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Wang S, He Y, Wang J, Luo E. Re-exploration of immunotherapy targeting EMT of hepatocellular carcinoma: Starting from the NF-κB pathway. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 174:116566. [PMID: 38631143 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116566] [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: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fifth most common malignancies worldwide, and its high morbidity and mortality have brought a heavy burden to the global public health system. Due to the concealment of its onset, the limitation of treatment, the acquisition of multi-drug resistance and radiation resistance, the treatment of HCC cannot achieve satisfactory results. Epithelial mesenchymal transformation (EMT) is a key process that induces progression, distant metastasis, and therapeutic resistance to a variety of malignant tumors, including HCC. Therefore, targeting EMT has become a promising tumor immunotherapy method for HCC. The NF-κB pathway is a key regulatory pathway for EMT. Targeting this pathway has shown potential to inhibit HCC infiltration, invasion, distant metastasis, and therapeutic resistance. At present, there are still some controversies about this pathway and new ideas of combined therapy, which need to be further explored. This article reviews the progress of immunotherapy in improving EMT development in HCC cells by exploring the mechanism of regulating EMT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuang Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Chengdu Fifth People's Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, PR China
| | - Yan He
- School of Medical and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 611137, PR China
| | - Jun Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Chengdu Fifth People's Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, PR China
| | - En Luo
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Chengdu Fifth People's Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, PR China.
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2
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Wischhusen JC, Chowdhury SM, Lee T, Wang H, Bachawal S, Devulapally R, Afjei R, Sukumar UK, Paulmurugan R. Ultrasound-mediated delivery of miRNA-122 and anti-miRNA-21 therapeutically immunomodulates murine hepatocellular carcinoma in vivo. J Control Release 2020; 321:272-284. [PMID: 32004588 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2020.01.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2019] [Revised: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common cause of cancer-related mortality, and patients with HCC show poor response to currently available treatments, which demands new therapies. We recently developed a synthetic microRNA-based molecularly targeted therapy for improving HCC response to chemotherapy by eliminating drug resistance. We used ultrasound-targeted microbubble destruction (UTMD) to locally deliver microRNA-loaded nanoparticles to HCC. Since the immune microenvironment plays a crucial role in HCC disease development and response to treatment, and UTMD and microRNAs have the potential to interfere with the immune system, in this study we analyzed the immunomodulatory effects of UTMD and miRNAs in HCC. We used an immunocompetent syngeneic HCC mouse model for the study. We conducted cytokine profiling in tumor, lymph nodes, and serum of animals within the first 24 h of treatment to analyze changes in the level of pro- and antitumoral cytokines. The results showed: (1) Hepa1-6 syngeneic tumors expressed HCC-related cytokines, (2) UTMD-microRNA combination therapy triggered transient cytokine storms, and (3) delivery of microRNA-122 and anti-microRNA-21 affected the immune microenvironment by decreasing the level of GM-CSF in tumors while modulating protumoral IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-5, IL-6 and IL-17 and antitumoral IL-2 and IL-12 in tumor-proximal lymph nodes, and increasing IL-2 in the serum of tumor-bearing mice. Local delivery of targeted therapy by UTMD significantly reduced the concentration of IL-12 and IL-17 in lymph nodes of treated and contralateral tumors suggesting a systemic response. CONCLUSION: UTMD-mediated delivery of microRNA-122 and anti-microRNA-21 modulated the immune microenvironment of Hepa1-6 tumors at the level of cytokine expressions. Exploiting antitumoral immune effects could enhance the therapeutic efficacy of the proposed combination therapy for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer C Wischhusen
- Apoptosis, Cancer and Development Laboratory, Centre de Cancérologie de Lyon, INSERM U1052-CNRS UMR5286, Centre Léon Bérard, 69008 Lyon, France; Department of Radiology, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | | | - Taehwa Lee
- Department of Radiology, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Huaijun Wang
- Department of Radiology, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
| | - Sunitha Bachawal
- Department of Radiology, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
| | - Rammohan Devulapally
- Department of Radiology, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Rayhaneh Afjei
- Department of Radiology, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
| | - Uday Kumar Sukumar
- Department of Radiology, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
| | - Ramasamy Paulmurugan
- Department of Radiology, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
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3
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Vauthier C. A journey through the emergence of nanomedicines with poly(alkylcyanoacrylate) based nanoparticles. J Drug Target 2019; 27:502-524. [PMID: 30889991 DOI: 10.1080/1061186x.2019.1588280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Starting in the late 1970s, the pioneering work of Patrick Couvreur gave birth to the first biodegradable nanoparticles composed of a biodegradable synthetic polymer. These nanoparticles, made of poly(alkylcyanoacrylate) (PACA), were the first synthetic polymer-based nanoparticulate drug carriers undergoing a phase III clinical trial so far. Analyzing the journey from the birth of PACA nanoparticles to their clinical evaluation, this paper highlights their remarkable adaptability to bypass various drug delivery challenges found on the way. At present, PACA nanoparticles include a wide range of nanoparticles that can associate drugs of different chemical nature and can be administered in vivo by different routes. The most recent technologies giving the nanoparticles customised functions could also be implemented on this family of nanoparticles. Through different examples, this paper discusses the seminal role of the PACA nanoparticles' family in the development of nanomedicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Vauthier
- a Institut Galien Paris Sud, UMR CNRS 8612 , Université Paris-Sud , Chatenay-Malabry Cedex , France
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4
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Daher S, Massarwa M, Benson AA, Khoury T. Current and Future Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: An Updated Comprehensive Review. J Clin Transl Hepatol 2018; 6:69-78. [PMID: 29607307 PMCID: PMC5863001 DOI: 10.14218/jcth.2017.00031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 197] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2017] [Revised: 10/07/2017] [Accepted: 10/23/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is among the leading causes of cancer-related mortality. The principal treatment is surgical resection or liver transplantation, depending on whether the patient is a suitable transplant candidate. However, in most patients with HCC the diagnosis is often late, thereby excluding the patients from definitive surgical resection. Medical treatment includes sorafenib, which is the most commonly used systemic therapy; although, it has been shown to only minimally impact patient survival by several months. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy are generally ineffective. Due to the poor prognosis of patients with HCC, newer treatments are needed with several being in development, either in pre-clinical or clinical studies. In this review article, we provide an update on the current and future medical and surgical management of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saleh Daher
- Gastroenterology and Liver Units, Department of Medicine, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Muhammad Massarwa
- Gastroenterology and Liver Units, Department of Medicine, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Ariel A. Benson
- Gastroenterology and Liver Units, Department of Medicine, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Tawfik Khoury
- Gastroenterology and Liver Units, Department of Medicine, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
- *Correspondence to: Tawfik Khoury, Institute of Gastroenterology and Liver diseases, Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical Center, P.O.B. 12000, Jerusalem IL-91120, Israel. Tel: +972-509870611, E-mail:
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5
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Kouri BE, Abrams RA, Al-Refaie WB, Azad N, Farrell J, Gaba RC, Gervais DA, Gipson MG, Kolbeck KJ, Marshalleck FE, Pinchot JW, Small W, Ray CE, Hohenwalter EJ. ACR Appropriateness Criteria Radiologic Management of Hepatic Malignancy. J Am Coll Radiol 2016; 13:265-73. [PMID: 26944037 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacr.2015.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2015] [Accepted: 12/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Management of primary and secondary hepatic malignancy is a complex problem. Achieving optimal care for this challenging population often requires the involvement of multiple medical and surgical disciplines. Because of the wide variety of potential therapies, treatment protocols for various malignancies continue to evolve. Consequently, development of appropriate therapeutic algorithms necessitates consideration of medical options, such as systemic chemotherapy; surgical options, such as resection or transplantation; and loco-regional therapies, such as thermal ablation and transarterial embolization techniques. This article provides a review of treatment strategies for the three most common subtypes of hepatic malignancy treated with loco-regional therapies: hepatocellular carcinoma, neuroendocrine metastases, and colorectal metastases. The ACR Appropriateness Criteria are evidence-based guidelines for specific clinical conditions that are reviewed every three years by a multidisciplinary expert panel. The guideline development and review include an extensive analysis of current medical literature from peer reviewed journals and the application of a well-established consensus methodology (modified Delphi) to rate the appropriateness of imaging and treatment procedures by the panel. In those instances where evidence is lacking or not definitive, expert opinion may be used to recommend imaging or treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian E Kouri
- Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center, Winston-Salem, North Carolina.
| | | | - Waddah B Al-Refaie
- Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, District of Columbia, American College of Surgeons
| | - Nilofer Azad
- Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, American Society of Clinical Oncology
| | - James Farrell
- Interventional Endoscopy and Pancreatic Diseases, New Haven, Connecticut, American Gastroenterological Association
| | - Ron C Gaba
- University of Illinois Hospital, Chicago, Illinois
| | | | - Matthew G Gipson
- University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
| | | | | | | | - William Small
- Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, Illinois
| | - Charles E Ray
- University of Illinois Hospital and Health Science System, Chicago, Illinois
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6
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Zhao Y, Lau LF, Dai X, Li B. In Vitro and In Vivo Anticancer Activity of Gimatecan against Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev 2016; 17:4853-4856. [PMID: 28030910 PMCID: PMC5454685 DOI: 10.22034/apjcp.2016.17.11.4853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective: Gimatecan is a new camptothecin (CPT) analogue that inhibits tumor growth by targeting DNA topoisomerase I (TOP I) and introducing strong and persistent DNA cleavage. Anti-tumor activity has been demonstrated with a wide range of solid tumors in previous preclinical and clinical studies. Here, we investigated for the first time the effects of gimatecan on the proliferation of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells both in vitro and in vivo. Methods: Anticancer efficacy of gimatecan were evaluated in a panel of HCC cell lines and corresponding mouse xenograft models. Inhibition of cell proliferation was measured by CellTiter-Glo cell viability assay. In vivo, gimatecan and control preparations were orally administered every four days, for a total of four times. Tumor volume and body weights of the mice were measured twice weekly. Results: In vitro cytotoxicity evaluation showed that gimatecan inhibited the proliferation of a large panel of HCC cell lines in a dose dependent manner, with IC50 values ranging between 12.1~1085.0 nM. In vivo evaluation in mouse xenograft models showed significant antitumor effects of gimatecan at 0.8mg/kg and 0.4mg/kg as compared to the control group. Conclusion: This study suggested that gimatecan may have the potential to be used as a chemotherapeutic agent for the treatment of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youna Zhao
- Lee's Pharmaceutical (Hong Kong) Limited, Hong Kong,China.
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7
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Brito AF, Abrantes AM, Tralhão JG, Botelho MF. Targeting Hepatocellular Carcinoma: What did we Discover so Far? Oncol Rev 2016; 10:302. [PMID: 27994769 PMCID: PMC5136756 DOI: 10.4081/oncol.2016.302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2016] [Revised: 08/19/2016] [Accepted: 08/24/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is increasingly considered an issue of global importance. Its rates of incidence and mortality have been markedly increasing over the last decades. Among risk factors, some should be highlighted, namely the infections by hepatitis B and C virus, as well as clinical cases of cirrhosis. HCC is characterized as asymptomatic disease in the initial stages which most often leads to a late diagnosis. At molecular and genetic level HCC represents a highly complex tumor entity, including a wide variety of mutations, thus accounting for different mechanisms of resistance towards therapeutic approaches. In particular, mutations of the TP53 gene, as well as a deregulation between the expression of pro- and anti-apoptotic proteins of the BCL-2 family are observed. Regarding treatment modalities, surgical procedures offer the best chance of cure, however, due to a late diagnosis, most of concerned patients cannot be subjected to them. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy are also ineffective, and currently, the treatment with sorafenib is the most commonly used systemic therapy although it can only increase the patient survival for some months. In this sense, a quick and accurate investigation is of utmost importance in order to develop ways of early diagnosis as well as new therapies for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Filipa Brito
- Faculty of Medicine of University of Coimbra, Pólo III - Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Celas. 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal. +351.239480200 - +351.239480217.
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8
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Guerra S, Mamede AC, Carvalho MJ, Laranjo M, Tralhão JG, Abrantes AM, Maia CJ, Botelho MF. Liver diseases: what is known so far about the therapy with human amniotic membrane? Cell Tissue Bank 2016; 17:653-663. [PMID: 27550013 DOI: 10.1007/s10561-016-9579-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2016] [Accepted: 08/13/2016] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Liver, the largest intern organ of the human body, is responsible for several vital tasks such as digestive and excretory functions, as well as for nutrients storage and metabolic functions, synthesis of new molecules and purification of toxic chemicals. Cirrhosis, fibrosis and hepatocellular carcinoma are the most prevalent liver diseases. Despite all the studies performed so far, treatment options for these diseases are very limited. For this reason, it is urgent to find effective therapies for these pathologies. Several studies have been performed during the last decade about the possible application of human amniotic membrane in hepatic diseases therapy. Promising results about human amniotic membrane or its derived cells, in vitro and in vivo, applications in fibrosis, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma were already published. Since it is an attractive study area, it is becoming a dynamic scientific subject. However, the action mechanisms of human amniotic membrane and its derived cells in hepatic diseases therapy must be precisely known in order that this promising therapy could be clinically used.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Guerra
- Biophysics Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba - Celas, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Catarina Mamede
- Biophysics Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba - Celas, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal. .,CICS-UBI, Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal. .,CIMAGO, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal. .,CNC.IBILI, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - Maria João Carvalho
- Biophysics Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba - Celas, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal.,CIMAGO, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,CNC.IBILI, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Obstetrics Service, Coimbra Hospital and University Centre, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Mafalda Laranjo
- Biophysics Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba - Celas, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal.,CIMAGO, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,CNC.IBILI, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - José Guilherme Tralhão
- Biophysics Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba - Celas, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal.,CIMAGO, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Surgical Department A, Coimbra Hospital and University Centre, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Margarida Abrantes
- Biophysics Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba - Celas, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal.,CIMAGO, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,CNC.IBILI, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Cláudio Jorge Maia
- CICS-UBI, Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Maria Filomena Botelho
- Biophysics Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba - Celas, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal.,CIMAGO, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,CNC.IBILI, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
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9
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Mullick Chowdhury S, Wang TY, Bachawal S, Devulapally R, Choe JW, Abou Elkacem L, Yakub BK, Wang DS, Tian L, Paulmurugan R, Willmann JK. Ultrasound-guided therapeutic modulation of hepatocellular carcinoma using complementary microRNAs. J Control Release 2016; 238:272-280. [PMID: 27503707 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2016.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2016] [Revised: 07/05/2016] [Accepted: 08/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Treatment options for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are limited, in particular in advanced and drug resistant HCC. MicroRNAs (miRNA) are non-coding small RNAs that are emerging as novel drugs for the treatment of cancer. The aim of this study was to assess treatment effects of two complementary miRNAs (sense miRNA-122, and antisense antimiR-21) encapsulated in biodegradable poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles (PLGA-NP), administered by an ultrasound-guided and microbubble-enhanced delivery approach in doxorubicin-resistant and non-resistant human HCC xenografts. Proliferation and invasiveness of human HCC cells after miRNA-122/antimiR-21 and doxorubicin treatment were assessed in vitro. Confocal microscopy and qRT-PCR were used to visualize and quantitate successful intracellular miRNA-loaded PLGA-NP delivery. Up and down-regulation of miRNA downstream targets and multidrug resistance proteins and extent of apoptosis were assessed in vivo in treated human HCC xenografts in mice. Compared to single miRNA therapy, combination therapy with the two complementary miRNAs resulted in significantly (P<0.05) stronger decrease in cell proliferation, invasion, and migration of HCC cells as well as higher resensitization to doxorubicin. Ultrasound-guided delivery significantly increased in vivo miRNA-loaded PLGA-NP delivery in human HCC xenografts compared to control conditions by 5-9 fold (P<0.001). miRNA-loaded PLGA-NP were internalized in HCC cells and anti-apoptotic proteins were down regulated with apoptosis in ~27% of the tumor volume of doxorubicin-resistant human HCC after a single treatment with complementary miRNAs and doxorubicin. Thus, ultrasound-guided delivery of complementary miRNAs is highly efficient in the treatment of doxorubicin- resistant and non-resistant HCC. Further development of this new treatment approach could aid in better treatment of patients with HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sayan Mullick Chowdhury
- Department of Radiology, Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Tzu-Yin Wang
- Department of Radiology, Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Sunitha Bachawal
- Department of Radiology, Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Rammohan Devulapally
- Department of Radiology, Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Jung Woo Choe
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Stanford University Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Lotfi Abou Elkacem
- Department of Radiology, Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Butrus Khuri Yakub
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Stanford University Stanford, CA, USA
| | - David S Wang
- Department of Radiology, Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Lu Tian
- Department of Health, Research & Policy, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Ramasamy Paulmurugan
- Department of Radiology, Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
| | - Jürgen K Willmann
- Department of Radiology, Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
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10
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Vilarinho S, Taddei T. Therapeutic strategies for hepatocellular carcinoma: new advances and challenges. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015; 13:219-34. [PMID: 25791207 DOI: 10.1007/s11938-015-0049-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
OPINION STATEMENT Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fastest growing malignancy in the USA, and its prognosis remains poor with a 5-year survival around 12 %. Clinical data demonstrate that 85 % of cases occur in individuals with underlying cirrhosis and only 15 % develop in non-cirrhotic livers. Therefore, American and European guidelines recommend routine HCC screening for high-risk individuals (patients with cirrhosis) with abdominal ultrasound every 6 months. Once a lesion is identified or suspected on ultrasound, dynamic imaging is then indicated. The diagnosis of HCC is established in a patient with cirrhosis when a lesion measures at least 1 cm in diameter and demonstrates arterial enhancement and portal venous washout on contrast-enhanced computerized tomography or magnetic resonance imaging. Indeterminate lesions should be followed with surveillance imaging or further investigated with biopsy according to the level of suspicion for malignancy. Given the clinical, pathological, and molecular heterogeneity of HCC, there are multiple therapeutic modalities available. These may be curative, such as surgical resection, liver transplantation, and local ablation, or palliative, such as catheter-directed therapies (transarterial chemo, radio, or bland embolization), and systemic therapy (sorafenib). Patients with a single lesion, good performance status, and preserved liver synthetic function should be offered curative surgical resection or ablation therapy. Patients with HCC and decompensated liver disease should be evaluated and listed for liver transplantation. For unresectable disease or tumor burden precluding transplantation or curative ablation, palliative therapeutic modalities should be offered. Sorafenib is indicated for patients with vascular invasion and/or extra-hepatic metastasis if the estimated life expectancy is more than 3 months. Systemic internal radiation therapy using yttrium-90 microspheres in cases of multifocal bi-lobar disease and/or portal vein occlusion is an emerging therapy. Best supportive care is recommended for patients who lack the hepatic reserve to tolerate therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sílvia Vilarinho
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Digestive Diseases, Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, 1080 LMP, PO Box 208019, New Haven, CT, 06520-8019, USA,
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11
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{2-[1-(3-Methoxycarbonylmethyl-1H-indol-2-yl)-1-methyl-ethyl]-1H-indol-3-yl}-acetic Acid Methyl Ester Inhibited Hepatocellular Carcinoma Growth in Bel-7402 Cells and Its Resistant Variants by Activation of NOX4 and SIRT3. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2015; 2015:491205. [PMID: 25961022 PMCID: PMC4413889 DOI: 10.1155/2015/491205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2014] [Accepted: 01/01/2015] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
{2-[1-(3-Methoxycarbonylmethyl-1H-indol-2-yl)-1-methyl-ethyl]-1H-indol-3-yl}-acetic acid methyl ester (MIAM) is a novel indole compound, which possessed high efficacy against many cancers xenografted in mice without obvious toxicity. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of MIAM on human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) Bel-7402 cells and its resistant variants Bel-7402/5FU. MIAM inhibited the growth of HCC more potent in Bel-7402/5FU cells than its parent cells. MIAM increased cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, induced cell apoptosis, and arrested cell cycle in G0/G1 phase. MIAM might exert its action on Bel-7402/5FU cells through activation of NADPH oxidase 4 (NOX4)/p22phox, Sirtuin3 (SIRT3)/SOD2, and SIRT3/p53/p21Waf1/Cip pathways. MIAM might inhibit HCC growth through the modulation of SIRT3. When SIRT3 was silenced, the inhibitory effect of MIAM on Bel-7402/5FU was lowered, showing the characteristic of resistance against MIAM, whereas Bel-7402/5FU cells with high expression of SIRT3 by SIRT3 adenovirus infection demonstrated the high sensitivity to MIAM. These results suggested that MIAM might exert its action against Bel-7402/5FU growth through upregulation of SIRT3. We suggested that MIAM might be a promising candidate compound which could develop as a potent anticancer agent targeting NOX4 and SIRT3 activation.
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12
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Jin XB, Wang YJ, Liang LL, Pu QH, Shen J, Lu XM, Chu FJ, Zhu JY. Cecropin suppresses human hepatocellular carcinoma BEL- 7402 cell growth and survival in vivo without side-toxicity. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev 2015; 15:5433-6. [PMID: 25041014 DOI: 10.7314/apjcp.2014.15.13.5433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Conventional chemotherapy against hepatocellular carcinoma typically causes various side effects. Our previous study showed that cecropin of Musca domestica can induce apoptosis in human hepatocellular carcinoma BEL-7402 cells in vitro. However, whether cecropin inhibits BEL-7402 cell in vivo and the question of possible side effects remained undentified. The present study confirmed tumor-inhibitory effects of cecropin in vivo, and furthermore strongly suggested that cecropin cytotoxicity in BEL-7402 cells in vivo may be mainly derived from its pro-apoptotic action. Specifically, we found that cecropin exerted no obvious side effects in tumor-bearing mice as it had no significant hematoxicity as well as visceral toxicity. Therefore, cecropin may be a potential candidate for further investigation as an antitumor agent against hepatocellular carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Bao Jin
- School of Basic Courses, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China E-mail :
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13
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Li Y, Wang W, Xu X, Sun S, Qu XJ. {2-[1-(3-Methoxycarbonylmethyl-1H-indol-2-yl)-1-methyl-ethyl]-1H-indol-3-yl}-acetic acid methyl ester (MIAM) inhibited human hepatocellular carcinoma growth through upregulation of Sirtuin-3 (SIRT3). Biomed Pharmacother 2014; 69:125-32. [PMID: 25661348 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2014.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2014] [Accepted: 11/05/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
{2-[1-(3-Methoxycarbonylmethyl-1H-indol-2-yl)-1-methyl-ethyl]-1H-indol-3-yl}-acetic acid methyl ester (MIAM) is a novel indole compound. Our previous studies showed that MIAM possessed activity against many cancers xenografted in mice without significant toxicity. In this study, we determined the effect of MIAM on human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) by both in vitro and in vivo assays. In in vitro assay, the experiments were performed in the hypoxic incubator. MIAM inhibited HCC growth with dose-dependent manner. The effects of MIAM on HCC might be due to its activities in induction of apoptosis, arrest of cell cycle in G0/G1 phase. Further studies showed that MIAM might exert its actions through multiple mechanisms. MIAM could reduce intracellular ATP, increase levels of p53/p21 and SIRT3/SOD2/Bax. MIAM also had the activity of reducing HIF1α and hexokinase II (HK II) in HCC. MIAM had the activity of increasing cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) in HCC. However, the increase of ROS might not be its main mechanism in inhibition of HCC. MIAM might inhibit HepG2 growth through induction of apoptosis. We determined the relationship between level of SIRT3 and cell viability in the MIAM-treated cells. MIAM treatment resulted in increase of SIRT3 in HCC. Further, HepG2 cells infected with human SIRT3 were more sensitive to MIAM than the cells without infection of SIRT3. These results suggested that MIAM might inhibit HCC growth through upregulation of SIRT3. Importantly, the effect of MIAM was confirmed in the HepG2 xenografts bearing in mice. MIAM treatment did not induce significant toxicology to mice. Together, MIAM could be developed as potential agent for treatment of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye Li
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Chemical Biology & Pharmaceutical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Wenjing Wang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Chemical Biology & Pharmaceutical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Xiaoxue Xu
- Medical Experiments and Testing Center, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Shiyue Sun
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Chemical Biology & Pharmaceutical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Xian-Jun Qu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Chemical Biology & Pharmaceutical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China.
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14
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Srimuninnimit V, Sriuranpong V, Suwanvecho S. Efficacy and safety of sorafenib in combination with gemcitabine in patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma: A multicenter, open-label, single-arm phase II study. Asia Pac J Clin Oncol 2014; 10:255-60. [DOI: 10.1111/ajco.12191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/16/2014] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Virote Sriuranpong
- Department of Medicine; Faculty of Medicine; Chulalongkorn University; Bangkok Thailand
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15
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Sahani DV, Jiang T, Hayano K, Duda DG, Catalano OA, Ancukiewicz M, Jain RK, Zhu AX. Magnetic resonance imaging biomarkers in hepatocellular carcinoma: association with response and circulating biomarkers after sunitinib therapy. J Hematol Oncol 2013; 6:51. [PMID: 23842041 PMCID: PMC3722053 DOI: 10.1186/1756-8722-6-51] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2013] [Accepted: 06/26/2013] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background To investigate the hypothesis that MRI derived diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) and perfusion (MRP) parameters are sensitive image biomarkers for monitoring early antiangiogenic effects and predicting progression free survival (PFS) in advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Methods In this phase II clinical trial, 23 of 34 patients were included in the imaging and circulating biomarker study. DWI and MRP were performed at the baseline and at 2-weeks after initiation of sunitinib. The imaging protocol included an axial DWI sequence using b values of 50, 400 and 800 sec/mm2, and MRP using a series of coronal 3D-VIBE following 20 ml of Gd-DTPA at 2 ml/sec. These parameters were compared with clinical outcome and PFS at 6-months. Correlation between changes in MRI parameters and plasma biomarkers was also evaluated. Results After 2-week of sunitinib, substantial Ktrans changes in HCC were observed from median baseline value 2.15 min−1 to 0.94 min−1 (P = 0.0001) with increases in median apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) from 0.88 × 10-3 mm2/s to 0.98 × 10-3 mm2/s (P = 0.0001). Tumor size remained unchanged by RECIST and mRECIST (both P > 0.05). Patients who showed larger drop in Ktrans and Kep at 2 weeks correlated with favorable clinical outcome, and higher baseline Ktrans and larger drop in EVF correlated with longer PFS (all P < 0.05). There was a significant association between a decrease in sVEGFR2 and the drop in Ktrans and Kep (P = 0.044, P = 0.030), and a significant and borderline association between decrease in TNF-α and the drop in Ktrans and Kep, respectively (P = 0.051, P = 0.035). Conclusion In HCC, MRP may be a more sensitive biomarker in predicting early response and PFS following sunitinib than RECIST and mRECIST. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT00361309
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Affiliation(s)
- Dushyant V Sahani
- Division of Abdominal Imaging and Intervention, Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit Street, White 270, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
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16
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Indelicato DJ, Finkelstein SE. Dendritic cell immunotherapy in soft tissue sarcoma. Immunotherapy 2013; 4:1023-9. [PMID: 23148754 DOI: 10.2217/imt.12.106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Soft tissue sarcomas represent a rare but diverse family of tumors affecting patients of all ages. Conventional chemotherapy rarely eradicates metastatic disease and newer targeted agents are successful in only very specific histologic subgroups. Therefore, scientists and clinicians are investigating immunotherapy techniques, primarily involving cellular immunity focused on the T-cell response to tumor antigens. In both animal models and human sarcoma trials, dendritic cells have been shown to induce an effective antitumor immune response. Radiotherapy, particularly when delivered in a hypofractionated manner prior to sarcoma excision, may potentiate the function of the dendritic cells through the induction of apoptosis. The synergistic effect may carry over to other cancer types and warrants further multidisciplinary investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J Indelicato
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Florida Proton Therapy Institute, 2015 North Jefferson St, Jacksonville, FL 32206, USA.
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17
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Bai W, Wang YJ, Zhao Y, Qi XS, Yin ZX, He CY, Li RJ, Wu KC, Xia JL, Fan DM, Han GH. Sorafenib in combination with transarterial chemoembolization improves the survival of patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma: a propensity score matching study. J Dig Dis 2013; 14:181-90. [PMID: 23324079 DOI: 10.1111/1751-2980.12038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This prospective non-randomized controlled trial aimed to compare the efficacy of sorafenib in combination with transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) vs TACE alone for the treatment of patients with unresectable intermediate or advanced hepatocellular carcinoma. METHODS A total of 304 patients were enrolled, in which 82 received concurrent sorafenib (400 mg orally twice daily, initiated within 14 days after TACE), and these patients were matched with 164 patients who received TACE alone at a 1:2 ratio using propensity score matching to minimize selection bias. The response to treatment, time-to-progression (TTP), overall survival (OS) as well as adverse events were compared between the two groups. RESULTS During a median follow-up period of 21.4 weeks (range 0.5-103 weeks), the addition of sorafenib prolonged TTP (6.3 vs 4.3 months; hazard ratio [HR] 0.60, 95% CI 0.422-0.853, P = 0.004) and median survival (7.5 vs 5.1 months; HR 0.61, 95% CI 0.423-0.884, P = 0.009) compared with TACE alone. Significant prognostic factors for OS by multivariate analysis included the use of sorafenib, Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer stage, metastasis/vascular invasion and Child-Pugh score. CONCLUSIONS The combined use of sorafenib and TACE was generally well tolerated and significantly improved OS and TTP compared with TACE alone in patients with intermediate or advanced HCC. Further studies are warranted to confirm the safety and efficacy of this combination therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Bai
- Department of Digestive Interventional Radiology, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
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18
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Brito AF, Abrantes AM, Pinto-Costa C, Gomes AR, Mamede AC, Casalta-Lopes J, Gonçalves AC, Sarmento-Ribeiro AB, Tralhão JG, Botelho MF. Hepatocellular carcinoma and chemotherapy: the role of p53. Chemotherapy 2012; 58:381-6. [PMID: 23257706 DOI: 10.1159/000343656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2012] [Accepted: 09/19/2012] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary neoplasm of the liver. A major proportion of HCCs also present mutation of the gene that encodes p53, which confers chemoresistance. The main goal of this work is to investigate the effect of cisplatin, doxorubicin and 5-fluoruracil (5-FU) in three human HCC cell lines which differ in p53 expression. METHODS HepG2 (expressing normal p53), HuH7 (expressing mutated p53) and Hep3B2.1-7 (not expressing p53) cell lines were cultivated in the presence of cisplatin, doxorubicin and 5-FU. Cell proliferation was evaluated by the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay (MTT assay). The type of cell death and Bax and Bcl2 activation were assessed by flow cytometry. RESULTS It was found that for all of the cell lines studied, the agent that gave the most satisfactory results was doxorubicin. 5-FU demonstrated no activity in these cell lines. CONCLUSIONS For all the cell lines studied, doxorubicin was the most satisfactory agent. In HepG2 and HuH7 cell lines, it can activate Bax with statistical significance.
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Affiliation(s)
- A F Brito
- Biophysics Unit, IBILI - Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.
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19
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Wang S, Kang X, Cao S, Cheng H, Wang D, Geng J. Calcineurin/NFATc1 pathway contributes to cell proliferation in hepatocellular carcinoma. Dig Dis Sci 2012; 57:3184-8. [PMID: 22722879 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-012-2255-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2012] [Accepted: 05/15/2012] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS The nuclear factor of the activated T cell (NFAT) family was primarily recognized for its central role in T lymphocyte activation. Recent evidence showed that NFAT isoforms participate in the regulation of genes related to cell proliferation and differentiation in epithelial malignancies. Here, we investigated the expression and activation of the calcineurin/NFAT transcription pathway and its role in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) proliferation. METHODS Expression of NFATc1 and calcineurin proteins was examined by immunohistochemical analyses in 76 human HCC samples. The cellular NFAT activation and distribution in HepG2 cells were analyzed by immunofluorescence and western blot analyses. After NFATc1 expression was knocked down by NFATc1-specific siRNA, we analyzed its implications in cell cycle progression and growth by MTT and flow cytometry. The impact of calcineurin/NFAT signaling on protein expression of c-myc and cox-2 were performed by western blot analyses. RESULTS NFATc1 is significantly overexpressed in HCC. The regulation of calcineurin activity by ionomycin or cyclosporin A caused rapid nuclear import or export of NFATc1 in HepG2 cells. NFATc1 knock-down led to a significant reduction in proliferation rates and cell cycle arrest at G1 phase. The expression of c-myc and cox-2 was decreased in the NFATc1 knock-down HepG2 cells. Ionomycin increased c-myc and cox-2 expression in HepG2 cells, but not in siNFATc1 HepG2 cells. CONCLUSION The calcineurin/NFATc1 signal is overexpressed and active in HCC. It may enhance the proliferative potential of HepG2 cells through transcriptional activation of the c-myc and cox-2 oncogenes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuhuai Wang
- Department of Pathology, Cancer Hospital of Harbin Medical University, 150 Haping Road, Harbin, 150040, China
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20
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Duan F, Wang MQ, Liu FY, Wang ZJ, Song P, Wang Y. Sorafenib in combination with transarterial chemoembolization and bronchial arterial chemoinfusion in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma with pulmonary metastasis. Asia Pac J Clin Oncol 2012; 8:156-63. [PMID: 22524574 DOI: 10.1111/j.1743-7563.2012.01542.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
AIM Hepatocelluar carcinoma (HCC) with pulmonary metastasis is considered incurable. This study addresses the efficacy of the combination of systemic therapy using sorafenib and local treatment using transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) for intrahepatic and bronchial transarterial chemoinfusion (TAI) for pulmonary lesions for this condition. METHODS In all, 52 HCC patients with pulmonary metastasis were treated with sorafenib and TACE/TAI for intrahepatic and intrapulmonary lesions. Response to treatment, progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS) and treatment-induced adverse effects were analyzed. RESULTS With a median follow-up time of 11.4 months, radiologically confirmed complete response (CR), partial response (PR), stable disease and disease progression for intrahepatic disease were observed in 0, 22, 23 and seven patients, respectively; radiologically confirmed CR, PR, stable disease and disease progression observed for intrapulmonary lesions were in 1, 8, 25 and 18 patients, respectively. Median OS and PFS was 12.0 and 10.0 months, respectively. Median OS of patients who achieved response (i.e., CR + PR + stable disease) in their gross lesion(s) was 14.0 and 13.0 months, respectively, as compared to 4.0 and 3.0 months for patients who progressed (P < 0.003). Significant prognosticators for OS and PFS included performance status, Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer stage and response to treatment. The combined treatment strategy was well tolerated. CONCLUSION The combination of sorafenib, TACE and TAI produced median OS and PFS of 12 and 10 months, respectively, in HCC patients with lung metastasis. The outcomes of patients who achieved a response to their gross lesions were significantly better than those who had disease progression. Further investigation is warranted to test the efficacy of this treatment combination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Duan
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing, China
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21
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Welker MW, Bechstein WO, Zeuzem S, Trojan J. Recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma after liver transplantation - an emerging clinical challenge. Transpl Int 2012; 26:109-18. [PMID: 22994652 DOI: 10.1111/j.1432-2277.2012.01562.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
In western countries, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major reason for orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) with estimated recurrence rates between 15% and 20%. This selective literature review addresses follow-up care after OLT in HCC and current treatment options. Recurrence prediction is based on pathological tumor stage, vascular invasion, serum alfafetoprotein levels, and histological differentiation, but further advances are expected by molecular profiling techniques. Lower levels of immunosuppressive agents are associated with a lower risk for HCC recurrence. Retrospective studies indicate that mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitors as immunosuppression reduce the risk of HCC recurrence. However, prospective studies supporting this potential advantage of mTOR inhibitors are still lacking, and higher rejection rates were reported for sirolimus after OLT in HCC. Prognosis is poor in recurrent HCC, a longer interval between OLT and recurrence and feasibility of surgical resection are associated with improved survival. Systemic treatment with sorafenib is the current standard of care in patients with advanced-stage HCC not suitable for locoregional therapy. After OLT, combination of an mTOR inhibitor with sorafenib is feasible and frequently used in clinical practice. As safety and efficacy data are still limited, close clinical monitoring is mandatory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin-Walter Welker
- Medizinische Klinik 1, Klinikum der Johann-Wolfgang Goethe-Universität, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
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22
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Kohles N, Nagel D, Jüngst D, Stieber P, Holdenrieder S. Predictive value of immunogenic cell death biomarkers HMGB1, sRAGE, and DNase in liver cancer patients receiving transarterial chemoembolization therapy. Tumour Biol 2012; 33:2401-9. [PMID: 22965881 DOI: 10.1007/s13277-012-0504-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2012] [Accepted: 08/28/2012] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) therapy is an effective locoregional anticancer treatment for liver cancer patients. Serum biomarkers involved in immunogenic cell death may be valuable for early predicting therapy response and estimating prognosis. Sera of 50 prospectively and consecutively included hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients, undergoing TACE therapy, were taken before and 24 h after TACE application. In these samples, soluble biomarkers involved in immunogenic cell death, and among them, high-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), soluble receptor of advanced glycation end products (sRAGE), and DNase activity were measured. They were compared with radiological response to therapy. A total of 71 TACE therapies were evaluated, of which 32 were classified as "no progression," and 39, as "progression." While HMGB1 levels increased already 24 h after TACE, there was an early decrease of sRAGE and DNase activity. Pretherapeutic and 24-h values of sRAGE were significantly higher in the no progression group than those in the progression group. There was no difference with respect to treatment response for DNase and HMGB1. Soluble RAGE is a new parameter with predictive relevance in primary liver cancer patients undergoing TACE therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaus Kohles
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry, University-Hospital Munich-Grosshadern, Munich, Germany
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23
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Song P, Tobe RG, Inagaki Y, Kokudo N, Hasegawa K, Sugawara Y, Tang W. The management of hepatocellular carcinoma around the world: a comparison of guidelines from 2001 to 2011. Liver Int 2012; 32:1053-63. [PMID: 22432445 DOI: 10.1111/j.1478-3231.2012.02792.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2011] [Accepted: 02/22/2012] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
In the past 10 years, many guidelines for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) have been published worldwide. To promote standard care for HCC, we systematically evaluated 17 current guidelines for HCC around the world, including 5 guidelines from the USA, 7 from Asia and 5 from Europe, according to the selection criteria of credibility influence and multi-faceted. After a systematic evaluation, we found that these guidelines have both similarities and differences in terms of what organizations or bodies drafted the guidelines and the approach, applicability, content and recent updates of the guidelines as well as in terms of diagnostic and treatment algorithms. The differences could be attributed to various aetiological factors, high-risk patients, health systems, health resources, medical technology, treatment choices and income levels in different countries. Besides, although the full implementation of guidelines could benefit clinicians, patients and authorities, there is still a gap between projected goals and implementation. The factors potentially influencing implementation are what organizations or bodies are drafting guidelines, content and emphasis, modification and consistency of guidelines. Comparative analysis suggested that countries pay close attention to targeted audiences, a basis in evidence, a basis in available resources, applicable patients and systematic evaluation when establishing and implementing domestic guidelines for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peipei Song
- Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery Division, Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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Tee TT, Cheah YH, Meenakshii N, Mohd Sharom MY, Azimahtol Hawariah LP. Xanthorrhizol induced DNA fragmentation in HepG2 cells involving Bcl-2 family proteins. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2012; 420:834-8. [PMID: 22465013 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2012.03.083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2012] [Accepted: 03/16/2012] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Xanthorrhizol is a plant-derived pharmacologically active sesquiterpenoid compound isolated from Curcuma xanthorrhiza. Previously, we have reported that xanthorrhizol inhibited the proliferation of HepG2 human hepatoma cells by inducing apoptotic cell death via caspase activation. Here, we attempt to further elucidate the mode of action of xanthorrhizol. Apoptosis in xanthorrhizol-treated HepG2 cells as observed by scanning electron microscopy was accompanied by truncation of BID; reduction of both anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 and Bcl-X(L) expression; cleavage of PARP and DFF45/ICAD proteins and DNA fragmentation. Taken together, these results suggest xanthorrhizol as a potent antiproliferative agent on HepG2 cells by inducing apoptosis via Bcl-2 family members. Hence we proposed that xanthorrhizol could be used as an anti-liver cancer drug for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thiam-Tsui Tee
- School of Biosciences & Biotechnology, Faculty of Science & Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia.
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25
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Hsieh YC, Rao YK, Whang-Peng J, Huang CYF, Shyue SK, Hsu SL, Tzeng YM. Antcin B and its ester derivative from Antrodia camphorata induce apoptosis in hepatocellular carcinoma cells involves enhancing oxidative stress coincident with activation of intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic pathway. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2011; 59:10943-10954. [PMID: 21916504 DOI: 10.1021/jf202771d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
The triterpenoids methylantcinate B (MAB) and antcin B (AB), isolated from the medicinal mushroom Antrodia camphorata , have been identified as strong cytotoxic agents against various type of cancer cells; however, the mechanisms of MAB- and AB-induced cytotoxicity have not been adequately explored. This study investigated the roles of caspase cascades, reactive oxygen species (ROS), DNA damage, mitochondrial disruption, and Bax and Bcl-2 proteins in MAB- and AB-induced apoptosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) HepG2 cells. Here, we showed that MAB and AB induced apoptosis in HepG2 cells, as characterized by increased DNA fragmentation, cleavage of PARP, sub-G1 population, chromatin condensation, loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, and release of cytochrome c. Increasing the levels of caspase-2, -3, -8, and -9 activities was involved in MAB- and AB-induced apoptosis, and they could be attenuated by inhibitors of specific caspases, indicating that MAB and AB triggered the caspase-dependent apoptotic pathway. Additionally, the enhanced apoptotic effect correlates with high expression of Fas, Fas ligand, as well as Bax and decreased protein levels of Bcl-(XL) and Bcl-2, suggesting that both the extrinsic and intrinsic apoptosis pathways were involved in the apoptotic processes. Incubation of HepG2 cells with antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase and catalase and antioxidants N-acetylcysteine and ascorbic acid attenuated the ROS generation and apoptosis induced by MAB and AB, which indicate that ROS plays a pivotal role in cell death. NADPH oxidase activation was observed in MAB- and AB-stimulated HepG2 cells; however, inhibition of such activation by diphenylamine significantly blocked MAB- and AB-induced ROS production and increased cell viability. Taken together, our results provide the first evidence that triterpenoids MAB and AB induced a NADPH oxidase-provoked oxidative stress and extrinsic and intrinsic apoptosis as a critical mechanism of cause cell death in HCC cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun-Chih Hsieh
- Department of Education and Research, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung 40705, Taiwan, ROC
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26
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Wincewicz A, Baltaziak M, Kanczuga-Koda L, Koda M, Sulkowska U, Famulski W, Sulkowski S. STAT3 and apoptosis regulators: Bak and Bcl-xL in endometrioid adenocarcinomas of different estrogen receptor-α immunoprofile. Gynecol Endocrinol 2011; 27:536-40. [PMID: 21726118 DOI: 10.3109/09513590.2010.507286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Estrogen receptor (ER) is a major feature of endometrioid adenocarcinoma. It has a significant impact on constitution of estrogen-responsiveness of this endometrial malignancy, in which STAT3 (signal transducer and activator of transcription) becomes hyperactivated. The aim of our study was to detect immunohistochemically and compare expressions of STAT3 with apoptosis regulators (Bak and Bcl-xL) in regard to different pathological features and variably pronounced ER-α immunoprofile in 78 endometrioid adenocarcinomas. STAT3 was abundantly detected in nuclei of cancer cells in 54 cases, thus pointing at its activation as an universal nuclear transcriptional factor. Bcl-xL and Bak were expressed in cytoplasm of malignant cells in 62 and 20 cancers, respectively. STAT3 correlated both with Bcl-xL (p = 0.001, r = 0.365) and Bak (p < 0.001, r = 0.436) in all of endometrioid adenocarcinomas and variably in different subgroups of these tumours segregated in regard to grading, staging and patients' age. Remarkably, only ER-α positive cancers retained these correlations in opposition to ER-α negative tumours with negativity defined as an immunoreactivity below 10%. ER-α receptor probably enhances interactions between STAT3 and Bcl-xL to be present in statistically significant manner. Presence of ER-α receptor seems to be crucial for relationships among Bcl-xL and STAT3 to occur in endometrioid adenocarcinomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrzej Wincewicz
- Department of Pathology, Maria Sklodowska-Curie Memorial Bialystok Oncology Center and Medical University of Bialystok, Ogrodowa 12, 15-027 Bialystok, Poland.
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Wrzesinski SH, Taddei TH, Strazzabosco M. Systemic therapy in hepatocellular carcinoma. Clin Liver Dis 2011; 15:423-41, vii-x. [PMID: 21689622 PMCID: PMC3758582 DOI: 10.1016/j.cld.2011.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Many potential systemic therapies are being investigated for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The incidence of this malignancy is rising sharply and the vast majority of patients present at advanced stages. Although the earlier dismal results with cytotoxic chemotherapies made way for the development of locoregional therapies that provided improved overall survival, truly personalized therapy will require the selection of phenotypically similar stages of disease and populations, an understanding of the complex molecular and genetic pathways leading to HCC, and a keen understanding of the pathobiology of cirrhosis. Only then will we understand how to offer a particular patient at a specific stage of disease the appropriate therapy to truly prolong survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen H. Wrzesinski
- Yale Comprehensive Cancer Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA,VA Connecticut Healthcare System, Comprehensive Cancer Center, 950 Campbell Avenue–111D, West Haven, CT 06516–2700, USA
| | - Tamar H. Taddei
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Digestive Diseases, Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street/1080 LMP, PO Box 208019, New Haven, CT 06520–8019, USA,VA Connecticut Healthcare System, Hepatitis C Resource Center (HCRC), 950 Campbell Avenue-111H, West Haven, CT 06516-2700, USA
| | - Mario Strazzabosco
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Digestive Diseases, Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street/1080 LMP, PO Box 208019, New Haven, CT 06520–8019, USA,Yale Liver Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University, Cedar Street 333, New Haven, CT 06520, USA,Section of Digestive Diseases, University of Milan-Bicocca, Monza, Italy,Corresponding author. Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Digestive Diseases, Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street/1080 LMP, PO Box 208019, New Haven, CT 06520-8019.
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Yue P, Gao ZH, Xue X, Cui SX, Zhao CR, Yuan Y, Yin Z, Inagaki Y, Kokudo N, Tang W, Qu XJ. Des-γ-carboxyl prothrombin induces matrix metalloproteinase activity in hepatocellular carcinoma cells by involving the ERK1/2 MAPK signalling pathway. Eur J Cancer 2011; 47:1115-24. [PMID: 21349701 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2011.01.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2010] [Revised: 01/18/2011] [Accepted: 01/26/2011] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Des-γ-carboxy prothrombin (DCP), an aberrant prothrombin produced by hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells, has been shown to be associated with the biological malignant potential of HCC. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of DCP on HCC cell growth and metastasis, and to explore the underlying molecular mechanisms. DCP significantly stimulated HCC cell growth, as measured by cell counting kit-8 assay. Transwell chamber assay showed that DCP increased HCC cell migration through reconstituted extracellular matrix (Matrigel). Gelatin zymography assay and Western blot analysis demonstrated that DCP increased the secretion and expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and MMP-9 in the supernatant of cultured HCC cells and on tumour cell membranes. DCP was found to bind to the cell surface receptor Met, resulting in Met phosphorylation and subsequent activation of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). Western blot analysis demonstrated that DCP stimulated a sequential kinase phosphorylation cascade including ERK1/2, MEK1/2 and c-Raf, indicating activation of the extracellular signal-regulated kinase/mitogen activated protein kinase (ERK1/2 MAPK) signalling pathway. Furthermore, blocking ERK1/2 MAPK activation with ERK1/2 inhibitor PD98059 essentially abolished the DCP-induced MMP-2 and MMP-9 activity, confirming the signalling pathway of DCP stimulation. Taken together, these results suggested that DCP stimulates HCC growth and promotes HCC metastasis by increasing the activity of MMP-2 and MMP-9 through activation of the ERK1/2 MAPK signalling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pan Yue
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, China
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Uccelli L, Pasquali M, Boschi A, Giganti M, Duatti A. Automated preparation of Re-188 lipiodol for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma. Nucl Med Biol 2010; 38:207-13. [PMID: 21315276 DOI: 10.1016/j.nucmedbio.2010.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2010] [Revised: 08/04/2010] [Accepted: 08/25/2010] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
The iodinated oil lipiodol is commonly used as a carrier for in situ delivery of drugs or radioactivity to hepatic tumors. Recently, we reported a new kit formulation for high-activity labeling of lipiodol with the β-emitting radionuclide Re-188. Since the whole preparation involves different steps and complex manipulations of high-activity samples, we describe here an automated synthesis module that allows the easy preparation of sterile and pyrogen-free samples of Re-188 lipiodol ready to be administered to the patient. Important advantages include the possibility to incorporate high Re-188 activity into the lipiodol hydrophobic phase and a sharp reduction of radiation exposure of the operator assisting the labelling procedure. Application of this modular reaction system could be also extended to the preparation of other Re-188 radiopharmaceuticals and to compound labelled with different β-emitting therapeutic radionuclides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Licia Uccelli
- Laboratory of Nuclear Medicine, Department of Radiological Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
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Hoffe SE, Finkelstein SE, Russell MS, Shridhar R. Nonsurgical options for hepatocellular carcinoma: evolving role of external beam radiotherapy. Cancer Control 2010; 17:100-10. [PMID: 20404793 DOI: 10.1177/107327481001700205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the sixth most common cancer worldwide and thus poses a global concern. Its incidence is expected to increase in North America secondary to the increasing incidence of patients who develop hepatitis C. Patients who ultimately develop cirrhosis have an increased risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma. METHODS The authors focus on nonsurgical therapies for this disease with an exploration of how external beam radiotherapy can be used alone or with other modalities. The development of partial liver strategies secondary to an explosion in radiation treatment planning and delivery advances is reviewed. Integration of advanced technology has evolved from three-dimensional conformal treatment to intensity-modulated radiation therapy and image-guided radiation therapy, along with stereotactic body radiation therapy, tomotherapy, and proton beam therapy. RESULTS Current data show a promising future for treatment strategies incorporating radiation with high rates of infield tumor control and low rates of radiation-induced liver disease. Radiation can be delivered in conjunction with transarterial catheter embolization for advanced-stage patients. External beam radiotherapy also has a role in the setting of patients with macrovascular tumor thrombus. CONCLUSIONS Future directions include how to best synergize the effects of radiation strategies with novel agents, given the hypervascularity of HCC. Downstaging of larger lesions with these therapies to resectable or transplantable disease may lead to better outcomes for patients deemed inoperable at diagnosis, and definitive radiotherapy may offer cure to patients with smaller lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah E Hoffe
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL 33612, USA.
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