Tumor Microenvironment: Lactic Acid Promotes Tumor Development

Association between lactate/albumin ratio and prognosis in critically ill patients with acute kidney injury undergoing continuous renal replacement therapy

BACKGROUND

The primary objective was to examine the association between the lactate/albumin ratio (LAR) and the prognosis of patients with acute kidney injury (AKI) undergoing continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT).

METHODS

Utilizing the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care IV (MIMIC-IV, v2.0) database, we categorized 703 adult AKI patients undergoing CRRT into survival and non-survival groups based on 28-day mortality. Patients were further grouped by LAR tertiles: low (< 0.692), moderate (0.692-1.641), and high (> 1.641). Restricted cubic splines (RCS), Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) regression, inverse probability treatment weighting (IPTW), and Kaplan-Meier curves were employed.

RESULTS

In our study, the patients had a mortality rate of 50.07% within 28 days and 62.87% within 360 days. RCS analysis revealed a non-linear correlation between LAR and the risk of mortality at both 28 and 360 days. Cox regression analysis, which was adjusted for nine variables identified by LASSO, confirmed that a high LAR (>1.641) served as an independent predictor of mortality at these specific time points (p < 0.05) in AKI patients who were receiving CRRT. These findings remained consistent even after IPTW adjustment, thereby ensuring a reliable and robust outcome. Kaplan-Meier survival curves exhibited a gradual decline in cumulative survival rates at both 28 and 360 days as the LAR values increased (log-rank test, χ2 = 48.630, p < 0.001; χ2 = 33.530, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

A high LAR (>1.641) was found to be an autonomous predictor of mortality at both 28 and 360 days in critically ill patients with AKI undergoing CRRT.

Sonocatalytic oncolysis microbiota curb intrinsic microbiota lactate metabolism and blockade CD24-Siglec10 immune escape to revitalize immunological surveillance

Intrinsic lactate retention of chemically- or genetically-engineered bacteria therapy aggravates tumor immunosuppression, which will collaborate with immune escape to cause immunological surveillance failure. To address them, sonocatalytic oncolysis Escherichia coli (E.coli) that chemically chelated anti-CD24 and TiO1+x have been engineered to blockade CD24-siglec10 interaction, regulate microbiota colonization and curb its lactate metabolism, which are leveraged to revitalize immunological surveillance and repress breast cancer. The chemically-engineered E.coli inherited their parent genetic information and expansion function. Therefore, their intrinsic hypoxia tropism and CD24 targeting allow them to specifically accumulate and colonize in solid breast cancer to lyse tumor cells. The conjugated CD24 antibody is allowed to blockade CD24-Siglec10 signaling axis and revitalize immunological surveillance. More significantly, the chelated TiO1+x sonosensitizers produce ROS to render bacteria expansion controllable and curb immunosuppression-associated lactate birth that are usually neglected. Systematic experiments successfully vlaidate hypoxia-objective active targeting, sonocatalytic therapy, microbiota expansion-enabled oncolysis, CD24-Siglec10 communication blockade and precise microbiota abundance & lactate metabolism attenuations. These actions contribute to the potentiated anti-tumor immunity and activated anti-metastasis immune memory against breast cancer development. Our pioneering work provide a route to sonocatalytic cancer immunotherapy.

The Interplay between Metabolic Adaptations and Diet in Cancer Immunotherapy

Over the past decade, cancer immunotherapy has significantly advanced through the introduction of immune checkpoint inhibitors and the augmentation of adoptive cell transfer to enhance the innate cancer defense mechanisms. Despite these remarkable achievements, some cancers exhibit resistance to immunotherapy, with limited patient responsiveness and development of therapy resistance. Metabolic adaptations in both immune cells and cancer cells have emerged as central contributors to immunotherapy resistance. In the last few years, new insights emphasized the critical role of cancer and immune cell metabolism in animal models and patients. During therapy, immune cells undergo important metabolic shifts crucial for their acquired effector function against cancer cells. However, cancer cell metabolic rewiring and nutrient competition within tumor microenvironment (TME) alters many immune functions, affecting their fitness, polarization, recruitment, and survival. These interactions have initiated the development of novel therapies targeting tumor cell metabolism and favoring antitumor immunity within the TME. Furthermore, there has been increasing interest in comprehending how diet impacts the response to immunotherapy, given the demonstrated immunomodulatory and antitumor activity of various nutrients. In conclusion, recent advances in preclinical and clinical studies have highlighted the capacity of immune-based cancer therapies. Therefore, further exploration into the metabolic requirements of immune cells within the TME holds significant promise for the development of innovative therapeutic approaches that can effectively combat cancer in patients.

Layer-by-Layer Nanoparticles for Calcium Overload in situ Enhanced Reactive Oxygen Oncotherapy

Background

Challenges such as poor drug selectivity, non-target reactivity, and the development of drug resistance continue to pose significant obstacles in the clinical application of cancer therapeutic drugs. To overcome the limitations of drug resistance in chemotherapy, a viable treatment strategy involves designing multifunctional nano-platforms that exploit the unique physicochemical properties of tumor microenvironment (TME).

Methods

Herein, layer-by-layer nanoparticles with polyporous CuS as delivery vehicles, loaded with a sonosensitizer (tetra-(4-aminophenyl) porphyrin, TAPP) and sequentially functionalized with pH-responsive CaCO3, targeting group hyaluronic acid (HA) were designed and synthesized for synergistic treatment involving chemodynamic therapy (CDT), sonodynamic therapy (SDT), photothermal therapy (PTT), and calcium overload. Upon cleavage in an acidic environment, CaCO3 nanoparticles released TAPP and Ca2+, with TAPP generating 1O2 under ultrasound trigger. Exposed CuS produced highly cytotoxic ·OH in response to H2O2 and also exhibited a strong PTT effect.

Results

CuS@TAPP-CaCO3/HA (CTCH) delivered an enhanced ability to release more Ca2+ under acidic conditions with a pH value of 6.5, which in situ causes damage to HeLa mitochondria. In vitro and in vivo experiments both demonstrated that mitochondrial dysfunction greatly amplified the damage caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS) to tumor, which strongly confirms the synergistic effect between calcium overload and reactive oxygen therapy.

Conclusion

Collectively, the development of CTCH presents a novel therapeutic strategy for tumor treatment by effectively responding to the acidic TME, thus holding significant clinical implications.

[Role and Mechanism of Lactylation in Cancer]

Post translational modifications (PTMs) can change the properties of a protein by covalent addition of functional groups to one or more amino acids, and influence almost all aspects of normal cell biology and pathogenesis. Lactylation is a novel identified PTM, and has been found in both histone and non-histone proteins. Since associated with the end product of glycolysis-- lactate, lactylation modification could provide a new perspective for understanding the relationship between metabolic reprogramming and epigenetic modifications. Accumulated evidences suggest that lactylation play important roles in tumor progression and links to poor prognosis in clinical studies. Histone lactylation can affect gene expression in tumor cells and immunological cells, further promoting tumor progression and immune suppression. Lactylation on non-histone proteins can also regulate tumor progression and drug resistance. In this review, we aimed to summarize the roles of lactylation in cancer progression, microenvironment interactions and immune suppression, try to identify new molecular targets for cancer therapy and provide a new direction for combined targeted therapy and immunotherapy.
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A review of lactate-lactylation in malignancy: its potential in immunotherapy

Lactic acid was formerly regarded as a byproduct of metabolism. However, extensive investigations into the intricacies of cancer development have revealed its significant contributions to tumor growth, migration, and invasion. Post-translational modifications involving lactate have been widely observed in histone and non-histone proteins, and these modifications play a crucial role in regulating gene expression by covalently attaching lactoyl groups to lysine residues in proteins. This discovery has greatly enhanced our comprehension of lactic acid's involvement in disease pathogenesis. In this article, we provide a comprehensive review of the intricate relationship between lactate and tumor immunity, the occurrence of lactylation in malignant tumors, and the exploitation of targeted lactate-lactylation in tumor immunotherapy. Additionally, we discuss future research directions, aiming to offer novel insights that could inform the investigation, diagnosis, and treatment of related diseases.

Unraveling breast cancer prognosis: a novel model based on coagulation-related genes

Objective

Breast cancer is highly heterogeneous, presenting challenges in prognostic assessment. Developing a universally applicable prognostic model could simplify clinical decision-making. This study aims to develop and validate a novel breast cancer prognosis model using coagulation-related genes with broad clinical applicability.

Methods

A total of 203 genes related to coagulation were obtained from the KEGG database, and the mRNA data of 1,099 tumor tissue samples and 572 samples of normal tissue were retrieved from the TCGA-BRCA cohort and GTEx databases. The R package "limma" was utilized to detect variations in gene expression related to coagulation between the malignancies and normal tissue. A model was constructed in the TCGA cohort through a multivariable Cox regression analysis, followed by validation using the GSE42568 dataset as the testing set. Constructing a nomogram incorporating clinical factors to enhance the predictive capacity of the model. Utilizing the ESTIMATE algorithm to investigate the immune infiltration levels in groups with deferent risk. Performing drug sensitivity analysis using the "oncoPredict" package.

Results

A risk model consisting of six coagulation-associated genes (SERPINA1, SERPINF2, C1S, CFB, RASGRP1, and TLN2) was created and successfully tested for validation. Identified were 6 genes that serve as protective factors in the model's development. Kaplan-Meier curves revealed a worse prognosis in the high-risk group compared to the low-risk group. The ROC analysis showed that the model accurately forecasted the overall survival (OS) of breast cancer patients at 1, 3, and 5 years. Nomogram accompanied by calibration curves can also provide better guidance for clinical decision-making. The low-risk group is more likely to respond well to immunotherapy, whereas the high-risk group may show improved responses to Gemcitabine treatment. Furthermore, individuals in distinct risk categories displayed different responses to various medications within the identical therapeutic category.

Conclusion

We established a breast cancer prognostic model incorporating six coagulation-associated genes and explored its clinical utility. This model offers valuable insights for clinical decision-making and drug selection in breast cancer patients, contributing to personalized and precise treatment advancements.

High Starch Induces Hematological Variations, Metabolic Changes, Oxidative Stress, Inflammatory Responses, and Histopathological Lesions in Largemouth Bass (Micropterus salmoides)

This study evaluated effects of high starch (20%) on hematological variations, glucose and lipid metabolism, antioxidant ability, inflammatory responses, and histopathological lesions in largemouth bass. Results showed hepatic crude lipid and triacylglycerol (TAG) contents were notably increased in fish fed high starch. High starch could increase counts of neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils and serum contents of TAG, TBA, BUN, and LEP (p < 0.05). There were increasing trends in levels of GLUT2, glycolysis, gluconeogenesis, and LDH in fish fed high starch through the AKT/PI3K signal pathway. Meanwhile, high starch not only triggered TAG and cholesterol synthesis, but mediated cholesterol accumulation by reducing ABCG5, ABCG8, and NPC1L1. Significant increases in lipid droplets and vacuolization were also shown in hepatocytes of D3-D7 groups fed high starch. In addition, high starch could decrease levels of mitochondrial Trx2, TrxR2, and Prx3, while increasing ROS contents. Moreover, high starch could notably increase amounts of inflammatory factors (IL-1β, TNF-α, etc.) by activating NLRP3 inflammasome key molecules (GSDME, caspase 1, etc.). In conclusion, high starch could not only induce metabolic disorders via gluconeogenesis and accumulation of glycogen, TAG, and cholesterol, but could disturb redox homeostasis and cause inflammatory responses by activating the NLRP3 inflammasome in largemouth bass.

Acidosis activates breast cancer ferroptosis through ZFAND5/SLC3A2 signaling axis and elicits M1 macrophage polarization

Acidosis is involved in multiple pathways in tumor cells and immune cells among the tumor microenvironment (TME). Ferroptosis is a nonapoptotic and iron-dependent form of cell death characterized by accumulation of lipid peroxidation involved in various cancers. The role of ferroptosis in the breast cancer (BC) acidic microenvironment remains unrevealed. Here, we reported that short-term acidosis induced ferroptosis of BC cells in the zinc finger AN1-type domain 5 (ZFAND5)/solute carrier family 3 member 2 (SLC3A2) dependent manner to suppress tumor growth using in silico and multiple biological methods. Mechanistically, we demonstrated that short-term acidosis increased total/lipid reactive oxygen species (ROS) level, decreased glutathione (GSH) level and induced the morphological changes of mitochondria. Specifically, acidosis restrained the protein stability of SLC3A2 by promoting its ubiquitination process. The prognostic analysis showed that higher expression of ZFAND5 and lower expression of SLC3A2 were correlated with longer overall survival of BC patients, respectively. Furthermore, in combination with ferroptosis agonist metformin, short-term acidosis could synergistically inhibit viability and enhance the ferroptosis of BC cells. Meanwhile, by the exploration of immune cells, short-term acidosis also induced M1 macrophage polarization, triggering processes of phagocytosis and ferroptosis in BC cells. This study demonstrated that short-term acidosis induced BC cell ferroptosis through ZFAND5/SLC3A2 signaling axis and promoted phagocytosis and ferroptosis of BC cells with M1 macrophage polarization, which might be a new mechanism for BC therapy.

Single cell analysis unveils the commonality and heterogeneity between nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal carcinoma

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) and oropharyngeal carcinoma (OPC) are subtypes of head and neck cancer with different treatment effects due to the heterogeneity of tumor microenvironments. This study was to investigate the distinctive tumor microenvironments of NPC and OPC. Analyzing single-cell data from 10 cases of each subtype, we reveal significant differences in cellular composition, with NPC microenvironment dominated by T/NK and B cells, and OPC characterized by prevalent epithelial cells and fibroblasts. Dynamic transitions of CD8 T cells are observed in both tumor types, involving shifts from naivety to cytotoxicity, proliferation, and eventual exhaustion/exhausted states. Additionally, Tregs exhibit heightened proliferative abilities in later developmental stages, concomitant with exhaustion. These highly proliferative T cells and Tregs manifest elevated glycolysis and lactate metabolism activities. Furthermore, we explore intercellular communication between glycolytic malignant epithelial cells and these proliferative T cells. These findings offer comprehensive insights into the heterogeneity of tumor microenvironments and provide a solid foundation for future therapeutic strategies and targeted interventions.

Multiple Immunomodulatory Strategies Based on Targeted Regulation of Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin/Kexin Type 9 and Immune Homeostasis against Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Immunotherapy is the most promising systemic therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma. However, the outcome remains poor. Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) plays a role in altering cell-surface protein levels, potentially undermining the efficacy of immunotherapy against tumors. This highlights its potential as a target for antitumor therapy. Herein, CaCO3-based nanoparticles coencapsulated with DOX, an immunogenic cell death (ICD) inducer, and evolocumab was developed to enhanced the efficacy of immunotherapy. The obtained DOX/evolocumab-loaded CaCO3 nanoparticle (named DECP) exhibits a good capacity of acid neutralization and causes ICD of cancer cells. In addition, DECP is able to evaluate the cell-surface level of MHC-I, a biomarker that correlates positively with patients' overall survival. Upon intravenous injection, DECP accumulates within the tumor site, leading to growth inhibition of hepa1-6 bearing subcutaneous tumors. Specifically, DECP treatment causes augmented ratios of matured dendritic cells, tumor-infiltrating CD8+ T cells and natural killing cells, while concurrently depleting Foxp3+ regulatory T cells. Peritumoral delivery of DECP enhances the immune response of distant tumors and exhibits antitumor effects when combined with intravenous αPD-L1 therapy in a bilateral tumor model. This study presents CaCO3-based nanoparticles with multiple immunomodulatory strategies against hepatocellular carcinoma by targeting PCSK9 inhibition and modulating immune homeostasis in the unfavorable TME.

Illuminating the immunological landscape: mitochondrial gene defects in pancreatic cancer through a multiomics lens

This comprehensive review delves into the complex interplay between mitochondrial gene defects and pancreatic cancer pathogenesis through a multiomics approach. By amalgamating data from genomic, transcriptomic, proteomic, and metabolomic studies, we dissected the mechanisms by which mitochondrial genetic variations dictate cancer progression. Emphasis has been placed on the roles of these genes in altering cellular metabolic processes, signal transduction pathways, and immune system interactions. We further explored how these findings could refine therapeutic interventions, with a particular focus on precision medicine applications. This analysis not only fills pivotal knowledge gaps about mitochondrial anomalies in pancreatic cancer but also paves the way for future investigations into personalized therapy options. This finding underscores the crucial nexus between mitochondrial genetics and oncological immunology, opening new avenues for targeted cancer treatment strategies.

Therapeutic Strategies for Angiogenesis Based on Endothelial Cell Epigenetics

With the in-depth investigation of various diseases, angiogenesis has gained increasing attention. Among the contributing factors to angiogenesis research, endothelial epigenetics has emerged as an influential player. Endothelial epigenetic therapy exerts its regulatory effects on endothelial cells by controlling gene expression, RNA, and histone modification within these cells, which subsequently promotes or inhibits angiogenesis. As a result, this therapeutic approach offers potential strategies for disease treatment. The purpose of this review is to outline the pertinent mechanisms of endothelial cell epigenetics, encompassing glycolysis, lactation, amino acid metabolism, non-coding RNA, DNA methylation, histone modification, and their connections to specific diseases and clinical applications. We firmly believe that endothelial cell epigenetics has the potential to become an integral component of precision medicine therapy, unveiling novel therapeutic targets and providing new directions and opportunities for disease treatment.

PA suppresses antitumor immunity of T cells by disturbing mitochondrial activity through Akt/mTOR-mediated Ca2+ flux

Deciphering the mechanisms behind how T cells become exhausted and regulatory T cells (Tregs) differentiate in a tumor microenvironment (TME) will significantly benefit cancer immunotherapy. A common metabolic alteration feature in TME is lipid accumulation, associated with T cell exhaustion and Treg differentiation. However, the regulatory role of free fatty acids (FFA) on T cell antitumor immunity has yet to be clearly illustrated. Our study observed that palmitic acid (PA), the most abundant saturated FFA in mouse plasma, enhanced T cell exhaustion and Tregs population in TME and increased tumor growth. In contrast, oleic acid (OA), a monounsaturated FFA, rescued PA-induced T cell exhaustion, decreased Treg population, and ameliorated T cell antitumor immunity in an obese mouse model. Mechanistically, mitochondrial metabolic activity is critical in maintaining T cell function, which PA attenuated. PA-induced T cell exhaustion and Treg formation depended on CD36 and Akt/mTOR-mediated calcium signaling. The study described a new mechanism of PA-induced downregulation of antitumor immunity of T cells and the therapeutic potential behind its restoration by targeting PA.

Current Advances on Nanomaterials Interfering with Lactate Metabolism for Tumor Therapy

Increasing numbers of studies have shown that tumor cells prefer fermentative glycolysis over oxidative phosphorylation to provide a vast amount of energy for fast proliferation even under oxygen-sufficient conditions. This metabolic alteration not only favors tumor cell progression and metastasis but also increases lactate accumulation in solid tumors. In addition to serving as a byproduct of glycolytic tumor cells, lactate also plays a central role in the construction of acidic and immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, resulting in therapeutic tolerance. Recently, targeted drug delivery and inherent therapeutic properties of nanomaterials have attracted great attention, and research on modulating lactate metabolism based on nanomaterials to enhance antitumor therapy has exploded. In this review, the advanced tumor therapy strategies based on nanomaterials that interfere with lactate metabolism are discussed, including inhibiting lactate anabolism, promoting lactate catabolism, and disrupting the "lactate shuttle". Furthermore, recent advances in combining lactate metabolism modulation with other therapies, including chemotherapy, immunotherapy, photothermal therapy, and reactive oxygen species-related therapies, etc., which have achieved cooperatively enhanced therapeutic outcomes, are summarized. Finally, foreseeable challenges and prospective developments are also reviewed for the future development of this field.

Stimuli-Responsive Polymer-Based Nanosystems for Cancer Theranostics

Stimuli-responsive polymers can respond to internal stimuli, such as reactive oxygen species (ROS), glutathione (GSH), and pH, biological stimuli, such as enzymes, and external stimuli, such as lasers and ultrasound, etc., by changing their hydrophobicity/hydrophilicity, degradability, ionizability, etc., and thus have been widely used in biomedical applications. Due to the characteristics of the tumor microenvironment (TME), stimuli-responsive polymers that cater specifically to the TME have been extensively used to prepare smart nanovehicles for the targeted delivery of therapeutic and diagnostic agents to tumor tissues. Compared to conventional drug delivery nanosystems, TME-responsive nanosystems have many advantages, such as high sensitivity, broad applicability among different tumors, functional versatility, and improved biosafety. In recent years, a great deal of research has been devoted to engineering efficient stimuli-responsive polymeric nanosystems, and significant improvement has been made to both cancer diagnosis and therapy. In this review, we summarize some recent research advances involving the use of stimuli-responsive polymer nanocarriers in drug delivery, tumor imaging, therapy, and theranostics. Various chemical stimuli will be described in the context of stimuli-responsive nanosystems. Accordingly, the functional chemical groups responsible for the responsiveness and the strategies to incorporate these groups into the polymer will be discussed in detail. With the research on this topic expending at a fast pace, some innovative concepts, such as sequential and cascade drug release, NIR-II imaging, and multifunctional formulations, have emerged as popular strategies for enhanced performance, which will also be included here with up-to-date illustrations. We hope that this review will offer valuable insights for the selection and optimization of stimuli-responsive polymers to help accelerate their future applications in cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Detection, mechanisms, and therapeutic implications of oncometabolites

Metabolic abnormalities are a hallmark of cancer cells and are essential to tumor progression. Oncometabolites have pleiotropic effects on cancer biology and affect a plethora of processes, from oncogenesis and metabolism to therapeutic resistance. Targeting oncometabolites, therefore, could offer promising therapeutic avenues against tumor growth and resistance to treatments. Recent advances in characterizing the metabolic profiles of cancer cells are shedding light on the underlying mechanisms and associated metabolic networks. This review summarizes the diverse detection methods, molecular mechanisms, and therapeutic targets of oncometabolites, which may lead to targeting oncometabolism for cancer therapy.

Degradation Kinetic Studies of BSA@ZIF-8 Nanoparticles with Various Zinc Precursors, Metal-to-Ligand Ratios, and pH Conditions

Nanosized zeolitic imidazolate framework particles (ZIF-8 nanoparticles [NPs]) have strong potential as effective carriers for both in vivo and in vitro protein drug delivery. Synthesis of ZIF-8 and stability of protein encapsulation within ZIF-8 are affected by several factors, notably the metal ion source and molar ratio. To systematically investigate these factors, we investigated such effects using BSA as a model test protein to synthesize BSA@ZIF-8 NPs at various metal-to-ligand (M:L) ratios. SEM, FTIR, XRD, and DLS were applied to characterize the morphology and structure of BSA@ZIF-8 NPs and their effects on protein loading capacity. Degradation kinetics and protein release behavior of BSA@ZIF-8 NPs were evaluated at pH 5.0 (to simulate the tumor environment) and pH 7.4 (to mimic the blood environment). Our objective was to define optimal combinations of the high protein loading rate and rapid release under varying pH conditions, and we found that (i) the yield of BSA@ZIF-8 NPs decreased as the M:L ratio increased, but the protein content increased. This highlights the need to strike a balance between cost-effectiveness and practicality when selecting ZIF-8 NPs with different molar ratios for protein-based drug formulation. (ii) BSA@ZIF-8 NPs exhibited cruciate flower-like shapes when synthesized using Zn(NO3)2 as the zinc precursor at M:L ratios of 1:16 or 1:20. In all other cases, the NPs displayed a regular rhombic dodecahedral structure. Notably, the release behavior of the NPs did not differ significantly between these morphologies. (iii) When Zn(OAc)2 was used as the zinc precursor, the synthesized ZIF-8 NPs exhibited a smaller size compared to the Zn(NO3)2-derived ZIF-8 NPs. (iv) The release rate and amount of BSA protein were higher at pH 5.0 compared to pH 7.4. (v) Among the different formulations, BSA@ZIF-8 with an M:L ratio of 1:16 at pH 5.0 was observed to have a shorter time to reach a plateau (0.5 h) and higher protein release, making it suitable for locally rapid administration in a tumor environment. BSA@ZIF-8 prepared from Zn(OAc)2 at an M:L ratio of 1:140 showed the slower release of BSA protein over a 24-h period, indicating its suitability for sustained release delivery. In conclusion, our findings provide a useful basis for the practical application of ZIF-8 NPs in protein-based drug delivery systems.

Histone modification: Biomarkers and potential therapies in colorectal cancer

The complex mechanism of colorectal cancer development is closely associated with epigenetic modifications and is caused by overexpression and/or inactivation of oncogenes. Histone modifying enzymes catalyze histone modifications to alter gene expression, which plays a crucial role in the development and progression of colorectal cancer. Currently, there is more frequent study on histone acetylation, methylation, and phosphorylation, and their mechanisms in colorectal cancer development are clearer. This article elaborates on the role of histone modification in epigenetics in colorectal cancer development and discusses recent advances in using it as biomarkers and therapeutic targets for the treatment of colorectal cancer. The review aims to demonstrate the significant role of histone modification as a new therapeutic target in colorectal cancer and provides insights into the novel diagnostic and therapeutic options it offers.

Cell Membrane Sialome: Sialic Acids as Therapeutic Targets and Regulators of Drug Resistance in Human Cancer Management

A cellular sialome is a physiologically active and dynamically changing component of the cell membrane. Sialylation plays a crucial role in tumor progression, and alterations in cellular sialylation patterns have been described as modulators of chemotherapy effectiveness. However, the precise mechanisms through which altered sialylation contributes to drug resistance in cancer are not yet fully understood. This review focuses on the intricate interplay between sialylation and cancer treatment. It presents the role of sialic acids in modulating cell-cell interactions, the extracellular matrix (ECM), and the immunosuppressive processes within the context of cancer. The issue of drug resistance is also discussed, and the mechanisms that involve transporters, the tumor microenvironment, and metabolism are analyzed. The review explores drugs and therapeutic approaches that may induce modifications in sialylation processes with a primary focus on their impact on sialyltransferases or sialidases. Despite advancements in cellular glycobiology and glycoengineering, an interdisciplinary effort is required to decipher and comprehend the biological characteristics and consequences of altered sialylation. Additionally, understanding the modulatory role of sialoglycans in drug sensitivity is crucial to applying this knowledge in clinical practice for the benefit of cancer patients.

Exploring the Microbiome in Gastric Cancer: Assessing Potential Implications and Contextualizing Microorganisms beyond H. pylori and Epstein-Barr Virus

While previous research has primarily focused on the impact of H. pylori and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), emerging evidence suggests that other microbial influences, including viral and fungal infections, may also contribute to gastric cancer (GC) development. The intricate interactions between these microbes and the host's immune response provide a more comprehensive understanding of gastric cancer pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment. The review highlights the roles of established players such as H. pylori and EBV and the potential impacts of gut bacteria, mainly Lactobacillus, Streptococcus, hepatitis B virus, hepatitis C virus, and fungi such as Candida albicans. Advanced sequencing technologies offer unprecedented insights into the complexities of the gastric microbiome, from microbial diversity to potential diagnostic applications. Furthermore, the review highlights the potential for advanced GC diagnosis and therapies through a better understanding of the gut microbiome.

Identification and subsequent validation of transcriptomic signature associated with metabolic status in endometrial cancer

Aberrant metabolism has been identified as a main driver of cancer. Profiling of metabolism-related pathways in cancer furthers the understanding of tumor plasticity and identification of potential metabolic vulnerabilities. In this prospective controlled study, we established transcriptomic profiles of metabolism-related pathways in endometrial cancer (EC) using a novel method, NanoString nCounter Technology. Fifty-seven ECs and 30 normal endometrial specimens were studied using the NanoString Metabolic Panel, further validated by qRT-PCR with a very high similarity. Statistical analyses were by GraphPad PRISM and Weka software. The analysis identified 11 deregulated genes (FDR ≤ 0.05; |FC|≥ 1.5) in EC: SLC7A11; SLC7A5; RUNX1; LAMA4; COL6A3; PDK1; CCNA1; ENO1; PKM; NR2F1; and NAALAD2. Gene ontology showed direct association of these genes with 'central carbon metabolism (CCM) in cancer'. Thus, 'CCM in cancer' appears to create one of the main metabolic axes in EC. Further, transcriptomic data were functionally validated with drug repurposing on three EC cell lines, with several drug candidates suggested. These results lay the foundation for personalized therapeutic strategies in this cancer. Metabolic plasticity represents a promising diagnostic and therapeutic option in EC.

Dopamine-Conjugated Bovine Serum Albumin Nanoparticles Containing pH-Responsive Catechol-V(III) Coordination for In Vitro and In Vivo Drug Delivery

V(III) instead of commonly used Fe(III) provided a rich tris-catechol-metal coordination at pH 7.4, which is important for slow drug release at physiological pH. Bovine serum albumin (BSA) functionalized with catechol-containing dopamine (D) and cross-linked using tris-catechol-V(III) coordination yielded pH-responsive compact D-BSA NPs (253 nm). However, conversion to bis- and/or mono-catechol-V(III) complexes in an acidic medium resulted in degradation of NPs and rapid release of doxorubicin (DOX). It was shown that D-BSA NPs entered cancerous MCF-7 cells (66%) more efficiently than non-cancerous HEK293T (33%) in 3 h. Also, DOX-loaded NPs reduced cell viability of MCF-7 by 75% and induced apoptosis in a majority of cells after 24 h. Biodegradability and lack of hemolytic activity were shown in vitro, whereas a lack of toxicity was shown in histological sections of zebrafish. Furthermore, 30% of circulating tumor cells in vasculature in 24 h were killed by DOX-loaded NPs shown with the zebrafish CTC xenograft model.

Construction and Assessment of a Prognostic Risk Model for Cervical Cancer Based on Lactate Metabolism-Related lncRNAs

Purpose

Cervical cancer (CC) has the fourth highest incidence and mortality rate among female cancers. Lactate is a key regulator promoting tumor progression. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are closely associated with cervical cancer (CC). The study was aimed to develop a prognostic risk model for cervical cancer based on lactate metabolism-associated lncRNAs and to determine their clinical prognostic value.

Patients and Methods

In this study, CESC transcriptome data were obtained from the TCGA database. 262 lactate metabolism-associated genes were extracted from MsigDB (Molecular Characterization Database). Then, correlation analysis was used to identify LRLs. Univariate Cox regression analysis was performed afterwards, followed by least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression analysis and multiple Cox regression analysis. 10 lncRNAs were finally identified to construct a risk score model. They were divided into two groups of high risk and low risk according to the median of risk scores. The predictive performance of the models was assessed by Kaplan-Meier (K-M) analysis, subject work characteristics (ROC) analysis, and univariate and multivariate Cox analyses. To assess the clinical utility of the prognostic model, we performed functional enrichment analysis, immune microenvironment analysis, mutation analysis, and column line graph generation.

Results

We constructed a prognostic model consisting of 10 LRLs at CC. We observed that high-risk populations were strongly associated with poor survival outcomes. Risk score was an independent risk factor for CC prognosis and was strongly associated with immune microenvironment analysis and tumor mutational load.

Conclusion

We developed a risk model of lncRNAs associated with lactate metabolism and used it to predict prognosis of CC, which could guide and facilitate the progress of new treatment strategies and disease monitoring in CC patients.

A novel tyrosine tRNA-derived fragment, tRFTyr, induces oncogenesis and lactate accumulation in LSCC by interacting with LDHA

BACKGROUND

Transfer (t)RNA-derived small RNA (tsRNA), generated from precursor or mature tRNA, is a new type of small non-coding RNA (sncRNA) that has recently been shown to play a vital role in human cancers. However, its role in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) remains unclear.

METHODS

We elucidated the expression profiles of tsRNAs in four paired LSCC and non-neoplastic tissues by sequencing and verified the sequencing data by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) of 60 paired samples. The tyrosine-tRNA derivative tRF^Tyr was identified as a novel oncogene in LSCC for further study. Loss-of-function experiments were performed to evaluate the roles of tRF^Tyr in tumorigenesis of LSCC. Mechanistic experiments including RNA pull-down, parallel reaction monitoring (PRM) and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) were employed to uncover the regulatory mechanism of tRF^Tyr in LSCC.

RESULTS

tRF^Tyr was significantly upregulated in LSCC samples. Functional assays showed that knockdown of tRF^Tyr significantly suppressed the progression of LSCC. A series of mechanistic studies revealed that tRF^Tyr could enhance the phosphorylated level of lactate dehydrogenase A (LDHA) by interacting with it. The activity of LDHA was also activated, which induced lactate accumulation in LSCC cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data delineated the landscape of tsRNAs in LSCC and identified the oncogenic role of tRF^Tyr in LSCC. tRF^Tyr could promote lactate accumulation and tumour progression in LSCC by binding to LDHA. These findings may aid in the development of new diagnostic biomarkers and provide new insights into therapeutic strategies for LSCC.

Nanomaterials in tumor immunotherapy: new strategies and challenges

Tumor immunotherapy exerts its anti-tumor effects by stimulating and enhancing immune responses of the body. It has become another important modality of anti-tumor therapy with significant clinical efficacy and advantages compared to chemotherapy, radiotherapy and targeted therapy. Although various kinds of tumor immunotherapeutic drugs have emerged, the challenges faced in the delivery of these drugs, such as poor tumor permeability and low tumor cell uptake rate, had prevented their widespread application. Recently, nanomaterials had emerged as a means for treatment of different diseases due to their targeting properties, biocompatibility and functionalities. Moreover, nanomaterials possess various characteristics that overcome the defects of traditional tumor immunotherapy, such as large drug loading capacity, precise tumor targeting and easy modification, thus leading to their wide application in tumor immunotherapy. There are two main classes of novel nanoparticles mentioned in this review: organic (polymeric nanomaterials, liposomes and lipid nanoparticles) and inorganic (non-metallic nanomaterials and metallic nanomaterials). Besides, the fabrication method for nanoparticles, Nanoemulsions, was also introduced. In summary, this review article mainly discussed the research progress of tumor immunotherapy based on nanomaterials in the past few years and offers a theoretical basis for exploring novel tumor immunotherapy strategies in the future.

Remodeling the tumor microenvironment to overcome treatment resistance in HPV-negative head and neck cancer

Despite intensive efforts and refined techniques, overall survival in HPV-negative head and neck cancer remains poor. Robust immune priming is required to elicit a strong and durable antitumor immune response in immunologically cold and excluded tumors like HPV-negative head and neck cancer. This review highlights how the tumor microenvironment could be affected by different immune and stromal cell types, weighs the need to integrate metabolic regulation of the tumor microenvironment into cancer treatment strategies and summarizes the emerging clinical applicability of personalized immunotherapeutic strategies in HPV-negative head and neck cancer.

Astrocytoma and glioblastoma IDH1-wildtype cells colonize tumor vessels and deploy vascular mimicry

Gliomas are the most prevalent type of malignant brain tumors with a very dismal prognosis. Angiogenesis in glioma has recently gotten more attention and its molecular aspects have been published; however, these were not complemented with ultrastructural evidence. Our ultrastructural examination of glioma vessels reveals several unique and critical features related to their mechanisms of progression and metastasis strategy. The detailed ultrastructural survey of 18 isocitrate dehydrogenase-wildtype (IDH1-wt) glioblastomas and 12 isocitrate dehydrogenase-mutant (IDH1-mt) High-grade gliomas indicated that tumor vessels of both types had undergone deformities such as the thickening of the vessel wall (VW) and proliferation of the basement membrane, contour distortions, abnormal and discontinuous basal lamina, tumor cells' invasion and colonization of VW, disappearance of endothelial cells (ECs), pericytes, and smooth muscle cells, as well as the formation of a continuous ring of tumor cells attached to the luminal side of VW in numerous cases. The latter feature is a clear sign of vascular mimicry (VM) that was previously suggested in gliomas but never shown by TEM. Additionally, the vascular invasion was carried out by a large number of tumor cells and was accompanied by the accumulation of tumor lipids in the vessels' lumina and VWs; these two features are distinct for gliomas and may alter the course of the clinical presentation and overall prognosis. This raises the issue of how to specifically target tumor cells involved in vascular invasion in order to optimize prognosis and overcome these mechanisms employed by the tumor cells.

Global analysis of gene expression profiles and gout symptoms in goslings infected with goose astrovirus

While blocking inflammation is an effective way to ease the symptoms of gout disease in humans, the treatment and prevention of gout in goslings infected with goose astrovirus (GAstV), a recently emergent condition, remain unclear. In this study, we investigated the reprogramming of the host genes as a result of GAstV infection by combining analysis of the global transcriptome and metabolic network pathways in the kidneys of goslings infected with GAstV. We showed that as GAstV replication increased in vivo, the regulation of key enzymes in the host metabolism progressively increased, flowing metabolites into the purine/pyrimidine biosynthesis pathways. Furthermore, we found that GAstV: 1) inhibits the host oxidation-reduction response by inhibiting the expression of the catalase gene; 2) activates the Toll-like receptor 2 pathway to enhance the immune inflammatory response; and 3) activates the key enzyme in lactic acid synthesis to produce lactate accumulation which inhibits the host's antiviral response, so as to facilitate the replication of the virus itself. This study provided the first insight into the overall metabolic requirements of GAstV for replication in vivo by combining transcriptome with metabolic network pathway information.

Nanomaterials: Breaking through the bottleneck of tumor immunotherapy

Immunotherapy exerts its excellent anti-tumor effects by stimulating and enhancing the immune response of the body, and has become another important class of anti-tumor therapy besides chemotherapy, targeted therapy and radiotherapy. Various types of immunotherapeutic drugs have gained their clinical values, but the in vivo delivery of drugs still faces many challenges, such as poor tumor permeability and low tumor cell uptake rate. In recent years, owing to highly targeting properties, better biocompatibility, and easy functionalization, nanomaterials have been widely applicated in tumor treatment, especially in tumor immunotherapy. Furthermore, nanomaterials have large drug loading capacity, strong tumor targeting and easy modification, which can effectively overcome the drawbacks of traditional immunotherapy. This paper reviews the progress of nanomaterial-based tumor immunotherapy in recent years and provides a theoretical basis for exploring new nanomaterial-based tumor immunotherapy strategies.

Qigong Exercise Balances Oxygen Supply and Acid-Base to Modulate Hypoxia: A Perspective Platform toward Preemptive Health & Medicine

Qigong is a meditative movement with therapeutic effects and is commonly practiced in Eastern medicine. A growing body of evidence validates its health benefits, leading to mechanistic questions about how it works. We propose a novel mechanism by which the “acid” caused by hypoxia affects metabolism, and the way it is neutralized through Qigong practice involves the body’s blood flow and vasculature modifications. Specifically, Qigong exercise generates an oxygen supply and acid-base balance against the hypoxic effects of underlying pathological conditions. We also propose that Qigong exercise mediated and focused on the local hypoxia environment of tissues might normalize the circulation of metabolic and inflammation accumulation in the tumor tissue and restore the normal metabolism of tissues and cells through calm, relaxation, and extreme Zen-style breathing that gravitates toward preemptive health and medicine. Thus, we propose the mechanisms of action related to Qigong, intending to unify Eastern and Western exercise theory.

Astrocytoma and IDH1-Wildtype Glioblastoma (GBM) Cells Colonize Tumor Vessels and Deploy Vascular Mimicry

Gliomas are the most prevalent type of malignant brain tumors with a very dismal prognosis. Angiogenesis in glioma has recently gotten more attention and its molecular aspects have been published; however, these were not complemented with ultrastructural evidence. Our ultrastructural examination of glioma vessels reveals several unique and critical features related to their mechanisms of progression and metastasis strategy. The detailed ultrastructural survey of 18 IDH1 -wildtype glioblastomas (GBM) and 12 IDH1 -mutant High-grade gliomas indicated that tumor vessels of both types had undergone deformities such as the thickening of the vessel wall (VW) and proliferation of the basement membrane, contour distortions, abnormal and discontinuous basal lamina, tumor cells' invasion and colonization of VW, disappearance of endothelial cells (ECs), pericytes, and smooth muscle cells, as well as the formation of a continuous ring of tumor cells attached to the luminal side of VW in numerous cases. The latter feature is a clear sign of vascular mimicry (VM) that was previously suggested in gliomas but never shown by TEM. Additionally, the vascular invasion was carried out by a large number of tumor cells and was accompanied by the accumulation of tumor lipids in the vessels' lumina and VWs; these two features are distinct for gliomas and may alter the course of the clinical presentation and overall prognosis. This raises the issue of how to specifically target tumor cells involved in vascular invasion in order to optimize prognosis and overcome these mechanisms employed by the tumor cells.

Warburg Effect Revisited: Embodiment of Classical Biochemistry and Organic Chemistry. Current State and Prospects

The Nobel Prize Winner (1931) Dr. Otto H. Warburg had established that the primary energy source of the cancer cell is aerobic glycolysis (the Warburg effect). He also postulated the hypothesis about "the prime cause of cancer", which is a matter of debate nowadays. Contrary to the hypothesis, his discovery was recognized entirely. However, the discovery had almost vanished in the heat of battle about the hypothesis. The prime cause of cancer is essential for the prevention and diagnosis, yet the effects that influence tumor growth are more important for cancer treatment. Due to the Warburg effect, a large amount of data has been accumulated on biochemical changes in the cell and the organism as a whole. Due to the Warburg effect, the recovery of normal biochemistry and oxygen respiration and the restoration of the work of mitochondria of cancer cells can inhibit tumor growth and lead to remission. Here, we review the current knowledge on the inhibition of abnormal glycolysis, neutralization of its consequences, and normalization of biochemical parameters, as well as recovery of oxygen respiration of a cancer cell and mitochondrial function from the point of view of classical biochemistry and organic chemistry.

Tumor microenvironment-associated lactate metabolism regulates the prognosis and precise checkpoint immunotherapy outcomes of patients with lung adenocarcinoma

BACKGROUND

Despite the wide clinical application of checkpoint inhibitor immunotherapy in lung adenocarcinoma, its limited benefit to patients remains puzzling to researchers. One of the mechanisms of immunotherapy resistance may be the dysregulation of lactate metabolism in the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME), which can inhibit dendritic cell maturation and prevent T-cell invasion into tumors. However, the key genes related to lactate metabolism and their influence on the immunotherapeutic effects in lung adenocarcinoma have not yet been investigated in depth.

METHODS

In this study, we first surveyed the dysregulated expression of genes related to lactate metabolism in lung adenocarcinoma and then characterized their biological functions. Using machine learning methods, we constructed a lactate-associated gene signature in The Cancer Genome Atlas cohort and validated its effectiveness in predicting the prognosis and immunotherapy outcomes of patients in the Gene Expression Omnibus cohorts.

RESULTS

A 7-gene signature based on the metabolomics related to lactate metabolism was found to be associated with multiple important clinical features of cancer and was an independent prognostic factor.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that rather than being simply a metabolic byproduct of glycolysis, lactate in the TME can affect immunotherapy outcomes. Therefore, the mechanism underlying this effect of lactate is worthy of further study.

Natural products targeting glycolysis in cancer

Many energy metabolism pathways exist in cancer, including glycolysis, amino acid metabolism, fatty acid oxidation, and mitochondrial respiration. Tumor cells mainly generate energy through glycolysis to maintain growth and biosynthesis of tumor cells under aerobic conditions. Natural products regulate many steps in glycolysis and targeting glycolysis using natural products is a promising approach to cancer treatment. In this review, we exemplify the relationship between glycolysis and tumors, demonstrate the natural products that have been discovered to target glycolysis for cancer treatment and clarify the mechanisms involved in their actions. Natural products, such as resveratrol mostly found in red grape skin, licochalcone A derived from root of Glycyrrhiza inflate, and brusatol found in Brucea javanica and Brucea mollis, largely derived from plant or animal material, can affect glycolysis pathways in cancer by targeting glycolytic enzymes and related proteins, oncogenes, and numerous glycolytic signal proteins. Knowledge of how natural products regulate aerobic glycolysis will help illuminate the mechanisms by which these products can be used as therapeutics to inhibit cancer cell growth and regulate cellular metabolism. Systematic Review Registration: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/, https://clinicaltrials.gov/, http://lib.zzu.edu.cn/.

Comprehensive analysis about prognostic and immunological role of WTAP in pan-cancer

Background: Wilms tumor 1-associated protein (WTAP) plays a critical role in ribonucleic acid (RNA) methylation of N6 adenosine (m⁶A) modification, which is closely related with varieties of biological process. However, the role of WTAP in cancers remains to be determined. This study is designed to demonstrate the prognostic landscape of WTAP in pan-cancer and explore the relationship between WTAP expression and immune infiltration.

Methods: Here, we investigated the expression level and prognostic role of WTAP in pan-cancer using multiple databases, including PrognoScan, GEPIA, and Kaplan-Meier Plotter. Then, applying the GEPIA and TIMER databases, we illustrated the correlations between WTAP expression and immune infiltration in tumors, especially liver hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC), and esophageal carcinoma (ESCA).

Results: WTAP had significant higher expression levels in tumor tissues of ESCA, LIHC, etc., while lower expression levels in those of bladder urothelial carcinoma (BLCA), breast invasive carcinoma (BRCA), etc. And WTAP demonstrated multifaceted prognostic value in cancers. Of our interests, WTAP exerted a harmful effect on LIHC patient for overall survival (OS) and progression free survival (PFS). WTAP expression also significantly associated with the infiltration levels of B cells, CD8⁺ T cells, CD4⁺ T cells, macrophages, neutrophils, and dendritic cells (DC) in LIHC but not ESCA. Furthermore, combined analysis about WTAP expression level and immune cell specific gene markers implied WTAP correlates with regulatory cells (T reg) infiltration in LIHC and ESCA.

Conclusion: The m⁶A regulator WTAP can serve as a prognostic biomarker for certain tumor types in pan-cancer and potentially result from immune cell infiltration.