1
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Gao Y, Shelling AN, Nolan E, Porter D, Leung E, Wu Z. Liposome-enabled bufalin and doxorubicin combination therapy for trastuzumab-resistant breast cancer with a focus on cancer stem cells. J Liposome Res 2024; 34:489-506. [PMID: 38269490 DOI: 10.1080/08982104.2024.2305866] [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: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
Breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) play a key role in therapeutic resistance in breast cancer treatments and disease recurrence. This study aimed to develop a combination therapy loaded with pH-sensitive liposomes to kill both BCSCs and the okbulk cancer cells using trastuzumab-sensitive and resistant human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 positive (HER2+) breast cancer cell models. The anti-BCSCs effect and cytotoxicity of all-trans retinoic acid, salinomycin, and bufalin alone or in combination with doxorubicin were compared in HER2+ cell line BT-474 and a validated trastuzumab-resistant cell line, BT-474R. The most potent anti-BCSC agent was selected and loaded into a pH-sensitive liposome system. The effects of the liposomal combination on BCSCs and bulk cancer cells were assessed. Compared with BT-474, the aldehyde dehydrogenase positive BCSC population was elevated in BT-474R (3.9 vs. 23.1%). Bufalin was the most potent agent and suppressed tumorigenesis of BCSCs by ∼50%, and showed strong synergism with doxorubicin in both BT-474 and BT-474R cell lines. The liposomal combination of bufalin and doxorubicin significantly reduced the BCSC population size by 85%, and inhibited both tumorigenesis and self-renewal, although it had little effect on the migration and invasiveness. The cytotoxicity against the bulk cancer cells was also enhanced by the liposomal combination than either formulation alone in both cell lines (p < 0.001). The liposomal bufalin and doxorubicin combination therapy may effectively target both BCSCs and bulk cancer cells for a better outcome in trastuzumab-resistant HER2+ breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Gao
- Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, School of Pharmacy, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Andrew N Shelling
- Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, School of Medicine, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Emma Nolan
- Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - David Porter
- Auckland Regional Cancer and Blood Service, Auckland City Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Euphemia Leung
- Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Zimei Wu
- Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, School of Pharmacy, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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2
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Battogtokh G, Obidiro O, Akala EO. Recent Developments in Combination Immunotherapy with Other Therapies and Nanoparticle-Based Therapy for Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC). Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:2012. [PMID: 38893132 PMCID: PMC11171312 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16112012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2024] [Revised: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), lacking specific receptors found in other breast cancer subtypes, poses significant treatment challenges due to limited therapeutic options. Therefore, it is necessary to develop novel treatment approaches for TNBC. In the last few decades, many attempts have been reported for alternative tools for TNBC treatment: immunotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapy, combination therapy, and nanotechnology-based therapy. Among them, combination therapy and nanotechnology-based therapy show the most promise for TNBC treatment. This review outlines recent advancements in these areas, highlighting the efficacy of combination therapy (immunotherapy paired with chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or radiotherapy) in both preclinical and clinical stages and nanotechnology-based therapies utilizing various nanoparticles loaded with anticancer agents, nucleic acids, immunotherapeutics, or CRISPRs in preclinical stages for TNBC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Emmanuel O. Akala
- Center for Drug Research and Development, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Howard University, Washington, DC 20059, USA; (G.B.); (O.O.)
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3
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Ali K, Nabeel M, Mohsin F, Iqtedar M, Islam M, Rasool MF, Hashmi FK, Hussain SA, Saeed H. Recent developments in targeting breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs): a descriptive review of therapeutic strategies and emerging therapies. Med Oncol 2024; 41:112. [PMID: 38592510 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-024-02347-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
Despite recent advancements in the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer (BC), patient outcomes in terms of survival, recurrence, and disease progression remain suboptimal. A significant factor contributing to these challenges is the cellular heterogeneity within BC, particularly the presence of breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs). These cells are thought to serve as the clonogenic nexus for new tumor growth, owing to their hierarchical organization within the tumor. This descriptive review focuses on the evolving strategies to target BCSCs, which have become a pivotal aspect of therapeutic development. We explore a variety of approaches, including targeting specific tumor surface markers (CD133 and CD44), transporters, heat shock proteins, and critical signaling pathways like Notch, Akt, Hedgehog, KLF4, and Wnt/β-catenin. Additionally, we discuss the modulation of the tumor microenvironment through the CXCR-12/CXCR4 axis, manipulation of pH levels, and targeting hypoxia-inducible factors, vascular endothelial growth factor, and CXCR1/2 receptors. Further, this review focuses on the roles of microRNA expression, strategies to induce apoptosis and differentiation in BCSCs, dietary interventions, dendritic cell vaccination, oncolytic viruses, nanotechnology, immunotherapy, and gene therapy. We particularly focused on studies reporting identification of BCSCs, their unique properties and the efficacy of various therapeutic modalities in targeting these cells. By dissecting these approaches, we aim to provide insights into the complex landscape of BC treatment and the potential pathways for improving patient outcomes through targeted BCSC therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khubaib Ali
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Akhtar Saeed College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Bahria Town, Lahore, Pakistan
- Department Clinical Oncology Pharmacy, Cancer Care Hospital & Research Centre, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Nabeel
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Akhtar Saeed College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Bahria Town, Lahore, Pakistan
- Department Clinical Oncology Pharmacy, Cancer Care Hospital & Research Centre, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Fatima Mohsin
- Department of Biological Sciences, KAM School of Life Sciences, Forman Christian College (A Chartered University), Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Mehwish Iqtedar
- Department of Bio-Technology, Lahore College for Women University, Jail Road, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Islam
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, University of the Punjab, Allama Iqbal Campus, Lahore, Pakistan
| | | | - Furqan K Hashmi
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, University of the Punjab, Allama Iqbal Campus, Lahore, Pakistan
| | | | - Hamid Saeed
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, University of the Punjab, Allama Iqbal Campus, Lahore, Pakistan.
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4
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Malla R, Kundrapu DB, Bhamidipati P, Nagaraju GP, Muniraj N. Unleashing the Power of Yes-Associated Protein in Ferroptosis and Drug Resistance in Breast Cancer, with a Special Focus on Therapeutic Strategies. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:5728. [PMID: 38136274 PMCID: PMC10741587 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15245728] [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: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The YAP protein is a critical oncogenic mediator within the Hippo signaling pathway and has been implicated in various cancer types. In breast cancer, it frequently becomes activated, thereby contributing to developing drug-resistance mechanisms. Recent studies have underscored the intricate interplay between YAP and ferroptosis within the breast tumor microenvironment. YAP exerts a negative regulatory effect on ferroptosis, promoting cancer cell survival and drug resistance. This review offers a concise summary of the current understanding surrounding the interplay between the YAP pathway, ferroptosis, and drug-resistance mechanisms in both bulk tumor cells and cancer stem cells. We also explore the potential of natural compounds alone or in combination with anticancer therapies for targeting the YAP pathway in treating drug-resistant breast cancer. This approach holds the promise of enhancing the effectiveness of current treatments and paving the way for developing novel therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- RamaRao Malla
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry and Bioinformatics, GITAM School of Science, GITAM (Deemed to be University), Visakhapatnam 530045, Andhra Pradesh, India; (D.B.K.); (P.B.)
| | - Durga Bhavani Kundrapu
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry and Bioinformatics, GITAM School of Science, GITAM (Deemed to be University), Visakhapatnam 530045, Andhra Pradesh, India; (D.B.K.); (P.B.)
| | - Priyamvada Bhamidipati
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry and Bioinformatics, GITAM School of Science, GITAM (Deemed to be University), Visakhapatnam 530045, Andhra Pradesh, India; (D.B.K.); (P.B.)
| | - Ganji Purnachandra Nagaraju
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA;
| | - Nethaji Muniraj
- Center for Cancer and Immunology Research, Children’s National Hospital, 111 Michigan Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20010, USA;
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5
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Ran M, Sun R, Yan J, Pulliainen AT, Zhang Y, Zhang H. DNA Nanoflower Eye Drops with Antibiotic-Resistant Gene Regulation Ability for MRSA Keratitis Target Treatment. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2023; 19:e2304194. [PMID: 37490549 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202304194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023]
Abstract
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) biofilm-associated bacterial keratitis is highly intractable, with strong resistance to β-lactam antibiotics. Inhibiting the MRSA resistance gene mecR1 to downregulate penicillin-binding protein PBP2a has been implicated in the sensitization of β-lactam antibiotics to MRSA. However, oligonucleotide gene regulators struggle to penetrate dense biofilms, let alone achieve efficient gene regulation inside bacteria cells. Herein, an eye-drop system capable of penetrating biofilms and targeting bacteria for chemo-gene therapy in MRSA-caused bacterial keratitis is developed. This system employed rolling circle amplification to prepare DNA nanoflowers (DNFs) encoding MRSA-specific aptamers and mecR1 deoxyribozymes (DNAzymes). Subsequently, β-lactam antibiotic ampicillin (Amp) and zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles are sequentially loaded into the DNFs (ZnO/Amp@DNFs). Upon application, ZnO on the surface of the nanosystem disrupts the dense structure of biofilm and fully exposes free bacteria. Later, bearing encoded aptamer, the nanoflower system is intensively endocytosed by bacteria, and releases DNAzyme under acidic conditions to cleave the mecR1 gene for PBP2a down-regulation, and ampicillin for efficient MRSA elimination. In vivo tests showed that the system effectively cleared bacterial and biofilm in the cornea, suppressed proinflammatory cytokines interleukin 1β (IL-1β) and tumor neocrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and is safe for corneal epithelial cells. Overall, this design offers a promising approach for treating MRSA-induced keratitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meixin Ran
- Joint Centre of Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, 325015, China
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Laboratory, Åbo Akademi University, Turku Bioscience Centre, University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University, Turku, 20520, Finland
| | - Rong Sun
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University Shenyang, Shenyang, 110016, China
| | - Jiaqi Yan
- Joint Centre of Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, 325015, China
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Laboratory, Åbo Akademi University, Turku Bioscience Centre, University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University, Turku, 20520, Finland
| | - Arto T Pulliainen
- Institute of Biomedicine, Research Unit for Infection and Immunity, University of Turku, Kiinamyllynkatu 10, Turku, FI-20520, Finland
| | - Yu Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University Shenyang, Shenyang, 110016, China
| | - Hongbo Zhang
- Joint Centre of Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, 325015, China
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Laboratory, Åbo Akademi University, Turku Bioscience Centre, University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University, Turku, 20520, Finland
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6
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Swetha KL, Maravajjala KS, Li SD, Singh MS, Roy A. Breaking the niche: multidimensional nanotherapeutics for tumor microenvironment modulation. Drug Deliv Transl Res 2023; 13:105-134. [PMID: 35697894 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-022-01194-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Most of the current antitumor therapeutics were developed targeting the cancer cells only. Unfortunately, in the majority of tumors, this single-dimensional therapy is found to be ineffective. Advanced research has shown that cancer is a multicellular disorder. The tumor microenvironment (TME), which is made by a complex network of the bulk tumor cells and other supporting cells, plays a crucial role in tumor progression. Understanding the importance of the TME in tumor growth, different treatment modalities have been developed targeting these supporting cells. Recent clinical results suggest that simultaneously targeting multiple components of the tumor ecosystem with drug combinations can be highly effective. This type of "multidimensional" therapy has a high potential for cancer treatment. However, tumor-specific delivery of such multi-drug combinations remains a challenge. Nanomedicine could be utilized for the tumor-targeted delivery of such multidimensional therapeutics. In this review, we first give a brief overview of the major components of TME. We then highlight the latest developments in nanoparticle-based combination therapies, where one drug targets cancer cells and other drug targets tumor-supporting components in the TME for a synergistic effect. We include the latest preclinical and clinical studies and discuss innovative nanoparticle-mediated targeting strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Laxmi Swetha
- Department of Pharmacy, Birla Institute of Technology & Science, Vidya Vihar, Pilani, Rajasthan, 333031, India
| | - Kavya Sree Maravajjala
- Department of Pharmacy, Birla Institute of Technology & Science, Vidya Vihar, Pilani, Rajasthan, 333031, India
| | - Shyh-Dar Li
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of British Columbia, 2405 Westbrook Mall, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Manu Smriti Singh
- Department of Biotechnology, Bennett University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, 201310, India. .,Center of Excellence for Nanosensors and Nanomedicine, Bennett University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, 201310, India.
| | - Aniruddha Roy
- Department of Pharmacy, Birla Institute of Technology & Science, Vidya Vihar, Pilani, Rajasthan, 333031, India.
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7
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Establishment and characterization of chemotherapy-enriched sphere-forming cells with stemness phenotypes as a new cell line (BAG 50) of gastric carcinoma. MEDICAL ONCOLOGY (NORTHWOOD, LONDON, ENGLAND) 2022; 39:201. [PMID: 36175578 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-022-01742-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Gastric cancer is a malignancy with a high mortality rate worldwide. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a small subpopulation of tumor cells that possess the tumor-initiating ability, self-renewal capacity, and high resistance to conventional therapies. Due to the diversity and complexity of human tumors, new cell lines are urgently needed to supply clinically and physiologically relevant cancer models. Here, we report establishing a novel cell line (BAG50) with stemness properties. Chemotherapy-enriched sphere-forming cells with CSC properties isolated from a patient with GC were cultured in a serum-containing medium and passaged for up to 51 passages. The colony-forming ability and tumor-forming capacity of BAG50 cells were evaluated in vitro and in vivo. mRNA upregulation of stemness-related transcriptional factors using real-time PCR as well as expression of CSC markers using flow cytometry was investigated. Finally, STR profiling and chromosome studies were performed. BAG50 cells formed floating spheroid colonies in a serum-free medium. Subcutaneous injection of these cells generated xenograft tumors in nude mice. Pluripotency markers (SOX-2, OCT4, and Cripto-1) in them were upregulated compared with normal gastric cells. The majority of them expressed CSC markers of CD44, CD54, and EpCAM, and stemness marker of oct-4. STR profiling showed a unique DNA fingerprint. Karyotype also demonstrated multiple aneuploidies and chromosomal translocations. We suggested that the highly tumorigenic BAG50 cell line with stem cell-like phenotypes may provide a valuable in vitro tool to support new diagnostic, prognostic, and predictive biomarkers as well as the development of more effective treatment strategies.
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8
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Liao W, Li Y, Wang J, Zhao M, Chen N, Zheng Q, Wan L, Mou Y, Tang J, Wang Z. Natural Products-Based Nanoformulations: A New Approach Targeting CSCs to Cancer Therapy. Int J Nanomedicine 2022; 17:4163-4193. [PMID: 36134202 PMCID: PMC9482958 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s380697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) lead to the occurrence and progression of cancer due to their strong tumorigenic, self-renewal, and multidirectional differentiation abilities. Existing cancer treatment methods cannot effectively kill or inhibit CSCs but instead enrich them and produce stronger proliferation, invasion, and metastasis capabilities, resulting in cancer recurrence and treatment resistance, which has become a difficult problem in clinical treatment. Therefore, targeting CSCs may be the most promising approach for comprehensive cancer therapy in the future. A variety of natural products (NP) have significant antitumor effects and have been identified to target and inhibit CSCs. However, pharmacokinetic defects and off-target effects have greatly hindered their clinical translation. NP-based nanoformulations (NPNs) have tremendous potential to overcome the disadvantages of NP against CSCs through site-specific delivery and by improving their pharmacokinetic parameters. In this review, we summarize the recent progress of NPNs targeting CSCs in cancer therapy, looking forward to transforming preclinical research results into clinical applications and bringing new prospects for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenhao Liao
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuchen Li
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, People's Republic of China.,College of Medical Technology, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Bishan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Maoyuan Zhao
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, People's Republic of China
| | - Nianzhi Chen
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiao Zheng
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, People's Republic of China
| | - Lina Wan
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu Mou
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianyuan Tang
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, People's Republic of China.,TCM Regulating Metabolic Diseases Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhilei Wang
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, People's Republic of China.,TCM Regulating Metabolic Diseases Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, People's Republic of China
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9
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St-Denis-Bissonnette F, Khoury R, Mediratta K, El-Sahli S, Wang L, Lavoie JR. Applications of Extracellular Vesicles in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:451. [PMID: 35053616 PMCID: PMC8773485 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14020451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most aggressive and refractory subtype of breast cancer, often occurring in younger patients with poor clinical prognosis. Given the current lack of specific targets for effective intervention, the development of better treatment strategies remains an unmet medical need. Over the last decade, the field of extracellular vesicles (EVs) has grown tremendously, offering immense potential for clinical diagnosis/prognosis and therapeutic applications. While TNBC-EVs have been shown to play an important role in tumorigenesis, chemoresistance and metastasis, they could be repurposed as potential biomarkers for TNBC diagnosis and prognosis. Furthermore, EVs from various cell types can be utilized as nanoscale drug delivery systems (NDDS) for TNBC treatment. Remarkably, EVs generated from specific immune cell subsets have been shown to delay solid tumour growth and reduce tumour burden, suggesting a new immunotherapy approach for TNBC. Intrinsically, EVs can cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB), which holds great potential to treat the brain metastases diagnosed in one third of TNBC patients that remains a substantial clinical challenge. In this review, we present the most recent applications of EVs in TNBC as diagnostic/prognostic biomarkers, nanoscale drug delivery systems and immunotherapeutic agents, as well as discuss the associated challenges and future directions of EVs in cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frederic St-Denis-Bissonnette
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada; (F.S.-D.-B.); (R.K.); (K.M.); (S.E.-S.)
- Centre for Biologics Evaluation, Biologic and Radiopharmaceutical Drugs Directorate, Health Products and Food Branch, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON K1A 0K9, Canada
| | - Rachil Khoury
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada; (F.S.-D.-B.); (R.K.); (K.M.); (S.E.-S.)
- Centre for Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
- Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Karan Mediratta
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada; (F.S.-D.-B.); (R.K.); (K.M.); (S.E.-S.)
- Centre for Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
- Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Sara El-Sahli
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada; (F.S.-D.-B.); (R.K.); (K.M.); (S.E.-S.)
- Centre for Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
- Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Lisheng Wang
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada; (F.S.-D.-B.); (R.K.); (K.M.); (S.E.-S.)
- Centre for Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
- Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
- Regenerative Medicine Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6, Canada
| | - Jessie R. Lavoie
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada; (F.S.-D.-B.); (R.K.); (K.M.); (S.E.-S.)
- Centre for Biologics Evaluation, Biologic and Radiopharmaceutical Drugs Directorate, Health Products and Food Branch, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON K1A 0K9, Canada
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10
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Sulaiman A, McGarry S, Chilumula SC, Kandunuri R, Vinod V. Clinically Translatable Approaches of Inhibiting TGF-β to Target Cancer Stem Cells in TNBC. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9101386. [PMID: 34680503 PMCID: PMC8533357 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9101386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a subtype of breast cancer that disproportionally accounts for the majority of breast cancer-related deaths due to the lack of specific targets for effective treatments. In this review, we highlight the complexity of the transforming growth factor-beta family (TGF-β) pathway and discuss how the dysregulation of the TGF-β pathway promotes oncogenic attributes in TNBC, which negatively affects patient prognosis. Moreover, we discuss recent findings highlighting TGF-β inhibition as a potent method to target mesenchymal (CD44+/CD24-) and epithelial (ALDHhigh) cancer stem cell (CSC) populations. CSCs are associated with tumorigenesis, metastasis, relapse, resistance, and diminished patient prognosis; however, due to differential signal pathway enrichment and plasticity, these populations remain difficult to target and persist as a major barrier barring successful therapy. This review highlights the importance of TGF-β as a driver of chemoresistance, radioresistance and reduced patient prognosis in breast cancer and highlights novel treatment strategies which modulate TGF-β, impede cancer progression and reduce the rate of resistance generation via targeting the CSC populations in TNBC and thus reducing tumorigenicity. Potential TGF-β inhibitors targeting based on clinical trials are summarized for further investigation, which may lead to the development of novel therapies to improve TNBC patient prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Sulaiman
- Department of Basic Science, Kansas City University, 1750 Independence Ave, Kansas City, MO 64106, USA; (S.C.C.); (R.K.); (V.V.)
- Children’s Mercy Hospital, Kansas City, 2401 Gillham Rd, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-816-726-2293
| | - Sarah McGarry
- Children’s Mercy Hospital, Kansas City, 2401 Gillham Rd, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA;
| | - Sai Charan Chilumula
- Department of Basic Science, Kansas City University, 1750 Independence Ave, Kansas City, MO 64106, USA; (S.C.C.); (R.K.); (V.V.)
| | - Rohith Kandunuri
- Department of Basic Science, Kansas City University, 1750 Independence Ave, Kansas City, MO 64106, USA; (S.C.C.); (R.K.); (V.V.)
| | - Vishak Vinod
- Department of Basic Science, Kansas City University, 1750 Independence Ave, Kansas City, MO 64106, USA; (S.C.C.); (R.K.); (V.V.)
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11
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Qayoom H, Wani NA, Alshehri B, Mir MA. An insight into the cancer stem cell survival pathways involved in chemoresistance in triple-negative breast cancer. Future Oncol 2021; 17:4185-4206. [PMID: 34342489 DOI: 10.2217/fon-2021-0172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most complex, aggressive and fatal subtype of breast cancer. Owing to the lack of targeted therapy and heterogenic nature of TNBC, chemotherapy remains the sole treatment option for TNBC, with taxanes and anthracyclines representing the general chemotherapeutic regimen in TNBC therapy. But unfortunately, patients develop resistance to the existing chemotherapeutic regimen, resulting in approximately 90% treatment failure. Breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) are one of the major causes for the development of chemoresistance in TNBC patients. After surviving the chemotherapy damage, the presence of BCSCs results in relapse and recurrence of TNBC. Several pathways are known to regulate BCSCs' survival, such as the Wnt/β-catenin, Hedgehog, JAK/STAT and HIPPO pathways. Therefore it is imperative to target these pathways in the context of eliminating chemoresistance. In this review we will discuss the novel strategies and various preclinical and clinical studies to give an insight into overcoming TNBC chemoresistance. We present a detailed account of recent studies carried out that open an exciting perspective in relation to the mechanisms of chemoresistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hina Qayoom
- Department of Bioresources, School of Biological Sciences, University of Kashmir, Srinagar 190006, J&K, India
| | - Nissar A Wani
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Kashmir Nunar Ganderbal 191201, J&K, India
| | - Bader Alshehri
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Majmaah University, Majmaah, KSA
| | - Manzoor A Mir
- Department of Bioresources, School of Biological Sciences, University of Kashmir, Srinagar 190006, J&K, India
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Greco A, Garoffolo G, Chiesa E, Riva F, Dorati R, Modena T, Conti B, Pesce M, Genta I. Nanotechnology, a booster for the multitarget drug verteporfin. J Drug Deliv Sci Technol 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jddst.2021.102562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Fan Q, Li L, Wang TL, Emerson RE, Xu Y. A Novel ZIP4-HDAC4-VEGFA Axis in High-Grade Serous Ovarian Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13153821. [PMID: 34359722 PMCID: PMC8345154 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13153821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Despite tremendous research efforts, epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) remains one of the most difficult cancers to detect early and treat successfully for >5-year survival. We have recently shown that ZIP4, a zinc transporter, is a novel cancer stem cell (CSC) marker and a therapeutic target for EOC. The current work focuses on developing new strategies to target ZIP4 and inhibit its CSC activities in EOC. We found that cells expressing high levels of ZIP4 were supersensitive to a group of inhibitors called HDACis. One of the major targets of these inhibitors is a protein called HDAC4. We revealed the new molecular bases for the ZIP4-HDAC4 axis and tested the efficacies of targeting this axis in the lab and in mouse models. Our study provides a new mechanistic-based targeting strategy for EOC. Abstract We have recently identified ZIP4 as a novel cancer stem cell (CSC) marker in high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC). While it converts drug-resistance to cisplatin (CDDP), we unexpectedly found that ZIP4 induced sensitization of HGSOC cells to histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACis). Mechanistically, ZIP4 selectively upregulated HDAC IIa HDACs, with little or no effect on HDACs in other classes. HDAC4 knockdown (KD) and LMK-235 inhibited spheroid formation in vitro and tumorigenesis in vivo, with hypoxia inducible factor-1 alpha (HIF1α) and endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) as functional downstream mediators of HDAC4. Moreover, we found that ZIP4, HDAC4, and HIF1α were involved in regulating secreted VEGFA in HGSOC cells. Furthermore, we tested our hypothesis that co-targeting CSC via the ZIP4-HDAC4 axis and non-CSC using CDDP is necessary and highly effective by comparing the effects of ZIP4-knockout/KD, HDAC4-KD, and HDACis, in the presence or absence of CDDP on tumorigenesis in mouse models. Our results showed that the co-targeting strategy was highly effective. Finally, data from human HGSOC tissues showed that ZIP4 and HDAC4 were upregulated in a subset of recurrent tumors, justifying the clinical relevance of the study. In summary, our study provides a new mechanistic-based targeting strategy for HGSOC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qipeng Fan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Indiana University School of Medicine, 950 W. Walnut St. R2-E380, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA;
| | - Lihong Li
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, 600 North Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD 21287, USA;
| | - Tian-Li Wang
- Department of Gynecology, Oncology, and Pathology, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, 1550 Orleans Street, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA;
| | - Robert E. Emerson
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indiana University Health Pathology Laboratory, 350 W. 11th Street, Room 4010, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA;
| | - Yan Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Indiana University School of Medicine, 950 W. Walnut St. R2-E380, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-(317)-274-3972
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Liao M, Zhang J, Wang G, Wang L, Liu J, Ouyang L, Liu B. Small-Molecule Drug Discovery in Triple Negative Breast Cancer: Current Situation and Future Directions. J Med Chem 2021; 64:2382-2418. [PMID: 33650861 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.0c01180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most aggressive subtype of breast cancer, but an effective targeted therapy has not been well-established so far. Considering the lack of effective targets, where do we go next in the current TNBC drug development? A promising intervention for TNBC might lie in de novo small-molecule drugs that precisely target different molecular characteristics of TNBC. However, an ideal single-target drug discovery still faces a huge challenge. Alternatively, other new emerging strategies, such as dual-target drug, drug repurposing, and combination strategies, may provide new insight into the improvement of TNBC therapeutics. In this review, we focus on summarizing the current situation of a series of candidate small-molecule drugs in TNBC therapy, including single-target drugs, dual-target drugs, as well as drug repurposing and combination strategies that will together shed new light on the future directions targeting TNBC vulnerabilities with small-molecule drugs for future therapeutic purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minru Liao
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Jin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Guan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Leiming Wang
- The Institute of Chemical Biology, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen 518107, China
| | - Jie Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Liang Ouyang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Bo Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
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Sulaiman A, McGarry S, El‐Sahli S, Li L, Chambers J, Phan A, Al‐Kadi E, Kahiel Z, Farah E, Ji G, Lee S, Inampudi KK, Alain T, Li X, Liu S, Han X, Zheng P, Liu Z, Gadde S, Wang L. Nanoparticles Loaded with Wnt and YAP/Mevalonate Inhibitors in Combination with Paclitaxel Stop the Growth of TNBC Patient‐Derived Xenografts and Diminish Tumorigenesis. ADVANCED THERAPEUTICS 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/adtp.202000123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Sulaiman
- Department of Biochemistry Microbiology and Immunology Faculty of Medicine University of Ottawa 451 Smyth Road Ottawa Ontario K1H 8M5 Canada
- China‐Canada Centre of Research for Digestive Diseases 451 Smyth Road Ottawa Ontario K1H 8M5 Canada
- Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology University of Ottawa 451 Smyth Road Ottawa Ontario K1H 8M5 Canada
| | - Sarah McGarry
- Department of Biochemistry Microbiology and Immunology Faculty of Medicine University of Ottawa 451 Smyth Road Ottawa Ontario K1H 8M5 Canada
- China‐Canada Centre of Research for Digestive Diseases 451 Smyth Road Ottawa Ontario K1H 8M5 Canada
- Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology University of Ottawa 451 Smyth Road Ottawa Ontario K1H 8M5 Canada
| | - Sara El‐Sahli
- Department of Biochemistry Microbiology and Immunology Faculty of Medicine University of Ottawa 451 Smyth Road Ottawa Ontario K1H 8M5 Canada
- China‐Canada Centre of Research for Digestive Diseases 451 Smyth Road Ottawa Ontario K1H 8M5 Canada
- Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology University of Ottawa 451 Smyth Road Ottawa Ontario K1H 8M5 Canada
| | - Li Li
- Department of Biochemistry Microbiology and Immunology Faculty of Medicine University of Ottawa 451 Smyth Road Ottawa Ontario K1H 8M5 Canada
- China‐Canada Centre of Research for Digestive Diseases 451 Smyth Road Ottawa Ontario K1H 8M5 Canada
- Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology University of Ottawa 451 Smyth Road Ottawa Ontario K1H 8M5 Canada
| | - Jason Chambers
- Department of Biochemistry Microbiology and Immunology Faculty of Medicine University of Ottawa 451 Smyth Road Ottawa Ontario K1H 8M5 Canada
- China‐Canada Centre of Research for Digestive Diseases 451 Smyth Road Ottawa Ontario K1H 8M5 Canada
- Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology University of Ottawa 451 Smyth Road Ottawa Ontario K1H 8M5 Canada
| | - Alexandra Phan
- Department of Biochemistry Microbiology and Immunology Faculty of Medicine University of Ottawa 451 Smyth Road Ottawa Ontario K1H 8M5 Canada
- China‐Canada Centre of Research for Digestive Diseases 451 Smyth Road Ottawa Ontario K1H 8M5 Canada
- Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology University of Ottawa 451 Smyth Road Ottawa Ontario K1H 8M5 Canada
| | - Emil Al‐Kadi
- Department of Biochemistry Microbiology and Immunology Faculty of Medicine University of Ottawa 451 Smyth Road Ottawa Ontario K1H 8M5 Canada
- China‐Canada Centre of Research for Digestive Diseases 451 Smyth Road Ottawa Ontario K1H 8M5 Canada
- Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology University of Ottawa 451 Smyth Road Ottawa Ontario K1H 8M5 Canada
| | - Zaina Kahiel
- Department of Biochemistry Microbiology and Immunology Faculty of Medicine University of Ottawa 451 Smyth Road Ottawa Ontario K1H 8M5 Canada
| | - Eliya Farah
- Department of Biochemistry Microbiology and Immunology Faculty of Medicine University of Ottawa 451 Smyth Road Ottawa Ontario K1H 8M5 Canada
| | - Guang Ji
- Institute of Digestive Diseases Longhua Hospital Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine 725 South Wanping Road Shanghai 200032 China
| | - Seung‐Hwan Lee
- Department of Biochemistry Microbiology and Immunology Faculty of Medicine University of Ottawa 451 Smyth Road Ottawa Ontario K1H 8M5 Canada
- China‐Canada Centre of Research for Digestive Diseases 451 Smyth Road Ottawa Ontario K1H 8M5 Canada
| | - Krishna K. Inampudi
- Department of Biophysics All India Institute of Medical Sciences New Delhi 110029 India
| | - Tommy Alain
- Department of Biochemistry Microbiology and Immunology Faculty of Medicine University of Ottawa 451 Smyth Road Ottawa Ontario K1H 8M5 Canada
- Children Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute Ottawa Ontario K1H 8L1 Canada
| | - Xuguang Li
- Centre for Biologics Evaluation Biologics and Genetic Therapies Directorate Health Canada Sir Frederick G. Banting Research Centre Ottawa Ontario K1Y 0M1 Canada
| | - Sheng Liu
- Institute of Chinese Traditional Surgery Longhua Hospital Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine 725 South Wanping Road Shanghai 200032 China
| | - Xianghui Han
- Institute of Chinese Traditional Surgery Longhua Hospital Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine 725 South Wanping Road Shanghai 200032 China
| | - Peiyong Zheng
- Institute of Digestive Diseases Longhua Hospital Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine 725 South Wanping Road Shanghai 200032 China
| | - Zhen Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Nanjing University 163 Xianlin Avenue Nanjing 210023 China
| | - Suresh Gadde
- Department of Biochemistry Microbiology and Immunology Faculty of Medicine University of Ottawa 451 Smyth Road Ottawa Ontario K1H 8M5 Canada
| | - Lisheng Wang
- Department of Biochemistry Microbiology and Immunology Faculty of Medicine University of Ottawa 451 Smyth Road Ottawa Ontario K1H 8M5 Canada
- China‐Canada Centre of Research for Digestive Diseases 451 Smyth Road Ottawa Ontario K1H 8M5 Canada
- Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology University of Ottawa 451 Smyth Road Ottawa Ontario K1H 8M5 Canada
- Regenerative Medicine Program Ottawa Hospital Research Institute Ottawa Ontario K1H 8L6 Canada
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Gao Y, Tang M, Leung E, Svirskis D, Shelling A, Wu Z. Dual or multiple drug loaded nanoparticles to target breast cancer stem cells. RSC Adv 2020; 10:19089-19105. [PMID: 35518295 PMCID: PMC9054075 DOI: 10.1039/d0ra02801k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Accepted: 05/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer stem(-like) cells (BCSCs) have been found to be responsible for therapeutic resistance and disease relapse. BCSCs are difficult to eradicate due to their high resistance to conventional treatments and high plasticity. Functionalised nanoparticles have been investigated as smart vehicles to transport across various barriers and increase the interaction of therapeutic agents with cancer cells, as well as BCSCs. In this review, we discuss the different characteristics of BCSCs, and challenges to tackle BCSCs at cellular and molecular levels. The mechanisms of action and physicochemical properties of the current BCSC targeting agents are also covered. We will focus on the rational design and recent advances of "Nano + Nano" or single tumour targeting nanoparticle systems loaded with dual or multiple agents to kill all cancer cells including BCSCs. These cocktail therapies include the combination of a chemotherapy agent with a BCSC-specific inhibitor, a phytochemical agent or RNA based therapy. Given the heterogeneity of breast tumour tissue, targeting both BCSCs and bulk breast cancer cells simultaneously with multiple agents holds great promise in eliminating breast cancer. The future research needs to focus on overcoming various barriers in the 'clinical translation' of BCSC-targeting nanomedicines to cure breast cancer, which requires a significant multidisciplinary effort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Gao
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland Auckland 1142 New Zealand +64-9-9231709
| | - Mingtan Tang
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland Auckland 1142 New Zealand +64-9-9231709
| | - Euphemia Leung
- Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland Auckland 1023 New Zealand
| | - Darren Svirskis
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland Auckland 1142 New Zealand +64-9-9231709
| | - Andrew Shelling
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland Auckland 1142 New Zealand
| | - Zimei Wu
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland Auckland 1142 New Zealand +64-9-9231709
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Characterization of Redox-Responsive LXR-Activating Nanoparticle Formulations in Primary Mouse Macrophages. Molecules 2019; 24:molecules24203751. [PMID: 31635211 PMCID: PMC6833070 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24203751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2019] [Revised: 10/10/2019] [Accepted: 10/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Activation of the transcription factor liver X receptor (LXR) has beneficial effects on macrophage lipid metabolism and inflammation, making it a potential candidate for therapeutic targeting in cardiometabolic disease. While small molecule delivery via nanomedicine has promising applications for a number of chronic diseases, questions remain as to how nanoparticle formulation might be tailored to suit different tissue microenvironments and aid in drug delivery. In the current study, we aimed to compare the in vitro drug delivering capability of three nanoparticle (NP) formulations encapsulating the LXR activator, GW-3965. We observed little difference in the base characteristics of standard PLGA-PEG NP when compared to two redox-active polymeric NP formulations, which we called redox-responsive (RR)1 and RR2. Moreover, we also observed similar uptake of these NP into primary mouse macrophages. We used the transcript and protein expression of the cholesterol efflux protein and LXR target ATP-binding cassette A1 (ABCA1) as a readout of GW-3956-induced LXR activation. Following an initial acute uptake period that was meant to mimic circulating exposure in vivo, we determined that although the induction of transcript expression was similar between NPs, treatment with the redox-sensitive RR1 NPs resulted in a higher level of ABCA1 protein. Our results suggest that NP formulations responsive to cellular cues may be an effective tool for targeted and disease-specific drug release.
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CSCs in Breast Cancer-One Size Does Not Fit All: Therapeutic Advances in Targeting Heterogeneous Epithelial and Mesenchymal CSCs. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11081128. [PMID: 31394796 PMCID: PMC6721464 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11081128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2019] [Revised: 08/02/2019] [Accepted: 08/04/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Unlike other breast cancer subtypes, triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) has no specific targets and is characterized as one of the most aggressive subtypes of breast cancer that disproportionately accounts for the majority of breast cancer-related deaths. Current conventional chemotherapeutics target the bulk tumor population, but not the cancer stem cells (CSCs) that are capable of initiating new tumors to cause disease relapse. Recent studies have identified distinct epithelial-like (E) ALDH+ CSCs, mesenchymal-like (M) CD44+/CD24- CSCs, and hybrid E/M ALDH+/CD44+/CD24- CSCs. These subtypes of CSCs exhibit differential signal pathway regulations, possess plasticity, and respond differently to treatment. As such, co-inhibition of different subtypes of CSCs is key to viable therapy. This review serves to highlight different pathway regulations in E and M CSCs in TNBC, and to further describe their role in disease progression. Potential inhibitors targeting E and/or M CSCs based on clinical trials are summarized for further investigation. Since future research needs to adopt suitable tumor models and take into account the divergence of E and M CSCs for the development of effective treatments, TNBC models for clinically translatable studies are further discussed.
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