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Wang S, Qi X, Liu D, Xie D, Jiang B, Wang J, Wang X, Wu G. The implications for urological malignancies of non-coding RNAs in the the tumor microenvironment. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2024; 23:491-505. [PMID: 38249783 PMCID: PMC10796827 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2023.12.016] [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: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Urological malignancies are a major global health issue because of their complexity and the wide range of ways they affect patients. There's a growing need for in-depth research into these cancers, especially at the molecular level. Recent studies have highlighted the importance of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) – these don't code for proteins but are crucial in controlling genes – and the tumor microenvironment (TME), which is no longer seen as just a background factor but as an active player in cancer progression. Understanding how ncRNAs and the TME interact is key for finding new ways to diagnose and predict outcomes in urological cancers, and for developing new treatments. This article reviews the basic features of ncRNAs and goes into detail about their various roles in the TME, focusing specifically on how different ncRNAs function and act in urological malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shijin Wang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, Liaoning, China
| | - Xiaochen Qi
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, Liaoning, China
| | - Dequan Liu
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, Liaoning, China
| | - Deqian Xie
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, Liaoning, China
| | - Bowen Jiang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, Liaoning, China
| | - Jin Wang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, Liaoning, China
| | - Xiaoxi Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, Liaoning, China
| | - Guangzhen Wu
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, Liaoning, China
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Gao L, Bai Y, Zhou J, Liang C, Dong Y, Han T, Liu Y, Guo J, Wu J, Hu D. S100P facilitates LUAD progression via PKA/c-Jun-mediated tumor-associated macrophage recruitment and polarization. Cell Signal 2024; 120:111179. [PMID: 38640980 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2024.111179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2024] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024]
Abstract
S100P, a member of the S100 calcium-binding protein family, is closely associated with abnormal proliferation, invasion, and metastasis of various cancers. However, its role in the lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) tumor microenvironment (TME) remains unclear. In this study, we observed specific expression of S100P on tumor cells in LUAD patients through tissue immunofluorescence analysis. Furthermore, this expression was strongly correlated with the recruitment and polarization of tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs). Bioinformatics analysis revealed that high S100P expression is associated with poorer overall survival in LUAD patients. Subsequently, a subcutaneous mouse model demonstrated that S100P promotes recruitment and polarization of TAMs towards the M2 type. Finally, in vitro studies on LUAD cells revealed that S100P enhances the secretion of chemokines and polarizing factors by activating the PKA/c-Jun pathway, which is implicated in TAM recruitment and polarization towards the M2 phenotype. Moreover, inhibition of c-Jun expression impedes the ability of TAMs to infiltrate and polarize towards the M2 phenotype. In conclusion, our study demonstrates that S100P facilitates LUAD cells growth by recruiting M2 TAMs through PKA/c-Jun signaling, resulting in the production of various cytokines. Considering these findings, S100P holds promise as an important diagnostic marker and potential therapeutic target for LUAD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Gao
- School of Medicine, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan, Anhui, China; Anhui Occupational Health and Safety Engineering Laboratory, Huainan, Anhui, China
| | - Ying Bai
- School of Medicine, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan, Anhui, China; Anhui Occupational Health and Safety Engineering Laboratory, Huainan, Anhui, China.
| | - Jiawei Zhou
- School of Medicine, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan, Anhui, China; Anhui Occupational Health and Safety Engineering Laboratory, Huainan, Anhui, China
| | - Chao Liang
- School of Medicine, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan, Anhui, China; Anhui Occupational Health and Safety Engineering Laboratory, Huainan, Anhui, China
| | - Yunjia Dong
- School of Medicine, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan, Anhui, China; Anhui Occupational Health and Safety Engineering Laboratory, Huainan, Anhui, China
| | - Tao Han
- School of Medicine, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan, Anhui, China; Anhui Occupational Health and Safety Engineering Laboratory, Huainan, Anhui, China
| | - Yafeng Liu
- School of Medicine, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan, Anhui, China; Anhui Occupational Health and Safety Engineering Laboratory, Huainan, Anhui, China
| | - Jianqiang Guo
- School of Medicine, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan, Anhui, China; Anhui Occupational Health and Safety Engineering Laboratory, Huainan, Anhui, China
| | - Jing Wu
- School of Medicine, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan, Anhui, China; Anhui Occupational Health and Safety Engineering Laboratory, Huainan, Anhui, China; Key Laboratory of Industrial Dust Deep Reduction and Occupational Health and Safety of Anhui Higher Education Institute, Huainan, Anhui, China; Key Laboratory of Industrial Dust Prevention and Control & Occupational Safety and Health of the Ministry of Education, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan, Anhui, China.
| | - Dong Hu
- School of Medicine, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan, Anhui, China; Anhui Occupational Health and Safety Engineering Laboratory, Huainan, Anhui, China; Key Laboratory of Industrial Dust Deep Reduction and Occupational Health and Safety of Anhui Higher Education Institute, Huainan, Anhui, China; Key Laboratory of Industrial Dust Prevention and Control & Occupational Safety and Health of the Ministry of Education, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan, Anhui, China.
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3
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Chen X, Peng H, Zhang Z, Yang C, Liu Y, Chen Y, Yu F, Wu S, Cao L. SPDYC serves as a prognostic biomarker related to lipid metabolism and the immune microenvironment in breast cancer. Immunol Res 2024:10.1007/s12026-024-09505-5. [PMID: 38890248 DOI: 10.1007/s12026-024-09505-5] [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: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
Breast cancer remains the most common malignant carcinoma among women globally and is resistant to several therapeutic agents. There is a need for novel targets to improve the prognosis of patients with breast cancer. Bioinformatics analyses were conducted to explore potentially relevant prognostic genes in breast cancer using The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and The Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases. Gene subtypes were categorized by machine learning algorithms. The machine learning-related breast cancer (MLBC) score was evaluated through principal component analysis (PCA) of clinical patients' pathological statuses and subtypes. Immune cell infiltration was analyzed using the xCell and CIBERSORT algorithms. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analysis elucidated regulatory pathways related to speedy/RINGO cell cycle regulator family member C (SPDYC) in breast cancer. The biological functions and lipid metabolic status of breast cancer cell lines were validated via quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT‒qPCR) assays, western blotting, CCK-8 assays, PI‒Annexin V fluorescence staining, transwell assays, wound healing assays, and Oil Red O staining. Key differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in breast cancer from the TCGA and GEO databases were screened and utilized to establish the MLBC score. Moreover, the MLBC score we established was negatively correlated with poor prognosis in breast cancer patients. Furthermore, the impacts of SPDYC on the tumor immune microenvironment and lipid metabolism in breast cancer were revealed and validated. SPDYC is closely related to activated dendritic cells and macrophages and is simultaneously correlated with the immune checkpoints CD47, cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen-4 (CTLA-4), and poliovirus receptor (PVR). SPDYC strongly correlated with C-C motif chemokine ligand 7 (CCL7), a chemokine that influences breast cancer patient prognosis. A significant relationship was discovered between key genes involved in lipid metabolism and SPDYC, such as ELOVL fatty acid elongase 2 (ELOVL2), malic enzyme 1 (ME1), and squalene epoxidase (SQLE). Potent inhibitors targeting SPDYC in breast cancer were also discovered, including JNK inhibitor VIII, AICAR, and JW-7-52-1. Downregulation of SPDYC expression in vitro decreased proliferation, increased the apoptotic rate, decreased migration, and reduced lipid droplets. SPDYC possibly influences the tumor immune microenvironment and regulates lipid metabolism in breast cancer. Hence, this study identified SPDYC as a pivotal biomarker for developing therapeutic strategies for breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinxin Chen
- Department of Breast Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Haojie Peng
- Department of Breast Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhentao Zhang
- The First Clinical College, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China
| | - Changnian Yang
- The First Clinical College, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China
| | - Yingqi Liu
- The First Clinical College, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China
| | - Yanzhen Chen
- Department of Gynecology, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Fei Yu
- Medical Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Shanshan Wu
- Department of Biology, School of Basic Medical Science, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China.
| | - Lixue Cao
- Medical Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
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Liu C, Xie J, Lin B, Tian W, Wu Y, Xin S, Hong L, Li X, Liu L, Jin Y, Tang H, Deng X, Zou Y, Zheng S, Fang W, Cheng J, Dai X, Bao X, Zhao P. Pan-Cancer Single-Cell and Spatial-Resolved Profiling Reveals the Immunosuppressive Role of APOE+ Macrophages in Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Therapy. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2401061. [PMID: 38569519 PMCID: PMC11186051 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202401061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
The heterogeneity of macrophages influences the response to immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy. However, few studies explore the impact of APOE+ macrophages on ICI therapy using single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) and machine learning methods. The scRNA-seq and bulk RNA-seq data are Integrated to construct an M.Sig model for predicting ICI response based on the distinct molecular signatures of macrophage and machine learning algorithms. Comprehensive single-cell analysis as well as in vivo and in vitro experiments are applied to explore the potential mechanisms of the APOE+ macrophage in affecting ICI response. The M.Sig model shows clear advantages in predicting the efficacy and prognosis of ICI therapy in pan-cancer patients. The proportion of APOE+ macrophages is higher in ICI non-responders of triple-negative breast cancer compared with responders, and the interaction and longer distance between APOE+ macrophages and CD8+ exhausted T (Tex) cells affecting ICI response is confirmed by multiplex immunohistochemistry. In a 4T1 tumor-bearing mice model, the APOE inhibitor combined with ICI treatment shows the best efficacy. The M.Sig model using real-world immunotherapy data accurately predicts the ICI response of pan-cancer, which may be associated with the interaction between APOE+ macrophages and CD8+ Tex cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuan Liu
- Department of Medical OncologyThe First Affiliated HospitalSchool of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhou310003China
| | - Jindong Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South ChinaGuangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for CancerSun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhou510060China
| | - Bo Lin
- College of Computer Science and TechnologyZhejiang UniversityHangzhou310053China
- Innovation Centre for InformationBinjiang Institute of Zhejiang UniversityHangzhou310053China
| | - Weihong Tian
- Changzhou Third People's HospitalChangzhou Medical CenterNanjing Medical UniversityChangzhou213000China
| | - Yifan Wu
- School of softwareZhejiang UniversityNingbo315100China
| | - Shan Xin
- Department of GeneticsYale School of medicineNew HavenCT06510USA
| | - Libing Hong
- Department of Medical OncologyThe First Affiliated HospitalSchool of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhou310003China
| | - Xin Li
- Department Chronic Inflammation and CancerGerman Cancer Research Center (DKFZ)69120HeidelbergGermany
| | - Lulu Liu
- Department of Medical OncologyThe First Affiliated HospitalSchool of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhou310003China
| | - Yuzhi Jin
- Department of Medical OncologyThe First Affiliated HospitalSchool of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhou310003China
| | - Hailin Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South ChinaGuangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for CancerSun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhou510060China
| | - Xinpei Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South ChinaGuangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for CancerSun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhou510060China
| | - Yutian Zou
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South ChinaGuangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for CancerSun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhou510060China
| | - Shaoquan Zheng
- Breast Disease CenterThe First Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐Sen UniversityGuangzhou510060China
| | - Weijia Fang
- Department of Medical OncologyThe First Affiliated HospitalSchool of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhou310003China
| | - Jinlin Cheng
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious DiseasesNational Clinical Research Center for Infectious DiseasesNational Medical Center for Infectious DiseasesCollaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious DiseasesThe First Affiliated HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhou310003China
| | - Xiaomeng Dai
- Department of Medical OncologyThe First Affiliated HospitalSchool of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhou310003China
| | - Xuanwen Bao
- Department of Medical OncologyThe First Affiliated HospitalSchool of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhou310003China
| | - Peng Zhao
- Department of Medical OncologyThe First Affiliated HospitalSchool of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhou310003China
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Han YJ, Shao CY, Yao Y, Zhang Z, Fang MZ, Gong T, Zhang YJ, Li M. Immunotherapy of microsatellite stable colorectal cancer: resistance mechanisms and treatment strategies. Postgrad Med J 2024; 100:373-381. [PMID: 38211949 DOI: 10.1093/postmj/qgad136] [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: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
In recent years, immunotherapy strategies based on immune checkpoint inhibitors have yielded good efficacy in colorectal cancer (CRC)especially in colorectal cancer with microsatellite instability-high. However, microsatellite-stable (MSS) CRCs account for about 85% of CRCs and are resistant to immunotherapy. Previous studies have shown that compared with MSS CRC, high microsatellite instability CRC possesses a higher frequency of mutations and can generate more neoantigens. Therefore, improving the sensitivity of immunotherapy to MSS CRC is a hot topic which is crucial for the treatment of MSS CRC. This review aims to discuss the factors contributing to MSS CRC insensitivity to immunotherapy and explored potential solutions to overcome immunotherapy resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Jie Han
- Department of Oncology, Nanjing Hospital of Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 157 Damin Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210001, China
- Nanjing Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 138 Xianlin Avenue, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210046, China
| | - Chi-Yun Shao
- Department of Oncology, Nanjing Hospital of Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 157 Damin Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210001, China
- Nanjing Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 138 Xianlin Avenue, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210046, China
| | - Ying Yao
- Department of Oncology, Nanjing Hospital of Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 157 Damin Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210001, China
- Nanjing Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 138 Xianlin Avenue, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210046, China
| | - Zhe Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Nanjing Hospital of Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 157 Damin Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210001, China
- Nanjing Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 138 Xianlin Avenue, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210046, China
| | - Ming-Zhi Fang
- Department of Oncology, Nanjing Hospital of Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 157 Damin Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210001, China
| | - Tao Gong
- Department of Oncology, Nanjing Hospital of Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 157 Damin Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210001, China
| | - Ya-Jie Zhang
- Central Laboratory, Nanjing Hospital of Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Nanjing, University of Chinese Medicine, 157 Damin Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210001, China
- Department of Biobank, Nanjing Hospital of Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 157 Damin Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210001, China
| | - Min Li
- Department of Oncology, Nanjing Hospital of Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 157 Damin Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210001, China
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Lv Q, Yang H, Wang D, Zhou H, Wang J, Zhang Y, Wu D, Xie Y, Lv Y, Hu L, Wang J. Discovery of a Novel CSF-1R Inhibitor with Highly Improved Pharmacokinetic Profiles and Superior Efficacy in Colorectal Cancer Immunotherapy. J Med Chem 2024; 67:6854-6879. [PMID: 38593344 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.4c00508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Blocking CSF-1/CSF-1R pathway has emerged as a promising strategy to remodel tumor immune microenvironment (TME) by reprogramming tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs). In this work, a novel CSF-1R inhibitor C19 with a highly improved pharmacokinetic profile and in vivo anticolorectal cancer (CRC) efficiency was successfully discovered. C19 could effectively reprogram M2-like TAMs to M1 phenotype and reshape the TME by inducing the recruitment of CD8+ T cells into tumors and reducing the infiltration of immunosuppressive Tregs/MDSCs. Deeper mechanistic studies revealed that C19 facilitated the infiltration of CD8+ T cells by enhancing the secretion of chemokine CXCL9, thus significantly potentiating the anti-CRC efficiency of PD-1 blockade. More importantly, C19 combined with PD-1 mAb could induce durable antitumor immune memory, effectively overcoming the recurrence of CRC. Taken together, our findings suggest that C19 is a promising therapeutic option for sensitizing CRC to anti-PD-1 therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Lv
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Functional Substance of Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, P. R. China
| | - Hongqiong Yang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Functional Substance of Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, P. R. China
| | - Dan Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Functional Substance of Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, P. R. China
| | - Haikun Zhou
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Functional Substance of Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, P. R. China
| | - Juan Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Functional Substance of Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, P. R. China
| | - Yishu Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Functional Substance of Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, P. R. China
| | - Dapeng Wu
- Jiangsu Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210029, P. R. China
| | - Ying Xie
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Functional Substance of Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, P. R. China
| | - Yingshan Lv
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Functional Substance of Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, P. R. China
| | - Lihong Hu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Functional Substance of Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, P. R. China
| | - Junwei Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Functional Substance of Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, P. R. China
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Lv Q, Zhang Y, Gao W, Wang J, Hu Y, Yang H, Xie Y, Lv Y, Zhang H, Wu D, Hu L, Wang J. CSF1R inhibition reprograms tumor-associated macrophages to potentiate anti-PD-1 therapy efficacy against colorectal cancer. Pharmacol Res 2024; 202:107126. [PMID: 38432446 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2024.107126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
PD-1 blockade therapy has made great breakthroughs in treatment of multiple solid tumors. However, patients with microsatellite-stable (MSS) colorectal cancer (CRC) respond poorly to anti-PD-1 immunotherapy. Although CRC patients with microstatellite instability (MSI) or microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H) can benefit from PD-1 blockade therapy, there are still some problems such as tumor recurrence. Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), most abundant immune components in tumor microenvironment (TME), largely limit the therapeutic efficacy of anti-PD-1 against CRC. The CSF1/CSF1R pathway plays a key role in regulating macrophage polarization, and blocking CSF1R signaling transduction may be a potential strategy to effectively reprogram macrophages and remodel TME. Here, we found that increasing expression of CSF1R in macrophages predicted poor prognosis in CRC cohort. Furthermore, we discovered a novel potent CSF1R inhibitor, PXB17, which significantly reprogramed M2 macrophages to M1 phenotype. Mechanically, PXB17 significantly blocked activation of PI3K/AKT/mTORC1 signaling, resulting in inhibition of cholesterol biosynthesis. Results from 3D co-culture system suggested that PXB17-repolarized macrophages could induce infiltration of CD8+ T lymphocytes in tumors and improve the immunosuppressive microenvironment. In vivo, PXB17 significantly halted CRC growth, with a stronger effect than PLX3397. In particular, PXB17 potently enhanced therapeutic activity of PD-1 mAb in CT-26 (MSS) model and prevented tumor recurrence in MC-38 (MSI-H) model by promoting formation of long-term memory immunity. Our study opens a new avenue for CSF1R in tumor innate and adaptive anti-tumor immunomodulatory activity and suggests that PXB17 is a promising immunotherapy molecule for enhancing the efficacy of PD-1 mAb or reducing tumor recurrence of CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Lv
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Functional Substance of Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, PR China
| | - Yishu Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Functional Substance of Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, PR China
| | - Wen Gao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Functional Substance of Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, PR China
| | - Juan Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Functional Substance of Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, PR China
| | - Yaowen Hu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Functional Substance of Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, PR China
| | - Hongqiong Yang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Functional Substance of Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, PR China
| | - Ying Xie
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Functional Substance of Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, PR China
| | - Yingshan Lv
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Functional Substance of Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, PR China
| | - Heyuan Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Functional Substance of Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, PR China
| | - Dapeng Wu
- Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210029, PR China.
| | - Lihong Hu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Functional Substance of Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, PR China.
| | - Junwei Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Functional Substance of Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, PR China.
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8
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Gao J, Tan W, Yuan L, Wang H, Wen J, Sun K, Chen X, Wang S, Deng W. Antitumour mechanisms of traditional Chinese medicine elicited by regulating tumour-associated macrophages in solid tumour microenvironments. Heliyon 2024; 10:e27220. [PMID: 38463777 PMCID: PMC10923716 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e27220] [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: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Tumour-associated macrophages (TAMs), particularly M2-TAMs, constitute the largest proportion of immune cells in the solid tumour microenvironment, playing a crucial role in tumour progression and correlating with poor prognosis. TAMs promote the proliferation, invasion, and metastasis of tumour cells by remodelling the extracellular matrix, inhibiting immunity, promoting immune escape and tumour angiogenesis, and affecting cell metabolism. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been used clinically in China for millennia. Chinese herbs exhibit potent antitumour effects with minimal to no toxicity, substantially contributing to prolonging the lives of patients with cancer and improving their quality of life. TCM has unique advantages in improving the solid tumour microenvironment, particularly in regulating TAMs to further inhibit tumour angiogenesis, reduce drug resistance, reverse immunosuppression, and enhance antitumour immunity. This review highlights the TAM-associated mechanisms within the solid tumour microenvironment, outlines the recent advancements in TCM targeting TAMs for antitumour effects, emphasises the superiority of combining TCM with standard treatments or new nano-drug delivery systems, and evaluates the safety and efficacy of TCM combined with conventional treatments via clinical trials to provide insights and strategies for future research and clinical treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiamin Gao
- Putuo Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200135, China
| | - Weishan Tan
- Putuo Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200135, China
| | - Luyun Yuan
- Putuo Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200135, China
| | - Haoyue Wang
- Putuo Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200135, China
| | - Junkai Wen
- Putuo Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200135, China
| | - Kexiang Sun
- Putuo Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200135, China
| | - Xin Chen
- Putuo Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200135, China
| | - Shuyun Wang
- Putuo Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200135, China
| | - Wanli Deng
- Putuo Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200135, China
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9
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Chen Q, Chen J, Lu Z, Nian R, Li W, Yao Z, Mou S, Liu Y, Cao X, He W, Zhu C. The prognostic value of LAYN in HPV-related head and neck squamous cell carcinoma and its influence on immune cell infiltration. Discov Oncol 2024; 15:57. [PMID: 38430385 PMCID: PMC10908921 DOI: 10.1007/s12672-024-00913-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND HPV-positive head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) exhibits different characteristics from HPV-negative tumors in terms of tumor development, clinical features, treatment response, and prognosis. Layilin (LAYN), which contains homology with C-type lectins, plays a critical role in tumorigenesis and cancer progression. However, the prognostic value of LAYN and the relationship between LAYN and immune infiltration levels in HPV-related HNSCC patients still require a comprehensive understanding. Herein, we aimed to assess the prognostic value of LAYN and to investigate its underlying immunological function in HPV-related HNSCC. METHODS Through various bioinformatics methods, we analyzed the data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), Tumor Immune Estimation Resource (TIMER) and Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA) databases to explore the potential underlying oncogenic impression of LAYN, including the relevance of LAYN to survival outcomes, clinicopathological factors, immune cell infiltration, and immune marker sets in HPV-related HNSCC. The expression levels of LAYN and HPV were also verified in HNSCC patient tissues. RESULTS LAYN was differentially expressed in a variety of tumors. The expression of LAYN in HNSCC was significantly higher than that in adjacent normal tissues (P < 0.0001), and high expression of LAYN was correlated with poor overall survival (OS) in HNSCC patients (Hazard Ratio (HR) = 1.3, P = 0.035). Moreover, LAYN expression level in HPV-positive HNSCC patients was significantly lower than that in HPV-negative patients, with HPV-positive HNSCC patients displaying a trend of favorable prognosis. In addition, the relationship between LAYN expression and immune infiltration levels in HPV-positive HNSCC group was less tightly correlated than that in HPV-negative HNSCC group, and there was a strong relationship between LAYN expression and markers of M2 macrophage (P < 0.001) and exhausted T cells (P < 0.05) in HPV-negative HNSCC. Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis suggested that LAYN potentially influenced tumor progression through HPV infection and other cancer-related pathways. CONCLUSIONS LAYN might contribute to tumorigenesis via its positive correlation with immune checkpoint molecules and tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs). Our study might provide a novel prognostic biomarker and latent therapeutic target for the treatment of HPV-related HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingjuan Chen
- Department of Oncology, 3201 Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Hanzhong, 723000, Shaanxi, China
- Department of Oncology, Yongchuan Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 40016, China
| | - Jiankang Chen
- Department of Oncology, Yongchuan Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 40016, China
| | - Zuzhuang Lu
- Department of Oncology, Yongchuan Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 40016, China
| | - Rui Nian
- Department of Pathology, 3201 Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Hanzhong, 723000, Shaanxi, China
| | - Wanjun Li
- Department of Pathology, 3201 Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Hanzhong, 723000, Shaanxi, China
| | - Zhongqiang Yao
- Department of Oncology, 3201 Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Hanzhong, 723000, Shaanxi, China
| | - Shangdong Mou
- Department of Oncology, 3201 Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Hanzhong, 723000, Shaanxi, China
| | - Ying Liu
- Department of Oncology, 3201 Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Hanzhong, 723000, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xia Cao
- Department of Oncology, 3201 Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Hanzhong, 723000, Shaanxi, China
| | - Wenjing He
- Department of Oncology, Xianyang Center Hospital, Xi'an, 712000, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Chenjing Zhu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital & Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research & Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 42 Baiziting, Nanjing, 210009, Jiangsu, China.
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10
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Li C, Wang L, Li Z, Li Z, Zhang K, Cao L, Wang Z, Shen C, Chen L. Repolarizing Tumor-Associated Macrophages and inducing immunogenic cell Death: A targeted liposomal strategy to boost cancer immunotherapy. Int J Pharm 2024; 651:123729. [PMID: 38142016 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2023.123729] [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: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 11/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/25/2023]
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy has shown promise in treating various malignancies. However, the presence of an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) triggered by M2 tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) and the limited tumor cell antigenicity have hindered its broader application. To address these challenges, we developed DOX/R837@ManL, a liposome loaded with imiquimod (R837) and doxorubicin (DOX), modified with mannose-polyethylene glycol (Man-PEG). DOX/R837@ManL employed a mannose receptor (MRC1)-mediated targeting strategy, allowing it to accumulate selectively at M2 Tumor associated macrophages (TAMs) and tumor sites. R837, an immune adjuvant, promoted the conversion of immunosuppressive M2 TAMs into immunostimulatory M1 TAMs, and reshaped the immunosuppressive TME. Simultaneously, DOX release induced immunogenic cell death (ICD) in tumor cells and enhanced tumor cell antigenicity by promoting dendritic cells (DCs) maturation. Through targeted delivery, the synergistic action of R837 and DOX activated innate immunity and coordinated adaptive immunity, enhancing immunotherapy efficacy. In vivo experiments have demonstrated that DOX/R837@ManL effectively eliminated primary tumors and lung metastases, while also preventing tumor recurrence post-surgery. These findings highlighted the potential of DOX/R837@ManL as a promising strategy for cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cong Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Liaoning University, Shenyang 110036, China
| | - Lihong Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Liaoning University, Shenyang 110036, China
| | - Zhihang Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Liaoning University, Shenyang 110036, China
| | - Zehao Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Liaoning University, Shenyang 110036, China
| | - Kexin Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Liaoning University, Shenyang 110036, China
| | - Lianrui Cao
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Liaoning University, Shenyang 110036, China
| | - Zeyu Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Liaoning University, Shenyang 110036, China
| | - Chao Shen
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Liaoning University, Shenyang 110036, China
| | - Lijiang Chen
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Liaoning University, Shenyang 110036, China.
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11
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Lin J, Ran Y, Wu T, Wang Z, Zhao J, Tian Y. A New Method for Constructing Macrophage-Associated Predictors of Treatment Efficacy Based on Single-Cell Sequencing Analysis. J Immunother 2024; 47:33-48. [PMID: 37982646 DOI: 10.1097/cji.0000000000000497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023]
Abstract
Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are highly infiltrated in the tumor microenvironment (TME) of colorectal cancer (CRC) and play a vital role in CRC's development as well as prognosis. The required data were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus database and The Cancer Genome Atlas. Univariate Cox regression and least absolute shrinkage operator analyses were executed for model construction. TME assessment and immune prediction were performed using the ESTIMATE software package and the single sample genome enrichment analysis algorithm. The results show patients with low a TAMs risk score (TRS) had a better prognosis in both The Cancer Genome Atlas and Gene Expression Omnibus cohorts. Patients with low TRS were more sensitive to 3 chemotherapeutic agents: oxaliplatin, paclitaxel, and cisplatin ( P <0.05). TME assessment showed that the low TRS group had less infiltration of M2 macrophages and regulatory T cells, but CD4 + T cells, NK cells, and dendritic cells occupy a greater proportion of TME. Low TRS group patients have a low StromalScore and ImmuneScore but have high TumorPurity. The immune checkpoint TIM-3 gene HAVCR2 expression was significantly higher in the high TRS group. Finally, we created a nomogram including TRS for forecasting survival, and TRS was significantly associated with the clinical stage of the patients. In conclusion, the TRS serves as a reliable prognostic indicator of CRC; it predicts patient outcomes to immunotherapy and chemotherapy and provides genomic evidence for the subsequent development of modulated TAMs for treating CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianxiu Lin
- Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yang Ran
- Department of Oncology, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Tengfei Wu
- Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zishan Wang
- Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jinjin Zhao
- Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yun Tian
- Department of Oncology, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
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12
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Hou S, Zhao Y, Chen J, Lin Y, Qi X. Tumor-associated macrophages in colorectal cancer metastasis: molecular insights and translational perspectives. J Transl Med 2024; 22:62. [PMID: 38229160 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-04856-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Metastasis is the leading cause of high mortality in colorectal cancer (CRC), which is not only driven by changes occurring within the tumor cells, but is also influenced by the dynamic interaction between cancer cells and components in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Currently, the exploration of TME remodeling and its impact on CRC metastasis has attracted increasing attention owing to its potential to uncover novel therapeutic avenues. Noteworthy, emerging studies suggested that tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) within the TME played important roles in CRC metastasis by secreting a variety of cytokines, chemokines, growth factors and proteases. Moreover, TAMs are often associated with poor prognosis and drug resistance, making them promising targets for CRC therapy. Given the prognostic and clinical value of TAMs, this review provides an updated overview on the origin, polarization and function of TAMs, and discusses the mechanisms by which TAMs promote the metastatic cascade of CRC. Potential TAM-targeting techniques for personalized theranostics of metastatic CRC are emphasized. Finally, future perspectives and challenges for translational applications of TAMs in CRC development and metastasis are proposed to help develop novel TAM-based strategies for CRC precision medicine and holistic healthcare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyu Hou
- School of Chemistry and Life Sciences, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, 215011, China
| | - Yuanchun Zhao
- School of Chemistry and Life Sciences, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, 215011, China
| | - Jiajia Chen
- School of Chemistry and Life Sciences, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, 215011, China
| | - Yuxin Lin
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215000, China.
- Center for Systems Biology, Department of Bioinformatics, School of Biology and Basic Medical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China.
| | - Xin Qi
- School of Chemistry and Life Sciences, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, 215011, China.
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13
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Lv J, Wang Z, Wang B, Deng C, Wang W, Sun L. S100A9 Induces Macrophage M2 Polarization and Immunomodulatory Role in the Lesion Site After Spinal Cord Injury in Rats. Mol Neurobiol 2024:10.1007/s12035-024-03920-3. [PMID: 38206470 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-024-03920-3] [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: 09/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/01/2024] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Immune response is pivotal in the secondary injury of spinal cord injury (SCI). Polarization of macrophages (MΦ) influences the immune response in the secondary injury, which is regulated by several immune-related proteins. M2Φ plays the immunomodulatory role in the central nervous system. This study used bioinformatic analysis and machine algorithms to screen hub immune-related proteins after SCI and experimentally investigate the role of the target protein in the M2Φ polarization and immunomodulation in rats and in vitro after SCI. We downloaded GSE151371 and GSE45006, hub immune-related genes were screened using machine learning algorithms, and the expression of S100A9 was verified by datasets. Allen's weight-drop injury SCI model in Sprague-Dawley rat and bone marrow-derived rat MΦ with myelin debris model were used to study the effects of S100A9 on M2Φ polarization and immunomodulation at the lesion site and in vitro. Bioinformatic analysis showed that S100A9 acts as a hub immune-related gene in the SCI patients and rats. S100A9 increased at the lesion site in SCI rats, and its inhibition reduced CD206 and ARG-1 expression. Exogenous S100A9 promoted CD206 and ARG-1 expression in MΦ. S100A9 also increased the expression of PD-L1 and decreased MHC II at the lesion site in SCI rats and MΦ with myelin debris, and enhanced mitochondrial activity in rat MΦ with myelin debris. In conclusion, S100A9 is an indispensable factor in the immune process in secondary injury following SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junqiao Lv
- Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Taiyuan, 030032, China
| | - Zhiqiang Wang
- Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Taiyuan, 030032, China
| | - Beiyang Wang
- Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Taiyuan, 030032, China
| | - Chen Deng
- Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Taiyuan, 030032, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Urology, The Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, China
| | - Lin Sun
- Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Taiyuan, 030032, China.
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14
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Wan Q, Huang J, Xiao Q, Zhang Z, Zhang Z, Huang L, Deng Y, Deng B, Zhao H, Zhong Y, Liu D. Astragalus Polysaccharide Alleviates Ulcerative Colitis by Regulating the Balance of mTh17/mTreg Cells through TIGIT/CD155 Signaling. Molecules 2024; 29:241. [PMID: 38202824 PMCID: PMC10780736 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29010241] [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: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The balance between memory Th17 cells (mTh17) and memory Treg cells (mTreg) plays a key role in the pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis (UC), and TIGIT signaling is involved in the differentiation of mTh17/mTreg cells. Astragalus polysaccharide (APS) has good immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects. Here, the regulatory effects and potential mechanisms of APS on mTh17/mTreg cells in UC are explored. A UC model was induced with dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) and treated simultaneously with APS (200 mg/kg/day) for 10 days. After APS treatment, the mice showed a significant increase in colonic length and a significant decrease in colonic weight, colonic weight index and colonic weight/colonic length, and more intact mucosa and lighter inflammatory cell infiltration. Notably, APS significantly down-regulated the percentages of Th17 (CD4+CCR6+), cmTh17 (CD4+CCR7+CCR6+) and emTh17 (CD4+CCR7-CCR6+) cells and significantly up-regulated the percentages of cmTreg (CD4+CCR7+Foxp3+) and emTreg (CD4+CCR7-Foxp3+) cells in the mesenteric lymph nodes of the colitis mice. Importantly, APS reversed the expression changes in the TIGIT molecule on mTh17/mTreg cells in the colitis mice with fewer CD4+CCR6+TIGIT+, CD4+CCR7-CCR6+TIGIT+ and CD4+CCR7-CCR6+TIGIT+ cells and more CD4+Foxp3+TIGIT+, CD4+CCR7-Foxp3+TIGIT+ and CD4+CCR7-Foxp3+TIGIT+ cells. Meanwhile, APS significantly inhibited the protein expression of the TIGIT ligands CD155, CD113 and CD112 and downstream proteins PI3K and AKT in the colon tissues of the colitis mice. In conclusion, APS effectively alleviated DSS-induced UC in mice by regulating the balance between mTh17/mTreg cells, which was mainly achieved through regulation of the TIGIT/CD155 signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Wan
- Department of Postgraduate, Jiangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330004, China; (Q.W.); (J.H.); (Z.Z.); (Z.Z.); (L.H.)
| | - Jiaqi Huang
- Department of Postgraduate, Jiangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330004, China; (Q.W.); (J.H.); (Z.Z.); (Z.Z.); (L.H.)
| | - Qiuping Xiao
- College of Pharmacy, Jiangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330004, China;
| | - Zeyun Zhang
- Department of Postgraduate, Jiangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330004, China; (Q.W.); (J.H.); (Z.Z.); (Z.Z.); (L.H.)
| | - Zheyan Zhang
- Department of Postgraduate, Jiangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330004, China; (Q.W.); (J.H.); (Z.Z.); (Z.Z.); (L.H.)
| | - Li Huang
- Department of Postgraduate, Jiangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330004, China; (Q.W.); (J.H.); (Z.Z.); (Z.Z.); (L.H.)
| | - Yifei Deng
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jiangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330004, China; (Y.D.); (B.D.); (H.Z.)
| | - Bailing Deng
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jiangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330004, China; (Y.D.); (B.D.); (H.Z.)
| | - Haimei Zhao
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jiangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330004, China; (Y.D.); (B.D.); (H.Z.)
| | - Youbao Zhong
- Department of Postgraduate, Jiangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330004, China; (Q.W.); (J.H.); (Z.Z.); (Z.Z.); (L.H.)
- Laboratory Animal Research Center for Science and Technology, Jiangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330004, China
| | - Duanyong Liu
- Formula-Pattern Research Center, Jiangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330004, China
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15
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Liu Y, Liang Y, Su Y, Hu J, Sun J, Zheng M, Huang Z. Exploring the potential mechanisms of Yi-Yi-Fu-Zi-Bai-Jiang-San therapy on the immune-inflamed phenotype of colorectal cancer via combined network pharmacology and bioinformatics analyses. Comput Biol Med 2023; 166:107432. [PMID: 37729701 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2023.107432] [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: 04/02/2023] [Revised: 07/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The development and progression of colorectal cancer (CRC) is closely associated with its complex tumor microenvironment (TME). Assessment of the modified pattern of immune cell infiltration (ICI) will help increase knowledge regarding the characteristics of TME infiltration. Yi-Yi-Fu-Zi-Bai-Jiang-San (YYFZBJS) has been shown to have positive effects on the regulation of the immune microenvironment of CRC. However, its pharmacological targets and molecular mechanisms remain to be elucidated. METHODS Network pharmacological analysis was used to identify the target of YYFZBJS in the TME of CRC. Patients with the immune-inflamed phenotype (IIP) were identified using CRC samples from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Consensus genes were identified by intersecting YYFZBJS targets, CRC disease targets and differentially expressed genes in the CRC microenvironment. Then, least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) Cox analyses were used to identify a prognostic signature from the consensus genes. Cytoscape software was further used to build a unique herb-compound-target network diagram of the important components of YYFZBJS and prognostic gene targets. In addition, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis was performed using the prognostic gene sets to explore the molecular mechanism of the prognostic genes in drug therapy for CRC IIP patients. Finally, single-cell analysis was performed to validate the expression of the prognostic genes in the TME of CRC using the TISCH2 database. RESULTS A total of 284 IIP patients were identified from 480 patients with CRC. A total of 35 consensus genes were identified as targets of YYFZBJS in the TME of CRC patients. An eleven-gene prognostic signature, including PIK3CG, C5AR1, PRF1, CAV1, HPGDS, PTGS2, SERPINE1, IDO1, TGFB1, CXCR2 and MMP9, was identified from the consensus genes, with areas under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUCs) values of 0.84 and 0.793 for the training and test cohorts, respectively. In the herb-compound-target network, twenty-four compounds were shown to interact with the 11 prognostic genes, which were significantly enriched in the IL-17 signaling, arachidonic acid metabolism and metabolic pathways. Single-cell analysis of the prognostic genes confirmed that their abnormal expression was associated with the TME of CRC. CONCLUSION This study organically integrated network pharmacology and bioinformatics analyses to identify prognostic genes in CRC IIP patients from the targets of YYFZBJS. Although this data mining work was limited to the study of mechanisms related to prognosis based on the immune microenvironment, the methodology provides new perspectives in the search for novel therapeutic targets of traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) and accurate diagnostic indicators of cancers targeted by TCMs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Liu
- Key Laboratory of Computer-Aided Drug Design of Dongguan City, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523710, Guangdong, PR China; Key Laboratory of Big Data Mining and Precision Drug Design of Guangdong Medical University, Key Laboratory for Research and Development of Natural Drugs of Guangdong Province, School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523808, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Youcheng Liang
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510405, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Yongjian Su
- Key Laboratory of Computer-Aided Drug Design of Dongguan City, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523710, Guangdong, PR China; Key Laboratory of Big Data Mining and Precision Drug Design of Guangdong Medical University, Key Laboratory for Research and Development of Natural Drugs of Guangdong Province, School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523808, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Jiaqi Hu
- Key Laboratory of Computer-Aided Drug Design of Dongguan City, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523710, Guangdong, PR China; Key Laboratory of Big Data Mining and Precision Drug Design of Guangdong Medical University, Key Laboratory for Research and Development of Natural Drugs of Guangdong Province, School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523808, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Jianbo Sun
- Key Laboratory of Computer-Aided Drug Design of Dongguan City, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523710, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Mingbin Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Computer-Aided Drug Design of Dongguan City, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523710, Guangdong, PR China; National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Disease, Shenzhen Third People's Hospital, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518112, Guangdong, PR China.
| | - Zunnan Huang
- Key Laboratory of Computer-Aided Drug Design of Dongguan City, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523710, Guangdong, PR China; Key Laboratory of Big Data Mining and Precision Drug Design of Guangdong Medical University, Key Laboratory for Research and Development of Natural Drugs of Guangdong Province, School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523808, Guangdong, PR China; Marine Medical Research Institute of Guangdong Zhanjiang, Zhanjiang, 524023, Guangdong, PR China.
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16
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Qiu X, Quan G, Ou W, Wang P, Huang X, Li X, Shen Y, Yang W, Wang J, Wu X. Unraveling TIMP1: a multifaceted biomarker in colorectal cancer. Front Genet 2023; 14:1265137. [PMID: 37842645 PMCID: PMC10570617 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2023.1265137] [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: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: The pathogenic genes of colorectal cancer (CRC) have not yet been fully elucidated, and there is currently a lack of effective therapeutic targets. This study used bioinformatics methods to explore and experimentally validate the most valuable biomarkers for colorectal cancer and further investigate their potential as targets. Methods: We analyzed differentially expressed genes (DEGs) based on the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) dataset and screened out hub genes. ROC curve and univariate Cox analysis of The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) dataset revealed the most diagnostically and prognostically valuable genes. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) experiments were then conducted to validate the expression level of these selected genes in colorectal cancer. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) was performed to evaluate the enriched signaling pathways associated with the gene. Using the CIBERSORT algorithm in R software, we analyzed the immune infiltrating cell abundance in both high and low gene expression groups and examined the gene's correlation with immune cells and immune checkpoints. Additionally, we performed drug sensitivity analysis utilizing the DepMap database, and explored the correlation between gene expression levels and ferroptosis based on the The Cancer Genome Atlas dataset. Results: The study identified a total of 159 DEGs, including 7 hub genes: SPP1, MMP1, CXCL8, CXCL1, TIMP1, MMP3, and CXCL10. Further analysis revealed TIMP1 as the most valuable diagnostic and prognostic biomarker for colorectal cancer, with IHC experiments verifying its high expression. Additionally, GSEA results showed that the high TIMP1 expression group was involved in many cancer signaling pathways. Analysis of the TCGA database revealed a positive correlation between TIMP1 expression and infiltration of macrophages (M0, M1, M2) and neutrophils, as well as the expression of immune checkpoint genes, including CTLA-4 and HAVCR2. Drug sensitivity analysis, conducted using the DepMap database, revealed that colorectal cancer cell lines exhibiting elevated levels of TIMP1 expression were more responsive to certain drugs, such as CC-90003, Pitavastatin, Atuveciclib, and CT7001, compared to those with low levels of TIMP1. Furthermore, TIMP1 expression was positively correlated with that of ferroptosis-related genes, such as GPX4 and HSPA5. Conclusion: TIMP1 can be used as a biomarker for colorectal cancer and is associated with the immunological microenvironment, drug sensitivity, and ferroptosis inhibition in this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaode Qiu
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Nanping First Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Nanping, China
| | - Guangqian Quan
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Nanping First Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Nanping, China
| | - Wenquan Ou
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Nanping First Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Nanping, China
| | - Pengfei Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Nanping First Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Nanping, China
| | - Xing Huang
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Nanping First Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Nanping, China
| | - Xinhua Li
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Nanping First Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Nanping, China
| | - Yufan Shen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Nanping First Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Nanping, China
| | - Weifeng Yang
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Nanping First Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Nanping, China
| | - Jian Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Nanping First Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Nanping, China
| | - Xiaohua Wu
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Nanping First Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Nanping, China
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Kitamura T. Tumour-associated macrophages as a potential target to improve natural killer cell-based immunotherapies. Essays Biochem 2023; 67:1003-1014. [PMID: 37313600 PMCID: PMC10539946 DOI: 10.1042/ebc20230002] [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: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Adoptive transfer of natural killer (NK) cells has been proposed as a novel immunotherapy for malignant tumours resistant to current therapeutic modalities. Several clinical studies have demonstrated that the NK cell-infusion is well tolerated without severe side effects and shows promising results in haematological malignancies. However, patients with malignant solid tumours do not show significant responses to this therapy. Such disappointing results largely arise from the inefficient delivery of infused NK cells and the impairment of their functions in the tumour microenvironment (TME). Tumour-associated macrophages (TAMs) are the most abundant stromal cells in the TME of most solid tumours, and a high TAM density correlates with poor prognosis of cancer patients. Although our knowledge of the interactions between TAMs and NK cells is limited, many studies have indicated that TAMs suppress NK cell cytotoxicity against cancer cells. Therefore, blockade of TAM functions can be an attractive strategy to improve NK cell-based immunotherapies. On the other hand, macrophages are reported to activate NK cells under certain circumstances. This essay presents our current knowledge about mechanisms by which macrophages regulate NK cell functions and discusses possible therapeutic approaches to block macrophage-mediated NK cell suppression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takanori Kitamura
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, United Kingdom
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18
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Davern M, Donlon NE. The future of combination immunotherapy in oesophageal adenocarcinoma. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1217132. [PMID: 37520544 PMCID: PMC10375285 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1217132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Davern
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Noel E. Donlon
- Department of Surgery, Trinity St. James’s Cancer Institute, Trinity Translational Medicine Institute, St. James’s Hospital, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Department of Upper GI Surgery, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
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19
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Jiang H, Liu Y, Zhou R, Feng Y, Yan L. Circulating interleukins and risk of colorectal cancer: a Mendelian randomization study. Scand J Gastroenterol 2023; 58:1466-1473. [PMID: 37525405 DOI: 10.1080/00365521.2023.2240928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent studies have suggested a potential causal association between Interleukins (ILs) and Colorectal Cancer (CRC), and thus, it is important to examine the causal relationship between them using a Mendelian randomization (MR) approach. METHODS The instrumental variables were extracted for IL-1ra, IL-6, IL-6ra, IL-8, IL-16, IL-18, IL-27 from genome-wide association studies of European ancestry. Summary statistics of CRC were also retrieved. An inverse variance-weighted MR approach was implemented as the primary method to compute overall effects from multiple instruments. Additional MR approaches and sensitivity and heterogeneity pleiotropy analyses were also conducted respectively. RESULTS Our analysis suggested a causal effect between an increase of IL-8 and a reduced risk of CRC (odds ratio 0.65; 95% confidence interval, 0.43-0.98; p = 0.041) and did not provide evidence for causal effects of IL-1ra, IL-6, IL-6ra, IL-16, IL-18, IL-27. Sensitivity analyses suggested the robustness of MR results and that they were unlikely to be affected by unbalanced pleiotropy or significant heterogeneity. CONCLUSIONS This study investigated the role of ILs in the development of CRC and we found a causal effect between an increase of IL-8 and a reduced risk of CRC but not found evidence for causal effects of IL-1ra, IL-6, IL-6ra, IL-16, IL-18, IL-27. Sensitivity analyses suggested the robustness of MR results and that they were unlikely to be affected by unbalanced pleiotropy or significant heterogeneity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haifeng Jiang
- Department of General Surgery, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yongming Liu
- Shi's Center of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Traumatology & Orthopedics, Shanghai Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ru Zhou
- Department of General Surgery, RuiJin Hospital LuWan Branch, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu Feng
- Department of General Surgery, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Liang Yan
- Department of General Surgery, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
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20
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Hovhannisyan L, Riether C, Aebersold DM, Medová M, Zimmer Y. CAR T cell-based immunotherapy and radiation therapy: potential, promises and risks. Mol Cancer 2023; 22:82. [PMID: 37173782 PMCID: PMC10176707 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-023-01775-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
CAR T cell-based therapies have revolutionized the treatment of hematological malignancies such as leukemia and lymphoma within the last years. In contrast to the success in hematological cancers, the treatment of solid tumors with CAR T cells is still a major challenge in the field and attempts to overcome these hurdles have not been successful yet. Radiation therapy is used for management of various malignancies for decades and its therapeutic role ranges from local therapy to a priming agent in cancer immunotherapy. Combinations of radiation with immune checkpoint inhibitors have already proven successful in clinical trials. Therefore, a combination of radiation therapy may have the potential to overcome the current limitations of CAR T cell therapy in solid tumor entities. So far, only limited research was conducted in the area of CAR T cells and radiation. In this review we will discuss the potential and risks of such a combination in the treatment of cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lusine Hovhannisyan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, Freiburgstrasse 8, Bern, 3008, Switzerland
- Department for Biomedical Research, Radiation Oncology, University of Bern, Murtenstrasse 35, Bern, 3008, Switzerland
- Graduate School for Cellular and Biomedical Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, 3010, Switzerland
| | - Carsten Riether
- Department of Medical Oncology, Inselspital, University Hospital and University of Bern, Bern, 3010, Switzerland
| | - Daniel M Aebersold
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, Freiburgstrasse 8, Bern, 3008, Switzerland
- Department for Biomedical Research, Radiation Oncology, University of Bern, Murtenstrasse 35, Bern, 3008, Switzerland
| | - Michaela Medová
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, Freiburgstrasse 8, Bern, 3008, Switzerland
- Department for Biomedical Research, Radiation Oncology, University of Bern, Murtenstrasse 35, Bern, 3008, Switzerland
| | - Yitzhak Zimmer
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, Freiburgstrasse 8, Bern, 3008, Switzerland.
- Department for Biomedical Research, Radiation Oncology, University of Bern, Murtenstrasse 35, Bern, 3008, Switzerland.
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21
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Waldner MJ, Neurath MF. TGFβ and the Tumor Microenvironment in Colorectal Cancer. Cells 2023; 12:cells12081139. [PMID: 37190048 DOI: 10.3390/cells12081139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Growing evidence supports an important role of the tumor microenvironment (TME) in the pathogenesis of colorectal cancer (CRC). Resident cells such as fibroblasts or immune cells infiltrating into the TME maintain continuous crosstalk with cancer cells and thereby regulate CRC progression. One of the most important molecules involved is the immunoregulatory cytokine transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ). TGFβ is released by various cells in the TME, including macrophages and fibroblasts, and it modulates cancer cell growth, differentiation, and cell death. Mutations in components of the TGF pathway, including TGFβ receptor type 2 or SMAD4, are among the most frequently detected mutations in CRC and have been associated with the clinical course of disease. Within this review, we will discuss our current understanding about the role of TGFβ in the pathogenesis of CRC. This includes novel data on the molecular mechanisms of TGFβ signaling in TME, as well as possible strategies for CRC therapy targeting the TGFβ pathway, including potential combinations with immune checkpoint inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maximilian J Waldner
- Department of Internal Medicine 1, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Markus F Neurath
- Department of Internal Medicine 1, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
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22
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Xue XM, Liu YY, Chen XM, Tao BY, Liu P, Zhou HW, Zhang C, Wang L, Jiang YK, Ding ZW, Shen WD, Zhang J, Yang SM, Wang FY. Pan-cancer analysis identifies NT5E as a novel prognostic biomarker on cancer-associated fibroblasts associated with unique tumor microenvironment. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1064032. [PMID: 36569293 PMCID: PMC9768042 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1064032] [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: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Ecto-5'-nucleotidase (NT5E) encodes the cluster of differentiation 73 (CD73), whose overexpression contributes to the formation of immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and is related to exacerbated prognosis, increased risk of metastasis and resistance to immunotherapy of various tumors. However, the prognostic significance of NT5E in pan-cancer is obscure so far. Methods: We explored the expression level of NT5E in cancers and adjacent tissues and revealed the relationship between the NT5E expression level and clinical outcomes in pan-cancer by utilizing the UCSC Xena database. Then, correlation analyses were performed to evaluate the relationship between NT5E expression and immune infiltration level via EPIC, MCP-counter and CIBERSORT methods, and the enrichment analysis were employed to identify NT5E-interacting molecules and functional pathways. Furthermore, we conducted single-cell analysis to explore the potential role of NT5E on single-cell level based on the CancerSEA database. Meanwhile, gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) in single-cell level was also conducted in TISCH database and single-cell signature explorer was utilized to evaluate the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) level in each cell type. Results: The expression level of NT5E was aberrant in almost all cancer types, and was correlated with worse prognosis in several cancers. Notably, NT5E overexpression was related to worse overall survival (OS) in pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAAD), head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSC), mesothelioma (MESO), stomach adenocarcinoma (STAD), uveal melanoma (UVM) and cervical squamous cell carcinoma and endocervical adenocarcinoma (CESC) (p < 0.01). NT5E-related immune microenvironment analysis revealed that NT5E is associated positively with the degree of infiltration of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and endothelial cells in most cancers. Enrichment analysis of cellular component (CC) demonstrated the critical part of NT5E played in cell-substrate junction, cell-substrate adherens junction, focal adhesion and external side of plasma membrane. Finally, single-cell analysis of NT5E illuminated that EMT function of CAFs was elevated in basal cell carcinoma (BCC), skin cutaneous melanoma (SKCM), HNSC and PAAD. Conclusion: NT5E could serve as a potential prognostic biomarker for cancers. The potential mechanism may be related to the upregulated EMT function of CAFs, which provides novel inspiration for immunotherapy by targeting CAFs with high NT5E expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin-miao Xue
- Medical School of Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA), Beijing, China,Senior Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) General Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Otolaryngologic Diseases, State Key Lab of Hearing Science, Beijing Key Lab of Hearing Impairment Prevention and Treatment, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
| | - Yu-yang Liu
- Medical School of Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA), Beijing, China,Department of Neurosurgery, Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xue-min Chen
- Medical School of Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA), Beijing, China,Senior Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) General Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Otolaryngologic Diseases, State Key Lab of Hearing Science, Beijing Key Lab of Hearing Impairment Prevention and Treatment, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
| | - Bing-yan Tao
- Medical School of Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA), Beijing, China,Department of Neurosurgery, Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Peng Liu
- Medical School of Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA), Beijing, China,Senior Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) General Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Otolaryngologic Diseases, State Key Lab of Hearing Science, Beijing Key Lab of Hearing Impairment Prevention and Treatment, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
| | - Han-wen Zhou
- Medical School of Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA), Beijing, China,Senior Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) General Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Otolaryngologic Diseases, State Key Lab of Hearing Science, Beijing Key Lab of Hearing Impairment Prevention and Treatment, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
| | - Chi Zhang
- Medical School of Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA), Beijing, China,The Zhantansi Outpatient Department of Central Medical Branch of People’s Liberation Army (PLA) General Hospital Beijing, China
| | - Li Wang
- Medical School of Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA), Beijing, China,Senior Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) General Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Otolaryngologic Diseases, State Key Lab of Hearing Science, Beijing Key Lab of Hearing Impairment Prevention and Treatment, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
| | - Yu-ke Jiang
- Medical School of Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA), Beijing, China,Senior Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) General Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Otolaryngologic Diseases, State Key Lab of Hearing Science, Beijing Key Lab of Hearing Impairment Prevention and Treatment, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
| | - Zhi-wei Ding
- Medical School of Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA), Beijing, China,Senior Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) General Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Otolaryngologic Diseases, State Key Lab of Hearing Science, Beijing Key Lab of Hearing Impairment Prevention and Treatment, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
| | - Wei-dong Shen
- Senior Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) General Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Otolaryngologic Diseases, State Key Lab of Hearing Science, Beijing Key Lab of Hearing Impairment Prevention and Treatment, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
| | - Jun Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) General Hospital, Beijing, China,*Correspondence: Jun Zhang, ; Shi-ming Yang, ; Fang-yuan Wang,
| | - Shi-ming Yang
- Senior Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) General Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Otolaryngologic Diseases, State Key Lab of Hearing Science, Beijing Key Lab of Hearing Impairment Prevention and Treatment, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China,*Correspondence: Jun Zhang, ; Shi-ming Yang, ; Fang-yuan Wang,
| | - Fang-yuan Wang
- Senior Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) General Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Otolaryngologic Diseases, State Key Lab of Hearing Science, Beijing Key Lab of Hearing Impairment Prevention and Treatment, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China,*Correspondence: Jun Zhang, ; Shi-ming Yang, ; Fang-yuan Wang,
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23
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Bukhari I, Zhang Y, Thorne RF, Mi Y. Editorial: Complexity of tumor microenvironment: A major culprit in cancer development. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1059885. [PMID: 36339412 PMCID: PMC9632616 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1059885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ihtisham Bukhari
- Henan Key Laboratory of Helicobacter pylori, Microbiota and Gastrointestinal Cancers, Marshall Medical Research Center, Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Provincial and Zhengzhou City Key Laboratory of Noncoding RNA and Cancer Metabolism, Henan International Join Laboratory of Non-coding RNA and Metabolism in Cancer, Translational Research Institute, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Yuanwei Zhang
- School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Rick Francis Thorne
- Henan Provincial and Zhengzhou City Key Laboratory of Noncoding RNA and Cancer Metabolism, Henan International Join Laboratory of Non-coding RNA and Metabolism in Cancer, Translational Research Institute, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- *Correspondence: Rick Francis Thorne, ; Yang Mi,
| | - Yang Mi
- Henan Key Laboratory of Helicobacter pylori, Microbiota and Gastrointestinal Cancers, Marshall Medical Research Center, Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Rick Francis Thorne, ; Yang Mi,
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