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Hong J, Du K, Zhang W, Chen J, Jin H, Chen Y, Jiang Y, Yu H, Weng X, Zheng S, Yu J, Cao L. 6:2 Cl-PFESA, a proposed safe alternative for PFOS, diminishes the gemcitabine effectiveness in the treatment of pancreatic cancer. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 474:134790. [PMID: 38850938 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC)/pancreatic cancer, is a highly aggressive malignancy with poor prognosis. Gemcitabine-based chemotherapy remains the cornerstone of PDAC treatment. Nonetheless, the development of resistance to gemcitabine among patients is a major factor contributing to unfavorable prognostic outcomes. The resistance exhibited by tumors is modulated by a constellation of factors such as genetic mutations, tumor microenvironment transforms, environmental contaminants exposure. Currently, comprehension of the relationship between environmental pollutants and tumor drug resistance remains inadequate. Our study found that PFOS/6:2 Cl-PFESA exposure increases resistance to gemcitabine in PDAC. Subsequent in vivo trials confirmed that exposure to PFOS/6:2 Cl-PFESA reduces gemcitabine's efficacy in suppressing PDAC, with the inhibition rate decreasing from 79.5 % to 56.7 %/38.7 %, respectively. Integrative multi-omics sequencing and molecular biology analyses have identified the upregulation of ribonucleotide reductase catalytic subunit M1 (RRM1) as a critical factor in gemcitabine resistance. Subsequent research has demonstrated that exposure to PFOS and 6:2 Cl-PFESA results in the upregulation of the RRM1 pathway, consequently enhancing chemotherapy resistance. Remarkably, the influence exerted by 6:2 Cl-PFESA exceeds that of PFOS. Despite 6:2 Cl-PFESA being regarded as a safer substitute for PFOS, its pronounced effect on chemotherapeutic resistance in PDAC necessitates a thorough evaluation of its potential risks related to gastrointestinal toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiawei Hong
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China; Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Keyi Du
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China; Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Weichen Zhang
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China; Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Junran Chen
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China; Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Hangbiao Jin
- Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology for Industrial Pollution Control of Zhejiang Province, College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310032, China; Innovation Research Center of Advanced Environmental Technology, Eco-Industrial Innovation Institute ZJUT, Quzhou, Zhejiang 324400, China
| | - Yuanchen Chen
- Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology for Industrial Pollution Control of Zhejiang Province, College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310032, China; Innovation Research Center of Advanced Environmental Technology, Eco-Industrial Innovation Institute ZJUT, Quzhou, Zhejiang 324400, China
| | - Yifan Jiang
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China; Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Hanxi Yu
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Xiaoyu Weng
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China; Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Shusen Zheng
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China; Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Jun Yu
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China; Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Linping Cao
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China; Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou 310003, China.
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Zhou H, Li C, Ren Y, Wang WA, Zhuang J, Ren Y, Shen L, Chen Y. Modulation of epithelial-mesenchymal transition by gemcitabine: Targeting ionizing radiation-induced cellular senescence in lung cancer cell. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 224:116234. [PMID: 38670436 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2024.116234] [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: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Ionizing radiation, a standard therapeutic approach for lung cancer, often leads to cellular senescence and the induction of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), posing significant challenges in treatment efficacy and cancer progression. Overcoming these obstacles is crucial for enhancing therapeutic outcomes in lung cancer management. This study investigates the effects of ionizing radiation and gemcitabine on lung cancer cells, with a focus on induced senescence, EMT, and apoptosis. Human-derived A549, PC-9, and mouse-derived Lewis lung carcinoma cells exposed to 10 Gy X-ray irradiation exhibited senescence, as indicated by morphological changes, β-galactosidase staining, and cell cycle arrest through the p53-p21 pathway. Ionizing radiation also promoted EMT via TGFβ/SMAD signaling, evidenced by increased TGFβ1 levels, altered EMT marker expressions, and enhanced cell migration. Gemcitabine, a first-line lung cancer treatment, was shown to enhance apoptosis in senescent cells caused by radiation. It inhibited cell proliferation, induced mitochondrial damage, and triggered caspase-mediated apoptosis, thus mitigating EMT in vitro. Furthermore, in vivo studies using a lung cancer mouse model revealed that gemcitabine, combined with radiation, significantly reduced tumor volume and weight, extended survival, and suppressed malignancy indices in irradiated tumors. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that gemcitabine enhances the therapeutic efficacy against radiation-resistant lung cancer cells, both by inducing apoptosis in senescent cells and inhibiting EMT, offering potential improvements in lung cancer treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heng Zhou
- Department of Radio-Chemotherapy, Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China; School of Public Health, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Chenghao Li
- Department of Radio-Chemotherapy, Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China; Yangzhou University Medical College, Yangzhou, China.
| | - Yanxian Ren
- School of Public Health, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China; The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Wen-An Wang
- School of Public Health, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China; The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Jiayuan Zhuang
- School of Public Health, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China; Clinical College of Chinese Medicine, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
| | - Yue Ren
- Department of Radio-Chemotherapy, Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China; Yangzhou University Medical College, Yangzhou, China
| | - Lin Shen
- Department of Radio-Chemotherapy, Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China; Yangzhou University Medical College, Yangzhou, China
| | - Yong Chen
- Department of Radio-Chemotherapy, Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China; Yangzhou University Medical College, Yangzhou, China.
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Elechalawar CK, Gulla SK, Roy RV, Means N, Zhang Y, Asifa S, Robertson DJ, Xu C, Bhattacharya R, Mukherjee P. Biodistribution and therapeutic efficacy of a gold nanoparticle-based targeted drug delivery system against pancreatic cancer. Cancer Lett 2024; 589:216810. [PMID: 38494151 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216810] [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: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is characterized by desmoplasia; crosstalk between pancreatic cancer cells (PCCs) and pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) leads to the deposition of extracellular matrix proteins in the tumor environment resulting in poor vascularity. Targeting either PCCs or PSCs individually has produced mixed results, and there is currently no effective strategy to target both cell types simultaneously. Previously, we demonstrated, through in vitro cell culture experiments, that a specific gold nanoparticle-based nanoformulation containing the anti-EGFR antibody cetuximab (C225) as a targeting agent and gemcitabine as a chemotherapeutic agent effectively targets both PCCs and PSCs simultaneously. Herein, we extend our studies to test the ability of these in vitro tested nano formulations to inhibit tumor growth in an orthotopic co-implantation model of pancreatic cancer in vivo. Orthotopic tumors were established by co-implantation of equal numbers of PCCs and PSCs in the mouse pancreas. Among the various formulations tested, 5 nm gold nanoparticles coated with gemcitabine, cetuximab and poly-ethylene glycol (PEG) of molecular weight 1000 Da, which we named ACGP441000, demonstrated optimal efficacy in inhibiting tumor growth. The current study reveals an opportunity to target PCCs and PSCs simultaneously, by exploiting their overexpression of EGFR as a target, in order to inhibit pancreatic cancer growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chandra Kumar Elechalawar
- Department of Pathology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA
| | - Suresh Kumar Gulla
- Department of Pathology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA
| | - Ram Vinod Roy
- Department of Pathology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA
| | - Nicolas Means
- Department of Pathology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA
| | - Yushan Zhang
- Department of Pathology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA
| | - Sima Asifa
- Department of Pathology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA
| | - David J Robertson
- Department of Chemistry and University of Missouri Research Reactor, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Chao Xu
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA
| | - Resham Bhattacharya
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA; Peggy and Charles Stephenson Cancer Center, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
| | - Priyabrata Mukherjee
- Department of Pathology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA; Peggy and Charles Stephenson Cancer Center, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA.
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Tao J, Zhang Y, Wang Y, Huang S, Gao W, Dai L, Feng Z, Jiao C, Zhang Y. Efficacy and safety of gemcitabine plus raltitrexed or S-1 versus standard third-line therapies in metastatic colorectal cancer: a retrospective cohort study. J Gastrointest Oncol 2024; 15:630-640. [PMID: 38756629 PMCID: PMC11094490 DOI: 10.21037/jgo-24-76] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Background After the failure of standard first- and second-line treatments, including oxaliplatin, irinotecan, and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) combined with targeted drugs, the currently recommended third-line regimens for metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) include TAS-102, regorafenib, and fruquintinib. However, these regimens have the drawbacks of mediocre efficacy, substantive side effects, and high cost. Therefore, more effective, economical regimens with fewer side effects are needed in clinical practice. In this study, we assessed the efficacy and safety of gemcitabine plus raltitrexed or S-1 as a third- or later-line treatment in comparison to those of standard third-line therapies for patients with mCRC. Methods Patients with previous failures of at least two lines of standard therapy with oxaliplatin, 5-FU, irinotecan, or capecitabine combined with targeted drugs were included. The participants received standard third-line therapies (including TAS-102, regorafenib, and fruquintinib) or gemcitabine plus raltitrexed or S-1 until disease progression, death, or intolerable toxicity arose. Imaging follow-up was performed every 3 months during their treatment. Progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were recorded. Cox regression analysis was used to investigate the potential predictors of survival. Results From April 2018 to October 2022, 60 patients with mCRC were enrolled in our study. The numbers of patients in the chemotherapy, fruquintinib, regorafenib, and TAS-102 groups were 13, 15, 17, and 15, respectively; the median OS of the four groups was 7.4, 6.1, 8.3, and 6.7 months (P=0.384), respectively; the median PFS was 4.1, 3.4, 4.4, and 2.3 months (P=0.656), respectively; the overall response rate was 7.69%, 6.67%, 0.00%, and 13.33%, respectively; and the disease control rate was 61.54%, 60.00%, 70.59%, and 60.00%, respectively. Additionally, multivariate analysis revealed that primary lesion located in the rectum was adverse independent prognostic factors for OS. A typical case is presented in this article. Conclusions The gemcitabine plus raltitrexed or S-1 regimen is a potential regimen with tolerable adverse reactions and low cost for patients with mCRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jialong Tao
- Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Yingtian Zhang
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Changshu No. 2 People’s Hospital, Affiliated Changshu Hospital of Nantong University, Changshu, China
| | - Yanjie Wang
- Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Sijia Huang
- Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Wenwen Gao
- Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Liya Dai
- Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Zhengyang Feng
- Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Chenchen Jiao
- Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Yusong Zhang
- Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
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5
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Gou Z, Li J, Liu J, Yang N. The hidden messengers: cancer associated fibroblasts-derived exosomal miRNAs as key regulators of cancer malignancy. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1378302. [PMID: 38694824 PMCID: PMC11061421 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1378302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), a class of stromal cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME), play a key role in controlling cancer cell invasion and metastasis, immune evasion, angiogenesis, and resistance to chemotherapy. CAFs mediate their activities by secreting soluble chemicals, releasing exosomes, and altering the extracellular matrix (ECM). Exosomes contain various biomolecules, such as nucleic acids, lipids, and proteins. microRNA (miRNA), a 22-26 nucleotide non-coding RNA, can regulate the cellular transcription processes. Studies have shown that miRNA-loaded exosomes secreted by CAFs engage in various regulatory communication networks with other TME constituents. This study focused on the roles of CAF-derived exosomal miRNAs in generating cancer malignant characteristics, including immune modulation, tumor growth, migration and invasion, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and treatment resistance. This study thoroughly examines miRNA's dual regulatory roles in promoting and suppressing cancer. Thus, changes in the CAF-derived exosomal miRNAs can be used as biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of patients, and their specificity can be used to develop newer therapies. This review also discusses the pressing problems that require immediate attention, aiming to inspire researchers to explore more novel avenues in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zixuan Gou
- Bethune First Clinical School of Medicine, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jiannan Li
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jianming Liu
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Na Yang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
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Yuen JG, Hwang GR, Fesler A, Intriago E, Pal A, Ojha A, Ju J. Development of gemcitabine-modified miRNA mimics as cancer therapeutics for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. MOLECULAR THERAPY. ONCOLOGY 2024; 32:200769. [PMID: 38596306 PMCID: PMC10869788 DOI: 10.1016/j.omton.2024.200769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Despite the recent advancement in diagnosis and therapy, pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), the most common type of pancreatic cancer, is still the most lethal cancer with a low five-year survival rate. There is an urgent need to develop new therapies to address this issue. In this study, we developed a treatment strategy by modifying tumor suppressor miRNAs, miR-15a and miR-194, with the chemotherapeutic gemcitabine (Gem) to create Gem-modified mimics, Gem-miR-15a and Gem-miR-194, respectively. In a panel of PDAC cell lines, we found that Gem-miR-15a and Gem-miR-194 induce cell-cycle arrest and apoptosis, and these mimics are potent inhibitors with IC50 values up to several hundred fold less than their native counterparts or Gem alone. Furthermore, we found that Gem-miR-15a and Gem-miR-194 retained miRNA function by downregulating the expression of several key targets including WEE1, CHK1, BMI1, and YAP1 for Gem-miR-15a, and FOXA1 for Gem-miR-194. We also found that our Gem-modified miRNA mimics exhibit an enhanced efficacy compared to Gem in patient-derived PDAC organoids. Furthermore, we observed that Gem-miR-15a significantly inhibits PDAC tumor growth in vivo without observing any noticeable signs of toxicity. Overall, our results demonstrate the therapeutic potential of Gem-modified miRNAs as a treatment strategy for PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- John G. Yuen
- Department of Pathology, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA
- Medical Scientist Training Program, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA
- Graduate Program in Genetics, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA
| | - Ga-Ram Hwang
- Department of Pathology, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA
- Graduate Program in Molecular and Cellular Biology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA
| | | | - Erick Intriago
- Department of Pathology, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA
| | - Amartya Pal
- Department of Pathology, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA
- Graduate Program in Molecular and Cellular Biology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA
| | - Anushka Ojha
- Department of Pathology, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA
- Graduate Program in Molecular and Cellular Biology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA
| | - Jingfang Ju
- Department of Pathology, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA
- The Northport Veteran’s Administration Medical Center, Northport, NY 11768, USA
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7
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Dash S, Ueda T, Komuro A, Honda M, Sugisawa R, Okada H. Deoxycytidine kinase inactivation enhances gemcitabine resistance and sensitizes mitochondrial metabolism interference in pancreatic cancer. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:131. [PMID: 38346958 PMCID: PMC10861559 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06531-x] [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: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 01/28/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is considered one of the most lethal forms of cancer. Although in the last decade, an increase in 5-year patient survival has been observed, the mortality rate remains high. As a first-line treatment for PDAC, gemcitabine alone or in combination (gemcitabine plus paclitaxel) has been used; however, drug resistance to this regimen is a growing issue. In our previous study, we reported MYC/glutamine dependency as a therapeutic target in gemcitabine-resistant PDAC secondary to deoxycytidine kinase (DCK) inactivation. Moreover, enrichment of oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS)-associated genes was a common property shared by PDAC cell lines, and patient clinical samples coupled with low DCK expression was also demonstrated, which implicates DCK in cancer metabolism. In this article, we reveal that the expression of most genes encoding mitochondrial complexes is remarkably upregulated in PDAC patients with low DCK expression. The DCK-knockout (DCK KO) CFPAC-1 PDAC cell line model reiterated this observation. Particularly, OXPHOS was functionally enhanced in DCK KO cells as shown by a higher oxygen consumption rate and mitochondrial ATP production. Electron microscopic observations revealed abnormal mitochondrial morphology in DCK KO cells. Furthermore, DCK inactivation exhibited reactive oxygen species (ROS) reduction accompanied with ROS-scavenging gene activation, such as SOD1 and SOD2. SOD2 inhibition in DCK KO cells clearly induced cell growth suppression. In combination with increased anti-apoptotic gene BCL2 expression in DCK KO cells, we finally reveal that venetoclax and a mitochondrial complex I inhibitor are therapeutically efficacious for DCK-inactivated CFPAC-1 cells in in vitro and xenograft models. Hence, our work provides insight into inhibition of mitochondrial metabolism as a novel therapeutic approach to overcome DCK inactivation-mediated gemcitabine resistance in PDAC patient treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suman Dash
- Department of Biochemistry, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, Osakasayama, Osaka, 589-8511, Japan
- Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, Osakasayama, Osaka, 589-8511, Japan
| | - Takeshi Ueda
- Department of Biochemistry, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, Osakasayama, Osaka, 589-8511, Japan
- Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, Osakasayama, Osaka, 589-8511, Japan
| | - Akiyoshi Komuro
- Department of Biochemistry, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, Osakasayama, Osaka, 589-8511, Japan
| | - Masahiko Honda
- Department of Biochemistry, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, Osakasayama, Osaka, 589-8511, Japan
| | - Ryoichi Sugisawa
- Department of Biochemistry, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, Osakasayama, Osaka, 589-8511, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Okada
- Department of Biochemistry, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, Osakasayama, Osaka, 589-8511, Japan.
- Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, Osakasayama, Osaka, 589-8511, Japan.
- Anti-aging Center, Kindai University, Higashi-Osaka, Osaka, 577-8502, Japan.
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Fleming Martinez AK, Storz P. Protein kinase D1 - A targetable mediator of pancreatic cancer development. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2024; 1871:119646. [PMID: 38061566 PMCID: PMC10872883 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2023.119646] [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: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2024]
Abstract
Members of the Protein kinase D (PKD) kinase family each play important cell-specific roles in the regulation of normal pancreas functions. In pancreatic diseases PKD1 is the most widely characterized isoform with roles in pancreatitis and in induction of pancreatic cancer and its progression. PKD1 expression and activation increases in pancreatic acinar cells through macrophage secreted factors, Kirsten rat sarcoma viral oncogene homolog (KRAS) signaling, and reactive oxygen species (ROS), driving the formation of precancerous lesions. In precancerous lesions PKD1 regulates cell survival, growth, senescence, and generation of doublecortin like kinase 1 (DCLK1)-positive cancer stem cells (CSCs). Within tumors, regulation by PKD1 includes chemoresistance, apoptosis, proliferation, CSC features, and the Warburg effect. Thus, PKD1 plays a critical role throughout pancreatic disease initiation and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Peter Storz
- Department of Cancer Biology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA.
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9
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Agalakova NI. Chloroquine and Chemotherapeutic Compounds in Experimental Cancer Treatment. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:945. [PMID: 38256019 PMCID: PMC10815352 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25020945] [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: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Chloroquine (CQ) and its derivate hydroxychloroquine (HCQ), the compounds with recognized ability to suppress autophagy, have been tested in experimental works and in clinical trials as adjuvant therapy for the treatment of tumors of different origin to increase the efficacy of cytotoxic agents. Such a strategy can be effective in overcoming the resistance of cancer cells to standard chemotherapy or anti-angiogenic therapy. This review presents the results of the combined application of CQ/HCQ with conventional chemotherapy drugs (doxorubicin, paclitaxel, platinum-based compounds, gemcitabine, tyrosine kinases and PI3K/Akt/mTOR inhibitors, and other agents) for the treatment of different malignancies obtained in experiments on cultured cancer cells, animal xenografts models, and in a few clinical trials. The effects of such an approach on the viability of cancer cells or tumor growth, as well as autophagy-dependent and -independent molecular mechanisms underlying cellular responses of cancer cells to CQ/HCQ, are summarized. Although the majority of experimental in vitro and in vivo studies have shown that CQ/HCQ can effectively sensitize cancer cells to cytotoxic agents and increase the potential of chemotherapy, the results of clinical trials are often inconsistent. Nevertheless, the pharmacological suppression of autophagy remains a promising tool for increasing the efficacy of standard chemotherapy, and the development of more specific inhibitors is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia I Agalakova
- Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, 44 Thorez Avenue, Saint-Petersburg 194223, Russia
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Calheiros J, Raimundo L, Morais J, Matos AC, Minuzzo SA, Indraccolo S, Sousa E, da Silva MC, Saraiva L. Antitumor Activity of the Xanthonoside XGAc in Triple-Negative Breast, Ovarian and Pancreatic Cancer by Inhibiting DNA Repair. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:5718. [PMID: 38136266 PMCID: PMC10741784 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15245718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Dysregulation of the DNA damage response may contribute to the sensitization of cancer cells to DNA-targeting agents by impelling cell death. In fact, the inhibition of the DNA repair pathway is considered a promising anticancer therapeutic strategy, particularly in combination with standard-of-care agents. The xanthonoside XGAc was previously described as a potent inhibitor of cancer cell growth. Herein, we explored its antitumor activity against triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), ovarian cancer and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) cells as a single agent and in combination with the poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitor (PARPi) olaparib. We demonstrated that XGAc inhibited the growth of TNBC, ovarian and PDAC cells by inducing cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. XGAc also induced genotoxicity, inhibiting the expression of DNA repair proteins particularly involved in homologous recombination, including BRCA1, BRCA2 and RAD51. Moreover, it displayed potent synergistic effects with olaparib in TNBC, ovarian cancer and PDAC cells. Importantly, this growth inhibitory activity of XGAc was further reinforced in a TNBC spheroid model and in patient-derived ovarian cancer cells. Also, drug-resistant cancer cells showed no cross-resistance to XGAc. Additionally, the ability of XGAc to prevent cancer cell migration was evidenced in TNBC, ovarian cancer and PDAC cells. Altogether, these results highlight the great potential of acetylated xanthonosides such as XGAc as promising anticancer agents against hard-to-treat cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Calheiros
- LAQV/REQUIMTE, Laboratório de Microbiologia, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade do Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; (J.C.); (L.R.); (J.M.); (A.C.M.)
| | - Liliana Raimundo
- LAQV/REQUIMTE, Laboratório de Microbiologia, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade do Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; (J.C.); (L.R.); (J.M.); (A.C.M.)
| | - João Morais
- LAQV/REQUIMTE, Laboratório de Microbiologia, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade do Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; (J.C.); (L.R.); (J.M.); (A.C.M.)
| | - Ana Catarina Matos
- LAQV/REQUIMTE, Laboratório de Microbiologia, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade do Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; (J.C.); (L.R.); (J.M.); (A.C.M.)
| | - Sonia Anna Minuzzo
- Department of Surgery Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy; (S.A.M.); (S.I.)
| | - Stefano Indraccolo
- Department of Surgery Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy; (S.A.M.); (S.I.)
- Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV—IRCCS, 35128 Padova, Italy
| | - Emília Sousa
- Laboratório de Química Orgânica e Farmacêutica, Departamento de Ciências Químicas, Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade do Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; (E.S.); (M.C.d.S.)
- CIIMAR—Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigação Marinha e Ambiental, Terminal de Cruzeiros do Porto de Leixôes, 4450-208 Matosinhos, Portugal
| | - Marta Correia da Silva
- Laboratório de Química Orgânica e Farmacêutica, Departamento de Ciências Químicas, Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade do Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; (E.S.); (M.C.d.S.)
- CIIMAR—Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigação Marinha e Ambiental, Terminal de Cruzeiros do Porto de Leixôes, 4450-208 Matosinhos, Portugal
| | - Lucília Saraiva
- LAQV/REQUIMTE, Laboratório de Microbiologia, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade do Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; (J.C.); (L.R.); (J.M.); (A.C.M.)
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11
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Kaźmierczak-Siedlecka K, Bulman N, Ulasiński P, Sobocki BK, Połom K, Marano L, Kalinowski L, Skonieczna-Żydecka K. Pharmacomicrobiomics of cell-cycle specific anti-cancer drugs - is it a new perspective for personalized treatment of cancer patients? Gut Microbes 2023; 15:2281017. [PMID: 37985748 PMCID: PMC10730203 DOI: 10.1080/19490976.2023.2281017] [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: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Intestinal bacteria are equipped with an enzyme apparatus that is involved in the active biotransformation of xenobiotics, including drugs. Pharmacomicrobiomics, a new area of pharmacology, analyses interactions between bacteria and xenobiotics. However, there is another side to the coin. Pharmacotherapeutic agents can significantly modify the microbiota, which consequently affects their efficacy. In this review, we comprehensively gathered scientific evidence on the interplay between anticancer therapies and gut microbes. We also underlined how such interactions might impact the host response to a given therapy. We discuss the possibility of modulating the gut microbiota to increase the effectiveness/decrease the incidence of adverse events during tumor therapy. The anticipation of the future brings new evidence that gut microbiota is a target of interest to increase the efficacy of therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolina Kaźmierczak-Siedlecka
- Department of Medical Laboratory Diagnostics – Fahrenheit Biobank BBMRI.pl, Medical University of Gdansk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Nikola Bulman
- Department of Medical Laboratory Diagnostics – Fahrenheit Biobank BBMRI.pl, Medical University of Gdansk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Paweł Ulasiński
- Unit of Surgery with Unit of Oncological Surgery in Koscierzyna, Kościerzyna, Poland
| | - Bartosz Kamil Sobocki
- Department of Oncology and Radiotherapy, Medical University of Gdansk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Karol Połom
- Academy of Medical and Social Applied Sciences, Elbląg, Poland
| | - Luigi Marano
- Academy of Medical and Social Applied Sciences, Elbląg, Poland
| | - Leszek Kalinowski
- Department of Medical Laboratory Diagnostics – Fahrenheit Biobank BBMRI.pl, Medical University of Gdansk, Gdańsk, Poland
- BioTechMed Centre/Department of Mechanics of Materials and Structures, Gdansk University of Technology, Gdansk, Poland
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12
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Fareed A, Hussain A. The Expanding Role of GLP-1: From Diabetes Management to Cancer Treatment. Clin Med Insights Endocrinol Diabetes 2023; 16:11795514231213566. [PMID: 38023734 PMCID: PMC10640796 DOI: 10.1177/11795514231213566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Areeba Fareed
- Karachi Medical and Dental College, Karachi, Karachi City, Sindh, Pakistan
| | - Aariz Hussain
- Karachi Medical and Dental College, Karachi, Karachi City, Sindh, Pakistan
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13
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Zhong C, Xie Z, Duan S. H1Innovative approaches to combat anti-cancer drug resistance: Targeting lncRNA and autophagy. Clin Transl Med 2023; 13:e1445. [PMID: 37837401 PMCID: PMC10576445 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.1445] [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: 04/07/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To date, standardizing clinical predictive biomarkers for assessing the response to immunotherapy remains challenging due to variations in personal genetic signatures, tumour microenvironment complexities and epigenetic onco-mechanisms. MAIN BODY Early monitoring of key non-coding RNA (ncRNA) biomarkers may help in predicting the clinical efficacy of cancer immunotherapy and come up with standard predictive ncRNA biomarkers. For instance, reduced miR-125b-5p level in the plasma of non-small cell lung cancer patients treated with anti-PD-1 predicts a positive outcome. The level of miR-153 in the plasma of colorectal cancer patients treated with chimeric antigen receptor T lymphocyte (CAR-T) cell therapy may indicate the activation of T-cell killing activity. miR-148a-3p and miR-375 levels may forecast favourable responses to CAR-T-cell therapy in B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. In cancer patients treated with the GPC3 peptide vaccine, serum levels of miR-1228-5p, miR-193a-5p and miR-375-3p were reported as predictive biomarkers of good response and improved overall survival. Therefore, there is a critical need for further studies to elaborate on the key ncRNA biomarkers that have the potential to predict early clinical responses to immunotherapy. CONCLUSIONS This review summarises important predictive ncRNA biomarkers that were reported in cancer patients treated with different immunotherapeutic modalities including monoclonal antibodies, small molecule inhibitors, cancer vaccines and CAR-T cells. In addition, a concise discussion on forthcoming perspectives is provided, outlining technical approaches for the optimal utilisation of immune-modulatory ncRNA biomarkers as predictive tools and therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenming Zhong
- Key Laboratory of Novel Targets and Drug Study for Neural Repair of Zhejiang Province, School of MedicineHangzhou City UniversityHangzhouZhejiangP. R. China
- Medical Genetics CenterSchool of MedicineNingbo UniversityNingboZhejiangP. R. China
| | - Zijun Xie
- Medical Genetics CenterSchool of MedicineNingbo UniversityNingboZhejiangP. R. China
| | - Shiwei Duan
- Key Laboratory of Novel Targets and Drug Study for Neural Repair of Zhejiang Province, School of MedicineHangzhou City UniversityHangzhouZhejiangP. R. China
- Medical Genetics CenterSchool of MedicineNingbo UniversityNingboZhejiangP. R. China
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14
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Yuen JG, Hwang GR, Fesler A, Intriago E, Pal A, Ojha A, Ju J. Development of Gemcitabine-Modified miRNA Mimics as Cancer Therapeutics for Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.08.14.553255. [PMID: 37645827 PMCID: PMC10462072 DOI: 10.1101/2023.08.14.553255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer, including its most common subtype, pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC), has the lowest five-year survival rate among patients with pancreatic cancer in the United States. Despite advancements in anticancer treatment, the overall median survival for patients with PDAC has not dramatically improved. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop new strategies of treatment to address this issue. Non-coding RNAs, including microRNAs (miRNAs), have been found to have major roles in carcinogenesis and the subsequent treatment of various cancer types like PDAC. In this study, we developed a treatment strategy by modifying tumor suppressor miRNAs, hsa-miRNA-15a (miR-15a) and hsa-miRNA-194-1 (miR-194), with the nucleoside analog chemotherapeutic gemcitabine (Gem) to create Gem-modified mimics of miR-15a (Gem-miR-15a) and miR-194 (Gem-miR-194). In a panel of PDAC cell lines, we found that Gem-miR-15a and Gem-miR-194 induce cell cycle arrest and apoptosis, and these mimics are potent inhibitors with IC 50 values up to several hundred fold less than their native counterparts or Gem alone. Furthermore, we found that Gem-miR-15a and Gem-miR-194 retained miRNA function by downregulating the expression of several key targets including WEE1, CHK1, BMI1, and YAP1 for Gem-miR-15a, and FOXA1 for Gem-miR-194. We also found that our Gem-modified miRNA mimics exhibit an enhanced efficacy compared to Gem alone in patient-derived PDAC organoids. Furthermore, we observed that Gem-miR-15a significantly inhibits PDAC tumor growth in vivo without observing any noticeable signs of toxicity. Overall, our results demonstrate the therapeutic potential of Gem-modified miRNAs as a treatment strategy for PDAC. One Sentence Summary Yuen and Hwang et. al. have developed a potent therapeutic strategy for patients with pancreatic cancer by modifying microRNAs with gemcitabine.
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García-García G, Caro C, Fernández-Álvarez F, García-Martín ML, Arias JL. Multi-stimuli-responsive chitosan-functionalized magnetite/poly(ε-caprolactone) nanoparticles as theranostic platforms for combined tumor magnetic resonance imaging and chemotherapy. NANOMEDICINE : NANOTECHNOLOGY, BIOLOGY, AND MEDICINE 2023; 52:102695. [PMID: 37394106 DOI: 10.1016/j.nano.2023.102695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023]
Abstract
Chitosan-functionalized magnetite/poly(ε-caprolactone) nanoparticles were formulated by interfacial polymer disposition plus coacervation, and loaded with gemcitabine. That (core/shell)/shell nanostructure was confirmed by electron microscopy, elemental analysis, electrophoretic, and Fourier transform infrared characterizations. A short-term stability study proved the protection against particle aggregation provided by the chitosan shell. Superparamagnetic properties of the nanoparticles were characterized in vitro, while the definition of the longitudinal and transverse relaxivities was an initial indication of their capacity as T2 contrast agents. Safety of the particles was demonstrated in vitro on HFF-1 human fibroblasts, and ex vivo on SCID mice. The nanoparticles demonstrated in vitro pH- and heat-responsive gemcitabine release capabilities. In vivo magnetic resonance imaging studies and Prussian blue visualization of iron deposits in tissue samples defined the improvement in nanoparticle targeting into the tumor when using a magnetic field. This tri-stimuli (magnetite/poly(ε-caprolactone))/chitosan nanostructure could find theranostic applications (biomedical imaging & chemotherapy) against tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gracia García-García
- Faculty of Experimental Sciences, Universidad Francisco de Vitoria, Ctra. Pozuelo-Majadahonda Km 1,800, 28223 Pozuelo de Alarcón, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carlos Caro
- Andalusian Centre for Nanomedicine and Biotechnology (BIONAND), Junta de Andalucía-Universidad de Málaga, C/ Severo Ochoa, 35, 29590 Málaga, Spain
| | - Fátima Fernández-Álvarez
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain
| | - María Luisa García-Martín
- Andalusian Centre for Nanomedicine and Biotechnology (BIONAND), Junta de Andalucía-Universidad de Málaga, C/ Severo Ochoa, 35, 29590 Málaga, Spain; Biomedical Research Networking Center in Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), Málaga, Spain
| | - José L Arias
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain; Institute of Biopathology and Regenerative Medicine (IBIMER), Center of Biomedical Research (CIBM), University of Granada, Av. del Conocimiento, 18016 Granada, Spain; Biosanitary Research Institute of Granada (ibs.GRANADA), University of Granada, Av. de Madrid, 15, 18012 Granada, Spain.
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16
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Kargbo RB. Unveiling New KRAS G12D Inhibitors: A Promising Approach for Pancreatic Cancer Therapy. ACS Med Chem Lett 2023; 14:889-890. [PMID: 37465312 PMCID: PMC10350939 DOI: 10.1021/acsmedchemlett.3c00222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic carcinoma-1 (PANC-1) is a human pancreatic cancer cell line derived from a pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) tumor, often used in research to study pancreatic cancer biology, molecular mechanisms, and potential therapeutic interventions. PANC-1 cells exhibit genetic alterations characteristic of pancreatic cancer, such as mutations in the KRAS oncogene and TP53 tumor suppressor gene. Cultured in vitro, these cells enable researchers to investigate the effects of treatments, genetic manipulations, or signaling pathway modulations on cancer cell growth, survival, and migration. This Patent Highlight discloses new compounds capable of inhibiting KRASG12D proteins, potentially useful in treating KRASG12D-associated diseases, such as pancreatic cancer.
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Halbrook CJ, Lyssiotis CA, Pasca di Magliano M, Maitra A. Pancreatic cancer: Advances and challenges. Cell 2023; 186:1729-1754. [PMID: 37059070 PMCID: PMC10182830 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2023.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 188] [Impact Index Per Article: 188.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 04/16/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remains one of the deadliest cancers. Significant efforts have largely defined major genetic factors driving PDAC pathogenesis and progression. Pancreatic tumors are characterized by a complex microenvironment that orchestrates metabolic alterations and supports a milieu of interactions among various cell types within this niche. In this review, we highlight the foundational studies that have driven our understanding of these processes. We further discuss the recent technological advances that continue to expand our understanding of PDAC complexity. We posit that the clinical translation of these research endeavors will enhance the currently dismal survival rate of this recalcitrant disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J Halbrook
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA; Institute for Immunology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA; Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Irvine, Orange, CA 92868, USA.
| | - Costas A Lyssiotis
- Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
| | - Marina Pasca di Magliano
- Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
| | - Anirban Maitra
- Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, Sheikh Ahmed Center for Pancreatic Cancer Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
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Ahmed AA, Greenhalf W, Palmer DH, Williams N, Worthington J, Arshad T, Haider S, Alexandrou E, Guneri D, Waller ZAE, Neidle S. The Potent G-Quadruplex-Binding Compound QN-302 Downregulates S100P Gene Expression in Cells and in an In Vivo Model of Pancreatic Cancer. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28062452. [PMID: 36985425 PMCID: PMC10051992 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28062452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The naphthalene diimide compound QN-302, designed to bind to G-quadruplex DNA sequences within the promoter regions of cancer-related genes, has high anti-proliferative activity in pancreatic cancer cell lines and anti-tumor activity in several experimental models for the disease. We show here that QN-302 also causes downregulation of the expression of the S100P gene and the S100P protein in cells and in vivo. This protein is well established as being involved in key proliferation and motility pathways in several human cancers and has been identified as a potential biomarker in pancreatic cancer. The S100P gene contains 60 putative quadruplex-forming sequences, one of which is in the promoter region, 48 nucleotides upstream from the transcription start site. We report biophysical and molecular modeling studies showing that this sequence forms a highly stable G-quadruplex in vitro, which is further stabilized by QN-302. We also report transcriptome analyses showing that S100P expression is highly upregulated in tissues from human pancreatic cancer tumors, compared to normal pancreas material. The extent of upregulation is dependent on the degree of differentiation of tumor cells, with the most poorly differentiated, from more advanced disease, having the highest level of S100P expression. The experimental drug QN-302 is currently in pre-IND development (as of Q1 2023), and its ability to downregulate S100P protein expression supports a role for this protein as a marker of therapeutic response in pancreatic cancer. These results are also consistent with the hypothesis that the S100P promoter G-quadruplex is a potential therapeutic target in pancreatic cancer at the transcriptional level for QN-302.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed A Ahmed
- The School of Pharmacy, University College London, London WC1N 1AX, UK
- Guy's Cancer Centre, Guy's Hospital, London SE1 9RT, UK
| | - William Greenhalf
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 7BE, UK
| | - Daniel H Palmer
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 7BE, UK
| | | | | | | | - Shozeb Haider
- The School of Pharmacy, University College London, London WC1N 1AX, UK
| | | | - Dilek Guneri
- The School of Pharmacy, University College London, London WC1N 1AX, UK
| | - Zoe A E Waller
- The School of Pharmacy, University College London, London WC1N 1AX, UK
| | - Stephen Neidle
- The School of Pharmacy, University College London, London WC1N 1AX, UK
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Xu X, Li Z, Yao X, Sun N, Chang J. Advanced prodrug strategies in nucleoside analogues targeting the treatment of gastrointestinal malignancies. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1173432. [PMID: 37143892 PMCID: PMC10151537 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1173432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Gastrointestinal malignancies are common digestive system tumor worldwide. Nucleoside analogues have been widely used as anticancer drugs for the treatment of a variety of conditions, including gastrointestinal malignancies. However, low permeability, enzymatic deamination, inefficiently phosphorylation, the emergence of chemoresistance and some other issues have limited its efficacy. The prodrug strategies have been widely applied in drug design to improve pharmacokinetic properties and address safety and drug-resistance issues. This review will provide an overview of the recent developments of prodrug strategies in nucleoside analogues for the treatment of gastrointestinal malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Nannan Sun
- *Correspondence: Nannan Sun, ; Junbiao Chang,
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