1
|
Chen CY, Yang SH, Chang PY, Chen SF, Nieh S, Huang WY, Lin YC, Lee OKS. Cancer-Associated-Fibroblast-Mediated Paracrine and Autocrine SDF-1/CXCR4 Signaling Promotes Stemness and Aggressiveness of Colorectal Cancers. Cells 2024; 13:1334. [PMID: 39195225 DOI: 10.3390/cells13161334] [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: 05/25/2024] [Revised: 07/20/2024] [Accepted: 08/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of cancer mortality worldwide, and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) play a major role in the tumor microenvironment (TME), which facilitates the progression of CRC. It is critical to understand how CAFs promote the progression of CRC for the development of novel therapeutic approaches. The purpose of this study was to understand how CAF-derived stromal-derived factor-1 (SDF-1) and its interactions with the corresponding C-X-C motif chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4) promote CRC progression. Our study focused on their roles in promoting tumor cell migration and invasion and their effects on the characteristics of cancer stem cells (CSCs), which ultimately impact patient outcomes. Here, using in vivo approaches and clinical histological samples, we analyzed the influence of secreted SDF-1 on CRC progression, especially in terms of tumor cell behavior and stemness. We demonstrated that CAF-secreted SDF-1 significantly enhanced CRC cell migration and invasion through paracrine signaling. In addition, the overexpression of SDF-1 in CRC cell lines HT29 and HCT-116 triggered these cells to generate autocrine SDF-1 signaling, which further enhanced their CSC characteristics, including those of migration, invasion, and spheroid formation. An immunohistochemical study showed a close relationship between SDF-1 and CXCR4 expression in CRC tissue, and this significantly affected patient outcomes. The administration of AMD3100, an inhibitor of CXCR4, reversed the entire phenomenon. Our results strongly suggest that targeting this signaling axis in CRC is a feasible approach to attenuating tumor progression, and it may, therefore, serve as an alternative treatment method to improve the prognosis of patients with CRC, especially those with advanced, recurrent, or metastatic CRC following standard therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chao-Yang Chen
- Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 11490, Taiwan
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Hsien Yang
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 11490, Taiwan
- Office of General Affairs and Occupational Safety, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 11490, Taiwan
| | - Ping-Ying Chang
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 11490, Taiwan
| | - Su-Feng Chen
- Department of Dentistry, School of Dentistry, China Medical University, Taichung 40433, Taiwan
| | - Shin Nieh
- Department of Pathology, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 11490, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Yen Huang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 11490, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Chun Lin
- Department of Pathology, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 11490, Taiwan
| | - Oscar Kuang-Sheng Lee
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan
- Stem Cell Research Center, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 11211, Taiwan
- Department of Orthopedics, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
- Center for Translational Genomics & Regenerative Medicine Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Yin J, Zhu W, Feng S, Yan P, Qin S. The role of cancer-associated fibroblasts in the invasion and metastasis of colorectal cancer. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1375543. [PMID: 39139454 PMCID: PMC11319178 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1375543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer and has ranked the third leading cause in cancerassociated death globally. Metastasis is the leading cause of death in colorectal cancer patients. The role of tumor microenvironment (TME) in colorectal cancer metastasis has received increasing attention. As the most abundant cell type in the TME of solid tumors, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) have been demonstrated to have multiple functions in advancing tumor growth and metastasis. They can remodel the extracellular matrix (ECM) architecture, promote epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and interact with cancer cells or other stromal cells by secreting growth factors, cytokines, chemokines, and exosomes, facilitating tumor cell invasion into TME and contributing to distant metastasis. This article aims to analyze the sources and heterogeneity of CAFs in CRC, as well as their role in invasion and metastasis, in order to provide new insights into the metastasis mechanism of CRC and its clinical applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jinjin Yin
- Department of Pharmacy, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Diseases, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wenting Zhu
- Department of Pharmacy, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Diseases, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Senling Feng
- Department of Pharmacy, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Diseases, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Pengke Yan
- Department of Pharmacy, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Diseases, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shumin Qin
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Research on Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, Guangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Abdullah K, Kaushal JB, Takkar S, Sharma G, Alsafwani ZW, Pothuraju R, Batra SK, Siddiqui JA. Copper metabolism and cuproptosis in human malignancies: Unraveling the complex interplay for therapeutic insights. Heliyon 2024; 10:e27496. [PMID: 38486750 PMCID: PMC10938126 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e27496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Copper, a vital trace element, orchestrates diverse cellular processes ranging from energy production to antioxidant defense and angiogenesis. Copper metabolism and cuproptosis are closely linked in the context of human diseases, with a particular focus on cancer. Cuproptosis refers to a specific type of copper-mediated cell death or copper toxicity triggered by disruptions in copper metabolism within the cells. This phenomenon encompasses a spectrum of mechanisms, such as oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and perturbations in metal ion equilibrium. Mechanistically, cuproptosis is driven by copper binding to the lipoylated enzymes within the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle. This interaction participates in protein aggregation and proteotoxic stress, ultimately culminating in cell death. Targeting copper metabolism and its associated pathways in cancer cells hold therapeutic potential by selectively targeting and eliminating cancerous cells. Strategies to modulate copper levels, enhance copper excretion, or interfere with cuproptotic pathways are being explored to identify novel therapeutic targets for cancer therapy and improve patient outcomes. Understanding the relationship between cuproptosis and copper metabolism in human malignancies remains an active area of research. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the association among copper metabolism, copper homeostasis, and carcinogenesis, explicitly emphasizing the cuproptosis mechanism and its implications for cancer pathogenesis. Additionally, we emphasize the therapeutic aspects of targeting copper and cuproptosis for cancer treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K.M. Abdullah
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
| | - Jyoti B. Kaushal
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
| | - Simran Takkar
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
| | - Gunjan Sharma
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
| | - Zahraa W. Alsafwani
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
| | - Ramesh Pothuraju
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
- Cancer Research Program, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram, 695014, Kerala, India
| | - Surinder Kumar Batra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
- Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
| | - Jawed Akhtar Siddiqui
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
- Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Berlin C, Mauerer B, Cauchy P, Luenstedt J, Sankowski R, Marx L, Feuerstein R, Schaefer L, Greten FR, Pesic M, Groß O, Prinz M, Ruehl N, Miketiuk L, Jauch D, Laessle C, Jud A, Biesel EA, Neeff H, Fichtner-Feigl S, Holzner PA, Kesselring R. Single-cell deconvolution reveals high lineage- and location-dependent heterogeneity in mesenchymal multivisceral stage 4 colorectal cancer. J Clin Invest 2023; 134:e169576. [PMID: 38153787 PMCID: PMC10904044 DOI: 10.1172/jci169576] [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: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Metastasized colorectal cancer (CRC) is associated with a poor prognosis and rapid disease progression. Besides hepatic metastasis, peritoneal carcinomatosis is the major cause of death in Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) stage IV CRC patients. Insights into differential site-specific reconstitution of tumor cells and the corresponding tumor microenvironment are still missing. Here, we analyzed the transcriptome of single cells derived from murine multivisceral CRC and delineated the intermetastatic cellular heterogeneity regarding tumor epithelium, stroma, and immune cells. Interestingly, we found an intercellular site-specific network of cancer-associated fibroblasts and tumor epithelium during peritoneal metastasis as well as an autologous feed-forward loop in cancer stem cells. We furthermore deciphered a metastatic dysfunctional adaptive immunity by a loss of B cell-dependent antigen presentation and consecutive effector T cell exhaustion. Furthermore, we demonstrated major similarities of this murine metastatic CRC model with human disease and - based on the results of our analysis - provided an auspicious site-specific immunomodulatory treatment approach for stage IV CRC by intraperitoneal checkpoint inhibition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Berlin
- Department of General and Visceral Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) Partner Site, Freiburg, Germany
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- IMM-PACT Clinician Scientist Program
| | - Bernhard Mauerer
- Department of General and Visceral Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) Partner Site, Freiburg, Germany
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Pierre Cauchy
- Department of General and Visceral Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) Partner Site, Freiburg, Germany
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jost Luenstedt
- Department of General and Visceral Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- IMM-PACT Clinician Scientist Program
| | - Roman Sankowski
- Institute of Neuropathology
- Single-Cell Omics Platform Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Lisa Marx
- Department of General and Visceral Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Reinhild Feuerstein
- Department of General and Visceral Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Luisa Schaefer
- Department of General and Visceral Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Florian R. Greten
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Institute for Tumor Biology and Experimental Therapy, Georg-Speyer-Haus, Frankfurt/Main, Germany
| | - Marina Pesic
- Institute for Tumor Biology and Experimental Therapy, Georg-Speyer-Haus, Frankfurt/Main, Germany
| | - Olaf Groß
- Institute of Neuropathology
- Signalling Research Centres BIOSS and CIBSS
| | - Marco Prinz
- Institute of Neuropathology
- Signalling Research Centres BIOSS and CIBSS
- Center for Basics in NeuroModulation (NeuroModulBasics), Faculty of Medicine, and
| | - Naomi Ruehl
- Department of General and Visceral Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Laura Miketiuk
- Department of General and Visceral Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Dominik Jauch
- Department of General and Visceral Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Claudia Laessle
- Department of General and Visceral Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- EXCEL Excellent Clinician Scientist Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Andreas Jud
- Department of General and Visceral Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Esther A. Biesel
- Department of General and Visceral Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Hannes Neeff
- Department of General and Visceral Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Stefan Fichtner-Feigl
- Department of General and Visceral Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) Partner Site, Freiburg, Germany
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Philipp A. Holzner
- Department of General and Visceral Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Rebecca Kesselring
- Department of General and Visceral Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) Partner Site, Freiburg, Germany
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Shakhpazyan N, Mikhaleva L, Bedzhanyan A, Gioeva Z, Sadykhov N, Mikhalev A, Atiakshin D, Buchwalow I, Tiemann M, Orekhov A. Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms of the Tumor Stroma in Colorectal Cancer: Insights into Disease Progression and Therapeutic Targets. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2361. [PMID: 37760801 PMCID: PMC10525158 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11092361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a major health burden worldwide and is the third most common type of cancer. The early detection and diagnosis of CRC is critical to improve patient outcomes. This review explores the intricate interplay between the tumor microenvironment, stromal interactions, and the progression and metastasis of colorectal cancer. The review begins by assessing the gut microbiome's influence on CRC development, emphasizing its association with gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT). The role of the Wnt signaling pathway in CRC tumor stroma is scrutinized, elucidating its impact on disease progression. Tumor budding, its effect on tumor stroma, and the implications for patient prognosis are investigated. The review also identifies conserved oncogenic signatures (COS) within CRC stroma and explores their potential as therapeutic targets. Lastly, the seed and soil hypothesis is employed to contextualize metastasis, accentuating the significance of both tumor cells and the surrounding stroma in metastatic propensity. This review highlights the intricate interdependence between CRC cells and their microenvironment, providing valuable insights into prospective therapeutic approaches targeting tumor-stroma interactions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nikolay Shakhpazyan
- Avtsyn Research Institute of Human Morphology, Petrovsky National Research Center of Surgery, 119435 Moscow, Russia; (N.S.); (L.M.); (Z.G.); (N.S.); (A.O.)
| | - Liudmila Mikhaleva
- Avtsyn Research Institute of Human Morphology, Petrovsky National Research Center of Surgery, 119435 Moscow, Russia; (N.S.); (L.M.); (Z.G.); (N.S.); (A.O.)
| | - Arkady Bedzhanyan
- Department of Abdominal Surgery and Oncology II (Coloproctology and Uro-Gynecology), Petrovsky National Research Center of Surgery, 119435 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Zarina Gioeva
- Avtsyn Research Institute of Human Morphology, Petrovsky National Research Center of Surgery, 119435 Moscow, Russia; (N.S.); (L.M.); (Z.G.); (N.S.); (A.O.)
| | - Nikolay Sadykhov
- Avtsyn Research Institute of Human Morphology, Petrovsky National Research Center of Surgery, 119435 Moscow, Russia; (N.S.); (L.M.); (Z.G.); (N.S.); (A.O.)
| | - Alexander Mikhalev
- Department of Hospital Surgery No. 2, Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, 117997 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Dmitri Atiakshin
- Research and Educational Resource Center for Immunophenotyping, Digital Spatial Profiling and Ultrastructural Analysis Innovative Technologies, Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia, 117198 Moscow, Russia;
- Research Institute of Experimental Biology and Medicine, Burdenko Voronezh State Medical University, 394036 Voronezh, Russia
| | - Igor Buchwalow
- Research and Educational Resource Center for Immunophenotyping, Digital Spatial Profiling and Ultrastructural Analysis Innovative Technologies, Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia, 117198 Moscow, Russia;
- Institute for Hematopathology, 22547 Hamburg, Germany;
| | | | - Alexander Orekhov
- Avtsyn Research Institute of Human Morphology, Petrovsky National Research Center of Surgery, 119435 Moscow, Russia; (N.S.); (L.M.); (Z.G.); (N.S.); (A.O.)
- Laboratory of Angiopathology, Institute of General Pathology and Pathophysiology, 125315 Moscow, Russia
- Institute for Atherosclerosis Research, 121096 Moscow, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Xu G, Mo Y, Li J, Wei Q, Zhou F, Chen J. Two tripartite classification systems of CD86 + and CD206 + macrophages are significantly associated with tumor recurrence in stage II-III colorectal cancer. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1136875. [PMID: 37342343 PMCID: PMC10277500 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1136875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The prognostic value of tumor-associated macrophages remains unclear in colorectal cancer (CRC). Two tripartite classification systems, namely, ratio and quantity subgroups, were investigated as the prognostic stratification tools for stage II-III CRC. Methods We assessed the infiltration intensity of CD86+ and CD206+ macrophages in 449 cases with stage II-III disease by immunohistochemical staining. Ratio subgroups were defined by the lower- and upper-quartile points of CD206+/(CD86++CD206+) macrophage ratio, including the low-, moderate-, and high-ratio subgroups. Quantity subgroups were defined by the median points of CD86+ and CD206+ macrophages and included the low-, moderate-, and high-risk subgroups. The main analysis was recurrence-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS). Results Ratio subgroups (RFS/OS: HR=2.677/2.708, all p<0.001) and quantity subgroups (RFS/OS: HR=3.137/3.250, all p<0.001) could serve as independent prognostic indicators that effectively predicted survival outcomes. More importantly, log-rank test revealed that patients in the high-ratio (RFS/OS: HR=2.950/3.151, all p<0.001) or high-risk (RFS/OS: HR=3.453/3.711, all p<0.001) subgroup exhibited decreased survival outcomes after adjuvant chemotherapy. The predictive accuracy of the quantity subgroups within 48 months was higher than that of the ratio subgroups and tumor stage (all p<0.05). Conclusions Ratio and quantity subgroups could serve as independent prognostic indicators that could potentially be incorporated into the tumor staging algorithm to improve prognostic stratification and provide better predictions of survival outcomes in stage II-III CRC after adjuvant chemotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guozeng Xu
- Department of Radiation and Medical Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Hubei, China
- Department of Oncology, Liuzhou People’s Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Guangxi, China
| | - Yuzhen Mo
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Guangzhou Red Cross Hospital of Jinan University, Guangdong, China
| | - Jing Li
- Department of Oncology, Liuzhou People’s Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Guangxi, China
| | - Qingqing Wei
- Department of Oncology, Liuzhou People’s Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Guangxi, China
| | - Fuxiang Zhou
- Department of Radiation and Medical Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Hubei, China
| | - Jian Chen
- Department of Medical Oncology, Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Shandong, China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Zhang P, Cao X, Guan M, Li D, Xiang H, Peng Q, Zhou Y, Weng C, Fang X, Liu X, Mao H, Li Q, Liu G, Lu L. CPNE8 Promotes Gastric Cancer Metastasis by Modulating Focal Adhesion Pathway and Tumor Microenvironment. Int J Biol Sci 2022; 18:4932-4949. [PMID: 35982908 PMCID: PMC9379401 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.76425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Little is known about the oncogenic role or biological function of copine Ⅷ (CPNE8) in gastric cancer (GC). Based on TCGA database, we screened for CPNE8 and analyzed the expression of CPNE8 in GC. The correlations between CPNE8 and clinical features were analyzed using TCGA and GEO databases. The prognostic value of CPNE8 was assessed using Cox analysis and Kaplan-Meier curves. The results showed that increased expression of CPNE8 was positively correlated with metastasis and can be considered an independent prognostic risk factor for poor survival. We found that CPNE8 can promote cell proliferation, migration, and invasiveness in GC using in vitro and in vivo experiments. Our study demonstrated that CPNE8 promotes tumor progression via regulation of focal adhesion, and these effects can be rescued by focal adhesion kinase (FAK) inhibitor GSK2256098 or knockdown of FAK. In addition, CPNE8 was correlated significantly with the infiltration of cancer-associated fibroblasts and immune cells, as demonstrated by various algorithms, and high CPNE8 expression predicted poor efficacy of immune checkpoint therapy. Our findings suggest that CPNE8 modulates focal adhesion and tumor microenvironment to promote GC progression and invasiveness and could serve as a novel prognostic biomarker in GC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peiling Zhang
- Department of Medical Oncology, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiaofei Cao
- Department of Medical Oncology, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Mingmei Guan
- Department of Medical Oncology, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Dailing Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Hong Xiang
- Department of Medical Oncology, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Qian Peng
- Department of Medical Oncology, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yun Zhou
- Department of Medical Oncology, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Chengyin Weng
- Department of Medical Oncology, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xisheng Fang
- Department of Medical Oncology, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xia Liu
- Department of Medical Oncology, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Haibo Mao
- Department of Medical Oncology, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Qiao Li
- Department of Surgery University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Guolong Liu
- Department of Medical Oncology, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Lin Lu
- Department of Medical Oncology, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Luo L, Ma Y, Zheng Y, Su J, Huang G. Application Progress of Organoids in Colorectal Cancer. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:815067. [PMID: 35273961 PMCID: PMC8902504 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.815067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Currently, colorectal cancer is still the third leading cause of cancer-related mortality, and the incidence is rising. It is a long time since the researchers used cancer cell lines and animals as the study subject. However, these models possess various limitations to reflect the cancer progression in the human body. Organoids have more clinical significance than cell lines, and they also bridge the gap between animal models and humans. Patient-derived organoids are three-dimensional cultures that simulate the tumor characteristics in vivo and recapitulate tumor cell heterogeneity. Therefore, the emergence of colorectal cancer organoids provides an unprecedented opportunity for colorectal cancer research. It retains the molecular and cellular composition of the original tumor and has a high degree of homology and complexity with patient tissues. Patient-derived colorectal cancer organoids, as personalized tumor organoids, can more accurately simulate colorectal cancer patients’ occurrence, development, metastasis, and predict drug response in colorectal cancer patients. Colorectal cancer organoids show great potential for application, especially preclinical drug screening and prediction of patient response to selected treatment options. Here, we reviewed the application of colorectal cancer organoids in disease model construction, basic biological research, organoid biobank construction, drug screening and personalized medicine, drug development, drug toxicity and safety, and regenerative medicine. In addition, we also displayed the current limitations and challenges of organoids and discussed the future development direction of organoids in combination with other technologies. Finally, we summarized and analyzed the current clinical trial research of organoids, especially the clinical trials of colorectal cancer organoids. We hoped to lay a solid foundation for organoids used in colorectal cancer research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lianxiang Luo
- The Marine Biomedical Research Institute, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China.,The Marine Biomedical Research Institute of Guangdong Zhanjiang, Zhanjiang, China.,Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhanjiang), Zhanjiang, China
| | - Yucui Ma
- The Marine Biomedical Research Institute, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Yilin Zheng
- Clinical Research Center, Shantou Central Hospital, Shantou, China
| | - Jiating Su
- The First Clinical College, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Guoxin Huang
- Clinical Research Center, Shantou Central Hospital, Shantou, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Cancer-associated fibroblasts promote oral squamous cell carcinoma progression through LOX-mediated matrix stiffness. J Transl Med 2021; 19:513. [PMID: 34930321 PMCID: PMC8686394 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-021-03181-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), the most abundant cells in the tumor microenvironment, have prominent roles in the development of solid tumors as stromal targets. However, the underlying mechanism of CAFs’ function in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) development remains unclear. Here, we investigated the role of lysyl oxidase (LOX) expression in CAFs in tumor stromal remodeling and the mechanism of its effect on OSCC progression. Methods Multiple immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining was performed to detect the correlation of CAFs and LOX in the stroma of OSCC specimens, as well as the correlation with clinicopathological parameters and prognosis. The expression of LOX in CAFs were detected by RT-qPCR and western blot. The effects of LOX in CAFs on the biological characteristics of OSCC cell line were investigated using CCK-8, wound-healing and transwell assay. CAFs were co-cultured with type I collagen in vitro, and collagen contraction test, microstructure observation and rheometer were used to detect the effect of CAFs on remodeling collagen matrix. Then, collagen with different stiffness were established to investigate the effect of matrix stiffness on the progression of OSCC. Moreover, we used focal adhesion kinase (FAK) phosphorylation inhibitors to explored whether the increase in matrix stiffness promote the progression of OSCC through activating FAK phosphorylation pathway. Results LOX was colocalized with CAFs in the stroma of OSCC tissues, and its expression was significantly related to the degree of malignant differentiation and poor prognosis in OSCC. LOX was highly expressed in CAFs, and its knockdown impaired the proliferation, migration, invasion and EMT process of OSCC cells. The expression of LOX in CAFs can catalyze collagen crosslinking and increase matrix stiffness. Furthermore, CAFs-derived LOX-mediated increase in collagen stiffness induced morphological changes and promoted invasion and EMT process in OSCC cells by activating FAK phosphorylation pathway. Conclusions Our findings suggest that CAFs highly express LOX in the stroma of OSCC and can remodel the matrix collagen microenvironment, and the increase in matrix stiffness mediated by CAFs-derived LOX promotes OSCC development through FAK phosphorylation pathway. Thus, LOX may be a potential target for the early diagnosis and therapeutic treatment of OSCC. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12967-021-03181-x.
Collapse
|
10
|
The Colorectal Cancer Tumor Microenvironment and Its Impact on Liver and Lung Metastasis. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13246206. [PMID: 34944826 PMCID: PMC8699466 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13246206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Revised: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer worldwide. Metastasis to secondary organs, such as the liver and lungs, is a key driver of CRC-related mortality. The tumor microenvironment, which consists of the primary cancer cells, as well as associated support and immune cells, significantly affects the behavior of CRC cells at the primary tumor site, as well as in metastatic lesions. In this paper, we review the role of the individual components of the tumor microenvironment on tumor progression, immune evasion, and metastasis, and we discuss the implications of these components on antitumor therapies. Abstract Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common malignancy and the second most common cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. A total of 20% of CRC patients present with distant metastases, most frequently to the liver and lung. In the primary tumor, as well as at each metastatic site, the cellular components of the tumor microenvironment (TME) contribute to tumor engraftment and metastasis. These include immune cells (macrophages, neutrophils, T lymphocytes, and dendritic cells) and stromal cells (cancer-associated fibroblasts and endothelial cells). In this review, we highlight how the TME influences tumor progression and invasion at the primary site and its function in fostering metastatic niches in the liver and lungs. We also discuss emerging clinical strategies to target the CRC TME.
Collapse
|
11
|
Nag S, Das Saha K. Chitosan-Decorated PLGA-NPs Loaded with Tannic Acid/Vitamin E Mitigate Colon Cancer via the NF-κB/β-Cat/EMT Pathway. ACS OMEGA 2021; 6:28752-28769. [PMID: 34746569 PMCID: PMC8567364 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.1c03477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Colon cancer is the second highest contributor of cancer-related deaths throughout the world. Treatment strategies with tannic acid and vitamin E are envisaged as desirable and safe owing to their robust antioxidative and anti-inflammatory potential. In the present report, these bioactives have been nanoencapsulated in poly(d,l-lactide-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) formulations for maintaining sustained release and ensuring enhanced bioavailability. Capping of nanoparticles (NPs) with chitosan was done for enhanced anticancer efficacy and tumor targeting. CS-PLGA-TA-E, administered intraperitoneally, significantly inhibited tumor number and tumor volume and normalized colon histology in the colon cancer. Tissue distribution studies showed that TA/E content from CS-PLGA-TA-E was present in a higher concentration in the tumor tissue than the concentration of TA/E content from PLGA-TA-E or free TA or free E. Also, the TA/E content from all of the treatment groups showed its highest concentration in the tumor compared to other organs. Antioxidant enzymes and proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6) were inhibited by CS-PLGA-TA-E. CS-PLGA-TA-E inhibited markers for tumor growth (EGFR-PI3K-AKT), inflammation (NF-κB/Stat3), β-catenin signaling (β-catenin, c-myc, cyclin D1), EMT (E-cadherin, N-cadherin, vimentin), and apoptosis (Bcl-2) in a significantly greater way as compared with PLGA-TA-E, TA, or E. CS-PLGA-TA-E NPs can be considered promising anticancer drugs for colon cancer.
Collapse
|
12
|
Mu J, Gao S, Yang J, Wu F, Zhou H. Fundamental and Clinical Applications of Materials Based on Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts in Cancers. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:11671. [PMID: 34769102 PMCID: PMC8583912 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer stromal cells play a role in promoting tumor relapse and therapeutic resistance. Therefore, the current treatment paradigms for cancers are usually insufficient to eradicate cancer cells, and anti-cancer therapeutic strategies targeting stromal cells have been developed. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are perpetually activated fibroblasts in the tumor stroma. CAFs are the most abundant and highly heterogeneous stromal cells, and they are critically involved in cancer occurrence and progression. These effects are due to their various roles in the remodeling of the extracellular matrix, maintenance of cancer stemness, modulation of tumor metabolism, and promotion of therapy resistance. Recently, biomaterials and nanomaterials based on CAFs have been increasingly developed to perform gene or protein expression analysis, three-dimensional (3D) co-cultivation, and targeted drug delivery in cancer treatment. In this review, we systematically summarize the current research to fully understand the relevant materials and their functional diversity in CAFs, and we highlight the potential clinical applications of CAFs-oriented biomaterials and nanomaterials in anti-cancer therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jingtian Mu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Frontier Innovation Center for Dental Medicine Plus, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; (J.M.); (J.Y.)
| | - Shengtao Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China College of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China;
| | - Jin Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Frontier Innovation Center for Dental Medicine Plus, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; (J.M.); (J.Y.)
| | - Fanglong Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Frontier Innovation Center for Dental Medicine Plus, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; (J.M.); (J.Y.)
| | - Hongmei Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Frontier Innovation Center for Dental Medicine Plus, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; (J.M.); (J.Y.)
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Deng L, Jiang N, Zeng J, Wang Y, Cui H. The Versatile Roles of Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts in Colorectal Cancer and Therapeutic Implications. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:733270. [PMID: 34660589 PMCID: PMC8517274 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.733270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) is populated by abundant cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) that radically influence the disease progression across many cancers, including the colorectal cancer (CRC). In theory, targeting CAFs holds great potential in optimizing CRC treatment. However, attempts to translate the therapeutic benefit of CAFs into clinic practice face many obstacles, largely due to our limited understanding of the heterogeneity in their origins, functions, and mechanisms. In recent years, accumulating evidence has uncovered some cellular precursors and molecular markers of CAFs and also revealed their versatility in impacting various hallmarks of CRC, together helping us to better define the population of CAFs and also paving the way toward their future therapeutic targeting for CRC treatment. In this review, we outline the emerging concept of CAFs in CRC, with an emphasis on their origins, biomarkers, prognostic significance, as well as their functional roles and underlying mechanisms in CRC biology. At last, we discuss the prospect of harnessing CAFs as promising therapeutic targets for the treatment of patients with CRC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Longfei Deng
- Cancer Center, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Nianfen Jiang
- Health Management Center, Southwest University Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Jun Zeng
- Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, College of Life Sciences, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yi Wang
- Department of General Surgery, The Ninth People's Hospital of Chongqing, Affiliated Hospital of Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hongjuan Cui
- Cancer Center, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, Chongqing, China.,Department of General Surgery, The Ninth People's Hospital of Chongqing, Affiliated Hospital of Southwest University, Chongqing, China.,State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Kannappan V, Ali M, Small B, Rajendran G, Elzhenni S, Taj H, Wang W, Dou QP. Recent Advances in Repurposing Disulfiram and Disulfiram Derivatives as Copper-Dependent Anticancer Agents. Front Mol Biosci 2021; 8:741316. [PMID: 34604310 PMCID: PMC8484884 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.741316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Copper (Cu) plays a pivotal role in cancer progression by acting as a co-factor that regulates the activity of many enzymes and structural proteins in cancer cells. Therefore, Cu-based complexes have been investigated as novel anticancer metallodrugs and are considered as a complementary strategy for currently used platinum agents with undesirable general toxicity. Due to the high failure rate and increased cost of new drugs, there is a global drive towards the repositioning of known drugs for cancer treatment in recent years. Disulfiram (DSF) is a first-line antialcoholism drug used in clinics for more than 65 yr. In combination with Cu, it has shown great potential as an anticancer drug by targeting a wide range of cancers. The reaction between DSF and Cu ions forms a copper diethyldithiocarbamate complex (Cu(DDC)2 also known as CuET) which is the active, potent anticancer ingredient through inhibition of NF-κB and ubiquitin-proteasome system as well as alteration of the intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS). Importantly, DSF/Cu inhibits several molecular targets related to drug resistance, stemness, angiogenesis and metastasis and is thus considered as a novel strategy for overcoming tumour recurrence and relapse in patients. Despite its excellent anticancer efficacy, DSF has proven unsuccessful in several cancer clinical trials. This is likely due to the poor stability, rapid metabolism and/or short plasma half-life of the currently used oral version of DSF and the inability to form Cu(DDC)2 at relevant concentrations in tumour tissues. Here, we summarize the scientific rationale, molecular targets, and mechanisms of action of DSF/Cu in cancer cells and the outcomes of oral DSF ± Cu in cancer clinical trials. We will focus on the novel insights on harnessing the immune system and hypoxic microenvironment using DSF/Cu complex and discuss the emerging delivery strategies that can overcome the shortcomings of DSF-based anticancer therapies and provide opportunities for translation of DSF/Cu or its Cu(DDC)2 complex into cancer therapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vinodh Kannappan
- Research Institute in Healthcare Science, Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Wolverhampton, Wolverhampton, United Kingdom.,Disulfican Ltd, University of Wolverhampton Science Park, Wolverhampton, United Kingdom
| | - Misha Ali
- Departments of Oncology, Pharmacology and Pathology, School of Medicine, Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, United States.,Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, India
| | - Benjamin Small
- Research Institute in Healthcare Science, Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Wolverhampton, Wolverhampton, United Kingdom
| | - Gowtham Rajendran
- Research Institute in Healthcare Science, Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Wolverhampton, Wolverhampton, United Kingdom
| | - Salena Elzhenni
- Departments of Oncology, Pharmacology and Pathology, School of Medicine, Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, United States
| | - Hamza Taj
- Departments of Oncology, Pharmacology and Pathology, School of Medicine, Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, United States
| | - Weiguang Wang
- Research Institute in Healthcare Science, Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Wolverhampton, Wolverhampton, United Kingdom.,Disulfican Ltd, University of Wolverhampton Science Park, Wolverhampton, United Kingdom
| | - Q Ping Dou
- Departments of Oncology, Pharmacology and Pathology, School of Medicine, Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, United States
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Wu F, Yang J, Liu J, Wang Y, Mu J, Zeng Q, Deng S, Zhou H. Signaling pathways in cancer-associated fibroblasts and targeted therapy for cancer. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2021; 6:218. [PMID: 34108441 PMCID: PMC8190181 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-021-00641-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 251] [Impact Index Per Article: 83.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
To flourish, cancers greatly depend on their surrounding tumor microenvironment (TME), and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in TME are critical for cancer occurrence and progression because of their versatile roles in extracellular matrix remodeling, maintenance of stemness, blood vessel formation, modulation of tumor metabolism, immune response, and promotion of cancer cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and therapeutic resistance. CAFs are highly heterogeneous stromal cells and their crosstalk with cancer cells is mediated by a complex and intricate signaling network consisting of transforming growth factor-beta, phosphoinositide 3-kinase/AKT/mammalian target of rapamycin, mitogen-activated protein kinase, Wnt, Janus kinase/signal transducers and activators of transcription, epidermal growth factor receptor, Hippo, and nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells, etc., signaling pathways. These signals in CAFs exhibit their own special characteristics during the cancer progression and have the potential to be targeted for anticancer therapy. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of these signaling cascades in interactions between cancer cells and CAFs is necessary to fully realize the pivotal roles of CAFs in cancers. Herein, in this review, we will summarize the enormous amounts of findings on the signals mediating crosstalk of CAFs with cancer cells and its related targets or trials. Further, we hypothesize three potential targeting strategies, including, namely, epithelial-mesenchymal common targets, sequential target perturbation, and crosstalk-directed signaling targets, paving the way for CAF-directed or host cell-directed antitumor therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fanglong Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Jin Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Junjiang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Ye Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Jingtian Mu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Qingxiang Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuzhi Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongmei Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|