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Chowdhury NN, Yang Y, Dutta A, Luo M, Wei Z, Abrahams SR, Revenko AS, Shah F, Miles LA, Parmer RJ, de Laat B, Wolberg AS, Luyendyk JP, Fishel ML, Flick MJ. Plasminogen deficiency suppresses pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma disease progression. Mol Oncol 2024; 18:113-135. [PMID: 37971174 PMCID: PMC10766200 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.13552] [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: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a highly fatal metastatic disease associated with robust activation of the coagulation and fibrinolytic systems. However, the potential contribution of the primary fibrinolytic protease plasminogen to PDAC disease progression has remained largely undefined. Mice bearing C57Bl/6-derived KPC (KRasG12D , TRP53R172H ) tumors displayed evidence of plasmin activity in the form of high plasmin-antiplasmin complexes and high plasmin generation potential relative to mice without tumors. Notably, plasminogen-deficient mice (Plg- ) had significantly diminished KPC tumor growth in subcutaneous and orthotopic implantation models. Moreover, the metastatic potential of KPC cells was significantly diminished in Plg- mice, which was linked to reduced early adhesion and/or survival of KPC tumor cells. The reduction in primary orthotopic KPC tumor growth in Plg- mice was associated with increased apoptosis, reduced accumulation of pro-tumor immune cells, and increased local proinflammatory cytokine production. Elimination of fibrin(ogen), the primary proteolytic target of plasmin, did not alter KPC primary tumor growth and resulted in only a modest reduction in metastatic potential. In contrast, deficiencies in the plasminogen receptors Plg-RKT or S100A10 in tumor cells significantly reduced tumor growth. Plg-RKT reduction in tumor cells, but not reduced S100A10, suppressed metastatic potential in a manner that mimicked plasminogen deficiency. Finally, tumor growth was also reduced in NSG mice subcutaneously or orthotopically implanted with patient-derived PDAC tumor cells in which circulating plasminogen was pharmacologically reduced. Collectively, these studies suggest that plasminogen promotes PDAC tumor growth and metastatic potential, in part through engaging plasminogen receptors on tumor cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nayela N. Chowdhury
- Department of Pediatrics and Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric ResearchIndianapolisINUSA
- Indiana University Simon Comprehensive Cancer CenterIndianapolisINUSA
- Department of Pharmacology and ToxicologyIndiana University School of MedicineIndianapolisINUSA
| | - Yi Yang
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory MedicineUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel HillNCUSA
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer CenterUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel HillNCUSA
- UNC Blood Research CenterUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel HillNCUSA
| | - Ananya Dutta
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory MedicineUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel HillNCUSA
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer CenterUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel HillNCUSA
- UNC Blood Research CenterUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel HillNCUSA
| | - Michelle Luo
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory MedicineUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel HillNCUSA
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer CenterUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel HillNCUSA
- UNC Blood Research CenterUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel HillNCUSA
| | - Zimu Wei
- Department of Pathobiology & Diagnostic InvestigationMichigan State UniversityEast LansingMIUSA
- Institute for Integrative ToxicologyMichigan State UniversityEast LansingMIUSA
- Department of Pharmacology and ToxicologyMichigan State UniversityEast LansingMIUSA
| | - Sara R. Abrahams
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory MedicineUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel HillNCUSA
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer CenterUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel HillNCUSA
- UNC Blood Research CenterUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel HillNCUSA
| | | | - Fenil Shah
- Department of Pediatrics and Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric ResearchIndianapolisINUSA
- Indiana University Simon Comprehensive Cancer CenterIndianapolisINUSA
| | - Lindsey A. Miles
- Department of Molecular MedicineScripps Research InstituteLa JollaCAUSA
| | - Robert J. Parmer
- Department of Medicine, Veterans Administration San Diego Healthcare SystemUniversity of California, San DiegoCAUSA
| | - Bas de Laat
- Synapse Research InstituteMaastrichtThe Netherlands
| | - Alisa S. Wolberg
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory MedicineUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel HillNCUSA
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer CenterUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel HillNCUSA
- UNC Blood Research CenterUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel HillNCUSA
| | - James P. Luyendyk
- Department of Pathobiology & Diagnostic InvestigationMichigan State UniversityEast LansingMIUSA
- Institute for Integrative ToxicologyMichigan State UniversityEast LansingMIUSA
- Department of Pharmacology and ToxicologyMichigan State UniversityEast LansingMIUSA
| | - Melissa L. Fishel
- Department of Pediatrics and Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric ResearchIndianapolisINUSA
- Indiana University Simon Comprehensive Cancer CenterIndianapolisINUSA
- Department of Pharmacology and ToxicologyIndiana University School of MedicineIndianapolisINUSA
| | - Matthew J. Flick
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory MedicineUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel HillNCUSA
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer CenterUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel HillNCUSA
- UNC Blood Research CenterUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel HillNCUSA
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Alsabbagh R, Ahmed M, Alqudah MAY, Hamoudi R, Harati R. Insights into the Molecular Mechanisms Mediating Extravasation in Brain Metastasis of Breast Cancer, Melanoma, and Lung Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15082258. [PMID: 37190188 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15082258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 04/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain metastasis is an incurable end-stage of systemic cancer associated with poor prognosis, and its incidence is increasing. Brain metastasis occurs through a multi-step cascade where cancer cells spread from the primary tumor site to the brain. The extravasation of tumor cells through the blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a critical step in brain metastasis. During extravasation, circulating cancer cells roll along the brain endothelium (BE), adhere to it, then induce alterations in the endothelial barrier to transmigrate through the BBB and enter the brain. Rolling and adhesion are generally mediated by selectins and adhesion molecules induced by inflammatory mediators, while alterations in the endothelial barrier are mediated by proteolytic enzymes, including matrix metalloproteinase, and the transmigration step mediated by factors, including chemokines. However, the molecular mechanisms mediating extravasation are not yet fully understood. A better understanding of these mechanisms is essential as it may serve as the basis for the development of therapeutic strategies for the prevention or treatment of brain metastases. In this review, we summarize the molecular events that occur during the extravasation of cancer cells through the blood-brain barrier in three types of cancer most likely to develop brain metastasis: breast cancer, melanoma, and lung cancer. Common molecular mechanisms driving extravasation in these different tumors are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rama Alsabbagh
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Pharmacotherapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Munazza Ahmed
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Pharmacotherapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mohammad A Y Alqudah
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Pharmacotherapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid 22110, Jordan
| | - Rifat Hamoudi
- Clinical Sciences Department, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
- Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, University College London, London W1W 7EJ, UK
| | - Rania Harati
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Pharmacotherapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
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Ippolitov D, Arreza L, Munir MN, Hombach-Klonisch S. Brain Microvascular Pericytes—More than Bystanders in Breast Cancer Brain Metastasis. Cells 2022; 11:cells11081263. [PMID: 35455945 PMCID: PMC9028330 DOI: 10.3390/cells11081263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain tissue contains the highest number of perivascular pericytes compared to other organs. Pericytes are known to regulate brain perfusion and to play an important role within the neurovascular unit (NVU). The high phenotypic and functional plasticity of pericytes make this cell type a prime candidate to aid physiological adaptations but also propose pericytes as important modulators in diverse pathologies in the brain. This review highlights known phenotypes of pericytes in the brain, discusses the diverse markers for brain pericytes, and reviews current in vitro and in vivo experimental models to study pericyte function. Our current knowledge of pericyte phenotypes as it relates to metastatic growth patterns in breast cancer brain metastasis is presented as an example for the crosstalk between pericytes, endothelial cells, and metastatic cells. Future challenges lie in establishing methods for real-time monitoring of pericyte crosstalk to understand causal events in the brain metastatic process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danyyl Ippolitov
- Department of Human Anatomy and Cell Science, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0J9, Canada; (D.I.); (L.A.); (M.N.M.)
| | - Leanne Arreza
- Department of Human Anatomy and Cell Science, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0J9, Canada; (D.I.); (L.A.); (M.N.M.)
| | - Maliha Nuzhat Munir
- Department of Human Anatomy and Cell Science, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0J9, Canada; (D.I.); (L.A.); (M.N.M.)
| | - Sabine Hombach-Klonisch
- Department of Human Anatomy and Cell Science, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0J9, Canada; (D.I.); (L.A.); (M.N.M.)
- Department of Pathology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0Z2, Canada
- Correspondence:
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Design of Bio-Responsive Hyaluronic Acid-Doxorubicin Conjugates for the Local Treatment of Glioblastoma. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14010124. [PMID: 35057020 PMCID: PMC8781529 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14010124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Revised: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma is an unmet clinical need. Local treatment strategies offer advantages, such as the possibility to bypass the blood–brain barrier, achieving high drug concentrations at the glioblastoma site, and consequently reducing systemic toxicity. In this study, we evaluated the feasibility of using hyaluronic acid (HA) for the local treatment of glioblastoma. HA was conjugated to doxorubicin (DOX) with distinct bio-responsive linkers (direct amide conjugation HA-NH-DOX), direct hydrazone conjugation (HA-Hz-DOX), and adipic hydrazone (HA-AdpHz-DOX). All HA-DOX conjugates displayed a small size (less than 30 nm), suitable for brain diffusion. HA-Hz-DOX showed the best performance in killing GBM cells in both 2D and 3D in vitro models and displayed superior activity in a subcutaneous GL261 tumor model in vivo compared to free DOX and other HA-DOX conjugates. Altogether, these results demonstrate the feasibility of HA as a polymeric platform for the local treatment of glioblastoma and the importance of rationally designing conjugates.
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Plasminogen-binding proteins as an evasion mechanism of the host's innate immunity in infectious diseases. Biosci Rep 2018; 38:BSR20180705. [PMID: 30166455 PMCID: PMC6167496 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20180705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2018] [Revised: 07/27/2018] [Accepted: 08/14/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Pathogens have developed particular strategies to infect and invade their hosts. Amongst these strategies’ figures the modulation of several components of the innate immune system participating in early host defenses, such as the coagulation and complement cascades, as well as the fibrinolytic system. The components of the coagulation cascade and the fibrinolytic system have been proposed to be interfered during host invasion and tissue migration of bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and more recently, helminths. One of the components that has been proposed to facilitate pathogen migration is plasminogen (Plg), a protein found in the host’s plasma, which is activated into plasmin (Plm), a serine protease that degrades fibrin networks and promotes degradation of extracellular matrix (ECM), aiding maintenance of homeostasis. However, pathogens possess Plg-binding proteins that can activate it, therefore taking advantage of the fibrin degradation to facilitate establishment in their hosts. Emergence of Plg-binding proteins appears to have occurred in diverse infectious agents along evolutionary history of host–pathogen relationships. The goal of the present review is to list, summarize, and analyze different examples of Plg-binding proteins used by infectious agents to invade and establish in their hosts. Emphasis was placed on mechanisms used by helminth parasites, particularly taeniid cestodes, where enolase has been identified as a major Plg-binding and activating protein. A new picture is starting to arise about how this glycolytic enzyme could acquire an entirely new role as modulator of the innate immune system in the context of the host–parasite relationship.
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Wilhelm I, Fazakas C, Molnár K, Végh AG, Haskó J, Krizbai IA. Foe or friend? Janus-faces of the neurovascular unit in the formation of brain metastases. J Cereb Blood Flow Metab 2018; 38:563-587. [PMID: 28920514 PMCID: PMC5888855 DOI: 10.1177/0271678x17732025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2017] [Revised: 07/13/2017] [Accepted: 08/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Despite the potential obstacle represented by the blood-brain barrier for extravasating malignant cells, metastases are more frequent than primary tumors in the central nervous system. Not only tightly interconnected endothelial cells can hinder metastasis formation, other cells of the brain microenvironment (like astrocytes and microglia) can also be very hostile, destroying the large majority of metastatic cells. However, malignant cells that are able to overcome these harmful mechanisms may benefit from the shielding and even support provided by cerebral endothelial cells, astrocytes and microglia, rendering the brain a sanctuary site against anti-tumor strategies. Thus, cells of the neurovascular unit have a Janus-faced attitude towards brain metastatic cells, being both destructive and protective. In this review, we present the main mechanisms of brain metastasis formation, including those involved in extravasation through the brain vasculature and survival in the cerebral environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imola Wilhelm
- Institute of Biophysics, Biological Research Centre, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Szeged, Hungary
- Institute of Life Sciences, Vasile Goldiş Western University of Arad, Arad, Romania
| | - Csilla Fazakas
- Institute of Biophysics, Biological Research Centre, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Kinga Molnár
- Institute of Biophysics, Biological Research Centre, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Attila G Végh
- Institute of Biophysics, Biological Research Centre, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Szeged, Hungary
| | - János Haskó
- Institute of Biophysics, Biological Research Centre, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Szeged, Hungary
| | - István A Krizbai
- Institute of Biophysics, Biological Research Centre, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Szeged, Hungary
- Institute of Life Sciences, Vasile Goldiş Western University of Arad, Arad, Romania
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Viedma-Rodríguez R, Martínez-Hernández MG, Flores-López LA, Baiza-Gutman LA. Epsilon-aminocaproic acid prevents high glucose and insulin induced-invasiveness in MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells, modulating the plasminogen activator system. Mol Cell Biochem 2017; 437:65-80. [PMID: 28612231 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-017-3096-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2017] [Accepted: 06/08/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Obesity and type II diabetes mellitus have contributed to the increase of breast cancer incidence worldwide. High glucose concentration promotes the proliferation of metastatic cells, favoring the activation of the plasminogen/plasmin system, thus contributing to tumor progression. The efficient formation of plasmin is dependent on the binding of plasminogen to the cell surface. We studied the effect of ε-aminocaproic acid (EACA), an inhibitor of the binding of plasminogen to cell surface, on proliferation, migration, invasion, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and plasminogen activation system, in metastatic MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells grown in a high glucose microenvironment and treated with insulin. MDA-MB-231 cells were treated with EACA 12.5 mmol/L under high glucose 30 mmol/L (HG) and high glucose and insulin 80 nmol/L (HG-I) conditions, evaluating: cell population growth, % of viability, migratory, and invasive abilities, as well as the expression of uPA, its receptor (uPAR), and its inhibitor (PAI-1), by real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and Western blot, MMP-2 and MMP-9 mRNAs were evaluated by RT-PCR. Markers of EMT were evaluated by Western blot. Additionally, the presence of active uPA was studied by gel zymography, using casein-plasminogen as substrates. EACA prevented the increase in cell population, migration and invasion induced by HG and insulin, which was associated with the inhibition of EMT and the attenuation of HG- and insulin-dependent expression of uPA, uPAR, PAI-1, MMP-2, MMP-9, α-enolase (ENO A), and HCAM. The interaction of plasminogen to the cell surface and plasmin formation are mediators of the prometastasic action of hyperglycemia and insulin, potentially, EACA can be employed in the prevention and as adjuvant treatment of breast tumorigenesis promoted by hyperglycemia and insulin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rubí Viedma-Rodríguez
- Unidad de Morfofisiología, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida de los Barrios 1, Los Reyes Iztacala, 54090, Tlalnepantla, Estado de México, Mexico
| | - María Guadalupe Martínez-Hernández
- Unidad de Morfofisiología, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida de los Barrios 1, Los Reyes Iztacala, 54090, Tlalnepantla, Estado de México, Mexico
| | - Luis Antonio Flores-López
- Unidad de Morfofisiología, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida de los Barrios 1, Los Reyes Iztacala, 54090, Tlalnepantla, Estado de México, Mexico
| | - Luis Arturo Baiza-Gutman
- Unidad de Morfofisiología, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida de los Barrios 1, Los Reyes Iztacala, 54090, Tlalnepantla, Estado de México, Mexico.
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Hiller JG, Parat MO, Ben-Eliyahu S. The Role of Perioperative Pharmacological Adjuncts in Cancer Outcomes: Beta-Adrenergic Receptor Antagonists, NSAIDs and Anti-fibrinolytics. CURRENT ANESTHESIOLOGY REPORTS 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/s40140-015-0113-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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Blecharz KG, Colla R, Rohde V, Vajkoczy P. Control of the blood-brain barrier function in cancer cell metastasis. Biol Cell 2015; 107:342-71. [PMID: 26032862 DOI: 10.1111/boc.201500011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2015] [Accepted: 05/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Cerebral metastases are the most common brain neoplasms seen clinically in the adults and comprise more than half of all brain tumours. Actual treatment options for brain metastases that include surgical resection, radiotherapy and chemotherapy are rarely curative, although palliative treatment improves survival and life quality of patients carrying brain-metastatic tumours. Chemotherapy in particular has also shown limited or no activity in brain metastasis of most tumour types. Many chemotherapeutic agents used systemically do not cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB), whereas others may transiently weaken the BBB and allow extravasation of tumour cells from the circulation into the brain parenchyma. Increasing evidence points out that the interaction between the BBB and tumour cells plays a key role for implantation and growth of brain metastases in the central nervous system. The BBB, as the tightest endothelial barrier, prevents both early detection and treatment by creating a privileged microenvironment. Therefore, as observed in several in vivo studies, precise targetting the BBB by a specific transient opening of the structure making it permeable for therapeutic compounds, might potentially help to overcome this difficult clinical problem. Moreover, a better understanding of the molecular features of the BBB, its interrelation with metastatic tumour cells and the elucidation of cellular mechanisms responsible for establishing cerebral metastasis must be clearly outlined in order to promote treatment modalities that particularly involve chemotherapy. This in turn would substantially expand the survival and quality of life of patients with brain metastasis, and potentially increase the remission rate. Therefore, the focus of this review is to summarise the current knowledge on the role and function of the BBB in cancer metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kinga G Blecharz
- Department of Experimental Neurosurgery, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, 10119, Germany
| | - Ruben Colla
- Department of Neurosurgery, Göttingen University Medical Center, Göttingen, 37070, Germany
| | - Veit Rohde
- Department of Neurosurgery, Göttingen University Medical Center, Göttingen, 37070, Germany
| | - Peter Vajkoczy
- Department of Experimental Neurosurgery, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, 10119, Germany.,Department of Neurosurgery, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, 13353, Germany
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From plasminogen to plasmin: role of plasminogen receptors in human cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2014; 15:21229-52. [PMID: 25407528 PMCID: PMC4264222 DOI: 10.3390/ijms151121229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2014] [Revised: 11/04/2014] [Accepted: 11/12/2014] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell surface-associated proteolysis mediated by plasmin (PLA) is an essential feature of wound healing, angiogenesis and cell invasion, processes that are dysregulated in cancer development, progression and systemic spread. The generation of PLA, initiated by the binding of its precursor plasminogen (PLG) to the cell surface, is regulated by an array of activators, inhibitors and receptors. In this review, we will highlight the importance of the best-characterized components of the PLG/PLA cascade in the pathogenesis of cancer focusing on the role of the cell surface-PLG receptors (PLG-R). PLG-R overexpression has been associated with poor prognosis of cancer patients and resistance to chemotherapy. We will also discuss recent findings on the molecular mechanisms regulating cell surface expression and distribution of PLG-R.
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Afsharimani B, Cabot P, Parat MO. Effect of lysine antifibrinolytics and cyclooxygenase inhibitors on the proteolytic profile of breast cancer cells interacting with macrophages or endothelial cells. Br J Anaesth 2014; 113 Suppl 1:i22-31. [DOI: 10.1093/bja/aet468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
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Kenchappa RS, Tran N, Rao NG, Smalley KS, Gibney GT, Sondak VK, Forsyth PA. Novel treatments for melanoma brain metastases. Cancer Control 2014; 20:298-306. [PMID: 24077406 DOI: 10.1177/107327481302000407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The development of brain metastases is common in patients with melanoma and is associated with a poor prognosis. Treating patients with melanoma brain metastases (MBMs) is a major therapeutic challenge. Standard approaches with conventional chemotherapy are disappointing, while surgery and radiotherapy have improved outcomes. METHODS In this article, we discuss the biology of MBMs, briefly outline current treatment approaches, and emphasize novel and emerging therapies for MBMs. RESULTS The mechanisms that underlie the metastases of melanoma to the brain are unknown; therefore, it is necessary to identify pathways to target MBMs. Most patients with MBMs have short survival times. Recent use of immune-based and targeted therapies has changed the natural history of metastatic melanoma and may be effective for the treatment of patients with MBMs. CONCLUSIONS Developing a better understanding of the factors responsible for MBMs will lead to improved management of this disease. In addition, determining the optimal treatments for MBMs and how they can be optimized or combined with other therapies, along with appropriate patient selection, are challenges for the management of this disease.
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Wilhelm I, Fazakas C, Molnár J, Haskó J, Végh AG, Cervenak L, Nagyőszi P, Nyúl-Tóth A, Farkas AE, Bauer H, Guillemin GJ, Bauer HC, Váró G, Krizbai IA. Role of Rho/ROCK signaling in the interaction of melanoma cells with the blood-brain barrier. Pigment Cell Melanoma Res 2013; 27:113-23. [PMID: 24148763 DOI: 10.1111/pcmr.12169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2013] [Accepted: 09/16/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
We have investigated the role of the Rho/ROCK signaling pathway in the interaction of metastatic melanoma cells with the brain endothelium. ROCK inhibition induced a shift of melanoma cells to the mesenchymal phenotype, increased the number of melanoma cells attached to the brain endothelium, and strengthened the adhesion force between melanoma and endothelial cells. Inhibition of ROCK raised the number of melanoma cells migrating through the brain endothelial monolayer and promoted the formation of parenchymal brain metastases in vivo. We have shown that inhibition of the Rho/ROCK pathway in melanoma, but not in brain endothelial cells, is responsible for this phenomenon. Our results indicate that the mesenchymal type of tumor cell movement is primordial in the transmigration of melanoma cells through the blood-brain barrier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imola Wilhelm
- Institute of Biophysics, Biological Research Centre, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Szeged, Hungary
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Balathasan L, Beech JS, Muschel RJ. Ultrasonography-guided intracardiac injection: an improvement for quantitative brain colonization assays. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2013; 183:26-34. [PMID: 23665347 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2013.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2013] [Revised: 03/17/2013] [Accepted: 03/26/2013] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Brain metastasis is a frequent occurrence in patients with cancer, with devastating consequences. The current animal models for brain metastasis are highly variable, leading to a need for improved in vivo models that recapitulate the clinical disease. Herein, we describe an experimental brain metastasis model that uses ultrasonographic guidance to perform intracardiac injections. This method is easy to perform, giving consistent and quantitative results. Demonstrating the utility of this method, we have assessed a variety of metastatic cell lines for their ability to develop into brain metastases. Those cell lines that were competent at brain colonization could be detected in the brain vasculature 4 hours after intracardiac injection, and a few adherent cells persisted until colonization occurred. In contrast, those cell lines that were deficient in brain colonization were infrequently found 4 hours after introduction into the arterial circulation and were not detected at later time points. All of these cells were capable of brain colonization after intraparenchymal injection. We propose that adherence to the brain vasculature may be the key limiting step that determines the ability of a cancer cell to form brain metastases successfully. Identifying brain endothelium-specific adhesion molecules may enable development of screening modalities to detect brain-colonizing cancer cells and therapies to prevent these metastatic cells from seeding the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukxmi Balathasan
- Department of Oncology, the Gray Institute for Radiation, Oncology and Biology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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Daphu I, Sundstrøm T, Horn S, Huszthy PC, Niclou SP, Sakariassen PØ, Immervoll H, Miletic H, Bjerkvig R, Thorsen F. In vivo animal models for studying brain metastasis: value and limitations. Clin Exp Metastasis 2013; 30:695-710. [DOI: 10.1007/s10585-013-9566-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2012] [Accepted: 01/07/2013] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
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16
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Role of the blood-brain barrier in the formation of brain metastases. Int J Mol Sci 2013; 14:1383-411. [PMID: 23344048 PMCID: PMC3565326 DOI: 10.3390/ijms14011383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 126] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2012] [Revised: 12/12/2012] [Accepted: 12/14/2012] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The majority of brain metastases originate from lung cancer, breast cancer and malignant melanoma. In order to reach the brain, parenchyma metastatic cells have to transmigrate through the endothelial cell layer of brain capillaries, which forms the morphological basis of the blood-brain barrier (BBB). The BBB has a dual role in brain metastasis formation: it forms a tight barrier protecting the central nervous system from entering cancer cells, but it is also actively involved in protecting metastatic cells during extravasation and proliferation in the brain. The mechanisms of interaction of cancer cells and cerebral endothelial cells are largely uncharacterized. Here, we provide a comprehensive review on our current knowledge about the role of junctional and adhesion molecules, soluble factors, proteolytic enzymes and signaling pathways mediating the attachment of tumor cells to brain endothelial cells and the transendothelial migration of metastatic cells. Since brain metastases represent a great therapeutic challenge, it is indispensable to understand the mechanisms of the interaction of tumor cells with the BBB in order to find targets of prevention of brain metastasis formation.
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17
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Cell surface remodeling by plasmin: a new function for an old enzyme. J Biomed Biotechnol 2012; 2012:564259. [PMID: 23097597 PMCID: PMC3477900 DOI: 10.1155/2012/564259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2012] [Accepted: 06/01/2012] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Plasmin, one of the most potent and reactive serine proteases, is involved in various physiological processes, including embryo development, thrombolysis, wound healing and cancer progression. The proteolytic activity of plasmin is tightly regulated through activation of its precursor, plasminogen, only at specific times and in defined locales as well as through inhibition of active plasmin by its abundant natural inhibitors. By exploiting the plasminogen activating system and overexpressing distinct components of the plasminogen activation cascade, such as pro-uPA, uPAR and plasminogen receptors, malignant cells can enhance the generation of plasmin which in turn, modifies the tumor microenvironment to sustain cancer progression. While plasmin-mediated degradation and modification of extracellular matrix proteins, release of growth factors and cytokines from the stroma as well as activation of several matrix metalloproteinase zymogens, all have been a focus of cancer research studies for decades, the ability of plasmin to cleave transmembrane molecules and thereby to generate functionally important cleaved products which induce outside-in signal transduction, has just begun to receive sufficient attention. Herein, we highlight this relatively understudied, but important function of the plasmin enzyme as it is generated de novo at the interface between cross-talking cancer and host cells.
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18
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Transmigration of melanoma cells through the blood-brain barrier: role of endothelial tight junctions and melanoma-released serine proteases. PLoS One 2011; 6:e20758. [PMID: 21674054 PMCID: PMC3107231 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0020758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2011] [Accepted: 05/08/2011] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Malignant melanoma represents the third common cause of brain metastasis, having the highest propensity to metastasize to the brain of all primary neoplasms in adults. Since the central nervous system lacks a lymphatic system, the only possibility for melanoma cells to reach the brain is via the blood stream and the blood-brain barrier. Despite the great clinical importance, mechanisms of transmigration of melanoma cells through the blood-brain barrier are incompletely understood. In order to investigate this question we have used an in vitro experimental setup based on the culture of cerebral endothelial cells (CECs) and the A2058 and B16/F10 melanoma cell lines, respectively. Melanoma cells were able to adhere to confluent brain endothelial cells, a process followed by elimination of protrusions and transmigration from the luminal to the basolateral side of the endothelial monolayers. The transmigration process of certain cells was accelerated when they were able to use the routes preformed by previously transmigrated melanoma cells. After migrating through the endothelial monolayer several melanoma cells continued their movement beneath the endothelial cell layer. Melanoma cells coming in contact with brain endothelial cells disrupted the tight and adherens junctions of CECs and used (at least partially) the paracellular transmigration pathway. During this process melanoma cells produced and released large amounts of proteolytic enzymes, mainly gelatinolytic serine proteases, including seprase. The serine protease inhibitor Pefabloc® was able to decrease to 44–55% the number of melanoma cells migrating through CECs. Our results suggest that release of serine proteases by melanoma cells and disintegration of the interendothelial junctional complex are main steps in the formation of brain metastases in malignant melanoma.
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19
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Wang J, Daphu I, Pedersen PH, Miletic H, Hovland R, Mørk S, Bjerkvig R, Tiron C, McCormack E, Micklem D, Lorens JB, Immervoll H, Thorsen F. A novel brain metastases model developed in immunodeficient rats closely mimics the growth of metastatic brain tumours in patients. Neuropathol Appl Neurobiol 2011; 37:189-205. [PMID: 20819169 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2990.2010.01119.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
AIMS brain metastasis is a common cause of mortality in cancer patients, and associated with poor prognosis. Our objective was to develop a clinically relevant animal model by transplanting human biopsy spheroids derived from metastatic lesions into brains of immunodeficient rats. METHODS nine different patient brain metastases from four different primary cancers were implanted into brains of immunodeficient rats. The xenografts were compared with patient tumours by magnetic resonance imaging, histochemistry, immunohistochemistry and DNA copy number analysis. RESULTS after transplantation, tumour growth was achieved in seven out of nine human brain metastases. Spheroids derived from four of the metastases initiated in the rat brains were further serially transplanted into new animals and a 100% tumour take was observed during second passage. Three of the biopsies were implanted subcutaneously, where no tumour take was observed. The animal brain metastases exhibited similar radiological features as observed clinically. Histological comparisons between the primary tumours from the patients, the patient brain metastases and the derived xenografts showed striking similarities in histology and growth patterns. Also, immunohistochemistry showed a strong marker expression similarity between the patient tumours and the corresponding xenografts. DNA copy number analysis between the brain metastases, and the corresponding xenografts revealed strong similarities in gains and losses of chromosomal content. CONCLUSION we have developed a representative in vivo model for studying the growth of human metastatic brain cancers. The model described represents an important tool to assess responses to new treatment modalities and for studying mechanisms behind metastatic growth in the central nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Wang
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
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20
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Decoding melanoma metastasis. Cancers (Basel) 2010; 3:126-63. [PMID: 24212610 PMCID: PMC3756353 DOI: 10.3390/cancers3010126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2010] [Revised: 12/22/2010] [Accepted: 12/23/2010] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Metastasis accounts for the vast majority of morbidity and mortality associated with melanoma. Evidence suggests melanoma has a predilection for metastasis to particular organs. Experimental analyses have begun to shed light on the mechanisms regulating melanoma metastasis and organ specificity, but these analyses are complicated by observations of metastatic dormancy and dissemination of melanocytes that are not yet fully malignant. Additionally, tumor extrinsic factors in the microenvironment, both at the site of the primary tumor and the site of metastasis, play important roles in mediating the metastatic process. As metastasis research moves forward, paradigms explaining melanoma metastasis as a step-wise process must also reflect the temporal complexity and heterogeneity in progression of this disease. Genetic drivers of melanoma as well as extrinsic regulators of disease spread, particularly those that mediate metastasis to specific organs, must also be incorporated into newer models of melanoma metastasis.
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21
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Cruz-Muñoz W, Kerbel RS. Preclinical approaches to study the biology and treatment of brain metastases. Semin Cancer Biol 2010; 21:123-30. [PMID: 21147227 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2010.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2010] [Accepted: 12/02/2010] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Metastatic spread to the central nervous system (CNS) is a common and devastating manifestation of major cancer types. Its incidence is associated with poor prognosis manifested by neurological deterioration leading to diminished quality of life and an extremely short median survival. CNS metastasis is becoming an increasingly important clinical problem. This is especially the case for certain types of cancers for which effective treatments of visceral disease are available. As a result of the present limitations in treating CNS metastases, this manifestation of tumor progression remains an unmet clinical need. Despite its significance, our general understanding of the mechanisms that regulate the brain-metastatic phenotype is currently meager. Both the analysis of mechanistic aspects of brain metastasis and the development of effective treatments necessitate the use of appropriate in vivo models that recapitulate the interaction of the tumor cells with the microenvironment of the brain. Here we review the available preclinical models of CNS metastasis and their use as tools to advance knowledge of the biology of the disease (with the aim of identifying relevant molecular determinants, prognostic biomarkers, and therapeutic targets) as well as examining effective approaches for treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Cruz-Muñoz
- Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Molecular and Cellular Biology Research, S-217, 2075 Bayview Ave., Toronto, Ontario M4N 3M5, Canada
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22
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Siu TL, Huang S. Cerebral metastases from malignant melanoma: current treatment strategies, advances in novel therapeutics and future directions. Cancers (Basel) 2010; 2:364-75. [PMID: 24281074 PMCID: PMC3835082 DOI: 10.3390/cancers2020364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2010] [Revised: 03/25/2010] [Accepted: 04/01/2010] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Of all primary cancers in humans, melanoma has the highest propensity to metastasize to the brain. The prognosis of patients with this disease is extremely poor. Due to its radioresistance and poor response to existing chemotherapeutic regimes, no treatment options other than surgical extirpation, when feasible, have been shown to be effective. An understanding of the underlying tumor biology therefore remains the cornerstone of offering new hope in the treatment. In this review, we comment on the current treatment strategies for melanoma brain metastases and summarize some recent experimental findings from our laboratory with potential for the development of target specific antitumor therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy L Siu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
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23
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Sharma M, Ownbey RT, Sharma MC. Breast cancer cell surface annexin II induces cell migration and neoangiogenesis via tPA dependent plasmin generation. Exp Mol Pathol 2010; 88:278-86. [PMID: 20079732 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexmp.2010.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2009] [Accepted: 01/05/2010] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Annexin II, an abundant phospholipids binding cell surface protein, binds tPA and functions as a regulator of fibrinolysis. Annexin II also mediates angiogenesis and enhances tumor growth and metastasis. However, the mechanism supporting this role is not known. Using human breast cancer model we show that invasive human breast cancer cells (MDA-MB231) synthesize annexin II and tissue plasminogen activator (tPA). In vitro both annexin II and tPA interacts which in turn convert zymogen plasminogen to reactive enzyme plasmin. Cell surface produced plasmin inhibited the migration of MDA-MB231 cells. Silencing of annexin II gene in MDA-MB231 cells abolished tPA binding therefore inhibited tPA dependent plasmin generation. These annexin II suppressed MDA-MB231 cells showed reduced motility. Immunohistochemical analysis of prediagnosed clinical specimens showed abundant secretion of tPA and expression of annexin II on the surface of invasive human breast cancer cells which correlates with neovascularization of the tumor. Taken together, these data indicate that annexin II may regulate localized plasmin generation in breast cancer. This may be an early event switching breast cancer from the prevascular phase to the vascular phase and thus contributing to aggressive cancer with the possibility of metastasis. The data provide a mechanism explaining the role of annexin II in breast cancer progression and suggest that annexin II may be an attractive target for therapeutic strategies aimed to inhibit angiogenesis and breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meena Sharma
- University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19102, USA.
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24
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Carbonell WS, Ansorge O, Sibson N, Muschel R. The vascular basement membrane as "soil" in brain metastasis. PLoS One 2009; 4:e5857. [PMID: 19516901 PMCID: PMC2689678 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0005857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 226] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2009] [Accepted: 05/11/2009] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain-specific homing and direct interactions with the neural substance are prominent hypotheses for brain metastasis formation and a modern manifestation of Paget's “seed and soil” concept. However, there is little direct evidence for this “neurotropic” growth in vivo. In contrast, many experimental studies have anecdotally noted the propensity of metastatic cells to grow along the exterior of pre-existing vessels of the CNS, a process termed vascular cooption. These observations suggest the “soil” for malignant cells in the CNS may well be vascular, rather than neuronal. We used in vivo experimental models of brain metastasis and analysis of human clinical specimens to test this hypothesis. Indeed, over 95% of early micrometastases examined demonstrated vascular cooption with little evidence for isolated neurotropic growth. This vessel interaction was adhesive in nature implicating the vascular basement membrane (VBM) as the active substrate for tumor cell growth in the brain. Accordingly, VBM promoted adhesion and invasion of malignant cells and was sufficient for tumor growth prior to any evidence of angiogenesis. Blockade or loss of the β1 integrin subunit in tumor cells prevented adhesion to VBM and attenuated metastasis establishment and growth in vivo. Our data establishes a new understanding of CNS metastasis formation and identifies the neurovasculature as the critical partner for such growth. Further, we have elucidated the mechanism of vascular cooption for the first time. These findings may help inform the design of effective molecular therapies for patients with fatal CNS malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Shawn Carbonell
- Gray Institute for Radiation Oncology and Biology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
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25
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Rolland Y, Demeule M, Fenart L, Béliveau R. Inhibition of melanoma brain metastasis by targeting melanotransferrin at the cell surface. Pigment Cell Melanoma Res 2009; 22:86-98. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1755-148x.2008.00525.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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26
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Palmieri D, Chambers AF, Felding-Habermann B, Huang S, Steeg PS. The Biology of Metastasis to a Sanctuary Site. Clin Cancer Res 2007; 13:1656-62. [PMID: 17363518 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-06-2659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Metastasis to the brain is prevalent in solid tumors and lymphomas, and is associated with shortened survival. The brain is regarded as a sanctuary site for metastatic tumor cells where they exist partially protected from drugs by the blood-tumor barrier. Model systems for brain metastasis have been developed and are now yielding mechanistic insights into the roles of angiogenesis, energy metabolism, the Her-2 and Stat3 signaling pathways, and dormancy. Specific, new approaches to combat brain metastatic disease are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diane Palmieri
- Women's Cancers Section, Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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27
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Lu DY, Chen XL, Ding J. Treatment of solid tumors and metastases by fibrinogen-targeted anticancer drug therapy. Med Hypotheses 2007; 68:188-93. [PMID: 16956730 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2006.06.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2006] [Accepted: 06/30/2006] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The accumulation of fibrin/fibrinogen and other coagulation factors in and around solid tumors and metastatic foci has been recognized for a century as an aspect of cancer pathology. On this basis, anticoagulants and fibrinolytic agents have been deployed as adjuvant anticancer therapies, but they have proved clinically useful for only a small proportion of tumors and they only control the functions of the coagulant components. Overuse or long-term application of anticoagulants and fibrinolytic agents often lead to undesirable side-effects. Here, we propose that anticancer drugs that act by different mechanisms can inhibit tumor-associated coagulation, and it may be possible to develop drugs that specifically targeting tumor-related coagulation, have specific cytotoxic effects on tumor and metastatic cells. We provide laboratory and clinical evidence supporting the hypothesis and offer proposals for future applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Da Yong Lu
- School of Life Sciences, Department of Bioengineering, Shanghai University, 99 Shangda Rd., Shanghai 200444, China.
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