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Jiang N, Hu Y, Wang M, Zhao Z, Li M. The Notch Signaling Pathway Contributes to Angiogenesis and Tumor Immunity in Breast Cancer. BREAST CANCER: TARGETS AND THERAPY 2022; 14:291-309. [PMID: 36193236 PMCID: PMC9526507 DOI: 10.2147/bctt.s376873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Breast cancer in women is the first leading tumor in terms of incidence worldwide. Some subtypes of BC lack distinct molecular targets and exhibit therapeutic resistance; these patients have a poor prognosis. Thus, the search for new molecular targets is an ongoing challenge for BC therapy. The Notch signaling pathway is found in both vertebrates and invertebrates, and it is a highly conserved in the evolution of the species, controlling cellular fates such as death, proliferation, and differentiation. Numerous studies have shown that improper activation of Notch signaling may lead to excessive cell proliferation and cancer, with tumor-promoting and tumor-suppressive effects in various carcinomas. Thus, inhibitors of Notch signaling are actively being investigated for the treatment of various tumors. The role of Notch signaling in BC has been widely studied in recent years. There is a growing body of evidence suggesting that Notch signaling has a pro-oncogenic role in BC, and the tumor-promoting effect is largely a result of the diverse nature of tumor immunity. Immunological abnormality is also a factor involved in the pathogenesis of BC, suggesting that Notch signaling could be a target for BC immunotherapies. Furthermore, angiogenesis is essential for BC growth and metastasis, and the Notch signaling pathway has been implicated in angiogenesis, so studying the role of Notch signaling in BC angiogenesis will provide new prospects for the treatment of BC. We summarize the potential roles of the current Notch signaling pathway and its inhibitors in BC angiogenesis and the immune response in this review and describe the pharmacological targets of Notch signaling in BC, which may serve as a theoretical foundation for future research into exploring this pathway for novel BC therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Jiang
- Department of Oncology, the Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ye Hu
- Department of Oncology, the Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, People’s Republic of China
| | - Meiling Wang
- Department of Breast Surgery, the Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zuowei Zhao
- Department of Breast Surgery, the Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, People’s Republic of China
- Correspondence: Zuowei Zhao, Department of Breast Surgery, the Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, People’s Republic of China, Tel +86-0411-84671291, Fax +86-0411-84671230, Email
| | - Man Li
- Department of Oncology, the Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, People’s Republic of China
- Man Li, Department of Oncology, the Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, People’s Republic of China, Tel +86-0411-84671291, Fax +86-0411-84671230, Email
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Zhdanovskaya N, Firrincieli M, Lazzari S, Pace E, Scribani Rossi P, Felli MP, Talora C, Screpanti I, Palermo R. Targeting Notch to Maximize Chemotherapeutic Benefits: Rationale, Advanced Strategies, and Future Perspectives. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13205106. [PMID: 34680255 PMCID: PMC8533696 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13205106] [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: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 10/03/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The Notch signaling pathway regulates cell proliferation, apoptosis, stem cell self-renewal, and differentiation in a context-dependent fashion both during embryonic development and in adult tissue homeostasis. Consistent with its pleiotropic physiological role, unproper activation of the signaling promotes or counteracts tumor pathogenesis and therapy response in distinct tissues. In the last twenty years, a wide number of studies have highlighted the anti-cancer potential of Notch-modulating agents as single treatment and in combination with the existent therapies. However, most of these strategies have failed in the clinical exploration due to dose-limiting toxicity and low efficacy, encouraging the development of novel agents and the design of more appropriate combinations between Notch signaling inhibitors and chemotherapeutic drugs with improved safety and effectiveness for distinct types of cancer. Abstract Notch signaling guides cell fate decisions by affecting proliferation, apoptosis, stem cell self-renewal, and differentiation depending on cell and tissue context. Given its multifaceted function during tissue development, both overactivation and loss of Notch signaling have been linked to tumorigenesis in ways that are either oncogenic or oncosuppressive, but always context-dependent. Notch signaling is critical for several mechanisms of chemoresistance including cancer stem cell maintenance, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, tumor-stroma interaction, and malignant neovascularization that makes its targeting an appealing strategy against tumor growth and recurrence. During the last decades, numerous Notch-interfering agents have been developed, and the abundant preclinical evidence has been transformed in orphan drug approval for few rare diseases. However, the majority of Notch-dependent malignancies remain untargeted, even if the application of Notch inhibitors alone or in combination with common chemotherapeutic drugs is being evaluated in clinical trials. The modest clinical success of current Notch-targeting strategies is mostly due to their limited efficacy and severe on-target toxicity in Notch-controlled healthy tissues. Here, we review the available preclinical and clinical evidence on combinatorial treatment between different Notch signaling inhibitors and existent chemotherapeutic drugs, providing a comprehensive picture of molecular mechanisms explaining the potential or lacking success of these combinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadezda Zhdanovskaya
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy; (N.Z.); (M.F.); (S.L.); (E.P.); (P.S.R.); (C.T.)
| | - Mariarosaria Firrincieli
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy; (N.Z.); (M.F.); (S.L.); (E.P.); (P.S.R.); (C.T.)
- Center for Life Nano Science, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Sara Lazzari
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy; (N.Z.); (M.F.); (S.L.); (E.P.); (P.S.R.); (C.T.)
| | - Eleonora Pace
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy; (N.Z.); (M.F.); (S.L.); (E.P.); (P.S.R.); (C.T.)
| | - Pietro Scribani Rossi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy; (N.Z.); (M.F.); (S.L.); (E.P.); (P.S.R.); (C.T.)
| | - Maria Pia Felli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy;
| | - Claudio Talora
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy; (N.Z.); (M.F.); (S.L.); (E.P.); (P.S.R.); (C.T.)
| | - Isabella Screpanti
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy; (N.Z.); (M.F.); (S.L.); (E.P.); (P.S.R.); (C.T.)
- Correspondence: (I.S.); (R.P.)
| | - Rocco Palermo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy; (N.Z.); (M.F.); (S.L.); (E.P.); (P.S.R.); (C.T.)
- Center for Life Nano Science, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 00161 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: (I.S.); (R.P.)
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3
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Nandi A, Chakrabarti R. The many facets of Notch signaling in breast cancer: toward overcoming therapeutic resistance. Genes Dev 2021; 34:1422-1438. [PMID: 33872192 PMCID: PMC7608750 DOI: 10.1101/gad.342287.120] [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] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
In this review, Nandi et al. revisit the mechanisms by which Notch receptors and ligands contribute to normal mammary gland development and breast tumor progression. The authors also discuss combinatorial approaches aimed at disrupting Notch- and TME-mediated resistance that may improve prognosis in breast cancer patients. Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related death in women and is a complex disease with high intratumoral and intertumoral heterogeneity. Such heterogeneity is a major driving force behind failure of current therapies and development of resistance. Due to the limitations of conventional therapies and inevitable emergence of acquired drug resistance (chemo and endocrine) as well as radio resistance, it is essential to design novel therapeutic strategies to improve the prognosis for breast cancer patients. Deregulated Notch signaling within the breast tumor and its tumor microenvironment (TME) is linked to poor clinical outcomes in treatment of resistant breast cancer. Notch receptors and ligands are also important for normal mammary development, suggesting the potential for conserved signaling pathways between normal mammary gland development and breast cancer. In this review, we focus on mechanisms by which Notch receptors and ligands contribute to normal mammary gland development and breast tumor progression. We also discuss how complex interactions between cancer cells and the TME may reduce treatment efficacy and ultimately lead to acquired drug or radio resistance. Potential combinatorial approaches aimed at disrupting Notch- and TME-mediated resistance that may aid in achieving in an improved patient prognosis are also highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ajeya Nandi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, USA
| | - Rumela Chakrabarti
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, USA
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4
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Bai JW, Wei M, Li JW, Zhang GJ. Notch Signaling Pathway and Endocrine Resistance in Breast Cancer. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:924. [PMID: 32636747 PMCID: PMC7318302 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.00924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Accepted: 06/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Nearly 70% of breast cancers express the estrogen receptor (ER) and are hormone-dependent for cell proliferation and survival. Anti-estrogen therapies with aromatase inhibitors (AIs), selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) or selective estrogen receptor down regulators (SERDs) are the standard endocrine therapy approach for ER positive breast cancer patients. However, about 30% of patients receiving endocrine therapy will progress during the therapy or become endocrine resistance eventually. The intrinsic or acquired endocrine resistance has become a major obstacle for endocrine therapy. The mechanism of endocrine resistance is very complicated and recently emerging evidence indicates dysregulation of Notch signaling pathway contributes to endocrine resistance in breast cancer patients. The potential mechanisms include regulation of ER, promotion of cancer stem cell (CSC) phenotype and mesenchymal cell ratio, alteration of the local tumor microenvironment and cell cycle. This review will summarize the latest progress on the investigation of Notch signaling pathway in breast cancer endocrine resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing-Wen Bai
- Department of Oncology, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China.,Cancer Research Center, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Min Wei
- Cancer Research Center, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China.,Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Ji-Wei Li
- Clinical Central Research Core, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Guo-Jun Zhang
- Cancer Research Center, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China.,Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
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5
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Hinz N, Jücker M. Distinct functions of AKT isoforms in breast cancer: a comprehensive review. Cell Commun Signal 2019; 17:154. [PMID: 31752925 PMCID: PMC6873690 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-019-0450-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 187] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2019] [Accepted: 10/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AKT, also known as protein kinase B, is a key element of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Moreover, AKT regulates the hallmarks of cancer, e.g. tumor growth, survival and invasiveness of tumor cells. After AKT was discovered in the early 1990s, further studies revealed that there are three different AKT isoforms, namely AKT1, AKT2 and AKT3. Despite their high similarity of 80%, the distinct AKT isoforms exert non-redundant, partly even opposing effects under physiological and pathological conditions. Breast cancer as the most common cancer entity in women, frequently shows alterations of the PI3K/AKT signaling. MAIN CONTENT A plethora of studies addressed the impact of AKT isoforms on tumor growth, metastasis and angiogenesis of breast cancer as well as on therapy response and overall survival in patients. Therefore, this review aimed to give a comprehensive overview about the isoform-specific effects of AKT in breast cancer and to summarize known downstream and upstream mechanisms. Taking account of conflicting findings among the studies, the majority of the studies reported a tumor initiating role of AKT1, whereas AKT2 is mainly responsible for tumor progression and metastasis. In detail, AKT1 increases cell proliferation through cell cycle proteins like p21, p27 and cyclin D1 and impairs apoptosis e.g. via p53. On the downside AKT1 decreases migration of breast cancer cells, for instance by regulating TSC2, palladin and EMT-proteins. However, AKT2 promotes migration and invasion most notably through regulation of β-integrins, EMT-proteins and F-actin. Whilst AKT3 is associated with a negative ER-status, findings about the role of AKT3 in regulation of the key properties of breast cancer are sparse. Accordingly, AKT1 is mutated and AKT2 is amplified in some cases of breast cancer and AKT isoforms are associated with overall survival and therapy response in an isoform-specific manner. CONCLUSIONS Although there are several discussed hypotheses how isoform specificity is achieved, the mechanisms behind the isoform-specific effects remain mostly unrevealed. As a consequence, further effort is necessary to achieve deeper insights into an isoform-specific AKT signaling in breast cancer and the mechanism behind it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nico Hinz
- Institute of Biochemistry and Signal Transduction, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Manfred Jücker
- Institute of Biochemistry and Signal Transduction, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany.
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Mollen EWJ, Ient J, Tjan-Heijnen VCG, Boersma LJ, Miele L, Smidt ML, Vooijs MAGG. Moving Breast Cancer Therapy up a Notch. Front Oncol 2018; 8:518. [PMID: 30515368 PMCID: PMC6256059 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2018.00518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2018] [Accepted: 10/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the second most common malignancy, worldwide. Treatment decisions are based on tumor stage, histological subtype, and receptor expression and include combinations of surgery, radiotherapy, and systemic treatment. These, together with earlier diagnosis, have resulted in increased survival. However, initial treatment efficacy cannot be guaranteed upfront, and these treatments may come with (long-term) serious adverse effects, negatively affecting a patient's quality of life. Gene expression-based tests can accurately estimate the risk of recurrence in early stage breast cancers. Disease recurrence correlates with treatment resistance, creating a major need to resensitize tumors to treatment. Notch signaling is frequently deregulated in cancer and is involved in treatment resistance. Preclinical research has already identified many combinatory therapeutic options where Notch involvement enhances the effectiveness of radiotherapy, chemotherapy or targeted therapies for breast cancer. However, the benefit of targeting Notch has remained clinically inconclusive. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on targeting the Notch pathway to enhance current treatments for breast cancer and to combat treatment resistance. Furthermore, we propose mechanisms to further exploit Notch-based therapeutics in the treatment of breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik W J Mollen
- Department of Radiotherapy, GROW School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands.,Department of Radiation Oncology (MAASTRO), Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, Netherlands.,Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Jonathan Ient
- Department of Radiotherapy, GROW School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Vivianne C G Tjan-Heijnen
- Department of Radiotherapy, GROW School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands.,Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Liesbeth J Boersma
- Department of Radiotherapy, GROW School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands.,Department of Radiation Oncology (MAASTRO), Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Lucio Miele
- Department of Genetics, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, United States.,Stanley S. Scott Cancer Center, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Marjolein L Smidt
- Department of Radiotherapy, GROW School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands.,Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Marc A G G Vooijs
- Department of Radiotherapy, GROW School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands.,Department of Radiation Oncology (MAASTRO), Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, Netherlands
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7
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Targeting Notch3 in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Perspectives. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 18:ijms18010056. [PMID: 28036048 PMCID: PMC5297691 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18010056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2016] [Revised: 12/12/2016] [Accepted: 12/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The Notch signaling pathway is a very conserved system that controls embryonic cell fate decisions and the maintenance of adult stem cells through cell to cell communication. Accumulating evidence support the relevance of Notch signaling in different human diseases and it is one of the most commonly activated signaling pathways in cancer. This review focuses mainly on the role of Notch3 signaling in hepatocellular carcinoma and its potential therapeutic applications against this malignancy. In this regard, the crosstalk between Notch and p53 may play an important role.
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8
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Labbozzetta M, Poma P, Vivona N, Gulino A, D'Alessandro N, Notarbartolo M. Epigenetic changes and nuclear factor-κB activation, but not microRNA-224, downregulate Raf-1 kinase inhibitor protein in triple-negative breast cancer SUM 159 cells. Oncol Lett 2015; 10:3807-3815. [PMID: 26788213 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2015.3787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2014] [Accepted: 07/07/2015] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Raf-1 kinase inhibitor protein (RKIP) is a tumor suppressor and metastasis inhibitor, which enhances drug-induced apoptosis of cancer cells. Downregulation of RKIP may be significant in the biology of highly aggressive and drug-resistant tumors, for example triple-negative breast cancers (TNBCs). Potential causes for the low levels of RKIP expressed by SUM 159 TNBC cells were investigated in the present study. Bisulphite modification, methylation specific-polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and a TransAM NF-κB assay were performed and the results suggested that various mechanisms, including methylation of the gene promoter, histone deacetylation and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) activation, but not targeting by microRNA-224 (miR/miRNA-224), as determined by transfection of pre-miR-224 miRNA precursor or anti-miR-224 miRNA inhibitor, may downregulate RKIP in these cells. Furthermore, reverse transcription-quantitative PCR, western blotting, 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(3-carboxymethoxyphenyl)-2-(4-sulphophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium cell growth assay and flow cytometry revealed that in SUM 159 cells, the demethylating agent 5-aza-2'-deoxycytidine (5-AZA), the histone deacetylase inhibitor trichostatin A (TSA) and the NF-κB inhibitor dehydroxymethylepoxyquinomicin (DHMEQ) enhanced RKIP expression and resulted in significant cell growth inhibition and induction of apoptosis. 5-AZA and TSA mainly produced additive antitumor effects, while the combination of DHMEQ and TSA exhibited significant synergy in cell growth inhibition and induction of apoptosis assays. Increasing evidence that aberrant activation of NF-κB signaling is a frequent characteristic of TNBC highlights the fact that this transcription factor may be a useful target for treatment of such tumors. In addition to DHMEQ, proteasome inhibitors may also represent valuable therapeutic resources in this context. Notably, proteasome inhibitors, in addition to the inhibition of NF-κB activation, may also restore RKIP levels by inhibiting proteasome degradation of the ubiquitinated protein. The current results contribute to the understanding of the molecular mechanisms of RKIP downregulation in TNBC and suggest possible novel therapeutic approaches for the treatment of these types of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Labbozzetta
- Pharmacology Unit, Department of Health Sciences and Mother and Child Care 'G. D'Alessandro', University of Palermo, Palermo 90127, Italy
| | - Paola Poma
- Pharmacology Unit, Department of Health Sciences and Mother and Child Care 'G. D'Alessandro', University of Palermo, Palermo 90127, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Vivona
- Pharmacology Unit, Department of Health Sciences and Mother and Child Care 'G. D'Alessandro', University of Palermo, Palermo 90127, Italy
| | - Alessandro Gulino
- Tumor Immunology Unit, Department of Health Sciences and Mother and Child Care 'G. D'Alessandro', University of Palermo, Palermo 90127, Italy
| | - Natale D'Alessandro
- Pharmacology Unit, Department of Health Sciences and Mother and Child Care 'G. D'Alessandro', University of Palermo, Palermo 90127, Italy
| | - Monica Notarbartolo
- Pharmacology Unit, Department of Health Sciences and Mother and Child Care 'G. D'Alessandro', University of Palermo, Palermo 90127, Italy
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9
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Meier-Abt F, Bentires-Alj M. How pregnancy at early age protects against breast cancer. Trends Mol Med 2013; 20:143-53. [PMID: 24355762 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2013.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2013] [Revised: 11/17/2013] [Accepted: 11/18/2013] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Pregnancy at an early age has a strong protective effect against breast cancer in humans and rodents. Postulated mechanisms underlying this phenomenon include alterations in the relative dynamics of hormone and growth factor-initiated cell fate-determining signaling pathways within the hierarchically organized mammary gland epithelium. Recent studies in epithelial cell subpopulations isolated from mouse and human mammary glands have shown that early pregnancy decreases the proportion of hormone receptor-positive cells and causes pronounced changes in gene expression as well as decreased proliferation in stem/progenitor cells. The changes include downregulation of Wnt and transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) signaling. These new findings highlight the importance of cell-cell interactions within the mammary gland epithelium in modulating cancer risk and provide potential targets for breast cancer prevention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabienne Meier-Abt
- Mechanisms of Cancer, Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research (FMI), Maulbeerstrasse 66, CH-4058 Basel, Switzerland; Faculty of Science, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50, CH-4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Mohamed Bentires-Alj
- Mechanisms of Cancer, Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research (FMI), Maulbeerstrasse 66, CH-4058 Basel, Switzerland.
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10
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Cheng Y, Diao D, Zhang H, Guo Q, Wu X, Song Y, Dang C. High glucose-induced resistance to 5-fluorouracil in pancreatic cancer cells alleviated by 2-deoxy-D-glucose. Biomed Rep 2013; 2:188-192. [PMID: 24649094 DOI: 10.3892/br.2013.211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2013] [Accepted: 10/22/2013] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Abnormal glucose metabolism from hyperglycemia or diabetes aggravates the progression of pancreatic cancer. It is unknown whether high glucose has an impact on the antitumor effect of 5-fluorouracil (5-Fu) and whether targeting aberrant glucose metabolism using 2-deoxy-D-glucose (2-DG) may reverse this effect in high-glucose microenvironments. The cell viability of AsPC-1 and Panc-1 was analyzed by MTT assay following 5-Fu treatment at different glucose concentrations. Altered sensitivity to 5-Fu by 2-DG was also analyzed. LY294002 was used to inhibit PI3K-Akt signaling to determine the mechanism involved. In response to glucose, 5-Fu-induced cell growth inhibition was attenuated in a dose-dependent manner, accompanied with activated p-Akt, while 2-DG enhanced 5-Fu-induced cell growth inhibition. Moreover, blocking the PI3K/Akt pathway by LY294002 effectively eliminated 2-DG-induced apoptosis. In conclusion, high glucose weakens the antitumor effect of 5-Fu via PI3K/Akt signaling. Using 2-DG in combination with 5-Fu significantly increased their therapeutic effectiveness in high-glucose microenvironments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Cheng
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University College of Medicine, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, P.R. China
| | - Dongmei Diao
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University College of Medicine, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, P.R. China
| | - Hao Zhang
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University College of Medicine, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, P.R. China
| | - Qi Guo
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University College of Medicine, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, P.R. China
| | - Xuandi Wu
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University College of Medicine, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, P.R. China
| | - Yongchun Song
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University College of Medicine, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, P.R. China
| | - Chengxue Dang
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University College of Medicine, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, P.R. China
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Abstract
The notch signalling pathway is involved in differentiation, proliferation, angiogenesis, vascular remodelling, and apoptosis. Deregulated expression of notch receptors, ligands, and targets is observed in many solid tumours, including prostate cancer. Hypoxia is a common feature of prostate tumours, leading to increased gene instability, reduced treatment response, and increased tumour aggressiveness. The notch signalling pathway is known to regulate vascular cell fate and is responsive to hypoxia-inducible factors. Evidence to date suggests similar, therapeutically exploitable, behaviour of notch-activated and hypoxic prostate cancer cells.
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12
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Šale S, Lafkas D, Artavanis-Tsakonas S. Notch2 genetic fate mapping reveals two previously unrecognized mammary epithelial lineages. Nat Cell Biol 2013; 15:451-60. [PMID: 23604318 DOI: 10.1038/ncb2725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2012] [Accepted: 03/06/2013] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Notch signalling is implicated in stem and progenitor cell fate control in numerous organs. Using conditional in vivo genetic labelling we traced the fate of cells expressing the Notch2 receptor paralogue and uncovered the existence of two previously unrecognized mammary epithelial cell lineages that we term S (Small) and L (Large). S cells appear in a bead-on-a-string formation and are embedded between the luminal and basal/myoepithelial layers in a unique reiterative pattern, whereas single or paired L cells appear among ductal and alveolar cells. Long-term lineage tracing and functional studies indicate that S and L cells regulate ipsi- and contralateral spatial placement of tertiary branches and formation of alveolar clusters. Our findings revise present models of mammary epithelial cell hierarchy, reveal a hitherto undescribed mechanism regulating branching morphogenesis and may have important implications for identification of the cell-of-origin of distinct breast cancer subtypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanja Šale
- Department of Cell Biology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
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13
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Han J, Hendzel MJ, Allalunis-Turner J. Notch signaling as a therapeutic target for breast cancer treatment? Breast Cancer Res 2011; 13:210. [PMID: 21672271 PMCID: PMC3218932 DOI: 10.1186/bcr2875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Aberrant Notch signaling can induce mammary gland carcinoma in transgenic mice, and high expressions of Notch receptors and ligands have been linked to poor clinical outcomes in human patients with breast cancer. This suggests that inhibition of Notch signaling may be beneficial for breast cancer treatment. In this review, we critically evaluate the evidence that supports or challenges the hypothesis that inhibition of Notch signaling would be advantageous in breast cancer management. We find that there are many remaining uncertainties that must be addressed experimentally if we are to exploit inhibition of Notch signaling as a treatment approach in breast cancer. Nonetheless, Notch inhibition, in combination with other therapies, is a promising avenue for future management of breast cancer. Furthermore, since aberrant Notch4 activity can induce mammary gland carcinoma in the absence of RBPjκ, a better understanding of the components of RBPjκ-independent oncogenic Notch signaling pathways and their contribution to Notch-induced tumorigenesis would facilitate the deployment of Notch inhibition strategies for effective treatment of breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianxun Han
- Department of Oncology, University of Alberta, Cross Cancer Institute, Edmonton, Canada
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Zardawi SJ, Zardawi I, McNeil CM, Millar EKA, McLeod D, Morey AL, Crea P, Murphy NC, Pinese M, Lopez-Knowles E, Oakes SR, Ormandy CJ, Qiu MR, Hamilton A, Spillane A, Soon Lee C, Sutherland RL, Musgrove EA, O'Toole SA. High Notch1 protein expression is an early event in breast cancer development and is associated with the HER-2 molecular subtype. Histopathology 2010; 56:286-96. [PMID: 20459529 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2559.2009.03475.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Activation of Notch signalling results in hyperplasia and tumorigenesis in murine mammary epithelium. However, there is little information regarding the expression of Notch1 in premalignant lesions and early breast cancer. We investigated expression of Notch1 in breast cancer development and its association with molecular subtypes. METHODS AND RESULTS Immunohistochemical expression of Notch1 was determined in a murine model of mammary carcinogenesis and in breast tissue from two cohorts of breast cancer patients, the first (n=222) comprising a histological progression series and the second an outcome series of 228 patients with operable invasive ductal carcinoma. Enhanced expression of Notch1 protein was an early event in both murine and human breast cancer development with progressive increases in expression with the development of hyperplasia and malignancy. High Notch1 was not prognostic in the outcome cohort. There was, however, a highly significant association of high Notch1 protein with the HER-2 molecular subtype of breast cancer (P=0.008). CONCLUSIONS These data demonstrate that aberrant Notch regulation is an early event in mammary carcinogenesis and is associated with the HER-2 molecular subtype of breast cancer, and suggest the Notch signalling pathway may be a potential therapeutic target worthy of further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah J Zardawi
- Cancer Research Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Hospital, Darlinghurst, NSW, Australia
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15
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Lindsay J, Jiao X, Sakamaki T, Casimiro MC, Shirley LA, Tran TH, Ju X, Liu M, Li Z, Wang C, Katiyar S, Rao M, Allen KG, Glazer RI, Ge C, Stanley P, Lisanti MP, Rui H, Pestell RG. ErbB2 induces Notch1 activity and function in breast cancer cells. Clin Transl Sci 2010; 1:107-15. [PMID: 20443831 DOI: 10.1111/j.1752-8062.2008.00041.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The ErbB2 (Her2/neu epidermal growth receptor family) oncogene is overexpressed in 30% to 40% of human breast cancers. Cyclin D1 is the regulatory subunit of the holoenzyme that phosphorylates and inactivates the retinoblastoma (pRb) tumor suppressor and is an essential downstream target of ErbB2-induced tumor growth. Herein, we demonstrate that ErbB2 induces the activity of the Notch signaling pathway. ErbB2 induction of DNA synthesis, contact-independent growth, and mammosphere induction required Notch1. ErbB2-induced cyclin D1 and cyclin D1 expression was suficient to induce Notch1 activity, and conversely, genetic deletion of Notch1 in mammary epithelial cells using foxed Notch (Notch(fl/fl)) mice demonstrated that cyclin D1 is induced by Notch1. Genetic deletion of cyclin D1 or small interfering RNA (siRNA) to cyclin D1-reduced Notch1 activity and reintroduction of cyclin D1 into cyclin D1-deficient cells restored Notch1 activity through the inhibition of Numb, an endogenous inhibitor of Notch1 activity. Thus, cyclin D1 functions downstream as a genetic target of Notch1, amplifies Notch1 activity by repressing Numb, and identifies a novel pathway by which ErbB2 induces Notch1 activity via the induction of cyclin D1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaime Lindsay
- Department of Cancer Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Clinicopathologic and molecular significance of phospho-Akt expression in early invasive breast cancer. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2010; 127:407-16. [PMID: 20617378 DOI: 10.1007/s10549-010-1012-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2010] [Accepted: 06/22/2010] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Akt/PKB serine/threonine kinase is a leading signalling modulator for several cellular processes including metabolism, growth, proliferation and survival. However, complexity and diversity in the upstream/downstream arms of Akt pathway, as recent genetic studies reported, challenge considerably the evolvement of effective targeted therapies. The aim was to study the expression of phospho-Akt1 (pAkt) in breast cancer (BC), with respect to different component proteins upstream/downstream of Akt pathway activation, clinicopathologic parameters and patients' outcome. pAkt (Ser473) was evaluated by immunohistochemistry, on tissue microarrays containing 1,202 early invasive BC with long-term clinical follow-up. Seventy-six percent of the studied tumours overexpressed pAkt, where it was associated with expression of oestrogen and androgen receptors, PIK3CA, cytokeratin (CK)18, CK19 and PTEN. Loss of pAkt was correlated with high grade, CK5/6, p53 and high Ki67 labelling index. Higher proportions of luminal tumours were pAkt positive relative to triple negative/basal subtypes. However, pAkt overexpression was not associated with breast cancer specific (BCSS) or metastasis-free survival (MFS). Four tumour phenotypes were identified based on PIK3CA and pAkt expression, with substantial proportions being PIK3CA⁻/pAkt⁺ or PIK3CA⁺/pAkt⁻. These four combinatorial phenotypes were significantly associated with BCSS (p = 0.001) and MFS (p = 0.002). Although pAKT is an oncogene correlated with poor prognostic variables, it was not a prognostic marker. Combinatorial phenotypic groups of PIK3CA/pAkt denoted functional complexity, at translational level, within the upstream and downstream arms of Akt activation with significant impact on patients' outcome. These findings may help development more adequate therapeutic regimens for specific subgroups of this key cancer pathway.
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Quillard T, Devalliere J, Chatelais M, Coulon F, Séveno C, Romagnoli M, Barillé Nion S, Charreau B. Notch2 signaling sensitizes endothelial cells to apoptosis by negatively regulating the key protective molecule survivin. PLoS One 2009; 4:e8244. [PMID: 20011512 PMCID: PMC2785888 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0008244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2009] [Accepted: 11/09/2009] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Notch signaling pathway controls key functions in vascular and endothelial cells (ECs) where Notch4 plays a major role. However, little is known about the contribution of other Notch receptors. This study investigated regulation of Notch2 and further examined its implication in EC dysfunction. Methodology/Principal Findings Here, we provide evidence for a novel link between Notch and TNF signaling, where Notch2 is upregulated and activated in response to TNF. Forced expression of Notch2 intracellular domain in cultured ECs promotes apoptosis and allows the significant downregulation of several cell-death-related transcripts in a dose-dependent manner. In particular, activation of Notch2 led to a rapid decrease in survivin mRNA and protein expression, while survivin upregulation was obtained by the selective knockdown of Notch2 in ECs, indicating that survivin expression is controlled at the Notch level. Moreover, Notch2 silencing and ectopic expression of survivin, but not XIAP or Bcl2, rescued ECs from TNF and Notch2-mediated apoptosis, respectively. Conclusions/Significance In conclusion, TNF signaling activates Notch2 that sensitizes ECs to apoptosis via modulation of the key apoptosis regulator survivin. Overall, our findings also indicate that specific Notch receptors control distinct functions in vascular cells and inflammatory cytokines contribute to this specificity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thibaut Quillard
- INSERM, UMR643, Nantes, France
- CHU Nantes, Institut de Transplantation et de Recherche en Transplantation, ITERT, Nantes, France
- Université de Nantes, Faculté de Médecine, Nantes, France
| | - Julie Devalliere
- INSERM, UMR643, Nantes, France
- CHU Nantes, Institut de Transplantation et de Recherche en Transplantation, ITERT, Nantes, France
- Université de Nantes, Faculté de Médecine, Nantes, France
| | - Mathias Chatelais
- INSERM, UMR643, Nantes, France
- CHU Nantes, Institut de Transplantation et de Recherche en Transplantation, ITERT, Nantes, France
- Université de Nantes, Faculté de Médecine, Nantes, France
| | - Flora Coulon
- INSERM, UMR643, Nantes, France
- CHU Nantes, Institut de Transplantation et de Recherche en Transplantation, ITERT, Nantes, France
- Université de Nantes, Faculté de Médecine, Nantes, France
| | | | | | | | - Béatrice Charreau
- INSERM, UMR643, Nantes, France
- CHU Nantes, Institut de Transplantation et de Recherche en Transplantation, ITERT, Nantes, France
- Université de Nantes, Faculté de Médecine, Nantes, France
- * E-mail:
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ErbB-2 inhibition activates Notch-1 and sensitizes breast cancer cells to a gamma-secretase inhibitor. Oncogene 2008; 27:5019-32. [PMID: 18469855 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2008.149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 167] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
ErbB-2 overexpression in breast tumors is associated with poor survival. Expression of Notch-1 and its ligand, Jagged-1, is associated with the poorest survival, including ErbB-2-positive tumors. Trastuzumab plus chemotherapy is the standard of care for ErbB-2-positive breast cancer. A proportion of tumors are initially resistant to trastuzumab and acquired resistance to trastuzumab occurs in metastatic breast cancer and is associated with poor prognosis. Thus, we investigated whether Notch-1 contributes to trastuzumab resistance. ErbB-2-positive cells have low Notch transcriptional activity compared to non-overexpressing cells. Trastuzumab or a dual epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)/ErbB-2 tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) increased Notch activity by 2- to 6-fold in SKBr3, BT474 and MCF-7/HER2-18 cells. The increase in activity was abrogated by a Notch inhibitor, gamma-secretase inhibitor (GSI) or Notch-1 small-interfering RNA (siRNA). Trastuzumab decreased Notch-1trade mark precursor, increased amount and nuclear accumulation of active Notch-1(IC) and increased expression of targets, Hey1 and Deltex1 mRNAs, and Hes5, Hey1, Hes1 proteins. Importantly, trastuzumab-resistant BT474 cells treated with trastuzumab for 6 months expressed twofold higher Notch-1, twofold higher Hey1, ninefold higher Deltex1 mRNAs and threefold higher Notch-1 and Hes5 proteins, compared to trastuzumab-sensitive BT474 cells. The increase in Hey1 and Deltex1 mRNAs in resistant cells was abrogated by a Notch-1 siRNA. Cell proliferation was inhibited more effectively by trastuzumab or TKI plus a GSI than either agent alone. Decreased Notch-1 by siRNA increased efficacy of trastuzumab in BT474 sensitive cells and restored sensitivity in resistant cells. Trastuzumab plus a GSI increased apoptosis in sensitive cells by 20-30%. A GSI alone was sufficient to increase apoptosis in trastuzumab-resistant BT474 cells by 20%, which increased to 30% with trastuzumab. Notch-1 siRNA alone decreased cell growth by 30% in sensitive and more than 50% in resistant BT474 cells. Furthermore, growth of both trastuzumab sensitive and resistant cells was completely inhibited by combining trastuzumab plus Notch-1 siRNA. More importantly, Notch-1 siRNA or a GSI resensitized trastuzumab-resistant BT474 cells to trastuzumab. These results demonstrate that ErbB-2 overexpression suppresses Notch-1 activity, which can be reversed by trastuzumab or TKI. These results suggest that Notch-1 might play a novel role in resistance to trastuzumab, which could be prevented or reversed by inhibiting Notch-1.
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