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Guo S, Wang X, Wang Y, Bai J, Liu Y, Shao Z. The potential therapeutic targets of glutamine metabolism in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 176:116906. [PMID: 38876051 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2024] [Revised: 05/27/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Targeting metabolic reprogramming may be an effective strategy to enhance cancer treatment efficacy. Glutamine serves as a vital nutrient for cancer cells. Inhibiting glutamine metabolism has shown promise in preventing tumor growth both in vivo and in vitro through various mechanisms. Therefore, this review collates recent scientific literature concerning the correlation between glutamine metabolism and cancer treatment. Novel treatment modalities based on amino acid transporters, metabolites, and glutaminase are discussed. Moreover, we demonstrate the relationship between glutamine metabolism and tumor proliferation, drug resistance, and the tumor immune microenvironment, offering new perspectives for the clinical treatment of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, particularly for combined therapies. Identifying innovative approaches for enhancing the efficacy of glutamine-based metabolic therapy is crucial to improving HNSCC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shutian Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, China; Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, School of Stomatology-Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Xinmiao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, China; Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, School of Stomatology-Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yifan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, China; Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, School of Stomatology-Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Junqiang Bai
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, China; Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, School of Stomatology-Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yi Liu
- Department of stomatology, Huangshi Central Hospital (Affiliated Hospital of Hubei Polytechnic University), Huangshi 435000, China.
| | - Zhe Shao
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, China; Day Surgery Center, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, China.
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2
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Gu X, Mu C, Zheng R, Zhang Z, Zhang Q, Liang T. The Cancer Antioxidant Regulation System in Therapeutic Resistance. Antioxidants (Basel) 2024; 13:778. [PMID: 39061847 PMCID: PMC11274344 DOI: 10.3390/antiox13070778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2024] [Revised: 06/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Antioxidants play a pivotal role in neutralizing reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are known to induce oxidative stress. In the context of cancer development, cancer cells adeptly maintain elevated levels of both ROS and antioxidants through a process termed "redox reprogramming". This balance optimizes the proliferative influence of ROS while simultaneously reducing the potential for ROS to cause damage to the cell. In some cases, the adapted antioxidant machinery can hamper the efficacy of treatments for neoplastic diseases, representing a significant facet of the resistance mechanisms observed in cancer therapy. In this review, we outline the contribution of antioxidant systems to therapeutic resistance. We detail the fundamental constituents of these systems, encompassing the central regulatory mechanisms involving transcription factors (of particular importance is the KEAP1/NRF2 signaling axis), the molecular effectors of antioxidants, and the auxiliary systems responsible for NADPH generation. Furthermore, we present recent clinical trials based on targeted antioxidant systems for the treatment of cancer, assessing the potential as well as challenges of this strategy in cancer therapy. Additionally, we summarize the pressing issues in the field, with the aim of illuminating a path toward the emergence of novel anticancer therapeutic approaches by orchestrating redox signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuanhao Gu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China; (X.G.); (C.M.); (Z.Z.)
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China;
| | - Chunyang Mu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China; (X.G.); (C.M.); (Z.Z.)
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China;
| | - Rujia Zheng
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China;
| | - Zhe Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China; (X.G.); (C.M.); (Z.Z.)
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China;
- Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou 310003, China
- The Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310003, China
- Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Hangzhou 310003, China
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Pancreatic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Qi Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China; (X.G.); (C.M.); (Z.Z.)
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China;
- Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou 310003, China
- The Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310003, China
- Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Hangzhou 310003, China
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Pancreatic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Tingbo Liang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China; (X.G.); (C.M.); (Z.Z.)
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China;
- Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou 310003, China
- The Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310003, China
- Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Hangzhou 310003, China
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Pancreatic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China
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3
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Liu X, Zhuang L, Gan B. Disulfidptosis: disulfide stress-induced cell death. Trends Cell Biol 2024; 34:327-337. [PMID: 37574347 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcb.2023.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
The cystine transporter solute carrier family 7 member 11 (SLC7A11) (also known as xCT) promotes glutathione synthesis and counters oxidative stress-induced cell death, including ferroptosis, by importing cystine. Also, SLC7A11 plays a crucial role in tumor development. However, recent studies have uncovered an unexpected role of SLC7A11 in promoting disulfidptosis, a novel form of regulated cell death induced by disulfide stress. In this review, we examine the opposing roles of SLC7A11 in regulating redox homeostasis and cell survival/death, summarize current knowledge on disulfidptosis, and explore its potential in disease treatment. A deeper understanding of disulfidptosis will offer new insights into fundamental cellular homeostasis and facilitate the development of innovative therapies for disease treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoguang Liu
- Department of Experimental Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Li Zhuang
- Department of Experimental Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Boyi Gan
- Department of Experimental Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA; The University of Texas MD Anderson UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX, USA.
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4
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Yang J, Gu Z. Ferroptosis in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: from pathogenesis to treatment. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1283465. [PMID: 38313306 PMCID: PMC10834699 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1283465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is the sixth most common malignant tumor worldwide, with high morbidity and mortality. Surgery and postoperative chemoradiotherapy have largely reduced the recurrence and fatality rates for most HNSCCs. Nonetheless, these therapeutic approaches result in poor prognoses owing to severe adverse reactions and the development of drug resistance. Ferroptosis is a kind of programmed cell death which is non-apoptotic. Ferroptosis of tumor cells can inhibit tumor development. Ferroptosis involves various biomolecules and signaling pathways, whose expressions can be adjusted to modulate the sensitivity of cells to ferroptosis. As a tool in the fight against cancer, the activation of ferroptosis is a treatment that has received much attention in recent years. Therefore, understanding the molecular mechanism of ferroptosis in HNSCC is an essential strategy with therapeutic potential. The most important thing to treat HNSCC is to choose the appropriate treatment method. In this review, we discuss the molecular and defense mechanisms of ferroptosis, analyze the role and mechanism of ferroptosis in the inhibition and immunity against HNSCC, and explore the therapeutic strategy for inducing ferroptosis in HNSCC including drug therapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, nanotherapy and comprehensive treatment. We find ferroptosis provides a new target for HNSCC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Yang
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Zhaowei Gu
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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5
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Demicco M, Liu XZ, Leithner K, Fendt SM. Metabolic heterogeneity in cancer. Nat Metab 2024; 6:18-38. [PMID: 38267631 DOI: 10.1038/s42255-023-00963-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
Cancer cells rewire their metabolism to survive during cancer progression. In this context, tumour metabolic heterogeneity arises and develops in response to diverse environmental factors. This metabolic heterogeneity contributes to cancer aggressiveness and impacts therapeutic opportunities. In recent years, technical advances allowed direct characterisation of metabolic heterogeneity in tumours. In addition to the metabolic heterogeneity observed in primary tumours, metabolic heterogeneity temporally evolves along with tumour progression. In this Review, we summarize the mechanisms of environment-induced metabolic heterogeneity. In addition, we discuss how cancer metabolism and the key metabolites and enzymes temporally and functionally evolve during the metastatic cascade and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margherita Demicco
- Laboratory of Cellular Metabolism and Metabolic Regulation, VIB-KU Leuven Center for Cancer Biology, Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory of Cellular Metabolism and Metabolic Regulation, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven and Leuven Cancer Institute (LKI), Leuven, Belgium
| | - Xiao-Zheng Liu
- Laboratory of Cellular Metabolism and Metabolic Regulation, VIB-KU Leuven Center for Cancer Biology, Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory of Cellular Metabolism and Metabolic Regulation, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven and Leuven Cancer Institute (LKI), Leuven, Belgium
| | - Katharina Leithner
- Division of Pulmonology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- BioTechMed-Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Sarah-Maria Fendt
- Laboratory of Cellular Metabolism and Metabolic Regulation, VIB-KU Leuven Center for Cancer Biology, Leuven, Belgium.
- Laboratory of Cellular Metabolism and Metabolic Regulation, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven and Leuven Cancer Institute (LKI), Leuven, Belgium.
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6
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Park MN. Therapeutic Strategies for Pancreatic-Cancer-Related Type 2 Diabetes Centered around Natural Products. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15906. [PMID: 37958889 PMCID: PMC10648679 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242115906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), a highly malignant neoplasm, is classified as one of the most severe and devastating types of cancer. PDAC is a notable malignancy that exhibits a discouraging prognosis and a rising occurrence. The interplay between diabetes and pancreatic cancer exhibits a reciprocal causation. The identified metabolic disorder has been observed to possess noteworthy consequences on health outcomes, resulting in elevated rates of morbidity. The principal mechanisms involve the suppression of the immune system, the activation of pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs), and the onset of systemic metabolic disease caused by dysfunction of the islets. From this point forward, it is important to recognize that pancreatic-cancer-related diabetes (PCRD) has the ability to increase the likelihood of developing pancreatic cancer. This highlights the complex relationship that exists between these two physiological states. Therefore, we investigated into the complex domain of PSCs, elucidating their intricate signaling pathways and the profound influence of chemokines on their behavior and final outcome. In order to surmount the obstacle of drug resistance and eliminate PDAC, researchers have undertaken extensive efforts to explore and cultivate novel natural compounds of the next generation. Additional investigation is necessary in order to comprehensively comprehend the effect of PCRD-mediated apoptosis on the progression and onset of PDAC through the utilization of natural compounds. This study aims to examine the potential anticancer properties of natural compounds in individuals with diabetes who are undergoing chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy. It is anticipated that these compounds will exhibit increased potency and possess enhanced pharmacological benefits. According to our research findings, it is indicated that naturally derived chemical compounds hold potential in the development of PDAC therapies that are both safe and efficacious.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moon Nyeo Park
- Department of Pathology, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Hoegidong Dongdaemungu, Seoul 05253, Republic of Korea
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7
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Khaledian B, Thibes L, Shimono Y. Adipocyte regulation of cancer stem cells. Cancer Sci 2023; 114:4134-4144. [PMID: 37622414 PMCID: PMC10637066 DOI: 10.1111/cas.15940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a highly tumorigenic subpopulation of the cancer cells within a tumor that drive tumor initiation, progression, and therapy resistance. In general, stem cell niche provides a specific microenvironment in which stem cells are present in an undifferentiated and self-renewable state. CSC niche is a specialized tumor microenvironment for CSCs which provides cues for their maintenance and propagation. However, molecular mechanisms for the CSC-niche interaction remain to be elucidated. We have revealed that adipsin (complement factor D) and its downstream effector hepatocyte growth factor are secreted from adipocytes and enhance the CSC properties in breast cancers in which tumor initiation and progression are constantly associated with the surrounding adipose tissue. Considering that obesity, characterized by excess adipose tissue, is associated with an increased risk of multiple cancers, it is reasonably speculated that adipocyte-CSC interaction is similarly involved in many types of cancers, such as pancreas, colorectal, and ovarian cancers. In this review, various molecular mechanisms by which adipocytes regulate CSCs, including secretion of adipokines, extracellular matrix production, biosynthesis of estrogen, metabolism, and exosome, are discussed. Uncovering the roles of adipocytes in the CSC niche will propose novel strategies to treat cancers, especially those whose progression is linked to obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Behnoush Khaledian
- Department of BiochemistryFujita Health University School of MedicineToyoakeAichiJapan
| | - Lisa Thibes
- Department of BiochemistryFujita Health University School of MedicineToyoakeAichiJapan
| | - Yohei Shimono
- Department of BiochemistryFujita Health University School of MedicineToyoakeAichiJapan
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8
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Lin X, Zhou W, Liu Z, Cao W, Lin C. Targeting cellular metabolism in head and neck cancer precision medicine era: A promising strategy to overcome therapy resistance. Oral Dis 2023; 29:3101-3120. [PMID: 36263514 DOI: 10.1111/odi.14411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is among the most prevalent cancer worldwide, with the most severe impact on quality of life of patients. Despite the development of multimodal therapeutic approaches, the clinical outcomes of HNSCC are still unsatisfactory, mainly caused by relatively low responsiveness to treatment and severe drug resistance. Metabolic reprogramming is currently considered to play a pivotal role in anticancer therapeutic resistance. This review aimed to define the specific metabolic programs and adaptations in HNSCC therapy resistance. An extensive literature review of HNSCC was conducted via the PubMed including metabolic reprogramming, chemo- or immune-therapy resistance. Glucose metabolism, fatty acid metabolism, and amino acid metabolism are closely related to the malignant biological characteristics of cancer, anti-tumor drug resistance, and adverse clinical results. For HNSCC, pyruvate, lactate and almost all lipid categories are related to the occurrence and maintenance of drug resistance, and targeting amino acid metabolism can prevent tumor development and enhance the response of drug-resistant tumors to anticancer therapy. This review will provide a better understanding of the altered metabolism in therapy resistance of HNSCC and promote the development of new therapeutic strategies against HNSCC, thereby contribute to a more efficacious precision medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohu Lin
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- National Center for Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenkai Zhou
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- National Center for Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Shanghai, China
| | - Zheqi Liu
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- National Center for Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Cao
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- National Center for Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Nursing, Shanghai, China
| | - Chengzhong Lin
- National Center for Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Shanghai, China
- The 2nd Dental Center, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
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9
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Goto N, Suzuki H, Zheng L, Okano Y, Okita Y, Watanabe Y, Kato Y, Kato M. Promotion of squamous cell carcinoma tumorigenesis by oncogene-mediated THG-1/TSC22D4 phosphorylation. Cancer Sci 2023; 114:3972-3983. [PMID: 37607779 PMCID: PMC10551599 DOI: 10.1111/cas.15934] [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: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Carcinoma cells possess high proliferative and invasive potentials and exhibit a resilience against stresses, metabolic disorder, and therapeutic efforts. These properties are mainly acquired by genetic alterations including driver gene mutations. However, the detailed molecular mechanisms have not been fully elucidated. Here, we provide a novel mechanism connecting oncogenic signaling and the tumorigenic properties by a transforming growth factor-β1-stimulated clone 22 (TSC-22) family protein, THG-1 (also called as TSC22D4). THG-1 is localized at the basal layer of normal squamous epithelium and overexpressed in squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs). THG-1 knockdown suppressed SCC cell proliferation, invasiveness, and xenograft tumor formation. In contrast, THG-1 overexpression promoted the EGF-induced proliferation and stratified epithelium formation. Furthermore, THG-1 is phosphorylated by the receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK)-RAS-ERK pathway, which promoted the oncogene-mediated tumorigenesis. Moreover, THG-1 involves in the alternative splicing of CD44 variants, a regulator of invasiveness, stemness, and oxidative stress resistance under the RTK pathway. These findings highlight the pivotal roles of THG-1 as a novel effector of SCC tumorigenesis, and the detection of THG-1 phosphorylation by our established specific antibody could contribute to cancer diagnosis and therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nohara Goto
- Department of Experimental Pathology, Faculty of MedicineUniversity of TsukubaTsukubaJapan
- Ph.D. Program in Human Biology, School of Integrative and Global MajorsUniversity of TsukubaTsukubaJapan
| | - Hiroyuki Suzuki
- Department of Experimental Pathology, Faculty of MedicineUniversity of TsukubaTsukubaJapan
- Department of Antibody Drug DevelopmentTohoku University Graduate School of MedicineSendaiJapan
| | - Ling Zheng
- Department of Experimental Pathology, Faculty of MedicineUniversity of TsukubaTsukubaJapan
| | - Yasuhito Okano
- Department of Experimental Pathology, Faculty of MedicineUniversity of TsukubaTsukubaJapan
| | - Yukari Okita
- Department of Experimental Pathology, Faculty of MedicineUniversity of TsukubaTsukubaJapan
| | - Yukihide Watanabe
- Department of Experimental Pathology, Faculty of MedicineUniversity of TsukubaTsukubaJapan
| | - Yukinari Kato
- Department of Antibody Drug DevelopmentTohoku University Graduate School of MedicineSendaiJapan
| | - Mitsuyasu Kato
- Department of Experimental Pathology, Faculty of MedicineUniversity of TsukubaTsukubaJapan
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10
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Li Y, Tuerxun H, Liu X, Zhao Y, Wen S, Li Y, Cao J, Zhao Y. Nrf2--a hidden bridge linking cancer stem cells to ferroptosis. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2023; 190:104105. [PMID: 37598896 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2023.104105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs), a small population of stem cells existing in cancer cells, are considered as the "culprits" of tumor recurrence, metastasis, and drug resistance. Ferroptosis is a promising new lead in anti-cancer therapy. Because of unique metabolic characteristics, CSCs' growth is more dependent on the iron and lipid than ordinary cancer cells. When the metabolism of iron/lipid is disordered, that is, imbalanced redox homeostasis, CSCs are more susceptible to ferroptosis. The expression of Nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), a molecule playing a major regulatory role in redox homeostasis, determines whether the cells are under oxidative stress and ferroptosis occurs. Nrf2 expression level is higher in CSCs, indicating stronger dependence on Nrf2. Here we expound the unique biological and metabolic characteristics of CSCs, explore the mechanism of inducing ferroptosis by targeting Nrf2, thus providing promising new targets for eliminating aggressive tumors and achieving the goal of curing tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yawen Li
- Cancer Center, the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, China
| | - Halahati Tuerxun
- Cancer Center, the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, China
| | - Xingyu Liu
- Cancer Center, the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, China
| | - Yixin Zhao
- Cancer Center, the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, China
| | - Shuhui Wen
- Cancer Center, the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, China
| | - Yaping Li
- Cancer Center, the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, China
| | - Jingjing Cao
- Cancer Center, the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, China
| | - Yuguang Zhao
- Cancer Center, the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, China.
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11
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Xia P, Dubrovska A. CD98 heavy chain as a prognostic biomarker and target for cancer treatment. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1251100. [PMID: 37823053 PMCID: PMC10562705 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1251100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The SLC3A2 gene encodes for a cell-surface transmembrane protein CD98hc (4F2). CD98hc serves as a chaperone for LAT1 (SLC7A5), LAT2 (SLC7A8), y+LAT1 (SLC7A7), y+LAT2 (SLC7A6), xCT (SLC7A11) and Asc1 (SLC7A10) providing their recruitment to the plasma membrane. Together with the light subunits, it constitutes heterodimeric transmembrane amino acid transporters. CD98hc interacts with other surface molecules, such as extracellular matrix metalloproteinase inducer CD147 (EMMPRIN) and adhesion receptors integrins, and regulates glucose uptake. In this way, CD98hc connects the signaling pathways sustaining cell proliferation and migration, biosynthesis and antioxidant defense, energy production, and stem cell properties. This multifaceted role makes CD98hc one of the critical regulators of tumor growth, therapy resistance, and metastases. Indeed, the high expression levels of CD98hc were confirmed in various tumor tissues, including head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, glioblastoma, colon adenocarcinoma, pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, and others. A high expression of CD98hc has been linked to clinical prognosis and response to chemo- and radiotherapy in several types of cancer. In this mini-review, we discuss the physiological functions of CD98hc, its role in regulating tumor stemness, metastases, and therapy resistance, and the clinical significance of CD98hc as a tumor marker and therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pu Xia
- OncoRay - National Center for Radiation Research in Oncology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden and Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Dresden, Germany
| | - Anna Dubrovska
- OncoRay - National Center for Radiation Research in Oncology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden and Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Dresden, Germany
- Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Institute of Radiooncology-OncoRay, Dresden, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Dresden and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Partner Site Dresden: German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), Dresden, Germany
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12
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Zhou X, An B, Lin Y, Ni Y, Zhao X, Liang X. Molecular mechanisms of ROS-modulated cancer chemoresistance and therapeutic strategies. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 165:115036. [PMID: 37354814 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Drug resistance is the main obstacle to achieving a cure in many cancer patients. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are master regulators of cancer development that act through complex mechanisms. Remarkably, ROS levels and antioxidant content are typically higher in drug-resistant cancer cells than in non-resistant and normal cells, and have been shown to play a central role in modulating drug resistance. Therefore, determining the underlying functions of ROS in the modulation of drug resistance will contribute to develop therapies that sensitize cancer resistant cells by leveraging ROS modulation. In this review, we summarize the notable literature on the sources and regulation of ROS production and highlight the complex roles of ROS in cancer chemoresistance, encompassing transcription factor-mediated chemoresistance, maintenance of cancer stem cells, and their impact on the tumor microenvironment. We also discuss the potential of ROS-targeted therapies in overcoming tumor therapeutic resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoting Zhou
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Development and Related Disease of Women and Children Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, PR China
| | - Biao An
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Development and Related Disease of Women and Children Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, PR China
| | - Yi Lin
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Development and Related Disease of Women and Children Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, PR China
| | - Yanghong Ni
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Development and Related Disease of Women and Children Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, PR China
| | - Xia Zhao
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Development and Related Disease of Women and Children Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, PR China
| | - Xiao Liang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Development and Related Disease of Women and Children Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, PR China.
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13
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Idei U, Ohta T, Yamatani H, Seino M, Nagase S. Mechanism of Cell Death by Combined Treatment with an xCT Inhibitor and Paclitaxel: An Alternative Therapeutic Strategy for Patients with Ovarian Clear Cell Carcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11781. [PMID: 37511540 PMCID: PMC10380372 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 07/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Ovarian clear cell carcinoma (OCCC) is a rare subtype of epithelial ovarian carcinoma that responds poorly to chemotherapy. Glutathione (GSH) is a primary antioxidant, which protects cells against reactive oxygen species (ROS). High levels of GSH are related to chemotherapeutic resistance. The glutamine/cystine transporter xCT is essential for intracellular GSH synthesis. However, whether xCT inhibition can overcome the resistance to chemotherapeutic agents in OCCC remains unclear. This study demonstrated that combined treatment with paclitaxel (PTX) and the xCT inhibitor sulfasalazine (SAS) significantly enhanced cytotoxicity more than the individual drugs did in OCCC cells. Treatment with PTX and SAS induced apoptosis more effectively than did individual drug treatments in the cells with significant generation of ROS. Moreover, combined treatment with PTX and SAS induced ferroptosis in the cells with low expression of glutathione peroxidase (GPx4), high levels of intracellular iron and significant lipid ROS accumulation. Therefore, our findings provide valuable information that the xCT inhibitor might be a promising therapeutic target for drug-resistant OCCC. The strategy of combined administration of PTX and SAS can potentially be used to treat OCCC and help to develop novel therapeutic methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Urara Idei
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Yamagata University, Yamagata 990-9585, Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Ohta
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Yamagata University, Yamagata 990-9585, Japan
| | - Hizuru Yamatani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Yamagata University, Yamagata 990-9585, Japan
| | - Manabu Seino
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Yamagata University, Yamagata 990-9585, Japan
| | - Satoru Nagase
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Yamagata University, Yamagata 990-9585, Japan
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14
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Bagherpoor AJ, Shameem M, Luo X, Seelig D, Kassie F. Inhibition of lung adenocarcinoma by combinations of sulfasalazine (SAS) and disulfiram-copper (DSF-Cu) in cell line models and mice. Carcinogenesis 2023; 44:291-303. [PMID: 37053033 PMCID: PMC10290516 DOI: 10.1093/carcin/bgad020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2022] [Revised: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Sulfasalazine (SAS) is a repurposed antitumor drug which inhibits the proliferation and survival of cancer cells by inhibiting the xCT cellular antioxidant system. Recent clinical studies have shown that, due to poor bioavailability, the antitumor effects of SAS monotherapy are minimal. Therefore, we hypothesized that DSF, another repurposed drug that has demonstrated anticancer effects, or its complex with copper (DSF-copper, DSF-Cu) could potentiate the antilung cancer effects of SAS. Exposure of non-small cell lung cancer cells to therapeutically achievable concentrations of SAS-induced low-to-moderate cytotoxic effects (20-40% reduction in cell viability) and, unexpectedly, induced the antioxidant protein NRF2 and its downstream effectors xCT and ALDH1A1. However, combinations of SAS and DSF-Cu, but not SAS and DSF, induced a significantly higher cytotoxic effect (64-88% reduction in cell viability), apoptosis and generation of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species as compared with SAS or DSF-Cu alone. Moreover, DSF-Cu abrogated SAS-induced NRF2, xCT and ALDH1A1 expression. In a mouse model of lung tumor, SAS + DSF-Cu showed a higher efficacy than the individual drugs in reducing the number and size of tumors as well as the incidence and multiplicity of lung adenocarcinoma. Taken together, our findings indicate that the observed antilung cancer effects of SAS plus DSF-Cu are mediated, at least in part, via impairment of reactive oxygen species defense and -enhancement of oxidative stress and provide evidence for the preventive/therapeutic potential of this combinatorial approach against lung cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Xianghua Luo
- Masonic Cancer Center, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Division of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Davis Seelig
- Masonic Cancer Center, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN 55108, USA
| | - Fekadu Kassie
- Masonic Cancer Center, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN 55108, USA
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15
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Colovic M, Yang H, Southcott L, Merkens H, Colpo N, Bénard F, Schaffer P. Comparative Evaluation of [ 18F]5-Fluoroaminosuberic Acid and (4 S)-4-3-[ 18F]fluoropropyl)-l-Glutamate as System xC--Targeting Radiopharmaceuticals. J Nucl Med 2023:jnumed.122.265254. [PMID: 37116917 DOI: 10.2967/jnumed.122.265254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/30/2023] Open
Abstract
System [Formula: see text] is an appealing biomarker for targeting oxidative stress with oncologic PET imaging and can serve as an alternative PET biomarker to other metabolic indicators. In this paper, we report a direct comparison of 2 18F-labeled amino acid radiopharmaceuticals targeting system [Formula: see text], [18F]5-fluoroaminosuberic acid ([18F]FASu) and (4S)-4-(3-[18F]fluoropropyl)-l-glutamate ([18F]FSPG), in terms of their uptake specificity and ability to image glioma and lung cancer xenografts in vivo. Methods: Both tracers were synthesized according to previously published procedures. In vitro uptake specificity assays were conducted using prostate (PC-3), glioblastoma (U-87), colorectal (HT-29), ovarian (SKOV3), breast (MDA-MB-231), and lung cancer (A549) cell lines. PET/CT imaging and biodistribution studies were conducted in immunocompromised mice bearing U-87 or A549 xenografts. Results: In vitro cell uptake assays showed that the tracers accumulated in cancer cells in a time-dependent manner and that the uptake of [18F]FASu was blocked by the system [Formula: see text] inhibitor sulfasalazine and rose bengal, but not by system L inhibitor 2-aminobicyclo-(2,2,1)-heptane-2-carboxylic acid, system [Formula: see text] inhibitor L-trans-pyrrolidine-2,4-dicarboxylic acid, or l-serine, which is a substrate for transporter systems A, ACS, B0, and B0,+ Conversely, [18F]FSPG uptake decreased significantly in the presence of an excess of L-trans-pyrrolidine-2,4-dicarboxylic acid in 2 of 3 tested cell lines, indicating some reliance on system [Formula: see text] in these cells. In an in vivo setting, [18F]FASu and [18F]FSPG generated good-contrast PET images in U-87 and A549 tumor-bearing mice. Tracer accumulation in A549 tumors was 5.0 ± 0.8 percentage injected dose (%ID)/g ([18F]FASu, n ≥ 5) and 6.3 ± 1.3 %ID/g ([18F]FSPG, n ≥ 6, P = 0.7786), whereas U-87 xenografts demonstrated uptake of 6.1 ± 2.4 %ID/g ([18F]FASu, n ≥ 4) and 11.2 ± 4.1 %ID/g ([18F]FSPG, n ≥ 4, P = 0.0321) at 1 h after injection. Conclusion: [18F]FSPG had greater in vitro uptake than [18F]FASu in all cell lines tested; however, our results indicate that residual uptake differences exist between [18F]FSPG and [18F]FASu, suggesting alternative transporter activity in the cell lines tested. In vivo studies demonstrated the ability of both [18F]FASu and [18F]FSPG to image glioblastoma (U-87) and non-small cell lung cancer (A549) xenografts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milena Colovic
- Life Sciences Division, TRIUMF, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Molecular Oncology, BC Cancer Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Hua Yang
- Life Sciences Division, TRIUMF, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Lily Southcott
- Life Sciences Division, TRIUMF, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Helen Merkens
- Department of Molecular Oncology, BC Cancer Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Nadine Colpo
- Department of Molecular Oncology, BC Cancer Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Francois Bénard
- Department of Molecular Oncology, BC Cancer Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Radiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; and
| | - Paul Schaffer
- Life Sciences Division, TRIUMF, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada;
- Department of Radiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; and
- Department of Chemistry, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
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16
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Bae SW, Wang J, Georgiou DK, Wen X, Cohen AS, Geng L, Tantawy MN, Manning HC. Feasibility of [ 18F]FSPG PET for Early Response Assessment to Combined Blockade of EGFR and Glutamine Metabolism in Wild-Type KRAS Colorectal Cancer. Tomography 2023; 9:497-508. [PMID: 36961000 PMCID: PMC10037609 DOI: 10.3390/tomography9020041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 02/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Early response assessment is critical for personalizing cancer therapy. Emerging therapeutic regimens with encouraging results in the wild-type (WT) KRAS colorectal cancer (CRC) setting include inhibitors of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and glutaminolysis. Towards predicting clinical outcome, this preclinical study evaluated non-invasive positron emission tomography (PET) with (4S)-4-(3-[18F]fluoropropyl)-L-glutamic acid ([18F]FSPG) in treatment-sensitive and treatment-resistant WT KRAS CRC patient-derived xenografts (PDXs). Tumor-bearing mice were imaged with [18F]FSPG PET before and one week following the initiation of treatment with either EGFR-targeted monoclonal antibody (mAb) therapy, glutaminase inhibitor therapy, or the combination. Imaging was correlated with tumor volume and histology. In PDX that responded to therapy, [18F]FSPG PET was significantly decreased from baseline at 1-week post-therapy, prior to changes in tumor volume. In contrast, [18F]FSPG PET was not decreased in non-responding PDX. These data suggest that [18F]FSPG PET may serve as an early metric of response to EGFR and glutaminase inhibition in the WT KRAS CRC setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seong-Woo Bae
- Department of Cancer Systems Imaging, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd., Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Jianbo Wang
- Department of Cancer Systems Imaging, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd., Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Dimitra K. Georgiou
- Department of Cancer Systems Imaging, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd., Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Xiaoxia Wen
- Department of Cancer Systems Imaging, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd., Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Allison S. Cohen
- Department of Cancer Systems Imaging, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd., Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Ling Geng
- Vanderbilt Center for Molecular Probes, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 1161 21st Avenue South, Medical Center North, AA-1105, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
- Vanderbilt University Institute of Imaging Science, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 1161 21st Avenue South, Medical Center North, AA-1105, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Mohammed Noor Tantawy
- Vanderbilt University Institute of Imaging Science, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 1161 21st Avenue South, Medical Center North, AA-1105, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
- Department of Radiology and Radiological Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 1161 21st Avenue South, Medical Center North, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - H. Charles Manning
- Department of Cancer Systems Imaging, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd., Houston, TX 77030, USA
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17
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Glutamine Metabolism in Cancer Stem Cells: A Complex Liaison in the Tumor Microenvironment. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032337. [PMID: 36768660 PMCID: PMC9916789 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
In this review we focus on the role of glutamine in control of cancer stem cell (CSC) fate. We first provide an overview of glutamine metabolism, and then summarize relevant studies investigating how glutamine metabolism modulates the CSC compartment, concentrating on solid tumors. We schematically describe how glutamine in CSC contributes to several metabolic pathways, such as redox metabolic pathways, ATP production, non-essential aminoacids and nucleotides biosynthesis, and ammonia production. Furthermore, we show that glutamine metabolism is a key regulator of epigenetic modifications in CSC. Finally, we briefly discuss how cancer-associated fibroblasts, adipocytes, and senescent cells in the tumor microenvironment may indirectly influence CSC fate by modulating glutamine availability. We aim to highlight the complexity of glutamine's role in CSC, which supports our knowledge about metabolic heterogeneity within the CSC population.
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18
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Lee J, Roh JL. SLC7A11 as a Gateway of Metabolic Perturbation and Ferroptosis Vulnerability in Cancer. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11122444. [PMID: 36552652 PMCID: PMC9774303 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11122444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
SLC7A11 is a cell transmembrane protein composing the light chain of system xc-, transporting extracellular cystine into cells for cysteine production and GSH biosynthesis. SLC7A11 is a critical gateway for redox homeostasis by maintaining the cellular levels of GSH that counter cellular oxidative stress and suppress ferroptosis. SLC7A11 is overexpressed in various human cancers and regulates tumor development, proliferation, metastasis, microenvironment, and treatment resistance. Upregulation of SLC7A11 in cancers is needed to adapt to high oxidative stress microenvironments and maintain cellular redox homeostasis. High basal ROS levels and SLC7A11 dependences in cancer cells render them vulnerable to further oxidative stress. Therefore, cyst(e)ine depletion may be an effective new strategy for cancer treatment. However, the effectiveness of the SLC7A11 inhibitors or cyst(e)inase has been established in many preclinical studies but has not reached the stage of clinical trials for cancer patients. A better understanding of cysteine and SLC7A11 functions regulating and interacting with redox-active proteins and their substrates could be a promising strategy for cancer treatment. Therefore, this review intends to understand the role of cysteine in antioxidant and redox signaling, the regulators of cysteine bioavailability in cancer, the role of SLC7A11 linking cysteine redox signaling in cancer metabolism and targeting SLC7A11 for novel cancer therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaewang Lee
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University, Seongnam 13496, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biomedical Science, General Graduate School, CHA University, Seongnam 13496, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong-Lyel Roh
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University, Seongnam 13496, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biomedical Science, General Graduate School, CHA University, Seongnam 13496, Republic of Korea
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-31-780-2988
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19
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Induction of ferroptosis in head and neck cancer: A novel bridgehead for fighting cancer resilience. Cancer Lett 2022; 546:215854. [PMID: 35973621 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2022.215854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Most head and neck cancers (HNCs) originate from mucosal epithelial cells and show epithelial traits. It often changes to a mesenchymal or poorly differentiated state as cancer progresses, leading to invasion, metastasis, and resistance to treatment. The loss of epithelial traits by the epithelial-mesenchymal transition may render resilient cancers vulnerable to a novel non-apoptotic regulated cell death ferroptosis by the iron-dependent accumulation of excessive lipid peroxidation. By regulating mitochondrial or iron metabolism, intracellular ferrous iron and lipid peroxidation accumulation can be boosted, making resistant cancer cells more susceptible to ferroptosis. This article discusses the potential effect of ferroptosis induction as a novel treatment for resilient HNCs.
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20
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Panieri E, Pinho SA, Afonso GJM, Oliveira PJ, Cunha-Oliveira T, Saso L. NRF2 and Mitochondrial Function in Cancer and Cancer Stem Cells. Cells 2022; 11:cells11152401. [PMID: 35954245 PMCID: PMC9367715 DOI: 10.3390/cells11152401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The NRF2–KEAP1 system is a fundamental component of the cellular response that controls a great variety of transcriptional targets that are mainly involved in the regulation of redox homeostasis and multiple cytoprotective mechanisms that confer adaptation to the stress conditions. The pleiotropic response orchestrated by NRF2 is particularly relevant in the context of oncogenic activation, wherein this transcription factor acts as a key driver of tumor progression and cancer cells’ resistance to treatment. For this reason, NRF2 has emerged as a promising therapeutic target in cancer cells, stimulating extensive research aimed at the identification of natural, as well as chemical, NRF2 inhibitors. Excitingly, the influence of NRF2 on cancer cells’ biology extends far beyond its mere antioxidant function and rather encompasses a functional crosstalk with the mitochondrial network that can influence crucial aspects of mitochondrial homeostasis, including biogenesis, oxidative phosphorylation, metabolic reprogramming, and mitophagy. In the present review, we summarize the current knowledge of the reciprocal interrelation between NRF2 and mitochondria, with a focus on malignant tumors and cancer stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emiliano Panieri
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology “Vittorio Erspamer”, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
- Section of Hazardous Substances, Environmental Education and Training for the Technical Coordination of Management Activities (DGTEC), Italian Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, 00144 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: (E.P.); (T.C.-O.); Tel.: +39-06-5007-2131 (E.P.); +351-231249195 (T.C.-O.)
| | - Sónia A. Pinho
- CNC—Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB—Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- IIIUC—Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
- PhD Programme in Experimental Biology and Biomedicine (PDBEB), IIIUC—Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Gonçalo J. M. Afonso
- CNC—Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB—Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- IIIUC—Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
- PhD Programme in Experimental Biology and Biomedicine (PDBEB), IIIUC—Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Paulo J. Oliveira
- CNC—Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB—Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- IIIUC—Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Teresa Cunha-Oliveira
- CNC—Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB—Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- IIIUC—Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
- Correspondence: (E.P.); (T.C.-O.); Tel.: +39-06-5007-2131 (E.P.); +351-231249195 (T.C.-O.)
| | - Luciano Saso
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology “Vittorio Erspamer”, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
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21
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Liu X, Zhang Y, Wu X, Xu F, Ma H, Wu M, Xia Y. Targeting Ferroptosis Pathway to Combat Therapy Resistance and Metastasis of Cancer. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:909821. [PMID: 35847022 PMCID: PMC9280276 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.909821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent regulated form of cell death caused by excessive lipid peroxidation. This form of cell death differed from known forms of cell death in morphological and biochemical features such as apoptosis, necrosis, and autophagy. Cancer cells require higher levels of iron to survive, which makes them highly susceptible to ferroptosis. Therefore, it was found to be closely related to the progression, treatment response, and metastasis of various cancer types. Numerous studies have found that the ferroptosis pathway is closely related to drug resistance and metastasis of cancer. Some cancer cells reduce their susceptibility to ferroptosis by downregulating the ferroptosis pathway, resulting in resistance to anticancer therapy. Induction of ferroptosis restores the sensitivity of drug-resistant cancer cells to standard treatments. Cancer cells that are resistant to conventional therapies or have a high propensity to metastasize might be particularly susceptible to ferroptosis. Some biological processes and cellular components, such as epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) and noncoding RNAs, can influence cancer metastasis by regulating ferroptosis. Therefore, targeting ferroptosis may help suppress cancer metastasis. Those progresses revealed the importance of ferroptosis in cancer, In order to provide the detailed molecular mechanisms of ferroptosis in regulating therapy resistance and metastasis and strategies to overcome these barriers are not fully understood, we described the key molecular mechanisms of ferroptosis and its interaction with signaling pathways related to therapy resistance and metastasis. Furthermore, we summarized strategies for reversing resistance to targeted therapy, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy and inhibiting cancer metastasis by modulating ferroptosis. Understanding the comprehensive regulatory mechanisms and signaling pathways of ferroptosis in cancer can provide new insights to enhance the efficacy of anticancer drugs, overcome drug resistance, and inhibit cancer metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Liu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yiqian Zhang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xuyi Wu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Rehabilitation Medicine in Sichuan Province/Rehabilitation Medicine Research Institute, Chengdu, China
| | - Fuyan Xu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Hongbo Ma
- West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Mengling Wu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yong Xia
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Rehabilitation Medicine in Sichuan Province/Rehabilitation Medicine Research Institute, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Yong Xia,
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22
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Sendo K, Seino M, Ohta T, Nagase S. Impact of the glutathione synthesis pathway on sulfasalazine-treated endometrial cancer. Oncotarget 2022; 13:224-236. [PMID: 35106124 PMCID: PMC8794577 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.28185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Glutathione is an antioxidant that has an important role in chemotherapeutic drug resistance in cancer. Cysteine is synthesized from cystine and is transported into the cell via the xCT antiporter. Another pathway for synthesizing cysteine involves intracellular methionine. We determined whether targeting the xCT represents a promising strategy for the treatment of endometrial cancer and identified factors that predict efficacy of this treatment strategy. In uterine serous carcinoma (USC) cell lines, the combination of cisplatin and the xCT inhibitor, sulfasalazine, significantly inhibited cell growth compared with single-agent cisplatin or sulfasalazine. Sulfasalazine treatment significantly decreased intracellular glutathione levels and induced apoptosis when combined with cisplatin in USC cell lines. On the one hand, the effectiveness of combined cisplatin and sulfasalazine was not evident in endometrioid carcinoma. USC cell lines exhibited increased expression of xCT and decreased expression of cystathionine gamma lyase (CGL), which is an enzyme involved in the synthesis of cysteine from methionine. On the other hand, endometrioid carcinoma cell lines exhibited increased CGL expression or decreased xCT expression. These findings suggest that using a glutathione synthesis pathway-based approach for selecting subjects for sulfasalazine treatment may be an effective strategy for circumventing glutathione-related chemotherapeutic drug resistance in endometrial carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanako Sendo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yamagata University Faculty of Medicine, Yamagata, Japan
| | - Manabu Seino
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yamagata University Faculty of Medicine, Yamagata, Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Ohta
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yamagata University Faculty of Medicine, Yamagata, Japan
| | - Satoru Nagase
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yamagata University Faculty of Medicine, Yamagata, Japan
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23
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Criscuolo D, Morra F, Celetti A. A xCT role in tumour-associated ferroptosis shed light on novel therapeutic options. EXPLORATION OF TARGETED ANTI-TUMOR THERAPY 2022; 3:570-581. [PMID: 36338517 PMCID: PMC9630094 DOI: 10.37349/etat.2022.00101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Solute carrier family 7 member 11 (SLC7A11; also known as xCT), a key component of the cystine/glutamate antiporter, is essential for the maintenance of cellular redox status and the regulation of tumor-associated ferroptosis. Accumulating evidence has demonstrated that xCT overexpression, resulting from different oncogenic and tumor suppressor signaling, promotes tumor progression and multidrug resistance partially via suppressing ferroptosis. In addition, recent studies have highlighted the role of xCT in regulating the metabolic flexibility in cancer cells. In this review, the xCT activities in intracellular redox balance and in ferroptotic cell death have been summarized. Moreover, the role of xCT in promoting tumor development, drug resistance, and nutrient dependency in cancer cells has been explored. Finally, different therapeutic strategies, xCT-based, for anti-cancer treatments have been discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Criscuolo
- Institute for the Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology, Research National Council, CNR, 80131 Naples, Italy,Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Morra
- Institute for the Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology, Research National Council, CNR, 80131 Naples, Italy,Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy
| | - Angela Celetti
- Institute for the Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology, Research National Council, CNR, 80131 Naples, Italy,Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy,Correspondence: Angela Celetti, Institute for the Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology, Research National Council, CNR, 80131 Naples, Italy.
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24
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Quader S, Tanabe S, Cabral H. Abnormal Glycosylation in Cancer Cells and Cancer Stem Cells as a Therapeutic Target. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2022; 1393:141-156. [PMID: 36587306 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-12974-2_7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Tumor resistance and recurrence have been associated with the presence of cancer stem cells (CSCs) in tumors. The functions and survival of the CSCs have been associated with several intracellular and extracellular features. Particularly, the abnormal glycosylation of these signaling pathways and markers of CSCs have been correlated with maintaining survival, self-renewal and extravasation properties. Here, we highlight the importance of glycosylation in promoting the stemness character of CSCs and the current strategies for targeting abnormal glycosylation toward generating effective therapies against the CSC population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabina Quader
- Innovation Center of Nanomedicine (iCONM), Kawasaki Institute of Industrial Promotion, 3-25-14 Tonomachi, Kawasaki-ku, Kawasaki, 210-0821, Japan
| | - Shihori Tanabe
- Division of Risk Assessment, Center for Biological Safety and Research, National Institute of Health Sciences, 3-25-26 Tonomachi, Kawasaki-ku, Kawasaki, 210-9501, Japan
| | - Horacio Cabral
- Department of Bioengineering, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8656, Japan.
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25
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Managing GSH elevation and hypoxia to overcome resistance of cancer therapies using functionalized nanocarriers. J Drug Deliv Sci Technol 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jddst.2021.103022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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26
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Lyu J, Cheng C. Regulation of Alternative Splicing during Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition. Cells Tissues Organs 2022; 211:238-251. [PMID: 34348273 PMCID: PMC8741878 DOI: 10.1159/000518249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Alternative splicing is an essential mechanism of gene regulation, giving rise to remarkable protein diversity in higher eukaryotes. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a developmental process that plays an essential role in metazoan embryogenesis. Recent studies have revealed that alternative splicing serves as a fundamental layer of regulation that governs cells to undergo EMT. In this review, we summarize recent findings on the functional impact of alternative splicing in EMT and EMT-associated activities. We then discuss the regulatory mechanisms that control alternative splicing changes during EMT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingyi Lyu
- Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center, Department of Molecular
& Human Genetics, Department of Molecular & Cellular Biology, Baylor College
of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA,Integrative Molecular and Biomedical Sciences Graduate
Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Chonghui Cheng
- Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center, Department of Molecular
& Human Genetics, Department of Molecular & Cellular Biology, Baylor College
of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA,Integrative Molecular and Biomedical Sciences Graduate
Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.,To whom correspondence should be addressed:
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27
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Gonçalves AC, Richiardone E, Jorge J, Polónia B, Xavier CPR, Salaroglio IC, Riganti C, Vasconcelos MH, Corbet C, Sarmento-Ribeiro AB. Impact of cancer metabolism on therapy resistance - Clinical implications. Drug Resist Updat 2021; 59:100797. [PMID: 34955385 DOI: 10.1016/j.drup.2021.100797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Despite an increasing arsenal of anticancer therapies, many patients continue to have poor outcomes due to the therapeutic failures and tumor relapses. Indeed, the clinical efficacy of anticancer therapies is markedly limited by intrinsic and/or acquired resistance mechanisms that can occur in any tumor type and with any treatment. Thus, there is an urgent clinical need to implement fundamental changes in the tumor treatment paradigm by the development of new experimental strategies that can help to predict the occurrence of clinical drug resistance and to identify alternative therapeutic options. Apart from mutation-driven resistance mechanisms, tumor microenvironment (TME) conditions generate an intratumoral phenotypic heterogeneity that supports disease progression and dismal outcomes. Tumor cell metabolism is a prototypical example of dynamic, heterogeneous, and adaptive phenotypic trait, resulting from the combination of intrinsic [(epi)genetic changes, tissue of origin and differentiation dependency] and extrinsic (oxygen and nutrient availability, metabolic interactions within the TME) factors, enabling cancer cells to survive, metastasize and develop resistance to anticancer therapies. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge regarding metabolism-based mechanisms conferring adaptive resistance to chemo-, radio-and immunotherapies as well as targeted therapies. Furthermore, we report the role of TME-mediated intratumoral metabolic heterogeneity in therapy resistance and how adaptations in amino acid, glucose, and lipid metabolism support the growth of therapy-resistant cancers and/or cellular subpopulations. We also report the intricate interplay between tumor signaling and metabolic pathways in cancer cells and discuss how manipulating key metabolic enzymes and/or providing dietary changes may help to eradicate relapse-sustaining cancer cells. Finally, in the current era of personalized medicine, we describe the strategies that may be applied to implement metabolic profiling for tumor imaging, biomarker identification, selection of tailored treatments and monitoring therapy response during the clinical management of cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Cristina Gonçalves
- Laboratory of Oncobiology and Hematology (LOH) and University Clinic of Hematology, Faculty of Medicine (FMUC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR) - Group of Environment Genetics and Oncobiology (CIMAGO), FMUC, University of Coimbra, Portugal; Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Elena Richiardone
- Pole of Pharmacology and Therapeutics (FATH), Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), UCLouvain, Belgium
| | - Joana Jorge
- Laboratory of Oncobiology and Hematology (LOH) and University Clinic of Hematology, Faculty of Medicine (FMUC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR) - Group of Environment Genetics and Oncobiology (CIMAGO), FMUC, University of Coimbra, Portugal; Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Bárbara Polónia
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135, Porto, Portugal; Cancer Drug Resistance Group, IPATIMUP - Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Cristina P R Xavier
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135, Porto, Portugal; Cancer Drug Resistance Group, IPATIMUP - Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | | | - Chiara Riganti
- Department of Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Torino, Italy
| | - M Helena Vasconcelos
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135, Porto, Portugal; Cancer Drug Resistance Group, IPATIMUP - Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal; Department of Biological Sciences, FFUP - Faculty of Pharmacy of the University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Cyril Corbet
- Pole of Pharmacology and Therapeutics (FATH), Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), UCLouvain, Belgium.
| | - Ana Bela Sarmento-Ribeiro
- Laboratory of Oncobiology and Hematology (LOH) and University Clinic of Hematology, Faculty of Medicine (FMUC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR) - Group of Environment Genetics and Oncobiology (CIMAGO), FMUC, University of Coimbra, Portugal; Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), Coimbra, Portugal; Hematology Service, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra (CHUC), Coimbra, Portugal.
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28
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Ke Y, Chen X, Su Y, Chen C, Lei S, Xia L, Wei D, Zhang H, Dong C, Liu X, Yin F. Low Expression of SLC7A11 Confers Drug Resistance and Worse Survival in Ovarian Cancer via Inhibition of Cell Autophagy as a Competing Endogenous RNA. Front Oncol 2021; 11:744940. [PMID: 34790572 PMCID: PMC8591223 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.744940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Drug resistance is the main cause of chemotherapy failure in ovarian cancer (OC), and identifying potential druggable targets of autophagy is a novel and promising approach to overcoming drug resistance. In this study, 131 genes associated with autophagy were identified from three autophagy-related databases, and of these, 14 were differentially expressed in 90 drug-resistant OC tissues versus 197 sensitive tissues according to the Cancer Genome Atlas ovarian cancer cohort. Among these 14 genes, SLC7A11 was significantly decreased in two paclitaxel-resistant OC cells (HeyA8-R and SKOV3-R) and in 90 drug-resistant tissues compared with their controls. In vitro overexpression of SLC7A11 significantly increased the sensitivity of HeyA8-R cells to paclitaxel, inhibited colony formation, induced apoptosis, and arrested cell cycle. Further, low SLC7A11 expression was correlated with poor overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), and post-progression survival (PPS) in 1815 OC patients. Mechanistically, SLC7A11 strongly regulated cell autophagy as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) based on pan-cancer analyses of 32 tumor types. Specifically, as a ceRNA for autophagy genes STX17, RAB33B, and UVRAG, SLC7A11 was strongly and positively co-expressed with these three genes in 20, 12, and 12 different tumors, respectively, in 379 OC tissues and in 90 drug-resistant OC tissues, and the former two were significantly upregulated in SLC7A11-overexpressed HeyA8-R cells. Further, SLC7A11 induced the protein expression of other autophagy genes, such as LC3, Atg16L1, and Atg7, and the expression of the respective proteins was further increased when the cells were treated with paclitaxel. The results strongly suggest that SLC7A11 regulates autophagy via ceRNA interactions with the three abovementioned genes in pan-cancer and in drug-resistant OC. Moreover, low expression of STX17 and UVRAG also significantly predicted low OS, PFS, and PPS. The combination of SLC7A11 with STX17 was more predictive of OS and PFS than either individually, and the combination of SLC7A11 with UVRAG was highly predictive of OS and PPS. The above results indicated that decreased SLC7A11 resulted in drug resistance and effected low rates of survival in OC patients, probably via ceRNA interactions with autophagy genes, and thus the gene could serve as a therapeutic target and potential biomarker in OC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Ke
- Life Sciences Institute, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Xiaoying Chen
- Life Sciences Institute, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Yuting Su
- Life Sciences Institute, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Cuilan Chen
- Life Sciences Institute, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Shunmei Lei
- Key Laboratory of Longevity and Ageing-Related Disease of Chinese Ministry of Education, Centre for Translational Medicine and School of Preclinical Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Lianping Xia
- Life Sciences Institute, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Dan Wei
- Key Laboratory of Longevity and Ageing-Related Disease of Chinese Ministry of Education, Centre for Translational Medicine and School of Preclinical Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Han Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Longevity and Ageing-Related Disease of Chinese Ministry of Education, Centre for Translational Medicine and School of Preclinical Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Caihua Dong
- Key Laboratory of Longevity and Ageing-Related Disease of Chinese Ministry of Education, Centre for Translational Medicine and School of Preclinical Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Xia Liu
- Key Laboratory of Longevity and Ageing-Related Disease of Chinese Ministry of Education, Centre for Translational Medicine and School of Preclinical Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Fuqiang Yin
- Life Sciences Institute, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China.,Key Laboratory of High-Incidence-Tumor Prevention and Treatment (Guangxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, Nanning, China
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29
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Cosialls E, El Hage R, Dos Santos L, Gong C, Mehrpour M, Hamaï A. Ferroptosis: Cancer Stem Cells Rely on Iron until "to Die for" It. Cells 2021; 10:cells10112981. [PMID: 34831207 PMCID: PMC8616391 DOI: 10.3390/cells10112981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a distinct subpopulation of tumor cells with stem cell-like features. Able to initiate and sustain tumor growth and mostly resistant to anti-cancer therapies, they are thought responsible for tumor recurrence and metastasis. Recent accumulated evidence supports that iron metabolism with the recent discovery of ferroptosis constitutes a promising new lead in the field of anti-CSC therapeutic strategies. Indeed, iron uptake, efflux, storage and regulation pathways are all over-engaged in the tumor microenvironment suggesting that the reprogramming of iron metabolism is a crucial occurrence in tumor cell survival. In particular, recent studies have highlighted the importance of iron metabolism in the maintenance of CSCs. Furthermore, the high concentration of iron found in CSCs, as compared to non-CSCs, underlines their iron addiction. In line with this, if iron is an essential macronutrient that is nevertheless highly reactive, it represents their Achilles’ heel by inducing ferroptosis cell death and therefore providing opportunities to target CSCs. In this review, we first summarize our current understanding of iron metabolism and its regulation in CSCs. Then, we provide an overview of the current knowledge of ferroptosis and discuss the role of autophagy in the (regulation of) ferroptotic pathways. Finally, we discuss the potential therapeutic strategies that could be used for inducing ferroptosis in CSCs to treat cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Cosialls
- Institut Necker-Enfants Malades (INEM), Inserm U1151-CNRS UMR 8253, Université Paris Descartes-Sorbonne Paris Cité, F-75993 Paris, France; (E.C.); (R.E.H.); (L.D.S.)
| | - Rima El Hage
- Institut Necker-Enfants Malades (INEM), Inserm U1151-CNRS UMR 8253, Université Paris Descartes-Sorbonne Paris Cité, F-75993 Paris, France; (E.C.); (R.E.H.); (L.D.S.)
| | - Leïla Dos Santos
- Institut Necker-Enfants Malades (INEM), Inserm U1151-CNRS UMR 8253, Université Paris Descartes-Sorbonne Paris Cité, F-75993 Paris, France; (E.C.); (R.E.H.); (L.D.S.)
| | - Chang Gong
- Breast Tumor Center, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Guangzhou 510120, China;
| | - Maryam Mehrpour
- Institut Necker-Enfants Malades (INEM), Inserm U1151-CNRS UMR 8253, Université Paris Descartes-Sorbonne Paris Cité, F-75993 Paris, France; (E.C.); (R.E.H.); (L.D.S.)
- Correspondence: (M.M.); (A.H.)
| | - Ahmed Hamaï
- Institut Necker-Enfants Malades (INEM), Inserm U1151-CNRS UMR 8253, Université Paris Descartes-Sorbonne Paris Cité, F-75993 Paris, France; (E.C.); (R.E.H.); (L.D.S.)
- Correspondence: (M.M.); (A.H.)
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30
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Liu MR, Zhu WT, Pei DS. System Xc -: a key regulatory target of ferroptosis in cancer. Invest New Drugs 2021; 39:1123-1131. [PMID: 33506324 DOI: 10.1007/s10637-021-01070-0/tables/1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Ferroptosis is a type of oxidative stress-dependent regulated necrosis characterized by excessive lipid peroxide accumulation. This novel cell death modality has been implicated in preventing cancer progression. Cancer cells tend to modulate their redox state to prevent excessive peroxidation, eventually facilitating tumor growth. System Xc- (a cystine/glutamate antiporter system) is a promising target in cancer cells for ferroptosis induction. The overexpression of system Xc-, especially its core subunit xCT, has been reported in several tumors, and these high expression levels were closely related to cancer cell proliferation, invasion, metastasis and the tumor microenvironment. xCT might serve as a novel biomarker, and its upregulation almost always indicates drug tolerance and poor survival. Therefore, system Xc- inhibition may enhance chemotherapy sensitivity and optimize patient prognosis. Here, we elaborate on the mediation of ferroptosis by suppressing system Xc- and the relevant underlying molecular mechanism in cancer cells. The spotlight on this approach to cancer treatment is creating a new horizon and pointing to future opportunities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Man-Ru Liu
- Department of Pathology, Xuzhou Medical University, 209 Tong-shan Road, Jiangsu, 221004, Xuzhou, China
| | - Wen-Tao Zhu
- Department of Pathology, Xuzhou Medical University, 209 Tong-shan Road, Jiangsu, 221004, Xuzhou, China
| | - Dong-Sheng Pei
- Department of Pathology, Xuzhou Medical University, 209 Tong-shan Road, Jiangsu, 221004, Xuzhou, China.
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31
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Hayashi N, Yamasaki A, Ueda S, Okazaki S, Ohno Y, Tanaka T, Endo Y, Tomioka Y, Masuko K, Masuko T, Sugiura R. Oncogenic transformation of NIH/3T3 cells by the overexpression of L-type amino acid transporter 1, a promising anti-cancer target. Oncotarget 2021; 12:1256-1270. [PMID: 34194623 PMCID: PMC8238248 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.27981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
L-type amino acid transporter 1 (LAT1)/SLC7A5 is the first identified CD98 light chain disulfide linked to the CD98 heavy chain (CD98hc/SLC3A2). LAT1 transports large neutral amino acids, including leucine, which activates mTOR, and is highly expressed in human cancers. We investigated the oncogenicity of human LAT1 introduced to NIH/3T3 cells by retrovirus infection. NIH/3T3 cell lines stably expressing human native (164C) or mutant (164S) LAT1 (naLAT1/3T3 or muLAT1/3T3, respectively) were established. We confirmed that endogenous mouse CD98hc forms a disulfide bond with exogenous human LAT1 in naLAT1/3T3, but not in muLAT1/3T3. Endogenous mouse CD98hc mRNA increased in both naNIH/3T3 and muLAT1/3T3, and a similar amount of exogenous human LAT1 protein was detected in both cell lines. Furthermore, naLAT1/3T3 and muLAT1/3T3 cell lines were evaluated for cell growth-related phenotypes (phosphorylation of ERK, cell-cycle progression) and cell malignancy-related phenotypes (anchorage-independent cell growth, tumor formation in nude mice). naLAT1/3T3 had stronger growth- and malignancy- related phenotypes than NIH/3T3 and muLAT1/3T3, suggesting the oncogenicity of native LAT1 through its interaction with CD98hc. Anti-LAT1 monoclonal antibodies significantly inhibited in vitro cell proliferation and in vivo tumor growth of naLAT1/3T3 cells in nude mice, demonstrating LAT1 to be a promising anti-cancer target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natsumi Hayashi
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacogenomics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kindai University, Higashiosaka-Shi, Osaka, Japan.,Cell Biology Laboratory, School of Pharmacy, Kindai University, Osaka, Japan.,Co-first authors.,This laboratory (April, 2000~) was closed at the end of March, 2020, after the mandatory retirement of Takashi Masuko
| | - Akitaka Yamasaki
- Cell Biology Laboratory, School of Pharmacy, Kindai University, Osaka, Japan.,Laboratory of Oncology Pharmacy Practice and Science, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai-Shi, Miyagi, Japan.,Co-first authors.,This laboratory (April, 2000~) was closed at the end of March, 2020, after the mandatory retirement of Takashi Masuko
| | - Shiho Ueda
- Cell Biology Laboratory, School of Pharmacy, Kindai University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Shogo Okazaki
- Division of Cell Fate Regulation, Research Institute for Biomedical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science, Noda-shi, Chiba, Japan
| | - Yoshiya Ohno
- Laboratory of Immunobiology, Department of Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Hyogo University of Health Sciences, Kobe-Shi, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Toshiyuki Tanaka
- Laboratory of Immunobiology, Department of Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Hyogo University of Health Sciences, Kobe-Shi, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Yuichi Endo
- Natural Drug Resources, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kindai University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yoshihisa Tomioka
- Laboratory of Oncology Pharmacy Practice and Science, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai-Shi, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Kazue Masuko
- Cell Biology Laboratory, School of Pharmacy, Kindai University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Takashi Masuko
- Cell Biology Laboratory, School of Pharmacy, Kindai University, Osaka, Japan.,Natural Drug Resources, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kindai University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Reiko Sugiura
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacogenomics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kindai University, Higashiosaka-Shi, Osaka, Japan
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32
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Khan T, Cabral H. Abnormal Glycosylation of Cancer Stem Cells and Targeting Strategies. Front Oncol 2021; 11:649338. [PMID: 33889547 PMCID: PMC8056457 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.649338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cell (CSCs) are deemed as one of the main reasons of tumor relapse due to their resistance to standard therapies. Numerous intracellular signaling pathways along with extracellular features are crucial in regulating CSCs properties, such as heterogeneity, plasticity and differentiation. Aberrant glycosylation of these cellular signaling pathways and markers of CSCs have been directly correlated with maintaining survival, self-renewal and extravasation properties. In this review, we highlight the importance of glycosylation in promoting stemness character of CSCs, and present strategies for targeting abnormal glycosylation to eliminate the resistant CSC population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Horacio Cabral
- Department of Bioengineering, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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33
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Yoshida GJ, Saya H. Molecular pathology underlying the robustness of cancer stem cells. Regen Ther 2021; 17:38-50. [PMID: 33869685 PMCID: PMC8024885 DOI: 10.1016/j.reth.2021.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Intratumoral heterogeneity is tightly associated with the failure of anticancer treatment modalities including conventional chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and molecularly targeted therapy. Such heterogeneity is generated in an evolutionary manner not only as a result of genetic alterations but also by the presence of cancer stem cells (CSCs). CSCs are proposed to exist at the top of a tumor cell hierarchy and are undifferentiated tumor cells that manifest enhanced tumorigenic and metastatic potential, self-renewal capacity, and therapeutic resistance. Properties that contribute to the robustness of CSCs include the abilities to withstand redox stress, to rapidly repair damaged DNA, to adapt to a hyperinflammatory or hyponutritious tumor microenvironment, and to expel anticancer drugs by the action of ATP-binding cassette transporters as well as plasticity with regard to the transition between dormant CSC and transit-amplifying progenitor cell phenotypes. In addition, CSCs manifest the phenomenon of metabolic reprogramming, which is essential for maintenance of their self-renewal potential and their ability to adapt to changes in the tumor microenvironment. Elucidation of the molecular underpinnings of these biological features of CSCs is key to the development of novel anticancer therapies. In this review, we highlight the pathological relevance of CSCs in terms of their hallmarks and identification, the properties of their niche—both in primary tumors and at potential sites of metastasis—and their resistance to oxidative stress dependent on system xc (−). Intratumoral heterogeneity driven by CSCs is responsible for therapeutic resistance. CTCs survive in the distant organs and achieve colonization, causing metastasis. E/M hybrid cancer cells due to partial EMT exhibit the highest metastatic potential. The CSC niche regulates stemness in metastatic disease as well as in primary tumor. Activation of system xc(-) by CD44 variant in CSCs is a promising therapeutic target.
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Key Words
- ABC, ATP-binding cassette
- ALDH, Aldehyde dehydrogenase
- BMP, Bone morphogenetic protein
- CAF, Cancer-associated fibroblast
- CD44 variant
- CD44v, CD44 variant
- CSC, Cancer stem cell
- CTC, Circulating tumor cell
- CagA, Cytotoxin-associated gene A
- Cancer stem cell
- DTC, Disseminated tumor cell
- E/M, Epithelial/mesenchymal
- ECM, Extracellular matrix
- EGF, Epidermal growth factor
- EMT, Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition
- EpCAM, Epithelial cell adhesion moleculeE
- Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT)
- GSC, Glioma stem cell
- GSH, reduced glutathione
- HGF, Hepatocyte growth factor
- HNSCC, Head and neck squamous cell cancer
- IL, Interleukin
- Intratumoral heterogeneity
- MAPK, mitogen-activated protein kinase
- MET, mesenchymal-to-epithelial transition
- NSCLC, non–small cell lung cancer
- Niche
- Nrf2, nuclear factor erythroid 2–related factor 2
- OXPHOS, Oxidative phosphorylation
- Plasticity
- Prrx1, Paired-related homeodomain transcription factor 1
- ROS, Reactive oxygen species
- SRP1, Epithelial splicing regulatory protein 1
- TGF-β, Transforming growth factor–β
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Affiliation(s)
- Go J Yoshida
- Division of Gene Regulation, Institute for Advanced Medical Research (IAMR), Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hideyuki Saya
- Division of Gene Regulation, Institute for Advanced Medical Research (IAMR), Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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Choi BH, Kim JM, Kwak MK. The multifaceted role of NRF2 in cancer progression and cancer stem cells maintenance. Arch Pharm Res 2021; 44:263-280. [PMID: 33754307 DOI: 10.1007/s12272-021-01316-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The transcription factor nuclear factor erythroid 2-like 2 (NEF2L2; NRF2) plays crucial roles in the defense system against electrophilic or oxidative stress by upregulating an array of genes encoding antioxidant proteins, electrophile/reactive oxygen species (ROS) detoxifying enzymes, and drug efflux transporters. In contrast to the protective roles in normal cells, the multifaceted role of NRF2 in tumor growth and progression, resistance to therapy and intratumoral stress, and metabolic adaptation is rapidly expanding, and the complex association of NRF2 with cancer signaling networks is being unveiled. In particular, the implication of NRF2 signaling in cancer stem cells (CSCs), a small population of tumor cells responsible for therapy resistance and tumor relapse, is emerging. Here, we described the dark side of NRF2 signaling in cancers discovered so far. A particular focus was put on the role of NRF2 in CSCs maintenance and therapy resistance, showing that low ROS levels and refractory drug response of CSCs are mediated by the activation of NRF2 signaling. A better understanding of the roles of the NRF2 pathway in CSCs will allow us to develop a novel therapeutic approach to control tumor relapse after therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo-Hyun Choi
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Daegu Catholic University, Daegu, 42472, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Myung Kim
- Department of Pharmacy, Graduate School of The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, 14662, Republic of Korea
| | - Mi-Kyoung Kwak
- Department of Pharmacy, Graduate School of The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, 14662, Republic of Korea.
- College of Pharmacy, The Catholic University of Korea, 43 Jibong-ro, Bucheon, Gyeonggi-do, 14662, Republic of Korea.
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35
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Raudenská M, Balvan J, Masařík M. Cell death in head and neck cancer pathogenesis and treatment. Cell Death Dis 2021; 12:192. [PMID: 33602906 PMCID: PMC7893032 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-021-03474-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Revised: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Many cancer therapies aim to trigger apoptosis in cancer cells. Nevertheless, the presence of oncogenic alterations in these cells and distorted composition of tumour microenvironment largely limit the clinical efficacy of this type of therapy. Luckily, scientific consensus describes about 10 different cell death subroutines with different regulatory pathways and cancer cells are probably not able to avoid all of cell death types at once. Therefore, a focused and individualised therapy is needed to address the specific advantages and disadvantages of individual tumours. Although much is known about apoptosis, therapeutic opportunities of other cell death pathways are often neglected. Molecular heterogeneity of head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC) causing unpredictability of the clinical response represents a grave challenge for oncologists and seems to be a critical component of treatment response. The large proportion of this clinical heterogeneity probably lies in alterations of cell death pathways. How exactly cells die is very important because the predominant type of cell death can have multiple impacts on the therapeutic response as cell death itself acts as a second messenger. In this review, we discuss the different types of programmed cell death (PCD), their connection with HNSCC pathogenesis and possible therapeutic windows that result from specific sensitivity to some form of PCD in some clinically relevant subgroups of HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Raudenská
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University / Kamenice 5, CZ-625 00, Brno, Czech Republic.,Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Mendel University in Brno, Zemedelska 1, CZ-613 00, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Balvan
- Department of Pathological Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University / Kamenice 5, CZ-625 00, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Michal Masařík
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University / Kamenice 5, CZ-625 00, Brno, Czech Republic. .,Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Mendel University in Brno, Zemedelska 1, CZ-613 00, Brno, Czech Republic. .,Department of Pathological Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University / Kamenice 5, CZ-625 00, Brno, Czech Republic. .,BIOCEV, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prumyslova 595, CZ-252 50, Vestec, Czech Republic.
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36
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Liu MR, Zhu WT, Pei DS. System Xc -: a key regulatory target of ferroptosis in cancer. Invest New Drugs 2021; 39:1123-1131. [PMID: 33506324 DOI: 10.1007/s10637-021-01070-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Ferroptosis is a type of oxidative stress-dependent regulated necrosis characterized by excessive lipid peroxide accumulation. This novel cell death modality has been implicated in preventing cancer progression. Cancer cells tend to modulate their redox state to prevent excessive peroxidation, eventually facilitating tumor growth. System Xc- (a cystine/glutamate antiporter system) is a promising target in cancer cells for ferroptosis induction. The overexpression of system Xc-, especially its core subunit xCT, has been reported in several tumors, and these high expression levels were closely related to cancer cell proliferation, invasion, metastasis and the tumor microenvironment. xCT might serve as a novel biomarker, and its upregulation almost always indicates drug tolerance and poor survival. Therefore, system Xc- inhibition may enhance chemotherapy sensitivity and optimize patient prognosis. Here, we elaborate on the mediation of ferroptosis by suppressing system Xc- and the relevant underlying molecular mechanism in cancer cells. The spotlight on this approach to cancer treatment is creating a new horizon and pointing to future opportunities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Man-Ru Liu
- Department of Pathology, Xuzhou Medical University, 209 Tong-shan Road, Jiangsu, 221004, Xuzhou, China
| | - Wen-Tao Zhu
- Department of Pathology, Xuzhou Medical University, 209 Tong-shan Road, Jiangsu, 221004, Xuzhou, China
| | - Dong-Sheng Pei
- Department of Pathology, Xuzhou Medical University, 209 Tong-shan Road, Jiangsu, 221004, Xuzhou, China.
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37
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The Harmonious Interplay of Amino Acid and Monocarboxylate Transporters Induces the Robustness of Cancer Cells. Metabolites 2021; 11:metabo11010027. [PMID: 33401672 PMCID: PMC7823946 DOI: 10.3390/metabo11010027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Revised: 12/26/2020] [Accepted: 12/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
There is a growing body of evidence that metabolic reprogramming contributes to the acquisition and maintenance of robustness associated with malignancy. The fine regulation of expression levels of amino acid and monocarboxylate transporters enables cancer cells to exhibit the metabolic reprogramming that is responsible for therapeutic resistance. Amino acid transporters characterized by xCT (SLC7A11), ASCT2 (SLC1A5), and LAT1 (SLC7A5) function in the uptake and export of amino acids such as cystine and glutamine, thereby regulating glutathione synthesis, autophagy, and glutaminolysis. CD44 variant, a cancer stem-like cell marker, stabilizes the xCT antiporter at the cellular membrane, and tumor cells positive for xCT and/or ASCT2 are susceptible to sulfasalazine, a system Xc(-) inhibitor. Inhibiting the interaction between LAT1 and CD98 heavy chain prevents activation of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) complex 1 by glutamine and leucine. mTOR signaling regulated by LAT1 is a sensor of dynamic alterations in the nutrient tumor microenvironment. LAT1 is overexpressed in various malignancies and positively correlated with poor clinical outcome. Metabolic reprogramming of glutamine occurs often in cancer cells and manifests as ASCT2-mediated glutamine addiction. Monocarboxylate transporters (MCTs) mediate metabolic symbiosis, by which lactate in cancer cells under hypoxia is exported through MCT4 and imported by MCT1 in less hypoxic regions, where it is used as an oxidative metabolite. Differential expression patterns of transporters cause functional intratumoral heterogeneity leading to the therapeutic resistance. Therefore, metabolic reprogramming based on these transporters may be a promising therapeutic target. This review highlights the pathological function and therapeutic targets of transporters including xCT, ASCT2, LAT1, and MCT.
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38
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Chen X, Liang R, Lin H, Chen K, Chen L, Tian G, Zhu X. CD166 promotes cancer stem cell-like phenotype via the EGFR/ERK1/2 pathway in the nasopharyngeal carcinoma cell line CNE-2R. Life Sci 2020; 267:118983. [PMID: 33383046 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2020.118983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
AIMS The present study aimed to investigate the role and underlying mechanisms of CD166 in cancer stem cell-like (CSCs) phenotype of the radioresistant nasopharyngeal carcinoma cell CNE-2R. MAIN METHODS Established CD166-shRNA- CNE-2R cell line by lentivirus-mediated silencing CD166. Then, CSC-related genes mRNAs and proteins, and EGFR/ERK1/2 signaling pathway were detected using RT-PCR and western blot. Sphere formation assay was performed to evaluate the sphere formation capacity in CD166-shRNA- CNE-2R cells. The tumorigenesis ability in vivo was examined in nude mice mode. KEY FINDINGS Downregulation of CD166 inhibited the expression of the CSC-related genes, pEGFR and pERK in vitro and vivo. The capacity to form spheres and tumorigenesis was significantly decreased in CD166-shRNA cells. Furthermore, EGF-stimulated CD166-shRNA cells exhibited an increase in CSC-like traits by activating EGFR/ERK1/2 signaling. SIGNIFICANCE CD166 induced CSCs formation by activating the EGFR/ERK1/2 signaling pathway in nasopharyngeal carcinoma, which may serve as a critical molecular target for NPC therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xishan Chen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, Guangxi, PR China; Department of Oncology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Liuzhou, Guangxi 545000, PR China
| | - Renba Liang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, Guangxi, PR China
| | - Huan Lin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, Guangxi, PR China; Department of Oncology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Liuzhou, Guangxi 545000, PR China
| | - Kaihua Chen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, Guangxi, PR China
| | - Li Chen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, Guangxi, PR China
| | - Ge Tian
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, Guangxi, PR China
| | - Xiaodong Zhu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, Guangxi, PR China; Wuming Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, PR China; Key Laboratory of Early Prevention and Treatment for Regional High-Incidence-Tumor, Guangxi Medical University, Ministry of Education, Nanning, Guangxi, PR China.
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39
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Tanabe A, Kimura K, Tazawa H, Maruo T, Taguchi M, Sahara H. Functional analysis of CD44 variants and xCT in canine tumours. Vet Med Sci 2020; 7:577-585. [PMID: 33210459 PMCID: PMC8025623 DOI: 10.1002/vms3.397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Revised: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The cell surface glycoprotein CD44 has various types of splicing variants, which contribute to its multiple distinct cellular functions. Recently, it was reported that the CD44v8‐10 isoform interacts with the system Xc(‐) transporter‐related protein (xCT), and inhibits the accumulation of reactive oxygen species by promoting the synthesis of the antioxidant glutathione in human tumour cells. In this study, we investigated the expression and function of CD44 variants and xCT in canine tumours. From semi‐quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction analysis, the mRNA expression of the CD44v8‐10 isoform was observed in canine tumour tissues as well as human cases. The overexpression of CD44v8‐10 may promote the synthesis of glutathione and enhance the resistance to radiation of canine breast tumour cells. Furthermore, canine xCT mRNA expression was significantly upregulated in the canine breast tumour tissues as compared to the normal tissues surrounding the tumours. To investigate the function of canine xCT, we treated canine tumour cells with the xCT inhibitor sulfasalazine. Consequently, the sulfasalazine‐treated cells were more sensitive to oxidative stress than the non‐treated cells. Taken together, these results suggested that CD44v8‐10 and xCT play important roles in the therapy resistance of canine tumours as well as human tumours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atsushi Tanabe
- Laboratory of Biology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Azabu University, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Kento Kimura
- Laboratory of Biology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Azabu University, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Hana Tazawa
- Laboratory of Biology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Azabu University, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Takuya Maruo
- Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Azabu University, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Masayuki Taguchi
- Laboratory of Biology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Azabu University, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Hiroeki Sahara
- Laboratory of Biology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Azabu University, Kanagawa, Japan
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40
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Cystine transporter SLC7A11/xCT in cancer: ferroptosis, nutrient dependency, and cancer therapy. Protein Cell 2020; 12:599-620. [PMID: 33000412 PMCID: PMC8310547 DOI: 10.1007/s13238-020-00789-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 930] [Impact Index Per Article: 232.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The cystine/glutamate antiporter SLC7A11 (also commonly known as xCT) functions to import cystine for glutathione biosynthesis and antioxidant defense and is overexpressed in multiple human cancers. Recent studies revealed that SLC7A11 overexpression promotes tumor growth partly through suppressing ferroptosis, a form of regulated cell death induced by excessive lipid peroxidation. However, cancer cells with high expression of SLC7A11 (SLC7A11high) also have to endure the significant cost associated with SLC7A11-mediated metabolic reprogramming, leading to glucose- and glutamine-dependency in SLC7A11high cancer cells, which presents potential metabolic vulnerabilities for therapeutic targeting in SLC7A11high cancer. In this review, we summarize diverse regulatory mechanisms of SLC7A11 in cancer, discuss ferroptosis-dependent and -independent functions of SLC7A11 in promoting tumor development, explore the mechanistic basis of SLC7A11-induced nutrient dependency in cancer cells, and conceptualize therapeutic strategies to target SLC7A11 in cancer treatment. This review will provide the foundation for further understanding SLC7A11 in ferroptosis, nutrient dependency, and tumor biology and for developing novel effective cancer therapies.
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41
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Mei H, Zhao L, Li W, Zheng Z, Tang D, Lu X, He Y. Inhibition of ferroptosis protects House Ear Institute-Organ of Corti 1 cells and cochlear hair cells from cisplatin-induced ototoxicity. J Cell Mol Med 2020; 24:12065-12081. [PMID: 32929878 PMCID: PMC7579698 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.15839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Revised: 08/13/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Ferroptosis is a recently recognized form of non‐apoptotic cell death caused by an iron‐dependent accumulation of lipid hydroperoxides, which plays important roles in a wide spectrum of pathological conditions. The present study was aimed to investigate the impact of ferroptosis on cisplatin‐induced sensory hair cell damage. Cell viability was determined by Cell Counting Kit‐8 and lactase dehydrogenase assays. The reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were evaluated by 2,7‐Dichlorodi‐hydrofluorescein diacetate (DCFH‐DA) and MitoSox‐Red staining. Mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) was measured by tetramethylrhodamine methyl ester (TMRM) staining. Lipid peroxidation, intracellular and mitochondrial iron were detected by Liperfluo, C11‐BODIPY581/591, FerroOrange and Mito‐FerroGreen, respectively. We found that cisplatin treatment not only markedly augmented ROS accumulation, decreased the MMP, but increased lipid peroxidation and iron accumulation in House Ear Institute‐Organ of Corti 1 (HEI‐OC1) cells. Of note, treatment with the specific ferroptosis inhibitor ferrostatin‐1 could effectively abrogate the cisplatin‐induced toxicity and subsequent cell death. Specifically, the improvement of mitochondrial functions is important mechanisms for protective action of ferroptosis inhibitor against cisplatin‐induced damages in HEI‐OC1 cells. Moreover, inhibition of ferroptosis significantly protected murine cochlear hair cells against cisplatin damage. In addition, treatment murine cochlear hair cells with ferroptosis inducer, RSL3, significantly exacerbated cisplatin‐induced damage, which could be alleviated by ROS inhibitor N‐acetyl‐L‐cysteine. Collectively, our study indicated that ferroptosis inhibition could alleviate the cisplatin‐induced ototoxicity via inactivation of lipid peroxide radical and improvement of mitochondrial function in hair cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Honglin Mei
- ENT Institute and Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Hearing Medicine (Fudan University), Shanghai, China
| | - Liping Zhao
- ENT Institute and Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Hearing Medicine (Fudan University), Shanghai, China
| | - Wen Li
- ENT Institute and Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Hearing Medicine (Fudan University), Shanghai, China
| | - Zhiwei Zheng
- ENT Institute and Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Hearing Medicine (Fudan University), Shanghai, China
| | - Dongmei Tang
- ENT Institute and Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Hearing Medicine (Fudan University), Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoling Lu
- ENT Institute and Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Hearing Medicine (Fudan University), Shanghai, China
| | - Yingzi He
- ENT Institute and Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Hearing Medicine (Fudan University), Shanghai, China
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Elgendy SM, Alyammahi SK, Alhamad DW, Abdin SM, Omar HA. Ferroptosis: An emerging approach for targeting cancer stem cells and drug resistance. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2020; 155:103095. [PMID: 32927333 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2020.103095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Revised: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Resistance to chemotherapeutic agents remains a major challenge in the fierce battle against cancer. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a small population of cells in tumors that possesses the ability to self-renew, initiate tumors, and cause resistance to conventional anticancer agents. Targeting this population of cells was proven as a promising approach to eliminate cancer recurrence and improve the clinical outcome. CSCs are less susceptible to death by classical anticancer agents inducing apoptosis. CSCs can be eradicated by ferroptosis, which is a non-apoptotic-regulated mechanism of cell death. The induction of ferroptosis is an attractive strategy to eliminate tumors due to its ability to selectively target aggressive CSCs. The current review critically explored the crosstalk and regulatory pathways controlling ferroptosis, which can selectively induce CSCs death. In addition, successful chemotherapeutic agents that achieve better therapeutic outcomes through the induction of ferroptosis in CSCs were discussed to highlight their promising clinical impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara M Elgendy
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, 27272, United Arab Emirates; College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Shatha K Alyammahi
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, 27272, United Arab Emirates; College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Dima W Alhamad
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, 27272, United Arab Emirates; College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Shifaa M Abdin
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, 27272, United Arab Emirates; College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Hany A Omar
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, 27272, United Arab Emirates; College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, 27272, United Arab Emirates.
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Liu J, Xia X, Huang P. xCT: A Critical Molecule That Links Cancer Metabolism to Redox Signaling. Mol Ther 2020; 28:2358-2366. [PMID: 32931751 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2020.08.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 153] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2020] [Revised: 07/25/2020] [Accepted: 08/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
System xc- cystine/glutamate antiporter, composed of a light-chain subunit (xCT, SLC7A11) and a heavy-chain subunit (CD98hc, SLC3A2), is mainly responsible for the cellular uptake of cystine in exchange for intracellular glutamate. In recent years, the xCT molecule has been found to play an important role in tumor growth, progression, metastasis, and multidrug resistance in various types of cancer. Interestingly, xCT also exhibits an essential function in regulating tumor-associated ferroptosis. Despite significant progress in targeting the system xc- transporter in cancer treatment, the underlying mechanisms still remain elusive. It is also unclear why solid tumors are more sensitive to xCT inhibitors such as sulfasalazine, as compared to hematological malignancies. This review mainly focuses on the role of xCT cystine/glutamate transporter in regard to tumor growth, chemoresistance, tumor-selective ferroptosis, and the mechanisms regulating xCT gene expression. The potential therapeutic implications of targeting the system xc- and its combination with chemotherapeutic agents or immunotherapy to suppress tumor growth and overcome drug resistance are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinyun Liu
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, 651 Dongfeng East Road, Guangzhou 510060, China; Metabolic Innovation Center, Sun Yat-sen University Zhongshan School of Medicine, 74 Zhongshan 2nd Road, Guangzhou 510080, China.
| | - Xiaojun Xia
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, 651 Dongfeng East Road, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Peng Huang
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, 651 Dongfeng East Road, Guangzhou 510060, China; Metabolic Innovation Center, Sun Yat-sen University Zhongshan School of Medicine, 74 Zhongshan 2nd Road, Guangzhou 510080, China.
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Abstract
Metastasis of cancer cells to the brain occurs frequently in patients with certain subtypes of breast cancer. In particular, patients with HER2-positive or triple-negative breast cancer are at high risk for the development of brain metastases. Despite recent advances in the treatment of primary breast tumors, the prognosis of breast cancer patients with brain metastases remains poor. A better understanding of the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying brain metastasis might be expected to lead to improvements in the overall survival rate for these patients. Recent studies have revealed complex interactions between metastatic cancer cells and their microenvironment in the brain. Such interactions result in the activation of various signaling pathways related to metastasis in both cancer cells and cells of the microenvironment including astrocytes and microglia. In this review, we focus on such interactions and on their role both in the metastatic process and as potential targets for therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mari Hosonaga
- Division of Gene Regulation, Institute for Advanced Medical Research, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinano-machi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-8582, Japan
- Breast Medical Oncology Department, Cancer Institute Hospital of Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, 3-8-31 Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo, 135-8550, Japan
| | - Hideyuki Saya
- Division of Gene Regulation, Institute for Advanced Medical Research, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinano-machi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-8582, Japan
| | - Yoshimi Arima
- Division of Gene Regulation, Institute for Advanced Medical Research, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinano-machi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-8582, Japan.
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45
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Park SY, Mosci C, Kumar M, Wardak M, Koglin N, Bullich S, Mueller A, Berndt M, Stephens AW, Chin FT, Gambhir SS, Mittra ES. Initial evaluation of (4S)-4-(3-[ 18F]fluoropropyl)-L-glutamate (FSPG) PET/CT imaging in patients with head and neck cancer, colorectal cancer, or non-Hodgkin lymphoma. EJNMMI Res 2020; 10:100. [PMID: 32857284 PMCID: PMC7455665 DOI: 10.1186/s13550-020-00678-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose (4S)-4-(3-[18F]Fluoropropyl)-l-glutamic acid ([18F]FSPG) measures system xC− transporter activity and shows promise for oncologic imaging. We present data on tumor uptake of this radiopharmaceutical in human subjects with head and neck cancer (HNC), colorectal cancer (CRC), and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). Methods A total of 15 subjects with HNC (n = 5), CRC (n = 5), or NHL (n = 5) were recruited (mean age 66.2 years, range 44–87 years). 301.4 ± 28.1 MBq (8.1 ± 0.8 mCi) of [18F]FSPG was given intravenously to each subject, and 3 PET/CT scans were obtained 0–2 h post-injection. All subjects also had a positive [18F]FDG PET/CT scan within 1 month prior to the [18F]FSPG PET scan. Semi-quantitative and visual comparisons of the [18F]FSPG and [18F]FDG scans were performed. Results [18F]FSPG showed strong uptake in all but one HNC subject. The lack of surrounding brain uptake facilitated tumor delineation in the HNC patients. [18F]FSPG also showed tumor uptake in all CRC subjects, but variable uptake in the NHL subjects. While the absolute [18F]FDG SUV values were comparable or higher than [18F]FSPG, the tumor-to-background SUV ratios were greater with [18F]FSPG than [18F]FDG. Conclusions [18F]FSPG PET/CT showed promising results across 15 subjects with 3 different cancer types. Concordant visualization was mostly observed between [18F]FSPG and [18F]FDG PET/CT images, with some inter- and intra-individual uptake variability potentially reflecting differences in tumor biology. The tumor-to-background ratios were greater with [18F]FSPG than [18F]FDG in the cancer types evaluated. Future studies based on larger numbers of subjects and those with a wider array of primary and recurrent or metastatic tumors are planned to further evaluate the utility of this novel tracer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonya Y Park
- Department of Radiology, Division of Nuclear Medicine, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford (MIPS), Department of Radiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Camila Mosci
- Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford (MIPS), Department of Radiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Meena Kumar
- Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford (MIPS), Department of Radiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Mirwais Wardak
- Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford (MIPS), Department of Radiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Norman Koglin
- Bayer Pharma AG, Berlin, Germany.,Life Molecular Imaging GmbH, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Andre Mueller
- Bayer Pharma AG, Berlin, Germany.,Life Molecular Imaging GmbH, Berlin, Germany
| | - Mathias Berndt
- Bayer Pharma AG, Berlin, Germany.,Life Molecular Imaging GmbH, Berlin, Germany
| | - Andrew W Stephens
- Bayer Pharma AG, Berlin, Germany.,Life Molecular Imaging GmbH, Berlin, Germany
| | - Frederick T Chin
- Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford (MIPS), Department of Radiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Sanjiv S Gambhir
- Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford (MIPS), Department of Radiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.,Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.,Department of Materials Science & Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.,Bio-X Program, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Erik S Mittra
- Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford (MIPS), Department of Radiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA. .,Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Division of Nuclear Medicine & Molecular Imaging, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Rd., Mail Code L340, Portland, OR, 97239, USA.
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46
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Liu L, Liu R, Liu Y, Li G, Chen Q, Liu X, Ma S. Cystine-glutamate antiporter xCT as a therapeutic target for cancer. Cell Biochem Funct 2020; 39:174-179. [PMID: 32749001 DOI: 10.1002/cbf.3581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2020] [Accepted: 06/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Cystine/glutamic acid reverse transporter (System Xc - ), a member of the amino acid transporter family, consists of two subunits, light chain xCT and heavy chain 4F2hc. xCT is the cystine/glutamate antiporter solute carrier family 7 member 11 (SLC7A11), which promotes cystine uptake and glutathione biosynthetic, thus protecting against oxidative stress and ferroptosis. Studies have confirmed that xCT is highly expressed in a variety of tumour and is associated with tumour proliferation, invasion, metastasis, drug resistance and ferroptosis, and can be used as a potential target for tumour treatment. This review provides insights into the biological effects of xCT and contribute to the development of new xCT-based strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Liu
- Platform for Radiation Protection and Emergency Preparedness of Southern Zhejiang, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Rui Liu
- Key Laboratory of Radiobiology (Ministry of Health), School of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yi Liu
- Platform for Radiation Protection and Emergency Preparedness of Southern Zhejiang, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Guanghui Li
- Platform for Radiation Protection and Emergency Preparedness of Southern Zhejiang, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Qing Chen
- Platform for Radiation Protection and Emergency Preparedness of Southern Zhejiang, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Xiaodong Liu
- Platform for Radiation Protection and Emergency Preparedness of Southern Zhejiang, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Shumei Ma
- Platform for Radiation Protection and Emergency Preparedness of Southern Zhejiang, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
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47
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Sugiyama A, Ohta T, Obata M, Takahashi K, Seino M, Nagase S. xCT inhibitor sulfasalazine depletes paclitaxel-resistant tumor cells through ferroptosis in uterine serous carcinoma. Oncol Lett 2020; 20:2689-2700. [PMID: 32782585 PMCID: PMC7400102 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2020.11813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2019] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Glutathione (GSH) is a primary antioxidant that protects cells against reactive oxygen species (ROS), and high levels of GSH promote cancer cell survival and resistance to chemotherapy. The glutamine transporter xCT is essential for the intracellular synthesis of GSH, whereby xCT determines the intracellular redox balance. However, whether xCT inhibition can overcome GSH-mediated resistance to chemotherapeutic agents in uterine serous carcinoma (USC) remains unclear. Thus, the present study investigated the effect of the xCT inhibitor, sulfasalazine (SAS) on cytotoxicity in paclitaxel-sensitive and -resistant USC cell lines. The molecular mechanism by which SAS induces ferroptotic cell death in paclitaxel-resistant cells was assessed. The results of the cytotoxicity assay demonstrated that SAS was more cytotoxic in paclitaxel-resistant cells compared with in -sensitive cells; however, paclitaxel cytotoxicity was not enhanced in either of the USC cell lines. Immunoblotting analysis and the cell death assays performed using ferroptosis inhibitors indicated that SAS-mediated cell death was induced through ferroptosis, and not apoptosis, in paclitaxel-resistant cells. Furthermore, ROS production was increased in paclitaxel-resistant but not in -sensitive cells, even at low SAS concentration, and JNK was activated, which is a downstream target in the Ras signaling pathway. Knockdown of JNK reversed the inhibitory effect of SAS on cell proliferation and cell death. The synthetic lethal interaction between ROS accumulation and Ras effector JNK activation may be critical for enhancing the sensitivity to ferroptotic cell death mediated by xCT inhibitor, SAS. Taken together, the results of the present study suggest that xCT inhibition may be an effective treatment for patients with recurrent paclitaxel-resistant USC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akiko Sugiyama
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Yamagata University, Yamagata 990-9585, Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Ohta
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Yamagata University, Yamagata 990-9585, Japan
| | - Miyuki Obata
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Yamagata University, Yamagata 990-9585, Japan
| | - Kanako Takahashi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Yamagata University, Yamagata 990-9585, Japan
| | - Manabu Seino
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Yamagata University, Yamagata 990-9585, Japan
| | - Satoru Nagase
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Yamagata University, Yamagata 990-9585, Japan
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48
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Khan T, Igarashi K, Tanabe A, Miyazawa T, Fukushima S, Miura Y, Matsumoto Y, Yamasoba T, Matsumoto A, Cabral H, Kataoka K. Structural Control of Boronic Acid Ligands Enhances Intratumoral Targeting of Sialic Acid To Eradicate Cancer Stem-like Cells. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2020; 3:5030-5039. [DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.0c00530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Thahomina Khan
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan
| | - Kazunori Igarashi
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan
| | - Ami Tanabe
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan
| | - Taiki Miyazawa
- Institute of Biomaterials and Bioengineering, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 2-3-10 Kanda-Surugadai, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 101-0062, Japan
| | - Shigeto Fukushima
- Innovation Center of NanoMedicine (iCONM), Kawasaki Institute of Industrial Promotion, 3-25-14 Tonomachi, Kawasaki-ku, Kawasaki 210-0821, Japan
| | - Yutaka Miura
- Laboratory for Chemistry and Life Science, Institute of Innovative Research, Tokyo Institute of Technology, 4259 Nagatsuta, Midori-ku, Yokohama 226-8503, Japan
| | - Yu Matsumoto
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Yamasoba
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan
| | - Akira Matsumoto
- Institute of Biomaterials and Bioengineering, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 2-3-10 Kanda-Surugadai, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 101-0062, Japan
- Kanagawa Institute of Industrial Science and Technology, Kawasaki 213-0012, Japan
| | - Horacio Cabral
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan
| | - Kazunori Kataoka
- Innovation Center of NanoMedicine (iCONM), Kawasaki Institute of Industrial Promotion, 3-25-14 Tonomachi, Kawasaki-ku, Kawasaki 210-0821, Japan
- Institute for Future Initiatives, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
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49
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Rolih V, Caldeira J, Bolli E, Salameh A, Conti L, Barutello G, Riccardo F, Magri J, Lamolinara A, Parra K, Valenzuela P, Francia G, Iezzi M, Pericle F, Cavallo F. Development of a VLP-Based Vaccine Displaying an xCT Extracellular Domain for the Treatment of Metastatic Breast Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12061492. [PMID: 32521631 PMCID: PMC7352461 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12061492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Revised: 05/30/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Metastatic breast cancer (MBC) is the leading cause of cancer death in women due to recurrence and resistance to conventional therapies. Thus, MBC represents an important unmet clinical need for new treatments. In this paper we generated a virus-like particle (VLP)-based vaccine (AX09) to inhibit de novo metastasis formation and ultimately prolong the survival of patients with MBC. To this aim, we engineered the bacteriophage MS2 VLP to display an extracellular loop of xCT, a promising therapeutic target involved in tumor progression and metastasis formation. Elevated levels of this protein are observed in a high percentage of invasive mammary ductal tumors including triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) and correlate with poor overall survival. Moreover, xCT expression is restricted to only a few normal cell types. Here, we tested AX09 in several MBC mouse models and showed that it was well-tolerated and elicited a strong antibody response against xCT. This antibody-based response resulted in the inhibition of xCT's function in vitro and reduced metastasis formation in vivo. Thus, AX09 represents a promising novel approach for MBC, and it is currently advancing to clinical development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Rolih
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, 10126 Torino, Italy; (V.R.); (E.B.); (L.C.); (G.B.); (F.R.); (J.M.)
| | - Jerri Caldeira
- AgilVax Inc., Albuquerque, NM 87110, USA; (J.C.); (A.S.); (F.P.)
| | - Elisabetta Bolli
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, 10126 Torino, Italy; (V.R.); (E.B.); (L.C.); (G.B.); (F.R.); (J.M.)
| | - Ahmad Salameh
- AgilVax Inc., Albuquerque, NM 87110, USA; (J.C.); (A.S.); (F.P.)
| | - Laura Conti
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, 10126 Torino, Italy; (V.R.); (E.B.); (L.C.); (G.B.); (F.R.); (J.M.)
| | - Giuseppina Barutello
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, 10126 Torino, Italy; (V.R.); (E.B.); (L.C.); (G.B.); (F.R.); (J.M.)
| | - Federica Riccardo
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, 10126 Torino, Italy; (V.R.); (E.B.); (L.C.); (G.B.); (F.R.); (J.M.)
| | - Jolanda Magri
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, 10126 Torino, Italy; (V.R.); (E.B.); (L.C.); (G.B.); (F.R.); (J.M.)
| | - Alessia Lamolinara
- Department of Medicine and Aging Sciences, Center for Advanced Studies and Technologies (CAST), G. d’Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (A.L.); (M.I.)
| | - Karla Parra
- Border Biomedical Research Center, University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, USA; (K.P.); (P.V.); (G.F.)
| | - Paloma Valenzuela
- Border Biomedical Research Center, University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, USA; (K.P.); (P.V.); (G.F.)
| | - Giulio Francia
- Border Biomedical Research Center, University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, USA; (K.P.); (P.V.); (G.F.)
| | - Manuela Iezzi
- Department of Medicine and Aging Sciences, Center for Advanced Studies and Technologies (CAST), G. d’Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (A.L.); (M.I.)
| | - Federica Pericle
- AgilVax Inc., Albuquerque, NM 87110, USA; (J.C.); (A.S.); (F.P.)
| | - Federica Cavallo
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, 10126 Torino, Italy; (V.R.); (E.B.); (L.C.); (G.B.); (F.R.); (J.M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-011-670-6457; Fax: +39-011-236-6457
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50
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xCT Inhibition Increases Sensitivity to Vorinostat in a ROS-Dependent Manner. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12040827. [PMID: 32235498 PMCID: PMC7226257 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12040827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2020] [Revised: 03/20/2020] [Accepted: 03/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
As histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACIs) have limited efficacy against solid tumors, we investigated whether and how oxidative stress is involved in sensitivity to HDACIs to develop a novel therapeutic option of HDACIs treatment. We first tested whether a reduction of the antioxidant glutathione (GSH) by glutamine deprivation affects sensitivity to a commercially available HDACI vorinostat and reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation. Next we investigated the relationship between a glutamate-cystine transporter xCT and the efficacy of vorinostat using siRNA of xCT and bioinformatic analyses. Finally, we verified the combinatory effects of vorinostat and the xCT inhibitor salazosulfapyridine (SASP) on ROS accumulation, cell death induction, and colony formation. Glutamine deprivation increased vorinostat-mediated cell death with ROS accumulation. Genetic ablation of xCT improved the efficacy of vorinostat, consistent with the results of public data analyses demonstrating that xCT expressions positively correlate with insensitivity to HDACIs in many types of cancer cell lines. Vorinostat caused ROS accumulation when combined with SASP, possibly resulting in synergistic ferroptosis. Our study provides a novel mechanistic insight into the mechanism underlying sensitivity to HDACIs involving xCT, suggesting xCT to be a promising predictive marker of HDACIs and rationalizing combinatory therapy of HDACIs with xCT inhibitors to induce ferroptosis.
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