1
|
Goncharov AP, Vashakidze N, Kharaishvili G. Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition: A Fundamental Cellular and Microenvironmental Process in Benign and Malignant Prostate Pathologies. Biomedicines 2024; 12:418. [PMID: 38398019 PMCID: PMC10886988 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12020418] [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: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a crucial and fundamental mechanism in many cellular processes, beginning with embryogenesis via tissue remodulation and wound healing, and plays a vital role in tumorigenesis and metastasis formation. EMT is a complex process that involves many transcription factors and genes that enable the tumor cell to leave the primary location, invade the basement membrane, and send metastasis to other tissues. Moreover, it may help the tumor avoid the immune system and establish radioresistance and chemoresistance. It may also change the normal microenvironment, thus promoting other key factors for tumor survival, such as hypoxia-induced factor-1 (HIF-1) and promoting neoangiogenesis. In this review, we will focus mainly on the role of EMT in benign prostate disease and especially in the process of establishment of malignant prostate tumors, their invasiveness, and aggressive behavior. We will discuss relevant study methods for EMT evaluation and possible clinical implications. We will also introduce clinical trials conducted according to CONSORT 2010 that try to harness EMT properties in the form of circulating tumor cells to predict aggressive patterns of prostate cancer. This review will provide the most up-to-date information to establish a keen understanding of the cellular and microenvironmental processes for developing novel treatment lines by modifying or blocking the pathways.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aviv Philip Goncharov
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Pathology, Palacky University, University Hospital, 779 00 Olomouc, Czech Republic; (A.P.G.); (N.V.)
| | - Nino Vashakidze
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Pathology, Palacky University, University Hospital, 779 00 Olomouc, Czech Republic; (A.P.G.); (N.V.)
| | - Gvantsa Kharaishvili
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Pathology, Palacky University, University Hospital, 779 00 Olomouc, Czech Republic; (A.P.G.); (N.V.)
- Department of Human Morphology and Pathology, Medical Faculty, David Tvildiani Medical University, Tbilisi 0159, Georgia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Farouk SM, Khafaga AF, Abdellatif AM. Bladder cancer: therapeutic challenges and role of 3D cell culture systems in the screening of novel cancer therapeutics. Cancer Cell Int 2023; 23:251. [PMID: 37880676 PMCID: PMC10601189 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-023-03069-4] [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: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Bladder cancer (BC) is the sixth most common worldwide urologic malignancy associated with elevated morbidity and mortality rates if not well treated. The muscle-invasive form of BC develops in about 25% of patients. Moreover, according to estimates, 50% of patients with invasive BC experience fatal metastatic relapses. Currently, resistance to drug-based therapy is the major tumble to BC treatment. The three-dimensional (3D) cell cultures are clearly more relevant not only as a novel evolving gadget in drug screening but also as a bearable therapeutic for different diseases. In this review, various subtypes of BC and mechanisms of drug resistance to the commonly used anticancer therapies are discussed. We also summarize the key lineaments of the latest cell-based assays utilizing 3D cell culture systems and their impact on understanding the pathophysiology of BC. Such knowledge could ultimately help to address the most efficient BC treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sameh M Farouk
- Department of Cytology & Histology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, 41522, Egypt.
| | - Asmaa F Khafaga
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Alexandria University, Edfina, 22758, Egypt
| | - Ahmed M Abdellatif
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Qiu J, Li Z, An K, Niu L, Huang H, Xu F. Thermo-Chemical Resistance to Combination Therapy of Glioma Depends on Cellular Energy Level. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2023; 15:39053-39063. [PMID: 37552210 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c05683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/09/2023]
Abstract
Thermal therapy has been widely used in clinical tumor treatment and more recently in combination with chemotherapy, where the key challenge is the treatment resistance. The mechanism at the cellular level underlying the resistance to thermo-chemical combination therapy remains elusive. In this study, we constructed 3D culture models for glioma cells (i.e., 3D glioma spheres) as the model system to recapitulate the native tumor microenvironment and systematically investigated the thermal response of 3D glioma spheres at different hyperthermic temperatures. We found that 3D glioma spheres show high viability under hyperthermia, especially under high hyperthermic temperatures (42 °C). Further study revealed that the main mechanism lies in the high energy level of cells in 3D glioma spheres under hyperthermia, which enables the cells to respond promptly to thermal stimulation and maintain cellular viability by upregulating the chaperon protein Hsp70 and the anti-apoptotic pathway AKT. Besides, we also demonstrated that 3D glioma spheres show strong drug resistance to the thermo-chemical combination therapy. This study provides a new perspective on understanding the thermal response of combination therapy for tumor treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jinbin Qiu
- Bioinspired Engineering and Biomechanics Center (BEBC), Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, P. R. China
- The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, P. R. China
| | - Zhijie Li
- Bioinspired Engineering and Biomechanics Center (BEBC), Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, P. R. China
- The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, P. R. China
| | - Keli An
- Bioinspired Engineering and Biomechanics Center (BEBC), Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, P. R. China
- The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, P. R. China
| | - Lele Niu
- Bioinspired Engineering and Biomechanics Center (BEBC), Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, P. R. China
- The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, P. R. China
| | - Haishui Huang
- Bioinspired Engineering and Biomechanics Center (BEBC), Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, P. R. China
- The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, P. R. China
| | - Feng Xu
- Bioinspired Engineering and Biomechanics Center (BEBC), Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, P. R. China
- The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, P. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Jannoo R, Walker W, Kanamarlapudi V. Targeting and Sensitization of Breast Cancer Cells to Killing with a Novel Interleukin-13 Receptor α2-Specific Hybrid Cytolytic Peptide. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:2772. [PMID: 37345109 PMCID: PMC10216279 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15102772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Highly metastatic breast cancers, such as triple-negative subtypes (TNBC), require the most effective treatments. Since interleukin-13 receptor (IL-13R)α2 is reportedly over-expressed in some cancers, we investigated here its expression and the feasibility of therapeutically targeting this receptor in breast cancer using a novel hybrid cytolytic peptide (Pep-1-Phor21) consisting of IL-13Rα2-binding (Pep-1) and cytolytic (Phor21) domains. This study demonstrates that particularly TNBC tissues and cells display the prominent expression of IL-13Rα2. Furthermore, Pep-1-Phor21 induced the rapid necrosis of tumor cells expressing cell-surface IL-13Rα2. Notably, IL-13Rα2 expression was found to be epigenetically regulated in breast cancer cells in that the inhibition of histone deacetylase (HDAC) or DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) upregulated IL-13Rα2 expression, thereby sensitizing them to Pep-1-Phor21. IL-13Rα2-negative non-malignant cells were refractory to these epigenetic effects. Consistent with its cytolytic activity, Pep-1-Phor21 readily destroyed IL-13Rα2-expressing breast cancer spheroids with HDAC or DNMT inhibition, further enhancing cytolytic activity. Therefore, the Pep-1-Phor21-mediated targeting of IL-13Rα2 is a potentially novel therapeutic strategy for TNBC. Given that tumor cells can be selectively sensitized to Pep-1-Phor21 via the epigenetic up-regulation of IL-13Rα2, a combined adjuvant approach involving Pep-1-Phor21 and epigenetic inhibitors may be an effective strategy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Riaz Jannoo
- UCL ECMC GCLP Facility, UCL Cancer Institute, University College London, London WC1E 6DD, UK;
| | - William Walker
- Institute of Life Science, School of Medicine, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea SA2 8PP, UK;
| | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
Llorens de los Ríos MC, Lanza PA, Barbieri CL, González ML, Chabán MF, Soria G, Vera DMA, Carpinella MC, Joray MB. The thiophene α-terthienylmethanol isolated from Tagetes minuta inhibits angiogenesis by targeting protein kinase C isozymes α and β2. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1007790. [PMID: 36313304 PMCID: PMC9597362 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1007790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Tumor angiogenesis is considered as a crucial pathologic feature of cancer with a key role in multidrug resistance (MDR). Adverse effects of the currently available drugs and the development of resistance to these remain as the hardest obstacles to defeat. Objetive: This work explores flora from Argentina as a source of new chemical entities with antiangiogenic activity. Methods: Tube formation assay using bovine aortic endothelial cells (BAECs) was the experiment of choice to assess antiangiogenic activity. The effect of the pure compound in cell invasiveness was investigated through the trans-well migration assay. The inhibitory effect of the pure compound on VEGFR-2 and PKC isozymes α and β2 activation was studied by molecular and massive dynamic simulations. Cytotoxicity on peripheral blood mononuclear cells and erythrocyte cells was evaluated by means of MTT and hemolysis assay, respectively. In silico prediction of pharmacological properties (ADME) and evaluation of drug-likeness features were performed using the SwissADME online tool. Results: Among the plants screened, T. minuta, showed an outstanding effect with an IC50 of 33.6 ± 3.4 μg/ml. Bio-guided isolation yielded the terthiophene α-terthienylmethanol as its active metabolite. This compound inhibited VEGF-induced tube formation with an IC50 of 2.7 ± 0.4 μM and significantly impaired the invasiveness of bovine aortic endothelial cells (BAECs) as well as of the highly aggressive breast cancer cells, MDA-MB-231, when tested at 10 μM. Direct VEGFR-2 and PKC inhibition were both explored by means of massive molecular dynamics simulations. The results obtained validated the inhibitory effect on protein kinase C (PKC) isozymes α and β2 as the main mechanism underlying its antiangiogenic activity. α-terthienylmethanol showed no evidence of toxicity against peripheral blood mononuclear and erythrocyte cells. Conclusion: These findings support this thiophene as a promising antiangiogenic phytochemical to fight against several types of cancer mainly those with MDR phenotype.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Priscila A. Lanza
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, QUIAMM–INBIOTEC–CONICET, College of Exact and Natural Sciences, Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata, Mar del Plata, Argentina
| | - Cecilia L. Barbieri
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, QUIAMM–INBIOTEC–CONICET, College of Exact and Natural Sciences, Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata, Mar del Plata, Argentina
| | - María L. González
- Fine Chemical and Natural Products Laboratory, IRNASUS CONICET-UCC, School of Chemistry, Universidad Católica de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Macarena Funes Chabán
- Fine Chemical and Natural Products Laboratory, IRNASUS CONICET-UCC, School of Chemistry, Universidad Católica de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Gastón Soria
- CIBICI CONICET and Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Chemical Science, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - D. Mariano A. Vera
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, QUIAMM–INBIOTEC–CONICET, College of Exact and Natural Sciences, Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata, Mar del Plata, Argentina
- *Correspondence: D. Mariano A. Vera, ; María C. Carpinella, ; Mariana B. Joray,
| | - María C. Carpinella
- Fine Chemical and Natural Products Laboratory, IRNASUS CONICET-UCC, School of Chemistry, Universidad Católica de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
- *Correspondence: D. Mariano A. Vera, ; María C. Carpinella, ; Mariana B. Joray,
| | - Mariana B. Joray
- Fine Chemical and Natural Products Laboratory, IRNASUS CONICET-UCC, School of Chemistry, Universidad Católica de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
- *Correspondence: D. Mariano A. Vera, ; María C. Carpinella, ; Mariana B. Joray,
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Özkan H, Öztürk DG, Korkmaz G. Transcriptional Factor Repertoire of Breast Cancer in 3D Cell Culture Models. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14041023. [PMID: 35205770 PMCID: PMC8870600 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14041023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 02/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Knowledge of the transcriptional regulation of breast cancer tumorigenesis is largely based on studies performed in two-dimensional (2D) monolayer culture models, which lack tissue architecture and therefore fail to represent tumor heterogeneity. However, three-dimensional (3D) cell culture models are better at mimicking in vivo tumor microenvironment, which is critical in regulating cellular behavior. Hence, 3D cell culture models hold great promise for translational breast cancer research. Abstract Intratumor heterogeneity of breast cancer is driven by extrinsic factors from the tumor microenvironment (TME) as well as tumor cell–intrinsic parameters including genetic, epigenetic, and transcriptomic traits. The extracellular matrix (ECM), a major structural component of the TME, impacts every stage of tumorigenesis by providing necessary biochemical and biomechanical cues that are major regulators of cell shape/architecture, stiffness, cell proliferation, survival, invasion, and migration. Moreover, ECM and tissue architecture have a profound impact on chromatin structure, thereby altering gene expression. Considering the significant contribution of ECM to cellular behavior, a large body of work underlined that traditional two-dimensional (2D) cultures depriving cell–cell and cell–ECM interactions as well as spatial cellular distribution and organization of solid tumors fail to recapitulate in vivo properties of tumor cells residing in the complex TME. Thus, three-dimensional (3D) culture models are increasingly employed in cancer research, as these culture systems better mimic the physiological microenvironment and shape the cellular responses according to the microenvironmental cues that will regulate critical cell functions such as cell shape/architecture, survival, proliferation, differentiation, and drug response as well as gene expression. Therefore, 3D cell culture models that better resemble the patient transcriptome are critical in defining physiologically relevant transcriptional changes. This review will present the transcriptional factor (TF) repertoire of breast cancer in 3D culture models in the context of mammary tissue architecture, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and metastasis, cell death mechanisms, cancer therapy resistance and differential drug response, and stemness and will discuss the impact of culture dimensionality on breast cancer research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hande Özkan
- School of Medicine, Koç University, Istanbul 34450, Turkey;
- Research Centre for Translational Medicine (KUTTAM), Koç University, Istanbul 34450, Turkey
| | - Deniz Gülfem Öztürk
- School of Medicine, Koç University, Istanbul 34450, Turkey;
- Research Centre for Translational Medicine (KUTTAM), Koç University, Istanbul 34450, Turkey
- Correspondence: (D.G.Ö.); (G.K.)
| | - Gozde Korkmaz
- School of Medicine, Koç University, Istanbul 34450, Turkey;
- Research Centre for Translational Medicine (KUTTAM), Koç University, Istanbul 34450, Turkey
- Correspondence: (D.G.Ö.); (G.K.)
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Brewer G, Fortier AM, Park M, Moraes C. The case for cancer-associated fibroblasts: essential elements in cancer drug discovery? FUTURE DRUG DISCOVERY 2022; 4:FDD71. [PMID: 35600290 PMCID: PMC9112234 DOI: 10.4155/fdd-2021-0004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Although cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) have gained increased attention for supporting cancer progression, current CAF-targeted therapeutic options are limited and failing in clinical trials. As the largest component of the tumor microenvironment (TME), CAFs alter the biochemical and physical structure of the TME, modulating cancer progression. Here, we review the role of CAFs in altering drug response, modifying the TME mechanics and the current models for studying CAFs. To provide new perspectives, we highlight key considerations of CAF activity and discuss emerging technologies that can better address CAFs; and therefore, increase the likelihood of therapeutic efficacy. We argue that CAFs are crucial components of the cancer drug discovery pipeline and incorporating these cells will improve drug discovery success rates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gabrielle Brewer
- Rosalind & Morris Goodman Cancer Research Centre, McGill University, 1160 Avenues des Pins, Montréal, QC, H3A 0G4, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, 3649 Promenade Sir-William-Osler, Montréal, QC, H3A 0G4, Canada
| | - Anne-Marie Fortier
- Rosalind & Morris Goodman Cancer Research Centre, McGill University, 1160 Avenues des Pins, Montréal, QC, H3A 0G4, Canada
| | - Morag Park
- Rosalind & Morris Goodman Cancer Research Centre, McGill University, 1160 Avenues des Pins, Montréal, QC, H3A 0G4, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, 3649 Promenade Sir-William-Osler, Montréal, QC, H3A 0G4, Canada
- Department of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, 1001 Decarie Boulevard, Montréal, QC, H3A 0G4, Canada
- Department of Oncology, McGill University, 5100 de Maisonneuve Blvd. West, Montréal, QC, H3A 0G4, Canada
- Department of Pathology, McGill University, 3775 rue University, Montréal, QC, H3A 0G4, Canada
| | - Christopher Moraes
- Rosalind & Morris Goodman Cancer Research Centre, McGill University, 1160 Avenues des Pins, Montréal, QC, H3A 0G4, Canada
- Department of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, 1001 Decarie Boulevard, Montréal, QC, H3A 0G4, Canada
- Department of Chemical Engineering, McGill University, 3610 rue University, Montréal, QC, H3A 0G4, Canada
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, McGill University, 3775 rue University, Montréal, QC, H3A 0G4, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Rezaeeyazdi M, Colombani T, Eggermont LJ, Bencherif SA. Engineering hyaluronic acid-based cryogels for CD44-mediated breast tumor reconstruction. Mater Today Bio 2022; 13:100207. [PMID: 35198956 PMCID: PMC8844817 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2022.100207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2021] [Revised: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is a major health concern worldwide and is the leading cause of cancer-related death among American women. Traditional therapies, such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy, are usually ineffective. Furthermore, cancer recurrence following targeted therapy often results from acquired drug resistance. Therefore, more realistic tumor models than monolayer cell culture for drug screening and discovery in an in vitro setting would facilitate the development of new therapeutic strategies. Toward this goal, we first developed a simple, rapid, low-cost, and high-throughput method for generating uniform multi-cellular tumor spheroids (MCTS) with controllable size. Next, biomimetic cryogel scaffolds fabricated from hyaluronic acid (HA) were utilized as a platform to reconstruct breast tumor microtissues with aspects of the complex tumor microenvironment in three dimensions. Finally, we investigated the interactions between the HA-based cryogels and CD44-positive breast tumor cells, individually or as MCTS. We found that incorporating the adhesive RGD peptide in cryogels led to the formation of a monolayer of tumor cells on the polymer walls, whereas MCTS cultured on RGD-free HA cryogels resulted in the growth of large and dense microtumors, more similar to native tumor masses. As a result, the MCTS-laden HA cryogel system induced a highly aggressive and chemotherapy drug-resistant tumor model. RGD-free HA-based cryogels represent an effective starting point for designing tumor models for preclinical research, therapeutic drug screening, and early cancer diagnosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Thibault Colombani
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Loek J. Eggermont
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Sidi A. Bencherif
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
- Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Development of Breast Cancer Spheroids to Evaluate Cytotoxic Response to an Anticancer Peptide. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13111863. [PMID: 34834277 PMCID: PMC8619419 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13111863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Revised: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women and one of the most common causes of cancer-related deaths. Despite intense research efforts, BC treatment still remains challenging. Improved drug development strategies are needed for impactful benefit to patients. Current preclinical studies rely mostly on cell-based screenings, using two-dimensional (2D) cell monolayers that do not mimic in vivo tumors properly. Herein, we explored the development and characterization of three-dimensional (3D) models, named spheroids, of the most aggressive BC subtypes (triple-negative breast cancer-TNBC; and human-epidermal growth receptor-2-HER2+), using the liquid overlay technique with several selected cell lines. In these cell line-derived spheroids, we studied cell density, proliferation, ultrastructure, apoptosis, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and cell permeabilization (live/dead). The results showed a formation of compact and homogeneous spheroids on day 7 after seeding 2000 cells/well for MDA-MB-231 and 5000 cells/well for BT-20 and BT-474. Next, we compared the efficacy of a model anticancer peptide (ACP) in cell monolayers and spheroids. Overall, the results demonstrated spheroids to be less sensitive to treatment than cell monolayers, revealing the need for more robust models in drug development.
Collapse
|
10
|
Kronemberger GS, Miranda GASC, Tavares RSN, Montenegro B, Kopke ÚDA, Baptista LS. Recapitulating Tumorigenesis in vitro: Opportunities and Challenges of 3D Bioprinting. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2021; 9:682498. [PMID: 34239860 PMCID: PMC8258101 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2021.682498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer is considered one of the most predominant diseases in the world and one of the principal causes of mortality per year. The cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in the development and establishment of solid tumors can be defined as tumorigenesis. Recent technological advances in the 3D cell culture field have enabled the recapitulation of tumorigenesis in vitro, including the complexity of stromal microenvironment. The establishment of these 3D solid tumor models has a crucial role in personalized medicine and drug discovery. Recently, spheroids and organoids are being largely explored as 3D solid tumor models for recreating tumorigenesis in vitro. In spheroids, the solid tumor can be recreated from cancer cells, cancer stem cells, stromal and immune cell lineages. Organoids must be derived from tumor biopsies, including cancer and cancer stem cells. Both models are considered as a suitable model for drug assessment and high-throughput screening. The main advantages of 3D bioprinting are its ability to engineer complex and controllable 3D tissue models in a higher resolution. Although 3D bioprinting represents a promising technology, main challenges need to be addressed to improve the results in cancer research. The aim of this review is to explore (1) the principal cell components and extracellular matrix composition of solid tumor microenvironment; (2) the recapitulation of tumorigenesis in vitro using spheroids and organoids as 3D culture models; and (3) the opportunities, challenges, and applications of 3D bioprinting in this area.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela S. Kronemberger
- Nucleus of Multidisciplinary Research in Biology (Numpex-Bio), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro Xerém, Duque de Caxias, Brazil
- Laboratory of Tissue Bioengineering, National Institute of Metrology, Quality and Technology (Inmetro), Duque de Caxias, Brazil
- Post-graduation Program of Translational Biomedicine (Biotrans), Unigranrio, Duque de Caxias, Brazil
| | - Guilherme A. S. C. Miranda
- Nucleus of Multidisciplinary Research in Biology (Numpex-Bio), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro Xerém, Duque de Caxias, Brazil
- Laboratory of Tissue Bioengineering, National Institute of Metrology, Quality and Technology (Inmetro), Duque de Caxias, Brazil
- Post-graduation Program in Biotechnology, National Institute of Metrology, Quality and Technology (Inmetro), Duque de Caxias, Brazil
| | - Renata S. N. Tavares
- Laboratory of Tissue Bioengineering, National Institute of Metrology, Quality and Technology (Inmetro), Duque de Caxias, Brazil
| | - Bianca Montenegro
- Nucleus of Multidisciplinary Research in Biology (Numpex-Bio), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro Xerém, Duque de Caxias, Brazil
- Laboratory of Tissue Bioengineering, National Institute of Metrology, Quality and Technology (Inmetro), Duque de Caxias, Brazil
- Post-graduation Program of Translational Biomedicine (Biotrans), Unigranrio, Duque de Caxias, Brazil
| | - Úrsula de A. Kopke
- Nucleus of Multidisciplinary Research in Biology (Numpex-Bio), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro Xerém, Duque de Caxias, Brazil
- Laboratory of Tissue Bioengineering, National Institute of Metrology, Quality and Technology (Inmetro), Duque de Caxias, Brazil
| | - Leandra S. Baptista
- Nucleus of Multidisciplinary Research in Biology (Numpex-Bio), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro Xerém, Duque de Caxias, Brazil
- Laboratory of Tissue Bioengineering, National Institute of Metrology, Quality and Technology (Inmetro), Duque de Caxias, Brazil
- Post-graduation Program of Translational Biomedicine (Biotrans), Unigranrio, Duque de Caxias, Brazil
- Post-graduation Program in Biotechnology, National Institute of Metrology, Quality and Technology (Inmetro), Duque de Caxias, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Bae Y, Joo C, Park KH, Kang SW, Huh KM, Choi JS. Preparation and characterization of 3D human glioblastoma spheroids using an N-octanoyl glycol chitosan hydrogel. Int J Biol Macromol 2021; 185:87-97. [PMID: 34144066 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2021.06.083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
The current 2D culture model systems developed for drug screening are not sufficient to reflect the characteristics of in vivo solid tumors. Therefore, more effective in vitro tumor model systems must be developed for translational studies on therapeutic drug screening and testing. Herein, we report a new ultra-low adhesion (ULA) hydrogel for generating 3D cancer cell spheroids as tumor models in vitro. N-octanoyl glycol chitosan (OGC) was synthesized and coated onto the surface of a typical cell culture dish. Cell spheroids were effectively formed on the OGC-coated surface, and phenotypes of the tumor cells were well maintained during culture. More importantly, U373-MG cells cultured on OGC-coated plates were more resistant to doxorubicin than cells cultured on typical plates. Our OGC-based ULA system may offer a convenient method for 3D cell culture to provide enhanced performance in cancer research, drug screening and toxicology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yoonhee Bae
- Division of Applied Medicine, School of Korean Medicine, Pusan National University, Busan 47392, Republic of Korea
| | - Chanyang Joo
- Departments of Polymer Science and Engineering & Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyoung Hwan Park
- Research Group for Biomimetic Advanced Technology, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Daejeon 34114, Republic of Korea
| | - Sun-Woong Kang
- Research Group for Biomimetic Advanced Technology, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Daejeon 34114, Republic of Korea; Human and Environmental Toxicology Program, University of Science and Technology, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea.
| | - Kang Moo Huh
- Departments of Polymer Science and Engineering & Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea.
| | - Joon Sig Choi
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Natural Sciences, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Nazari SS. Generation of 3D Tumor Spheroids with Encapsulating Basement Membranes for Invasion Studies. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 87:e105. [PMID: 32436628 PMCID: PMC8172047 DOI: 10.1002/cpcb.105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
In the past, in vitro studies of invasion and tumor progression were performed primarily using cancer cells cultured on a flat, two‐dimensional (2D) surface in a monolayer. In recent years, however, many studies have demonstrated differences in cell signaling and cell migration between 2D and 3D cell cultures. Traditional 2D monolayer cancer cell invasion models do not fully recapitulate 3D cell‐to‐cell and cell−to−extracellular matrix interactions that in vivo models can provide. Moreover, although in vivo animal models are irreplaceable for studying tumor biology and metastasis, they are costly, time‐consuming, and impractical for answering preliminary questions. Thus, emergent and evolving 3D spheroid cell culture models have changed the way we study tumors and their interactions with their surrounding extracellular matrix. In the case of breast cancer, metastasis of breast cancer tumors results in high mortality rates, and thus development of robust cell culture models that are reproducible and practical for studying breast cancer progression is important for ultimately developing preventatives for cancer metastasis. This article provides a set of protocols for generating uniform spheroids with a thin sheet of basement membrane for studying the initial invasion of mammary epithelial cells into a surrounding collagen‐rich extracellular matrix. Details are provided for generating 3D spheroids with a basement membrane, polymerizing collagen I, embedding the spheroids in the 3D collagen gel, and immunostaining the spheroids for invasion studies. Published 2020. U.S. Government. Basic Protocol 1: Growth of uniformly sized tumor spheroids with an encapsulating basement membrane Basic Protocol 2: Polymerization and embedding of tumor spheroids in a 3D type I collagen gel Alternate Protocol: Embedding of tumor spheroids in collagen gels using a sandwich method Basic Protocol 3: Fixing and immunostaining of tumor spheroids embedded in 3D collagen gels
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shayan S Nazari
- Cell Biology Section, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Liverani C, De Vita A, Spadazzi C, Miserocchi G, Cocchi C, Bongiovanni A, De Lucia A, La Manna F, Fabbri F, Tebaldi M, Amadori D, Tasciotti E, Martinelli G, Mercatali L, Ibrahim T. Lineage-specific mechanisms and drivers of breast cancer chemoresistance revealed by 3D biomimetic culture. Mol Oncol 2021; 16:921-939. [PMID: 34109737 PMCID: PMC8847989 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.13037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Revised: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
To improve the success rate of current preclinical drug trials, there is a growing need for more complex and relevant models that can help predict clinical resistance to anticancer agents. Here, we present a three‐dimensional (3D) technology, based on biomimetic collagen scaffolds, that enables the modeling of the tumor hypoxic state and the prediction of in vivo chemotherapy responses in terms of efficacy, molecular alterations, and emergence of resistance mechanisms. The human breast cancer cell lines MDA‐MB‐231 (triple negative) and MCF‐7 (luminal A) were treated with scaling doses of doxorubicin in monolayer cultures, 3D collagen scaffolds, or orthotopically transplanted murine models. Lineage‐specific resistance mechanisms were revealed by the 3D tumor model. Reduced drug uptake, increased drug efflux, and drug lysosomal confinement were observed in triple‐negative MDA‐MB‐231 cells. In luminal A MCF‐7 cells, the selection of a drug‐resistant subline from parental cells with deregulation of p53 pathways occurred. These cells were demonstrated to be insensitive to DNA damage. Transcriptome analysis was carried out to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in treated cells. DEG evaluation in breast cancer patients demonstrated their potential role as predictive biomarkers. High expression of the transporter associated with antigen processing 1 (TAP1) and the tumor protein p53‐inducible protein 3 (TP53I3) was associated with shorter relapse in patients affected by ER+ breast tumor. Likewise, the same clinical outcome was associated with high expression of the lysosomal‐associated membrane protein 1 LAMP1 in triple‐negative breast cancer. Hypoxia inhibition by resveratrol treatment was found to partially re‐sensitize cells to doxorubicin treatment. Our model might improve preclinical in vitro analysis for the translation of anticancer compounds as it provides: (a) more accurate data on drug efficacy and (b) enhanced understanding of resistance mechanisms and molecular drivers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Liverani
- Osteoncology and Rare Tumors Center, Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori (IRST) IRCCS, Meldola, Italy
| | - Alessandro De Vita
- Osteoncology and Rare Tumors Center, Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori (IRST) IRCCS, Meldola, Italy
| | - Chiara Spadazzi
- Osteoncology and Rare Tumors Center, Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori (IRST) IRCCS, Meldola, Italy
| | - Giacomo Miserocchi
- Osteoncology and Rare Tumors Center, Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori (IRST) IRCCS, Meldola, Italy
| | - Claudia Cocchi
- Osteoncology and Rare Tumors Center, Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori (IRST) IRCCS, Meldola, Italy
| | - Alberto Bongiovanni
- Osteoncology and Rare Tumors Center, Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori (IRST) IRCCS, Meldola, Italy
| | - Anna De Lucia
- Osteoncology and Rare Tumors Center, Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori (IRST) IRCCS, Meldola, Italy
| | - Federico La Manna
- Osteoncology and Rare Tumors Center, Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori (IRST) IRCCS, Meldola, Italy
| | - Francesco Fabbri
- Bioscience Laboratory, Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori (IRST) IRCCS, Meldola, Italy
| | - Michela Tebaldi
- Unit of Biostatistics and Clinical Trials, Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori (IRST) IRCCS, Meldola, Italy
| | - Dino Amadori
- Osteoncology and Rare Tumors Center, Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori (IRST) IRCCS, Meldola, Italy
| | - Ennio Tasciotti
- Center for Biomimetic Medicine, Houston Methodist Research Institute (HMRI), TX, USA.,IRCCS San Raffaele Pisana, Rome Sclavo Research Center, Siena, Italy
| | - Giovanni Martinelli
- Scientific Directory, Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori (IRST) IRCCS, Meldola, Italy
| | - Laura Mercatali
- Osteoncology and Rare Tumors Center, Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori (IRST) IRCCS, Meldola, Italy
| | - Toni Ibrahim
- Osteoncology and Rare Tumors Center, Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori (IRST) IRCCS, Meldola, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
3D Multicellular Stem-Like Human Breast Tumor Spheroids Enhance Tumorigenicity of Orthotopic Xenografts in Athymic Nude Rat Model. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13112784. [PMID: 34205080 PMCID: PMC8199968 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13112784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2021] [Revised: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Breast cancer presents a unique clinical problem because of the variety of cellular subtypes present, including cancer stem cells (CSCs). Breast CSCs can induce the formation of new blood vessels at the site of tumor growth and a develop metastatic phenotype by enhancing a stromal cell response, similar to that of the primary breast cancer. The aim of this study was to investigate breast cancer cells cultured in stromal stem cell factor-supplemented media to generate 3D spheroids that exhibit increased stem-like properties. These 3D stem-like spheroids reproducibly and efficiently established orthotopic breast cancer xenografts in the athymic nude rat. This approach enables a means to develop orthotopic tumors with a stem-like phenotype in a larger athymic rat rodent model of human breast cancer. Abstract Therapeutic targeting of stem cells needs to be strategically developed to control tumor growth and prevent metastatic burden successfully. Breast cancer presents a unique clinical problem because of the variety of cellular subtypes present, including cancer stem cells (CSCs). The development of 3D stem-like properties of human breast tumor spheroids in stem cell factor conditioned media was investigated in orthotopic xenografts for enhanced tumorgenicity in the athymic nude rat model. MCF-7, ZR-75-1, and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell lines were cultured in serum-free, stem cell factor-supplemented medium under non-adherent conditions and passaged to generate 3rd generation spheroids. The spheroids were co-cultured with fetal lung fibroblast (FLF) cells before orthotopic heterotransplantation into the mammary fat pads of athymic nude rats. Excised xenografts were assessed histologically by H&E staining and immunohistochemistry for breast cancer marker (ERB1), proliferation marker (Ki67), mitotic marker (pHH3), hypoxia marker (HIF-2α), CSC markers (CD47, CD44, CD24, and CD133), and vascularization markers (CD31, CD34). Breast cancer cells cultured in stem cell factor supplemented medium generated 3D spheroids exhibited increased stem-like characteristics. The 3D stem-like spheroids co-cultured with FLF as supporting stroma reproducibly and efficiently established orthotopic breast cancer xenografts in the athymic nude rat.
Collapse
|
15
|
Isolating and targeting the real-time plasticity and malignant properties of epithelial-mesenchymal transition in cancer. Oncogene 2021; 40:2884-2897. [PMID: 33742123 PMCID: PMC8944243 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-021-01728-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Revised: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a driving force in promoting malignant cancer, including initiation, growth, and metastasis. EMT is a dynamic process that can undergo a mesenchymal-epithelial transition (MET) and partial transitions between both phenotypes, termed epithelial-mesenchymal plasticity (EMP). In cancer, the acquisition of EMP results in a spectrum of phenotypes, promoting tumor cell heterogeneity and resistance to standard of care therapy. Here we describe a real-time fluorescent dual-reporter for vimentin and E-cadherin, biomarkers of the mesenchymal and epithelial cell phenotypes, respectively. Stable dual-reporter cell lines generated from colorectal (SW620), lung (A549), and breast (MDA-MB-231) cancer demonstrate a spectrum of EMT cell phenotypes. We used the dual-reporter to isolate the quasi epithelial, epithelial/mesenchymal, and mesenchymal phenotypes. Although EMT is a dynamic process, these isolated quasi-EMT-phenotypes remain stable to spontaneous EMP in the absence of stimuli and during prolonged cell culture. However, the quasi-EMT phenotypes can readily be induced to undergo EMT or MET with growth factors or small molecules. Moreover, isolated EMT phenotypes display different tumorigenic properties and are morphologically and metabolically distinct. 3D high-content screening of ~23,000 compounds using dual-reporter mesenchymal SW620 tumor organoids identified small molecule probes that modulate EMT, and a subset of probes that effectively induced MET. The tools, probes, and models described herein provide a coherent mechanistic understanding of mesenchymal cell plasticity. Future applications utilizing this technology and probes are expected to advance our understanding of EMT and studies aimed at therapeutic strategies targeting EMT.
Collapse
|
16
|
Jonckheere S, Adams J, De Groote D, Campbell K, Berx G, Goossens S. Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) as a Therapeutic Target. Cells Tissues Organs 2021; 211:157-182. [PMID: 33401271 DOI: 10.1159/000512218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Metastasis is the spread of cancer cells from the primary tumour to distant sites and organs throughout the body. It is the primary cause of cancer morbidity and mortality, and is estimated to account for 90% of cancer-related deaths. During the initial steps of the metastatic cascade, epithelial cancer cells undergo an epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and as a result become migratory and invasive mesenchymal-like cells while acquiring cancer stem cell properties and therapy resistance. As EMT is involved in such a broad range of processes associated with malignant transformation, it has become an increasingly interesting target for the development of novel therapeutic strategies. Anti-EMT therapeutic strategies could potentially not only prevent the invasion and dissemination of cancer cells, and as such prevent the formation of metastatic lesions, but also attenuate cancer stemness and increase the effectiveness of more classical chemotherapeutics. In this review, we give an overview about the pros and cons of therapies targeting EMT and discuss some already existing candidate drug targets and high-throughput screening tools to identify novel anti-EMT compounds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sven Jonckheere
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.,Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jamie Adams
- Department of Biomedical Science, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Dominic De Groote
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Kyra Campbell
- Department of Biomedical Science, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Geert Berx
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.,Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Steven Goossens
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium, .,Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium,
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Gilazieva Z, Ponomarev A, Rutland C, Rizvanov A, Solovyeva V. Promising Applications of Tumor Spheroids and Organoids for Personalized Medicine. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:E2727. [PMID: 32977530 PMCID: PMC7598156 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12102727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
One of the promising directions in personalized medicine is the use of three-dimensional (3D) tumor models such as spheroids and organoids. Spheroids and organoids are three-dimensional cultures of tumor cells that can be obtained from patient tissue and, using high-throughput personalized medicine methods, provide a suitable therapy for that patient. These 3D models can be obtained from most types of tumors, which provides opportunities for the creation of biobanks with appropriate patient materials that can be used to screen drugs and facilitate the development of therapeutic agents. It should be noted that the use of spheroids and organoids would expand the understanding of tumor biology and its microenvironment, help develop new in vitro platforms for drug testing and create new therapeutic strategies. In this review, we discuss 3D tumor spheroid and organoid models, their advantages and disadvantages, and evaluate their promising use in personalized medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zarema Gilazieva
- Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan Federal University, 420008 Kazan, Russia; (Z.G.); (A.P.); (A.R.)
| | - Aleksei Ponomarev
- Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan Federal University, 420008 Kazan, Russia; (Z.G.); (A.P.); (A.R.)
| | - Catrin Rutland
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK;
| | - Albert Rizvanov
- Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan Federal University, 420008 Kazan, Russia; (Z.G.); (A.P.); (A.R.)
| | - Valeriya Solovyeva
- Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan Federal University, 420008 Kazan, Russia; (Z.G.); (A.P.); (A.R.)
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Pal A, Ashworth JC, Collier P, Probert C, Jones S, Leza EP, Meakin ML, A. Ritchie A, Onion D, Clarke PA, Allegrucci C, Grabowska AM. A 3D Heterotypic Breast Cancer Model Demonstrates a Role for Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Driving a Proliferative and Invasive Phenotype. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:E2290. [PMID: 32824003 PMCID: PMC7465555 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12082290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Revised: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Previous indirect 2D co-culture studies have demonstrated that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) promote breast cancer (BC) progression through secretion of paracrine factors including growth factors, cytokines and chemokines. In order to investigate this aspect of the tumour microenvironment in a more relevant 3D co-culture model, spheroids incorporating breast cancer cells (BCCs), both cell lines and primary BCCs expanded as patient-derived xenografts, and MSCs were established. MSCs in co-cultures were shown to enhance proliferation of estrogen receptor (ER)/progesterone receptor (PR)-positive BCCs. In addition, co-culture resulted in downregulation of E-cadherin in parallel with upregulation of the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-relation transcription factor, SNAIL. Cytoplasmic relocalization of ski-related novel protein N (SnON), a negative regulator of transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) signalling, and of β-catenin, involved in a number of pathways including Wnt signalling, was also observed in BCCs in co-cultures in contrast to monocultures. In addition, the β-catenin inhibitor, 3-[[(4-methylphenyl)sulfonyl]amino]-benzoic acid methyl ester (MSAB), mediated reduced growth and invasion in the co-cultures. This study highlights the potential role for SnON as a biomarker for BC invasiveness, and the importance of interactions between TGF-β and Wnt signalling, involving SnON. Such pathways may contribute towards identifying possible targets for therapeutic intervention in BC patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amarnath Pal
- Ex Vivo Cancer Pharmacology Centre, Division of Cancer and Stem Cells, Biodiscovery Institute, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK; (A.P.); (J.C.A.); (P.C.); (C.P.); (S.J.); (E.P.L.); (M.L.M.); (A.A.R.); (P.A.C.)
| | - Jennifer C. Ashworth
- Ex Vivo Cancer Pharmacology Centre, Division of Cancer and Stem Cells, Biodiscovery Institute, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK; (A.P.); (J.C.A.); (P.C.); (C.P.); (S.J.); (E.P.L.); (M.L.M.); (A.A.R.); (P.A.C.)
| | - Pamela Collier
- Ex Vivo Cancer Pharmacology Centre, Division of Cancer and Stem Cells, Biodiscovery Institute, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK; (A.P.); (J.C.A.); (P.C.); (C.P.); (S.J.); (E.P.L.); (M.L.M.); (A.A.R.); (P.A.C.)
| | - Catherine Probert
- Ex Vivo Cancer Pharmacology Centre, Division of Cancer and Stem Cells, Biodiscovery Institute, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK; (A.P.); (J.C.A.); (P.C.); (C.P.); (S.J.); (E.P.L.); (M.L.M.); (A.A.R.); (P.A.C.)
| | - Sal Jones
- Ex Vivo Cancer Pharmacology Centre, Division of Cancer and Stem Cells, Biodiscovery Institute, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK; (A.P.); (J.C.A.); (P.C.); (C.P.); (S.J.); (E.P.L.); (M.L.M.); (A.A.R.); (P.A.C.)
| | - Eduardo Pernaut Leza
- Ex Vivo Cancer Pharmacology Centre, Division of Cancer and Stem Cells, Biodiscovery Institute, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK; (A.P.); (J.C.A.); (P.C.); (C.P.); (S.J.); (E.P.L.); (M.L.M.); (A.A.R.); (P.A.C.)
| | - Marian L. Meakin
- Ex Vivo Cancer Pharmacology Centre, Division of Cancer and Stem Cells, Biodiscovery Institute, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK; (A.P.); (J.C.A.); (P.C.); (C.P.); (S.J.); (E.P.L.); (M.L.M.); (A.A.R.); (P.A.C.)
| | - Alison A. Ritchie
- Ex Vivo Cancer Pharmacology Centre, Division of Cancer and Stem Cells, Biodiscovery Institute, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK; (A.P.); (J.C.A.); (P.C.); (C.P.); (S.J.); (E.P.L.); (M.L.M.); (A.A.R.); (P.A.C.)
| | - David Onion
- Flow Cytometry Facility, School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK;
| | - Philip A Clarke
- Ex Vivo Cancer Pharmacology Centre, Division of Cancer and Stem Cells, Biodiscovery Institute, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK; (A.P.); (J.C.A.); (P.C.); (C.P.); (S.J.); (E.P.L.); (M.L.M.); (A.A.R.); (P.A.C.)
| | - Cinzia Allegrucci
- SVMS, Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK;
| | - Anna M. Grabowska
- Ex Vivo Cancer Pharmacology Centre, Division of Cancer and Stem Cells, Biodiscovery Institute, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK; (A.P.); (J.C.A.); (P.C.); (C.P.); (S.J.); (E.P.L.); (M.L.M.); (A.A.R.); (P.A.C.)
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Abraham AD, Esquer H, Zhou Q, Tomlinson N, Hamill BD, Abbott JM, Li L, Pike LA, Rinaldetti S, Ramirez DA, Lunghofer PJ, Gomez JD, Schaack J, Nemkov T, D'Alessandro A, Hansen KC, Gustafson DL, Messersmith WA, LaBarbera DV. Drug Design Targeting T-Cell Factor-Driven Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition as a Therapeutic Strategy for Colorectal Cancer. J Med Chem 2019; 62:10182-10203. [PMID: 31675229 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.9b01065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Metastasis is the cause of 90% of mortality in cancer patients. For metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC), the standard-of-care drug therapies only palliate the symptoms but are ineffective, evidenced by a low survival rate of ∼11%. T-cell factor (TCF) transcription is a major driving force in CRC, and we have characterized it to be a master regulator of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). EMT transforms relatively benign epithelial tumor cells into quasi-mesenchymal or mesenchymal cells that possess cancer stem cell properties, promoting multidrug resistance and metastasis. We have identified topoisomerase IIα (TOP2A) as a DNA-binding factor required for TCF-transcription. Herein, we describe the design, synthesis, biological evaluation, and in vitro and in vivo pharmacokinetic analysis of TOP2A ATP-competitive inhibitors that prevent TCF-transcription and modulate or reverse EMT in mCRC. Unlike TOP2A poisons, ATP-competitive inhibitors do not damage DNA, potentially limiting adverse effects. This work demonstrates a new therapeutic strategy targeting TOP2A for the treatment of mCRC and potentially other types of cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Dominique A Ramirez
- Clinical Sciences, School of Biomedical Engineering , Colorado State University , Fort Collins , Colorado 80523 , United States
| | - Paul J Lunghofer
- Clinical Sciences, School of Biomedical Engineering , Colorado State University , Fort Collins , Colorado 80523 , United States
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Daniel L Gustafson
- Clinical Sciences, School of Biomedical Engineering , Colorado State University , Fort Collins , Colorado 80523 , United States
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Shukla SK, Kulkarni NS, Chan A, Parvathaneni V, Farrales P, Muth A, Gupta V. Metformin-Encapsulated Liposome Delivery System: An Effective Treatment Approach against Breast Cancer. Pharmaceutics 2019; 11:pharmaceutics11110559. [PMID: 31661947 PMCID: PMC6920889 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics11110559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2019] [Revised: 10/23/2019] [Accepted: 10/24/2019] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed at developing metformin hydrochloride (Met) encapsulated liposomal vesicles for enhanced therapeutic outcomes at reduced doses against breast cancer. Liposomal Met was prepared using thin-film hydration through various loading methods; passive loading, active loading, and drug-loaded lipid film. The drug-loaded film method exhibited maximum entrapment efficiency (~65%) as compared to active loading (~25%) and passive loading (~5%) prepared Met-loaded liposomes. The therapeutic efficacy of these optimized liposomes was evaluated for cellular uptake, cytotoxicity, inhibition of metastatic activity, and apoptosis-inducing activity. Results demonstrated significantly superior activity of positively charged liposomes resulting in reduced IC50 values, minimal cell migration activity, reduced colony formation, and profound apoptosis-induced activity in breast cancer cells as compared to Met. The anti-tumor activity was investigated using a clinically relevant in vitro tumor simulation model, which confirmed enhanced anti-tumorigenic property of liposomal Met over Met itself. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first report of Met-loaded liposomes for improving the efficacy and therapeutic effect of Met against breast cancer. With the results obtained, it can be speculated that liposomal encapsulation of metformin offers a potentially promising and convenient approach for enhanced efficacy and bioavailability in breast cancer treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Snehal K Shukla
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY 11439, USA.
| | - Nishant S Kulkarni
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY 11439, USA.
| | - Amanda Chan
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY 11439, USA.
| | - Vineela Parvathaneni
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY 11439, USA.
| | - Pamela Farrales
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY 11439, USA.
| | - Aaron Muth
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY 11439, USA.
| | - Vivek Gupta
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY 11439, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Proença S, Antunes B, Guedes RC, Ramilo-Gomes F, Cabral MF, Costa J, Fernandes AS, Castro M, Oliveira NG, Miranda JP. Pyridine-Containing Macrocycles Display MMP-2/9 Inhibitory Activity and Distinct Effects on Migration and Invasion of 2D and 3D Breast Cancer Models. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:E5109. [PMID: 31618886 PMCID: PMC6829403 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20205109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2019] [Revised: 10/01/2019] [Accepted: 10/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The role of metalloproteinases (MMPs) on the migration and invasion of cancer cells has been correlated with tumor aggressiveness, namely with the up-regulation of MMP-2 and 9. Herein, two pyridine-containing macrocyclic compounds, [15]pyN5 and [16]pyN5, were synthesized, chemically characterized and evaluated as potential MMP inhibitors for breast cancer therapy using 3D and 2D cellular models. [15]pyN5 and [16]pyN5 (5-20 µM) showed a marked inhibition of MMPs activity (100% at concentrations ≥ 7.5 μM) when compared to ARP-100, a known MMP inhibitor. The inhibitory activity of [15]pyN5 and [16]pyN5 was further supported through in silico docking studies using Goldscore and ChemPLP scoring functions. Moreover, although no significant differences were observed in the invasion studies in the presence of all MMPs inhibitors, cell migration was significantly inhibited by both pyridine-containing macrocycles at concentrations above 5 μM in 2D cells (p < 0.05). In spheroids, the same effect was observed, but only with [16]pyN5 at 20 μM and ARP-100 at 40 μM. Overall, [15]pyN5 and [16]pyN5 led to impaired breast cancer cell migration and revealed to be potential inhibitors of MMPs 2 and 9.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susana Proença
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal.
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht University, P.O. Box 80177, 3508TD Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - Bernardo Antunes
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Rita C Guedes
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Filipa Ramilo-Gomes
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal.
- Centro de Química Estrutural, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, 1049-001 Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - M Fátima Cabral
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Judite Costa
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal.
| | | | - Matilde Castro
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Nuno G Oliveira
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Joana P Miranda
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Novak CM, Horst EN, Taylor CC, Liu CZ, Mehta G. Fluid shear stress stimulates breast cancer cells to display invasive and chemoresistant phenotypes while upregulating PLAU in a 3D bioreactor. Biotechnol Bioeng 2019; 116:3084-3097. [PMID: 31317530 DOI: 10.1002/bit.27119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2019] [Revised: 06/10/2019] [Accepted: 07/09/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer cells experience a range of shear stresses in the tumor microenvironment (TME). However most current in vitro three-dimensional (3D) models fail to systematically probe the effects of this biophysical stimuli on cancer cell metastasis, proliferation, and chemoresistance. To investigate the roles of shear stress within the mammary and lung pleural effusion TME, a bioreactor capable of applying shear stress to cells within a 3D extracellular matrix was designed and characterized. Breast cancer cells were encapsulated within an interpenetrating network hydrogel and subjected to shear stress of 5.4 dynes cm-2 for 72 hr. Finite element modeling assessed shear stress profiles within the bioreactor. Cells exposed to shear stress had significantly higher cellular area and significantly lower circularity, indicating a motile phenotype. Stimulated cells were more proliferative than static controls and showed higher rates of chemoresistance to the anti-neoplastic drug paclitaxel. Fluid shear stress-induced significant upregulation of the PLAU gene and elevated urokinase activity was confirmed through zymography and activity assay. Overall, these results indicate that pulsatile shear stress promotes breast cancer cell proliferation, invasive potential, chemoresistance, and PLAU signaling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caymen M Novak
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Eric N Horst
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan.,Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Charles C Taylor
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Catherine Z Liu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Geeta Mehta
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan.,Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan.,Macromolecular Science and Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Zhang JF, Jiang W, Zhang QF, Kuai XL, Mao ZB, Wang ZW. Long noncoding RNA STCAT16 suppresses cell growth and its expression predicts prognosis in patients with gastric cancer. Mol Med Rep 2019; 19:4613-4622. [PMID: 30957180 PMCID: PMC6522818 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2019.10128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2018] [Accepted: 03/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer (GC) is a leading cause of cancer‑associated mortality worldwide. Previous studies demonstrated that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) may be dysregulated in GC and may serve important roles in cancer progression. The present study aimed to investigate the role of the novel lncRNA stomach cancer‑associated transcript 16 (STCAT16; Assembly Gene ID G038291) in the development and progression of GC. The present data suggested that the expression level of STCAT16 was decreased in GC tissues. The expression level of STCAT16 was identified to be associated with lymph node and tumour node metastasis stages. Furthermore, the expression level of STCAT16 was identified to be significantly associated with poor survival and prognosis. Knockdown of STCAT16 promoted proliferation, colony formation, migration and invasion of BGC‑823 cells. In contrast, these features were suppressed in AGS cells following overexpression of STCAT16. In vivo, tumour growth was significantly decreased following STCAT16 overexpression. Collectively, the present data suggested that the lncRNA STCAT16 may act as a tumour suppressor and may inhibit GC tumour cell growth and migration. Additionally, the decreased expression level of STCAT16 was identified to be associated with poor prognosis in patients with GC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jian-Feng Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, P.R. China
| | - Wei Jiang
- Department of Emergency Centre, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, P.R. China
| | - Qian-Feng Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, P.R. China
| | - Xiao-Ling Kuai
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, P.R. China
| | - Zhen-Biao Mao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, P.R. China
| | - Zhi-Wei Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Dubois C, Daumar P, Aubel C, Gauthier J, Vidalinc B, Mounetou E, Penault-Llorca F, Bamdad M. The New Synthetic Serum-Free Medium OptiPASS Promotes High Proliferation and Drug Efficacy Prediction on Spheroids from MDA-MB-231 and SUM1315 Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cell Lines. J Clin Med 2019; 8:jcm8030397. [PMID: 30901969 PMCID: PMC6463163 DOI: 10.3390/jcm8030397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2019] [Revised: 03/09/2019] [Accepted: 03/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancers are particularly aggressive. In vitro cultures are one of the major pathways for developing anticancer strategies. The effectiveness and reproducibility of the drug screenings depend largely on the homogeneity of culture media. In order to optimize the predictive responses of triple-negative breast cancer 3D cell culture models, these works were focused on the development of SUM1315 and MDA-MB-231 cell lines in OptiPASS medium, a new serum-free formulation (BIOPASS). In monolayer cell culture, OptiPASS medium was more suitable for MDA-MB-231 than SUM1315 cell line but maintained cell phenotype and allowed sufficient proliferation. For spheroids produced in OptiPASS, the size monitoring showed a 1.3 and 1.5-fold increase for MDA-MB-231 and SUM1315 cell lines, respectively and viability/mortality profiles were maintained. Spheroids drug sensitivity thresholds were also improved allowing quicker high throughput drug screenings. These results showed the suitability of OptiPASS for 2D and 3D cell cultures of these two triple-negative breast cancer cell lines, with reproducibility of spheroid formation superior to 98%. This opens the way to the common use of this synthetic medium in future preclinical breast cancer research studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Clémence Dubois
- Université Clermont Auvergne, Institut Universitaire de Technologie, INSERM, U1240, Imagerie Moléculaire et Stratégies Théranostiques, F-63000 Clermont Ferrand, France.
- Université Clermont Auvergne, Centre Jean Perrin, INSERM, U1240, Imagerie Moléculaire et Stratégies Théranostiques, F-63000 Clermont Ferrand, France.
| | - Pierre Daumar
- Université Clermont Auvergne, Institut Universitaire de Technologie, INSERM, U1240, Imagerie Moléculaire et Stratégies Théranostiques, F-63000 Clermont Ferrand, France.
| | - Corinne Aubel
- Université Clermont Auvergne, Faculté de médecine, INSERM, U1240, Imagerie Moléculaire et Stratégies Théranostiques, F-63000 Clermont Ferrand, France.
| | | | | | - Emmanuelle Mounetou
- Université Clermont Auvergne, Institut Universitaire de Technologie, INSERM, U1240, Imagerie Moléculaire et Stratégies Théranostiques, F-63000 Clermont Ferrand, France.
| | - Frédérique Penault-Llorca
- Université Clermont Auvergne, Centre Jean Perrin, INSERM, U1240, Imagerie Moléculaire et Stratégies Théranostiques, F-63000 Clermont Ferrand, France.
| | - Mahchid Bamdad
- Université Clermont Auvergne, Institut Universitaire de Technologie, INSERM, U1240, Imagerie Moléculaire et Stratégies Théranostiques, F-63000 Clermont Ferrand, France.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Rustamov V, Keller F, Klicks J, Hafner M, Rudolf R. Bone Sialoprotein Shows Enhanced Expression in Early, High-Proliferation Stages of Three-Dimensional Spheroid Cell Cultures of Breast Cancer Cell Line MDA-MB-231. Front Oncol 2019; 9:36. [PMID: 30805306 PMCID: PMC6370714 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2019.00036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2018] [Accepted: 01/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Normally, bone sialoprotein (BSP) is an important contributor to bone micro-calcification. However, it is also highly expressed in bone-metastatic malignancies, including prostate, lung, and breast cancer. In these disorders, BSP correlates with poor prognosis. Its expression in triple-negative breast cancer cells is enhanced by the transcription factor RUNX2, and both, BSP and RUNX2 are under control of IGF-1 and TGFβ1. Knockdown of BSP or its inactivation by specific antibodies were found to reduce the metastatic potential of MDA-MB-231 triple-negative breast cancer cells in xenografts. While the role of BSP in bone metastasis was studied using such in vivo models, valid in vitro test systems to investigate BSP biology have been lacking since this protein is expressed at very low levels in classical 2D cell cultures and the frequently used breast cancer cell line MDA-MB-231 is difficult to grow in 3D. Here, we have developed a long-term 3D spheroid culture model using MDA-MB-231 cells in a sandwich approach using cell embedding between a non-adherent surface and basement membrane extracts. This allowed consistent growth of spheroids for more than 21 days. Also, co-culturing of MDA-MB-231 with CCD-1137Sk fibroblasts yielded stably growing spheroids, suggesting the importance of extracellular matrix (ECM) in this process. In addition, we have set up a novel and simple open source analysis tool to characterize protein expression in 2D cultures and spheroids by immunofluorescence. Using this approach in combination with Western blot analysis, the expression profile of BSP was analyzed. BSP was enriched at the rims of spheroids, both in mono- and co-cultures and its abundance in general correlated with that of TGFβ1 under different conditions, including spheroid maturation, cytostatic treatment, and fibroblast co-culture. Conversely, correlation of IGF-1 and BSP was limited to mono-culture time course profiles. In conclusion, we present novel tools to study the regulation of gene expression in combination with cell proliferation and apoptosis in a long-term 3D model of breast cancer and find dynamic abundance profiles of the metastasis-relevant protein BSP and its regulators.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Valeh Rustamov
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Mannheim University of Applied Sciences, Mannheim, Germany.,Institute of Medical Technology of Heidelberg University and Mannheim University of Applied Sciences, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Florian Keller
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Mannheim University of Applied Sciences, Mannheim, Germany.,Institute of Medical Technology of Heidelberg University and Mannheim University of Applied Sciences, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Julia Klicks
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Mannheim University of Applied Sciences, Mannheim, Germany.,Institute of Medical Technology of Heidelberg University and Mannheim University of Applied Sciences, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Mathias Hafner
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Mannheim University of Applied Sciences, Mannheim, Germany.,Institute of Medical Technology of Heidelberg University and Mannheim University of Applied Sciences, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Rüdiger Rudolf
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Mannheim University of Applied Sciences, Mannheim, Germany.,Institute of Medical Technology of Heidelberg University and Mannheim University of Applied Sciences, Mannheim, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Joshi P, Kang SY, Datar A, Lee MY. High-Throughput Assessment of Mechanistic Toxicity of Chemicals in Miniaturized 3D Cell Culture. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 79:e66. [PMID: 30387930 DOI: 10.1002/cptx.66] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
High-content imaging (HCI) assays on two-dimensional (2D) cell cultures often do not represent in vivo characteristics accurately, thus reducing the predictability of drug toxicity/efficacy in vivo. On the other hand, conventional 3D cell cultures are relatively low throughput and possess difficulty in cell imaging. To address these limitations, a miniaturized 3D cell culture has been developed on a micropillar/microwell chip platform with human cells encapsulated in biomimetic hydrogels. Model compounds are used to validate human cell microarrays for high-throughput assessment of mechanistic toxicity. Main mechanisms of toxicity of compounds can be investigated by analyzing multiple parameters such as DNA damage, mitochondrial impairment, intracellular glutathione level, and cell membrane integrity. IC50 values of these parameters can be determined and compared for the compounds to investigate the main mechanism of toxicity. This paper describes miniaturized HCI assays on 3D-cultured cell microarrays for high-throughput assessment of mechanistic profiles of compound-induced toxicity. © 2018 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pranav Joshi
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Soo-Yeon Kang
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Akshata Datar
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Moo-Yeal Lee
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, Ohio
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Gao W, Wu D, Wang Y, Wang Z, Zou C, Dai Y, Ng CF, Teoh JYC, Chan FL. Development of a novel and economical agar-based non-adherent three-dimensional culture method for enrichment of cancer stem-like cells. Stem Cell Res Ther 2018; 9:243. [PMID: 30257704 PMCID: PMC6158801 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-018-0987-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2018] [Revised: 08/07/2018] [Accepted: 08/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Non-adherent or ultra-low attachment three-dimensional (3D) culture, also called sphere formation assay, has been widely used to assess the malignant phenotype and stemness potential of transformed or cancer cells. This method is also popularly used to isolate the cancer stem-like cells (CSCs) or tumor-initiating cells based on their unique anchorage-independent growth or anoikis-resistant capacity. Different non-adhesive coating agents, such as poly-2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (poly-HEMA) and synthetic hydrogels, have been used in this non-adherent 3D culture. However, preparation of non-adherent culture-ware is labor-intensive and technically demanding, and also costs of commercial non-adherent culture-ware prepared with various coating agents are relatively expensive and the culture-ware cannot be used repeatedly. METHODS In this study, we developed a non-adherent 3D culture method based on agar coating for growing tumor spheres derived from various cancer cell lines and primary prostate cancer tissues under a non-adherent and serum-free condition. The tumor spheres generated by this 3D culture method were analyzed on their expression profiles of CSC-associated markers by reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction, presence and relative proportion of CSCs by fluorescence-activated cell sorting (CD133+/CD44+ cell sorting) and also a CSC-visualizing reporter system responsive to OCT4 and SOX2 (SORE6), and in vivo tumorigenicity. The repeated use of agar-coated plates for serial passages of tumor spheres was also evaluated. RESULTS Our results validated that the multicellular tumor spheres generated by this culture method were enriched of CSCs, as evidenced by their enhanced expression profiles of CSC markers, presence of CD133+/CD44+ or SORE6+ cells, enhanced self-renewal capacity, and in vivo tumorigenicity, indicating its usefulness in isolation and enrichment of CSCs. The agar-coated plates could be used multiple times in serial passages of tumor spheres. CONCLUSIONS The described agar-based 3D culture method offers several advantages as compared with other methods in isolation of CSCs, including its simplicity and low-cost and repeated use of agar-coated plates for continuous passages of CSC-enriched spheres.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Weijie Gao
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong, China
| | - Dinglan Wu
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong, China. .,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Viral Oncology, The Clinical Innovation & Research Center, Shenzhen Hospital, Southern Medical University, Shenzhen, 518110, China.
| | - Yuliang Wang
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong, China
| | - Zhu Wang
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong, China
| | - Chang Zou
- Clinical Medical Research Center, The Second Clinical Medical School of Jinan University, Shenzhen People's Hospital, Shenzhen, 518000, China
| | - Yong Dai
- Clinical Medical Research Center, The Second Clinical Medical School of Jinan University, Shenzhen People's Hospital, Shenzhen, 518000, China
| | - Chi-Fai Ng
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jeremy Yuen-Chun Teoh
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Franky Leung Chan
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong, China.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Current Screening Methodologies in Drug Discovery for Selected Human Diseases. Mar Drugs 2018; 16:md16080279. [PMID: 30110923 PMCID: PMC6117650 DOI: 10.3390/md16080279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2018] [Accepted: 08/11/2018] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The increase of many deadly diseases like infections by multidrug-resistant bacteria implies re-inventing the wheel on drug discovery. A better comprehension of the metabolisms and regulation of diseases, the increase in knowledge based on the study of disease-born microorganisms’ genomes, the development of more representative disease models and improvement of techniques, technologies, and computation applied to biology are advances that will foster drug discovery in upcoming years. In this paper, several aspects of current methodologies for drug discovery of antibacterial and antifungals, anti-tropical diseases, antibiofilm and antiquorum sensing, anticancer and neuroprotectors are considered. For drug discovery, two different complementary approaches can be applied: classical pharmacology, also known as phenotypic drug discovery, which is the historical basis of drug discovery, and reverse pharmacology, also designated target-based drug discovery. Screening methods based on phenotypic drug discovery have been used to discover new natural products mainly from terrestrial origin. Examples of the discovery of marine natural products are provided. A section on future trends provides a comprehensive overview on recent advances that will foster the pharmaceutical industry.
Collapse
|
29
|
Kapałczyńska M, Kolenda T, Przybyła W, Zajączkowska M, Teresiak A, Filas V, Ibbs M, Bliźniak R, Łuczewski Ł, Lamperska K. 2D and 3D cell cultures - a comparison of different types of cancer cell cultures. Arch Med Sci 2018; 14:910-919. [PMID: 30002710 PMCID: PMC6040128 DOI: 10.5114/aoms.2016.63743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 439] [Impact Index Per Article: 73.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2016] [Accepted: 06/27/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell culture is a widely used in vitro tool for improving our understanding of cell biology, tissue morphology, and mechanisms of diseases, drug action, protein production and the development of tissue engineering. Most research regarding cancer biology is based on experiments using two-dimensional (2D) cell cultures in vitro. However, 2D cultures have many limitations, such as the disturbance of interactions between the cellular and extracellular environments, changes in cell morphology, polarity, and method of division. These disadvantages led to the creation of models which are more closely able to mimic conditions in vivo. One such method is three-dimensional culture (3D). Optimisation of the culture conditions may allow for a better understanding of cancer biology and facilitate the study of biomarkers and targeting therapies. In this review, we compare 2D and 3D cultures in vitro as well as different versions of 3D cultures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marta Kapałczyńska
- Laboratory of Cancer Genetics, Greater Poland Cancer Centre, Poznan, Poland
| | - Tomasz Kolenda
- Laboratory of Cancer Genetics, Greater Poland Cancer Centre, Poznan, Poland
- Postgraduate School of Molecular Medicine, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Weronika Przybyła
- Laboratory of Cancer Genetics, Greater Poland Cancer Centre, Poznan, Poland
| | - Maria Zajączkowska
- Laboratory of Cancer Genetics, Greater Poland Cancer Centre, Poznan, Poland
| | - Anna Teresiak
- Laboratory of Cancer Genetics, Greater Poland Cancer Centre, Poznan, Poland
| | - Violetta Filas
- Department of Tumour Pathology, Greater Poland Cancer Centre, Poznan, Poland
| | - Matthew Ibbs
- Department of Tumour Pathology, Greater Poland Cancer Centre, Poznan, Poland
| | - Renata Bliźniak
- Laboratory of Cancer Genetics, Greater Poland Cancer Centre, Poznan, Poland
| | - Łukasz Łuczewski
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Greater Poland Cancer Centre, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Rodenhizer D, Dean T, D'Arcangelo E, McGuigan AP. The Current Landscape of 3D In Vitro Tumor Models: What Cancer Hallmarks Are Accessible for Drug Discovery? Adv Healthc Mater 2018; 7:e1701174. [PMID: 29350495 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.201701174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2017] [Revised: 11/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Cancer prognosis remains a lottery dependent on cancer type, disease stage at diagnosis, and personal genetics. While investment in research is at an all-time high, new drugs are more likely to fail in clinical trials today than in the 1970s. In this review, a summary of current survival statistics in North America is provided, followed by an overview of the modern drug discovery process, classes of models used throughout different stages, and challenges associated with drug development efficiency are highlighted. Then, an overview of the cancer hallmarks that drive clinical progression is provided, and the range of available clinical therapies within the context of these hallmarks is categorized. Specifically, it is found that historically, the development of therapies is limited to a subset of possible targets. This provides evidence for the opportunities offered by novel disease-relevant in vitro models that enable identification of novel targets that facilitate interactions between the tumor cells and their surrounding microenvironment. Next, an overview of the models currently reported in literature is provided, and the cancer biology they have been used to explore is highlighted. Finally, four priority areas are suggested for the field to accelerate adoption of in vitro tumour models for cancer drug discovery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Darren Rodenhizer
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied ChemistryUniversity of Toronto 200 College Street Toronto M5S 3E5 Canada
| | - Teresa Dean
- Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical EngineeringUniversity of Toronto 200 College Street Toronto M5S 3E5 Canada
| | - Elisa D'Arcangelo
- Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical EngineeringUniversity of Toronto 200 College Street Toronto M5S 3E5 Canada
| | - Alison P. McGuigan
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry & Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical EngineeringUniversity of Toronto 200 College Street Toronto M5S 3E5 Canada
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Lu H, Stenzel MH. Multicellular Tumor Spheroids (MCTS) as a 3D In Vitro Evaluation Tool of Nanoparticles. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2018; 14:e1702858. [PMID: 29450963 DOI: 10.1002/smll.201702858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 140] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2017] [Revised: 11/13/2017] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Multicellular tumor spheroid models (MCTS) are often coined as 3D in vitro models that can mimic the microenvironment of tissues. MCTS have gained increasing interest in the nano-biotechnology field as they can provide easily accessible information on the performance of nanoparticles without using animal models. Considering that many countries have put restrictions on animals testing, which will only tighten in the future as seen by the recent developments in the Netherlands, 3D models will become an even more valuable tool. Here, an overview on MCTS is provided, focusing on their use in cancer research as most nanoparticles are tested in MCTS for treatment of primary tumors. Thereafter, various types of nanoparticles-from self-assembled block copolymers to inorganic nanoparticles, are discussed. A range of physicochemical parameters including the size, shape, surface chemistry, ligands attachment, stability, and stiffness are found to influence nanoparticles in MCTS. Some of these studies are complemented by animal studies confirming that lessons from MCTS can in part predict the behaviour in vivo. In summary, MCTS are suitable models to gain additional information on nanoparticles. While not being able to replace in vivo studies, they can bridge the gap between traditional 2D in vitro studies and in vivo models.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hongxu Lu
- Centre for Advanced Macromolecular Design, School of Chemistry, University of New South Wales, Kensington, Sydney, New South Wales, 2052, Australia
| | - Martina H Stenzel
- Centre for Advanced Macromolecular Design, School of Chemistry, University of New South Wales, Kensington, Sydney, New South Wales, 2052, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Lotz-Jenne C, Lüthi U, Ackerknecht S, Lehembre F, Fink T, Stritt M, Wirth M, Pavan S, Bill R, Regenass U, Christofori G, Meyer-Schaller N. A high-content EMT screen identifies multiple receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors with activity on TGFβ receptor. Oncotarget 2018; 7:25983-6002. [PMID: 27036020 PMCID: PMC5041959 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.8418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2015] [Accepted: 03/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
An epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) enables epithelial tumor cells to break out of the primary tumor mass and to metastasize. Understanding the molecular mechanisms driving EMT in more detail will provide important tools to interfere with the metastatic process. To identify pharmacological modulators and druggable targets of EMT, we have established a novel multi-parameter, high-content, microscopy-based assay and screened chemical compounds with activities against known targets. Out of 3423 compounds, we have identified 19 drugs that block transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ)-induced EMT in normal murine mammary gland epithelial cells (NMuMG). The active compounds include inhibitors against TGFβ receptors (TGFBR), Rho-associated protein kinases (ROCK), myosin II, SRC kinase and uridine analogues. Among the EMT-repressing compounds, we identified a group of inhibitors targeting multiple receptor tyrosine kinases, and biochemical profiling of these multi-kinase inhibitors reveals TGFBR as a thus far unknown target of their inhibitory spectrum. These findings demonstrate the feasibility of a multi-parameter, high-content microscopy screen to identify modulators and druggable targets of EMT. Moreover, the newly discovered "off-target" effects of several receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors have important consequences for in vitro and in vivo studies and might beneficially contribute to the therapeutic effects observed in vivo.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Urs Lüthi
- Actelion Pharmaceuticals Ltd., Allschwil, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Tobias Fink
- Actelion Pharmaceuticals Ltd., Allschwil, Switzerland
| | - Manuel Stritt
- Actelion Pharmaceuticals Ltd., Allschwil, Switzerland
| | - Matthias Wirth
- Actelion Pharmaceuticals Ltd., Allschwil, Switzerland.,Current address: European Patent Office, Rijswijk, The Netherlands
| | - Simona Pavan
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Ruben Bill
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Urs Regenass
- Actelion Pharmaceuticals Ltd., Allschwil, Switzerland
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Akasov R, Haq S, Haxho F, Samuel V, Burov SV, Markvicheva E, Neufeld RJ, Szewczuk MR. Sialylation transmogrifies human breast and pancreatic cancer cells into 3D multicellular tumor spheroids using cyclic RGD-peptide induced self-assembly. Oncotarget 2018; 7:66119-66134. [PMID: 27608845 PMCID: PMC5323220 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.11868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2016] [Accepted: 08/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Multicellular tumor spheroids (MTS) have been at the forefront of cancer research, designed to mimic tumor-like developmental patterns in vitro. Tumor growth in vivo is highly influenced by aberrant cell surface-specific sialoglycan structures on glycoproteins. Aberrant sialoglycan patterns that facilitate MTS formation are not well defined. Matrix-free spheroids from breast MCF-7 and pancreatic PANC1 cancer cell lines and their respective tamoxifen (TMX) and gemcitabine (Gem) resistant variants were generated using the RGD platform of cyclic Arg-Gly-Asp-D-Phe-Lys peptide modified with 4-carboxybutyl-triphenylphosphonium bromide (cyclo-RGDfK (TPP)). MCF-7 and MCF-7 TMX cells formed tight spheroids both in the classical agarose-and RGD-based platforms while all PANC1 cells formed loose aggregates. Using lectin histochemistry staining, sialidase assay, neuraminidase (Vibrio cholerae) and oseltamivir phosphate (OP) neuraminidase inhibitor treatments, MCF-7 and PANC1 cells and their drug-resistant variants expressed different sialic acid (SA) content on their cell surfaces. α-2,3- and α-2,6-sialic acid surface residues facilitated spheroid formation under cyclo-RGDfK(TPP)-induced self-assembly. Pretreatment with α-2,3- SA specific Maackia amurensis (MAL-II) lectin, α-2,6-SA specific Sambucus nigra (SNA) lectin, and exogenous α-2,6-SA specific neuraminidase (Vibrio cholerae) dose-dependently reduced spheroid volume. OP enhanced cell aggregation and compaction forming spheroids. PANC1 and MDA-MB231 xenograft tumors from untreated and OP-treated RAGxCγ double mutant mice expressed significantly higher levels of α-2,3- SA over α-2,6-SA. MCF-7 spheroids also expressed a high α-2,3-SA to α-2,6-SA ratio. These results suggest that the relative levels of specific sialoglycan structures on the cell surface correlate with the ability of cancer cells to form avascular multicellular tumor spheroids and in vivo xenograft tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roman Akasov
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, 117997 Moscow, Russia
| | - Sabah Haq
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, K7L 3N6 Canada
| | - Fiona Haxho
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, K7L 3N6 Canada
| | - Vanessa Samuel
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, K7L 3N6 Canada
| | - Sergey V Burov
- Institute of Macromolecular Compounds, Russian Academy of Sciences, Petersburg, 119004 Russia
| | - Elena Markvicheva
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, 117997 Moscow, Russia
| | - Ronald J Neufeld
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, K7L 3N6 Canada
| | - Myron R Szewczuk
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, K7L 3N6 Canada
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Amith SR, Wilkinson JM, Fliegel L. Na+/H+ exchanger NHE1 regulation modulates metastatic potential and epithelial-mesenchymal transition of triple-negative breast cancer cells. Oncotarget 2018; 7:21091-113. [PMID: 27049728 PMCID: PMC5008271 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.8520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2015] [Accepted: 03/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
In triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), the high recurrence rate, increased invasion and aggressive metastatic formation dictate patient survival. We previously demonstrated a critical role for the Na+/H+ exchanger isoform 1 (NHE1) in controlling metastasis of triple-negative cells. Here, we investigated the effect of changes to three regulatory loci of NHE1. Two via the Ras/Raf/ERK/p90RSK pathway: p90RSK/14-3-3 (S703A) and ERK1/2 (S766,770,771A, SSSA) and a third via a calmodulin-binding domain (K641,R643,645,647E, 1K3R4E). MDA-MB-231 cells with a mutation at the p90RSK site (S703A-NHE1) changed from a wild-type mesenchymal morphology to a smaller epithelial-like phenotype with a loss of expression of mesenchymal marker vimentin. S703A cells also had reduced metastatic potential and markedly decreased rates of migration, invasion, spheroid growth, anchorage-dependent and soft agar colony formation. Similarly, BI-D1870, a specific inhibitor of p90RSK, significantly inhibited the metastatic potential of highly invasive MDA-MB-231 and moderately invasive MDA-MB-468 TNBC cells, but was minimally effective in non-invasive Hs578T TNBC cells. In contrast, invasion and spheroid growth were unaffected in cells containing NHE1 with mutations interfering with its activation by ERK1/2 (SSSA), though rates of migration and colony formation were reduced. Cells with a constitutive activation of NHE1 via the 1K3R4E mutation exhibited higher rates of migration, invasion, and spheroid growth. Taken together, our data demonstrate the critical role of NHE1 in metastasis, and suggest a novel link between NHE1 and the expression and cytosolic organization of vimentin, a key factor in epithelial-mesenchymal transition, that is dependent on p90RSK/14-3-3-mediated activation of the exchanger.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Schammim Ray Amith
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | | | - Larry Fliegel
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Langhans SA. Three-Dimensional in Vitro Cell Culture Models in Drug Discovery and Drug Repositioning. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:6. [PMID: 29410625 PMCID: PMC5787088 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.00006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 879] [Impact Index Per Article: 146.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2017] [Accepted: 01/03/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Drug development is a lengthy and costly process that proceeds through several stages from target identification to lead discovery and optimization, preclinical validation and clinical trials culminating in approval for clinical use. An important step in this process is high-throughput screening (HTS) of small compound libraries for lead identification. Currently, the majority of cell-based HTS is being carried out on cultured cells propagated in two-dimensions (2D) on plastic surfaces optimized for tissue culture. At the same time, compelling evidence suggests that cells cultured in these non-physiological conditions are not representative of cells residing in the complex microenvironment of a tissue. This discrepancy is thought to be a significant contributor to the high failure rate in drug discovery, where only a low percentage of drugs investigated ever make it through the gamut of testing and approval to the market. Thus, three-dimensional (3D) cell culture technologies that more closely resemble in vivo cell environments are now being pursued with intensity as they are expected to accommodate better precision in drug discovery. Here we will review common approaches to 3D culture, discuss the significance of 3D cultures in drug resistance and drug repositioning and address some of the challenges of applying 3D cell cultures to high-throughput drug discovery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sigrid A. Langhans
- Nemours Center for Childhood Cancer Research and Nemours Center for Neuroscience Research, Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children, Wilmington, DE, United States
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Simkova D, Kharaishvili G, Korinkova G, Ozdian T, Suchánková-Kleplová T, Soukup T, Krupka M, Galandakova A, Dzubak P, Janikova M, Navratil J, Kahounova Z, Soucek K, Bouchal J. The dual role of asporin in breast cancer progression. Oncotarget 2018; 7:52045-52060. [PMID: 27409832 PMCID: PMC5239534 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.10471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2015] [Accepted: 06/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Asporin has been reported as a tumor suppressor in breast cancer, while asporin-activated invasion has been described in gastric cancer. According to our in silico search, high asporin expresion associates with significantly better relapse free survival (RFS) in patients with low-grade tumors but RFS is significantly worse in patients with grade 3 tumors. In line with other studies, we have confirmed asporin expression by RNA scope in situ hybridization in cancer associated fibroblasts. We have also found asporin expression in the Hs578T breast cancer cell line which we confirmed by quantitative RT-PCR and western blotting. From multiple testing, we found that asporin can be downregulated by bone morphogenetic protein 4 while upregulation may be facilited by serum-free cultivation or by three dimensional growth in stiff Alvetex scaffold. Downregulation by shRNA inhibited invasion of Hs578T as well as of CAFs and T47D cells. Invasion of asporin-negative MDA-MB-231 and BT549 breast cancer cells through collagen type I was enhanced by recombinant asporin. Besides other investigations, large scale analysis of aspartic acid repeat polymorphism will be needed for clarification of the asporin dual role in progression of breast cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dana Simkova
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Pathology, Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Gvantsa Kharaishvili
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Pathology, Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Gabriela Korinkova
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Pathology, Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Tomas Ozdian
- Laboratory of Experimental Medicine, Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Tereza Suchánková-Kleplová
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine in Hradec Kralove, Charles University, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Tomas Soukup
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine in Hradec Kralove, Charles University, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Michal Krupka
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Adela Galandakova
- Department of Medical Chemistry and Biochemistry, Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Dzubak
- Laboratory of Experimental Medicine, Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Maria Janikova
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Pathology, Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Jiri Navratil
- Department of Comprehensive Cancer Care, Masaryk Memorial Cancer Institute, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Zuzana Kahounova
- Department of Cytokinetics, Institute of Biophysics, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, v.v.i., Brno, Czech Republic.,Center of Biomolecular and Cellular Engineering, International Clinical Research Center, St. Anne's University Hospital Brno, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Karel Soucek
- Department of Cytokinetics, Institute of Biophysics, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, v.v.i., Brno, Czech Republic.,Center of Biomolecular and Cellular Engineering, International Clinical Research Center, St. Anne's University Hospital Brno, Brno, Czech Republic.,Department of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Bouchal
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Pathology, Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Lu X, Yan C, Huang Y, Shi D, Fu Z, Qiu J, Yin Y. Mouse double minute 2 (MDM2) upregulates Snail expression and induces epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition in breast cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. Oncotarget 2018; 7:37177-37191. [PMID: 27184007 PMCID: PMC5095067 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.9287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2015] [Accepted: 04/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The oncogene, mouse double minute 2 (MDM2), has been implicated in the pathogenesis of numerous cancers. In this study, we investigated the role of MDM2 in epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and the underlying mechanisms in breast cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. The results showed that up-regulation of MDM2 in MCF-7 cells altered the cell morphology to a mesenchymal phenotype. Knockdown of MDM2 in MDA-MB-231 cells altered the cell morphology to the epithelial phenotype. In addition, overexpression of MDM2 increased the expression of N-cadherin and Vimentin and decreased the expression of E-cadherin, at both the mRNA and protein levels, in vitro and in vivo. Conversely, down-regulation of MDM2 decreased the expression of N-cadherin and Vimentin, and increased the expression of E-cadherin in vitro. Furthermore, MDM2 up-regulated both the mRNA and protein expression of Snail in vitro and in vivo. Knockdown of Snail almost abolished MDM2 induced EMT in vitro. Finally, we found that MDM2 expression correlated with EMT markers and Snail: Snail expression was inversely associated with E-cadherin in human breast cancer samples. Our findings demonstrated that MDM2 induces EMT by enhancing Snail expression in vitro and in vivo. Thus, MDM2 may be a potential target for therapy against human metastatic breast cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiangdong Lu
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, P. R. China
| | - Caiyun Yan
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, P. R. China
| | - Yi Huang
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Magee Women's Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Dongmin Shi
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, P. R. China
| | - Ziyi Fu
- Nanjing Maternal and Child Medical Institute, Affiliated Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, P. R. China
| | - Jinrong Qiu
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, P. R. China
| | - Yongmei Yin
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, P. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Yamanishi C, Jen K, Takayama S. Techniques to Produce and Culture Lung Tumor Organoids. CANCER DRUG DISCOVERY AND DEVELOPMENT 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-60511-1_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
|
39
|
Costa EC, de Melo-Diogo D, Moreira AF, Carvalho MP, Correia IJ. Spheroids Formation on Non-Adhesive Surfaces by Liquid Overlay Technique: Considerations and Practical Approaches. Biotechnol J 2017; 13. [DOI: 10.1002/biot.201700417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2017] [Revised: 10/03/2017] [Accepted: 10/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Elisabete C. Costa
- CICS-UBI − Health Sciences Research Centre; Universidade da Beira Interior; 6200-506 Covilhã Portugal
| | - Duarte de Melo-Diogo
- CICS-UBI − Health Sciences Research Centre; Universidade da Beira Interior; 6200-506 Covilhã Portugal
| | - André F. Moreira
- CICS-UBI − Health Sciences Research Centre; Universidade da Beira Interior; 6200-506 Covilhã Portugal
| | - Marco P. Carvalho
- CICS-UBI − Health Sciences Research Centre; Universidade da Beira Interior; 6200-506 Covilhã Portugal
| | - Ilídio J. Correia
- CICS-UBI − Health Sciences Research Centre; Universidade da Beira Interior; 6200-506 Covilhã Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Tevis KM, Colson YL, Grinstaff MW. Embedded Spheroids as Models of the Cancer Microenvironment. ADVANCED BIOSYSTEMS 2017; 1:1700083. [PMID: 30221187 PMCID: PMC6135264 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.201700083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
To more accurately study the complex mechanisms behind cancer invasion, progression, and response to treatment, researchers require models that replicate both the multicellular nature and 3D stromal environment present in an in vivo tumor. Multicellular aggregates (i.e., spheroids) embedded in an extracellular matrix mimic are a prevalent model. Recently, quantitative metrics that fully utilize the capability of spheroids are described along with conventional experiments, such as invasion into a matrix, to provide additional details and insights into the underlying cancer biology. The review begins with a discussion of the salient features of the tumor microenvironment, introduces the early work on non-embedded spheroids as tumor models, and then concentrates on the successes achieved with the study of embedded spheroids. Examples of studies include cell movement, drug response, tumor cellular heterogeneity, stromal effects, and cancer progression. Additionally, new methodologies and those borrowed from other research fields (e.g., vascularization and tissue engineering) are highlighted that expand the capability of spheroids to aid future users in designing their cancer-related experiments. The convergence of spheroid research among the various fields catalyzes new applications and leads to a natural synergy. Finally, the review concludes with a reflection and future perspectives for cancer spheroid research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kristie M. Tevis
- Departments of Biomedical Engineering, Chemistry, and Medicine, Metcalf Center for Science and Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215
| | - Yolonda L. Colson
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02215
| | - Mark W. Grinstaff
- Departments of Biomedical Engineering, Chemistry, and Medicine, Metcalf Center for Science and Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Gayan S, Teli A, Dey T. Inherent aggressive character of invasive and non-invasive cells dictates the in vitro migration pattern of multicellular spheroid. Sci Rep 2017; 7:11527. [PMID: 28912559 PMCID: PMC5599661 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-10078-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2016] [Accepted: 07/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Cellular migration, a process relevant to metastasis, is mostly studied in the conventional 2D condition. However, cells cultured in the 3D condition assumed to mimic the in vivo conditions better. The current study is designed to compare an invasive and non-invasive adenocarcinoma cell with an invasive fibrosarcoma cell to understand the migration pattern of the multicellular spheroid. It is observed that conventional haplotaxis, chemotactic and pseudo-3D migration assay cannot distinguish between the invasive and non-invasive cells conclusively under 2D condition. Invasive spheroids migrate rapidly in sprouting assay in comparison to non-invasive spheroids. Effects of cytochalasin B, marimastat and blebbistatin are tested to determine the influence of different migration modality namely actin polymerization, matrix metalloprotease and acto-myosin in both culture conditions. Altered mRNA profile of cellular migration related genes (FAK, Talin, Paxillin, p130cas and Vinculin) is observed between 2D and 3D condition followed by the changed expression of matrix metallo proteases. A distinct difference is observed in distribution and formation of focal adhesion complex under these culture conditions. This study demonstrates the efficacy of multicellular spheroids in identifying the intrinsic aggressive behavior of different cell lines as a proof of concept and recognizes the potential of spheroids as a migration model.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sukanya Gayan
- Institute of Bioinformatics and Biotechnology,Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, India
| | - Abhishek Teli
- Institute of Bioinformatics and Biotechnology,Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, India
| | - Tuli Dey
- Institute of Bioinformatics and Biotechnology,Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, India.
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Dubois C, Dufour R, Daumar P, Aubel C, Szczepaniak C, Blavignac C, Mounetou E, Penault-Llorca F, Bamdad M. Development and cytotoxic response of two proliferative MDA-MB-231 and non-proliferative SUM1315 three-dimensional cell culture models of triple-negative basal-like breast cancer cell lines. Oncotarget 2017; 8:95316-95331. [PMID: 29221130 PMCID: PMC5707024 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.20517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2017] [Accepted: 07/31/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Triple-Negative Basal-Like tumors, representing 15 to 20% of breast cancers, are very aggressive and with poor prognosis. Targeted therapies have been developed extensively in preclinical and clinical studies to open the way for new treatment strategies. The present study has focused on developing 3D cell cultures from SUM1315 and MDA-MB-231, two triple-negative basal-like (TNBL) breast cancer cell lines, using the liquid overlay technique. Extracellular matrix concentration, cell density, proliferation, cell viability, topology and ultrastructure parameters were determined. The results showed that for both cell lines, the best conditioning regimen for compact and homogeneous spheroid formation was to use 1000 cells per well and 2% Geltrex®. This conditioning regimen highlighted two 3D cell models: non-proliferative SUM1315 spheroids and proliferative MDA-MB-231 spheroids. In both cell lines, the comparison of 2D vs 3D cell culture viability in the presence of increasing concentrations of chemotherapeutic agents i.e. cisplatin, docetaxel and epirubicin, showed that spheroids were clearly less sensitive than monolayer cell cultures. Moreover, a proliferative or non-proliferative 3D cell line property would enable determination of cytotoxic and/or cytostatic drug activity. 3D cell culture could be an excellent tool in addition to the arsenal of techniques currently used in preclinical studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Clémence Dubois
- Université Clermont Auvergne, Institut Universitaire de Technologie, INSERM, U1240, Imagerie Moléculaire et Stratégies Théranostiques, F-63000 Clermont Ferrand, France.,Université Clermont Auvergne, Centre Jean Perrin, INSERM, U1240, Imagerie Moléculaire et Stratégies Théranostiques, F-63000 Clermont Ferrand, France
| | - Robin Dufour
- Université Clermont Auvergne, Institut Universitaire de Technologie, INSERM, U1240, Imagerie Moléculaire et Stratégies Théranostiques, F-63000 Clermont Ferrand, France.,Université Clermont Auvergne, Centre Jean Perrin, INSERM, U1240, Imagerie Moléculaire et Stratégies Théranostiques, F-63000 Clermont Ferrand, France
| | - Pierre Daumar
- Université Clermont Auvergne, Institut Universitaire de Technologie, INSERM, U1240, Imagerie Moléculaire et Stratégies Théranostiques, F-63000 Clermont Ferrand, France
| | - Corinne Aubel
- Université Clermont Auvergne, Faculté de médecine, INSERM, U1240, Imagerie Moléculaire et Stratégies Théranostiques, F-63000 Clermont Ferrand, France
| | - Claire Szczepaniak
- Université Clermont Auvergne, Faculté de Médecine, Centre Imagerie Cellulaire Santé, F-63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Christelle Blavignac
- Université Clermont Auvergne, Faculté de Médecine, Centre Imagerie Cellulaire Santé, F-63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Emmanuelle Mounetou
- Université Clermont Auvergne, Institut Universitaire de Technologie, INSERM, U1240, Imagerie Moléculaire et Stratégies Théranostiques, F-63000 Clermont Ferrand, France
| | - Frédérique Penault-Llorca
- Université Clermont Auvergne, Centre Jean Perrin, INSERM, U1240, Imagerie Moléculaire et Stratégies Théranostiques, F-63000 Clermont Ferrand, France
| | - Mahchid Bamdad
- Université Clermont Auvergne, Institut Universitaire de Technologie, INSERM, U1240, Imagerie Moléculaire et Stratégies Théranostiques, F-63000 Clermont Ferrand, France.,Current address: Institut Universitaire de Technologie de Clermont-Ferrand - Université Clermont Auvergne, Département Génie Biologique, Ensemble Universitaire des Cézeaux, CS 30086- 63172 AUBIERE CEDEX, France
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
EMT/MET at the Crossroad of Stemness, Regeneration and Oncogenesis: The Ying-Yang Equilibrium Recapitulated in Cell Spheroids. Cancers (Basel) 2017; 9:cancers9080098. [PMID: 28758926 PMCID: PMC5575601 DOI: 10.3390/cancers9080098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2017] [Revised: 07/20/2017] [Accepted: 07/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is an essential trans-differentiation process, which plays a critical role in embryonic development, wound healing, tissue regeneration, organ fibrosis, and cancer progression. It is the fundamental mechanism by which epithelial cells lose many of their characteristics while acquiring features typical of mesenchymal cells, such as migratory capacity and invasiveness. Depending on the contest, EMT is complemented and balanced by the reverse process, the mesenchymal-to-epithelial transition (MET). In the saving economy of the living organisms, the same (Ying-Yang) tool is integrated as a physiological strategy in embryonic development, as well as in the course of reparative or disease processes, prominently fibrosis, tumor invasion and metastasis. These mechanisms and their related signaling (e.g., TGF-β and BMPs) have been effectively studied in vitro by tissue-derived cell spheroids models. These three-dimensional (3D) cell culture systems, whose phenotype has been shown to be strongly dependent on TGF-β-regulated EMT/MET processes, present the advantage of recapitulating in vitro the hypoxic in vivo micro-environment of tissue stem cell niches and their formation. These spheroids, therefore, nicely reproduce the finely regulated Ying-Yang equilibrium, which, together with other mechanisms, can be determinant in cell fate decisions in many pathophysiological scenarios, such as differentiation, fibrosis, regeneration, and oncogenesis. In this review, current progress in the knowledge of signaling pathways affecting EMT/MET and stemness regulation will be outlined by comparing data obtained from cellular spheroids systems, as ex vivo niches of stem cells derived from normal and tumoral tissues. The mechanistic correspondence in vivo and the possible pharmacological perspective will be also explored, focusing especially on the TGF-β-related networks, as well as others, such as SNAI1, PTEN, and EGR1. This latter, in particular, for its ability to convey multiple types of stimuli into relevant changes of the cell transcriptional program, can be regarded as a heterogeneous "stress-sensor" for EMT-related inducers (growth factor, hypoxia, mechano-stress), and thus as a therapeutic target.
Collapse
|
44
|
Real-time viability and apoptosis kinetic detection method of 3D multicellular tumor spheroids using the Celigo Image Cytometer. Cytometry A 2017; 91:883-892. [DOI: 10.1002/cyto.a.23143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2017] [Accepted: 05/08/2017] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
|
45
|
Leek R, Grimes DR, Harris AL, McIntyre A. Methods: Using Three-Dimensional Culture (Spheroids) as an In Vitro Model of Tumour Hypoxia. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2017; 899:167-96. [PMID: 27325267 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-26666-4_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Regions of hypoxia in tumours can be modelled in vitro in 2D cell cultures with a hypoxic chamber or incubator in which oxygen levels can be regulated. Although this system is useful in many respects, it disregards the additional physiological gradients of the hypoxic microenvironment, which result in reduced nutrients and more acidic pH. Another approach to hypoxia modelling is to use three-dimensional spheroid cultures. In spheroids, the physiological gradients of the hypoxic tumour microenvironment can be inexpensively modelled and explored. In addition, spheroids offer the advantage of more representative modelling of tumour therapy responses compared with 2D culture. Here, we review the use of spheroids in hypoxia tumour biology research and highlight the different methodologies for spheroid formation and how to obtain uniformity. We explore the challenge of spheroid analyses and how to determine the effect on the hypoxic versus normoxic components of spheroids. We discuss the use of high-throughput analyses in hypoxia screening of spheroids. Furthermore, we examine the use of mathematical modelling of spheroids to understand more fully the hypoxic tumour microenvironment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Russell Leek
- Nuffield Division of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, Department of Oncology, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK
| | - David Robert Grimes
- Gray Laboratory, Cancer Research UK/MRC Oxford Institute for Radiation Oncology, University of Oxford, Old Road Campus Research Building, off Roosevelt Drive, Oxford, OX3 7DQ, UK
| | - Adrian L Harris
- Department of Oncology, Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 9DS, UK
| | - Alan McIntyre
- Cancer Biology, Division of Cancer and Stem Cells, University of Nottingham, QMC, D Floor, West Block, W/D/1374, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Das V, Fürst T, Gurská S, Džubák P, Hajdúch M. Evaporation-reducing Culture Condition Increases the Reproducibility of Multicellular Spheroid Formation in Microtiter Plates. J Vis Exp 2017. [PMID: 28362402 DOI: 10.3791/55403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor models that closely imitate in vivo conditions are becoming increasingly popular in drug discovery and development for the screening of potential anti-cancer drugs. Multicellular tumor spheroids (MCTSes) effectively mimic the physiological conditions of solid tumors, making them excellent in vitro models for lead optimization and target validation. Out of the various techniques available for MCTS culture, the liquid-overlay method on agarose is one of the most inexpensive methods for MCTS generation. However, the reliable transfer of MCTS cultures using liquid-overlay for high-throughput screening may be compromised by a number of limitations, including the coating of microtiter plates (MPs) with agarose and the irreproducibility of uniform MCTS formation across wells. MPs are significantly prone to edge effects that result from excessive evaporation of medium from the exterior of the plate, preventing the use of the entire plate for drug tests. This manuscript provides detailed technical improvements to the liquid-overlay technique to increase the scalability and reproducibility of uniform MCTS formation. Additionally, details on a simple, semi-automatic, and universally applicable software tool for the evaluation of MCTS features after drug treatment is presented.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Viswanath Das
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Palacky University in Olomouc
| | - Tomáš Fürst
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Palacky University in Olomouc
| | - Soňa Gurská
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Palacky University in Olomouc
| | - Petr Džubák
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Palacky University in Olomouc
| | - Marián Hajdúch
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Palacky University in Olomouc;
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Sambi M, Haq S, Samuel V, Qorri B, Haxho F, Hill K, Harless W, Szewczuk MR. Alternative therapies for metastatic breast cancer: multimodal approach targeting tumor cell heterogeneity. BREAST CANCER-TARGETS AND THERAPY 2017; 9:85-93. [PMID: 28280388 PMCID: PMC5340247 DOI: 10.2147/bctt.s130838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
One of the primary challenges in developing effective therapies for malignant tumors is the specific targeting of a heterogeneous cancer cell population within the tumor. The cancerous tumor is made up of a variety of distinct cells with specialized receptors and proteins that could potentially be viable targets for drugs. In addition, the diverse signals from the local microenvironment may also contribute to the induction of tumor growth and metastasis. Collectively, these factors must be strategically studied and targeted in order to develop an effective treatment protocol. Targeted multimodal approaches need to be strategically studied in order to develop a treatment protocol that is successful in controlling tumor growth and preventing metastatic burden. Breast cancer, in particular, presents a unique problem because of the variety of subtypes of cancer that can arise and the multiple drug targets that could be exploited. For example, the tumor stage and subtypes often dictate the appropriate treatment regimen. Alternate multimodal therapies should consider the importance of time-dependent drug administration, as well as targeting the local and systemic tumor environment. Many reviews and papers have briefly touched on the clinical implications of this cellular heterogeneity; however, there has been very little discussion on the development of study models that reflect this diversity and on multimodal therapies that could target these subpopulations. Here, we summarize the current understanding of the origins of intratumoral heterogeneity in breast cancer subtypes, and its implications for tumor progression, metastatic potential, and treatment regimens. We also discuss the advantages and disadvantages of utilizing specific breast cancer models for research, including in vitro monolayer systems and three-dimensional mammospheres, as well as in vivo murine models that may have the capacity to encompass this heterogeneity. Lastly, we summarize some of the current advancements in the development of multitarget therapeutics that have shown promising results in clinical and preclinical studies when used alone or in combination with traditional regimens of surgery, chemotherapy, and/or radiation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manpreet Sambi
- Department of Biomedical and Medical Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Sabah Haq
- Department of Biomedical and Medical Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Vanessa Samuel
- Department of Biomedical and Medical Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Bessi Qorri
- Department of Biomedical and Medical Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Fiona Haxho
- Department of Biomedical and Medical Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Kelli Hill
- Department of Biomedical and Medical Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada; ENCYT Technologies, Inc., Membertou, NS, Canada
| | | | - Myron R Szewczuk
- Department of Biomedical and Medical Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
|
49
|
Large-scale pharmacological profiling of 3D tumor models of cancer cells. Cell Death Dis 2016; 7:e2492. [PMID: 27906188 PMCID: PMC5261027 DOI: 10.1038/cddis.2016.360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2015] [Revised: 08/22/2016] [Accepted: 09/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The discovery of chemotherapeutic agents for the treatment of cancer commonly uses cell proliferation assays in which cells grow as two-dimensional (2D) monolayers. Compounds identified using 2D monolayer assays often fail to advance during clinical development, most likely because these assays do not reproduce the cellular complexity of tumors and their microenvironment in vivo. The use of three-dimensional (3D) cellular systems have been explored as enabling more predictive in vitro tumor models for drug discovery. To date, small-scale screens have demonstrated that pharmacological responses tend to differ between 2D and 3D cancer cell growth models. However, the limited scope of screens using 3D models has not provided a clear delineation of the cellular pathways and processes that differentially regulate cell survival and death in the different in vitro tumor models. Here we sought to further understand the differences in pharmacological responses between cancer tumor cells grown in different conditions by profiling a large collection of 1912 chemotherapeutic agents. We compared pharmacological responses obtained from cells cultured in traditional 2D monolayer conditions with those responses obtained from cells forming spheres versus cells already in 3D spheres. The target annotation of the compound library screened enabled the identification of those key cellular pathways and processes that when modulated by drugs induced cell death in all growth conditions or selectively in the different cell growth models. In addition, we also show that many of the compounds targeting these key cellular functions can be combined to produce synergistic cytotoxic effects, which in many cases differ in the magnitude of their synergism depending on the cellular model and cell type. The results from this work provide a high-throughput screening framework to profile the responses of drugs both as single agents and in pairwise combinations in 3D sphere models of cancer cells.
Collapse
|
50
|
Maier J, Traenkle B, Rothbauer U. Visualizing Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition Using the Chromobody Technology. Cancer Res 2016; 76:5592-5596. [PMID: 27634766 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-15-3419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2015] [Accepted: 06/15/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a complex cellular program involved in the progression of epithelial cancers to a metastatic stage. Along this process, epithelial traits are repressed in favor of a motile mesenchymal phenotype. A detailed characterization and monitoring of EMT-related processes is required for the design of screening strategies needed to develop novel antimetastatic therapies. Overexpression of the canonical EMT biomarker vimentin correlates with increased tumor growth and invasiveness, as well as with reduced patient survival across various epithelial cancers. Moreover, recent findings have demonstrated an active role of vimentin in regulating and reorganizing the cellular architecture toward a migratory and invasive phenotype. However, current studies suffer from a lack of appropriate methods to trace the induction and dynamics of vimentin in cell-based assays. Recently, we have reported a novel intrabody (chromobody)-based approach to study the spatiotemporal organization of endogenous vimentin upon induction of EMT by high-content imaging. In this review, we discuss the relevance of the chromobody technology with regard to the visualization of EMT-related processes in living systems. Cancer Res; 76(19); 5592-6. ©2016 AACR.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julia Maier
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Eberhard Karls University Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Bjoern Traenkle
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Eberhard Karls University Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Ulrich Rothbauer
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Eberhard Karls University Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany. Natural and Medical Sciences Institute at the University of Tuebingen, Reutlingen, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|