang Zheng
- Department of General Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Heshu Liu
- Department of Oncology, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Huayu Li
- Department of General Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Weidong Dou
- Department of General Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China
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50
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Bisht VS, Giri K, Kumar D, Ambatipudi K. Oxygen and metabolic reprogramming in the tumor microenvironment influences metastasis homing. Cancer Biol Ther 2021; 22:493-512. [PMID: 34696706 DOI: 10.1080/15384047.2021.1992233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumor metastasis is the leading cause of cancer mortality, often characterized by abnormal cell growth and invasion to distant organs. The cancer invasion due to epithelial to mesenchymal transition is affected by metabolic and oxygen availability in the tumor-associated micro-environment. A precise alteration in oxygen and metabolic signaling between healthy and metastatic cells is a substantial probe for understanding tumor progression and metastasis. Molecular heterogeneity in the tumor microenvironment help to sustain the metastatic cell growth during their survival shift from low to high metabolic-oxygen-rich sites and reinforces the metastatic events. This review highlighted the crucial role of oxygen and metabolites in metastatic progression and exemplified the role of metabolic rewiring and oxygen availability in cancer cell adaptation. Furthermore, we have also addressed potential applications of altered oxygen and metabolic networking with tumor type that could be a signature pattern to assess tumor growth and chemotherapeutics efficacy in managing cancer metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinod S Bisht
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, India
| | - Kuldeep Giri
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, India
| | - Deepak Kumar
- Department of Cancer Biology, Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, India.,Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research, New Delhi, India
| | - Kiran Ambatipudi
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, India
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