1
|
Choi SH, Kim DY. Regulation of Tumor Microenvironment through YAP/TAZ under Tumor Hypoxia. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:3030. [PMID: 39272887 PMCID: PMC11394240 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16173030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2024] [Revised: 08/22/2024] [Accepted: 08/28/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024] Open
Abstract
In solid tumors such as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), hypoxia is one of the important mechanisms of cancer development that closely influences cancer development, survival, and metastasis. The development of treatments for cancer was temporarily revolutionized by immunotherapy but continues to be constrained by limited response rates and the resistance and high costs required for the development of new and innovative strategies. In particular, solid tumors, including HCC, a multi-vascular tumor type, are sensitive to hypoxia and generate many blood vessels for metastasis and development, making it difficult to treat HCC, not only with immunotherapy but also with drugs targeting blood vessels. Therefore, in order to develop a treatment strategy for hypoxic tumors, various mechanisms must be explored and analyzed to treat these impregnable solid tumors. To date, tumor growth mechanisms linked to hypoxia are known to be complex and coexist with various signal pathways, but recently, mechanisms related to the Hippo signal pathway are emerging. Interestingly, Hippo YAP/TAZ, which appear during early tumor and normal tumor growth, and YAP/TAZ, which appear during hypoxia, help tumor growth and proliferation in different directions. Peculiarly, YAP/TAZ, which have different phosphorylation directions in the hypoxic environment of tumors, are involved in cancer proliferation and metastasis in various carcinomas, including HCC. Analyzing the mechanisms that regulate the function and expression of YAP in addition to HIF in the complex hypoxic environment of tumors may lead to a variety of anti-cancer strategies and combining HIF and YAP/TAZ may develop the potential to change the landscape of cancer treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sung Hoon Choi
- Institute of Health & Environment, Graduate School of Public Health, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
- KoBioLabs Inc., Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Do Young Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
- Yonsei Liver Cancer Center, Yonsei Cancer Hospital, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Moure CJ, Vara B, Cheng MM, Sondey C, Muise E, Park E, Vela Ramirez JE, Su D, D'Souza S, Yan Q, Yeung CS, Zhang M, Mansueto MS, Linn D, Buchanan M, Foti R, DiMauro E, Long B, Simov V, Barry ER. Activation of Hepatocyte Growth Factor/MET Signaling as a Mechanism of Acquired Resistance to a Novel YAP1/TEAD Small Molecule Inhibitor. Mol Cancer Ther 2024; 23:1095-1108. [PMID: 38691847 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-23-0538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
Many tumor types harbor alterations in the Hippo pathway, including mesothelioma, where a high percentage of cases are considered YAP1/TEAD dependent. Identification of autopalmitoylation sites in the hydrophobic palmitate pocket of TEADs, which may be necessary for YAP1 protein interactions, has enabled modern drug discovery platforms to generate compounds that allosterically inhibit YAP1/TEAD complex formation and transcriptional activity. We report the discovery and characterization of a novel YAP1/TEAD inhibitor MRK-A from an aryl ether chemical series demonstrating potent and specific inhibition of YAP1/TEAD activity. In vivo, MRK-A showed a favorable tolerability profile in mice and demonstrated pharmacokinetics suitable for twice daily oral dosing in preclinical efficacy studies. Importantly, monotherapeutic targeting of YAP1/TEAD in preclinical models generated regressions in a mesothelioma CDX model; however, rapid resistance to therapy was observed. RNA-sequencing of resistant tumors revealed mRNA expression changes correlated with the resistance state and a marked increase of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) expression. In vitro, exogenous HGF was able to fully rescue cytostasis induced by MRK-A in mesothelioma cell lines. In addition, co-administration of small molecule inhibitors of the MET receptor tyrosine kinase suppressed the resistance generating effect of HGF on MRK-A induced growth inhibition. In this work, we report the structure and characterization of MRK-A, demonstrating potent and specific inhibition of YAP1/TAZ-TEAD-mediated transcriptional responses, with potential implications for treating malignancies driven by altered Hippo signaling, including factors resulting in acquired drug resistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Casey J Moure
- Department of Quantitative Biosciences, Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, New Jersey
| | - Brandon Vara
- Department of Discovery Chemistry, Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, New Jersey
| | - Mangeng M Cheng
- Department of Quantitative Biosciences, Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, New Jersey
| | - Christopher Sondey
- Department of Quantitative Biosciences, Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, New Jersey
| | - Eric Muise
- Department of Data and Genome Sciences, Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, New Jersey
| | - Eunsil Park
- Department of Quantitative Biosciences, Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, New Jersey
| | | | - Dan Su
- Department of Quantitative Biosciences, Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, New Jersey
| | - Shanti D'Souza
- Department of Discovery Oncology, Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, New Jersey
| | - Qingyun Yan
- Department of Quantitative Biosciences, Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, New Jersey
| | - Charles S Yeung
- Department of Discovery Chemistry, Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, New Jersey
| | - Minjia Zhang
- Department of Quantitative Biosciences, Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, New Jersey
| | - My Sam Mansueto
- Department of Quantitative Biosciences, Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, New Jersey
| | - Doug Linn
- Department of Quantitative Biosciences, Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, New Jersey
| | - Mark Buchanan
- Department of Quantitative Biosciences, Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, New Jersey
| | - Robert Foti
- Department of PPDM, Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, New Jersey
| | - Erin DiMauro
- Department of Discovery Chemistry, Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, New Jersey
| | - Brian Long
- Department of Quantitative Biosciences, Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, New Jersey
| | - Vladimir Simov
- Department of Discovery Chemistry, Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, New Jersey
| | - Evan R Barry
- Department of Quantitative Biosciences, Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, New Jersey
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Kazimierczak U, Przybyla A, Smielowska M, Kolenda T, Mackiewicz A. Targeting the Hippo Pathway in Cutaneous Melanoma. Cells 2024; 13:1062. [PMID: 38920690 PMCID: PMC11201827 DOI: 10.3390/cells13121062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is the most aggressive form of skin cancer. In the advanced stage of development, it is resistant to currently available therapeutic modalities. Increased invasiveness and metastatic potential depend on several proteins involved in various signal transduction pathways. Hippo signaling plays a vital role in malignant transformation. Dysfunctions of the Hippo pathway initiate the expression of tumor growth factors and are associated with tumor growth and metastasis formation. This review summarizes the recent achievements in studying the role of the Hippo pathway in melanoma pathogenesis and points to the potential specific targets for anti-melanoma therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Urszula Kazimierczak
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Rokietnicka Street 8, 61-806 Poznan, Poland
| | - Anna Przybyla
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Rokietnicka Street 8, 61-806 Poznan, Poland
| | - Marianna Smielowska
- Department of Genome Engineering, The Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Z. Noskowskiego 12/14, 61-704 Poznan, Poland
| | - Tomasz Kolenda
- Laboratory of Cancer Genetics, Greater Poland Cancer Centre, Garbary 15, 61-866 Poznan, Poland
- Research and Implementation Unit, Greater Poland Cancer Centre, Garbary 15, 61-866 Poznan, Poland
| | - Andrzej Mackiewicz
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Rokietnicka Street 8, 61-806 Poznan, Poland
- Department of Cancer Diagnostics and Immunology, Greater Poland Cancer Centre, Garbary Street 15, 61-866 Poznan, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Peng L, Zhou L, Li H, Zhang X, Li S, Wang K, Yang M, Ma X, Zhang D, Xiang S, Duan Y, Wang T, Sun C, Wang C, Lu D, Qian M, Wang Z. Hippo-signaling-controlled MHC class I antigen processing and presentation pathway potentiates antitumor immunity. Cell Rep 2024; 43:114003. [PMID: 38527062 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.114003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The major histocompatibility complex class I (MHC class I)-mediated tumor antigen processing and presentation (APP) pathway is essential for the recruitment and activation of cytotoxic CD8+ T lymphocytes (CD8+ CTLs). However, this pathway is frequently dysregulated in many cancers, thus leading to a failure of immunotherapy. Here, we report that activation of the tumor-intrinsic Hippo pathway positively correlates with the expression of MHC class I APP genes and the abundance of CD8+ CTLs in mouse tumors and patients. Blocking the Hippo pathway effector Yes-associated protein/transcriptional enhanced associate domain (YAP/TEAD) potently improves antitumor immunity. Mechanistically, the YAP/TEAD complex cooperates with the nucleosome remodeling and deacetylase complex to repress NLRC5 transcription. The upregulation of NLRC5 by YAP/TEAD depletion or pharmacological inhibition increases the expression of MHC class I APP genes and enhances CD8+ CTL-mediated killing of cancer cells. Collectively, our results suggest a crucial tumor-promoting function of YAP depending on NLRC5 to impair the MHC class I APP pathway and provide a rationale for inhibiting YAP activity in immunotherapy for cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Linyuan Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Liang Zhou
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Regional Immunity and Diseases, Cancer Research Center, Department of Pharmacology, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Huan Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Regional Immunity and Diseases, Cancer Research Center, Department of Pharmacology, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Su Li
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Kai Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Mei Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Xiaoyu Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Danlan Zhang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Regional Immunity and Diseases, Cancer Research Center, Department of Pharmacology, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Siliang Xiang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Yajun Duan
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Tianzhi Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Chunmeng Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Pharmaceutical Preparations and Excipients, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Chen Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Desheng Lu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Regional Immunity and Diseases, Cancer Research Center, Department of Pharmacology, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen 518055, China.
| | - Minxian Qian
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China.
| | - Zhongyuan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Booth L, Roberts JL, West C, Dent P. GZ17-6.02 interacts with proteasome inhibitors to kill multiple myeloma cells. Oncotarget 2024; 15:159-174. [PMID: 38441437 PMCID: PMC10913917 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.28558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
GZ17-6.02, a synthetically manufactured compound containing isovanillin, harmine and curcumin, has undergone phase I evaluation in patients with solid tumors (NCT03775525) with a recommended phase 2 dose (RP2D) of 375 mg PO BID. GZ17-6.02 was more efficacious as a single agent at killing multiple myeloma cells than had previously been observed in solid tumor cell types. GZ17-6.02 interacted with proteasome inhibitors in a greater than additive fashion to kill myeloma cells and alone it killed inhibitor-resistant cells to a similar extent. The drug combination of GZ17-6.02 and bortezomib activated ATM, the AMPK and PERK and inactivated ULK1, mTORC1, eIF2α, NFκB and the Hippo pathway. The combination increased ATG13 S318 phosphorylation and the expression of Beclin1, ATG5, BAK and BIM, and reduced the levels of BCL-XL and MCL1. GZ17-6.02 interacted with bortezomib to enhance autophagosome formation and autophagic flux, and knock down of ATM, AMPKα, ULK1, Beclin1 or ATG5 significantly reduced both autophagy and tumor cell killing. Knock down of BAK and BIM significantly reduced tumor cell killing. The expression of HDACs1/2/3 was significantly reduced beyond that previously observed in solid tumor cells and required autophagy. This was associated with increased acetylation and methylation of histone H3. Combined knock down of HDACs1/2/3 caused activation of ATM and the AMPK and caused inactivation of ULK1, mTORC1, NFκB and the Hippo pathway. HDAC knock down also enhanced ATG13 phosphorylation, increased BAK levels and reduced those of BCL-XL. Collectively, our present studies support performing additional in vivo studies with multiple myeloma cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laurence Booth
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
| | - Jane L. Roberts
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
| | - Cameron West
- Genzada Pharmaceuticals, Hutchinson, KS 67502, USA
| | - Paul Dent
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Xiao Y, Liu R, Li N, Li Y, Huang X. Role of the ubiquitin-proteasome system on macrophages in the tumor microenvironment. J Cell Physiol 2024; 239:e31180. [PMID: 38219045 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.31180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are key components of the tumor microenvironment, and their different polarization states play multiple roles in tumors by secreting cytokines, chemokines, and so on, which are closely related to tumor development. In addition, the enrichment of TAMs is often associated with poor prognosis of tumors. Thus, targeting TAMs is a potential tumor treatment strategy, in which therapeutic approaches such as reducing TAMs numbers, remodeling TAMs phenotypes, and altering their functions are being extensively investigated. Meanwhile, the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS), an important mechanism of protein hydrolysis in eukaryotic cells, participates in cellular processes by regulating the activity and stability of key proteins. Interestingly, UPS plays a dual role in the process of tumor development, and its role in TAMs deserve to be investigated in depth. This review builds on this foundation to further explore the multiple roles of UPS on TAMs and identifies a promising approach to treat tumors by targeting TAMs with UPS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yue Xiao
- First School of Clinical Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Ruiqian Liu
- School of Future Technology, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Na Li
- School of Future Technology, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Yong Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Medical Center of Anesthesiology and Pain, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Xuan Huang
- The National Engineering Research Center for Bioengineering Drugs and the Technologies, Institute of Translational Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Zhou X, Yan Z, Hou J, Zhang L, Chen Z, Gao C, Ahmad NH, Guo M, Wang W, Han T, Chang T, Kang X, Wang L, Liang Y, Li X. The Hippo-YAP signaling pathway drives CD24-mediated immune evasion in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma via macrophage phagocytosis. Oncogene 2024; 43:495-510. [PMID: 38168654 PMCID: PMC10857940 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-023-02923-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is one of the most lethal malignancies in the world with poor prognosis. Despite the promising applications of immunotherapy, the objective response rate is still unsatisfactory. We have previously shown that Hippo/YAP signaling acts as a powerful tumor promoter in ESCC. However, whether Hippo/YAP signaling is involved in tumor immune escape in ESCC remains largely unknown. Here, we show that YAP directly activates transcription of the "don't eat me" signal CD24, and plays a crucial role in driving tumor cells to avoid phagocytosis by macrophages. Mechanistically, YAP regulates CD24 expression by interacting with TEAD and binding the CD24 promoter to initiate transcription, which facilitates tumor cell escape from macrophage-mediated immune attack. Our animal model data and clinical data show that YAP combined with CD24 in tumor microenvironment redefines the impact of TAMs on the prognosis of ESCC patients which will provide a valuable basis for precision medicine. Moreover, treatment with YAP inhibitor altered the distribution of macrophages and suppressed tumorigenesis and progression of ESCC in vivo. Together, our study provides a novel link between Hippo/YAP signaling and macrophage-mediated immune escape, which suggests that the Hippo-YAP-CD24 axis may act as a promising target to improve the prognosis of ESCC patients. A proposed model for the regulatory mechanism of Hippo-YAP-CD24-signaling axis in the tumor-associated macrophages mediated immune escape.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaofeng Zhou
- Henan Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Therapy Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan Province, PR China
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory for Molecular Therapy of Cancer, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan Province, PR China
| | - Ziyi Yan
- Henan Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Therapy Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan Province, PR China
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory for Molecular Therapy of Cancer, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan Province, PR China
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan Province, PR China
| | - Jinghan Hou
- Henan Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Therapy Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan Province, PR China
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory for Molecular Therapy of Cancer, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan Province, PR China
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan Province, PR China
| | - Lichen Zhang
- Henan Key Laboratory of immunology and targeted therapy, School of Laboratory Medicine, Henan Collaborative Innovation Center of Molecular Diagnosis and Laboratory Medicine, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan Province, PR China
| | - Zhen Chen
- Henan Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Therapy Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan Province, PR China
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory for Molecular Therapy of Cancer, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan Province, PR China
- Department of Biomedical Science Advanced Medical and Science Institute, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Bertam 13200 Kepala Batas, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
| | - Can Gao
- Henan Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Therapy Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan Province, PR China
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory for Molecular Therapy of Cancer, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan Province, PR China
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan Province, PR China
| | - Nor Hazwani Ahmad
- Department of Biomedical Science Advanced Medical and Science Institute, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Bertam 13200 Kepala Batas, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
| | - Mingzhou Guo
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, #28 Fuxing Road, Beijing, 100853, PR China
| | - Weilong Wang
- Henan Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Therapy Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan Province, PR China
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory for Molecular Therapy of Cancer, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan Province, PR China
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan Province, PR China
- Department of Biomedical Science Advanced Medical and Science Institute, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Bertam 13200 Kepala Batas, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
| | - Tao Han
- Henan Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Therapy Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan Province, PR China
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory for Molecular Therapy of Cancer, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan Province, PR China
| | - Tingmin Chang
- Henan Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Therapy Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan Province, PR China
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory for Molecular Therapy of Cancer, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan Province, PR China
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan Province, PR China
| | - Xiaohong Kang
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan Province, PR China
| | - Lidong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment and Henan Key Laboratory for Esophageal Cancer Research of The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Yinming Liang
- Henan Key Laboratory of immunology and targeted therapy, School of Laboratory Medicine, Henan Collaborative Innovation Center of Molecular Diagnosis and Laboratory Medicine, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan Province, PR China
| | - Xiumin Li
- Henan Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Therapy Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan Province, PR China.
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory for Molecular Therapy of Cancer, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan Province, PR China.
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan Province, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Ding Y, Ning Y, Kang H, Yuan Y, Lin K, Wang C, Yi Y, He J, Li L, He X, Chang Y. ZMIZ2 facilitates hepatocellular carcinoma progression via LEF1 mediated activation of Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Exp Hematol Oncol 2024; 13:5. [PMID: 38254216 PMCID: PMC10802047 DOI: 10.1186/s40164-024-00475-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignancies with a high lethality rate. ZMIZ2 is a transcriptional co-activator implicated in various human diseases. However, the role and molecular mechanism of ZMIZ2 in HCC remains to be elucidated. METHODS The expression and prognostic value of ZMIZ2 in HCC was excavated from public databases and explored by bioinformatic analysis. Then the expression of ZMIZ2 and related genes was further validated by quantitative RT-PCR, western blotting, and immunohistochemistry. Loss and gain-of-function experiments were performed in vitro and in vivo to investigate the function of ZMIZ2 in HCC. In addition, transcriptome sequencing and immunoprecipitation was conducted to explore the potential molecular mechanisms of ZMIZ2. RESULTS ZMIZ2 was highly expressed in HCC and associated with poor prognosis. Silencing ZMIZ2 significantly inhibited HCC cell proliferation, cell cycle process, migration, and invasion in vitro, and also inhibited the progression of HCC in vivo. Additionally, ZMIZ2 expression was correlated with immune cell infiltration in HCC samples. Somatic mutation analysis showed that ZMIZ2 and TP53 mutations jointly affected the progression of HCC. Mechanistically, ZMIZ2 interacted with LEF1 to regulate malignant progression of HCC by activating the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. CONCLUSION ZMIZ2 was overexpressed in HCC and associated with poor prognosis. The overexpression of ZMIZ2 was corelated with malignant phenotype, and it facilitated HCC progression via LEF1-mediated activation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Furthermore, ZMIZ2 could be served as a prognostic biomarker and a new therapeutic target for HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yang Ding
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Hubei Clinical Center and Key Laboratory of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Yumei Ning
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Hubei Clinical Center and Key Laboratory of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Hui Kang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Hubei Clinical Center and Key Laboratory of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Yuan Yuan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Hubei Clinical Center and Key Laboratory of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Kun Lin
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Hubei Clinical Center and Key Laboratory of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Chun Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Hubei Clinical Center and Key Laboratory of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Yun Yi
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Hubei Clinical Center and Key Laboratory of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Jianghua He
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Hubei Clinical Center and Key Laboratory of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Lurao Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Hubei Clinical Center and Key Laboratory of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Xingxing He
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China.
- Hubei Clinical Center and Key Laboratory of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China.
| | - Ying Chang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China.
- Hubei Clinical Center and Key Laboratory of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Cassani M, Fernandes S, Oliver‐De La Cruz J, Durikova H, Vrbsky J, Patočka M, Hegrova V, Klimovic S, Pribyl J, Debellis D, Skladal P, Cavalieri F, Caruso F, Forte G. YAP Signaling Regulates the Cellular Uptake and Therapeutic Effect of Nanoparticles. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2302965. [PMID: 37946710 PMCID: PMC10787066 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202302965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
Interactions between living cells and nanoparticles are extensively studied to enhance the delivery of therapeutics. Nanoparticles size, shape, stiffness, and surface charge are regarded as the main features able to control the fate of cell-nanoparticle interactions. However, the clinical translation of nanotherapies has so far been limited, and there is a need to better understand the biology of cell-nanoparticle interactions. This study investigates the role of cellular mechanosensitive components in cell-nanoparticle interactions. It is demonstrated that the genetic and pharmacologic inhibition of yes-associated protein (YAP), a key component of cancer cell mechanosensing apparatus and Hippo pathway effector, improves nanoparticle internalization in triple-negative breast cancer cells regardless of nanoparticle properties or substrate characteristics. This process occurs through YAP-dependent regulation of endocytic pathways, cell mechanics, and membrane organization. Hence, the study proposes targeting YAP may sensitize triple-negative breast cancer cells to chemotherapy and increase the selectivity of nanotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marco Cassani
- International Clinical Research CenterSt. Anne's University HospitalBrno60200Czech Republic
- Department of Chemical EngineeringThe University of MelbourneParkvilleVictoria3010Australia
| | - Soraia Fernandes
- International Clinical Research CenterSt. Anne's University HospitalBrno60200Czech Republic
- Department of Chemical EngineeringThe University of MelbourneParkvilleVictoria3010Australia
| | - Jorge Oliver‐De La Cruz
- International Clinical Research CenterSt. Anne's University HospitalBrno60200Czech Republic
- Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC)The Barcelona Institute for Science and Technology (BIST)BarcelonaSpain
| | - Helena Durikova
- International Clinical Research CenterSt. Anne's University HospitalBrno60200Czech Republic
| | - Jan Vrbsky
- International Clinical Research CenterSt. Anne's University HospitalBrno60200Czech Republic
| | - Marek Patočka
- NenoVisionPurkynova 649/127Brno61200Czech Republic
- Faculty of Mechanical EngineeringBrno University of TechnologyTechnicka 2896/2Brno61669Czech Republic
| | | | - Simon Klimovic
- Department of Bioanalytical InstrumentationCEITEC Masaryk UniversityBrno60200Czech Republic
| | - Jan Pribyl
- Department of Bioanalytical InstrumentationCEITEC Masaryk UniversityBrno60200Czech Republic
| | - Doriana Debellis
- Electron Microscopy FacilityFondazione Istituto Italiano Di TecnologiaVia Morego 30Genoa16163Italy
| | - Petr Skladal
- Department of Bioanalytical InstrumentationCEITEC Masaryk UniversityBrno60200Czech Republic
| | - Francesca Cavalieri
- Department of Chemical EngineeringThe University of MelbourneParkvilleVictoria3010Australia
- School of ScienceRMIT UniversityMelbourne3000VictoriaAustralia
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie ChimicheUniversità di Roma “Tor Vergata”Via Della Ricerca ScientificaRome00133Italy
| | - Frank Caruso
- Department of Chemical EngineeringThe University of MelbourneParkvilleVictoria3010Australia
| | - Giancarlo Forte
- International Clinical Research CenterSt. Anne's University HospitalBrno60200Czech Republic
- School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine & SciencesKing's College LondonLondonWC2R 2LSUK
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Rojas-Quintero J, Ochsner SA, New F, Divakar P, Yang CX, Wu TD, Robinson J, Chandrashekar DS, Banovich NE, Rosas IO, Sauler M, Kheradmand F, Gaggar A, Margaroli C, San Jose Estepar R, McKenna NJ, Polverino F. Spatial Transcriptomics Resolve an Emphysema-Specific Lymphoid Follicle B Cell Signature in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2024; 209:48-58. [PMID: 37934672 PMCID: PMC10870877 DOI: 10.1164/rccm.202303-0507le] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Rationale: Within chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), emphysema is characterized by a significant yet partially understood B cell immune component. Objectives: To characterize the transcriptomic signatures from lymphoid follicles (LFs) in ever-smokers without COPD and patients with COPD with varying degrees of emphysema. Methods: Lung sections from 40 patients with COPD and ever-smokers were used for LF proteomic and transcriptomic spatial profiling. Formalin- and O.C.T.-fixed lung samples obtained from biopsies or lung explants were assessed for LF presence. Emphysema measurements were obtained from clinical chest computed tomographic scans. High-confidence transcriptional target intersection analyses were conducted to resolve emphysema-induced transcriptional networks. Measurements and Main Results: Overall, 115 LFs from ever-smokers and Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) 1-2 and GOLD 3-4 patients were analyzed. No LFs were found in never-smokers. Differential gene expression analysis revealed significantly increased expression of LF assembly and B cell marker genes in subjects with severe emphysema. High-confidence transcriptional analysis revealed activation of an abnormal B cell activity signature in LFs (q-value = 2.56E-111). LFs from patients with GOLD 1-2 COPD with emphysema showed significantly increased expression of genes associated with antigen presentation, inflammation, and B cell activation and proliferation. LFs from patients with GOLD 1-2 COPD without emphysema showed an antiinflammatory profile. The extent of centrilobular emphysema was significantly associated with genes involved in B cell maturation and antibody production. Protein-RNA network analysis showed that LFs in emphysema have a unique signature skewed toward chronic B cell activation. Conclusions: An off-targeted B cell activation within LFs is associated with autoimmune-mediated emphysema pathogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Scott A. Ochsner
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Felicia New
- Spatial Data Analysis Services, Nanostring Biotechnologies, Seattle, Washington
| | - Prajan Divakar
- Spatial Data Analysis Services, Nanostring Biotechnologies, Seattle, Washington
| | - Chen Xi Yang
- Center for Heart Lung Innovation, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | | | - Jerid Robinson
- Field Application Scientists, Nanostring Biotechnologies, Seattle, Washington
| | | | | | | | - Maor Sauler
- Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Farrah Kheradmand
- Pulmonary Division, Department of Medicine, and
- Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Amit Gaggar
- Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, and
- Birmingham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Birmingham, Alabama; and
| | - Camilla Margaroli
- Pathology – Division of Cellular and Molecular Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Raul San Jose Estepar
- Applied Chest Imaging Laboratory, Department of Radiology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Neil J. McKenna
- Spatial Data Analysis Services, Nanostring Biotechnologies, Seattle, Washington
| | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Gershoni A, Hassin O, Nataraj NB, Baruch S, Avioz‐Seligman A, Pirona AC, Fellus‐Alyagor L, Meir Salame T, Mukherjee S, Mallel G, Yarden Y, Aylon Y, Oren M. TAZ facilitates breast tumor growth by promoting an immune-suppressive tumor microenvironment. Mol Oncol 2023; 17:2675-2693. [PMID: 37716913 PMCID: PMC10701768 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.13525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The core Hippo pathway module consists of a tumour-suppressive kinase cascade that inhibits the transcriptional coactivators Yes-associated protein (YAP) and WW domain-containing transcription regulator protein 1 (WWTR1; also known as TAZ). When the Hippo pathway is downregulated, as often occurs in breast cancer, YAP/TAZ activity is induced. To elaborate the roles of TAZ in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), we depleted Taz in murine TNBC 4T1 cells, using either CRISPR/Cas9 or small hairpin RNA (shRNA). TAZ-depleted cells and their controls, harbouring wild-type levels of TAZ, were orthotopically injected into the mammary fat pads of syngeneic BALB/c female mice, and mice were monitored for tumour growth. TAZ depletion resulted in smaller tumours compared to the tumours generated by control cells, in line with the notion that TAZ functions as an oncogene in breast cancer. Tumours, as well as their corresponding in vitro cultured cells, were then subjected to gene expression profiling by RNA sequencing (RNA-seq). Interestingly, pathway analysis of the RNA-seq data indicated a TAZ-dependent enrichment of 'Inflammatory Response', a pathway correlated with TAZ expression levels also in human breast cancer tumours. Specifically, the RNA-seq analysis predicted a significant depletion of regulatory T cells (Tregs) in TAZ-deficient tumours, which was experimentally validated by the staining of tumour sections and by quantitative cytometry by time of flight (CyTOF). Strikingly, the differences in tumour size were completely abolished in immune-deficient mice, demonstrating that the immune-modulatory capacity of TAZ is critical for its oncogenic activity in this setting. Cytokine array analysis of conditioned medium from cultured cells revealed that TAZ increased the abundance of a small group of cytokines, including plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (Serpin E1; also known as PAI-1), CCN family member 4 (CCN4; also known as WISP-1) and interleukin-23 (IL-23), suggesting a potential mechanistic explanation for its in vivo immunomodulatory effect. Together, our results imply that TAZ functions in a non-cell-autonomous manner to modify the tumour immune microenvironment and dampen the anti-tumour immune response, thereby facilitating tumour growth.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anat Gershoni
- Department of Molecular Cell BiologyWeizmann Institute of ScienceRehovotIsrael
| | - Ori Hassin
- Department of Molecular Cell BiologyWeizmann Institute of ScienceRehovotIsrael
| | | | - Sivan Baruch
- Department of Molecular Cell BiologyWeizmann Institute of ScienceRehovotIsrael
| | - Adi Avioz‐Seligman
- Department of Molecular Cell BiologyWeizmann Institute of ScienceRehovotIsrael
| | - Anna Chiara Pirona
- Department of Molecular Cell BiologyWeizmann Institute of ScienceRehovotIsrael
| | - Liat Fellus‐Alyagor
- Department of Veterinary ResourcesWeizmann Institute of ScienceRehovotIsrael
| | - Tomer Meir Salame
- Flow Cytometry Unit, Department of Life Sciences Core FacilitiesWeizmann Institute of ScienceRehovotIsrael
| | | | - Giuseppe Mallel
- Department of Molecular Cell BiologyWeizmann Institute of ScienceRehovotIsrael
| | - Yosef Yarden
- Department of Immunology and Regenerative BiologyWeizmann Institute of ScienceRehovotIsrael
| | - Yael Aylon
- Department of Molecular Cell BiologyWeizmann Institute of ScienceRehovotIsrael
| | - Moshe Oren
- Department of Molecular Cell BiologyWeizmann Institute of ScienceRehovotIsrael
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Jhunjhunwala M, Yu LS, Kuo PC, Li CY, Chen CS. Tumor-Derived Membrane Vesicles Restrain Migration in Gliomas By Altering Collective Polarization. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2023; 6:4764-4774. [PMID: 37862244 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.3c00533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
Mechanobiology is a cornerstone in physiology. However, its role in biomedical applications remains considerably undermined. In this study, we employed cell membrane vesicles (CMVs), which are currently being used as nanodrug carriers, as tactile cues for mechano-regulation of collective cell behaviors. Gliomas, which are among the most resilient brain tumors and have a low patient survival rate, were used as the cell model. We observed that mechanical responses due to the application of glioma- or microglia-derived CMVs resulted in the doubling of the traction stress of glioma cell collectives with a 10-fold increase in the CMV concentration. Glioma-CMVs constrained cell protrusions and hindered their collective migration, with the migration speed of such cells declining by almost 40% compared to the untreated cells. We speculated that the alteration of collective polarization leads to migration speed changes, and this phenomenon was elucidated using the cellular Potts model. In addition to intracellular force modulation and cytoskeletal reorganization, glioma-CMVs altered drug diffusion within glioma spheroids by downregulating the mechano-signaling protein YAP-1 while also marginally enhancing the associated apoptotic events. Our results suggest that glioma-CMVs can be applied as an adjuvant to current treatment approaches to restrict tumor invasion and enhance the penetration of reagents within tumors. Considering the broad impact of mechano-transduction on cell functions, the regulation of cell mechanics through CMVs can provide a foundation for alternative therapeutic strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Lin-Sheng Yu
- National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 300044, Republic of China
| | - Ping-Chen Kuo
- National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 300044, Republic of China
| | - Chia-Yang Li
- Graduate Institute of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Republic of China
- Department of Medical Research, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 80708, Republic of China
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung 91201, Republic of China
| | - Chi-Shuo Chen
- National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 300044, Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Thrash HL, Pendergast AM. Multi-Functional Regulation by YAP/TAZ Signaling Networks in Tumor Progression and Metastasis. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4701. [PMID: 37835395 PMCID: PMC10572014 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15194701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The Hippo pathway transcriptional co-activators, YES-associated protein (YAP) and Transcriptional Co-Activator with PDZ Binding Motif (TAZ), have both been linked to tumor progression and metastasis. These two proteins possess overlapping and distinct functions, and their activities lead to the expression of genes involved in multiple cellular processes, including cell proliferation, survival, and migration. The dysregulation of YAP/TAZ-dependent cellular processes can result in altered tumor growth and metastasis. In addition to their well-documented roles in the regulation of cancer cell growth, survival, migration, and invasion, the YAP/TAZ-dependent signaling pathways have been more recently implicated in cellular processes that promote metastasis and therapy resistance in several solid tumor types. This review highlights the role of YAP/TAZ signaling networks in the regulation of tumor cell plasticity mediated by hybrid and reversible epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) states, and the promotion of cancer stem cell/progenitor phenotypes. Mechanistically, YAP and TAZ regulate these cellular processes by targeting transcriptional networks. In this review, we detail recently uncovered mechanisms whereby YAP and TAZ mediate tumor growth, metastasis, and therapy resistance, and discuss new therapeutic strategies to target YAP/TAZ function in various solid tumor types. Understanding the distinct and overlapping roles of YAP and TAZ in multiple cellular processes that promote tumor progression to metastasis is expected to enable the identification of effective therapies to treat solid tumors through the hyper-activation of YAP and TAZ.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ann Marie Pendergast
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Trishna S, Lavon A, Shteinfer-Kuzmine A, Dafa-Berger A, Shoshan-Barmatz V. Overexpression of the mitochondrial anti-viral signaling protein, MAVS, in cancers is associated with cell survival and inflammation. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2023; 33:713-732. [PMID: 37662967 PMCID: PMC10468804 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2023.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
Mitochondrial anti-viral signaling protein (MAVS) plays an important role in host defense against viral infection via coordinating the activation of NF-κB and interferon regulatory factors. The mitochondrial-bound form of MAVS is essential for its anti-viral innate immunity. Recently, tumor cells were proposed to mimic a viral infection by activating RNA-sensing pattern recognition receptors. Here, we demonstrate that MAVS is overexpressed in a panel of viral non-infected cancer cell lines and patient-derived tumors, including lung, liver, bladder, and cervical cancers, and we studied its role in cancer. Silencing MAVS expression reduced cell proliferation and the expression and nuclear translocation of proteins associated with transcriptional regulation, inflammation, and immunity. MAVS depletion reduced expression of the inflammasome components and inhibited its activation/assembly. Moreover, MAVS directly interacts with the mitochondrial protein VDAC1, decreasing its conductance, and we identified the VDAC1 binding site in MAVS. Our findings suggest that MAVS depletion, by reducing cancer cell proliferation and inflammation, represents a new target for cancer therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sweta Trishna
- Department of Life Sciences, University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Avia Lavon
- Department of Life Sciences, University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Anna Shteinfer-Kuzmine
- National Institute for Biotechnology in the Negev Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Avis Dafa-Berger
- Department of Life Sciences, University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Varda Shoshan-Barmatz
- Department of Life Sciences, University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel
- National Institute for Biotechnology in the Negev Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Mokhtari RB, Ashayeri N, Baghaie L, Sambi M, Satari K, Baluch N, Bosykh DA, Szewczuk MR, Chakraborty S. The Hippo Pathway Effectors YAP/TAZ-TEAD Oncoproteins as Emerging Therapeutic Targets in the Tumor Microenvironment. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3468. [PMID: 37444578 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15133468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Various cancer cell-associated intrinsic and extrinsic inputs act on YAP/TAZ proteins to mediate the hyperactivation of the TEAD transcription factor-based transcriptome. This YAP/TAZ-TEAD activity can override the growth-limiting Hippo tumor-suppressor pathway that maintains normal tissue homeostasis. Herein, we provide an integrated summary of the contrasting roles of YAP/TAZ during normal tissue homeostasis versus tumor initiation and progression. In addition to upstream factors that regulate YAP/TAZ in the TME, critical insights on the emerging functions of YAP/TAZ in immune suppression and abnormal vasculature development during tumorigenesis are illustrated. Lastly, we discuss the current methods that intervene with the YAP/TAZ-TEAD oncogenic signaling pathway and the emerging applications of combination therapies, gut microbiota, and epigenetic plasticity that could potentiate the efficacy of chemo/immunotherapy as improved cancer therapeutic strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Reza Bayat Mokhtari
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY 14263, USA
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada
| | - Neda Ashayeri
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Ali-Asghar Children Hospital, Iran University of Medical Science, Tehran 1449614535, Iran
| | - Leili Baghaie
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada
| | - Manpreet Sambi
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada
| | - Kosar Satari
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Ali-Asghar Children Hospital, Iran University of Medical Science, Tehran 1449614535, Iran
| | - Narges Baluch
- Department of Immunology and Allergy, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Dmitriy A Bosykh
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY 14263, USA
| | - Myron R Szewczuk
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada
| | - Sayan Chakraborty
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY 14263, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Franklin JM, Wu Z, Guan KL. Insights into recent findings and clinical application of YAP and TAZ in cancer. Nat Rev Cancer 2023:10.1038/s41568-023-00579-1. [PMID: 37308716 DOI: 10.1038/s41568-023-00579-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Decades of research have mapped out the basic mechanics of the Hippo pathway. The paralogues Yes-associated protein (YAP) and transcriptional co-activator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ), as the central transcription control module of the Hippo pathway, have long been implicated in the progression of various human cancers. The current literature regarding oncogenic YAP and TAZ activities consists mostly of context-specific mechanisms and treatments of human cancers. Furthermore, a growing number of studies demonstrate tumour-suppressor functions of YAP and TAZ. In this Review we aim to synthesize an integrated perspective of the many disparate findings regarding YAP and TAZ in cancer. We then conclude with the various strategies for targeting and treating YAP- and TAZ-dependent cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J Matthew Franklin
- Department of Pharmacology and Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Zhengming Wu
- Department of Pharmacology and Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Kun-Liang Guan
- Department of Pharmacology and Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Naik A, Leask A. Tumor-Associated Fibrosis Impairs the Response to Immunotherapy. Matrix Biol 2023; 119:125-140. [PMID: 37080324 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2023.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Revised: 04/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023]
Abstract
Previously, impaired responses to immunotherapy in cancer had been attributed mainly to inherent tumor characteristics (tumor cell intrinsic factors) such as low immunogenicity, (low) mutational burden, weak host immune system, etc. However, mapping the responses of immunotherapeutic regimes in clinical trials for different types of cancer has pointed towards an obvious commonality - that tumors with a rich fibrotic stroma respond poorly or not at all. This has prompted a harder look on tumor cell extrinsic factors such as the surrounding tumor microenvironment (TME), and specifically, the fibrotic stroma as a potential enabler of immunotherapy failure. Indeed, the role of cancer-associated fibrosis in impeding efficacy of immunotherapy is now well-established. In fact, recent studies reveal a complex interconnection between fibrosis and treatment efficacy. Accordingly, in this review we provide a general overview of what a tumor associated fibrotic reaction is and how it interacts with the members of immune system that are frequently seen to be modulated in a failed immunotherapeutic regime.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Angha Naik
- University of Saskatchewan, College of Dentistry, 105 Wiggins Road, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Andrew Leask
- University of Saskatchewan, College of Dentistry, 105 Wiggins Road, Saskatoon, SK, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Papavassiliou KA, Marinos G, Papavassiliou AG. Targeting YAP/TAZ in Combination with PD-L1 Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC). Cells 2023; 12:cells12060871. [PMID: 36980211 PMCID: PMC10047112 DOI: 10.3390/cells12060871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The survival of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients has improved in the last decade as a result of introducing new therapeutics, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors, in the clinic. Still, some NSCLC patients do not benefit from these therapies due to intrinsic resistance or the development of acquired resistance and their malignant disease progresses. Further research on the molecular underpinnings of NSCLC pathobiology is required in order to discover clinically relevant molecular targets that regulate tumor immunity and to develop reasonable therapeutic combinations that will promote the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors. Yes-associated Protein (YAP) and transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ), the final effectors of the Hippo signaling transduction pathway, are emerging as key players in NSCLC development and progression. Herein, we overview studies that have investigated the oncogenic role of YAP/TAZ in NSCLC, focusing on immune evasion, and highlight the therapeutic potential of combining YAP/TAZ inhibitory agents with immune checkpoint inhibitors for the management of NSCLC patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kostas A. Papavassiliou
- First University Department of Respiratory Medicine, “Sotiria” Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Georgios Marinos
- Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Athanasios G. Papavassiliou
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +30-210-746-2508
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Sonnemann HM, Pazdrak B, Antunes DA, Roszik J, Lizée G. Vestigial-like 1 (VGLL1): An ancient co-transcriptional activator linking wing, placenta, and tumor development. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2023; 1878:188892. [PMID: 37004960 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2023.188892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
Vestigial-like 1 (VGLL1) is a recently discovered driver of proliferation and invasion that is expressed in many aggressive human malignancies and is strongly associated with poor prognosis. The VGLL1 gene encodes for a co-transcriptional activator that shows intriguing structural similarity to key activators in the hippo pathway, providing important clues to its functional role. VGLL1 binds to TEADs in an analogous fashion to YAP1 but appears to activate a distinct set of downstream gene targets. In mammals, VGLL1 expression is found almost exclusively in placental trophoblasts, cells that share many hallmarks of cancer. Due to its role as a driver of tumor progression, VGLL1 has become a target of interest for potential anticancer therapies. In this review, we discuss VGLL1 from an evolutionary perspective, contrast its role in placental and tumor development, summarize the current knowledge of how signaling pathways can modulate VGLL1 function, and discuss potential approaches for targeting VGLL1 therapeutically.
Collapse
|
20
|
Wang B, Zhang Z, Liu W, Tan B. Targeting regulatory T cells in gastric cancer: Pathogenesis, immunotherapy, and prognosis. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 158:114180. [PMID: 36586241 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.114180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2022] [Revised: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer (GC) remains one of the most common malignancies worldwide. Despite immune-checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has revolutionized cancer treatment and obtained durable clinical responses, only a fraction of GC patients benefit from it. As an important component of T cells, regulatory T cells (Tregs) play a vital role in the pathogenesis of GC, keep a core balance between immune suppression and autoimmunity, and function as predictive biomarkers for prognosis of GC patients. In this review, we discuss the role of Tregs in the pathogenesis of GC, and targeting Tregs via influencing their transcription factor, migration, co-stimulatory receptors, immune checkpoints, and cytokines. We also focus on the currently important findings of Tregs metabolism including amino acid, fatty acid, and lactic acid metabolism of GC. The emerging role of microbiome and clinical combined therapy in modulating Tregs in GC treatment is also summarized. Meanwhile, this review recapitulates a novel regulator, magnesium, is involved in mediating Tregs in GC. These research advances on Treg-related strategies provide new insights and challenges for GC progression, treatment, and prognosis. And we hope our review can stimulate further discovery and implication of mediators and pathways targeting Tregs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bingyu Wang
- The Third Department of Surgery, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, 050011 Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Zaibo Zhang
- The Third Department of Surgery, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, 050011 Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Wenbo Liu
- The Third Department of Surgery, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, 050011 Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Bibo Tan
- The Third Department of Surgery, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, 050011 Shijiazhuang, China.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Zeng Z, Gu SS, Ouardaoui N, Tymm C, Yang L, Wong CJ, Li D, Zhang W, Wang X, Weirather JL, Rodig SJ, Hodi FS, Brown M, Liu XS. Hippo Signaling Pathway Regulates Cancer Cell-Intrinsic MHC-II Expression. Cancer Immunol Res 2022; 10:1559-1569. [PMID: 36219700 DOI: 10.1158/2326-6066.cir-22-0227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2022] [Revised: 07/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
MHC-II is known to be mainly expressed on the surface of antigen-presenting cells. Evidence suggests MHC-II is also expressed by cancer cells and may be associated with better immunotherapy responses. However, the role and regulation of MHC-II in cancer cells remain unclear. In this study, we leveraged data mining and experimental validation to elucidate the regulation of MHC-II in cancer cells and its role in modulating the response to immunotherapy. We collated an extensive collection of omics data to examine cancer cell-intrinsic MHC-II expression and its association with immunotherapy outcomes. We then tested the functional relevance of cancer cell-intrinsic MHC-II expression using a syngeneic transplantation model. Finally, we performed data mining to identify pathways potentially involved in the regulation of MHC-II expression, and experimentally validated candidate regulators. Analyses of preimmunotherapy clinical samples in the CheckMate 064 trial revealed that cancer cell-intrinsic MHC-II protein was positively correlated with more favorable immunotherapy outcomes. Comprehensive meta-analyses of multiomics data from an exhaustive collection of data revealed that MHC-II is heterogeneously expressed in various solid tumors, and its expression is particularly high in melanoma. Using a syngeneic transplantation model, we further established that melanoma cells with high MHC-II responded better to anti-PD-1 treatment. Data mining followed by experimental validation revealed the Hippo signaling pathway as a potential regulator of melanoma MHC-II expression. In summary, we identified the Hippo signaling pathway as a novel regulator of cancer cell-intrinsic MHC-II expression. These findings suggest modulation of MHC-II in melanoma could potentially improve immunotherapy response.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zexian Zeng
- Department of Data Science, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Shengqing Stan Gu
- Department of Data Science, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
- Center for Functional Cancer Epigenetics, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Nofal Ouardaoui
- Department of Data Science, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Carly Tymm
- Department of Data Science, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Lin Yang
- Department of Data Science, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Cheryl J Wong
- Department of Data Science, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Dian Li
- Department of Data Science, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Wubing Zhang
- Department of Data Science, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
- School of Life Science and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoqing Wang
- Department of Data Science, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
- Center for Functional Cancer Epigenetics, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jason L Weirather
- Department of Data Science, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
- Center for Immuno-Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Scott J Rodig
- Center for Immuno-Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - F Stephen Hodi
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
- Center for Immuno-Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Myles Brown
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
- Center for Functional Cancer Epigenetics, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - X Shirley Liu
- Department of Data Science, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
- Center for Functional Cancer Epigenetics, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Artesunate promoted anti-tumor immunity and overcame EGFR-TKI resistance in non-small-cell lung cancer by enhancing oncogenic TAZ degradation. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 155:113705. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
|
23
|
Zeng Z, Gu SS, Wong CJ, Yang L, Ouardaoui N, Li D, Zhang W, Brown M, Liu XS. Machine learning on syngeneic mouse tumor profiles to model clinical immunotherapy response. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabm8564. [PMID: 36240281 PMCID: PMC9565795 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abm8564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Most patients with cancer are refractory to immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapy, and proper patient stratification remains an open question. Primary patient data suffer from high heterogeneity, low accessibility, and lack of proper controls. In contrast, syngeneic mouse tumor models enable controlled experiments with ICB treatments. Using transcriptomic and experimental variables from >700 ICB-treated/control syngeneic mouse tumors, we developed a machine learning framework to model tumor immunity and identify factors influencing ICB response. Projected on human immunotherapy trial data, we found that the model can predict clinical ICB response. We further applied the model to predicting ICB-responsive/resistant cancer types in The Cancer Genome Atlas, which agreed well with existing clinical reports. Last, feature analysis implicated factors associated with ICB response. In summary, our computational framework based on mouse tumor data reliably stratified patients regarding ICB response, informed resistance mechanisms, and has the potential for wide applications in disease treatment studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zexian Zeng
- Department of Data Science, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Shengqing Stan Gu
- Department of Data Science, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Center for Functional Cancer Epigenetics, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Cheryl J. Wong
- Department of Data Science, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115 USA
| | - Lin Yang
- Department of Data Science, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Nofal Ouardaoui
- Department of Data Science, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Dian Li
- Department of Data Science, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Wubing Zhang
- Department of Data Science, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- School of Life Science and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai 200060, China
| | - Myles Brown
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Center for Functional Cancer Epigenetics, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - X. Shirley Liu
- Department of Data Science, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Center for Functional Cancer Epigenetics, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Wang Y, Nie H, Li H, Liao Z, Yang X, He X, Ma J, Zhou J, Ou C. The Hippo Pathway Effector Transcriptional Co-activator With PDZ-Binding Motif Correlates With Clinical Prognosis and Immune Infiltration in Colorectal Cancer. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:888093. [PMID: 35865173 PMCID: PMC9295930 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.888093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The transcriptional co-activator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ) is a downstream effector of the Hippo pathway. It has been identified as an oncogene in certain tumor types; however, the function and role of TAZ in colorectal cancer (CRC) has not been illustrated. Here, we aimed to analyze the expression and role of TAZ in CRC. In this study, we investigated the expression level of TAZ in 127 CRC and matched adjacent normal tissues by immunohistochemistry (IHC) and analyzed its correlation with clinicopathological characteristics in CRC. Moreover, we further analyzed the role of TAZ in the CRC-associated immunology using integrative bioinformatic analyses. The cBioPortal and WebGestalt database were used to analyze the co-expressed genes and related pathways of TAZ in CRC by gene ontology (GO) and KEGG enrichment analyses. Meanwhile, the correlations between TAZ and the infiltrating immune cells and gene markers were analyzed by TIMER database. Our study revealed that TAZ expression is higher in CRC tissues than in matched adjacent non-tumor tissues. In addition, CRC patients with higher TAZ expression demonstrated poor overall survival (OS) and recurrent-free survival rates as compared to CRC patients with lower expression of TAZ. Furthermore, the TAZ expression was identified to closely associate with the immune infiltration of CD4 + T, CD8 + T, and B cells. Taken together, our findings suggest that TAZ may serve as a promising prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target in CRC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yutong Wang
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Hui Nie
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Huiling Li
- Department of Pathology, Rizhao City People’s Hospital, Rizhao, China
| | - Zhiming Liao
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xuejie Yang
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xiaoyun He
- Department of Ultrasound Imaging, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jian Ma
- Cancer Research Institute and School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jianhua Zhou
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Chunlin Ou
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- *Correspondence: Chunlin Ou,
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Tu J, Tan X, Chen Y, Chen Y, Li Z, Zhang Y, Chen X, Yang H, Chen H, Yu Z. GAS5 represses endometrial cancer development via promoting anti-tumor function of tumor-associated macrophages. Cancer Sci 2022; 113:2496-2512. [PMID: 35534987 PMCID: PMC9357663 DOI: 10.1111/cas.15390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Revised: 04/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The tumor-suppressor role of Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) growth arrest-specific transcript 5 (GAS5) have been proven in various types of cancer. However, the specific function of GAS5 in tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) of endometrial cancer (EC) is elusive. qPCR results showed that GAS5 expression increased in EC tissues and primary TAMs from EC tumors. TAMs infiltration was significantly positively associated with the developmental stage of EC. Direct co-culture of GAS5-overexpressing TAMs and EC cells showed that GAS5 enhanced phagocytosis, antigen presentation, and activation of cytotoxic T cells, and repressed "Don't eat me" signals between TAMs and EC cells. Tumor formation in immunodeficient mice showed that GAS5-overexpressing macrophages could repress EC formation in vivo. GAS5 promoted M1 polarization by activating the miR-21-PTEN-AKT signaling pathway and directly repressing the nuclear accumulation and phosphorylation of oncogenic yes-associated protein 1 (YAP1) in TAMs. GAS5 inhibited the development of EC from both innate and adaptive immunity by transforming TAMs from a pro-tumor to an anti-tumor phenotype. These anti-tumor effects of GAS5 on TAMs were mediated by the activation of the miR-21-PTEN-AKT pathway and inhibition of YAP1.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiajie Tu
- Department of Gynecology, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital/the First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, China.,Key Laboratory of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Xuewen Tan
- Key Laboratory of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yu Chen
- Department of Gynecology, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital/the First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yu Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Zhe Li
- The First Clinical Medical College, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuanyuan Zhang
- Department of Gynecology, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital/the First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiaochun Chen
- Department of Gynecology, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital/the First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, China
| | - Huan Yang
- Department of Gynecology, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital/the First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, China
| | - He Chen
- Department of Gynecology, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital/the First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhiying Yu
- Department of Gynecology, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital/the First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, China
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Yan X, He Y, Yang S, Zeng T, Hua Y, Bao S, Yang F, Duan N, Sun C, Liang Y, Fu Z, Huang X, Li W, Yin Y. A positive feedback loop: RAD18-YAP-TGF-β between triple-negative breast cancer and macrophages regulates cancer stemness and progression. Cell Death Dis 2022; 8:196. [PMID: 35413945 PMCID: PMC9005530 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-022-00968-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Revised: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
As a key regulator of the DNA translesion synthesis (TLS) pathway, RAD18 is error-prone and contributes to the accumulation of DNA mutations. Our previous study showed that it plays an essential role in the progression of multiple tumors. However, the mechanism through which RAD18 influences triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), especially the interaction between tumor cells and the tumor microenvironment, remains elusive. In this study, we showed that RAD18 expression is markedly higher in patients with high T stage TNBC and inversely correlated with prognosis. High expression of RAD18 facilitated a highly stem-cell phenotype through the Hippo/YAP pathway, which supports the proliferation of TNBC. In addition, the cytokine byproduct TGF-β activates macrophages to have an M2-like tumor-associated macrophage (TAM) phenotype. Reciprocally, TGF-β from TAMs activated RAD18 in TNBC to enhance tumor stemness, forming a positive feedback loop. Inhibition of YAP or TGF-β breaks this loop and suppresses cancer stemness and proliferation In nude mice, RAD18 promoted subcutaneous transplanted tumor growth and M2-type TAM recruitment. Collectively, the RAD18-YAP-TGF-β loop is essential for the promotion of the stemness phenotype by TNBC and could be a potential therapeutic target for TNBC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xueqi Yan
- Department of Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 210029, Nanjing, China
| | - Yaozhou He
- Department of Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 210029, Nanjing, China
| | - Shikun Yang
- Hepatobiliary/Liver Transplantation Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University; Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 210029, Nanjing, China
| | - Tianyu Zeng
- Department of Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 210029, Nanjing, China
| | - Yijia Hua
- Department of Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 210029, Nanjing, China
| | - Shengnan Bao
- Department of Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 210029, Nanjing, China
| | - Fan Yang
- Department of Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 210029, Nanjing, China
| | - Ningjun Duan
- Department of Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 210029, Nanjing, China
| | - Chunxiao Sun
- Department of Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 210029, Nanjing, China
| | - Yan Liang
- Department of Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 210029, Nanjing, China
| | - Ziyi Fu
- Department of Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 210029, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiang Huang
- Department of Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 210029, Nanjing, China
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 210029, Nanjing, China.
| | - Yongmei Yin
- Department of Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 210029, Nanjing, China. .,Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Personalized Cancer Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, 211166, Nanjing, China.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Chang YC, Li CH, Chan MH, Chen MH, Yeh CN, Hsiao M. Regorafenib inhibits epithelial-mesenchymal transition and suppresses cholangiocarcinoma metastasis via YAP1-AREG axis. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:391. [PMID: 35449153 PMCID: PMC9023529 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-04816-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a subtype of bile duct cancer usually diagnosed late with a low survival rate and no satisfactorily systemic treatment. Recently, regorafenib has been accepted as a second-line treatment for CCA patients. In this study, we investigated the potential signal transduction pathways mediated by regorafenib. We established a transcriptomic database for regorafenib-treated CCA cells using expression microarray chips. Our data indicate that regorafenib inhibits yes-associated protein 1 (YAP1) activity in various CCA cells. In addition, we demonstrated that YAP1 regulates epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related genes, including E-cadherin and SNAI2. We further examined YAP1 activity, phosphorylation status, and expression levels of YAP1 downstream target genes in the regorafenib model. We found that regorafenib dramatically suppressed these events in CCA cells. Moreover, in vivo results revealed that regorafenib could significantly inhibit lung foci formation and tumorigenicity. Most importantly, regorafenib and amphiregulin (AREG) neutralize antibody exhibited synergistic effects against CCA cells. In a clinical setting, patients with high YAP1 and EMT expression had a worse survival rate than patients with low YAP1, and EMT expression did. In addition, we found that YAP1 upregulated the downstream target amphiregulin in CCA. Our findings suggest that AREG neutralizing antibody antibodies combined with regorafenib can reverse the CCA metastatic phenotype and EMT in vitro and in vivo. These findings provide novel therapeutic strategies to combat the metastasis of CCA.
Collapse
|
28
|
Allegra A, Cicero N, Tonacci A, Musolino C, Gangemi S. Circular RNA as a Novel Biomarker for Diagnosis and Prognosis and Potential Therapeutic Targets in Multiple Myeloma. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14071700. [PMID: 35406472 PMCID: PMC8997050 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14071700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Revised: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a novel type of covalently closed RNAs involved in several physiological and pathological processes. They display tissue-specific expression and are constant, abundant, and highly conserved, making them perfect markers for diagnosis and prognosis. Several studies have proposed that circRNAs are also differentially produced in malignancies where they have oncogenic effects. Furthermore, circRNAs affecting microRNAs modify the expression profile of several transcription factors which play essential roles in tumors. CircRNAs within the hematopoietic compartment were identified as modulators of mechanisms able to enhance or suppress tumor progression in blood malignancies. Moreover, several circRNAs were suggested to confer resistance to the conventional drugs employed in hematopoietic cancers. In this review, we highlight the growing role and the controlling mechanisms by which circRNAs modify multiple myeloma genesis. We propose that circRNAs can be considered as potential diagnostic and prognostic markers, can induce chemoresistance, and might represent novel therapeutic targets for multiple myeloma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Allegra
- Department of Human Pathology in Adulthood and Childhood “Gaetano Barresi”, Division of Hematology, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy;
- Correspondence:
| | - Nicola Cicero
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy;
| | - Alessandro Tonacci
- Clinical Physiology Institute, National Research Council of Italy (IFC-CNR), 56124 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Caterina Musolino
- Department of Human Pathology in Adulthood and Childhood “Gaetano Barresi”, Division of Hematology, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy;
| | - Sebastiano Gangemi
- Allergy and Clinical Immunology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy;
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
ETV4 potentiates nuclear YAP retention and activities to enhance the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma. Cancer Lett 2022; 537:215640. [PMID: 35296440 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2022.215640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Dysregulation of the Hippo pathway that promotes cell survival, proliferation and tumorigenesis, relays on the coordinated interactions of YAP with the factors that determine YAP translocation and the related transcriptional programming. Here, we demonstrate that ETV4, a transcriptional factor participating in various protumorigenic processes, enhances YAP-mediated transactivation and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression. Mechanistically, the enhancement of YAP activities is mediated by the interaction between ETV4 and YAP, which not only increases nuclear YAP accumulation but also directly augments the YAP/TEAD4-mediated transcriptional activation in tumor cells. Functionally, the interplay of ETV4 and YAP promotes growth of liver tumor cells, and activates the genes related to myeloid cell recruitment, including CXCL1 and CXCL5, leading to an enriched presence of myeloid-derived suppressive cells and macrophages but a decreased infiltration of T cells and NK cells in transplanted tumors. More importantly, the correlations between YAP activation, the altered immune cell distribution and ETV4 expression are observed in human HCCs. Therefore, our study reveals a functional interaction between ETV4 and YAP that contributes to HCC progression, and provides mechanistic insights into the regulation of nuclear YAP retention and transactivation.
Collapse
|
30
|
Non-canonical role of Hippo tumor suppressor serine/threonine kinase 3 STK3 in prostate cancer. Mol Ther 2022; 30:485-500. [PMID: 34450249 PMCID: PMC8753456 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2021.08.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Revised: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Serine/threonine kinase 3 (STK3) is an essential member of the highly conserved Hippo tumor suppressor pathway that regulates Yes-associated protein 1 (YAP1) and TAZ. STK3 and its paralog STK4 initiate a phosphorylation cascade that regulates YAP1/TAZ inhibition and degradation, which is important for regulated cell growth and organ size. Deregulation of this pathway leads to hyperactivation of YAP1 in various cancers. Counter to the canonical tumor suppression role of STK3, we report that in the context of prostate cancer (PC), STK3 has a pro-tumorigenic role. Our investigation started with the observation that STK3, but not STK4, is frequently amplified in PC. Additionally, high STK3 expression is associated with decreased overall survival and positively correlates with androgen receptor (AR) activity in metastatic castrate-resistant PC. XMU-MP-1, an STK3/4 inhibitor, slowed cell proliferation, spheroid growth, and Matrigel invasion in multiple models. Genetic depletion of STK3 decreased proliferation in several PC cell lines. In a syngeneic allograft model, STK3 loss slowed tumor growth kinetics in vivo, and biochemical analysis suggests a mitotic growth arrest phenotype. To further probe the role of STK3 in PC, we identified and validated a new set of selective STK3 inhibitors, with enhanced kinase selectivity relative to XMU-MP-1, that inhibited tumor spheroid growth and invasion. Consistent with the canonical role, inhibition of STK3 induced cardiomyocyte growth and had chemoprotective effects. Our results indicate that STK3 has a non-canonical role in PC progression and that inhibition of STK3 may have a therapeutic potential for PC that merits further investigation.
Collapse
|
31
|
RNF6 promotes the migration and invasion of breast cancer by promoting the ubiquitination and degradation of MST1. Exp Ther Med 2022; 23:118. [PMID: 34970341 PMCID: PMC8713179 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2021.11041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2019] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Ring finger protein 6 (RNF6), a member of E3 ubiquitin ligases, plays a potential role as a tumour promoter in numerous carcinomas. However, the role and expression of RNF6 in breast cancer (BC) remains to be elucidated. The present study showed that RNF6 upregulation was detected in BC tissues and was associated with short survival in patients with BC. Multivariate analysis also revealed that RNF6 overexpression is an independent predictor for poor outcome of patients with BC. Furthermore, migration and metastasis assay indicated that RNF6 silencing significantly inhibited the invasion and migration of BC cells in vivo and in vitro, and RNF6 suppression decreased YES-associated protein (YAP) expression. RNF6 promoted the metastatic ability of BC cells via YAP. Mechanistically, RNF6 interacts with mammalian STE20-like protein kinase 1 (MST1), a key factor that regulates YAP, and promoted its ubiquitination and degradation. Additionally, RNF6 regulated YAP signalling by promoting ubiquitination and degradation of MST1 in BC. Taken together, these data may highlight a role of RNF6 in BC, which could serve as a valuable prognostic indicator and potential therapeutic target for patients with BC.
Collapse
|
32
|
The YAP/TAZ Signaling Pathway in the Tumor Microenvironment and Carcinogenesis: Current Knowledge and Therapeutic Promises. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 23:ijms23010430. [PMID: 35008857 PMCID: PMC8745604 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23010430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The yes-associated protein (YAP) and the transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ) are transcriptional coactivators, members of the Hippo signaling pathway, which play a critical role in cell growth regulation, embryonic development, regeneration, proliferation, and cancer origin and progression. The mechanism involves the nuclear binding of the un-phosphorylated YAP/TAZ complex to release the transcriptional enhanced associate domain (TEAD) from its repressors. The active ternary complex is responsible for the aforementioned biological effects. Overexpression of YAP/TAZ has been reported in cancer stem cells and tumor resistance. The resistance involves chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. This review provides an overview of YAP/TAZ pathways’ role in carcinogenesis and tumor microenvironment. Potential therapeutic alternatives are also discussed.
Collapse
|
33
|
Casati G, Giunti L, Iorio AL, Marturano A, Galli L, Sardi I. Hippo Pathway in Regulating Drug Resistance of Glioblastoma. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222413431. [PMID: 34948224 PMCID: PMC8705144 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222413431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Revised: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) represents the most common and malignant tumor of the Central Nervous System (CNS), affecting both children and adults. GBM is one of the deadliest tumor types and it shows a strong multidrug resistance (MDR) and an immunosuppressive microenvironment which remain a great challenge to therapy. Due to the high recurrence of GBM after treatment, the understanding of the chemoresistance phenomenon and how to stimulate the antitumor immune response in this pathology is crucial. The deregulation of the Hippo pathway is involved in tumor genesis, chemoresistance and immunosuppressive nature of GBM. This pathway is an evolutionarily conserved signaling pathway with a kinase cascade core, which controls the translocation of YAP (Yes-Associated Protein)/TAZ (Transcriptional Co-activator with PDZ-binding Motif) into the nucleus, leading to regulation of organ size and growth. With this review, we want to highlight how chemoresistance and tumor immunosuppression work in GBM and how the Hippo pathway has a key role in them. We linger on the role of the Hippo pathway evaluating the effect of its de-regulation among different human cancers. Moreover, we consider how different pathways are cross-linked with the Hippo signaling in GBM genesis and the hypothetical mechanisms responsible for the Hippo pathway activation in GBM. Furthermore, we describe various drugs targeting the Hippo pathway. In conclusion, all the evidence described largely support a strong involvement of the Hippo pathway in gliomas progression, in the activation of chemoresistance mechanisms and in the development of an immunosuppressive microenvironment. Therefore, this pathway is a promising target for the treatment of high grade gliomas and in particular of GBM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Casati
- Neuro-Oncology Unit, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Meyer Children’s Hospital, 50139 Florence, Italy; (L.G.); (A.L.I.); (A.M.); (I.S.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Laura Giunti
- Neuro-Oncology Unit, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Meyer Children’s Hospital, 50139 Florence, Italy; (L.G.); (A.L.I.); (A.M.); (I.S.)
| | - Anna Lisa Iorio
- Neuro-Oncology Unit, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Meyer Children’s Hospital, 50139 Florence, Italy; (L.G.); (A.L.I.); (A.M.); (I.S.)
| | - Arianna Marturano
- Neuro-Oncology Unit, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Meyer Children’s Hospital, 50139 Florence, Italy; (L.G.); (A.L.I.); (A.M.); (I.S.)
| | - Luisa Galli
- Infectious Disease Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy;
| | - Iacopo Sardi
- Neuro-Oncology Unit, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Meyer Children’s Hospital, 50139 Florence, Italy; (L.G.); (A.L.I.); (A.M.); (I.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Larrew T, Saway BF, Lowe SR, Olar A. Molecular Classification and Therapeutic Targets in Ependymoma. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13246218. [PMID: 34944845 PMCID: PMC8699461 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13246218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 12/05/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Ependymoma is a biologically diverse tumor wherein molecular classification has superseded traditional histological grading based on its superior ability to characterize behavior, prognosis, and possible targeted therapies. The current, updated molecular classification of ependymoma consists of ten distinct subgroups spread evenly among the spinal, infratentorial, and supratentorial compartments, each with its own distinct clinical and molecular characteristics. In this review, the history, histopathology, standard of care, prognosis, oncogenic drivers, and hypothesized molecular targets for all subgroups of ependymoma are explored. This review emphasizes that despite the varied behavior of the ependymoma subgroups, it remains clear that research must be performed to further elucidate molecular targets for these tumors. Although not all ependymoma subgroups are oncologically aggressive, development of targeted therapies is essential, particularly for cases where surgical resection is not an option without causing significant morbidity. The development of molecular therapies must rely on building upon our current understanding of ependymoma oncogenesis, as well as cultivating transfer of knowledge based on malignancies with similar genomic alterations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Larrew
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA; (T.L.); (B.F.S.)
| | - Brian Fabian Saway
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA; (T.L.); (B.F.S.)
| | | | - Adriana Olar
- NOMIX Laboratories, Denver, CO 80218, USA
- Correspondence: or
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Recent Therapeutic Approaches to Modulate the Hippo Pathway in Oncology and Regenerative Medicine. Cells 2021; 10:cells10102715. [PMID: 34685695 PMCID: PMC8534579 DOI: 10.3390/cells10102715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Revised: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The Hippo pathway is an evolutionary conserved signaling network that regulates essential processes such as organ size, cell proliferation, migration, stemness and apoptosis. Alterations in this pathway are commonly found in solid tumors and can lead to hyperproliferation, resistance to chemotherapy, compensation for mKRAS and tumor immune evasion. As the terminal effectors of the Hippo pathway, the transcriptional coactivators YAP1/TAZ and the transcription factors TEAD1–4 present exciting opportunities to pharmacologically modulate the Hippo biology in cancer settings, inflammation and regenerative medicine. This review will provide an overview of the progress and current strategies to directly and indirectly target the YAP1/TAZ protein–protein interaction (PPI) with TEAD1–4 across multiple modalities, with focus on recent small molecules able to selectively bind to TEAD, block its autopalmitoylation and inhibit YAP1/TAZ–TEAD-dependent transcription in cancer.
Collapse
|
36
|
Shim J, Goldsmith KC. A New Player in Neuroblastoma: YAP and Its Role in the Neuroblastoma Microenvironment. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13184650. [PMID: 34572875 PMCID: PMC8472533 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13184650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Revised: 09/11/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuroblastoma is the most common extra-cranial pediatric solid tumor that accounts for more than 15% of childhood cancer-related deaths. High risk neuroblastomas that recur during or after intense multimodal therapy have a <5% chance at a second sustained remission or cure. The solid tumor microenvironment (TME) has been increasingly recognized to play a critical role in cancer progression and resistance to therapy, including in neuroblastoma. The Yes-Associated Protein (YAP) in the Hippo pathway can regulate cancer proliferation, tumor initiation, and therapy response in many cancer types and as such, its role in the TME has gained interest. In this review, we focus on YAP and its role in neuroblastoma and further describe its demonstrated and potential effects on the neuroblastoma TME. We also discuss the therapeutic strategies for inhibiting YAP in neuroblastoma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jenny Shim
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA;
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Kelly C. Goldsmith
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA;
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
- Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-404-727-2655
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Qian X, Zhang W, Yang H, Zhang L, Kang N, Lai J. Role of Yes-associated Protein-1 in Gastrointestinal Cancers and Hepatocellular Carcinoma. EXPLORATORY RESEARCH AND HYPOTHESIS IN MEDICINE 2021; 6:110-117. [PMID: 34589656 PMCID: PMC8478289 DOI: 10.14218/erhm.2021.00017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Yes-associated protein-1 (YAP1) is a potent transcriptional co-activator and functions as an important downstream effector of the Hippo signaling pathway, which is key to regulating cell proliferation, apoptosis, and organ growth. YAP1 has been implicated as an oncogene for various human cancers including gastrointestinal cancers and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). YAP1 promotes tumorigenesis and cancer progression by multiple mechanisms, such as by promoting malignant phenotypes, expanding cancer stem cells, and inducing epithelial-mesenchymal transition. YAP1 overexpression or its activated forms are associated with advanced pathological grades and poor prognosis of cancer, and therefore targeting YAP1 may open a fertile avenue for cancer therapy. In this review, we summarize the recent evidence regarding the role of YAP1 in the carcinogenesis of gastrointestinal cancers and HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xia Qian
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Wei Zhang
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Hua Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Emory Eye Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Lanjing Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Princeton Medical center, Rutgers University, Plainsboro, NJ, USA
| | - Ningling Kang
- Tumor Microenvironment and Metastasis, Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, Austin, MN, USA
| | - Jinping Lai
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Kaiser Permanente Sacramento Medical Center, Sacramento, CA, USA
- Correspondence to: Jinping Lai, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Kaiser Permanente Sacramento Medical Center, Sacramento, CA 95825, USA. Tel:+1 916-973-7260, Fax:+1 916-973-7283,
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Schuler LA, Murdoch FE. Endogenous and Therapeutic Estrogens: Maestro Conductors of the Microenvironment of ER+ Breast Cancers. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:3725. [PMID: 34359625 PMCID: PMC8345134 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13153725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Revised: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) marks heterogeneous breast cancers which display a repertoire of somatic genomic mutations and an immune environment that differs from other breast cancer subtypes. These cancers also exhibit distinct biological behaviors; despite an overall better prognosis than HER2+ or triple negative breast cancers, disseminated dormant cells can lead to disease recurrence decades after the initial diagnosis and treatment. Estrogen is the best studied driver of these cancers, and antagonism or reduction of estrogen activity is the cornerstone of therapeutic approaches. In addition to reducing proliferation of ERα+ cancer cells, these treatments also alter signals to multiple other target cells in the environment, including immune cell subpopulations, cancer-associated fibroblasts, and endothelial cells via several distinct estrogen receptors. In this review, we update progress in our understanding of the stromal cells populating the microenvironments of primary and metastatic ER+ tumors, the effects of estrogen on tumor and stromal cells to modulate immune activity and the extracellular matrix, and net outcomes in experimental and clinical studies. We highlight new approaches that will illuminate the unique biology of these cancers, provide the foundation for developing new treatment and prevention strategies, and reduce mortality of this disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Linda A. Schuler
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA;
| | | |
Collapse
|
39
|
Morciano G, Vezzani B, Missiroli S, Boncompagni C, Pinton P, Giorgi C. An Updated Understanding of the Role of YAP in Driving Oncogenic Responses. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13123100. [PMID: 34205830 PMCID: PMC8234554 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13123100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Revised: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary In 2020, the global cancer database GLOBOCAN estimated 19.3 million new cancer cases worldwide. The discovery of targeted therapies may help prognosis and outcome of the patients affected, but the understanding of the plethora of highly interconnected pathways that modulate cell transformation, proliferation, invasion, migration and survival remains an ambitious goal. Here we propose an updated state of the art of YAP as the key protein driving oncogenic response via promoting all those steps at multiple levels. Of interest, the role of YAP in immunosuppression is a field of evolving research and growing interest and this summary about the current pharmacological therapies impacting YAP serves as starting point for future studies. Abstract Yes-associated protein (YAP) has emerged as a key component in cancer signaling and is considered a potent oncogene. As such, nuclear YAP participates in complex and only partially understood molecular cascades that are responsible for the oncogenic response by regulating multiple processes, including cell transformation, tumor growth, migration, and metastasis, and by acting as an important mediator of immune and cancer cell interactions. YAP is finely regulated at multiple levels, and its localization in cells in terms of cytoplasm–nucleus shuttling (and vice versa) sheds light on interesting novel anticancer treatment opportunities and putative unconventional functions of the protein when retained in the cytosol. This review aims to summarize and present the state of the art knowledge about the role of YAP in cancer signaling, first focusing on how YAP differs from WW domain-containing transcription regulator 1 (WWTR1, also named as TAZ) and which upstream factors regulate it; then, this review focuses on the role of YAP in different cancer stages and in the crosstalk between immune and cancer cells as well as growing translational strategies derived from its inhibitory and synergistic effects with existing chemo-, immuno- and radiotherapies.
Collapse
|
40
|
New Insights into the Clinical Implications of Yes-Associated Protein in Lung Cancer: Roles in Drug Resistance, Tumor Immunity, Autophagy, and Organoid Development. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13123069. [PMID: 34202980 PMCID: PMC8234989 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13123069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2021] [Revised: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Innovative advancements in lung cancer treatment have developed over the past decade with the advent of targeted and immune therapies. Yes-associated protein (YAP), an effector of the Hippo pathway, promotes the resistance of these targeted drugs and modulates tumor immunity in lung cancer. YAP is involved in autophagy in lung cancer and plays a prominent role in forming the tubular structure in lung organoids and alveolar differentiation. In this review, we discuss the central roles of YAP in lung cancer and present YAP as a novel target for treating resistance to targeted therapies and immunotherapies in lung cancer. Abstract Despite significant innovations in lung cancer treatment, such as targeted therapy and immunotherapy, lung cancer is still the principal cause of cancer-associated death. Novel strategies to overcome drug resistance and inhibit metastasis in cancer are urgently needed. The Hippo pathway and its effector, Yes-associated protein (YAP), play crucial roles in lung development and alveolar differentiation. YAP is known to mediate mechanotransduction, an important process in lung homeostasis and fibrosis. In lung cancer, YAP promotes metastasis and confers resistance against chemotherapeutic drugs and targeted agents. Recent studies revealed that YAP directly controls the expression of programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) and modulates the tumor microenvironment (TME). YAP not only has a profound relationship with autophagy in lung cancer but also controls alveolar differentiation, and is responsible for tubular structure formation in lung organoids. In this review, we discuss the various roles and clinical implications of YAP in lung cancer and propose that targeting YAP can be a promising strategy for treating lung cancer.
Collapse
|
41
|
Pelosi A, Fiore PF, Di Matteo S, Veneziani I, Caruana I, Ebert S, Munari E, Moretta L, Maggi E, Azzarone B. Pediatric Tumors-Mediated Inhibitory Effect on NK Cells: The Case of Neuroblastoma and Wilms' Tumors. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13102374. [PMID: 34069127 PMCID: PMC8156764 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13102374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Neuroblastoma (NB) and Wilms’ tumor (WT) are the most common childhood solid extracranial tumors. The current treatments consist of a combination of surgery and chemotherapy or radiotherapy in high-risk patients. Such treatments are responsible for significant adverse events requiring long-term monitoring. Thus, a main challenge in NB and WT treatment is the development of novel therapeutic strategies to eliminate or minimize the adverse effects. The characterization of the immune environment could allow for the identification of new therapeutic targets. Herein, we described the interaction between these tumors and innate immune cells, in particular natural killer cells and monocytes. The detection of the immunosuppressive activity of specific NB and WT tumor cells on natural killer cells and on monocytes could offer novel cellular and molecular targets for an effective immunotherapy of NB and WT. Abstract Natural killer (NK) cells play a key role in the control of cancer development, progression and metastatic dissemination. However, tumor cells develop an array of strategies capable of impairing the activation and function of the immune system, including NK cells. In this context, a major event is represented by the establishment of an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) composed of stromal cells, myeloid-derived suppressor cells, tumor-associated macrophages, regulatory T cells and cancer cells themselves. The different immunoregulatory cells infiltrating the TME, through the release of several immunosuppressive molecules or by cell-to-cell interactions, cause an impairment of the recruitment of NK cells and other lymphocytes with effector functions. The different mechanisms by which stromal and tumor cells impair NK cell function have been particularly explored in adult solid tumors and, in less depth, investigated and discussed in a pediatric setting. In this review, we will compare pediatric and adult solid malignancies concerning the respective mechanisms of NK cell inhibition, highlighting novel key data in neuroblastoma and Wilms’ tumor, two of the most frequent pediatric extracranial solid tumors. Indeed, both tumors are characterized by the presence of stromal cells acting through the release of immunosuppressive molecules. In addition, specific tumor cell subsets inhibit NK cell cytotoxic function by cell-to-cell contact mechanisms likely controlled by the transcriptional coactivator TAZ. These findings could lead to a more performant diagnostic approach and to the development of novel immunotherapeutic strategies targeting the identified cellular and molecular targets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Pelosi
- Immunology Research Area, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy; (A.P.); (P.F.F.); (S.D.M.); (I.V.); (L.M.)
| | - Piera Filomena Fiore
- Immunology Research Area, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy; (A.P.); (P.F.F.); (S.D.M.); (I.V.); (L.M.)
| | - Sabina Di Matteo
- Immunology Research Area, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy; (A.P.); (P.F.F.); (S.D.M.); (I.V.); (L.M.)
| | - Irene Veneziani
- Immunology Research Area, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy; (A.P.); (P.F.F.); (S.D.M.); (I.V.); (L.M.)
| | - Ignazio Caruana
- Department of Paediatric Haematology, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, University Children’s Hospital of Würzburg, 97080 Würzburg, Germany; (I.C.); (S.E.)
| | - Stefan Ebert
- Department of Paediatric Haematology, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, University Children’s Hospital of Würzburg, 97080 Würzburg, Germany; (I.C.); (S.E.)
| | - Enrico Munari
- Pathology Unit, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25121 Brescia, Italy;
| | - Lorenzo Moretta
- Immunology Research Area, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy; (A.P.); (P.F.F.); (S.D.M.); (I.V.); (L.M.)
| | - Enrico Maggi
- Immunology Research Area, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy; (A.P.); (P.F.F.); (S.D.M.); (I.V.); (L.M.)
- Correspondence: (E.M.); (B.A.)
| | - Bruno Azzarone
- Immunology Research Area, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy; (A.P.); (P.F.F.); (S.D.M.); (I.V.); (L.M.)
- Correspondence: (E.M.); (B.A.)
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Keshinro A, Vanderbilt C, Kim JK, Firat C, Chen CT, Yaeger R, Ganesh K, Segal NH, Gonen M, Shia J, Stadler Z, Weiser MR. Tumor-Infiltrating Lymphocytes, Tumor Mutational Burden, and Genetic Alterations in Microsatellite Unstable, Microsatellite Stable, or Mutant POLE/POLD1 Colon Cancer. JCO Precis Oncol 2021; 5:PO.20.00456. [PMID: 34250404 PMCID: PMC8232557 DOI: 10.1200/po.20.00456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Revised: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
To characterize the relationship between tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL), tumor mutational burden (TMB), and genetic alterations in microsatellite stable (MSS), microsatellite instability (MSI), or mutant POLE/POLD1 colon cancer. MATERIALS AND METHODS Four hundred ninety-nine resected stage I-III colon tumors treated between 2014 and 2019 were assessed for TIL; somatic mutations, copy number alterations, and structural changes in > 400 oncogenes; and MSI status. RESULTS Of the 499 tumors analyzed, 313 were MSS, 175 were MSI, and 11 had POLE/POLD1 pathogenic mutations. Both the percentage of tumors with a high level of TIL (≥ 4 lymphocytes per high-power field) and the median TMB differed significantly between the three phenotypes: MSS, 4.5% and 6 mutations/Mb; MSI, 68% and 54 mutations/Mb; POLE/POLD1, 82% and 158 mutations/Mb (P < .05). Within each phenotype, TMB did not vary significantly with TIL level. Among MSI tumors, the median number of frameshift indels was significantly higher in tumors with high levels of TIL (20 v 17; P = .018). In the MSS group, significantly higher proportions of tumors with high levels of TIL had mutations in the transforming growth factor-β (36% v 12%; P = .01), RAS (86% v 54%; P = .02), and Hippo (7% v 1%; P = .046) pathways; in contrast, TP53 alterations were associated with low levels of TIL (74% v 43%; P = .01). CONCLUSION The association between TIL, TMB, and genetic alterations varies significantly between MSI, MSS, and mutant POLE/POLD1 colon tumors. These differences may help explain tumoral immunity and lead to predictors of response to immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ajaratu Keshinro
- Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Chad Vanderbilt
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Jin K. Kim
- Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Canan Firat
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Chin-Tung Chen
- Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Rona Yaeger
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Karuna Ganesh
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Neil H. Segal
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Mithat Gonen
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Jinru Shia
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Zsofia Stadler
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Martin R. Weiser
- Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
New Insights into YES-Associated Protein Signaling Pathways in Hematological Malignancies: Diagnostic and Therapeutic Challenges. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13081981. [PMID: 33924049 PMCID: PMC8073623 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13081981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Revised: 04/03/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary YES-associated protein (YAP) is a co-transcriptional activator that binds to transcriptional factors to increase the rate of transcription of a set of genes, and it can intervene in the onset and progression of different tumors. Most of the data in the literature refer to the effects of the YAP system in solid neoplasms. In this review, we analyze the possibility that YAP can also intervene in hematological neoplasms such as lymphomas, multiple myeloma, and acute and chronic leukemias, modifying the phenomena of cell proliferation and cell death. The possibilities of pharmacological intervention related to the YAP system in an attempt to use its modulation therapeutically are also discussed. Abstract The Hippo/YES-associated protein (YAP) signaling pathway is a cell survival and proliferation-control system with its main activity that of regulating cell growth and organ volume. YAP operates as a transcriptional coactivator in regulating the onset, progression, and treatment response in numerous human tumors. Moreover, there is evidence suggesting the involvement of YAP in the control of the hematopoietic system, in physiological conditions rather than in hematological diseases. Nevertheless, several reports have proposed that the effects of YAP in tumor cells are cell-dependent and cell-type-determined, even if YAP usually interrelates with extracellular signaling to stimulate the onset and progression of tumors. In the present review, we report the most recent findings in the literature on the relationship between the YAP system and hematological neoplasms. Moreover, we evaluate the possible therapeutic use of the modulation of the YAP system in the treatment of malignancies. Given the effects of the YAP system in immunosurveillance, tumorigenesis, and chemoresistance, further studies on interactions between the YAP system and hematological malignancies will offer very relevant information for the targeting of these diseases employing YAP modifiers alone or in combination with chemotherapy drugs.
Collapse
|
44
|
Yuan HY, Lv YJ, Chen Y, Li D, Li X, Qu J, Yan H. TEAD4 is a novel independent predictor of prognosis in LGG patients with IDH mutation. Open Life Sci 2021; 16:323-335. [PMID: 33889755 PMCID: PMC8042920 DOI: 10.1515/biol-2021-0039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2020] [Revised: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
TEA domain family members (TEADs) play important roles in tumor progression. Till now, the genomic status of TEADs in patients with glioma has not been well investigated. To confirm whether the genomic status of TEADs could affect the prognosis of patients with glioma, the copy number variation (CNV), mutation and expression data of glioma cohorts in The Cancer Genome Atlas, Gene Expression Omnibus and Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas were comprehensively analyzed. Results showed that TEAD CNV frequency in lower grade gliomas (LGGs) was higher than in glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). Multivariate cox regression analysis showed that TEAD4 CNV increase was significantly associated with overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) in LGGs (OS p = 0.022, HR = 1.444, 95% CI: 1.054–1.978; DFS p = 0.005, HR = 1.485, 95% CI: 1.124–1.962), while not in GBM. Patients with TEAD4 CNV increase showed higher expression level of TEAD4 gene. In LGG patients with IDH mutation, those with higher TEAD4 expression levels had shorter OS and DFS. Integrating TEAD4 CNV increase, IDH mutations, TP53 mutation, ATRX mutation and 1p19q co-deletion would separate patients with LGG into four groups with significant differences in prognosis. These study results suggested that TEAD4 variations were independent predictive biomarkers for the prognosis in patients with LGG with IDH mutation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hai-Yan Yuan
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410011, People's Republic of China
| | - Ya-Juan Lv
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, People's Republic of China.,Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Central South University, Changsha 410078, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi Chen
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, People's Republic of China.,Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Central South University, Changsha 410078, People's Republic of China
| | - Dan Li
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, People's Republic of China.,Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Central South University, Changsha 410078, People's Republic of China
| | - Xi Li
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, People's Republic of China.,Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Central South University, Changsha 410078, People's Republic of China
| | - Jian Qu
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410011, People's Republic of China
| | - Han Yan
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410011, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Zhang Y, Fan Y, Jing X, Zhao L, Liu T, Wang L, Zhang L, Gu S, Zhao X, Teng Y. OTUD5-mediated deubiquitination of YAP in macrophage promotes M2 phenotype polarization and favors triple-negative breast cancer progression. Cancer Lett 2021; 504:104-115. [PMID: 33587979 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2021.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Revised: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Macrophages, which are highly plastic, can be polarized to M1 or M2 subtypes according to the diverse signals in complex microenvironment. Studies have shown the activation of YAP, an oncogenic transcriptional co-activator, increased macrophage recruitment. However, its role in macrophage polarization remains to be elucidated, especially in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) progression. Here we found TNBC cells increased YAP expression in macrophages, which depended on OTUD5-mediated deubiquitination and stabilization of YAP, then the high expression of YAP polarized macrophage to the M2-like phenotype. Moreover, the elevation of YAP in M2-like macrophage promotes the pro-metastatic potential of TNBC cells via MCP-1/CCR2 pathway. We also observed high expression of YAP in M2 macrophage was negatively related to survival. Collectively, our finding suggested the therapeutic strategy that targets YAP+ M2 macrophage could be a novel option for TNBC treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yujiao Zhang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China; Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yizeng Fan
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.
| | - Xin Jing
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Lin Zhao
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Tianjie Liu
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Lu Wang
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Lifen Zhang
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Shanzhi Gu
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Medical School of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.
| | - Xinhan Zhao
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.
| | - Yan Teng
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Krossa I, Ballotti R, Bertolotto C. The ERK signaling pathway returns to the limelight in uveal melanomas. Pigment Cell Melanoma Res 2021; 34:832-833. [PMID: 33548110 DOI: 10.1111/pcmr.12965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
|
47
|
Hooglugt A, van der Stoel MM, Boon RA, Huveneers S. Endothelial YAP/TAZ Signaling in Angiogenesis and Tumor Vasculature. Front Oncol 2021; 10:612802. [PMID: 33614496 PMCID: PMC7890025 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.612802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Solid tumors are dependent on vascularization for their growth. The hypoxic, stiff, and pro-angiogenic tumor microenvironment induces angiogenesis, giving rise to an immature, proliferative, and permeable vasculature. The tumor vessels promote tumor metastasis and complicate delivery of anti-cancer therapies. In many types of tumors, YAP/TAZ activation is correlated with increased levels of angiogenesis. In addition, endothelial YAP/TAZ activation is important for the formation of new blood and lymphatic vessels during development. Oncogenic activation of YAP/TAZ in tumor cell growth and invasion has been studied in great detail, however the role of YAP/TAZ within the tumor endothelium remains insufficiently understood, which complicates therapeutic strategies aimed at targeting YAP/TAZ in cancer. Here, we overview the upstream signals from the tumor microenvironment that control endothelial YAP/TAZ activation and explore the role of their downstream targets in driving tumor angiogenesis. We further discuss the potential for anti-cancer treatments and vascular normalization strategies to improve tumor therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aukie Hooglugt
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Physiology, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Miesje M. van der Stoel
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Reinier A. Boon
- Department of Physiology, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Rhein-Main, Berlin, Germany
- Institute of Cardiovascular Regeneration, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Stephan Huveneers
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Canzonetta C, Pelosi A, Di Matteo S, Veneziani I, Tumino N, Vacca P, Munari E, Pezzullo M, Theuer C, De Vito R, Pistoia V, Tomao L, Locatelli F, Moretta L, Caruana I, Azzarone B. Identification of neuroblastoma cell lines with uncommon TAZ +/mesenchymal stromal cell phenotype with strong suppressive activity on natural killer cells. J Immunother Cancer 2021; 9:jitc-2020-001313. [PMID: 33452207 PMCID: PMC7813384 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2020-001313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Neuroblastoma (NB) is the most common, extracranial childhood solid tumor arising from neural crest progenitor cells and is a primary cause of death in pediatric patients. In solid tumors, stromal elements recruited or generated by the cancer cells favor the development of an immune-suppressive microenvironment. Herein, we investigated in NB cell lines and in NB biopsies, the presence of cancer cells with mesenchymal phenotype and determined the immune-suppressive properties of these tumor cells on natural killer (NK) cells. Methods We assessed the mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC)-like phenotype and function of five human NB cell lines and the presence of this particular subset of neuroblasts in NB biopsies using flow-cytometry, immunohistochemistry, RT-qPCR, cytotoxicity assays, western blot and silencing strategy. We corroborated our data consulting a public gene-expression dataset. Results Two NB cell lines, SK-N-AS and SK-N-BE(2)C, exhibited an unprecedented MSC phenotype (CD105+/CD90+/CD73+/CD29+/CD146+/GD2+/TAZ+). In these NB-MSCs, the ectoenzyme CD73 and the oncogenic/immune-regulatory transcriptional coactivator TAZ were peculiar markers. Their MSC-like nature was confirmed by their adipogenic and osteogenic differentiation potential. Immunohistochemical analysis confirmed the presence of neuroblasts with MSC phenotype (CD105+/CD73+/TAZ+). Moreover, a public gene-expression dataset revealed that, in stage IV NB, a higher expression of TAZ and CD105 strongly correlated with a poorer outcome. Among the NB-cell lines analyzed, only NB-MSCs exhibited multifactorial resistance to NK-mediated lysis, inhibition of activating NK receptors, signal adaptors and of NK-cell cytotoxicity through cell-cell contact mediated mechanisms. The latter property was controlled partially by TAZ, since its silencing in NB cells efficiently rescued NK-cell cytotoxic activity, while its overexpression induced opposite effects in non-NB-MSC cells. Conclusions We identified a novel NB immunoregulatory subset that: (i) displayed phenotypic and functional properties of MSC, (ii) mediated multifactorial resistance to NK-cell-induced killing and (iii) efficiently inhibited, in coculture, the cytotoxic activity of NK cells against target cells through a TAZ-dependent mechanism. These findings indicate that targeting novel cellular and molecular components may disrupt the immunomodulatory milieu of the NB microenvironment ameliorating the response to conventional treatments as well as to advanced immunotherapeutic approaches, including adoptive transfer of NK cells and chimeric antigen receptor T or NK cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Andrea Pelosi
- Immunology Area, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Sabina Di Matteo
- Immunology Area, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Irene Veneziani
- Immunology Area, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Nicola Tumino
- Immunology Area, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Vacca
- Immunology Area, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Enrico Munari
- Pathology Department, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria, Negrar, Verona, Veneto, Italy.,Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Marco Pezzullo
- Core Facilities, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Rita De Vito
- Anatomical Pathology Area, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Vito Pistoia
- Immunology Area, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Luigi Tomao
- Department of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology, Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Franco Locatelli
- Department of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology, Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy.,Department of Gynaecology/Obstetrics and Paediatrics, Sapienza, University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Moretta
- Immunology Area, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Ignazio Caruana
- Department of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology, Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy .,Department of Paediatric Haematology, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation University Children's Hospital of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Bruno Azzarone
- Immunology Area, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
YAP and endothelin-1 signaling: an emerging alliance in cancer. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2021; 40:27. [PMID: 33422090 PMCID: PMC7797087 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-021-01827-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Accepted: 01/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The rational making the G protein-coupled receptors (GPCR) the centerpiece of targeted therapies is fueled by the awareness that GPCR-initiated signaling acts as pivotal driver of the early stages of progression in a broad landscape of human malignancies. The endothelin-1 (ET-1) receptors (ET-1R), known as ETA receptor (ETAR) and ETB receptor (ETBR) that belong to the GPCR superfamily, affect both cancer initiation and progression in a variety of cancer types. By the cross-talking with multiple signaling pathways mainly through the scaffold protein β-arrestin1 (β-arr1), ET-1R axis cooperates with an array of molecular determinants, including transcription factors and co-factors, strongly affecting tumor cell fate and behavior. In this scenario, recent findings shed light on the interplay between ET-1 and the Hippo pathway. In ETAR highly expressing tumors ET-1 axis induces the de-phosphorylation and nuclear accumulation of the Hippo pathway downstream effectors, the paralogous transcriptional cofactors Yes-associated protein (YAP) and Transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ). Recent evidence have discovered that ET-1R/β-arr1 axis instigates a transcriptional interplay involving YAP and mutant p53 proteins, which share a common gene signature and cooperate in a oncogenic signaling network. Mechanistically, YAP and mutp53 are enrolled in nuclear complexes that turn on a highly selective YAP/mutp53-dependent transcriptional response. Notably, ET-1R blockade by the FDA approved dual ET-1 receptor antagonist macitentan interferes with ET-1R/YAP/mutp53 signaling interplay, through the simultaneous suppression of YAP and mutp53 functions, hampering metastasis and therapy resistance. Based on these evidences, we aim to review the recent findings linking the GPCR signaling, as for ET-1R, to YAP/TAZ signaling, underlining the clinical relevance of the blockade of such signaling network in the tumor and microenvironmental contexts. In particular, we debate the clinical implications regarding the use of dual ET-1R antagonists to blunt gain of function activity of mutant p53 proteins and thereby considering them as a potential therapeutic option for mutant p53 cancers. The identification of ET-1R/β-arr1-intertwined and bi-directional signaling pathways as targetable vulnerabilities, may open new therapeutic approaches able to disable the ET-1R-orchestrated YAP/mutp53 signaling network in both tumor and stromal cells and concurrently sensitizes to high-efficacy combined therapeutics.
Collapse
|
50
|
Szulzewsky F, Holland EC, Vasioukhin V. YAP1 and its fusion proteins in cancer initiation, progression and therapeutic resistance. Dev Biol 2021; 475:205-221. [PMID: 33428889 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2020.12.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Revised: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
YAP1 is a transcriptional co-activator whose activity is controlled by the Hippo signaling pathway. In addition to important functions in normal tissue homeostasis and regeneration, YAP1 has also prominent functions in cancer initiation, aggressiveness, metastasis, and therapy resistance. In this review we are discussing the molecular functions of YAP1 and its roles in cancer, with a focus on the different mechanisms of de-regulation of YAP1 activity in human cancers, including inactivation of upstream Hippo pathway tumor suppressors, regulation by intersecting pathways, miRNAs, and viral oncogenes. We are also discussing new findings on the function and biology of the recently identified family of YAP1 gene fusions, that constitute a new type of activating mutation of YAP1 and that are the likely oncogenic drivers in several subtypes of human cancers. Lastly, we also discuss different strategies of therapeutic inhibition of YAP1 functions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Frank Szulzewsky
- Human Biology Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, 98109, USA.
| | - Eric C Holland
- Human Biology Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, 98109, USA; Seattle Tumor Translational Research Center, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, 98109, USA
| | - Valeri Vasioukhin
- Human Biology Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, 98109, USA
| |
Collapse
|