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Malik S, Sureka N, Ahuja S, Aden D, Zaheer S, Zaheer S. Tumor-associated macrophages: A sentinel of innate immune system in tumor microenvironment gone haywire. Cell Biol Int 2024; 48:1406-1449. [PMID: 39054741 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.12226] [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: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a critical determinant in the initiation, progression, and treatment outcomes of various cancers. Comprising of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF), immune cells, blood vessels, and signaling molecules, the TME is often likened to the soil supporting the seed (tumor). Among its constituents, tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) play a pivotal role, exhibiting a dual nature as both promoters and inhibitors of tumor growth. This review explores the intricate relationship between TAMs and the TME, emphasizing their diverse functions, from phagocytosis and tissue repair to modulating immune responses. The plasticity of TAMs is highlighted, showcasing their ability to adopt either protumorigenic or anti-tumorigenic phenotypes based on environmental cues. In the context of cancer, TAMs' pro-tumorigenic activities include promoting angiogenesis, inhibiting immune responses, and fostering metastasis. The manuscript delves into therapeutic strategies targeting TAMs, emphasizing the challenges faced in depleting or inhibiting TAMs due to their multifaceted roles. The focus shifts towards reprogramming TAMs to an anti-tumorigenic M1-like phenotype, exploring interventions such as interferons, immune checkpoint inhibitors, and small molecule modulators. Noteworthy advancements include the use of CSF1R inhibitors, CD40 agonists, and CD47 blockade, demonstrating promising results in preclinical and clinical settings. A significant section is dedicated to Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) technology in macrophages (CAR-M cells). While CAR-T cells have shown success in hematological malignancies, their efficacy in solid tumors has been limited. CAR-M cells, engineered to infiltrate solid tumors, are presented as a potential breakthrough, with a focus on their development, challenges, and promising outcomes. The manuscript concludes with the exploration of third-generation CAR-M technology, offering insight into in-vivo reprogramming and nonviral vector approaches. In conclusion, understanding the complex and dynamic role of TAMs in cancer is crucial for developing effective therapeutic strategies. While early-stage TAM-targeted therapies show promise, further extensive research and larger clinical trials are warranted to optimize their targeting and improve overall cancer treatment outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaivy Malik
- Department of Pathology, Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, New Delhi, India
| | - Niti Sureka
- Department of Pathology, Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, New Delhi, India
| | - Sana Ahuja
- Department of Pathology, Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, New Delhi, India
| | - Durre Aden
- Department of Pathology, Hamdard Institute of Medical Science and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, New Delhi, India
| | - Samreen Zaheer
- Department of Radiotherapy, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, AMU, Aligarh, India
| | - Sufian Zaheer
- Department of Pathology, Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, New Delhi, India
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Chen T, Wang M, Chen Y, Cao Y, Liu Y. Advances in predictive biomarkers associated with immunotherapy in extensive-stage small cell lung cancer. Cell Biosci 2024; 14:117. [PMID: 39267195 PMCID: PMC11391723 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-024-01283-9] [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: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 08/05/2024] [Indexed: 09/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is a highly malignant and poor-prognosis cancer, with most cases diagnosed at the extensive stage (ES). Amidst a landscape marked by limited progress in treatment modalities for ES-SCLC over the past few decades, the integration of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) with platinum-based chemotherapy has provided a milestone approach for improving prognosis, emerging as the new standard for initial therapy in ES-SCLC. However, only a minority of SCLC patients can benefit from ICIs, which frequently come with varying degrees of immune-related adverse events (irAEs). Therefore, it is crucial to investigate predictive biomarkers to screen potential beneficiaries of ICIs, mitigate the risk of side effects, and improve treatment precision. This review summarized potential biomarkers for predicting ICI response in ES-SCLC, with a primary focus on markers sourced from tumor tissue or peripheral blood samples. The former mainly included PD-L1 expression, tumor mutational burden (TMB), along with cellular or molecular components related to the tumor microenvironment (TME) and antigen presentation machinery (APM), molecular subtypes of SCLC, and inflammatory gene expression profiles. Circulating biomarkers predominantly comprised circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA), circulating tumor cells (CTCs), cytokines, plasma autoantibodies, inflammation-related parameters, and blood TMB. We synthesized and analyzed the research progress of these potential markers. Notably, investigations into PD-L1 expression and TMB have been the most extensive, exhibiting preliminary predictive efficacy in salvage immunotherapy; however, consistent conclusions have yet to be reached across studies. Additionally, novel predictive markers developed based on TME composition, APM, transcriptomic and genomic features provide promising tools for precision immunotherapy. Circulating biomarkers offer the advantages of convenience, non-invasiveness, and a comprehensive reflection of tumor molecular characteristics. They may serve as alternative options for predicting immunotherapy efficacy in SCLC. However, there is a scarcity of studies, and the significant heterogeneity in research findings warrants attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong Chen
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, No. 17 Panjiayuan Nanli, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100021, China
| | - Mingzhao Wang
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, No. 17 Panjiayuan Nanli, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100021, China
| | - Yanchao Chen
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, No. 17 Panjiayuan Nanli, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100021, China
| | - Yang Cao
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, No. 17 Panjiayuan Nanli, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100021, China
| | - Yutao Liu
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, No. 17 Panjiayuan Nanli, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100021, China.
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Majid U, Bergsland CH, Sveen A, Bruun J, Eilertsen IA, Bækkevold ES, Nesbakken A, Yaqub S, Jahnsen FL, Lothe RA. The prognostic effect of tumor-associated macrophages in stage I-III colorectal cancer depends on T cell infiltration. Cell Oncol (Dordr) 2024; 47:1267-1276. [PMID: 38407700 PMCID: PMC11322253 DOI: 10.1007/s13402-024-00926-w] [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] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are associated with unfavorable patient prognosis in many cancer types. However, TAMs are a heterogeneous cell population and subsets have been shown to activate tumor-infiltrating T cells and confer a good patient prognosis. Data on the prognostic value of TAMs in colorectal cancer are conflicting. We investigated the prognostic effect of TAMs in relation to tumor-infiltrating T cells in colorectal cancers. METHODS The TAM markers CD68 and CD163 were analyzed by multiplex fluorescence immunohistochemistry and digital image analysis on tissue microarrays of 1720 primary colorectal cancers. TAM density in the tumor stroma was scored in relation to T cell density (stromal CD3+ and epithelial CD8+ cells) and analyzed in Cox proportional hazards models of 5-year relapse-free survival. Multivariable survival models included clinicopathological factors, MSI status and BRAFV600E mutation status. RESULTS High TAM density was associated with a favorable 5-year relapse-free survival in a multivariable model of patients with stage I-III tumors (p = 0.004, hazard ratio 0.94, 95% confidence interval 0.90-0.98). However, the prognostic effect was dependent on tumoral T-cell density. High TAM density was associated with a good prognosis in patients who also had high T-cell levels in their tumors, while high TAM density was associated with poorer prognosis in patients with low T-cell levels (pinteraction = 0.0006). This prognostic heterogeneity was found for microsatellite stable tumors separately. CONCLUSIONS This study supported a phenotypic heterogeneity of TAMs in colorectal cancer, and showed that combined tumor immunophenotyping of multiple immune cell types improved the prediction of patient prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Umair Majid
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Pathology, Oslo University Hospital-Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
| | - Christian Holst Bergsland
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Anita Sveen
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Jarle Bruun
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Ina Andrassy Eilertsen
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Espen S Bækkevold
- Department of Pathology, Oslo University Hospital-Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
- Institute of Oral Biology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Arild Nesbakken
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Sheraz Yaqub
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Frode L Jahnsen
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Pathology, Oslo University Hospital-Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
| | - Ragnhild A Lothe
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.
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Tosi A, Lorenzi M, Del Bianco P, Roma A, Pavan A, Scapinello A, Resi MV, Bonanno L, Frega S, Calabrese F, Guarneri V, Rosato A, Pasello G. Extensive-stage small-cell lung cancer in patients receiving atezolizumab plus carboplatin-etoposide: stratification of outcome based on a composite score that combines gene expression profiling and immune characterization of microenvironment. J Immunother Cancer 2024; 12:e008974. [PMID: 38955418 PMCID: PMC11218000 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2024-008974] [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] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) is an aggressive disease with a dismal prognosis. The addition of immune checkpoints inhibitors to standard platinum-based chemotherapy in first-line setting achieves a durable benefit only in a patient subgroup. Thus, the identification of predictive biomarkers is an urgent unmet medical need. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN Tumor samples from naive extensive-stage (ES) SCLC patients receiving atezolizumab plus carboplatin-etoposide were analyzed by gene expression profiling and two 9-color multiplex immunofluorescence panels, to characterize the immune infiltrate and SCLC subtypes. Associations of tissue biomarkers with time-to-treatment failure (TTF), progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS), were assessed. RESULTS 42 patients were included. Higher expression of exhausted CD8-related genes was independently associated with a longer TTF and PFS while increased density of B lymphocytes correlated with longer TTF and OS. Higher percentage of M2-like macrophages close to tumor cells and of CD8+T cells close to CD4+T lymphocytes correlated with increased risk of TF and longer survival, respectively. A lower risk of TF, disease progression and death was associated with a higher density of ASCL1+tumor cells while the expression of POU2F3 correlated with a shorter survival. A composite score combining the expression of exhausted CD8-related genes, B lymphocyte density, ASCL1 tumor expression and quantification of CD163+macrophages close to tumor cells, was able to stratify patients into high-risk and low-risk groups. CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, we identified tissue biomarkers and a combined score that can predict a higher benefit from chemoimmunotherapy in ES-SCLC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Tosi
- Immunology and Molecular Oncology Diagnostics, Istituto Oncologico Veneto IOV-IRCCS, Padova, Italy
| | - Martina Lorenzi
- Department of Medical Oncology, Santa Chiara Hospital, Trento, Italy
| | - Paola Del Bianco
- Clinical Trials and Biostatistics, Istituto Oncologico Veneto IOV-IRCCS, Padova, Italy
| | - Anna Roma
- Medical Oncology 3, Istituto Oncologico Veneto IOV-IRCCS, Castelfranco Veneto, Italy
| | - Alberto Pavan
- Department of Medical Oncology, AULSS 3 Serenissima, Venezia, Italy
| | | | - Maria Vittoria Resi
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Laura Bonanno
- Medical Oncology 2, Istituto Oncologico Veneto IOV-IRCCS, Padova, Italy
| | - Stefano Frega
- Medical Oncology 2, Istituto Oncologico Veneto IOV-IRCCS, Padova, Italy
| | - Fiorella Calabrese
- Department of CardioThoracic Vascular Sciences and Public Health, Università degli Studi di Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Valentina Guarneri
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- Medical Oncology 2, Istituto Oncologico Veneto IOV-IRCCS, Padova, Italy
| | - Antonio Rosato
- Immunology and Molecular Oncology Diagnostics, Istituto Oncologico Veneto IOV-IRCCS, Padova, Italy
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Giulia Pasello
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- Medical Oncology 2, Istituto Oncologico Veneto IOV-IRCCS, Padova, Italy
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Li Q, Zhou L, Xia D, Wang J. Rheumatoid arthritis reduces the risk of colorectal cancer through immune inflammation mediation. J Cell Mol Med 2024; 28:e18515. [PMID: 38961677 PMCID: PMC11222658 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.18515] [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: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024] Open
Abstract
There is a close relationship between immune-mediated inflammation and cancer, and there is still controversy over whether rheumatoid arthritis (RA) increases the risk of malignancy. We first used Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to explore the potential causal relationship between RA and pan-cancer. And verify the effect of immune-mediated inflammation on cancer through intermediate MR analysis. Then we extracted the standardized incidence rate of malignancy in RA patients relative to the general population through large-scale meta-analysis. Finally, we performed pan-cancer analysis on the RA related genes obtained from MR analysis. And perform immune related analysis on key genes to reveal the association between RA and malignancy. The MR analysis demonstrated a negative correlation between RA and pan-cancer (p = 0.008). Autoimmune traits were the main mediating variable for the causal relationship between RA and pan-cancer. Based on the results of the meta-analysis, we validated that RA reduces the risk of developing colorectal cancer (SIR = 0.69, 95% CI 0.53-0.85). Pan-cancer analysis also showed that high expression of RA related genes was negatively correlated with colon adenocarcinoma. IL6R was the gene with the highest correlation among them, and its correlation with immune cells was higher in colorectal cancer than in other malignancy. Our MR study provides evidence that RA was associated with reduced risk of colorectal cancer. This effect is caused by immune-mediated inflammation, with IL6R being a key regulatory gene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qifan Li
- Department of OrthopaedicsThe Affiliated Suqian First People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical UniversitySuqianChina
| | - Liang Zhou
- Department of OrthopaedicLianshui county People's HospitalHuai'anChina
| | - Dan Xia
- Department of RespiratoryThe Affiliated Wuxi Fifth Hospital of Jiangnan UniversityWuxiChina
| | - Jiaqian Wang
- Department of OrthopaedicZhongshan Hospital, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
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De Carlo C, Rosman-Nathanson R, Durante B, Akpinar R, Soldani C, Franceschini B, Lasagni S, Viganò L, Procopio F, Costa G, Torzilli G, Lleo A, Terracciano LM, Villa E, Rimassa L, Di Tommaso L. The tumor microenvironment of VETC+ hepatocellular carcinoma is enriched of immunosuppressive TAMs spatially close to endothelial cells. Dig Liver Dis 2024:S1590-8658(24)00826-0. [PMID: 38945759 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2024.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2024] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM VETC (vessel that encapsulate tumor cluster) is a peculiar vascular phenotype observed in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), associated with distant metastases and poor outcome. VETC has been linked to the Tie2/Ang2 axis and is characterized by lymphocytes poor (cold) tumor microenvironment (TME). In this setting the role of Tumor Associated Macrophages (TAMs) has never been explored. Aim of the study is to investigate the presence and features of TAMs in VETC+ HCC and the possible interplay between TAMs and endothelial cells (ECs). METHODS The series under study included 42 HCC. Once separated according to the VETC phenotype (21 VETC+; 21 VETC-) we stained consecutive slides with immunohistochemistry for CD68, CD163 and Tie2. Slides were then scanned and QuPath used to quantify morphological features. RESULTS VETC+ cases were significantly (p < 0.001) enriched with large, lipid rich CD163+ TAMs (M2 oriented) that were spatially close to ECs; HCC cells significantly (p: 0.002) overexpressed Tie2 with a polarization toward ECs. CONCLUSIONS The pro-metastatic attitude of VETC is sustained by a strict morphological relationship between immunosuppressive M2-TAMs, ECs and Tie2-expressing HCC cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilla De Carlo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Italy; Department of Pathology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Italy
| | | | - Barbara Durante
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Italy; Department of Pathology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Italy
| | - Reha Akpinar
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Italy
| | - Cristiana Soldani
- Laboratory of Hepatobiliary Immunopathology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Italy
| | - Barbara Franceschini
- Laboratory of Hepatobiliary Immunopathology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Italy
| | - Simone Lasagni
- Chimomo Department, Gastroenterology Unit, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Luca Viganò
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Italy; Hepatobiliary Unit, Department of Minimally Invasive General & Oncologic Surgery, Humanitas Gavazzeni University Hospital, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Fabio Procopio
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Italy; Division of Hepatobiliary and General Surgery, Department of Surgery, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Italy
| | - Guido Costa
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Italy; Division of Hepatobiliary and General Surgery, Department of Surgery, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Italy
| | - Guido Torzilli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Italy; Division of Hepatobiliary and General Surgery, Department of Surgery, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Italy
| | - Ana Lleo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Italy; Division of Internal Medicine and Hepatology, Department of Gastroenterology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Italy
| | - Luigi Maria Terracciano
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Italy; Department of Pathology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Italy
| | - Erica Villa
- Chimomo Department, Gastroenterology Unit, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; UC Gastroenterologia, Dipartimento di Specialità Mediche, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria di Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Lorenza Rimassa
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Italy; Medical Oncology and Hematology Unit, Humanitas Cancer Center, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Italy
| | - Luca Di Tommaso
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Italy; Department of Pathology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Italy.
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Wang L, Chen W, Jin H, Tan Y, Guo C, Fu W, Wu Z, Cui K, Wang Y, Qiu Z, Zhang G, Liu W, Zhou Z. CXCL1/IGHG1 signaling enhances crosstalk between tumor cells and tumor-associated macrophages to promote MC-LR-induced colorectal cancer progression. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 351:124081. [PMID: 38697251 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024]
Abstract
Microcystin-leucine arginine (MC-LR) is a common cyantotoxin produced by hazardous cyanobacterial blooms, and eutrophication is increasing the contamination level of MC-LR in drinking water supplies and aquatic foods. MC-LR has been linked to colorectal cancer (CRC) progression associated with tumor microenvironment, however, the underlying mechanism is not clearly understood. In present study, by using GEO, KEGG, GESA and ImmPort database, MC-LR related differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and pathway- and gene set-enrichment analysis were performed. Of the three identified DEGs (CXCL1, GUCA2A and GDF15), CXCL1 was shown a positive association with tumor infiltration, and was validated to have a dominantly higher upregulation in MC-LR-treated tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) rather than in MC-LR-treated CRC cells. Both CRC cell/macrophage co-culture and xenograft mouse models indicated that MC-LR stimulated TAMs to secrete CXCL1 resulting in promoted proliferation, migration, and invasion capability of CRC cells. Furtherly, IP-MS assay found that interaction between TAMs-derived CXCL1 and CRC cell-derived IGHG1 may enhance CRC cell proliferation and migration after MC-LR treatment, and this effect can be attenuated by silencing IGHG1 in CRC cell. In addition, molecular docking analysis, co-immunoprecipitation and immunofluorescence further proved the interactions between CXCL1 and IGHG1. In conclusion, CXCL1 secreted by TAMs can trigger IGHG1 expression in CRC cells, which provides a new clue in elucidating the mechanism of MC-LR-mediated CRC progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingqiao Wang
- Department of Environmental Health, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Weiyan Chen
- Department of Environmental Health, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Huidong Jin
- Department of Environmental Health, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Yao Tan
- Department of Environmental Health, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Chengwei Guo
- Department of Environmental Health, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Wenjuan Fu
- Institute of Pathology and Southwest Cancer Center, Southwest Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Zhiling Wu
- Department of Environmental Health, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Ke Cui
- Department of Environmental Health, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Yiqi Wang
- Department of Environmental Health, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Zhiqun Qiu
- Department of Environmental Health, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Guowei Zhang
- Department of Environmental Health, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Wenbin Liu
- Department of Environmental Health, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Ziyuan Zhou
- Department of Environmental Health, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China.
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Nickl V, Ziebolz D, Rumpel C, Klein D, Nickl R, Rampeltshammer E, Monoranu CM, Ernestus RI, Matthies C, Löhr M, Hagemann C, Breun M. Analysis of tumor microenvironment composition in vestibular schwannomas: insights into NF2-associated and sporadic variations and their clinical correlations. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1340184. [PMID: 38817895 PMCID: PMC11137168 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1340184] [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: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective Vestibular schwannomas (VS), benign tumors stemming from the eighth cranial nerve's Schwann cells, are associated with Merlin gene mutations, inflammation, and the tumor microenvironment (TME), influencing tumor initiation, maintenance, and potential neural dysfunction. Understanding TME composition holds promise for systemic therapeutic interventions, particularly for NF2-related schwannomatosis. Methodology A retrospective analysis of paraffin-embedded tissue from 40 patients (2013-2020), evenly divided by neurofibromatosis type 2 status, with further stratification based on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) progression and hearing function. Immunohistochemistry assessed TME components, including T-cell markers (CD4, CD8, CD25), NK cells (CD7), and macrophages (CD14, CD68, CD163, CCR2). Fiji software facilitated image analysis. Results T-cell markers (CD4, CD8, CD7) exhibited low expression in VS, with no significant NF2-associated vs. sporadic distinctions. Macrophage-related markers (CD14, CD68, CD163, CCR2) showed significantly higher expression (CD14: p = 0.0187, CD68: p < 0.0001, CD163: p = 0.0006, CCR2: p < 0.0001). CCR2 and CD163 significantly differed between NF2-associated and sporadic VS. iNOS, an M1-macrophage marker, was downregulated. CD25, a regulatory T-cell marker, correlated significantly with tumor growth dynamics (p = 0.016). Discussion Immune cells, notably monocytes and macrophages, crucially contribute to VS pathogenesis in both NF2-associated and sporadic cases. Significant differences in CCR2 and CD163 expression suggest distinct immune responses. Regulatory T-cells may serve as growth dynamic markers. These findings highlight immune cells as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for managing VS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vera Nickl
- Department of Neurosurgery, Section Experimental Neurosurgery, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - David Ziebolz
- Department of Neurosurgery, Section Experimental Neurosurgery, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Charlotte Rumpel
- Department of Neurosurgery, Section Experimental Neurosurgery, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Dennis Klein
- Department of Neurology, Developmental Neurobiology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Robert Nickl
- Department of Neurosurgery, Section Experimental Neurosurgery, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Eva Rampeltshammer
- Department of Neurosurgery, Section Experimental Neurosurgery, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Camelia M. Monoranu
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Neuropathology, University Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Ralf-Ingo Ernestus
- Department of Neurosurgery, Section Experimental Neurosurgery, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Cordula Matthies
- Department of Neurosurgery, Section Experimental Neurosurgery, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Mario Löhr
- Department of Neurosurgery, Section Experimental Neurosurgery, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Carsten Hagemann
- Department of Neurosurgery, Section Experimental Neurosurgery, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Maria Breun
- Department of Neurosurgery, Section Experimental Neurosurgery, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
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Fazal F, Khan MA, Shawana S, Rashid R, Mubarak M. Correlation of tumor-associated macrophage density and proportion of M2 subtypes with the pathological stage of colorectal cancer. World J Gastrointest Oncol 2024; 16:1878-1889. [PMID: 38764849 PMCID: PMC11099450 DOI: 10.4251/wjgo.v16.i5.1878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a prevalent global malignancy with complex prognostic factors. Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) have shown paradoxical associations with CRC survival, particularly concerning the M2 subset. AIM We aimed to establish a simplified protocol for quantifying M2-like TAMs and explore their correlation with clinicopathological factors. METHODS A cross-sectional study included histopathological assessment of paraffin-embedded tissue blocks obtained from 43 CRC patients. Using CD68 and CD163 immunohistochemistry, we quantified TAMs in tumor stroma and front, focusing on M2 proportion. Demographic, histopathological, and clinical parameters were collected. RESULTS TAM density was significantly higher at the tumor front, with the M2 proportion three times greater in both zones. The tumor front had a higher M2 proportion, which correlated significantly with advanced tumor stage (P = 0.04), pathological nodal involvement (P = 0.04), and lymphovascular invasion (LVI, P = 0.01). However, no significant association was found between the M2 proportion in the tumor stroma and clinicopathological factors. CONCLUSION Our study introduces a simplified protocol for quantifying M2-like TAMs in CRC tissue samples. We demonstrated a significant correlation between an increased M2 proportion at the tumor front and advanced tumor stage, nodal involvement, and LVI. This suggests that M2-like TAMs might serve as potential indicators of disease progression in CRC, warranting further investigation and potential clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fouzia Fazal
- Department of Pathology, Jinnah Medical and Dental College, Karachi 74800, Sindh, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Arsalan Khan
- Department of General Surgery, Sindh Institute of Urology & Transplantation (SIUT), Karachi 74200, Sindh, Pakistan
| | - Sumayya Shawana
- Department of Pathology, Bahria University of Health Sciences, Karachi 74400, Sindh, Pakistan
| | - Rahma Rashid
- Department of Pathology, SIUT, Karachi 74200, Sindh, Pakistan
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10
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Rauth S, Malafa M, Ponnusamy MP, Batra SK. Emerging Trends in Gastrointestinal Cancer Targeted Therapies: Harnessing Tumor Microenvironment, Immune Factors, and Metabolomics Insights. Gastroenterology 2024:S0016-5085(24)04917-5. [PMID: 38759843 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2024.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers are the leading cause of new cancer cases and cancer-related deaths worldwide. The treatment strategies for patients with GI tumors have focused on oncogenic molecular profiles associated with tumor cells. Recent evidence has demonstrated that the tumor cell functions are modulated by its microenvironment, compromising fibroblasts, extracellular matrices, microbiome, immune cells, and the enteric nervous system. Along with the tumor microenvironment components, alterations in key metabolic pathways have emerged as a hallmark of tumor cells. From these perspectives, this review will highlight the functions of different cellular components of the GI tumor microenvironment and their implications for treatment. Furthermore, we discuss the major metabolic reprogramming in GI tumor cells and how understanding metabolic rewiring could lead to new therapeutic strategies. Finally, we briefly summarize the targeted agents currently being studied in GI cancers. Understanding the complex interplay between tumor cell-intrinsic and -extrinsic factors during tumor progression is critical for developing new therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanchita Rauth
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center at Omaha, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Mokenge Malafa
- Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida
| | - Moorthy P Ponnusamy
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center at Omaha, Omaha, Nebraska; Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center at Omaha, Omaha, Nebraska.
| | - Surinder K Batra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center at Omaha, Omaha, Nebraska; Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center at Omaha, Omaha, Nebraska.
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11
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Monaci S, Coppola F, Filippi I, Falsini A, Carraro F, Naldini A. Targeting hypoxia signaling pathways in angiogenesis. Front Physiol 2024; 15:1408750. [PMID: 38725568 PMCID: PMC11079266 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2024.1408750] [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: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Oxygen (O2) supply is constantly maintained by the vascular network for a proper tissue oxygenation. Hypoxia is the result of an increased O2 demand and/or decreased supply and is common in both physiological conditions and human diseases. Angiogenesis is one of the adaptive responses to hypoxia and is mainly regulated by the hypoxia-inducible factors, HIFs. These heterodimeric transcription factors are composed of one of three O2-dependent α subunits (HIF-1, HIF-2, and HIF-3) and a constitutively expressed O2-insensitive subunit (HIF-1β). Among them HIF-1α is the most characterized and its activity is tightly controlled. Under hypoxia, its intracellular accumulation triggers the transcription of several genes, involved in cell survival/proliferation, autophagy, apoptosis, cell metabolism, and angiogenesis. HIF pathway is also modulated by specific microRNAs (miRNAs), thus resulting in the variation of several cellular responses, including alteration of the angiogenic process. The pro-angiogenic activity of HIF-1α is not restricted to endothelial cells, as it also affects the behavior of other cell types, including tumor and inflammatory/immune cells. In this context, exosomes play a crucial role in cell-cell communication by transferring bio-active cargos such as mRNAs, miRNAs, and proteins (e.g., VEGFA mRNA, miR210, HIF-1α). This minireview will provide a synopsis of the multiple factors able to modulate hypoxia-induced angiogenesis especially in the tumor microenvironment context. Targeting hypoxia signaling pathways by up-to-date approaches may be relevant in the design of therapeutic strategies in those pathologies where angiogenesis is dysregulated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Monaci
- Cellular and Molecular Physiology Unit, Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Federica Coppola
- Cellular and Molecular Physiology Unit, Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Irene Filippi
- Cellular and Molecular Physiology Unit, Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Alessandro Falsini
- Cellular and Molecular Physiology Unit, Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Fabio Carraro
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Antonella Naldini
- Cellular and Molecular Physiology Unit, Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
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12
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Dakal TC, George N, Xu C, Suravajhala P, Kumar A. Predictive and Prognostic Relevance of Tumor-Infiltrating Immune Cells: Tailoring Personalized Treatments against Different Cancer Types. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1626. [PMID: 38730579 PMCID: PMC11082991 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16091626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
TIICs are critical components of the TME and are used to estimate prognostic and treatment responses in many malignancies. TIICs in the tumor microenvironment are assessed and quantified by categorizing immune cells into three subtypes: CD66b+ tumor-associated neutrophils (TANs), FoxP3+ regulatory T cells (Tregs), and CD163+ tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs). In addition, many cancers have tumor-infiltrating M1 and M2 macrophages, neutrophils (Neu), CD4+ T cells (T-helper), CD8+ T cells (T-cytotoxic), eosinophils, and mast cells. A variety of clinical treatments have linked tumor immune cell infiltration (ICI) to immunotherapy receptivity and prognosis. To improve the therapeutic effectiveness of immune-modulating drugs in a wider cancer patient population, immune cells and their interactions in the TME must be better understood. This study examines the clinicopathological effects of TIICs in overcoming tumor-mediated immunosuppression to boost antitumor immune responses and improve cancer prognosis. We successfully analyzed the predictive and prognostic usefulness of TIICs alongside TMB and ICI scores to identify cancer's varied immune landscapes. Traditionally, immune cell infiltration was quantified using flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry, gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), CIBERSORT, ESTIMATE, and other platforms that use integrated immune gene sets from previously published studies. We have also thoroughly examined traditional limitations and newly created unsupervised clustering and deconvolution techniques (SpatialVizScore and ProTICS). These methods predict patient outcomes and treatment responses better. These models may also identify individuals who may benefit more from adjuvant or neoadjuvant treatment. Overall, we think that the significant contribution of TIICs in cancer will greatly benefit postoperative follow-up, therapy, interventions, and informed choices on customized cancer medicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tikam Chand Dakal
- Genome and Computational Biology Lab, Department of Biotechnology, Mohanlal Sukhadia University, Udaipur 313001, Rajasthan, India
| | - Nancy George
- Department of Biotechnology, Chandigarh University, Mohali 140413, Punjab, India;
| | - Caiming Xu
- Department of Molecular Diagnostics and Experimental Therapeutics, Beckman Research Institute of the City of Hope, Monrovia, CA 91010, USA;
| | - Prashanth Suravajhala
- Amrita School of Biotechnology, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Clappana P.O. 690525, Kerala, India;
| | - Abhishek Kumar
- Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Manipal 576104, Karnataka, India
- Institute of Bioinformatics, International Technology Park, Bangalore 560066, Karnataka, India
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13
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Baş Y, Yilmaz B, Acar SF, Karadağ İ. Programmed Cell Death Ligand 1 Expression in CD163 + Tumor-associated Macrophages in Cancer Gland Rupture Microenvironment. Appl Immunohistochem Mol Morphol 2024; 32:176-182. [PMID: 38314768 DOI: 10.1097/pai.0000000000001186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
In this study, we aimed to examine the relationship among cancer gland rupture microenvironment, programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression in CD163 + tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), and prognosis in colon adenocarcinoma. A total of 122 patients were diagnosed with colon adenocarcinoma between 2010 and 2019. PD-L1 + (clone 22C3) "macrophage scores" in the microenvironment of cancer gland rupture were calculated. The effects of these variables on prognosis were statistically analyzed. CD163 + TAMs were denser in the cancer gland rupture microenvironment. PD-L1 + TAMs were observed in the tumor periphery, and there was a significant difference between the rates of PD-L1 expression in TAMs and survival time (log-rank = 10.46, P = 0.015), clinical stage 2 ( P = 0.038), and primary tumor 3 and primary tumor 4 cases ( P = 0.004, P = 0.013). The risk of mortality was 4.070 times higher in patients with a PD-L1 expression rate of ≥1% in CD163 + TAMs. High PD-L1 expression in CD163 + TAMs is associated with poor overall survival. Therefore, blocking PD-L1 in CD163 + TAMs can be used as a target for immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yilmaz Baş
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine
| | | | | | - İbrahim Karadağ
- Department of Oncology, Erol Olçok Education and Research Hospital, Hitit University, Çorum, Turkey
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14
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Iwata M, Haraguchi R, Kitazawa R, Ito C, Ogawa K, Takada Y, Kitazawa S. Reduced chemokine C-C motif ligand 1 expression may negatively regulate colorectal cancer progression at liver metastatic sites. J Cell Mol Med 2024; 28:e18193. [PMID: 38506205 PMCID: PMC10952021 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.18193] [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: 08/13/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) liver metastasis, albeit a stage-IV disease, is completely curable by surgical resection in selected patients. In addressing the molecular basics of this phenomenon, differentially expressed genes at primary and liver metastatic sites were screened by RNA sequencing with the use of paraffin-embedded surgical specimens. Chemokine C-C motif ligand 1 (CCL1), a chemotactic factor for a ligand of the chemokine C-C motif receptor 8 (CCR8), was isolated as one of the differentially expressed genes. Histological analysis revealed that the number of CCL1-positive cells, mainly tumour associated macrophages (TAMs) located in the stroma of CRC, decreased significantly at liver metastatic sites, while the expression level of CCR8 on CRC remained unchanged. To explore the biological significance of the CCL1-CCR8 axis in CRC, CCR8-positive CRC cell line Colo320DM was used to assess the effect of the CCL1-CCR8 axis on major signalling pathways, epithelial mesenchymal transition induction and cell motility. Upon stimulation of recombinant CCL1 (rCCL1), phosphorylation of AKT was observed in Colo320DM cells; on the other hand, the corresponding significant increase in MMP-2 levels demonstrated by RT-qPCR was nullified by siRNA (siCCR8). In the scratch test, rCCL1 treatment significantly increased the motility of Colo320DM cells, which was similarly nullified by siCCR8. Thus, the activation of the CCL1-CCR8 axis is a positive regulator of CRC tumour progression. Reduced CCL1 expression of TAMs at liver metastatic sites may partly explain the unique slow tumour progression of CRC, thus providing for a grace period for radical resection of metastatic lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miku Iwata
- Department of Molecular PathologyEhime University Graduate School of MedicineToon CityEhimeJapan
- Department of Hepato‐Biliary‐Pancreatic and Breast SurgeryEhime University Graduate School of MedicineToon CityEhimeJapan
| | - Ryuma Haraguchi
- Department of Molecular PathologyEhime University Graduate School of MedicineToon CityEhimeJapan
| | - Riko Kitazawa
- Division of Diagnostic PathologyEhime University HospitalToon CityEhimeJapan
| | - Chihiro Ito
- Department of Molecular PathologyEhime University Graduate School of MedicineToon CityEhimeJapan
- Department of Hepato‐Biliary‐Pancreatic and Breast SurgeryEhime University Graduate School of MedicineToon CityEhimeJapan
| | - Kohei Ogawa
- Department of Hepato‐Biliary‐Pancreatic and Breast SurgeryEhime University Graduate School of MedicineToon CityEhimeJapan
| | - Yasutsugu Takada
- Department of Hepato‐Biliary‐Pancreatic and Breast SurgeryEhime University Graduate School of MedicineToon CityEhimeJapan
| | - Sohei Kitazawa
- Department of Molecular PathologyEhime University Graduate School of MedicineToon CityEhimeJapan
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15
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Trimaglio G, Sneperger T, Raymond BBA, Gilles N, Näser E, Locard-Paulet M, Ijsselsteijn ME, Brouwer TP, Ecalard R, Roelands J, Matsumoto N, Colom A, Habch M, de Miranda NFCC, Vergnolle N, Devaud C, Neyrolles O, Rombouts Y. The C-type lectin DCIR contributes to the immune response and pathogenesis of colorectal cancer. Sci Rep 2024; 14:7199. [PMID: 38532110 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-57941-y] [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: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Development and progression of malignancies are accompanied and influenced by alterations in the surrounding immune microenvironment. Understanding the cellular and molecular interactions between immune cells and cancer cells has not only provided important fundamental insights into the disease, but has also led to the development of new immunotherapies. The C-type lectin Dendritic Cell ImmunoReceptor (DCIR) is primarily expressed by myeloid cells and is an important regulator of immune homeostasis, as demonstrated in various autoimmune, infectious and inflammatory contexts. Yet, the impact of DCIR on cancer development remains largely unknown. Analysis of available transcriptomic data of colorectal cancer (CRC) patients revealed that high DCIR gene expression is associated with improved patients' survival, immunologically "hot" tumors and high immunologic constant of rejection, thus arguing for a protective and immunoregulatory role of DCIR in CRC. In line with these correlative data, we found that deficiency of DCIR1, the murine homologue of human DCIR, leads to the development of significantly larger tumors in an orthotopic murine model of CRC. This phenotype is accompanied by an altered phenotype of tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) and a reduction in the percentage of activated effector CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in CRC tumors of DCIR1-deficient mice. Overall, our results show that DCIR promotes antitumor immunity in CRC, making it an attractive target for the future development of immunotherapies to fight the second deadliest cancer in the world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Trimaglio
- Institut de Pharmacologie et de Biologie Structurale, IPBS, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, UPS, Toulouse, France
| | - Tamara Sneperger
- Institut de Pharmacologie et de Biologie Structurale, IPBS, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, UPS, Toulouse, France
| | - Benjamin B A Raymond
- Institut de Pharmacologie et de Biologie Structurale, IPBS, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, UPS, Toulouse, France
| | - Nelly Gilles
- Institut de Pharmacologie et de Biologie Structurale, IPBS, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, UPS, Toulouse, France
| | - Emmanuelle Näser
- Institut de Pharmacologie et de Biologie Structurale, IPBS, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, UPS, Toulouse, France
| | - Marie Locard-Paulet
- Institut de Pharmacologie et de Biologie Structurale, IPBS, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, UPS, Toulouse, France
| | | | - Thomas P Brouwer
- Department of Pathology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Romain Ecalard
- INSERM US006 ANEXPLO/CREFRE, Purpan Hospital, Toulouse, France
| | - Jessica Roelands
- Department of Pathology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Naoki Matsumoto
- Department of Integrated Biosciences, Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Kashiwa, Chiba, Japan
| | - André Colom
- Institut de Pharmacologie et de Biologie Structurale, IPBS, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, UPS, Toulouse, France
| | - Myriam Habch
- Institut de Pharmacologie et de Biologie Structurale, IPBS, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, UPS, Toulouse, France
| | | | - Nathalie Vergnolle
- Institut de Recherche en Santé Digestive, IRSD, Université de Toulouse, INSERM, INRAe, ENVT, UPS, Toulouse, France
| | - Christel Devaud
- Institut de Recherche en Santé Digestive, IRSD, Université de Toulouse, INSERM, INRAe, ENVT, UPS, Toulouse, France
| | - Olivier Neyrolles
- Institut de Pharmacologie et de Biologie Structurale, IPBS, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, UPS, Toulouse, France
| | - Yoann Rombouts
- Institut de Pharmacologie et de Biologie Structurale, IPBS, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, UPS, Toulouse, France.
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16
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Sadeghi M, Dehnavi S, Sharifat M, Amiri AM, Khodadadi A. Innate immune cells: Key players of orchestra in modulating tumor microenvironment (TME). Heliyon 2024; 10:e27480. [PMID: 38463798 PMCID: PMC10923864 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e27480] [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: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) with vital role in cancer progression is composed of various cells such as endothelial cells, immune cells, and mesenchymal stem cells. In particular, innate immune cells such as macrophages, dendritic cells, myeloid-derived suppressor cells, neutrophils, innate lymphoid cells, γδT lymphocytes, and natural killer cells can either promote or suppress tumor progression when present in the TME. An increase in research on the cross-talk between the TME and innate immune cells will lead to new approaches for anti-tumoral therapeutic interventions. This review primarily focuses on the biology of innate immune cells and their main functions in the TME. In addition, it summarizes several innate immune-based immunotherapies that are currently tested in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahvash Sadeghi
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Sajad Dehnavi
- Immunology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Moosa Sharifat
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Amir Mohammad Amiri
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Ali Khodadadi
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
- Cancer, Petroleum and Environmental Pollutants Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
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17
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Karjula T, Elomaa H, Väyrynen SA, Kuopio T, Ahtiainen M, Mustonen O, Puro I, Niskakangas A, Mecklin JP, Böhm J, Wirta EV, Seppälä TT, Sihvo E, Yannopoulos F, Helminen O, Väyrynen JP. Multiplexed analysis of macrophage polarisation in pulmonary metastases of microsatellite stable colorectal cancer. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2024; 73:59. [PMID: 38386105 PMCID: PMC10884151 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-024-03646-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Tumour-associated macrophages (TAMs) express a continuum of phenotypes ranging from an anti-tumoural M1-like phenotype to a pro-tumoural M2-like phenotype. During cancer progression, TAMs may shift to a more M2-like polarisation state, but the role of TAMs in CRC metastases is unclear. We conducted a comprehensive spatial and prognostic analysis of TAMs in CRC pulmonary metastases and corresponding primary tumours using multiplexed immunohistochemistry and machine learning-based image analysis. We obtained data from 106 resected pulmonary metastases and 74 corresponding primary tumours. TAMs in the resected pulmonary metastases were located closer to the cancer cells and presented a more M2-like polarised state in comparison to the primary tumours. Higher stromal M2-like macrophage densities in the invasive margin of pulmonary metastases were associated with worse 5-year overall survival (HR 3.19, 95% CI 1.35-7.55, p = 0.008). The results of this study highlight the value of multiplexed analysis of macrophage polarisation in cancer metastases and might have clinical implications in future cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Topias Karjula
- Translational Medicine Research Unit, Medical Research Center Oulu, Oulu University Hospital and University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.
| | - Hanna Elomaa
- Department of Biological and Environmental Science, University of Jyväskylä, 40014, Jyväskylä, Finland
- Department of Education and Research, Hospital Nova of Central Finland, Well Being Services County of Central Finland, 40620, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Sara A Väyrynen
- Department of Internal Medicine, Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland
| | - Teijo Kuopio
- Department of Biological and Environmental Science, University of Jyväskylä, 40014, Jyväskylä, Finland
- Department of Pathology, Hospital Nova of Central Finland, Well Being Services County of Central Finland, 40620, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Maarit Ahtiainen
- Department of Pathology, Hospital Nova of Central Finland, Well Being Services County of Central Finland, 40620, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Olli Mustonen
- Translational Medicine Research Unit, Medical Research Center Oulu, Oulu University Hospital and University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Iiris Puro
- Translational Medicine Research Unit, Medical Research Center Oulu, Oulu University Hospital and University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Anne Niskakangas
- Translational Medicine Research Unit, Medical Research Center Oulu, Oulu University Hospital and University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Jukka-Pekka Mecklin
- Department of Education and Research, Hospital Nova of Central Finland, Well Being Services County of Central Finland, 40620, Jyväskylä, Finland
- Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, 40014, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Jan Böhm
- Department of Pathology, Hospital Nova of Central Finland, Well Being Services County of Central Finland, 40620, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Erkki-Ville Wirta
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University and TAYS Cancer Center, Tampere University Hospital, 33520, Tampere, Finland
- Department of Gastroenterology and Alimentary Tract Surgery, Tampere University Hospital and TAYS Cancer Centre, 33520, Tampere, Finland
| | - Toni T Seppälä
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Helsinki University Central Hospital, University of Helsinki, 00290, Helsinki, Finland
- Applied Tumor Genomics, Research Program Unit, University of Helsinki, 00290, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Gastroenterology and Alimentary Tract Surgery, Tampere University Hospital and TAYS Cancer Centre, 33520, Tampere, Finland
| | - Eero Sihvo
- Central Hospital of Central Finland, 40014, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Fredrik Yannopoulos
- Translational Medicine Research Unit, Medical Research Center Oulu, Oulu University Hospital and University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland
| | - Olli Helminen
- Translational Medicine Research Unit, Medical Research Center Oulu, Oulu University Hospital and University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Juha P Väyrynen
- Translational Medicine Research Unit, Medical Research Center Oulu, Oulu University Hospital and University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
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18
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Di Ceglie I, Carnevale S, Rigatelli A, Grieco G, Molisso P, Jaillon S. Immune cell networking in solid tumors: focus on macrophages and neutrophils. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1341390. [PMID: 38426089 PMCID: PMC10903099 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1341390] [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: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment is composed of tumor cells, stromal cells and leukocytes, including innate and adaptive immune cells, and represents an ecological niche that regulates tumor development and progression. In general, inflammatory cells are considered to contribute to tumor progression through various mechanisms, including the formation of an immunosuppressive microenvironment. Macrophages and neutrophils are important components of the tumor microenvironment and can act as a double-edged sword, promoting or inhibiting the development of the tumor. Targeting of the immune system is emerging as an important therapeutic strategy for cancer patients. However, the efficacy of the various immunotherapies available is still limited. Given the crucial importance of the crosstalk between macrophages and neutrophils and other immune cells in the formation of the anti-tumor immune response, targeting these interactions may represent a promising therapeutic approach against cancer. Here we will review the current knowledge of the role played by macrophages and neutrophils in cancer, focusing on their interaction with other immune cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Giovanna Grieco
- IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy
| | - Piera Molisso
- IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy
| | - Sebastien Jaillon
- IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy
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Cornice J, Verzella D, Arboretto P, Vecchiotti D, Capece D, Zazzeroni F, Franzoso G. NF-κB: Governing Macrophages in Cancer. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:197. [PMID: 38397187 PMCID: PMC10888451 DOI: 10.3390/genes15020197] [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: 01/12/2024] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 01/27/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are the major component of the tumor microenvironment (TME), where they sustain tumor progression and or-tumor immunity. Due to their plasticity, macrophages can exhibit anti- or pro-tumor functions through the expression of different gene sets leading to distinct macrophage phenotypes: M1-like or pro-inflammatory and M2-like or anti-inflammatory. NF-κB transcription factors are central regulators of TAMs in cancers, where they often drive macrophage polarization toward an M2-like phenotype. Therefore, the NF-κB pathway is an attractive therapeutic target for cancer immunotherapy in a wide range of human tumors. Hence, targeting NF-κB pathway in the myeloid compartment is a potential clinical strategy to overcome microenvironment-induced immunosuppression and increase anti-tumor immunity. In this review, we discuss the role of NF-κB as a key driver of macrophage functions in tumors as well as the principal strategies to overcome tumor immunosuppression by targeting the NF-κB pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Cornice
- Department of Immunology and Inflammation, Imperial College London, London W12 0NN, UK; (J.C.); (P.A.)
| | - Daniela Verzella
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences (DISCAB), University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (D.V.); (D.C.); (F.Z.)
| | - Paola Arboretto
- Department of Immunology and Inflammation, Imperial College London, London W12 0NN, UK; (J.C.); (P.A.)
| | - Davide Vecchiotti
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences (DISCAB), University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (D.V.); (D.C.); (F.Z.)
| | - Daria Capece
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences (DISCAB), University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (D.V.); (D.C.); (F.Z.)
| | - Francesca Zazzeroni
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences (DISCAB), University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (D.V.); (D.C.); (F.Z.)
| | - Guido Franzoso
- Department of Immunology and Inflammation, Imperial College London, London W12 0NN, UK; (J.C.); (P.A.)
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Li Y, Shen Z, Chai Z, Zhan Y, Zhang Y, Liu Z, Liu Y, Li Z, Lin M, Zhang Z, Liu W, Guan S, Zhang J, Qian J, Ding Y, Li G, Fang Y, Deng H. Targeting MS4A4A on tumour-associated macrophages restores CD8+ T-cell-mediated antitumour immunity. Gut 2023; 72:2307-2320. [PMID: 37507218 PMCID: PMC10715532 DOI: 10.1136/gutjnl-2022-329147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Checkpoint immunotherapy unleashes T-cell control of tumours but is suppressed by immunosuppressive myeloid cells. The transmembrane protein MS4A4A is selectively highly expressed in tumour-associated macrophages (TAMs). Here, we aimed to reveal the role of MS4A4A+ TAMs in regulating the immune escape of tumour cells and to develop novel therapeutic strategies targeting TAMs to enhance the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) in colorectal cancer. DESIGN The inhibitory effect of MS4A4A blockade alone or combined with ICI treatment on tumour growth was assessed using murine subcutaneous tumour or orthotopic transplanted models. The effect of MS4A4A blockade on the tumour immune microenvironment was assessed by flow cytometry and mass cytometry. RNA sequencing and western blot analysis were used to further explore the molecular mechanism by which MS4A4A promoted macrophages M2 polarisation. RESULTS MS4A4A is selectively expressed by TAMs in different types of tumours, and was associated with adverse clinical outcome in patients with cancer. In vivo inhibition of MS4A4A and anti-MS4A4A monoclonal antibody treatment both curb tumour growth and improve the effect of ICI therapy. MS4A4A blockade treatment reshaped the tumour immune microenvironment, resulting in reducing the infiltration of M2-TAMs and exhausted T cells, and increasing the infiltration of effector CD8+ T cells. Anti-MS4A4A plus anti-programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) therapy remained effective in large, treatment-resistant tumours and could induce complete regression when further combined with radiotherapy. Mechanistically, MS4A4A promoted M2 polarisation of macrophages by activating PI3K/AKT pathway and JAK/STAT6 pathway. CONCLUSION Targeting MS4A4A could enhance the ICI efficacy and represent a new anticancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongsheng Li
- Department of General Surgery, Southern Medical University Nanfang Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Department of General Surgery & Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Gastrointestinal Tumor, Southern Medical University Nanfang Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhiyong Shen
- Department of General Surgery, Southern Medical University Nanfang Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Department of General Surgery & Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Gastrointestinal Tumor, Southern Medical University Nanfang Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhen Chai
- Department of General Surgery, Southern Medical University Nanfang Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Department of General Surgery & Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Gastrointestinal Tumor, Southern Medical University Nanfang Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yizhi Zhan
- Department of General Surgery, Southern Medical University Nanfang Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Department of General Surgery & Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Gastrointestinal Tumor, Southern Medical University Nanfang Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yaowei Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Southern Medical University Nanfang Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhengyu Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Southern Medical University Nanfang Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Department of General Surgery & Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Gastrointestinal Tumor, Southern Medical University Nanfang Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yuechen Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Southern Medical University Nanfang Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Department of General Surgery & Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Gastrointestinal Tumor, Southern Medical University Nanfang Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhenkang Li
- Department of General Surgery, Southern Medical University Nanfang Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Department of General Surgery & Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Gastrointestinal Tumor, Southern Medical University Nanfang Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Mingdao Lin
- Department of General Surgery, Southern Medical University Nanfang Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Department of General Surgery & Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Gastrointestinal Tumor, Southern Medical University Nanfang Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhanqiao Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Southern Medical University Nanfang Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Department of General Surgery & Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Gastrointestinal Tumor, Southern Medical University Nanfang Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Southern Medical University Nanfang Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Department of General Surgery & Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Gastrointestinal Tumor, Southern Medical University Nanfang Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Shenyuan Guan
- Department of General Surgery, Southern Medical University Nanfang Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Department of General Surgery & Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Gastrointestinal Tumor, Southern Medical University Nanfang Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jinchao Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Southern Medical University Nanfang Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Department of General Surgery & Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Gastrointestinal Tumor, Southern Medical University Nanfang Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Junying Qian
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Southern Medical University Nanfang Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yi Ding
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Southern Medical University Nanfang Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Guoxin Li
- Department of General Surgery, Southern Medical University Nanfang Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Department of General Surgery & Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Gastrointestinal Tumor, Southern Medical University Nanfang Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yuan Fang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Southern Medical University Nanfang Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Haijun Deng
- Department of General Surgery, Southern Medical University Nanfang Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Department of General Surgery & Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Gastrointestinal Tumor, Southern Medical University Nanfang Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
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Zhong C, Yang D, Zhong L, Xie W, Sun G, Jin D, Li Y. Single-cell and bulk RNA sequencing reveals Anoikis related genes to guide prognosis and immunotherapy in osteosarcoma. Sci Rep 2023; 13:20203. [PMID: 37980450 PMCID: PMC10657454 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-47367-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Anoikis resistance, a notable factor in osteosarcoma, plays a significant role in tumor invasion and metastasis. This study seeks to identify a distinct gene signature that is specifically associated with the anoikis subcluster in osteosarcoma. Clinical, single-cell, and transcriptional data from TARGET and GEO datasets were used to develop a gene signature for osteosarcoma based on the anoikis subcluster. Univariate Cox and LASSO regression analyses were employed. The signature's predictive value was evaluated using time-dependent ROC and Kaplan-Meier analyses. Functional enrichment analyses and drug sensitivity analyses were conducted. Validation of three modular genes was performed using RT-qPCR and Western blotting. Signature (ZNF583, CGNL1, CXCL13) was developed to predict overall survival in osteosarcoma patients, targeting the anoikis subcluster. The signature demonstrated good performance in external validation. Stratification based on the signature revealed significantly different prognoses. The signature was an independent prognostic factor. The low-risk group showed enhanced immune cell infiltration and improved immune function. Drug sensitivity analysis indicated efficacy of chemotherapy agents. Prognostic nomograms incorporating the signature provided greater predictive accuracy and clinical utility. Signatures related to the anoikis subcluster play a significant role in osteosarcoma progression. Incorporating these findings into clinical decision-making can improve osteosarcoma treatment and patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Zhong
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 515000, China
- Department of Orthopedics, Jiangmen Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Jinan University, Jiangmen, 529000, China
| | - Dongliang Yang
- Department of Orthopedics, Tai Shan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Jiangmen, 529000, China
| | - Liping Zhong
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Jiangmen Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Jinan University, Jiangmen, 529000, China
| | - Weixing Xie
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 515000, China
| | - Guodong Sun
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510630, China
| | - Daxiang Jin
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 515000, China.
| | - Yuming Li
- Department of Orthopedics, Jiangmen Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Jinan University, Jiangmen, 529000, China.
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22
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Chen X, Yang M, Tu J, Yuan X. Integrated bioinformatics and validation reveal SOX12 as potential biomarker in colon adenocarcinoma based on an immune infiltration-related ceRNA network. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2023; 149:15737-15762. [PMID: 37668799 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-023-05316-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The primary objective of this study was to construct competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) networks and evaluate the prognostic significance of tumor-infiltrating immune cells (TIICs) and key biomarkers within the ceRNA networks in colon adenocarcinoma (COAD) patients. METHODS Comprehensive bioinformatics tools were used to screen differentially expressed genes (DEGs), miRNAs (DEMs), and lncRNAs (DELs) related to COAD, leading to the creation of ceRNA networks. The CIBERSORT technique was employed to assess the significance of TIICs in COAD, and an immune-related prognosis prediction model was subsequently developed. Co-expression analyses were conducted to determine the relationship between key genes in ceRNA networks and immunologically significant TIICs. The study also utilized 5 GEO datasets and web-based databases to externally validate the findings. RESULTS The study revealed a statistically significant relationship between key hub genes and immune cells, as determined through co-expression analysis. Two hub regulators (SOX12 and H19) demonstrated significant prognostic value in the ceRNA-related prognostic model, and their elevated expression levels were verified across multiple CRC cell lines. Additionally, the knockdown of SOX12 led to a suppression of proliferation, migration, and invasion in colon cancer cells. CONCLUSION Through the construction of ceRNA networks and evaluation of TIICs, the study successfully established two risk score models and nomograms. These models serve as valuable tools for understanding the molecular processes and predicting the prognosis of COAD patients. Further validation of hub regulators SOX12 and H19 substantiates their potential role as key biomarkers in COAD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyi Chen
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Jie Fang Road 1095, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Mu Yang
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Jie Fang Road 1095, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jingyao Tu
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Jie Fang Road 1095, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
| | - Xianglin Yuan
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Jie Fang Road 1095, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
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Heregger R, Huemer F, Steiner M, Gonzalez-Martinez A, Greil R, Weiss L. Unraveling Resistance to Immunotherapy in MSI-High Colorectal Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:5090. [PMID: 37894457 PMCID: PMC10605634 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15205090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Incidences of early CRC cases are increasing annually in high-income countries, necessitating effective treatment strategies. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have shown significant clinical efficacy in various cancers, including CRC. However, their effectiveness in CRC is limited to patients with mismatch-repair-deficient (dMMR)/microsatellite instability high (MSI-H) disease, which accounts for about 15% of all localized CRC cases and only 3% to 5% of metastatic CRC cases. However, the varied response among patients, with some showing resistance or primary tumor progression, highlights the need for a deeper understanding of the underlying mechanisms. Elements involved in shaping the response to ICIs, such as tumor microenvironment, immune cells, genetic changes, and the influence of gut microbiota, are not fully understood thus far. This review aims to explore potential resistance or immune-evasion mechanisms to ICIs in dMMR/MSI-H CRC and the cell types involved, as well as possible pitfalls in the diagnosis of this particular subtype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronald Heregger
- Department of Internal Medicine III with Hematology, Medical Oncology, Hemostaseology, Infectiology and Rheumatology, Oncologic Center, Salzburg Cancer Research Institute-Laboratory for Immunological and Molecular Cancer Research (SCRI-LIMCR), Center for Clinical Cancer and Immunology Trials (CCCIT), Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria (F.H.); (M.S.)
| | - Florian Huemer
- Department of Internal Medicine III with Hematology, Medical Oncology, Hemostaseology, Infectiology and Rheumatology, Oncologic Center, Salzburg Cancer Research Institute-Laboratory for Immunological and Molecular Cancer Research (SCRI-LIMCR), Center for Clinical Cancer and Immunology Trials (CCCIT), Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria (F.H.); (M.S.)
| | - Markus Steiner
- Department of Internal Medicine III with Hematology, Medical Oncology, Hemostaseology, Infectiology and Rheumatology, Oncologic Center, Salzburg Cancer Research Institute-Laboratory for Immunological and Molecular Cancer Research (SCRI-LIMCR), Center for Clinical Cancer and Immunology Trials (CCCIT), Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria (F.H.); (M.S.)
- Cancer Cluster Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Alejandra Gonzalez-Martinez
- Department of Internal Medicine III with Hematology, Medical Oncology, Hemostaseology, Infectiology and Rheumatology, Oncologic Center, Salzburg Cancer Research Institute-Laboratory for Immunological and Molecular Cancer Research (SCRI-LIMCR), Center for Clinical Cancer and Immunology Trials (CCCIT), Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria (F.H.); (M.S.)
- Cancer Cluster Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Richard Greil
- Department of Internal Medicine III with Hematology, Medical Oncology, Hemostaseology, Infectiology and Rheumatology, Oncologic Center, Salzburg Cancer Research Institute-Laboratory for Immunological and Molecular Cancer Research (SCRI-LIMCR), Center for Clinical Cancer and Immunology Trials (CCCIT), Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria (F.H.); (M.S.)
- Cancer Cluster Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Lukas Weiss
- Department of Internal Medicine III with Hematology, Medical Oncology, Hemostaseology, Infectiology and Rheumatology, Oncologic Center, Salzburg Cancer Research Institute-Laboratory for Immunological and Molecular Cancer Research (SCRI-LIMCR), Center for Clinical Cancer and Immunology Trials (CCCIT), Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria (F.H.); (M.S.)
- Cancer Cluster Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
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Chang YW, Hsiao HW, Chen JP, Tzeng SF, Tsai CH, Wu CY, Hsieh HH, Carmona SJ, Andreatta M, Di Conza G, Su MT, Koni PA, Ho PC, Chen HK, Yang MH. A CSF-1R-blocking antibody/IL-10 fusion protein increases anti-tumor immunity by effectuating tumor-resident CD8 + T cells. Cell Rep Med 2023; 4:101154. [PMID: 37586318 PMCID: PMC10439276 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2023.101154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 06/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
Strategies to increase intratumoral concentrations of an anticancer agent are desirable to optimize its therapeutic potential when said agent is efficacious primarily within a tumor but also have significant systemic side effects. Here, we generate a bifunctional protein by fusing interleukin-10 (IL-10) to a colony-stimulating factor-1 receptor (CSF-1R)-blocking antibody. The fusion protein demonstrates significant antitumor activity in multiple cancer models, especially head and neck cancer. Moreover, this bifunctional protein not only leads to the anticipated reduction in tumor-associated macrophages but also triggers proliferation, activation, and metabolic reprogramming of CD8+ T cells. Furthermore, it extends the clonotype diversity of tumor-infiltrated T cells and shifts the tumor microenvironment (TME) to an immune-active state. This study suggests an efficient strategy for designing immunotherapeutic agents by fusing a potent immunostimulatory molecule to an antibody targeting TME-enriched factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao-Wen Chang
- Cancer and Immunology Research Center, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan
| | | | - Ju-Pei Chen
- Cancer and Immunology Research Center, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan
| | - Sheue-Fen Tzeng
- Graduate Institute of Life Sciences, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 11221, Taiwan
| | - Chin-Hsien Tsai
- Graduate Institute of Life Sciences, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 11221, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Yi Wu
- Department of Biomedical Imaging and Radiological Sciences, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Hua Hsieh
- Department of Biomedical Imaging and Radiological Sciences, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan
| | - Santiago J Carmona
- Department of Oncology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland; Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research at University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Massimo Andreatta
- Department of Oncology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland; Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research at University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Giusy Di Conza
- Department of Oncology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland; Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research at University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Mei-Tzu Su
- Department of Biotechnology and Laboratory Science in Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan
| | | | - Ping-Chih Ho
- Department of Oncology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland; Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research at University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Hung-Kai Chen
- Elixiron Immunotherapeutics (Hong Kong) Ltd., Hong Kong.
| | - Muh-Hwa Yang
- Cancer and Immunology Research Center, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan; Department of Biotechnology and Laboratory Science in Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan; Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan; Department of Oncology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei 11217, Taiwan; Department of Teaching and Research, Taipei City Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.
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25
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Ma H, Zhang Z, Hu Q, Chen H, Wu G, Zhou Y, Xue Q. Shedding light on macrophage immunotherapy in lung cancer. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2023; 149:8143-8152. [PMID: 37052632 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-023-04740-z] [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: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/02/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023]
Abstract
The search for therapeutic options for lung cancer continues to advance, with rapid advances in the search for therapies to improve patient prognosis. At present, systemic chemotherapy, immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy, antiangiogenic therapy, and targeted therapy for driver gene positivity are available in the clinic. Common clinical treatments fail to achieve desired outcomes due to immunosuppression of the tumor microenvironment (TME). Tumor immune evasion is mediated by cytokines, chemokines, immune cells, and other cells such as vascular endothelial cells within the tumor immune microenvironment. Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are important immune cells in the TME, inducing tumor angiogenesis, encouraging tumor cell proliferation and migration, and suppressing antitumor immune responses. Thus, TAM targeting becomes the key to lung cancer immunotherapy. This review focuses on macrophage phenotype, polarization mechanism, role in lung cancer, and advances in macrophage centric immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiyun Ma
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China
| | - Zhouwei Zhang
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China
| | - Qin Hu
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China
| | - Hongyu Chen
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China
| | - Gujie Wu
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China
| | - Youlang Zhou
- Research Central of Clinical Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China.
| | - Qun Xue
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China.
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26
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Wu H, Dong H, Ren S, Chen J, Zhang Y, Dai M, Wu Y, Zhang X. Exploration of novel clusters and prognostic value of immune‑related signatures and identify HAMP as hub gene in colorectal cancer. Oncol Lett 2023; 26:360. [PMID: 37545621 PMCID: PMC10398624 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2023.13946] [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: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors currently serve an important role in prolonging patients' overall survival. However, the prognostic signatures of immune checkpoint inhibitors in colorectal cancer (CRC) remain uncertain and more knowledge on the genetic characteristics of colorectal cancer is needed. Patients with CRC from The Cancer Genome Atlas were classified into high-immunity group and low-immunity group based on median scores from single-sample gene set enrichment analysis using the GSVA package. We explored immune status by immune scores, stromal scores and tumor purity scores in ESTIMATE package and surveyed the difference of immune cells distribution with CIBERSORT package. Eighteen genes were selected using the LASSO Cox regression method and a prognostic risk model was constructed. Compared with patients in the low-risk group, those in the high-risk group had a significantly shorter survival time. For assessment of the prognostic validity of the risk model, receiver operating characteristic curves with areas under the curve of 0.769, 0.774 and 0.771 for 1, 3 and 5 years respectively. Differences in molecular mechanisms between high- and low-risk groups were analyzed using the clusterProfiler package. Tumor Immune Dysfunction and Exclusion data were downloaded and analyzed. The top 5 enriched pathways in the high-risk group involved 'calcium signaling', 'dilated cardiomyopathy', 'extracellular matrix receptor interaction', 'hypertrophic cardiomyopathy' and 'neuroactive ligand receptor interaction'. HAMP was identified as a hub gene, which was highly expressed in tumor samples. The results of the present study indicate that the prognostic model based on both immune-related genes and HAMP has the potential to support personalized treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyuan Wu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Dongguan People's Hospital of Southern Medical University, Dongguan, Guangdong 523009, P.R. China
- Dongguan Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment for Tumors, Dongguan Institute of Clinical Cancer Research, The Tenth Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Dongguan, Guangdong 523009, P.R. China
| | - Heling Dong
- School of Sports Education, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, P.R. China
| | - Shaofang Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Department of Developmental Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, P.R. China
| | - Jianxin Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Dongguan People's Hospital of Southern Medical University, Dongguan, Guangdong 523009, P.R. China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Dongguan People's Hospital of Southern Medical University, Dongguan, Guangdong 523009, P.R. China
| | - Meng Dai
- Department of Health Management, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, P.R. China
| | - Yinfen Wu
- Department of Oncology, Affiliated Dongguan People's Hospital of Southern Medical University, Dongguan, Guangdong 523009, P.R. China
| | - Xuefang Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Dongguan People's Hospital of Southern Medical University, Dongguan, Guangdong 523009, P.R. China
- Dongguan Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment for Tumors, Dongguan Institute of Clinical Cancer Research, The Tenth Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Dongguan, Guangdong 523009, P.R. China
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Jahandideh A, Yarizadeh M, Noei-Khesht Masjedi M, Fatehnejad M, Jahandideh R, Soheili R, Eslami Y, Zokaei M, Ahmadvand A, Ghalamkarpour N, Kumar Pandey R, Nabi Afjadi M, Payandeh Z. Macrophage's role in solid tumors: two edges of a sword. Cancer Cell Int 2023; 23:150. [PMID: 37525217 PMCID: PMC10391843 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-023-02999-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment is overwhelmingly dictated by macrophages, intimately affiliated with tumors, exercising pivotal roles in multiple processes, including angiogenesis, extracellular matrix reconfiguration, cellular proliferation, metastasis, and immunosuppression. They further exhibit resilience to chemotherapy and immunotherapy via meticulous checkpoint blockades. When appropriately stimulated, macrophages can morph into a potent bidirectional component of the immune system, engulfing malignant cells and annihilating them with cytotoxic substances, thus rendering them intriguing candidates for therapeutic targets. As myelomonocytic cells relentlessly amass within tumor tissues, macrophages rise as prime contenders for cell therapy upon the development of chimeric antigen receptor effector cells. Given the significant incidence of macrophage infiltration correlated with an unfavorable prognosis and heightened resistance to chemotherapy in solid tumors, we delve into the intricate role of macrophages in cancer propagation and their promising potential in confronting four formidable cancer variants-namely, melanoma, colon, glioma, and breast cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arian Jahandideh
- Student Research Committee, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
- Usern Office, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Mahsa Yarizadeh
- Islamic Azad University, Tehran Medical Branch, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Noei-Khesht Masjedi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mina Fatehnejad
- Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Romina Jahandideh
- Student Research Committee, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Roben Soheili
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Science, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Yeganeh Eslami
- Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Maryam Zokaei
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Faculty of Nutrition Science, Food Science and Technology/National Nutrition and Food Technology Research Institute, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ardavan Ahmadvand
- Faculty of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nogol Ghalamkarpour
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, School of Allied Medicine, Student Research Committee, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Rajan Kumar Pandey
- Department Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Division Medical Inflammation Research, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Mohsen Nabi Afjadi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Zahra Payandeh
- Department Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Division Medical Inflammation Research, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden.
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28
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Li M, Yang Y, Xiong L, Jiang P, Wang J, Li C. Metabolism, metabolites, and macrophages in cancer. J Hematol Oncol 2023; 16:80. [PMID: 37491279 PMCID: PMC10367370 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-023-01478-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 58.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumour-associated macrophages (TAMs) are crucial components of the tumour microenvironment and play a significant role in tumour development and drug resistance by creating an immunosuppressive microenvironment. Macrophages are essential components of both the innate and adaptive immune systems and contribute to pathogen resistance and the regulation of organism homeostasis. Macrophage function and polarization are closely linked to altered metabolism. Generally, M1 macrophages rely primarily on aerobic glycolysis, whereas M2 macrophages depend on oxidative metabolism. Metabolic studies have revealed that the metabolic signature of TAMs and metabolites in the tumour microenvironment regulate the function and polarization of TAMs. However, the precise effects of metabolic reprogramming on tumours and TAMs remain incompletely understood. In this review, we discuss the impact of metabolic pathways on macrophage function and polarization as well as potential strategies for reprogramming macrophage metabolism in cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengyuan Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Yuhan Yang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Liting Xiong
- Institute of Medical Technology, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Ping Jiang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, 100191, China.
| | - Junjie Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, 100191, China.
- Institute of Medical Technology, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China.
| | - Chunxiao Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, 100191, China.
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Khalili S, Zeinali F, Moghadam Fard A, Taha SR, Fazlollahpour Naghibi A, Bagheri K, Shariat Zadeh M, Eslami Y, Fattah K, Asadimanesh N, Azarimatin A, Khalesi B, Almasi F, Payandeh Z. Macrophage-Based Therapeutic Strategies in Hematologic Malignancies. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3722. [PMID: 37509382 PMCID: PMC10378576 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15143722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 07/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Macrophages are types of immune cells, with ambivalent functions in tumor growth, which depend on the specific environment in which they reside. Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are a diverse population of immunosuppressive myeloid cells that play significant roles in several malignancies. TAM infiltration in malignancies has been linked to a poor prognosis and limited response to treatments, including those using checkpoint inhibitors. Understanding the precise mechanisms through which macrophages contribute to tumor growth is an active area of research as targeting these cells may offer potential therapeutic approaches for cancer treatment. Numerous investigations have focused on anti-TAM-based methods that try to eliminate, rewire, or target the functional mediators released by these cells. Considering the importance of these strategies in the reversion of tumor resistance to conventional therapies and immune modulatory vaccination could be an appealing approach for the immunosuppressive targeting of myeloid cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME). The combination of reprogramming and TAM depletion is a special feature of this approach compared to other clinical strategies. Thus, the present review aims to comprehensively overview the pleiotropic activities of TAMs and their involvement in various stages of cancer development as a potent drug target, with a focus on hematologic tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saeed Khalili
- Department of Biology Sciences, Shahid Rajaee Teacher Training University, Tehran 1678815811, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Zeinali
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz 6135715794, Iran
| | - Atousa Moghadam Fard
- Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran 4188783417, Iran
| | - Seyed Reza Taha
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1449614535, Iran
| | - Andarz Fazlollahpour Naghibi
- Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol 4717641367, Iran
| | - Kimia Bagheri
- Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol 4717641367, Iran
| | - Mahdieh Shariat Zadeh
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1449614535, Iran
| | - Yeghaneh Eslami
- Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari 4815733971, Iran
| | - Khashayar Fattah
- School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1985717411, Iran
| | - Naghmeh Asadimanesh
- School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1985717411, Iran
| | - Armin Azarimatin
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Shabestar Branch, Islamic Azad University, Shabestar 5381637181, Iran
| | - Bahman Khalesi
- Department of Research and Production of Poultry Viral Vaccine, Razi Vaccine and Serum Research Institute, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization, Karaj 3197619751, Iran
| | - Faezeh Almasi
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology Lab, Department of Microbial Biotechnology, School of Biology and Center of Excellence in Phylogeny of Living Organisms, College of Science, University of Tehran, Tehran 1416634793, Iran
| | - Zahra Payandeh
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, SE 106 91 Stockholm, Sweden
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Kong JG, Mei Z, Zhang Y, Xu LZ, Zhang J, Wang Y. CDYL knockdown reduces glioma development through an antitumor immune response in the tumor microenvironment. Cancer Lett 2023:216265. [PMID: 37302564 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2023.216265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 05/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Gliomas are highly prevalent and aggressive brain tumors. Growing evidence shows that epigenetic changes are closely related to cancer development. Here we report the roles of Chromodomain Y-like (CDYL), an important epigenetic transcriptional corepressor in the central nervous system in glioma progression. We found that CDYL was highly expressed in glioma tissues and cell lines. CDYL knockdown decreased cell mobility in vitro and significantly reduced tumor burden in the xenograft mouse in vivo. RNA sequencing analysis revealed the upregulation of immune pathways after CDYL knockdown, as well as chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 2 (CCL2) and chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 12. The immunohistochemistry staining and macrophage polarization assays showed increased infiltration of M1-like tumor-associated macrophages/microglia (TAMs) while decreased infiltration of M2-like TAMs after CDYL knockdown in vivo and in vitro. Following the in situ TAMs depletion or CCL2 antibody neutralization, the tumor-suppressive role of CDYL knockdown was abolished. Collectively, our results show that CDYL knockdown suppresses glioma progression, which is associated with CCL2-recruited monocytes/macrophages and the polarization of M1-like TAMs in the tumor microenvironment, indicating CDYL as a promising target for glioma treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Ge Kong
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education/National Health Commission and State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Peking University, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Zhu Mei
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education/National Health Commission and State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Peking University, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education/National Health Commission and State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Peking University, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Lu-Zheng Xu
- Medical and Health Analysis Center, Peking University, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Jun Zhang
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, NHC Key Laboratory of Medical Immunology, Peking University, Beijing, 100083, China.
| | - Yun Wang
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education/National Health Commission and State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Peking University, Beijing, 100083, China; PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China.
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31
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Rodriguez-Perdigon M, Haeni L, Rothen-Rutishauser B, Rüegg C. Dual CSF1R inhibition and CD40 activation demonstrates anti-tumor activity in a 3D macrophage- HER2 + breast cancer spheroid model. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1159819. [PMID: 37346794 PMCID: PMC10281737 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1159819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The complex interaction between tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) and tumor cells through soluble factors provides essential cues for breast cancer progression. TAMs-targeted therapies have shown promising clinical therapeutical potential against cancer progression. The molecular mechanisms underlying the response to TAMs-targeted therapies depends on complex dynamics of immune cross-talk and its understanding is still incomplete. In vitro models are helpful to decipher complex responses to combined immunotherapies. In this study, we established and characterized a 3D human macrophage-ER+ PR+ HER2+ breast cancer model, referred to as macrophage-tumor spheroid (MTS). Macrophages integrated within the MTS had a mixed M2/M1 phenotype, abrogated the anti-proliferative effect of trastuzumab on tumor cells, and responded to IFNγ with increased M1-like polarization. The targeted treatment of MTS with a combined CSF1R kinase inhibitor and an activating anti-CD40 antibody increased M2 over M1 phenotype (CD163+/CD86+ and CD206+/CD86+ ratio) in time, abrogated G2/M cell cycle phase transition of cancer cells, promoted the secretion of TNF-α and reduced cancer cell viability. In comparison, combined treatment in a 2D macrophage-cancer cell co-culture model reduced M2 over M1 phenotype and decreased cancer cell viability. Our work shows that this MTS model is responsive to TAMs-targeted therapies, and may be used to study the response of ER+ PR+ HER2+ breast cancer lines to novel TAM-targeting therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Rodriguez-Perdigon
- Laboratory of Experimental and Translational Oncology, Department of Oncology, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Science and Medicine, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Laetitia Haeni
- Adolphe Merkle Institute, Faculty of Science and Medicine, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Barbara Rothen-Rutishauser
- Adolphe Merkle Institute, Faculty of Science and Medicine, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Curzio Rüegg
- Laboratory of Experimental and Translational Oncology, Department of Oncology, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Science and Medicine, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
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Koukourakis IM, Platoni K, Tiniakos D, Kouloulias V, Zygogianni A. Immune Response and Immune Checkpoint Molecules in Patients with Rectal Cancer Undergoing Neoadjuvant Chemoradiotherapy: A Review. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2023; 45:4495-4517. [PMID: 37232754 DOI: 10.3390/cimb45050285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
It is well-established that tumor antigens and molecules expressed and secreted by cancer cells trigger innate and adaptive immune responses. These two types of anti-tumor immunity lead to the infiltration of the tumor's microenvironment by immune cells with either regulatory or cytotoxic properties. Whether this response is associated with tumor eradication after radiotherapy and chemotherapy or regrowth has been a matter of extensive research through the years, mainly focusing on tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes and monocytes and their subtypes, and the expression of immune checkpoint and other immune-related molecules by both immune and cancer cells in the tumor microenvironment. A literature search has been conducted on studies dealing with the immune response in patients with rectal cancer treated with neoadjuvant radiotherapy or chemoradiotherapy, assessing its impact on locoregional control and survival and underlying the potential role of immunotherapy in the treatment of this cancer subtype. Here, we provide an overview of the interactions between local/systemic anti-tumor immunity, cancer-related immune checkpoint, and other immunological pathways and radiotherapy, and how these affect the prognosis of rectal cancer patients. Chemoradiotherapy induces critical immunological changes in the tumor microenvironment and cancer cells that can be exploited for therapeutic interventions in rectal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis M Koukourakis
- Radiation Oncology Unit, 1st Department of Radiology, School of Medicine, Aretaieion University Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUOA), 11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Kalliopi Platoni
- Medical Physics Unit, 2nd Department of Radiology, School of Medicine, Attikon University Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462 Athens, Greece
| | - Dina Tiniakos
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Aretaieion University Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4HH, UK
| | - Vassilis Kouloulias
- Radiotherapy Unit, 2nd Department of Radiology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462 Athens, Greece
| | - Anna Zygogianni
- Radiation Oncology Unit, 1st Department of Radiology, School of Medicine, Aretaieion University Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUOA), 11528 Athens, Greece
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Wen J, Yin P, Su Y, Gao F, Wu Y, Zhang W, Chi P, Chen J, Zhang X. Knockdown of HMGB1 inhibits the crosstalk between oral squamous cell carcinoma cells and tumor-associated macrophages. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 119:110259. [PMID: 37141670 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.110259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), the major component of the tumor microenvironment (TME), play distinctly different roles in different tumors. High mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), a nonhistone protein in the nucleus, can perform functions during inflammation and cancers. However, the role of HMGB1 in the crosstalk between oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) cells and TAMs remains unclear. Here, we established a coculture system of TAMs and OSCC cells to explore the bidirectional effect and potential mechanism of HMGB1 in OSCC cell-TAM interactions. Our results showed that HMGB1 was significantly upregulated in OSCC tissues and positively associated with tumor progression, immune cell infiltration and macrophage polarization. Then, knocking down HMGB1 in OSCC cells inhibited the recruitment and polarization of cocultured TAMs. Moreover, the knockdown of HMGB1 in macrophages not only suppressed polarization, but also inhibited cocultured OSCC cell proliferation, migration and invasion in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, macrophages secreted higher levels of HMGB1 than OSCC cells, and dampening endogenous HMGB1 reduced HMGB1 secretion. Both OSCC cell-generated and macrophage-endogenous HMGB1 may regulate TAM polarization by promoting receptor TLR4 expression and NF-κB/p65 activation and enhancing IL-10/TGF-β expression. HMGB1 in OSCC cells may regulate macrophage recruitment via IL-6/STAT3. In addition, TAM-derived HMGB1 may affect aggressive phenotypes of cocultured OSCC cells by regulating the immunosuppressive microenvironment through the IL-6/STAT3/PD-L1 and IL-6/NF-κB/MMP-9 pathways. In conclusion, HMGB1 may regulate the crosstalk between OSCC cells and TAMs, including modulating macrophage polarization and attraction, enhancing cytokine secretion, and remodeling and creating an immunosuppressive TME to further affect OSCC progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinlin Wen
- Beijing Institute of Dental Research, Beijing Stomatological Hospital & School of Stomatology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Panpan Yin
- Beijing Institute of Dental Research, Beijing Stomatological Hospital & School of Stomatology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Ying Su
- Beijing Institute of Dental Research, Beijing Stomatological Hospital & School of Stomatology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Feng Gao
- Beijing Institute of Dental Research, Beijing Stomatological Hospital & School of Stomatology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Yanlin Wu
- Beijing Institute of Dental Research, Beijing Stomatological Hospital & School of Stomatology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Wenbin Zhang
- Beijing Institute of Dental Research, Beijing Stomatological Hospital & School of Stomatology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Peng Chi
- Beijing Institute of Dental Research, Beijing Stomatological Hospital & School of Stomatology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Jiahui Chen
- Beijing Institute of Dental Research, Beijing Stomatological Hospital & School of Stomatology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Xinyan Zhang
- Beijing Institute of Dental Research, Beijing Stomatological Hospital & School of Stomatology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100050, China.
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Costa G, Sposito C, Soldani C, Polidoro MA, Franceschini B, Marchesi F, Nasir FD, Virdis M, Vingiani A, Leo A, Di Tommaso L, Kotha S, Mantovani A, Mazzaferro V, Donadon M, Torzilli G. Macrophage morphology and distribution are strong predictors of prognosis in resected colorectal liver metastases: results from an external retrospective observational study. Int J Surg 2023; 109:1311-1317. [PMID: 37037585 PMCID: PMC10389408 DOI: 10.1097/js9.0000000000000374] [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: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/12/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are key components of a tumoral microenvironment and have been shown to impact prognosis in different cancers. Previously reported data showed that TAM morphology correlates with prognosis in colorectal liver metastases (CLMs) after hepatectomy, with smaller TAMs (S-TAMs) conferring a more favorable prognosis than larger ones (L-TAMs). This study aims to externally validate this finding. MATERIAL AND METHODS The external cohort consisted of 84 formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded surgical samples of CLMs and peritumoral tissue. Two-micrometer-section slides were obtained; the area and perimeter of 21 macrophages in each slide were recorded. The endpoints were TAMs morphometrics and their prognostic significance in relation to disease-free survival (DFS). RESULTS The average macrophage perimeter was 71.5±14.1 μm whilst the average area was 217.7±67.8 μm 2 . At univariate analysis, the TAM area demonstrated a statistically significant association with DFS ( P =0.0006). Optimal area cutoff value was obtained, showing a sensitivity and specificity of 92 and 56%, respectively. S-TAMs and L-TAMs were associated with 3-year DFS rates of 60 and 8.5%, respectively ( P <0.001). Multivariate analysis confirmed the predictive role of TAM area for DFS [hazard ratio (HR)=5.03; 95% CI=1.70-14.94; P =0.003]. Moreover, in a subset of patients ( n =12) characterized by unfavorable ( n =6, recurrence within 3 months) or favorable ( n =6, no recurrence after 48 months) prognosis, TAMs showed a different distribution: L-TAMs were more abundant and closer to the tumor invasive margin in patients that encountered early recurrence and tended to cluster in foci significantly larger ( P =0.02). CONCLUSIONS This external validation confirms that morphometric characterization of TAMs can serve as a simple readout of their diversity and allows to reliably stratify patient outcomes and predict disease recurrence after hepatectomy for CLMs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guido Costa
- Department of Biomedical Science, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Milan
- Department of Hepatobiliary and General Surgery
| | - Carlo Sposito
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan
- Department of Surgery, HPB Surgery and Liver Transplant Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori Fondazione IRCCS, Milan
| | | | | | | | - Federica Marchesi
- Department of Biotechnology and Translational Medicine
- Department of Immunology and Inflammation
| | | | | | | | - Ana Leo
- Department of Biomedical Science, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Milan
- Division of Internal Medicine and Hepatology, Department of Gastroenterology
| | - Luca Di Tommaso
- Department of Biomedical Science, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Milan
- Department of Pathology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan
| | - Soumya Kotha
- Department of Pathology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan
| | - Alberto Mantovani
- Department of Biomedical Science, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Milan
- Department of Immunology and Inflammation
- William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University, London, UK
| | - Vincenzo Mazzaferro
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan
- Department of Surgery, HPB Surgery and Liver Transplant Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori Fondazione IRCCS, Milan
| | - Matteo Donadon
- Department of Hepatobiliary and General Surgery
- Department of Surgery, University Maggiore Hospital della Carità
- Department of Health Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Guido Torzilli
- Department of Biomedical Science, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Milan
- Department of Hepatobiliary and General Surgery
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35
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Heng Y, Zhu X, Lin H, Jingyu M, Ding X, Tao L, Lu L. CD206 + tumor-associated macrophages interact with CD4 + tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes and predict adverse patient outcome in human laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma. J Transl Med 2023; 21:167. [PMID: 36864443 PMCID: PMC9983170 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-03910-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are major component in the tumor microenvironment (TME) and play regulatory role in tumor progression. We aimed to investigate the infiltration and prognostic value of TAMs in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) and to reveal the underlying mechanism of TAM subgroups in tumorigenesis. METHODS Hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining were performed to define the tumor nest and stroma of LSCC tissue microarrays. CD206 + /CD163 + and iNOS + TAM infiltrating profiles were obtained and analyzed through double-labeling immunofluorescence and immunohistochemical staining. The recurrence-free (RFS) and overall survival (OS) curves based on the infiltration of TAMs were plotted using the Kaplan-Meier method. Infiltration of macrophages, T lymphocytes and their corresponding subgroups were analyzed in fresh LSCC tissue samples by flow cytometry. RESULTS We found that CD206+ rather than CD163+ M2-like TAMs were the most enriched population in the TME of human LSCC. CD206+ macrophages localized mostly in the tumor stroma (TS) rather than the tumor nest (TN) region. In contrast, relatively low infiltration of iNOS+ M1-like TAMs were found in the TS and almost none in the TN region. High level of TS CD206+ TAM infiltration correlated with poor prognosis. Interestingly, we identified a HLA-DRhigh CD206+ macrophage subgroup that was significantly associated with the tumor-infiltrating CD4+ T lymphocytes and showed different surface costimulatory molecule expression than that of the HLA-DRlow/-CD206+ subgroup. Taken together, our results indicate that HLA-DRhigh-CD206+ is a highly activated subgroup of CD206 + TAMs that may interact with CD4 + T cells through MHC-II axis and promote tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Heng
- ENT Institute and Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200031, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoke Zhu
- ENT Institute and Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200031, People's Republic of China
| | - Hanqing Lin
- ENT Institute and Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200031, People's Republic of China
| | - Ma Jingyu
- ENT Institute and Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200031, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuping Ding
- Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, People's Republic of China
| | - Lei Tao
- ENT Institute and Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200031, People's Republic of China.
| | - Liming Lu
- Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, People's Republic of China.
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Guglietta S, Krieg C. Phenotypic and functional heterogeneity of monocytes in health and cancer in the era of high dimensional technologies. Blood Rev 2023; 58:101012. [PMID: 36114066 DOI: 10.1016/j.blre.2022.101012] [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: 08/28/2021] [Revised: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Monocytes have been traditionally classified in three discrete subsets, which can participate in the immune responses as effector cells or as precursors of myeloid-derived cells in circulation and tissues. However, recent advances in single-cell omics have revealed unprecedented phenotypic and functional heterogeneity that goes well beyond the three conventional monocytic subsets and propose a more fluid differentiation model. This novel concept does not only apply to the monocytes in circulation but also at the tissue site. Consequently, the binary model proposed for differentiating monocyte into M1 and M2 macrophages has been recently challenged by a spectrum model that more realistically mirrors the heterogeneous cues in inflammatory conditions. This review describes the latest results on the high dimensional characterization of monocytes and monocyte-derived myeloid cells in steady state and cancer. We discuss how environmental cues and monocyte-intrinsic properties may affect their differentiation toward specific functional and phenotypic subsets, the causes of monocyte expansion and reduction in cancer, their metabolic requirements, and the potential effect on tumor immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Guglietta
- Hollings Cancer Center, 86 Jonathan Lucas Street, Charleston, SC 29425, USA; Department of Regenerative Medicine & Cell Biology, Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC), 173 Ashley Avenue, CRI609, Charleston, SC 29425, USA.
| | - Carsten Krieg
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC), 68 President Street, BE415, Charleston, SC 29425, USA; Hollings Cancer Center, 86 Jonathan Lucas Street, Charleston, SC 29425, USA.
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Asl ER, Rostamzadeh D, Duijf PHG, Mafi S, Mansoori B, Barati S, Cho WC, Mansoori B. Mutant P53 in the formation and progression of the tumor microenvironment: Friend or foe. Life Sci 2023; 315:121361. [PMID: 36608871 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.121361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
TP53 is the most frequently mutated gene in human cancer. It encodes the tumor suppressor protein p53, which suppresses tumorigenesis by acting as a critical transcription factor that can induce the expression of many genes controlling a plethora of fundamental cellular processes, including cell cycle progression, survival, apoptosis, and DNA repair. Missense mutations are the most frequent type of mutations in the TP53 gene. While these can have variable effects, they typically impair p53 function in a dominant-negative manner, thereby altering intra-cellular signaling pathways and promoting cancer development. Additionally, it is becoming increasingly apparent that p53 mutations also have non-cell autonomous effects that influence the tumor microenvironment (TME). The TME is a complex and heterogeneous milieu composed of both malignant and non-malignant cells, including cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), adipocytes, pericytes, different immune cell types, such as tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) and T and B lymphocytes, as well as lymphatic and blood vessels and extracellular matrix (ECM). Recently, a large body of evidence has demonstrated that various types of p53 mutations directly affect TME. They fine-tune the inflammatory TME and cell fate reprogramming, which affect cancer progression. Notably, re-educating the p53 signaling pathway in the TME may be an effective therapeutic strategy in combating cancer. Therefore, it is timely to here review the recent advances in our understanding of how TP53 mutations impact the fate of cancer cells by reshaping the TME.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elmira Roshani Asl
- Department of Biochemistry, Saveh University of Medical Sciences, Saveh, Iran
| | - Davoud Rostamzadeh
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Yasuj University of Medical Sciences, Yasuj, Iran; Medicinal Plants Research Center, Yasuj University of Medical Sciences, Yasuj, Iran
| | - Pascal H G Duijf
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia; Centre for Genomics and Personalised Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia; Centre for Data Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia; Cancer and Aging Research Program, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia; Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; Department of Medical Genetics, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Sahar Mafi
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Yasuj University of Medical Sciences, Yasuj, Iran; Medicinal Plants Research Center, Yasuj University of Medical Sciences, Yasuj, Iran
| | - Behnaz Mansoori
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Shirin Barati
- Department of Anatomy, Saveh University of Medical Sciences, Saveh, Iran
| | - William C Cho
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Behzad Mansoori
- The Wistar Institute, Molecular & Cellular Oncogenesis Program, Philadelphia, PA, United States.
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Kohlhepp MS, Liu H, Tacke F, Guillot A. The contradictory roles of macrophages in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and primary liver cancer-Challenges and opportunities. Front Mol Biosci 2023; 10:1129831. [PMID: 36845555 PMCID: PMC9950415 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2023.1129831] [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: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic liver diseases from varying etiologies generally lead to liver fibrosis and cirrhosis. Among them, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) affects roughly one-quarter of the world population, thus representing a major and increasing public health burden. Chronic hepatocyte injury, inflammation (non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, NASH) and liver fibrosis are recognized soils for primary liver cancer, particularly hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), being the third most common cause for cancer-related deaths worldwide. Despite recent advances in liver disease understanding, therapeutic options on pre-malignant and malignant stages remain limited. Thus, there is an urgent need to identify targetable liver disease-driving mechanisms for the development of novel therapeutics. Monocytes and macrophages comprise a central, yet versatile component of the inflammatory response, fueling chronic liver disease initiation and progression. Recent proteomic and transcriptomic studies performed at singular cell levels revealed a previously overlooked diversity of macrophage subpopulations and functions. Indeed, liver macrophages that encompass liver resident macrophages (also named Kupffer cells) and monocyte-derived macrophages, can acquire a variety of phenotypes depending on microenvironmental cues, and thus exert manifold and sometimes contradictory functions. Those functions range from modulating and exacerbating tissue inflammation to promoting and exaggerating tissue repair mechanisms (i.e., parenchymal regeneration, cancer cell proliferation, angiogenesis, fibrosis). Due to these central functions, liver macrophages represent an attractive target for the treatment of liver diseases. In this review, we discuss the multifaceted and contrary roles of macrophages in chronic liver diseases, with a particular focus on NAFLD/NASH and HCC. Moreover, we discuss potential therapeutic approaches targeting liver macrophages.
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Wang Q, Shen X, Chen G, Du J. How to overcome resistance to immune checkpoint inhibitors in colorectal cancer: From mechanisms to translation. Int J Cancer 2023. [PMID: 36752642 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.34464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Revised: 01/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
Immunotherapy, especially with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), has shown advantages in cancer treatment and is a new hope for patients who have failed multiline therapy. However, in colorectal cancer (CRC), the benefit is limited to a small subset of patients with microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H) or mismatch repair-deficient (dMMR) metastatic CRC (mCRC). In addition, 45% to 60% of dMMR/MSI-H mCRC patients showed primary or acquired resistance to ICIs. This means that these patients may have potential unknown pathways mediating immune escape. Almost all mismatch repair-proficient (pMMR) or microsatellite-stable (MSS) mCRC patients do not benefit from ICIs. In this review, we discuss the mechanisms of action of ICIs and their current status in CRC. We then discuss the mechanisms of primary and acquired resistance to ICIs in CRC. Finally, we discuss promising therapeutic strategies to overcome resistance to ICIs in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianyu Wang
- Medical Department of General Surgery, The 1st Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China.,The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Xiaofei Shen
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Gang Chen
- Medical Department of General Surgery, The 1st Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China.,Department of General Surgery, The 7th Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Junfeng Du
- Medical Department of General Surgery, The 1st Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China.,Department of General Surgery, The 7th Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China.,The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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40
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Jiang H, Ge H, Shi Y, Yuan F, Yue H. CAFs secrete CXCL12 to accelerate the progression and cisplatin resistance of colorectal cancer through promoting M2 polarization of macrophages. Med Oncol 2023; 40:90. [PMID: 36737590 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-023-01953-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of the interaction between tumor-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and macrophage polarization on colorectal cancer (CRC) progression. Clinical tissue samples of CRC and health volunteers were collected to isolate normal fibroblasts (NFs) and CAFs. LoVo, HCT116, or THP-1 cells were co-cultured with NFs or CAFs. Immunofluorescence and western blot detected the expression of related markers. MTT assay measured cell viability and IC50. Cell proliferation and metastasis were detected through colony formation and transwell assays. CRC mice models were constructed by injection of HCT116 cells, with IHC assessing C-X-C Motif Chemokine Ligand 12 (CXCL12) expression. The proliferation, migration, invasion, and cisplatin (DDP) resistance of CRC cells were apparently increased after co-culture with CAFs. Compared to NFs, CAFs have a markedly higher ability to recruit macrophages and promote macrophages M2 polarization by secreting CXCL12. Further experiments affirmed that CXCL12 secreted by CAFs boosted proliferation, migration, invasion, and DDP resistance of CRC cells via induction of the M2 polarization of macrophages. In vivo experiments confirmed that CAFs promoted the progression of CRC and DDP resistance by affecting M2 polarization through CXCL12. CAFs recruit macrophages and secrete CXCL12 to induce M2 polarization of macrophages, thus mediating cell function and DDP resistance of CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hang Jiang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Yancheng School of Clinical Medicine of Nanjing Medical University (Yancheng Third People's Hospital), Yancheng, 224008, Jiangsu, China
| | - Haijue Ge
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Yancheng School of Clinical Medicine of Nanjing Medical University (Yancheng Third People's Hospital), Yancheng, 224008, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yuanyuan Shi
- Department of Central Laboratory, The Yancheng School of Clinical Medicine of Nanjing Medical University (Yancheng Third People's Hospital), Yancheng, 224008, Jiangsu, China
| | - Fang Yuan
- Department of Central Laboratory, The Yancheng School of Clinical Medicine of Nanjing Medical University (Yancheng Third People's Hospital), Yancheng, 224008, Jiangsu, China
| | - Hongqin Yue
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Yancheng School of Clinical Medicine of Nanjing Medical University (Yancheng Third People's Hospital), Yancheng, 224008, Jiangsu, China.
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Wang S, Hu G, Chen L, Ma K, Hu C, Zhu H, Xu N, Zhou C, Liu M. Celastrol acts as a new histone deacetylase inhibitor to inhibit colorectal cancer cell growth via regulating macrophage polarity. Cell Biol Int 2023; 47:492-501. [PMID: 36317450 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.11952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
The tumorigenesis and progression of colorectal cancer are closely related to the tumor microenvironment, especially inflammatory response. Inhibitors of histone deacetylase (HDAC) have been reported as epigenetic regulators of the immune system to treat cancer and inflammatory diseases and our results demonstrated that Celastrol could act as a new HDAC inhibitor. Considering macrophages as important members of the tumor microenvironment, we further found that Celastrol could influence the polarization of macrophages to inhibit colorectal cancer cell growth. Specially, we used the supernatant of HCT116 and SW480 cells to induce Ana-1 cells in vitro and chose the spontaneous colorectal cancer model APCmin/+ mice as an animal model to validate in vivo. The results indicated that Celastrol could reverse the polarization of macrophages from M2 to M1 through impacting the colorectal tumor microenvironment both in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, using bioinformatics analysis, we found that Celastrol might mechanistically polarize the macrophages through MAPK signaling pathway. In conclusion, our findings identified that Celastrol as a new HDAC inhibitor and suggested that Celastrol could modulate macrophage polarization, thus inhibiting colorectal cancer growth, which may provide some novel therapeutic strategies for colorectal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuren Wang
- Laboratory of Cell and Molecular Biology & State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.,School of Medicine and Institute for Immunology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Guanghui Hu
- Laboratory of Cell and Molecular Biology & State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Lechuang Chen
- Laboratory of Cell and Molecular Biology & State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Kai Ma
- Laboratory of Cell and Molecular Biology & State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Chenfei Hu
- Laboratory of Cell and Molecular Biology & State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Hongxia Zhu
- Laboratory of Cell and Molecular Biology & State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Ningzhi Xu
- Laboratory of Cell and Molecular Biology & State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Changchun Zhou
- Biobank, Cancer Research Center, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
| | - Mei Liu
- Laboratory of Cell and Molecular Biology & State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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Inflammation in Urological Malignancies: The Silent Killer. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24010866. [PMID: 36614308 PMCID: PMC9821648 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010866] [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: 10/17/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Several studies have investigated the role of inflammation in promoting tumorigenesis and cancer progression. Neoplastic as well as surrounding stromal and inflammatory cells engage in well-orchestrated reciprocal interactions to establish an inflammatory tumor microenvironment. The tumor-associated inflammatory tissue is highly plastic, capable of continuously modifying its phenotypic and functional characteristics. Accumulating evidence suggests that chronic inflammation plays a critical role in the development of urological cancers. Here, we review the origins of inflammation in urothelial, prostatic, renal, testicular, and penile cancers, focusing on the mechanisms that drive tumor initiation, growth, progression, and metastasis. We also discuss how tumor-associated inflammatory tissue may be a diagnostic marker of clinically significant tumor progression risk and the target for future anti-cancer therapies.
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Mishra AK, Banday S, Bharadwaj R, Ali A, Rashid R, Kulshreshtha A, Malonia SK. Macrophages as a Potential Immunotherapeutic Target in Solid Cancers. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 11:55. [PMID: 36679900 PMCID: PMC9863216 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11010055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 12/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The revolution in cancer immunotherapy over the last few decades has resulted in a paradigm shift in the clinical care of cancer. Most of the cancer immunotherapeutic regimens approved so far have relied on modulating the adaptive immune system. In recent years, strategies and approaches targeting the components of innate immunity have become widely recognized for their efficacy in targeting solid cancers. Macrophages are effector cells of the innate immune system, which can play a crucial role in the generation of anti-tumor immunity through their ability to phagocytose cancer cells and present tumor antigens to the cells of adaptive immunity. However, the macrophages that are recruited to the tumor microenvironment predominantly play pro-tumorigenic roles. Several strategies targeting pro-tumorigenic functions and harnessing the anti-tumorigenic properties of macrophages have shown promising results in preclinical studies, and a few of them have also advanced to clinical trials. In this review, we present a comprehensive overview of the pathobiology of TAMs and their role in the progression of solid malignancies. We discuss various mechanisms through which TAMs promote tumor progression, such as inflammation, genomic instability, tumor growth, cancer stem cell formation, angiogenesis, EMT and metastasis, tissue remodeling, and immunosuppression, etc. In addition, we also discuss potential therapeutic strategies for targeting TAMs and explore how macrophages can be used as a tool for next-generation immunotherapy for the treatment of solid malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alok K. Mishra
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Cancer Biology, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Shahid Banday
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Cancer Biology, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Ravi Bharadwaj
- Department of Medicine, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Amjad Ali
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Cancer Biology, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Romana Rashid
- Department of Medicine, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Ankur Kulshreshtha
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Cancer Biology, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Sunil K. Malonia
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Cancer Biology, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
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Xu F, Yan J, Peng Z, Liu J, Li Z. Comprehensive analysis of a glycolysis and cholesterol synthesis-related genes signature for predicting prognosis and immune landscape in osteosarcoma. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1096009. [PMID: 36618348 PMCID: PMC9822727 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1096009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Glycolysis and cholesterol synthesis are crucial in cancer metabolic reprogramming. The aim of this study was to identify a glycolysis and cholesterol synthesis-related genes (GCSRGs) signature for effective prognostic assessments of osteosarcoma patients. Methods Gene expression data and clinical information were obtained from GSE21257 and TARGET-OS datasets. Consistent clustering method was used to identify the GCSRGs-related subtypes. Univariate Cox regression and LASSO Cox regression analyses were used to construct the GCSRGs signature. The ssGSEA method was used to analyze the differences in immune cells infiltration. The pRRophetic R package was utilized to assess the drug sensitivity of different groups. Western blotting, cell viability assay, scratch assay and Transwell assay were used to perform cytological validation. Results Through bioinformatics analysis, patients diagnosed with osteosarcoma were classified into one of 4 subtypes (quiescent, glycolysis, cholesterol, and mixed subtypes), which differed significantly in terms of prognosis and tumor microenvironment. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis revealed that the modules strongly correlated with glycolysis and cholesterol synthesis were the midnight blue and the yellow modules, respectively. Both univariate and LASSO Cox regression analyses were conducted on screened module genes to identify 5 GCSRGs (RPS28, MCAM, EN1, TRAM2, and VEGFA) constituting a prognostic signature for osteosarcoma patients. The signature was an effective prognostic predictor, independent of clinical characteristics, as verified further via Kaplan-Meier analysis, ROC curve analysis, univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis. Additionally, GCSRGs signature had strong correlation with drug sensitivity, immune checkpoints and immune cells infiltration. In cytological experiments, we selected TRAM2 as a representative gene to validate the validity of GCSRGs signature, which found that TRAM2 promoted the progression of osteosarcoma cells. Finally, at the pan-cancer level, TRAM2 had been correlated with overall survival, progression free survival, disease specific survival, tumor mutational burden, microsatellite instability, immune checkpoints and immune cells infiltration. Conclusion Therefore, we constructed a GCSRGs signature that efficiently predicted osteosarcoma patient prognosis and guided therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangxing Xu
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Jinglong Yan
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China,*Correspondence: Jinglong Yan,
| | - Zhibin Peng
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Jingsong Liu
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Zecheng Li
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
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Pal S, Saini AK, Kaushal A, Gupta S, Gaur NA, Chhillar AK, Sharma AK, Gupta VK, Saini RV. The Colloquy between Microbiota and the Immune System in Colon Cancer: Repercussions on the Cancer Therapy. Curr Pharm Des 2022; 28:3478-3485. [PMID: 36415093 DOI: 10.2174/1381612829666221122115906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide and has engrossed researchers' attention toward its detection and prevention at early stages. Primarily associated with genetic and environmental risk factors, the disease has also shown its emergence due to dysbiosis in microbiota. The microbiota not only plays a role in modulating the metabolisms of metastatic tissue but also has a keen role in cancer therapy. The immune cells are responsible for secreting various chemokines and cytokines, and activating pattern recognition receptors by different microbes can lead to the trail by which these cells regulate cancer. Furthermore, mixed immune reactions involving NK cells, tumor-associated macrophages, and lymphocytes have shown their connection with the microbial counterpart of the disease. The microbes like Bacteroides fragilis, Fusobacterium nucleatum, and Enterococcus faecalis and their metabolites have engendered inflammatory reactions in the tumor microenvironment. Hence the interplay between immune cells and various microbes is utilized to study the changing metastasis stage. Targeting either immune cells or microbiota could not serve as a key to tackling this deadly disorder. However, harnessing their complementation towards the disease can be a powerful weapon for developing therapy and diagnostic/prognostic markers. In this review, we have discussed various immune reactions and microbiome interplay in CRC, intending to evaluate the effectiveness of chemotherapy and immunotherapy and their parallel relationship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soumya Pal
- Department of Biotechnology, MMEC, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be University), Mullana-Ambala, India
| | - Adesh K Saini
- Department of Biotechnology, MMEC, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be University), Mullana-Ambala, India.,Central Research Cell, MMIMSR, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be University), Mullana-Ambala, India
| | - Ankur Kaushal
- Department of Biotechnology, MMEC, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be University), Mullana-Ambala, India
| | - Shagun Gupta
- Department of Biotechnology, MMEC, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be University), Mullana-Ambala, India
| | - Naseem A Gaur
- Department of Yeast Biofuel, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), New Delhi, India
| | - Anil K Chhillar
- Centre for Biotechnology, Maharshi Dayanand University (MDU), Rohtak, India
| | - Anil K Sharma
- Department of Biotechnology, MMEC, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be University), Mullana-Ambala, India
| | - Vijai K Gupta
- Biorefining and Advanced Materials Research Center, Scotland's Rural College (SRUC), Kings Buildings, Edinburgh, EH9 3JG, UK
| | - Reena V Saini
- Department of Biotechnology, MMEC, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be University), Mullana-Ambala, India.,Central Research Cell, MMIMSR, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be University), Mullana-Ambala, India
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46
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Shasha T, Gruijs M, van Egmond M. Mechanisms of colorectal liver metastasis development. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:607. [PMID: 36436127 PMCID: PMC9701652 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04630-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide, largely due to the development of colorectal liver metastases (CRLM). For the establishment of CRLM, CRC cells must remodel their tumor-microenvironment (TME), avoid the immune system, invade the underlying stroma, survive the hostile environment of the circulation, extravasate into the liver, reprogram the hepatic microenvironment into a permissive pre-metastatic niche, and finally, awake from a dormant state to grow out into clinically detectable CRLM. These steps form part of the invasion-metastasis cascade that relies on reciprocal interactions between the tumor and its ever-changing microenvironment. Such interplay provides a strong rational for therapeutically targeting the TME. In fact, several TME constituents, such as VEGF, TGF-β coreceptor endoglin, and CXCR4, are already targeted in clinical trials. It is, however, of utmost importance to fully understand the complex interactions in the invasion-metastasis cascade to identify novel potential therapeutic targets and prevent the establishment of CRLM, which may ultimately greatly improve patient outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tal Shasha
- Molecular Cell Biology and Immunology, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Cancer Biology and Immunology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Cancer Immunology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Mandy Gruijs
- Molecular Cell Biology and Immunology, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Cancer Biology and Immunology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Cancer Immunology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marjolein van Egmond
- Molecular Cell Biology and Immunology, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Cancer Biology and Immunology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Cancer Immunology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
- Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Surgery, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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47
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Dong Y, Yang Q, Niu R, Zhang Z, Huang Y, Bi Y, Liu G. Modulation of tumor‐associated macrophages in colitis‐associated colorectal cancer. J Cell Physiol 2022; 237:4443-4459. [DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yingjie Dong
- Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Regulation Biology, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences Beijing Normal University Beijing China
| | - Qiuli Yang
- Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Regulation Biology, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences Beijing Normal University Beijing China
| | - Ruiying Niu
- Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Regulation Biology, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences Beijing Normal University Beijing China
| | - Zhiyuan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Regulation Biology, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences Beijing Normal University Beijing China
| | - Yijin Huang
- Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Regulation Biology, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences Beijing Normal University Beijing China
| | - Yujing Bi
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology Beijing China
| | - Guangwei Liu
- Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Regulation Biology, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences Beijing Normal University Beijing China
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He Y, Han Y, Fan AH, Li D, Wang B, Ji K, Wang X, Zhao X, Lu Y. Multi-perspective comparison of the immune microenvironment of primary colorectal cancer and liver metastases. Lab Invest 2022; 20:454. [PMID: 36195882 PMCID: PMC9533561 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-022-03667-2] [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: 06/18/2022] [Accepted: 09/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Liver metastases are a major contributor to the poor immunotherapy response in colorectal cancer patients. However, the distinctions in the immune microenvironment between primary tumors and liver metastases are poorly characterized. The goal of this study was to compare the expression profile of multiple immune cells to further analyze the similarities and differences between the microenvironments of liver metastases and the primary tumor. METHODS Tissues from 17 patients with colorectal cancer who underwent resection of primary and liver metastases was analyzed using multispectral immunofluorescence. The expression of multiple immune cells (CD8, Foxp3, CD68, CD163, CD20, CD11c, CD66b, CD56, PD-L1, INF-γ, Ki67 and VEGFR-2) in the tumor center (TC), tumor invasive front (< 150 µm from the tumor center, TF) and peritumoral region (≥ 150 µm from the tumor center, PT) was evaluated via comparison. The expression of CD68 and CD163 in different regions was further analyzed based on the cell colocalization method. In addition, different immune phenotypes were studied and compared according to the degree of CD8 infiltration. RESULTS The expression trends of 12 markers in the TF and TC regions were basically the same in the primary tumor and liver metastasis lesions. However, in comparison of the TF and PT regions, the expression trends were not identical between primary and liver metastases, especially CD163, which was more highly expressed in the PT region relative to the TF region. In the contrast of different space distribution, the expression of CD163 was higher in liver metastases than in the primary foci. Further analysis of CD68 and CD163 via colocalization revealed that the distribution of macrophages in liver metastases was significantly different from that in the primary foci, with CD68-CD163+ macrophages predominating in liver metastases. In addition, among the three immunophenotypes, CD163 expression was highest in the immune rejection phenotype. CONCLUSIONS The immune cells found in the primary tumors of colorectal cancer differed from those in liver metastases in terms of their spatial distribution. More immunosuppressive cells were present in the liver metastases, with the most pronounced differential distribution found for macrophages. CD68-CD163+ macrophages may be associated with intrahepatic immunosuppression and weak immunotherapeutic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangsong He
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Yanan Han
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi, China
| | - A-Hui Fan
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi, China
| | - Danxiu Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Boda Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi, China
| | - Kun Ji
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, China.
| | - Xiaodi Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Yuanyuan Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi, China.
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Tosi A, Parisatto B, Menegaldo A, Spinato G, Guido M, Del Mistro A, Bussani R, Zanconati F, Tofanelli M, Tirelli G, Boscolo-Rizzo P, Rosato A. The immune microenvironment of HPV-positive and HPV-negative oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma: a multiparametric quantitative and spatial analysis unveils a rationale to target treatment-naïve tumors with immune checkpoint inhibitors. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2022; 41:279. [PMID: 36123711 PMCID: PMC9487049 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-022-02481-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) are approved for treatment of recurrent or metastatic oropharyngeal head and neck squamous cell carcinoma in the first- and second-line settings. However, only 15-20% of patients benefit from this treatment, a feature increasingly ascribed to the peculiar characteristics of the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME). METHODS Immune-related gene expression profiling (GEP) and multiplex immunofluorescence (mIF) including spatial proximity analysis, were used to characterize the TIME of 39 treatment-naïve oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinomas (OPSCC) and the corresponding lymph node metastases. GEP and mIF results were correlated with disease-free survival (DFS). HPV-positive tumors disclosed a stronger activation of several immune signalling pathways, as well as a higher expression of genes related to total tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, CD8 T cells, cytotoxic cells and exhausted CD8 cells, than HPV-negative patients. Accordingly, mIF revealed that HPV-positive lesions were heavily infiltrated as compared to HPV-negative counterparts, with a higher density of T cells and checkpoint molecules. CD8+ T cells appeared in closer proximity to tumor cells, CD163+ macrophages and FoxP3+ cells in HPV-positive primary tumors, and related metastases. In HPV-positive lesions, PD-L1 expression was increased as compared to HPV-negative samples, and PD-L1+ tumor cells and macrophages were closer to PD-1+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes. Considering the whole cohort, a positive correlation was observed between DFS and higher levels of activating immune signatures and T cell responses, higher density of PD-1+ T cells and their closer proximity to tumor cells or PD-L1+ macrophages. HPV-positive patients with higher infiltration of T cells and macrophages had a longer DFS, while CD163+ macrophages had a negative role in prognosis of HPV-negative patients. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that checkpoint expression may reflect an ongoing antitumor immune response. Thus, these observations provide the rationale for the incorporation of ICI in the loco-regional therapy strategies for patients with heavily infiltrated treatment-naïve OPSCC, and for the combination of ICI with tumor-specific T cell response inducers or TAM modulators for the "cold" OPSCC counterparts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Tosi
- Immunology and Molecular Oncology Diagnostics, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV-IRCCS, Via Gattamelata 64, 35128, Padova, Italy
| | - Beatrice Parisatto
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Anna Menegaldo
- Department of Neurosciences, Section of Otolaryngology, University of Padova, Treviso, Italy
| | - Giacomo Spinato
- Department of Medicine-DIMED, Section of Pathology, University of Padova, Treviso, Italy
| | - Maria Guido
- Department of Neurosciences, Section of Otolaryngology, University of Padova, Treviso, Italy
| | - Annarosa Del Mistro
- Immunology and Molecular Oncology Diagnostics, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV-IRCCS, Via Gattamelata 64, 35128, Padova, Italy
| | - Rossana Bussani
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, Section of Pathology, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Zanconati
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, Section of Pathology, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Margherita Tofanelli
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, Section of Otolaryngology, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Tirelli
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, Section of Otolaryngology, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Paolo Boscolo-Rizzo
- Department of Neurosciences, Section of Otolaryngology, University of Padova, Treviso, Italy
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, Section of Otolaryngology, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Antonio Rosato
- Immunology and Molecular Oncology Diagnostics, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV-IRCCS, Via Gattamelata 64, 35128, Padova, Italy.
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy.
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50
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Noti L, Galván JA, Dawson H, Lugli A, Kirsch R, Assarzadegan N, Messenger D, Krebs P, Berger MD, Zlobec I. A combined spatial score of granzyme B and CD68 surpasses CD8 as an independent prognostic factor in TNM stage II colorectal cancer. BMC Cancer 2022; 22:987. [PMID: 36114487 PMCID: PMC9482175 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-022-10048-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Previous assessments of peritumoral inflammatory infiltrate in colorectal cancer (CRC) have focused on the role of CD8+ T lymphocytes. We sought to compare the prognostic value of CD8 with downstream indicators of active immune cell function, specifically granzyme B (GZMB) and CD68 in the tumour microenvironment. Methods Immunohistochemical (IHC) staining was performed for CD8, GZMB, CD68 and CD163 on next-generation tissue microarrays (ngTMAs) in a primary cohort (n = 107) and a TNM stage II validation cohort (n = 151). Using digital image analysis, frequency of distinct immune cell types was calculated for tumour proximity (TP) zones with varying radii (10 μm-100 μm) around tumour cells. Results Associations notably of advanced TNM stage were observed for low density of CD8 (p = 0.002), GZMB (p < 0.001), CD68 (p = 0.034) and CD163 (p = 0.011) in the primary cohort. In the validation cohort only low GZMB (p = 0.036) was associated with pT4 stage. Survival analysis showed strongest prognostic effects in the TP25μm zone at the tumour centre for CD8, GZMB and CD68 (all p < 0.001) in the primary cohort and for CD8 (p = 0.072), GZMB (p = 0.035) and CD68 (p = 0.004) in the validation cohort with inferior prognostic effects observed at the tumour invasive margin. In a multivariate survival analysis, joint analysis of GZMB and CD68 was similarly prognostic to CD8 in the primary cohort (p = 0.007 vs. p = 0.002) and superior to CD8 in the validation cohort (p = 0.005 vs. p = 0.142). Conclusion Combined high expression of GZMB and CD68 within 25 μm to tumour cells is an independent prognostic factor in CRC and of superior prognostic value to the well-established CD8 in TNM stage II cancers. Thus, assessment of antitumoral effect should consider the quality of immune activation in peritumoral inflammatory cells and their actual proximity to tumour cells. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12885-022-10048-x.
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