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van den Bosch QCC, Kiliç E, Brosens E. Uveal Melanoma Zebrafish Xenograft Models Illustrate the Mutation Status-Dependent Effect of Compound Synergism or Antagonism. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2024; 65:26. [PMID: 39163035 PMCID: PMC11346061 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.65.10.26] [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: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 08/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose Uveal melanoma (UM) is the most common primary intraocular malignancy with a high probability of metastatic disease. Although excellent treatment options for primary UM are available, therapy for metastatic disease remain limited. Drug discovery studies using mouse models have thus far failed to provide therapeutic solutions, highlighting the need for novel models. Here, we optimize zebrafish xenografts as a potential model for drug discovery by showcasing the behavior of multiple cell lines and novel findings on mutation-dependent compound synergism/antagonism using Z-Tada; an algorithm to objectively characterize output measurements. Methods Prognostic relevant primary (N = 4) and metastatic UM (N = 1) cell lines or healthy melanocytes (N = 2) were inoculated at three distinct inoculation sites. Standardized quantifications independent of inoculation site were obtained using Z-Tada; an algorithm to measure tumor burden and the number, size, and distance of disseminated tumor cells. Sequentially, we utilized this model to validate combinatorial synergism or antagonism seen in vitro. Results Detailed analysis of 691 zebrafish xenografts demonstrated perivitelline space inoculation provided robust data with high probability of cell dissemination. Cell lines with more invasive behavior (SF3B1mut and BAP1mut) behaved most aggressive in this model. Combinatorial drug treatment illustrated synergism or antagonism is mutation-dependent, which were confirmed in vivo. Combinatorial treatment differed per xenograft-model, as it either inhibited overall tumor burden or cell dissemination. Conclusions Perivitelline space inoculation provides robust zebrafish xenografts with the ability for high-throughput drug screening and robust data acquisition using Z-Tada. This model demonstrates that drug discovery for uveal melanoma must take mutational subclasses into account, especially in combinatorial treatment discoveries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quincy C. C. van den Bosch
- Department of Ophthalmology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Clinical Genetics, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Emine Kiliç
- Department of Ophthalmology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Erwin Brosens
- Clinical Genetics, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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Zhan T, Song W, Jing G, Yuan Y, Kang N, Zhang Q. Zebrafish live imaging: a strong weapon in anticancer drug discovery and development. Clin Transl Oncol 2024; 26:1807-1835. [PMID: 38514602 DOI: 10.1007/s12094-024-03406-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
Developing anticancer drugs is a complex and time-consuming process. The inability of current laboratory models to reflect important aspects of the tumor in vivo limits anticancer medication research. Zebrafish is a rapid, semi-automated in vivo screening platform that enables the use of non-invasive imaging methods to monitor morphology, survival, developmental status, response to drugs, locomotion, or other behaviors. Zebrafish models are widely used in drug discovery and development for anticancer drugs, especially in conjunction with live imaging techniques. Herein, we concentrated on the use of zebrafish live imaging in anticancer therapeutic research, including drug screening, efficacy assessment, toxicity assessment, and mechanism studies. Zebrafish live imaging techniques have been used in numerous studies, but this is the first time that these techniques have been comprehensively summarized and compared side by side. Finally, we discuss the hypothesis of Zebrafish Composite Model, which may provide future directions for zebrafish imaging in the field of cancer research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiancheng Zhan
- School of Medical Technology, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 10 Poyanghu Rd, Jinghai District, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China
- School of Integrative Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, People's Republic of China
| | - Wanqian Song
- School of Medical Technology, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 10 Poyanghu Rd, Jinghai District, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China
- School of Integrative Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, People's Republic of China
| | - Guo Jing
- School of Medical Technology, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 10 Poyanghu Rd, Jinghai District, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China
- School of Integrative Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, People's Republic of China
| | - Yongkang Yuan
- School of Medical Technology, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 10 Poyanghu Rd, Jinghai District, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China
| | - Ning Kang
- School of Medical Technology, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 10 Poyanghu Rd, Jinghai District, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China.
| | - Qiang Zhang
- School of Medical Technology, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 10 Poyanghu Rd, Jinghai District, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China.
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van den Bosch QCC, de Klein A, Verdijk RM, Kiliç E, Brosens E. Uveal melanoma modeling in mice and zebrafish. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2024; 1879:189055. [PMID: 38104908 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2023.189055] [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: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Despite extensive research and refined therapeutic options, the survival for metastasized uveal melanoma (UM) patients has not improved significantly. UM, a malignant tumor originating from melanocytes in the uveal tract, can be asymptomatic and small tumors may be detected only during routine ophthalmic exams; making early detection and treatment difficult. UM is the result of a number of characteristic somatic alterations which are associated with prognosis. Although UM morphology and biology have been extensively studied, there are significant gaps in our understanding of the early stages of UM tumor evolution and effective treatment to prevent metastatic disease remain elusive. A better understanding of the mechanisms that enable UM cells to thrive and successfully metastasize is crucial to improve treatment efficacy and survival rates. For more than forty years, animal models have been used to investigate the biology of UM. This has led to a number of essential mechanisms and pathways involved in UM aetiology. These models have also been used to evaluate the effectiveness of various drugs and treatment protocols. Here, we provide an overview of the molecular mechanisms and pharmacological studies using mouse and zebrafish UM models. Finally, we highlight promising therapeutics and discuss future considerations using UM models such as optimal inoculation sites, use of BAP1mut-cell lines and the rise of zebrafish models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quincy C C van den Bosch
- Department of Ophthalmology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Annelies de Klein
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Robert M Verdijk
- Department of Pathology, Section of Ophthalmic Pathology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Department of Pathology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Emine Kiliç
- Department of Ophthalmology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Erwin Brosens
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
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Brănişteanu DE, Porumb-Andrese E, Porumb V, Stărică A, Moraru AD, Nicolescu AC, Zemba M, Brănişteanu CI, Brănişteanu G, Brănişteanu DC. New Treatment Horizons in Uveal and Cutaneous Melanoma. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:1666. [PMID: 37629523 PMCID: PMC10455832 DOI: 10.3390/life13081666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2023] [Revised: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is a complex and heterogeneous malignant tumor with distinct genetic characteristics and therapeutic challenges in both cutaneous melanoma (CM) and uveal melanoma (UM). This review explores the underlying molecular features and genetic alterations in these melanoma subtypes, highlighting the importance of employing specific model systems tailored to their unique profiles for the development of targeted therapies. Over the past decade, significant progress has been made in unraveling the molecular and genetic characteristics of CM and UM, leading to notable advancements in treatment options. Genetic mutations in the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway drive CM, while UM is characterized by mutations in genes like GNAQ, GNA11, BAP1, EIF1AX, and SF3B1. Chromosomal aberrations, including monosomy 3 in UM and monosomy 10 in CM, play significant roles in tumorigenesis. Immune cell infiltration differs between CM and UM, impacting prognosis. Therapeutic advancements targeting these genetic alterations, including oncolytic viruses and immunotherapies, have shown promise in preclinical and clinical studies. Oncolytic viruses selectively infect malignant cells, inducing oncolysis and activating antitumor immune responses. Talimogene laherparepvec (T-VEC) is an FDA-approved oncolytic virus for CM treatment, and other oncolytic viruses, such as coxsackieviruses and HF-10, are being investigated. Furthermore, combining oncolytic viruses with immunotherapies, such as CAR-T cell therapy, holds great potential. Understanding the intrinsic molecular features of melanoma and their role in shaping novel therapeutic approaches provides insights into targeted interventions and paves the way for more effective treatments for CM and UM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daciana Elena Brănişteanu
- Department of Medical Specialties (III)-Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania;
- Railway Clinical Hospital, 700506 Iasi, Romania;
| | - Elena Porumb-Andrese
- Department of Medical Specialties (III)-Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania;
- Railway Clinical Hospital, 700506 Iasi, Romania;
| | - Vlad Porumb
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania;
- Military Emergency Clinical Hospital “Dr. Iacob Czihac”, 700506 Iasi, Romania
| | | | - Andreea Dana Moraru
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania;
| | | | - Mihail Zemba
- Department of Ophthalmology, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania;
| | | | - George Brănişteanu
- “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (C.I.B.); (G.B.)
| | - Daniel Constantin Brănişteanu
- Railway Clinical Hospital, 700506 Iasi, Romania;
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania;
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Ionita I, Malita D, Dehelean C, Olteanu E, Marcovici I, Geamantan A, Chiriac S, Roman A, Radu D. Experimental Models for Rare Melanoma Research-The Niche That Needs to Be Addressed. Bioengineering (Basel) 2023; 10:673. [PMID: 37370604 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering10060673] [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: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Melanoma, the tumor arising from the malignant transformation of pigment-producing cells-the melanocytes-represents one of the most severe cancer types. Despite their rarity compared to cutaneous melanoma, the extracutaneous subtypes such as uveal melanoma (UM), acral lentiginous melanoma (ALM), and mucosal melanoma (MM) stand out due to their increased aggressiveness and mortality rate, demanding continuous research to elucidate their specific pathological features and develop efficient therapies. Driven by the emerging progresses made in the preclinical modeling of melanoma, the current paper covers the most relevant in vitro, in vivo, and in ovo systems, providing a deeper understanding of these rare melanoma subtypes. However, the preclinical models for UM, ALM, and MM that were developed so far remain scarce, and none of them is able to completely simulate the complexity that is characteristic to these melanomas; thus, a continuous expansion of the existing library of experimental models is pivotal for driving advancements in this research field. An overview of the applicability of precision medicine in the management of rare melanoma subtypes is also provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioana Ionita
- Faculty of Medicine, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Daniel Malita
- Faculty of Medicine, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Cristina Dehelean
- Faculty of Pharmacy, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Emilian Olteanu
- Faculty of Pharmacy, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Center for Research and Innovation in Personalized Medicine of Respiratory Diseases, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Iasmina Marcovici
- Faculty of Pharmacy, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Andreea Geamantan
- Faculty of Pharmacy, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Sorin Chiriac
- Faculty of Medicine, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Andrea Roman
- Faculty of Medicine, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Daniela Radu
- Faculty of Medicine, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
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Li X, Li M. The application of zebrafish patient-derived xenograft tumor models in the development of antitumor agents. Med Res Rev 2023; 43:212-236. [PMID: 36029178 DOI: 10.1002/med.21924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The cost of antitumor drug development is enormous, yet the clinical outcomes are less than satisfactory. Therefore, it is of great importance to develop effective drug screening methods that enable accurate, rapid, and high-throughput discovery of lead compounds in the process of preclinical antitumor drug research. An effective solution is to use the patient-derived xenograft (PDX) tumor animal models, which are applicable for the elucidation of tumor pathogenesis and the preclinical testing of novel antitumor compounds. As a promising screening model organism, zebrafish has been widely applied in the construction of the PDX tumor model and the discovery of antineoplastic agents. Herein, we systematically survey the recent cutting-edge advances in zebrafish PDX models (zPDX) for studies of pathogenesis mechanisms and drug screening. In addition, the techniques used in the construction of zPDX are summarized. The advantages and limitations of the zPDX are also discussed in detail. Finally, the prospects of zPDX in drug discovery, translational medicine, and clinical precision medicine treatment are well presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Li
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Minyong Li
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
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An Orthotopic Model of Uveal Melanoma in Zebrafish Embryo: A Novel Platform for Drug Evaluation. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9121873. [PMID: 34944689 PMCID: PMC8698893 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9121873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2021] [Revised: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Uveal melanoma is a highly metastatic tumor, representing the most common primary intraocular malignancy in adults. Tumor cell xenografts in zebrafish embryos may provide the opportunity to study in vivo different aspects of the neoplastic disease and its response to therapy. Here, we established an orthotopic model of uveal melanoma in zebrafish by injecting highly metastatic murine B16-BL6 and B16-LS9 melanoma cells, human A375M melanoma cells, and human 92.1 uveal melanoma cells into the eye of zebrafish embryos in the proximity of the developing choroidal vasculature. Immunohistochemical and immunofluorescence analyses showed that melanoma cells proliferate during the first four days after injection and move towards the eye surface. Moreover, bioluminescence analysis of luciferase-expressing human 92.1 uveal melanoma cells allowed the quantitative assessment of the antitumor activity exerted by the canonical chemotherapeutic drugs paclitaxel, panobinostat, and everolimus after their injection into the grafted eye. Altogether, our data demonstrate that the zebrafish embryo eye is a permissive environment for the growth of invasive cutaneous and uveal melanoma cells. In addition, we have established a new luciferase-based in vivo orthotopic model that allows the quantification of human uveal melanoma cells engrafted in the zebrafish embryo eye, and which may represent a suitable tool for the screening of novel drug candidates for uveal melanoma therapy.
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Gamble JT, Elson DJ, Greenwood JA, Tanguay RL, Kolluri SK. The Zebrafish Xenograft Models for Investigating Cancer and Cancer Therapeutics. BIOLOGY 2021; 10:biology10040252. [PMID: 33804830 PMCID: PMC8063817 DOI: 10.3390/biology10040252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Simple Summary The identification and development of new anti-cancer drugs requires extensive testing in animal models to establish safety and efficacy of drug candidates. The transplantation of human tumor tissue into mouse (tumor xenografts) is commonly used to study cancer progression and to test potential drugs for their anti-cancer activity. Mouse models do not afford the ability to test a large number of drug candidates quickly as it takes several weeks to conduct these experiments. In contrast, tumor xenograft studies in zebrafish provide an efficient platform for rapid testing of safety and efficacy in less than two weeks. Abstract In order to develop new cancer therapeutics, rapid, reliable, and relevant biological models are required to screen and validate drug candidates for both efficacy and safety. In recent years, the zebrafish (Danio rerio) has emerged as an excellent model organism suited for these goals. Larval fish or immunocompromised adult fish are used to engraft human cancer cells and serve as a platform for screening potential drug candidates. With zebrafish sharing ~80% of disease-related orthologous genes with humans, they provide a low cost, high-throughput alternative to mouse xenografts that is relevant to human biology. In this review, we provide background on the methods and utility of zebrafish xenograft models in cancer research.
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Affiliation(s)
- John T. Gamble
- Department of Biochemistry & Biophysics, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA;
| | - Daniel J. Elson
- Cancer Research Laboratory, Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA;
| | - Juliet A. Greenwood
- School of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Arizona State University, Scotsdale, AZ 85257, USA;
| | - Robyn L. Tanguay
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA;
| | - Siva K. Kolluri
- Cancer Research Laboratory, Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA;
- Correspondence:
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Dietrich K, Fiedler IA, Kurzyukova A, López-Delgado AC, McGowan LM, Geurtzen K, Hammond CL, Busse B, Knopf F. Skeletal Biology and Disease Modeling in Zebrafish. J Bone Miner Res 2021; 36:436-458. [PMID: 33484578 DOI: 10.1002/jbmr.4256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Revised: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Zebrafish are teleosts (bony fish) that share with mammals a common ancestor belonging to the phylum Osteichthyes, from which their endoskeletal systems have been inherited. Indeed, teleosts and mammals have numerous genetically conserved features in terms of skeletal elements, ossification mechanisms, and bone matrix components in common. Yet differences related to bone morphology and function need to be considered when investigating zebrafish in skeletal research. In this review, we focus on zebrafish skeletal architecture with emphasis on the morphology of the vertebral column and associated anatomical structures. We provide an overview of the different ossification types and osseous cells in zebrafish and describe bone matrix composition at the microscopic tissue level with a focus on assessing mineralization. Processes of bone formation also strongly depend on loading in zebrafish, as we elaborate here. Furthermore, we illustrate the high regenerative capacity of zebrafish bones and present some of the technological advantages of using zebrafish as a model. We highlight zebrafish axial and fin skeleton patterning mechanisms, metabolic bone disease such as after immunosuppressive glucocorticoid treatment, as well as osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) and osteopetrosis research in zebrafish. We conclude with a view of why larval zebrafish xenografts are a powerful tool to study bone metastasis. © 2021 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin Dietrich
- Center for Regenerative Therapies TU Dresden (CRTD), Center for Healthy Aging TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Imke Ak Fiedler
- Department of Osteology and Biomechanics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Anastasia Kurzyukova
- Center for Regenerative Therapies TU Dresden (CRTD), Center for Healthy Aging TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Alejandra C López-Delgado
- Center for Regenerative Therapies TU Dresden (CRTD), Center for Healthy Aging TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Lucy M McGowan
- School of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Karina Geurtzen
- Center for Regenerative Therapies TU Dresden (CRTD), Center for Healthy Aging TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Chrissy L Hammond
- School of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Björn Busse
- Department of Osteology and Biomechanics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.,Interdisciplinary Competence Center for Interface Research (ICCIR), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Franziska Knopf
- Center for Regenerative Therapies TU Dresden (CRTD), Center for Healthy Aging TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
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Cabezas-Sainz P, Coppel C, Pensado-López A, Fernandez P, Muinelo-Romay L, López-López R, Rubiolo JA, Sánchez L. Morphological Abnormalities and Gene Expression Changes Caused by High Incubation Temperatures in Zebrafish Xenografts with Human Cancer Cells. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12010113. [PMID: 33477746 PMCID: PMC7832305 DOI: 10.3390/genes12010113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2020] [Revised: 01/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Published studies show that most of the human cancer xenograft studies in zebrafish embryos have used incubation temperatures in the range of 32–34 °C for 3–6 days post-injection, trying to find a compromise temperature between the zebrafish embryos (28 °C) and the human injected cells (37 °C). While this experimental setup is widely used, a question remains: is possible to overcome the drawbacks caused by a suboptimal temperature for the injected cells? To clarify the effect of temperature and injected cells on the host, in this study, we analyzed the development and health of the last in response to different temperatures in the presence or absence of injected human cancer cells. Comparing different incubation temperatures (28, 34 and 36 °C), we determined morphological abnormalities and developmental effects in injected and non-injected embryos at different time points. Besides this, the expression of selected genes was determined by qPCR to determine temperature affected metabolic processes in the embryos. The results indicate that an incubation temperature of 36 °C during a period of 48 h is suitable for xenotransplantation without morphological or metabolic changes that could be affecting the host or the injected cells, allowing them to proliferate near their optimal temperature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Cabezas-Sainz
- Department of Zoology, Genetics and Physical Anthropology, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Campus de Lugo, 27002 Lugo, Spain; (P.C.-S.); (C.C.); (A.P.-L.); (P.F.)
| | - Carlos Coppel
- Department of Zoology, Genetics and Physical Anthropology, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Campus de Lugo, 27002 Lugo, Spain; (P.C.-S.); (C.C.); (A.P.-L.); (P.F.)
| | - Alba Pensado-López
- Department of Zoology, Genetics and Physical Anthropology, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Campus de Lugo, 27002 Lugo, Spain; (P.C.-S.); (C.C.); (A.P.-L.); (P.F.)
- Genomic Medicine Group, Center for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CiMUS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Pedro Fernandez
- Department of Zoology, Genetics and Physical Anthropology, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Campus de Lugo, 27002 Lugo, Spain; (P.C.-S.); (C.C.); (A.P.-L.); (P.F.)
| | - Laura Muinelo-Romay
- Liquid Biopsy Analysis Unit, Oncomet, Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain;
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), 29029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Rafael López-López
- Translational Laboratory, Medical Oncology Department, Complexo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela/SERGAS, 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain;
| | - Juan A. Rubiolo
- Department of Zoology, Genetics and Physical Anthropology, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Campus de Lugo, 27002 Lugo, Spain; (P.C.-S.); (C.C.); (A.P.-L.); (P.F.)
- Correspondence: (J.A.R.); (L.S.); Tel.: +34-982-822-429 (L.S.)
| | - Laura Sánchez
- Department of Zoology, Genetics and Physical Anthropology, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Campus de Lugo, 27002 Lugo, Spain; (P.C.-S.); (C.C.); (A.P.-L.); (P.F.)
- Preclinical Animal Models Group, Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Correspondence: (J.A.R.); (L.S.); Tel.: +34-982-822-429 (L.S.)
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Cabezas-Sáinz P, Pensado-López A, Sáinz B, Sánchez L. Modeling Cancer Using Zebrafish Xenografts: Drawbacks for Mimicking the Human Microenvironment. Cells 2020; 9:E1978. [PMID: 32867288 PMCID: PMC7564051 DOI: 10.3390/cells9091978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Revised: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The first steps towards establishing xenografts in zebrafish embryos were performed by Lee et al., 2005 and Haldi et al., 2006, paving the way for studying human cancers using this animal species. Since then, the xenograft technique has been improved in different ways, ranging from optimizing the best temperature for xenografted embryo incubation, testing different sites for injection of human tumor cells, and even developing tools to study how the host interacts with the injected cells. Nonetheless, a standard protocol for performing xenografts has not been adopted across laboratories, and further research on the temperature, microenvironment of the tumor or the cell-host interactions inside of the embryo during xenografting is still needed. As a consequence, current non-uniform conditions could be affecting experimental results in terms of cell proliferation, invasion, or metastasis; or even overestimating the effects of some chemotherapeutic drugs on xenografted cells. In this review, we highlight and raise awareness regarding the different aspects of xenografting that need to be improved in order to mimic, in a more efficient way, the human tumor microenvironment, resulting in more robust and accurate in vivo results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Cabezas-Sáinz
- Department of Zoology, Genetics and Physical Anthropology, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Campus de Lugo, 27002 Lugo, Spain; (P.C.-S.); (A.P.-L.)
| | - Alba Pensado-López
- Department of Zoology, Genetics and Physical Anthropology, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Campus de Lugo, 27002 Lugo, Spain; (P.C.-S.); (A.P.-L.)
- Genomic Medicine Group, Center for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CiMUS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Bruno Sáinz
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas “Alberto Sols” CSIC-UAM, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Arzobispo Morcillo 4, 28029 Madrid, Spain;
- Cancer Stem Cell and Fibroinflammatory Microenvironment Group, Chronic Diseases and Cancer Area 3-Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), 28034 Madrid, Spain
| | - Laura Sánchez
- Department of Zoology, Genetics and Physical Anthropology, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Campus de Lugo, 27002 Lugo, Spain; (P.C.-S.); (A.P.-L.)
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12
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Xiao J, Glasgow E, Agarwal S. Zebrafish Xenografts for Drug Discovery and Personalized Medicine. Trends Cancer 2020; 6:569-579. [PMID: 32312681 DOI: 10.1016/j.trecan.2020.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2020] [Revised: 03/18/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the world. Given that cancer is a highly individualized disease, predicting the best chemotherapeutic treatment for individual patients can be difficult. Ex vivo models such as mouse patient-derived xenografts (PDX) and organoids are being developed to predict patient-specific chemosensitivity profiles before treatment in the clinic. Although promising, these models have significant disadvantages including long growth times that introduce genetic and epigenetic changes to the tumor. The zebrafish xenograft assay is ideal for personalized medicine. Imaging of the small, transparent fry is unparalleled among vertebrate organisms. In addition, the speed (5-7 days) and small patient tissue requirements (100-200 cells per animal) are unique features of the zebrafish xenograft model that enable patient-specific chemosensitivity analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerry Xiao
- Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Eric Glasgow
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20057, USA.
| | - Seema Agarwal
- Department of Pathology, Center for Cell Reprogramming, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20007, USA.
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13
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Yao Y, Wang L, Wang X. Modeling of Solid-Tumor Microenvironment in Zebrafish (Danio Rerio) Larvae. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2020; 1219:413-428. [PMID: 32130712 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-34025-4_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The zebrafish larvae have emerged as a powerful model for studying tumorigenesis in vivo, with remarkable conservation with mammals in genetics, molecular and cell biology. Zebrafish tumor models bear the significant advantages of optical clarity in comparison to that in the mammalian models, allowing noninvasive investigation of the tumor cell and its microenvironment at single-cell resolution. Here we review recent progressions in the field of zebrafish models of solid tumor diseases in two main categories: the genetically engineered tumor models in which all cells in the tumor microenvironment are zebrafish cells, and xenograft tumor models in which the tumor microenvironment is composed of zebrafish cells and cells from other species. Notably, the zebrafish patient-derived xenograft (zPDX) models can be used for personalized drug assessment on primary tumor biopsies, including the pancreatic cancer. For the future studies, a series of high throughput drug screenings on the library of transgenic zebrafish models of solid tumor are expected to provide systematic database of oncogenic mutation, cell-of-origin, and leading compounds; and the humanization of zebrafish in genetics and cellular composition will make it more practical hosts for zPDX modeling. Together, zebrafish tumor model systems are unique and convenient in vivo platforms, with great potential to serve as valuable tools for cancer researches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxiao Yao
- Cancer Metabolism Laboratory, Cancer Institute, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Ministry of Education, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Cancer Metabolism Laboratory, Cancer Institute, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Ministry of Education, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xu Wang
- Cancer Metabolism Laboratory, Cancer Institute, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.
- Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Ministry of Education, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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14
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Couto GK, Segatto NV, Oliveira TL, Seixas FK, Schachtschneider KM, Collares T. The Melding of Drug Screening Platforms for Melanoma. Front Oncol 2019; 9:512. [PMID: 31293965 PMCID: PMC6601395 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2019.00512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2019] [Accepted: 05/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The global incidence of cancer is rising rapidly and continues to be one of the leading causes of death in the world. Melanoma deserves special attention since it represents one of the fastest growing types of cancer, with advanced metastatic forms presenting high mortality rates due to the development of drug resistance. The aim of this review is to evaluate how the screening of drugs and compounds for melanoma has been performed over the last seven decades. Thus, we performed literature searches to identify melanoma drug screening methods commonly used by research groups during this timeframe. In vitro and in vivo tests are essential for the development of new drugs; however, incorporation of in silico analyses increases the possibility of finding more suitable candidates for subsequent tests. In silico techniques, such as molecular docking, represent an important and necessary first step in the screening process. However, these techniques have not been widely used by research groups to date. Our research has shown that the vast majority of research groups still perform in vitro and in vivo tests, with emphasis on the use of in vitro enzymatic tests on melanoma cell lines such as SKMEL and in vivo tests using the B16 mouse model. We believe that the union of these three approaches (in silico, in vitro, and in vivo) is essential for improving the discovery and development of new molecules with potential antimelanoma action. This workflow would provide greater confidence and safety for preclinical trials, which will translate to more successful clinical trials and improve the translatability of new melanoma treatments into clinical practice while minimizing the unnecessary use of laboratory animals under the principles of the 3R's.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Klein Couto
- Research Group in Molecular and Cellular Oncology, Postgraduate Program in Biochemistry and Bioprospecting, Cancer Biotechnology Laboratory, Center for Technological Development, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas, Brazil
| | - Natália Vieira Segatto
- Biotechnology Graduate Program, Molecular and Cellular Oncology Research Group, Laboratory of Cancer Biotechnology, Technology Development Center, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas, Brazil
| | - Thaís Larré Oliveira
- Biotechnology Graduate Program, Molecular and Cellular Oncology Research Group, Laboratory of Cancer Biotechnology, Technology Development Center, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas, Brazil
| | - Fabiana Kömmling Seixas
- Biotechnology Graduate Program, Molecular and Cellular Oncology Research Group, Laboratory of Cancer Biotechnology, Technology Development Center, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas, Brazil
| | - Kyle M Schachtschneider
- Department of Radiology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States.,Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Genetics, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States.,National Center for Supercomputing Applications, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Tiago Collares
- Biotechnology Graduate Program, Molecular and Cellular Oncology Research Group, Laboratory of Cancer Biotechnology, Technology Development Center, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas, Brazil
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15
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van der Kooij MK, Speetjens FM, van der Burg SH, Kapiteijn E. Uveal Versus Cutaneous Melanoma; Same Origin, Very Distinct Tumor Types. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:E845. [PMID: 31248118 PMCID: PMC6627906 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11060845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2019] [Revised: 06/16/2019] [Accepted: 06/17/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Here, we critically evaluated the knowledge on cutaneous melanoma (CM) and uveal melanoma (UM). Both cancer types derive from melanocytes that share the same embryonic origin and display the same cellular function. Despite their common origin, both CM and UM display extreme differences in their genetic alterations and biological behavior. We discuss the differences in genetic alterations, metastatic routes, tumor biology, and tumor-host interactions in the context of their clinical responses to targeted- and immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monique K van der Kooij
- Department of Medical Oncology, Oncode Institute, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, P.O. Box 9600, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | - Frank M Speetjens
- Department of Medical Oncology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, P.O. Box 9600, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | - Sjoerd H van der Burg
- Department of Medical Oncology, Oncode Institute, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, P.O. Box 9600, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | - Ellen Kapiteijn
- Department of Medical Oncology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, P.O. Box 9600, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands.
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16
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Jo DH, Kim JH, Kim JH. Targeting tyrosine kinases for treatment of ocular tumors. Arch Pharm Res 2018; 42:305-318. [PMID: 30470974 DOI: 10.1007/s12272-018-1094-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2018] [Accepted: 11/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Uveal melanoma is the most common intraocular primary malignant tumor in adults, and retinoblastoma is the one in children. Current mainstay treatment options include chemotherapy using conventional drugs and enucleation, the total removal of the eyeball. Targeted therapies based on profound understanding of molecular mechanisms of ocular tumors may increase the possibility of preserving the eyeball and the vision. Tyrosine kinases, which modulate signaling pathways regarding various cellular functions including proliferation, differentiation, and attachment, are one of the attractive targets for targeted therapies against uveal melanoma and retinoblastoma. In this review, the roles of both types of tyrosine kinases, receptor tyrosine kinases and non-receptor tyrosine kinases, were summarized in relation with ocular tumors. Although the conventional treatment options for uveal melanoma and retinoblastoma are radiotherapy and chemotherapy, respectively, specific tyrosine kinase inhibitors will enhance our armamentarium against them by controlling cancer-associated signaling pathways related to tyrosine kinases. This review can be a stepping stone for widening treatment options and realizing targeted therapies against uveal melanoma and retinoblastoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Hyun Jo
- Fight Against Angiogenesis-Related Blindness (FARB) Laboratory, Clinical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea.,Tumor Microenvironment Research Center, Global Core Research Center, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Hyoung Kim
- Fight Against Angiogenesis-Related Blindness (FARB) Laboratory, Clinical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea.,Tumor Microenvironment Research Center, Global Core Research Center, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong Hun Kim
- Fight Against Angiogenesis-Related Blindness (FARB) Laboratory, Clinical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea. .,Tumor Microenvironment Research Center, Global Core Research Center, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea. .,Department of Ophthalmology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea. .,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea.
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17
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Gutiérrez-Lovera C, Vázquez-Ríos AJ, Guerra-Varela J, Sánchez L, de la Fuente M. The Potential of Zebrafish as a Model Organism for Improving the Translation of Genetic Anticancer Nanomedicines. Genes (Basel) 2017; 8:E349. [PMID: 29182542 PMCID: PMC5748667 DOI: 10.3390/genes8120349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2017] [Revised: 11/06/2017] [Accepted: 11/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
In the last few decades, the field of nanomedicine applied to cancer has revolutionized cancer treatment: several nanoformulations have already reached the market and are routinely being used in the clinical practice. In the case of genetic nanomedicines, i.e., designed to deliver gene therapies to cancer cells for therapeutic purposes, advances have been less impressive. This is because of the many barriers that limit the access of the therapeutic nucleic acids to their target site, and the lack of models that would allow for an improvement in the understanding of how nanocarriers can be tailored to overcome them. Zebrafish has important advantages as a model species for the study of anticancer therapies, and have a lot to offer regarding the rational development of efficient delivery of genetic nanomedicines, and hence increasing the chances of their successful translation. This review aims to provide an overview of the recent advances in the development of genetic anticancer nanomedicines, and of the zebrafish models that stand as promising tools to shed light on their mechanisms of action and overall potential in oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Gutiérrez-Lovera
- Zoology, Genetics and Physical Anthropology Department Veterinary Faculty, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Lugo 27002, Spain.
- Nano-Oncology Unit, Translational Medical Oncology Group, Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Clinical University Hospital of Santiago de Compostela (CHUS), CIBERONC, Santiago de Compostela 15706, Spain.
| | - A J Vázquez-Ríos
- Nano-Oncology Unit, Translational Medical Oncology Group, Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Clinical University Hospital of Santiago de Compostela (CHUS), CIBERONC, Santiago de Compostela 15706, Spain.
| | - J Guerra-Varela
- Zoology, Genetics and Physical Anthropology Department Veterinary Faculty, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Lugo 27002, Spain.
- Geneaqua S.L., Lugo 27002, Spain.
| | - L Sánchez
- Zoology, Genetics and Physical Anthropology Department Veterinary Faculty, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Lugo 27002, Spain.
| | - M de la Fuente
- Nano-Oncology Unit, Translational Medical Oncology Group, Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Clinical University Hospital of Santiago de Compostela (CHUS), CIBERONC, Santiago de Compostela 15706, Spain.
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18
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Ibrahim M, Richardson MK. Beyond organoids: In vitro vasculogenesis and angiogenesis using cells from mammals and zebrafish. Reprod Toxicol 2017; 73:292-311. [PMID: 28697965 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2017.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2017] [Revised: 06/12/2017] [Accepted: 07/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The ability to culture complex organs is currently an important goal in biomedical research. It is possible to grow organoids (3D organ-like structures) in vitro; however, a major limitation of organoids, and other 3D culture systems, is the lack of a vascular network. Protocols developed for establishing in vitro vascular networks typically use human or rodent cells. A major technical challenge is the culture of functional (perfused) networks. In this rapidly advancing field, some microfluidic devices are now getting close to the goal of an artificially perfused vascular network. Another development is the emergence of the zebrafish as a complementary model to mammals. In this review, we discuss the culture of endothelial cells and vascular networks from mammalian cells, and examine the prospects for using zebrafish cells for this objective. We also look into the future and consider how vascular networks in vitro might be successfully perfused using microfluidic technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Ibrahim
- Animal Science and Health Cluster, Institute of Biology Leiden, Leiden University, The Netherlands; Institute of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, The University of Agriculture, Peshawar, Pakistan
| | - Michael K Richardson
- Animal Science and Health Cluster, Institute of Biology Leiden, Leiden University, The Netherlands.
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19
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Brown HK, Schiavone K, Tazzyman S, Heymann D, Chico TJ. Zebrafish xenograft models of cancer and metastasis for drug discovery. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2017; 12:379-389. [PMID: 28277839 DOI: 10.1080/17460441.2017.1297416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Patients with metastatic cancer suffer the highest rate of cancer-related death, but existing animal models of metastasis have disadvantages that limit our ability to understand this process. The zebrafish is increasingly used for cancer modelling, particularly xenografting of human cancer cell lines, and drug discovery, and may provide novel scientific and therapeutic insights. However, this model system remains underexploited. Areas covered: The authors discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the zebrafish xenograft model for the study of cancer, metastasis and drug discovery. They summarise previous work investigating the metastatic cascade, such as tumour-induced angiogenesis, intravasation, extravasation, dissemination and homing, invasion at secondary sites, assessing metastatic potential and evaluation of cancer stem cells in zebrafish. Expert opinion: The practical advantages of zebrafish for basic biological study and drug discovery are indisputable. However, their ability to sufficiently reproduce and predict the behaviour of human cancer and metastasis remains unproven. For this to be resolved, novel mechanisms must to be discovered in zebrafish that are subsequently validated in humans, and for therapeutic interventions that modulate cancer favourably in zebrafish to successfully translate to human clinical studies. In the meantime, more work is required to establish the most informative methods in zebrafish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah K Brown
- a Department of Oncology and Metabolism , The Medical School, University of Sheffield , Sheffield , UK.,b Sarcoma Research Unit, Medical School , INSERM, European Associated Laboratory, University of Sheffield , Sheffield , UK
| | - Kristina Schiavone
- a Department of Oncology and Metabolism , The Medical School, University of Sheffield , Sheffield , UK.,b Sarcoma Research Unit, Medical School , INSERM, European Associated Laboratory, University of Sheffield , Sheffield , UK
| | - Simon Tazzyman
- a Department of Oncology and Metabolism , The Medical School, University of Sheffield , Sheffield , UK.,c The Bateson Centre for Lifecourse Biology , University of Sheffield, Western Bank , Sheffield , UK
| | - Dominique Heymann
- a Department of Oncology and Metabolism , The Medical School, University of Sheffield , Sheffield , UK.,b Sarcoma Research Unit, Medical School , INSERM, European Associated Laboratory, University of Sheffield , Sheffield , UK.,d UMR 957, Pathophysiology of Bone Resorption and Therapy of Primary Bone Tumours , Nantes University Hospital , Nantes , France.,e Faculty of Medicine , INSERM, UMR 957, Pathophysiology of Bone Resorption and Therapy of Primary Bone Tumours, Equipe Ligue 2012, University of Nantes , Nantes , France
| | - Timothy Ja Chico
- c The Bateson Centre for Lifecourse Biology , University of Sheffield, Western Bank , Sheffield , UK.,f Department of Infection, Immunity & Cardiovascular Disease , The Medical School, University of Sheffield , Sheffield , UK
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20
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Abstract
Uveal melanoma (UM), a rare cancer of the eye, is distinct from cutaneous melanoma by its etiology, the mutation frequency and profile, and its clinical behavior including resistance to targeted therapy and immune checkpoint blockers. Primary disease is efficiently controlled by surgery or radiation therapy, but about half of UMs develop distant metastasis mostly to the liver. Survival of patients with metastasis is below 1 year and has not improved in decades. Recent years have brought a deep understanding of UM biology characterized by initiating mutations in the G proteins GNAQ and GNA11. Cytogenetic alterations, in particular monosomy of chromosome 3 and amplification of the long arm of chromosome 8, and mutation of the BRCA1-associated protein 1, BAP1, a tumor suppressor gene, or the splicing factor SF3B1 determine UM metastasis. Cytogenetic and molecular profiling allow for a very precise prognostication that is still not matched by efficacious adjuvant therapies. G protein signaling has been shown to activate the YAP/TAZ pathway independent of HIPPO, and conventional signaling via the mitogen-activated kinase pathway probably also contributes to UM development and progression. Several lines of evidence indicate that inflammation and macrophages play a pro-tumor role in UM and in its hepatic metastases. UM cells benefit from the immune privilege in the eye and may adopt several mechanisms involved in this privilege for tumor escape that act even after leaving the niche. Here, we review the current knowledge of the biology of UM and discuss recent approaches to UM treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Amaro
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Integrated Oncology Therapies, IRCCS AOU San Martino - IST Istituto Nazionale per la Ricerca sul Cancro, L.go Rosanna Benzi 10, 16132, Genoa, Italy
| | - Rosaria Gangemi
- Laboratory of Biotherapies, Department of Integrated Oncology Therapies, IRCCS AOU San Martino - IST Istituto Nazionale per la Ricerca sul Cancro, Genoa, Italy
| | - Francesca Piaggio
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Integrated Oncology Therapies, IRCCS AOU San Martino - IST Istituto Nazionale per la Ricerca sul Cancro, L.go Rosanna Benzi 10, 16132, Genoa, Italy
| | - Giovanna Angelini
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Integrated Oncology Therapies, IRCCS AOU San Martino - IST Istituto Nazionale per la Ricerca sul Cancro, L.go Rosanna Benzi 10, 16132, Genoa, Italy
| | - Gaia Barisione
- Laboratory of Biotherapies, Department of Integrated Oncology Therapies, IRCCS AOU San Martino - IST Istituto Nazionale per la Ricerca sul Cancro, Genoa, Italy
| | - Silvano Ferrini
- Laboratory of Biotherapies, Department of Integrated Oncology Therapies, IRCCS AOU San Martino - IST Istituto Nazionale per la Ricerca sul Cancro, Genoa, Italy
| | - Ulrich Pfeffer
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Integrated Oncology Therapies, IRCCS AOU San Martino - IST Istituto Nazionale per la Ricerca sul Cancro, L.go Rosanna Benzi 10, 16132, Genoa, Italy.
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21
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Kalirai H, Shahidipour H, Coupland SE, Luyten G. Use of the Chick Embryo Model in Uveal Melanoma. Ocul Oncol Pathol 2015; 1:133-40. [PMID: 27171889 DOI: 10.1159/000370151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2014] [Accepted: 11/26/2014] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Animal models play a crucial role in basic and translational oncology research. Conventional rodent experiments, however, face ethical, practical and technical issues that limit their use. The chick embryo represents an accessible and economical in vivo model, which has long been used in developmental biology and for the study of angiogenesis. It is also a recognised xenograft model, and because of its lack of immune system in early development, the chick embryo has established itself as a key model system for cancer research, with which to study various steps in the metastatic process. In this chapter, we review the chick embryo model and the technical approaches adopted by cancer biologists, including advances in real-time imaging, and discuss how this has been or can be applied to improve our understanding of the biological events during uveal melanoma development and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen Kalirai
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, Institute of Translational Research, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Haleh Shahidipour
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, Institute of Translational Research, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Sarah E Coupland
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, Institute of Translational Research, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Gregorius Luyten
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
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