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Moragas N, Fernandez-Nogueira P, Recalde-Percaz L, Inman JL, López-Plana A, Bergholtz H, Noguera-Castells A, Del Burgo PJ, Chen X, Sorlie T, Gascón P, Bragado P, Bissell M, Carbó N, Fuster G. The SEMA3F-NRP1/NRP2 axis is a key factor in the acquisition of invasive traits in in situ breast ductal carcinoma. Breast Cancer Res 2024; 26:122. [PMID: 39138514 PMCID: PMC11320849 DOI: 10.1186/s13058-024-01871-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A better understanding of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) is urgently needed to identify these preinvasive lesions as distinct clinical entities. Semaphorin 3F (SEMA3F) is a soluble axonal guidance molecule, and its coreceptors Neuropilin 1 (NRP1) and NRP2 are strongly expressed in invasive epithelial BC cells. METHODS We utilized two cell line models to represent the progression from a healthy state to the mild-aggressive or ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) stage and, ultimately, to invasive cell lines. Additionally, we employed in vivo models and conducted analyses on patient databases to ensure the translational relevance of our results. RESULTS We revealed SEMA3F as a promoter of invasion during the DCIS-to-invasive ductal carcinoma transition in breast cancer (BC) through the action of NRP1 and NRP2. In epithelial cells, SEMA3F activates epithelialmesenchymal transition, whereas it promotes extracellular matrix degradation and basal membrane and myoepithelial cell layer breakdown. CONCLUSIONS Together with our patient database data, these proof-of-concept results reveal new SEMA3F-mediated mechanisms occurring in the most common preinvasive BC lesion, DCIS, and represent potent and direct activation of its transition to invasion. Moreover, and of clinical and therapeutic relevance, the effects of SEMA3F can be blocked directly through its coreceptors, thus preventing invasion and keeping DCIS lesions in the preinvasive state.
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MESH Headings
- Humans
- Neuropilin-1/metabolism
- Neuropilin-1/genetics
- Female
- Breast Neoplasms/pathology
- Breast Neoplasms/metabolism
- Breast Neoplasms/genetics
- Neuropilin-2/metabolism
- Neuropilin-2/genetics
- Neoplasm Invasiveness
- Carcinoma, Intraductal, Noninfiltrating/metabolism
- Carcinoma, Intraductal, Noninfiltrating/pathology
- Carcinoma, Intraductal, Noninfiltrating/genetics
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Nerve Tissue Proteins/metabolism
- Nerve Tissue Proteins/genetics
- Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition/genetics
- Animals
- Membrane Proteins/metabolism
- Membrane Proteins/genetics
- Mice
- Carcinoma, Ductal, Breast/pathology
- Carcinoma, Ductal, Breast/metabolism
- Carcinoma, Ductal, Breast/genetics
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic
- Signal Transduction
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Affiliation(s)
- Núria Moragas
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, Universitat de Barcelona (UB), 08028, Barcelona, Spain
- Institute of Biomedicine of the Universitat de Barcelona (IBUB), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Patricia Fernandez-Nogueira
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, Universitat de Barcelona (UB), 08028, Barcelona, Spain
- Institute of Biomedicine of the Universitat de Barcelona (IBUB), Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Biomedicine, School of Medicine, Universitat de Barcelona (UB), 08036, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Leire Recalde-Percaz
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, Universitat de Barcelona (UB), 08028, Barcelona, Spain
- Institute of Biomedicine of the Universitat de Barcelona (IBUB), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jamie L Inman
- Biological Systems and Engineering Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, 1 Cyclotron Rd., Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Anna López-Plana
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, Universitat de Barcelona (UB), 08028, Barcelona, Spain
- Institute of Biomedicine of the Universitat de Barcelona (IBUB), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Helga Bergholtz
- Department of Cancer Genetics, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, 0450, Oslo, Norway
| | - Aleix Noguera-Castells
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, Universitat de Barcelona (UB), 08028, Barcelona, Spain
- Institute of Biomedicine of the Universitat de Barcelona (IBUB), Barcelona, Spain
- Cancer Epigenetics Group, Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute (IJC), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
- Centro de Investigacion Biomedica en Red Cancer (CIBERONC), Madrid, Spain
- Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Science, Technology and Engineering, University of Vic - Central University of Catalonia (UVic-UCC), Vic, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Pedro J Del Burgo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, Universitat de Barcelona (UB), 08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Xieng Chen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, Universitat de Barcelona (UB), 08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Therese Sorlie
- Department of Cancer Genetics, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, 0450, Oslo, Norway
| | - Pere Gascón
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, Universitat de Barcelona (UB), 08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Paloma Bragado
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Health Research Institute of the Hospital Clínico San Carlos, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Mina Bissell
- Biological Systems and Engineering Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, 1 Cyclotron Rd., Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Neus Carbó
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, Universitat de Barcelona (UB), 08028, Barcelona, Spain
- Institute of Biomedicine of the Universitat de Barcelona (IBUB), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gemma Fuster
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, Universitat de Barcelona (UB), 08028, Barcelona, Spain.
- Institute of Biomedicine of the Universitat de Barcelona (IBUB), Barcelona, Spain.
- Tissue Repair and Regeneration Laboratory (TR2Lab), Institute of Research and Innovation of Life Sciences and Health, Catalunya Central (IRIS-CC), UVIC-UCC, Vic, Spain.
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2
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Cai A, Chen Y, Wang LS, Cusick JK, Shi Y. Depicting Biomarkers for HER2-Inhibitor Resistance: Implication for Therapy in HER2-Positive Breast Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:2635. [PMID: 39123362 PMCID: PMC11311605 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16152635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2024] [Revised: 07/16/2024] [Accepted: 07/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
HER2 (human epidermal growth factor receptor 2) is highly expressed in a variety of cancers, including breast, lung, gastric, and pancreatic cancers. Its amplification is linked to poor clinical outcomes. At the genetic level, HER2 is encoded by the ERBB2 gene (v-erb-b2 avian erythroblastic leukemia viral oncogene homolog 2), which is frequently mutated or amplified in cancers, thus spurring extensive research into HER2 modulation and inhibition as viable anti-cancer strategies. An impressive body of FDA-approved drugs, including anti-HER2 monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), and HER2-tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), have demonstrated success in enhancing overall survival (OS) and disease progression-free survival (PFS). Yet, drug resistance remains a persistent challenge and raises the risks of metastatic potential and tumor relapse. Research into alternative therapeutic options for HER2+ breast cancer therefore proves critical for adapting to this ever-evolving landscape. This review highlights current HER2-targeted therapies, discusses predictive biomarkers for drug resistance, and introduces promising emergent therapies-especially combination therapies-that are aimed at overcoming drug resistance in the context of HER2+ breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alvan Cai
- College of Medicine, California Northstate University, Elk Grove, CA 95757, USA; (A.C.); (J.K.C.)
| | - Yuan Chen
- Section Pathology of the Institute of Forensic Medicine, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Am Klinikum 1, 07747 Jena, Germany;
| | - Lily S. Wang
- University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA;
| | - John K. Cusick
- College of Medicine, California Northstate University, Elk Grove, CA 95757, USA; (A.C.); (J.K.C.)
| | - Yihui Shi
- College of Medicine, California Northstate University, Elk Grove, CA 95757, USA; (A.C.); (J.K.C.)
- California Pacific Medical Center Research Institute, Sutter Bay Hospitals, San Francisco, CA 94107, USA
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3
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Yang L, Bhattacharya A, Peterson D, Li Y, Liu X, Marangoni E, Robila V, Zhang Y. Targeted dual degradation of HER2 and EGFR obliterates oncogenic signaling, overcomes therapy resistance, and inhibits metastatic lesions in HER2-positive breast cancer models. Drug Resist Updat 2024; 74:101078. [PMID: 38503142 PMCID: PMC11070302 DOI: 10.1016/j.drup.2024.101078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
AIMS Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) is an oncogenic receptor tyrosine kinase amplified in approximately 20% of breast cancer (BC). HER2-targeted therapies are the linchpin of treating HER2-positive BC. However, drug resistance is common, and the main resistance mechanism is unknown. We tested the hypothesis that drug resistance results mainly from inadequate or lack of inhibition of HER2 and its family member epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). METHODS We used clinically relevant cell and tumor models to assess the impact of targeted degradation of HER2 and EGFR on trastuzumab resistance. Trastuzumab is the most common clinically used HER2 inhibitor. Targeted degradation of HER2 and EGFR was achieved using recombinant human protein PEPDG278D, which binds to the extracellular domains of the receptors. siRNA knockdown was used to assess the relative importance of EGFR and HER2 in trastuzumab resistance. RESULTS Both HER2 and EGFR are overexpressed in all trastuzumab-resistant HER2-positive BC cell and tumor models and that all trastuzumab-resistant models are highly vulnerable to targeted degradation of HER2 and EGFR. Degradation of HER2 and EGFR induced by PEPDG278D causes extensive inhibition of oncogenic signaling in trastuzumab-resistant HER2-positive BC cells. This is accompanied by strong growth inhibition of cultured cells, orthotopic patient-derived xenografts, and metastatic lesions in the brain and lung of trastuzumab-resistant HER2-positive BC. siRNA knockdown indicates that eliminating both HER2 and EGFR is necessary to maximize therapeutic outcome. CONCLUSIONS This study unravels the therapeutic vulnerability of trastuzumab-resistant HER2-positive BC and shows that an agent that targets the degradation of both HER2 and EGFR is highly effective in overcoming drug resistance in this disease. The findings provide new insights and innovations for advancing treatment of drug-resistant HER2-positive breast cancer that remains an unmet problem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Yang
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Arup Bhattacharya
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Darrell Peterson
- Institute for Structural Biology, Drug Discovery and Development, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Pharmacy, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Yun Li
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Xiaozhuo Liu
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | | | - Valentina Robila
- Department of Pathology, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Yuesheng Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, USA; Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA.
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4
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Liu F, Tang L, Liu H, Chen Y, Xiao T, Gu W, Yang H, Wang H, Chen P. Cancer-associated fibroblasts secrete FGF5 to inhibit ferroptosis to decrease cisplatin sensitivity in nasopharyngeal carcinoma through binding to FGFR2. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:279. [PMID: 38637504 PMCID: PMC11026472 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06671-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
Cisplatin (DDP)-based chemoradiotherapy is one of the standard treatments for nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). However, the sensitivity and side effects of DDP to patients remain major obstacles for NPC treatment. This research aimed to study DDP sensitivity regulated by cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) through modulating ferroptosis. We demonstrated that DDP triggered ferroptosis in NPC cells, and it inhibited tumor growth via inducing ferroptosis in xenograft model. CAFs secreted high level of FGF5, thus inhibiting DDP-induced ferroptosis in NPC cells. Mechanistically, FGF5 secreted by CAFs directly bound to FGFR2 in NPC cells, leading to the activation of Keap1/Nrf2/HO-1 signaling. Rescued experiments indicated that FGFR2 overexpression inhibited DDP-induced ferroptosis, and CAFs protected against DDP-induced ferroptosis via FGF5/FGFR2 axis in NPC cells. In vivo data further showed the protective effects of FGF5 on DDP-triggered ferroptosis in NPC xenograft model. In conclusion, CAFs inhibited ferroptosis to decrease DDP sensitivity in NPC through secreting FGF5 and activating downstream FGFR2/Nrf2 signaling. The therapeutic strategy targeting FGF5/FGFR2 axis from CAFs might augment DDP sensitivity, thus decreasing the side effects of DDP in NPC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Liu
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Translational Radiation Oncology, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan Province, P. R. China
| | - Ling Tang
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Translational Radiation Oncology, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan Province, P. R. China
| | - Huai Liu
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Translational Radiation Oncology, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan Province, P. R. China
| | - Yanzhu Chen
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Translational Radiation Oncology, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan Province, P. R. China
| | - Tengfei Xiao
- The Animal Laboratory Center, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan Province, P. R. China
| | - Wangning Gu
- The Animal Laboratory Center, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan Province, P. R. China
| | - Hongmin Yang
- The Animal Laboratory Center, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan Province, P. R. China
| | - Hui Wang
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Translational Radiation Oncology, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan Province, P. R. China.
| | - Pan Chen
- The Animal Laboratory Center, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan Province, P. R. China.
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5
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Zou H, Luo J, Guo Y, Deng L, Zeng L, Pan Y, Li P. Tyrosine phosphorylation-mediated YAP1-TFAP2A interactions coordinate transcription and trastuzumab resistance in HER2+ breast cancer. Drug Resist Updat 2024; 73:101051. [PMID: 38219531 DOI: 10.1016/j.drup.2024.101051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2023] [Revised: 12/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
Trastuzumab resistance in HER2+ breast cancer (BC) is the major reason leading to poor prognosis of BC patients. Oncogenic gene overexpression or aberrant activation of tyrosine kinase SRC is identified to be the key modulator of trastuzumab response. However, the detailed regulatory mechanisms underlying SRC activation-associated trastuzumab resistance remain poorly understood. In the present study, we discover that SRC-mediated YAP1 tyrosine phosphorylation facilitates its interaction with transcription factor AP-2 alpha (activating enhancer binding protein 2 alpha, TFAP2A), which in turn promotes YAP1/TEAD-TFAP2A (YTT) complex-associated transcriptional outputs, thereby conferring trastuzumab resistance in HER2+ BC. Inhibition of SRC kinase activity or disruption of YTT complex sensitizes cells to trastuzumab treatment in vitro and in vivo. Additionally, we also identify YTT complex co-occupies the regulatory regions of a series of genes related to trastuzumab resistance and directly regulates their transcriptions, including EGFR, HER2, H19 and CTGF. Moreover, YTT-mediated transcriptional regulation is coordinated by SRC kinase activity. Taken together, our study reveals that SRC-mediated YTT complex formation and transcriptions are responsible for multiple mechanisms associated with trastuzumab resistance. Therefore, targeting HER2 signaling in combination with the inhibition of YTT-associated transcriptional outputs could serve as the treatment strategy to overcome trastuzumab resistance caused by SRC activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hailin Zou
- Scientific Research Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 628 Zhenyuan Road, Shenzhen 518107, Guangdong, China
| | - Juan Luo
- Scientific Research Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 628 Zhenyuan Road, Shenzhen 518107, Guangdong, China
| | - Yibo Guo
- Scientific Research Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 628 Zhenyuan Road, Shenzhen 518107, Guangdong, China
| | - Liang Deng
- Department of General Surgery, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 628 Zhenyuan Road, Shenzhen 518107, Guangdong, China
| | - Leli Zeng
- Scientific Research Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 628 Zhenyuan Road, Shenzhen 518107, Guangdong, China
| | - Yihang Pan
- Scientific Research Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 628 Zhenyuan Road, Shenzhen 518107, Guangdong, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Digestive Cancer Research, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 628 Zhenyuan Road, Shenzhen 518107, Guangdong, China.
| | - Peng Li
- Scientific Research Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 628 Zhenyuan Road, Shenzhen 518107, Guangdong, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Digestive Cancer Research, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 628 Zhenyuan Road, Shenzhen 518107, Guangdong, China.
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Awaji AA, Rizk MA, Alsaiari RA, Alqahtani NF, Al-Qadri FA, Alkorbi AS, Hafez HS, Elshaarawy RFM. Chemotherapeutic Activity of Imidazolium-Supported Pd(II) o-Vanillylidene Diaminocyclohexane Complexes Immobilized in Nanolipid as Inhibitors for HER2/neu and FGFR2/FGF2 Axis Overexpression in Breast Cancer Cells. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1711. [PMID: 38139837 PMCID: PMC10747766 DOI: 10.3390/ph16121711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Two bis-(imidazolium-vanillylidene)-(R,R)-diaminocyclohexane ligands (H2(VAN)2dach, H2L1,2) and their Pd(II) complexes (PdL1 and PdL2) were successfully synthesized and structurally characterized using microanalytical and spectral methods. Subsequently, to target the development of new effective and safe anti-breast cancer chemotherapeutic agents, these complexes were encapsulated by lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) to formulate (PdL1LNP and PdL2LNP), which are physicochemically and morphologically characterized. PdL1LNP and PdL2LNP significantly cause DNA fragmentation in MCF-7 cells, while trastuzumab has a 10% damaging activity. Additionally, the encapsulated Pd1,2LNPs complexes activated the apoptotic mechanisms through the upregulated P53 with p < 0.001 and p < 0.05, respectively. The apoptotic activity may be triggered through the activity mechanism of the Pd1,2LNPs in the inhibitory actions against the FGFR2/FGF2 axis on the gene level with p < 0.001 and the Her2/neu with p < 0.05 and p < 0.01. All these aspects have triggered the activity of the PdL1LNP and PdL2LNP to downregulate TGFβ1 by p < 0.01 for both complexes. In conclusion, LNP-encapsulated Pd(II) complexes can be employed as anti-cancer drugs with additional benefits in regulating the signal mechanisms of the apoptotic mechanisms among breast cancer cells with chemotherapeutic-safe actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aeshah A. Awaji
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University College in Taymaa, University of Tabuk, Tabuk 71491, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Moustafa A. Rizk
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Arts at Sharurah, Najran University, Sharurah 68342, Saudi Arabia or (M.A.R.); (R.A.A.); (F.A.A.-Q.); (A.S.A.)
| | - Raiedhah A. Alsaiari
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Arts at Sharurah, Najran University, Sharurah 68342, Saudi Arabia or (M.A.R.); (R.A.A.); (F.A.A.-Q.); (A.S.A.)
| | - Norah F. Alqahtani
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, University of Jeddah, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Fatima A. Al-Qadri
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Arts at Sharurah, Najran University, Sharurah 68342, Saudi Arabia or (M.A.R.); (R.A.A.); (F.A.A.-Q.); (A.S.A.)
| | - Ali S. Alkorbi
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Arts at Sharurah, Najran University, Sharurah 68342, Saudi Arabia or (M.A.R.); (R.A.A.); (F.A.A.-Q.); (A.S.A.)
| | - Hani S. Hafez
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Suez University, Suez 43533, Egypt
| | - Reda F. M. Elshaarawy
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Suez University, Suez 43533, Egypt
- Institut für Anorganische Chemie und Strukturchemie, Heinrich-Heine Universität Düsseldorf, 40204 Düsseldorf, Germany
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7
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Adam-Artigues A, Arenas EJ, Arribas J, Prat A, Cejalvo JM. AXL - a new player in resistance to HER2 blockade. Cancer Treat Rev 2023; 121:102639. [PMID: 37864955 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctrv.2023.102639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/23/2023]
Abstract
HER2 is a driver in solid tumors, mainly breast, oesophageal and gastric cancer, through activation of oncogenic signaling pathways such as PI3K or MAPK. HER2 overexpression associates with aggressive disease and poor prognosis. Despite targeted anti-HER2 therapy has improved outcomes and is the current standard of care, resistance emerge in some patients, requiring additional therapeutic strategies. Several mechanisms, including the upregulation of receptors tyrosine kinases such as AXL, are involved in resistance. AXL signaling leads to cancer cell proliferation, survival, migration, invasion and angiogenesis and correlates with poor prognosis. In addition, AXL overexpression accompanied by a mesenchymal phenotype result in resistance to chemotherapy and targeted therapies. Preclinical studies show that AXL drives anti-HER2 resistance and metastasis through dimerization with HER2 and activation of downstream pathways in breast cancer. Moreover, AXL inhibition restores response to HER2 blockade in vitro and in vivo. Limited data in gastric and oesophageal cancer also support these evidences. Furthermore, AXL shows a strong value as a prognostic and predictive biomarker in HER2+ breast cancer patients, adding a remarkable translational relevance. Therefore, current studies enforce the potential of co-targeting AXL and HER2 to overcome resistance and supports the use of AXL inhibitors in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Enrique J Arenas
- Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute, Spain; Center for Biomedical Network Research on Cancer (CIBERONC), Spain.
| | - Joaquín Arribas
- Center for Biomedical Network Research on Cancer (CIBERONC), Spain; Preclinical Research Program, Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Spain; Cancer Research Program, IMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute), Spain; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Universitat Autónoma de Barcelona, Spain; Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), Spain.
| | - Aleix Prat
- August Pi i Sunyer Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBAPS), Spain; Department of Medical Oncology, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Spain; SOLTI Breast Cancer Research Group, Spain.
| | - Juan Miguel Cejalvo
- INCLIVA Biomedical Research Institute, Spain; Preclinical Research Program, Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Spain; Department of Medical Oncology, Hospital Clínico Universitario de València, Spain.
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8
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Li F, Chen H, Lu X, Wei Y, Zhao Y, Fu J, Xiao X, Bu H. Combining the tumor-stroma ratio with tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes improves the prediction of pathological complete response in breast cancer patients. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2023; 202:173-183. [PMID: 37528265 DOI: 10.1007/s10549-023-07026-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The tumor-stroma ratio (TSR) is a common histological parameter that measures stromal abundance and is prognostic in breast cancer (BC). However, more evidence is needed on the predictive value of the TSR for the pathological complete response (pCR) to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC). The purpose of this study was to determine the importance of the TSR in predicting pCR in NAC settings. METHOD We evaluated the TSR on pretreatment biopsies of 912 BC patients from four independent Chinese hospitals and investigated the potential value of the TSR for predicting pCR. Meanwhile, stromal tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (sTILs) were assessed, and we evaluated the predictive value of the combination of sTILs and TSR (TSRILs). RESULTS Patients with low stroma showed a higher pCR rate than those with high stroma among the four independent hospitals, and in multivariate analysis, the TSR was proven to be an independent predictor for pCR to NAC with an odds ratio of 1.945 (95% CI 1.230-3.075, P = 0.004). Moreover, we found that TSRILs could improve the area under the curve (AUC) for predicting pCR from 0.750 to 0.785 (P = 0.039); especially in HER2-negative BCs, the inclusion of TSRILs increased the AUC from 0.801 to 0.835 in the discovery dataset (P = 0.048) and 0.734 to 0.801 in the validation dataset (P = 0.003). CONCLUSION TSR and sTILs can be easily measured in pathological routines and provide predictive information without additional cost; with more evidence from clinical trials, TSRILs could be a candidate to better stratify patients in NAC settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengling Li
- Department of Pathology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Institute of Clinical Pathology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Hong Chen
- Institute of Clinical Pathology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Transplant Engineering and Immunology of the National Health Commission, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xunxi Lu
- Department of Pathology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Institute of Clinical Pathology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yani Wei
- Department of Pathology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Institute of Clinical Pathology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yuanyuan Zhao
- Department of Pathology, Shanxi Province Cancer Hospital/Shanxi Hospital Affiliated to Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences/Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Jing Fu
- Department of Pathology, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiuli Xiao
- Department of Pathology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Hong Bu
- Department of Pathology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
- Institute of Clinical Pathology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
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9
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Li Y, Wang C, Huang T, Yu X, Tian B. The role of cancer-associated fibroblasts in breast cancer metastasis. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1194835. [PMID: 37496657 PMCID: PMC10367093 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1194835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer deaths are primarily caused by metastasis. There are several treatment options that can be used to treat breast cancer. There are, however, a limited number of treatments that can either prevent or inhibit the spread of breast tumor metastases. Thus, novel therapeutic strategies are needed. Studies have increasingly focused on the importance of the tumor microenvironment (TME) in metastasis of breast cancer. As the most abundant cells in the TME, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) play important roles in cancer pathogenesis. They can remodel the structure of the extracellular matrix (ECM) and engage in crosstalk with cancer cells or other stroma cells by secreting growth factors, cytokines, and chemokines, as well as components of the ECM, which assist the tumor cells to invade through the TME and cause distant metastasis. Clinically, CAFs not only foster the initiation, growth, angiogenesis, invasion, and metastasis of breast cancer but also serve as biomarkers for diagnosis, therapy, and prediction of prognosis. In this review, we summarize the biological characteristics and subtypes of CAFs and their functions in breast cancer metastasis, focusing on their important roles in the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of breast cancer. Recent studies suggest that CAFs are vital partners of breast cancer cells that assist metastasis and may represent ideal targets for prevention and treatment of breast cancer metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Li
- Department of Breast Surgery, Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Changyuan Wang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Hepatobiliary Surgery Department II, Guizhou Provincial People’s Hospital, Guiyang, China
| | - Ting Huang
- Department of Breast Surgery, Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Xijie Yu
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Laboratory of Endocrinology and Metabolism, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Bole Tian
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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10
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Cao Y, Li Y, Liu R, Zhou J, Wang K. Preclinical and Basic Research Strategies for Overcoming Resistance to Targeted Therapies in HER2-Positive Breast Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15092568. [PMID: 37174034 PMCID: PMC10177527 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15092568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Revised: 04/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The amplification of epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) is associated with a poor prognosis and HER2 gene is overexpressed in approximately 15-30% of breast cancers. In HER2-positive breast cancer patients, HER2-targeted therapies improved clinical outcomes and survival rates. However, drug resistance to anti-HER2 drugs is almost unavoidable, leaving some patients with an unmet need for better prognoses. Therefore, exploring strategies to delay or revert drug resistance is urgent. In recent years, new targets and regimens have emerged continuously. This review discusses the fundamental mechanisms of drug resistance in the targeted therapies of HER2-positive breast cancer and summarizes recent research progress in this field, including preclinical and basic research studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Cao
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medical science, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Yunjin Li
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medical science, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Ruijie Liu
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Jianhua Zhou
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medical science, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Kuansong Wang
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medical science, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
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11
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López-Aguilar E, Fernández-Nogueira P, Fuster G, Carbó N, Ciudad CJ, Noé V. In Vitro and In Vivo Effects of the Combination of Polypurine Reverse Hoogsteen Hairpins against HER-2 and Trastuzumab in Breast Cancer Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24087073. [PMID: 37108234 PMCID: PMC10139100 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087073] [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: 03/02/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Therapeutic oligonucleotides are powerful tools for the inhibition of potential targets involved in cancer. We describe the effect of two Polypurine Reverse Hoogsteen (PPRH) hairpins directed against the ERBB2 gene, which is overexpressed in positive HER-2 breast tumors. The inhibition of their target was analyzed by cell viability and at the mRNA and protein levels. The combination of these specific PPRHs with trastuzumab was also explored in breast cancer cell lines, both in vitro and in vivo. PPRHs designed against two intronic sequences of the ERBB2 gene decreased the viability of SKBR-3 and MDA-MB-453 breast cancer cells. The decrease in cell viability was associated with a reduction in ERBB2 mRNA and protein levels. In combination with trastuzumab, PPRHs showed a synergic effect in vitro and reduced tumor growth in vivo. These results represent the preclinical proof of concept of PPRHs as a therapeutic tool for breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ester López-Aguilar
- Department of Biochemistry and Physiology, School of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, Universitat de Barcelona (UB), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Patricia Fernández-Nogueira
- Unit of Biophysics and Bioengineering, Department of Biomedicine, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat de Barcelona (UB), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, School of Biology, Universitat de Barcelona (UB), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gemma Fuster
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, School of Biology, Universitat de Barcelona (UB), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Tissue Repair and Regeneration Laboratory (TR2Lab), Institut de Recerca i Innovació en Ciències de la Vida i de la Salut a la Catalunya Central (IrisCC), 08500 Vic, Spain
- Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Sciences, Technology and Engineering, Universitat de Vic-Universitat Central de Catalunya (UVic-UCC), 08500 Vic, Spain
- Institute of Biomedicine, Universitat de Barcelona (IBUB), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Neus Carbó
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, School of Biology, Universitat de Barcelona (UB), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Institute of Biomedicine, Universitat de Barcelona (IBUB), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carlos J Ciudad
- Department of Biochemistry and Physiology, School of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, Universitat de Barcelona (UB), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Universitat de Barcelona (IN2UB), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Véronique Noé
- Department of Biochemistry and Physiology, School of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, Universitat de Barcelona (UB), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Universitat de Barcelona (IN2UB), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
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12
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Dai X, Zhu K. Cold atmospheric plasma: Novel opportunities for tumor microenvironment targeting. Cancer Med 2023; 12:7189-7206. [PMID: 36762766 PMCID: PMC10067048 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.5491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Revised: 07/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
With mounting preclinical and clinical evidences on the prominent roles of the tumor microenvironment (TME) played during carcinogenesis, the TME has been recognized and used as an important onco-therapeutic target during the past decade. Delineating our current knowledge on TME components and their functionalities can help us recognize novel onco-therapeutic opportunities and establish treatment modalities towards desirable anti-cancer outcome. By identifying and focusing on primary cellular components in the TME, that is, tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, tumor-associated macrophages, cancer-associated fibroblasts and mesenchymal stem cells, we decomposed their primary functionalities during carcinogenesis, categorized current therapeutic approaches utilizing traits of these components, and forecasted possible benefits that cold atmospheric plasma, a redox modulating tool with selectivity against cancer cells, may convey by targeting the TME. Our insights may open a novel therapeutic avenue for cancer control taking advantages of redox homeostasis and immunostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaofeng Dai
- Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Kaiyuan Zhu
- Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
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13
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Sarkar M, Nguyen T, Gundre E, Ogunlusi O, El-Sobky M, Giri B, Sarkar TR. Cancer-associated fibroblasts: The chief architect in the tumor microenvironment. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1089068. [PMID: 36793444 PMCID: PMC9923123 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1089068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Stromal heterogeneity of tumor microenvironment (TME) plays a crucial role in malignancy and therapeutic resistance. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are one of the major players in tumor stroma. The heterogeneous sources of origin and subsequent impacts of crosstalk with breast cancer cells flaunt serious challenges before current therapies to cure triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) and other cancers. The positive and reciprocal feedback of CAFs to induce cancer cells dictates their mutual synergy in establishing malignancy. Their substantial role in creating a tumor-promoting niche has reduced the efficacy of several anti-cancer treatments, including radiation, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and endocrine therapy. Over the years, there has been an emphasis on understanding CAF-induced therapeutic resistance in order to enhance cancer therapy results. CAFs, in the majority of cases, employ crosstalk, stromal management, and other strategies to generate resilience in surrounding tumor cells. This emphasizes the significance of developing novel strategies that target particular tumor-promoting CAF subpopulations, which will improve treatment sensitivity and impede tumor growth. In this review, we discuss the current understanding of the origin and heterogeneity of CAFs, their role in tumor progression, and altering the tumor response to therapeutic agents in breast cancer. In addition, we also discuss the potential and possible approaches for CAF-mediated therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mrinmoy Sarkar
- Department of Biology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
- Cancer Biology and Inflammatory Disorder Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, Kolkata, India
| | - Tristan Nguyen
- Department of Biology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
| | - Esheksha Gundre
- Department of Biology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
| | - Olajumoke Ogunlusi
- Department of Biology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
| | - Mohanad El-Sobky
- Department of Biology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
| | - Biplab Giri
- Department of Physiology, University of Gour Banga, English Bazar, India
| | - Tapasree Roy Sarkar
- Department of Biology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
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14
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Karlsson J, Schatz CA, Wengner AM, Hammer S, Scholz A, Cuthbertson A, Wagner V, Hennekes H, Jardine V, Hagemann UB. Targeted thorium-227 conjugates as treatment options in oncology. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 9:1071086. [PMID: 36726355 PMCID: PMC9885765 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.1071086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Targeted alpha therapy (TAT) is a promising approach for addressing unmet needs in oncology. Inherent properties make α-emitting radionuclides well suited to cancer therapy, including high linear energy transfer (LET), penetration range of 2-10 cell layers, induction of complex double-stranded DNA breaks, and immune-stimulatory effects. Several alpha radionuclides, including radium-223 (223Ra), actinium-225 (225Ac), and thorium-227 (227Th), have been investigated. Conjugation of tumor targeting modalities, such as antibodies and small molecules, with a chelator moiety and subsequent radiolabeling with α-emitters enables specific delivery of cytotoxic payloads to different tumor types. 223Ra dichloride, approved for the treatment of patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) with bone-metastatic disease and no visceral metastasis, is the only approved and commercialized alpha therapy. However, 223Ra dichloride cannot currently be complexed to targeting moieties. In contrast to 223Ra, 227Th may be readily chelated, which allows radiolabeling of tumor targeting moieties to produce targeted thorium conjugates (TTCs), facilitating delivery to a broad range of tumors. TTCs have shown promise in pre-clinical studies across a range of tumor-cell expressing antigens. A clinical study in hematological malignancy targeting CD22 has demonstrated early signs of activity. Furthermore, pre-clinical studies show additive or synergistic effects when TTCs are combined with established anti-cancer therapies, for example androgen receptor inhibitors (ARI), DNA damage response inhibitors such as poly (ADP)-ribose polymerase inhibitors or ataxia telangiectasia and Rad3-related kinase inhibitors, as well as immune checkpoint inhibitors.
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15
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Wang B, Liu W, Liu C, Du K, Guo Z, Zhang G, Huang Z, Lin S, Cen B, Tian Y, Yuan Y, Bu J. Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts Promote Radioresistance of Breast Cancer Cells via the HGF/c-Met Signaling Pathway. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2022:S0360-3016(22)03679-3. [PMID: 36586496 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2022.12.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 12/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are an integral part of the tumor microenvironment (TME), which is involved in therapy resistance. This study aimed to investigate the role of CAFs in radiosensitivity of breast cancer cells. METHODS AND MATERIALS The CAFs were isolated from the breast cancer tissues, and the conditioned medium was collected to culture breast cancer cells. Radiation-induced DNA damage was evaluated by immunofluorescence and western blotting. Cytokine array and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay were performed to analyze the secretion of cytokines and growth factors. An in vitro clonogenic survival assay and in vivo xenograft mouse model were performed to determine the radiosensitivity of breast cancer cells. Finally, the expression of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and c-Met in the breast cancer tissues were detected by immunohistochemistry. RESULTS The CAFs were found to secrete HGF to activate the c-Met signaling pathway, which induced epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, growth, and radioresistance of breast cancer cells. Furthermore, radiation was observed to enhance HGF secretion by CAFs and increase c-Met expression in breast cancer cells, which led to HGF/c-Met signaling pathway activation. Moreover, radiation-induced tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) secretion by breast cancer cells promoted CAF proliferation and HGF secretion. Additionally, HGF and c-Met high expression were associated with worse recurrence-free survival in patients with breast cancer who had received radiation therapy. CONCLUSIONS The findings revealed that HGF and TNFα are critical for the crosstalk between breast cancer cells and CAFs in the TME and that the HGF/c-Met signaling pathway is a promising therapeutic target for radiosensitizing breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baiyao Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Chunshan Liu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Kunpeng Du
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Zhaoze Guo
- Breast Center, Department of General Surgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Guoqian Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Zhong Huang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Shuhui Lin
- Department of Oncology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology Union Shenzhen Hospital (Nanshan Hospital), Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Bohong Cen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Yunhong Tian
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Yawei Yuan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China; Department of Oncology, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China.
| | - Junguo Bu
- Department of Oncology, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China.
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16
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Fang Z, Meng Q, Xu J, Wang W, Zhang B, Liu J, Liang C, Hua J, Zhao Y, Yu X, Shi S. Signaling pathways in cancer-associated fibroblasts: recent advances and future perspectives. CANCER COMMUNICATIONS (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2022; 43:3-41. [PMID: 36424360 PMCID: PMC9859735 DOI: 10.1002/cac2.12392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
As a critical component of the tumor microenvironment (TME), cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) play important roles in cancer initiation and progression. Well-known signaling pathways, including the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), Hedgehog (Hh), Notch, Wnt, Hippo, nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB), Janus kinase (JAK)/signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT), mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), and phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT pathways, as well as transcription factors, including hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF), heat shock transcription factor 1 (HSF1), P53, Snail, and Twist, constitute complex regulatory networks in the TME to modulate the formation, activation, heterogeneity, metabolic characteristics and malignant phenotype of CAFs. Activated CAFs remodel the TME and influence the malignant biological processes of cancer cells by altering the transcriptional and secretory characteristics, and this modulation partially depends on the regulation of signaling cascades. The results of preclinical and clinical trials indicated that therapies targeting signaling pathways in CAFs demonstrated promising efficacy but were also accompanied by some failures (e.g., NCT01130142 and NCT01064622). Hence, a comprehensive understanding of the signaling cascades in CAFs might help us better understand the roles of CAFs and the TME in cancer progression and may facilitate the development of more efficient and safer stroma-targeted cancer therapies. Here, we review recent advances in studies of signaling pathways in CAFs and briefly discuss some future perspectives on CAF research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zengli Fang
- Department of Pancreatic SurgeryFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghai200032P. R. China,Department of OncologyShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer InstituteShanghai200032P. R. China,Pancreatic Cancer InstituteFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China
| | - Qingcai Meng
- Department of Pancreatic SurgeryFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghai200032P. R. China,Department of OncologyShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer InstituteShanghai200032P. R. China,Pancreatic Cancer InstituteFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China
| | - Jin Xu
- Department of Pancreatic SurgeryFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghai200032P. R. China,Department of OncologyShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer InstituteShanghai200032P. R. China,Pancreatic Cancer InstituteFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Pancreatic SurgeryFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghai200032P. R. China,Department of OncologyShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer InstituteShanghai200032P. R. China,Pancreatic Cancer InstituteFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China
| | - Bo Zhang
- Department of Pancreatic SurgeryFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghai200032P. R. China,Department of OncologyShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer InstituteShanghai200032P. R. China,Pancreatic Cancer InstituteFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China
| | - Jiang Liu
- Department of Pancreatic SurgeryFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghai200032P. R. China,Department of OncologyShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer InstituteShanghai200032P. R. China,Pancreatic Cancer InstituteFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China
| | - Chen Liang
- Department of Pancreatic SurgeryFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghai200032P. R. China,Department of OncologyShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer InstituteShanghai200032P. R. China,Pancreatic Cancer InstituteFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China
| | - Jie Hua
- Department of Pancreatic SurgeryFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghai200032P. R. China,Department of OncologyShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer InstituteShanghai200032P. R. China,Pancreatic Cancer InstituteFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China
| | - Yingjun Zhao
- Department of OncologyShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China,Institutes of Biomedical SciencesShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China
| | - Xianjun Yu
- Department of Pancreatic SurgeryFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghai200032P. R. China,Department of OncologyShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer InstituteShanghai200032P. R. China,Pancreatic Cancer InstituteFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China
| | - Si Shi
- Department of Pancreatic SurgeryFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghai200032P. R. China,Department of OncologyShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer InstituteShanghai200032P. R. China,Pancreatic Cancer InstituteFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China
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17
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Rizzolio S, Giordano S, Corso S. The importance of being CAFs (in cancer resistance to targeted therapies). J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2022; 41:319. [PMID: 36324182 PMCID: PMC9632140 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-022-02524-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/23/2022] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Abstract
In the last two decades, clinical oncology has been revolutionized by the advent of targeted drugs. However, the efficacy of these therapies is significantly limited by primary and acquired resistance, that relies not only on cell-autonomous mechanisms but also on tumor microenvironment cues. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are extremely plastic cells of the tumor microenvironment. They not only produce extracellular matrix components that build up the structure of tumor stroma, but they also release growth factors, chemokines, exosomes, and metabolites that affect all tumor properties, including response to drug treatment. The contribution of CAFs to tumor progression has been deeply investigated and reviewed in several works. However, their role in resistance to anticancer therapies, and in particular to molecular therapies, has been largely overlooked. This review specifically dissects the role of CAFs in driving resistance to targeted therapies and discusses novel CAF targeted therapeutic strategies to improve patient survival.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Silvia Giordano
- Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, Candiolo, Italy
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Simona Corso
- Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, Candiolo, Italy.
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, Torino, Italy.
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18
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Wang ZH, Zheng ZQ, Jia S, Liu SN, Xiao XF, Chen GY, Liang WQ, Lu XF. Trastuzumab resistance in HER2-positive breast cancer: Mechanisms, emerging biomarkers and targeting agents. Front Oncol 2022; 12:1006429. [PMID: 36276152 PMCID: PMC9584623 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1006429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Trastuzumab is a standard molecular targeted therapy for human epidermal growth factor receptor 2(HER2) -positive breast cancer, which can significantly improve the survival of patients with this molecular subtype of breast cancer. However, the clinical problem of onset or secondary resistance to trastuzumab has limited its efficacy. Therefore, it is very important to explore the mechanism of trastuzumab resistance and formulate countermeasures. Our study described the underlying molecular mechanism of trastuzumab resistance including ERBB2 mutations and nuclear localization, transcriptional and post-translational alterations of ERBB2, over-activation of bypass signaling pathways activation and so on. Then summarize the potential emerging predicting biomarkers and therapeutic strategies for trastuzumab resistance, in order to provide research direction for reversing trastuzumab resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen-hao Wang
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Clinical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College (SUMC), Shantou, China
- Shantou University Medical College (SUMC), Shantou, China
| | - Zhuo-qun Zheng
- Shantou University Medical College (SUMC), Shantou, China
| | - Shi−cheng Jia
- Shantou University Medical College (SUMC), Shantou, China
| | - Shu-ni Liu
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Clinical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College (SUMC), Shantou, China
| | - Xiao-fen Xiao
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Clinical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College (SUMC), Shantou, China
- Shantou University Medical College (SUMC), Shantou, China
| | - Guan-yuan Chen
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Clinical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College (SUMC), Shantou, China
- Shantou University Medical College (SUMC), Shantou, China
| | - Wei-quan Liang
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Clinical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College (SUMC), Shantou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Breast Cancer, Shantou, China
| | - Xiao-feng Lu
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Clinical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College (SUMC), Shantou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Breast Cancer, Shantou, China
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19
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FGF5 protects heart from sepsis injury by attenuating cardiomyocyte pyroptosis through inhibiting CaMKII/NFκB signaling. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2022; 636:104-112. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2022.10.080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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20
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Rimal R, Desai P, Daware R, Hosseinnejad A, Prakash J, Lammers T, Singh S. Cancer-associated fibroblasts: Origin, function, imaging, and therapeutic targeting. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2022; 189:114504. [PMID: 35998825 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2022.114504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 07/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) is emerging as one of the primary barriers in cancer therapy. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) are a common inhabitant of the TME in several tumor types and play a critical role in tumor progression and drug resistance via different mechanisms such as desmoplasia, angiogenesis, immune modulation, and cancer metabolism. Due to their abundance and significance in pro-tumorigenic mechanisms, CAF are gaining attention as a diagnostic target as well as to improve the efficacy of cancer therapy by their modulation. In this review, we highlight existing imaging techniques that are used for the visualization of CAF and CAF-induced fibrosis and provide an overview of compounds that are known to modulate CAF activity. Subsequently, we also discuss CAF-targeted and CAF-modulating nanocarriers. Finally, our review addresses ongoing challenges and provides a glimpse into the prospects that can spearhead the transition of CAF-targeted therapies from opportunity to reality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahul Rimal
- Max Planck Institute for Medical Research (MPImF), Jahnstrasse 29, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Prachi Desai
- DWI-Leibniz Institute for Interactive Materials, RWTH Aachen University, Forkenbeckstrasse 50, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Rasika Daware
- Department of Nanomedicine and Theranostics, Institute for Experimental Molecular Imaging, Faculty of Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Aisa Hosseinnejad
- DWI-Leibniz Institute for Interactive Materials, RWTH Aachen University, Forkenbeckstrasse 50, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Jai Prakash
- Department of Advanced Organ Bioengineering and Therapeutics, Section: Engineered Therapeutics, Technical Medical Centre, University of Twente, 7500AE Enschede, the Netherlands.
| | - Twan Lammers
- Department of Nanomedicine and Theranostics, Institute for Experimental Molecular Imaging, Faculty of Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany.
| | - Smriti Singh
- Max Planck Institute for Medical Research (MPImF), Jahnstrasse 29, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany.
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21
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Targeted immunotherapy against distinct cancer-associated fibroblasts overcomes treatment resistance in refractory HER2+ breast tumors. Nat Commun 2022; 13:5310. [PMID: 36085201 PMCID: PMC9463158 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-32782-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
About 50% of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)+ breast cancer patients do not benefit from HER2-targeted therapy and almost 20% of them relapse after treatment. Here, we conduct a detailed analysis of two independent cohorts of HER2+ breast cancer patients treated with trastuzumab to elucidate the mechanisms of resistance to anti-HER2 monoclonal antibodies. In addition, we develop a fully humanized immunocompetent model of HER2+ breast cancer recapitulating ex vivo the biological processes that associate with patients’ response to treatment. Thanks to these two approaches, we uncover a population of TGF-beta-activated cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) specific from tumors resistant to therapy. The presence of this cellular subset related to previously described myofibroblastic (CAF-S1) and podoplanin+ CAF subtypes in breast cancer associates with low IL2 activity. Correspondingly, we find that stroma-targeted stimulation of IL2 pathway in unresponsive tumors restores trastuzumab anti-cancer efficiency. Overall, our study underscores the therapeutic potential of exploiting the tumor microenvironment to identify and overcome mechanisms of resistance to anti-cancer treatment. A substantial proportion of HER2+ breast cancer patients do not benefit from HER2-targeted therapy. Here, the authors identify a population of cancer-associated fibroblasts involved in the suppression of trastuzumab-induced ADCC that can be pharmacologically targeted to raise treatment effectiveness in unresponsive tumors.
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22
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Peng SL, Wang R, Zhou YL, Wei W, Zhong GH, Huang XT, Yang S, Liu QD, Liu ZG. Insight of a Metabolic Prognostic Model to Identify Tumor Environment and Drug Vulnerability for Lung Adenocarcinoma. Front Immunol 2022; 13:872910. [PMID: 35812404 PMCID: PMC9262104 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.872910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Metabolic reprogramming is a novel method for the treatment of malignant tumors. The exploration of metabolism procedures between radiosensitive and radioresistant tumors may provide novel perspectives for lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) patients after radiation therapy. In our study, metabolic reprogramming and immune response changes were found between radioresistant cell line (A549RR) and its parent cells (A549) using gene ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis. Nucleotide/amino acid, lipid, and glucose metabolic process, including Alanine, aspartate and glutamate metabolism, Tryptophan/Tyrosine metabolism, Butanoate metabolism, Purine/Pyrimidine metabolism, were screened out. Then molecular signatures database and The Cancer Genome Atlas Program (TCGA) lung adenocarcinoma datasets were used to identify metabolism-related genes (MRGs) between radiosensitive and radioresistant lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) cells. A metabolism-based prognostic model, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and nomogram were constructed using Metabolism Score calculated by 14 metabolism-related genes (MRGs). Three independent public datasets, (GSE72094, GSE3141, GSE8894) and one immunotherapy cohort (IMvigor210) were used as external validation cohorts. Expression of 14 hub genes in cells, normal and LUAD specimens were explored by Human Protein Atlas, TIMER2.0 and RT-qPCR. Patients with low-Metabolism Scores were correlated with longer survival times, higher response rates to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), different immune cell infiltrations and drug vulnerability. Our study demonstrated a comprehensive landscape between radiosensitive and radioresistant LUAD, and provide novel targets for NSCLC, especially those patients received radiation therapy. Moreover, this metabolism-based prognostic model may help to investigate connections between radiosensitivity, immune response, metabolic reprogramming, and patients’ prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shun-Li Peng
- The Cancer Center of the Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Imaging, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, China
| | - Rong Wang
- The Cancer Center of the Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Imaging, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, China
| | - Yu-Ling Zhou
- The Cancer Center of the Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Imaging, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, China
| | - Wei Wei
- The Cancer Center of the Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Imaging, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, China
| | - Gui-Hua Zhong
- The Cancer Center of the Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Imaging, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, China
| | - Xiao-Tao Huang
- The Cancer Center of the Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Imaging, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, China
| | - Shuai Yang
- The Cancer Center of the Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, China
| | - Qiao-Dan Liu
- The Cancer Center of the Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Imaging, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, China
| | - Zhi-Gang Liu
- The Cancer Center of the Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Imaging, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, China
- *Correspondence: Zhi-Gang Liu, ,
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23
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Mukherji R, Yin C, Hameed R, Alqahtani AZ, Kulasekaran M, He AR, Weinberg BA, Marshall JL, Hartley ML, Noel MS. The current state of molecular profiling in gastrointestinal malignancies. Biol Direct 2022; 17:15. [PMID: 35668531 PMCID: PMC9172079 DOI: 10.1186/s13062-022-00322-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 02/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
This is a review of the current state of molecular profiling in gastrointestinal (GI) cancers and what to expect from this evolving field in the future. Individualized medicine is moving from broad panel testing of numerous genes or gene products in tumor biopsy samples, identifying biomarkers of prognosis and treatment response, to relatively noninvasive liquid biopsy assays, building on what we have learned in our tumor analysis and growing into its own evolving predictive and prognostic subspecialty. Hence, the field of GI precision oncology is exploding, and this review endeavors to summarize where we are now in preparation for the journey ahead.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reetu Mukherji
- The Ruesch Center for the Cure of GI Cancers, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, 3800 Reservoir Rd. NW, Washington, DC, 20007, USA
- MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, 3800 Reservoir Rd. NW, Washington, DC, 20007, USA
| | - Chao Yin
- The Ruesch Center for the Cure of GI Cancers, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, 3800 Reservoir Rd. NW, Washington, DC, 20007, USA
- MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, 3800 Reservoir Rd. NW, Washington, DC, 20007, USA
| | - Rumaisa Hameed
- The Ruesch Center for the Cure of GI Cancers, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, 3800 Reservoir Rd. NW, Washington, DC, 20007, USA
- MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, 3800 Reservoir Rd. NW, Washington, DC, 20007, USA
| | - Ali Z Alqahtani
- The Ruesch Center for the Cure of GI Cancers, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, 3800 Reservoir Rd. NW, Washington, DC, 20007, USA
- MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, 3800 Reservoir Rd. NW, Washington, DC, 20007, USA
| | - Monika Kulasekaran
- The Ruesch Center for the Cure of GI Cancers, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, 3800 Reservoir Rd. NW, Washington, DC, 20007, USA
- MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, 3800 Reservoir Rd. NW, Washington, DC, 20007, USA
| | - Aiwu R He
- The Ruesch Center for the Cure of GI Cancers, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, 3800 Reservoir Rd. NW, Washington, DC, 20007, USA
- MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, 3800 Reservoir Rd. NW, Washington, DC, 20007, USA
| | - Benjamin A Weinberg
- The Ruesch Center for the Cure of GI Cancers, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, 3800 Reservoir Rd. NW, Washington, DC, 20007, USA
- MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, 3800 Reservoir Rd. NW, Washington, DC, 20007, USA
| | - John L Marshall
- The Ruesch Center for the Cure of GI Cancers, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, 3800 Reservoir Rd. NW, Washington, DC, 20007, USA
- MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, 3800 Reservoir Rd. NW, Washington, DC, 20007, USA
| | - Marion L Hartley
- The Ruesch Center for the Cure of GI Cancers, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, 3800 Reservoir Rd. NW, Washington, DC, 20007, USA
| | - Marcus S Noel
- The Ruesch Center for the Cure of GI Cancers, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, 3800 Reservoir Rd. NW, Washington, DC, 20007, USA.
- MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, 3800 Reservoir Rd. NW, Washington, DC, 20007, USA.
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24
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Zou Y, Zheng S, Xie X, Ye F, Hu X, Tian Z, Yan SM, Yang L, Kong Y, Tang Y, Tian W, Xie J, Deng X, Zeng Y, Chen ZS, Tang H, Xie X. N6-methyladenosine regulated FGFR4 attenuates ferroptotic cell death in recalcitrant HER2-positive breast cancer. Nat Commun 2022; 13:2672. [PMID: 35562334 PMCID: PMC9106694 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-30217-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 49.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Intrinsic and acquired anti-HER2 resistance remains a major hurdle for treating HER2-positive breast cancer. Using genome-wide CRISPR/Cas9 screening in vitro and in vivo, we identify FGFR4 as an essential gene following anti-HER2 treatment. FGFR4 inhibition enhances susceptibility to anti-HER2 therapy in resistant breast cancer. Mechanistically, m6A-hypomethylation regulated FGFR4 phosphorylates GSK-3β and activates β-catenin/TCF4 signaling to drive anti-HER2 resistance. Notably, suppression of FGFR4 dramatically diminishes glutathione synthesis and Fe2+ efflux efficiency via the β-catenin/TCF4-SLC7A11/FPN1 axis, resulting in excessive ROS production and labile iron pool accumulation. Ferroptosis, a unique iron-dependent form of oxidative cell death, is triggered after FGFR4 inhibition. Experiments involving patient-derived xenografts and organoids reveals a synergistic effect of anti-FGFR4 with anti-HER2 therapy in breast cancer with either intrinsic or acquired resistance. Together, these results pinpoint a mechanism of anti-HER2 resistance and provide a strategy for overcoming resistance via FGFR4 inhibition in recalcitrant HER2-positive breast cancer. Anti-HER2 resistance causes treatment failure in HER2-positive breast cancers. Here the authors identify FGFR4 as one of the vulnerabilities of anti-HER2 resistant breast cancer and show that FGRR4 inhibition enhances sensitivity to anti-HER2 treatment in these resistant cells by triggering ferroptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutian Zou
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center; State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shaoquan Zheng
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center; State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xinhua Xie
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center; State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Feng Ye
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center; State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoqian Hu
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Zhi Tian
- College of Pharmacy, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Shu-Mei Yan
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center; State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lu Yang
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center; State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yanan Kong
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center; State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuhui Tang
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center; State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wenwen Tian
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center; State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jindong Xie
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center; State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xinpei Deng
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center; State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yan Zeng
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center; State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhe-Sheng Chen
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY, USA.
| | - Hailin Tang
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center; State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Xiaoming Xie
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center; State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China.
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25
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Hu D, Li Z, Zheng B, Lin X, Pan Y, Gong P, Zhuo W, Hu Y, Chen C, Chen L, Zhou J, Wang L. Cancer-associated fibroblasts in breast cancer: Challenges and opportunities. Cancer Commun (Lond) 2022; 42:401-434. [PMID: 35481621 PMCID: PMC9118050 DOI: 10.1002/cac2.12291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Revised: 02/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment is proposed to contribute substantially to the progression of cancers, including breast cancer. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are the most abundant components of the tumor microenvironment. Studies have revealed that CAFs in breast cancer originate from several types of cells and promote breast cancer malignancy by secreting factors, generating exosomes, releasing nutrients, reshaping the extracellular matrix, and suppressing the function of immune cells. CAFs are also becoming therapeutic targets for breast cancer due to their specific distribution in tumors and their unique biomarkers. Agents interrupting the effect of CAFs on surrounding cells have been developed and applied in clinical trials. Here, we reviewed studies examining the heterogeneity of CAFs in breast cancer and expression patterns of CAF markers in different subtypes of breast cancer. We hope that summarizing CAF-related studies from a historical perspective will help to accelerate the development of CAF-targeted therapeutic strategies for breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dengdi Hu
- Affiliated Cixi Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315300, P. R. China
| | - Zhaoqing Li
- Affiliated Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education), Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310016, P. R. China.,Biomedical Research Center and Key Laboratory of Biotherapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310016, P. R. China
| | - Bin Zheng
- Affiliated Cixi Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315300, P. R. China
| | - Xixi Lin
- Affiliated Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education), Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310016, P. R. China.,Biomedical Research Center and Key Laboratory of Biotherapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310016, P. R. China
| | - Yuehong Pan
- Affiliated Cixi Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315300, P. R. China
| | - Peirong Gong
- Affiliated Cixi Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315300, P. R. China
| | - Wenying Zhuo
- Affiliated Cixi Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315300, P. R. China.,Affiliated Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education), Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310016, P. R. China.,Biomedical Research Center and Key Laboratory of Biotherapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310016, P. R. China
| | - Yujie Hu
- Affiliated Cixi Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315300, P. R. China
| | - Cong Chen
- Affiliated Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education), Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310016, P. R. China.,Biomedical Research Center and Key Laboratory of Biotherapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310016, P. R. China
| | - Lini Chen
- Affiliated Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education), Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310016, P. R. China.,Biomedical Research Center and Key Laboratory of Biotherapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310016, P. R. China
| | - Jichun Zhou
- Affiliated Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education), Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310016, P. R. China.,Biomedical Research Center and Key Laboratory of Biotherapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310016, P. R. China
| | - Linbo Wang
- Affiliated Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education), Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310016, P. R. China.,Biomedical Research Center and Key Laboratory of Biotherapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310016, P. R. China
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26
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Araujo AM, Abaurrea A, Azcoaga P, López-Velazco JI, Manzano S, Rodriguez J, Rezola R, Egia-Mendikute L, Valdés-Mora F, Flores JM, Jenkins L, Pulido L, Osorio-Querejeta I, Fernández-Nogueira P, Ferrari N, Viera C, Martín-Martín N, Tzankov A, Eppenberger-Castori S, Alvarez-Lopez I, Urruticoechea A, Bragado P, Coleman N, Palazón A, Carracedo A, Gallego-Ortega D, Calvo F, Isacke CM, Caffarel MM, Lawrie CH. Stromal oncostatin M cytokine promotes breast cancer progression by reprogramming the tumor microenvironment. J Clin Invest 2022; 132:e148667. [PMID: 35192545 PMCID: PMC8970678 DOI: 10.1172/jci148667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) is reprogrammed by cancer cells and participates in all stages of tumor progression. The contribution of stromal cells to the reprogramming of the TME is not well understood. Here, we provide evidence of the role of the cytokine oncostatin M (OSM) as central node for multicellular interactions between immune and nonimmune stromal cells and the epithelial cancer cell compartment. OSM receptor (OSMR) deletion in a multistage breast cancer model halted tumor progression. We ascribed causality to the stromal function of the OSM axis by demonstrating reduced tumor burden of syngeneic tumors implanted in mice lacking OSMR. Single-cell and bioinformatic analysis of murine and human breast tumors revealed that OSM expression was restricted to myeloid cells, whereas OSMR was detected predominantly in fibroblasts and, to a lower extent, cancer cells. Myeloid-derived OSM reprogrammed fibroblasts to a more contractile and tumorigenic phenotype and elicited the secretion of VEGF and proinflammatory chemokines CXCL1 and CXCL16, leading to increased myeloid cell recruitment. Collectively, our data support the notion that the stromal OSM/OSMR axis reprograms the immune and nonimmune microenvironment and plays a key role in breast cancer progression.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Peio Azcoaga
- Biodonostia Health Research Institute, San Sebastian, Spain
| | | | - Sara Manzano
- Biodonostia Health Research Institute, San Sebastian, Spain
| | - Javier Rodriguez
- Instituto de Biomedicina y Biotecnología de Cantabria, Santander, Spain
| | - Ricardo Rezola
- Gipuzkoa Cancer Unit, OSI Donostialdea - Onkologikoa Foundation, San Sebastian, Spain
| | - Leire Egia-Mendikute
- Center for Cooperative Research in Biosciences (CIC bioGUNE), Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Bizkaia Technology Park, Derio, Spain
| | - Fátima Valdés-Mora
- Cancer Epigenetic Biology and Therapeutics Laboratory, Children’s Cancer Institute, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Women’s and Children’s Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Juana M. Flores
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Liam Jenkins
- The Breast Cancer Now Toby Robins Research Centre, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, United Kingdom
| | - Laura Pulido
- Biodonostia Health Research Institute, San Sebastian, Spain
| | | | - Patricia Fernández-Nogueira
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, Institute of Biomedicine and
- Department of Biomedicine, School of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Nicola Ferrari
- Tumour Microenvironment Lab, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, United Kingdom
| | - Cristina Viera
- Center for Cooperative Research in Biosciences (CIC bioGUNE), Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Bizkaia Technology Park, Derio, Spain
- CIBERONC (Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer), Madrid, Spain
| | - Natalia Martín-Martín
- Center for Cooperative Research in Biosciences (CIC bioGUNE), Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Bizkaia Technology Park, Derio, Spain
- CIBERONC (Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer), Madrid, Spain
- Traslational Prostate Cancer Research Lab, CIC bioGUNE-Basurto, Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - Alexandar Tzankov
- Institute of Medical Genetics and Pathology, University Hospital, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Isabel Alvarez-Lopez
- Biodonostia Health Research Institute, San Sebastian, Spain
- Gipuzkoa Cancer Unit, OSI Donostialdea - Onkologikoa Foundation, San Sebastian, Spain
| | - Ander Urruticoechea
- Biodonostia Health Research Institute, San Sebastian, Spain
- Gipuzkoa Cancer Unit, OSI Donostialdea - Onkologikoa Foundation, San Sebastian, Spain
| | - Paloma Bragado
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Health Research Institute of the Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, Spain
| | - Nicholas Coleman
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Asís Palazón
- Center for Cooperative Research in Biosciences (CIC bioGUNE), Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Bizkaia Technology Park, Derio, Spain
- IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, Bilbao, Spain
| | - Arkaitz Carracedo
- Center for Cooperative Research in Biosciences (CIC bioGUNE), Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Bizkaia Technology Park, Derio, Spain
- CIBERONC (Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer), Madrid, Spain
- Traslational Prostate Cancer Research Lab, CIC bioGUNE-Basurto, Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Bizkaia, Spain
- IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, Bilbao, Spain
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of the Basque Country, Bilbao, Spain
| | - David Gallego-Ortega
- Tumour Development Laboratory, The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
- St. Vincent’s Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and IT, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Fernando Calvo
- Instituto de Biomedicina y Biotecnología de Cantabria, Santander, Spain
- Tumour Microenvironment Lab, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, United Kingdom
| | - Clare M. Isacke
- The Breast Cancer Now Toby Robins Research Centre, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, United Kingdom
| | - María M. Caffarel
- Biodonostia Health Research Institute, San Sebastian, Spain
- IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, Bilbao, Spain
| | - Charles H. Lawrie
- Biodonostia Health Research Institute, San Sebastian, Spain
- IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, Bilbao, Spain
- Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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Jabbarzadeh Kaboli P, Luo S, Chen Y, Jomhori M, Imani S, Xiang S, Wu Z, Li M, Shen J, Zhao Y, Wu X, Hin Cho C, Xiao Z. Pharmacotranscriptomic profiling of resistant triple-negative breast cancer cells treated with lapatinib and berberine shows upregulation of PI3K/Akt signaling under cytotoxic stress. Gene X 2022; 816:146171. [PMID: 35026293 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2021.146171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2021] [Revised: 12/05/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most incurable type of breast cancer, accounting for 15-20% of breast cancer cases. Lapatinib is a dual tyrosine kinase inhibitor targeting EGFR and Her2, and berberine (BBR) is a plant-based alkaloid suggested to inhibit several cancer signaling pathways. We previously reported that lapatinib activates the Akt oncoprotein in MDA-MB231 TNBC cells. The present study determined the mechanism(s) of Akt activation in response to lapatinib, BBR, and capivasertib (Akt inhibitor) as well as the role of Akt signaling in chemoresistance in TNBC cells. Genetic profiles of 10 TNBC cell lines and patients were analyzed using datasets obtained from Gene Expression Omnibus and The Cancer Genome Atlas Database. Then, the effects of lapatinib, BBR, and capivasertib on treated MDA-MB231 and MCF-7 cell lines were studied using cytotoxicity, immunoblot, and RNA-sequencing analyses. For further confirmation, we also performed real-time PCR for genes associated with PI3K signaling. MDA-MB231 and MCF-7 cell lines were both strongly resistant to capivasertib largely due to significant Akt activation in both breast cancer cell lines, while lapatinib and BBR only enhanced Akt signaling in MDA-MB231 cells. Next-generation sequencing, functional enrichment analysis, and immunoblot revealed downregulation of CDK6 and DNMT1 in response to lapatinib and BBR lead to a decrease in cell proliferation. Expression of placental, fibroblast growth factor, and angiogenic biomarker genes, which are significantly associated with Akt activation and/or dormancy in breast cancer cells, was significantly upregulated in TNBC cells treated with lapatinib and BBR. Lapatinib and BBR activate Akt through upregulation of alternative signaling, which lead to chemoresistance in TNBC cell. In addition, lapatinib overexpresses genes related to PI3K signaling in resistant TNBC cell model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parham Jabbarzadeh Kaboli
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, Sichuan, PR China; Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Research Center for Cancer Biology, and Center for Molecular Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan, ROC.
| | - Shuang Luo
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Yao Chen
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, Sichuan, PR China; South Sichuan Institution for Translational Medicine, Luzhou 646000, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Masume Jomhori
- Department of Biotechnology Research, Razi Vaccine and Serum Research Institute, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Saber Imani
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Shixin Xiang
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, Sichuan, PR China; South Sichuan Institution for Translational Medicine, Luzhou 646000, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Zhigui Wu
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, Sichuan, PR China; South Sichuan Institution for Translational Medicine, Luzhou 646000, Sichuan, PR China; Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Mingxing Li
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, Sichuan, PR China; South Sichuan Institution for Translational Medicine, Luzhou 646000, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Jing Shen
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, Sichuan, PR China; South Sichuan Institution for Translational Medicine, Luzhou 646000, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Yueshui Zhao
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, Sichuan, PR China; South Sichuan Institution for Translational Medicine, Luzhou 646000, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Xu Wu
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, Sichuan, PR China; South Sichuan Institution for Translational Medicine, Luzhou 646000, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Chi Hin Cho
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, Sichuan, PR China; South Sichuan Institution for Translational Medicine, Luzhou 646000, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Zhangang Xiao
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, Sichuan, PR China; South Sichuan Institution for Translational Medicine, Luzhou 646000, Sichuan, PR China.
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Bête Noire of Chemotherapy and Targeted Therapy: CAF-Mediated Resistance. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14061519. [PMID: 35326670 PMCID: PMC8946545 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14061519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Revised: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Tumor cells struggle to survive following treatment. The struggle ends in either of two ways. The drug combination used for the treatment blocks the proliferation of tumor cells and initiates apoptosis of cells, which is a win for the patient, or tumor cells resist the effect of the drug combination used for the treatment and continue to evade the effect of anti-tumor drugs, which is a bête noire of therapy. Cancer-associated fibroblasts are the most abundant non-transformed element of the microenvironment in solid tumors. Tumor cells play a direct role in establishing the cancer-associated fibroblasts’ population in its microenvironment. Since cancer-associated fibroblasts are activated by tumor cells, cancer-associated fibroblasts show unconditional servitude to tumor cells in their effort to resist treatment. Thus, cancer-associated fibroblasts, as the critical or indispensable component of resistance to the treatment, are one of the most logical targets within tumors that eventually progress despite therapy. We evaluate the participatory role of cancer-associated fibroblasts in the development of drug resistance in solid tumors. In the future, we will establish the specific mode of action of cancer-associated fibroblasts in solid tumors, paving the way for cancer-associated-fibroblast-inclusive personalized therapy. Abstract In tumor cells’ struggle for survival following therapy, they resist treatment. Resistance to therapy is the outcome of well-planned, highly efficient adaptive strategies initiated and utilized by these transformed tumor cells. Cancer cells undergo several reprogramming events towards adapting this opportunistic behavior, leading them to gain specific survival advantages. The strategy involves changes within the transformed tumors cells as well as in their neighboring non-transformed extra-tumoral support system, the tumor microenvironment (TME). Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts (CAFs) are one of the components of the TME that is used by tumor cells to achieve resistance to therapy. CAFs are diverse in origin and are the most abundant non-transformed element of the microenvironment in solid tumors. Cells of an established tumor initially play a direct role in the establishment of the CAF population for its own microenvironment. Like their origin, CAFs are also diverse in their functions in catering to the pro-tumor microenvironment. Once instituted, CAFs interact in unison with both tumor cells and all other components of the TME towards the progression of the disease and the worst outcome. One of the many functions of CAFs in influencing the outcome of the disease is their participation in the development of resistance to treatment. CAFs resist therapy in solid tumors. A tumor–CAF relationship is initiated by tumor cells to exploit host stroma in favor of tumor progression. CAFs in concert with tumor cells and other components of the TME are abettors of resistance to treatment. Thus, this liaison between CAFs and tumor cells is a bête noire of therapy. Here, we portray a comprehensive picture of the modes and functions of CAFs in conjunction with their role in orchestrating the development of resistance to different chemotherapies and targeted therapies in solid tumors. We investigate the various functions of CAFs in various solid tumors in light of their dialogue with tumor cells and the two components of the TME, the immune component, and the vascular component. Acknowledgment of the irrefutable role of CAFs in the development of treatment resistance will impact our future strategies and ability to design improved therapies inclusive of CAFs. Finally, we discuss the future implications of this understanding from a therapeutic standpoint and in light of currently ongoing and completed CAF-based NIH clinical trials.
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Rozen EJ, Shohet JM. Systematic review of the receptor tyrosine kinase superfamily in neuroblastoma pathophysiology. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2022; 41:33-52. [PMID: 34716856 PMCID: PMC8924100 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-021-10001-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neuroblastoma is a devastating disease accounting for 15% of all childhood cancer deaths. Yet, our understanding of key molecular drivers such as receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) in this pathology remains poorly clarified. Here, we provide a systematic analysis of the RTK superfamily in the context of neuroblastoma pathogenesis. METHODS Statistical correlations for all RTK family members' expression to neuroblastoma patient survival across 10 independent patient cohorts were annotated, synthesized, and ranked using the R2: Genomics Analysis and Visualization Platform. Gene expression of selected members across different cancer cell lines was further analyzed in the Cancer Cell Line Encyclopedia, part of the Cancer Dependency Map portal (depmap portal ( http://depmap.org )). Finally, we provide a detailed literature review for highly ranked candidates. RESULTS Our analysis defined two subsets of RTKs showing robust associations with either better or worse survival, constituting potential novel players in neuroblastoma pathophysiology, diagnosis, and therapy. We review the available literature regarding the oncogenic functions of these RTKs, their roles in neuroblastoma pathophysiology, and potential utility as therapeutic targets. CONCLUSIONS Our systematic analysis and review of the RTK superfamily in neuroblastoma pathogenesis provides a new resource to guide the research community towards focused efforts investigating signaling pathways that contribute to neuroblastoma tumor establishment, growth, and/or aggressiveness and targeting these druggable molecules in novel therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esteban Javier Rozen
- Department of Pediatrics, UMass Chan Medical School, Lazare Research Building LRB603, 364 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA.
| | - Jason Matthew Shohet
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, UMass Chan Medical School, Lazare Research Building LRB603, 364 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA.
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Francavilla C, O'Brien CS. Fibroblast growth factor receptor signalling dysregulation and targeting in breast cancer. Open Biol 2022; 12:210373. [PMID: 35193394 PMCID: PMC8864352 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.210373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor (FGFR) signalling plays a critical role in breast embryonal development, tissue homeostasis, tumorigenesis and metastasis. FGFR, its numerous FGF ligands and signalling partners are often dysregulated in breast cancer progression and are one of the causes of resistance to treatment in breast cancer. Furthermore, FGFR signalling on epithelial cells is affected by signals from the breast microenvironment, therefore increasing the possibility of breast developmental abnormalities or cancer progression. Increasing our understanding of the multi-layered roles of the complex family of FGFRs, their ligands FGFs and their regulatory partners may offer novel treatment strategies for breast cancer patients, as a single agent or rational co-target, which will be explored in depth in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Francavilla
- Division of Molecular and Cellular Function, School of Biological Science, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health (FBMH), University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
- The Manchester Breast Centre, University of Manchester, Wilmslow Road, Manchester M20 4GJ, UK
| | - Ciara S. O'Brien
- The Christie Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Wilmslow Road, Manchester M20 2BX, UK
- The Manchester Breast Centre, University of Manchester, Wilmslow Road, Manchester M20 4GJ, UK
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Hassan MS, Cwidak N, Awasthi N, von Holzen U. Cytokine Interaction With Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts in Esophageal Cancer. Cancer Control 2022; 29:10732748221078470. [PMID: 35442094 PMCID: PMC9024076 DOI: 10.1177/10732748221078470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Esophageal cancer (EC) is a highly aggressive cancer with poor outcomes under current treatment regimens. More recent findings suggest stroma elements, specifically cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), play a role in disease occurrence and progression. Cancer-associated fibroblasts are largely the product of converted fibroblasts, but a variety of other local cell types including epithelial cells, endothelial cells, and mesenchymal cells have also been shown to transform to CAFs under the correct conditions. Cancer-associated fibroblasts primarily function in the communication between the tumor microenvironment and cancer cells via cytokine and chemokine secretions that accentuate immunosuppression and cancer growth. Cancer-associated fibroblasts also pose issues for EC treatment by contributing to resistance of current chemotherapeutics like cisplatin. Targeting this cell type directly proves difficult given the heterogeneity between CAFs subpopulations, but emerging research provides hope that treatment is on the horizon. This review aims to unravel some of the complexities surrounding CAFs’ impact on EC growth and therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Sazzad Hassan
- Department of Surgery, 158720Indiana University School of Medicine, South Bend, IN 46617, USA.,Harper Cancer Research Institute, South Bend, IN 46617, USA
| | - Nicholas Cwidak
- Department of Surgery, 158720Indiana University School of Medicine, South Bend, IN 46617, USA
| | - Niranjan Awasthi
- Department of Surgery, 158720Indiana University School of Medicine, South Bend, IN 46617, USA.,Harper Cancer Research Institute, South Bend, IN 46617, USA
| | - Urs von Holzen
- Department of Surgery, 158720Indiana University School of Medicine, South Bend, IN 46617, USA.,Harper Cancer Research Institute, South Bend, IN 46617, USA.,Goshen Center for Cancer Care, Goshen, Goshen, IN 46526, USA.,University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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Zhang D, Zhao L, Luo M, Lei J, Shao S. Yap-Myc signaling induces pancreatic stellate cell activation through regulating glutaminolysis. Exp Cell Res 2021; 411:113000. [PMID: 34958764 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2021.113000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The accumulation of activated myofibroblastic pancreatic stellate cells (MF-PSCs) induces pancreatic cancer desmoplasia. These MF-PSCs are derived from quiescent pancreatic stellate cells (Q-PSCs). MF-PSCs in pancreatic cancer tend to glycolysis. However, increased glycolysis alone could not be sufficient for the increased metabolic demands of MF-PSCs. Yap and Myc signaling activation is involved in pancreatic cancer metabolism. Since elucidating the metabolic processes of MF-PSCs may be a promising strategy to suppress pancreatic cancer desmoplasia, we explored whether glutaminolysis meets the bioenergetic and biosynthetic demands of Q-PSCs converted into MF-PSCs and whether this is mediated by Yap signaling to Myc. In this study, we found that during the transdifferentiation of Q-PSCs into MF-PSCs, glutaminolysis regulatory genes were upregulated, and suppression of glutaminolysis inhibited transdifferentiation. Disrupting glutaminolysis in MF-PSCs inhibited cell growth, mitochondrial respiration, and fibrogenesis, while treatment of MF-PSCs with DKG (a glutaminolysis metabolite) reversed these activities. The expression of glutaminase (GLS1), a rate-limiting enzyme in glutaminolysis, was upregulated by Yap overexpression. Yap upregulates Myc to regulate the expression of GLS1 in MF-PSCs. Yap and Myc inhibitors disrupted glutaminolysis and inhibited myofibroblastic activities in PSCs. Thus, Yap-Myc signaling controls glutaminolysis to activate PSCs and might be a therapeutic target for pancreatic cancer desmoplasia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, China
| | - Lin Zhao
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, China
| | - Minna Luo
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, China
| | - Jianjun Lei
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, China.
| | - Shan Shao
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, China.
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Targeted Therapy Modulates the Secretome of Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts to Induce Resistance in HER2-Positive Breast Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222413297. [PMID: 34948097 PMCID: PMC8706990 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222413297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Revised: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The combination of trastuzumab plus pertuzumab plus docetaxel as a first-line therapy in patients with HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer has provided significant clinical benefits compared to trastuzumab plus docetaxel alone. However, despite the therapeutic success of existing therapies targeting HER2, tumours invariably relapse. Therefore, there is an urgent need to improve our understanding of the mechanisms governing resistance, so that specific therapeutic strategies can be developed to provide improved efficacy. It is well known that the tumour microenvironment (TME) has a significant impact on cancer behaviour. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are essential components of the tumour stroma that have been linked to acquired therapeutic resistance and poor prognosis in breast cancer. For this reason, it would be of interest to identify novel biomarkers in the tumour stroma that could emerge as therapeutic targets for the modulation of resistant phenotypes. Conditioned medium experiments carried out in our laboratory with CAFs derived from HER2-positive patients showed a significant capacity to promote resistance to trastuzumab plus pertuzumab therapies in two HER2-positive breast cancer cell lines (BCCLs), even in the presence of docetaxel. In order to elucidate the components of the CAF-conditioned medium that may be relevant in the promotion of BCCL resistance, we implemented a multiomics strategy to identify cytokines, transcription factors, kinases and miRNAs in the secretome that have specific targets in cancer cells. The combination of cytokine arrays, label-free LC-MS/MS quantification and miRNA analysis to explore the secretome of CAFs under treatment conditions revealed several up- and downregulated candidates. We discuss the potential role of some of the most interesting candidates in generating resistance in HER2-positive breast cancer.
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FGF/FGFR-Dependent Molecular Mechanisms Underlying Anti-Cancer Drug Resistance. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13225796. [PMID: 34830951 PMCID: PMC8616288 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13225796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Revised: 11/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Deregulation of the FGF/FGFR axis is associated with many types of cancer and contributes to the development of chemoresistance, limiting the effectiveness of current treatment strategies. There are several mechanisms involved in this phenomenon, including cross-talks with other signaling pathways, avoidance of apoptosis, stimulation of angiogenesis, and initiation of EMT. Here, we provide an overview of current research and approaches focusing on targeting components of the FGFR/FGF signaling module to overcome drug resistance during anti-cancer therapy. Abstract Increased expression of both FGF proteins and their receptors observed in many cancers is often associated with the development of chemoresistance, limiting the effectiveness of currently used anti-cancer therapies. Malfunctioning of the FGF/FGFR axis in cancer cells generates a number of molecular mechanisms that may affect the sensitivity of tumors to the applied drugs. Of key importance is the deregulation of cell signaling, which can lead to increased cell proliferation, survival, and motility, and ultimately to malignancy. Signaling pathways activated by FGFRs inhibit apoptosis, reducing the cytotoxic effect of some anti-cancer drugs. FGFRs-dependent signaling may also initiate angiogenesis and EMT, which facilitates metastasis and also correlates with drug resistance. Therefore, treatment strategies based on FGF/FGFR inhibition (using receptor inhibitors, ligand traps, monoclonal antibodies, or microRNAs) appear to be extremely promising. However, this approach may lead to further development of resistance through acquisition of specific mutations, metabolism switching, and molecular cross-talks. This review brings together information on the mechanisms underlying the involvement of the FGF/FGFR axis in the generation of drug resistance in cancer and highlights the need for further research to overcome this serious problem with novel therapeutic strategies.
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Turner LD, Trinh CH, Hubball RA, Orritt KM, Lin CC, Burns JE, Knowles MA, Fishwick CWG. From Fragment to Lead: De Novo Design and Development toward a Selective FGFR2 Inhibitor. J Med Chem 2021; 65:1481-1504. [PMID: 34780700 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c01163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Fibroblast growth factor receptors (FGFRs) are implicated in a range of cancers with several pan-kinase and selective-FGFR inhibitors currently being evaluated in clinical trials. Pan-FGFR inhibitors often cause toxic side effects and few examples of subtype-selective inhibitors exist. Herein, we describe a structure-guided approach toward the development of a selective FGFR2 inhibitor. De novo design was carried out on an existing fragment series to yield compounds predicted to improve potency against the FGFRs. Subsequent iterative rounds of synthesis and biological evaluation led to an inhibitor with nanomolar potency that exhibited moderate selectivity for FGFR2 over FGFR1/3. Subtle changes to the lead inhibitor resulted in a complete loss of selectivity for FGFR2. X-ray crystallographic studies revealed inhibitor-specific morphological differences in the P-loop which were posited to be fundamental to the selectivity of these compounds. Additional docking studies have predicted an FGFR2-selective H-bond which could be utilized to design more selective FGFR2 inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lewis D Turner
- School of Chemistry, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, U.K
| | - Chi H Trinh
- Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology, Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, U.K
| | - Ryan A Hubball
- School of Chemistry, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, U.K
| | - Kyle M Orritt
- School of Chemistry, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, U.K
| | - Chi-Chuan Lin
- Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology, Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, U.K
| | - Julie E Burns
- Leeds Institute of Medical Research at St James's, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS9 7TF, U.K
| | - Margaret A Knowles
- Leeds Institute of Medical Research at St James's, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS9 7TF, U.K
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Vathiotis IA, Moutafi MK, Divakar P, Aung TN, Qing T, Fernandez A, Yaghoobi V, El-Abed S, Wang Y, Guillaume S, Nuciforo P, Huober J, Di Cosimo S, Kim SB, Harbeck N, Gomez H, Shafi S, Syrigos KN, Fountzilas G, Sotiriou C, Pusztai L, Warren S, Rimm DL. Alpha-smooth Muscle Actin Expression in the Stroma Predicts Resistance to Trastuzumab in Patients with Early-stage HER2-positive Breast Cancer. Clin Cancer Res 2021; 27:6156-6163. [PMID: 34465600 PMCID: PMC8595766 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-21-2103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Revised: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The companion diagnostic test for trastuzumab has not changed much in the last 25 years. We used high-plex digital spatial profiling to identify biomarkers besides HER2 that can help predict response to trastuzumab in HER2-positive breast cancer. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN Fifty-eight protein targets were measured in three different molecularly defined compartments by the NanoString GeoMx Digital Spatial Profiler (DSP) in a tissue microarray containing 151 patients with breast cancer that received adjuvant trastuzumab as part of the Hellenic Cooperative Oncology Group 10/05 clinical trial. Promising candidate biomarkers were orthogonally validated with quantitative immunofluorescence (QIF). RNA-sequencing data from the Neoadjuvant Lapatinib and/or Trastuzumab Treatment Optimisation Study (NeoALTTO) were accessed to provide independent cohort validation. Disease-free survival (DFS) was the main outcome assessed. Statistical analyses were performed using a two-sided test (α = 0.05) and multiple testing correction (Benjamini-Hochberg method, FDR < 0.1). RESULTS By DSP, high expression of alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), both in the leukocyte and stromal compartments, was associated with shorter DFS in univariate analysis (P = 0.002 and P = 0.023, respectively). High α-SMA expression in the stroma was validated by QIF after controlling for estrogen receptor and progesterone receptor status [HR, 3.12; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.12-8.68; P = 0.029] showing recurrence on trastuzumab in the same cohort. In the NeoALTTO cohort, elevated levels of ACTA2 were predictive for shorter DFS in the multivariate analysis (HR, 3.21; 95% CI, 1.14-9.05; P = 0.027). CONCLUSIONS This work identifies α-SMA as a novel, easy-to-implement biomarker of resistance to trastuzumab that may be valuable in settings where trastuzumab is combined with other therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis A Vathiotis
- Department of Pathology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
- Yale Cancer Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Myrto K Moutafi
- Department of Pathology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
- Yale Cancer Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | | | - Thazin Nwe Aung
- Department of Pathology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
- Yale Cancer Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Tao Qing
- Yale Cancer Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
- Section of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Aileen Fernandez
- Department of Pathology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
- Yale Cancer Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Vesal Yaghoobi
- Department of Pathology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
- Yale Cancer Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | | | | | - Sebastien Guillaume
- Institut Jules Bordet, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Paolo Nuciforo
- Molecular Oncology Group, Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jens Huober
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology of the University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | | | - Sung-Bae Kim
- Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of South Korea
| | - Nadia Harbeck
- Breast Center, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, University Hospital, Munich, Germany
| | - Henry Gomez
- Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Neoplasicas, Lima, Peru
| | - Saba Shafi
- Department of Pathology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
- Yale Cancer Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Konstantinos N Syrigos
- Department of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens School of Medicine, Athens, Greece
| | - George Fountzilas
- Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
- German Oncology Center, Limassol, Cyprus
| | - Christos Sotiriou
- Institut Jules Bordet, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Lajos Pusztai
- Yale Cancer Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
- Section of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | | | - David L Rimm
- Department of Pathology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut.
- Yale Cancer Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
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De P, Aske J, Dey N. Cancer-Associated Fibroblast Functions as a Road-Block in Cancer Therapy. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:5246. [PMID: 34680395 PMCID: PMC8534063 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13205246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Revised: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The journey of a normal resident fibroblast belonging to the tumor microenvironment (TME) from being a tumor pacifier to a tumor patron is fascinating. We introduce cancer-associated fibroblast (CAF) as a crucial component of the TME. Activated-CAF partners with tumor cells and all components of TME in an established solid tumor. We briefly overview the origin, activation, markers, and overall functions of CAF with a particular reference to how different functions of CAF in an established tumor are functionally connected to the development of resistance to cancer therapy in solid tumors. We interrogate the role of CAF in mediating resistance to different modes of therapies. Functional diversity of CAF in orchestrating treatment resistance in solid tumors portrays CAF as a common orchestrator of treatment resistance; a roadblock in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Nandini Dey
- Translational Oncology Laboratory, Avera Cancer Institute, Sioux Falls, SD 57105, USA; (P.D.); (J.A.)
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Liu Y, Zhou Q, Song S, Tang S. Integrating metabolic reprogramming and metabolic imaging to predict breast cancer therapeutic responses. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2021; 32:762-775. [PMID: 34340886 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2021.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2021] [Revised: 06/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Metabolic reprogramming is not only an emerging hallmark of cancer, but also an essential regulator of cancer cell adaptation to the microenvironment. Metabolic imaging targeting metabolic signatures has been widely used for breast cancer diagnosis. However, limited implications have been explored for monitoring breast cancer therapy response, although metabolic plasticity is notably associated with therapy resistance. In this review, we focus on the metabolic alterations upon breast cancer therapy and their potential for evaluating breast cancer therapeutic responses. We summarize the metabolic network and regulatory changes upon breast cancer therapy in terms of cancer pathological and genetic differences and discuss the implications of metabolic imaging with various probes in selecting target beneficiaries for precision treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Liu
- Cancer Institute, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, PR China; Department of Nuclear Medicine, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, PR China
| | - Qian Zhou
- Cancer Institute, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, PR China
| | - Shaoli Song
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, PR China.
| | - Shuang Tang
- Cancer Institute, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, PR China; Department of Nuclear Medicine, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, PR China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai 201321, PR China.
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Martínez-López A, García-Casas A, Bragado P, Orimo A, Castañeda-Saucedo E, Castillo-Lluva S. Inhibition of RAC1 activity in cancer associated fibroblasts favours breast tumour development through IL-1β upregulation. Cancer Lett 2021; 521:14-28. [PMID: 34419498 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2021.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Revised: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are highly abundant stromal components in the tumour microenvironment. These cells contribute to tumorigenesis and indeed, they have been proposed as a target for anti-cancer therapies. Similarly, targeting the Rho-GTPase RAC1 has also been suggested as a potential therapeutic target in cancer. Here, we show that targeting RAC1 activity, either pharmacologically or by genetic silencing, increases the pro-tumorigenic activity of CAFs by upregulating IL-1β secretion. Moreover, inhibiting RAC1 activity shifts the CAF subtype to a more aggressive phenotype. Thus, as RAC1 suppresses the secretion of IL-1β by CAFs, reducing RAC1 activity in combination with the depletion of this cytokine should be considered as an interesting therapeutic option for breast cancer in which tumour cells retain intact IL-1β signalling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angélica Martínez-López
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas y Biológicas, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, 28040, Spain; Laboratorio de Biología Celular del Cáncer, Facultad de Ciencias Químico-Biológicas, Universidad Autónoma de Guerrero, Mexico
| | - Ana García-Casas
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas y Biológicas, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, 28040, Spain; Instituto de Investigaciones Sanitarias San Carlos (IdISSC), Madrid, 28040, Spain
| | - Paloma Bragado
- Instituto de Investigaciones Sanitarias San Carlos (IdISSC), Madrid, 28040, Spain; Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, 28040, Spain
| | - Akira Orimo
- Department of Pathology and Oncology, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Eduardo Castañeda-Saucedo
- Laboratorio de Biología Celular del Cáncer, Facultad de Ciencias Químico-Biológicas, Universidad Autónoma de Guerrero, Mexico
| | - Sonia Castillo-Lluva
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas y Biológicas, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, 28040, Spain; Instituto de Investigaciones Sanitarias San Carlos (IdISSC), Madrid, 28040, Spain.
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Aboulkheyr Es H, Zhand S, Thiery JP, Warkiani ME. Pirfenidone reduces immune-suppressive capacity of cancer-associated fibroblasts through targeting CCL17 and TNF-beta. Integr Biol (Camb) 2021; 12:188-197. [PMID: 32638026 DOI: 10.1093/intbio/zyaa014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2020] [Revised: 05/07/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Various factors in the tumor microenvironment (TME) regulate the expression of PD-L1 in carcinoma cells. The cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) play a crucial role in regulating and rewiring TME to enhance their immune suppressive function and to favor the invasion of the malignant cells. Tumor progression may be retarded by targeting CAFs in the TME. Various studies highlighted the ability of targeting CAF with pirfenidone (PFD), leading to increased efficacy of chemotherapy. However, its potential for the reduction of immune-suppression capacity of CAFs remains to be elusive. Here, we assessed the effect of PFD on the expression of PD-L1 on CAF cells. Besides migration inhibitory effects of PFD on CAFs, the expression level of PD-L1 reduced in CAFs after treatment with PFD. The downstream analysis of released cytokines from CAFs showed that PFD significantly dropped the secretion of CCL17 and TNF-β, where a positive association between PFD-targeted proteins and PD-L1 was observed. These data suggest that the treatment of CAF within TME through the PFD may reduce the acquisition of CAF-mediated invasive and immune-suppressive capacity of breast carcinoma cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamidreza Aboulkheyr Es
- Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology, School of Biomedical Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sareh Zhand
- Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology, School of Biomedical Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jean Paul Thiery
- Department of Medical Oncology, Inserm Unit 981, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Institute Gustave Roussy, Villejuif, France.,Department of Regenerative Medicine and Health, Guangdong Laboratory, Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health, Guangzhou, China
| | - Majid Ebrahimi Warkiani
- Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology, School of Biomedical Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Institute of Molecular Medicine, Sechenov University, Moscow, Russia
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Guardia C, Bianchini G, Arpí-LLucià O, Menendez S, Casadevall D, Galbardi B, Dugo M, Servitja S, Montero JC, Soria-Jiménez L, Sabbaghi M, Peña R, Madoz-Gúrpide J, Lloveras B, Lluch A, Eroles P, Arribas J, Pandiella A, Gianni L, Rojo F, Rovira A, Albanell J. Preclinical and Clinical Characterization of Fibroblast-derived Neuregulin-1 on Trastuzumab and Pertuzumab Activity in HER2-positive Breast Cancer. Clin Cancer Res 2021; 27:5096-5108. [PMID: 34385295 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-20-2915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Revised: 05/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To characterize expression of neuregulin-1 (NRG1), an HER3 ligand, in HER2-positive breast cancer and its relation with the efficacy of trastuzumab with or without pertuzumab. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN Characterization of NRG1 expression in tumor cell lines, in tumor specimens, and in cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). Patient-derived CAFs were used to investigate NRG1 impact on the activity of trastuzumab with or without pertuzumab in HER2-positive breast cancer cells. The relationship between NRG1 expression and pathologic response to anti-HER2-based neoadjuvant therapy was assessed in a retrospective patient cohort and in the NeoSphere trial. RESULTS NRG1 was expressed in HER2-positive breast cancer-derived fibroblasts at significantly higher levels than in cancer cells. NRG1 and the conditioned media (CM) from CAFs phosphorylated HER3 and AKT in cancer cells and mediated trastuzumab resistance. Stable genetic depletion of NRG1 from CAFs overcame trastuzumab resistance. Pertuzumab effectively suppressed trastuzumab resistance mediated by either NRG1 or CAF's CM. NRG1 engaged an epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition that was prevented by trastuzumab and pertuzumab. In clinical samples, stromal and/or tumor cell expression of NRG1 determined by immunohistochemistry was uncommon (13.2%) yet significantly linked with residual disease following trastuzumab-based neoadjuvant therapy. In the NeoSphere trial, the magnitude of the difference of pathologic complete response rates favoring the pertuzumab arm was higher in the NRG1-high group. CONCLUSIONS CAF-derived NRG1 mediates trastuzumab resistance through HER3/AKT, which might be reverted by pertuzumab. In patients with HER2-positive breast cancer, high expression of NRG1 was associated to poor response to trastuzumab, but not in combination with pertuzumab.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Guardia
- Cancer Research Program, IMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute), Barcelona, Spain.,Medical Oncology Department, Hospital del Mar-CIBERONC, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Oriol Arpí-LLucià
- Cancer Research Program, IMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute), Barcelona, Spain.,Medical Oncology Department, Hospital del Mar-CIBERONC, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Silvia Menendez
- Cancer Research Program, IMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute), Barcelona, Spain.,Medical Oncology Department, Hospital del Mar-CIBERONC, Barcelona, Spain
| | - David Casadevall
- Cancer Research Program, IMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute), Barcelona, Spain.,Medical Oncology Department, Hospital del Mar-CIBERONC, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Barbara Galbardi
- Department of Medical Oncology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Matteo Dugo
- Department of Medical Oncology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Sonia Servitja
- Cancer Research Program, IMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute), Barcelona, Spain.,Medical Oncology Department, Hospital del Mar-CIBERONC, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Luis Soria-Jiménez
- Cancer Research Program, IMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute), Barcelona, Spain.,Medical Oncology Department, Hospital del Mar-CIBERONC, Barcelona, Spain
| | - MohammadA Sabbaghi
- Cancer Research Program, IMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute), Barcelona, Spain.,Medical Oncology Department, Hospital del Mar-CIBERONC, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Raul Peña
- Cancer Research Program, IMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Juan Madoz-Gúrpide
- Department of Pathology, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz-CIBERONC, Madrid, Spain
| | - Belen Lloveras
- Department of Pathology, Hospital del Mar, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ana Lluch
- INCLIVA Biomedical Research Institute, Hospital Clínico de Valencia-CIBERONC, Universitat de València, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Pilar Eroles
- INCLIVA Biomedical Research Institute, Hospital Clínico de Valencia-CIBERONC, Universitat de València, Barcelona, Spain.,INCLIVA, Biomedical Research Institute, Valencia, Spain
| | - Joaquin Arribas
- Cancer Research Program, IMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute), Barcelona, Spain.,Preclinical Research Program, Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Barcelona, Spain.,CIBERONC, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.,Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Atanasio Pandiella
- Centro de Investigación del Cáncer, IBSAL-CSIC-CIBERONC, Salamanca, Spain
| | | | - Federico Rojo
- Department of Pathology, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz-CIBERONC, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Rovira
- Cancer Research Program, IMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute), Barcelona, Spain.,Medical Oncology Department, Hospital del Mar-CIBERONC, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Joan Albanell
- Cancer Research Program, IMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute), Barcelona, Spain. .,Medical Oncology Department, Hospital del Mar-CIBERONC, Barcelona, Spain.,Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
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Maia A, Wiemann S. Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts: Implications for Cancer Therapy. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:3526. [PMID: 34298736 PMCID: PMC8307167 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13143526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Revised: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumour cells do not exist as an isolated entity. Instead, they are surrounded by and closely interact with cells of the environment they are emerged in. The tumour microenvironment (TME) is not static and several factors, including cancer cells and therapies, have been described to modulate several of its components. Fibroblasts are key elements of the TME with the capacity to influence tumour progression, invasion and response to therapy, which makes them attractive targets in cancer treatment. In this review, we focus on fibroblasts and their numerous roles in the TME with a special attention to recent findings describing their heterogeneity and role in therapy response. Furthermore, we explore how different therapies can impact these cells and their communication with cancer cells. Finally, we highlight potential strategies targeting this cell type that can be employed for improving patient outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Maia
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Division of Molecular Genome Analysis, Im Neuenheimer Feld 580, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Stefan Wiemann
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Division of Molecular Genome Analysis, Im Neuenheimer Feld 580, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
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43
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Crosstalk between Tumor-Infiltrating Immune Cells and Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts in Tumor Growth and Immunosuppression of Breast Cancer. J Immunol Res 2021; 2021:8840066. [PMID: 34337083 PMCID: PMC8294979 DOI: 10.1155/2021/8840066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Revised: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Signals from the tumor microenvironment (TME) have a profound influence on the maintenance and progression of cancers. Chronic inflammation and the infiltration of immune cells in breast cancer (BC) have been strongly associated with early carcinogenic events and a switch to a more immunosuppressive response. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are the most abundant stromal component and can modulate tumor progression according to their secretomes. The immune cells including tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) (cytotoxic T cells (CTLs), regulatory T cells (Tregs), and helper T cell (Th)), monocyte-infiltrating cells (MICs), myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), mast cells (MCs), and natural killer cells (NKs) play an important part in the immunological balance, fluctuating TME between protumoral and antitumoral responses. In this review article, we have summarized the impact of these immunological players together with CAF secreted substances in driving BC progression. We explain the crosstalk of CAFs and tumor-infiltrating immune cells suppressing antitumor response in BC, proposing these cellular entities as predictive markers of poor prognosis. CAF-tumor-infiltrating immune cell interaction is suggested as an alternative therapeutic strategy to regulate the immunosuppressive microenvironment in BC.
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44
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Fernández-Nogueira P, Fuster G, Gutierrez-Uzquiza Á, Gascón P, Carbó N, Bragado P. Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts in Breast Cancer Treatment Response and Metastasis. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:3146. [PMID: 34201840 PMCID: PMC8268405 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13133146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Revised: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BrCa) is the leading cause of death among women worldwide, with about one million new cases diagnosed each year. In spite of the improvements in diagnosis, early detection and treatment, there is still a high incidence of mortality and failure to respond to current therapies. With the use of several well-established biomarkers, such as hormone receptors and human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER2), as well as genetic analysis, BrCa patients can be categorized into multiple subgroups: Luminal A, Luminal B, HER2-enriched, and Basal-like, with specific treatment strategies. Although chemotherapy and targeted therapies have greatly improved the survival of patients with BrCa, there is still a large number of patients who relapse or who fail to respond. The role of the tumor microenvironment in BrCa progression is becoming increasingly understood. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are the principal population of stromal cells in breast tumors. In this review, we discuss the current understanding of CAFs' role in altering the tumor response to therapeutic agents as well as in fostering metastasis in BrCa. In addition, we also review the available CAFs-directed molecular therapies and their potential implications for BrCa management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Fernández-Nogueira
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Barcelona (IBUB), 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (G.F.); (P.G.); (N.C.)
- Department of Biomedicine, School of Medicine, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gemma Fuster
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Barcelona (IBUB), 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (G.F.); (P.G.); (N.C.)
- Department of Biochemistry & Physiology, School of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Vic, 08500 Vic, Spain
| | - Álvaro Gutierrez-Uzquiza
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain;
- Health Research Institute of the Hospital Clínico San Carlos, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Pere Gascón
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Barcelona (IBUB), 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (G.F.); (P.G.); (N.C.)
| | - Neus Carbó
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Barcelona (IBUB), 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (G.F.); (P.G.); (N.C.)
| | - Paloma Bragado
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain;
- Health Research Institute of the Hospital Clínico San Carlos, 28040 Madrid, Spain
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Wu F, Yang J, Liu J, Wang Y, Mu J, Zeng Q, Deng S, Zhou H. Signaling pathways in cancer-associated fibroblasts and targeted therapy for cancer. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2021; 6:218. [PMID: 34108441 PMCID: PMC8190181 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-021-00641-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 280] [Impact Index Per Article: 93.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
To flourish, cancers greatly depend on their surrounding tumor microenvironment (TME), and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in TME are critical for cancer occurrence and progression because of their versatile roles in extracellular matrix remodeling, maintenance of stemness, blood vessel formation, modulation of tumor metabolism, immune response, and promotion of cancer cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and therapeutic resistance. CAFs are highly heterogeneous stromal cells and their crosstalk with cancer cells is mediated by a complex and intricate signaling network consisting of transforming growth factor-beta, phosphoinositide 3-kinase/AKT/mammalian target of rapamycin, mitogen-activated protein kinase, Wnt, Janus kinase/signal transducers and activators of transcription, epidermal growth factor receptor, Hippo, and nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells, etc., signaling pathways. These signals in CAFs exhibit their own special characteristics during the cancer progression and have the potential to be targeted for anticancer therapy. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of these signaling cascades in interactions between cancer cells and CAFs is necessary to fully realize the pivotal roles of CAFs in cancers. Herein, in this review, we will summarize the enormous amounts of findings on the signals mediating crosstalk of CAFs with cancer cells and its related targets or trials. Further, we hypothesize three potential targeting strategies, including, namely, epithelial-mesenchymal common targets, sequential target perturbation, and crosstalk-directed signaling targets, paving the way for CAF-directed or host cell-directed antitumor therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fanglong Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Jin Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Junjiang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Ye Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Jingtian Mu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Qingxiang Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuzhi Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongmei Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China.
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46
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Roarty K, Echeverria GV. Laboratory Models for Investigating Breast Cancer Therapy Resistance and Metastasis. Front Oncol 2021; 11:645698. [PMID: 33777805 PMCID: PMC7988094 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.645698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
While numerous therapies are highly efficacious in early-stage breast cancers and in particular subsets of breast cancers, therapeutic resistance and metastasis unfortunately arise in many patients. In many cases, tumors that are resistant to standard of care therapies, as well as tumors that have metastasized, are treatable but incurable with existing clinical strategies. Both therapy resistance and metastasis are multi-step processes during which tumor cells must overcome diverse environmental and selective hurdles. Mechanisms by which tumor cells achieve this are numerous and include acquisition of invasive and migratory capabilities, cell-intrinsic genetic and/or epigenetic adaptations, clonal selection, immune evasion, interactions with stromal cells, entering a state of dormancy or senescence, and maintaining self-renewal capacity. To overcome therapy resistance and metastasis in breast cancer, the ability to effectively model each of these mechanisms in the laboratory is essential. Herein we review historic and the current state-of-the-art laboratory model systems and experimental approaches used to investigate breast cancer metastasis and resistance to standard of care therapeutics. While each model system has inherent limitations, they have provided invaluable insights, many of which have translated into regimens undergoing clinical evaluation. We will discuss the limitations and advantages of a variety of model systems that have been used to investigate breast cancer metastasis and therapy resistance and outline potential strategies to improve experimental modeling to further our knowledge of these processes, which will be crucial for the continued development of effective breast cancer treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Roarty
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States.,Dan L. Duncan Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Gloria V Echeverria
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States.,Dan L. Duncan Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States.,Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States.,Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
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47
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Strell C, Stenmark Tullberg A, Jetne Edelmann R, Akslen LA, Malmström P, Fernö M, Holmberg E, Östman A, Karlsson P. Prognostic and predictive impact of stroma cells defined by PDGFRb expression in early breast cancer: results from the randomized SweBCG91RT trial. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2021; 187:45-55. [PMID: 33661437 PMCID: PMC8062362 DOI: 10.1007/s10549-021-06136-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Purpose Predictive biomarkers are needed to aid the individualization of radiotherapy (RT) in breast cancer. Cancer-associated fibroblasts have been implicated in tumor radioresistance and can be identified by platelet-derived growth factor receptor-beta (PDGFRb). This study aims to analyze how PDGFRb expression affects RT benefit in a large randomized RT trial. Methods PDGFRb was assessed by immunohistochemistry on tissue microarrays from 989 tumors of the SweBCG91RT trial, which enrolled lymph node-negative, stage I/IIA breast cancer patients randomized to RT after breast-conserving surgery. Outcomes were analyzed at 10 years for ipsilateral breast tumor recurrence (IBTR) and any recurrence and 15 years for breast cancer specific death (BCSD). Results PDGFRb expression correlated with estrogen receptor negativity and younger age. An increased risk for any recurrence was noted in univariable analysis for the medium (HR 1.58, CI 95% 1.11–2.23, p = 0.011) or PDGFRb high group (1.49, 1.06–2.10, p = 0.021) compared to the low group. No differences in IBTR or BCSD risk were detected. RT benefit regarding IBTR risk was significant in the PDGFRb low (0.29, 0.12–0.67, p = 0.004) and medium (0.31, 0.16–0.59, p < 0.001) groups but not the PDGFRb high group (0.64, 0.36–1.11, p = 0.110) in multivariable analysis. Likewise, risk reduction for any recurrence was less pronounced in the PDGFRb high group. No significant interaction between RT and PDGFRb-score could be detected. Conclusion A higher PDGFRb-score conferred an increased risk of any recurrence, which partly can be explained by its association with estrogen receptor negativity and young age. Reduced RT benefit was noted among patients with high PDGFRb, however without significant interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carina Strell
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Axel Stenmark Tullberg
- Department of Oncology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Reidunn Jetne Edelmann
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Centre for Cancer Biomarkers CCBIO, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Lars Andreas Akslen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Centre for Cancer Biomarkers CCBIO, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Per Malmström
- Division of Oncology and Pathology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Department of Haematology, Oncology and Radiation Physics, Skåne University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
| | - Mårten Fernö
- Division of Oncology and Pathology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Erik Holmberg
- Department of Oncology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Arne Östman
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Per Karlsson
- Department of Oncology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.
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Bragado P, Fernández-Nogueira P, Carbó N, Gascón P. Unraveling the role of fibroblasts, FGF5 and FGFR2 in HER2-targeted therapies resistance and tumor progression. Oncotarget 2020; 11:4541-4543. [PMID: 33346249 PMCID: PMC7733626 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.27829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
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Ho D, Quake SR, McCabe ERB, Chng WJ, Chow EK, Ding X, Gelb BD, Ginsburg GS, Hassenstab J, Ho CM, Mobley WC, Nolan GP, Rosen ST, Tan P, Yen Y, Zarrinpar A. Enabling Technologies for Personalized and Precision Medicine. Trends Biotechnol 2020; 38:497-518. [PMID: 31980301 PMCID: PMC7924935 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2019.12.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 126] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2019] [Revised: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 12/17/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Individualizing patient treatment is a core objective of the medical field. Reaching this objective has been elusive owing to the complex set of factors contributing to both disease and health; many factors, from genes to proteins, remain unknown in their role in human physiology. Accurately diagnosing, monitoring, and treating disorders requires advances in biomarker discovery, the subsequent development of accurate signatures that correspond with dynamic disease states, as well as therapeutic interventions that can be continuously optimized and modulated for dose and drug selection. This work highlights key breakthroughs in the development of enabling technologies that further the goal of personalized and precision medicine, and remaining challenges that, when addressed, may forge unprecedented capabilities in realizing truly individualized patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dean Ho
- The N.1 Institute for Health (N.1), National University of Singapore, Singapore; The Institute for Digital Medicine (WisDM), National University of Singapore, Singapore; Department of Biomedical Engineering, NUS Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore; Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore.
| | - Stephen R Quake
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, CA, USA; Department of Applied Physics, Stanford University, CA, USA; Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Wee Joo Chng
- Department of Haematology and Oncology, National University Cancer Institute, National University Health System, Singapore; Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Edward K Chow
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore; Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Xianting Ding
- Institute for Personalized Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Bruce D Gelb
- Mindich Child Health and Development Institute, Departments of Pediatrics and Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, NY, USA
| | - Geoffrey S Ginsburg
- Center for Applied Genomics and Precision Medicine, Duke University, NC, USA
| | - Jason Hassenstab
- Department of Neurology, Washington University in St. Louis, MO, USA; Psychological & Brain Sciences, Washington University in St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Chih-Ming Ho
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - William C Mobley
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Garry P Nolan
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Stanford University, CA, USA
| | - Steven T Rosen
- Comprehensive Cancer Center and Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope, CA, USA
| | - Patrick Tan
- Duke-NUS Medical School, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yun Yen
- College of Medical Technology, Center of Cancer Translational Research, Taipei Cancer Center of Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ali Zarrinpar
- Department of Surgery, Division of Transplantation & Hepatobiliary Surgery, University of Florida, FL, USA
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50
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Fernández-Nogueira P, Mancino M, Fuster G, Bragado P, Prats de Puig M, Gascón P, Casado FJ, Carbó N. Breast Mammographic Density: Stromal Implications on Breast Cancer Detection and Therapy. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9030776. [PMID: 32178425 PMCID: PMC7141321 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9030776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Revised: 03/06/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Current evidences state clear that both normal development of breast tissue as well as its malignant progression need many-sided local and systemic communications between epithelial cells and stromal components. During development, the stroma, through remarkably regulated contextual signals, affects the fate of the different mammary cells regarding their specification and differentiation. Likewise, the stroma can generate tumour environments that facilitate the neoplastic growth of the breast carcinoma. Mammographic density has been described as a risk factor in the development of breast cancer and is ascribed to modifications in the composition of breast tissue, including both stromal and glandular compartments. Thus, stroma composition can dramatically affect the progression of breast cancer but also its early detection since it is mainly responsible for the differences in mammographic density among individuals. This review highlights both the pathological and biological evidences for a pivotal role of the breast stroma in mammographic density, with particular emphasis on dense and malignant stromas, their clinical meaning and potential therapeutic implications for breast cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Fernández-Nogueira
- Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques Augustí Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), 08036 Barcelona, Spain
- Correspondence: (P.F.-N.); (M.M.)
| | - Mario Mancino
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, University of Barcelona, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Barcelona (IBUB), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Medicine, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
- Correspondence: (P.F.-N.); (M.M.)
| | - Gemma Fuster
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, University of Barcelona, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Barcelona (IBUB), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Biochemistry & Physiology, School of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Vic, 08500 Vic, Spain
| | - Paloma Bragado
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, Health Research Institute of the Hospital Clínico San Carlos, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Miquel Prats de Puig
- Department of Medicine, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
- Breast Committee, Hospital El Pilar, Quirón salud Group, 08006 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Pere Gascón
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, University of Barcelona, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Barcelona (IBUB), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Oncology and Multidisciplinary Knowledge, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Francisco Javier Casado
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, University of Barcelona, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Barcelona (IBUB), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Neus Carbó
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, University of Barcelona, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Barcelona (IBUB), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
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