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Yuan L, Jiang X, Jia G, Li Z, Wang M, Hu S, Yang J, Liang F, Zhang F, Gao L, Gao N. Minnelide exhibits antileukemic activity by targeting the Ars2/miR-190a-3p axis. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 130:155724. [PMID: 38759317 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2024.155724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The identification of a novel and effective strategy for the clinical treatment of acute leukemia (AL) is a long-term goal. Minnelide, a water-soluble prodrug of triptolide, has recently been evaluated in phase I and II clinical trials in patients with multiple cancers and has shown promise as an antileukemic agent. However, the molecular mechanism underlying minnelide's antileukemic activity remains unclear. PURPOSE To explore the molecular mechanisms by which minnelide exhibits antileukemic activity. METHODS AL cells, primary human leukemia cells, and a xenograft mouse model were treated with triptolide and minnelide. The molecular mechanism was elucidated using western blotting, immunoprecipitation, flow cytometry, GSEA and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis. RESULTS Minnelide was highly effective in inhibiting leukemogenesis and improving survival in two complementary AL mouse models. Triptolide, an active form of minnelide, causes cell cycle arrest in G1 phase and induces apoptosis in both human AL cell lines and primary AL cells. Mechanistically, we identified Ars2 as a new chemotherapeutic target of minnelide for AL treatment. We found that triptolide directly targeted Ars2, resulting in the downregulation of miR-190a-3p, which led to the disturbance of PTEN/Akt signaling and culminated in G1 cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. CONCLUSIONS Our findings demonstrate that targeting Ars2/miR-190a-3p signaling using minnelide could represent a novel chemotherapeutic strategy for AL treatment and support the evaluation of minnelide for the treatment of AL in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education, Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou 563006, PR China
| | - Xiuxing Jiang
- College of Pharmacy, Army Medical University, 30 Gaotanyan Street, Shapingba District, Chongqing 400038, PR China
| | - Guanfei Jia
- College of Pharmacy, Army Medical University, 30 Gaotanyan Street, Shapingba District, Chongqing 400038, PR China
| | - Zhiqiang Li
- College of Pharmacy, Army Medical University, 30 Gaotanyan Street, Shapingba District, Chongqing 400038, PR China
| | - Mei Wang
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education, Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou 563006, PR China
| | - Siyi Hu
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education, Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou 563006, PR China
| | - Jiawang Yang
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education, Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou 563006, PR China
| | - Feng Liang
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education, Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou 563006, PR China
| | - Fenglin Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education, Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou 563006, PR China
| | - Lu Gao
- Department of Hematology, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou 563000, PR China.
| | - Ning Gao
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education, Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou 563006, PR China.
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Ziranu P, Pretta A, Aimola V, Cau F, Mariani S, D’Agata AP, Codipietro C, Rizzo D, Dell’Utri V, Sanna G, Moledda G, Cadoni A, Lai E, Puzzoni M, Pusceddu V, Castagnola M, Scartozzi M, Faa G. CD44: A New Prognostic Marker in Colorectal Cancer? Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1569. [PMID: 38672650 PMCID: PMC11048923 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16081569] [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: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Cluster of differentiation 44 (CD44) is a non-kinase cell surface glycoprotein. It is overexpressed in several cell types, including cancer stem cells (CSCs). Cells overexpressing CD44 exhibit several CSC traits, such as self-renewal, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) capability, and resistance to chemo- and radiotherapy. The role of CD44 in maintaining stemness and the CSC function in tumor progression is accomplished by binding to its main ligand, hyaluronan (HA). The HA-CD44 complex activates several signaling pathways that lead to cell proliferation, adhesion, migration, and invasion. The CD44 gene regularly undergoes alternative splicing, resulting in the standard (CD44s) and variant (CD44v) isoforms. The different functional roles of CD44s and specific CD44v isoforms still need to be fully understood. The clinicopathological impact of CD44 and its isoforms in promoting tumorigenesis suggests that CD44 could be a molecular target for cancer therapy. Furthermore, the recent association observed between CD44 and KRAS-dependent carcinomas and the potential correlations between CD44 and tumor mutational burden (TMB) and microsatellite instability (MSI) open new research scenarios for developing new strategies in cancer treatment. This review summarises current research regarding the different CD44 isoform structures, their roles, and functions in supporting tumorigenesis and discusses its therapeutic implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pina Ziranu
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, SS 554 km 4500 Bivio per Sestu, Monserrato, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (A.P.); (S.M.); (A.P.D.); (C.C.); (D.R.); (V.D.); (G.S.); (G.M.); (A.C.); (E.L.); (M.P.); (V.P.); (M.S.)
| | - Andrea Pretta
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, SS 554 km 4500 Bivio per Sestu, Monserrato, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (A.P.); (S.M.); (A.P.D.); (C.C.); (D.R.); (V.D.); (G.S.); (G.M.); (A.C.); (E.L.); (M.P.); (V.P.); (M.S.)
| | - Valentina Aimola
- Division of Pathology, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, AOU Cagliari, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy; (V.A.); (F.C.)
| | - Flaviana Cau
- Division of Pathology, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, AOU Cagliari, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy; (V.A.); (F.C.)
| | - Stefano Mariani
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, SS 554 km 4500 Bivio per Sestu, Monserrato, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (A.P.); (S.M.); (A.P.D.); (C.C.); (D.R.); (V.D.); (G.S.); (G.M.); (A.C.); (E.L.); (M.P.); (V.P.); (M.S.)
| | - Alessandra Pia D’Agata
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, SS 554 km 4500 Bivio per Sestu, Monserrato, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (A.P.); (S.M.); (A.P.D.); (C.C.); (D.R.); (V.D.); (G.S.); (G.M.); (A.C.); (E.L.); (M.P.); (V.P.); (M.S.)
| | - Claudia Codipietro
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, SS 554 km 4500 Bivio per Sestu, Monserrato, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (A.P.); (S.M.); (A.P.D.); (C.C.); (D.R.); (V.D.); (G.S.); (G.M.); (A.C.); (E.L.); (M.P.); (V.P.); (M.S.)
| | - Daiana Rizzo
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, SS 554 km 4500 Bivio per Sestu, Monserrato, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (A.P.); (S.M.); (A.P.D.); (C.C.); (D.R.); (V.D.); (G.S.); (G.M.); (A.C.); (E.L.); (M.P.); (V.P.); (M.S.)
| | - Veronica Dell’Utri
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, SS 554 km 4500 Bivio per Sestu, Monserrato, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (A.P.); (S.M.); (A.P.D.); (C.C.); (D.R.); (V.D.); (G.S.); (G.M.); (A.C.); (E.L.); (M.P.); (V.P.); (M.S.)
| | - Giorgia Sanna
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, SS 554 km 4500 Bivio per Sestu, Monserrato, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (A.P.); (S.M.); (A.P.D.); (C.C.); (D.R.); (V.D.); (G.S.); (G.M.); (A.C.); (E.L.); (M.P.); (V.P.); (M.S.)
| | - Giusy Moledda
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, SS 554 km 4500 Bivio per Sestu, Monserrato, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (A.P.); (S.M.); (A.P.D.); (C.C.); (D.R.); (V.D.); (G.S.); (G.M.); (A.C.); (E.L.); (M.P.); (V.P.); (M.S.)
| | - Andrea Cadoni
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, SS 554 km 4500 Bivio per Sestu, Monserrato, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (A.P.); (S.M.); (A.P.D.); (C.C.); (D.R.); (V.D.); (G.S.); (G.M.); (A.C.); (E.L.); (M.P.); (V.P.); (M.S.)
| | - Eleonora Lai
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, SS 554 km 4500 Bivio per Sestu, Monserrato, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (A.P.); (S.M.); (A.P.D.); (C.C.); (D.R.); (V.D.); (G.S.); (G.M.); (A.C.); (E.L.); (M.P.); (V.P.); (M.S.)
| | - Marco Puzzoni
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, SS 554 km 4500 Bivio per Sestu, Monserrato, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (A.P.); (S.M.); (A.P.D.); (C.C.); (D.R.); (V.D.); (G.S.); (G.M.); (A.C.); (E.L.); (M.P.); (V.P.); (M.S.)
| | - Valeria Pusceddu
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, SS 554 km 4500 Bivio per Sestu, Monserrato, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (A.P.); (S.M.); (A.P.D.); (C.C.); (D.R.); (V.D.); (G.S.); (G.M.); (A.C.); (E.L.); (M.P.); (V.P.); (M.S.)
| | - Massimo Castagnola
- Proteomics Laboratory, Centro Europeo di Ricerca sul Cervello, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, 00013 Rome, Italy;
| | - Mario Scartozzi
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, SS 554 km 4500 Bivio per Sestu, Monserrato, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (A.P.); (S.M.); (A.P.D.); (C.C.); (D.R.); (V.D.); (G.S.); (G.M.); (A.C.); (E.L.); (M.P.); (V.P.); (M.S.)
| | - Gavino Faa
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, AOU Cagliari, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy;
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA
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Borazanci E, Saluja A, Gockerman J, Velagapudi M, Korn R, Von Hoff D, Greeno E. First-in-Human Phase I Study of Minnelide in Patients With Advanced Gastrointestinal Cancers: Safety, Pharmacokinetics, Pharmacodynamics, and Antitumor Activity. Oncologist 2024; 29:132-141. [PMID: 38169017 PMCID: PMC10836316 DOI: 10.1093/oncolo/oyad278] [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: 10/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Minnelide is a water-soluble prodrug of triptolide. Triptolide is an anticancer agent that targets cancer resistance through several mechanisms. Minnelide was evaluated in a phase I study in patients with advanced GI carcinomas to establish the safety, pharmacodynamic, antitumor activity, and recommended phase II dose (RP2D). PATIENTS AND METHODS Patients with refractory GI carcinoma and with measurable disease on CT scan were eligible. The study used a 3 + 3 dose-escalation scheme. Due to neutropenia toxicity, 2 dosing schedules were evaluated to determine the RP2D for future studies. Response was assessed using RECIST 1.1 and Choi criteria. Minnelide and triptolide PK were evaluated. Patients who completed the first 28-day treatment cycle without DLTs continued treatment until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. RESULTS Forty-five patients were enrolled (23 pancreatic cancer, 10 colorectal, and the remaining 9 had other GI tumors); 42 patients received at least one dose of Minnelide. Grade ≥ 3 toxicities occurred in 69% of patients, most common neutropenia (38%). 2 patients with severe cerebellar toxicity who had a 2-fold higher triptolide concentration than other participants. ORR was 4%; the disease control rate (DCR) was 54% (15/28). Choi criteria demonstrated a decrease in average tumor density in 57% (16/28) patients. CONCLUSIONS This first-in-human, phase I clinical study identified a dose and schedule of Minnelide in patients with refractory GI cancers. The primary toxicity experienced was hematologic. Evidence of efficacy of Minnelide treatment in this group of patients was observed. The DCR ranged from ~2 to 6 months in 14/28 (50%) of evaluable patients. Studies in monotherapy and combination treatments are underway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erkut Borazanci
- HonorHealth Research Institute, Scottsdale, AZ, USA
- Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen), Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | | | | | | | - Ronald Korn
- HonorHealth Research Institute, Scottsdale, AZ, USA
- Imaging Endpoints, Scottsdale, AZ, USA
| | - Daniel Von Hoff
- HonorHealth Research Institute, Scottsdale, AZ, USA
- Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen), Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Ed Greeno
- Masonic Cancer Center, Minneapolis, MI, USA
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Feng K, Li X, Bai Y, Zhang D, Tian L. Mechanisms of cancer cell death induction by triptolide: A comprehensive overview. Heliyon 2024; 10:e24335. [PMID: 38293343 PMCID: PMC10826740 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e24335] [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: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 01/06/2024] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
The need for naturally occurring constituents is driven by the rise in the cancer prevalence and the unpleasant side effects associated with chemotherapeutics. Triptolide, the primary active component of "Tripterygium Wilfordii", has exploited for biological mechanisms and therapeutic potential against various tumors. Based on the recent pre-clinical investigations, triptolide is linked to the induction of death of cancerous cells by triggering cellular apoptosis via inhibiting heat shock protein expression (HSP70), and cyclin dependent kinase (CDKs) by up regulating expression of P21. MKP1, histone methyl transferases and RNA polymerases have all recently identified as potential targets of triptolide in cells. Autophagy, AKT signaling pathway and various pathways involving targeted proteins such as A-disintegrin & metalloprotease-10 (ADAM10), Polycystin-2 (PC-2), dCTP pyro-phosphatase 1 (DCTP1), peroxiredoxin-I (Prx-I), TAK1 binding protein (TAB1), kinase subunit (DNA-PKcs) and the xeroderma-pigmentosum B (XPB or ERCC3) have been exploited. Besides that, triptolide is responsible for enhancing the effectiveness of various chemotherapeutics. In addition, several triptolide moieties, including minnelide and LLDT8, have progressed in investigations on humans for the treatment of cancer. Targeted strategies, such as triptolide conjugation with ligands or triptolide loaded nano-carriers, are efficient techniques to confront toxicities associated with triptolide. We expect and anticipate that advances in near future, regarding combination therapies of triptolide, might be beneficial against cancerous cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Feng
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Changchun University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changchun, 130000, China
| | - Xiaojiang Li
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Changchun University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changchun, 130000, China
| | - Yuzhuo Bai
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery Affiliated Hospital of Changchun University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changchun, 130000, China
| | - Dawei Zhang
- Department of General Surgery Baishan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Baishan, 134300, China
| | - Lin Tian
- Department of Lung Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Changchun University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changchun, 130000, China
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Gu Y, Chen Q, Yin H, Zeng M, Gao S, Wang X. Cancer-associated fibroblasts in neoadjuvant setting for solid cancers. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2024; 193:104226. [PMID: 38056580 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2023.104226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Therapeutic approaches for cancer have become increasingly diverse in recent times. A comprehensive understanding of the tumor microenvironment (TME) holds great potential for enhancing the precision of tumor therapies. Neoadjuvant therapy offers the possibility of alleviating patient symptoms and improving overall quality of life. Additionally, it may facilitate the reduction of inoperable tumors and prevent potential preoperative micrometastases. Within the TME, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) play a prominent role as they generate various elements that contribute to tumor progression. Particularly, extracellular matrix (ECM) produced by CAFs prevents immune cell infiltration into the TME, hampers drug penetration, and diminishes therapeutic efficacy. Therefore, this review provides a summary of the heterogeneity and interactions of CAFs within the TME, with a specific focus on the influence of neoadjuvant therapy on the microenvironment, particularly CAFs. Finally, we propose several potential and promising therapeutic strategies targeting CAFs, which may efficiently eliminate CAFs to decrease stroma density and impair their functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanan Gu
- Department of Radiology, Zhongshan Hospital and Shanghai Institute of Medical Imaging, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Department of Interventional Radiology, Zhongshan Hospital Fudan University Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Qiangda Chen
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Cancer Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Hanlin Yin
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Cancer Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Mengsu Zeng
- Department of Radiology, Zhongshan Hospital and Shanghai Institute of Medical Imaging, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Shanshan Gao
- Department of Radiology, Zhongshan Hospital and Shanghai Institute of Medical Imaging, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.
| | - Xiaolin Wang
- Department of Radiology, Zhongshan Hospital and Shanghai Institute of Medical Imaging, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Department of Interventional Radiology, Zhongshan Hospital Fudan University Shanghai, 200032, China.
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Chen H, Wang X, Liu M, Yang J, Kuang Y, Wei R, Tai Z, Zhu Q, Chen Z, Chen J, Wu X. Synergism and attenuation of triptolide through prodrug engineering combined with liposomal scaffold strategy to enhance inhibition in pancreatic cancer. Int J Pharm 2023; 648:123623. [PMID: 37989402 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2023.123623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
The prognosis of pancreatic cancer (PCa) is extremely poor because of its resistance to conventional therapies. Many previous studies have demonstrated that triptolide (TPL) has a potent tumoricidal activity on PCa. However, the clinical application of TPL in tumor therapy has been greatly limited by its poor aqueous solubility, short half-time, high toxicity and inefficient delivery. Here, through the engineering of prodrug technology combined with the nanodrug-delivery system (NDDS) strategy, we modified the main active site of TPL C14-OH by esterification reaction to obtain a highly lipophilic prodrug, and then encapsulated the drug in a phospholipid bilayer in liposomal vehicles through the thin-film hydration method for efficient delivery. A delivery system based on TPL lignocerate liposomes (TPL-LA-lip) for drug loading for targeted therapy against PCa was established. Our results showed that TPL-LA demonstrates exceptional compatibility with the phospholipid layer of liposomes, thereby enhancing drug retention in liposomal vehicle and improving tumor targeting and cellular uptake. Moreover, The system of TPL-LA-lip exhibited a sustained drug release profile in vitro, and intravenous administration significantly impedes tumor progression while reducing the toxicity of TPL in the PCa mouse model. These results demonstrated that the prodrug-loaded liposomes could significantly reduce the toxicity of TPL and enhance the biosafety. Overall, this prodrug approach is a simple and effective method to transform the highly toxic TPL into a safe and efficacious nanomedicine with excellent in vivo tolerability for PCa treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hang Chen
- Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200443, China; Shanghai WeiEr Lab, Shanghai 201707, China
| | - Xinyu Wang
- Shanghai WeiEr Lab, Shanghai 201707, China
| | - Mengmeng Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou 350122, China
| | - Jiefen Yang
- Department of Pharmacy, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou 350122, China
| | - Yanting Kuang
- Department of Pharmacy, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou 350122, China
| | - Ruting Wei
- Department of Pharmacy, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou 350122, China
| | - Zongguang Tai
- Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200443, China
| | - Quangang Zhu
- Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200443, China
| | - Zhongjian Chen
- Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200443, China
| | - Jianming Chen
- Shanghai WeiEr Lab, Shanghai 201707, China; Department of Pharmacy, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou 350122, China.
| | - Xin Wu
- Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200443, China; Shanghai WeiEr Lab, Shanghai 201707, China; Department of Pharmacy, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou 350122, China; Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery of MOE, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, China.
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Davodabadi F, Sajjadi SF, Sarhadi M, Mirghasemi S, Nadali Hezaveh M, Khosravi S, Kamali Andani M, Cordani M, Basiri M, Ghavami S. Cancer chemotherapy resistance: Mechanisms and recent breakthrough in targeted drug delivery. Eur J Pharmacol 2023; 958:176013. [PMID: 37633322 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2023.176013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/28/2023]
Abstract
Conventional chemotherapy, one of the most widely used cancer treatment methods, has serious side effects, and usually results in cancer treatment failure. Drug resistance is one of the primary reasons for this failure. The most significant drawbacks of systemic chemotherapy are rapid clearance from the circulation, the drug's low concentration in the tumor site, and considerable adverse effects outside the tumor. Several ways have been developed to boost neoplasm treatment efficacy and overcome medication resistance. In recent years, targeted drug delivery has become an essential therapeutic application. As more mechanisms of tumor treatment resistance are discovered, nanoparticles (NPs) are designed to target these pathways. Therefore, understanding the limitations and challenges of this technology is critical for nanocarrier evaluation. Nano-drugs have been increasingly employed in medicine, incorporating therapeutic applications for more precise and effective tumor diagnosis, therapy, and targeting. Many benefits of NP-based drug delivery systems in cancer treatment have been proven, including good pharmacokinetics, tumor cell-specific targeting, decreased side effects, and lessened drug resistance. As more mechanisms of tumor treatment resistance are discovered, NPs are designed to target these pathways. At the moment, this innovative technology has the potential to bring fresh insights into cancer therapy. Therefore, understanding the limitations and challenges of this technology is critical for nanocarrier evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Davodabadi
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Basic Science, Payame Noor University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Seyedeh Fatemeh Sajjadi
- School of Biological Science, Institute for Research in Fundamental Sciences (IPM), Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mohammad Sarhadi
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Research Institute of Cellular and Molecular Sciences in Infectious Diseases, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran.
| | - Shaghayegh Mirghasemi
- Department of Chemistry, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mahdieh Nadali Hezaveh
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan, 84156-83111, Iran.
| | - Samin Khosravi
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, North Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mahdieh Kamali Andani
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Basic Science, Payame Noor University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Marco Cordani
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigaciones Sanitarias San Carlos (IdISSC), Madrid, Spain.
| | - Mohsen Basiri
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Saeid Ghavami
- Academy of Silesia, Faculty of Medicine, Rolna 43, 40-555. Katowice, Poland; Research Institute of Oncology and Hematology, Cancer Care Manitoba-University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 3P5, Canada; Biology of Breathing Theme, Children Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 3P5, Canada; Department of Human Anatomy and Cell Science, University of Manitoba College of Medicine, Winnipeg, MB R3E 3P5, Canada.
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Su MC, Nethi SK, Dhanyamraju PK, Prabha S. Nanomedicine Strategies for Targeting Tumor Stroma. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4145. [PMID: 37627173 PMCID: PMC10452920 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15164145] [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: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The tumor stroma, or the microenvironment surrounding solid tumors, can significantly impact the effectiveness of cancer therapies. The tumor microenvironment is characterized by high interstitial pressure, a consequence of leaky vasculature, and dense stroma created by excessive deposition of various macromolecules such as collagen, fibronectin, and hyaluronic acid (HA). In addition, non-cancerous cells such as cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and the extracellular matrix (ECM) itself can promote tumor growth. In recent years, there has been increased interest in combining standard cancer treatments with stromal-targeting strategies or stromal modulators to improve therapeutic outcomes. Furthermore, the use of nanomedicine, which can improve the delivery and retention of drugs in the tumor, has been proposed to target the stroma. This review focuses on how different stromal components contribute to tumor progression and impede chemotherapeutic delivery. Additionally, this review highlights recent advancements in nanomedicine-based stromal modulation and discusses potential future directions for developing more effective stroma-targeted cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei-Chi Su
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA;
| | - Susheel Kumar Nethi
- Nanovaccine Institute, Department of Chemical & Biological Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA;
| | - Pavan Kumar Dhanyamraju
- Fels Cancer Institute of Personalized Medicine, Lewis-Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA;
| | - Swayam Prabha
- Fels Cancer Institute of Personalized Medicine, Lewis-Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA;
- Department of Cancer and Cellular Biology, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
- Cancer Signaling and Microenvironment Program, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19111, USA
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9
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Wieder R. Fibroblasts as Turned Agents in Cancer Progression. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15072014. [PMID: 37046676 PMCID: PMC10093070 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15072014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 03/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Differentiated epithelial cells reside in the homeostatic microenvironment of the native organ stroma. The stroma supports their normal function, their G0 differentiated state, and their expansion/contraction through the various stages of the life cycle and physiologic functions of the host. When malignant transformation begins, the microenvironment tries to suppress and eliminate the transformed cells, while cancer cells, in turn, try to resist these suppressive efforts. The tumor microenvironment encompasses a large variety of cell types recruited by the tumor to perform different functions, among which fibroblasts are the most abundant. The dynamics of the mutual relationship change as the sides undertake an epic battle for control of the other. In the process, the cancer “wounds” the microenvironment through a variety of mechanisms and attracts distant mesenchymal stem cells to change their function from one attempting to suppress the cancer, to one that supports its growth, survival, and metastasis. Analogous reciprocal interactions occur as well between disseminated cancer cells and the metastatic microenvironment, where the microenvironment attempts to eliminate cancer cells or suppress their proliferation. However, the altered microenvironmental cells acquire novel characteristics that support malignant progression. Investigations have attempted to use these traits as targets of novel therapeutic approaches.
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10
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Lückerath K, Trajkovic-Arsic M, Mona CE. Fibroblast Activation Protein Inhibitor Theranostics. PET Clin 2023:S1556-8598(23)00019-6. [PMID: 36990945 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpet.2023.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
Fibroblast activation protein (FAP)-radioligand therapy might be effective in some patients without being curative. FAP-radioligands deliver ionizing radiation directly to FAP+ cancer-associated fibroblasts and, in some cancers, to FAP+ tumor cells; in addition, they indirectly irradiate FAP- cells in tumor tissue via cross-fire and bystander effects. Here, we discuss the potential to improve FAP-radioligand therapy through interfering with DNA damage repair, immunotherapy, and co-targeting cancer-associated fibroblasts. As the molecular and cellular effects of FAP-radioligands on the tumor and its microenvironment have not been investigated yet, we call for future research to close this gap in knowledge, which prevents the development of more effective FAP-radioligand therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Lückerath
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University of Duisburg-Essen and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK)-University Hospital Essen, Hufelandstrasse 55, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Marija Trajkovic-Arsic
- Division of Solid Tumor Translational Oncology, DKTK and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) Partner Side Essen, Hufelandstrasse 15, 45147, Germany; Bridge Institute of Experimental Tumor Therapy, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, Hufelandstrasse 55, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Christine E Mona
- Ahmanson Translational Theranostic Division, Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, University of California Los Angeles, 650 Charles E Young Drive S, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
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11
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New Horizons in Metastatic Colorectal Cancer: Prognostic Role of CD44 Expression. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15041212. [PMID: 36831554 PMCID: PMC9953769 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15041212] [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: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The transmembrane glycoprotein CD44, the major hyaluronan (HA) receptor, has been proven to regulate cell growth, survival, differentiation, and migration. It is therefore widely considered to be involved in carcinogenesis. Its role as a new therapeutic target in solid tumors is under evaluation in clinical trials. The prognostic value remains controversial. Here, we aimed to investigate the correlation between CD44 expression and the clinicopathological features and survival in metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) patients. METHODS Data from 65 mCRC patients of the Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari were retrospectively collected from 2008 to 2021. Immunohistochemical analysis was performed at the Pathology Division, University Hospital of Cagliari on 3 μm thick sections obtained from paraffin blocks. The intensity of immunohistochemical staining was subclassified into four groups: score 0 if negative or weak membrane staining in less than 10% of tumor cells; score 1+ if weak membrane staining in at least 10% of tumor cells or moderate membrane staining in less than 10% of tumor cells; score 2+ if moderate membrane staining in at least 10% of tumor cells or intensive membrane staining in less than 10% of tumor cells; score 3+ if intense membrane staining in at least 10% of tumor cells. Based on this score, we distinguished patients into low CD44 expression (score 0, 1+, 2+) and high CD44 expression (score 3+). Statistical analysis was performed with MedCalc (survival distribution: Kaplan-Meier; survival comparison: log-rank test; association between categorical variables: Fisher's exact test). RESULTS Patients' median age was 66 years (range 49-85). Regarding CD44 expression, score was 0 in 18 patients, 1+ in 15 patients, 2+ in 18 patients, and 3+ in 14 patients. Median overall survival (mOS) was 28.1 months (95%CI: 21.3-101). CD44 overexpression (3+) was correlated with poor prognosis (p = 0.0011; HR = 0.2), with a mOS of 14.5 months (95%CI 11.7 to 35.9) versus 30.7 months (95%CI 27.8 to 101) in lower CD44 expression. Higher CD44 expression was associated with clinically poor prognostic features: age ≥ 70 years (p = 0.0166); inoperable disease (p = 0.0008); stage IV at diagnosis (p = 0.0241); BRAF mutated (p = 0.0111), high-grade tumor (p = 0.0084). CONCLUSIONS CD44 markedly correlated with aggressive tumor behavior and contributed to the earlier progression of disease, thus suggesting its role as a novel prognostic marker and potential therapeutic target for mCRC patients.
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12
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Kolarikova M, Hosikova B, Dilenko H, Barton-Tomankova K, Valkova L, Bajgar R, Malina L, Kolarova H. Photodynamic therapy: Innovative approaches for antibacterial and anticancer treatments. Med Res Rev 2023. [PMID: 36757198 DOI: 10.1002/med.21935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 44.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
Photodynamic therapy is an alternative treatment mainly for cancer but also for bacterial infections. This treatment dates back to 1900 when a German medical school graduate Oscar Raab found a photodynamic effect while doing research for his doctoral dissertation with Professor Hermann von Tappeiner. Unexpectedly, Raab revealed that the toxicity of acridine on paramecium depends on the intensity of light in his laboratory. Photodynamic therapy is therefore based on the administration of a photosensitizer with subsequent light irradiation within the absorption maxima of this substance followed by reactive oxygen species formation and finally cell death. Although this treatment is not a novelty, there is an endeavor for various modifications to the therapy. For example, selectivity and efficiency of the photosensitizer, as well as irradiation with various types of light sources are still being modified to improve final results of the photodynamic therapy. The main aim of this review is to summarize anticancer and antibacterial modifications, namely various compounds, approaches, and techniques, to enhance the effectiveness of photodynamic therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marketa Kolarikova
- Department of Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Barbora Hosikova
- Department of Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Hanna Dilenko
- Department of Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Katerina Barton-Tomankova
- Department of Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Lucie Valkova
- Department of Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Robert Bajgar
- Department of Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Lukas Malina
- Department of Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Hana Kolarova
- Department of Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
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13
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Shen X, Zhou S, Yang Y, Hong T, Xiang Z, Zhao J, Zhu C, Zeng L, Zhang L. TAM-targeted reeducation for enhanced cancer immunotherapy: Mechanism and recent progress. Front Oncol 2022; 12:1034842. [PMID: 36419877 PMCID: PMC9677115 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1034842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumor-associated macrophage (TAM) as an important component of tumor microenvironment (TME) are closely related with the occurrence, development, and metastasis of malignant tumors. TAMs are generally identified as two distinct functional populations in TME, i.e., inflammatory/anti-tumorigenic (M1) and regenerative/pro-tumorigenic (M2) phenotype. Evidence suggests that occupation of the TME by M2-TAMs is closely related to the inactivation of anti-tumor immune cells such as T cells in TME. Recently, efforts have been made to reeducate TAMs from M2- to M1- phenotype to enhance cancer immunotherapy, and great progress has been made in realizing efficient modulation of TAMs using nanomedicines. To help readers better understand this emerging field, the potential TAM reeducation targets for potentiating cancer immunotherapy and the underlying mechanisms are summarized in this review. Moreover, the most recent advances in utilizing nanomedicine for the TAM immunomodulation for augmented cancer immunotherapy are introduced. Finally, we conclude with our perspectives on the future development in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyuan Shen
- Key Laboratory of Novel Targets and Drug Study for Neural Repair of Zhejiang Province, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou, China
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shengcheng Zhou
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yidong Yang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Tu Hong
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ze Xiang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jing Zhao
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Chaojie Zhu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Linghui Zeng
- Key Laboratory of Novel Targets and Drug Study for Neural Repair of Zhejiang Province, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Linghui Zeng, ; Lingxiao Zhang,
| | - Lingxiao Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Novel Targets and Drug Study for Neural Repair of Zhejiang Province, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou, China
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Digestive System Tumors of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo Hwa Mei Hospital, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo, China
- Ningbo Institute of Life and Health Industry, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo, China
- *Correspondence: Linghui Zeng, ; Lingxiao Zhang,
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14
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Jeon S, Jun E, Chang H, Yhee JY, Koh EY, Kim Y, Jung JY, Jeong EJ, Lee JW, Shim MK, Yoon HY, Chang S, Kim K, Kim SC. Prediction the clinical EPR effect of nanoparticles in patient-derived xenograft models. J Control Release 2022; 351:37-49. [PMID: 36089170 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2022.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Revised: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Many preclinically tested nanoparticles in existing animal models fail to be directly translated into clinical applications because of their poor resemblance to human cancer. Herein, the enhanced permeation and retention (EPR) effect of glycol chitosan nanoparticles (CNPs) in different tumor microenvironments (TMEs) was compared using different pancreatic tumor models, including pancreatic cancer cell line (BxPC3), patient-derived cancer cell (PDC), and patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models. CNPs were intravenously injected into different tumor models, and their accumulation efficiency was evaluated using non-invasive near-infrared fluorescence (NIRF) imaging. In particular, differences in angiogenic vessel density, collagen matrix, and hyaluronic acid content in tumor tissues of the BxPC3, PDC, and PDX models greatly affected the tumor-targeting efficiency of CNPs. In addition, different PDX models were established using different tumor tissues of patients to predict the clinical EPR effect of CNPs in inter-patient TMEs, wherein the gene expression levels of PECAM1, COL4A1, and HAS1 in human tumor tissues were observed to be closely related to the EPR effect of CNPs in PDX models. The results suggested that the PDX models could mimic inter-patient TMEs with different blood vessel structures and extracellular matrix (ECM) content that critically affect the tumor-targeting ability of CNPs in different pancreatic PDX models. This study provides a better understanding of the heterogeneity and complexity of inter-patient TMEs that can predict the response of various nanoparticles in individual tumors for personalized cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sangmin Jeon
- Center for Theragnosis, Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, 5, Hwarang-ro 14-gil, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Eunsung Jun
- Department of Convergence Medicine, Asan Institute for Life Sciences, University of Ulsan College of Medicine and Asan Medical Center, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea; Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Asan Medical Center, AMIST, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeyoun Chang
- Center for Theragnosis, Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, 5, Hwarang-ro 14-gil, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji Young Yhee
- Center for Theragnosis, Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, 5, Hwarang-ro 14-gil, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea; Green Vet, 131-1 Ihyeon-ro 30beon-gil, Giheung-gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do 16924, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun-Young Koh
- Department of Convergence Medicine, Asan Institute for Life Sciences, University of Ulsan College of Medicine and Asan Medical Center, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Yeounhee Kim
- Department of Convergence Medicine, Asan Institute for Life Sciences, University of Ulsan College of Medicine and Asan Medical Center, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Yun Jung
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, South Korea
| | - Eun Ji Jeong
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, South Korea
| | - Jong Won Lee
- Center for Theragnosis, Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, 5, Hwarang-ro 14-gil, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea; KU-KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, 1 Anam-dong, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 136-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Man Kyu Shim
- Center for Theragnosis, Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, 5, Hwarang-ro 14-gil, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Hong Yeol Yoon
- Center for Theragnosis, Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, 5, Hwarang-ro 14-gil, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Suhwan Chang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, South Korea.
| | - Kwangmeyung Kim
- Center for Theragnosis, Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, 5, Hwarang-ro 14-gil, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea; KU-KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, 1 Anam-dong, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 136-701, Republic of Korea; College of Pharmacy, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 03760, Republic of Korea.
| | - Song Cheol Kim
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Asan Medical Center, AMIST, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea.
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15
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Wu C, Gu J, Gu H, Zhang X, Zhang X, Ji R. The recent advances of cancer associated fibroblasts in cancer progression and therapy. Front Oncol 2022; 12:1008843. [PMID: 36185262 PMCID: PMC9516766 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1008843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
As an abundant component of tumor microenvironment, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are heterogeneous cell populations that play important roles in tumor development, progression and therapeutic resistance. Multiple sources of cells can be recruited and educated to become CAFs, such as fibroblasts, mesenchymal stem cells and adipocytes, which may explain the phenotypic and functional heterogeneity of CAFs. It is widely believed that CAFs regulate tumor progression by remodeling extracellular matrix, promoting angiogenesis, and releasing soluble cytokines, making them a promising cancer therapy target. In this review, we discussed about the origin, subpopulation, and functional heterogeneity of CAFs, with particular attention to recent research advances and clinical therapeutic potential of CAFs in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenxi Wu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, the Affiliated People’s Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Jianmei Gu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Nantong Tumor Hospital, Nantong, China
| | - Hongbing Gu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, the Affiliated People’s Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - XiaoXin Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Xu Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Runbi Ji
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, the Affiliated People’s Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
- *Correspondence: Runbi Ji,
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16
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Glabman RA, Choyke PL, Sato N. Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts: Tumorigenicity and Targeting for Cancer Therapy. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14163906. [PMID: 36010899 PMCID: PMC9405783 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14163906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Revised: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are found in the tumor microenvironment and exhibit several protumorigenic functions. Preclinical studies suggest that CAFs can be reduced, eliminated, or reprogrammed; however, clinical translation has not yet occurred. A better understanding of these cells and their functions will undoubtedly improve cancer treatments. In this review, we summarize current research, highlight major challenges, and discuss future opportunities for improving our knowledge of CAF biology and targeting. Abstract Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are a heterogenous group of activated fibroblasts and a major component of the tumor stroma. CAFs may be derived from fibroblasts, epithelial cells, endothelial cells, cancer stem cells, adipocytes, pericytes, or stellate cells. These complex origins may underlie their functional diversity, which includes pro-tumorigenic roles in extracellular matrix remodeling, the suppression of anti-tumor immunity, and resistance to cancer therapy. Several methods for targeting CAFs to inhibit tumor progression and enhance anti-tumor immunity have recently been reported. While preclinical studies have shown promise, to date they have been unsuccessful in human clinical trials against melanoma, breast cancer, pancreas cancer, and colorectal cancers. This review summarizes recent and major advances in CAF-targeting therapies, including DNA-based vaccines, anti-CAF CAR-T cells, and modifying and reprogramming CAF functions. The challenges in developing effective anti-CAF treatment are highlighted, which include CAF heterogeneity and plasticity, the lack of specific target markers for CAFs, the limitations in animal models recapitulating the human cancer microenvironment, and the undesirable off-target and systemic side effects. Overcoming these challenges and expanding our understanding of the basic biology of CAFs is necessary for making progress towards safe and effective therapeutic strategies against cancers in human patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raisa A. Glabman
- Molecular Imaging Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
- Department of Comparative Medicine and Integrative Biology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Peter L. Choyke
- Molecular Imaging Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Noriko Sato
- Molecular Imaging Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-240-858-3079
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17
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Li J, Peng L, Chen Q, Ye Z, Zhao T, Hou S, Gu J, Hang Q. Integrin β1 in Pancreatic Cancer: Expressions, Functions, and Clinical Implications. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14143377. [PMID: 35884437 PMCID: PMC9318555 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14143377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 07/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Pancreatic cancer (PC) is a highly aggressive malignant tumor with an extremely poor prognosis. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to improving the survival rate of PC patients. Emerging studies show that integrins might contribute to the pathogenesis of PC. This review presents the various signaling pathways that are mediated by integrins in PC and emphasizes the multiple functions of integrin β1 in malignant behaviors of PC. It also discusses the clinical significance of integrin β1 as well as integrin β1-based therapy in PC patients. Abstract Pancreatic cancer (PC) is characterized by rapid progression and a high mortality rate. The current treatment is still based on surgical treatment, supplemented by radiotherapy and chemotherapy, and new methods of combining immune and molecular biological treatments are being explored. Despite this, the survival rate of PC patients is still very disappointing. Therefore, clarifying the molecular mechanism of PC pathogenesis and developing precisely targeted drugs are key to improving PC prognosis. As the most common β subunit of the integrin family, integrin β1 has been proved to be closely related to the vascular invasion, distant metastasis, and survival of PC patients, and treatment targeting integrin β1 in PC has gained initial success in animal models. In this review, we summarize the various signaling pathways by which integrins are involved in PC, focusing on the roles of integrin β1 in the malignant behaviors of PC. Additionally, recent studies regarding the feasibility of integrin β1 as a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker in PC are also discussed. Finally, we present the progress of several integrin β1-based clinical trials to highlight the potential of integrin β1 as a target for personalized therapy in PC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiajia Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China; (J.L.); (S.H.)
| | - Liyao Peng
- Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing 210000, China;
| | - Qun Chen
- Pancreas Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210000, China;
| | - Ziping Ye
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China;
| | - Tiantian Zhao
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225001, China;
| | - Sicong Hou
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China; (J.L.); (S.H.)
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225001, China;
| | - Jianguo Gu
- Division of Regulatory Glycobiology, Institute of Molecular Biomembrane and Glycobiology, Tohoku Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Sendai 81-8558, Japan
- Correspondence: (J.G.); (Q.H.); Tel.: +86-13-8145-8885 (Q.H.)
| | - Qinglei Hang
- Division of Regulatory Glycobiology, Institute of Molecular Biomembrane and Glycobiology, Tohoku Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Sendai 81-8558, Japan
- Department of Experimental Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Correspondence: (J.G.); (Q.H.); Tel.: +86-13-8145-8885 (Q.H.)
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18
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Kim I, Choi S, Yoo S, Lee M, Kim IS. Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts in the Hypoxic Tumor Microenvironment. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14143321. [PMID: 35884382 PMCID: PMC9320406 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14143321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Cancers have regions of low oxygen concentration where hypoxia-related signaling pathways are activated. The hypoxic tumor microenvironment has been widely accepted as a hallmark of cancer and shown to be a critical factor in the crosstalk between cancer and stromal cells. Fibroblasts are one of the most abundant cellular components in the tumor stroma and are also significantly affected by oxygen deprivation. In this case, we discuss the molecular and cellular mechanisms that regulate fibroblasts under hypoxic conditions and their effect on cancer development and progression. Unraveling these regulatory mechanisms could be exploited in developing potential fibroblast-specific therapeutics for cancer. Abstract Solid cancers are composed of malignant cells and their surrounding matrix components. Hypoxia plays a critical role in shaping the tumor microenvironment that contributes to cancer progression and treatment failure. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are one of the most prominent components of the tumor microenvironment. CAFs are highly sensitive to hypoxia and participates in the crosstalk with cancer cells. Hypoxic CAFs modulate several mechanisms that induce cancer malignancy, such as extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling, immune evasion, metabolic reprogramming, angiogenesis, metastasis, and drug resistance. Key signaling molecules regulating CAFs in hypoxia include transforming growth factor (TGF-β) and hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs). In this article, we summarize the mechanisms underlying the hypoxic regulation of CAFs and how hypoxic CAFs affect cancer development and progression. We also discuss the potential therapeutic strategies focused on targeting CAFs in the hypoxic tumor microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iljin Kim
- Department of Pharmacology and Research Center for Controlling Intercellular Communication, Inha University College of Medicine, Incheon 22212, Korea; (S.C.); (S.Y.)
- Correspondence: (I.K.); (I.-S.K.)
| | - Sanga Choi
- Department of Pharmacology and Research Center for Controlling Intercellular Communication, Inha University College of Medicine, Incheon 22212, Korea; (S.C.); (S.Y.)
| | - Seongkyeong Yoo
- Department of Pharmacology and Research Center for Controlling Intercellular Communication, Inha University College of Medicine, Incheon 22212, Korea; (S.C.); (S.Y.)
| | - Mingyu Lee
- Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA;
| | - In-San Kim
- KU-KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Korea
- Medicinal Materials Research Center, Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Korea
- Correspondence: (I.K.); (I.-S.K.)
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19
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Modi S, Giri B, Gupta VK, Lavania S, Sethi V, Sharma NS, Pandey S, Vickers S, Dudeja V, Saluja AK. Minnelide synergizes with conventional chemotherapy by targeting both cancer and associated stroma components in pancreatic cancer. Cancer Lett 2022; 537:215591. [PMID: 35398530 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2022.215591] [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: 07/08/2021] [Revised: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Addition of nab-paclitaxel to gemcitabine offers a survival benefit of only 6 weeks over gemcitabine alone at a cost of increased toxicity in PDAC. The goal of the present study is to evaluate the efficacy of Minnelide, a water-soluble prodrug of triptolide, in combination with the standard of care regimen for chemotherapy with the added advantage of reducing the doses of these drugs to minimize toxicity. Pancreatic cancer cell lines were implanted subcutaneously or orthotopically in athymic nude or C57BL/6J mice. Subsequently, animals were randomized and received saline or minnelide or full dose chemotherapy or low dose chemotherapy or minnelide in combination with low dose chemotherapy. Our results show that a combination of low doses of Minnelide with Gemcitabine + nab-paclitaxel significantly inhibited tumor progression and increased the survival of tumor-bearing mice in comparison with conventional chemotherapy alone. Moreover, combination therapy significantly reduced cancer-related morbidity by decreasing ascites and metastasis and effectively targeted both cancer and the associated stroma. In vitro studies with a combination of low doses of triptolide and paclitaxel significantly decreased the cell viability, increased apoptosis and led to significantly increased M-phase cell cycle arrest in various pancreatic cancer cell lines as compared to either drug alone. Our results show that Minnelide synergizes with conventional chemotherapy leading to a significant reduction in the doses of these toxic drugs, all the while achieving better efficacy in the treatment of PDAC. This combination effectively targeted both the cancer and the associated stromal components of pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shrey Modi
- Department of Surgery and, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Bhuwan Giri
- Department of Surgery and, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Vineet K Gupta
- Department of Surgery and, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Shweta Lavania
- Department of Surgery and, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Vrishketan Sethi
- Department of Surgery and, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Nikita S Sharma
- Department of Surgery and, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Somnath Pandey
- Department of Surgery and, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Selwyn Vickers
- Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Vikas Dudeja
- Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Ashok K Saluja
- Department of Surgery and, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.
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20
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Jorquera-Cordero C, Lara P, Cruz LJ, Schomann T, van Hofslot A, de Carvalho TG, Guedes PMDM, Creemers L, Koning RI, Chan AB, de Araujo Junior RF. Extracellular Vesicles from M1-Polarized Macrophages Combined with Hyaluronic Acid and a β-Blocker Potentiate Doxorubicin’s Antitumor Activity by Downregulating Tumor-Associated Macrophages in Breast Cancer. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14051068. [PMID: 35631654 PMCID: PMC9143936 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14051068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
One of the main reasons for cancer’s low clinical response to chemotherapeutics is the highly immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). Tumor-ass ociated M2 macrophages (M2-TAMs) orchestrate the immunosuppression, which favors tumor progression. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have shown great potential for targeted therapies as, depending on their biological origin, they can present different therapeutic properties, such as enhanced accumulation in the target tissue or modulation of the immune system. In the current study, EVs were isolated from M1-macrophages (M1-EVs) pre-treated with hyaluronic acid (HA) and the β-blocker carvedilol (CV). The resulting modulated-M1 EVs (MM1-EVs) were further loaded with doxorubicin (MM1-DOX) to assess their effect in a mouse model of metastatic tumor growth. The cell death and cell migration profile were evaluated in vitro in 4T1 cells. The polarization of the RAW 264.7 murine macrophage cell line was also analyzed to evaluate the effects on the TME. Tumors were investigated by qRT-PCR and immunohistochemistry. MM1-DOX reduced the primary tumor size and metastases. NF-κB was the major gene downregulated by MM1-DOX. Furthermore, MM1-DOX reduced the expression of M2-TAM (CD-163) in tumors, which resulted in increased apoptosis (FADD) as well as decreased expression of MMP-2 and TGF-β. These results suggest a direct effect in tumors and an upregulation in the TME immunomodulation, which corroborate with our in vitro data that showed increased apoptosis, modulation of macrophage polarization, and reduced cell migration after treatment with M1-EVs combined with HA and CV. Our results indicate that the M1-EVs enhanced the antitumor effects of DOX, especially if combined with HA and CV in an animal model of metastatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Jorquera-Cordero
- Department of Orthopedics, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands; (C.J.-C.); (L.C.); (A.B.C.)
- Percuros B.V., 2333 CL Leiden, The Netherlands; (T.S.); (T.G.d.C.)
| | - Pablo Lara
- Percuros B.V., 2333 CL Leiden, The Netherlands; (T.S.); (T.G.d.C.)
- Translational Nanobiomaterials and Imaging (TNI) Group, Radiology Department, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands; (L.J.C.); (A.v.H.)
- Correspondence: (P.L.); (R.F.d.A.J.); Tel.: +31-06-21180677 (P.L.); +31-65-562-0247 (R.F.d.A.J.)
| | - Luis J. Cruz
- Translational Nanobiomaterials and Imaging (TNI) Group, Radiology Department, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands; (L.J.C.); (A.v.H.)
| | - Timo Schomann
- Percuros B.V., 2333 CL Leiden, The Netherlands; (T.S.); (T.G.d.C.)
- Translational Nanobiomaterials and Imaging (TNI) Group, Radiology Department, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands; (L.J.C.); (A.v.H.)
| | - Anna van Hofslot
- Translational Nanobiomaterials and Imaging (TNI) Group, Radiology Department, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands; (L.J.C.); (A.v.H.)
| | - Thaís Gomes de Carvalho
- Percuros B.V., 2333 CL Leiden, The Netherlands; (T.S.); (T.G.d.C.)
- Postgraduate Program in Health Science, Health Science Department, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN), Natal 59078 970, RN, Brazil
- Cancer and Inflammation Research Laboratory, Department of Morphology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal 59078 970, RN, Brazil
| | - Paulo Marcos Da Matta Guedes
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal 59078 970, RN, Brazil;
| | - Laura Creemers
- Department of Orthopedics, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands; (C.J.-C.); (L.C.); (A.B.C.)
| | - Roman I. Koning
- Electron Microscopy, Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands;
| | - Alan B. Chan
- Department of Orthopedics, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands; (C.J.-C.); (L.C.); (A.B.C.)
- Percuros B.V., 2333 CL Leiden, The Netherlands; (T.S.); (T.G.d.C.)
| | - Raimundo Fernandes de Araujo Junior
- Percuros B.V., 2333 CL Leiden, The Netherlands; (T.S.); (T.G.d.C.)
- Translational Nanobiomaterials and Imaging (TNI) Group, Radiology Department, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands; (L.J.C.); (A.v.H.)
- Postgraduate Program in Health Science, Health Science Department, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN), Natal 59078 970, RN, Brazil
- Cancer and Inflammation Research Laboratory, Department of Morphology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal 59078 970, RN, Brazil
- Postgraduate Program in Functional and Structural Biology, Department of Morphology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN), Natal 59078 970, RN, Brazil
- Correspondence: (P.L.); (R.F.d.A.J.); Tel.: +31-06-21180677 (P.L.); +31-65-562-0247 (R.F.d.A.J.)
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21
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Natural Compounds Targeting Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts against Digestive System Tumor Progression: Therapeutic Insights. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10030713. [PMID: 35327514 PMCID: PMC8945097 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10030713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are critical for cancer occurrence and progression in the tumor microenvironment (TME), due to their versatile roles in extracellular matrix remodeling, tumor–stroma crosstalk, immunomodulation, and angiogenesis. CAFs are the most abundant stromal component in the TME and undergo epigenetic modification and abnormal signaling cascade activation, such as transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) and Wnt pathways that maintain the distinct phenotype of CAFs, which differs from normal fibroblasts. CAFs have been considered therapeutic targets due to their putative oncogenic functions. Current digestive system cancer treatment strategies often result in lower survival outcomes and fail to prevent cancer progression; therefore, comprehensive characterization of the tumor-promoting and -restraining CAF activities might facilitate the design of new therapeutic approaches. In this review, we summarize the enormous literature on natural compounds that mediate the crosstalk of CAFs with digestive system cancer cells, discuss how the biology and the multifaceted functions of CAFs contribute to cancer progression, and finally, pave the way for CAF-related antitumor therapies.
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22
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Carvalho TMA, Di Molfetta D, Greco MR, Koltai T, Alfarouk KO, Reshkin SJ, Cardone RA. Tumor Microenvironment Features and Chemoresistance in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma: Insights into Targeting Physicochemical Barriers and Metabolism as Therapeutic Approaches. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:6135. [PMID: 34885243 PMCID: PMC8657427 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13236135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Revised: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Currently, the median overall survival of PDAC patients rarely exceeds 1 year and has an overall 5-year survival rate of about 9%. These numbers are anticipated to worsen in the future due to the lack of understanding of the factors involved in its strong chemoresistance. Chemotherapy remains the only treatment option for most PDAC patients; however, the available therapeutic strategies are insufficient. The factors involved in chemoresistance include the development of a desmoplastic stroma which reprograms cellular metabolism, and both contribute to an impaired response to therapy. PDAC stroma is composed of immune cells, endothelial cells, and cancer-associated fibroblasts embedded in a prominent, dense extracellular matrix associated with areas of hypoxia and acidic extracellular pH. While multiple gene mutations are involved in PDAC initiation, this desmoplastic stroma plays an important role in driving progression, metastasis, and chemoresistance. Elucidating the mechanisms underlying PDAC resistance are a prerequisite for designing novel approaches to increase patient survival. In this review, we provide an overview of the stromal features and how they contribute to the chemoresistance in PDAC treatment. By highlighting new paradigms in the role of the stromal compartment in PDAC therapy, we hope to stimulate new concepts aimed at improving patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiago M. A. Carvalho
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Biopharmaceutics, University of Bari, 70126 Bari, Italy; (D.D.M.); (M.R.G.); (S.J.R.); (R.A.C.)
| | - Daria Di Molfetta
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Biopharmaceutics, University of Bari, 70126 Bari, Italy; (D.D.M.); (M.R.G.); (S.J.R.); (R.A.C.)
| | - Maria Raffaella Greco
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Biopharmaceutics, University of Bari, 70126 Bari, Italy; (D.D.M.); (M.R.G.); (S.J.R.); (R.A.C.)
| | | | - Khalid O. Alfarouk
- Al-Ghad International College for Applied Medical Sciences, Al-Madinah Al-Munwarah 42316, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Stephan J. Reshkin
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Biopharmaceutics, University of Bari, 70126 Bari, Italy; (D.D.M.); (M.R.G.); (S.J.R.); (R.A.C.)
| | - Rosa A. Cardone
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Biopharmaceutics, University of Bari, 70126 Bari, Italy; (D.D.M.); (M.R.G.); (S.J.R.); (R.A.C.)
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23
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Zheng S, Wang J, Ding N, Chen W, Chen H, Xue M, Chen F, Ni J, Wang Z, Lin Z, Jiang H, Liu X, Wang L. Prodrug polymeric micelles integrating cancer-associated fibroblasts deactivation and synergistic chemotherapy for gastric cancer. J Nanobiotechnology 2021; 19:381. [PMID: 34802453 PMCID: PMC8607732 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-021-01127-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The prognosis of patients with advanced gastric cancer (GC) remains unsatisfactory owing to distant metastasis and resistance to concurrent systemic therapy. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), as essential participators in the tumor microenvironment (TME), play a vital role in tumor progression. Thus, CAFs-targeting therapy is appealing for remodeling TME and sensitizing GC to conventional systemic therapy. Methods Amphiphilic SN38 prodrug polymeric micelles (PSN38) and encapsulated the hydrophobic esterase-responsive prodrug of Triptolide (TPL), triptolide-naphthalene sulfonamide (TPL-nsa), were synthesized to form PSN38@TPL-nsa nanoparticles. Then, CAFs were isolated from fresh GC tissues and immortalized. TPL at low dose concentration was used to investigate its effect on CAFs and CAFs-induced GC cells proliferation and migration. The synergistic mechanism and antitumor efficiency of SN38 and TPL co-delivery nanoparticle were investigated both in vitro and in vivo. Results Fibroblast activation protein (FAP), a marker of CAFs, was highly expressed in GC tissues and indicated poorer prognosis. TPL significantly reduced CAFs activity and inhibited CAFs-induced proliferation, migration and chemotherapy resistance of GC cells. In addition, TPL sensitized GC cells to SN38 treatment through attenuated NF-κB activation in both CAFs and GC cells. PSN38@TPL-nsa treatment reduced the expression of collagen, FAP, and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) in tumors. Potent inhibition of primary tumor growth and vigorous anti-metastasis effect were observed after systemic administration of PSN38@TPL-nsa to CAFs-rich peritoneal disseminated tumor and patient-derived xenograft (PDX) model of GC. Conclusion TPL suppressed CAFs activity and CAFs-induced cell proliferation, migration and chemotherapy resistance to SN38 of GC. CAFs-targeted TPL and SN38 co-delivery nanoparticles exhibited potent efficacy of antitumor and reshaping TME, which was a promising strategy to treat advanced GC. Graphical Abstract ![]()
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12951-021-01127-5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng Zheng
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, China.,Institute of Gastroenterology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China.,Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Jiafeng Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China.,Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Ning Ding
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, China.,Institute of Gastroenterology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China.,Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Wenwen Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, China.,Institute of Gastroenterology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China.,Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Hongda Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China.,Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Meng Xue
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, China.,Institute of Gastroenterology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China.,Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Fei Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, China.,Institute of Gastroenterology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China.,Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Jiaojiao Ni
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, China.,Institute of Gastroenterology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China.,Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Zhuo Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, China.,Institute of Gastroenterology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China.,Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Zhenghua Lin
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, China.,Institute of Gastroenterology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China.,Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Haiping Jiang
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Medical School of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, China
| | - Xiangrui Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, China. .,Department of Pharmacology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China. .,Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
| | - Liangjing Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, China. .,Institute of Gastroenterology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China. .,Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
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24
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Tang C, Liu H, Fan Y, He J, Li F, Wang J, Hou Y. Functional Nanomedicines for Targeted Therapy of Bladder Cancer. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:778973. [PMID: 34867408 PMCID: PMC8635105 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.778973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Bladder cancer is one of most common malignant urinary tract tumor types with high incidence worldwide. In general, transurethral resection of non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer followed by intravesical instillation of chemotherapy is the standard treatment approach to minimize recurrence and delay progression of bladder cancer. However, conventional intravesical chemotherapy lacks selectivity for tumor tissues and the concentration of drug is reduced with the excretion of urine, leading to frequent administration and heavy local irritation symptoms. While nanomedicines can overcome all the above shortcomings and adhere to the surface of bladder tumors for a long time, and continuously and efficiently release drugs to bladder cancers. The rapid advances in targeted therapy have led to significant improvements in drug efficacy and precision of targeted drug delivery to eradicate tumor cells, with reduced side-effects. This review summarizes the different available nano-systems of targeted drug delivery to bladder cancer tissues. The challenges and prospects of targeted therapy for bladder cancer are additionally discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Tang
- Department of Urology, the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Heng Liu
- Department of Urology, the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yanpeng Fan
- Department of Urology, the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jiahao He
- School of Chemical Engineering, Changchun University of Technology, Changchun, China
| | - Fuqiu Li
- Department of Dermatology, the Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jin Wang
- Department of Urology, the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yuchuan Hou
- Department of Urology, the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
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25
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Giri B, Sharma P, Jain T, Ferrantella A, Vaish U, Mehra S, Garg B, Iyer S, Sethi V, Malchiodi Z, Signorelli R, Jacob HKC, George J, Sahay P, Bava EP, Dawra R, Ramakrishnan S, Saluja A, Dudeja V. Hsp70 modulates immune response in pancreatic cancer through dendritic cells. Oncoimmunology 2021; 10:1976952. [PMID: 34552825 PMCID: PMC8451449 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2021.1976952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70), a protein chaperone, is known to promote cell survival and tumor progression. However, its role in the tumor microenvironment (TME) is largely unknown. We specifically evaluated Hsp70 in the TME by implanting tumors in wild-type (WT) controls or Hsp70-/- animals, thus creating a TME with or without Hsp70. Loss of Hsp70 led to significantly smaller tumors; there were no differences in stromal markers, but interestingly, depletion of CD8 + T-cells abrogated this tumor suppressive effect, indicating that loss of Hsp70 in the TME affects tumor growth through the immune cells. Compared to WT, adoptive transfer of Hsp70-/- splenocytes exhibited greater antitumor activity in immunodeficient NSG and Rag 1-/- mice. Hsp70-/- dendritic cells showed increased expression of MHCII and TNF-α both in vitro and in vivo. These results suggest that the absence of Hsp70 in the TME inhibits tumors through increased dendritic cell activation. Hsp70 inhibition in DCs may emerge as a novel therapeutic strategy against pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhuwan Giri
- DeWitt Daughtry Family Department of Surgery, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - Prateek Sharma
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Tejeshwar Jain
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Anthony Ferrantella
- DeWitt Daughtry Family Department of Surgery, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - Utpreksha Vaish
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Siddharth Mehra
- DeWitt Daughtry Family Department of Surgery, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - Bharti Garg
- DeWitt Daughtry Family Department of Surgery, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - Srikanth Iyer
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Vrishketan Sethi
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Zoe Malchiodi
- DeWitt Daughtry Family Department of Surgery, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - Rossana Signorelli
- DeWitt Daughtry Family Department of Surgery, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - Harrys K C Jacob
- DeWitt Daughtry Family Department of Surgery, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - John George
- DeWitt Daughtry Family Department of Surgery, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - Preeti Sahay
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Ejas P Bava
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Rajinder Dawra
- DeWitt Daughtry Family Department of Surgery, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - Sundaram Ramakrishnan
- DeWitt Daughtry Family Department of Surgery, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - Ashok Saluja
- DeWitt Daughtry Family Department of Surgery, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - Vikas Dudeja
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
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Wang YY, Vadhan A, Chen PH, Lee YL, Chao CY, Cheng KH, Chang YC, Hu SCS, Yuan SSF. CD44 Promotes Lung Cancer Cell Metastasis through ERK-ZEB1 Signaling. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:4057. [PMID: 34439211 PMCID: PMC8392539 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13164057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Revised: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer is a malignancy with high mortality worldwide, and metastasis occurs at a high frequency even when cancer spread is not detectable at primary operation. Cancer stemness plays an important role in malignant cancer behavior, treatment resistance, and cancer metastasis. Therefore, understanding the molecular pathogenesis behind cancer-stemness-mediated metastasis and developing effective approaches to prevent metastasis are key issues for improving cancer treatment. In this study, we investigated the role of CD44 stemness marker in lung cancer using in vitro and clinical studies. Immunohistochemical staining of lung cancer tissue specimens revealed that primary tumors with higher CD44 expression showed increased metastasis to regional lymph nodes. Flow cytometry analysis suggested that CD44 positive cells were enriched in the metastatic lymph nodes compared to the primary tumors. CD44 overexpression significantly increased migration and invasion abilities of lung cancer cells through CD44-induced ERK phosphorylation, ZEB1 upregulation, and Claudin-1 downregulation. Furthermore, ERK inhibition suppressed the migration and invasion abilities of CD44-overexpressing lung cancer cells. In summary, our in vitro and clinical results indicate that CD44 may be a potential prognostic and therapeutic marker for lung cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yen-Yun Wang
- Translational Research Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan;
- Department of Medical Research, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- School of Dentistry, College of Dental Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan;
- Center for Cancer Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
| | - Anupama Vadhan
- Graduate Institute of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan;
| | - Ping-Ho Chen
- School of Dentistry, College of Dental Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan;
- Center for Cancer Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
| | - Yen-Lung Lee
- Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan;
| | - Chih-Yeh Chao
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung 912, Taiwan;
| | - Kuang-Hung Cheng
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung 804, Taiwan; (K.-H.C.); (Y.-C.C.)
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Chiuan Chang
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung 804, Taiwan; (K.-H.C.); (Y.-C.C.)
| | - Stephen Chu-Sung Hu
- Department of Dermatology, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan;
- Department of Dermatology, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
| | - Shyng-Shiou F. Yuan
- Translational Research Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan;
- Department of Medical Research, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Center for Cancer Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
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Harnessing Carcinoma Cell Plasticity Mediated by TGF-β Signaling. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13143397. [PMID: 34298613 PMCID: PMC8307280 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13143397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary This review describes mechanisms driving epithelial plasticity in carcinoma mediated by transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) signaling. Plasticity in carcinoma is frequently induced through epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), an evolutionary conserved process in the development of multicellular organisms. The review explores the multifaceted functions of EMT, particularly focusing on the intermediate stages, which provide more adaptive responses of carcinoma cells in their microenvironment. The review critically considers how different intermediate or hybrid EMT stages confer carcinoma cells with stemness, refractoriness to therapies, and ability to execute all steps of the metastatic cascade. Finally, the review provides examples of therapeutic interventions based on the EMT concept. Abstract Epithelial cell plasticity, a hallmark of carcinoma progression, results in local and distant cancer dissemination. Carcinoma cell plasticity can be achieved through epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), with cells positioned seemingly indiscriminately across the spectrum of EMT phenotypes. Different degrees of plasticity are achieved by transcriptional regulation and feedback-loops, which confer carcinoma cells with unique properties of tumor propagation and therapy resistance. Decoding the molecular and cellular basis of EMT in carcinoma should enable the discovery of new therapeutic strategies against cancer. In this review, we discuss the different attributes of plasticity in carcinoma and highlight the role of the canonical TGFβ receptor signaling pathway in the acquisition of plasticity. We emphasize the potential stochasticity of stemness in carcinoma in relation to plasticity and provide data from recent clinical trials that seek to target plasticity.
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Pfeifer E, Burchell JM, Dazzi F, Sarker D, Beatson R. Apoptosis in the Pancreatic Cancer Tumor Microenvironment-The Double-Edged Sword of Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts. Cells 2021; 10:cells10071653. [PMID: 34359823 PMCID: PMC8305815 DOI: 10.3390/cells10071653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Revised: 06/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is associated with poor prognosis. This is attributed to the disease already being advanced at presentation and having a particularly aggressive tumor biology. The PDAC tumor microenvironment (TME) is characterized by a dense desmoplastic stroma, dominated by cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF), extracellular matrix (ECM) and immune cells displaying immunosuppressive phenotypes. Due to the advanced stage at diagnosis, the depletion of immune effector cells and lack of actionable genomic targets, the standard treatment is still apoptosis-inducing regimens such as chemotherapy. Paradoxically, it has emerged that the direct induction of apoptosis of cancer cells may fuel oncogenic processes in the TME, including education of CAF and immune cells towards pro-tumorigenic phenotypes. The direct effect of cytotoxic therapies on CAF may also enhance tumorigenesis. With the awareness that CAF are the predominant cell type in PDAC driving tumorigenesis with various tumor supportive functions, efforts have been made to try to target them. However, efforts to target CAF have, to date, shown disappointing results in clinical trials. With the help of sophisticated single cell analyses it is now appreciated that CAF in PDAC are a heterogenous population with both tumor supportive and tumor suppressive functions. Hence, there remains a debate whether targeting CAF in PDAC is a valid therapeutic strategy. In this review we discuss how cytotoxic therapies and the induction of apoptosis in PDAC fuels oncogenesis by the education of surrounding stromal cells, with a particular focus on the potential pro-tumorigenic outcomes arising from targeting CAF. In addition, we explore therapeutic avenues to potentially avoid the oncogenic effects of apoptosis in PDAC CAF.
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Lodestijn SC, van Neerven SM, Vermeulen L, Bijlsma MF. Stem Cells in the Exocrine Pancreas during Homeostasis, Injury, and Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13133295. [PMID: 34209288 PMCID: PMC8267661 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13133295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2021] [Revised: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 06/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Pancreatic cancer is one of the most lethal malignancies. Hence, improved therapies are urgently needed. Recent research indicates that pancreatic cancers depend on cancer stem cells (CSCs) for tumor expansion, metastasis, and therapy resistance. However, the exact functionality of pancreatic CSCs is still unclear. CSCs have much in common with normal pancreatic stem cells that have been better, albeit still incompletely, characterized. In this literature review, we address how pancreatic stem cells influence growth, homeostasis, regeneration, and cancer. Furthermore, we outline which intrinsic and extrinsic factors regulate stem cell functionality during these different processes to explore potential novel targets for treating pancreatic cancer. Abstract Cell generation and renewal are essential processes to develop, maintain, and regenerate tissues. New cells can be generated from immature cell types, such as stem-like cells, or originate from more differentiated pre-existing cells that self-renew or transdifferentiate. The adult pancreas is a dormant organ with limited regeneration capacity, which complicates studying these processes. As a result, there is still discussion about the existence of stem cells in the adult pancreas. Interestingly, in contrast to the classical stem cell concept, stem cell properties seem to be plastic, and, in circumstances of injury, differentiated cells can revert back to a more immature cellular state. Importantly, deregulation of the balance between cellular proliferation and differentiation can lead to disease initiation, in particular to cancer formation. Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a lethal disease with a 5-year survival rate of only ~9%. Unfortunately, metastasis formation often occurs prior to diagnosis, and most tumors are resistant to current treatment strategies. It has been proposed that a specific subpopulation of cells, i.e., cancer stem cells (CSCs), are responsible for tumor expansion, metastasis formation, and therapy resistance. Understanding the underlying mechanisms of pancreatic stem cells during homeostasis and injury might lead to new insights to understand the role of CSCs in PDAC. Therefore, in this review, we present an overview of the current literature regarding the stem cell dynamics in the pancreas during health and disease. Furthermore, we highlight the influence of the tumor microenvironment on the growth behavior of PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie C. Lodestijn
- Laboratory for Experimental Oncology and Radiobiology, Center for Experimental and Molecular Medicine, Cancer Center Amsterdam and Amsterdam Gastroenterology Endocrinology and Metabolism, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (S.C.L.); (S.M.v.N.); (L.V.)
- Oncode Institute, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sanne M. van Neerven
- Laboratory for Experimental Oncology and Radiobiology, Center for Experimental and Molecular Medicine, Cancer Center Amsterdam and Amsterdam Gastroenterology Endocrinology and Metabolism, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (S.C.L.); (S.M.v.N.); (L.V.)
- Oncode Institute, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Louis Vermeulen
- Laboratory for Experimental Oncology and Radiobiology, Center for Experimental and Molecular Medicine, Cancer Center Amsterdam and Amsterdam Gastroenterology Endocrinology and Metabolism, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (S.C.L.); (S.M.v.N.); (L.V.)
- Oncode Institute, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Maarten F. Bijlsma
- Laboratory for Experimental Oncology and Radiobiology, Center for Experimental and Molecular Medicine, Cancer Center Amsterdam and Amsterdam Gastroenterology Endocrinology and Metabolism, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (S.C.L.); (S.M.v.N.); (L.V.)
- Oncode Institute, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Correspondence:
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Gorchs L, Kaipe H. Interactions between Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts and T Cells in the Pancreatic Tumor Microenvironment and the Role of Chemokines. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:2995. [PMID: 34203869 PMCID: PMC8232575 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13122995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Revised: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Less than 10% of patients diagnosed with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) survive 5 years or more, making it one of the most fatal cancers. Accumulation of T cells in pancreatic tumors is associated with better prognosis, but immunotherapies to enhance the anti-tumor activity of infiltrating T cells are failing in this devastating disease. Pancreatic tumors are characterized by a desmoplastic stroma, which mainly consists of activated cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). Pancreatic CAFs have emerged as important regulators of the tumor microenvironment by contributing to immune evasion through the release of chemokines, cytokines, and growth factors, which alters T-cell migration, differentiation and cytotoxic activity. However, recent discoveries have also revealed that subsets of CAFs with diverse functions can either restrain or promote tumor progression. Here, we discuss our current knowledge about the interactions between CAFs and T cells in PDAC and summarize different therapy strategies targeting the CAF-T cell axis with focus on CAF-derived soluble immunosuppressive factors and chemokines. Identifying the functions of different CAF subsets and understanding their roles in T-cell trafficking within the tumor may be fundamental for the development of an effective combinational treatment for PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laia Gorchs
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, 14152 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Helen Kaipe
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, 14152 Stockholm, Sweden
- Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, 14152 Stockholm, Sweden
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Zhou Y, Gao S, Zhou B, Yuan S, Ren H, Wang Y, Guo X, Ren J, Chen Z, Hao J. Delta HU is a potential marker to predict chemotherapy response for unresectable pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Pancreatology 2021; 21:763-770. [PMID: 33712388 DOI: 10.1016/j.pan.2021.02.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 02/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND FOLFIRINOX and gemcitabine plus albumin-bound paclitaxel (AG) regimens are recommended as first-line therapy for both locally advanced and metastatic pancreatic cancer. However, there were no specific markers to conduct personalized regimen choice. The research is to assess delta Housfield unit (delta HU), which is the difference in CT attenuation value (in HU) between enhanced and nonenhanced phase of region of interest, as a marker for predicting chemotherapy response of unresectable pancreatic cancer. METHODS A total of 179 unresectable pancreatic cancer patients were enrolled in the study. Kaplan-Meier analysis and COX regression analysis were performed for progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival. The differences of clinical characteristics were analyzed by χ 2test. Microvessel density (MVD) was calculated by immunochemistry staining of CD34. RESULTS Delta HU was an independent risk factor for unresectable pancreatic cancer (P = 0.017, HR 0.672, 95%CI 0.485-0.930). Patients with higher delta HU were associated with better PFS (P = 0.004). For modified FOLFIRINOX (mFOLFIRINOX) group, delta HU was an independent risk factor (P = 0.045, HR 0.571), but not for AG group (P = 0.473, HR 0.855). Delta HU was correlated with stroma MVD (P = 0.000, R = 0.483), not with parenchyma MVD (P = 0.074, R = 0.199). CONCLUSIONS Delta HU was a marker predicting chemotherapy response for unresectable pancreatic cancer. Higher delta HU was associated with better survival for patients receiving mFOLFIRINOX rather than AG. The delta HU was positively correlated with stroma MVD, explaining the relationship between delta HU and prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yizhang Zhou
- Department of Pancreatic Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Song Gao
- Department of Pancreatic Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Bodong Zhou
- Department of Pancreatic Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Shuai Yuan
- Department of Pancreatic Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - He Ren
- Department of Gastroenterology, Center of Tumor Immunology and Cytotherapy, Medical Research Center, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yifei Wang
- Department of Pancreatic Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiaofan Guo
- Department of Pancreatic Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Jin Ren
- Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Taiyuan, China
| | - Zhiqiang Chen
- Department of Pancreatic Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Jihui Hao
- Department of Pancreatic Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China.
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Gao J, Zhang Y, Liu X, Wu X, Huang L, Gao W. Triptolide: pharmacological spectrum, biosynthesis, chemical synthesis and derivatives. Theranostics 2021; 11:7199-7221. [PMID: 34158845 PMCID: PMC8210588 DOI: 10.7150/thno.57745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Triptolide, an abietane-type diterpenoid isolated from Tripterygium wilfordii Hook. F., has significant pharmacological activity. Research results show that triptolide has obvious inhibitory effects on many solid tumors. Therefore, triptolide has become one of the lead compounds candidates for being the next "blockbuster" drug, and multiple triptolide derivatives have entered clinical research. An increasing number of researchers have developed triptolide synthesis methods to meet the clinical need. To provide new ideas for researchers in different disciplines and connect different disciplines with researchers aiming to solve scientific problems more efficiently, this article reviews the research progress made with analyzes of triptolide pharmacological activity, biosynthetic pathways, and chemical synthesis pathways and reported in toxicological and clinical studies of derivatives over the past 20 years, which have laid the foundation for subsequent researchers to study triptolide in many ways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Gao
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
- Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100038, China
- State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Dao-di Herbs, National Resource Center for Chinese Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China
| | - Yifeng Zhang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
- Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100038, China
| | - Xihong Liu
- Basic Medical College, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Xiayi Wu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Luqi Huang
- State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Dao-di Herbs, National Resource Center for Chinese Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China
| | - Wei Gao
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
- Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100038, China
- Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
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Ramakrishnan V, de Haydu C, Wilkinson P, Hooda U, Giri B, Oleas JM, Rive V, Roy S, Dudeja V, Slomovitch B, Saluja A, Ramakrishnan S. Minnelide, a prodrug, inhibits cervical cancer growth by blocking HPV-induced changes in p53 and pRb. Am J Cancer Res 2021; 11:2202-2214. [PMID: 34094678 PMCID: PMC8167699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/05/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
HPV-induced cervical cancer is one of the prevalent gynecological cancers world-wide. In the present study, we determined the efficacy of Minnelide, a prodrug which is converted to its active form (Triptolide) in vivo against cervical cancer cells. Our studies show that Triptolide inhibited HPV-16 and HPV-18 positive cells at nanomolar concentrations. Tumor cells treated with Triptolide failed to grow in 3-D cultures in a concentration-dependent manner. Triptolide markedly reduced E6 and E7 transcript levels. Further studies revealed that exposure to Triptolide increased the levels of p53 and pRb. As a consequence, Caspase-3/7 activation and apoptosis was induced in cervical cancer cells by Triptolide. Subsequently, we evaluated the efficacy of Minnelide in xenotransplantation models of cervical cancer. Minnelide at very low doses effectively inhibited the growth of established cervical cancers in all the three animal models tested. Furthermore, Minnelide treatment was more effective when combined with platinum-based chemotherapy. These studies show that Minnelide can be used to inhibit the growth of cervical cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivek Ramakrishnan
- Department of Surgery, Miller School of Medicine, University of MiamiFL, USA
| | - Christopher de Haydu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Miller School of Medicine, University of MiamiFL, USA
| | - Peter Wilkinson
- School of Dentistry, University of MinnesotaMinneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Urvashi Hooda
- Department of Surgery, Miller School of Medicine, University of MiamiFL, USA
| | - Bhuwan Giri
- Department of Surgery, Miller School of Medicine, University of MiamiFL, USA
| | - Janneth M Oleas
- Department of Surgery, Miller School of Medicine, University of MiamiFL, USA
| | - Veronica Rive
- Department of Surgery, Miller School of Medicine, University of MiamiFL, USA
| | - Sabita Roy
- Department of Surgery, Miller School of Medicine, University of MiamiFL, USA
- Department of Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miller School of Medicine, University of MiamiFL, USA
| | - Vikas Dudeja
- Department of Surgery, Miller School of Medicine, University of MiamiFL, USA
- Department of Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miller School of Medicine, University of MiamiFL, USA
| | - Brian Slomovitch
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Miller School of Medicine, University of MiamiFL, USA
- Department of Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miller School of Medicine, University of MiamiFL, USA
| | - Ashok Saluja
- Department of Surgery, Miller School of Medicine, University of MiamiFL, USA
- Department of Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miller School of Medicine, University of MiamiFL, USA
| | - Sundaram Ramakrishnan
- Department of Surgery, Miller School of Medicine, University of MiamiFL, USA
- Department of Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miller School of Medicine, University of MiamiFL, USA
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Ostrowska-Podhorodecka Z, McCulloch CA. Vimentin regulates the assembly and function of matrix adhesions. Wound Repair Regen 2021; 29:602-612. [PMID: 33887795 DOI: 10.1111/wrr.12920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Revised: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The intermediate filament protein vimentin is a widely used phenotypic marker for identifying cells of the mesenchymal linkage such as fibroblasts and myofibroblasts, but the full repertoire of vimentin's functional attributes has not been fully explored. Here we consider how vimentin, in addition to its contributions to mechanical stabilization of cell structure, also helps to control the assembly of cell adhesions and migration through collagen matrices. While the assembly and function of matrix adhesions are critical for the differentiation of myofibroblasts and many other types of adherent cells, a potential mechanism that explains how vimentin affects the recruitment and abundance of centrally important proteins in cell adhesions has been elusive. Here we review recent data indicating that vimentin plays a central regulatory role in the assembly of focal adhesions which form in response to the attachment to collagen. We show that in particular, vimentin is a key organizer of the β1 integrin adhesive machinery, which affects cell migration through collagen. This review provides a comprehensive picture of the surprisingly broad array of processes and molecules with which vimentin interacts to affect cell function in the context of fibroblast and myofibroblast adhesion and migration on collagen.
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Liot S, Balas J, Aubert A, Prigent L, Mercier-Gouy P, Verrier B, Bertolino P, Hennino A, Valcourt U, Lambert E. Stroma Involvement in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma: An Overview Focusing on Extracellular Matrix Proteins. Front Immunol 2021; 12:612271. [PMID: 33889150 PMCID: PMC8056076 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.612271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is the seventh leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide and is predicted to become second in 2030 in industrialized countries if no therapeutic progress is made. Among the different types of pancreatic cancers, Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is by far the most represented one with an occurrence of more than 90%. This specific cancer is a devastating malignancy with an extremely poor prognosis, as shown by the 5-years survival rate of 2–9%, ranking firmly last amongst all cancer sites in terms of prognostic outcomes for patients. Pancreatic tumors progress with few specific symptoms and are thus at an advanced stage at diagnosis in most patients. This malignancy is characterized by an extremely dense stroma deposition around lesions, accompanied by tissue hypovascularization and a profound immune suppression. Altogether, these combined features make access to cancer cells almost impossible for conventional chemotherapeutics and new immunotherapeutic agents, thus contributing to the fatal outcomes of the disease. Initially ignored, the Tumor MicroEnvironment (TME) is now the subject of intensive research related to PDAC treatment and could contain new therapeutic targets. In this review, we will summarize the current state of knowledge in the field by focusing on TME composition to understand how this specific compartment could influence tumor progression and resistance to therapies. Attention will be paid to Tenascin-C, a matrix glycoprotein commonly upregulated during cancer that participates to PDAC progression and thus contributes to poor prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Liot
- Laboratoire de Biologie Tissulaire et Ingénierie Thérapeutique (LBTI), UMR CNRS 5305, Université Lyon 1, Institut de Biologie et Chimie des Protéines, Lyon, France
| | - Jonathan Balas
- Laboratoire de Biologie Tissulaire et Ingénierie Thérapeutique (LBTI), UMR CNRS 5305, Université Lyon 1, Institut de Biologie et Chimie des Protéines, Lyon, France
| | - Alexandre Aubert
- Laboratoire de Biologie Tissulaire et Ingénierie Thérapeutique (LBTI), UMR CNRS 5305, Université Lyon 1, Institut de Biologie et Chimie des Protéines, Lyon, France
| | - Laura Prigent
- Laboratoire de Biologie Tissulaire et Ingénierie Thérapeutique (LBTI), UMR CNRS 5305, Université Lyon 1, Institut de Biologie et Chimie des Protéines, Lyon, France
| | - Perrine Mercier-Gouy
- Laboratoire de Biologie Tissulaire et Ingénierie Thérapeutique (LBTI), UMR CNRS 5305, Université Lyon 1, Institut de Biologie et Chimie des Protéines, Lyon, France
| | - Bernard Verrier
- Laboratoire de Biologie Tissulaire et Ingénierie Thérapeutique (LBTI), UMR CNRS 5305, Université Lyon 1, Institut de Biologie et Chimie des Protéines, Lyon, France
| | - Philippe Bertolino
- Cancer Research Center of Lyon, UMR INSERM 1052, CNRS 5286, Lyon, France
| | - Ana Hennino
- Cancer Research Center of Lyon, UMR INSERM 1052, CNRS 5286, Lyon, France
| | - Ulrich Valcourt
- Laboratoire de Biologie Tissulaire et Ingénierie Thérapeutique (LBTI), UMR CNRS 5305, Université Lyon 1, Institut de Biologie et Chimie des Protéines, Lyon, France
| | - Elise Lambert
- Laboratoire de Biologie Tissulaire et Ingénierie Thérapeutique (LBTI), UMR CNRS 5305, Université Lyon 1, Institut de Biologie et Chimie des Protéines, Lyon, France
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Wu Y, Zhang C, Jiang K, Werner J, Bazhin AV, D'Haese JG. The Role of Stellate Cells in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma: Targeting Perspectives. Front Oncol 2021; 10:621937. [PMID: 33520728 PMCID: PMC7841014 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.621937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a gastrointestinal malignancy with a dismal clinical outcome. Accumulating evidence suggests that activated pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs), the major producers of extracellular matrix (ECM), drive the severe stromal/desmoplastic reaction in PDAC. Furthermore, the crosstalk among PSCs, pancreatic cancer cells (PCCs) as well as other stroma cells can establish a growth-supportive tumor microenvironment (TME) of PDAC, thereby enhancing tumor growth, metastasis, and chemoresistance via various pathways. Recently, targeting stroma has emerged as a promising strategy for PDAC therapy, and several novel strategies have been proposed. The aim of our study is to give a profound review of the role of PSCs in PDAC progression and recent advances in stroma-targeting strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Wu
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplant Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Chun Zhang
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplant Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Kuirong Jiang
- Pancreas Center and Pancreas Institute, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jens Werner
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplant Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany.,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Alexandr V Bazhin
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplant Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany.,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Jan G D'Haese
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplant Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
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Biffi G, Tuveson DA. Diversity and Biology of Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts. Physiol Rev 2021; 101:147-176. [PMID: 32466724 PMCID: PMC7864232 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00048.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 541] [Impact Index Per Article: 180.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2019] [Revised: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Efforts to develop anti-cancer therapies have largely focused on targeting the epithelial compartment, despite the presence of non-neoplastic stromal components that substantially contribute to the progression of the tumor. Indeed, cancer cell survival, growth, migration, and even dormancy are influenced by the surrounding tumor microenvironment (TME). Within the TME, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) have been shown to play several roles in the development of a tumor. They secrete growth factors, inflammatory ligands, and extracellular matrix proteins that promote cancer cell proliferation, therapy resistance, and immune exclusion. However, recent work indicates that CAFs may also restrain tumor progression in some circumstances. In this review, we summarize the body of work on CAFs, with a particular focus on the most recent discoveries about fibroblast heterogeneity, plasticity, and functions. We also highlight the commonalities of fibroblasts present across different cancer types, and in normal and inflammatory states. Finally, we present the latest advances regarding therapeutic strategies targeting CAFs that are undergoing preclinical and clinical evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Biffi
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, New York; Lustgarten Foundation Pancreatic Cancer Research Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, New York; and Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - David A Tuveson
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, New York; Lustgarten Foundation Pancreatic Cancer Research Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, New York; and Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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Tong L, Zhao Q, Datan E, Lin GQ, Minn I, Pomper MG, Yu B, Romo D, He QL, Liu JO. Triptolide: reflections on two decades of research and prospects for the future. Nat Prod Rep 2021; 38:843-860. [PMID: 33146205 DOI: 10.1039/d0np00054j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Covering: 2000 to 2020 Triptolide is a bioactive diterpene triepoxide isolated from Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F, a traditional Chinese medicinal plant whose extracts have been used as anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive remedies for centuries. Although triptolide and its analogs exhibit potent bioactivities against various cancers, and inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, none of them has been approved to be used in the clinic. This review highlights advances in material sourcing, molecular mechanisms, clinical progress and new drug design strategies for triptolide over the past two decades, along with some prospects for the future course of development of triptolide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Tong
- The Research Center of Chiral Drugs, Innovation Research Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Qunfei Zhao
- The Research Center of Chiral Drugs, Innovation Research Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Emmanuel Datan
- Department of Pharmacology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, 725 North Wolfe Street, Hunterian Building, Room 516, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
| | - Guo-Qiang Lin
- The Research Center of Chiral Drugs, Innovation Research Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai 201203, China. and CAS Key Laboratory of Synthetic Chemistry of Natural Substances, Center for Excellence in Molecular Synthesis, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 345 Lingling Road, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Il Minn
- Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Martin G Pomper
- Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Biao Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Bio-organic and Natural Products Chemistry, Center for Excellence in Molecular Synthesis, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Daniel Romo
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The CPRIT Synthesis and Drug Lead Discovery Laboratory, Baylor University, Waco, Texas 76710, USA
| | - Qing-Li He
- The Research Center of Chiral Drugs, Innovation Research Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Jun O Liu
- Department of Pharmacology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, 725 North Wolfe Street, Hunterian Building, Room 516, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
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39
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Zhang Z, Zhang H, Liu T, Chen T, Wang D, Tang D. Heterogeneous Pancreatic Stellate Cells Are Powerful Contributors to the Malignant Progression of Pancreatic Cancer. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:783617. [PMID: 34988078 PMCID: PMC8722736 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.783617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is associated with highly malignant tumors and poor prognosis due to strong therapeutic resistance. Accumulating evidence shows that activated pancreatic stellate cells (PSC) play an important role in the malignant progression of pancreatic cancer. In recent years, the rapid development of single-cell sequencing technology has facilitated the analysis of PSC population heterogeneity, allowing for the elucidation of the relationship between different subsets of cells with tumor development and therapeutic resistance. Researchers have identified two spatially separated, functionally complementary, and reversible subtypes, namely myofibroblastic and inflammatory PSC. Myofibroblastic PSC produce large amounts of pro-fibroproliferative collagen fibers, whereas inflammatory PSC express large amounts of inflammatory cytokines. These distinct cell subtypes cooperate to create a microenvironment suitable for cancer cell survival. Therefore, further understanding of the differentiation of PSC and their distinct functions will provide insight into more effective treatment options for pancreatic cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhilin Zhang
- Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Huan Zhang
- Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Tian Liu
- Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Tian Chen
- Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Daorong Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Northern Jiangsu People’s Hospital, Clinical Medical College, Institute of General Surgery, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Dong Tang
- Department of General Surgery, Northern Jiangsu People’s Hospital, Clinical Medical College, Institute of General Surgery, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Dong Tang,
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Noel P, Hussein S, Ng S, Antal CE, Lin W, Rodela E, Delgado P, Naveed S, Downes M, Lin Y, Evans RM, Von Hoff DD, Han H. Triptolide targets super-enhancer networks in pancreatic cancer cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts. Oncogenesis 2020; 9:100. [PMID: 33168807 PMCID: PMC7653036 DOI: 10.1038/s41389-020-00285-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Revised: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is highly heterogeneous, fibrotic, and hypovascular, marked by extensive desmoplasia and maintained by the tumor cells, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and other stromal cells. There is an urgent need to identify and develop treatment strategies that not only target the tumor cells but can also modulate the stromal cells. A growing number of studies implicate the role of regulatory DNA elements called super-enhancers (SE) in maintaining cell-type-specific gene expression networks in both normal and cancer cells. Using chromatin activation marks, we first mapped SE networks in pancreatic CAFs and epithelial tumor cells and found them to have distinct SE profiles. Next, we explored the role of triptolide (TPL), a natural compound with antitumor activity, in the context of modulating cell-type-specific SE signatures in PDAC. We found that TPL, cytotoxic to both pancreatic tumor cells and CAFs, disrupted SEs in a manner that resulted in the downregulation of SE-associated genes (e.g., BRD4, MYC, RNA Pol II, and Collagen 1) in both cell types at mRNA and protein levels. Our observations suggest that TPL acts as a SE interactive agent and may elicit its antitumor activity through SE disruption to re-program cellular cross talk and signaling in PDAC. Based on our findings, epigenetic reprogramming of transcriptional regulation using SE modulating compounds such as TPL may provide means for effective treatment options for pancreatic cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pawan Noel
- Molecular Medicine Division, Translational Genomics Research Institute, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Shaimaa Hussein
- Baylor Scott and White Research Institute, Baylor Institute for Immunology Research, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Serina Ng
- Molecular Medicine Division, Translational Genomics Research Institute, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Corina E Antal
- Gene Expression Laboratory, Salk Institute for Biological Studies, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Wei Lin
- Molecular Medicine Division, Translational Genomics Research Institute, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Emily Rodela
- Molecular Medicine Division, Translational Genomics Research Institute, Phoenix, AZ, USA.,Phoenix Children's Hospital, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Priscilla Delgado
- Molecular Medicine Division, Translational Genomics Research Institute, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Sanna Naveed
- Molecular Medicine Division, Translational Genomics Research Institute, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Michael Downes
- Gene Expression Laboratory, Salk Institute for Biological Studies, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Yin Lin
- Baylor Scott and White Research Institute, Baylor Institute for Immunology Research, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Ronald M Evans
- Gene Expression Laboratory, Salk Institute for Biological Studies, San Diego, CA, USA.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Salk Institute for Biological Studies, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Daniel D Von Hoff
- Molecular Medicine Division, Translational Genomics Research Institute, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Haiyong Han
- Molecular Medicine Division, Translational Genomics Research Institute, Phoenix, AZ, USA.
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Chen R, Huang L, Hu K. Natural products remodel cancer-associated fibroblasts in desmoplastic tumors. Acta Pharm Sin B 2020; 10:2140-2155. [PMID: 33304782 PMCID: PMC7714988 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2020.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Revised: 03/10/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Desmoplastic tumors have an abundance of stromal cells and the extracellular matrix which usually result in therapeutic resistance. Current treatment prescriptions for desmoplastic tumors are usually not sufficient to eliminate the malignancy. Recently, through modulating cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) which are the most abundant cell type among all stromal cells, natural products have improved chemotherapies and the delivery of nanomedicines to the tumor cells, showing promising ability to improve treatment effects on desmoplastic tumors. In this review, we discussed the latest advances in inhibiting desmoplastic tumors by modeling CAFs using natural products, highlighting the potential therapeutic abilities of natural products in targeting CAFs for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rujing Chen
- Murad Research Center for Modernized Chinese Medicine, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Leaf Huang
- Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Kaili Hu
- Murad Research Center for Modernized Chinese Medicine, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
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42
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Lee YT, Tan YJ, Falasca M, Oon CE. Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts: Epigenetic Regulation and Therapeutic Intervention in Breast Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:E2949. [PMID: 33066013 PMCID: PMC7600259 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12102949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Revised: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related mortality in women worldwide. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are a heterogeneous population of cells in the solid tumour microenvironment. These cells are positively linked to breast cancer progression. Breast CAFs can be categorised into distinct subtypes according to their roles in breast carcinogenesis. Epigenetic modifications change gene expression patterns as a consequence of altered chromatin configuration and DNA accessibility to transcriptional machinery, without affecting the primary structure of DNA. Epigenetic dysregulation in breast CAFs may enhance breast cancer cell survival and ultimately lead to therapeutic resistance. A growing body of evidence has described epigenetic modulators that target histones, DNA, and miRNA as a promising approach to treat cancer. This review aims to summarise the current findings on the mechanisms involved in the epigenetic regulation in breast CAFs and discusses the potential therapeutic strategies via targeting these factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeuan Ting Lee
- Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine (INFORMM), Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang 11800, Malaysia; (Y.T.L.); (Y.J.T.)
| | - Yi Jer Tan
- Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine (INFORMM), Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang 11800, Malaysia; (Y.T.L.); (Y.J.T.)
| | - Marco Falasca
- Metabolic Signalling Group, School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin University, Perth, WA 6102, Australia
| | - Chern Ein Oon
- Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine (INFORMM), Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang 11800, Malaysia; (Y.T.L.); (Y.J.T.)
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43
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Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts: Versatile Players in the Tumor Microenvironment. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12092652. [PMID: 32957515 PMCID: PMC7564346 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12092652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2020] [Revised: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 09/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are key players in the tumor microenvironment. They are responsible for potentiating growth and metastasis through versatile functions, including maintenance of the extracellular matrix, blood vessel formation, modulation of tumor metabolism, suppression of antitumor immunity, and promotion of chemotherapy resistance. As such, CAFs are associated with poor prognosis and have emerged as a focus of anticancer research. In this review, we discuss the origins of CAFs, their heterogenous subtypes and their properties. We then detail the current state of preclinical and clinical research targeting CAF activities. We believe the limited efficacy of current cancer therapeutic approaches is driven by an incomplete understanding of CAF functions and by a nonstandardized CAF classification system. Therefore, we suggest a unified CAF classification based on specific functions to develop a new class of therapies that will focus on targeting the pro-tumorigenic properties of CAFs during tumor progression. Abstract Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are indispensable architects of the tumor microenvironment. They perform the essential functions of extracellular matrix deposition, stromal remodeling, tumor vasculature modulation, modification of tumor metabolism, and participation in crosstalk between cancer and immune cells. In this review, we discuss our current understanding of the principal differences between normal fibroblasts and CAFs, the origin of CAFs, their functions, and ultimately, highlight the intimate connection of CAFs to virtually all of the hallmarks of cancer. We address the remarkable degree of functional diversity and phenotypic plasticity displayed by CAFs and strive to stratify CAF biology among different tumor types into practical functional groups. Finally, we summarize the status of recent and ongoing trials of CAF-directed therapies and contend that the paucity of trials resulting in Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approvals thus far is a consequence of the failure to identify targets exclusive of pro-tumorigenic CAF phenotypes that are mechanistically linked to specific CAF functions. We believe that the development of a unified CAF nomenclature, the standardization of functional assays to assess the loss-of-function of CAF properties, and the establishment of rigorous definitions of CAF subpopulations and their mechanistic functions in cancer progression will be crucial to fully realize the promise of CAF-targeted therapies.
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Identification of Key Genes of Prognostic Value in Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma Microenvironment and a Risk Score Prognostic Model. DISEASE MARKERS 2020; 2020:8852388. [PMID: 32952743 PMCID: PMC7487089 DOI: 10.1155/2020/8852388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Revised: 07/10/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Objective We aimed at identifying the key genes of prognostic value in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) microenvironment and construct a risk score prognostic model. Materials and Methods Immune and stromal scores were calculated using the ESTIMATE algorithm. A total of 539 ccRCC cases were divided into high- and low-score groups. The differentially expressed genes in immune and stromal cells for the prognosis of ccRCC were screened. The relationship between survival outcome and gene expression was evaluated using univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazard regression analyses. A risk score prognostic model was constructed based on the immune/stromal scores. Results The median survival time of the low immune score group was longer than that of the high immune score group (p = 0.044). Ten tumor microenvironment-related genes were selected by screening, and a predictive model was established, based on which patients were divided into high- and low-risk groups with markedly different overall survival (p < 0.0001). Multivariate Cox analyses showed that the risk score prognostic model was independently associated with overall survival, with a hazard ratio of 1.0437 (confidence interval: 1.0237-1.0641, p < 0.0001). Conclusions Low immune scores were associated with extended survival time compared to high immune scores. The novel risk predictive model based on tumor microenvironment-related genes may be an independent prognostic biomarker in ccRCC.
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Ahrens TD, Bang-Christensen SR, Jørgensen AM, Løppke C, Spliid CB, Sand NT, Clausen TM, Salanti A, Agerbæk MØ. The Role of Proteoglycans in Cancer Metastasis and Circulating Tumor Cell Analysis. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:749. [PMID: 32984308 PMCID: PMC7479181 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.00749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are accessible by liquid biopsies via an easy blood draw. They represent not only the primary tumor site, but also potential metastatic lesions, and could thus be an attractive supplement for cancer diagnostics. However, the analysis of rare CTCs in billions of normal blood cells is still technically challenging and novel specific CTC markers are needed. The formation of metastasis is a complex process supported by numerous molecular alterations, and thus novel CTC markers might be found by focusing on this process. One example of this is specific changes in the cancer cell glycocalyx, which is a network on the cell surface composed of carbohydrate structures. Proteoglycans are important glycocalyx components and consist of a protein core and covalently attached long glycosaminoglycan chains. A few CTC assays have already utilized proteoglycans for both enrichment and analysis of CTCs. Nonetheless, the biological function of proteoglycans on clinical CTCs has not been studied in detail so far. Therefore, the present review describes proteoglycan functions during the metastatic cascade to highlight their importance to CTCs. We also outline current approaches for CTC assays based on targeting proteoglycans by their protein cores or their glycosaminoglycan chains. Lastly, we briefly discuss important technical aspects, which should be considered for studying proteoglycans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theresa D. Ahrens
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen and Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sara R. Bang-Christensen
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen and Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
- VarCT Diagnostics, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Caroline Løppke
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen and Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Charlotte B. Spliid
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen and Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Nicolai T. Sand
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen and Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Thomas M. Clausen
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen and Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Ali Salanti
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen and Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mette Ø. Agerbæk
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen and Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
- VarCT Diagnostics, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Sharma NS, Gupta VK, Garrido VT, Hadad R, Durden BC, Kesh K, Giri B, Ferrantella A, Dudeja V, Saluja A, Banerjee S. Targeting tumor-intrinsic hexosamine biosynthesis sensitizes pancreatic cancer to anti-PD1 therapy. J Clin Invest 2020; 130:451-465. [PMID: 31613799 DOI: 10.1172/jci127515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2019] [Accepted: 10/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is considered to be a highly immunosuppressive and heterogenous neoplasm. Despite improved knowledge regarding the genetic background of the tumor and better understanding of the tumor microenvironment, immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy (targeting CTLA4, PD1, PDL1) has not been very successful against PDAC. The robust desmoplastic stroma, along with an extensive extracellular matrix (ECM) that is rich in hyaluronan, plays an integral role in this immune evasion. Hexosamine biosynthesis pathway (HBP), a shunt pathway of glycolysis, is a metabolic node in cancer cells that can promote survival pathways on the one hand and influence the hyaluronan synthesis in the ECM on the other. The rate-limiting enzyme of the pathway, glutamine-fructose amidotransferase 1 (GFAT1), uses glutamine and fructose 6-phosphate to eventually synthesize uridine diphosphate N-acetylglucosamine (UDP-GlcNAc). In the current manuscript, we targeted this glutamine-utilizing enzyme by a small molecule glutamine analog (6-diazo-5-oxo-l-norleucine [DON]). Our results showed that DON decreased the self-renewal potential and metastatic ability of tumor cells. Further, treatment with DON decreased hyaluronan and collagen in the tumor microenvironment, leading to an extensive remodeling of the ECM and an increased infiltration of CD8+ T cells. Additionally, treatment with DON sensitized pancreatic tumors to anti-PD1 therapy, resulting in tumor regression and prolonged survival.
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Wang S, Li Y, Xing C, Ding C, Zhang H, Chen L, You L, Dai M, Zhao Y. Tumor microenvironment in chemoresistance, metastasis and immunotherapy of pancreatic cancer. Am J Cancer Res 2020; 10:1937-1953. [PMID: 32774994 PMCID: PMC7407356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) is a fatal disease with high malignancy and difficult for early diagnosis. PC causes more than 400,000 patient deaths world widely and becomes the severe health problems. The tumor microenvironment (TME) is comprised of acellular stroma, pancreatic stellate cells, immune cells, and soluble factors. TME is maintained by continuous cell-matrix and cell-cell interactions. TME induced by the interaction among pancreatic cancer cells, epithelial cells and stromal cells is essential for the progression of PC and leads to resistance to chemotherapy. Components in the microenvironment can also promote the formation of connective tissue in the primary or metastatic site, or promote the metastatic ability of PC by enhancing angiogenesis, epithelial-mesenchymal transformation, and lymph angiogenesis. In addition, the TME also leaves pancreatic cancer unsusceptible to different immunotherapeutic strategies. In this review, we summarized the current knowledge about TME in PC. And the focus was placed on the role of TME in chemotherapeutic resistance and metastasis in the field of PC. And we also paid attention to the immunological therapy targeting the TME, aiming to provide the novel therapy for pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shunda Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences/Peking Union Medical College Beijing 100730, China
| | - Yatong Li
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences/Peking Union Medical College Beijing 100730, China
| | - Cheng Xing
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences/Peking Union Medical College Beijing 100730, China
| | - Cheng Ding
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences/Peking Union Medical College Beijing 100730, China
| | - Hanyu Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences/Peking Union Medical College Beijing 100730, China
| | - Lixin Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences/Peking Union Medical College Beijing 100730, China
| | - Lei You
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences/Peking Union Medical College Beijing 100730, China
| | - Menghua Dai
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences/Peking Union Medical College Beijing 100730, China
| | - Yupei Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences/Peking Union Medical College Beijing 100730, China
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Su T, Yang B, Gao T, Liu T, Li J. Polymer nanoparticle-assisted chemotherapy of pancreatic cancer. Ther Adv Med Oncol 2020; 12:1758835920915978. [PMID: 32426046 PMCID: PMC7222269 DOI: 10.1177/1758835920915978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2019] [Accepted: 02/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is a lethal disease characterized by highly dense stroma fibrosis. Only 15-20% of patients with pancreatic cancer have resectable tumors, and only around 20% of them survive to 5 years. Traditional cancer treatments have little effect on their prognosis, and successful surgical resection combined with effective perioperative therapy is the main method for maximizing long-term survival. For this reason, chemotherapy is an adjunct treatment for resectable cancer and is the main therapy for incurable pancreatic cancer, including metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinoma. However, there are various side effects of chemotherapeutic medicine and low drug penetration because the complex tumor microenvironment limits the application of chemotherapy. As a novel strategy, polymer nanoparticles make it possible to target the tumor microenvironment, release cytotoxic agents through various responsive reactions, and thus overcome the treatment barrier. As drug carriers, polymer nanoparticles show marked advantages, such as increased drug delivery and efficiency, controlled drug release, decreased side effects, prolonged half-life, and evasion of immunogenic blockade. In this review, we discuss the factors that cause chemotherapy obstacles in pancreatic cancer, and introduce the application of polymer nanoparticles to treat pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianqi Su
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, People’s Republic of China
| | - Bo Yang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, People’s Republic of China
| | - Tianren Gao
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, People’s Republic of China
| | - Tongjun Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130041, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jiannan Li
- Department of General Surgery, Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130041, People’s Republic of China
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Wang H, Ye X, Ju Y, Cai Z, Wang X, Du P, Zhang M, Li Y, Cai J. Minicircle DNA-Mediated CAR T Cells Targeting CD44 Suppressed Hepatocellular Carcinoma Both in vitro and in vivo. Onco Targets Ther 2020; 13:3703-3716. [PMID: 32440140 PMCID: PMC7210041 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s247836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Based on the continuous exploration of solid tumor immunotherapy, we focused on hepatocellular carcinoma with a high level of morbidity and mortality. We confirm the stability of mcDNA-based CAR T cell generating platform, and investigate the antitumor activity of CD44-CAR T cells against hepatocellular carcinoma both in vitro and in vivo. Materials and Methods We fused anti-CD44 scFv structure with transmembrane domain and intracellular domain. Using a non-viral mcDNA vector to load CD44-CAR gene, then transfected the mcDNA-CD44-CAR into human T cells by electroporation. We exhibited the transfection efficacy of CAR T cells and the CD44 expression of tumor cell lines by flow cytometry. The antitumor efficacy of CD44-CAR T cells in vitro and in vivo was detected through CCK-8 and ELISA assays, and xenograft mouse models, respectively. Results We obtained mcDNA-CD44-CAR with a high level of density after repeated extraction and purification. The expression efficacy of CD44-CAR in T cells was more than 50% after seven days electroporation and the phenotype of CD44-CAR T cells was no difference compared with normal T cells. For CD44-positive hepatocellular carcinoma xenograft mice, CD44-CAR T cells had stronger tumor growth suppression compared to normal T and mock T cells. The same results occurred on the in vitro experiments including cytokine secretion and cytotoxicity assays. H&E staining graphs revealed that CD44-CAR T cells did not induce side effects in xenograft mice. Conclusion The strategy for generating CAR T cells targeting cancer stem cell antigens was efficient and concise. The mcDNA had superior transgene ability without virus-related adverse effects. CD44-CAR T cells had strong suppression capacity against hepatocellular carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hezhi Wang
- Department of Surgery, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, People's Republic of China
| | - Xueshuai Ye
- Department of Surgery, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, People's Republic of China.,Hebei Engineering Technology Research Center for Cell Therapy, Hebei HOFOY Biotech Corporation Ltd., Shijiazhuang, Hebei, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi Ju
- Department of Medicine, Medical College of Hebei University of Engineering, Handan, Hebei, People's Republic of China
| | - Ziqi Cai
- Hebei Engineering Technology Research Center for Cell Therapy, Hebei HOFOY Biotech Corporation Ltd., Shijiazhuang, Hebei, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoxiao Wang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, People's Republic of China
| | - Pingping Du
- Hebei Engineering Technology Research Center for Cell Therapy, Hebei HOFOY Biotech Corporation Ltd., Shijiazhuang, Hebei, People's Republic of China
| | - Mengya Zhang
- Hebei Engineering Technology Research Center for Cell Therapy, Hebei HOFOY Biotech Corporation Ltd., Shijiazhuang, Hebei, People's Republic of China
| | - Yang Li
- Department of Surgery, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianhui Cai
- Department of Surgery, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, People's Republic of China.,Department of Surgery & Oncology, Hebei General Hospital, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, People's Republic of China
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Han X, Xu Y, Geranpayehvaghei M, Anderson GJ, Li Y, Nie G. Emerging nanomedicines for anti-stromal therapy against desmoplastic tumors. Biomaterials 2020; 232:119745. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2019.119745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2019] [Revised: 11/29/2019] [Accepted: 12/25/2019] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
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