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Guinn S, Kinny-Köster B, Tandurella JA, Mitchell JT, Sidiropoulos DN, Loth M, Lyman MR, Pucsek AB, Zabransky DJ, Lee JW, Kartalia E, Ramani M, Seppälä TT, Cherry C, Suri R, Zlomke H, Patel J, He J, Wolfgang CL, Yu J, Zheng L, Ryan DP, Ting DT, Kimmelman A, Gupta A, Danilova L, Elisseeff JH, Wood LD, Stein-O’Brien G, Kagohara LT, Jaffee EM, Burkhart RA, Fertig EJ, Zimmerman JW. Transfer Learning Reveals Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts Are Associated with Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition and Inflammation in Cancer Cells in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma. Cancer Res 2024; 84:1517-1533. [PMID: 38587552 PMCID: PMC11065624 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-23-1660] [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: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an aggressive malignancy characterized by an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment enriched with cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF). This study used a convergence approach to identify tumor cell and CAF interactions through the integration of single-cell data from human tumors with human organoid coculture experiments. Analysis of a comprehensive atlas of PDAC single-cell RNA sequencing data indicated that CAF density is associated with increased inflammation and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in epithelial cells. Transfer learning using transcriptional data from patient-derived organoid and CAF cocultures provided in silico validation of CAF induction of inflammatory and EMT epithelial cell states. Further experimental validation in cocultures demonstrated integrin beta 1 (ITGB1) and vascular endothelial factor A (VEGFA) interactions with neuropilin-1 mediating CAF-epithelial cell cross-talk. Together, this study introduces transfer learning from human single-cell data to organoid coculture analyses for experimental validation of discoveries of cell-cell cross-talk and identifies fibroblast-mediated regulation of EMT and inflammation. SIGNIFICANCE Adaptation of transfer learning to relate human single-cell RNA sequencing data to organoid-CAF cocultures facilitates discovery of human pancreatic cancer intercellular interactions and uncovers cross-talk between CAFs and tumor cells through VEGFA and ITGB1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Guinn
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Convergence Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Bloomberg Kimmel Immunology Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Benedict Kinny-Köster
- Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Department of Surgery, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY
| | - Joseph A. Tandurella
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Convergence Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Bloomberg Kimmel Immunology Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Jacob T. Mitchell
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Convergence Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Bloomberg Kimmel Immunology Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Dimitrios N. Sidiropoulos
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Convergence Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Bloomberg Kimmel Immunology Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Melanie Loth
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Convergence Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Bloomberg Kimmel Immunology Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Melissa R. Lyman
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Convergence Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Bloomberg Kimmel Immunology Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Alexandra B. Pucsek
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Convergence Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Bloomberg Kimmel Immunology Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Daniel J. Zabransky
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Convergence Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Bloomberg Kimmel Immunology Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Jae W. Lee
- Bloomberg Kimmel Immunology Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Emma Kartalia
- Bloomberg Kimmel Immunology Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Mili Ramani
- Bloomberg Kimmel Immunology Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Toni T. Seppälä
- Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University and Tays Cancer Centre, Tampere University Hospital
| | - Christopher Cherry
- Bloomberg Kimmel Immunology Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Translational Tissue Engineering Center, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Reecha Suri
- Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Haley Zlomke
- Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Jignasha Patel
- Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Jin He
- Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | | | - Jun Yu
- Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Lei Zheng
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Convergence Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Bloomberg Kimmel Immunology Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - David P. Ryan
- The Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center and Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - David T. Ting
- The Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center and Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Alec Kimmelman
- Department of Radiation Oncology at New York University Grossman School of Medicine, NYU Langone Health, New York, New York
| | - Anuj Gupta
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Ludmila Danilova
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Convergence Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Bloomberg Kimmel Immunology Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Jennifer H. Elisseeff
- Bloomberg Kimmel Immunology Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University and Tays Cancer Centre, Tampere University Hospital
- Translational Tissue Engineering Center, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Laura D. Wood
- Convergence Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Genevieve Stein-O’Brien
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Convergence Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Bloomberg Kimmel Immunology Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Luciane T. Kagohara
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Convergence Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Bloomberg Kimmel Immunology Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Elizabeth M. Jaffee
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Convergence Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Bloomberg Kimmel Immunology Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Richard A. Burkhart
- Bloomberg Kimmel Immunology Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Elana J. Fertig
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Convergence Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Bloomberg Kimmel Immunology Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Department of Applied Mathematics and Statistics, Whiting School of Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
| | - Jacquelyn W. Zimmerman
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Convergence Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Bloomberg Kimmel Immunology Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
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2
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Fard D, Giraudo E, Tamagnone L. Mind the (guidance) signals! Translational relevance of semaphorins, plexins, and neuropilins in pancreatic cancer. Trends Mol Med 2023; 29:817-829. [PMID: 37598000 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2023.07.009] [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: 06/24/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is a major cause of demise worldwide. Although key associated genetic changes have been discovered, disease progression is sustained by pathogenic mechanisms that are poorly understood at the molecular level. In particular, the tissue microenvironment of pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is usually characterized by high stromal content, scarce recruitment of immune cells, and the presence of neuronal fibers. Semaphorins and their receptors, plexins and neuropilins, comprise a wide family of regulatory signals that control neurons, endothelial and immune cells, embryo development, and normal tissue homeostasis, as well as the microenvironment of human tumors. We focus on the role of these molecular signals in pancreatic cancer progression, as revealed by experimental research and clinical studies, including novel approaches for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damon Fard
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Department of Life Sciences and Public Health, Rome, Italy
| | - Enrico Giraudo
- Department of Science and Drug Technology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy; Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO IRCCS, Candiolo, Turin, Italy
| | - Luca Tamagnone
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Department of Life Sciences and Public Health, Rome, Italy; Fondazione Policlinico Gemelli, IRCCS, Rome, Italy.
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Zheng J, Zheng Z, Fu C, Weng Y, He A, Ye X, Gao W, Tian R. Deciphering intercellular signaling complexes by interaction-guided chemical proteomics. Nat Commun 2023; 14:4138. [PMID: 37438365 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-39881-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Indirect cell-cell interactions mediated by secreted proteins and their plasma membrane receptors play essential roles for regulating intercellular signaling. However, systematic profiling of the interactions between living cell surface receptors and secretome from neighboring cells remains challenging. Here we develop a chemical proteomics approach, termed interaction-guided crosslinking (IGC), to identify ligand-receptor interactions in situ. By introducing glycan-based ligation and click chemistry, the IGC approach via glycan-to-glycan crosslinking successfully captures receptors from as few as 0.1 million living cells using only 10 ng of secreted ligand. The unparalleled sensitivity and selectivity allow systematic crosslinking and identification of ligand-receptor complexes formed between cell secretome and surfaceome in an unbiased and all-to-all manner, leading to the discovery of a ligand-receptor interaction between pancreatic cancer cell-secreted urokinase (PLAU) and neuropilin 1 (NRP1) on pancreatic cancer-associated fibroblasts. This approach is thus useful for systematic exploring new ligand-receptor pairs and discovering critical intercellular signaling events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiangnan Zheng
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China.
| | - Zhendong Zheng
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China
- School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150090, China
| | - Changying Fu
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Yicheng Weng
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - An He
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Xueting Ye
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Weina Gao
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Ruijun Tian
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China.
- Research Center for Chemical Biology and Omics Analysis, School of Science, Southern University of Science and Technology, 1088 Xueyuan Road, Shenzhen, 518055, China.
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Parrasia S, Rossa A, Roncaglia N, Mattarei A, Honisch C, Szabò I, Ruzza P, Biasutto L. DA7R: A 7-Letter Zip Code to Target PDAC. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15051508. [PMID: 37242749 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15051508] [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: 04/07/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the most common type of pancreatic cancer, and is among the most aggressive and still incurable cancers. Innovative and successful therapeutic strategies are extremely needed. Peptides represent a versatile and promising tool to achieve tumor targeting, thanks to their ability to recognize specific target proteins (over)expressed on the surface of cancer cells. A7R is one such peptide, binding neuropilin-1 (NRP-1) and VEGFR2. Since PDAC expresses these receptors, the aim of this study was to test if A7R-drug conjugates could represent a PDAC-targeting strategy. PAPTP, a promising mitochondria-targeted anticancer compound, was selected as the cargo for this proof-of-concept study. Derivatives were designed as prodrugs, using a bioreversible linker to connect PAPTP to the peptide. Both the retro-inverso (DA7R) and the head-to-tail cyclic (cA7R) protease-resistant analogs of A7R were tested, and a tetraethylene glycol chain was introduced to improve solubility. Uptake of a fluorescent DA7R conjugate, as well as of the PAPTP-DA7R derivative into PDAC cell lines was found to be related to the expression levels of NRP-1 and VEGFR2. Conjugation of DA7R to therapeutically active compounds or nanovehicles might allow PDAC-targeted drug delivery, improving the efficacy of the therapy and reducing off-target effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Parrasia
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Viale G. Colombo 3, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Andrea Rossa
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Padova, Via F. Marzolo 1, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Nicola Roncaglia
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Padova, Via F. Marzolo 1, 35131 Padova, Italy
- CNR Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, Padua Unit, Via F. Marzolo 1, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Andrea Mattarei
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Via F. Marzolo 5, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Claudia Honisch
- CNR Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, Padua Unit, Via F. Marzolo 1, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Ildikò Szabò
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Viale G. Colombo 3, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Paolo Ruzza
- CNR Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, Padua Unit, Via F. Marzolo 1, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Lucia Biasutto
- CNR Neuroscience Institute, Padua Unit, Viale G. Colombo 3, 35131 Padova, Italy
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5
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Marimuthu S, Lakshmanan I, Muniyan S, Gautam SK, Nimmakayala RK, Rauth S, Atri P, Shah A, Bhyravbhatla N, Mallya K, Grandgenett PM, Hollingsworth MA, Datta K, Jain M, Ponnusamy MP, Batra SK. MUC16 Promotes Liver Metastasis of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma by Upregulating NRP2-Associated Cell Adhesion. Mol Cancer Res 2022; 20:1208-1221. [PMID: 35533267 PMCID: PMC9635595 DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-21-0888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the most lethal types of cancer, as it commonly metastasizes to the liver resulting in an overall poor prognosis. However, the molecular mechanism involved in liver metastasis remains poorly understood. Here, we aimed to identify the MUC16-mediated molecular mechanism of PDAC-liver metastasis. Previous studies demonstrated that MUC16 and its C-terminal (Cter) domain are involved in the aggressiveness of PDAC. In this study, we observed MUC16 and its Cter expression significantly high in human PDAC tissues, PDAC organoids, and metastatic liver tissues, while no expression was observed in normal pancreatic tissues using IHC and immunofluorescence (IFC) analyses. MUC16 knockdown in SW1990 and CD18/HPAF PDAC cells significantly decreased the colony formation, migration, and endothelial/p-selectin binding. In contrast, MUC16-Cter ectopic overexpression showed significantly increased colony formation and motility in MiaPaCa2 pancreatic cancer cells. Interestingly, MUC16 promoted cell survival and colonization in the liver, mimicking an ex vivo environment. Furthermore, MUC16 enhanced liver metastasis in the in vivo mouse model. Our integrated analyses of RNA-sequencing suggested that MUC16 alters Neuropilin-2 (NRP2) and cell adhesion molecules in pancreatic cancer cells. Furthermore, we identified that MUC16 regulated NRP2 via JAK2/STAT1 signaling in PDAC. NRP2 knockdown in MUC16-overexpressed PDAC cells showed significantly decreased cell adhesion and migration. Overall, the findings indicate that MUC16 regulates NRP2 and induces metastasis in PDAC. IMPLICATIONS This study shows that MUC16 plays a critical role in PDAC liver metastasis by mediating NRP2 regulation by JAK2/STAT1 axis, thereby paving the way for future therapy efforts for metastatic PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saravanakumar Marimuthu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Imayavaramban Lakshmanan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Sakthivel Muniyan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Shailendra K. Gautam
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Rama Krishna Nimmakayala
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Sanchita Rauth
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Pranita Atri
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Ashu Shah
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Namita Bhyravbhatla
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Kavita Mallya
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Paul M. Grandgenett
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Michael A. Hollingsworth
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Kaustubh Datta
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Maneesh Jain
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Moorthy P. Ponnusamy
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Surinder K. Batra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
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6
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Saikia Q, Reeve H, Alzahrani A, Critchley WR, Zeqiraj E, Divan A, Harrison MA, Ponnambalam S. VEGFR endocytosis: Implications for angiogenesis. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2022; 194:109-139. [PMID: 36631189 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2022.06.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
The binding of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) superfamily to VEGF receptor tyrosine kinases (VEGFRs) and co-receptors regulates vasculogenesis, angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis. A recurring theme is that dysfunction in VEGF signaling promotes pathological angiogenesis, an important feature of cancer and pro-inflammatory disease states. Endocytosis of basal (resting) or activated VEGFRs facilitates signal attenuation and endothelial quiescence. However, increasing evidence suggest that activated VEGFRs can continue to signal from intracellular compartments such as endosomes. In this chapter, we focus on the evolving link between VEGFR endocytosis, signaling and turnover and the implications for angiogenesis. There is much interest in how such understanding of VEGFR dynamics can be harnessed therapeutically for a wide range of human disease states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Queen Saikia
- School of Molecular & Cellular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Hannah Reeve
- School of Molecular & Cellular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Areej Alzahrani
- School of Molecular & Cellular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - William R Critchley
- School of Molecular & Cellular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Elton Zeqiraj
- School of Molecular & Cellular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Aysha Divan
- School of Molecular & Cellular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Michael A Harrison
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
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7
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Islam R, Mishra J, Bodas S, Bhattacharya S, Batra SK, Dutta S, Datta K. Role of Neuropilin-2-mediated signaling axis in cancer progression and therapy resistance. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2022; 41:771-787. [PMID: 35776228 PMCID: PMC9247951 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-022-10048-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Neuropilins (NRPs) are transmembrane proteins involved in vascular and nervous system development by regulating angiogenesis and axon guidance cues. Several published reports have established their role in tumorigenesis. NRPs are detectable in tumor cells of several cancer types and participate in cancer progression. NRP2 is also expressed in endothelial and immune cells in the tumor microenvironment and promotes functions such as lymphangiogenesis and immune suppression important for cancer progression. In this review, we have taken a comprehensive approach to discussing various aspects of NRP2-signaling in cancer, including its regulation, functional significance in cancer progression, and how we could utilize our current knowledge to advance the studies and target NRP2 to develop effective cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ridwan Islam
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Juhi Mishra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Sanika Bodas
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Cell Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
| | - Sreyashi Bhattacharya
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Surinder K Batra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Samikshan Dutta
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA.
| | - Kaustubh Datta
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA.
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8
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The Role of Neuropilin-2 in the Epithelial to Mesenchymal Transition of Colorectal Cancer: A Systematic Review. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10010172. [PMID: 35052853 PMCID: PMC8773800 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10010172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuropilin-2 (NRP-2) expression has been found in various investigations on the expression and function of NRP-2 in colorectal cancer. The link between NRP-2 and colorectal cancer, as well as the mechanism that regulates it, is still mostly unclear. This systematic review was carried out according to the Cochrane guidelines for systematic reviews. We searched PubMed, Embase®, MEDLINE, Allied & Complementary MedicineTM, Medical Toxicology & Environmental Health, DH-DATA: Health Administration for articles published before 1 October 2021. The following search terms were used: “neuropilin-2” “neuropilin 2”, “NRP2” and “NRP-2”, “colorectal cancer”, “colon cancer”. Ten articles researching either tumor tissue samples, cell lines, or mice models were included in this review. The majority of human primary and metastatic colon cancer cell lines expressed NRP-2 compared to the normal colonic mucosa. NRPs have been discovered in human cancers as well as neovasculature. The presence of NRP-2 appears to be connected to the epithelial–mesenchymal transition’s function in cancer dissemination and metastatic evolution. The studies were heterogeneous, but the data assessed indicates NRP-2 might have an impact on the metastatic potential of colorectal cancer cells. Nevertheless, further research is needed.
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Tsutsumi K, Chiba A, Tadaki Y, Minaki S, Ooshima T, Takahashi H. Contribution of Neuropilin-1 in Radiation-Survived Subclones of NSCLC Cell Line H1299. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2021; 43:1203-1211. [PMID: 34698100 PMCID: PMC8928997 DOI: 10.3390/cimb43030085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Revised: 09/18/2021] [Accepted: 09/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is an aggressive lung cancer accounting for approximately 85% of all lung cancer patients. For the patients with Stages IIIA, IIIB, and IIIC, the 5-year survival is low though with the combination with radiotherapy and chemotherapy. In addition, the occurrence of tumor cells (repopulated tumors) that survive irradiation remains a challenge. In our previous report, we subcloned the radiation-surviving tumor cells (IR cells) using the human NSCLC cell line, H1299, and found that the expression of neuropilin-1 (NRP-1) was upregulated in IR cells by the microarray analysis. Here, we investigated the contribution of neuropilin-1 to changes in the characteristics of IR cells. Although there were no differences in angiogenic activity in the tube formation assay between parental and IR cells, the cell motility was increased in IR cells compared to parental cells in the cell migration assay. This enhanced cell motility was suppressed by pretreatment with anti-NRP-1 antibody. Although further studies are necessary to identify other molecules associated with NRP-1, the increase in cellular motility in IR cells might be due to the contribution of NRP-1. Inhibition of NRP-1 would help control tumor malignancy in radiation-surviving NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaori Tsutsumi
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0812, Japan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-11-706-3421
| | - Ayaka Chiba
- Division of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Sapporo Medical University Hospital, Sapporo 060-8556, Japan;
| | - Yuta Tadaki
- Department of Radiological Technology, Saiseikai Otaru Hospital, Otaru 047-0008, Japan;
| | - Shima Minaki
- Department of Radiological Technology, Sapporo Spine Clinic, Sapporo 060-0042, Japan;
| | - Takahito Ooshima
- Department of Radiological Technology, Tomakomai City Hospital, Tomakomai 053-8567, Japan;
| | - Haruka Takahashi
- Department of X-ray Technology, Sapporo City General Hospital, Sapporo 060-8604, Japan;
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10
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Benwell CJ, Taylor JAGE, Robinson SD. Endothelial neuropilin-2 influences angiogenesis by regulating actin pattern development and α5-integrin-p-FAK complex recruitment to assembling adhesion sites. FASEB J 2021; 35:e21679. [PMID: 34314542 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202100286r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Revised: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
The ability to form a variety of cell-matrix connections is crucial for angiogenesis to take place. Without stable anchorage to the extracellular matrix (ECM), endothelial cells (ECs) are unable to sense, integrate and disseminate growth factor stimulated responses that drive growth of a vascular bed. Neuropilin-2 (NRP2) is a widely expressed membrane-bound multifunctional non-tyrosine kinase receptor, which has previously been implicated in influencing cell adhesion and migration by interacting with α5-integrin and regulating adhesion turnover. α5-integrin, and its ECM ligand fibronectin (FN) are both known to be upregulated during the formation of neo-vasculature. Despite being descriptively annotated as a candidate biomarker for aggressive cancer phenotypes, the EC-specific roles for NRP2 during developmental and pathological angiogenesis remain unexplored. The data reported here support a model whereby NRP2 actively promotes EC adhesion and migration by regulating dynamic cytoskeletal remodeling and by stimulating Rab11-dependent recycling of α5-integrin-p-FAK complexes to newly assembling adhesion sites. Furthermore, temporal depletion of EC-NRP2 in vivo impairs primary tumor growth by disrupting vessel formation. We also demonstrate that EC-NRP2 is required for normal postnatal retinal vascular development, specifically by regulating cell-matrix adhesion. Upon loss of endothelial NRP2, vascular outgrowth from the optic nerve during superficial plexus formation is disrupted, likely due to reduced FAK phosphorylation within sprouting tip cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J Benwell
- Gut Microbes and Health, Quadram Institute Bioscience, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK
| | - James A G E Taylor
- Gut Microbes and Health, Quadram Institute Bioscience, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK
| | - Stephen D Robinson
- Gut Microbes and Health, Quadram Institute Bioscience, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK.,School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK
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11
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Dong Y, Ma WM, Shi ZD, Zhang ZG, Zhou JH, Li Y, Zhang SQ, Pang K, Li BB, Zhang WD, Fan T, Zhu GY, Xue L, Li R, Liu Y, Hao L, Han CH. Role of NRP1 in Bladder Cancer Pathogenesis and Progression. Front Oncol 2021; 11:685980. [PMID: 34249735 PMCID: PMC8261128 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.685980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Bladder urothelial carcinoma (BC) is a fatal invasive malignancy and the most common malignancy of the urinary system. In the current study, we investigated the function and mechanisms of Neuropilin-1 (NRP1), the co-receptor for vascular endothelial growth factor, in BC pathogenesis and progression. The expression of NRP1 was evaluated using data extracted from GEO and HPA databases and examined in BC cell lines. The effect on proliferation, apoptosis, angiogenesis, migration, and invasion of BC cells were validated after NRP1 knockdown. After identifying differentially expressed genes (DEGs) induced by NRP1 silencing, GO/KEGG and IPA® bioinformatics analyses were performed and specific predicted pathways and targets were confirmed in vitro. Additionally, the co-expressed genes and ceRNA network were predicted using data downloaded from CCLE and TCGA databases, respectively. High expression of NRP1 was observed in BC tissues and cells. NRP1 knockdown promoted apoptosis and suppressed proliferation, angiogenesis, migration, and invasion of BC cells. Additionally, after NRP1 silencing the activity of MAPK signaling and molecular mechanisms of cancer pathways were predicted by KEGG and IPA® pathway analysis and validated using western blot in BC cells. NRP1 knockdown also affected various biological functions, including antiviral response, immune response, cell cycle, proliferation and migration of cells, and neovascularisation. Furthermore, the main upstream molecule of the DEGs induced by NRP1 knockdown may be NUPR1, and NRP1 was also the downstream target of NUPR1 and essential for regulation of FOXP3 expression to activate neovascularisation. DCBLD2 was positively regulated by NRP1, and PPAR signaling was significantly associated with low NRP1 expression. We also found that NRP1 was a predicted target of miR-204, miR-143, miR-145, and miR-195 in BC development. Our data provide evidence for the biological function and molecular aetiology of NRP1 in BC and for the first time demonstrated an association between NRP1 and NUPR1, FOXP3, and DCBLD2. Specifically, downregulation of NRP1 contributes to BC progression, which is associated with activation of MAPK signaling and molecular mechanisms involved in cancer pathways. Therefore, NRP1 may serve as a target for new therapeutic strategies to treat BC and other cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Dong
- Department of Urology, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou, China.,Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China.,College of Life Sciences, Jiangsu Normal University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Wei-Ming Ma
- Department of Urology, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou, China.,Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Zhen-Duo Shi
- Department of Urology, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou, China.,College of Life Sciences, Jiangsu Normal University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Zhi-Guo Zhang
- Department of Urology, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou, China.,Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China.,College of Life Sciences, Jiangsu Normal University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Jia-He Zhou
- Department of Urology, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou, China
| | - Yang Li
- Department of Central Laboratory, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou, China
| | - Shao-Qi Zhang
- Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Kun Pang
- Department of Urology, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou, China.,Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Bi-Bo Li
- Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Wen-da Zhang
- Department of Urology, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou, China
| | - Tao Fan
- Department of Urology, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou, China
| | - Guang-Yuan Zhu
- Department of Urology, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou, China
| | - Liang Xue
- Department of Urology, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou, China
| | - Rui Li
- Department of Central Laboratory, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou, China
| | - Ying Liu
- Department of Central Laboratory, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou, China
| | - Lin Hao
- Department of Urology, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou, China.,Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China.,College of Life Sciences, Jiangsu Normal University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Cong-Hui Han
- Department of Urology, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou, China.,Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China.,College of Life Sciences, Jiangsu Normal University, Xuzhou, China.,Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
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12
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Kang S, Lee S, Park S. iRGD Peptide as a Tumor-Penetrating Enhancer for Tumor-Targeted Drug Delivery. Polymers (Basel) 2020; 12:E1906. [PMID: 32847045 PMCID: PMC7563641 DOI: 10.3390/polym12091906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Revised: 08/20/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The unique structure and physiology of a tumor microenvironment impede intra-tumoral penetration of chemotherapeutic agents. A novel iRGD peptide that exploits the tumor microenvironment can activate integrin-dependent binding to tumor vasculatures and neuropilin-1 (NRP-1)-dependent transport to tumor tissues. Recent studies have focused on its dual-targeting ability to achieve enhanced penetration of chemotherapeutics for the efficient eradication of cancer cells. Both the covalent conjugation and the co-administration of iRGD with chemotherapeutic agents and engineered delivery vehicles have been explored. Interestingly, the iRGD-mediated drug delivery also enhances penetration through the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Recent studies have shown its synergistic effect with BBB disruptive techniques. The efficacy of immunotherapy involving immune checkpoint blockades has also been amplified by using iRGD as a targeting moiety. In this review, we presented the recent advances in iRGD technology, focusing on cancer treatment modalities, including the current clinical trials using iRGD. The iRGD-mediated nano-carrier system could serve as a promising strategy in drug delivery to the deeper tumor regions, and be combined with various therapeutic interventions due to its novel targeting ability.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Soyeun Park
- College of Pharmacy, Keimyung University, 1095 Dalgubeoldaero, Dalseo-gu, Daegu 42601, Korea; (S.K.); (S.L.)
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13
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Confeld MI, Mamnoon B, Feng L, Jensen-Smith H, Ray P, Froberg J, Kim J, Hollingsworth MA, Quadir M, Choi Y, Mallik S. Targeting the Tumor Core: Hypoxia-Responsive Nanoparticles for the Delivery of Chemotherapy to Pancreatic Tumors. Mol Pharm 2020; 17:2849-2863. [PMID: 32521162 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.0c00247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
In pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), early onset of hypoxia triggers remodeling of the extracellular matrix, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, increased cell survival, the formation of cancer stem cells, and drug resistance. Hypoxia in PDAC is also associated with the development of collagen-rich, fibrous extracellular stroma (desmoplasia), resulting in severely impaired drug penetration. To overcome these daunting challenges, we created polymer nanoparticles (polymersomes) that target and penetrate pancreatic tumors, reach the hypoxic niches, undergo rapid structural destabilization, and release the encapsulated drugs. In vitro studies indicated a high cellular uptake of the polymersomes and increased cytotoxicity of the drugs under hypoxia compared to unencapsulated drugs. The polymersomes decreased tumor growth by nearly 250% and significantly increased necrosis within the tumors by 60% in mice compared to untreated controls. We anticipate that these polymer nanoparticles possess a considerable translational potential for delivering drugs to solid hypoxic tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew I Confeld
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Department, North Dakota State University, Fargo, North Dakota 58105, United States
| | - Babak Mamnoon
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Department, North Dakota State University, Fargo, North Dakota 58105, United States
| | - Li Feng
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Department, North Dakota State University, Fargo, North Dakota 58105, United States
| | - Heather Jensen-Smith
- Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska 68198, United States
| | - Priyanka Ray
- Coatings and Polymeric Materials Department, North Dakota State University, Fargo, North Dakota 58108, United States
| | - James Froberg
- Physics Department, North Dakota State University, Fargo, North Dakota 58105, United States
| | - Jiha Kim
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, North Dakota 58102, United States
| | - Michael A Hollingsworth
- Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska 68198, United States
| | - Mohiuddin Quadir
- Coatings and Polymeric Materials Department, North Dakota State University, Fargo, North Dakota 58108, United States
| | - Yongki Choi
- Physics Department, North Dakota State University, Fargo, North Dakota 58105, United States
| | - Sanku Mallik
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Department, North Dakota State University, Fargo, North Dakota 58105, United States
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14
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Alghamdi AAA, Benwell CJ, Atkinson SJ, Lambert J, Johnson RT, Robinson SD. NRP2 as an Emerging Angiogenic Player; Promoting Endothelial Cell Adhesion and Migration by Regulating Recycling of α5 Integrin. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:395. [PMID: 32528960 PMCID: PMC7264094 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.00395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2020] [Accepted: 04/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Angiogenesis relies on the ability of endothelial cells (ECs) to migrate over the extracellular matrix via integrin receptors to respond to an angiogenic stimulus. Of the two neuropilin (NRP) orthologs to be identified, both have been reported to be expressed on normal blood and lymphatic ECs, and to play roles in the formation of blood and lymphatic vascular networks during angiogenesis. Whilst the role of NRP1 and its interactions with integrins during angiogenesis has been widely studied, the role of NRP2 in ECs is poorly understood. Here we demonstrate that NRP2 promotes Rac-1 mediated EC adhesion and migration over fibronectin (FN) matrices in a mechanistically distinct fashion to NRP1, showing no dependence on β3 integrin (ITGB3) expression, or VEGF stimulation. Furthermore, we highlight evidence of a regulatory crosstalk between NRP2 and α5 integrin (ITGA5) in ECs, with NRP2 depletion eliciting an upregulation of ITGA5 expression and disruptions in ITGA5 cellular organization. Finally, we propose a mechanism whereby NRP2 promotes ITGA5 recycling in ECs; NRP2 depleted ECs were found to exhibit reduced levels of total ITGA5 subunit recycling compared to wild-type (WT) ECs. Our findings expose NRP2 as a novel angiogenic player by promoting ITGA5-mediated EC adhesion and migration on FN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdullah A A Alghamdi
- School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, United Kingdom
| | - Christopher J Benwell
- Gut Microbes and Health, Quadram Institute Bioscience, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, United Kingdom
| | - Samuel J Atkinson
- School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, United Kingdom
| | - Jordi Lambert
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, United Kingdom
| | - Robert T Johnson
- School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, United Kingdom
| | - Stephen D Robinson
- School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, United Kingdom.,Gut Microbes and Health, Quadram Institute Bioscience, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, United Kingdom
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15
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Cervello M, Emma MR, Augello G, Cusimano A, Giannitrapani L, Soresi M, Akula SM, Abrams SL, Steelman LS, Gulino A, Belmonte B, Montalto G, McCubrey JA. New landscapes and horizons in hepatocellular carcinoma therapy. Aging (Albany NY) 2020; 12:3053-3094. [PMID: 32018226 PMCID: PMC7041742 DOI: 10.18632/aging.102777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2019] [Accepted: 01/12/2020] [Indexed: 04/12/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), is the sixth most frequent form of cancer and leads to the fourth highest number of deaths each year. HCC results from a combination of environmental factors and aging as there are driver mutations at oncogenes which occur during aging. Most of HCCs are diagnosed at advanced stage preventing curative therapies. Treatment in advanced stage is a challenging and pressing problem, and novel and well-tolerated therapies are urgently needed. We will discuss further advances beyond sorafenib that target additional signaling pathways and immune checkpoint proteins. The scenario of possible systemic therapies for patients with advanced HCC has changed dramatically in recent years. Personalized genomics and various other omics approaches may identify actionable biochemical targets, which are activated in individual patients, which may enhance therapeutic outcomes. Further studies are needed to identify predictive biomarkers and aberrantly activated signaling pathways capable of guiding the clinician in choosing the most appropriate therapy for the individual patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melchiorre Cervello
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council (CNR), Palermo, Italy
| | - Maria R. Emma
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council (CNR), Palermo, Italy
| | - Giuseppa Augello
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council (CNR), Palermo, Italy
| | - Antonella Cusimano
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council (CNR), Palermo, Italy
| | - Lydia Giannitrapani
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council (CNR), Palermo, Italy
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences Maternal and Infantile Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Maurizio Soresi
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences Maternal and Infantile Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Shaw M. Akula
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27858, USA
| | - Stephen L. Abrams
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27858, USA
| | - Linda S. Steelman
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27858, USA
| | - Alessandro Gulino
- Tumour Immunology Unit, Human Pathology Section, Department of Health Science, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Beatrice Belmonte
- Tumour Immunology Unit, Human Pathology Section, Department of Health Science, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Montalto
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council (CNR), Palermo, Italy
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences Maternal and Infantile Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - James A. McCubrey
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27858, USA
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16
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Borchardt H, Schulz A, Datta K, Muders MH, Aigner A. Silencing of Neuropilins and GIPC1 in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma exerts multiple cellular and molecular antitumor effects. Sci Rep 2019; 9:15471. [PMID: 31664117 PMCID: PMC6820541 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-51881-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2019] [Accepted: 10/07/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a leading cause of cancer mortality, with new treatment options urgently needed. Neuropilins-1/-2 (NRP1, NRP2) are receptors for semaphorins and angiogenic growth factors, while the GAIP interacting protein C-terminus 1 (GIPC1, aka Synectin) interacts with the neuropilins. They are overexpressed in PDAC and associated with poor survival as well as tumor-promoting activities. Thus, neuropilin and/or GIPC1 silencing may inhibit PDAC growth. In this study, we directly compare the various tumor-inhibitory effects of transient RNAi-mediated depletion of NRP1, NRP2 and GIPC1, alone or in combination, in a set of cell lines with different expression levels. Inhibition of anchorage-dependent and –independent proliferation, colony formation and cell migration, alterations of 3D-spheroid size and shape as well as retardation of cell cycle and induction of apoptosis have been analyzed and found to vary between cell lines. The observed effects are independent of initial expression levels. Knocking down NRP1, NRP2, and GIPC1 alone demonstrates significant effects. Only small additive effects upon combined knockdown and no counter-upregulation of the respective other genes could be detected. Making the study more translational, we show that systemic treatment of PDAC xenograft-bearing mice with polymeric nanoparticles for delivery of specific siRNAs results in tumor inhibition, reduces proliferation, and induces apoptosis. In conclusion, NRP and GIPC1 inhibition emerges as a promising avenue in PDAC treatment due to pleiotropic tumor-inhibitory effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannes Borchardt
- Rudolf-Boehm-Institute for Pharmacology and Toxicology, Clinical Pharmacology, Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Alexander Schulz
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, University of Technology, Dresden, Germany
| | - Kaustubh Datta
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Michael H Muders
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, University of Technology, Dresden, Germany. .,Rudolf-Becker-Laboratory for Prostate Cancer Research, Institute of Pathology, University of Bonn Medical Center, Bonn, Germany.
| | - Achim Aigner
- Rudolf-Boehm-Institute for Pharmacology and Toxicology, Clinical Pharmacology, Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany.
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17
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Bollard J, Patte C, Radkova K, Massoma P, Chardon L, Valantin J, Gadot N, Goddard I, Vercherat C, Hervieu V, Gouysse G, Poncet G, Scoazec JY, Walter T, Roche C. Neuropilin-2 contributes to tumor progression in preclinical models of small intestinal neuroendocrine tumors. J Pathol 2019; 249:343-355. [PMID: 31257576 DOI: 10.1002/path.5321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2018] [Revised: 05/21/2019] [Accepted: 06/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The identification of novel regulators of tumor progression is a key challenge to gain knowledge on the biology of small intestinal neuroendocrine tumors (SI-NETs). We recently identified the loss of the axon guidance protein semaphorin 3F as a protumoral event in SI-NETs. Interestingly the expression of its receptor neuropilin-2 (NRP-2) was still maintained. This study aimed at deciphering the potential role of NRP-2 as a contributor to SI-NET progression. The role of NRP-2 in SI-NET progression was addressed using an approach integrating human tissue and serum samples, cell lines and in vivo models. Data obtained from human SI-NET tissues showed that membranous NRP-2 expression is present in a majority of tumors, and is correlated with invasion, metastatic abilities, and neovascularization. In addition, NRP-2 soluble isoform was found elevated in serum samples from metastatic patients. In preclinical mouse models of NET progression, NRP-2 silencing led to a sustained antitumor effect, partly driven by the downregulation of VEGFR2. In contrast, its ectopic expression conferred a gain of aggressiveness, driven by the activation of various oncogenic signaling pathways. Lastly, NRP-2 inhibition led to a decrease of tumor cell viability, and sensitized to therapeutic agents. Overall, our results point out NRP-2 as a potential therapeutic target for SI-NETs, and will foster the development of innovative strategies targeting this receptor. © 2019 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julien Bollard
- Neuroendocrine Tumors Group, Department of Translational Research and Innovation, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France.,INSERM U1052/CNRS UMR5286/University of Lyon, Cancer Research Center of Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Céline Patte
- Neuroendocrine Tumors Group, Department of Translational Research and Innovation, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France.,INSERM U1052/CNRS UMR5286/University of Lyon, Cancer Research Center of Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Kristina Radkova
- Neuroendocrine Tumors Group, Department of Translational Research and Innovation, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France.,INSERM U1052/CNRS UMR5286/University of Lyon, Cancer Research Center of Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Patrick Massoma
- INSERM U1052/CNRS UMR5286/University of Lyon, Cancer Research Center of Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Laurence Chardon
- Department of Biology and Hormonology, Lyon-Est Hospital, Bron, France
| | - Julie Valantin
- Pathology-Research Platform, Department of Translational Research and Innovation, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
| | - Nicolas Gadot
- Pathology-Research Platform, Department of Translational Research and Innovation, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
| | - Isabelle Goddard
- Laboratoire des Modèles Tumoraux, Lyon Synergie Cancer, Lyon, France
| | - Cécile Vercherat
- Neuroendocrine Tumors Group, Department of Translational Research and Innovation, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France.,INSERM U1052/CNRS UMR5286/University of Lyon, Cancer Research Center of Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Valérie Hervieu
- Neuroendocrine Tumors Group, Department of Translational Research and Innovation, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France.,INSERM U1052/CNRS UMR5286/University of Lyon, Cancer Research Center of Lyon, Lyon, France.,Department of Pathology, Lyon-Est Hospital, Bron, France
| | | | - Gilles Poncet
- Neuroendocrine Tumors Group, Department of Translational Research and Innovation, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France.,INSERM U1052/CNRS UMR5286/University of Lyon, Cancer Research Center of Lyon, Lyon, France.,Department of Medical Oncology, Edouard Herriot Hospital, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Jean-Yves Scoazec
- Department of Pathology, Gustave-Roussy Cancer Campus, Villejuif, France
| | - Thomas Walter
- Neuroendocrine Tumors Group, Department of Translational Research and Innovation, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France.,INSERM U1052/CNRS UMR5286/University of Lyon, Cancer Research Center of Lyon, Lyon, France.,Department of Medical Oncology, Edouard Herriot Hospital, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Colette Roche
- Neuroendocrine Tumors Group, Department of Translational Research and Innovation, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France.,INSERM U1052/CNRS UMR5286/University of Lyon, Cancer Research Center of Lyon, Lyon, France
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18
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Matkar PN, Jong ED, Ariyagunarajah R, Prud'homme GJ, Singh KK, Leong-Poi H. Jack of many trades: Multifaceted role of neuropilins in pancreatic cancer. Cancer Med 2018; 7:5036-5046. [PMID: 30216699 PMCID: PMC6198212 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.1715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2018] [Revised: 06/04/2018] [Accepted: 07/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuropilins (NRPs) have been described as receptors for class 3 semaphorins and coreceptors for a plethora of ligands, such as members of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) family of angiogenic cytokines and transforming growth factor (TGF). Initial studies using genetic models have indicated that neuropilin-1 (NRP-1) is essential for axonal guidance during neuronal and cardiovascular development, regulated via semaphorins and VEGF, respectively, whereas the other homolog of neuropilin, NRP-2, has been shown to play a more specific role in neuronal patterning and lymphangiogenesis. Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remains a significant cause of cancer mortality with the lowest five-year survival rate compared to other types of cancer. Recent findings have indicated that NRPs are abundantly expressed in pancreatic cancer cell lines and pancreatic tumor tissues, where they mediate several essential cancer-initiating and cancer-promoting functional responses through their unique ability to bind multiple ligands. Specifically, NRPs have been implicated in numerous biological processes such as cancer cell proliferation, survival, invasion, and tumor growth. More recently, several other protumorigenic roles mediated by NRPs have emerged, advocating NRPs as ideal therapeutic targets against PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pratiek N Matkar
- Division of Cardiology, Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute of St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Eric D Jong
- Department of Biology, University of New Brunswick, Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada
| | | | - Gerald J Prud'homme
- Laboratory Medicine, Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute of St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Krishna K Singh
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Vascular Surgery, Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute of St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Medical Biophysics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Howard Leong-Poi
- Division of Cardiology, Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute of St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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19
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Ding Y, Zhou J, Wang S, Li Y, Mi Y, Gao S, Xu Y, Chen Y, Yan J. Anti-neuropilin-1 monoclonal antibody suppresses the migration and invasion of human gastric cancer cells via Akt dephosphorylation. Exp Ther Med 2018; 16:537-546. [PMID: 30116312 PMCID: PMC6090285 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2018.6234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2016] [Accepted: 02/24/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuropilin-1 (NRP-1) is involved in a range of physiological and pathological processes, including neuronal cell guidance, cardiovascular development, immunity, angiogenesis and the pathogenesis of cancer. Targeting of NRP-1 is considered to be a potential cancer therapy and a number of approaches have been investigated, including the use of small interfering RNA, peptides, soluble NRP antagonists and monoclonal antibodies. The present study used a novel anti-neuropilin-1 monoclonal antibody (anti-NRP-1 mAb) to investigate its potential anti-tumor effects on human gastric cancer cells in vitro and in vivo, as well as its underlying mechanisms of action. Using an MTT assay, it was observed that anti-NRP-1 mAb (<150 µg/ml) had no effects on the viability of gastric cancer cell line BGC-823, while a Boyden chamber assay indicated that treatment with anti-NRP-1 mAb suppressed the migration and invasion of BGC-823 cells. Western blot analysis also demonstrated that phosphorylation of Akt was reduced in BGC-823 cells treated with anti-NRP-1 mAb. Furthermore, anti-NRP-1 mAb suppressed the growth of gastric cancer xenograft tumors and downregulated the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor proteins within tumors in nude mice. These data indicate the potential effects of anti-NRP-1 mAb on malignant tumors and suggest that inhibition of NRP-1 function with anti-NRP-1 mAb may be a novel therapeutic approach in the treatment of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Ding
- Department of Oncology, The 174th Hospital of the Chinese People's Liberation Army, The Affiliated Chenggong Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361003, P.R. China
| | - Juan Zhou
- Department of Oncology, The 174th Hospital of the Chinese People's Liberation Army, The Affiliated Chenggong Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361003, P.R. China
| | - Shengyu Wang
- Cancer Research Center, Medical College of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, P.R. China
| | - Yue Li
- Department of Oncology, The 174th Hospital of the Chinese People's Liberation Army, The Affiliated Chenggong Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361003, P.R. China
| | - Yanjun Mi
- Department of Oncology, The 174th Hospital of the Chinese People's Liberation Army, The Affiliated Chenggong Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361003, P.R. China
| | - Shihua Gao
- Department of Oncology, The 174th Hospital of the Chinese People's Liberation Army, The Affiliated Chenggong Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361003, P.R. China
| | - Yun Xu
- Department of Oncology, The 174th Hospital of the Chinese People's Liberation Army, The Affiliated Chenggong Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361003, P.R. China
| | - Yuqiang Chen
- Department of Oncology, The 174th Hospital of the Chinese People's Liberation Army, The Affiliated Chenggong Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361003, P.R. China
| | - Jianghua Yan
- Cancer Research Center, Medical College of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, P.R. China
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20
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Matkar PN, Singh KK, Rudenko D, Kim YJ, Kuliszewski MA, Prud'homme GJ, Hedley DW, Leong-Poi H. Novel regulatory role of neuropilin-1 in endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition and fibrosis in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Oncotarget 2018; 7:69489-69506. [PMID: 27542226 PMCID: PMC5342493 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.11060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2016] [Accepted: 07/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is characterized by an intense fibrotic reaction termed tumor desmoplasia, which is in part responsible for its aggressiveness. Endothelial cells have been shown to display cellular plasticity in the form of endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) that serves as an important source of fibroblasts in pathological disorders, including cancer. Angiogenic co-receptor, neuropilin-1 (NRP-1) actively binds TGFβ1, the primary mediator of EndMT and is involved in oncogenic processes like epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). NRP-1 and TGFβ1 signaling have been shown to be aberrantly up-regulated in PDAC. We report herein a positive correlation between NRP-1 levels, EndMT and fibrosis in human PDAC xenografts. Loss of NRP-1 in HUVECs limited TGFβ1-induced EndMT as demonstrated by gain of endothelial and loss of mesenchymal markers, while maintaining endothelial cell architecture. Knockdown of NRP-1 down-regulated TGFβ canonical signaling (pSMAD2) and associated pro-fibrotic genes. Overexpression of NRP-1 exacerbated TGFβ1-induced EndMT and up-regulated TGFβ signaling and expression of pro-fibrotic genes. In vivo, loss of NRP-1 attenuated tumor perfusion and size, accompanied by reduction in EndMT and fibrosis. This study defines a previously unrecognized role of NRP-1 in regulating TGFβ1-induced EndMT and fibrosis, and advocates NRP-1 as a therapeutic target to reduce tumor fibrosis and PDAC progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pratiek N Matkar
- Division of Cardiology, Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Canada.,Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Krishna Kumar Singh
- Division of Vascular Surgery, Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Canada.,Division of Cardiac Surgery, Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Canada.,Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Dmitriy Rudenko
- Division of Cardiology, Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Canada
| | - Yu Jin Kim
- Division of Cardiology, Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Canada
| | - Michael A Kuliszewski
- Division of Cardiology, Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Canada
| | - Gerald J Prud'homme
- Division of Laboratory Medicine, Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Canada
| | - David W Hedley
- Division of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Ontario Cancer Institute, Campbell Family Cancer Research Institute, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, Canada
| | - Howard Leong-Poi
- Division of Cardiology, Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Canada.,Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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21
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Roy S, Bag AK, Singh RK, Talmadge JE, Batra SK, Datta K. Multifaceted Role of Neuropilins in the Immune System: Potential Targets for Immunotherapy. Front Immunol 2017; 8:1228. [PMID: 29067024 PMCID: PMC5641316 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.01228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 157] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2017] [Accepted: 09/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuropilins (NRPs) are non-tyrosine kinase cell surface glycoproteins expressed in all vertebrates and widely conserved across species. The two isoforms, such as neuropilin-1 (NRP1) and neuropilin-2 (NRP2), mainly act as coreceptors for class III Semaphorins and for members of the vascular endothelial growth factor family of molecules and are widely known for their role in a wide array of physiological processes, such as cardiovascular, neuronal development and patterning, angiogenesis, lymphangiogenesis, as well as various clinical disorders. Intriguingly, additional roles for NRPs occur with myeloid and lymphoid cells, in normal physiological as well as different pathological conditions, including cancer, immunological disorders, and bone diseases. However, little is known concerning the molecular pathways that govern these functions. In addition, NRP1 expression has been characterized in different immune cellular phenotypes including macrophages, dendritic cells, and T cell subsets, especially regulatory T cell populations. By contrast, the functions of NRP2 in immune cells are less well known. In this review, we briefly summarize the genomic organization, structure, and binding partners of the NRPs and extensively discuss the recent advances in their role and function in different immune cell subsets and their clinical implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sohini Roy
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States
| | - Arup K Bag
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States
| | - Rakesh K Singh
- Department of Microbiology and Pathology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States
| | - James E Talmadge
- Department of Microbiology and Pathology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States
| | - Surinder K Batra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States
| | - Kaustubh Datta
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States
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22
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Dong X, Guo W, Zhang S, Wu T, Sun Z, Yan S, Zheng S. Elevated expression of neuropilin-2 associated with unfavorable prognosis in hepatocellular carcinoma. Onco Targets Ther 2017; 10:3827-3833. [PMID: 28814881 PMCID: PMC5546826 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s139044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuropilin-2 (NRP2) is a single-pass transmembrane glycoprotein and has recently been detected in several human cancer cells. However, its clinical relevance in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains unclear. This study aimed at evaluating NRP2 expression and clinicopathological significance in HCC patients. Tissue microarray of 190 HCC patients from the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University was established, and immunohistochemical staining was performed for NRP2. The Kaplan-Meier analysis and Cox proportional hazard model were used to analyze the survival rate. We found that NRP2 expression in HCC was significantly associated with tumor histological degree (P=0.023) and cirrhosis (P=0.040). Furthermore, NRP2-positive HCC patients demonstrated shorter disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) than those of NRP2-negative patients. Then, the multivariate Cox analysis showed that hazard ratios of NRP2-positive patients with DFS and OS were 2.167 (95% CI: 1.626, 2.889) and 2.317 (95% CI: 1.548, 3.469), respectively. Our results suggested that NRP2 expression was considered as an independent factor for the prediction of unfavorable prognosis in HCC patients, and we believe that NRP2 could serve as a biomarker of poor prognosis and a novel target in treating HCC tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaogang Dong
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province.,Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region.,Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Public Health.,Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province.,Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province
| | - Wenjia Guo
- Department of Cancer Research Institute, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region
| | - Shizhen Zhang
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Tianchun Wu
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province.,Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Public Health.,Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province.,Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province
| | - Zhongquan Sun
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province.,Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Public Health.,Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province.,Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province
| | - Sheng Yan
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province.,Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Public Health.,Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province.,Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province
| | - Shusen Zheng
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province.,Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Public Health.,Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province.,Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province
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23
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Wang Z, Chen J, Zhang W, Zheng Y, Wang Z, Liu L, Wu H, Ye J, Zhang W, Qi B, Wu Y, Song X. Axon guidance molecule semaphorin3A is a novel tumor suppressor in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Oncotarget 2017; 7:6048-62. [PMID: 26755661 PMCID: PMC4868739 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.6831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2015] [Accepted: 12/28/2015] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Semaphorin3A (SEMA3A), an axon guidance molecule in the nervous system, plays an inhibitory role in oncogenesis. Here, we investigated the expression pattern and biological roles of SEMA3A in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) by gain-of-function assays using adenovirus transfection and recombinant human SEMA3A protein. In addition, we explored the therapeutic efficacy of SEMA3A against HNSCC in vivo. We found that lower expression of SEMA3A correlated with shorter overall survival and had independent prognostic importance in patients with HNSCC. Both genetic and recombinant SEMA3A protein inhibited cell proliferation and colony formation and induced apoptosis, accompanied by decreased cyclin E, cyclin D, CDK2, CDK4 and CDK6 and increased P21, P27, activated caspase-5 and caspase-7. Moreover, over-expression of SEMA3A suppressed migration, invasion and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition due in part to the inhibition of NF-κB and SNAI2 in HNSCC cell lines. Furthermore, intratumoral SEMA3A delivery significantly stagnated tumor growth in a xenograft model. Taken together, our results indicate that SEMA3A serves as a tumor suppressor during HNSCC tumorigenesis and a new target for the treatment of HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhao Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China.,Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Stomatology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Jie Chen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China.,Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Stomatology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Yang Zheng
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China.,Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Stomatology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Zilu Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Laikui Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Heming Wu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China.,Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Stomatology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Jinhai Ye
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China.,Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Stomatology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Oral Pathology, Affiliated Hospital of Stomatology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Bing Qi
- Department of Oral Pathology, Affiliated Hospital of Stomatology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Yunong Wu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China.,Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Stomatology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Xiaomeng Song
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China.,Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Stomatology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China
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24
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Okon IS, Ding Y, Coughlan KA, Wang Q, Song P, Benbrook DM, Zou MH. Aberrant NRP-1 expression serves as predicator of metastatic endometrial and lung cancers. Oncotarget 2016; 7:7970-8. [PMID: 26701889 PMCID: PMC4884968 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.6699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2015] [Accepted: 11/25/2015] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuropilin-1 (NRP-1) has emerged as an important driver of tumor-promoting phenotypes of human malignancies. However, incomplete knowledge exists as to how this single-pass transmembrane receptor mediates pleiotropic tumor-promoting functions. The purpose of this study was to evaluate NRP-1 expression and metastatic properties in 94 endometrial cancer and matching serum specimens and in a lung cancer cell line. We found that NRP-1 expression significantly correlated with increased tumoral expression of vascular endothelial growth factor 2 (VEGFR2) and serum levels of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and cell growth-stimulating factor (C-GSF). Tumoral NRP-1 also was positively associated with expression of NEDD9, a pro-metastatic protein. In the highly metastatic lung cancer cell line (H1792), stable LKB1 depletion caused increased migration in vitro and accentuated NRP-1 and NEDD9 expression in vivo. Our findings demonstrate that perturbed expression of these targets correlate with metastatic potential of endometrial and lung tumors, providing clinically-relevant biomarker applications for diagnostic and therapeutic targeting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imoh S Okon
- Center for Molecular and Translational Medicine, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA 30302, USA
| | - Ye Ding
- Center for Molecular and Translational Medicine, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA 30302, USA
| | | | - Qiongxin Wang
- Section of Molecular Medicine, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
| | - Ping Song
- Center for Molecular and Translational Medicine, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA 30302, USA
| | - Doris M Benbrook
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center (OUHSC), Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
| | - Ming-Hui Zou
- Center for Molecular and Translational Medicine, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA 30302, USA
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25
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Co-targeting of EGF receptor and neuropilin-1 overcomes cetuximab resistance in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma with integrin β1-driven Src-Akt bypass signaling. Oncogene 2016; 36:2543-2552. [PMID: 27797376 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2016.407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2016] [Revised: 09/07/2016] [Accepted: 09/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) cells usually overexpress the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR); however, most are resistant to the anti-EGFR monoclonal antibody, cetuximab. In this study, we report that the molecular mechanism of resistance to cetuximab in PDAC cells is mediated by the overexpression of active integrin β1 with downstream Src-Akt activation; this triggers an EGFR ligand-independent proliferation signaling, bypassing EGFR-blocking effect. Knockdown of integrin β1 or inhibition of Src or Akt sensitized cetuximab-resistant (CtxR) PDAC cells to cetuximab. We found that neuropilin-1 (NRP1) physically interacts with active integrin β1, but not inactive one, on the cell surface. To inhibit active integrin β1-driven signaling by targeting NRP1, while suppressing EGFR signaling, we generated an EGFR and NRP1 dual targeting antibody, Ctx-TPP11, by genetic fusion of the NRP1-targeting peptide, TPP11, to the C terminus of the cetuximab heavy chain (Ctx-TPP11). We demonstrate that Ctx-TPP11 efficiently inhibited the growth of CtxR PDAC cells, in vitro and in vivo. The sensitization mechanism involved downregulating active integrin β1 levels through NRP1-coupled internalization mediated by the TPP11 moiety, leading to the inhibition of active integrin β1-driven bypass signaling. Our findings identify aberrant active integrin β1-driven Src-Akt hyperactivation as a primary resistance mechanism to cetuximab in PDAC cells and offer an effective therapeutic strategy to overcome this resistance using an EGFR and NRP1 dual targeting antibody.
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26
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Fujii T, Shimada K, Asano A, Tatsumi Y, Yamaguchi N, Yamazaki M, Konishi N. MicroRNA-331-3p Suppresses Cervical Cancer Cell Proliferation and E6/E7 Expression by Targeting NRP2. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:ijms17081351. [PMID: 27548144 PMCID: PMC5000747 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17081351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2016] [Revised: 08/11/2016] [Accepted: 08/12/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Aberrant expression of microRNAs (miRNAs) is involved in the development and progression of various types of cancers. In this study, we investigated the role of miR-331-3p in cell proliferation and the expression of keratinocyte differentiation markers of uterine cervical cancer cells. Moreover, we evaluated whether neuropilin 2 (NRP2) are putative target molecules that regulate the human papillomavirus (HPV) related oncoproteins E6 and E7. Cell proliferation in the human cervical cancer cell lines SKG-II, HCS-2, and HeLa was assessed using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(3-carboxymethoxyphenyl)-2-(4-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium, inner salt (MTS) assay. Cellular apoptosis was measured using the TdT-mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) and Annexin V assays. Quantitative RT-PCR was used to measure the messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of the NRP2, E6, E7, p63, and involucrin (IVL) genes. A functional assay for cell growth was performed using cell cycle analyses. Overexpression of miR-331-3p inhibited cell proliferation, and induced G2/M phase arrest and apoptosis in SKG-II, HCS-2 and HeLa cells. The luciferase reporter assay of the NRP2 3′-untranslated region revealed the direct regulation of NRP2 by miR-331-3p. Gene expression analyses using quantitative RT-PCR in SKG-II, HCS-2, and HeLa cells overexpressing miR-331-3p or suppressing NRP2 revealed down-regulation of E6, E7, and p63 mRNA and up-regulation of IVL mRNA. Moreover, miR-331-3p overexpression was suppressed NRP2 expression in protein level. We showed that miR-331-3p and NRP2 were key effectors of cell proliferation by regulating the cell cycle, apoptosis. NRP-2 also regulates the expression of E6/E7 and keratinocyte differentiation markers. Our findings suggest that miR-331-3p has an important role in regulating cervical cancer cell proliferation, and that miR-331-3p may contribute to keratinocyte differentiation through NRP2 suppression. miR-331-3p and NRP2 may contribute to anti-cancer effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomomi Fujii
- Department of Pathology, Nara Medical University School of Medicine, Nara 634-8521, Japan.
| | - Keiji Shimada
- Department of Diagnostic Pathology, Nara City Hospital, Nara 630-8305, Japan.
| | - Aya Asano
- Department of Pathology, Nara Medical University School of Medicine, Nara 634-8521, Japan.
| | - Yoshihiro Tatsumi
- Department of Pathology, Nara Medical University School of Medicine, Nara 634-8521, Japan.
| | - Naoko Yamaguchi
- Department of Central Clinical Laboratory, Nara Medical University Hospital, Nara 634-8521, Japan.
| | - Masaharu Yamazaki
- Department of Central Clinical Laboratory, Nara Medical University Hospital, Nara 634-8521, Japan.
| | - Noboru Konishi
- Department of Pathology, Nara Medical University School of Medicine, Nara 634-8521, Japan.
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27
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Fung TM, Ng KY, Tong M, Chen JN, Chai S, Chan KT, Law S, Lee NP, Choi MY, Li B, Cheung AL, Tsao SW, Qin YR, Guan XY, Chan KW, Ma S. Neuropilin-2 promotes tumourigenicity and metastasis in oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma through ERK-MAPK-ETV4-MMP-E-cadherin deregulation. J Pathol 2016; 239:309-19. [PMID: 27063000 DOI: 10.1002/path.4728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2015] [Revised: 03/03/2016] [Accepted: 04/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is the most common histological subtype of oesophageal cancer. The disease is particularly prevalent in southern China. The incidence of the disease is on the rise and its overall survival rate remains dismal. Identification and characterization of better molecular markers for early detection and therapeutic targeting are urgently needed. Here, we report levels of transmembrane and soluble neuropilin-2 (NRP2) to be significantly up-regulated in ESCC, and to correlate positively with advanced tumour stage, lymph node metastasis, less favourable R category and worse overall patient survival. NRP2 up-regulation in ESCC was in part a result of gene amplification at chromosome 2q. NRP2 overexpression promoted clonogenicity, angiogenesis and metastasis in ESCC in vitro, while NRP2 silencing by lentiviral knockdown or neutralizing antibody resulted in a contrary effect. This observation was extended in vivo in animal models of subcutaneous tumourigenicity and tail vein metastasis. Mechanistically, overexpression of NRP2 induced expression of ERK MAP kinase and the transcription factor ETV4, leading to enhanced MMP-2 and MMP-9 activity and, as a consequence, suppression of E-cadherin. In summary, NRP2 promotes tumourigenesis and metastasis in ESCC through deregulation of ERK-MAPK-ETV4-MMP-E-cadherin signalling. NRP2 represents a potential diagnostic or prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target for ESCC. Copyright © 2016 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsun Ming Fung
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong
| | - Kai Yu Ng
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong
| | - Man Tong
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong
| | - Jin-Na Chen
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong
| | - Stella Chai
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong
| | - Kin-Tak Chan
- Department of Surgery, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong
| | - Simon Law
- Department of Surgery, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong
| | - Nikki P Lee
- Department of Surgery, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong
| | - Mei Yuk Choi
- Department of Surgery, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong
| | - Bin Li
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong
| | - Annie L Cheung
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong
| | - Sai Wah Tsao
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong
| | - Yan-Ru Qin
- Department of Clinical Oncology, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin-Yuan Guan
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong
| | - Kwok Wah Chan
- Department of Pathology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong
| | - Stephanie Ma
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong
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Fink DM, Steele MM, Hollingsworth MA. The lymphatic system and pancreatic cancer. Cancer Lett 2015; 381:217-36. [PMID: 26742462 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2015.11.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2015] [Revised: 11/16/2015] [Accepted: 11/30/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
This review summarizes current knowledge of the biology, pathology and clinical understanding of lymphatic invasion and metastasis in pancreatic cancer. We discuss the clinical and biological consequences of lymphatic invasion and metastasis, including paraneoplastic effects on immune responses and consider the possible benefit of therapies to treat tumors that are localized to lymphatics. A review of current techniques and methods to study interactions between tumors and lymphatics is presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darci M Fink
- Eppley Institute, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5950, USA
| | - Maria M Steele
- Eppley Institute, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5950, USA
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Murata M, Narahara S, Kawano T, Hamano N, Piao JS, Kang JH, Ohuchida K, Murakami T, Hashizume M. Design and Function of Engineered Protein Nanocages as a Drug Delivery System for Targeting Pancreatic Cancer Cells via Neuropilin-1. Mol Pharm 2015; 12:1422-30. [DOI: 10.1021/mp5007129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Jeong-Hun Kang
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center Research Institute, Osaka 565-8565, Japan
| | | | - Takashi Murakami
- Laboratory
of Tumor Biology, Takasaki University of Health and Welfare, Takasaki, Gunma 370-0033, Japan
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30
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Akashi Y, Oda T, Ohara Y, Miyamoto R, Kurokawa T, Hashimoto S, Enomoto T, Yamada K, Satake M, Ohkohchi N. Anticancer effects of gemcitabine are enhanced by co-administered iRGD peptide in murine pancreatic cancer models that overexpressed neuropilin-1. Br J Cancer 2014; 110:1481-7. [PMID: 24556620 PMCID: PMC3960621 DOI: 10.1038/bjc.2014.49] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 12/27/2013] [Accepted: 01/14/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Impaired drug transport is an important factor that reduces the efficacy of anticancer agents against pancreatic cancer. Here, we report a novel combination chemotherapy using gemcitabine (GEM) and internalised-RGD (iRGD) peptide, which enhances tumour-specific drug penetration by binding neuropilin-1 (NRP1) receptor. METHODS A total of five pancreatic cancer murine models (two cell line-based xenografts (CXs) and three tumour grafts (TGs)) were treated with either GEM (100 mg kg(-1), q3d × 4) alone or GEM plus iRGD peptide (8 μmol kg(-1)). Evaluation of NRP1 expression in xenografts and 48 clinical cancer specimens was performed by immunohistochemistry (IHC). RESULTS We identified a subset of pancreatic cancer models that showed NRP1 overexpression sensitive to iRGD co-administration. Treatment with GEM plus iRGD peptide resulted in a significant tumour reduction compared with GEM monotherapy in CXs, but not remarkable in TGs. Potential targets of iRGD were characterised as cases showing NRP1 overexpression (IHC-2+/3+), and these accounted for 45.8% of the clinical specimens. CONCLUSIONS Internalised RGD peptide enhances the effects of co-administered drugs in pancreatic cancer models, its efficacy is however only appreciable in those employing cell lines. Therefore, the clinical application needs to be given careful consideration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Akashi
- Department of Surgery, Clinical Sciences, Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Sciences, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennoudai, Tsukuba, 305-8575 Ibaraki, Japan
| | - T Oda
- Department of Surgery, Clinical Sciences, Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Sciences, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennoudai, Tsukuba, 305-8575 Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Y Ohara
- Department of Surgery, Clinical Sciences, Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Sciences, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennoudai, Tsukuba, 305-8575 Ibaraki, Japan
| | - R Miyamoto
- Department of Surgery, Clinical Sciences, Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Sciences, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennoudai, Tsukuba, 305-8575 Ibaraki, Japan
| | - T Kurokawa
- Department of Surgery, Clinical Sciences, Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Sciences, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennoudai, Tsukuba, 305-8575 Ibaraki, Japan
| | - S Hashimoto
- Department of Surgery, Clinical Sciences, Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Sciences, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennoudai, Tsukuba, 305-8575 Ibaraki, Japan
| | - T Enomoto
- Department of Surgery, Clinical Sciences, Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Sciences, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennoudai, Tsukuba, 305-8575 Ibaraki, Japan
| | - K Yamada
- Department of Surgery, Clinical Sciences, Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Sciences, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennoudai, Tsukuba, 305-8575 Ibaraki, Japan
| | - M Satake
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Research Center for Innovative Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital East, Kashiwa, Chiba, Japan
| | - N Ohkohchi
- Department of Surgery, Clinical Sciences, Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Sciences, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennoudai, Tsukuba, 305-8575 Ibaraki, Japan
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Abstract
The function of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in cancer is not limited to angiogenesis and vascular permeability. VEGF-mediated signalling occurs in tumour cells, and this signalling contributes to key aspects of tumorigenesis, including the function of cancer stem cells and tumour initiation. In addition to VEGF receptor tyrosine kinases, the neuropilins are crucial for mediating the effects of VEGF on tumour cells, primarily because of their ability to regulate the function and the trafficking of growth factor receptors and integrins. This has important implications for our understanding of tumour biology and for the development of more effective therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hira Lal Goel
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 55 Lake Avenue North, Worcester, Massachusetts 01655, USA
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32
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Lunardi S, Muschel RJ, Brunner TB. The stromal compartments in pancreatic cancer: are there any therapeutic targets? Cancer Lett 2013; 343:147-55. [PMID: 24141189 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2013.09.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 126] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2013] [Revised: 09/25/2013] [Accepted: 09/26/2013] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is characterised by an abundant stromal response also known as a desmoplastic reaction. Pancreatic Stellate Cells have been identified as playing a key role in pancreatic cancer desmoplasia. There is accumulating evidence that the stroma contributes to tumour progression and to the low therapeutic response of PDAC patients. In this review we described the main actors of the desmoplastic reaction within PDAC and novel therapeutic approaches that are being tested to block the detrimental function of the stroma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Lunardi
- Gray Institute for Radiation Oncology and Biology, Department of Oncology, University of Oxford, Churchill Hospital, RRI, Oxford OX3 7LJ, UK
| | - Ruth J Muschel
- Gray Institute for Radiation Oncology and Biology, Department of Oncology, University of Oxford, Churchill Hospital, RRI, Oxford OX3 7LJ, UK
| | - Thomas B Brunner
- Gray Institute for Radiation Oncology and Biology, Department of Oncology, University of Oxford, Churchill Hospital, RRI, Oxford OX3 7LJ, UK; Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospitals Freiburg, Robert-Koch-Straße 3, 79106 Freiburg, Germany.
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33
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Djordjevic S, Driscoll PC. Targeting VEGF signalling via the neuropilin co-receptor. Drug Discov Today 2012; 18:447-55. [PMID: 23228652 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2012.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2012] [Revised: 11/20/2012] [Accepted: 11/28/2012] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The blockade of tumour vascularisation and angiogenesis continues to be a focus for drug development in oncology and other pathologies. Historically, targeting vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) activity and its association with VEGF receptors (VEGFRs) has represented the most promising line of attack. More recently, the recognition that VEGFR co-receptors, neuropilin-1 and -2 (NRP1 and NRP2), are also engaged by specific VEGF isoforms in tandem with the VEGFRs has expanded the landscape for the development of modulators of VEGF-dependent signalling. Here, we review the recent structural characterisation of VEGF interactions with NRP subdomains and the impact this has had on drug development activity in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Snezana Djordjevic
- Department of Structural and Molecular Biology, Institute of Structural and Molecular Biology, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK.
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34
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Wild JRL, Staton CA, Chapple K, Corfe BM. Neuropilins: expression and roles in the epithelium. Int J Exp Pathol 2012; 93:81-103. [PMID: 22414290 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2613.2012.00810.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Initially found expressed in neuronal and then later in endothelial cells, it is well established that the transmembrane glycoproteins neuropilin-1 (NRP1) and neuropilin-2 (NRP2) play essential roles in axonal growth and guidance and in physiological and pathological angiogenesis. Neuropilin expression and function in epithelial cells has received little attention when compared with neuronal and endothelial cells. Overexpression of NRPs is shown to enhance growth, correlate with invasion and is associated with poor prognosis in various tumour types, especially those of epithelial origin. The contribution of NRP and its ligands to tumour growth and metastasis has spurred a strong interest in NRPs as novel chemotherapy drug targets. Given NRP's role as a multifunctional co-receptor with an ability to bind with disparate ligand families, this has sparked new areas of research implicating NRPs in diverse biological functions. Here, we review the growing body of research demonstrating NRP expression and role in the normal and neoplastic epithelium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan R L Wild
- Molecular Gastroenterology Research Group, Academic Unit of Surgical Oncology, Department of Oncology, University of Sheffield, The Medical School, Sheffield, UK
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35
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Jubb AM, Sa SM, Ratti N, Strickland LA, Schmidt M, Callahan CA, Koeppen H. Neuropilin-2 expression in cancer. Histopathology 2012; 61:340-9. [PMID: 22384800 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2559.2012.04224.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Neuropilin-2 is a coreceptor for vascular endothelial growth factor family members. Blockade of neuropilin-2 is able to suppress lymphogenous metastasis in preclinical models. The aim of this study was to validate a protocol for the evaluation of neuropilin-2 protein expression in situ, by comparison with in-situ hybridization, western blotting, and mRNA expression levels. METHODS AND RESULTS Immunohistochemistry was performed on normal human tissues, and whole sections for 79 primary non-small-cell lung carcinomas, 65 primary breast carcinomas, 79 primary colorectal cancers, and 52 metastases. Neuropilin-2 expression was observed in lymphatic and blood vessels from all normal and malignant tissues examined. In addition, 32% of primary non-small-cell lung carcinomas, 15% of primary breast carcinomas and 22% of primary colorectal cancers showed tumour cell expression. Fifty-five primary and nine secondary malignant melanomas were also examined for neuropilin-2 expression by in-situ hybridization. All showed vascular expression, and 85% of primary malignant melanomas showed tumour cell expression. CONCLUSIONS In the majority of lung, breast and colorectal cancers, the effects of anti-neuropilin-2 are likely to be restricted to the vasculature. These results will assist in pharmacokinetic evaluations, tolerability assessments and the choice of setting to evaluate the activity of anti-neuropilin-2 therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrian M Jubb
- Department of Pathology, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA.
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36
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Mees ST, Mardin WA, Schleicher C, Colombo-Benkmann M, Senninger N, Haier J. Role of Tumor Microenvironment on Gene Expression in Pancreatic Cancer Tumor Models. J Surg Res 2011; 171:136-42. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2010.03.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2009] [Revised: 02/06/2010] [Accepted: 03/11/2010] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Jubb AM, Strickland LA, Liu SD, Mak J, Schmidt M, Koeppen H. Neuropilin-1 expression in cancer and development. J Pathol 2011; 226:50-60. [PMID: 22025255 DOI: 10.1002/path.2989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 152] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2011] [Revised: 08/05/2011] [Accepted: 08/23/2011] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Neuropilin (NRP)-1 is a co-receptor for vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Preclinical data suggest that blockade of NRP1 suppresses tumour growth by inhibiting angiogenesis, in addition to directly inhibiting tumour cell proliferation in certain models. A humanized monoclonal antibody to NRP1 is currently being evaluated as a potential anti-cancer therapy in clinical trials. However, the expression of NRP1 in cancer and physiological angiogenesis has yet to be systematically described. Here we characterize the in situ expression of NRP1 in human cancer and during mammalian development. A monoclonal antibody to human NRP1 was generated and validated for immunohistochemistry by western blotting, use of formalin-fixed cell pellets transfected with NRP1, immunofluorescence, and comparison with in situ hybridization. NRP1 expression was assessed in whole sections of 65 primary breast carcinomas, 95 primary colorectal adenocarcinomas, and 90 primary lung carcinomas. An additional 59 human metastases, 16 xenografts, and three genetically engineered mouse tumour models were also evaluated. Immunoreactivity for NRP1 was seen in vessels from normal tissues adjacent to cancer and in 98-100% of carcinomas. Tumour cell expression of NRP1 was also observed in 36% of primary lung carcinomas and 6% of primary breast carcinomas, but no colorectal adenocarcinomas. NRP1 was evaluated in mouse embryos, where expression was limited to the nervous system, endocardium, vascular smooth muscle, and, focally, endothelium on subsets of vessels. Moreover, in a model of VEGF-dependent angiogenesis in the postnatal mouse trachea, blockade of NRP1 signalling resulted in defective angiogenesis and recapitulated the effects of anti-VEGF treatment. These observations confirm NRP1 as a valid anti-angiogenic target in malignancy, and as a potential direct anti-tumour target in a subset of cancers. The data also confirm a role for NRP1 in physiological, VEGF-mediated angiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrian M Jubb
- Department of Pathology, Genentech Inc, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA.
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Neuropilin-2 expression promotes TGF-β1-mediated epithelial to mesenchymal transition in colorectal cancer cells. PLoS One 2011; 6:e20444. [PMID: 21747928 PMCID: PMC3128581 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0020444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2010] [Accepted: 05/03/2011] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuropilins, initially characterized as neuronal receptors, act as co-receptors for cancer related growth factors and were recently involved in several signaling pathways leading to cytoskeletal organization, angiogenesis and cancer progression. Then, we sought to investigate the ability of neuropilin-2 to orchestrate epithelial-mesenchymal transition in colorectal cancer cells. Using specific siRNA to target neuropilin-2 expression, or gene transfer, we first observed that neuropilin-2 expression endows HT29 and Colo320 for xenograft formation. Moreover, neuropilin-2 conferred a fibroblastic-like shape to cancer cells, suggesting an involvement of neuropilin-2 in epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Indeed, the presence of neuropilin-2 in colorectal carcinoma cell lines was correlated with loss of epithelial markers such as cytokeratin-20 and E-cadherin and with acquisition of mesenchymal molecules such as vimentin. Furthermore, we showed by surface plasmon resonance experiments that neuropilin-2 is a receptor for transforming-growth factor-β1. The expression of neuropilin-2 on colon cancer cell lines was indeed shown to promote transforming-growth factor-β1 signaling, leading to a constitutive phosphorylation of the Smad2/3 complex. Treatment with specific TGFβ-type1 receptor kinase inhibitors restored E-cadherin levels and inhibited in part neuropilin-2-induced vimentin expression, suggesting that neuropilin-2 cooperates with TGFβ-type1 receptor to promote epithelial-mesenchymal transition in colorectal cancer cells. Our results suggest a direct role of NRP2 in epithelial-mesenchymal transition and highlight a cross-talk between neuropilin-2 and TGF-β1 signaling to promote cancer progression. These results suggest that neuropilin-2 fulfills all the criteria of a therapeutic target to disrupt multiple oncogenic functions in solid tumors.
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39
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Grandclement C, Borg C. Neuropilins: a new target for cancer therapy. Cancers (Basel) 2011; 3:1899-928. [PMID: 24212788 PMCID: PMC3757396 DOI: 10.3390/cancers3021899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2011] [Revised: 03/23/2011] [Accepted: 04/01/2011] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent investigations highlighted strong similarities between neural crest migration during embryogenesis and metastatic processes. Indeed, some families of axon guidance molecules were also reported to participate in cancer invasion: plexins/semaphorins/neuropilins, ephrins/Eph receptors, netrin/DCC/UNC5. Neuropilins (NRPs) are transmembrane non tyrosine-kinase glycoproteins first identified as receptors for class-3 semaphorins. They are particularly involved in neural crest migration and axonal growth during development of the nervous system. Since many types of tumor and endothelial cells express NRP receptors, various soluble molecules were also found to interact with these receptors to modulate cancer progression. Among them, angiogenic factors belonging to the Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) family seem to be responsible for NRP-related angiogenesis. Because NRPs expression is often upregulated in cancer tissues and correlated with poor prognosis, NRPs expression might be considered as a prognostic factor. While NRP1 was intensively studied for many years and identified as an attractive angiogenesis target for cancer therapy, the NRP2 signaling pathway has just recently been studied. Although NRP genes share 44% homology, differences in their expression patterns, ligands specificities and signaling pathways were observed. Indeed, NRP2 may regulate tumor progression by several concurrent mechanisms, not only angiogenesis but lymphangiogenesis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition and metastasis. In view of their multiples functions in cancer promotion, NRPs fulfill all the criteria of a therapeutic target for innovative anti-tumor therapies. This review focuses on NRP-specific roles in tumor progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camille Grandclement
- INSERM UMR 645, F-25020 Besançon, France; E-Mail:
- University of Franche-Comté, IFR133, F-25020 Besançon, France
- EFS Bourgogne Franche-Comté, F-25020 Besançon, France
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed; E-Mail: ; Tel.: +33-3-81-61-56-15 or +33-3-81-66-93-21; Fax: +33-3-81-61-56-17
| | - Christophe Borg
- INSERM UMR 645, F-25020 Besançon, France; E-Mail:
- University of Franche-Comté, IFR133, F-25020 Besançon, France
- EFS Bourgogne Franche-Comté, F-25020 Besançon, France
- Department of Medical Oncology, CHU Besançon, F-25000 Besançon, France
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40
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Growth factor mediated signaling in pancreatic pathogenesis. Cancers (Basel) 2011; 3:841-71. [PMID: 24212642 PMCID: PMC3756392 DOI: 10.3390/cancers3010841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2011] [Revised: 02/12/2011] [Accepted: 02/16/2011] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Functionally, the pancreas consists of two types of tissues: exocrine and endocrine. Exocrine pancreatic disorders mainly involve acute and chronic pancreatitis. Acute pancreatitis typically is benign, while chronic pancreatitis is considered a risk factor for developing pancreatic cancer. Pancreatic carcinoma is the fourth leading cause of cancer related deaths worldwide. Most pancreatic cancers develop in the exocrine tissues. Endocrine pancreatic tumors are more uncommon, and typically are less aggressive than exocrine tumors. However, the endocrine pancreatic disorder, diabetes, is a dominant cause of morbidity and mortality. Importantly, different growth factors and their receptors play critical roles in pancreatic pathogenesis. Hence, an improved understanding of how various growth factors affect pancreatitis and pancreatic carcinoma is necessary to determine appropriate treatment. This chapter describes the role of different growth factors such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), insulin-like growth factor (IGF), platelet derived growth factor (PDGF), fibroblast growth factor (FGF), epidermal growth factor (EGF), and transforming growth factor (TGF) in various pancreatic pathophysiologies. Finally, the crosstalk between different growth factor axes and their respective signaling mechanisms, which are involved in pancreatitis and pancreatic carcinoma, are also discussed.
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Wu F, Zhou Q, Yang J, Duan GJ, Ou JJ, Zhang R, Pan F, Peng QP, Tan H, Ping YF, Cui YH, Qian C, Yan XC, Bian XW. Endogenous axon guiding chemorepulsant semaphorin-3F inhibits the growth and metastasis of colorectal carcinoma. Clin Cancer Res 2011; 17:2702-11. [PMID: 21349996 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-10-0839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To elucidate the role of Semaphorin-3F (SEMA3F), originally described as an axon guiding chemorepulsant implicated in nerve development, in the progression of colorectal carcinoma. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN SEMA3F and its receptor NRP2 were examined in 72 cases of human colorectal carcinoma specimens and cell lines LoVo, SW480, and SW620 with immunohistochemistry and Western blotting. SEMA3F mRNA expression in the frozen tissue specimens and cell lines was examined with quantitative reverse transcriptase-PCR. Confocal laser scanning microscopy was used for detection of cellular localization of the proteins by immunofluorescent staining. MTT assay, flow cytometry, cell adhesion and migration, and xenografts were used to evaluate biological significance of SEMA3F. RESULTS SEMA3F was significantly reduced in colorectal carcinoma tissues and cell lines. Overexpression of SEMA3F resulted in reduced proliferation, adhesion to fibronectin, and migratory capability as well as reduced S-phase population and integrin αvβ3 expression of SW480 colon cancer cells. In addition, SEMA3F-overexpressing cells exhibited diminished tumorigenesis when transplanted orthotopically in nude mice and reduced liver metastases. Moreover, transfection of siRNA targeting SEMA3F in colon cancer cells increased their tumorigenicity in vivo. CONCLUSIONS Endogenous SEMA3F acts as a suppressor of the growth and metastasis of human colorectal cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Wu
- Department of Oncology, Institute of Pathology, Southwest Cancer Center, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
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Wang FQ, Barfield E, Dutta S, Pua T, Fishman DA. VEGFR-2 silencing by small interference RNA (siRNA) suppresses LPA-induced epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) invasion. Gynecol Oncol 2009; 115:414-23. [PMID: 19765808 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2009.08.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2009] [Revised: 08/18/2009] [Accepted: 08/21/2009] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The VEGF-VEGF receptor (VEGFR) signaling axis has emerged as a promising target for cancer therapy, attributing to its vital role in tumor angiogenesis and growth. We have previously reported the regulation of epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) invasion and migration by VEGF and the implication of VEGF-VEGFR-2 axis in lysophosphatidic acid (LPA)-induced EOC invasion. However, the expression profile of VEGF and VEGFRs in EOC, their association with tumor aggressiveness, and their regulation by LPA remain unclear. OBJECTIVES AND METHODS In this study, we examined the expression of VEGFR-1, VEGFR-2, neuropilin-1 (NRP-1), NRP-2, VEGF(121), and VEGF(165) in established EOC cell lines and assessed their correlation with cell invasiveness. Moreover, using an ovarian cancer tissue qPCR array, we analyzed VEGFR-2 expression across a panel of 48 tissues with different disease stages and histological grades. We also tested the effect of LPA on VEGF and VEGFR-2 expression and examined whether blocking VEGFR-2 by RNA interference (RNAi) affects LPA-induced EOC invasion. RESULTS We show that VEGF and VEGFR-2 expression correlates with cell invasiveness and VEGFR-2 expression in ovarian cancer tissues correlate with tumor grade. In addition, LPA, at 20 muM, significantly induced the expression of VEGF(121), VEGF(165), and VEGFR-2 in SKOV3 and DOV13 cells (P<0.05). VEGFR-2 small interference RNA (siRNA) transfection remarkably decreased LPA's invasion-promoting effect (P<0.001) in SKOV3 cells without significantly decreasing SKOV3 cells' basal invasiveness. In DOV13 cells, VEGFR-2 silencing significantly decreases both the basal level cell invasion and LPA's invasion promoting effect (P<0.001). CONCLUSION These results suggest that decreasing VEGFR-2 expression by RNAi may prove to be an effective method to reduce the metastatic potential of EOC cells exposed to elevated levels of LPA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng-qiang Wang
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York University, New York, NY 10029, USA
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Abstract
Our understanding of the process of tumor angiogenesis has changed significantly since the late 1970s, when vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) was first identified as vascular permeability factor and later found to be the major mediator of physiologic and pathologic angiogenesis. Since then, several additional VEGF-related ligands, VEGF receptors (VEGFRs), and complementary/alternative pathways that regulate tumor angiogenesis have been identified. Over the last decade, several antiangiogenic agents have been developed with the aim to inhibit new blood vessel growth, and we have learned that VEGF inhibition does far more than simply block new blood vessel growth. Clinical studies have demonstrated an improvement of progression-free and overall survivals with anti-VEGF therapy (with or without chemotherapy) in patients with advanced-stage malignancies. Unfortunately, even when anti-VEGF therapy is effective, the benefit of therapy is short-lived, with the development of tumor growth. We now recognize the presence of numerous complementary and redundant pathways that regulate tumor vasculature. For example, VEGF/VEGFR and angiopoietin/Tie-2 axes are two redundant, complementary components regulating tumor angiogenesis and vascular maintenance. The current clinical challenge is to identify: (1) factors that predict efficacy, and (2) markers of tumor response to anti-VEGF therapy, which can be achieved only by developing a thorough understanding of the biology of the VEGF system and the role of complementary pathways that may mediate resistance to anti-VEGF therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Puja Gaur
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
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Dallas NA, Gray MJ, Xia L, Fan F, van Buren G, Gaur P, Samuel S, Lim SJ, Arumugam T, Ramachandran V, Wang H, Ellis LM. Neuropilin-2-mediated tumor growth and angiogenesis in pancreatic adenocarcinoma. Clin Cancer Res 2009; 14:8052-60. [PMID: 19088020 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-08-1520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Neuropilin-2 (NRP-2) is a coreceptor for vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) on endothelial cells. NRP-2 is overexpressed in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) cells relative to nonmalignant ductal epithelium. This study determined the role of NRP-2 in PDAC cells. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN NRP-2 expression was reduced in PDAC cells with stable short-hairpin RNA (shRNA) transfection. Western blotting was done to evaluate signaling intermediates. Migration and invasion studies were carried out in Boyden chambers. Anchorage-independent growth was assessed by soft-agar colony formation. In vivo growth was evaluated using murine subcutaneous and orthotopic xenograft models. Immunohistochemical analysis evaluated in vivo proliferation and angiogenesis. RESULTS shRNA-NRP-2 decreased NRP-2 levels without affecting neuropilin-1 levels. Akt activation was decreased in clones with reduced NRP-2 (shRNA-NRP-2). shRNA-NRP-2 cells showed decreased migration, invasion, and anchorage-independent growth compared with control cells. In vitro proliferation rates were similar in control- and shRNA-transfected cells. Subcutaneous and orthotopic xenografts from shRNA-transfected cells were significantly smaller than those resulting from control-transfected cells (P < 0.05). Furthermore, shRNA-NRP-2 tumors exhibited less cellular proliferation and decreased microvascular area relative to control tumors (P < 0.05). Constitutive expression of the angiogenic mediator Jagged-1 was reduced in shRNA-NRP-2 cells, whereas vascular endothelial growth factor levels were unchanged. CONCLUSION Reduction of NRP-2 expression in PDAC cells decreased survival signaling, migration, invasion, and ability to grow under anchorage-independent conditions. In vivo, reduction of NRP-2 led to decreased growth of xenograft tumors and decreased vascular area, which was associated with decreased Jagged-1 levels. NRP-2 is a potential therapeutic target on PDAC cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaos A Dallas
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77230-1402, USA
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Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is a leading cause of cancer death. This devastating disease has the horrible honour of close to equal incidence and mortality rates. Late diagnosis and a constitutive resistance to every chemotherapy approach are responsible for this scenario. However, molecular biology tools in cooperation with translational efforts have dissected several secrets that underlie pancreatic cancer. Progressive acquisition of malignant, invasive phenotypes from pre-malignant lesions, recent revelations on core signalling pathways and new targeted designed trials offer a better future for pancreatic cancer patients. This review will summarise recent advances in the molecular biology of pancreatic cancer.
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Aikawa T, Whipple CA, Lopez ME, Gunn J, Young A, Lander AD, Korc M. Glypican-1 modulates the angiogenic and metastatic potential of human and mouse cancer cells. J Clin Invest 2008; 118:89-99. [PMID: 18064304 DOI: 10.1172/jci32412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 136] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2007] [Accepted: 10/17/2007] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Cells isolated from many types of human cancers express heparin-binding growth factors (HBGFs) that drive tumor growth, metastasis, and angiogenesis. The heparan sulfate proteoglycan glypican-1 (GPC1) is a coreceptor for HBGFs. Here we show that both cancer cell-derived and host-derived GPC1 are crucial for efficient growth, metastasis, and angiogenesis of human and mouse cancer cells. Thus downregulation of GPC1 in the human pancreatic cancer cell line PANC-1, using antisense approaches, resulted in prolonged doubling times and decreased anchorage-independent growth in vitro as well as attenuated tumor growth, angiogenesis, and metastasis when these cells were transplanted into athymic mice. Moreover, athymic mice that lacked GPC1 exhibited decreased tumor angiogenesis and metastasis following intrapancreatic implantation with either PANC-1 or T3M4 human pancreatic cancer cells and fewer pulmonary metastases following intravenous injection of murine B16-F10 melanoma cells. In addition, hepatic endothelial cells isolated from these mice exhibited an attenuated mitogenic response to VEGF-A. These data indicate that cancer cell- and host-derived GPC1 are crucial for full mitogenic, angiogenic, and metastatic potential of cancer cells. Thus targeting GPC1 might provide new avenues for cancer therapy and for the prevention of cancer metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takuma Aikawa
- Department of Medicine, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center and Dartmouth Medical School, Hanover, New Hampshire 03756, USA
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Abstract
NRPs (neuropilins) are co-receptors for class 3 semaphorins, polypeptides with key roles in axonal guidance, and for members of the VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) family of angiogenic cytokines. They lack a defined signalling role, but are thought to mediate functional responses as a result of complex formation with other receptors, such as plexins in the case of semaphorins and VEGF receptors (e.g. VEGFR2). Mutant mouse studies show that NRP1 is essential for neuronal and cardiovascular development, whereas NRP2 has a more restricted role in neuronal patterning and lymphangiogenesis, but recent findings indicate that NRPs may have additional biological roles in other physiological and disease-related settings. In particular, NRPs are highly expressed in diverse tumour cell lines and human neoplasms and have been implicated in tumour growth and vascularization in vivo. However, despite the wealth of information regarding the probable biological roles of these molecules, many aspects of the regulation of cellular function via NRPs remain uncertain, and little is known concerning the molecular mechanisms through which NRPs mediate the functions of their various ligands in different cell types.
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Whipple C, Korc M. Targeting angiogenesis in pancreatic cancer: rationale and pitfalls. Langenbecks Arch Surg 2008; 393:901-10. [PMID: 18210149 DOI: 10.1007/s00423-008-0280-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2007] [Accepted: 12/21/2007] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a highly aggressive cancer responsible for over 20% of deaths due to gastrointestinal malignancies. PDAC is usually diagnosed at an advanced stage which, in part, helps to explain its high resistance to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. In addition, the cancer cells in PDAC have a high propensity to metastasize and to aberrantly express several key regulators of angiogenesis and invasion. Chemotherapy has only provided a modest impact on mean survival and often induces side effects. Targeting angiogenesis alone or in combination with other modalities should be investigated to determine if it may provide for increased survival. MATERIALS AND METHODS This review summarizes the alterations in PDAC that play a critical role in angiogenesis and provides an overview of current and therapeutic strategies that may be useful for targeting angiogenesis in this malignancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chery Whipple
- Department of Medicine, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center and Dartmouth Medical School, Hanover, NH, USA
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Dallas NA, Fan F, Gray MJ, Van Buren G, Lim SJ, Xia L, Ellis LM. Functional significance of vascular endothelial growth factor receptors on gastrointestinal cancer cells. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2008; 26:433-41. [PMID: 17786539 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-007-9070-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) has been shown to be the major mediator of physiologic and pathologic angiogenesis. VEGF was initially thought to be an endothelial cell specific ligand, but recently, VEGF has been shown to mediate tumor cell function via activation of receptors on tumor cells themselves. Here, we review the expression patterns and binding profiles of the VEGF receptors and their ligands on gastrointestinal tumor cells. Furthermore, we describe the current knowledge in regards to the function of these receptors on tumor cells. Elucidating the function of VEGF receptors on tumor cells should help us to better understand the potential mechanisms of action of anti-VEGF therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaos A Dallas
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77230-1402, USA,
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