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Takai M, Yamamoto M, Yashiro N, Tamura M, Taniguchi A, Nagano S, Kusumoto Y, Tsujiuchi T. FFAR-mediated signaling drives migration of pancreatic cancer cells in hypoxic fibroblast co-cultures. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2024; 727:150322. [PMID: 38945064 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2024.150322] [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: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) comprises cancer and non-cancerous stromal cells, including fibroblasts. Free fatty acids (FFAs) regulate various biological responses by binding to G protein-coupled FFA receptors (FFARs). In this study, we examined the impact of FFAR1 and FFAR4 on the cell migration of pancreatic cancer PANC-1 cells co-cultured with 3T3 fibroblast cells under hypoxic conditions. PANC-1 cells cultured at 1 % O2 exhibited elevated FFAR1 expression and decreased FFAR4 expression compared to those at 21 % O2. Cell migration of PANC-1 cells was reduced under 1 % O2 conditions. FFAR1 knockdown enhanced PANC-1 cell migration, whereas FFAR4 knockdown inhibited it. Co-culture of PANC-1 cells with 3T3 cells at 1 % O2 significantly increased FFAR4 expression, while FFAR1 expression remained unchanged. To evaluate the effects of FFAR1 and FFAR4 on PANC-1 cell migration in co-culture with 3T3 cells, we conducted a wound healing assay using the Culture-Insert 2 Well. PANC-1 and 3T3 cells were individually seeded into the two wells and incubated at both 21 % and 1 % O2 for 13 h. The cell migration of PANC-1 cells co-cultured with 3T3 cells at 1 % O2 was notably higher compared to 21 % O2. TUG-770 reduced and TUG-891 enhanced the cell migration of PANC-1 cells co-cultured with 3T3 cells under both 21 % and 1 % O2 conditions. These findings suggest that FFAR1 and FFAR4 play important roles in regulating the cell migration of PANC-1 cells co-cultured with 3T3 cells under hypoxic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miwa Takai
- Division of Molecular Oncology, Department of Life Science, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Kindai University, 3-4-1, Kowakae, Higashiosaka, Osaka, 577-8502, Japan
| | - Mao Yamamoto
- Division of Molecular Oncology, Department of Life Science, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Kindai University, 3-4-1, Kowakae, Higashiosaka, Osaka, 577-8502, Japan
| | - Narumi Yashiro
- Division of Molecular Oncology, Department of Life Science, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Kindai University, 3-4-1, Kowakae, Higashiosaka, Osaka, 577-8502, Japan
| | - Moemi Tamura
- Division of Molecular Oncology, Department of Life Science, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Kindai University, 3-4-1, Kowakae, Higashiosaka, Osaka, 577-8502, Japan
| | - Anri Taniguchi
- Division of Molecular Oncology, Department of Life Science, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Kindai University, 3-4-1, Kowakae, Higashiosaka, Osaka, 577-8502, Japan
| | - Shion Nagano
- Division of Molecular Oncology, Department of Life Science, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Kindai University, 3-4-1, Kowakae, Higashiosaka, Osaka, 577-8502, Japan
| | - Yuka Kusumoto
- Division of Molecular Oncology, Department of Life Science, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Kindai University, 3-4-1, Kowakae, Higashiosaka, Osaka, 577-8502, Japan
| | - Toshifumi Tsujiuchi
- Division of Molecular Oncology, Department of Life Science, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Kindai University, 3-4-1, Kowakae, Higashiosaka, Osaka, 577-8502, Japan.
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2
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Kesti E, Borgmästars E, Hagström J, Mustonen H, Seppänen H, Haglund C, Sund M. The Prognostic Significance of Collagen VI in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma. Pancreas 2024; 53:e729-e738. [PMID: 38913551 DOI: 10.1097/mpa.0000000000002360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is characterized by poor prognosis and lack of biomarkers. A rich desmoplastic tumor stroma is considered a hallmark of PDAC and previous studies have indicated upregulated expression of collagen VI (COL6) in PDAC. COL6 is shown to associate with prognosis in many cancers but has been less extensively studied in PDAC. MATERIALS AND METHODS The expression of COL6 was analyzed by immunohistochemistry in tissue microarrays containing resected tumor tissue samples from PDAC patients (n = 164). Significance of COL6 was estimated with Kaplan-Meier survival estimates and multivariable Cox regression analysis. COL6 protein and mRNA expression patterns were further investigated in publicly available datasets. RESULTS There were no statistically significant ( P < 0.05) differences in survival when comparing high and low protein expression of any of the analyzed COL6 α-chains (α1(VI): hazard ratio [HR] 0.90, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.64-1.28; α2(VI): HR 1.28, 95% CI 0.86-1.89; α3(VI): HR 0.91, 95% CI 0.64-1.29). Similar results were obtained when assessing public data from the Cancer Proteome Atlas, Clinical Proteomic Tumor Analysis Consortium, and The Cancer Genome Atlas. CONCLUSIONS In contrast with previous studies and some other cancers, we did not find any association of COL6 tissue expression and PDAC survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ella Kesti
- From the Department of Surgery, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Emmy Borgmästars
- Department of Surgical and Perioperative Sciences/Surgery, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
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3
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Gaikwad S, Srivastava SK. Reprogramming tumor immune microenvironment by milbemycin oxime results in pancreatic tumor growth suppression and enhanced anti-PD-1 efficacy. Mol Ther 2024; 32:3145-3162. [PMID: 39097773 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2024.07.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Revised: 07/15/2024] [Accepted: 07/31/2024] [Indexed: 08/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has a survival rate of 12%, and multiple clinical trials testing anti-PD-1 therapies against PDAC have failed, suggesting a need for a novel therapeutic strategy. In this study, we evaluated the potential of milbemycin oxime (MBO), an antiparasitic compound, as an immunomodulatory agent in PDAC. Our results show that MBO inhibited the growth of multiple PDAC cell lines by inducing apoptosis. In vivo studies showed that the oral administration of 5 mg/kg MBO inhibited PDAC tumor growth in both subcutaneous and orthotopic models by 49% and 56%, respectively. Additionally, MBO treatment significantly increased the survival of tumor-bearing mice by 27 days as compared to the control group. Interestingly, tumors from MBO-treated mice had increased infiltration of CD8+ T cells. Notably, depletion of CD8+ T cells significantly reduced the anti-tumor efficacy of MBO in mice. Furthermore, MBO significantly augmented the efficacy of anti-PD-1 therapy, and the combination treatment resulted in a greater proportion of active cytotoxic T cells within the tumor microenvironment. MBO was safe and well tolerated in all our preclinical toxicological studies. Overall, our study provides a new direction for the use of MBO against PDAC and highlights the potential of repurposing MBO for enhancing anti-PD-1 immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shreyas Gaikwad
- Department of Immunotherapeutics and Biotechnology, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Center for Tumor Immunology and Targeted Cancer Therapy, Jerry H. Hodge School of Pharmacy, Abilene, TX 79601, USA
| | - Sanjay K Srivastava
- Department of Immunotherapeutics and Biotechnology, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Center for Tumor Immunology and Targeted Cancer Therapy, Jerry H. Hodge School of Pharmacy, Abilene, TX 79601, USA.
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4
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Poyia F, Neophytou CM, Christodoulou MI, Papageorgis P. The Role of Tumor Microenvironment in Pancreatic Cancer Immunotherapy: Current Status and Future Perspectives. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:9555. [PMID: 39273502 PMCID: PMC11395109 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25179555] [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: 07/26/2024] [Revised: 08/29/2024] [Accepted: 08/30/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer comprises different subtypes, where most cases include ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). It is one of the deadliest tumor types, with a poor prognosis. In the majority of patients, the disease has already spread by the time of diagnosis, making full recovery unlikely and increasing mortality risk. Despite developments in its detection and management, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and targeted therapies as well as advances in immunotherapy, only in about 13% of PDAC patients does the overall survival exceed 5 years. This may be attributed, at least in part, to the highly desmoplastic tumor microenvironment (TME) that acts as a barrier limiting perfusion, drug delivery, and immune cell infiltration and contributes to the establishment of immunologically 'cold' conditions. Therefore, there is an urgent need to unravel the complexity of the TME that promotes PDAC progression and decipher the mechanisms of pancreatic tumors' resistance to immunotherapy. In this review, we provide an overview of the major cellular and non-cellular components of PDAC TME, as well as their biological interplays. We also discuss the current state of PDAC therapeutic treatments and focus on ongoing and future immunotherapy efforts and multimodal treatments aiming at remodeling the TME to improve therapeutic efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fotini Poyia
- Tumor Microenvironment, Metastasis and Experimental Therapeutics Laboratory, Basic and Translational Cancer Research Center, Department of Life Sciences, European University Cyprus, Nicosia 2404, Cyprus
| | - Christiana M Neophytou
- Apoptosis and Cancer Chemoresistance Laboratory, Basic and Translational Cancer Research Center, Department of Life Sciences, European University Cyprus, Nicosia 2404, Cyprus
| | - Maria-Ioanna Christodoulou
- Tumor Immunology and Biomarkers Laboratory, Basic and Translational Cancer Research Center, Department of Life Sciences, European University Cyprus, Nicosia 2404, Cyprus
| | - Panagiotis Papageorgis
- Tumor Microenvironment, Metastasis and Experimental Therapeutics Laboratory, Basic and Translational Cancer Research Center, Department of Life Sciences, European University Cyprus, Nicosia 2404, Cyprus
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5
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Parihar K, Ko SHB, Bradley RP, Taylor P, Ramakrishnan N, Baumgart T, Guo W, Weaver VM, Janmey PA, Radhakrishnan R. Asymmetric crowders and membrane morphology at the nexus of intracellular trafficking and oncology. MECHANOBIOLOGY IN MEDICINE 2024; 2:100071. [PMID: 38899029 PMCID: PMC11185830 DOI: 10.1016/j.mbm.2024.100071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
A definitive understanding of the interplay between protein binding/migration and membrane curvature evolution is emerging but needs further study. The mechanisms defining such phenomena are critical to intracellular transport and trafficking of proteins. Among trafficking modalities, exosomes have drawn attention in cancer research as these nano-sized naturally occurring vehicles are implicated in intercellular communication in the tumor microenvironment, suppressing anti-tumor immunity and preparing the metastatic niche for progression. A significant question in the field is how the release and composition of tumor exosomes are regulated. In this perspective article, we explore how physical factors such as geometry and tissue mechanics regulate cell cortical tension to influence exosome production by co-opting the biophysics as well as the signaling dynamics of intracellular trafficking pathways and how these exosomes contribute to the suppression of anti-tumor immunity and promote metastasis. We describe a multiscale modeling approach whose impact goes beyond the fundamental investigation of specific cellular processes toward actual clinical translation. Exosomal mechanisms are critical to developing and approving liquid biopsy technologies, poised to transform future non-invasive, longitudinal profiling of evolving tumors and resistance to cancer therapies to bring us one step closer to the promise of personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kshitiz Parihar
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Seung-Hyun B. Ko
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Ryan P. Bradley
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Phillip Taylor
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - N. Ramakrishnan
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Tobias Baumgart
- Department of Chemistry, School of Arts & Sciences, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Wei Guo
- Department of Biology, School of Arts & Sciences, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Valerie M. Weaver
- Department of Surgery, Center for Bioengineering and Tissue Regeneration, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Paul A. Janmey
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Physiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Ravi Radhakrishnan
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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6
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Yang D, Sun X, Moniruzzaman R, Wang H, Citu C, Zhao Z, Wistuba II, Wang H, Maitra A, Chen Y. Loss of p53 and SMAD4 induces adenosquamous subtype pancreatic cancer in the absence of an oncogenic KRAS mutation. Cell Rep Med 2024:101711. [PMID: 39232498 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2024.101711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 06/18/2024] [Accepted: 08/09/2024] [Indexed: 09/06/2024]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is associated with an oncogenic KRAS mutation in approximately 90% of cases. However, a non-negligible proportion of pancreatic cancer cases harbor wild-type KRAS (KRAS-WT). This study establishes genetically engineered mouse models that develop spontaneous pancreatic cancer in the context of KRAS-WT. The Trp53loxP/loxP;Smad4loxP/loxP;Pdx1-Cre (PPSSC) mouse model harbors KRAS-WT and loss of Trp53/Smad4. The Trp53loxP/loxP;Tgfbr2loxP/loxP;Pdx1-Cre (PPTTC) mouse model harbors KRAS-WT and loss of Trp53/Tgfbr2. We identify that either Trp53/Smad4 loss or Trp53/Tgfbr2 loss can induce spontaneous pancreatic tumor formation in the absence of an oncogenic KRAS mutation. The Trp53/Smad4 loss and Trp53/Tgfbr2 loss mouse models exhibit distinct pancreatic tumor histological features, as compared to oncogenic KRAS-driven mouse models. Furthermore, KRAS-WT pancreatic tumors with Trp53/Smad4 loss reveal unique histological features of pancreatic adenosquamous carcinoma (PASC). Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) analysis reveals the distinct tumor immune microenvironment landscape of KRAS-WT (PPSSC) pancreatic tumors as compared with that of oncogenic KRAS-driven pancreatic tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daowei Yang
- Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Sheikh Ahmed Center for Pancreatic Cancer Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Xinlei Sun
- Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Sheikh Ahmed Center for Pancreatic Cancer Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Rohan Moniruzzaman
- Department of Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Hua Wang
- Department of GI Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Citu Citu
- Center for Precision Health, School of Biomedical Informatics, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Zhongming Zhao
- Center for Precision Health, School of Biomedical Informatics, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Ignacio I Wistuba
- Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Huamin Wang
- Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Sheikh Ahmed Center for Pancreatic Cancer Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Department of Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Anirban Maitra
- Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Sheikh Ahmed Center for Pancreatic Cancer Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Yang Chen
- Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Sheikh Ahmed Center for Pancreatic Cancer Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
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7
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Gutierrez-Sainz L, Heredia-Soto V, Rodríguez-García AM, Crespo Sánchez MG, Serrano-Olmedo MG, Molero-Luis M, Losantos-García I, Ghanem I, Pérez-Wert P, Custodio A, Mendiola M, Feliu J. Cytokines and Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma: Exploring Their Relationship with Molecular Subtypes and Prognosis. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:9368. [PMID: 39273323 PMCID: PMC11395259 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25179368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2024] [Revised: 08/09/2024] [Accepted: 08/21/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is characterized by its poor prognosis. The current challenge remains the absence of predictive biomarkers. Cytokines are crucial factors in the pathogenesis and prognosis of PDAC. Furthermore, there is growing interest in differentiating between molecular subtypes of PDAC. The aim of our study is to evaluate the association between the analyzed cytokines and the molecular subtypes of PDAC and to determine their prognostic value. Cytokine levels were measured in 73 patients, and molecular subtypes were analyzed in 34 of these patients. Transforming Growth Factor Beta 2 (TGF-β2) levels were independently associated with the basal-like and null subtypes. In patients with locally advanced and metastatic PDAC, elevated levels of interleukin (IL)-1α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IL-9, and IL-15 were associated with a higher risk of progression during first-line treatment, and increased levels of IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IL-9, and IL-15 were related to increased mortality. Furthermore, a significant association was observed between higher percentiles of IL-6 and IL-8 and shorter progression-free survival (PFS) during first-line treatment, and between higher percentiles of IL-8 and shorter overall survival (OS). In the multivariate analysis, only elevated levels of IL-8 were independently associated with a higher risk of progression during first-line treatment and mortality. In conclusion, the results of our study suggest that cytokine expression varies according to the molecular subtype of PDAC and that cytokines also play a relevant role in patient prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Gutierrez-Sainz
- Medical Oncology Department, La Paz University Hospital, IdiPAZ, Paseo de la Castellana 261, 28046 Madrid, Spain
| | - Victoria Heredia-Soto
- Translational Oncology Research Laboratory, Biomedical Research Institute, La Paz University Hospital, IdiPAZ, Paseo de la Castellana 261, 28046 Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red-Cáncer (CIBERONC), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | | | - María Gema Crespo Sánchez
- Clinical Analysis Department, La Paz University Hospital, IdiPAZ, Paseo de la Castellana 261, 28046 Madrid, Spain
| | - María Gemma Serrano-Olmedo
- Clinical Analysis Department, La Paz University Hospital, IdiPAZ, Paseo de la Castellana 261, 28046 Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta Molero-Luis
- Clinical Analysis Department, La Paz University Hospital, IdiPAZ, Paseo de la Castellana 261, 28046 Madrid, Spain
| | - Itsaso Losantos-García
- Biostatistics Department, La Paz University Hospital, IdiPAZ, Paseo de la Castellana 261, 28046 Madrid, Spain
| | - Ismael Ghanem
- Medical Oncology Department, La Paz University Hospital, IdiPAZ, Paseo de la Castellana 261, 28046 Madrid, Spain
| | - Pablo Pérez-Wert
- Medical Oncology Department, La Paz University Hospital, IdiPAZ, Paseo de la Castellana 261, 28046 Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Custodio
- Medical Oncology Department, La Paz University Hospital, IdiPAZ, Paseo de la Castellana 261, 28046 Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red-Cáncer (CIBERONC), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta Mendiola
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red-Cáncer (CIBERONC), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Molecular Pathology and Therapeutic Targets Lab, Pathology Department, La Paz University Hospital, IdiPAZ, Paseo de la Castellana 261, 28046 Madrid, Spain
| | - Jaime Feliu
- Medical Oncology Department, La Paz University Hospital, IdiPAZ, Paseo de la Castellana 261, 28046 Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red-Cáncer (CIBERONC), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Cátedra UAM-AMGEN, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28049 Madrid, Spain
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8
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Espona-Fiedler M, Patthey C, Lindblad S, Sarró I, Öhlund D. Overcoming therapy resistance in pancreatic cancer: New insights and future directions. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 229:116492. [PMID: 39153553 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2024.116492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2024] [Revised: 08/11/2024] [Accepted: 08/13/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024]
Abstract
Pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is predicted to become the second leading cause of cancer deaths by 2030 and this is mostly due to therapy failure. Limited treatment options and resistance to standard-of-care (SoC) therapies makes PDAC one of the cancer types with poorest prognosis and survival rates [1,2]. Pancreatic tumors are renowned for their poor response to therapeutic interventions including targeted therapies, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Herein, we review hallmarks of therapy resistance in PDAC and current strategies aiming to tackle escape mechanisms and to re-sensitize cancer cells to therapy. We will further provide insights on recent advances in the field of drug discovery, nanomedicine, and disease models that are setting the ground for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margarita Espona-Fiedler
- Department of Diagnostic and Intervention, Umeå Universitet, Umeå, Sweden; Wallenberg Centre for Molecular Medicine, Umeå Universitet, Umeå, Sweden.
| | - Cedric Patthey
- Department of Diagnostic and Intervention, Umeå Universitet, Umeå, Sweden; Wallenberg Centre for Molecular Medicine, Umeå Universitet, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Stina Lindblad
- Department of Diagnostic and Intervention, Umeå Universitet, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Irina Sarró
- Department of Diagnostic and Intervention, Umeå Universitet, Umeå, Sweden; Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Daniel Öhlund
- Department of Diagnostic and Intervention, Umeå Universitet, Umeå, Sweden; Wallenberg Centre for Molecular Medicine, Umeå Universitet, Umeå, Sweden.
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9
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Hernández-Hatibi S, Guerrero PE, García-Aznar JM, García-Gareta E. Polydopamine Interfacial Coating for Stable Tumor-on-a-Chip Models: Application for Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma. Biomacromolecules 2024; 25:5169-5180. [PMID: 39083627 PMCID: PMC11323005 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.4c00551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2024] [Revised: 07/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
Addressing current challenges in solid tumor research requires advanced in vitro three-dimensional (3D) cellular models that replicate the inherently 3D architecture and microenvironment of tumor tissue, including the extracellular matrix (ECM). However, tumor cells exert mechanical forces that can disrupt the physical integrity of the matrix in long-term 3D culture. Therefore, it is necessary to find the optimal balance between cellular forces and the preservation of matrix integrity. This work proposes using polydopamine (PDA) coating for 3D microfluidic cultures of pancreatic cancer cells to overcome matrix adhesion challenges to sustain representative tumor 3D cultures. Using PDA's distinctive adhesion and biocompatibility, our model uses type I collagen hydrogels seeded with different pancreatic cancer cell lines, prompting distinct levels of matrix deformation and contraction. Optimizing the PDA coating enhances the adhesion and stability of collagen hydrogels within microfluidic devices, achieving a balance between the disruptive forces of tumor cells on matrix integrity and the maintenance of long-term 3D cultures. The findings reveal how this tension appears to be a critical determinant in spheroid morphology and growth dynamics. Stable and prolonged 3D culture platforms are crucial for understanding solid tumor cell behavior, dynamics, and responses within a controlled microenvironment. This advancement ultimately offers a powerful tool for drug screening, personalized medicine, and wider cancer therapeutics strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soraya Hernández-Hatibi
- Multiscale
in Mechanical & Biological Engineering Research Group, Aragon
Institute of Engineering Research (I3A), School of Engineering and
Architecture, University of Zaragoza, 50018 Zaragoza, Aragon, Spain
- Department
of Biochemistry and Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Aragon, Spain
| | - Pedro Enrique Guerrero
- Multiscale
in Mechanical & Biological Engineering Research Group, Aragon
Institute of Engineering Research (I3A), School of Engineering and
Architecture, University of Zaragoza, 50018 Zaragoza, Aragon, Spain
- Department
of Biochemistry and Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Aragon, Spain
| | - José Manuel García-Aznar
- Multiscale
in Mechanical & Biological Engineering Research Group, Aragon
Institute of Engineering Research (I3A), School of Engineering and
Architecture, University of Zaragoza, 50018 Zaragoza, Aragon, Spain
- Aragon
Institute for Health Research (IIS Aragon), Miguel Servet University Hospital, 50009 Zaragoza, Aragon, Spain
| | - Elena García-Gareta
- Multiscale
in Mechanical & Biological Engineering Research Group, Aragon
Institute of Engineering Research (I3A), School of Engineering and
Architecture, University of Zaragoza, 50018 Zaragoza, Aragon, Spain
- Aragon
Institute for Health Research (IIS Aragon), Miguel Servet University Hospital, 50009 Zaragoza, Aragon, Spain
- Division
of Biomaterials & Tissue Engineering, UCL Eastman Dental Institute, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, U.K.
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10
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Wang Q, Tong F, Qiao L, Qi L, Sun Y, Zhu Y, Ni J, Liu J, Kong W, Liu B, Du J. Hypofractionated radiotherapy plus PD-1 antibody and SOX chemotherapy as second-line therapy in metastatic pancreatic cancer: a single-arm, phase II clinical trial. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2024; 73:201. [PMID: 39105880 PMCID: PMC11303639 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-024-03744-z] [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: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess the efficacy and safety of concurrent hypofractionated radiotherapy plus anti-PD-1 antibody and SOX chemotherapy in the treatment of metastatic pancreatic cancer (mPC) after failure of first-line chemotherapy. METHODS Patients with pathologically confirmed mPC who failed standard first-line chemotherapy were enrolled. The patients were treated with a regimen of hypofractionated radiotherapy, SOX chemotherapy, and immune checkpoint inhibitors at our institution. We collected the patients' clinical information and outcome measurements. The median progression-free survival (mPFS) was the primary endpoint of the study, followed by disease control rate (DCR), objective response rate (ORR), median overall survival (mOS) and safety. Exploratory analyses included biomarkers related to the benefits. RESULTS Between February 24, 2021, and August 30, 2023, twenty-five patients were enrolled in the study, and twenty-three patients who received at least one dose of the study agent had objective efficacy evaluation. The mPFS was 5.48 months, the mOS was 6.57 months, and the DCR and ORR were 69.5% and 30.4%, respectively. Among the seven patients who achieved a PR, the median duration of the response was 7.41 months. On-treatment decreased serum CA19-9 levels were associated with better overall survival. Besides, pretreatment inflammatory markers were associated with tumor response and survival. CONCLUSIONS Clinically meaningful antitumor activity and favorable safety profiles were demonstrated after treatment with these combination therapies in patients with refractory mPC. On-treatment decreased serum CA19-9 levels and pretreatment inflammatory markers platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) might be biomarkers related to clinical benefits. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION https://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.html?proj=130211 , identifier: ChiCTR2100049799, date of registration: 2021-08-09.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin Wang
- Department of Oncology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University & Clinical Cancer Institute of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Fan Tong
- Department of Oncology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University & Clinical Cancer Institute of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210008, China
- Department of Oncology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Clinical College of Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Li Qiao
- Department of Oncology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University & Clinical Cancer Institute of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210008, China
- Department of Oncology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Clinical College of Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Liang Qi
- Department of Oncology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University & Clinical Cancer Institute of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Yi Sun
- Department of Oncology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University & Clinical Cancer Institute of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Yahui Zhu
- Department of Oncology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University & Clinical Cancer Institute of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Jiayao Ni
- Department of Oncology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University & Clinical Cancer Institute of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Juan Liu
- Department of Oncology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University & Clinical Cancer Institute of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Weiwei Kong
- Department of Oncology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University & Clinical Cancer Institute of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Baorui Liu
- Department of Oncology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University & Clinical Cancer Institute of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210008, China.
- Comprehensive Cancer Center of Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing, University&Clinical Cancer Institute of Nanjing University, 321 Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, 210008, China.
| | - Juan Du
- Department of Oncology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University & Clinical Cancer Institute of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210008, China.
- Department of Oncology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Clinical College of Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210008, China.
- Comprehensive Cancer Center of Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing, University&Clinical Cancer Institute of Nanjing University, 321 Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, 210008, China.
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11
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Jin Y, Christenson ES, Zheng L, Li K. Neutrophils in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma: bridging preclinical insights to clinical prospects for improved therapeutic strategies. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2024; 20:945-958. [PMID: 38690749 DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2024.2348605] [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: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a highly aggressive malignancy characterized by a dismal five-year survival rate of less than 10%. Neutrophils are key components of the innate immune system, playing a pivotal role in the PDAC immune microenvironment. AREAS COVERED This review provides a comprehensive survey of the pivotal involvement of neutrophils in the tumorigenesis and progression of PDAC. Furthermore, it synthesizes preclinical and clinical explorations aimed at targeting neutrophils within the milieu of PDAC, subsequently proposing a conceptual framework to propel further inquiry focused on enhancing the therapeutic efficacy of PDAC through neutrophil-targeted strategies. PubMed and Web of Science databases were utilized for researching neutrophils in pancreatic cancer publications prior to 2024. EXPERT OPINION Neutrophils play roles in promoting tumor growth and metastasis in PDAC and are associated with poor prognosis. However, the heterogeneity and plasticity of neutrophils and their complex relationships with other immune cells and extracellular matrix also provide new insights for immunotherapy targeting neutrophils to achieve a better prognosis for PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Jin
- Division of Pancreatic Surgery, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Eric S Christenson
- The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- The Pancreatic Cancer Precision Medicine Center of Excellence Program, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- The Bloomberg Kimmel Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Lei Zheng
- The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- The Pancreatic Cancer Precision Medicine Center of Excellence Program, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- The Bloomberg Kimmel Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- The Skip Viragh Pancreatic Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- The Cancer Convergence Institute at Johns Hopkins, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Keyu Li
- Division of Pancreatic Surgery, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- The Pancreatic Cancer Precision Medicine Center of Excellence Program, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- The Bloomberg Kimmel Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- The Skip Viragh Pancreatic Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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12
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LeSavage BL, Zhang D, Huerta-López C, Gilchrist AE, Krajina BA, Karlsson K, Smith AR, Karagyozova K, Klett KC, Huang MS, Long C, Kaber G, Madl CM, Bollyky PL, Curtis C, Kuo CJ, Heilshorn SC. Engineered matrices reveal stiffness-mediated chemoresistance in patient-derived pancreatic cancer organoids. NATURE MATERIALS 2024; 23:1138-1149. [PMID: 38965405 DOI: 10.1038/s41563-024-01908-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is characterized by its fibrotic and stiff extracellular matrix. However, how the altered cell/extracellular-matrix signalling contributes to the PDAC tumour phenotype has been difficult to dissect. Here we design and engineer matrices that recapitulate the key hallmarks of the PDAC tumour extracellular matrix to address this knowledge gap. We show that patient-derived PDAC organoids from three patients develop resistance to several clinically relevant chemotherapies when cultured within high-stiffness matrices mechanically matched to in vivo tumours. Using genetic barcoding, we find that while matrix-specific clonal selection occurs, cellular heterogeneity is not the main driver of chemoresistance. Instead, matrix-induced chemoresistance occurs within a stiff environment due to the increased expression of drug efflux transporters mediated by CD44 receptor interactions with hyaluronan. Moreover, PDAC chemoresistance is reversible following transfer from high- to low-stiffness matrices, suggesting that targeting the fibrotic extracellular matrix may sensitize chemoresistant tumours. Overall, our findings support the potential of engineered matrices and patient-derived organoids for elucidating extracellular matrix contributions to human disease pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bauer L LeSavage
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Daiyao Zhang
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Carla Huerta-López
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Aidan E Gilchrist
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Brad A Krajina
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Kasper Karlsson
- Department of Medicine, Division of Oncology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Amber R Smith
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Kremena Karagyozova
- Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Katarina C Klett
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology & Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Michelle S Huang
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Christopher Long
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Gernot Kaber
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Christopher M Madl
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Paul L Bollyky
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Christina Curtis
- Department of Medicine, Division of Oncology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Calvin J Kuo
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Sarah C Heilshorn
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
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13
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Pratticò F, Garajová I. Focus on Pancreatic Cancer Microenvironment. Curr Oncol 2024; 31:4241-4260. [PMID: 39195299 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol31080316] [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: 06/16/2024] [Revised: 07/18/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma remains one of the most lethal solid tumors due to its local aggressiveness and metastatic potential, with a 5-year survival rate of only 13%. A robust connection between pancreatic cancer microenvironment and tumor progression exists, as well as resistance to current anticancer treatments. Pancreatic cancer has a complex tumor microenvironment, characterized by an intricate crosstalk between cancer cells, cancer-associated fibroblasts and immune cells. The complex composition of the tumor microenvironment is also reflected in the diversity of its acellular components, such as the extracellular matrix, cytokines, growth factors and secreted ligands involved in signaling pathways. Desmoplasia, the hallmark of the pancreatic cancer microenvironment, contributes by creating a dense and hypoxic environment that promotes further tumorigenesis, provides innate systemic resistance and suppresses anti-tumor immune invasion. We discuss the complex crosstalk among tumor microenvironment components and explore therapeutic strategies and opportunities in pancreatic cancer research. Better understanding of the tumor microenvironment and its influence on pancreatic cancer progression could lead to potential novel therapeutic options, such as integration of immunotherapy and cytokine-targeted treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabiana Pratticò
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital of Parma, 43100 Parma, Italy
| | - Ingrid Garajová
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital of Parma, 43100 Parma, Italy
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14
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Abal-Sanisidro M, De Luca M, Roma S, Ceraolo MG, de la Fuente M, De Monte L, Protti MP. Anakinra-Loaded Sphingomyelin Nanosystems Modulate In Vitro IL-1-Dependent Pro-Tumor Inflammation in Pancreatic Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:8085. [PMID: 39125655 PMCID: PMC11312284 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25158085] [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: 05/20/2024] [Revised: 07/09/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is a very aggressive disease with a dismal prognosis. The tumor microenvironment exerts immunosuppressive activities through the secretion of several cytokines, including interleukin (IL)-1. The IL-1/IL-1 receptor (IL-1R) axis is a key regulator in tumor-promoting T helper (Th)2- and Th17-type inflammation. Th2 cells are differentiated by dendritic cells endowed with Th2-polarizing capability by the thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) that is secreted by IL-1-activated cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). Th17 cells are differentiated in the presence of IL-1 and other IL-1-regulated cytokines. In pancreatic cancer, the use of a recombinant IL-1R antagonist (IL1RA, anakinra, ANK) in in vitro and in vivo models has shown efficacy in targeting the IL-1/IL-1R pathway. In this study, we have developed sphingomyelin nanosystems (SNs) loaded with ANK (ANK-SNs) to compare their ability to inhibit Th2- and Th17-type inflammation with that of the free drug in vitro. We found that ANK-SNs inhibited TSLP and other pro-tumor cytokines released by CAFs at levels similar to ANK. Importantly, inhibition of IL-17 secretion by Th17 cells, but not of interferon-γ, was significantly higher, and at lower concentrations, with ANK-SNs compared to ANK. Collectively, the use of ANK-SNs might be beneficial in reducing the effective dose of the drug and its toxic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcelina Abal-Sanisidro
- Nano-Oncology and Translational Therapeutics Group, Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), SERGAS, 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain;
- University of Santiago de Compostela (USC), 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Biomedical Research Networking Center on Oncology (CIBERONC), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Michele De Luca
- Tumor Immunology Unit, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy; (M.D.L.); (S.R.); (M.G.C.); (L.D.M.)
- Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Diseases, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Stefania Roma
- Tumor Immunology Unit, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy; (M.D.L.); (S.R.); (M.G.C.); (L.D.M.)
- Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Diseases, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Ceraolo
- Tumor Immunology Unit, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy; (M.D.L.); (S.R.); (M.G.C.); (L.D.M.)
- Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Diseases, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Maria de la Fuente
- Nano-Oncology and Translational Therapeutics Group, Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), SERGAS, 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain;
- University of Santiago de Compostela (USC), 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Biomedical Research Networking Center on Oncology (CIBERONC), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- DIVERSA Technologies S.L., Edificio Emprendia, Campus Sur, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Lucia De Monte
- Tumor Immunology Unit, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy; (M.D.L.); (S.R.); (M.G.C.); (L.D.M.)
- Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Diseases, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Pia Protti
- Tumor Immunology Unit, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy; (M.D.L.); (S.R.); (M.G.C.); (L.D.M.)
- Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Diseases, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy
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15
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Stigliani A, Ialchina R, Yao J, Czaplinska D, Dai Y, Andersen HB, Rennie S, Andersson R, Pedersen SF, Sandelin A. Adaptation to an acid microenvironment promotes pancreatic cancer organoid growth and drug resistance. Cell Rep 2024; 43:114409. [PMID: 38944837 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.114409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Harsh environments in poorly perfused tumor regions may select for traits driving cancer aggressiveness. Here, we investigated whether tumor acidosis interacts with driver mutations to exacerbate cancer hallmarks. We adapted mouse organoids from normal pancreatic duct (mN10) and early pancreatic cancer (mP4, KRAS-G12D mutation, ± p53 knockout) from extracellular pH 7.4 to 6.7, representing acidic niches. Viability was increased by acid adaptation, a pattern most apparent in wild-type (WT) p53 organoids, and exacerbated upon return to pH 7.4. This led to increased survival of acid-adapted organoids treated with gemcitabine and/or erlotinib, and, in WT p53 organoids, acid-induced attenuation of drug effects. New genetic variants became dominant during adaptation, yet they were unlikely to be its main drivers. Transcriptional changes induced by acid and drug adaptation differed overall, but acid adaptation increased the expression of gemcitabine resistance genes. Thus, adaptation to acidosis increases cancer cell viability after chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arnaud Stigliani
- Section for Computational and RNA Biology, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, DK2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark; Biotech Research and Innovation Centre (BRIC), University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, DK2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark
| | - Renata Ialchina
- Section for Cell Biology and Physiology, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, DK2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Jiayi Yao
- Section for Computational and RNA Biology, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, DK2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark; Biotech Research and Innovation Centre (BRIC), University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, DK2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark
| | - Dominika Czaplinska
- Section for Cell Biology and Physiology, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, DK2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Yifan Dai
- Section for Computational and RNA Biology, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, DK2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark; Biotech Research and Innovation Centre (BRIC), University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, DK2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark
| | - Henriette Berg Andersen
- Section for Cell Biology and Physiology, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, DK2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Sarah Rennie
- Section for Computational and RNA Biology, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, DK2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark
| | - Robin Andersson
- Section for Computational and RNA Biology, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, DK2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark
| | - Stine Falsig Pedersen
- Section for Cell Biology and Physiology, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, DK2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark.
| | - Albin Sandelin
- Section for Computational and RNA Biology, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, DK2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark; Biotech Research and Innovation Centre (BRIC), University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, DK2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark.
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16
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Plaugher D, Murrugarra D. Cancer mutationscape: revealing the link between modular restructuring and intervention efficacy among mutations. NPJ Syst Biol Appl 2024; 10:74. [PMID: 39003264 PMCID: PMC11246485 DOI: 10.1038/s41540-024-00398-6] [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: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/15/2024] Open
Abstract
There is increasing evidence that biological systems are modular in both structure and function. Complex biological signaling networks such as gene regulatory networks (GRNs) are proving to be composed of subcategories that are interconnected and hierarchically ranked. These networks contain highly dynamic processes that ultimately dictate cellular function over time, as well as influence phenotypic fate transitions. In this work, we use a stochastic multicellular signaling network of pancreatic cancer (PC) to show that the variance in topological rankings of the most phenotypically influential modules implies a strong relationship between structure and function. We further show that induction of mutations alters the modular structure, which analogously influences the aggression and controllability of the disease in silico. We finally present evidence that the impact and location of mutations with respect to PC modular structure directly corresponds to the efficacy of single agent treatments in silico, because topologically deep mutations require deep targets for control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Plaugher
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA.
| | - David Murrugarra
- Department of Mathematics, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
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17
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Farhangnia P, Khorramdelazad H, Nickho H, Delbandi AA. Current and future immunotherapeutic approaches in pancreatic cancer treatment. J Hematol Oncol 2024; 17:40. [PMID: 38835055 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-024-01561-6] [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: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is a major cause of cancer-related death, but despondently, the outlook and prognosis for this resistant type of tumor have remained grim for a long time. Currently, it is extremely challenging to prevent or detect it early enough for effective treatment because patients rarely exhibit symptoms and there are no reliable indicators for detection. Most patients have advanced or spreading cancer that is difficult to treat, and treatments like chemotherapy and radiotherapy can only slightly prolong their life by a few months. Immunotherapy has revolutionized the treatment of pancreatic cancer, yet its effectiveness is limited by the tumor's immunosuppressive and hard-to-reach microenvironment. First, this article explains the immunosuppressive microenvironment of pancreatic cancer and highlights a wide range of immunotherapy options, including therapies involving oncolytic viruses, modified T cells (T-cell receptor [TCR]-engineered and chimeric antigen receptor [CAR] T-cell therapy), CAR natural killer cell therapy, cytokine-induced killer cells, immune checkpoint inhibitors, immunomodulators, cancer vaccines, and strategies targeting myeloid cells in the context of contemporary knowledge and future trends. Lastly, it discusses the main challenges ahead of pancreatic cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pooya Farhangnia
- Reproductive Sciences and Technology Research Center, Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Immunology Board for Transplantation and Cell-Based Therapeutics (ImmunoTACT), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Khorramdelazad
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran
| | - Hamid Nickho
- Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali-Akbar Delbandi
- Reproductive Sciences and Technology Research Center, Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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18
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Lee HK, Kim SY, Chung SH, Choi B, Kim JE, Yoon D, Jang SI, Yeo A, Kang HG, Lee J, Choi YH, Park JS, Sung Y, Kim JK, Chang EJ, Lee DK. Tumour-associated myeloid cells expressing IL-10R2/IL-22R1 as a potential biomarker for diagnosis and recurrence of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Br J Cancer 2024; 130:1979-1989. [PMID: 38643339 PMCID: PMC11183123 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-024-02676-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an aggressive malignancy with a poor survival rate, largely due to the lack of early diagnosis. Although myeloid cells are crucial in the tumour microenvironment, whether their specific subset can be a biomarker of PDAC progression is unclear. METHODS We analysed IL-22 receptor expression in PDAC and peripheral blood. Additionally, we analysed gene expression profiles of IL-10R2+/IL-22R1+ myeloid cells and the presence of these cells using single-cell RNA sequencing and murine orthotropic PDAC models, respectively, followed by examining the immunosuppressive function of IL-10R2+/IL-22R1+ myeloid cells. Finally, the correlation between IL-10R2 expression and PDAC progression was evaluated. RESULTS IL-10R2+/IL-22R1+ myeloid cells were present in PDAC and peripheral blood. Blood IL-10R2+ myeloid cells displayed a gene expression signature associated with tumour-educated circulating monocytes. IL-10R2+/IL-22R1+ myeloid cells from human myeloid cell culture inhibited T cell proliferation. By mouse models for PDAC, we found a positive correlation between pancreatic tumour growth and increased blood IL-10R2+/IL-22R1+ myeloid cells. IL-10R2+/IL-22R1+ myeloid cells from an early phase of the PDAC model suppressed T cell proliferation and cytotoxicity. IL-10R2+ myeloid cells indicated tumour recurrence 130 days sooner than CA19-9 in post-pancreatectomy patients. CONCLUSIONS IL-10R2+/IL-22R1+ myeloid cells in the peripheral blood might be an early marker of PDAC prognosis.
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MESH Headings
- Carcinoma, Pancreatic Ductal/genetics
- Carcinoma, Pancreatic Ductal/pathology
- Carcinoma, Pancreatic Ductal/diagnosis
- Carcinoma, Pancreatic Ductal/blood
- Humans
- Animals
- Pancreatic Neoplasms/pathology
- Pancreatic Neoplasms/genetics
- Pancreatic Neoplasms/diagnosis
- Pancreatic Neoplasms/blood
- Mice
- Biomarkers, Tumor/genetics
- Biomarkers, Tumor/blood
- Receptors, Interleukin/genetics
- Myeloid Cells/metabolism
- Myeloid Cells/pathology
- Neoplasm Recurrence, Local/genetics
- Neoplasm Recurrence, Local/pathology
- Interleukin-10 Receptor beta Subunit/genetics
- Female
- Male
- Tumor Microenvironment/genetics
- Cell Line, Tumor
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyung Keun Lee
- Severance Institute for Vascular and Metabolic Research, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Institute of Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- College of Pharmacy, Yonsei University, Incheon, Korea
| | - So Young Kim
- Severance Institute for Vascular and Metabolic Research, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Institute of Biomedical Research, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Soo-Hyun Chung
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Brain Korea 21 Project, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Stem Cell Immunomodulation Research Center, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Bongkun Choi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Brain Korea 21 Project, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Stem Cell Immunomodulation Research Center, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ji-Eun Kim
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Brain Korea 21 Project, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Stem Cell Immunomodulation Research Center, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Dohee Yoon
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Brain Korea 21 Project, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Stem Cell Immunomodulation Research Center, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sung Ill Jang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Areum Yeo
- Severance Institute for Vascular and Metabolic Research, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Institute of Biomedical Research, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyun Goo Kang
- Institute of Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jusung Lee
- Department of Life Sciences, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang, Korea
- Department of New Biology, DGIST, Daegu, Korea
| | - Yoon Ha Choi
- Department of Life Sciences, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang, Korea
| | - Joon Seong Park
- Department of Surgery, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Surgery and Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yoolim Sung
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Brain Korea 21 Project, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Stem Cell Immunomodulation Research Center, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jong Kyoung Kim
- Department of Life Sciences, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang, Korea.
- Institute for Convergence Research and Education in Advanced Technology, Yonsei University, Seoul, Korea.
| | - Eun-Ju Chang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Brain Korea 21 Project, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
- Stem Cell Immunomodulation Research Center, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
| | - Dong Ki Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
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19
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Zygmunt A, Gubernator J. Metabolism and structure of PDA as the target for new therapies: possibilities and limitations for nanotechnology. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2024; 21:845-865. [PMID: 38899424 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2024.2370492] [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: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Certainly, pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma poses one of the greatest challenges in current oncology. The dense extracellular matrix and low vessel density in PDA tumor impede the effective delivery of drugs, primarily due to the short pharmacokinetics of most drugs and potential electrostatic interactions with stroma components. AREA COVERED Owing to the distinctive metabolism of PDA and challenges in accessing nutrients, there is a growing interest in cell metabolism inhibitors as a potential means to inhibit cancer development. However, even if suitable combinations of inhibitors are identified, the question about their administration remains, as the same hindrances that impede effective treatment with conventional drugs will also hinder the delivery of inhibitors. Methods including nanotechnology to increase drugs in PDA penetrations are reviewed and discussed. EXPERT OPINION Pancreatic cancer is one of the most difficult tumors to treat due to the small number of blood vessels, high content of extracellular matrix, and specialized resistance mechanisms of tumor cells. One possible method of treating this tumor is the use of metabolic inhibitors in combinations that show synergy. Despite promising results in in vitro tests, their effect is uncertain due to the tumor's structure. In the case of pancreatic cancer, priming of the tumor tissue is required through the sequential administration of drugs that generate blood vessels, increase blood flow, and enhance vascular permeability and extracellular matrix. The use of drug carriers with a size of 10-30 nm may be crucial in the therapy of this cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrianna Zygmunt
- Department of Lipids and Liposomes, Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Wroclaw, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Jerzy Gubernator
- Department of Lipids and Liposomes, Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Wroclaw, Wroclaw, Poland
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20
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Plaugher D, Murrugarra D. Pancreatic cancer mutationscape: revealing the link between modular restructuring and intervention efficacy amidst common mutations. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.01.27.577546. [PMID: 38352601 PMCID: PMC10862704 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.27.577546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/04/2024]
Abstract
There is increasing evidence that biological systems are modular in both structure and function. Complex biological signaling networks such as gene regulatory networks (GRNs) are proving to be composed of subcategories that are interconnected and hierarchically ranked. These networks contain highly dynamic processes that ultimately dictate cellular function over time, as well as influence phenotypic fate transitions. In this work, we use a stochastic multicellular signaling network of pancreatic cancer (PC) to show that the variance in topological rankings of the most phenotypically influential modules implies a strong relationship between structure and function. We further show that induction of mutations alters the modular structure, which analogously influences the aggression and controllability of the disease in silico. We finally present evidence that the impact and location of mutations with respect to PC modular structure directly corresponds to the efficacy of single agent treatments in silico, because topologically deep mutations require deep targets for control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Plaugher
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky
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21
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Peng T, Sun F, Yang JC, Cai MH, Huai MX, Pan JX, Zhang FY, Xu LM. Novel lactylation-related signature to predict prognosis for pancreatic adenocarcinoma. World J Gastroenterol 2024; 30:2575-2602. [PMID: 38817665 PMCID: PMC11135411 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v30.i19.2575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2024] [Revised: 03/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lactate, previously considered a metabolic byproduct, is pivotal in cancer progression and maintaining the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Further investigations confirmed that lactate is a primary regulator, introducing recently described post-translational modifications of histone and non-histone proteins, termed lysine lactylation. Pancreatic adenocarcinomas are characterized by increased glycolysis and lactate accumulation. However, our understanding of lactylation-related genes in pancreatic adenocarcinomas remains limited. AIM To construct a novel lactylation-related gene signature to predict the survival of patients with pancreatic cancer. METHODS RNA-seq and clinical data of pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC) were obtained from the GTEx (Genotype-Tissue Expression) and TCGA (The Cancer Genome Atlas) databases via Xena Explorer, and GSE62452 datasets from GEO. Data on lactylation-related genes were obtained from publicly available sources. Differential expressed genes (DEGs) were acquired by using R package "DESeq2" in R. Univariate COX regression analysis, LASSO Cox and multivariate Cox regressions were produced to construct the lactylation-related prognostic model. Further analyses, including functional enrichment, ESTIMATE, and CIBERSORT, were performed to analyze immune status and treatment responses in patients with pancreatic cancer. PDAC and normal human cell lines were subjected to western blot analysis under lactic acid intervention; two PDAC cell lines with the most pronounced lactylation were selected. Subsequently, RT-PCR was employed to assess the expression of LRGs genes; SLC16A1, which showed the highest expression, was selected for further investigation. SLC16A1-mediated lactylation was analyzed by immunofluorescence, lactate production analysis, colony formation, transwell, and wound healing assays to investigate its role in promoting the proliferation and migration of PDAC cells. In vivo validation was performed using an established tumor model. RESULTS In this study, we successfully identified 10 differentially expressed lactylation-related genes (LRGs) with prognostic value. Subsequently, a lactylation-related signature was developed based on five OS-related lactylation-related genes (SLC16A1, HLA-DRB1, KCNN4, KIF23, and HPDL) using Lasso Cox hazard regression analysis. Subsequently, we evaluated the clinical significance of the lactylation-related genes in pancreatic adenocarcinoma. A comprehensive examination of infiltrating immune cells and tumor mutation burden was conducted across different subgroups. Furthermore, we demonstrated that SLC16A1 modulates lactylation in pancreatic cancer cells through lactate transport. Both in vivo and in vitro experiments showed that decreasing SLC16A1 Level and its lactylation significantly inhibited tumor progression, indicating the potential of targeting the SLC16A1/Lactylation-associated signaling pathway as a therapeutic strategy against pancreatic adenocarcinoma. CONCLUSION We constructed a novel lactylation-related prognostic signature to predict OS, immune status, and treatment response of patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma, providing new strategic directions and antitumor immunotherapies.
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MESH Headings
- Humans
- Pancreatic Neoplasms/genetics
- Pancreatic Neoplasms/pathology
- Pancreatic Neoplasms/mortality
- Pancreatic Neoplasms/immunology
- Pancreatic Neoplasms/metabolism
- Prognosis
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Tumor Microenvironment/immunology
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic
- Biomarkers, Tumor/genetics
- Biomarkers, Tumor/metabolism
- Monocarboxylic Acid Transporters/genetics
- Monocarboxylic Acid Transporters/metabolism
- Protein Processing, Post-Translational
- Adenocarcinoma/genetics
- Adenocarcinoma/pathology
- Adenocarcinoma/mortality
- Adenocarcinoma/immunology
- Adenocarcinoma/metabolism
- Lactic Acid/metabolism
- Symporters/genetics
- Symporters/metabolism
- Cell Proliferation/genetics
- Gene Expression Profiling
- Male
- Carcinoma, Pancreatic Ductal/genetics
- Carcinoma, Pancreatic Ductal/mortality
- Carcinoma, Pancreatic Ductal/pathology
- Carcinoma, Pancreatic Ductal/immunology
- Carcinoma, Pancreatic Ductal/therapy
- Female
- Animals
- Transcriptome
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian Peng
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Fang Sun
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Jia-Chun Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Mei-Hong Cai
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Man-Xiu Huai
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Jia-Xing Pan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Fei-Yu Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Lei-Ming Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200092, China
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22
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Feineis D, Bringmann G. Structural variety and pharmacological potential of naphthylisoquinoline alkaloids. THE ALKALOIDS. CHEMISTRY AND BIOLOGY 2024; 91:1-410. [PMID: 38811064 DOI: 10.1016/bs.alkal.2024.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
Naphthylisoquinoline alkaloids are a fascinating class of natural biaryl compounds. They show characteristic mono- and dimeric scaffolds, with chiral axes and stereogenic centers. Since the appearance of the last comprehensive overview on these secondary plant metabolites in this series in 1995, the number of discovered representatives has tremendously increased to more than 280 examples known today. Many novel-type compounds have meanwhile been discovered, among them naphthylisoquinoline-related follow-up products like e.g., the first seco-type (i.e., ring-opened) and ring-contracted analogues. As highlighted in this review, the knowledge on the broad structural chemodiversity of naphthylisoquinoline alkaloids has been decisively driven forward by extensive phytochemical studies on the metabolite pattern of Ancistrocladus abbreviatus from Coastal West Africa, which is a particularly "creative" plant. These investigations furnished a considerable number of more than 80-mostly new-natural products from this single species, with promising antiplasmodial activities and with pronounced cytotoxic effects against human leukemia, pancreatic, cervical, and breast cancer cells. Another unique feature of naphthylisoquinoline alkaloids is their unprecedented biosynthetic origin from polyketidic precursors and not, as usual for isoquinoline alkaloids, from aromatic amino acids-a striking example of biosynthetic convergence in nature. Furthermore, remarkable botanical results are presented on the natural producers of naphthylisoquinoline alkaloids, the paleotropical Dioncophyllaceae and Ancistrocladaceae lianas, including first investigations on the chemoecological role of these plant metabolites and their storage and accumulation in particular plant organs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doris Feineis
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Gerhard Bringmann
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany.
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23
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Li Y, Zheng Y, Xu S, Hu H, Peng L, Zhu J, Wu M. The nanobody targeting PD-L1 and CXCR4 counteracts pancreatic stellate cell-mediated tumour progression by disrupting tumour microenvironment. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 132:111944. [PMID: 38581990 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.111944] [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: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the most lethal malignancy worldwide owing to its complex tumour microenvironment and dense physical barriers. Stromal-derived factor-1 (SDF-1), which is abundantly secreted by tumour stromal cells, plays a pivotal role in promoting PDAC growth and metastasis. In this study, we investigated the impact and molecular mechanisms of the anti-PD-L1&CXCR4 bispecific nanobody on the TME and their consequent interference with PDAC progression. We found that blocking the SDF-1/CXCR4 signalling pathway delayed the epithelial-mesenchymal transition in pancreatic cancer cells. Anti-PD-L1&CXCR4 bispecific nanobody effectively suppress the secretion of SDF-1 by pancreatic stellate cells and downregulate the expression of smooth muscle actin alpha(α-SMA), thereby preventing the activation of cancer-associated fibroblasts by downregulating the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. This improves the pancreatic tumour microenvironment, favouring the infiltration of T cells into the tumour tissue. In conclusion, our results suggest that the anti-PD-L1&CXCR4 bispecific nanobody exerts an antitumor immune response by changing the pancreatic tumour microenvironment. Hence, the anti-PD-L1&CXCR4 bispecific nanobody is a potential candidate for pancreatic cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaxian Li
- Engineering Research Center of Cell and Therapeutic Antibody, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200240, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yuejiang Zheng
- Engineering Research Center of Cell and Therapeutic Antibody, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200240, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuyi Xu
- Engineering Research Center of Cell and Therapeutic Antibody, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200240, People's Republic of China.
| | - Hai Hu
- Engineering Research Center of Cell and Therapeutic Antibody, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200240, People's Republic of China
| | - Liyun Peng
- Engineering Research Center of Cell and Therapeutic Antibody, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200240, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianwei Zhu
- Engineering Research Center of Cell and Therapeutic Antibody, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200240, People's Republic of China
| | - Mingyuan Wu
- Engineering Research Center of Cell and Therapeutic Antibody, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200240, People's Republic of China.
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24
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Sibal PA, Matsumura S, Ichinose T, Bustos‐Villalobos I, Morimoto D, Eissa IR, Abdelmoneim M, Aboalela MAM, Mukoyama N, Tanaka M, Naoe Y, Kasuya H. STING activator 2'3'-cGAMP enhanced HSV-1-based oncolytic viral therapy. Mol Oncol 2024; 18:1259-1277. [PMID: 38400597 PMCID: PMC11076993 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.13603] [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: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Oncolytic viruses (OVs) can selectively replicate in tumor cells and remodel the microenvironment of immunologically cold tumors, making them a promising strategy to evoke antitumor immunity. Similarly, agonists of the stimulator of interferon genes (STING)-interferon (IFN) pathway, the main cellular antiviral system, provide antitumor benefits by inducing the activation of dendritic cells (DC). Considering how the activation of the STING-IFN pathway could potentially inhibit OV replication, the use of STING agonists alongside OV therapy remains largely unexplored. Here, we explored the antitumor efficacy of combining an HSV-1-based OV, C-REV, with a membrane-impermeable STING agonist, 2'3'-GAMP. Our results demonstrated that tumor cells harbor a largely defective STING-IFN pathway, thereby preventing significant antiviral IFN induction regardless of the permeability of the STING agonist. In vivo, the combination therapy induced more proliferative KLRG1-high PD1-low CD8+ T-cells and activated CD103+ DC in the tumor site and increased tumor-specific CD44+ CD8+ T-cells in the lymph node. Overall, the combination therapy of C-REV with 2'3'-cGAMP elicited antitumor immune memory responses and significantly enhanced systemic antitumor immunity in both treated and non-treated distal tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Angela Sibal
- Cancer Immune Therapy Research Center, Graduate School of MedicineNagoya UniversityJapan
- Department of Surgery II, Graduate School of MedicineNagoya UniversityJapan
| | - Shigeru Matsumura
- Cancer Immune Therapy Research Center, Graduate School of MedicineNagoya UniversityJapan
| | - Toru Ichinose
- Cancer Immune Therapy Research Center, Graduate School of MedicineNagoya UniversityJapan
| | | | - Daishi Morimoto
- Department of Surgery II, Graduate School of MedicineNagoya UniversityJapan
| | - Ibrahim R. Eissa
- Cancer Immune Therapy Research Center, Graduate School of MedicineNagoya UniversityJapan
- Department of Surgery II, Graduate School of MedicineNagoya UniversityJapan
- Faculty of ScienceTanta UniversityEgypt
| | - Mohamed Abdelmoneim
- Cancer Immune Therapy Research Center, Graduate School of MedicineNagoya UniversityJapan
- Department of Surgery II, Graduate School of MedicineNagoya UniversityJapan
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineZagazig UniversityEgypt
| | - Mona Alhussein Mostafa Aboalela
- Cancer Immune Therapy Research Center, Graduate School of MedicineNagoya UniversityJapan
- Department of Surgery II, Graduate School of MedicineNagoya UniversityJapan
- Medical Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of MedicineZagazig UniversityEgypt
| | - Nobuaki Mukoyama
- Department of Otolaryngology Graduate School of MedicineNagoya UniversityJapan
| | | | - Yoshinori Naoe
- Cancer Immune Therapy Research Center, Graduate School of MedicineNagoya UniversityJapan
| | - Hideki Kasuya
- Cancer Immune Therapy Research Center, Graduate School of MedicineNagoya UniversityJapan
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25
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Hu J, Wang J, Guo X, Fan Q, Li X, Li K, Wang Z, Liang S, Amin B, Zhang N, Chen C, Zhu B. MSLN induced EMT, cancer stem cell traits and chemotherapy resistance of pancreatic cancer cells. Heliyon 2024; 10:e29210. [PMID: 38628720 PMCID: PMC11019237 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e29210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Chemoresistance is one of the main reasons for poor prognosis of pancreatic cancer. The effects of mesothelin (MSLN) on chemoresistance in pancreatic cancer are still unclear. We aim to investigate potential roles of MSLN in chemoresistance and its relationship with proliferation, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and cancer stemness of pancreatic cancer cells. Human pancreatic cancer cell lines ASPC-1 and Mia PaCa-2 with high and low expression of MSLN, respectively, were selected. The ASPC-1 with MSLN knockout (KO) and Mia PaCa-2 of MSLN overexpression (OE) were generated. The effects of MSLN on cell phenotypes, expression of EMT-related markers, clone formation, tumor sphere formation, and pathologic role of MSLN in tumorigenesis were detected. Sensitivity of tumor cells to gemcitabine was evaluated. The results showed that adhesion, proliferation, migration and invasion were decreased significantly in ASPC-1 with MSLN KO, whereas increased significantly in Mia PaCa-2 with MSLN OE. The size and the number of clones and tumor spheres were decreased in ASPC-1 with MSLN KO, and increased in Mia PaCa-2 with MSLN OE. In xenograft model, tumor volume was decreased (tumor grew slower) in MSLN KO group compared to control group, while increased in MSLN OE group. Mia PaCa-2 with MSLN OE had a higher IC50 of gemcitabine, while ASPC-1 with MSLN KO had a lower IC50. We concluded that MSLN could induce chemoresistance by enhancing migration, invasion, EMT and cancer stem cell traits of pancreatic cancer cells. Targeting MSLN could represent a promising therapeutic strategy for reversing EMT and chemoresistance in pancreatic cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jili Hu
- Department of General Surgery, Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100038, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan, 450052, China
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Institute of Reproductive Health, Henan Academy of Innovations In Medical Science & NHC Key Laboratory of Birth Defects Prevention, China
| | - Jia Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100038, China
- Department of General Surgery, Third Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Xu Guo
- Department of General Surgery, Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100038, China
| | - Qing Fan
- Department of General Surgery, Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100038, China
| | - Xinming Li
- Department of General Surgery, Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100038, China
| | - Kai Li
- Department of General Surgery, Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100038, China
| | - Zhuoyin Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100038, China
| | - Shuntao Liang
- Center for Biomedical Innovation, Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100038, China
| | - Buhe Amin
- Department of General Surgery, Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100038, China
| | - Nengwei Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100038, China
| | - Chaowen Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Third Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Bin Zhu
- Department of General Surgery, Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100038, China
- Department of General Surgery, Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Peking University Ninth School of Clinical Medicine, Beijing, China
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26
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Silva LGDO, Lemos FFB, Luz MS, Rocha Pinheiro SL, Calmon MDS, Correa Santos GL, Rocha GR, de Melo FF. New avenues for the treatment of immunotherapy-resistant pancreatic cancer. World J Gastrointest Oncol 2024; 16:1134-1153. [PMID: 38660642 PMCID: PMC11037047 DOI: 10.4251/wjgo.v16.i4.1134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) is characterized by its extremely aggressive nature and ranks 14th in the number of new cancer cases worldwide. However, due to its complexity, it ranks 7th in the list of the most lethal cancers worldwide. The pathogenesis of PC involves several complex processes, including familial genetic factors associated with risk factors such as obesity, diabetes mellitus, chronic pancreatitis, and smoking. Mutations in genes such as KRAS, TP53, and SMAD4 are linked to the appearance of malignant cells that generate pancreatic lesions and, consequently, cancer. In this context, some therapies are used for PC, one of which is immunotherapy, which is extremely promising in various other types of cancer but has shown little response in the treatment of PC due to various resistance mechanisms that contribute to a drop in immunotherapy efficiency. It is therefore clear that the tumor microenvironment (TME) has a huge impact on the resistance process, since cellular and non-cellular elements create an immunosuppressive environment, characterized by a dense desmoplastic stroma with cancer-associated fibroblasts, pancreatic stellate cells, extracellular matrix, and immunosuppressive cells. Linked to this are genetic mutations in TP53 and immunosuppressive factors that act on T cells, resulting in a shortage of CD8+ T cells and limited expression of activation markers such as interferon-gamma. In this way, finding new strategies that make it possible to manipulate resistance mechanisms is necessary. Thus, techniques such as the use of TME modulators that block receptors and stromal molecules that generate resistance, the use of genetic manipulation in specific regions, such as microRNAs, the modulation of extrinsic and intrinsic factors associated with T cells, and, above all, therapeutic models that combine these modulation techniques constitute the promising future of PC therapy. Thus, this study aims to elucidate the main mechanisms of resistance to immunotherapy in PC and new ways of manipulating this process, resulting in a more efficient therapy for cancer patients and, consequently, a reduction in the lethality of this aggressive cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Fabian Fellipe Bueno Lemos
- Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Vitória da Conquista 45029-094, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Marcel Silva Luz
- Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Vitória da Conquista 45029-094, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Samuel Luca Rocha Pinheiro
- Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Vitória da Conquista 45029-094, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Mariana dos Santos Calmon
- Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Vitória da Conquista 45029-094, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Lima Correa Santos
- Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Vitória da Conquista 45029-094, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Reis Rocha
- Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Vitória da Conquista 45029-094, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Fabrício Freire de Melo
- Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Vitória da Conquista 45029-094, Bahia, Brazil
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27
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Parihar K, Ko SH, Bradley R, Taylor P, Ramakrishnan N, Baumgart T, Guo W, Weaver VM, Janmey PA, Radhakrishnan R. Free energy calculations for membrane morphological transformations and insights to physical biology and oncology. Methods Enzymol 2024; 701:359-386. [PMID: 39025576 PMCID: PMC11258396 DOI: 10.1016/bs.mie.2024.03.028] [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] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
In this chapter, we aim to bridge basic molecular and cellular principles surrounding membrane curvature generation with rewiring of cellular signals in cancer through multiscale models. We describe a general framework that integrates signaling with other cellular functions like trafficking, cell-cell and cell-matrix adhesion, and motility. The guiding question in our approach is: how does a physical change in cell membrane configuration caused by external stimuli (including those by the extracellular microenvironment) alter trafficking, signaling and subsequent cell fate? We answer this question by constructing a modeling framework based on stochastic spatial continuum models of cell membrane deformations. We apply this framework to explore the link between trafficking, signaling in the tumor microenvironment, and cell fate. At each stage, we aim to connect the results of our predictions with cellular experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kshitiz Parihar
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Seung-Hyun Ko
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Ryan Bradley
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Phillip Taylor
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - N Ramakrishnan
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Tobias Baumgart
- Department of Chemistry, School of Arts & Sciences, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Wei Guo
- Department of Biology, School of Arts & Sciences, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Valerie M Weaver
- Department of Surgery, Center for Bioengineering and Tissue Regeneration, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Paul A Janmey
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States; Department of Physiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Ravi Radhakrishnan
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States; Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States.
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Cepni B, Tessonnier T, Dokic I, Brons S, Tawk B, Mairani A, Abdollahi A, Debus J, Herfarth K, Liermann J. Evaluation of Helium Ion Radiotherapy in Combination with Gemcitabine in Pancreatic Cancer In Vitro. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1497. [PMID: 38672579 PMCID: PMC11049166 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16081497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pancreatic cancer is one of the most aggressive and lethal cancers. New treatment strategies are highly warranted. Particle radiotherapy could offer a way to overcome the radioresistant nature of pancreatic cancer because of its biological and physical characteristics. Within particles, helium ions represent an attractive therapy option to achieve the highest possible conformity while at the same time protecting the surrounding normal tissue. The aim of this study was to evaluate the cytotoxic efficacy of helium ion irradiation in pancreatic cancer in vitro. METHODS Human pancreatic cancer cell lines AsPC-1, BxPC-3 and Panc-1 were irradiated with photons and helium ions at various doses and treated with gemcitabine. Photon irradiation was performed with a biological cabin X-ray irradiator, and helium ion irradiation was performed with a spread-out Bragg peak using the raster scanning technique at the Heidelberg Ion Beam Therapy Center (HIT). The cytotoxic effect on pancreatic cancer cells was measured with clonogenic survival. The survival curves were compared to the predicted curves that were calculated via the modified microdosimetric kinetic model (mMKM). RESULTS The experimental relative biological effectiveness (RBE) of helium ion irradiation ranged from 1.0 to 1.7. The predicted survival curves obtained via mMKM calculations matched the experimental survival curves. Mainly additive cytotoxic effects were observed for the cell lines AsPC-1, BxPC-3 and Panc-1. CONCLUSION Our results demonstrate the cytotoxic efficacy of helium ion radiotherapy in pancreatic cancer in vitro as well as the capability of mMKM calculation and its value for biological plan optimization in helium ion therapy for pancreatic cancer. A combined treatment of helium irradiation and chemotherapy with gemcitabine leads to mainly additive cytotoxic effects in pancreatic cancer cell lines. The data generated in this study may serve as the radiobiological basis for future experimental and clinical works using helium ion radiotherapy in pancreatic cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bahar Cepni
- Heidelberg University School of Medicine, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany;
- Heidelberg Ion-Beam Therapy Center (HIT), Department of Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg University Hospital, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; (T.T.); (S.B.); (A.M.); (J.D.); (K.H.)
| | - Thomas Tessonnier
- Heidelberg Ion-Beam Therapy Center (HIT), Department of Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg University Hospital, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; (T.T.); (S.B.); (A.M.); (J.D.); (K.H.)
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Translational Radiation Oncology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) Core-Center Heidelberg, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Heidelberg University Hospital (UKHD) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; (I.D.); (B.T.); (A.A.)
- Division of Molecular and Translational Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg Faculty of Medicine (MFHD) and Heidelberg University Hospital (UKHD), Heidelberg Ion-Beam Therapy Center (HIT), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Heidelberg Institute of Radiation Oncology (HIRO), National Center for Radiation Oncology (NCRO), Heidelberg University Hospital and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ivana Dokic
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Translational Radiation Oncology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) Core-Center Heidelberg, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Heidelberg University Hospital (UKHD) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; (I.D.); (B.T.); (A.A.)
- Division of Molecular and Translational Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg Faculty of Medicine (MFHD) and Heidelberg University Hospital (UKHD), Heidelberg Ion-Beam Therapy Center (HIT), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Heidelberg Institute of Radiation Oncology (HIRO), National Center for Radiation Oncology (NCRO), Heidelberg University Hospital and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Stephan Brons
- Heidelberg Ion-Beam Therapy Center (HIT), Department of Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg University Hospital, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; (T.T.); (S.B.); (A.M.); (J.D.); (K.H.)
- Heidelberg Institute of Radiation Oncology (HIRO), National Center for Radiation Oncology (NCRO), Heidelberg University Hospital and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Bouchra Tawk
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Translational Radiation Oncology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) Core-Center Heidelberg, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Heidelberg University Hospital (UKHD) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; (I.D.); (B.T.); (A.A.)
- Division of Molecular and Translational Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg Faculty of Medicine (MFHD) and Heidelberg University Hospital (UKHD), Heidelberg Ion-Beam Therapy Center (HIT), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Andrea Mairani
- Heidelberg Ion-Beam Therapy Center (HIT), Department of Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg University Hospital, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; (T.T.); (S.B.); (A.M.); (J.D.); (K.H.)
- Division of Molecular and Translational Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg Faculty of Medicine (MFHD) and Heidelberg University Hospital (UKHD), Heidelberg Ion-Beam Therapy Center (HIT), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Heidelberg Institute of Radiation Oncology (HIRO), National Center for Radiation Oncology (NCRO), Heidelberg University Hospital and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Amir Abdollahi
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Translational Radiation Oncology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) Core-Center Heidelberg, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Heidelberg University Hospital (UKHD) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; (I.D.); (B.T.); (A.A.)
- Division of Molecular and Translational Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg Faculty of Medicine (MFHD) and Heidelberg University Hospital (UKHD), Heidelberg Ion-Beam Therapy Center (HIT), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Heidelberg Institute of Radiation Oncology (HIRO), National Center for Radiation Oncology (NCRO), Heidelberg University Hospital and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- National Center of Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg Institute of Radiation Oncology, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jürgen Debus
- Heidelberg Ion-Beam Therapy Center (HIT), Department of Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg University Hospital, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; (T.T.); (S.B.); (A.M.); (J.D.); (K.H.)
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Translational Radiation Oncology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) Core-Center Heidelberg, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Heidelberg University Hospital (UKHD) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; (I.D.); (B.T.); (A.A.)
- Division of Molecular and Translational Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg Faculty of Medicine (MFHD) and Heidelberg University Hospital (UKHD), Heidelberg Ion-Beam Therapy Center (HIT), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Heidelberg Institute of Radiation Oncology (HIRO), National Center for Radiation Oncology (NCRO), Heidelberg University Hospital and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- National Center of Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg Institute of Radiation Oncology, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Klaus Herfarth
- Heidelberg Ion-Beam Therapy Center (HIT), Department of Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg University Hospital, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; (T.T.); (S.B.); (A.M.); (J.D.); (K.H.)
- Heidelberg Institute of Radiation Oncology (HIRO), National Center for Radiation Oncology (NCRO), Heidelberg University Hospital and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- National Center of Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg Institute of Radiation Oncology, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jakob Liermann
- Heidelberg Ion-Beam Therapy Center (HIT), Department of Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg University Hospital, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; (T.T.); (S.B.); (A.M.); (J.D.); (K.H.)
- Heidelberg Institute of Radiation Oncology (HIRO), National Center for Radiation Oncology (NCRO), Heidelberg University Hospital and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- National Center of Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg Institute of Radiation Oncology, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
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Toledo B, Deiana C, Scianò F, Brandi G, Marchal JA, Perán M, Giovannetti E. Treatment resistance in pancreatic and biliary tract cancer: molecular and clinical pharmacology perspectives. Expert Rev Clin Pharmacol 2024; 17:323-347. [PMID: 38413373 DOI: 10.1080/17512433.2024.2319340] [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: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Treatment resistance poses a significant obstacle in oncology, especially in biliary tract cancer (BTC) and pancreatic cancer (PC). Current therapeutic options include chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. Resistance to these treatments may arise due to diverse molecular mechanisms, such as genetic and epigenetic modifications, altered drug metabolism and efflux, and changes in the tumor microenvironment. Identifying and overcoming these mechanisms is a major focus of research: strategies being explored include combination therapies, modulation of the tumor microenvironment, and personalized approaches. AREAS COVERED We provide a current overview and discussion of the most relevant mechanisms of resistance to chemotherapy, target therapy, and immunotherapy in both BTC and PC. Furthermore, we compare the different strategies that are being implemented to overcome these obstacles. EXPERT OPINION So far there is no unified theory on drug resistance and progress is limited. To overcome this issue, individualized patient approaches, possibly through liquid biopsies or single-cell transcriptome studies, are suggested, along with the potential use of artificial intelligence, to guide effective treatment strategies. Furthermore, we provide insights into what we consider the most promising areas of research, and we speculate on the future of managing treatment resistance to improve patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Belén Toledo
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Jaén, Jaén, Spain
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center (VUmc), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Chiara Deiana
- Medical Oncology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Fabio Scianò
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center (VUmc), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Lumobiotics GmbH, Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Giovanni Brandi
- Medical Oncology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Juan Antonio Marchal
- Biopathology and Regenerative Medicine Institute (IBIMER), Centre for Biomedical Research (CIBM), University of Granada, Granada, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria ibs. GRANADA, Hospitales Universitarios de Granada-Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
- Department of Human Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
- Excellence Research Unit "Modeling Nature" (MNat), University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Macarena Perán
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Jaén, Jaén, Spain
- Biopathology and Regenerative Medicine Institute (IBIMER), Centre for Biomedical Research (CIBM), University of Granada, Granada, Spain
- Excellence Research Unit "Modeling Nature" (MNat), University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Elisa Giovannetti
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center (VUmc), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Pharmacology Lab, Fondazione Pisana per la Scienza, Pisa, Italy
- Cancer Pharmacology Lab, Associazione Italiana per la Ricerca sul Cancro (AIRC) Start-Up Unit, Fondazione Pisana per la Scienza, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
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Chen C, Park AK, Monroy I, Ren Y, Kim SI, Chaurasiya S, Priceman SJ, Fong Y. Using Oncolytic Virus to Retask CD19-Chimeric Antigen Receptor T Cells for Treatment of Pancreatic Cancer: Toward a Universal Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-Cell Strategy for Solid Tumor. J Am Coll Surg 2024; 238:436-447. [PMID: 38214445 DOI: 10.1097/xcs.0000000000000964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells targeting the B-cell antigen CD19 are standard therapy for relapsed or refractory B-cell lymphoma and leukemia. CAR T cell therapy in solid tumors is limited due to an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and a lack of tumor-restricted antigens. We recently engineered an oncolytic virus (CF33) with high solid tumor affinity and specificity to deliver a nonsignaling truncated CD19 antigen (CD19t), allowing targeting by CD19-CAR T cells. Here, we tested this combination against pancreatic cancer. STUDY DESIGN We engineered CF33 to express a CD19t (CF33-CD19t) target. Flow cytometry and ELISA were performed to quantify CD19t expression, immune activation, and killing by virus and CD19-CAR T cells against various pancreatic tumor cells. Subcutaneous pancreatic human xenograft tumor models were treated with virus, CAR T cells, or virus+CAR T cells. RESULTS In vitro, CF33-CD19t infection of tumor cells resulted in >90% CD19t cell-surface expression. Coculturing CD19-CAR T cells with infected cells resulted in interleukin-2 and interferon gamma secretion, upregulation of T-cell activation markers, and synergistic cell killing. Combination therapy of virus+CAR T cells caused significant tumor regression (day 13): control (n = 16, 485 ± 20 mm 3 ), virus alone (n = 20, 254 ± 23 mm 3 , p = 0.0001), CAR T cells alone (n = 18, 466 ± 25 mm 3 , p = NS), and virus+CAR T cells (n = 16, 128 ± 14 mm 3 , p < 0.0001 vs control; p = 0.0003 vs virus). CONCLUSIONS Engineered CF33-CD19t effectively infects and expresses CD19t in pancreatic tumors, triggering cell killing and increased immunogenic response by CD19-CAR T cells. Notably, CF33-CD19t can turn cold immunologic tumors hot, enabling solid tumors to be targetable by agents designed against liquid tumor antigens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Courtney Chen
- From the Departments of Surgery (Chen, Kim, Chaurasiya, Fong)
| | - Anthony K Park
- Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation (Park, Monroy, Ren, Priceman)
- Irell and Manella Graduate School of Biological Sciences (Park), City of Hope, Duarte, CA
| | - Isabel Monroy
- Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation (Park, Monroy, Ren, Priceman)
| | - Yuwei Ren
- Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation (Park, Monroy, Ren, Priceman)
| | - Sang-In Kim
- From the Departments of Surgery (Chen, Kim, Chaurasiya, Fong)
| | | | - Saul J Priceman
- Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation (Park, Monroy, Ren, Priceman)
- Immuno-Oncology, Beckman Research Institute (Priceman)
| | - Yuman Fong
- From the Departments of Surgery (Chen, Kim, Chaurasiya, Fong)
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Gardner FP, Wainberg ZA, Fountzilas C, Bahary N, Womack MS, Macarulla T, Garrido-Laguna I, Peterson PM, Borazanci E, Johnson M, Ceccarelli M, Pelzer U. Results of a Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Phase 1b/2 Trial of Nabpaclitaxel + Gemcitabine ± Olaratumab in Treatment-Naïve Participants with Metastatic Pancreatic Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1323. [PMID: 38611000 PMCID: PMC11010910 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16071323] [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: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The efficacy and safety of olaratumab plus nabpaclitaxel and gemcitabine in treatment-naïve participants with metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma was evaluated. An initial phase 1b dose-escalation trial was conducted to determine the olaratumab dose for the phase 2 trial, a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial to compare overall survival (OS) in the olaratumab arm vs. placebo arms. In phase 1b, 22 participants received olaratumab at doses of 15 and 20 mg/kg with a fixed dose of nabpaclitaxel and gemcitabine. In phase 2, 159 participants were randomized to receive olaratumab 20 mg/kg in cycle 1 followed by 15 mg/kg in the subsequent cycles (n = 81) or the placebo (n = 78) on days 1, 8, and 15 of a 28-day cycle, plus nabpaclitaxel and gemcitabine. The primary objective of the trial was not met, with a median OS of 9.1 vs. 10.8 months (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.05; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.728, 1.527; p = 0.79) and the median progression-free survival (PFS) was 5.5 vs. 6.4 months (HR = 1.19; 95% CI: 0.806, 1.764; p = 0.38), in the olaratumab vs. placebo arms, respectively. The most common treatment-emergent adverse event of any grade across both arms was fatigue. Olaratumab plus chemotherapy failed to improve the OS or PFS in participants with metastatic PDAC. There were no new safety signals.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Nathan Bahary
- Allegheny Health Network Cancer Institute, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, USA;
| | | | - Teresa Macarulla
- Hospital Vall d’Hebrón, Vall d’Hebrón Institute of Oncology (VHIO), 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ignacio Garrido-Laguna
- Department of Internal Medicine, Huntsman Cancer Institute at University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Uwe Pelzer
- Medical Department, Division of Hematology, Oncology and Tumorimmunology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
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32
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Yan T, Wang L. Discovering ferroptosis-associated tumor antigens and ferroptosis subtypes in pancreatic adenocarcinoma to facilitate mRNA vaccine development. Heliyon 2024; 10:e27194. [PMID: 38463885 PMCID: PMC10923709 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e27194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 02/25/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAAD) is an aggressive, heterogeneous malignancy. We studied the potential of ferroptosis-related tumor vaccines for PAAD treatment. Ferroptosis-related genes, gene expression profiles, and clinical information were extracted from the FerrDB, UCSC Xena, and International Cancer Genome Consortium databases. Differential expression levels and prognostic indices were calculated, genetic alterations and correlations with immune-infiltrating cells were explored, and consensus clustering analysis was performed to identify ferroptosis subtypes and gene modules. Immune enrichment scores were calculated using gene set enrichment analysis, and gene modules were screened using weighted gene co-expression network analysis. The ferroptosis subtype distribution was visualized using graph learning-based dimensionality reduction analysis of the Monocle package with a Gaussian distribution. We identified four ferroptosis-related tumor antigens, AGPS, KDM5A, NRAS, and OSBPL9, which were associated with pancreatic cancer prognosis and antigen-presenting cell infiltration. We determined three minor ferroptosis subtypes, with different clinical prognosis and tumor immune status. Of the subtypes, FS3 may be more suitable for mRNA therapy. We constructed a PAAD ferroptosis landscape to identify the ferroptosis status of patients and predict their prognosis. Finally, we found that the eigengene of the green module was an independent prognostic factor, with a significantly better prognosis in the high-score group than in the low-score group. In conclusion, we identified four ferroptosis-related genes as targets for mRNA vaccines and three ferroptosis subtypes, providing a theoretical basis for the anti-PAAD mRNA vaccine and defining suitable patients for vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Yan
- Department of General Surgery, Second Affiliated People's Hospital, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Lingxiang Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
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Xiao C, Li J, Hua A, Wang X, Li S, Li Z, Xu C, Zhang Z, Yang X, Li Z. Hyperbaric Oxygen Boosts Antitumor Efficacy of Copper-Diethyldithiocarbamate Nanoparticles against Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma by Regulating Cancer Stem Cell Metabolism. RESEARCH (WASHINGTON, D.C.) 2024; 7:0335. [PMID: 38766644 PMCID: PMC11100349 DOI: 10.34133/research.0335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Cuproptosis-based cancer nanomedicine has received widespread attention recently. However, cuproptosis nanomedicine against pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is severely limited by cancer stem cells (CSCs), which reside in the hypoxic stroma and adopt glycolysis metabolism accordingly to resist cuproptosis-induced mitochondria damage. Here, we leverage hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) to regulate CSC metabolism by overcoming tumor hypoxia and to augment CSC elimination efficacy of polydopamine and hydroxyethyl starch stabilized copper-diethyldithiocarbamate nanoparticles (CuET@PH NPs). Mechanistically, while HBO and CuET@PH NPs inhibit glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation, respectively, the combination of HBO and CuET@PH NPs potently suppresses energy metabolism of CSCs, thereby achieving robust tumor inhibition of PDAC and elongating mice survival importantly. This study reveals novel insights into the effects of cuproptosis nanomedicine on PDAC CSC metabolism and suggests that the combination of HBO with cuproptosis nanomedicine holds significant clinical translation potential for PDAC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Xiao
- Department of Nanomedicine and Biopharmaceuticals, College of Life Science and Technology,
Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, P. R. China
| | - Jiayuan Li
- Department of Nanomedicine and Biopharmaceuticals, College of Life Science and Technology,
Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, P. R. China
| | - Ao Hua
- Department of Nanomedicine and Biopharmaceuticals, College of Life Science and Technology,
Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, P. R. China
| | - Xing Wang
- Department of Nanomedicine and Biopharmaceuticals, College of Life Science and Technology,
Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, P. R. China
| | - Shiyou Li
- Department of Nanomedicine and Biopharmaceuticals, College of Life Science and Technology,
Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, P. R. China
| | - Zheng Li
- Department of Nanomedicine and Biopharmaceuticals, College of Life Science and Technology,
Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, P. R. China
| | - Chen Xu
- Department of Nanomedicine and Biopharmaceuticals, College of Life Science and Technology,
Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, P. R. China
| | - Zhijie Zhang
- Department of Nanomedicine and Biopharmaceuticals, College of Life Science and Technology,
Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, P. R. China
| | - Xiangliang Yang
- Department of Nanomedicine and Biopharmaceuticals, College of Life Science and Technology,
Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, P. R. China
- National Engineering Research Center for Nanomedicine,
Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of Ministry of Education,
Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, P. R. China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic Chemistry and Materia Medical,
Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, P. R. China
- Hubei Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials and Medical Protective Materials,
Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, P. R. China
- Hubei Bioinformatics and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory,
Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, P. R. China
| | - Zifu Li
- Department of Nanomedicine and Biopharmaceuticals, College of Life Science and Technology,
Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, P. R. China
- National Engineering Research Center for Nanomedicine,
Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of Ministry of Education,
Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, P. R. China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic Chemistry and Materia Medical,
Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, P. R. China
- Hubei Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials and Medical Protective Materials,
Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, P. R. China
- Hubei Bioinformatics and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory,
Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, P. R. China
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Kim J, Lee TS, Lee MH, Cho IR, Ryu JK, Kim YT, Lee SH, Paik WH. Pancreatic Cancer Treatment Targeting the HGF/c-MET Pathway: The MEK Inhibitor Trametinib. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1056. [PMID: 38473413 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16051056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is characterized by fibrosis/desmoplasia in the tumor microenvironment, which is primarily mediated by pancreatic stellate cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts. HGF/c-MET signaling, which is instrumental in embryonic development and wound healing, is also implicated for its mitogenic and motogenic properties. In pancreatic cancer, this pathway, along with its downstream signaling pathways, is associated with disease progression, prognosis, metastasis, chemoresistance, and other tumor-related factors. Other features of the microenvironment in pancreatic cancer with the HGF/c-MET pathway include hypoxia, angiogenesis, metastasis, and the urokinase plasminogen activator positive feed-forward loop. All these attributes critically influence the initiation, progression, and metastasis of pancreatic cancer. Therefore, targeting the HGF/c-MET signaling pathway appears promising for the development of innovative drugs for pancreatic cancer treatment. One of the primary downstream effects of c-MET activation is the MAPK/ERK (Ras, Ras/Raf/MEK/ERK) signaling cascade, and MEK (Mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase) inhibitors have demonstrated therapeutic value in RAS-mutant melanoma and lung cancer. Trametinib is a selective MEK1 and MEK2 inhibitor, and it has evolved as a pivotal therapeutic agent targeting the MAPK/ERK pathway in various malignancies, including BRAF-mutated melanoma, non-small cell lung cancer and thyroid cancer. The drug's effectiveness increases when combined with agents like BRAF inhibitors. However, resistance remains a challenge, necessitating ongoing research to counteract the resistance mechanisms. This review offers an in-depth exploration of the HGF/c-MET signaling pathway, trametinib's mechanism, clinical applications, combination strategies, and future directions in the context of pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junyeol Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae Seung Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Myeong Hwan Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - In Rae Cho
- Department of Internal Medicine, Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji Kon Ryu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong-Tae Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Hyub Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Woo Hyun Paik
- Department of Internal Medicine, Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
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Takai M, Yashiro N, Hara K, Amano Y, Yamamoto M, Tsujiuchi T. Roles of lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) receptor-mediated signaling in cellular functions modulated by endothelial cells in pancreatic cancer cells under hypoxic conditions. Pathol Res Pract 2024; 255:155192. [PMID: 38367602 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2024.155192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the tumor environment, malignant characteristics of cancer cells are promoted by stromal cells under hypoxia. It is unknown whether lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) receptor-mediated signaling is involved in the regulation of cellular functions by endothelial cells in pancreatic cancer cells under hypoxic conditions. METHODS Pancreatic cancer (PANC-1) cells were co-cultured with endothelial (F2) cells and F2 cell supernatants at 21% and 1% O2. The Cell Culture Insert was used to assess the cell motile activity. The cell growth and viability to cisplatin (CDDP) were measured, using the Cell Counting Kit-8. RESULTS LPA receptor expression levels were changed in PANC-1 cells co-cultured with F2 cells at 21% and 1% O2. The cell motile activities of PANC-1 cells co-cultured with F2 cells at 21% and 1% O2 were markedly elevated, compared with PANC-1 cells alone. The cell viabilities to CDDP of PANC-1 cells co-cultured with F2 cell supernatants at 21% and 1% O2 were regulated by the activation of LPA receptors. CONCLUSION These results suggest that LPA receptor-mediated signaling plays an important role in the modulation of pancreatic cancer cell functions by endothelial cells under hypoxic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miwa Takai
- Division of Molecular Oncology, Department of Life Science, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Kindai University, 3-4-1, Kowakae, Higashiosaka, Osaka 577-8502, Japan
| | - Narumi Yashiro
- Division of Molecular Oncology, Department of Life Science, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Kindai University, 3-4-1, Kowakae, Higashiosaka, Osaka 577-8502, Japan
| | - Koki Hara
- Division of Molecular Oncology, Department of Life Science, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Kindai University, 3-4-1, Kowakae, Higashiosaka, Osaka 577-8502, Japan
| | - Yuka Amano
- Division of Molecular Oncology, Department of Life Science, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Kindai University, 3-4-1, Kowakae, Higashiosaka, Osaka 577-8502, Japan
| | - Mao Yamamoto
- Division of Molecular Oncology, Department of Life Science, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Kindai University, 3-4-1, Kowakae, Higashiosaka, Osaka 577-8502, Japan
| | - Toshifumi Tsujiuchi
- Division of Molecular Oncology, Department of Life Science, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Kindai University, 3-4-1, Kowakae, Higashiosaka, Osaka 577-8502, Japan.
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Li J, Wei T, Ma K, Zhang J, Lu J, Zhao J, Huang J, Zeng T, Xie Y, Liang Y, Li X, Zhang Q, Liang T. Single-cell RNA sequencing highlights epithelial and microenvironmental heterogeneity in malignant progression of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Cancer Lett 2024; 584:216607. [PMID: 38246225 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
Intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMNs) of the pancreas are bona fide precursor lesions of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Single-cell transcriptomics provides a unique perspective for dissecting the epithelial and microenvironmental heterogeneity that accompanies progression from benign IPMNs to invasive PDAC. Single-cell RNA sequencing was performed through droplet-based sequencing on 35 693 cells from three high-grade IPMNs and two IPMN-derived PDACs (all surgically resected). Analysis of single-cell transcriptomes revealed heterogeneous alterations within the epithelium and the tumor microenvironment during the progression of noninvasive dysplasia to invasive cancer. For epithelial cells, we identified acinar-ductal cells and isthmus-pit cells enriched in IPMN lesions and profiled three types of PDAC-unique ductal cells. Notably, a proinflammatory immune component was distinctly observed in IPMNs, comprising CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, and B cells, whereas M2 macrophages were significantly accumulated in PDAC. Through the analysis of cellular communication, the osteopontin gene (SPP1)-CD44 pathway between macrophages and epithelial cells were particularly strengthened in the PDAC group. Further prognostic analysis revealed that SPP1 is a biomarker of IPMN carcinogenesis for surveillance. This study demonstrates the ability to perform high-resolution profiling of single cellular transcriptomes during the progression of high-grade IPMNs to cancer. Notably, single-cell analysis provides an unparalleled insight into both epithelial and microenvironmental heterogeneity associated with early cancer pathogenesis and provides practical markers for surveillance and targets for cancer interception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China; Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China
| | - Tao Wei
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China; Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China
| | - Ke Ma
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China; Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China
| | - Jian Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China; Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China
| | - Jianfeng Lu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China; Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China
| | - Jianhui Zhao
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China; Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China
| | - Jinyan Huang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China; Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China
| | - Tao Zeng
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China; Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China
| | - Yali Xie
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China; Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China
| | - Yingjiqiong Liang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China; Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China
| | - Xuejie Li
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Medical School of Zhejiang University, China
| | - Qi Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China; Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China
| | - Tingbo Liang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China; Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China; Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, China.
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Han F, Wang Y, Dong X, Lin Q, Wang Y, Gao W, Yun M, Li Y, Gao S, Huang H, Li N, Luo T, Luo X, Qiu M, Zhang D, Yan K, Li A, Liu Z. Clinical sonochemotherapy of inoperable pancreatic cancer using diagnostic ultrasound and microbubbles: a multicentre, open-label, randomised, controlled trial. Eur Radiol 2024; 34:1481-1492. [PMID: 37796294 DOI: 10.1007/s00330-023-10210-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 07/02/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Sonochemotherapy, which uses microbubble (MB)-assisted ultrasound (US) to deliver chemotherapeutic agents, has the potential to enhance tumour chemotherapy. The combination of US and MB has been demonstrated to prolong the survival of patients with pancreatic cancer. This phase 2 clinical trial aimed to determine the clinical efficacy and safety of sonochemotherapy for inoperable pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma by using US and MB. METHODS Eighty-two patients with stage III or IV pancreatic cancer were recruited from July 2018 to March 2021 and followed up until September 2022. US treatment was performed with a modified diagnostic US scanner for 30 min after chemotherapeutic infusion. The primary endpoint was overall survival (OS), and the secondary endpoints were Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) status < 2, progression-free survival (PFS), disease control rate (DCR), and adverse events. RESULTS Seventy-eight patients were randomly allocated (40 to chemotherapy and 38 to sonochemotherapy). The median OS was longer with sonochemotherapy than with chemotherapy (9.10 vs. 6.10 months; p = 0.037). The median PFS with sonochemotherapy was 5.50 months, compared with 3.50 months (p = 0.080) for chemotherapy. The time of ECOG status < 2 was longer with sonochemotherapy (7.20 months) than with chemotherapy (5.00 months; p = 0.029). The DCR was 73.68% for sonochemotherapy compared with 42.50% for the control (p = 0.005). The incidence of overall adverse events was balanced between the two groups. CONCLUSIONS The use of sonochemotherapy can extend the survival and well-being time of stage III or IV pancreatic cancer patients without any increase in serious adverse events. TRIAL REGISTRATION ChineseClinicalTrials.gov ChiCTR2100044721 CLINICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT: This multicentre, randomised, controlled trial has proven that sonochemotherapy, namely, the combination of diagnostic ultrasound, microbubbles, and chemotherapy, could extend the overall survival of patients with end-stage pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma from 6.10 to 9.10 months without increasing any serious adverse events. KEY POINTS • This is the first multicentre, randomised, controlled trial of sonochemotherapy for clinical pancreatic cancer treatment using ultrasound and a commercial ultrasound contrast agent. • Sonochemotherapy extended the median overall survival from 6.10 (chemotherapy alone) to 9.10 months. • The disease control rate increased from 42.50% with chemotherapy to 73.68% with sonochemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Han
- Department of Ultrasound, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, 651 Dongfengdong Road, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Yanjie Wang
- Department of Ultrasound, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, No. 52 of Fucheng Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100142, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Dong
- Department of Ultrasound, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Qingguang Lin
- Department of Ultrasound, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, 651 Dongfengdong Road, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Yixi Wang
- Department of Ultrasound, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, No. 52 of Fucheng Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100142, China
| | - Wenhong Gao
- Department of Ultrasound, General Hospital of Central Theater, Wuhan, China
| | - Miao Yun
- Department of Ultrasound, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, 651 Dongfengdong Road, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, Key laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Shunji Gao
- Department of Ultrasound, General Hospital of Central Theater, Wuhan, China
| | - Huilong Huang
- Department of Ultrasound, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ningshan Li
- Department of Ultrasound, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Tingting Luo
- Department of Ultrasound, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiao Luo
- Department of Radiology, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Miaozhen Qiu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Dongsheng Zhang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kun Yan
- Department of Ultrasound, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, No. 52 of Fucheng Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100142, China.
| | - Anhua Li
- Department of Ultrasound, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, 651 Dongfengdong Road, Guangzhou, 510060, China.
| | - Zheng Liu
- Department of Ultrasound, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China.
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Abudu O, Nguyen D, Millward I, Manning JE, Wahid M, Lightfoot A, Marcon F, Merard R, Margielewska-Davies S, Roberts K, Brown R, Powell-Brett S, Nicol SM, Zayou F, Croft WD, Pearce H, Moss P, Iqbal AJ, McGettrick HM. Interplay in galectin expression predicts patient outcomes in a spatially restricted manner in PDAC. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 172:116283. [PMID: 38377735 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116283] [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: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Galectins (Gal's) are a family of carbohydrate-binding proteins that are known to support the tumour microenvironment through their immunosuppressive activity and ability to promote metastasis. As such they are attractive therapeutic targets, but little is known about the cellular expression pattern of galectins within the tumour and its neighbouring stromal microenvironment. Here we investigated the cellular expression pattern of Gals within pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). METHODS Galectin gene and protein expression were analysed by scRNAseq (n=4) and immunofluorescence imaging (n=19) in fibroblasts and epithelial cells of pancreatic biopsies from PDAC patients. Galectin surface expression was also assessed on tumour adjacent normal fibroblasts and cancer associated primary fibroblasts from PDAC biopsies using flow cytometry. RESULTS scRNAseq revealed higher Gal-1 expression in fibroblasts and higher Gal-3 and -4 expression in epithelial cells. Both podoplanin (PDPN+, stromal/fibroblast) cells and EpCAM+ epithelial cells expressed Gal-1 protein, with highest expression seen in the stromal compartment. By contrast, significantly more Gal-3 and -4 protein was expressed in ductal cells expressing either EpCAM or PDPN, when compared to the stroma. Ductal Gal-4 cellular expression negatively correlated with ductal Gal-1, but not Gal-3 expression. Higher ductal cellular expression of Gal-1 correlated with smaller tumour size and better patient survival. CONCLUSIONS In summary, the intricate interplay and cell-specific expression patterns of galectins within the PDAC tissue, particularly the inverse correlation between Gal-1 and Gal-4 in ducts and its significant association with patient survival, highlights the complex molecular landscape underlying PDAC and provides valuable insights for future therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oladimeji Abudu
- Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Duy Nguyen
- Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Isabel Millward
- Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Julia E Manning
- Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Mussarat Wahid
- Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Abbey Lightfoot
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Francesca Marcon
- University Hospital Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham B15 2WB, UK
| | - Reena Merard
- University Hospital Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham B15 2WB, UK
| | | | - Keith Roberts
- University Hospital Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham B15 2WB, UK
| | - Rachel Brown
- University Hospital Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham B15 2WB, UK
| | - Sarah Powell-Brett
- University Hospital Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham B15 2WB, UK
| | - Samantha M Nicol
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Fouzia Zayou
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Wayne D Croft
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Hayden Pearce
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Paul Moss
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Asif J Iqbal
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK.
| | - Helen M McGettrick
- Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK.
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Kast RE. IPIAD- an augmentation regimen added to standard treatment of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma using already-marketed repurposed drugs irbesartan, pyrimethamine, itraconazole, azithromycin, and dapsone. Oncoscience 2024; 11:15-31. [PMID: 38524376 PMCID: PMC10959018 DOI: 10.18632/oncoscience.594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
This short note presents the data and rationale for adding five generic non-oncology drugs from general medical practice to gemcitabine, nab-paclitaxel, a current standard cytotoxic chemotherapy of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. The regimen, called IPIAD, uses an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) irbesartan indicated for treating hypertension, an old antimicrobial drug pyrimethamine indicated for treating toxoplasmosis or malaria, an old antifungal drug itraconazole, an old broad spectrum antibiotic azithromycin and an old antibiotic dapsone. In reviewing selected growth driving systems active in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma then comparing these with detailed data on ancillary attributes of the IPIAD drugs, one can predict clinical benefit and slowing growth of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma by this augmentation regimen.
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Joseph AM, Al Aiyan A, Al-Ramadi B, Singh SK, Kishore U. Innate and adaptive immune-directed tumour microenvironment in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1323198. [PMID: 38384463 PMCID: PMC10879611 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1323198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
One of the most deadly and aggressive cancers in the world, pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), typically manifests at an advanced stage. PDAC is becoming more common, and by the year 2030, it is expected to overtake lung cancer as the second greatest cause of cancer-related death. The poor prognosis can be attributed to a number of factors, including difficulties in early identification, a poor probability of curative radical resection, limited response to chemotherapy and radiotherapy, and its immunotherapy resistance. Furthermore, an extensive desmoplastic stroma that surrounds PDAC forms a mechanical barrier that prevents vascularization and promotes poor immune cell penetration. Phenotypic heterogeneity, drug resistance, and immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment are the main causes of PDAC aggressiveness. There is a complex and dynamic interaction between tumor cells in PDAC with stromal cells within the tumour immune microenvironment. The immune suppressive microenvironment that promotes PDAC aggressiveness is contributed by a range of cellular and humoral factors, which itself are modulated by the cancer. In this review, we describe the role of innate and adaptive immune cells, complex tumor microenvironment in PDAC, humoral factors, innate immune-mediated therapeutic advances, and recent clinical trials in PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann Mary Joseph
- Department of Veterinary Medicine (CAVM), United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ahmad Al Aiyan
- Department of Veterinary Medicine (CAVM), United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Basel Al-Ramadi
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
- Zayed Center for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
- ASPIRE Precision Medicine Research Institute Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Shiv K. Singh
- Department of Gastroenterology and Gastrointestinal Oncology, University Medical Center, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Uday Kishore
- Department of Veterinary Medicine (CAVM), United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
- Zayed Center for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
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Chen K, Cheng X, Xue S, Chen J, Zhang X, Qi Y, Chen R, Zhang Y, Wang H, Li W, Cheng G, Huang Y, Xiong Y, Chen L, Mu C, Gu M. Albumin conjugation promotes arsenic trioxide transport through alkaline phosphatase-associated transcytosis in MUC4 wildtype pancreatic cancer cells. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 257:128756. [PMID: 38092098 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.128756] [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: 05/28/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) has a poor prognosis due to chemotherapy resistance and unfavorable drug transportation. Albumin conjugates are commonly used as drug carriers to overcome these obstacles. However, membrane-bound glycoprotein mucin 4 (MUC4) has emerged as a promising biomarker among the genetic mutations affecting albumin conjugates therapeutic window. Human serum albumin-conjugated arsenic trioxide (HSA-ATO) has shown potential in treating solid tumors but is limited in PC therapy due to unclear targets and mechanisms. This study investigated the transport mechanisms and therapeutic efficacy of HSA-ATO in PC cells with different MUC4 mutation statuses. Results revealed improved penetration of ATO into PC tumors through conjugated with HSA. However, MUC4 mutation significantly affected treatment sensitivity and HSA-ATO uptake both in vitro and in vivo. Mutant MUC4 cells exhibited over ten times higher IC50 for HSA-ATO and approximately half the uptake compared to wildtype cells. Further research demonstrated that ALPL activation by HSA-ATO enhanced transcytosis in wildtype MUC4 PC cells but not in mutant MUC4 cells, leading to impaired uptake and weaker antitumor effects. Reprogramming the transport process holds potential for enhancing albumin conjugate efficacy in PC patients with different MUC4 mutation statuses, paving the way for stratified treatment using these delivery vehicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaidi Chen
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, Zhejiang, PR China
| | - Xiao Cheng
- Huzhou Institute for Food and Drug Control, Huzhou 313000, PR China
| | - Shuai Xue
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, Zhejiang, PR China
| | - Junyan Chen
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, Zhejiang, PR China
| | - Xu Zhang
- Zhejiang Heze Pharmaceutical Technology Co., Ltd., Hangzhou 310018, Zhejiang, PR China
| | - Yuwei Qi
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, Zhejiang, PR China
| | - Rong Chen
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, Zhejiang, PR China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Red Cross Hospital, Hangzhou 310003, Zhejiang, PR China
| | - Hangjie Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, Zhejiang, PR China
| | - Wei Li
- Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, Zhejiang, PR China
| | - Guilin Cheng
- Department of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Red Cross Hospital, Hangzhou 310003, Zhejiang, PR China
| | - Ye Huang
- Department of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Provincial Dermatology Hospital, Huzhou 313200, Zhejiang, PR China
| | - Yang Xiong
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, Zhejiang, PR China; Department of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Red Cross Hospital, Hangzhou 310003, Zhejiang, PR China
| | - Liping Chen
- Wenzhou Institute, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wenzhou 325001, Zhejiang, PR China; School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, Jiangsu, PR China.
| | - Chaofeng Mu
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, Zhejiang, PR China.
| | - Mancang Gu
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, Zhejiang, PR China; Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, Zhejiang, PR China.
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Li X, Kong R, Hou W, Cao J, Zhang L, Qian X, Zhao L, Ying W. Integrative proteomics and n-glycoproteomics reveal the synergistic anti-tumor effects of aspirin- and gemcitabine-based chemotherapy on pancreatic cancer cells. Cell Oncol (Dordr) 2024; 47:141-156. [PMID: 37639207 DOI: 10.1007/s13402-023-00856-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE AND DESIGN Pancreatic cancer is a highly malignant tumor that is well known for its poor prognosis. Based on glycosylation, we performed integrated quantitative N-glycoproteomics to investigate the synergistic anti-tumor effects of aspirin and gemcitabine on pancreatic cancer cells and explore the potential molecular mechanisms of chemotherapy in pancreatic cancer. METHODS AND RESULTS Two pancreatic cancer cell lines (PANC-1 and BxPC-3) were treated with gemcitabine, aspirin, and a combination (gemcitabine + aspirin). We found that the addition of aspirin enhanced the inhibitory effect of gemcitabine on the activity of PANC-1 and BxPC-3 cells. Quantitative N-glycoproteome, proteome, phosphorylation, and transcriptome data were obtained from integrated multi-omics analysis to evaluate the anti-tumor effects of aspirin and gemcitabine on pancreatic cancer cells. Mfuzz analysis of intact N-glycopeptide profiles revealed two consistent trends associated with the addition of aspirin, which showed a strong relationship between N-glycosylation and the synergistic effect of aspirin. Further analysis demonstrated that the dynamic regulation of sialylation and high-mannose glycoforms on ECM-related proteins (LAMP1, LAMP2, ITGA3, etc.) was a significant factor for the ability of aspirin to promote the anti-tumor activity of gemcitabine and the drug resistance of pancreatic cancer cells. CONCLUSIONS In-depth analysis of N-glycosylation-related processes and pathways in pancreatic cancer cells can provide new insight for future studies regarding pancreatic cancer therapeutic targets and drug resistance mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyu Li
- State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, Beijing Proteome Research Center, National Center for Protein Sciences (Beijing), Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, No. 38 Life Park Road, Changping District, Beijing, 102206, China
- Institute of Analysis and Testing, Beijing Center for Physical & Chemical Analysis), Beijing Academy of Science and Technology, Beijing, 100094, China
| | - Ran Kong
- State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, Beijing Proteome Research Center, National Center for Protein Sciences (Beijing), Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, No. 38 Life Park Road, Changping District, Beijing, 102206, China
- Biomedical Engineering Department, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Wenhao Hou
- State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, Beijing Proteome Research Center, National Center for Protein Sciences (Beijing), Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, No. 38 Life Park Road, Changping District, Beijing, 102206, China
| | - Junxia Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, Beijing Proteome Research Center, National Center for Protein Sciences (Beijing), Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, No. 38 Life Park Road, Changping District, Beijing, 102206, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Center for Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, School of Life Sciences, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaohong Qian
- State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, Beijing Proteome Research Center, National Center for Protein Sciences (Beijing), Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, No. 38 Life Park Road, Changping District, Beijing, 102206, China
| | - Lijiao Zhao
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental and Viral Oncology, Faculty of Environment and Life, Beijing University of Technology, No. 100 Ping Le Yuan, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100124, China.
| | - Wantao Ying
- State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, Beijing Proteome Research Center, National Center for Protein Sciences (Beijing), Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, No. 38 Life Park Road, Changping District, Beijing, 102206, China.
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Sini MC, Doro MG, Frogheri L, Zinellu A, Paliogiannis P, Porcu A, Scognamillo F, Delogu D, Santeufemia DA, Persico I, Palomba G, Maestrale GB, Cossu A, Palmieri G. Combination of mutations in genes controlling DNA repair and high mutational load plays a prognostic role in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC): a retrospective real-life study in Sardinian population. J Transl Med 2024; 22:108. [PMID: 38280995 PMCID: PMC10821545 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-04923-3] [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: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 01/29/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDCA) carrying impaired mismatch repair mechanisms seem to have an outcome advantage under treatment with conventional chemotherapy, whereas the role for the tumor mutation burden on prognosis is controversial. In this study, we evaluated the prognostic role of the mutated genes involved in genome damage repair in a real-life series of PDAC patients in a hospital-based manner from the main Institution deputed to surgically treat such a disease in North Sardinia. METHODS A cohort of fifty-five consecutive PDAC patients with potentially resectable/border line resectable PDAC (stage IIB-III) or oligometastatic disease (stage IV) and tumor tissue availability underwent next-generation sequencing (NGS)-based analysis using a panel containing driver oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes as well as genes controlling DNA repair mechanisms. RESULTS Genes involved in the both genome damage repair (DR) and DNA mismatch repair (MMR) were found mutated in 17 (31%) and 15 (27%) cases, respectively. One fourth of PDAC cases (14/55; 25.5%) carried tumors presenting a combination of mutations in repair genes (DR and MMR) and the highest mutation load rates (MLR-H). After correction for confounders (surgery, adjuvant therapy, stage T, and metastasis), multivariate Cox regression analysis indicated that mutations in DR genes (HR = 3.0126, 95% CI 1.0707 to 8.4764, p = 0.0367) and the MLR (HR = 1.0018, 95%CI 1.0005 to 1.0032, p = 0.009) were significantly related to worse survival. CONCLUSIONS The combination of mutated repair genes and MLR-H, which is associated with a worse survival in our series of PDAC patients treated with conventional chemotherapy protocols, might become a predictive biomarker of response to immunotherapy in addition to its prognostic role in predicting survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Cristina Sini
- Unit of Cancer Genetics, Institute of Genetic Biomedical Research (IRGB), National Research Council (CNR), Sassari, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Doro
- Unit of Cancer Genetics, Institute of Genetic Biomedical Research (IRGB), National Research Council (CNR), Sassari, Italy
| | - Laura Frogheri
- Unit of Cancer Genetics, Institute of Genetic Biomedical Research (IRGB), National Research Council (CNR), Sassari, Italy
| | - Angelo Zinellu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Panagiotis Paliogiannis
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pharmacy, University of Sassari, Traversa La Crucca 3, 07100, Sassari, Italy
| | - Alberto Porcu
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pharmacy, University of Sassari, Traversa La Crucca 3, 07100, Sassari, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Scognamillo
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pharmacy, University of Sassari, Traversa La Crucca 3, 07100, Sassari, Italy
| | - Daniele Delogu
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pharmacy, University of Sassari, Traversa La Crucca 3, 07100, Sassari, Italy
| | | | - Ivana Persico
- Unit of Cancer Genetics, Institute of Genetic Biomedical Research (IRGB), National Research Council (CNR), Sassari, Italy
| | - Grazia Palomba
- Unit of Cancer Genetics, Institute of Genetic Biomedical Research (IRGB), National Research Council (CNR), Sassari, Italy
| | - Giovanni Battista Maestrale
- Unit of Cancer Genetics, Institute of Genetic Biomedical Research (IRGB), National Research Council (CNR), Sassari, Italy
| | - Antonio Cossu
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pharmacy, University of Sassari, Traversa La Crucca 3, 07100, Sassari, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Palmieri
- Unit of Cancer Genetics, Institute of Genetic Biomedical Research (IRGB), National Research Council (CNR), Sassari, Italy.
- Immuno-Oncology & Targeted Cancer Biotherapies, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy.
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Obaid G, Eroy M, Zhao J, Bano S, Mino-Kenudson M, Hasan T. Immunofluorescence profiling of collagen subtypes is a predictor of treatment outcomes in pancreatic cancer. JOURNAL OF PHOTOCHEMISTRY AND PHOTOBIOLOGY. B, BIOLOGY 2024; 250:112811. [PMID: 38000171 PMCID: PMC10841621 DOI: 10.1016/j.jphotobiol.2023.112811] [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] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
Desmoplasia in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is characterized by elevated levels of tumor collagen. Desmoplasia restricts drug delivery in PDAC, contributes to treatment resistance, and is associated with poor survival outcomes. We have previously shown that photodynamic therapy (PDT)-based treatment remediates desmoplasia in orthotopic PDAC tumors by reducing second harmonic generation signals from collagen by >90% and by reducing collagen alignment by >103-fold [19]. Remediating desmoplasia correlated with improved survival outcomes in mice. To understand this phenomenon at a fundamental level, it is important to dissect the impact of therapy on collagen subtypes. In this study, we demonstrate that immunofluorescence profiling of collagen subtypes I, II, III and IV in PDAC tumors 72 h following multiple treatment regimens is predictive of long-term outcomes. Treatment regimens include nanoliposomal irinotecan chemotherapy (nal-IRI; akin to ONIVYDE™), a combination of nal-IRI chemotherapy with PDT encapsulated in a single photoactivable multi-inhibitor liposome (PMIL) and an EGFR-targeted PMIL construct (TPMIL). Results show that the relative tumor content of collagen I, II and III was inversely correlated with overall survival (P ≤ 0.0013, P ≤ 0.0001, P ≤ 0.0011, respectively), while, surprisingly, the relative tumor content of collagen IV was directly correlated with overall survival (P ≤ 0.0001). Similar relationships were observed between the relative tumor content of collagen subtypes and the residual tumor volume at day 88 following treatment. Considering that the relationship between collagen subtypes and treatment outcomes is observed across multiple treatment regimens, immunofluorescence profiling at 72 h following treatment appears to be predictive of tumor growth inhibition and survival in PDAC. Early immunofluorescence collagen subtype profiling may therefore aid in treatment personalization and may inform the dosimetry and scheduling of combination regimens for PDAC, such as chemotherapy and emerging PDT-based combinations, to maximize patient survival benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Girgis Obaid
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, USA; Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Menitte Eroy
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, USA
| | - Jie Zhao
- Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Shazia Bano
- Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Mari Mino-Kenudson
- Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Tayyaba Hasan
- Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA; Division of Health Sciences and Technology, Harvard University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA.
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van Eijck CWF, Strijk G, Vietsch EE, van der Sijde F, Verheij M, Mustafa DAM, Vink M, Aerts JGJV, van Eijck CHJ, Willemsen M. FOLFIRINOX chemotherapy modulates the peripheral immune landscape in pancreatic cancer: Implications for combination therapies and early response prediction. Eur J Cancer 2024; 196:113440. [PMID: 37988843 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2023.113440] [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: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND FOLFIRINOX chemotherapy has improved outcomes for pancreatic cancer patients, but poor long-term survival outcomes and high toxicity remain challenges. This study investigates the impact of FOLFIRINOX on plasma proteins and peripheral immune cells to guide immune-based combination therapies and, ideally, to identify a potential biomarker to predict early disease progression during FOLFIRINOX. METHODS Blood samples were collected from 86 pancreatic cancer patients before and two weeks after the first FOLFIRINOX cycle and subjected to comprehensive immune cell and proteome profiling. Principal Component Analysis and Linear Mixed Effect Regression models were used for data analysis. FOLFIRINOX efficacy was radiologically evaluated after the fourth cycle. RESULTS One cycle of FOLFIRINOX diminished tumour-cell-related pathways and enhanced pathways related to immune activation, illustrated by an increase in pro-inflammatory IL-18, IL-15, and TNFRSF4. Similarly, FOLFIRINOX promoted the activation of CD4 + and CD8 + T cells, the proliferation of NK(T), and the activation of antigen-presenting cells. Furthermore, high pre-treatment levels of VEGFA and PRDX3 and an elevation in FCRL3 levels after one cycle predicted early progression under FOLFIRINOX. Finally, patients with progressive disease exhibited high levels of inhibitory markers on B cells and CD8 + T cells, while responding patients exhibited high levels of activation markers on CD4 + and CD8 + T cell subsets. CONCLUSION FOLFIRINOX has immunomodulatory effects, providing a foundation for clinical trials exploring immune-based combination therapies that harness the immune system to treat pancreatic cancer. In addition, several plasma proteins hold potential as circulating predictive biomarkers for early prediction of FOLFIRINOX response in patients with pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Casper W F van Eijck
- Department of Surgery, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Genetic and Molecular Epidemiology Group, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre, Madrid, Spain
| | - Gaby Strijk
- Department of Surgery, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Eveline E Vietsch
- Department of Surgery, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Fleur van der Sijde
- Department of Surgery, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Maaike Verheij
- Department of Surgery, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Dana A M Mustafa
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Madelief Vink
- Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Joachim G J V Aerts
- Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Casper H J van Eijck
- Department of Surgery, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Genetic and Molecular Epidemiology Group, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre, Madrid, Spain
| | - Marcella Willemsen
- Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
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Schoumacher C, Derangère V, Gaudillière-Le Dain G, Huppe T, Rageot D, Ilie A, Vienot A, Borg C, Monnien F, Bibeau F, Truntzer C, Ghiringhelli F. CD3-CD8 immune score associated with a clinical score stratifies PDAC prognosis regardless of adjuvant or neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Oncoimmunology 2023; 13:2294563. [PMID: 38169969 PMCID: PMC10761164 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2023.2294563] [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: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Stratification of the prognosis of pancreatic cancer (PDAC) patients treated by surgery is based solely on clinical variables, such as tumor stage and node status. The development of biomarkers of relapse is needed, especially to drive administration of adjuvant therapy in this at-risk population. Our study evaluates the prognostic performance of a CD3- and CD8-based immune score. CD3, CD8 and Foxp3 expression were evaluated on whole slides in two retrospective PDAC cohorts totaling 334 patients. For this study, we developed an immune score to estimate CD3 and CD8 infiltration in both tumor core and invasive margin using computer-guided analysis with QuPath software. Variables were combined in a dichotomous immune score. The association between immune and clinical scores, and both PFS and OS was investigated. We observed that a dichotomous immune score predicts both PFS and OS of localized PDAC. By univariate and multivariate analysis, immune score, tumor grade, adjuvant therapy, lymph node status, and adjuvant chemotherapy administration were associated with PFS and OS. We subsequently associated the PDAC immune score and clinical variables in a combined score. This combined score predicted patient outcomes independently of adjuvant or neoadjuvant treatment, and improved patient prognostic prediction compared to clinical variables or immune score alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Coralie Schoumacher
- Cancer Biology Transfer Platform, Centre Georges-François Leclerc, Dijon, France
| | - Valentin Derangère
- Cancer Biology Transfer Platform, Centre Georges-François Leclerc, Dijon, France
- INSERM LNC-UMR1231 Research Center, TIRECS Team, Dijon, France
| | | | - Titouan Huppe
- Cancer Biology Transfer Platform, Centre Georges-François Leclerc, Dijon, France
| | - David Rageot
- Cancer Biology Transfer Platform, Centre Georges-François Leclerc, Dijon, France
- INSERM LNC-UMR1231 Research Center, TIRECS Team, Dijon, France
| | - Alis Ilie
- Cancer Biology Transfer Platform, Centre Georges-François Leclerc, Dijon, France
| | | | - Christophe Borg
- Department of Medical Oncology, CHU Besançon, Besançon, France
| | | | | | - Caroline Truntzer
- Cancer Biology Transfer Platform, Centre Georges-François Leclerc, Dijon, France
- INSERM LNC-UMR1231 Research Center, TIRECS Team, Dijon, France
| | - François Ghiringhelli
- Cancer Biology Transfer Platform, Centre Georges-François Leclerc, Dijon, France
- INSERM LNC-UMR1231 Research Center, TIRECS Team, Dijon, France
- Genetic and Immunology Medical Institute, GIMI, Dijon, France
- Department of Medical Oncology, Centre Georges-François Leclerc, Dijon, France
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Lazarovits J, Epelbaum R, Lachter J, Amikam Y, Ben Arie J. Multisite Is Superior to Single-Site Intratumoral Chemotherapy to Retard the Outcomes of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma in a Murine Model. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:5801. [PMID: 38136347 PMCID: PMC10742304 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15245801] [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: 10/15/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Locally advanced unresectable pancreatic cancer (LAPC) has a dismal prognosis, with intratumoral therapies showing limited benefits. We assume that the dense stroma within these tumors hampers drug dispersion. AIM This study explores the efficacy of multisite intratumoral injections in improving a drug's distribution while minimizing its side effects. METHODS AND RESULTS In mice with orthotopic LAPC tumors, weekly intratumoral injections of oxaliplatin at four separate sites reduced the tumor growth by 46% compared with saline (p < 0.003). Oxaliplatin exhibited the greatest impact on the tumor microenvironment relative to gemcitabine, Abraxane, or their combination, with increased necrosis, apoptosis, fibroblasts, inflammation, and infiltrating lymphocytes (p < 0.008). When combined with intravenous FOLFIRINOX (FFX), multisite intratumoral oxaliplatin reduced the tumor weight by 35% compared with single-site injection (p = 0.007). No additional visible toxicity was observed even at a 10-fold occurrence of intratumoral treatment. This co-modality treatment significantly improved survival compared with other groups (p = 0.007). CONCLUSIONS Multisite intratumoral therapy in tandem with systemic treatment holds promise for reducing the tumor size and enhancing the overall survival in LAPC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ron Epelbaum
- OnePass Medical Ltd., Katzrin 1292847, Israel; (R.E.); (Y.A.); (J.B.A.)
| | - Jesse Lachter
- Meuhedet (United) Healthcare and Elisha Hospital, Haifa 3463626, Israel;
| | - Yaron Amikam
- OnePass Medical Ltd., Katzrin 1292847, Israel; (R.E.); (Y.A.); (J.B.A.)
| | - Jacob Ben Arie
- OnePass Medical Ltd., Katzrin 1292847, Israel; (R.E.); (Y.A.); (J.B.A.)
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48
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Rogers S, Charles A, Thomas RM. The Prospect of Harnessing the Microbiome to Improve Immunotherapeutic Response in Pancreatic Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:5708. [PMID: 38136254 PMCID: PMC10741649 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15245708] [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: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma cancer (PDAC) is projected to become the second leading cause of cancer-related death in the United States by 2030. Patients are often diagnosed with advanced disease, which explains the dismal 5-year median overall survival rate of ~12%. Immunotherapy has been successful in improving outcomes in the past decade for a variety of malignancies, including gastrointestinal cancers. However, PDAC is historically an immunologically "cold" tumor, one with an immunosuppressive environment and with restricted entry of immune cells that have limited the success of immunotherapy in these tumors. The microbiome, the intricate community of microorganisms present on and within humans, has been shown to contribute to many cancers, including PDAC. Recently, its role in tumor immunology and response to immunotherapy has generated much interest. Herein, the current state of the interaction of the microbiome and immunotherapy in PDAC is discussed with a focus on needed areas of study in order to harness the immune system to combat pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sherise Rogers
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA;
| | - Angel Charles
- Department of Surgery, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA;
| | - Ryan M. Thomas
- Department of Surgery, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA;
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL 32603, USA
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Usman OH, Kumar S, Walker RR, Xie G, Sumajit HC, Jalil AR, Ramakrishnan S, Dooling LJ, Wang YJ, Irianto J. Differential modulation of cellular phenotype and drug sensitivity by extracellular matrix proteins in primary and metastatic pancreatic cancer cells. Mol Biol Cell 2023; 34:ar130. [PMID: 37903222 PMCID: PMC10848942 DOI: 10.1091/mbc.e23-02-0075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is reported to be the third highest cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. PDAC is known for its high proportion of stroma, which accounts for 90% of the tumor mass. The stroma is made up of extracellular matrix (ECM) and nonmalignant cells such as inflammatory cells, cancer-associated fibroblasts, and lymphatic and blood vessels. Here, we decoupled the effects of the ECM on PDAC cell lines by culturing cells on surfaces coated with different ECM proteins. Our data show that the primary tumor-derived cell lines have different morphology depending on the ECM proteins on which they are cultured, while metastatic lesion-derived PDAC lines' morphology does not change with respect to the different ECM proteins. Similarly, ECM proteins modulate the proliferation rate and the gemcitabine sensitivity of the primary tumor PDAC cell lines, but not the metastatic PDAC lines. Lastly, transcriptomics analysis of the primary tumor PDAC cells cultured on different ECM proteins reveals the regulation of various pathways, such as cell cycle, cell-adhesion molecules, and focal adhesion, including the regulation of several integrin genes that are essential for ECM recognition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olalekan H. Usman
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306
| | - Sampath Kumar
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306
| | - Reddick R. Walker
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306
| | - Gengqiang Xie
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306
| | - Hyeje C. Sumajit
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306
| | - AbdelAziz R. Jalil
- Physical Sciences Oncology Center at Penn, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104
| | - Subramanian Ramakrishnan
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Florida A&M University-Florida State University College of Engineering, Tallahassee, FL 32310
| | - Lawrence J. Dooling
- Physical Sciences Oncology Center at Penn, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104
| | - Yue Julia Wang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306
| | - Jerome Irianto
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306
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Srilatha M, Malla R, Adem MP, Foote JB, Nagaraju GP. Obesity associated pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma: Therapeutic challenges. Semin Cancer Biol 2023; 97:12-20. [PMID: 37926347 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2023.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Obesity is a prominent health issue worldwide and directly impacts pancreatic health, with obese individuals exhibiting a significant risk for increasing pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Several factors potentially explain the increased risk for the development of PDAC, including obesity-induced chronic inflammation within and outside of the pancreas, development of insulin resistance and metabolic dysfunction, promotion of immune suppression within the pancreas during inflammation, pre- and malignant stages, variations in hormones levels (adiponectin, ghrelin, and leptin) produced from the adipose tissue, and acquisition of somatic mutations in tumor once- and suppressor proteins critical for pancreatic tumorigenesis. In this manuscript, we will explore the broad impact of these obesity-induced risk factors on the development and progression of PDAC, focusing on changes within the tumor microenvironment (TME) as they pertain to prevention, current therapeutic strategies, and future directions for targeting obesity management as they relate to the prevention of pancreatic tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mundla Srilatha
- Department of Biotechnology, Sri Venkateswara University, Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh 517502, India
| | - Ramarao Malla
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry and Bioinformatics, School of Science, GITAM (Deemed to be University), Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh 530045, India
| | - Megha Priya Adem
- Department of Biotechnology, Sri Padmavati Mahila Visvavidyalayam (Women's University), Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh 517502, India
| | - Jeremy B Foote
- Department of Microbiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
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