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Zhang J, Liu J, Yue Y, Wang L, He Q, Xu S, Li J, Liao Y, Chen Y, Wang S, Xie Y, Zhang B, Bian Y, Dimitrov DS, Yuan Y, Zhu J. The immunotoxin targeting PRLR increases tamoxifen sensitivity and enhances the efficacy of chemotherapy in breast cancer. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2024; 43:173. [PMID: 38898487 PMCID: PMC11188579 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-024-03099-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Though tamoxifen achieves success in treating estrogen receptor α (ERα)-positive breast cancer, the followed development of tamoxifen resistance is a common challenge in clinic. Signals downstream of prolactin receptor (PRLR) could synergize with ERα in breast cancer progression. However, the potential effect of targeting PRL-PRLR axis combined with tamoxifen has not been thoroughly investigated. METHODS High-throughput RNA-seq data obtained from TCGA, Metabric and GEO datasets were analyzed to explore PRLR expression in breast cancer cell and the association of PRLR expression with tamoxifen treatment. Exogenous or PRL overexpression cell models were employed to investigate the role of activated PRLR pathway in mediating tamoxifen insensitivity. Immunotoxin targeting PRLR (N8-PE24) was constructed with splicing-intein technique, and the efficacy of N8-PE24 against breast cancer was evaluated using in vitro and in vivo methods, including analysis of cells growth or apoptosis, 3D spheroids culture, and animal xenografts. RESULTS PRLR pathway activated by PRL could significantly decrease sensitivity of ERα-positive breast cancer cells to tamoxifen. Tamoxifen treatment upregulated transcription of PRLR and could induce significant accumulation of PRLR protein in breast cancer cells by alkalizing lysosomes. Meanwhile, tamoxifen-resistant MCF7 achieved by long-term tamoxifen pressure exhibited both upregulated transcription and protein level of PRLR. Immunotoxin N8-PE24 enhanced sensitivity of breast cancer cells to tamoxifen both in vitro and in vivo. In xenograft models, N8-PE24 significantly enhanced the efficacy of tamoxifen and paclitaxel when treating PRLR-positive triple-negative breast cancer. CONCLUSIONS PRL-PRLR axis potentially associates with tamoxifen insensitivity in ERα-positive breast cancer cells. N8-PE24 could inhibit cell growth of the breast cancers and promote drug sensitivity of PRLR-positive breast cancer cells to tamoxifen and paclitaxel. Our study provides a new perspective for targeting PRLR to treat breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiawei Zhang
- Engineering Research Center of Cell & Therapeutic Antibody, MOE, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Building 6, Room 208, 800 Dongchuan road, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Junjun Liu
- Engineering Research Center of Cell & Therapeutic Antibody, MOE, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Building 6, Room 208, 800 Dongchuan road, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Yali Yue
- Engineering Research Center of Cell & Therapeutic Antibody, MOE, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Building 6, Room 208, 800 Dongchuan road, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Engineering Research Center of Cell & Therapeutic Antibody, MOE, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Building 6, Room 208, 800 Dongchuan road, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Qunye He
- Engineering Research Center of Cell & Therapeutic Antibody, MOE, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Building 6, Room 208, 800 Dongchuan road, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Shuyi Xu
- Engineering Research Center of Cell & Therapeutic Antibody, MOE, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Building 6, Room 208, 800 Dongchuan road, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Junyan Li
- Engineering Research Center of Cell & Therapeutic Antibody, MOE, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Building 6, Room 208, 800 Dongchuan road, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Yunji Liao
- Engineering Research Center of Cell & Therapeutic Antibody, MOE, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Building 6, Room 208, 800 Dongchuan road, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Yu Chen
- Engineering Research Center of Cell & Therapeutic Antibody, MOE, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Building 6, Room 208, 800 Dongchuan road, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | | | - Yueqing Xie
- Jecho Laboratories, Inc, Frederick, MD, 21704, USA
- Jecho Biopharmaceuticals Co., Ltd, Tianjin, 300467, China
| | - Baohong Zhang
- Engineering Research Center of Cell & Therapeutic Antibody, MOE, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Building 6, Room 208, 800 Dongchuan road, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Yanlin Bian
- Engineering Research Center of Cell & Therapeutic Antibody, MOE, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Building 6, Room 208, 800 Dongchuan road, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Dimiter S Dimitrov
- University of Pittsburgh Department of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA
| | - Yunsheng Yuan
- Engineering Research Center of Cell & Therapeutic Antibody, MOE, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Building 6, Room 208, 800 Dongchuan road, Shanghai, 200240, China.
| | - Jianwei Zhu
- Engineering Research Center of Cell & Therapeutic Antibody, MOE, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Building 6, Room 208, 800 Dongchuan road, Shanghai, 200240, China.
- Jecho Laboratories, Inc, Frederick, MD, 21704, USA.
- Jecho Biopharmaceuticals Co., Ltd, Tianjin, 300467, China.
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Diep CH, Mauro LJ, Lange CA. Navigating a plethora of progesterone receptors: Comments on the safety/risk of progesterone supplementation in women with a history of breast cancer or at high-risk for developing breast cancer. Steroids 2023; 200:109329. [PMID: 37884178 PMCID: PMC10842046 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2023.109329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
Progesterone and progestin agonists are potent steroid hormones. There are at least three major types of progesterone receptor (PR) families that interact with and respond to progesterone or progestin ligands. These receptors include ligand-activated transcription factor isoforms (PR-A and PR-B) encoded by the PGR gene, often termed classical or nuclear progesterone receptor (nPR), membrane-spanning progesterone receptor membrane component proteins known as PGRMC1/2, and a large family of progestin/adipoQreceptors or PAQRs (also called membrane PRs or mPRs). Cross-talk between mPRs and nPRs has also been reported. The complexity of progesterone actions via a plethora of diverse receptors warrants careful consideration of the clinical applications of progesterone, which primarily include birth control formulations in young women and hormone replacement therapy following menopause. Herein, we focus on the benefits and risk of progesterone/progestin supplementation. We conclude that progesterone-only supplementation is considered safe for most reproductive-age women. However, women who currently have ER + breast cancer or have had such cancer in the past should not take sex hormones, including progesterone. Women at high-risk for developing breast or ovarian cancer, either due to their family history or known genetic factors (such as BRCA1/2 mutation) or hormonal conditions, should avoid exogenous sex hormones and proceed with caution when considering using natural hormones to mitigate menopausal symptoms and/or improve quality of life after menopause. These individuals are urged to consult with a qualified OB-GYN physician to thoroughly assess the risks and benefits of sex hormone supplementation. As new insights into the homeostatic roles and specificity of highly integrated rapid signaling and nPR actions are revealed, we are hopeful that the benefits of using progesterone use may be fully realized without an increased risk of women's cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline H Diep
- Department of Medicine (Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Transplantation) and Pharmacology, University of Minnesota Masonic Cancer Center, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Laura J Mauro
- Department of Medicine (Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Transplantation) and Pharmacology, University of Minnesota Masonic Cancer Center, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA; Department of Animal Science, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN 55108, USA
| | - Carol A Lange
- Department of Medicine (Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Transplantation) and Pharmacology, University of Minnesota Masonic Cancer Center, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.
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3
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Richard V, Nair MG, Jaikumar VS, Jones S, Prabhu JS, Kerin MJ. Cell State Transitions and Phenotypic Heterogeneity in Luminal Breast Cancer Implicating MicroRNAs as Potential Regulators. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24043497. [PMID: 36834918 PMCID: PMC9967449 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Luminal breast cancer subtypes respond poorly to endocrine and trastuzumab treatments due to cellular heterogeneity arising from the phenotype transitions, accounted for mainly by the loss of receptor expression. The origins of basal-like and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-overexpressing breast cancer subtypes have been attributed to genetic and protein modifications in stem-like cells and luminal progenitor cell populations, respectively. The post-transcriptional regulation of protein expression is known to be influenced by microRNAs (miRNAs) that are deemed to be master regulators of several biological processes in breast tumorigenesis and progression. Our objective was to identify the fractions of luminal breast cancer cells that share stemness potentials and marker profiles and to elucidate the molecular regulatory mechanism that drives transitions between fractions, leading to receptor discordances. Established breast cancer cell lines of all prominent subtypes were screened for the expression of putative cancer stem cell (CSC) markers and drug transporter proteins using a side population (SP) assay. Flow-cytometry-sorted fractions of luminal cancer cells implanted in immunocompromised mice generated a pre-clinical estrogen receptor alpha (ERα+) animal model with multiple tumorigenic fractions displaying differential expression of drug transporters and hormone receptors. Despite an abundance of estrogen receptor 1 (ESR1) gene transcripts, few fractions transitioned to the triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) phenotype with a visible loss of ER protein expression and a distinct microRNA expression profile that is reportedly enriched in breast CSCs. The translation of this study has the potential to provide novel therapeutic miRNA-based targets to counter the dreaded subtype transitions and the failure of antihormonal therapies in the luminal breast cancer subtype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinitha Richard
- Discipline of Surgery, Lambe Institute for Translational Research, University of Galway, H91 V4AY Galway, Ireland
- Correspondence: (V.R.); (M.J.K.)
| | - Madhumathy G. Nair
- Division of Molecular Medicine, St. John’s Research Institute, Bangalore 560034, Karnataka, India
| | - Vishnu S. Jaikumar
- Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram 695585, Kerala, India
| | - Sara Jones
- Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram 695585, Kerala, India
| | - Jyothi S. Prabhu
- Division of Molecular Medicine, St. John’s Research Institute, Bangalore 560034, Karnataka, India
| | - Michael J. Kerin
- Discipline of Surgery, Lambe Institute for Translational Research, University of Galway, H91 V4AY Galway, Ireland
- Correspondence: (V.R.); (M.J.K.)
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Clevenger CV, Rui H. Breast Cancer and Prolactin - New Mechanisms and Models. Endocrinology 2022; 163:6654897. [PMID: 35922139 PMCID: PMC9419691 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqac122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The pathogenesis of breast cancer is driven by multiple hormones and growth factors. One of these, prolactin (PRL), contributes to both mammary differentiation and oncogenesis, and yet the basis for these disparate effects has remained unclear. The focus of this review is to examine and place into context 2 recent studies that have provided insight into the roles of PRL receptors and PRL in tumorigenesis and tumor progression. One study provides novel evidence for opposing actions of PRL in the breast being mediated in part by differential PRL receptor (PRLr) isoform utilization. Briefly, homomeric complexes of the long isoform of the PRLr (PRLrL-PRLrL) promotes mammary differentiation, while heteromeric complexes of the intermediate and long PRLr (PRLrI-PRLrL) isoforms trigger mammary oncogenesis. Another study describes an immunodeficient, prolactin-humanized mouse model, NSG-Pro, that facilitates growth of PRL receptor-expressing patient-derived breast cancer xenografts. Evidence obtained with this model supports the interactions of physiological levels of PRL with estrogen and ERBB2 gene networks, the modulatory effects of PRL on drug responsiveness, and the pro-metastatic effects of PRL on breast cancer. This recent progress provides novel concepts, mechanisms and experimental models expected to renew interest in harnessing/exploiting PRLr signaling for therapeutic effects in breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles V Clevenger
- Correspondence: Charles V. Clevenger, Department of Pathology, Virginia Commonwealth University, 1101 E. Marshall St, Sanger 4-006A, Richmond, VA, 23298-06629, USA.
| | - Hallgeir Rui
- Department of Pathology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
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Lee J, Troike K, Fodor R, Lathia JD. Unexplored Functions of Sex Hormones in Glioblastoma Cancer Stem Cells. Endocrinology 2022; 163:bqac002. [PMID: 35023543 PMCID: PMC8807164 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqac002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Biological sex impacts a wide array of molecular and cellular functions that impact organismal development and can influence disease trajectory in a variety of pathophysiological states. In nonreproductive cancers, epidemiological sex differences have been observed in a series of tumors, and recent work has identified previously unappreciated sex differences in molecular genetics and immune response. However, the extent of these sex differences in terms of drivers of tumor growth and therapeutic response is less clear. In glioblastoma (GBM), the most common primary malignant brain tumor, there is a male bias in incidence and outcome, and key genetic and epigenetic differences, as well as differences in immune response driven by immune-suppressive myeloid populations, have recently been revealed. GBM is a prototypic tumor in which cellular heterogeneity is driven by populations of therapeutically resistant cancer stem cells (CSCs) that underlie tumor growth and recurrence. There is emerging evidence that GBM CSCs may show a sex difference, with male tumor cells showing enhanced self-renewal, but how sex differences impact CSC function is not clear. In this mini-review, we focus on how sex hormones may impact CSCs in GBM and implications for other cancers with a pronounced CSC population. We also explore opportunities to leverage new models to better understand the contribution of sex hormones vs sex chromosomes to CSC function. With the rising interest in sex differences in cancer, there is an immediate need to understand the extent to which sex differences impact tumor growth, including effects on CSC function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juyeun Lee
- Department of Cardiovascular & Metabolic Sciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic
| | - Katie Troike
- Department of Cardiovascular & Metabolic Sciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic
- Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine of Case Western Reserve University
| | - R’ay Fodor
- Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine of Case Western Reserve University
| | - Justin D Lathia
- Department of Cardiovascular & Metabolic Sciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic
- Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine of Case Western Reserve University
- Rose Ella Burkhardt Brain Tumor and Neuro-Oncology Center, Cleveland Clinic
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center
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6
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Abstract
Prolactin coordinates with the ovarian steroids to orchestrate mammary development and lactation, culminating in nourishment and an increasingly appreciated array of other benefits for neonates. Its central activities in mammary epithelial growth and differentiation suggest that it plays a role(s) in breast cancer, but it has been challenging to identify its contributions, essential for incorporation into prevention and treatment approaches. Large prospective epidemiologic studies have linked higher prolactin exposure to increased risk, particularly for ER+ breast cancer in postmenopausal women. However, it has been more difficult to determine its actions and clinical consequences in established tumors. Here we review experimental data implicating multiple mechanisms by which prolactin may increase the risk of breast cancer. We then consider the evidence for role(s) of prolactin and its downstream signaling cascades in disease progression and treatment responses, and discuss how new approaches are beginning to illuminate the biology behind the seemingly conflicting epidemiologic and experimental studies of prolactin actions across diverse breast cancers.
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7
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Petri BJ, Piell KM, South Whitt GC, Wilt AE, Poulton CC, Lehman NL, Clem BF, Nystoriak MA, Wysoczynski M, Klinge CM. HNRNPA2B1 regulates tamoxifen- and fulvestrant-sensitivity and hallmarks of endocrine resistance in breast cancer cells. Cancer Lett 2021; 518:152-168. [PMID: 34273466 PMCID: PMC8358706 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2021.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Despite new combination therapies improving survival of breast cancer patients with estrogen receptor α (ER+) tumors, the molecular mechanisms for endocrine-resistant disease remain unresolved. Previously we demonstrated that expression of the RNA binding protein and N6-methyladenosine (m6A) reader HNRNPA2B1 (A2B1) is higher in LCC9 and LY2 tamoxifen (TAM)-resistant ERα breast cancer cells relative to parental TAM-sensitive MCF-7 cells. Here we report that A2B1 protein expression is higher in breast tumors than paired normal breast tissue. Modest stable overexpression of A2B1 in MCF-7 cells (MCF-7-A2B1 cells) resulted in TAM- and fulvestrant- resistance whereas knockdown of A2B1 in LCC9 and LY2 cells restored TAM and fulvestrant, endocrine-sensitivity. MCF-7-A2B1 cells gained hallmarks of TAM-resistant metastatic behavior: increased migration and invasion, clonogenicity, and soft agar colony size, which were attenuated by A2B1 knockdown in MCF-7-A2B1 and the TAM-resistant LCC9 and LY2 cells. MCF-7-A2B1, LCC9, and LY2 cells have a higher proportion of CD44+/CD24-/low cancer stem cells (CSC) compared to MCF-7 cells. MCF-7-A2B1 cells have increased ERα and reduced miR-222-3p that targets ERα. Like LCC9 cells, MCF-7-A2B1 have activated AKT and MAPK that depend on A2B1 expression and are growth inhibited by inhibitors of these pathways. These data support that targeting A2B1 could provide a complimentary therapeutic approach to reduce acquired endocrine resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Belinda J Petri
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, 40292, USA
| | - Kellianne M Piell
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, 40292, USA
| | - Gordon C South Whitt
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, 40292, USA
| | - Ali E Wilt
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, 40292, USA
| | - Claire C Poulton
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, 40292, USA
| | - Norman L Lehman
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, 40292, USA
| | - Brian F Clem
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, 40292, USA
| | - Matthew A Nystoriak
- Department of Medicine, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, 40292, USA
| | - Marcin Wysoczynski
- Department of Medicine, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, 40292, USA
| | - Carolyn M Klinge
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, 40292, USA.
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Zhao C, Tang C, Li C, Ning W, Hu Z, Xin L, Zhou HB, Huang J. Novel hybrid conjugates with dual estrogen receptor α degradation and histone deacetylase inhibitory activities for breast cancer therapy. Bioorg Med Chem 2021; 40:116185. [PMID: 33965842 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2021.116185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Revised: 04/17/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Hormone therapy targeting estrogen receptors is widely used clinically for the treatment of breast cancer, such as tamoxifen, but most of them are partial agonists, which can cause serious side effects after long-term use. The use of selective estrogen receptor down-regulators (SERDs) may be an effective alternative to breast cancer therapy by directly degrading ERα protein to shut down ERα signaling. However, the solely clinically used SERD fulvestrant, is low orally bioavailable and requires intravenous injection, which severely limits its clinical application. On the other hand, double- or multi-target conjugates, which are able to synergize antitumor activity by different pathways, thus may enhance therapeutic effect in comparison with single targeted therapy. In this study, we designed and synthesized a series of novel dual-functional conjugates targeting both ERα degradation and histone deacetylase inhibiton by combining a privileged SERD skeleton 7-oxabicyclo[2.2.1]heptane sulfonamide (OBHSA) with a histone deacetylase inhibitor side chain. We found that substituents on both the sulfonamide nitrogen and phenyl group of OBHSA unit had significant effect on biological activities. Among them, conjugate 16i with N-methyl and naphthyl groups exhibited potent antiproliferative activity against MCF-7 cells, and excellent ERα degradation activity and HDACs inhibitory ability. A further molecular docking study indicated the interaction patterns of these conjugates with ERα, which may provide guidance to design novel SERDs or PROTAC-like SERDs for breast cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenxi Zhao
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Chu Tang
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Key Laboratory of Combinatorial Biosynthesis and Drug Discovery (Wuhan University), Ministry of Education, Wuhan University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Changhao Li
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Wentao Ning
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Key Laboratory of Combinatorial Biosynthesis and Drug Discovery (Wuhan University), Ministry of Education, Wuhan University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Zhiye Hu
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Key Laboratory of Combinatorial Biosynthesis and Drug Discovery (Wuhan University), Ministry of Education, Wuhan University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Lilan Xin
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Key Laboratory of Combinatorial Biosynthesis and Drug Discovery (Wuhan University), Ministry of Education, Wuhan University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Hai-Bing Zhou
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Key Laboratory of Combinatorial Biosynthesis and Drug Discovery (Wuhan University), Ministry of Education, Wuhan University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China.
| | - Jian Huang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China.
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O'Leary KA, Rugowski DE, Shea MP, Sullivan R, Moser AR, Schuler LA. Prolactin synergizes with canonical Wnt signals to drive development of ER+ mammary tumors via activation of the Notch pathway. Cancer Lett 2021; 503:231-239. [PMID: 33472091 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2021.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Revised: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Prolactin (PRL) cooperates with other factors to orchestrate mammary development and lactation, and is epidemiologically linked to higher risk for breast cancer. However, how PRL collaborates with oncogenes to foster tumorigenesis and influence breast cancer phenotype is not well understood. To understand its interactions with canonical Wnt signals, which elevate mammary stem cell activity, we crossed heterozygous NRL-PRL mice with ApcMin/+ mice and treated pubertal females with a single dose of mutagen. PRL in the context of ApcMin/+ fueled a dramatic increase in tumor incidence in nulliparous mice, compared to ApcMin/+ alone. Although carcinomas in both NRL-PRL/ApcMin/+ and ApcMin/+ females acquired a mutation in the remaining wildtype Apc allele and expressed abundant β-catenin, PRL-promoted tumors displayed higher levels of Notch-driven target genes and Notch-dependent cancer stem cell activity, compared to β-catenin-driven activity in ApcMin/+ tumors. This PRL-induced shift to dominant Notch signals was evident in preneoplastic epithelial hyperplasias at 120 days of age. In NRL-PRL/ApcMin/+ females, rapidly proliferating hyperplasias, characterized by β-catenin at cell junctions and high NOTCH1 expression, contrasted with slower growing lesions with nuclear β-catenin in ApcMin/+ females. These studies demonstrate that PRL can powerfully modulate the incidence and phenotype of mammary tumors, shedding light on mechanisms whereby PRL elevates risk of breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen A O'Leary
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Debra E Rugowski
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Michael P Shea
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA; Molecular and Environmental Toxicology Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Ruth Sullivan
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA; University of Wisconsin Paul P. Carbone Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, WI, USA
| | - Amy R Moser
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA; University of Wisconsin Paul P. Carbone Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, WI, USA
| | - Linda A Schuler
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA; University of Wisconsin Paul P. Carbone Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, WI, USA.
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10
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Mavingire N, Campbell P, Wooten J, Aja J, Davis MB, Loaiza-Perez A, Brantley E. Cancer stem cells: Culprits in endocrine resistance and racial disparities in breast cancer outcomes. Cancer Lett 2020; 500:64-74. [PMID: 33309858 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2020.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Revised: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) promote endocrine therapy (ET) resistance, also known as endocrine resistance in hormone receptor (HR) positive breast cancer. Endocrine resistance occurs via mechanisms that are not yet fully understood. In vitro, in vivo and clinical data suggest that signaling cascades such as Notch, hypoxia inducible factor (HIF), and integrin/Akt promote BCSC-mediated endocrine resistance. Once HR positive breast cancer patients relapse on ET, targeted therapy agents such as cyclin dependent kinase inhibitors are frequently implemented, though secondary resistance remains a threat. Here, we discuss Notch, HIF, and integrin/Akt pathway regulation of BCSC activity and potential strategies to target these pathways to counteract endocrine resistance. We also discuss a plausible link between elevated BCSC-regulatory gene levels and reduced survival observed among African American women with basal-like breast cancer which lacks HR expression. Should future studies reveal a similar link for patients with luminal breast cancer, then the use of agents that impede BCSC activity could prove highly effective in improving clinical outcomes among African American breast cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Mavingire
- Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University Health School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA, USA.
| | - Petreena Campbell
- Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University Health School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA, USA.
| | - Jonathan Wooten
- Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University Health School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA, USA; Center for Health Disparities and Molecular Medicine, Loma Linda University Health School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA, USA.
| | - Joyce Aja
- National Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines.
| | - Melissa B Davis
- Department of Surgery, Weill Cornell Medicine-New York Presbyterian Hospital Network, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Andrea Loaiza-Perez
- Facultad de Medicina, Instituto de Oncología Ángel H. Roffo (IOAHR), Universidad de Buenos Aires, Área Investigación, Av. San Martin, 5481, C1417 DTB Buenos Aires, Argentina; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Argentina.
| | - Eileen Brantley
- Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University Health School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA, USA; Center for Health Disparities and Molecular Medicine, Loma Linda University Health School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA, USA; Department of Pharmaceutical and Administrative Sciences, Loma Linda University Health School of Pharmacy, Loma Linda, CA, USA.
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11
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Chen B, Ye P, Chen Y, Liu T, Cha JH, Yan X, Yang WH. Involvement of the Estrogen and Progesterone Axis in Cancer Stemness: Elucidating Molecular Mechanisms and Clinical Significance. Front Oncol 2020; 10:1657. [PMID: 33014829 PMCID: PMC7498570 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.01657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Estrogen and progesterone regulate the growth and development of human tissues, including the reproductive system and breasts, through estrogen and progesterone receptors, respectively. These receptors are also important indicators for the clinical prognosis of breast cancer and various reproductive cancers. Many studies have reported that cancer stem cells (CSCs) play a key role in tumor initiation, progression, metastasis, and recurrence. Although the role of estrogen and progesterone in human organs and various cancers has been studied, the molecular mechanisms underlying the action of these hormones on CSCs remain unclear. Therefore, further elucidation of the effects of estrogen and progesterone on CSCs should provide a new direction for developing pertinent therapies. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on the estrogen and progesterone axis involved in cancer stemness and discuss potential therapeutic strategies to inhibit CSCs by targeting relevant pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bi Chen
- Affiliated Cancer Hospital and Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Peng Ye
- Affiliated Cancer Hospital and Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yeh Chen
- Institute of New Drug Development, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Tong Liu
- Department of Breast Surgery, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China.,The Institute of Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Jong-Ho Cha
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Inha University, Incheon, South Korea
| | - Xiuwen Yan
- Affiliated Cancer Hospital and Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wen-Hao Yang
- Affiliated Cancer Hospital and Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
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12
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Campbell KM, O'Leary KA, Rugowski DE, Mulligan WA, Barnell EK, Skidmore ZL, Krysiak K, Griffith M, Schuler LA, Griffith OL. A Spontaneous Aggressive ERα+ Mammary Tumor Model Is Driven by Kras Activation. Cell Rep 2020; 28:1526-1537.e4. [PMID: 31390566 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2019.06.098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2018] [Revised: 04/04/2019] [Accepted: 06/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The NRL-PRL murine model, defined by mammary-selective transgenic rat prolactin ligand rPrl expression, establishes spontaneous ER+ mammary tumors in nulliparous females, mimicking the association between elevated prolactin (PRL) and risk for development of ER+ breast cancer in postmenopausal women. Whole-genome and exome sequencing in a discovery cohort (n = 5) of end-stage tumors revealed canonical activating mutations and copy number amplifications of Kras. The frequent mutations in this pathway were validated in an extension cohort, identifying activating Ras alterations in 79% of tumors (23 of 29). Transcriptome analyses over the course of oncogenesis revealed marked alterations associated with Ras activity in established tumors compared with preneoplastic tissues; in cell-intrinsic processes associated with mitosis, cell adhesion, and invasion; as well as in the surrounding tumor environment. These genomic analyses suggest that PRL induces a selective bottleneck for spontaneous Ras-driven tumors that may model a subset of aggressive clinical ER+ breast cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie M Campbell
- McDonnell Genome Institute, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63108, USA
| | - Kathleen A O'Leary
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Debra E Rugowski
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - William A Mulligan
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Erica K Barnell
- McDonnell Genome Institute, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63108, USA
| | - Zachary L Skidmore
- McDonnell Genome Institute, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63108, USA
| | - Kilannin Krysiak
- McDonnell Genome Institute, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63108, USA; Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63108, USA
| | - Malachi Griffith
- McDonnell Genome Institute, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63108, USA; Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63108, USA; Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63108, USA; Siteman Cancer Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63108, USA
| | - Linda A Schuler
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA; University of Wisconsin Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA.
| | - Obi L Griffith
- McDonnell Genome Institute, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63108, USA; Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63108, USA; Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63108, USA; Siteman Cancer Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63108, USA.
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13
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Davies AE, Pargett M, Siebert S, Gillies TE, Choi Y, Tobin SJ, Ram AR, Murthy V, Juliano C, Quon G, Bissell MJ, Albeck JG. Systems-Level Properties of EGFR-RAS-ERK Signaling Amplify Local Signals to Generate Dynamic Gene Expression Heterogeneity. Cell Syst 2020; 11:161-175.e5. [PMID: 32726596 PMCID: PMC7856305 DOI: 10.1016/j.cels.2020.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2019] [Revised: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Intratumoral heterogeneity is associated with aggressive tumor behavior, therapy resistance, and poor patient outcomes. Such heterogeneity is thought to be dynamic, shifting over periods of minutes to hours in response to signaling inputs from the tumor microenvironment. However, models of this process have been inferred from indirect or post-hoc measurements of cell state, leaving the temporal details of signaling-driven heterogeneity undefined. Here, we developed a live-cell model system in which microenvironment-driven signaling dynamics can be directly observed and linked to variation in gene expression. Our analysis reveals that paracrine signaling between two cell types is sufficient to drive continual diversification of gene expression programs. This diversification emerges from systems-level properties of the EGFR-RAS-ERK signaling cascade, including intracellular amplification of amphiregulin-mediated paracrine signals and differential kinetic filtering by target genes including Fra-1, c-Myc, and Egr1. Our data enable more precise modeling of paracrine-driven transcriptional variation as a generator of gene expression heterogeneity. A record of this paper's transparent peer review process is included in the Supplemental Information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander E Davies
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA; Division of Biological Systems and Engineering, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA.
| | - Michael Pargett
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Stefan Siebert
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Taryn E Gillies
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Yongin Choi
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Savannah J Tobin
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA; Department of Veterinary Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, the Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Abhineet R Ram
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Vaibhav Murthy
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, the Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Celina Juliano
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Gerald Quon
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Mina J Bissell
- Division of Biological Systems and Engineering, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - John G Albeck
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA.
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14
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Dwyer AR, Truong TH, Ostrander JH, Lange CA. 90 YEARS OF PROGESTERONE: Steroid receptors as MAPK signaling sensors in breast cancer: let the fates decide. J Mol Endocrinol 2020; 65:T35-T48. [PMID: 32209723 PMCID: PMC7329584 DOI: 10.1530/jme-19-0274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Steroid hormone receptors (SRs) are classically defined as ligand-activated transcription factors that function as master regulators of gene programs important for a wide range of processes governing adult physiology, development, and cell or tissue homeostasis. A second function of SRs includes the ability to activate cytoplasmic signaling pathways. Estrogen (ER), androgen (AR), and progesterone (PR) receptors bind directly to membrane-associated signaling molecules including mitogenic protein kinases (i.e. c-SRC and AKT), G-proteins, and ion channels to mediate context-dependent actions via rapid activation of downstream signaling pathways. In addition to making direct contact with diverse signaling molecules, SRs are further fully integrated with signaling pathways by virtue of their N-terminal phosphorylation sites that act as regulatory hot-spots capable of sensing the signaling milieu. In particular, ER, AR, PR, and closely related glucocorticoid receptors (GR) share the property of accepting (i.e. sensing) ligand-independent phosphorylation events by proline-directed kinases in the MAPK and CDK families. These signaling inputs act as a 'second ligand' that dramatically impacts cell fate. In the face of drugs that reliably target SR ligand-binding domains to block uncontrolled cancer growth, ligand-independent post-translational modifications guide changes in cell fate that confer increased survival, EMT, migration/invasion, stemness properties, and therapy resistance of non-proliferating SR+ cancer cell subpopulations. The focus of this review is on MAPK pathways in the regulation of SR+ cancer cell fate. MAPK-dependent phosphorylation of PR (Ser294) and GR (Ser134) will primarily be discussed in light of the need to target changes in breast cancer cell fate as part of modernized combination therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy R. Dwyer
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis MN 55455
| | - Thu H. Truong
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis MN 55455
| | - Julie H. Ostrander
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis MN 55455
- Department of Medicine (Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Transplantation), University of Minnesota, Minneapolis MN 55455
| | - Carol A. Lange
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis MN 55455
- Department of Medicine (Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Transplantation), University of Minnesota, Minneapolis MN 55455
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis MN 55455
- Corresponding author: Carol A Lange, Professor, ; 612-626-0621 (phone), University of Minnesota Masonic Cancer Center, Delivery Code 2812, Cancer and Cardiovascular Research Building, 2231 6th St SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
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15
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Mapping Mammary Tumor Traits in the Rat. Methods Mol Biol 2019; 2018:249-267. [PMID: 31228161 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-9581-3_12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/03/2023]
Abstract
For nearly a century, the rat has served as a key model for studying the pathophysiology and genetic risk modifiers of breast cancer. Rat mammary tumors that initiate after exposure to carcinogens or estrogens closely resemble the etiological, histopathological, and genomic features of human breast cancer. Recent developments in genome-editing techniques in the rat have also enabled the development of sophisticated models for identifying the genetic modifiers of the nonmalignant tumor microenvironment that contribute to the formation, progression, and outcome of breast cancer. In this protocol review, we discuss the current methodologies for the three genetic mapping techniques in the rat that are widely used for identifying and testing the heritable genetic modifiers of breast cancer.
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16
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Hu Z, Li Y, Xie B, Ning W, Xiao Y, Huang Y, Zhao C, Huang J, Dong C, Zhou HB. Novel class of 7-Oxabicyclo[2.2.1]heptene sulfonamides with long alkyl chains displaying improved estrogen receptor α degradation activity. Eur J Med Chem 2019; 182:111605. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2019.111605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2019] [Revised: 07/27/2019] [Accepted: 08/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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17
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Butti R, Gunasekaran VP, Kumar TVS, Banerjee P, Kundu GC. Breast cancer stem cells: Biology and therapeutic implications. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2018; 107:38-52. [PMID: 30529656 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2018.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2018] [Revised: 12/03/2018] [Accepted: 12/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Breast cancer remains to be a dreadful disease even with several advancements in radiation and chemotherapies, owing to the drug resistance and tumor relapse caused by breast cancer stem cells. Cancer stem cells are a minute population of cells of solid tumors which show self-renewal and differentiation properties as well as tumorigenic potential. Several signaling pathways including Notch, Hippo, Wnt and Hedgehog and tumor-stroma exchanges play a critical role in the self-renewal and differentiation of cancer stem cells in breast cancer. Cancer stem cells can grow anchorage-independent manner so they disseminate to different parts of the body to form secondary tumors. Cancer stem cells promote angiogenesis by dedifferentiating to endothelial cells as well as secreting proangiogenic and angiogenic factors. Moreover, multidrug resistance genes and drug efflux transporters expressed in breast cancer stem cells confer resistance to various conventional chemotherapeutic drugs. Indeed, these therapies are recognised to enhance the percent of cancer stem cell population in tumors leading to cancer relapse with increased aggressiveness. Hence, devising the therapeutic interventions to target cancer stem cells would be useful in increasing patients' survival rates. In addition, targeting the self-renewal pathways and tumor-stromal cross-talk helps in eradicating this population. Reversal of the cancer stem cell-mediated drug resistance would increase the sensitivity to various conventional drugs for the effective management of breast cancer. In this review, we have discussed the cancer stem cell origin and their involvement in angiogenesis, metastasis and therapy-resistance. We have also summarized different therapeutic approaches to eradicate the same for the successful treatment of breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramesh Butti
- National Centre for Cell Science, SP Pune University Campus, Pune 411007, India.
| | | | - Totakura V S Kumar
- National Centre for Cell Science, SP Pune University Campus, Pune 411007, India.
| | - Pinaki Banerjee
- National Centre for Cell Science, SP Pune University Campus, Pune 411007, India.
| | - Gopal C Kundu
- National Centre for Cell Science, SP Pune University Campus, Pune 411007, India.
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18
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Shea MP, O'Leary KA, Wegner KA, Vezina CM, Schuler LA. High collagen density augments mTOR-dependent cancer stem cells in ERα+ mammary carcinomas, and increases mTOR-independent lung metastases. Cancer Lett 2018; 433:1-9. [PMID: 29935374 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2018.06.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2018] [Revised: 06/14/2018] [Accepted: 06/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Metastatic estrogen receptor alpha positive (ERα+) cancers account for most breast cancer mortality. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) and dense/stiff extracellular matrices are implicated in aggression and therapy resistance. We examined this interplay and response to mTOR inhibition using ERα+ adenocarcinomas from NRL-PRL females in combination with Col1a1tmJae/+ (mCol1a1) mice, which accumulate collagen-I around growing tumors. Orthotopic transplantation of tumor cells to mCol1a1 but not wildtype hosts resulted in striking desmoplasia. Mammary tumors in mCol1a1 recipients displayed higher CSC activity and enhanced AKT-mTOR and YAP activation, and these animals developed more and larger lung metastases. Treatment with the mTOR inhibitor, rapamycin, with or without the anti-estrogen, ICI182780, rapidly diminished mammary tumors, which rapidly reversed when treatment ceased. In contrast, lung metastases, which exhibited lower proliferation and pS6RP, indicating lower mTOR activity, were unresponsive, and mCol1a1 hosts continued to sustain greater metastatic burdens. These findings shed light on the influence of desmoplastic tumor microenvironments on the CSC niche and metastatic behavior in ERα+ breast cancer. The differential mTOR dependence of local mammary tumors and pulmonary lesions has implications for success of mTOR inhibitors in advanced ERα+ disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael P Shea
- Molecular and Environmental Toxicology Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA; Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Kathleen A O'Leary
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Kyle A Wegner
- Molecular and Environmental Toxicology Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA; Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Chad M Vezina
- Molecular and Environmental Toxicology Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA; Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA; University of Wisconsin Paul P. Carbone Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, WI, USA
| | - Linda A Schuler
- Molecular and Environmental Toxicology Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA; Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA; University of Wisconsin Paul P. Carbone Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, WI, USA.
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