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Pak VN, Sherman IA. Comprehensive approach to cancer immunotherapy - Simultaneous targeting of myeloid-derived suppressor cells and cancer cells with AFP conjugates. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2024; 200:104407. [PMID: 38834093 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2024.104407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024] Open
Abstract
The immune system plays a pivotal role in combating diseases, including cancer, with monocytes emerging as key regulators of immune response dynamics. This article describes a novel strategy for cancer treatment centered on depleting myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), to enhance the overall immune response while simultaneously targeting cancer cells directly. Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is an oncofetal protein that plays an important role in delivering nutrients to immature monocytes, embryonic, and cancer cells in a targeted manner. AFP can be repurposed, making it a vehicle for delivering toxins, rather than nutrients to kill cancer cells and deplete MDSCs in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Depleting monocytes not only stimulates the immune system but also improves the lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR), often low in cancer patients. AFP combined with cytotoxic drugs, offers dual benefit-immune stimulation and targeted chemotherapy. Studies in xenograft models demonstrated high efficacy and safety of AFP-toxin conjugates, surpassing conventional targeted chemotherapy. Such conjugates have also been reported to provide superior efficacy and safety in cancer patients compared to chemotherapy. This approach, using AFP conjugated with toxins, either covalently or non-covalently, presents a safe and highly effective option for cancer immuno/chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladimir N Pak
- Omega Alpha Pharmaceuticals Inc., 795 Pharmacy Avenue, Toronto, On, M1L 3K2 Canada
| | - Igor A Sherman
- Alpha Cancer Technologies Inc., MaRS Discovery District, South Tower 200 - 101 College St., Toronto, Ontario M5G 1L7, Canada.
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2
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Qiu F, Huang Y, Dziegielewska KM, Habgood MD, Saunders NR. Effects of co-administration of lamotrigine on valproate transfer across the placenta and its brain entry in developing Genetic Absence Epilepsy Rats from Strasbourg (GAERS). Eur J Neurosci 2024; 60:4536-4551. [PMID: 38978299 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.16452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
During development, embryos and foetuses may be exposed to maternally ingested antiseizure medications (ASM), valproate and lamotrigine, essential in some patients to control their epilepsy symptoms. Often, the two drugs are co-administered to reduce required doses of valproate, a known potential teratogen. This study used Genetic Absence Epilepsy Rat from Strasbourg to evaluate transfer of valproate and lamotrigine across late gestation placenta and their entry into cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and brain of developing rats, in mono- and combination therapies. Animals at embryonic day (E) 19, postnatal day (P) 0, 4 and 21, and adults were administered valproate (30 mg/kg) or lamotrigine (6 mg/kg) with their respective [3H]-tracers, either alone or in combination. In chronic experiments, females consumed valproate-containing diet from 2 weeks prior to mating until offspring were used at E19 and P0. Drugs were injected 30 min before blood, CSF and brain samples were collected from terminally anaesthetised animals. Radioactivity in samples was measured. In acute monotherapy brain entry of valproate was higher in foetal than postnatal animals, correlating with its plasma protein binding. Brain entry of lamotrigine was not age-dependent. Combination therapy enhanced entry of lamotrigine into the adult brain but had no effects on brain and CSF entry of valproate. Following chronic valproate exposure, placental transfer of valproate decreased in combination therapy; however, foetal brain entry increased. Results suggest that during pregnancy, the use of combination therapy of valproate and lamotrigine may mitigate overall foetal exposure to valproate but potential risks to foetal brain development are less clear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona Qiu
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Yifan Huang
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Katarzyna M Dziegielewska
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mark D Habgood
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Norman R Saunders
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Lee S, Lee J, Kang SH. Super-resolution Multispectral Imaging Nanoimmunosensor for Simultaneous Detection of Diverse Early Cancer Biomarkers. ACS Sens 2024; 9:3652-3659. [PMID: 38960915 DOI: 10.1021/acssensors.4c00752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
In medical diagnosis, relying on only one type of biomarker is insufficient to accurately identify cancer. Blood-based multicancer early detection can help identify more than one type of cancer from a single blood sample. In this study, a super-resolution multispectral imaging nanoimmunosensor (srMINI) based on three quantum dots (QDs) of different color conjugated with streptavidin was developed for the simultaneous screening of various cancer biomarkers in blood at the single-molecule level. In the experiment, the srMINI chip was used to simultaneously detect three key cancer biomarkers: carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), C-reactive protein (CRP), and alpha-fetoprotein (AFP). The srMINI chip exhibited 108 times higher detection sensitivity of 0.18-0.5 ag/mL (1.1-2.6 zM) for these cancer biomarkers than commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits because of the absence of interfering signals from the substrate, establishing considerable potential for multiplex detection of cancer biomarkers in blood. Therefore, the simultaneous detection of various cancer biomarkers using the developed srMINI chip with high diagnostic precision and accuracy is expected to play a decisive role in early diagnosis or community screening as a single-molecule biosensor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seungah Lee
- Department of Applied Chemistry and Institute of Natural Sciences, Kyung Hee University, Yongin -si, Gyeonggi-do 17104, Republic of Korea
| | - Junghwa Lee
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Yongin -si, Gyeonggi-do 17104, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong Ho Kang
- Department of Applied Chemistry and Institute of Natural Sciences, Kyung Hee University, Yongin -si, Gyeonggi-do 17104, Republic of Korea
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Yongin -si, Gyeonggi-do 17104, Republic of Korea
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Chen M, Zhang S, Jia X, Xu Y, Wei Y, Liao S. Ultrasonographic and clinicopathological features of pelvic yolk sac tumors in women: a single-center retrospective analysis. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1417761. [PMID: 38966065 PMCID: PMC11222404 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1417761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Objectives Yolk sac tumors (YSTs) are rare and highly malignant ovarian malignancies that have a very poor prognosis. The aim of this study is to delineate the ultrasound and clinicopathological features of female pelvic YSTs to better understand the disease. Methods This study was a retrospective analysis of the clinicopathological and ultrasound imaging data from 16 YST patients who received treatment at our hospital between January 2012 and August 2023. Then, the ultrasound imaging characteristics were compared with pathological findings. Results Among the 16 patients, various degrees of serum AFP increase were observed, and CA125 levels increased in 58.33% (7 out of 12) of patients. Thirteen patients (81.25%) had tumors located in ovary, two patients (12.5%) had tumors located in the sacrococcygeal region, and one patient (6.25%) had tumors located in the mesentery. Pathologically, nine patients presented with simple yolk sac tumors and seven with mixed germ cell tumors. According to the ultrasound manifestations, YST lesions can be classified into three types. (1) the cystic type, was diagnosed in two patients who presented with a large cystic mass with regular morphology and clear boundary and dense liquid within the cyst; and (2) the cystic-solid mixed type, was diagnosed in 4 patients. On 2D ultrasound, the lesions showed a cystic-solid mixed echo, and color Doppler showed a rich blood flow signal in the solid region and cystic separation. made up of four cases. (3) In ten patients with the solid type, 2D ultrasound showed solid uniform echoes with clear boundaries. The "fissure sign" was observed in the lesion. Color Doppler displayed rich blood flow in the solid part, and PW showed low to moderate resistance index of artery (RI:0.21-0.63). On contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS), rapid and high enhancement in the solid part and cystic separation was observed in 2 patients. Conclusions Combining ultrasound features with clinical information and tumor markers provides reliable clues for the diagnosis of YST. The application of two-dimensional ultrasound and CEUS combined with patient tumor marker levels can provide a robust reference for determining the necessity of fertility-preserving surgery and postoperative chemotherapy, which can improve clinical decision-making and patient consultation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei Chen
- Department of Ultrasonography, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shengmin Zhang
- Department of Ultrasonography, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiupeng Jia
- Department of Histopathology, Ningbo Clinical Pathology Diagnosis Center, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
| | - Youfeng Xu
- Department of Ultrasonography, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yaping Wei
- Department of Ultrasonography, Ningbo Women and Children’s Hospital, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shusheng Liao
- Department of Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
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Wang M, Zhuang B, Yu S, Li G. Ensemble learning enhances the precision of preliminary detection of primary hepatocellular carcinoma based on serological and demographic indices. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1397505. [PMID: 38952558 PMCID: PMC11215019 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1397505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Primary hepatocellular carcinoma (PHC) is associated with high rates of morbidity and malignancy in China and throughout the world. In clinical practice, a combination of ultrasound and alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) measurement is frequently employed for initial screening. However, the accuracy of this approach often falls short of the desired standard. Consequently, this study aimed to investigate the enhancement of precision of preliminary detection of PHC by ensemble learning techniques. To achieve this, 712 patients with PHC and 1887 healthy controls were enrolled for the assessment of four ensemble learning methods, namely, Random Forest (RF), LightGBM, Xgboost, and Catboost. A total of eleven characteristics, comprising nine serological indices and two demographic indices, were selected from the participants for use in detecting PHC. The findings identified an optimal feature subset consisting of eight features, namely AFP, albumin (ALB), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), platelets (PLT), age, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), hemoglobin (Hb), and body mass index (BMI), that achieved the highest classification accuracy of 96.62%. This emphasizes the importance of the collective use of these features in PHC diagnosis. In conclusion, the results provide evidence that the integration of serological and demographic indices together with ensemble learning models, can contribute to the precision of preliminary diagnosis of PHC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengxia Wang
- School of Medicine, Shaoxing University, Shaoxing, Zhejiang, China
| | - Bo Zhuang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Affliated Jinhua Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Jinhua, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shian Yu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Affliated Jinhua Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Jinhua, Zhejiang, China
| | - Gang Li
- College of Mathematical Medicine, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua, China
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Mizejewski GJ. The Role of Ion Channels and Chemokines in Cancer Growth and Metastasis: A Proposed Mode of Action Using Peptides in Cancer Therapy. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1531. [PMID: 38672613 PMCID: PMC11048196 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16081531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Metastasis (Met) largely contributes to the major cause of cancer deaths throughout the world, rather than the growth of the tumor mass itself. The present report brings together several of the pertinent contributors to cancer growth and metastatic processes from an activity standpoint. Such biological activities include the following: (1) cell adherence and detachment; (2) cell-to-cell contact; (3) contact inhibition; (4) the cell interfacing with the extracellular matrix (ECM); (5) tumor cell-to-stroma communication networks; (6) chemotaxis; and (7) cell membrane potential. Moreover, additional biochemical factors that contribute to cancer growth and metastasis have been shown to comprise the following: (a) calcium levels in the extracellular matrix and in intracellular compartments; (b) cation voltage and ATP-regulated potassium channels; (c) selective and non-selective cation channels; and (d) chemokines (cytokines) and their receptors, such as CXCL12 (SDF-1) and its receptor/binding partner, CXCR4. These latter molecular components represent a promising group of an interacting and synchronized set of candidates ideal for peptide therapeutic targeting for cancer growth and metastasis. Such peptides can be obtained from naturally occurring proteins such as alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), an onco-fetal protein and clinical biomarker.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerald J. Mizejewski
- Division of Translational Medicine, Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory, Albany, NY 12201, USA; ; Tel.: +518-486-5900; Fax: +518-402-5002
- Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Empire State Plaza, Albany, NY 12201, USA
- Biggs Laboratory, Empire State Plaza, Albany, NY 12237, USA
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Lu Y, Lin B, Li M. The role of alpha-fetoprotein in the tumor microenvironment of hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1363695. [PMID: 38660138 PMCID: PMC11039944 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1363695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a prevalent malignant cancer worldwide, characterized by high morbidity and mortality rates. Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is a glycoprotein synthesized by the liver and yolk sac during fetal development. However, the serum levels of AFP exhibit a significant correlation with the onset and progression of HCC in adults. Extensive research has demonstrated that the tumor microenvironment (TME) plays a crucial role in the malignant transformation of HCC, and AFP is a key factor in the TME, promoting HCC development. The objective of this review was to analyze the existing knowledge regarding the role of AFP in the TME. Specifically, this review focused on the effect of AFP on various cells in the TME, tumor immune evasion, and clinical application of AFP in the diagnosis and treatment of HCC. These findings offer valuable insights into the clinical treatment of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Lu
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Bo Lin
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Mengsen Li
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, Hainan, China
- Department of Medical Oncology, Second Affiliated Hospital, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, Hainan, China
- Institution of Tumor, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, Hainan, China
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Miao PD, Li Y, Jiang YD. Celestial Insights: Unraveling the Role of miR-3682-3p in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Clin Transl Gastroenterol 2024; 15:e00690. [PMID: 38334941 PMCID: PMC11042776 DOI: 10.14309/ctg.0000000000000690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains a formidable oncological challenge, calling for innovative therapeutic strategies to improve patient outcomes. MicroRNAs have emerged as key regulators in cancer, and miR-3682-3p shows potential as a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker in HCC. We conducted a comprehensive study to uncover its role in HCC biology, revealing dysregulation and clinical associations. Target gene analysis provided insights into potential molecular mechanisms. Moreover, we explored its impact on the tumor microenvironment, immune cell infiltration, and therapy responses. Our findings highlight miR-3682-3p as a promising candidate for further investigations and potential therapeutic strategies in HCC management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei-Dong Miao
- Dalian No.3 People's Hospital, Department of Interventional Radiology, Dalian, People's Republic of China
| | - Ying Li
- Dalian 7th People's Hospital, Dalian, Liaoning Province, China.
| | - Yu-Dong Jiang
- Dalian No.3 People's Hospital, Department of Interventional Radiology, Dalian, People's Republic of China
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Jiang H, Fang G, Zhang J. Exceptional Long-Term Survival of a Patient With Hepatoid Adenocarcinoma of the Colon and the Treatment Strategy: A Case Report. Cureus 2024; 16:e55620. [PMID: 38586639 PMCID: PMC10995742 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.55620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatoid adenocarcinoma (HAC) of the colon is a rare type of tumor with hepatocellular differentiation. HAC often produces alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) and metastasizes to lymph nodes and the liver. HAC is usually aggressive with a poor prognosis and has a propensity for intravascular growth and frequent distant metastasis. Because the biology of HAC is not fully understood, there are very limited therapeutic options known to reduce recurrence and improve survival. In addition, because HAC is so rare, it is difficult to acquire data from large randomized clinical trials to guide practice; therefore, case reports can provide valuable information for the treatment of HAC. In this report, we present a case of a 30-year-old male patient with HAC with high AFP levels and liver metastases. The patient underwent hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy (HAIC) with doxorubicin/oxaliplatin to treat the liver metastasis, and three weeks later, he received radical sigmoid and rectal resection, left liver resection, and ileostomy. Then, the patient received eight cycles of chemotherapy with epirubicin plus folinic acid, fluorouracil, and oxaliplatin (FOLFOX) every three weeks, followed by maintained therapy with capecitabine for 2.5 years without relapse. This case report indicates that, although HAC is usually an aggressive disease with frequent distant metastasis, patients with HAC may still have a good prognosis if treated with appropriate strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Honghua Jiang
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, CHN
| | - Guoping Fang
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, CHN
| | - Jiwei Zhang
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, CHN
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Song H, Wang J, Zhang H, Wu Y, Wang K, Wang X, Xu X. Combination of serum alpha-fetoprotein, PIVKA-Ⅱ and glypican-3 in diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma: a meta-analysis. Zhejiang Da Xue Xue Bao Yi Xue Ban 2024; 53:131-139. [PMID: 38310085 PMCID: PMC10945496 DOI: 10.3724/zdxbyxb-2023-0483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/05/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess the value of serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), protein induced by vitamin K absence or antagonist-Ⅱ (PIVKA-Ⅱ) and glypican-3 (GPC-3) in the diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). METHODS Studies of AFP, PIVKA-Ⅱ, GPC-3 or in combination for the diagnosis of HCC since 2002 were searched in PubMed, Web of Science and Embase databases. The literature was screened according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, the quality of the included articles was evaluated by QUADAS checklist, and relevant data were extracted by Meta DiSc, Review Manager 5.4 and Stata 15.1. The diagnostic values of AFP, PIVKA-Ⅱ and GPC-3 alone or in combination for HCC were assessed with receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. RESULTS A total of 32 articles were included in the study. Meta-analysis showed that when a single marker was used to diagnose HCC, the area under the ROC curve (AUC) of PIVKA-Ⅱ was the highest (0.88, 95%CI: 0.85-0.91), followed by GPC-3 and AFP. The AUC of combination of serum markers was higher than that of a single marker, and the AUC of PIVKA-Ⅱ combined with GPC-3 was the highest (0.90, 95%CI: 0.87-0.92). When a single marker was used for diagnosis, the sensitivity of PIVKA-Ⅱ and GPC-3 were relatively high (0.75 and 0.76), while the specificity of PIVKA-Ⅱ (0.88) and AFP (0.87) were higher than that of GPC-3 (0.81). The sensitivity of the combination of serum markers was higher than that of a single marker, while the specificity was not significantly improved. When a single marker is used to diagnose HCC, the diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) of PIVKA-Ⅱ was the highest (22, 95%CI: 13-36), followed by GPC-3 and AFP. The DOR of the combination of two markers in the diagnosis of HCC was higher than that of a single marker, and the DOR of AFP combined with GPC-3 was the highest (25, 95%CI: 9-67). The DOR of the combination of the three markers was significantly reduced to 10 (95%CI: 7-45). CONCLUSIONS When a single marker is used, PIVKA-Ⅱ has a higher diagnostic value for HCC. The combination of two markers can significantly improve the diagnostic sensitivity, and AFP combined with PIVKA-Ⅱ is recommended for the diagnosis of HCC. The combination of all three markers failed to further improve the diagnostic value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongliang Song
- The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China.
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China.
| | - Jianguo Wang
- The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Hui Zhang
- The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Yongfeng Wu
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Kai Wang
- The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China.
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China.
| | - Xiaobo Wang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China.
| | - Xiao Xu
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China.
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Chaudhuri AG, Samanta S, Dey M, Raviraja NS, Dey S. Role of Alpha-Fetoprotein in the Pathogenesis of Cancer. J Environ Pathol Toxicol Oncol 2024; 43:57-76. [PMID: 38505913 DOI: 10.1615/jenvironpatholtoxicoloncol.2023049145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) belongs to the albuminoid protein family and is considered as the fetal analog of serum albumin. This plasma protein is initially synthesized in the fetal liver and yolk sac and shows a maximum peak near the end of the first trimester. Later, concentrations begin to decline prenatally and drop precipitously after birth. This protein has three key ligand-binding pockets for interactions with various biomolecules. It contains multiple phosphorylation and acetylation sites for the regulation of physiological and pathophysiological states. High serum AFP titer is an established biomarker for yolk sac, embryonal and hepatocellular carcinoma. The present review critically analyzes the chemical nature, receptors, clinical implications, and therapeutic aspects of AFP, underpinning the development of different types of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alok Ghosh Chaudhuri
- Department of Physiology, Vidyasagar College, Kolkata 700 006, West Bengal, India
| | - Saptadip Samanta
- Department of Physiology, Midnapore College, Midnapore, Paschim Medinipur 721101, West Bengal, India
| | - Monalisha Dey
- Department of Physiology, Vidyasagar College, Kolkata 700 006, West Bengal, India
| | - N S Raviraja
- Manipal Centre for Biotherapeutics Research, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576 104, Karnataka, India
| | - Souvik Dey
- Manipal Centre for Biotherapeutics Research, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576 104, Karnataka, India
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Dai X, Zhang H, Wu B, Ning W, Chen Y, Chen Y. Correlation between elevated maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein and ischemic placental disease: a retrospective cohort study. Clin Exp Hypertens 2023; 45:2175848. [PMID: 36849437 DOI: 10.1080/10641963.2023.2175848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To evaluate the correlation between elevated maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) in the second trimester and ischemic placental disease (IPD). METHODS A retrospective cohort study was conducted to analyze the data of 22,574 pregnant women who delivered in the Department of Obstetrics at Hangzhou Women's Hospital from 2018 to 2020, and were screened for maternal serum AFP and free beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (free β-hCG) in the second trimester. The pregnant women were divided into two groups: elevated maternal serum AFP group (n = 334, 1.48%); and normal group (n = 22,240, 98.52%). Mann-Whitney U-test or Chi-square test was used for continuous or categorical data. Modified Poisson regression analysis was used to calculate the relative risk (RR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) of the two groups. RESULTS The AFP MoM and free β-hCG MoM in the elevated maternal serum AFP group were higher than the normal group (2.25 vs. 0.98, 1.38 vs. 1.04) and the differences were all statistically significant (all P < .001). Placenta previa, hepatitis B virus carrying status of pregnant women, premature rupture of membranes (PROM), advanced maternal age (≥35 years), increased free β-hCG MoM, female infants, and low birth weight (RR: 2.722, 2.247, 1.769, 1.766, 1.272, 0.624, 2.554 respectively) were the risk factors for adverse maternal pregnancy outcomes in the elevated maternal serum AFP group. CONCLUSIONS Maternal serum AFP levels during the second trimester can monitor IPD, such as IUGR, PROM, and placenta previa. Maternal women with high serum AFP levels are more likely to deliver male fetuses and low birth weight infants. Finally, the maternal age (≥35 years) and hepatitis B carriers also increased maternal serum AFP significantly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqing Dai
- School of Medical Technology and Information Engineering, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Huimin Zhang
- Department of the Fourth School of Clinical Medical, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Bin Wu
- School of Medical Technology and Information Engineering, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wenwen Ning
- Department of the Fourth School of Clinical Medical, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yijie Chen
- Department of the Fourth School of Clinical Medical, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yiming Chen
- Department of the Fourth School of Clinical Medical, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.,Department of Prenatal and Screening Center, Hangzhou Women's Hospital (Hangzhou Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital), Hangzhou, China
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Ju Y, Yang Y, Tang Q, Wang M, Zeng Y, Zhang Z, Zhai Y, Wang H, Li L. Fluorometric detection of alpha-fetoprotein based on the use of a novel organic compound with AIE activity and aptamer-modified magnetic microparticles. Anal Chim Acta 2023; 1278:341692. [PMID: 37709445 DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2023.341692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Liver cancer is one of the most common cancers in the world, and it seriously threatens human life and health. Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), as a carcinogenic glycoprotein, is an important serum marker for detecting liver cancer. Therefore, the accurate and sensitive determination of AFP is crucial for the early diagnosis and treatment of liver cancer. To this end, a label-free fluorescence aptasensor for detecting AFP based on the use of a novel organic Compound D with an aggregation-induced emission activity and aptamer-modified magnetic microparticles was constructed. RESULTS Compound D could combine with the complementary short chain of the aptamer (CSC-Apt) of AFP to form the D/CSC-Apt complex and realize the fluorescence enhancement of Compound D. Then, magnetic particles modified by the Apt of AFP (Apt-Fe3O4) were prepared. When AFP (or nontarget substance) and D/CSC-Apt were successively added to the Apt-Fe3O4 solution, Apt-Fe3O4 selectively bound to AFP or the D/CSC-Apt complex. Magnetic separation technology showed the changes in the fluorescence intensity of the supernatant. The research results revealed a good linear relationship between the changes in the fluorescence intensity of the supernatant and concentration of AFP within the concentration range of 10-10000 pg mL-1. The proposed aptasensor could achieve high-sensitivity and high-specificity detection of AFP, and its limit of detection was 3 pg mL-1 (S/N = 3). SIGNIFICANCE AND NOVELTY The sensor combines the advantages of high selectivity of Apt, high sensitivity of fluorescence analysis, AIE effect and good water solubility of Compound D, and rapid separation using magnetic separation technology. And it can be directly used for the detection of AFP in actual serum samples with high accuracy, whereas most of the methods reported in the literature can only detect AFP in spiked serum samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yulong Ju
- Jiaxing Key Laboratory of Molecular Recognition and Sensing, College of Biological, Chemical Sciences and Engineering, Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, 314001, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yiwen Yang
- Jiaxing Key Laboratory of Molecular Recognition and Sensing, College of Biological, Chemical Sciences and Engineering, Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, 314001, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Qiukai Tang
- Clinical Laboratory, Zhejiang Sian International Hospital, Jiaxing, 314031, Zhejiang, China
| | - Mengqi Wang
- Jiaxing Key Laboratory of Molecular Recognition and Sensing, College of Biological, Chemical Sciences and Engineering, Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, 314001, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yanbo Zeng
- Jiaxing Key Laboratory of Molecular Recognition and Sensing, College of Biological, Chemical Sciences and Engineering, Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, 314001, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zulei Zhang
- Jiaxing Key Laboratory of Molecular Recognition and Sensing, College of Biological, Chemical Sciences and Engineering, Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, 314001, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yunyun Zhai
- Jiaxing Key Laboratory of Molecular Recognition and Sensing, College of Biological, Chemical Sciences and Engineering, Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, 314001, Zhejiang, China
| | - Hailong Wang
- Jiaxing Key Laboratory of Molecular Recognition and Sensing, College of Biological, Chemical Sciences and Engineering, Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, 314001, Zhejiang, China
| | - Lei Li
- Jiaxing Key Laboratory of Molecular Recognition and Sensing, College of Biological, Chemical Sciences and Engineering, Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, 314001, Zhejiang, China.
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Ugonabo O, Udoh UAS, Rajan PK, Reeves H, Arcand C, Nakafuku Y, Joshi T, Finley R, Pierre SV, Sanabria JR. The Current Status of the Liver Liquid Biopsy in MASH Related HCC: Overview and Future Directions. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1369. [PMID: 37759769 PMCID: PMC10526956 DOI: 10.3390/biom13091369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) is one of the major risk factors for chronic liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The incidence of MASH in Western countries continues to rise, driving HCC as the third cause of cancer-related death worldwide. HCC has become a major global health challenge, partly from the obesity epidemic promoting metabolic cellular disturbances but also from the paucity of biomarkers for its early detection. Over 50% of HCC cases are clinically present at a late stage, where curative measures are no longer beneficial. Currently, there is a paucity of both specific and sensitive biological markers for the early-stage detection of HCC. The search for biological markers in the diagnosis of early HCC in high-risk populations is intense. We described the potential role of surrogates for a liver biopsy in the screening and monitoring of patients at risk for nesting HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Onyinye Ugonabo
- Department of Medicine, Marshall University School of Medicine, Marshall University, Huntington, WV 25701, USA; (O.U.); (T.J.)
| | - Utibe-Abasi Sunday Udoh
- Marshall Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, Marshall University School of Medicine, Huntington, WV 25703, USA; (U.-A.S.U.); (P.K.R.); (Y.N.); (S.V.P.)
- Department of Surgery, Marshall University School of Medicine, Marshall University, Huntington, WV 25701, USA; (H.R.); (C.A.); (R.F.)
| | - Pradeep Kumar Rajan
- Marshall Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, Marshall University School of Medicine, Huntington, WV 25703, USA; (U.-A.S.U.); (P.K.R.); (Y.N.); (S.V.P.)
- Department of Surgery, Marshall University School of Medicine, Marshall University, Huntington, WV 25701, USA; (H.R.); (C.A.); (R.F.)
| | - Heather Reeves
- Department of Surgery, Marshall University School of Medicine, Marshall University, Huntington, WV 25701, USA; (H.R.); (C.A.); (R.F.)
| | - Christina Arcand
- Department of Surgery, Marshall University School of Medicine, Marshall University, Huntington, WV 25701, USA; (H.R.); (C.A.); (R.F.)
| | - Yuto Nakafuku
- Marshall Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, Marshall University School of Medicine, Huntington, WV 25703, USA; (U.-A.S.U.); (P.K.R.); (Y.N.); (S.V.P.)
- Department of Surgery, Marshall University School of Medicine, Marshall University, Huntington, WV 25701, USA; (H.R.); (C.A.); (R.F.)
| | - Tejas Joshi
- Department of Medicine, Marshall University School of Medicine, Marshall University, Huntington, WV 25701, USA; (O.U.); (T.J.)
| | - Rob Finley
- Department of Surgery, Marshall University School of Medicine, Marshall University, Huntington, WV 25701, USA; (H.R.); (C.A.); (R.F.)
| | - Sandrine V. Pierre
- Marshall Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, Marshall University School of Medicine, Huntington, WV 25703, USA; (U.-A.S.U.); (P.K.R.); (Y.N.); (S.V.P.)
| | - Juan Ramon Sanabria
- Marshall Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, Marshall University School of Medicine, Huntington, WV 25703, USA; (U.-A.S.U.); (P.K.R.); (Y.N.); (S.V.P.)
- Department of Surgery, Marshall University School of Medicine, Marshall University, Huntington, WV 25701, USA; (H.R.); (C.A.); (R.F.)
- Department of Nutrition and Metabolomic Core Facility, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
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15
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Yu J, Park R, Kim R. Promising Novel Biomarkers for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Diagnostic and Prognostic Insights. J Hepatocell Carcinoma 2023; 10:1105-1127. [PMID: 37483311 PMCID: PMC10362916 DOI: 10.2147/jhc.s341195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The systemic therapy landscape for hepatocellular carcinoma is rapidly evolving, as the recent approvals of checkpoint inhibitor-based regimens such as atezolizumab-bevacizumab and durvalumab-tremelimumab in advanced disease have led to an expanding therapeutic armamentarium. The development of biomarkers, however, has not kept up with the approvals of new agents. Nevertheless, biomarker research for hepatocellular carcinoma has recently been growing at a rapid pace. The most active areas of research are biomarkers for early detection and screening, accurate prognostication, and detection of minimal residual disease following curative intent therapies, and, perhaps most importantly, predictive markers to guide selection and sequencing of the individual agents, including tyrosine kinase inhibitors and immunotherapy. In this review, we briefly summarize the recent developments in systemic therapeutics for hepatocellular carcinoma, introduce the key completed and ongoing prospective and retrospective studies evaluating diagnostic, prognostic, and predictive biomarkers with high clinical relevance, highlight several potentially important areas of future research, and share our insights for each biomarker.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Yu
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Robin Park
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Richard Kim
- Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
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Wu X, Yang H, Yu X, Zeng J, Qiao J, Qi H, Xu H. The prenatal diagnostic indicators of placenta accreta spectrum disorders. Heliyon 2023; 9:e16241. [PMID: 37234657 PMCID: PMC10208845 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e16241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2022] [Revised: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) disorders refers to a heterogeneous group of anomalies distinguished by abnormal adhesion or invasion of chorionic villi through the myometrium and uterine serosa. PAS frequently results in life-threatening complications, including postpartum hemorrhage and hysterotomy. The incidence of PAS has increased recently as a result of rising cesarean section rates. Consequently, prenatal screening for PAS is essential. Despite the need to increase specificity, ultrasound is still considered a primary adjunct. Given the dangers and adverse effects of PAS, it is necessary to identify pertinent markers and validate indicators to improve prenatal diagnosis. This article summarizes the predictors regarding biomarkers, ultrasound indicators, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features. In addition, we discuss the effectiveness of joint diagnosis and the most recent research on PAS. In particular, we focus on (a) posterior placental implantation and (b) accreta after in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer, both of which have low diagnostic rates. At last, we graphically display the prenatal diagnostic indicators and each diagnostic performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiafei Wu
- Department of Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Huan Yang
- Department of Obstetrics, Chongqing University Three Gorges Hospital, Chongqing 404100, China
| | - Xinyang Yu
- Department of Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Jing Zeng
- Stomatological Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 401147, China
| | - Juan Qiao
- Department of Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Hongbo Qi
- Department of Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
- Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 401147, China
| | - Hongbing Xu
- Department of Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
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Guibourdenche J, Leguy MC, Pidoux G, Hebert-Schuster M, Laguillier C, Anselem O, Grangé G, Bonnet F, Tsatsaris V. Biochemical Screening for Fetal Trisomy 21: Pathophysiology of Maternal Serum Markers and Involvement of the Placenta. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24087669. [PMID: 37108840 PMCID: PMC10146970 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
It is now well established that maternal serum markers are often abnormal in fetal trisomy 21. Their determination is recommended for prenatal screening and pregnancy follow-up. However, mechanisms leading to abnormal maternal serum levels of such markers are still debated. Our objective was to help clinicians and scientists unravel the pathophysiology of these markers via a review of the main studies published in this field, both in vivo and in vitro, focusing on the six most widely used markers (hCG, its free subunit hCGβ, PAPP-A, AFP, uE3, and inhibin A) as well as cell-free feto-placental DNA. Analysis of the literature shows that mechanisms underlying each marker's regulation are multiple and not necessarily directly linked with the supernumerary chromosome 21. The crucial involvement of the placenta is also highlighted, which could be defective in one or several of its functions (turnover and apoptosis, endocrine production, and feto-maternal exchanges and transfer). These defects were neither constant nor specific for trisomy 21, and might be more or less pronounced, reflecting a high variability in placental immaturity and alteration. This explains why maternal serum markers can lack both specificity and sensitivity, and are thus restricted to screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean Guibourdenche
- Hormonologie CHU Cochin AP-HP, 75014 Paris, France
- Faculté de Santé, Université Paris Cité, 75014 Paris, France
- FHU Préma, 75014 Paris, France
| | | | | | | | - Christelle Laguillier
- Hormonologie CHU Cochin AP-HP, 75014 Paris, France
- Faculté de Santé, Université Paris Cité, 75014 Paris, France
- UMR-S1139, 75014 Paris, France
| | - Olivia Anselem
- FHU Préma, 75014 Paris, France
- Maternité Port Royal CHU Cochin AP-HP, 75014 Paris, France
| | - Gilles Grangé
- FHU Préma, 75014 Paris, France
- Maternité Port Royal CHU Cochin AP-HP, 75014 Paris, France
| | - Fidéline Bonnet
- Hormonologie CHU Cochin AP-HP, 75014 Paris, France
- Faculté de Santé, Université Paris Cité, 75014 Paris, France
| | - Vassilis Tsatsaris
- Faculté de Santé, Université Paris Cité, 75014 Paris, France
- FHU Préma, 75014 Paris, France
- Maternité Port Royal CHU Cochin AP-HP, 75014 Paris, France
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18
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Yang M, Pan Y, Wang W. Prognostic significance of the CRAFITY score in hepatocellular carcinoma treated with immunotherapy: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Cancer 2023; 23:236. [PMID: 36915049 PMCID: PMC10012550 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-023-10686-9] [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: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This meta-analysis aimed to assess the performance of the CRAFITY (CRP and AFP in immunotherapy) score as a prognostic factor in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) treated with immunotherapy. METHODS The PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases were searched for published studies. Hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) outcomes were pooled using fixed- and random-effects models. Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% CI were used to measure the association of individual CRAFITY scores with the disease control rate (DCR). RESULTS Four eligible studies comprising 786 patients were included. The results indicate that a lower CRAFITY score is a significant predictor of better OS (HR = 0.22, 95% CI: 0.10-0.50) and PFS (HR = 0.36, 95% CI: 0.23-0.55) outcomes. In addition, the DCR was significantly higher in patients with lower CRAFITY scores (OR = 3.16, 95% CI: 2.00-4.99). A significant positive association between low CRAFITY scores and favorable prognoses was also observed in Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer stage B/C/D patients. CONCLUSION In this study, a low CRAFITY score was associated with better overall outcomes in HCC patients treated with immunotherapy. However, this finding requires further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Yang
- Department of Liver Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, 610000, Chengdu, P. R. China
| | - Yilin Pan
- Department of Liver Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, 610000, Chengdu, P. R. China
| | - Wentao Wang
- Department of Liver Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, 610000, Chengdu, P. R. China.
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19
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Whole-Transcriptome Sequencing Combined with High-Dimensional Proteomic Technologies Reveals the Potential Value of miR-135b-5p as a Biomarker for Hepatocellular Carcinoma. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 2023:6517963. [PMID: 36755690 PMCID: PMC9902149 DOI: 10.1155/2023/6517963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 11/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Purpose Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a disease with great heterogeneity and a high mortality rate. It is crucial to identify reliable biomarkers for diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment to improve clinical outcomes in patients with HCC. Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is not only a widely used biomarker in clinical practice but also plays a complicated role in HCC, and it has recently been considered to be related to immunotherapy. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are regarded as key regulators and promising biomarkers of HCC. We investigated the role of an AFP-related miRNA, miR-135b-5p, in HCC progression. Methods Identification of miR-135b-5p was performed based on a cohort of 65 HCC cases and the liver hepatocellular carcinoma cohort of The Cancer Genome Atlas (Asian people only). A combination of whole-transcriptome sequencing and high-dimensional proteomic technologies was used to study the role of miR-135b-5p in HCC. Results Upregulation of miR-135b-5p was detected in patients with HCC with high serum AFP levels (AFP > 400 ng/ml). Elevated miR-135b-5p expression was associated with adverse prognosis. We also identified the relevance between high miR-135b-5p expression and tumor-related pathological characteristics, such as Edmondson grade and vascular invasion. We revealed tyrosine kinase nonreceptor 1 as a potential target of miR-135b-5p. Additionally, the transcriptional start site of miR-135b-5p had potential binding sites for SRY-box transcription factor 9, and the stemness properties of tumor cells were more remarkable in HCC with the upregulation of miR-135b-5p. The molecular characterization of the miR-135b-5p-high group was similar to that of the HCC subclasses containing moderately and poorly differentiated tumors. Finally, gene signatures associated with improved clinical outcomes in immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy were upregulated in the miR-135b-5p-high group. Conclusion miR-135b-5p could be a biomarker for predicting the prognosis and antiprogrammed cell death protein 1 monotherapy response in HCC.
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20
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Głowska-Ciemny J, Szymański M, Kuszerska A, Malewski Z, von Kaisenberg C, Kocyłowski R. The Role of Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) in Contemporary Oncology: The Path from a Diagnostic Biomarker to an Anticancer Drug. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032539. [PMID: 36768863 PMCID: PMC9917199 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
This article presents contemporary opinion on the role of alpha-fetoprotein in oncologic diagnostics and treatment. This role stretches far beyond the already known one-that of the biomarker of hepatocellular carcinoma. The turn of the 20th and 21st centuries saw a significant increase in knowledge about the fundamental role of AFP in the neoplastic processes, and in the induction of features of malignance and drug resistance of hepatocellular carcinoma. The impact of AFP on the creation of an immunosuppressive environment for the developing tumor was identified, giving rise to attempts at immunotherapy. The paper presents current and prospective therapies using AFP and its derivatives and the gene therapy options. We directed our attention to both the benefits and risks associated with the use of AFP in oncologic therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Głowska-Ciemny
- PreMediCare New Med Medical Center, ul. Czarna Rola 21, 61-625 Poznań, Poland
- Correspondence: (J.G.-C.); (R.K.)
| | - Marcin Szymański
- PreMediCare New Med Medical Center, ul. Czarna Rola 21, 61-625 Poznań, Poland
| | - Agata Kuszerska
- PreMediCare New Med Medical Center, ul. Czarna Rola 21, 61-625 Poznań, Poland
| | - Zbyszko Malewski
- Department of Perinatology and Gynecology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-535 Poznań, Poland
| | - Constantin von Kaisenberg
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hannover Medical School, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, D-30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Rafał Kocyłowski
- PreMediCare New Med Medical Center, ul. Czarna Rola 21, 61-625 Poznań, Poland
- Correspondence: (J.G.-C.); (R.K.)
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21
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Qiu F, Dziegielewska KM, Huang Y, Habgood MD, Fitzpatrick G, Saunders NR. Developmental changes in the extent of drug binding to rat plasma proteins. Sci Rep 2023; 13:1266. [PMID: 36690711 PMCID: PMC9870879 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-28434-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Binding of therapeutics to proteins in blood plasma is important in influencing their distribution as it is their free (unbound) form that is able to cross cellular membranes to enter tissues and exert their actions. The concentration and composition of plasma proteins vary during pregnancy and development, resulting in potential changes to drug protein binding. Here, we describe an ultrafiltration method to investigate the extent of protein binding of six drugs (digoxin, paracetamol, olanzapine, ivacaftor, valproate and lamotrigine) and two water soluble inert markers (sucrose and glycerol) to plasma proteins from pregnant and developing rats. Results showed that the free fraction of most drugs was lower in the non-pregnant adult plasma where protein concentration is the highest. However, plasma of equivalent protein concentration to younger pups obtained by diluting adult plasma did not always exhibit the same extent of drug binding, reinforcing the likelihood that both concentration and composition of proteins in plasma influence drug binding. Comparison between protein binding and brain drug accumulation in vivo revealed a correlation for some drugs, but not others. Results suggests that plasma protein concentration should be considered when using medications in pregnant and paediatric patients to minimise potential for fetal and neonatal drug exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona Qiu
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Yifan Huang
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Mark D Habgood
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Georgia Fitzpatrick
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Norman R Saunders
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
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22
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Wakao S, Oguma Y, Kushida Y, Kuroda Y, Tatsumi K, Dezawa M. Phagocytosing differentiated cell-fragments is a novel mechanism for controlling somatic stem cell differentiation within a short time frame. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:542. [PMID: 36203068 PMCID: PMC9537123 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04555-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Stem cells undergo cytokine-driven differentiation, but this process often takes longer than several weeks to complete. A novel mechanism for somatic stem cell differentiation via phagocytosing ‘model cells’ (apoptotic differentiated cells) was found to require only a short time frame. Pluripotent-like Muse cells, multipotent mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), and neural stem cells (NSCs) phagocytosed apoptotic differentiated cells via different phagocytic receptor subsets than macrophages. The phagocytosed-differentiated cell-derived contents (e.g., transcription factors) were quickly released into the cytoplasm, translocated into the nucleus, and bound to promoter regions of the stem cell genomes. Within 24 ~ 36 h, the cells expressed lineage-specific markers corresponding to the phagocytosed-differentiated cells, both in vitro and in vivo. At 1 week, the gene expression profiles were similar to those of the authentic differentiated cells and expressed functional markers. Differentiation was limited to the inherent potential of each cell line: triploblastic-, adipogenic-/chondrogenic-, and neural-lineages in Muse cells, MSCs, and NSCs, respectively. Disruption of phagocytosis, either by phagocytic receptor inhibition via small interfering RNA or annexin V treatment, impeded differentiation in vitro and in vivo. Together, our findings uncovered a simple mechanism by which differentiation-directing factors are directly transferred to somatic stem cells by phagocytosing apoptotic differentiated cells to trigger their rapid differentiation into the target cell lineage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shohei Wakao
- Department of Stem Cell Biology and Histology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1, Seiryo-Machi, Aoba-Ku, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan.
| | - Yo Oguma
- Department of Stem Cell Biology and Histology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1, Seiryo-Machi, Aoba-Ku, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Kushida
- Department of Stem Cell Biology and Histology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1, Seiryo-Machi, Aoba-Ku, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan
| | - Yasumasa Kuroda
- Department of Stem Cell Biology and Histology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1, Seiryo-Machi, Aoba-Ku, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan
| | - Kazuki Tatsumi
- Department of Stem Cell Biology and Histology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1, Seiryo-Machi, Aoba-Ku, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan.,Regenerative Medicine Division, Analytical Research Department, Technology Development Unit, Life Science Institute, Inc., Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mari Dezawa
- Department of Stem Cell Biology and Histology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1, Seiryo-Machi, Aoba-Ku, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan.
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23
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Oruc A, Simsek G. A Pathophysiological Approach To Current Biomarkers. Biomark Med 2022. [DOI: 10.2174/9789815040463122010012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Biomarkers are necessary for screening and diagnosing numerous diseases,
predicting the prognosis of patients, and following-up treatment and the course of the
patient. Everyday new biomarkers are being used in clinics for these purposes. This
section will discuss the physiological roles of the various current biomarkers in a
healthy person and the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying the release of these
biomarkers. This chapter aims to gain a new perspective for evaluating and interpreting
the most current biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aykut Oruc
- Department of Physiology,Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa,
Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Gonul Simsek
- Department of Physiology,Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa,
Istanbul, Turkey
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Sokol MB, Yabbarov NG, Mollaeva MR, Chirkina MV, Mollaev MD, Zabolotsky AI, Kuznetsov SL, Nikolskaya ED. Alpha-fetoprotein mediated targeting of polymeric nanoparticles to treat solid tumors. Nanomedicine (Lond) 2022; 17:1217-1235. [PMID: 36136593 DOI: 10.2217/nnm-2022-0097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Serious side effects caused by paclitaxel formulation, containing toxic solubilizer Cremophor® EL, and its nonspecific accumulation greatly limit clinical paclitaxel application. Aim: To design paclitaxel-loaded copolymer of lactic and glycolic acids nanoparticles decorated with alpha-fetoprotein third domain (rAFP3d-NP) to increase paclitaxel safety profile. Methods: rAFP3d-NP was obtained via carbodiimide technique. Results: The particles were characterized with high paclitaxel loading content of 5% and size of 280 nm. rAFP3d-NP revealed biphasic profile with 67% release of paclitaxel during 220 h. Increased area under the curveinf and mean residence time values after rAFP3d-NP administration confirmed prolonged blood circulation compared with paclitaxel. rAFP3d-NP demonstrated significant tumor growth inhibition at 4T1 and SKOV-3 models. Conclusion: rAFP3d-NP is a promising delivery system for paclitaxel and can be applied similarly for delivery of other hydrophobic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariya B Sokol
- NM Emanuel Institute of Biochemical Physics of Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119334, Russia.,JSC Russian Research Center for Molecular Diagnostics and Therapy, Moscow, 117149, Russia
| | - Nikita G Yabbarov
- NM Emanuel Institute of Biochemical Physics of Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119334, Russia.,JSC Russian Research Center for Molecular Diagnostics and Therapy, Moscow, 117149, Russia
| | - Mariia R Mollaeva
- NM Emanuel Institute of Biochemical Physics of Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119334, Russia.,JSC Russian Research Center for Molecular Diagnostics and Therapy, Moscow, 117149, Russia
| | - Margarita V Chirkina
- NM Emanuel Institute of Biochemical Physics of Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119334, Russia.,JSC Russian Research Center for Molecular Diagnostics and Therapy, Moscow, 117149, Russia
| | - Murad D Mollaev
- JSC Russian Research Center for Molecular Diagnostics and Therapy, Moscow, 117149, Russia.,Dmitry Rogachev National Medical Research Center of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Immunology, Moscow, 117198, Russia
| | - Artur I Zabolotsky
- JSC Russian Research Center for Molecular Diagnostics and Therapy, Moscow, 117149, Russia.,Lomonosov Moscow State University, Biological Faculty, Department of Biochemistry, Moscow, 119991, Russia
| | | | - Elena D Nikolskaya
- NM Emanuel Institute of Biochemical Physics of Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119334, Russia.,JSC Russian Research Center for Molecular Diagnostics and Therapy, Moscow, 117149, Russia
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25
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Wang M, Jiang M, Liao X, Wang X, Lai W, Li P, Li J, Hong C, Qi Y. Preparation of an electrochemical immunosensor based on a Cu/Cu 2O-rGO@Au signal synergistic amplification strategy and efficient and sensitive detection of alpha-fetoprotein. ANALYTICAL METHODS : ADVANCING METHODS AND APPLICATIONS 2022; 14:2703-2713. [PMID: 35770823 DOI: 10.1039/d2ay00734g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The effective amplification of the signal is the prerequisite for the ultrasensitive detection of electrochemical immunosensors. To quantitatively detect alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), we prepared a sandwich-type electrochemical immunosensor. Using a gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) modified glassy carbon electrode (GCE) as the sensing platform and Cu/Cu2O-rGO@Au as the signal label, differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) was used to achieve sensitive detection of AFP. We found that the nanomaterials can undergo electro-oxidation and electro-reduction reactions between Cu(I) and Cu(II) in a buffer solution of pH = 6.0. It is worth mentioning that the incorporation of metals into metal oxide substrates is a new strategy to combine the catalytic activity of metal oxides with the electrical conductivity of metals. Reduced graphene oxide (rGO), which is rich in oxygen-containing groups, can load more Cu/Cu2O and Au NPs and increase the conductivity. The modification of Au NPs makes them have better biocompatibility and conductivity. Under the best detection conditions, the prepared immunosensor realizes the specific and ultrasensitive detection of AFP. The detection range is 0.01-50 ng mL-1 and the limit of detection (LOD) was as low as 0.589 pg mL-1 (S/N = 3); meanwhile it also has good practical application ability. Therefore, this immunosensor provides an important means for the early screening and detection of AFP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Wang
- Key Laboratory for Green Processing of Chemical Engineering of Xinjiang Bingtuan, Engineering Research Center of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering of Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832003, PR China.
| | - Mingzhe Jiang
- Key Laboratory for Green Processing of Chemical Engineering of Xinjiang Bingtuan, Engineering Research Center of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering of Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832003, PR China.
| | - Xiaochen Liao
- Key Laboratory for Green Processing of Chemical Engineering of Xinjiang Bingtuan, Engineering Research Center of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering of Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832003, PR China.
| | - Xiao Wang
- Key Laboratory for Green Processing of Chemical Engineering of Xinjiang Bingtuan, Engineering Research Center of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering of Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832003, PR China.
| | - Wenjing Lai
- Key Laboratory for Green Processing of Chemical Engineering of Xinjiang Bingtuan, Engineering Research Center of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering of Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832003, PR China.
| | - Pengli Li
- Key Laboratory for Green Processing of Chemical Engineering of Xinjiang Bingtuan, Engineering Research Center of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering of Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832003, PR China.
| | - Jiajia Li
- Key Laboratory for Green Processing of Chemical Engineering of Xinjiang Bingtuan, Engineering Research Center of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering of Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832003, PR China.
| | - Chenglin Hong
- Key Laboratory for Green Processing of Chemical Engineering of Xinjiang Bingtuan, Engineering Research Center of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering of Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832003, PR China.
| | - Yu Qi
- Key Laboratory for Green Processing of Chemical Engineering of Xinjiang Bingtuan, Engineering Research Center of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering of Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832003, PR China.
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26
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Chen YF, Liu SY, Cheng QJ, Wang YJ, Chen S, Zhou YY, Liu X, Jiang ZG, Zhong WW, He YH. Intracellular alpha-fetoprotein mitigates hepatocyte apoptosis and necroptosis by inhibiting endoplasmic reticulum stress. World J Gastroenterol 2022; 28:3201-3217. [PMID: 36051342 PMCID: PMC9331527 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v28.i26.3201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Revised: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/14/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress contributes to the pathogenesis of chronic liver diseases, but how hepatocytes respond to ER stress has not been clarified. Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is secreted by hepatoma cells and elevated levels of serum AFP are associated with development of liver malignancies.
AIM To investigate whether and how AFP could regulate ER stress and hepatocyte injury.
METHODS The distribution of AFP and the degrees of ER stress in liver tissues and liver injury were characterized by histology, immunohistochemistry, and Western blot in biopsied human liver specimens, two mouse models of liver injury and a cellular model. The levels of AFP in sera and the supernatants of cultured cells were quantified by chemiluminescence.
RESULTS High levels of intracellular AFP were detected in liver tissues, particularly in the necrotic areas, from patients with chronic liver diseases and mice after carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) administration or induction of ER stress, but not from the controls. The induced intracellular AFP was accompanied by elevated activating transcription factor-6 (ATF6) expression and protein kinase R-like ER kinase (PERK) phosphorylation in mouse livers. ER stress induced AFP expression in LO2 cells and decreased their viability. ATF6, but not PERK, silencing mitigated the ER-stress-induced AFP expression in LO2 cells. Conversely, AFP silencing deteriorated the ER stress-mediated LO2 cell injury and CCl4 administration-induced liver damages by increasing levels of cleaved caspase-3, the C/enhancer binding protein homologous protein expression, mixed lineage kinase domain-like pseudokinase and PERK phosphorylation, but decreasing ATF6 expression.
CONCLUSION ER stress upregulated intra-hepatocyte AFP expression by activating ATF6 during the process of liver injury and intracellular AFP attenuated hepatocyte apoptosis and necroptosis by alleviating ER stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun-Fen Chen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Si-Ying Liu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Qi-Jiao Cheng
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Yu-Jiao Wang
- Department of General Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Shuang Chen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Yi-Yang Zhou
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Xia Liu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Zhi-Gang Jiang
- School of Public Health, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563099, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Wei-Wei Zhong
- Department of Endoscopy, Jingmen No.1 People’s Hospital, Jingmen 448000, Hubei Province, China
| | - Yi-Huai He
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, Guizhou Province, China
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27
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Munson PV, Adamik J, Butterfield LH. Immunomodulatory impact of α-fetoprotein. Trends Immunol 2022; 43:438-448. [PMID: 35550875 DOI: 10.1016/j.it.2022.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Revised: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
α-Fetoprotein (AFP) is a fetal glycoprotein produced by most human hepatocellular carcinoma tumors. Research has focused on its immunosuppressive properties in pregnancy, autoimmunity, and cancer, and human AFP directly limits the viability and functionality of human natural killer (NK) cells, monocytes, and dendritic cells (DCs). AFP-altered DCs can promote the differentiation of naïve T cells into regulatory T cells. These properties may work to shield tumors from the immune system. Recent efforts to define the molecular characteristics of AFP identified key structural immunoregulatory domains and bioactive roles of AFP-bound ligands in immunomodulation. We propose that a key mechanism of AFP immunomodulation skews DC function through cellular metabolism. Delineating differences between fetal 'normal' AFP (nAFP) and tumor-derived AFP (tAFP) has uncovered a novel role for tAFP in altering metabolism via lipid-binding partners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul V Munson
- Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy (PICI), San Francisco, CA, USA; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of California San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Juraj Adamik
- Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy (PICI), San Francisco, CA, USA; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of California San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Lisa H Butterfield
- Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy (PICI), San Francisco, CA, USA; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of California San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, CA, USA.
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28
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Hu X, Chen R, Wei Q, Xu X. The Landscape Of Alpha Fetoprotein In Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Where Are We? Int J Biol Sci 2022; 18:536-551. [PMID: 35002508 PMCID: PMC8741863 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.64537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary liver cancer and has been acknowledged as a leading cause of death among cirrhosis patients. Difficulties in early diagnosis and heterogeneity are obstacles to effective treatment, especially for advanced HCC. Liver transplantation (LT) is considered the best therapy for HCC. Although many biomarkers are being proposed, alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), which was identified over 60 years ago, remains the most utilized. Recently, much hope has been placed in the immunogenicity of AFP to develop novel therapies, such as AFP vaccines and AFP-specific adoptive T-cell transfer (ACT). This review summarizes the performance of AFP as a biomarker for HCC diagnosis and prognosis, as well as its correlation with molecular classes. In addition, the role of AFP in LT is also described. Finally, we highlight the mechanism and application prospects of two immune therapies (AFP vaccine and ACT) for HCC. In general, our review points out the prevalence of AFP in HCC, accompanied by some controversies and novel directions for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Hu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The Center for Integrated Oncology and Precision Medicine, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310006, China.,Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Hangzhou, 310058, China.,Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 79 Qingchun Road, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Ronggao Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 79 Qingchun Road, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Qiang Wei
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The Center for Integrated Oncology and Precision Medicine, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Xiao Xu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The Center for Integrated Oncology and Precision Medicine, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310006, China.,Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Hangzhou, 310058, China.,Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 79 Qingchun Road, Hangzhou, 310003, China.,Institute of Organ Transplantation, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
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29
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Feng L, Wang Y, Wang X, An S, Aizimuaji Z, Tao C, Zhang K, Cheng S, Wu J, Xiao T, Rong W. Integrated analysis of the rhesus monkey liver transcriptome during development and human primary HCC AFP-related gene expression. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2021; 25:406-415. [PMID: 34484865 PMCID: PMC8403716 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2021.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Embryonic development and tumorigenesis have a certain degree of similarity. Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), a protein related to embryonic development, is a well-known biomarker for the diagnosis and prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In this study, we analyzed the differences in gene expression profiles and molecular mechanisms in human HCC tissues from patients in AFPhigh (serum AFP level ≥ 25 ng/mL) and AFPlow (serum AFP level < 25 ng/mL) groups. The results indicated that AFPhigh HCC has more malignant biological characteristics. Single-sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA) showed significantly higher levels of genes expressed in dendritic cells, neutrophils, and natural killer cells in the AFPlow group than in the AFPhigh group. Then, we defined a rhesus monkey fetal liver developmental landscape and compared it to the HCC gene expression profile. The gene signatures of AFPhigh HCC tissues were similar to those of early embryonic liver tissues. In this study, we comprehensively analyzed the rhesus monkey liver transcriptome during development and human primary HCC AFP-related gene expression profiles and clarified the function of AFP in the occurrence and development of HCC from the perspective of developmental biology, which might provide a new perspective on the pathogenesis of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Department of Etiology and Carcinogenesis, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Yaru Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Department of Etiology and Carcinogenesis, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Xijun Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Department of Etiology and Carcinogenesis, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Songlin An
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Zulihumaer Aizimuaji
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Department of Etiology and Carcinogenesis, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Changcheng Tao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Kai Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Shujun Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Department of Etiology and Carcinogenesis, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Jianxiong Wu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
- Corresponding author: Dr. Jianxiong Wu, Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China.
| | - Ting Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Department of Etiology and Carcinogenesis, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
- Corresponding author: Dr. Ting Xiao, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Department of Etiology and Carcinogenesis, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China.
| | - Weiqi Rong
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
- Corresponding author: Dr. Weiqi Rong, Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China.
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30
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Patil V, Jothimani D, Narasimhan G, Danielraj S, Rela M. Hereditary Persistence of Alpha-Fetoprotein in Chronic Liver Disease-Confusing Genes! J Clin Exp Hepatol 2021; 11:616-618. [PMID: 34511823 PMCID: PMC8414326 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2020.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 12/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is a glycoprotein secreted by the embryonic liver and is expressed in tumours with high mitotic index such as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and germ cell tumours. Detection of elevated AFP is strongly associated with underlying HCC or occasionally germ cell tumour. Modest elevation of AFP can be observed in patients with chronic viral hepatitis particularly with active replication. Very rarely, incidental detection of raised AFP in a genetically susceptible individuals has been reported in the absence of the underlying malignant process. This condition is termed as hereditary persistence of AFP (HPAFP), a rare disorder with an autosomal dominant pattern of inheritance. HPAFP should be suspected in patients with high AFP in the absence of radiological evidence of HCC or germ cell tumour. The diagnosis is confirmed by the identification of AFP gene mutation. AFP gene is located in the long arm of chromosome 4. The most common single-nucleotide polymorphism in HPAFP is 119 G > A, rs587776861, interestingly reported only in six family clusters worldwide. Despite being described as a benign disorder, its implication in patients with underlying chronic liver disease needs further clarification. Here, we describe 3 patients in their forties with chronic liver disease and persistently elevated levels of AFP, where genetic studies confirmed HPAFP. None of our patients had HCC despite extensive investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vaibhav Patil
- Institute of Liver Disease and Transplantation, Dr. Rela Institute and Medical Centre, Bharath Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, Tamilnadu, India
| | - Dinesh Jothimani
- Institute of Liver Disease and Transplantation, Dr. Rela Institute and Medical Centre, Bharath Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, Tamilnadu, India
| | - Gomathy Narasimhan
- Institute of Liver Disease and Transplantation, Dr. Rela Institute and Medical Centre, Bharath Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, Tamilnadu, India
| | - Silas Danielraj
- Institute of Liver Disease and Transplantation, Dr. Rela Institute and Medical Centre, Bharath Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, Tamilnadu, India
| | - Mohamed Rela
- Institute of Liver Disease and Transplantation, Dr. Rela Institute and Medical Centre, Bharath Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, Tamilnadu, India
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31
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Li W, Liu K, Chen Y, Zhu M, Li M. Role of Alpha-Fetoprotein in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Drug Resistance. Curr Med Chem 2021; 28:1126-1142. [PMID: 32729413 DOI: 10.2174/0929867327999200729151247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2020] [Revised: 07/04/2020] [Accepted: 07/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major type of primary liver cancer and a major cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide because of its high recurrence rate and poor prognosis. Surgical resection is currently the major treatment measure for patients in the early and middle stages of the disease. Because due to late diagnosis, most patients already miss the opportunity for surgery upon disease confirmation, conservative chemotherapy (drug treatment) remains an important method of comprehensive treatment for patients with middle- and late-stage liver cancer. However, multidrug resistance (MDR) in patients with HCC severely reduces the treatment effect and is an important obstacle to chemotherapeutic success. Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is an important biomarker for the diagnosis of HCC. The serum expression levels of AFP in many patients with HCC are increased, and a persistently increased AFP level is a risk factor for HCC progression. Many studies have indicated that AFP functions as an immune suppressor, and AFP can promote malignant transformation during HCC development and might be involved in the process of MDR in patients with liver cancer. This review describes drug resistance mechanisms during HCC drug treatment and reviews the relationship between the mechanism of AFP in HCC development and progression and HCC drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Li
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou 571199, Hainan Province, China
| | - Kun Liu
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou 571199, Hainan Province, China
| | - Yi Chen
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou 571199, Hainan Province, China
| | - Mingyue Zhu
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou 571199, Hainan Province, China
| | - Mengsen Li
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou 571199, Hainan Province, China
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32
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Lin B, Dong X, Wang Q, Li W, Zhu M, Li M. AFP-Inhibiting Fragments for Drug Delivery: The Promise and Challenges of Targeting Therapeutics to Cancers. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:635476. [PMID: 33898423 PMCID: PMC8061420 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.635476] [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: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Alpha fetoprotein (AFP) plays a key role in stimulating the growth, metastasis and drug resistance of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). AFP is an important target molecule in the treatment of HCC. The application of AFP-derived peptides, AFP fragments and recombinant AFP (AFP-inhibiting fragments, AIFs) to inhibit the binding of AFP to intracellular proteins or its receptors is the basis of a new strategy for the treatment of HCC and other cancers. In addition, AIFs can be combined with drugs and delivery agents to target treatments to cancer. AIFs conjugated to anticancer drugs not only destroy cancer cells with these drugs but also activate immune cells to kill cancer cells. Furthermore, AIF delivery of drugs relieves immunosuppression and enhances chemotherapy effects. The synergism of immunotherapy and targeted chemotherapy is expected to play an important role in enhancing the treatment effect of patients with cancer. AIF delivery of drugs will be an available strategy for the targeted treatment of cancer in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Lin
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
| | - Xu Dong
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
| | - Qiujiao Wang
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
| | - Wei Li
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
| | - Mingyue Zhu
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
| | - Mengsen Li
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China.,Institution of Tumor, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
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33
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Wang J, Yang L, Diao Y, Liu J, Li J, Li R, Zheng L, Zhang K, Ma Y, Hao X. Circulating tumour DNA methylation in hepatocellular carcinoma diagnosis using digital droplet PCR. J Int Med Res 2021; 49:300060521992962. [PMID: 33750234 PMCID: PMC7989135 DOI: 10.1177/0300060521992962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To evaluate the performance of a DNA methylation-based digital droplet polymerase chain reaction (ddPCR) assay to detect aberrant DNA methylation in cell-free DNA (cfDNA) and to determine its application in the detection of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Methods The present study recruited patients with liver-related diseases and healthy control subjects. Blood samples were used for the extraction of cfDNA, which was then bisulfite converted and the extent of DNA methylation quantified using a ddPCR platform. Results A total of 97 patients with HCC, 80 healthy control subjects and 46 patients with chronic hepatitis B/C virus infection were enrolled in the study. The level of cfDNA in the HCC group was significantly higher than that in the healthy control group. For the detection of HCC, based on a cut-off value of 15.7% for the cfDNA methylation ratio, the sensitivity and specificity were 78.57% and 89.38%, respectively. The diagnostic accuracy was 85.27%, the positive predictive value was 81.91% and the negative predictive value was 87.20%. The positive likelihood ratio of 15.7% in HCC diagnosis was 7.40, while the negative likelihood ratio was 0.24. Conclusions A sensitive methylation-based assay might serve as a liquid biopsy test for diagnosing HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Liu Yang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Yanjun Diao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Jiayun Liu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Jinjie Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Rui Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Lianghong Zheng
- Guangzhou Youze Biological Pharmaceutical Technology Company Ltd., Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Kang Zhang
- Faculty of Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau, China
| | - Yueyun Ma
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Air Force Medical Centre, Air Force Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoke Hao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
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Lin B, Wang Q, Liu K, Dong X, Zhu M, Li M. Alpha-Fetoprotein Binding Mucin and Scavenger Receptors: An Available Bio-Target for Treating Cancer. Front Oncol 2021; 11:625936. [PMID: 33718192 PMCID: PMC7947232 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.625936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) entrance into cancer cells is mediated by AFP receptors (AFPRs) and exerts malignant effects. Therefore, understanding the structure of AFPRs will facilitate the development of rational approaches for vaccine design, drug delivery, antagonizing immune suppression and diagnostic imaging to treat cancer effectively. Throughout the last three decades, the identification of universal receptors for AFP has failed due to their complex carbohydrate polymer structures. Here, we focused on the two types of binding proteins or receptors that may serve as AFPRs, namely, the A) mucin receptors family, and B) the scavenger family. We presented an informative review with detailed descriptions of the signal transduction, cross-talk, and interplay of various transcription factors which highlight the downstream events following AFP binding to mucin or scavenger receptors. We mainly explored the underlying mechanisms involved mucin or scavenger receptors that interact with AFP, provide more evidence to support these receptors as tumor AFPRs, and establish a theoretical basis for targeting therapy of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Lin
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
| | - Qiujiao Wang
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
| | - Kun Liu
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
| | - Xu Dong
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
| | - Mingyue Zhu
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
| | - Mengsen Li
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China.,Institution of Tumor, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
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35
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Moldogazieva NT, Mokhosoev IM, Zavadskiy SP, Terentiev AA. Proteomic Profiling and Artificial Intelligence for Hepatocellular Carcinoma Translational Medicine. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9020159. [PMID: 33562077 PMCID: PMC7914649 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9020159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2020] [Revised: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary cancer of the liver with high morbidity and mortality rates worldwide. Since 1963, when alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) was discovered as a first HCC serum biomarker, several other protein biomarkers have been identified and introduced into clinical practice. However, insufficient specificity and sensitivity of these biomarkers dictate the necessity of novel biomarker discovery. Remarkable advancements in integrated multiomics technologies for the identification of gene expression and protein or metabolite distribution patterns can facilitate rising to this challenge. Current multiomics technologies lead to the accumulation of a huge amount of data, which requires clustering and finding correlations between various datasets and developing predictive models for data filtering, pre-processing, and reducing dimensionality. Artificial intelligence (AI) technologies have an enormous potential to overcome accelerated data growth, complexity, and heterogeneity within and across data sources. Our review focuses on the recent progress in integrative proteomic profiling strategies and their usage in combination with machine learning and deep learning technologies for the discovery of novel biomarker candidates for HCC early diagnosis and prognosis. We discuss conventional and promising proteomic biomarkers of HCC such as AFP, lens culinaris agglutinin (LCA)-reactive L3 glycoform of AFP (AFP-L3), des-gamma-carboxyprothrombin (DCP), osteopontin (OPN), glypican-3 (GPC3), dickkopf-1 (DKK1), midkine (MDK), and squamous cell carcinoma antigen (SCCA) and highlight their functional significance including the involvement in cell signaling such as Wnt/β-catenin, PI3K/Akt, integrin αvβ3/NF-κB/HIF-1α, JAK/STAT3 and MAPK/ERK-mediated pathways dysregulated in HCC. We show that currently available computational platforms for big data analysis and AI technologies can both enhance proteomic profiling and improve imaging techniques to enhance the translational application of proteomics data into precision medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nurbubu T. Moldogazieva
- Laboratory of Bioinformatics, Institute of Translational Medicine and Biotechnology, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), 119991 Moscow, Russia
- Correspondence: or
| | - Innokenty M. Mokhosoev
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, N.I. Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, 117997 Moscow, Russia; (I.M.M.); (A.A.T.)
| | - Sergey P. Zavadskiy
- Department of Pharmacology, A.P. Nelyubin Institute of Pharmacy, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), 119991 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Alexander A. Terentiev
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, N.I. Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, 117997 Moscow, Russia; (I.M.M.); (A.A.T.)
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36
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Pardee AD, Butterfield LH. Immunotherapy of hepatocellular carcinoma: Unique challenges and clinical opportunities. Oncoimmunology 2021. [PMID: 22720211 DOI: 10.4161/onc-i.1.1.18344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Current therapies for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are marginally effective and exacerbate underlying liver disease. The ability of immunotherapy to elicit nontoxic, systemic, long-lived anti-tumor activity makes it particularly well-suited for use in the setting of HCC. While therapeutic benefit has been achieved in early clinical trials, the efficacy of immune-based therapies is limited by several unique properties of HCC, most notably the inherently tolerogenic character of the liver in both healthy and diseased (chronically-infected or tumor-bearing) states. Therapeutic regimens that both counteract these immunosuppressive mechanisms and amplify tumor-specific immunity are expected to profoundly improve clinical outcomes for HCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela D Pardee
- Department of Medicine; University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine; Pittsburgh, PA USA
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Pardee AD, Butterfield LH. Immunotherapy of hepatocellular carcinoma: Unique challenges and clinical opportunities. Oncoimmunology 2021; 1:48-55. [PMID: 22720211 PMCID: PMC3376967 DOI: 10.4161/onci.1.1.18344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Current therapies for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are marginally effective and exacerbate underlying liver disease. The ability of immunotherapy to elicit nontoxic, systemic, long-lived anti-tumor activity makes it particularly well-suited for use in the setting of HCC. While therapeutic benefit has been achieved in early clinical trials, the efficacy of immune-based therapies is limited by several unique properties of HCC, most notably the inherently tolerogenic character of the liver in both healthy and diseased (chronically-infected or tumor-bearing) states. Therapeutic regimens that both counteract these immunosuppressive mechanisms and amplify tumor-specific immunity are expected to profoundly improve clinical outcomes for HCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela D Pardee
- Department of Medicine; University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine; Pittsburgh, PA USA
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URRENT CONCEPT OF THE STRUCTURAL AND FUNCTIONAL PROPERTIES OF ALFA-FETOPROTEIN AND THE POSSIBILITIES OF ITS CLINICAL APPLICATION. BIOTECHNOLOGIA ACTA 2021. [DOI: 10.15407/biotech14.01.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
This paper was aimed to review the literature data from native and foreign sources accumulated for 40-years period of research of the features of the molecular structure, functions, production and application of human alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), which is known as one of the most studied and increasingly demanded proteins. Results of fundamental studies performed with the use of modern methods, including various types of electrophoresis, chromatography, electron microscopy and immunoassay, in order to characterize the principal physicochemical capacities and localization of free and bound forms of AFP, as well as polypeptide structure, heterogeneity and topography of AFP receptors are highlighted here. The data on the mechanisms of AFP synthesis, its conformational features, binding sites and intracellular metabolism are also presented. The concepts of physiological functions and mechanisms of AFP transport in an organism are presented. Data on AFP isolation from the natural primary products and its production by means of recombinant and synthetic methods are shown. This review also summarizes information on the current possibilities of clinical application of AFP and the prospects for its usage in anticancer therapy for targeted delivery of chemotherapy drugs, with emphasis on the description of the recent progress in this field.
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HNF1β is a sensitive and specific novel marker for yolk sac tumor: a tissue microarray analysis of 601 testicular germ cell tumors. Mod Pathol 2020; 33:2354-2360. [PMID: 32561848 DOI: 10.1038/s41379-020-0597-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2020] [Revised: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 06/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocyte Nuclear Factor 1 beta (HNF1β) is a transcription factor which plays an important role during early organogenesis, especially of the pancreato-biliary and urogenital tract. Furthermore, HNF1β is an established marker in the differential diagnosis of ovarian cancer and shows a distinct nuclear expression in the clear cell carcinoma subtype. Recently, it has been described in yolk sac tumor, which represents a common component in many non-seminomatous germ cell tumors. Due to its broad histologic diversity, the diagnosis may be challenging and additional tools are very helpful in the workup of germ cell tumors. Immunohistochemistry was used to study HNF1β expression in a tissue microarray (TMA) of 601 testicular germ cell tumors including seminoma, embryonal carcinoma, yolk sac tumor, choriocarcinoma, teratoma, germ cell neoplasia in situ (GCNIS), and normal tissue. The expression pattern was compared to glypican 3 (GPC3) and α-fetoprotein (AFP), two markers currently in use for the detection of yolk sac tumor. HNF1β showed a distinct nuclear staining in comparison to the cytoplasmic pattern of GPC3 and AFP. The sensitivity and specificity of HNF1β were 85.4% and 96.5%, of GPC3 83.3% and 90.7%, of AFP 62.5% and 97.7%. We conclude that HNF1β allows a reliable distinction of yolk sac tumor from other germ cell tumor components. Therefore, we propose HNF1β as a novel and robust marker in the immunohistochemical workup of testicular germ cell tumors.
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Zhang C, Zhang J, Wang J, Yan Y, Zhang C. Alpha-fetoprotein accelerates the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma by promoting Bcl-2 gene expression through an RA-RAR signalling pathway. J Cell Mol Med 2020; 24:13804-13812. [PMID: 33090723 PMCID: PMC7753843 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.15962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2020] [Revised: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous studies have found that alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) can promote the proliferation of hepatoma cells and accelerate the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the exact mechanism of action remains unclear. Recent bioinformatics studies have predicted the possible interaction between AFP and retinoic acid receptors (RARs). Thus, the purpose of this study was to investigate the molecular mechanism through which AFP promotes tumour cell proliferation by interfering with the RA-RAR signal pathway. Our data indicated that AFP could significantly promote the proliferation and weaken ATRA-induced apoptosis of hepatoma cells. Besides, cytoplasmic AFP interacts with RAR, disrupting its entrance into the nucleus, which in turn affects the expression of the Bcl-2 gene. In addition, knockdown of AFP in HepG2 cells was synchronously associated with an incremental increase of RAR binding to DNA, as well as down-regulation of Bcl-2; the opposite effect was observed in AFP gene-transfected HLE cells. Moreover, a similar effect of AFP was detected in tumour tissues with high serum AFP, but not in adjacent non-cancerous liver tissues, or HCC tissues with low serum AFP levels. These results indicate that AFP acts as signalling molecule and prevents RAR from entering into the nucleus by interacting with RAR, thereby promoting the expression of Bcl-2. Our data reveal a novel mechanism through which AFP regulates Bcl-2 expression and further suggest that AFP may be used as a novel target for treating HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Zhang
- National Center for Clinical Laboratories, National Center of Gerontology, Beijing Hospital, Beijing, China.,Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jiangtao Zhang
- National Center for Clinical Laboratories, National Center of Gerontology, Beijing Hospital, Beijing, China.,Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Wang
- National Center for Clinical Laboratories, National Center of Gerontology, Beijing Hospital, Beijing, China.,Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Yan
- National Center for Clinical Laboratories, National Center of Gerontology, Beijing Hospital, Beijing, China.,Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Chuanbao Zhang
- National Center for Clinical Laboratories, National Center of Gerontology, Beijing Hospital, Beijing, China.,Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing Hospital, Beijing, China
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41
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Pharo EA. Marsupial milk: a fluid source of nutrition and immune factors for the developing pouch young. Reprod Fertil Dev 2020; 31:1252-1265. [PMID: 30641029 DOI: 10.1071/rd18197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2018] [Accepted: 11/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Marsupials have a very different reproductive strategy to eutherians. An Australian marsupial, the tammar wallaby (Macropus eugenii) has a very short pregnancy of about 26.5 days, with a comparatively long lactation of 300-350 days. The tammar mother gives birth to an altricial, approximately 400 mg young that spends the first 200 days postpartum (p.p.) in its mother's pouch, permanently (0-100 days p.p.; Phase 2A) and then intermittently (100-200 days p.p.; Phase 2B) attached to the teat. The beginning of Phase 3 marks the first exit from the pouch (akin to the birth of a precocious eutherian neonate) and the supplementation of milk with herbage. The marsupial mother progressively alters milk composition (proteins, fats and carbohydrates) and individual milk constituents throughout the lactation cycle to provide nutrients and immunological factors that are appropriate for the considerable physiological development and growth of her pouch young. This review explores the changes in tammar milk components that occur during the lactation cycle in conjunction with the development of the young.
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42
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Qin D, Jiang X, Mo G, Feng J, Deng B. Boron nitride quantum dots as electrochemiluminescence coreactants of rGO@Au@Ru–SiO2 for label-free detection of AFP in human serum. Electrochim Acta 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.electacta.2020.135621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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43
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Su Y, Xue T, Wu L, Hu Y, Wang J, Xu Q, Chen Y, Lin Z. Label-free detection of biomarker alpha fetoprotein in serum by ssDNA aptamer functionalized magnetic nanoparticles. NANOTECHNOLOGY 2020; 31:095104. [PMID: 31726443 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6528/ab57f7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignant tumors in the clinic, with the characteristics of occult onset, rapid progression, and high degree of malignancy. Alpha fetoprotein (AFP) is the most important biomarker of HCC, which is widely used in early screening, diagnosis, and prognosis observation. A series of immunoassays have been developed and frequently used in the detection of AFP based on antibodies. Unfortunately, the shortcomings of antibodies, such as thermal unstable and fluctuant activity by batches, lead to the inaccuracy in the detection of AFP. In this study, aptamers instead of antibodies were adopted as the specific recognition element for AFP, aiming to seek an alternative strategy to immunoassays. An AFP-specific ssDNA aptamer was grafted to magnetic nanoparticles (Fe3O4@SiO2) via avidin-biotin interaction, and the resultant aptamer functionalized magnetic nanoparticles (Ap-MNPs) were adequately characterized and tested. The Ap-MNPs in solution exhibited a fast response to the outer magnetic field, and can be completely separated in several minutes. It was found that Ap-MNPs have good specificity to the target AFP, as the recovery of AFP (87.0%) was much higher than the competitive proteins IgG (38.9%), HSA (18.5%), and FIB (11.4%). A convenient and efficient label-free detection method of AFP in serum was developed based on Ap-MNPs in combination with high-performance liquid chromatography. The linearity of this method was over a range of 1-50 μg ml-1 with a correlation coefficient of 0.9999, and the limit of detection was 0.27 μg ml-1. This study indicated that aptamers are an ideal tool for the recognition and detection of biomarkers, and thus will find wide applications in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Su
- Center of Scientific Research, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, People's Republic of China
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Zhan Z, Guan Y, Mew K, Zeng W, Peng M, Hu P, Yang Y, Lu Y, Ren H. Urine α-fetoprotein and orosomucoid 1 as biomarkers of hepatitis B virus-associated hepatocellular carcinoma. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2020; 318:G305-G312. [PMID: 31736338 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00267.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the sixth common malignant tumor worldwide, but current efficient and convenient screening methods remain lacking. This study aimed to discover a diagnostic or a screening biomarker from the urine of hepatitis B virus (HBV)-related HCC patients. We used iTRAQ coupled with mass spectrometry to identify candidate urinary proteins in a discovery cohort (n = 40). The selected proteins were confirmed using ELISA in a validation cohort (n = 140). Diagnostic performance of the selected proteins was assessed using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) and qualitative diagnostic analysis. A total of 96 differentially expressed proteins were identified. Urinary α-fetoprotein (u-AFP) and orosomucoid 1 (u-ORM1) were selected as target proteins by bioinformatics analysis and were significantly higher in HCC than in non-HCC patients, as validated by Western blot analysis and ELISA. u-AFP had a strong correlation with serum AFP-L3 (Pearson's r = 0.944, P < 0.0001), indicating that u-AFP may be derived from circulating blood. The area under the curve (AUC) of u-AFP was 0.795 with a sensitivity of 62.5% and a specificity of 95.4%, which showed no significantly difference with serum AFP (se-AFP). The AUC was 0.864 as u-AFP and u-ORM1 were combined, and they performed much better than u-AFP or u-ORM1 alone. Qualitative diagnostic analysis showed that the positive predictive value of u-AFP was 90.1% and the diagnostic sensitivity of parallel combination of u-AFP and u-ORM1 was 85.1%. Taken together, AFP and ORM1 in the urine may be used as a diagnostic or screening biomarker of HCC, and studies on large samples are needed to validate the result.NEW & NOTEWORTHY This study provides a novel way to find biomarkers of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and a new perspective of α-fetoprotein clinical application. The urine reagent strips may be helpful in high epidemic areas of HCC and in low-resource settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhu Zhan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Institute for Viral Hepatitis of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases, Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yalan Guan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Institute for Viral Hepatitis of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases, Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Kenley Mew
- Department of Foreign Language, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Weiqiong Zeng
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Institute for Viral Hepatitis of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases, Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Mingli Peng
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Institute for Viral Hepatitis of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases, Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Peng Hu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Institute for Viral Hepatitis of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases, Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yixuan Yang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Institute for Viral Hepatitis of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases, Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yi Lu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Institute for Viral Hepatitis of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases, Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hong Ren
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Institute for Viral Hepatitis of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases, Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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Kong H, Liu WW, Zhang W, Zhang Q, Wang CH, Khan MI, Wang YX, Fan LY, Cao CX. Facile, Rapid, and Low-Cost Electrophoresis Titration of Thrombin by Aptamer-Linked Magnetic Nanoparticles and a Redox Boundary Chip. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2019; 11:29549-29556. [PMID: 31259516 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.9b09598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
An aptamer-linked assay of a target biomarker (e.g., thrombin) is facing the challenges of long-term run, complex performance, and expensive instrument, unfitting clinical diagnosis in resource-limited areas. Herein, a facile chip electrophoresis titration (ET) model was proposed for rapid, portable, and low-cost assay of thrombin via aptamer-linked magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs), redox boundary (RB), and horseradish peroxidase (HRP). In the electrophoresis titration-redox boundary (ET-RB) model, thrombin was chosen as a model biomarker, which could be captured within 15 min by MNP-aptamer 1 and HRP-aptamer 2, forming a sandwich complex of (MNP-aptamer 1)-thrombin-(HRP-aptamer 2). After MNP separation and chromogenic reaction of 3,3',5,5'-tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) within 10 min, an ET-RB run could be completed within 5 min based on the reaction between a 3,3',5,5'-tetramethylbenzidine radical cation (TMB•+) and l-ascorbic acid in the ET channel. The systemic experiments based on the ET-RB method revealed that the sandwich complex could be formed and the thrombin content could be assayed via an ET-RB chip, demonstrating the developed model and method. In particular, the ET-RB method had the evident merits of simplicity, rapidity (less than 30 min), and low cost as well as portability and visuality, in contrast to the currently used thrombin assay. In addition, the developed method had high selectivity, sensitivity (limit of detection of 0.04 nM), and stability (intraday: 3.26%, interday: 6.07%) as well as good recovery (urine: 97-102%, serum: 94-103%). The developed model and method have potential to the development of a point-of-care testing assay in resource-constrained conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Kong
- Shanghai Sixth Peoples' Hospital East , Shanghai Jiao Tong University Medical School , Shanghai 201306 , China
| | - Wei-Wen Liu
- Shanghai Sixth Peoples' Hospital East , Shanghai Jiao Tong University Medical School , Shanghai 201306 , China
- Department of Instrument Science and Engineering, School of Electronic Information & Electrical Engineering , §State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, and School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology , ∥School of Physics and Astronomy , and ⊥Student Innovation Center , Shanghai Jiao Tong University , Shanghai 200240 , China
| | | | - Qiang Zhang
- Shanghai Sixth Peoples' Hospital East , Shanghai Jiao Tong University Medical School , Shanghai 201306 , China
- Department of Instrument Science and Engineering, School of Electronic Information & Electrical Engineering , §State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, and School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology , ∥School of Physics and Astronomy , and ⊥Student Innovation Center , Shanghai Jiao Tong University , Shanghai 200240 , China
| | - Cun-Huai Wang
- Shanghai Sixth Peoples' Hospital East , Shanghai Jiao Tong University Medical School , Shanghai 201306 , China
| | - Muhammad Idrees Khan
- Shanghai Sixth Peoples' Hospital East , Shanghai Jiao Tong University Medical School , Shanghai 201306 , China
| | | | | | - Cheng-Xi Cao
- Shanghai Sixth Peoples' Hospital East , Shanghai Jiao Tong University Medical School , Shanghai 201306 , China
- Department of Instrument Science and Engineering, School of Electronic Information & Electrical Engineering , §State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, and School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology , ∥School of Physics and Astronomy , and ⊥Student Innovation Center , Shanghai Jiao Tong University , Shanghai 200240 , China
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Djeha A, Money D, Trottier H, Djemli A, van Schalkwyk J, Boucher M, Boucoiran I. The association between antiretroviral therapy and early placental function: a cohort study. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2019; 34:683-689. [PMID: 31092068 DOI: 10.1080/14767058.2019.1613362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Objective: To evaluate the association of antiretroviral therapy (ART) type and duration of exposure with early placental function using biomarkers of aneuploidy screening.Study design: Three hundred thirty-eight pregnant women living with HIV were enrolled in two Canadian centers. Multiple linear regressions were performed adjusting for confounding factors (race, age, gestational age, body mass index, parity, smoking, and fetal sex).Results: Women receiving ART had significantly increased second trimester alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels (β = 0.147, 95% CI = [0.067-0.227] for protease inhibitor-based ART and β = 0.176, 95% CI = [0.080-0.272] for ART without protease inhibitor) compared to women who received no treatment. However, there was no significant association between ART type and the levels of free β-human chorionic gonadotrophin (β-hCG), pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A (first trimester), unconjugated estriol, total hCG, and inhibin A (second trimester). No significant association was shown between biomarker levels and duration of ART exposure.Conclusion: Early placental function does not appear to be significantly affected by ART, except for AFP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ameyo Djeha
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Université de Montréal, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sainte-Justine, Montreal, Canada
| | - Deborah Money
- Women's Health Research Institute, British Columbia Women's Hospital and Health Centre, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Helen Trottier
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Université de Montréal, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sainte-Justine, Montreal, Canada
| | - Anissa Djemli
- Biochemistry Laboratory, CHU Sainte-Justine, Montreal, Canada
| | - Julie van Schalkwyk
- Women's Health Research Institute, British Columbia Women's Hospital and Health Centre, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Marc Boucher
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Université de Montréal, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sainte-Justine, Montreal, Canada
| | - Isabelle Boucoiran
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Université de Montréal, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sainte-Justine, Montreal, Canada
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Mackie FL, Whittle R, Morris RK, Hyett J, Riley RD, Kilby MD. First-trimester ultrasound measurements and maternal serum biomarkers as prognostic factors in monochorionic twins: a cohort study. Diagn Progn Res 2019; 3:9. [PMID: 31093579 PMCID: PMC6507122 DOI: 10.1186/s41512-019-0054-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2018] [Accepted: 03/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Monochorionic twin pregnancies are at high risk of adverse outcomes, but it is not possible to predict which pregnancies will develop complications. The aim of the study was to evaluate, in monochorionic twin pregnancies, whether first-trimester ultrasound (nuchal translucency [NT], crown-rump length [CRL]), and maternal serum biomarkers (alpha-fetoprotein [AFP], soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 [sFlt-1] and placental growth factor [PlGF]), are prognostic factors for fetal adverse outcome composite, twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS), growth restriction, and intrauterine fetal death (IUFD). METHODS A cohort study of 177 monochorionic diamniotic twin pregnancies. Independent prognostic ability of each factor was assessed by multivariable logistic regression, adjusting for standard prognostic factors. Factors were analysed as continuous data; thus, the reported ORs relate to either 1% change in NT or CRL inter-twin percentage discordance or one unit of measure in each serum biomarker. RESULTS The odds of the fetal adverse outcome composite were significantly associated with increased NT inter-twin percentage discordance (adjusted OR 1.03 [95% CI 1.01, 1.06]) and CRL inter-twin percentage discordance (adjusted OR 1.17 [95% CI 1.07, 1.29]). TTTS was significantly associated with increased NT discordance (adjusted OR 1.06 [95% CI 1.03, 1.10]) and decreased PlGF (adjusted OR 0.42 [95% CI 0.19, 0.93]). Antenatal growth restriction was significantly associated with increased CRL discordance (adjusted OR 1.20 [95% CI 1.08, 1.34]). Single and double IUFD were associated with decreased PlGF (adjusted OR 0.34 [95% CI 0.12, 0.98]) and (adjusted OR 0.18 [95%CI 0.05, 0.58]) respectively. CONCLUSIONS This study has identified potential individual prognostic factors in the first trimester (fetal biometric and maternal serum biomarkers) that show promise but require further robust evaluation in a larger, prospective series of MC twin pregnancies, so that their usefulness both individually and in combination can be defined. TRIAL REGISTRATION ISRCTN 13114861 (retrospectively registered).
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona L. Mackie
- Centre for Women’s and Newborn Health, Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT UK
- Fetal Medicine Department, Birmingham Women’s and Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TG UK
| | - Rebecca Whittle
- Centre for Prognosis Research, Research Institute for Primary Care & Health Sciences, Keele University, Keele, Staffordshire ST5 5BG UK
| | - R. Katie Morris
- Centre for Women’s and Newborn Health, Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT UK
- Fetal Medicine Department, Birmingham Women’s and Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TG UK
| | - Jon Hyett
- Department of Women and Babies, Royal Alfred Hospital, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Richard D. Riley
- Centre for Prognosis Research, Research Institute for Primary Care & Health Sciences, Keele University, Keele, Staffordshire ST5 5BG UK
| | - Mark D. Kilby
- Centre for Women’s and Newborn Health, Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT UK
- Fetal Medicine Department, Birmingham Women’s and Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TG UK
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48
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Rizzo A, Galgano M, Mutinati M, Sciorsci R. Alpha-fetoprotein in animal reproduction. Res Vet Sci 2019; 123:281-285. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2019.01.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2018] [Revised: 01/24/2019] [Accepted: 01/27/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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49
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Lerman MJ, Muramoto S, Arumugasaamy N, Van Order M, Lembong J, Gerald AG, Gillen G, Fisher JP. Development of surface functionalization strategies for 3D-printed polystyrene constructs. J Biomed Mater Res B Appl Biomater 2019; 107:2566-2578. [PMID: 30821930 DOI: 10.1002/jbm.b.34347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2018] [Revised: 01/18/2019] [Accepted: 02/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
There is a growing interest in 3D printing to fabricate culture substrates; however, the surface properties of the scaffold remain pertinent to elicit targeted and expected cell responses. Traditional 2D polystyrene (PS) culture systems typically require surface functionalization (oxidation) to facilitate and encourage cell adhesion. Determining the surface properties which enhance protein adhesion from media and cellular extracellular matrix (ECM) production remains the first step to translating 2D PS systems to a 3D culture surface. Here we show that the presence of carbonyl groups to PS surfaces correlated well with successful adhesion of ECM proteins and sustaining ECM production of deposited human mesenchymal stem cells, if the surface has a water contact angle between 50° and 55°. Translation of these findings to custom-fabricated 3D PS scaffolds reveals carbonyl groups continued to enhance spreading and growth in 3D culture. Cumulatively, these data present a method for 3D printing PS and the design considerations required for understanding cell-material interactions. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 107B:2566-2578, 2019.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max J Lerman
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland.,Surface and Trace Chemical Analysis Group, Materials Measurement Laboratory, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, Maryland.,Center for Engineering Complex Tissues, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland
| | - Shin Muramoto
- Surface and Trace Chemical Analysis Group, Materials Measurement Laboratory, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, Maryland
| | - Navein Arumugasaamy
- Center for Engineering Complex Tissues, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland.,Fischell Department of Bioengineerin, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland.,Sheikh Zayed Institute for Pediatric Surgical Innovation, Children's National Health System, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Michael Van Order
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland
| | - Josephine Lembong
- Center for Engineering Complex Tissues, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland.,Fischell Department of Bioengineerin, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland
| | - Anushka G Gerald
- Center for Engineering Complex Tissues, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland.,Fischell Department of Bioengineerin, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland
| | - Greg Gillen
- Surface and Trace Chemical Analysis Group, Materials Measurement Laboratory, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, Maryland
| | - John P Fisher
- Center for Engineering Complex Tissues, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland.,Fischell Department of Bioengineerin, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland
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50
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Abstract
Alpha-fetoprotein is a shuttle protein that delivers nutrients through receptor-mediated endocytosis to embryotic cells. In adults, alpha-fetoprotein can shuttle drugs into alpha-fetoprotein receptor-positive myeloid-derived suppressor, regenerating and also cancer cells. Drugs with high-binding affinity to alpha-fetoprotein can activate or deplete targeted cells. Myeloid-derived suppressor cells activation leads to immune suppression that can be used for treating autoimmune diseases. On the other hand, toxins delivered by alpha-fetoprotein can damage myeloid-derived suppressor cells and consequently unleash innate and adaptive immunity to destroy cancer cells. Innate immunity natural killers reduce cancer stem cells and metastases. The new alpha-fetoprotein drug noncovalent complexes for immunotherapy change the local immune balance and has potential in oncology, autoimmune and infectious diseases treatment, inflammation, transplantation, vaccination, etc.
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