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Focaccetti C, Nardozi D, Benvenuto M, Lucarini V, Angiolini V, Carrano R, Scimeca M, Servadei F, Mauriello A, Mancini P, Besharat ZM, Milella M, Migliaccio S, Ferretti E, Cifaldi L, Masuelli L, Palumbo C, Bei R. Bisphenol-A in Drinking Water Accelerates Mammary Cancerogenesis and Favors an Immunosuppressive Tumor Microenvironment in BALB- neuT Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6259. [PMID: 38892447 PMCID: PMC11172679 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25116259] [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: 04/12/2024] [Revised: 05/27/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Bisphenol-A (BPA), a synthetic compound ubiquitously present in the environment, can act as an endocrine disruptor by binding to both canonical and non-canonical estrogen receptors (ERs). Exposure to BPA has been linked to various cancers, in particular, those arising in hormone-targeted tissues such as the breast. In this study, we evaluated the effect of BPA intake through drinking water on ErbB2/neu-driven cancerogenesis in BALB-neuT mice, transgenic for a mutated ErbB2/neu receptor gene, which reproducibly develop carcinomas in all mammary glands. In this model, BPA accelerated mammary cancerogenesis with an increase in the number of tumors per mouse and a concurrent decrease in tumor-free and overall survival. As assessed by immunohistochemistry, BALB-neuT tumors were ER-negative but expressed high levels of the alternative estrogen receptor GPR30, regardless of BPA exposure. On the other hand, BPA exposure resulted in a marked upregulation of progesterone receptors in preinvasive tumors and of Ki67, CD31, and phosphorylated Akt in invasive tumors. Moreover, based on several infiltration markers of immune cells, BPA favored an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Finally, in vitro cell survival studies performed on a cell line established from a BALB-neuT breast carcinoma confirmed that BPA's impact on cancer progression can be particularly relevant after chronic, low-dose exposure.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Benzhydryl Compounds
- Phenols
- Tumor Microenvironment/drug effects
- Female
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred BALB C
- Receptors, Estrogen/metabolism
- Receptors, Estrogen/genetics
- Drinking Water
- Mammary Neoplasms, Experimental/chemically induced
- Mammary Neoplasms, Experimental/pathology
- Mammary Neoplasms, Experimental/metabolism
- Mice, Transgenic
- Receptor, ErbB-2/metabolism
- Receptor, ErbB-2/genetics
- Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled/metabolism
- Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled/genetics
- Receptors, Progesterone/metabolism
- Receptors, Progesterone/genetics
- Carcinogenesis/chemically induced
- Carcinogenesis/drug effects
- Endocrine Disruptors/toxicity
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Focaccetti
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, 00133 Rome, Italy; (C.F.); (M.B.); (R.C.); (L.C.); (C.P.)
| | - Daniela Nardozi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome “Sapienza”, 00161 Rome, Italy; (D.N.); (V.L.); (V.A.); (P.M.); (Z.M.B.); (S.M.); (E.F.); (L.M.)
| | - Monica Benvenuto
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, 00133 Rome, Italy; (C.F.); (M.B.); (R.C.); (L.C.); (C.P.)
| | - Valeria Lucarini
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome “Sapienza”, 00161 Rome, Italy; (D.N.); (V.L.); (V.A.); (P.M.); (Z.M.B.); (S.M.); (E.F.); (L.M.)
| | - Valentina Angiolini
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome “Sapienza”, 00161 Rome, Italy; (D.N.); (V.L.); (V.A.); (P.M.); (Z.M.B.); (S.M.); (E.F.); (L.M.)
| | - Raffaele Carrano
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, 00133 Rome, Italy; (C.F.); (M.B.); (R.C.); (L.C.); (C.P.)
| | - Manuel Scimeca
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, 00133 Rome, Italy; (M.S.); (F.S.); (A.M.)
| | - Francesca Servadei
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, 00133 Rome, Italy; (M.S.); (F.S.); (A.M.)
| | - Alessandro Mauriello
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, 00133 Rome, Italy; (M.S.); (F.S.); (A.M.)
| | - Patrizia Mancini
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome “Sapienza”, 00161 Rome, Italy; (D.N.); (V.L.); (V.A.); (P.M.); (Z.M.B.); (S.M.); (E.F.); (L.M.)
| | - Zein Mersini Besharat
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome “Sapienza”, 00161 Rome, Italy; (D.N.); (V.L.); (V.A.); (P.M.); (Z.M.B.); (S.M.); (E.F.); (L.M.)
| | - Michele Milella
- Department of Oncology, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy;
| | - Silvia Migliaccio
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome “Sapienza”, 00161 Rome, Italy; (D.N.); (V.L.); (V.A.); (P.M.); (Z.M.B.); (S.M.); (E.F.); (L.M.)
| | - Elisabetta Ferretti
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome “Sapienza”, 00161 Rome, Italy; (D.N.); (V.L.); (V.A.); (P.M.); (Z.M.B.); (S.M.); (E.F.); (L.M.)
| | - Loredana Cifaldi
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, 00133 Rome, Italy; (C.F.); (M.B.); (R.C.); (L.C.); (C.P.)
| | - Laura Masuelli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome “Sapienza”, 00161 Rome, Italy; (D.N.); (V.L.); (V.A.); (P.M.); (Z.M.B.); (S.M.); (E.F.); (L.M.)
| | - Camilla Palumbo
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, 00133 Rome, Italy; (C.F.); (M.B.); (R.C.); (L.C.); (C.P.)
| | - Roberto Bei
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, 00133 Rome, Italy; (C.F.); (M.B.); (R.C.); (L.C.); (C.P.)
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2
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M.Saed S, Abbas S, El Ansary MS, Abdelfattah W, Maurice KK, Mohamed ME, Koptan DMT. Phenotypic Analysis of Circulating Myeloid Derived Suppressor Cells and Their Subpopulations in Egyptian Females with Breast Cancer: A Single-Centre Case-Control Study. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev 2024; 25:257-263. [PMID: 38285792 PMCID: PMC10911743 DOI: 10.31557/apjcp.2024.25.1.257] [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] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC) are immature myeloid cells with suppressive function that has been thoroughly documented in the setting of cancer. Our purpose was to evaluate levels of MDSC and their subsets in a cohort of Egyptian patients with breast cancer. METHODS Evaluation of peripheral blood total MDSC and its subset was done using multicolor flowcytometry in 30 malignant, 10 benign breast tumor patients and 10 healthy control females. RESULTS BC patients had higher total MDSC levels compared to controls (p= 0.01) particularly the Monocytic MDSC (M-MDSC) and abnormal MDSC subsets (p = 0.001 and p <0.001, respectively). A tumor size > 2 cm exhibited significantly higher granulocytic MDSCs (G-MDSCs) compared to tumor size < 2 cm (p= 0.02) whereas abnormal MDSCs were significantly higher in patients with a tumor size < 2 cm (p = 0.037). CONCLUSION MDSC and its subsets can be used as a prognostic marker of tumor size as well as a potential targets for treatment in breast cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salma M.Saed
- Department of Clinical and Chemical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Egypt.
| | - Shimaa Abbas
- Department of Clinical and Chemical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Egypt.
| | - Mervat S. El Ansary
- Department of Clinical and Chemical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Egypt.
| | - Walaa Abdelfattah
- Department of Clinical and Chemical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Egypt.
| | - Karim K Maurice
- Department of General Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Egypt.
| | | | - Dina M. Tawfik Koptan
- Department of Clinical and Chemical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Egypt.
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3
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Ruzzi F, Semprini MS, Scalambra L, Palladini A, Angelicola S, Cappello C, Pittino OM, Nanni P, Lollini PL. Virus-like Particle (VLP) Vaccines for Cancer Immunotherapy. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12963. [PMID: 37629147 PMCID: PMC10454695 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241612963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer vaccines are increasingly being studied as a possible strategy to prevent and treat cancers. While several prophylactic vaccines for virus-caused cancers are approved and efficiently used worldwide, the development of therapeutic cancer vaccines needs to be further implemented. Virus-like particles (VLPs) are self-assembled protein structures that mimic native viruses or bacteriophages but lack the replicative material. VLP platforms are designed to display single or multiple antigens with a high-density pattern, which can trigger both cellular and humoral responses. The aim of this review is to provide a comprehensive overview of preventive VLP-based vaccines currently approved worldwide against HBV and HPV infections or under evaluation to prevent virus-caused cancers. Furthermore, preclinical and early clinical data on prophylactic and therapeutic VLP-based cancer vaccines were summarized with a focus on HER-2-positive breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Ruzzi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC) and Alma Mater Institute on Healthy Planet, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (F.R.); (M.S.S.); (L.S.); (S.A.); (C.C.); (O.M.P.); (P.N.)
| | - Maria Sofia Semprini
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC) and Alma Mater Institute on Healthy Planet, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (F.R.); (M.S.S.); (L.S.); (S.A.); (C.C.); (O.M.P.); (P.N.)
| | - Laura Scalambra
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC) and Alma Mater Institute on Healthy Planet, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (F.R.); (M.S.S.); (L.S.); (S.A.); (C.C.); (O.M.P.); (P.N.)
| | - Arianna Palladini
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy;
| | - Stefania Angelicola
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC) and Alma Mater Institute on Healthy Planet, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (F.R.); (M.S.S.); (L.S.); (S.A.); (C.C.); (O.M.P.); (P.N.)
| | - Chiara Cappello
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC) and Alma Mater Institute on Healthy Planet, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (F.R.); (M.S.S.); (L.S.); (S.A.); (C.C.); (O.M.P.); (P.N.)
| | - Olga Maria Pittino
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC) and Alma Mater Institute on Healthy Planet, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (F.R.); (M.S.S.); (L.S.); (S.A.); (C.C.); (O.M.P.); (P.N.)
| | - Patrizia Nanni
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC) and Alma Mater Institute on Healthy Planet, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (F.R.); (M.S.S.); (L.S.); (S.A.); (C.C.); (O.M.P.); (P.N.)
| | - Pier-Luigi Lollini
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC) and Alma Mater Institute on Healthy Planet, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (F.R.); (M.S.S.); (L.S.); (S.A.); (C.C.); (O.M.P.); (P.N.)
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4
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Di Lorenzo A, Bolli E, Ruiu R, Ferrauto G, Di Gregorio E, Avalle L, Savino A, Poggio P, Merighi IF, Riccardo F, Brancaccio M, Quaglino E, Cavallo F, Conti L. Toll-like receptor 2 promotes breast cancer progression and resistance to chemotherapy. Oncoimmunology 2022; 11:2086752. [PMID: 35756841 PMCID: PMC9225225 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2022.2086752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are the main drivers of disease progression and chemotherapy resistance in breast cancer. Tumor progression and chemoresistance might then be prevented by CSC-targeted therapies. We previously demonstrated that Toll-like Receptor (TLR)2 is overexpressed in CSCs and fuels their self-renewal. Here, we show that high TLR2 expression is linked to poor prognosis in breast cancer patients, therefore representing a candidate target for breast cancer treatment. By using a novel mammary cancer-prone TLR2KO mouse model, we demonstrate that TLR2 is required for CSC pool maintenance and for regulatory T cell induction. Accordingly, cancer-prone TLR2KO mice display delayed tumor onset and increased survival. Transplantation of TLR2WT and TLR2KO cancer cells in either TLR2WT or TLR2KO hosts shows that tumor initiation is mostly sustained by TLR2 expression in cancer cells. TLR2 host deficiency partially impairs cancer cell growth, implying a pro-tumorigenic effect of TLR2 expression in immune cells. Finally, we demonstrate that doxorubicin-induced release of HMGB1 activates TLR2 signaling in cancer cells, leading to a chemotherapy-resistant phenotype. Unprecedented use of TLR2 inhibitors in vivo reduces tumor growth and potentiates doxorubicin efficacy with no negative impact on the host immune system, opening new perspectives for the treatment of breast cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonino Di Lorenzo
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Bolli
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Roberto Ruiu
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Ferrauto
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Enza Di Gregorio
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Lidia Avalle
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | | | - Pietro Poggio
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Irene Fiore Merighi
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Federica Riccardo
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Mara Brancaccio
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Elena Quaglino
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Federica Cavallo
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Laura Conti
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
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5
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Ruiu R, Di Lorenzo A, Cavallo F, Conti L. Are Cancer Stem Cells a Suitable Target for Breast Cancer Immunotherapy? Front Oncol 2022; 12:877384. [PMID: 35530300 PMCID: PMC9069673 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.877384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
There is substantial evidence to suggest that complete tumor eradication relies on the effective elimination of cancer stem cells (CSCs). CSCs have been widely described as mediators of resistance to conventional therapies, including chemo- and radiotherapy, as well as of tumor metastasization and relapse in different tumor types, including breast cancer. However, the resistant phenotype of CSCs makes their targeting a tough task, and immunotherapy may therefore be an interesting option. Nevertheless, although immunotherapeutic approaches to cancer treatment have generated great enthusiasm due to recent success in clinics, breast cancer treatment mostly relies on standard approaches. In this context, we review the existing literature on the immunological properties of breast CSC and immunotherapeutic approaches to them. We will thus attempt to clarify whether there is room for the immunotargeting of breast CSCs in the current landscape of breast cancer therapies. Finally, we will provide our opinion on the CSC-targeting immunotherapeutic strategies that could prospectively be attempted.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Federica Cavallo
- Molecular Biotechnology Center, Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
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6
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Preclinical models and technologies to advance nanovaccine development. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2021; 172:148-182. [PMID: 33711401 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Revised: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The remarkable success of targeted immunotherapies is revolutionizing cancer treatment. However, tumor heterogeneity and low immunogenicity, in addition to several tumor-associated immunosuppression mechanisms are among the major factors that have precluded the success of cancer vaccines as targeted cancer immunotherapies. The exciting outcomes obtained in patients upon the injection of tumor-specific antigens and adjuvants intratumorally, reinvigorated interest in the use of nanotechnology to foster the delivery of vaccines to address cancer unmet needs. Thus, bridging nano-based vaccine platform development and predicted clinical outcomes the selection of the proper preclinical model will be fundamental. Preclinical models have revealed promising outcomes for cancer vaccines. However, only few cases were associated with clinical responses. This review addresses the major challenges related to the translation of cancer nano-based vaccines to the clinic, discussing the requirements for ex vivo and in vivo models of cancer to ensure the translation of preclinical success to patients.
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7
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Salemme V, Centonze G, Cavallo F, Defilippi P, Conti L. The Crosstalk Between Tumor Cells and the Immune Microenvironment in Breast Cancer: Implications for Immunotherapy. Front Oncol 2021; 11:610303. [PMID: 33777750 PMCID: PMC7991834 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.610303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer progression is a complex process controlled by genetic and epigenetic factors that coordinate the crosstalk between tumor cells and the components of tumor microenvironment (TME). Among those, the immune cells play a dual role during cancer onset and progression, as they can protect from tumor progression by killing immunogenic neoplastic cells, but in the meanwhile can also shape tumor immunogenicity, contributing to tumor escape. The complex interplay between cancer and the immune TME influences the outcome of immunotherapy and of many other anti-cancer therapies. Herein, we present an updated view of the pro- and anti-tumor activities of the main immune cell populations present in breast TME, such as T and NK cells, myeloid cells, innate lymphoid cells, mast cells and eosinophils, and of the underlying cytokine-, cell–cell contact- and microvesicle-based mechanisms. Moreover, current and novel therapeutic options that can revert the immunosuppressive activity of breast TME will be discussed. To this end, clinical trials assessing the efficacy of CAR-T and CAR-NK cells, cancer vaccination, immunogenic cell death-inducing chemotherapy, DNA methyl transferase and histone deacetylase inhibitors, cytokines or their inhibitors and other immunotherapies in breast cancer patients will be reviewed. The knowledge of the complex interplay that elapses between tumor and immune cells, and of the experimental therapies targeting it, would help to develop new combination treatments able to overcome tumor immune evasion mechanisms and optimize clinical benefit of current immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Salemme
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Giorgia Centonze
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Federica Cavallo
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Paola Defilippi
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Laura Conti
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
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8
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Toll-Like Receptor 2 at the Crossroad between Cancer Cells, the Immune System, and the Microbiota. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21249418. [PMID: 33321934 PMCID: PMC7763461 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21249418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2020] [Revised: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) expressed on myeloid cells mediates the recognition of harmful molecules belonging to invading pathogens or host damaged tissues, leading to inflammation. For this ability to activate immune responses, TLR2 has been considered a player in anti-cancer immunity. Therefore, TLR2 agonists have been used as adjuvants for anti-cancer immunotherapies. However, TLR2 is also expressed on neoplastic cells from different malignancies and promotes their proliferation through activation of the myeloid differentiation primary response protein 88 (MyD88)/nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cell (NF-κB) pathway. Furthermore, its activation on regulatory immune cells may contribute to the generation of an immunosuppressive microenvironment and of the pre-metastatic niche, promoting cancer progression. Thus, TLR2 represents a double-edge sword, whose role in cancer needs to be carefully understood for the setup of effective therapies. In this review, we discuss the divergent effects induced by TLR2 activation in different immune cell populations, cancer cells, and cancer stem cells. Moreover, we analyze the stimuli that lead to its activation in the tumor microenvironment, addressing the role of danger, pathogen, and microbiota-associated molecular patterns and their modulation during cancer treatments. This information will contribute to the scientific debate on the use of TLR2 agonists or antagonists in cancer treatment and pave the way for new therapeutic avenues.
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9
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Quaglino E, Cavallo F, Conti L. Cancer stem cell antigens as targets for new combined anti-cancer therapies. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2020; 129:105861. [PMID: 33031926 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2020.105861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Revised: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 09/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The introduction of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) has ushered in a new, golden age for cancer immunotherapy. However, their clinical success remains limited in several solid cancer types because of the low intrinsic immunogenicity of tumors and the development of immune escape mechanisms. Cancer stem cells (CSC), a small population of cancer cells that are responsible for tumor onset, metastatic spread and relapse after treatment, play a pivotal role in resistance to ICIs. The development of novel therapies that can target CSCs would thus improve the outcomes of current immunotherapy regimens. In this light, vaccines that target CSCs are a promising strategy. This paper briefly describes the immunologic properties of CSCs and their antigenic profile, and reviews current preclinical and clinical approaches that combine CSC-targeting vaccines with different synergistic therapies for the development of more effective antineoplastic treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Quaglino
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Federica Cavallo
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Laura Conti
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy.
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10
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Conti L, Bolli E, Di Lorenzo A, Franceschi V, Macchi F, Riccardo F, Ruiu R, Russo L, Quaglino E, Donofrio G, Cavallo F. Immunotargeting of the xCT Cystine/Glutamate Antiporter Potentiates the Efficacy of HER2-Targeted Immunotherapies in Breast Cancer. Cancer Immunol Res 2020; 8:1039-1053. [PMID: 32532810 DOI: 10.1158/2326-6066.cir-20-0082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2020] [Revised: 04/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Despite HER2-targeted therapies improving the outcome of HER2+ breast cancer, many patients experience resistance and metastatic progression. Cancer stem cells (CSC) play a role in this resistance and progression, thus combining HER2 targeting with CSC inhibition could improve the management of HER2+ breast cancer. The cystine-glutamate antiporter, xCT, is overexpressed in mammary CSCs and is crucial for their redox balance, self-renewal, and resistance to therapies, representing a potential target for breast cancer immunotherapy. We developed a combined immunotherapy targeting HER2 and xCT using the Bovine Herpes virus-4 vector, a safe vaccine that can confer immunogenicity to tumor antigens. Mammary cancer-prone BALB-neuT mice, transgenic for rat Her2, were immunized with the single or combined vaccines. Anti-HER2 vaccination slowed primary tumor growth, whereas anti-xCT vaccination primarily prevented metastasis formation. The combination of the two vaccines exerted a complementary effect by mediating the induction of cytotoxic T cells and of HER2 and xCT antibodies that induce antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity and hinder cancer cell proliferation. Antibodies targeting xCT, but not those targeting HER2, directly affected CSC viability, self-renewal, and migration, inducing the antimetastatic effect of xCT vaccination. Our findings present a new therapy for HER2+ breast cancer, demonstrating that CSC immunotargeting via anti-xCT vaccination synergizes with HER2-directed immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Conti
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy.
| | - Elisabetta Bolli
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Antonino Di Lorenzo
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | | | - Francesca Macchi
- Department of Medical Veterinary Sciences, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Federica Riccardo
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Roberto Ruiu
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Luca Russo
- Department of Medical Veterinary Sciences, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Elena Quaglino
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Gaetano Donofrio
- Department of Medical Veterinary Sciences, University of Parma, Parma, Italy.
| | - Federica Cavallo
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy.
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11
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Quaglino E, Conti L, Cavallo F. Breast cancer stem cell antigens as targets for immunotherapy. Semin Immunol 2020; 47:101386. [PMID: 31932198 DOI: 10.1016/j.smim.2020.101386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2019] [Accepted: 01/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The great success of immunotherapy is paving the way for a new era in cancer treatment and is driving major improvements in the therapy of patients suffering from a range of solid tumors. However, the choice of the appropriate tumor antigens to be targeted with cancer vaccines and T-cell therapies is still a challenge. Most antigens targeted so far have been identified on the tumor bulk and are expressed on differentiated cancer cells. The discovery of a small population of cancer stem cells (CSC), which is refractory to most current therapies and responsible for the development of metastasis and recurrence, has made it clear that the ideal targets for immunotherapies are the antigens that are expressed in CSC and play a key role in their function. Indeed, their immunotargeting would enable the eradication of CSC to be performed, thus eliminating the tumor source. We call these antigens "CSC oncoantigens". Herein, we summarize the controversial nature of breast CSC, discuss why they represent good candidates for cancer immunotherapy, and review the CSC antigens that have been used as targets for CSC immunotargeting this far. Moreover, we describe the pipeline that we have developed for the identification of fresh CSC oncoantigens, and present the pre-clinical results obtained with vaccines that target some of these antigens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Quaglino
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy.
| | - Laura Conti
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy.
| | - Federica Cavallo
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy.
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12
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Improvement in the Anti-Tumor Efficacy of Doxorubicin Nanosponges in In Vitro and in Mice Bearing Breast Tumor Models. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12010162. [PMID: 31936526 PMCID: PMC7016577 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12010162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Revised: 01/07/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Doxorubicin (DOX) is an anthracycline widely used in cancer therapy and in particular in breast cancer treatment. The treatment with DOX appears successful, but it is limited by a severe cardiotoxicity. This work evaluated the in vitro and in vivo anticancer effect of a new formulation of β-cyclodextrin nanosponges containing DOX (BNS-DOX). The BNS-DOX effectiveness was evaluated in human and mouse breast cancer cell lines in vitro in terms of effect on cell growth, cell cycle distribution, and apoptosis induction; and in vivo in BALB-neuT mice developing spontaneous breast cancer in terms of biodistribution, cancer growth inhibition, and heart toxicity. BNS-DOX significantly inhibited cancer cell proliferation, through the induction of apoptosis, with higher efficiency than free DOX. The breast cancer growth in BALB-neuT mice was inhibited by 60% by a BNS-DOX dose five times lower than the DOX therapeutic dose, with substantial reduction of tumor neoangiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis. Biodistribution after BNS-DOX treatment revealed a high accumulation of DOX in the tumor site and a low accumulation in the hearts of mice. Results indicated that use of BNS may be an efficient strategy to deliver DOX in the treatment of breast cancer, since it improves the anti-cancer effectiveness and reduces cardiotoxicity.
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13
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Lee SSY, Bindokas VP, Lingen MW, Kron SJ. Nondestructive, multiplex three-dimensional mapping of immune infiltrates in core needle biopsy. J Transl Med 2019; 99:1400-1413. [PMID: 30401959 PMCID: PMC6502706 DOI: 10.1038/s41374-018-0156-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2018] [Revised: 09/18/2018] [Accepted: 10/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Enumeration of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) in H&E stained tissue sections has demonstrated limited value in predicting immune responses to cancer immunotherapy, likely reflecting the diversity of cell types and immune activation states among tumor infiltrates. Multiparametric flow cytometry enables robust phenotypic and functional analysis to distinguish suppression from activation, but tissue dissociation eliminates spatial context. Multiplex methods for immunohistochemistry (IHC) are emerging, but these interrogate only a single tissue section at a time. Here, we report transparent tissue tomography (T3) as a tool for three-dimensional (3D) imaging cytometry in the complex architecture of the tumor microenvironment, demonstrating multiplexed immunofluorescent analysis in core needle biopsies. Using T3 imaging, image processing and machine learning to map CD3+CD8+ cytotoxic T cells (CTLs) in whole core needle biopsies from Her2+ murine mammary tumors and human head and neck surgical specimens revealed marked inhomogeneity within single needle cores, confirmed by serial section IHC. Applying T3 imaging cytometry, we discovered a strong spatial correlation between CD3+CD8+ CTLs and microvasculature in the EGFR+ parenchyma, revealing significant differences among head and neck cancer patients. These results show that T3 offers simple and rapid access to three-dimensional and quantitative maps of the tumor microenvironment and immune infiltrate, offering a new diagnostic tool for personalized cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steve Seung-Young Lee
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Cell Biology, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL.,Ludwig Center for Metastasis Research, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | | | - Mark W. Lingen
- Department of Pathology, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Stephen J. Kron
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Cell Biology, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL.,Ludwig Center for Metastasis Research, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL.,Correspondence to:
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14
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Ruiu R, Tarone L, Rolih V, Barutello G, Bolli E, Riccardo F, Cavallo F, Conti L. Cancer stem cell immunology and immunotherapy: Harnessing the immune system against cancer's source. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2019; 164:119-188. [PMID: 31383404 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2019.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Despite recent advances in diagnosis and therapy having improved cancer outcome, many patients still do not respond to treatments, resulting in the progression or relapse of the disease, eventually impairing survival expectations. The limited efficacy of therapy is often attributable to its inability to affect cancer stem cells (CSCs), a small population of cells resistant to current radio- and chemo-therapies. CSCs are characterized by self-renewal and tumor-initiating capabilities, and function as a reservoir for the local and distant recurrence of the disease. Therefore, new therapeutic approaches able to effectively target and deplete CSCs are urgently needed. Immunotherapy is facing a renewed interest for its potential in cancer treatment, and the possibility of harnessing the immune system to target CSCs is being addressed by a new exciting research field. In this chapter, we discuss the cancer stem cell model and illustrate CSC biological and molecular properties, critically addressing theoretical and practical issues linked with their definition and study. We then review the existing literature regarding the immunological properties of CSCs and the complex interplay occurring between CSCs and immune cells. Finally, we present up-to-date studies on CSC immunotargeting and its potential future perspective. In conclusion, understanding the interplay between CSC biology and tumor immunology will provide a deeper understanding of the mechanisms that regulate CSC immunological properties. This will contribute to the design of new CSC-directed immunotherapeutic strategies with the potential of strongly improving cancer outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Ruiu
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Lidia Tarone
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Valeria Rolih
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Barutello
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Bolli
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Federica Riccardo
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Federica Cavallo
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, Torino, Italy.
| | - Laura Conti
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
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15
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Ruiu R, Rolih V, Bolli E, Barutello G, Riccardo F, Quaglino E, Merighi IF, Pericle F, Donofrio G, Cavallo F, Conti L. Fighting breast cancer stem cells through the immune-targeting of the xCT cystine-glutamate antiporter. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2019; 68:131-141. [PMID: 29947961 PMCID: PMC11028170 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-018-2185-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2018] [Accepted: 06/08/2018] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Tumor relapse and metastatic spreading act as major hindrances to achieve complete cure of breast cancer. Evidence suggests that cancer stem cells (CSC) would function as a reservoir for the local and distant recurrence of the disease, due to their resistance to radio- and chemotherapy and their ability to regenerate the tumor. Therefore, the identification of appropriate molecular targets expressed by CSC may be critical in the development of more effective therapies. Our studies focused on the identification of mammary CSC antigens and on the development of CSC-targeting vaccines. We compared the transcriptional profile of CSC-enriched tumorspheres from an Her2+ breast cancer cell line with that of the more differentiated parental cells. Among the molecules strongly upregulated in tumorspheres we selected the transmembrane amino-acid antiporter xCT. In this review, we summarize the results we obtained with different xCT-targeting vaccines. We show that, despite xCT being a self-antigen, vaccination was able to induce a humoral immune response that delayed primary tumor growth and strongly impaired pulmonary metastasis formation in mice challenged with tumorsphere-derived cells. Moreover, immunotargeting of xCT was able to increase CSC chemosensitivity to doxorubicin, suggesting that it may act as an adjuvant to chemotherapy. In conclusion, our approach based on the comparison of the transcriptome of tumorspheres and parental cells allowed us to identify a novel CSC-related target and to develop preclinical therapeutic approaches able to impact on CSC biology, and therefore, hampering tumor growth and dissemination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Ruiu
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Turin, Via Nizza, 52, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - Valeria Rolih
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Turin, Via Nizza, 52, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Bolli
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Turin, Via Nizza, 52, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Barutello
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Turin, Via Nizza, 52, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - Federica Riccardo
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Turin, Via Nizza, 52, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - Elena Quaglino
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Turin, Via Nizza, 52, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - Irene Fiore Merighi
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Turin, Via Nizza, 52, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | | | - Gaetano Donofrio
- Department of Medical Veterinary Science, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Federica Cavallo
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Turin, Via Nizza, 52, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - Laura Conti
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Turin, Via Nizza, 52, 10126, Turin, Italy
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16
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Donofrio G, Tebaldi G, Lanzardo S, Ruiu R, Bolli E, Ballatore A, Rolih V, Macchi F, Conti L, Cavallo F. Bovine herpesvirus 4-based vector delivering the full length xCT DNA efficiently protects mice from mammary cancer metastases by targeting cancer stem cells. Oncoimmunology 2018; 7:e1494108. [PMID: 30524888 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2018.1494108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2018] [Revised: 06/22/2018] [Accepted: 06/24/2018] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite marked advancements in its treatment, breast cancer is still the second leading cause of cancer death in women, due to relapses and distal metastases. Breast cancer stem cells (CSCs), are a cellular reservoir for recurrence, metastatic evolution and disease progression, making the development of novel therapeutics that target CSCs, and thereby inhibit metastases, an urgent need. We have previously demonstrated that the cystine-glutamate antiporter xCT (SLC7A11), a protein that was shown to be overexpressed in mammary CSCs and that plays a key role in the maintenance of their redox balance, self-renewal and resistance to chemotherapy, is a potential target for mammary cancer immunotherapy. This paper reports on the development of an anti-xCT viral vaccine that is based on the bovine herpesvirus 4 (BoHV-4) vector, which we have previously showed to be a safe vaccine that can transduce cells in vivo and confer immunogenicity to tumor antigens. We show that the vaccination of BALB/c mice with BoHV-4 expressing xCT (BoHV-4-mxCT), impaired lung metastases induced by syngeneic mammary CSCs both in preventive and therapeutic settings. Vaccination induced T lymphocyte activation and the production of anti-xCT antibodies that can mediate antibody-dependent cell cytotoxicity (ADCC), and directly impair CSC phenotype, self-renewal and redox balance. Our findings pave the way for the potential future use of BoHV-4-based vector targeting xCT in metastatic breast cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaetano Donofrio
- Department of Medical Veterinary Science, Università degli Studi di Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Giulia Tebaldi
- Department of Medical Veterinary Science, Università degli Studi di Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Stefania Lanzardo
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, Università degli Studi di Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Roberto Ruiu
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, Università degli Studi di Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Bolli
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, Università degli Studi di Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Andrea Ballatore
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, Università degli Studi di Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Valeria Rolih
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, Università degli Studi di Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Francesca Macchi
- Department of Medical Veterinary Science, Università degli Studi di Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Laura Conti
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, Università degli Studi di Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Federica Cavallo
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, Università degli Studi di Torino, Torino, Italy
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17
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Witt K, Ligtenberg MA, Conti L, Lanzardo S, Ruiu R, Wallmann T, Tufvesson-Stiller H, Chambers BJ, Rolny C, Lladser A, Lundqvist A, Cavallo F, Kiessling R. Cripto-1 Plasmid DNA Vaccination Targets Metastasis and Cancer Stem Cells in Murine Mammary Carcinoma. Cancer Immunol Res 2018; 6:1417-1425. [PMID: 30143536 DOI: 10.1158/2326-6066.cir-17-0572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2017] [Revised: 04/24/2018] [Accepted: 08/20/2018] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Metastatic breast cancer is a fatal disease that responds poorly to treatment. Cancer vaccines targeting antigens expressed by metastatic breast cancer cells and cancer stem cells could function as anticancer therapies. Cripto-1 is an oncofetal protein overexpressed in invasive breast cancer and cancer-initiating cells. In this study, we explored the potential of a Cripto-1-encoding DNA vaccine to target breast cancer in preclinical mouse models. BALB/c mice and BALB-neuT mice were treated with a DNA vaccine encoding mouse Cripto-1 (mCr-1). BALB/c mice were challenged with murine breast cancer 4T1 cells or TUBO spheres; BALB-neuT mice spontaneously developed breast cancer. Tumor growth was followed in all mouse models and lung metastases were evaluated. In vitro assays were performed to identify the immune response elicited by vaccination. Vaccination against mCr-1 reduced primary tumor growth in the 4T1 metastatic breast cancer model and reduced lung metastatic burden. In BALB-neuT mice, because the primary tumors are Cripto-1 negative, vaccination against mCr-1 did not affect primary tumors but did reduce lung metastatic burden. Spheroid-cultured TUBO cells, derived from a BALB/neuT primary tumor, develop a cancer stem cell-like phenotype and express mCr-1. We observed reduced tumor growth in vaccinated mice after challenge with TUBO spheres. Our data indicate that vaccination against Cripto-1 results in a protective immune response against mCr-1 expressing and metastasizing cells. Targeting Cripto-1 by vaccination holds promise as an immunotherapy for treatment of metastatic breast cancer. Cancer Immunol Res; 6(11); 1417-25. ©2018 AACR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina Witt
- Department of Oncology and Pathology, Cancer Center Karolinska, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Maarten A Ligtenberg
- Department of Oncology and Pathology, Cancer Center Karolinska, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Laura Conti
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Stefania Lanzardo
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Roberto Ruiu
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Tatjana Wallmann
- Department of Oncology and Pathology, Cancer Center Karolinska, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Helena Tufvesson-Stiller
- Department of Oncology and Pathology, Cancer Center Karolinska, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Benedict J Chambers
- Center for Infectious Medicine, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Huddinge, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Charlotte Rolny
- Department of Oncology and Pathology, Cancer Center Karolinska, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Alvaro Lladser
- Laboratory of Gene Immunotherapy; Fundación Ciencia and Vida; Santiago, Chile
| | - Andreas Lundqvist
- Department of Oncology and Pathology, Cancer Center Karolinska, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Federica Cavallo
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Rolf Kiessling
- Department of Oncology and Pathology, Cancer Center Karolinska, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
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18
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Bolli E, O'Rourke JP, Conti L, Lanzardo S, Rolih V, Christen JM, Barutello G, Forni M, Pericle F, Cavallo F. A Virus-Like-Particle immunotherapy targeting Epitope-Specific anti-xCT expressed on cancer stem cell inhibits the progression of metastatic cancer in vivo. Oncoimmunology 2017; 7:e1408746. [PMID: 29399412 PMCID: PMC5790338 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2017.1408746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2017] [Revised: 11/17/2017] [Accepted: 11/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Aggressive forms of breast cancer, such as Her2+ and triple negative breast cancer (TNBC), are enriched in breast cancer stem cells (BCSC) and have limited therapeutic options. BCSC represent a key cellular reservoir for relapse, metastatic progression and therapeutic resistance. Their ability to resist common cytotoxic therapies relies on different mechanisms, including improved detoxification. The cystine-glutamate antiporter protein xCT (SLC7A11) regulates cystine intake, conversion to cysteine and subsequent glutathione synthesis, protecting cells against oxidative and chemical insults. Our previous work showed that xCT is highly expressed in tumorspheres derived from breast cancer cell lines and downregulation of xCT altered BCSC function in vitro and inhibited pulmonary metastases in vivo. We further strengthened these observations by developing a virus-like-particle (VLP; AX09-0M6) immunotherapy targeting the xCT protein. AX09-0M6 elicited a strong antibody response against xCT including high levels of IgG2a antibody. IgG isolated from AX09-0M6 treated mice bound to tumorspheres, inhibited xCT function as assessed by reactive oxygen species generation and decreased BCSC growth and self-renewal. To assess if AX09-0M6 impacts BCSC in vivo seeding, Her2+ TUBO-derived tumorspheres were injected into the tail vein of AX09-0M6 or control treated female BALB/c mice. AX09-0M6 significantly inhibited formation of pulmonary nodules. To evaluate its ability to impact metastases, AX09-0M6 was administered to mice with established subcutaneous 4T1 tumors. AX09-0M6 administration significantly hampered tumor growth and development of pulmonary metastases. These data show that a VLP-based immunization approach inhibits xCT activity, impacts BCSC biology and significantly reduces metastatic progression in preclinical models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Bolli
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | | | - Laura Conti
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Stefania Lanzardo
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Valeria Rolih
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | | | - Giuseppina Barutello
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Marco Forni
- EuroClone S.p.A Research Laboratory, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | | | - Federica Cavallo
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
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19
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Lee SSY, Bindokas VP, Kron SJ. Multiplex three-dimensional optical mapping of tumor immune microenvironment. Sci Rep 2017; 7:17031. [PMID: 29208908 PMCID: PMC5717053 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-16987-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2017] [Accepted: 11/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent developments in optical tissue clearing and microscopic imaging have advanced three-dimensional (3D) visualization of intact tissues and organs at high resolution. However, to expand applications to oncology, critical limitations of current methods must be addressed. Here we describe transparent tissue tomography (T3) as a tool for rapid, three-dimensional, multiplexed immunofluorescent tumor imaging. Cutting tumors into sub-millimeter macrosections enables simple and rapid immunofluorescence staining, optical clearing, and confocal microscope imaging. Registering and fusing macrosection images yields high resolution 3D maps of multiple tumor microenvironment components and biomarkers throughout a tumor. The 3D maps can be quantitatively evaluated by automated image analysis. As an application of T3, 3D mapping and analysis revealed a heterogeneous distribution of programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) in Her2 transgenic mouse mammary tumors, with high expression limited to tumor cells at the periphery and to CD31+ vascular endothelium in the core. Also, strong spatial correlation between CD45+ immune cell distribution and PD-L1 expression was revealed by T3 analysis of the whole tumors. Our results demonstrate that a tomographic approach offers simple and rapid access to high-resolution three-dimensional maps of the tumor immune microenvironment, offering a new tool to examine tumor heterogeneity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steve Seung-Young Lee
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Cell Biology, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Ludwig Center for Metastasis Research, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Vytautas P Bindokas
- Integrated Light Microscopy Facility, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Stephen J Kron
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Cell Biology, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.
- Ludwig Center for Metastasis Research, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.
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20
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Riccardo F, Réal A, Voena C, Chiarle R, Cavallo F, Barutello G. Maternal Immunization: New Perspectives on Its Application Against Non-Infectious Related Diseases in Newborns. Vaccines (Basel) 2017; 5:E20. [PMID: 28763018 PMCID: PMC5620551 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines5030020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2017] [Revised: 07/24/2017] [Accepted: 07/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The continuous evolution in preventive medicine has anointed vaccination a versatile, human-health improving tool, which has led to a steady decline in deaths in the developing world. Maternal immunization represents an incisive step forward for the field of vaccination as it provides protection against various life-threatening diseases in pregnant women and their children. A number of studies to improve prevention rates and expand protection against the largest possible number of infections are still in progress. The complex unicity of the mother-infant interaction, both during and after pregnancy and which involves immune system cells and molecules, is an able partner in the success of maternal immunization, as intended thus far. Interestingly, new studies have shed light on the versatility of maternal immunization in protecting infants from non-infectious related diseases, such as allergy, asthma and congenital metabolic disorders. However, barely any attempt at applying maternal immunization to the prevention of childhood cancer has been made. The most promising study reported in this new field is a recent proof of concept on the efficacy of maternal immunization in protecting cancer-prone offspring against mammary tumor progression. New investigations into the possibility of exploiting maternal immunization to prevent the onset and/or progression of neuroblastoma, one of the most common childhood malignancies, are therefore justified. Maternal immunization is presented in a new guise in this review. Attention will be focused on its versatility and potential applications in preventing tumor progression in neuroblastoma-prone offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Riccardo
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, Torino 10126, Italy.
| | - Aline Réal
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, Torino 10126, Italy.
| | - Claudia Voena
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Center for Experimental Research and Medical Studies, University of Torino, Torino 10126, Italy.
| | - Roberto Chiarle
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Center for Experimental Research and Medical Studies, University of Torino, Torino 10126, Italy.
- Department of Pathology, Children's Hospital Boston and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| | - Federica Cavallo
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, Torino 10126, Italy.
| | - Giuseppina Barutello
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, Torino 10126, Italy.
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21
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Tallerico R, Conti L, Lanzardo S, Sottile R, Garofalo C, Wagner AK, Johansson MH, Cristiani CM, Kärre K, Carbone E, Cavallo F. NK cells control breast cancer and related cancer stem cell hematological spread. Oncoimmunology 2017; 6:e1284718. [PMID: 28405511 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2017.1284718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2016] [Revised: 01/12/2017] [Accepted: 01/13/2017] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The growth and recurrence of a number of cancers is driven by a scarce population of cancer stem cells (CSCs), which are resistant to most current therapies. It has been shown previously that natural killer (NK) cells recognize human glioma, melanoma, colon and prostate CSCs in vitro. We herein show that human and mouse breast CSCs are also susceptible to NK cytotoxic activity in vitro. Moreover, CSC induced autologous NK cell activation and expansion in vivo, which correlate with the inhibition of CSC metastatic spread. These data suggest that NK cells control CSC metastatic spread in vivo and that their use in breast cancer therapy may well be fruitful.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rossana Tallerico
- Tumor Immunology and Immunopathology Laboratory, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro , Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Laura Conti
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Turin , Turin, Italy
| | - Stefania Lanzardo
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Turin , Turin, Italy
| | - Rosa Sottile
- Tumor Immunology and Immunopathology Laboratory, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy; Department of Microbiology, Cell and Tumor Biology (MTC), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Cinzia Garofalo
- Tumor Immunology and Immunopathology Laboratory, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro , Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Arnika K Wagner
- Department of Microbiology, Cell and Tumor Biology (MTC), Karolinska Institutet , Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Maria H Johansson
- Department of Microbiology, Cell and Tumor Biology (MTC), Karolinska Institutet , Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Costanza Maria Cristiani
- Tumor Immunology and Immunopathology Laboratory, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro , Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Klas Kärre
- Department of Microbiology, Cell and Tumor Biology (MTC), Karolinska Institutet , Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ennio Carbone
- Tumor Immunology and Immunopathology Laboratory, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy; Department of Microbiology, Cell and Tumor Biology (MTC), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Federica Cavallo
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Turin , Turin, Italy
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Fry EA, Taneja P, Inoue K. Clinical applications of mouse models for breast cancer engaging HER2/neu. INTEGRATIVE CANCER SCIENCE AND THERAPEUTICS 2016; 3:593-603. [PMID: 28133539 PMCID: PMC5267336 DOI: 10.15761/icst.1000210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Human c-ErbB2 (HER2) has long been used as a marker of breast cancer (BC) for sub-categorization for the prediction of prognosis, and determination of therapeutic strategies. HER2 overexpressing BCs are more invasive/metastatic; but patients respond to monoclonal antibody therapy with trastuzumab or tyrosine kinase inhibitors, at least at early stages. To date, numerous mouse models that faithfully reproduce HER2(+) BCs have been created in mice. We recently reviewed different mouse models of BC overexpressing wild type or mutant neu driven by MMTV, neu, or doxycycline-inducible promoters. These mice have been used to demonstrate the histopathology, oncogenic signaling pathways initiated by aberrant overexpression of HER2 in the mammary epithelium, and interaction between oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes at molecular levels. In this review, we focus on their clinical applications. They can be used to test the efficacy of HER(2) inhibitors before starting clinical trials, characterize the tumor-initiating cells that could be the cause of relapse after therapy as well as to analyze the molecular mechanisms of therapeutic resistance targeting HER2. MMTV-human ErbB2 (HER2) mouse models have recently been established since the monoclonal antibody to HER2 (trastuzumab; Herceptin®) does not recognize the rat neu protein. It has been reported that early intervention with HER2 monoclonal antibody would be beneficial for preventing mammary carcinogenesis. MDA-7/IL-24 as well as naturally-occurring chemicals have also been tested using MMTV-neu models. Recent studies have shown that MMTV-neu models are useful to develop vaccines to HER2 for immunotherapy. The mouse models employing HER2/neu will be essential for future antibody or drug screenings to overcome resistance to trastuzumab or HER(2)-specific tyrosine kinase inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A. Fry
- The Department of Pathology, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Medical Center Boulevard, Winston-Salem, NC 27157 USA
| | - Pankaj Taneja
- Department of Biotechnology, Sharda University, Knowledge Park III, Greater Noida 201306, India
| | - Kazushi Inoue
- The Department of Pathology, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Medical Center Boulevard, Winston-Salem, NC 27157 USA
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Drees JJ, Mertensotto MJ, Augustin LB, Schottel JL, Saltzman DA. Vasculature Disruption Enhances Bacterial Targeting of Autochthonous Tumors. J Cancer 2015; 6:843-8. [PMID: 26284135 PMCID: PMC4532981 DOI: 10.7150/jca.12491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2015] [Accepted: 06/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Attenuated Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium (S. Typhimurium) has been developed as a vector to deliver therapeutic agents to tumors. The potential of S. Typhimurium in cancer therapy is largely due to its reported propensity to accumulate at greater than 1,000-fold higher concentrations in tumors relative to healthy tissues. In this study, we compared bacterial colonization of tumors in a subcutaneous transplantation model with a more clinically relevant autochthonous tumor model. Following intravenous administration of attenuated S. Typhimurium strain SL3261, we observed approximately 10,000-fold less bacteria in autochthonous tumors that sporadically develop in transgenic BALB-neuT mice compared to tumors developed from subcutaneous transplantation of 4T1 murine breast cancer cells in BALB/c mice. Treatment of BALB-neuT mice with a vasculature-disrupting agent (VDA) prior to bacterial treatment caused necrosis of tumor tissue and significantly increased the bacterial targeting of autochthonous tumors by approximately 1,000-fold. These observations emphasize the importance of appropriate model selection in developing bacteria-based cancer therapies and demonstrate the potential of combining VDA pre-treatment with bacteria to facilitate targeting of clinically relevant tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy J Drees
- 1. Department of Surgery, University of Minnesota, 195 MMC, 420 Delaware St SE, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, USA
| | - Michael J Mertensotto
- 1. Department of Surgery, University of Minnesota, 195 MMC, 420 Delaware St SE, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, USA
| | - Lance B Augustin
- 1. Department of Surgery, University of Minnesota, 195 MMC, 420 Delaware St SE, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, USA
| | - Janet L Schottel
- 2. Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology & Biophysics, University of Minnesota, 1479 Gortner Ave., St. Paul, MN 55108, USA
| | - Daniel A Saltzman
- 1. Department of Surgery, University of Minnesota, 195 MMC, 420 Delaware St SE, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, USA
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Fornari C, Balbo G, Halawani SM, Ba-Rukab O, Ahmad AR, Calogero RA, Cordero F, Beccuti M. A versatile mathematical work-flow to explore how Cancer Stem Cell fate influences tumor progression. BMC SYSTEMS BIOLOGY 2015; 9 Suppl 3:S1. [PMID: 26050594 PMCID: PMC4464028 DOI: 10.1186/1752-0509-9-s3-s1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Background Nowadays multidisciplinary approaches combining mathematical models with experimental assays are becoming relevant for the study of biological systems. Indeed, in cancer research multidisciplinary approaches are successfully used to understand the crucial aspects implicated in tumor growth. In particular, the Cancer Stem Cell (CSC) biology represents an area particularly suited to be studied through multidisciplinary approaches, and modeling has significantly contributed to pinpoint the crucial aspects implicated in this theory. More generally, to acquire new insights on a biological system it is necessary to have an accurate description of the phenomenon, such that making accurate predictions on its future behaviors becomes more likely. In this context, the identification of the parameters influencing model dynamics can be advantageous to increase model accuracy and to provide hints in designing wet experiments. Different techniques, ranging from statistical methods to analytical studies, have been developed. Their applications depend on case-specific aspects, such as the availability and quality of experimental data, and the dimension of the parameter space. Results The study of a new model on the CSC-based tumor progression has been the motivation to design a new work-flow that helps to characterize possible system dynamics and to identify those parameters influencing such behaviors. In detail, we extended our recent model on CSC-dynamics creating a new system capable of describing tumor growth during the different stages of cancer progression. Indeed, tumor cells appear to progress through lineage stages like those of normal tissues, being their division auto-regulated by internal feedback mechanisms. These new features have introduced some non-linearities in the model, making it more difficult to be studied by solely analytical techniques. Our new work-flow, based on statistical methods, was used to identify the parameters which influence the tumor growth. The effectiveness of the presented work-flow was firstly verified on two well known models and then applied to investigate our extended CSC model. Conclusions We propose a new work-flow to study in a practical and informative way complex systems, allowing an easy identification, interpretation, and visualization of the key model parameters. Our methodology is useful to investigate possible model behaviors and to establish factors driving model dynamics. Analyzing our new CSC model guided by the proposed work-flow, we found that the deregulation of CSC asymmetric proliferation contributes to cancer initiation, in accordance with several experimental evidences. Specifically, model results indicated that the probability of CSC symmetric proliferation is responsible of a switching-like behavior which discriminates between tumorigenesis and unsustainable tumor growth.
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