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Mongiat M, Pascal G, Poletto E, Williams DM, Iozzo RV. Proteoglycans of basement membranes: Crucial controllers of angiogenesis, neurogenesis, and autophagy. PROTEOGLYCAN RESEARCH 2024; 2:e22. [PMID: 39184370 PMCID: PMC11340296 DOI: 10.1002/pgr2.22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 06/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/27/2024]
Abstract
Anti-angiogenic therapy is an established method for the treatment of several cancers and vascular-related diseases. Most of the agents employed target the vascular endothelial growth factor A, the major cytokine stimulating angiogenesis. However, the efficacy of these treatments is limited by the onset of drug resistance. Therefore, it is of fundamental importance to better understand the mechanisms that regulate angiogenesis and the microenvironmental cues that play significant role and influence patient treatment and outcome. In this context, here we review the importance of the three basement membrane heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs), namely perlecan, agrin and collagen XVIII. These HSPGs are abundantly expressed in the vasculature and, due to their complex molecular architecture, they interact with multiple endothelial cell receptors, deeply affecting their function. Under normal conditions, these proteoglycans exert pro-angiogenic functions. However, in pathological conditions such as cancer and inflammation, extracellular matrix remodeling leads to the degradation of these large precursor molecules and the liberation of bioactive processed fragments displaying potent angiostatic activity. These unexpected functions have been demonstrated for the C-terminal fragments of perlecan and collagen XVIII, endorepellin and endostatin. These bioactive fragments can also induce autophagy in vascular endothelial cells which contributes to angiostasis. Overall, basement membrane proteoglycans deeply affect angiogenesis counterbalancing pro-angiogenic signals during tumor progression, and represent possible means to develop new prognostic biomarkers and novel therapeutic approaches for the treatment of solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maurizio Mongiat
- Department of Research and Diagnosis, Division of Molecular Oncology, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO) IRCCS, 33081 Aviano, Italy
| | - Gabriel Pascal
- Department of Pathology and Genomic Medicine, and the Translational Cellular Oncology Program, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Evelina Poletto
- Department of Research and Diagnosis, Division of Molecular Oncology, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO) IRCCS, 33081 Aviano, Italy
| | - Davion M. Williams
- Department of Pathology and Genomic Medicine, and the Translational Cellular Oncology Program, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Renato V. Iozzo
- Department of Pathology and Genomic Medicine, and the Translational Cellular Oncology Program, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
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2
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Wang LJ, Feng F, Li JC, Chen TT, Liu LP. Role of heparanase in pulmonary hypertension. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1202676. [PMID: 37637421 PMCID: PMC10450954 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1202676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a pathophysiological condition of increased pulmonary circulation vascular resistance due to various reasons, which mainly leads to right heart dysfunction and even death, especially in critically ill patients. Although drug interventions have shown some efficacy in improving the hemodynamics of PH patients, the mortality rate remains high. Hence, the identification of new targets and treatment strategies for PH is imperative. Heparanase (HPA) is an enzyme that specifically cleaves the heparan sulfate (HS) side chains in the extracellular matrix, playing critical roles in inflammation and tumorigenesis. Recent studies have indicated a close association between HPA and PH, suggesting HPA as a potential therapeutic target. This review examines the involvement of HPA in PH pathogenesis, including its effects on endothelial cells, inflammation, and coagulation. Furthermore, HPA may serve as a biomarker for diagnosing PH, and the development of HPA inhibitors holds promise as a targeted therapy for PH treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin-Jun Wang
- The First Clinical Medical School of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Fei Feng
- The First Clinical Medical School of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Jian-Chun Li
- The First Clinical Medical School of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Ting-Ting Chen
- The First Clinical Medical School of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Li-Ping Liu
- The First Clinical Medical School of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
- Departments of Emergency Critical Care Medicine, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
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3
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Elebiyo TC, Rotimi D, Evbuomwan IO, Maimako RF, Iyobhebhe M, Ojo OA, Oluba OM, Adeyemi OS. Reassessing vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in anti-angiogenic cancer therapy. Cancer Treat Res Commun 2022; 32:100620. [PMID: 35964475 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctarc.2022.100620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Vascularization is fundamental to the growth and spread of tumor cells to distant sites. As a consequence, angiogenesis, the sprouting of new blood vessels from existing ones, is a characteristic trait of cancer. In 1971, Judah Folkman postulated that tumour growth is angiogenesis dependent and that by cutting off blood supply, a neoplastic lesion could be potentially starved into remission. Decades of research have been devoted to understanding the role that vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) plays in tumor angiogenesis, and it has been identified as a significant pro-angiogenic factor that is frequently overexpressed within a tumor mass. Today, anti-VEGF drugs such as Sunitinib, Sorafenib, Axitinib, Tanibirumab, and Ramucirumab have been approved for the treatment of advanced and metastatic cancers. However, anti-angiogenic therapy has turned out to be more complex than originally thought. The failure of this therapeutic option calls for a reevaluation of VEGF as the major target in anti-angiogenic cancer therapy. The call for reassessment is based on two rationales: first, tumour blood vessels are abnormal, disorganized, and leaky; this not only prevents optimal drug delivery but it also promotes hypoxia and metastasis; secondly, tumour growth or regrowth might be blood vessel dependent and not angiogenesis dependent as tumour cells can acquire blood vessels via non-angiogenic mechanisms. Therefore, a critical assessment of VEGF, VEGFRs, and their inhibitors could glean newer options such as repurposing anti-VEGF drugs as vascular normalizing agents to enhance drug delivery of immune checkpoint inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Damilare Rotimi
- Department of Biochemistry, Landmark University, Omu-Aran, Nigeria
| | | | | | | | - Oluwafemi Adeleke Ojo
- Phytomedicine, Molecular Toxicology, and Computational Biochemistry Research Laboratory (PMTCB-RL), Department of Biochemistry, Bowen University, Iwo, 232101, Nigeria..
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4
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VEGF-Trap Modulates Retinal Inflammation in the Murine Oxygen-Induced Retinopathy (OIR) Model. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10020201. [PMID: 35203414 PMCID: PMC8869660 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10020201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Revised: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) agents are the first-line treatment for retinal neovascular diseases, which represent the most prevalent causes of acquired vision loss world-wide. VEGF-Trap (Aflibercept, AFL), a recombinant decoy receptor recognizing ligands of both VEGFR-1 and -2, was recently reported to be highly efficient in improving visual acuity and preserving retinal anatomy in individuals affected by diabetic macular edema. However, the precise molecular and cell biological mechanisms underlying the beneficial effects of this novel tool have yet to be elucidated. Using the mouse oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR) model as a surrogate of retinopathies with sterile post-ischemic inflammation, such as late proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR), retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), and diabetic macular edema (DME), we provide evidence that AFL modulates inflammation in response to hypoxia by regulating the morphology of microglial cells, a parameter commonly used as a proxy for changes in their activation state. We show that AFL administration during the hypoxic period of OIR leads to an increased number of ramified Iba1+ microglial cells/macrophages while subsequently limiting the accumulation of these cells in particular retinal layers. Our results suggest that, beyond its well-documented beneficial effects on microvascular regeneration, AFL might exert important modulatory effects on post-ischemic retinal inflammation.
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Koganti R, Suryawanshi R, Shukla D. Heparanase, cell signaling, and viral infections. Cell Mol Life Sci 2020; 77:5059-5077. [PMID: 32462405 PMCID: PMC7252873 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-020-03559-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2020] [Revised: 05/17/2020] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Heparanase (HPSE) is a multifunctional protein endowed with many non-enzymatic functions and a unique enzymatic activity as an endo-β-D-glucuronidase. The latter allows it to serve as a key modulator of extracellular matrix (ECM) via a well-regulated cleavage of heparan sulfate side chains of proteoglycans at cell surfaces. The cleavage and associated changes at the ECM cause release of multiple signaling molecules with important cellular and pathological functions. New and emerging data suggest that both enzymatic as well as non-enzymatic functions of HPSE are important for health and illnesses including viral infections and virally induced cancers. This review summarizes recent findings on the roles of HPSE in activation, inhibition, or bioavailability of key signaling molecules such as AKT, VEGF, MAPK-ERK, and EGFR, which are known regulators of common viral infections in immune and non-immune cell types. Altogether, our review provides a unique overview of HPSE in cell-survival signaling pathways and how they relate to viral infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raghuram Koganti
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, 1855 W. Taylor St, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA
| | - Rahul Suryawanshi
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, 1855 W. Taylor St, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA
| | - Deepak Shukla
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, 1855 W. Taylor St, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA.
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA.
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6
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Heparan Sulfate Proteoglycan Signaling in Tumor Microenvironment. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21186588. [PMID: 32916872 PMCID: PMC7554799 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21186588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Revised: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
In the last few decades, heparan sulfate (HS) proteoglycans (HSPGs) have been an intriguing subject of study for their complex structural characteristics, their finely regulated biosynthetic machinery, and the wide range of functions they perform in living organisms from development to adulthood. From these studies, key roles of HSPGs in tumor initiation and progression have emerged, so that they are currently being explored as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for cancers. The multifaceted nature of HSPG structure/activity translates in their capacity to act either as inhibitors or promoters of tumor growth and invasion depending on the tumor type. Deregulation of HSPGs resulting in malignancy may be due to either their abnormal expression levels or changes in their structure and functions as a result of the altered activity of their biosynthetic or remodeling enzymes. Indeed, in the tumor microenvironment, HSPGs undergo structural alterations, through the shedding of proteoglycan ectodomain from the cell surface or the fragmentation and/or desulfation of HS chains, affecting HSPG function with significant impact on the molecular interactions between cancer cells and their microenvironment, and tumor cell behavior. Here, we overview the structural and functional features of HSPGs and their signaling in the tumor environment which contributes to tumorigenesis and cancer progression.
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Roles of Proteoglycans and Glycosaminoglycans in Cancer Development and Progression. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21175983. [PMID: 32825245 PMCID: PMC7504257 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21175983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2020] [Revised: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) spatiotemporally controls cell fate; however, dysregulation of ECM remodeling can lead to tumorigenesis and cancer development by providing favorable conditions for tumor cells. Proteoglycans (PGs) and glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) are the major macromolecules composing ECM. They influence both cell behavior and matrix properties through direct and indirect interactions with various cytokines, growth factors, cell surface receptors, adhesion molecules, enzymes, and glycoproteins within the ECM. The classical features of PGs/GAGs play well-known roles in cancer angiogenesis, proliferation, invasion, and metastasis. Several lines of evidence suggest that PGs/GAGs critically affect broader aspects in cancer initiation and the progression process, including regulation of cell metabolism, serving as a sensor of ECM's mechanical properties, affecting immune supervision, and participating in therapeutic resistance to various forms of treatment. These functions may be implemented through the characteristics of PGs/GAGs as molecular bridges linking ECM and cells in cell-specific and context-specific manners within the tumor microenvironment (TME). In this review, we intend to present a comprehensive illustration of the ways in which PGs/GAGs participate in and regulate several aspects of tumorigenesis; we put forward a perspective regarding their effects as biomarkers or targets for diagnoses and therapeutic interventions.
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8
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Saman H, Raza SS, Uddin S, Rasul K. Inducing Angiogenesis, a Key Step in Cancer Vascularization, and Treatment Approaches. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12051172. [PMID: 32384792 PMCID: PMC7281705 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12051172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2020] [Revised: 04/10/2020] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Angiogenesis is a term that describes the formation of new blood and lymphatic vessels from a pre-existing vasculature. This allows tumour cells to acquire sustenance in the form of nutrients and oxygen and the ability to evacuate metabolic waste. As one of the hallmarks of cancer, angiogenesis has been studied extensively in animal and human models to enable better understanding of cancer biology and the development of new anti-cancer treatments. Angiogenesis plays a crucial role in the process of tumour genesis, because solid tumour need a blood supply if they are to grow beyond a few millimeters in size. On the other hand, there is growing evidence that some solid tumour exploit existing normal blood supply and do not require a new vessel formation to grow and to undergo metastasis. This review of the literature will present the current understanding of this intricate process and the latest advances in the use of angiogenesis-targeting therapies in the fight against cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harman Saman
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 4NS, UK
- Department of Medicine, Hazm Maubrairek Hospital, Ar-Rayyan PO Box 305, Qatar
- Correspondence: or ; Tel.: +97-466506781
| | - Syed Shadab Raza
- Department of Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, ERA University, Lucknow 226003, India;
| | - Shahab Uddin
- Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha 3050, Qatar;
| | - Kakil Rasul
- National Cancer Care and Research, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha 3050, Qatar;
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9
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Jászai J, Schmidt MHH. Trends and Challenges in Tumor Anti-Angiogenic Therapies. Cells 2019; 8:cells8091102. [PMID: 31540455 PMCID: PMC6770676 DOI: 10.3390/cells8091102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 137] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2019] [Revised: 09/09/2019] [Accepted: 09/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Excessive abnormal angiogenesis plays a pivotal role in tumor progression and is a hallmark of solid tumors. This process is driven by an imbalance between pro- and anti-angiogenic factors dominated by the tissue hypoxia-triggered overproduction of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). VEGF-mediated signaling has quickly become one of the most promising anti-angiogenic therapeutic targets in oncology. Nevertheless, the clinical efficacy of this approach is severely limited in certain tumor types or shows only transient efficacy in patients. Acquired or intrinsic therapy resistance associated with anti-VEGF monotherapeutic approaches indicates the necessity of a paradigm change when targeting neoangiogenesis in solid tumors. In this context, the elaboration of the conceptual framework of “vessel normalization” might be a promising approach to increase the efficacy of anti-angiogenic therapies and the survival rates of patients. Indeed, the promotion of vessel maturation instead of regressing tumors by vaso-obliteration could result in reduced tumor hypoxia and improved drug delivery. The implementation of such anti-angiogenic strategies, however, faces several pitfalls due to the potential involvement of multiple pro-angiogenic factors and modulatory effects of the innate and adaptive immune system. Thus, effective treatments bypassing relapses associated with anti-VEGF monotherapies or breaking the intrinsic therapy resistance of solid tumors might use combination therapies or agents with a multimodal mode of action. This review enumerates some of the current approaches and possible future directions of treating solid tumors by targeting neovascularization.
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Affiliation(s)
- József Jászai
- Institute of Anatomy, Medical Faculty Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden School of Medicine, 01307 Dresden, Germany.
| | - Mirko H H Schmidt
- Institute of Anatomy, Medical Faculty Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden School of Medicine, 01307 Dresden, Germany.
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany.
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 61920 Heidelberg, Germany.
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10
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Mechanisms of Anticancer Drug Resistance in Hepatoblastoma. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11030407. [PMID: 30909445 PMCID: PMC6468761 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11030407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2019] [Revised: 03/12/2019] [Accepted: 03/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The most frequent liver tumor in children is hepatoblastoma (HB), which derives from embryonic parenchymal liver cells or hepatoblasts. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), which rarely affects young people, causes one fourth of deaths due to cancer in adults. In contrast, HB usually has better prognosis, but this is still poor in 20% of cases. Although more responsive to chemotherapy than HCC, the failure of pharmacological treatment used before and/or after surgical resection is an important limitation in the management of patients with HB. To advance in the implementation of personalized medicine it is important to select the best combination among available anti-HB drugs, such as platinum derivatives, anthracyclines, etoposide, tyrosine-kinase inhibitors, Vinca alkaloids, 5-fluorouracil, monoclonal antibodies, irinotecan and nitrogen mustards. This requires predicting the sensitivity to these drugs of each tumor at each time because, it should be kept in mind, that cancer chemoresistance is a dynamic process of Darwinian nature. For this goal it is necessary to improve our understanding of the mechanisms of chemoresistance involved in the refractoriness of HB against the pharmacological challenge and how they evolve during treatment. In this review we have summarized the current knowledge on the multifactorial and complex factors responsible for the lack of response of HB to chemotherapy.
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11
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Ura B, Di Lorenzo G, Romano F, Monasta L, Mirenda G, Scrimin F, Ricci G. Interstitial Fluid in Gynecologic Tumors and Its Possible Application in the Clinical Practice. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19124018. [PMID: 30545144 PMCID: PMC6321738 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19124018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2018] [Accepted: 11/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Gynecologic cancers are an important cause of worldwide mortality. The interstitium consists of solid and fluid phases, situated between the blood vessels and cells. The interstitial fluid (IF), or fluid phase, is an extracellular fluid bathing and surrounding the tissue cells. The TIF (tumor interstitial fluid) is a dynamic fluid rich in lipids, proteins and enzyme-derived substances. The molecules found in the IF may be associated with pathological changes in tissues leading to cancer growth and metastatization. Proteomic techniques have allowed an extensive study of the composition of the TIF as a source of biomarkers for gynecologic cancers. In our review, we analyze the composition of the TIF, its formation process, the sampling methods, the consequences of its accumulation and the proteomic analyses performed, that make TIF valuable for monitoring different types of cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blendi Ura
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health-IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", 34137 Trieste, Italy.
| | - Giovanni Di Lorenzo
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health-IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", 34137 Trieste, Italy.
| | - Federico Romano
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health-IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", 34137 Trieste, Italy.
| | - Lorenzo Monasta
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health-IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", 34137 Trieste, Italy.
| | - Giuseppe Mirenda
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health-IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", 34137 Trieste, Italy.
| | - Federica Scrimin
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health-IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", 34137 Trieste, Italy.
| | - Giuseppe Ricci
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health-IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", 34137 Trieste, Italy.
- Department of Medical, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, 34137 Trieste, Italy.
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12
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Nagarajan A, Malvi P, Wajapeyee N. Heparan Sulfate and Heparan Sulfate Proteoglycans in Cancer Initiation and Progression. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2018; 9:483. [PMID: 30197623 PMCID: PMC6118229 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2018.00483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2017] [Accepted: 08/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Heparan sulfate (HS) are complex unbranched carbohydrate chains that are heavily modified by sulfate and exist either conjugated to proteins or as free, unconjugated chains. Proteins with covalently bound Heparan sulfate chains are termed Heparan Sulfate Proteoglycans (HSPGs). Both HS and HSPGs bind to various growth factors and act as co-receptors for different cell surface receptors. They also modulate the dynamics and kinetics of various ligand-receptor interactions, which in turn can influence the duration and potency of the signaling. HS and HSPGs have also been shown to exert a structural role as a component of the extracellular matrix, thereby altering processes such as cell adhesion, immune cell infiltration and angiogenesis. Previous studies have shown that HS are deregulated in a variety of solid tumors and hematological malignancies and regulate key aspects of cancer initiation and progression. HS deregulation in cancer can occur as a result of changes in the level of HSPGs or due to changes in the levels of HS biosynthesis and remodeling enzymes. Here, we describe the major cell-autonomous (proliferation, apoptosis/senescence and differentiation) and cell-non-autonomous (angiogenesis, immune evasion, and matrix remodeling) roles of HS and HSPGs in cancer. Finally, we discuss therapeutic opportunities for targeting deregulated HS biosynthesis and HSPGs as a strategy for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arvindhan Nagarajan
- Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Parmanand Malvi
- Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Narendra Wajapeyee
- Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
- Yale Cancer Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
- *Correspondence: Narendra Wajapeyee
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13
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Theocharis AD, Karamanos NK. Proteoglycans remodeling in cancer: Underlying molecular mechanisms. Matrix Biol 2017; 75-76:220-259. [PMID: 29128506 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2017.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2017] [Revised: 10/23/2017] [Accepted: 10/24/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Extracellular matrix is a highly dynamic macromolecular network. Proteoglycans are major components of extracellular matrix playing key roles in its structural organization and cell signaling contributing to the control of numerous normal and pathological processes. As multifunctional molecules, proteoglycans participate in various cell functions during morphogenesis, wound healing, inflammation and tumorigenesis. Their interactions with matrix effectors, cell surface receptors and enzymes enable them with unique properties. In malignancy, extensive remodeling of tumor stroma is associated with marked alterations in proteoglycans' expression and structural variability. Proteoglycans exert diverse functions in tumor stroma in a cell-specific and context-specific manner and they mainly contribute to the formation of a permissive provisional matrix for tumor growth affecting tissue organization, cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions and tumor cell signaling. Proteoglycans also modulate cancer cell phenotype and properties, the development of drug resistance and tumor stroma angiogenesis. This review summarizes the proteoglycans remodeling and their novel biological roles in malignancies with particular emphasis to the underlying molecular mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Achilleas D Theocharis
- Biochemistry, Biochemical Analysis & Matrix Pathobiochemistry Research Group, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Chemistry, University of Patras, 26500 Patras, Greece.
| | - Nikos K Karamanos
- Biochemistry, Biochemical Analysis & Matrix Pathobiochemistry Research Group, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Chemistry, University of Patras, 26500 Patras, Greece.
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14
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Zarrin B, Zarifi F, Vaseghi G, Javanmard SH. Acquired tumor resistance to antiangiogenic therapy: Mechanisms at a glance. JOURNAL OF RESEARCH IN MEDICAL SCIENCES 2017; 22:117. [PMID: 29184575 PMCID: PMC5680657 DOI: 10.4103/jrms.jrms_182_17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2017] [Revised: 07/03/2017] [Accepted: 08/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Angiogenesis is critical for oxygen and nutrient delivery to proliferating tumor cells. Therefore, as angiogenesis is required and vital for the tumor growth and metastasis. Antiangiogenic therapy is considered to be beneficial for tumor growth prevention due to starvation of tumor of oxygen and nutrients, but in some cases, the benefits are not permanent. Tyrosine kinase inhibitors and many other agents often target angiogenesis through inhibition of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) pathway. Although preclinical studies showed satisfactory outcomes in tumor growth inhibition, antiangiogenic therapy in the clinical setting may not be effective. The resistance observed in several tumor types through alternative angiogenic “escape” pathways contributes to restoration of tumor growth and may induce progression, enhancement of invasion, and metastasis. Therefore, activation of major compensatory angiogenic pathways, sustaining tumor angiogenesis during VEGF blockade contributing to the recurrence of tumor growth overcome antiangiogenic strategies. In this review, we summarize the novel mechanisms involved in evasive resistance to antiangiogenic therapies and represent different cancer types which have the ability to adapt to VEGF inhibition achieving resistance to antiangiogenic therapy through these adaptive mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bahare Zarrin
- Department of Physiology, Applied Physiology Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Farzane Zarifi
- Department of Pharmacology, Isfahan Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Golnaz Vaseghi
- Isfahan Cardiovascular Research Center, Cardiovascular Research Institute, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
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15
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Cao L, Weetall M, Bombard J, Qi H, Arasu T, Lennox W, Hedrick J, Sheedy J, Risher N, Brooks PC, Trifillis P, Trotta C, Moon YC, Babiak J, Almstead NG, Colacino JM, Davis TW, Peltz SW. Discovery of Novel Small Molecule Inhibitors of VEGF Expression in Tumor Cells Using a Cell-Based High Throughput Screening Platform. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0168366. [PMID: 27992500 PMCID: PMC5161367 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0168366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2016] [Accepted: 11/30/2016] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Current anti-VEGF (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A) therapies to treat various cancers indiscriminately block VEGF function in the patient resulting in the global loss of VEGF signaling which has been linked to dose-limiting toxicities as well as treatment failures due to acquired resistance. Accumulating evidence suggests that this resistance is at least partially due to increased production of compensatory tumor angiogenic factors/cytokines. VEGF protein production is differentially controlled depending on whether cells are in the normal “homeostatic” state or in a stressed state, such as hypoxia, by post-transcriptional regulation imparted by elements in the 5’ and 3’ untranslated regions (UTR) of the VEGF mRNA. Using the Gene Expression Modulation by Small molecules (GEMS™) phenotypic assay system, we performed a high throughput screen to identify low molecular weight compounds that target the VEGF mRNA UTR-mediated regulation of stress-induced VEGF production in tumor cells. We identified a number of compounds that potently and selectively reduce endogenous VEGF production under hypoxia in HeLa cells. Medicinal chemistry efforts improved the potency and pharmaceutical properties of one series of compounds resulting in the discovery of PTC-510 which inhibits hypoxia-induced VEGF expression in HeLa cells at low nanomolar concentration. In mouse xenograft studies, oral administration of PTC-510 results in marked reduction of intratumor VEGF production and single agent control of tumor growth without any evident toxicity. Here, we show that selective suppression of stress-induced VEGF production within tumor cells effectively controls tumor growth. Therefore, this approach may minimize the liabilities of current global anti-VEGF therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liangxian Cao
- PTC Therapeutics, Inc., South Plainfield, New Jersey, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Marla Weetall
- PTC Therapeutics, Inc., South Plainfield, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Jenelle Bombard
- PTC Therapeutics, Inc., South Plainfield, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Hongyan Qi
- PTC Therapeutics, Inc., South Plainfield, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Tamil Arasu
- PTC Therapeutics, Inc., South Plainfield, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - William Lennox
- PTC Therapeutics, Inc., South Plainfield, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Jean Hedrick
- PTC Therapeutics, Inc., South Plainfield, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Josephine Sheedy
- PTC Therapeutics, Inc., South Plainfield, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Nicole Risher
- PTC Therapeutics, Inc., South Plainfield, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Peter C. Brooks
- Maine Medical Center Research Institute, Center for Molecular Medicine, Scarborough, Maine, United States of America
| | - Panayiota Trifillis
- PTC Therapeutics, Inc., South Plainfield, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Christopher Trotta
- PTC Therapeutics, Inc., South Plainfield, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Young-Choon Moon
- PTC Therapeutics, Inc., South Plainfield, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - John Babiak
- PTC Therapeutics, Inc., South Plainfield, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Neil G. Almstead
- PTC Therapeutics, Inc., South Plainfield, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Joseph M. Colacino
- PTC Therapeutics, Inc., South Plainfield, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Thomas W. Davis
- PTC Therapeutics, Inc., South Plainfield, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Stuart W. Peltz
- PTC Therapeutics, Inc., South Plainfield, New Jersey, United States of America
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16
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Scheuer W, Thomas M, Hanke P, Sam J, Osl F, Weininger D, Baehner M, Seeber S, Kettenberger H, Schanzer J, Brinkmann U, Weidner KM, Regula J, Klein C. Anti-tumoral, anti-angiogenic and anti-metastatic efficacy of a tetravalent bispecific antibody (TAvi6) targeting VEGF-A and angiopoietin-2. MAbs 2016; 8:562-73. [PMID: 26864324 PMCID: PMC4966847 DOI: 10.1080/19420862.2016.1147640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-A blockade has been validated clinically as a treatment for human cancers. Angiopoietin-2 (Ang-2) is a key regulator of blood vessel remodeling and maturation. In tumors, Ang-2 is up-regulated and an unfavorable prognostic factor. Recent data demonstrated that Ang-2 inhibition mediates anti-tumoral effects. We generated a tetravalent bispecific antibody (Ang-2-VEGF-TAvi6) targeting VEGF-A with 2 arms based on bevacizumab (Avastin®), and targeting Ang-2 with 2 arms based on a novel anti-Ang-2 antibody (LC06). The two Ang-2-targeting single-chain variable fragments are disulfide-stabilized and fused to the C-terminus of the heavy chain of bevacizumab. Treatment with Ang-2-VEGF-A-TAvi6 led to a complete abrogation of angiogenesis in the cornea micropocket assay. Metastatic spread and tumor growth of subcutaneous, orthotopic and anti-VEGF-A resistant tumors were also efficiently inhibited. These data further establish Ang-2-VEGF bispecific antibodies as a promising anti-angiogenic, anti-metastatic and anti-tumor agent for the treatment of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Werner Scheuer
- a Roche Innovation Center Penzberg, Roche Pharma Research and Early Development , Nonnenwald 2, Penzberg , Germany
| | - Markus Thomas
- a Roche Innovation Center Penzberg, Roche Pharma Research and Early Development , Nonnenwald 2, Penzberg , Germany
| | - Petra Hanke
- a Roche Innovation Center Penzberg, Roche Pharma Research and Early Development , Nonnenwald 2, Penzberg , Germany
| | - Johannes Sam
- b Roche Innovation Center Zurich, Roche Pharma Research and Early Development , Wagistrasse 18, Schlieren , Switzerland
| | - Franz Osl
- a Roche Innovation Center Penzberg, Roche Pharma Research and Early Development , Nonnenwald 2, Penzberg , Germany
| | - Diana Weininger
- a Roche Innovation Center Penzberg, Roche Pharma Research and Early Development , Nonnenwald 2, Penzberg , Germany
| | - Monika Baehner
- a Roche Innovation Center Penzberg, Roche Pharma Research and Early Development , Nonnenwald 2, Penzberg , Germany
| | - Stefan Seeber
- a Roche Innovation Center Penzberg, Roche Pharma Research and Early Development , Nonnenwald 2, Penzberg , Germany
| | - Hubert Kettenberger
- a Roche Innovation Center Penzberg, Roche Pharma Research and Early Development , Nonnenwald 2, Penzberg , Germany
| | - Jürgen Schanzer
- a Roche Innovation Center Penzberg, Roche Pharma Research and Early Development , Nonnenwald 2, Penzberg , Germany
| | - Ulrich Brinkmann
- a Roche Innovation Center Penzberg, Roche Pharma Research and Early Development , Nonnenwald 2, Penzberg , Germany
| | - K Michael Weidner
- a Roche Innovation Center Penzberg, Roche Pharma Research and Early Development , Nonnenwald 2, Penzberg , Germany
| | - Jörg Regula
- a Roche Innovation Center Penzberg, Roche Pharma Research and Early Development , Nonnenwald 2, Penzberg , Germany
| | - Christian Klein
- b Roche Innovation Center Zurich, Roche Pharma Research and Early Development , Wagistrasse 18, Schlieren , Switzerland
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17
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Park-Windhol C, D'Amore PA. Disorders of Vascular Permeability. ANNUAL REVIEW OF PATHOLOGY-MECHANISMS OF DISEASE 2016; 11:251-81. [PMID: 26907525 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-pathol-012615-044506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The endothelial barrier maintains vascular and tissue homeostasis and modulates many physiological processes, such as angiogenesis. Vascular barrier integrity can be disrupted by a variety of soluble permeability factors, and changes in barrier function can exacerbate tissue damage during disease progression. Understanding endothelial barrier function is critical for vascular homeostasis. Many of the signaling pathways promoting vascular permeability can also be triggered during disease, resulting in prolonged or uncontrolled vascular leak. It is believed that recovery of the normal vasculature requires diminishing this hyperpermeable state. Although the molecular mechanisms governing vascular leak have been studied over the last few decades, recent advances have identified new therapeutic targets that have begun to show preclinical and clinical promise. These approaches have been successfully applied to an increasing number of disease conditions. New perspectives regarding how vascular leak impacts the progression of various diseases are highlighted in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cindy Park-Windhol
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, Massachusetts 02114; , .,Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115
| | - Patricia A D'Amore
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, Massachusetts 02114; , .,Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115.,Department of Pathology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115
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18
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Abstract
Angiogenesis is the process through which new blood vessels are formed from pre-existing vessels and is essential for the growth of all solid tumors. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a regulator of angiogenesis, which is crucial for tumor growth and metastasis. Its inhibition with antiangiogenic drugs is thought to improve delivery of chemotherapy through vascular normalization and disruption of tumor vasculature. Aflibercept is a recombinant fusion protein of the VEGF receptor (VEGFR)1 and VEGFR2 extracellular domains that binds to VEGF-A, VEGF-B, placental growth factor (PlGF) 1 and 2. Aflibercept has demonstrated preclinical efficacy in different tumor types and exerts its antiangiogenic effects through regression of tumor vasculature, remolding of vasculature, and inhibition of new tumor vessel growth. This review examines the effects of aflibercept on tumor vasculature and on different types of solid tumors, and explores the preclinical and clinical benefits of inclusion aflibercept into anticancer treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Ricci
- Oncology Department, San Raffaele Institute, 60, Olgettina St., 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Monica Ronzoni
- Oncology Department, San Raffaele Institute, 60, Olgettina St., 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Teresa Fabozzi
- San Raffaele Institute, 60, Olgettina St., 20132 Milan, Italy
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19
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Gardner HL, London CA, Portela RA, Nguyen S, Rosenberg MP, Klein MK, Clifford C, Thamm DH, Vail DM, Bergman P, Crawford-Jakubiak M, Henry C, Locke J, Garrett LD. Maintenance therapy with toceranib following doxorubicin-based chemotherapy for canine splenic hemangiosarcoma. BMC Vet Res 2015; 11:131. [PMID: 26062540 PMCID: PMC4464614 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-015-0446-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2014] [Accepted: 05/28/2015] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spenic hemangiosarcoma (HSA) in dogs treated with surgery alone is associated with short survival times, and the addition of doxorubicin (DOX) chemotherapy only modestly improves outcome. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of toceranib administration on progression free survival in dogs with stage I or II HSA following splenectomy and single agent DOX chemotherapy. We hypothesized that dogs with splenic HSA treated with adjuvant DOX followed by toceranib would have prolonged disease-free interval (DFI) and overall survival time (OS) when compared to historical dogs treated with DOX-based chemotherapy alone. RESULTS Dogs with stage I or II splenic HSA were administered 5 cycles of single-agent DOX every 2 weeks beginning within 14 days of splenectomy. Dogs were restaged 2 weeks after completing DOX, and those without evidence of metastatic disease began toceranib therapy at 3.25 mg/kg every other day. Forty-three dogs were enrolled in this clinical trial. Seven dogs had evidence of metastatic disease either before or at re-staging, and an additional 3 dogs were found to have metastatic disease within 1 week of toceranib administration. Therefore 31 dogs went on to receive toceranib following completion of doxorubicin treatment. Twenty-five dogs that received toceranib developed metastatic disease. The median disease free interval for all dogs enrolled in this study (n = 43) was 138 days, and the median disease free interval for those dogs that went on to receive toceranib (n = 31) was 161 days. The median survival time for all dogs enrolled in this study was 169 days, and the median survival time for those dogs that went on to receive toceranib was 172 days. CONCLUSIONS The use of toceranib following DOX chemotherapy does not improve either disease free interval or overall survival in dogs with stage I or II HSA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather L Gardner
- Departments of Veterinary Biosciences and Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, 454 VMAB, 1925 Coffey Rd, 43210, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Cheryl A London
- Departments of Veterinary Biosciences and Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, 454 VMAB, 1925 Coffey Rd, 43210, Columbus, OH, USA.
| | - Roberta A Portela
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, College of Veterinary Medicine, Champaign, IL, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Douglas H Thamm
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - David M Vail
- Department of Medical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Phil Bergman
- VCA Katonah Bedford Veterinary Center, Bedford Hill, NY, USA
| | | | - Carolyn Henry
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Jennifer Locke
- Southeast Veterinary Oncology and Medicine, Orange Park, FL, USA
| | - Laura D Garrett
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, College of Veterinary Medicine, Champaign, IL, USA
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20
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Choi IK, Shin H, Oh E, Yoo JY, Hwang JK, Shin K, Yu DC, Yun CO. Potent and long-term antiangiogenic efficacy mediated by FP3-expressing oncolytic adenovirus. Int J Cancer 2015; 137:2253-69. [PMID: 25944623 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.29592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2014] [Accepted: 04/20/2015] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Various ways to inhibit vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), a key facilitator in tumor angiogenesis, are being developed to treat cancer. The soluble VEGF decoy receptor (FP3), due to its high affinity to VEGF, is a highly effective and promising strategy to disrupt VEGF signaling pathway. Despite potential advantage and potent therapeutic efficacy, its employment has been limited by very poor in vivo pharmacokinetic properties. To address this challenge, we designed a novel oncolytic adenovirus (Ad) expressing FP3 (RdB/FP3). To demonstrate the VEGF-specific nature of RdB/FP3, replication-incompetent Ad expressing FP3 (dE1/FP3) was also generated. dE1/FP3 was highly effective in reducing VEGF expression and functionally elicited an antiangiogeneic effect. Furthermore, RdB/FP3 exhibited a potent antitumor effect compared with RdB or recombinant FP3. Consistent with these data, RdB/FP3 was shown to greatly decrease VEGF expression level and vessel density and increase apoptosis in both tumor endothelial and tumor cells, verifying potent suppressive effects of RdB/FP3 on VEGF-mediated tumor angiogenesis in vivo. Importantly, the therapeutic mechanism of antitumor effect mediated by RdB/FP3 is associated with prolonged VEGF silencing efficacy and enhanced oncolysis via cancer cell-specific replication of oncolytic Ad. Taken together, RdB/FP3 provides a new promising therapeutic approach in the treatment of cancer and angiogenesis-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Il-Kyu Choi
- Department of Bioengineering, College of Engineering, Hanyang University, 222 Wangsimni-ro, Seongdong-Gu, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyewon Shin
- Department of Bioengineering, College of Engineering, Hanyang University, 222 Wangsimni-ro, Seongdong-Gu, Seoul, Korea
| | - Eonju Oh
- Department of Bioengineering, College of Engineering, Hanyang University, 222 Wangsimni-ro, Seongdong-Gu, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ji Young Yoo
- Department of Bioengineering, College of Engineering, Hanyang University, 222 Wangsimni-ro, Seongdong-Gu, Seoul, Korea
| | - June Kyu Hwang
- Department of Bioengineering, College of Engineering, Hanyang University, 222 Wangsimni-ro, Seongdong-Gu, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kyungsub Shin
- Department of Bioengineering, College of Engineering, Hanyang University, 222 Wangsimni-ro, Seongdong-Gu, Seoul, Korea
| | - De-Chao Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Chae-Ok Yun
- Department of Bioengineering, College of Engineering, Hanyang University, 222 Wangsimni-ro, Seongdong-Gu, Seoul, Korea
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21
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Perlecan Heparan Sulfate Proteoglycan Is a Critical Determinant of Angiogenesis in Response to Mouse Hind-Limb Ischemia. Can J Cardiol 2014; 30:1444-51. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cjca.2014.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2013] [Revised: 05/30/2014] [Accepted: 06/04/2014] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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22
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Heparan sulfate signaling in cancer. Trends Biochem Sci 2014; 39:277-88. [PMID: 24755488 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibs.2014.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 142] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2014] [Revised: 03/05/2014] [Accepted: 03/07/2014] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Heparan sulfate (HS) is a biopolymer consisting of variably sulfated repeating disaccharide units. The anticoagulant heparin is a highly sulfated intracellular variant of HS. HS has demonstrated roles in embryonic development, homeostasis, and human disease via non-covalent interactions with numerous cellular proteins, including growth factors and their receptors. HS can function as a co-receptor by enhancing receptor-complex formation. In other contexts, HS disrupts signaling complexes or serves as a ligand sink. The effects of HS on growth factor signaling are tightly regulated by the actions of sulfyltransferases, sulfatases, and heparanases. HS has important emerging roles in oncogenesis, and heparin derivatives represent potential therapeutic strategies for human cancers. Here we review recent insights into HS signaling in tumor proliferation, angiogenesis, metastasis, and differentiation. A cancer-specific understanding of HS signaling could uncover potential therapeutic targets in this highly actionable signaling network.
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23
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Lord MS, Chuang CY, Melrose J, Davies MJ, Iozzo RV, Whitelock JM. The role of vascular-derived perlecan in modulating cell adhesion, proliferation and growth factor signaling. Matrix Biol 2014; 35:112-22. [PMID: 24509440 PMCID: PMC5030467 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2014.01.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2013] [Revised: 01/28/2014] [Accepted: 01/28/2014] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Smooth muscle cell proliferation can be inhibited by heparan sulfate proteoglycans whereas the removal or digestion of heparan sulfate from perlecan promotes their proliferation. In this study we characterized the glycosaminoglycan side chains of perlecan isolated from either primary human coronary artery smooth muscle or endothelial cells and determined their roles in mediating cell adhesion and proliferation, and in fibroblast growth factor (FGF) binding and signaling. Smooth muscle cell perlecan was decorated with both heparan sulfate and chondroitin sulfate, whereas endothelial perlecan contained exclusively heparan sulfate chains. Smooth muscle cells bound to the protein core of perlecan only when the glycosaminoglycans were removed, and this binding involved a novel site in domain III as well as domain V/endorepellin and the α2β1 integrin. In contrast, endothelial cells adhered to the protein core of perlecan in the presence of glycosaminoglycans. Smooth muscle cell perlecan bound both FGF1 and FGF2 via its heparan sulfate chains and promoted the signaling of FGF2 but not FGF1. Also endothelial cell perlecan bound both FGF1 and FGF2 via its heparan sulfate chains, but in contrast, promoted the signaling of both growth factors. Based on this differential bioactivity, we propose that perlecan synthesized by smooth muscle cells differs from that synthesized by endothelial cells by possessing different signaling capabilities, primarily, but not exclusively, due to a differential glycanation. The end result is a differential modulation of cell adhesion, proliferation and growth factor signaling in these two key cellular constituents of blood vessels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan S Lord
- Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia.
| | - Christine Y Chuang
- Heart Research Institute, Newtown, Sydney, NSW 2042 Australia; Faculty of Medicine, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - James Melrose
- Raymond Purves Research Laboratories, Institute of Bone and Joint Research, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, University of Sydney, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, NSW 2065, Australia
| | - Michael J Davies
- Heart Research Institute, Newtown, Sydney, NSW 2042 Australia; Faculty of Medicine, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Renato V Iozzo
- Department of Pathology, Anatomy and Cell Biology and the Cancer Cell Biology and Signaling Program, Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - John M Whitelock
- Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
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24
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Ari F, Ulukaya E, Sarimahmut M, Yilmaz VT. Palladium(II) saccharinate complexes with bis(2-pyridylmethyl)amine induce cell death by apoptosis in human breast cancer cells in vitro. Bioorg Med Chem 2013; 21:3016-21. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2013.03.073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2012] [Revised: 02/28/2013] [Accepted: 03/22/2013] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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25
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Wang W, Ma Y, Li J, Shi HS, Wang LQ, Guo FC, Zhang J, Li D, Mo BH, Wen F, Liu T, Liu YT, Wang YS, Wei YQ. Specificity redirection by CAR with human VEGFR-1 affinity endows T lymphocytes with tumor-killing ability and anti-angiogenic potency. Gene Ther 2013; 20:970-8. [PMID: 23636245 DOI: 10.1038/gt.2013.19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2012] [Revised: 03/02/2013] [Accepted: 03/25/2013] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Immunotherapy that is based on adoptive transfer of T lymphocytes, which are genetically modified to express chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) that recognize tumor-associated antigens, has been demonstrated to be an efficient cancer therapy. Vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-1 (VEGFR-1), a vital molecule involved in tumor growth and angiogenesis, has not been targeted by CAR-modified T lymphocytes. In this study, we generated CAR-modified T lymphocytes with human VEGFR-1 specificity (V-1 CAR) by electroporation. V-1 CAR-modified T lymphocytes were demonstrated to elicit lytic cytotoxicity to target cells in a VEGFR-1-dependent manner. The adoptive transfer of V-1 CAR T lymphocytes delayed tumor growth and formation and inhibited pulmonary metastasis in xenograft models and such efficacies were enhanced by cotransfer of T lymphocytes that expressed interleukin-15 (IL-15). Moreover, V-1 CAR-modified T lymphocytes lysed primary endothelial cells and impaired tube formation, in vitro. These data demonstrated the antitumor and anti-angiogenesis ability of V-1 CAR-modified T lymphocytes. Our study provides the rationale for the clinical translation of CAR-modified T lymphocytes with VEGFR-1 specificity.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Medical School, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
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26
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Willis CD, Poluzzi C, Mongiat M, Iozzo RV. Endorepellin laminin-like globular 1/2 domains bind Ig3-5 of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptor 2 and block pro-angiogenic signaling by VEGFA in endothelial cells. FEBS J 2013; 280:2271-84. [PMID: 23374253 DOI: 10.1111/febs.12164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2012] [Revised: 01/23/2013] [Accepted: 01/28/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Endorepellin, a processed fragment of perlecan protein core, possesses anti-angiogenic activity by antagonizing endothelial cells. Endorepellin contains three laminin G-like (LG) domains and binds simultaneously to vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2) and α2β1 integrin, resulting in dual receptor antagonism. Treatment of endothelial cells with endorepellin inhibits transcription of VEGFA, the natural ligand for VEGFR2, attenuating the pro-survival and migratory activities of VEGFA/VEGFR2 signaling cascade. Here, we investigated the specific binding site of endorepellin within the ectodomain of VEGFR2. Full-length endorepellin was not capable of displacing VEGFA binding from VEGFR2 and LG3 domain alone did not bind VEGFR2. This suggested different binding mechanisms of the extracellular Ig domains of VEGFR2. Therefore, we hypothesized that endorepellin would bind through its proximal LG1/2 domains to VEGFR2 in a different region than VEGFA. Indeed, we found that LG1/2 did not bind Ig1-3, but did bind with high affinity to Ig3-5, distal to the known VEGFA binding site, i.e. Ig2-3. These results support a role for endorepellin as an allosteric inhibitor of VEGFR2. Moreover, we found that LG1/2 blocked the rapid VEGFA activation of VEGFR2 at Tyr1175 in endothelial cells. In contrast, LG1/2 did not result in actin cytoskeletal disassembly in endothelial cells whereas LG3 alone did induce cytoskeletal collapse. However, LG1/2 did inhibit VEGFA-dependent endothelial migration through fibrillar collagen I. These studies provide a mechanistic understanding of how the different LG domains of endorepellin signal in endothelial cells while serving as a template for protein design of receptor tyrosine kinase antagonists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris D Willis
- Department of Pathology, Anatomy and Cell Biology, and the Cancer Cell Biology and Signaling, Program, Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
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27
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Gordon LK, Kiyohara M, Fu M, Braun J, Dhawan P, Chan A, Goodglick L, Wadehra M. EMP2 regulates angiogenesis in endometrial cancer cells through induction of VEGF. Oncogene 2013; 32:5369-76. [PMID: 23334331 PMCID: PMC3898317 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2012.622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2012] [Revised: 10/19/2012] [Accepted: 11/02/2012] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Understanding tumor-induced angiogenesis is a challenging problem with important consequences for the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. In this study, we define a novel function for epithelial membrane protein-2 (EMP2) in the control of angiogenesis. EMP2 functions as an oncogene in endometrial cancer, and its expression has been linked to decreased survival. Using endometrial cancer xenografts, modulation of EMP2 expression resulted in profound changes to the tumor microvasculature. Under hypoxic conditions, upregulation of EMP2 promoted vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGF) expression through a HIF-1α-dependent pathway and resulted in successful capillary-like tube formation. In contrast, reduction of EMP2 correlated with reduced HIF-1α and VEGF expression with the net consequence of poorly vascularized tumors in vivo. We have previously shown that targeting of EMP2 using diabodies in endometrial cancer resulted in a reduction of tumor load, and since then we have constructed a fully human EMP2 IgG1. Treatment of endometrial cancer cells with EMP2-IgG1 reduced tumor load with a significant improvement in survival. These results support the role of EMP2 in the control of the tumor microenvironment and confirm the cytotoxic effects observed by EMP2 treatment in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- L K Gordon
- Department of Ophthalmology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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28
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Martinelli E, Troiani T, Morgillo F, Orditura M, De Vita F, Belli G, Ciardiello F. Emerging VEGF-receptor inhibitors for colorectal cancer. Expert Opin Emerg Drugs 2012; 18:25-37. [PMID: 23216053 DOI: 10.1517/14728214.2013.749856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Targeted agents have dramatically improved and enriched the therapeutical choices for patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). By better understanding the role of the angiogenic pathway in colorectal cancer (CRC), new therapies have been developed. Bevacizumab, the first anti-angiogenetic agent approved for the treatment of mCRC provide a proof of concept since it has improved the progression-free survival and overall survival when combined with cytotoxic chemotherapy. AREAS COVERED This review is focused on the most recent findings on the VEGF signaling pathway and new therapeutic drugs explored in clinical trials. EXPERT OPINION Despite the advantage offered by bevacizumab, the median overall survival of mCRC patient exceeds 21 months; thus, investigational efforts are needed. Several antiangiogenic agents for the treatment of mCRC are being tested in preclinical and clinical Phase I/II trials. Unfortunately a discrete number of Phase III trials produced negative results. Recently aflibercept and regorafenib, two new antiangiogenic drugs, have been approved as the new-targeted agents for the treatment of mCRC, according to the positive findings from the VELOUR and the CORRECT studies. In order to maximize clinical impact it will be important to validate predictive biomarkers and best combination treatments to offer for mCRC patients; further research and intense investigation is still required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika Martinelli
- Oncologia Medica and Immunologia Clinica, Dipartimento Medico-Chirurgico di Internistica Clinica e Sperimentale F. Magrassi e A. Lanzara, Seconda Università degli Studi di Napoli, Via S. Pansini 5, 80131 Napoli, Italia.
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Yang L, Xu L. GPR56 in cancer progression: current status and future perspective. Future Oncol 2012; 8:431-40. [PMID: 22515446 DOI: 10.2217/fon.12.27] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell adhesion is a critical process during cancer progression and is mediated by transmembrane receptors. Recently, GPR56, a member of the adhesion family of G protein-coupled receptors, was established as a new type of adhesion receptor that binds to extracellular matrix proteins and shown to play inhibitory roles in melanoma progression. Further studies revealed that the extracellular portion and the seven transmembrane domains of GPR56 function antagonistically to regulate VEGF production and angiogenesis via a signaling pathway mediated by PKCα. Tissue transglutaminase was identified as the first extracellular matrix protein that binds to GPR56. It is a crosslinking enzyme in the extracellular matrix but is also expressed in the cytosol. Tissue transglutaminase plays pleiotropic roles in cancer progression. Whether and how it might mediate GPR56-regulated cancer progression awaits further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liquan Yang
- Department of Biomedical Genetics, Department of Dermatology, James P Wilmot Cancer Center, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
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Glade Bender J, Blaney SM, Borinstein S, Reid JM, Baruchel S, Ahern C, Ingle AM, Yamashiro DJ, Chen A, Weigel B, Adamson PC, Park JR. A phase I trial and pharmacokinetic study of aflibercept (VEGF Trap) in children with refractory solid tumors: a children's oncology group phase I consortium report. Clin Cancer Res 2012; 18:5081-9. [PMID: 22791883 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-12-0078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Aflibercept is a novel decoy receptor that efficiently neutralizes circulating VEGF. A pediatric phase I trial was conducted to define the dose-limiting toxicities (DLT), maximum tolerated dose (MTD), and pharmacokinetics (PK) of aflibercept. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN Cohorts of three to six children with refractory solid tumors received aflibercept intravenously over 60 minutes every 14 days, at 2.0, 2.5, or 3.0 mg/kg/dose. PK sampling and analysis of peripheral blood biomarkers were conducted with the initial dose. RESULTS Twenty-one eligible patients were enrolled; 18 were fully evaluable for toxicity. One of six patients receiving 2.0 mg/kg/dose developed dose-limiting intratumoral hemorrhage and two of six receiving 3.0 mg/kg/dose developed either dose-limiting tumor pain or tissue necrosis. None of the six patients receiving 2.5 mg/kg/dose developed DLTs, defining this as the MTD. The most common non-DLTs were hypertension and fatigue. Three patients with hepatocellular carcinoma, hepatoblastoma and clear cell sarcoma had stable disease for >13 weeks. At the MTD, the ratio of free-to-bound aflibercept serum concentration was 2.10 on day 8 but only 0.44 by day 15. A rapid decrease in VEGF (P < 0.05) and increase in placental growth factor (PlGF; P < 0.05) from baseline was observed in response to aflibercept by day 2. CONCLUSIONS The aflibercept MTD in children of 2.5 mg/kg/dose every 14 days is lower than the adult recommended dose of 4.0 mg/kg. This dose achieves, but does not sustain, free aflibercept concentrations in excess of bound. Tumor pain and hemorrhage may be evidence of antitumor activity but were dose-limiting.
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Hoff BA, Bhojani MS, Rudge J, Chenevert TL, Meyer CR, Galbán S, Johnson TD, Leopold JS, Rehemtulla A, Ross BD, Galbán CJ. DCE and DW-MRI monitoring of vascular disruption following VEGF-Trap treatment of a rat glioma model. NMR IN BIOMEDICINE 2012; 25:935-42. [PMID: 22190279 PMCID: PMC4307830 DOI: 10.1002/nbm.1814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2011] [Revised: 10/21/2011] [Accepted: 10/27/2011] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Vascular-targeted therapies have shown promise as adjuvant cancer treatment. As these agents undergo clinical evaluation, sensitive imaging biomarkers are needed to assess drug target interaction and treatment response. In this study, dynamic contrast enhanced MRI (DCE-MRI) and diffusion-weighted MRI (DW-MRI) were evaluated for detecting response of intracerebral 9 L gliosarcomas to the antivascular agent VEGF-Trap, a fusion protein designed to bind all forms of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor-A (VEGF-A) and Placental Growth Factor (PGF). Rats with 9 L tumors were treated twice weekly for two weeks with vehicle or VEGF-Trap. DCE- and DW-MRI were performed one day prior to treatment initiation and one day following each administered dose. Kinetic parameters (K(trans), volume transfer constant; k(ep), efflux rate constant from extravascular/extracellular space to plasma; and v(p), blood plasma volume fraction) and the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) over the tumor volumes were compared between groups. A significant decrease in kinetic parameters was observed 24 hours following the first dose of VEGF-Trap in treated versus control animals (p < 0.05) and was accompanied by a decline in ADC values. In addition to the significant hemodynamic effect, VEGF-Trap treated animals exhibited significantly longer tumor doubling times (p < 0.05) compared to the controls. Histological findings were found to support imaging response metrics. In conclusion, kinetic MRI parameters and change in ADC have been found to serve as sensitive and early biomarkers of VEGF-Trap anti-vascular targeted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin A. Hoff
- Department of Radiology, Center for Molecular Imaging, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
| | - Mahaveer S. Bhojani
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Center for Molecular Imaging, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
| | - John Rudge
- Department of Regeneron Corporation, 777 Old Saw Mill Road, Tarrytown, NY 10591
| | - Thomas L. Chenevert
- Department of Radiology, Center for Molecular Imaging, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
| | - Charles R. Meyer
- Department of Radiology, Center for Molecular Imaging, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
| | - Stefanie Galbán
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Center for Molecular Imaging, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
| | - Timothy D. Johnson
- Department of Biostatistics University of Michigan, Center for Molecular Imaging, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
| | - Judith Sebolt Leopold
- Department of Radiology, Center for Molecular Imaging, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
| | - Alnawaz Rehemtulla
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Center for Molecular Imaging, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
| | - Brian D. Ross
- Department of Radiology, Center for Molecular Imaging, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Center for Molecular Imaging, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
| | - Craig J. Galbán
- Department of Radiology, Center for Molecular Imaging, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
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Abstract
Judah Folkman recognized that new blood vessel formation is important for tumor growth and proposed antiangiogenesis as a novel approach to cancer therapy. Discovery of vascular permeability factor VEGF-A as the primary tumor angiogenesis factor prompted the development of a number of drugs that targeted it or its receptors. These agents have often been successful in halting tumor angiogenesis and in regressing rapidly growing mouse tumors. However, results in human cancer have been less impressive. A number of reasons have been offered for the lack of greater success, and, here, we call attention to the heterogeneity of the tumor vasculature as an important issue. Human and mouse tumors are supplied by at least 6 well-defined blood vessel types that arise by both angiogenesis and arterio-venogenesis. All 6 types can be generated in mouse tissues by an adenoviral vector expressing VEGF-A(164). Once formed, 4 of the 6 types lose their VEGF-A dependency, and so their responsiveness to anti-VEGF/VEGF receptor therapy. If therapies directed against the vasculature are to have a greater impact on human cancer, targets other than VEGF and its receptors will need to be identified on these resistant tumor vessels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Basel Sitohy
- The Center for Vascular Biology Research, Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02215, USA
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Troiani T, Martinelli E, Orditura M, De Vita F, Ciardiello F, Morgillo F. Beyond bevacizumab: new anti-VEGF strategies in colorectal cancer. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2012; 21:949-59. [DOI: 10.1517/13543784.2012.689287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Troiani
- Oncologia Medica, Dipartimento Medico-Chirurgico di Internistica Clinica e Sperimentale F. Magrassi e A. Lanzara, Seconda Università degli Studi di Napoli,
Via S. Pansini 5, 80131 Napoli, Italia
| | - Erika Martinelli
- Oncologia Medica, Dipartimento Medico-Chirurgico di Internistica Clinica e Sperimentale F. Magrassi e A. Lanzara, Seconda Università degli Studi di Napoli,
Via S. Pansini 5, 80131 Napoli, Italia
| | - Michele Orditura
- Oncologia Medica, Dipartimento Medico-Chirurgico di Internistica Clinica e Sperimentale F. Magrassi e A. Lanzara, Seconda Università degli Studi di Napoli,
Via S. Pansini 5, 80131 Napoli, Italia
| | - Ferdinando De Vita
- Oncologia Medica, Dipartimento Medico-Chirurgico di Internistica Clinica e Sperimentale F. Magrassi e A. Lanzara, Seconda Università degli Studi di Napoli,
Via S. Pansini 5, 80131 Napoli, Italia
| | - Fortunato Ciardiello
- Oncologia Medica, Dipartimento Medico-Chirurgico di Internistica Clinica e Sperimentale F. Magrassi e A. Lanzara, Seconda Università degli Studi di Napoli,
Via S. Pansini 5, 80131 Napoli, Italia
| | - Floriana Morgillo
- Oncologia Medica, Dipartimento Medico-Chirurgico di Internistica Clinica e Sperimentale F. Magrassi e A. Lanzara, Seconda Università degli Studi di Napoli,
Via S. Pansini 5, 80131 Napoli, Italia
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Bhalla V, Gupta A, Kumar M. Nanoaggregates of a pentacenequinone derivative as reactors for the preparation of palladium nanoparticles. Chem Commun (Camb) 2012; 48:11862-4. [DOI: 10.1039/c2cc36667c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Sitohy B, Nagy JA, Jaminet SCS, Dvorak HF. Tumor-surrogate blood vessel subtypes exhibit differential susceptibility to anti-VEGF therapy. Cancer Res 2011; 71:7021-8. [PMID: 21937680 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-11-1693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Antivascular therapy directed against VEGF or its receptors (VEGFR) has been successful when administered at early stages of tumor vessel growth but is less effective when administered later. Tumor blood vessels are heterogeneous, so vessel subpopulations may differ in their requirements for tumor cell-secreted VEGF and in their susceptibility to anti-VEGF/VEGFR therapy. Human cancers contain several distinct blood vessel types, including mother vessels (MV), glomeruloid microvascular proliferations (GMP), vascular malformations (VM), feeding arteries (FA), and draining veins (DV), all of which can be generated in mice in the absence of tumor cells using expression vectors for VEGF-A(164). In this study, we investigated the sensitivity of each of these vessel types to anti-VEGF therapy with Aflibercept (VEGF Trap), a potent inhibitor of VEGF-A(164). Administering VEGF Trap treatment before or shortly after injection of a recombinant VEGF-A(164)-expressing adenovirus could prevent or regress tumor-free neovasculature, but it was progressively less effective if initiated at later times. Early-forming MVs and GMPs in which the lining endothelial cells expressed high levels of VEGFR-2 were highly susceptible to blockade by VEGF Trap. In contrast, late-forming VMs, FAs, and DVs that expressed low levels of VEGFR-2 were largely resistant. Together, our findings define the susceptibility of different blood vessel subtypes to anti-VEGF therapy, offering a possible explanation for the limited effectiveness of anti-VEGF-A/VEGFR treatment of human cancers, which are typically present for months to years before discovery and are largely populated by late-forming blood vessels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Basel Sitohy
- The Center for Vascular Biology Research and Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02215, USA
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Goyal A, Pal N, Concannon M, Paul M, Doran M, Poluzzi C, Sekiguchi K, Whitelock JM, Neill T, Iozzo RV. Endorepellin, the angiostatic module of perlecan, interacts with both the α2β1 integrin and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2): a dual receptor antagonism. J Biol Chem 2011; 286:25947-62. [PMID: 21596751 PMCID: PMC3138248 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m111.243626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2011] [Revised: 05/04/2011] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Endorepellin, the C-terminal module of perlecan, negatively regulates angiogenesis counter to its proangiogenic parental molecule. Endorepellin (the C-terminal domain V of perlecan) binds the α2β1 integrin on endothelial cells and triggers a signaling cascade that leads to disruption of the actin cytoskeleton. Here, we show that both perlecan and endorepellin bind directly and with high affinity to both VEGF receptors 1 and 2, in a region that differs from VEGFA-binding site. In both human and porcine endothelial cells, this interaction evokes a physical down-regulation of both the α2β1 integrin and VEGFR2, with concurrent activation of the tyrosine phosphatase SHP-1 and downstream attenuation of VEGFA transcription. We demonstrate that endorepellin requires both the α2β1 integrin and VEGFR2 for its angiostatic activity. Endothelial cells that express α2β1 integrin but lack VEGFR2, do not respond to endorepellin treatment. Thus, we provide a new paradigm for the activity of an antiangiogenic protein and mechanistically explain the specificity of endorepellin for endothelial cells, the only cells that simultaneously express both receptors. We hypothesize that a mechanism such as dual receptor antagonism could operate for other angiostatic fragments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atul Goyal
- From the Department of Pathology, Anatomy, and Cell Biology, and the Cancer Cell Biology and Signaling Program, Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19107
| | - Nutan Pal
- From the Department of Pathology, Anatomy, and Cell Biology, and the Cancer Cell Biology and Signaling Program, Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19107
| | - Matthew Concannon
- From the Department of Pathology, Anatomy, and Cell Biology, and the Cancer Cell Biology and Signaling Program, Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19107
| | - Matthew Paul
- From the Department of Pathology, Anatomy, and Cell Biology, and the Cancer Cell Biology and Signaling Program, Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19107
| | - Mike Doran
- From the Department of Pathology, Anatomy, and Cell Biology, and the Cancer Cell Biology and Signaling Program, Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19107
| | - Chiara Poluzzi
- From the Department of Pathology, Anatomy, and Cell Biology, and the Cancer Cell Biology and Signaling Program, Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19107
| | - Kiyotoshi Sekiguchi
- the Laboratory of Extracellular Matrix Biochemistry, Institute for Protein Research, Osaka University, Osaka 565-0871, Japan, and
| | - John M. Whitelock
- the Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, University of New South Wales, Sydney 2052, Australia
| | - Thomas Neill
- From the Department of Pathology, Anatomy, and Cell Biology, and the Cancer Cell Biology and Signaling Program, Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19107
| | - Renato V. Iozzo
- From the Department of Pathology, Anatomy, and Cell Biology, and the Cancer Cell Biology and Signaling Program, Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19107
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Chu E. An update on the current and emerging targeted agents in metastatic colorectal cancer. Clin Colorectal Cancer 2011; 11:1-13. [PMID: 21752724 DOI: 10.1016/j.clcc.2011.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2011] [Revised: 04/30/2011] [Accepted: 05/06/2011] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Over the past 8 to 10 years, significant advances have been made in the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). In particular, the development of the targeted biologic agents bevacizumab, cetuximab, and panitumumab, and their integration with cytotoxic chemotherapy regimens has led to improvements in clinical efficacy. Despite these gains, the overall impact of current targeted agents in the treatment of mCRC has been relatively modest, and while 2-year survival has improved, no gains have been made, as of yet, in 5-year survival. Intense efforts continue to be focused on developing novel targeted agents with a different spectrum of activity. Presently, five novel targeted molecules are in phase III trials, including the antiangiogenesis agents aflibercept and ramucirumab, two novel receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors, regorafenib and brivanib, and the Akt inhibitor perifosine. There are an additional 52 phase II trials investigating a wide range of other candidate molecules. The potential list of approved targeted agents in mCRC seems likely to increase over the next 5 to 10 years. To maximize their potential clinical impact, however, it will be critically important to introduce efficient molecular diagnostic methodologies into the drug development process for the identification and validation of predictive biomarkers for chemosensitivity. This article reviews the development of targeted agents for the treatment of mCRC, including the three molecules currently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), as well as the main non-FDA-approved therapeutics currently undergoing phase II and III clinical testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward Chu
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine and University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, PA, USA.
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Yang L, Chen G, Mohanty S, Scott G, Fazal F, Rahman A, Begum S, Hynes RO, Xu L. GPR56 Regulates VEGF production and angiogenesis during melanoma progression. Cancer Res 2011; 71:5558-68. [PMID: 21724588 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-10-4543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Angiogenesis is a critical step during cancer progression. The VEGF is a major stimulator for angiogenesis and is predominantly contributed by cancer cells in tumors. Inhibition of the VEGF signaling pathway has shown promising therapeutic benefits for cancer patients, but adaptive tumor responses are often observed, indicating the need for further understanding of VEGF regulation. We report that a novel G protein-coupled receptor, GPR56, inhibits VEGF production from the melanoma cell lines and impedes melanoma angiogenesis and growth, through the serine threonine proline-rich segment in its N-terminus and a signaling pathway involving protein kinase Cα. We also present evidence that the two fragments of GPR56, which are generated by autocatalyzed cleavage, played distinct roles in regulating VEGF production and melanoma progression. Finally, consistent with its suppressive roles in melanoma progression, the expression levels of GPR56 are inversely correlated with the malignancy of melanomas in human subjects. We propose that components of the GPR56-mediated signaling pathway may serve as new targets for antiangiogenic treatment of melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liquan Yang
- Departments of Biomedical Genetics, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York 14612, USA
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Vempati P, Popel AS, Mac Gabhann F. Formation of VEGF isoform-specific spatial distributions governing angiogenesis: computational analysis. BMC SYSTEMS BIOLOGY 2011; 5:59. [PMID: 21535871 PMCID: PMC3113235 DOI: 10.1186/1752-0509-5-59] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2010] [Accepted: 05/02/2011] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The spatial distribution of vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF) is an important mediator of vascular patterning. Previous experimental studies in the mouse hindbrain and retina have suggested that VEGF alternative splicing, which controls the ability of VEGF to bind to heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs) in the extracellular matrix (ECM), plays a key role in controlling VEGF diffusion and gradients in tissues. Conversely, proteolysis notably by matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), plays a critical role in pathological situations by releasing matrix-sequestered VEGF and modulating angiogenesis. However, computational models have predicted that HSPG binding alone does not affect VEGF localization or gradients at steady state. RESULTS Using a 3D molecular-detailed reaction-diffusion model of VEGF ligand-receptor kinetics and transport, we test alternate models of VEGF transport in the extracellular environment surrounding an endothelial sprout. We show that differences in localization between VEGF isoforms, as observed experimentally in the mouse hindbrain, as well as the ability of proteases to redistribute VEGF in pathological situations, are consistent with a model where VEGF is endogenously cleared or degraded in an isoform-specific manner. We use our predictions of the VEGF distribution to quantify a tip cell's receptor binding and gradient sensing capacity. A novel prediction is that neuropilin-1, despite functioning as a coreceptor to VEGF₁₆₅-VEGFR2 binding, reduces the ability of a cell to gauge the relative steepness of the VEGF distribution. Comparing our model to available in vivo vascular patterning data suggests that vascular phenotypes are most consistently predicted at short range by the soluble fraction of the VEGF distributions, or at longer range by matrix-bound VEGF detected in a filopodia-dependent manner. CONCLUSIONS Isoform-specific VEGF degradation provides a possible explanation for numerous examples of isoform specificity in VEGF patterning and examples of proteases relocation of VEGF upon release.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prakash Vempati
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, USA
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Iozzo RV, Sanderson RD. Proteoglycans in cancer biology, tumour microenvironment and angiogenesis. J Cell Mol Med 2011; 15:1013-31. [PMID: 21155971 PMCID: PMC3633488 DOI: 10.1111/j.1582-4934.2010.01236.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 420] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2010] [Accepted: 12/08/2010] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Proteoglycans, key molecular effectors of cell surface and pericellular microenvironments, perform multiple functions in cancer and angiogenesis by virtue of their polyhedric nature and their ability to interact with both ligands and receptors that regulate neoplastic growth and neovascularization. Some proteoglycans such as perlecan, have pro- and anti-angiogenic activities, whereas other proteoglycans, such as syndecans and glypicans, can also directly affect cancer growth by modulating key signalling pathways. The bioactivity of these proteoglycans is further modulated by several classes of enzymes within the tumour microenvironment: (i) sheddases that cleave transmembrane or cell-associated syndecans and glypicans, (ii) various proteinases that cleave the protein core of pericellular proteoglycans and (iii) heparanases and endosulfatases which modify the structure and bioactivity of various heparan sulphate proteoglycans and their bound growth factors. In contrast, some of the small leucine-rich proteoglycans, such as decorin and lumican, act as tumour repressors by physically antagonizing receptor tyrosine kinases including the epidermal growth factor and the Met receptors or integrin receptors thereby evoking anti-survival and pro-apoptotic pathways. In this review we will critically assess the expanding repertoire of molecular interactions attributed to various proteoglycans and will discuss novel proteoglycan functions modulating cancer progression, invasion and metastasis and how these factors regulate the tumour microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renato V Iozzo
- Department of Pathology, Anatomy and Cell Biology, and the Cancer Cell Biology and Signaling Program, Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson UniversityPhiladelphia, PA, USA
| | - Ralph D Sanderson
- Department of Pathology, and the Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Alabama at BirminghamBirmingham, AL, USA
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Meirovitz A, Hermano E, Lerner I, Zcharia E, Pisano C, Peretz T, Elkin M. Role of heparanase in radiation-enhanced invasiveness of pancreatic carcinoma. Cancer Res 2011; 71:2772-80. [PMID: 21447736 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-10-3402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is characterized by very low survival rates because of high intrinsic resistance to conventional therapies. Ionizing radiation (IR)-enhanced tumor invasiveness is emerging as one mechanism responsible for the limited benefit of radiotherapy in pancreatic cancer. In this study, we establish the role of heparanase-the only known mammalian endoglycosidase that cleaves heparan sulfate-in modulating the response of pancreatic cancer to radiotherapy. We found that clinically relevant doses of IR augment the invasive capability of pancreatic carcinoma cells in vitro and in vivo by upregulating heparanase. Changes in the levels of the transcription factor Egr-1 occurred in pancreatic cancer cells following radiation, underlying the stimulatory effect of IR on heparanase expression. Importantly, the specific heparanase inhibitor SST0001 abolished IR-enhanced invasiveness of pancreatic carcinoma cells in vitro, whereas combined treatment with SST0001 and IR, but not IR alone, attenuated the spread of orthotopic pancreatic tumors in vivo. Taken together, our results suggest that combining radiotherapy with heparanase inhibition is an effective strategy to prevent tumor resistance and dissemination, observed in many IR-treated pancreatic cancer patients. Further, the molecular mechanism underlying heparanase upregulation in pancreatic cancer that we identified in response to IR may help identify patients in which radiotherapeutic intervention may confer increased risk of metastatic spread, where antiheparanase therapy may be particularly beneficial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amichay Meirovitz
- Sharett Institute, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
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Lal D, Park JA, Demock K, Marinaro J, Perez AM, Lin MH, Tian L, Mashtare TJ, Murphy M, Prey J, Wetzler M, Fetterly GJ, Wang ES. Aflibercept Exerts Antivascular Effects and Enhances Levels of Anthracycline Chemotherapy In vivo in Human Acute Myeloid Leukemia Models. Mol Cancer Ther 2010; 9:2737-51. [DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-10-0334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Aflibercept (VEGF Trap): one more double-edged sword of anti-VEGF therapy for cancer? Clin Transl Oncol 2010; 12:526-32. [DOI: 10.1007/s12094-010-0550-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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Teng LS, Jin KT, He KF, Zhang J, Wang HH, Cao J. Clinical applications of VEGF-trap (aflibercept) in cancer treatment. J Chin Med Assoc 2010; 73:449-56. [PMID: 20875616 DOI: 10.1016/s1726-4901(10)70097-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2010] [Accepted: 05/28/2010] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Angiogenesis is one of the key acquired characteristics or "hallmarks" essential for the growth and development of all solid tumor types. The antiangiogenic agent vascular endothelial growth factor-Trap (VEGF-Trap) (aflibercept), which is a composite decoy receptor based on VEGF receptor-1 and VEGF receptor-2 fused to an Fc segment of immunoglobulin G1 that binds specifically to VEGF, has demonstrated preclinical efficacy in a range of different tumor types. VEGF-Trap exerts its antiangiogenic effects through regression of tumor vasculature, remolding or normalization of surviving vasculature, and inhibition of new tumor vessel growth. Preclinical and clinical studies have reported that VEGF-Trap can be combined effectively with both chemotherapy and radiotherapy. This review examines the main effects of VEGF-Trap on tumor vasculature and on different types of solid tumors, and explores the preclinical and clinical benefits of incorporating VEGF-Trap into anticancer treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Song Teng
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 79 Qingchun Road, Hangzhou, China.
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Theocharis AD, Skandalis SS, Tzanakakis GN, Karamanos NK. Proteoglycans in health and disease: novel roles for proteoglycans in malignancy and their pharmacological targeting. FEBS J 2010; 277:3904-23. [PMID: 20840587 DOI: 10.1111/j.1742-4658.2010.07800.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 310] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
The expression of proteoglycans (PGs), essential macromolecules of the tumor microenvironment, is markedly altered during malignant transformation and tumor progression. Synthesis of stromal PGs is affected by factors secreted by cancer cells and the unique tumor-modified extracellular matrix may either facilitate or counteract the growth of solid tumors. The emerging theme is that this dual activity has intrinsic tissue specificity. Matrix-accumulated PGs, such as versican, perlecan and small leucine-rich PGs, affect cancer cell signaling, growth and survival, cell adhesion, migration and angiogenesis. Furthermore, expression of cell-surface-associated PGs, such as syndecans and glypicans, is also modulated in both tumor and stromal cells. Cell-surface-associated PGs bind various factors that are involved in cell signaling, thereby affecting cell proliferation, adhesion and motility. An important mechanism of action is offered by a proteolytic processing of cell-surface PGs known as ectodomain shedding of syndecans; this facilitates cancer and endothelial cell motility, protects matrix proteases and provides a chemotactic gradient of mitogens. However, syndecans on stromal cells may be important for stromal cell/cancer cell interplay and may promote stromal cell proliferation, migration and angiogenesis. Finally, abnormal PG expression in cancer and stromal cells may serve as a biomarker for tumor progression and patient survival. Enhanced understanding of the regulation of PG metabolism and the involvement of PGs in cancer may offer a novel approach to cancer therapy by targeting the tumor microenvironment. In this minireview, the implication of PGs in cancer development and progression, as well as their pharmacological targeting in malignancy, are presented and discussed.
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Interstitial fluid: the overlooked component of the tumor microenvironment? FIBROGENESIS & TISSUE REPAIR 2010; 3:12. [PMID: 20653943 PMCID: PMC2920231 DOI: 10.1186/1755-1536-3-12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2010] [Accepted: 07/23/2010] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Background The interstitium, situated between the blood and lymph vessels and the cells, consists of a solid or matrix phase and a fluid phase, together constituting the tissue microenvironment. Here we focus on the interstitial fluid phase of tumors, i.e., the fluid bathing the tumor and stromal cells. Novel knowledge on this compartment may provide important insight into how tumors develop and how they respond to therapy. Results We discuss available techniques for interstitial fluid isolation and implications of recent findings with respect to transcapillary fluid balance and uptake of macromolecular therapeutic agents. By the development of new methods it is emerging that local gradients exist in signaling substances from neoplastic tissue to plasma. Such gradients may provide new insight into the biology of tumors and mechanistic aspects linked to therapy. The emergence of sensitive proteomic technologies has made the interstitial fluid compartment in general and that of tumors in particular a highly valuable source for tissue-specific proteins that may serve as biomarker candidates. Potential biomarkers will appear locally at high concentrations in the tissue of interest and will eventually appear in the plasma, where they are diluted. Conclusions Access to fluid that reliably reflects the local microenvironment enables us to identify substances that can be used in early detection and monitoring of disease.
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Bagri A, Berry L, Gunter B, Singh M, Kasman I, Damico LA, Xiang H, Schmidt M, Fuh G, Hollister B, Rosen O, Plowman GD. Effects of anti-VEGF treatment duration on tumor growth, tumor regrowth, and treatment efficacy. Clin Cancer Res 2010; 16:3887-900. [PMID: 20554752 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-09-3100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Inhibition of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) axis is the basis of all currently approved antiangiogenic therapies. In preclinical models, anti-VEGF blocking antibodies have shown broad efficacy that is dependent on both tumor context and treatment duration. We aimed to characterize this activity and to evaluate the effects of discontinuation of treatment on the dynamics of tumor regrowth. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN We evaluated the effects of anti-VEGF treatment on tumor growth and survival in 30 xenograft models and in genetic mouse models of cancer. Histologic analysis was used to evaluate the effects of treatment on tumor vasculature. We used a variety of treatment regimens to allow analysis of the effects of treatment duration and cessation on growth rate, survival, and vascular density. RESULTS Preclinical tumor models were characterized for their varied dependence on VEGF, thereby defining models for testing other agents that may complement or augment anti-VEGF therapy. We also found that longer exposure to anti-VEGF monoclonal antibodies delayed tumor growth and extended survival in established tumors from both cell transplants and genetic tumor models and prevented regrowth of a subset of residual tumors following cytoablative therapy. Discontinuation of anti-VEGF in established tumors resulted in regrowth at a rate slower than that in control-treated animals, with no evidence of accelerated tumor growth or rebound. However, more rapid regrowth was observed following discontinuation of certain chemotherapies. Concurrent administration of anti-VEGF seemed to normalize these accelerated growth rates. CONCLUSIONS In diverse preclinical models, continuous VEGF suppression provides maximal benefit as a single agent, combined with chemotherapy, or as maintenance therapy once chemotherapy has been stopped.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anil Bagri
- Department of Tumor Biology and Angiogenesis, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA.
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Fuster MM, Wang L. Endothelial heparan sulfate in angiogenesis. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2010; 93:179-212. [PMID: 20807646 DOI: 10.1016/s1877-1173(10)93009-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Heparan sulfate (HS) is a linear polysaccharide composed of 50-200 glucosamine and uronic acid (glucuronic acid or iduronic acid) disaccharide repeats with epimerization and various sulfation modifications. HS is covalently attached to core proteins to form HS-proteoglycans. Most of the functions of HS-proteoglycans are mediated by their HS moieties. The biosynthesis of HS is initiated by chain polymerization and is followed by stepwise modification reactions, including sulfation and epimerization. These modifications generate ligand-binding sites that modulate cell functions and activities of proteinases and/or proteinase inhibitors. HS is abundantly expressed in developing and mature vasculature, and understanding its roles in vascular biology and related human diseases is an area of intense investigation. In this chapter, we summarize the significant recent advances in our understanding of the roles of HS in developmental and pathological angiogenesis with a major focus on studies using transgenic as well as gene knockout/knockdown models in mice and zebrafish. These studies have revealed that HS critically regulates angiogenesis by playing a proangiogenic role, and this regulatory function critically depends on HS fine structure. The latter is responsible for facilitating cell-surface binding of various proangiogenic growth factors that in turn mediate endothelial growth signaling. In cancer, mouse studies have revealed important roles for endothelial cell-surface HS as well as matrix-associated HS, wherein signaling by multiple growth factors as well as matrix storage of growth factors may be regulated by HS. We also discuss important mediators that may fine-tune such regulation, such as heparanase and sulfatases; and models wherein targeting HS (or core protein) biosynthesis may affect tumor growth and vascularization. Finally, the importance of targeting HS in other human diseases wherein angiogenesis may play pathophysiologic (or even therapeutic) roles is considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark M Fuster
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
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Bui C, Ouzzine M, Talhaoui I, Sharp S, Prydz K, Coughtrie MWH, Fournel-Gigleux S. Epigenetics: methylation-associated repression of heparan sulfate 3-O-sulfotransferase gene expression contributes to the invasive phenotype of H-EMC-SS chondrosarcoma cells. FASEB J 2009; 24:436-50. [PMID: 19812376 DOI: 10.1096/fj.09-136291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs), strategically located at the cell-tissue-organ interface, regulate major biological processes, including cell proliferation, migration, and adhesion. These vital functions are compromised in tumors, due, in part, to alterations in heparan sulfate (HS) expression and structure. How these modifications occur is largely unknown. Here, we investigated whether epigenetic abnormalities involving aberrant DNA methylation affect HS biosynthetic enzymes in cancer cells. Analysis of the methylation status of glycosyltransferase and sulfotransferase genes in H-HEMC-SS chondrosarcoma cells showed a typical hypermethylation profile of 3-OST sulfotransferase genes. Exposure of chondrosarcoma cells to 5-aza-2'-deoxycytidine (5-Aza-dc), a DNA-methyltransferase inhibitor, up-regulated expression of 3-OST1, 3-OST2, and 3-OST3A mRNAs, indicating that aberrant methylation affects transcription of these genes. Furthermore, HS expression was restored on 5-Aza-dc treatment or reintroduction of 3-OST expression, as shown by indirect immunofluorescence microscopy and/or analysis of HS chains by anion-exchange and gel-filtration chromatography. Notably, 5-Aza-dc treatment of HEMC cells or expression of 3-OST3A cDNA reduced their proliferative and invading properties and augmented adhesion of chondrosarcoma cells. These results provide the first evidence for specific epigenetic regulation of 3-OST genes resulting in altered HSPG sulfation and point to a defect of HS-3-O-sulfation as a factor in cancer progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Bui
- UMR CNRS 7561-University Henri Poincaré Nancy 1, Faculty of Medicine, BP 184, 54505 Vandoeuvre-lès-Nancy, France
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Iozzo RV, Zoeller JJ, Nyström A. Basement membrane proteoglycans: modulators Par Excellence of cancer growth and angiogenesis. Mol Cells 2009; 27:503-13. [PMID: 19466598 PMCID: PMC6712562 DOI: 10.1007/s10059-009-0069-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 171] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2009] [Accepted: 04/25/2009] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Proteoglycans located in basement membranes, the nanostructures underling epithelial and endothelial layers, are unique in several respects. They are usually large, elongated molecules with a collage of domains that share structural and functional homology with numerous extracellular matrix proteins, growth factors and surface receptors. They mainly carry heparan sulfate side chains and these contribute not only to storing and preserving the biological activity of various heparan sulfate-binding cytokines and growth factors, but also in presenting them in a more "active configuration" to their cognate receptors. Abnormal expression or deregulated function of these proteoglycans affect cancer and angiogenesis, and are critical for the evolution of the tumor microenvironment. This review will focus on the functional roles of the major heparan sulfate proteoglycans from basement membrane zones: perlecan, agrin and collagen XVIII, and on their roles in modulating cancer growth and angiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renato V Iozzo
- Department of Pathology, Anatomy and Cell Biology, and the Cancer Cell Biology and Signaling Program, Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19107, USA.
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