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Altriche N, Gallant S, Augustine TN, Xulu KR. Navigating the Intricacies of Tumor Heterogeneity: An Insight into Potential Prognostic Breast Cancer Biomarkers. Biomark Insights 2024; 19:11772719241256798. [PMID: 38895160 PMCID: PMC11185041 DOI: 10.1177/11772719241256798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is a heterogeneous disease with diverse histological and molecular subtypes. Luminal breast tumors are the most diagnosed subtype. In luminal breast cancer, hormone receptors (including ER, PR, HER2) play a diagnostic and prognostic role. Despite the effectiveness of endocrine therapy in luminal breast tumors, tumor recurrence and resistance occur, and this may highlight evolutionary strategies for survival driven by stemness. In this review we thus consider the association between estrogen signaling and stemness in mediating tumor processes. Many studies report stemness as one of the factors promoting tumor progression. Its association with estrogen signaling warrants further investigation and provides an opportunity for the identification of novel biomarkers which may be used for diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic purposes. Breast cancer stem cells have been characterized (CD44+ CD24-) and their role in promoting treatment resistance and tumor recurrence widely studied; however, the complexity of tumor progression which also involve microenvironmental factors suggests the existence of more varied cell phenotypes which mediate stemness and its role in tumor progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nastassia Altriche
- School of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa
| | - Simone Gallant
- School of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa
| | - Tanya Nadine Augustine
- School of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa
| | - Kutlwano Rekgopetswe Xulu
- School of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa
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2
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Srivastava N, Usmani SS, Subbarayan R, Saini R, Pandey PK. Hypoxia: syndicating triple negative breast cancer against various therapeutic regimens. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1199105. [PMID: 37492478 PMCID: PMC10363988 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1199105] [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: 04/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is one of the deadliest subtypes of breast cancer (BC) for its high aggressiveness, heterogeneity, and hypoxic nature. Based on biological and clinical observations the TNBC related mortality is very high worldwide. Emerging studies have clearly demonstrated that hypoxia regulates the critical metabolic, developmental, and survival pathways in TNBC, which include glycolysis and angiogenesis. Alterations to these pathways accelerate the cancer stem cells (CSCs) enrichment and immune escape, which further lead to tumor invasion, migration, and metastasis. Beside this, hypoxia also manipulates the epigenetic plasticity and DNA damage response (DDR) to syndicate TNBC survival and its progression. Hypoxia fundamentally creates the low oxygen condition responsible for the alteration in Hypoxia-Inducible Factor-1alpha (HIF-1α) signaling within the tumor microenvironment, allowing tumors to survive and making them resistant to various therapies. Therefore, there is an urgent need for society to establish target-based therapies that overcome the resistance and limitations of the current treatment plan for TNBC. In this review article, we have thoroughly discussed the plausible significance of HIF-1α as a target in various therapeutic regimens such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, immunotherapy, anti-angiogenic therapy, adjuvant therapy photodynamic therapy, adoptive cell therapy, combination therapies, antibody drug conjugates and cancer vaccines. Further, we also reviewed here the intrinsic mechanism and existing issues in targeting HIF-1α while improvising the current therapeutic strategies. This review highlights and discusses the future perspectives and the major alternatives to overcome TNBC resistance by targeting hypoxia-induced signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nityanand Srivastava
- Department of Cell Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States
| | - Salman Sadullah Usmani
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States
| | - Rajasekaran Subbarayan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States
- Research, Chettinad Hospital and Research Institute, Chettinad Academy of Research and Educations, Chennai, India
| | - Rashmi Saini
- Department of Zoology, Gargi College, University of Delhi, New Delhi, India
| | - Pranav Kumar Pandey
- Dr. R.P. Centre for Opthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
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3
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Caruso A, Gelsomino L, Panza S, Accattatis FM, Naimo GD, Barone I, Giordano C, Catalano S, Andò S. Leptin: A Heavyweight Player in Obesity-Related Cancers. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1084. [PMID: 37509120 PMCID: PMC10377641 DOI: 10.3390/biom13071084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Obesity, defined as the abnormal or excessive expansion of white adipose tissue, has reached pandemic proportions and is recognized as an important health concern since it is a common root for several comorbidities, including malignancies. Indeed, the current knowledge of the white adipose tissue, which shifts its role from an energy storage tissue to an important endocrine and metabolic organ, has opened up new avenues for the discovery of obesity's effects on tumor biology. In this review, we will report the epidemiological studies concerning the strong impact of obesity in several types of cancer and describe the mechanisms underlying the heterotypic signals between cancer cell lines and adipocytes, with particular emphasis on inflammation, the insulin/IGF-1 axis, and adipokines. Among the adipokines, we will further describe the in vitro, in vivo, and clinical data concerning the role of leptin, recognized as one of the most important mediators of obesity-associated cancers. In fact, leptin physiologically regulates energy metabolism, appetite, and reproduction, and several studies have also described the role of leptin in affecting cancer development and progression. Finally, we will summarize the newest pharmacological strategies aimed at mitigating the protumorigenic effects of leptin, underlining their mechanisms of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Caruso
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, Via P Bucci, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), 87036 Cosenza, Italy
| | - Luca Gelsomino
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, Via P Bucci, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), 87036 Cosenza, Italy
- Centro Sanitario, Via P. Bucci, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), 87036 Cosenza, Italy
| | - Salvatore Panza
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, Via P Bucci, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), 87036 Cosenza, Italy
| | - Felice Maria Accattatis
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, Via P Bucci, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), 87036 Cosenza, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Daniela Naimo
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, Via P Bucci, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), 87036 Cosenza, Italy
| | - Ines Barone
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, Via P Bucci, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), 87036 Cosenza, Italy
- Centro Sanitario, Via P. Bucci, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), 87036 Cosenza, Italy
| | - Cinzia Giordano
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, Via P Bucci, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), 87036 Cosenza, Italy
- Centro Sanitario, Via P. Bucci, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), 87036 Cosenza, Italy
| | - Stefania Catalano
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, Via P Bucci, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), 87036 Cosenza, Italy
- Centro Sanitario, Via P. Bucci, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), 87036 Cosenza, Italy
| | - Sebastiano Andò
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, Via P Bucci, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), 87036 Cosenza, Italy
- Centro Sanitario, Via P. Bucci, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), 87036 Cosenza, Italy
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4
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Andrade de Oliveira K, Sengupta S, Yadav AK, Clarke R. The complex nature of heterogeneity and its roles in breast cancer biology and therapeutic responsiveness. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1083048. [PMID: 36909339 PMCID: PMC9997040 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1083048] [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: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Heterogeneity is a complex feature of cells and tissues with many interacting components. Depending on the nature of the research context, interacting features of cellular, drug response, genetic, molecular, spatial, temporal, and vascular heterogeneity may be present. We describe the various forms of heterogeneity with examples of their interactions and how they play a role in affecting cellular phenotype and drug responses in breast cancer. While cellular heterogeneity may be the most widely described and invoked, many forms of heterogeneity are evident within the tumor microenvironment and affect responses to the endocrine and cytotoxic drugs widely used in standard clinical care. Drug response heterogeneity is a critical determinant of clinical response and curative potential and also is multifaceted when encountered. The interactive nature of some forms of heterogeneity is readily apparent. For example, the process of metastasis has the properties of both temporal and spatial heterogeneity within the host, whereas each individual metastatic deposit may exhibit cellular, genetic, molecular, and vascular heterogeneity. This review describes the many forms of heterogeneity, their integrated activities, and offers some insights into how heterogeneity may be understood and studied in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karla Andrade de Oliveira
- The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, Austin, MN, United States
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Universidade Federal do Piaui, Piauí, Brazil
| | - Surojeet Sengupta
- The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, Austin, MN, United States
| | - Anil Kumar Yadav
- The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, Austin, MN, United States
| | - Robert Clarke
- The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, Austin, MN, United States
- *Correspondence: Robert Clarke,
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5
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Mao XD, Wei X, Xu T, Li TP, Liu KS. Research progress in breast cancer stem cells: characterization and future perspectives. Am J Cancer Res 2022; 12:3208-3222. [PMID: 35968346 PMCID: PMC9360222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023] Open
Abstract
More and more studies have proved that there are a small number of cells with self-renewal and differentiation ability in breast tumors, namely breast cancer stem cells. Such cells play a key role in the initiation, development and migration of breast tumors. The properties of breast tumor stem cells are regulated by a range of intracellular and extracellular factors, including important signaling pathways, transcription factors, non-coding RNAs, and cytokines such as Hedgehog, Wnt, Notch, microRNA93, microRNA100, and IL-6. Tumor microenvironment (such as mesenchymal stem cells, macrophages and cytokines) plays an important role in the regulation of breast tumor stem cells. Using the keywords including "breast cancer stem cells", "signal pathway", "chemotherapy tolerance", and "non-coding RNA", "triple negative breast cancer", "inhibitors", this study retrieved the original articles and reviews published before October 3, 2021, from PubMed and WEB OF SCI database and this study performed a comprehensive review of them. After treatment, there is a correlation between the metastasis-prone nature and recurrence with breast cancer stem cells. The signaling pathway of breast cancer stem cells plays a significant role in activating the function of breast cancer cells, regulating the differentiation of breast cancer cells and controlling the division of breast cancer cells. This imbalance leads to the uncontrolled growth and development of breast cancer cells. Targeted therapy that blocks the corresponding pathway may become a new perspective for breast cancer treatment. In addition, corresponding therapeutic strategies can be used according to the expression characteristics of different molecular types of breast cancer stem cells. For ER-positive breast cancer, simultaneous endocrine therapy and targeted therapy of tumor stem cells may improve the efficacy of endocrine therapy. Trastuzumab therapy significantly reduces the risk of recurrence of HER2-positive breast cancer. For drug-resistant patients, combination therapy is required due to the different phenotypes of epithelial-mesenchymal transforming tumor stem cells. This study briefly reviews the research progress of breast cancer stem cell-related signaling pathways and their inhibitors, in order to provide a reference for breast cancer patients to obtain more effective clinical treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Dong Mao
- Department of Endocrinology, Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese MedicineNanjing 210028, Jiangsu, China
- Key Laboratory of TCM Syndrome & Treatment of Yingbing of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jiangsu Province Academy of Traditional Chinese MedicineNanjing 210028, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiao Wei
- Department of Endocrinology, Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese MedicineNanjing 210028, Jiangsu, China
- Key Laboratory of TCM Syndrome & Treatment of Yingbing of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jiangsu Province Academy of Traditional Chinese MedicineNanjing 210028, Jiangsu, China
| | - Tao Xu
- Xi’an Jiaotong University Global Health InstituteXi’an 710049, Shanxi, China
| | - Tai-Ping Li
- Department of Neuro-Psychiatric Institute, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical UniversityNanjing 210029, Jiangsu, China
| | - Kang-Sheng Liu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Women’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care HospitalNanjing 210029, Jiangsu, China
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6
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Lee J, Troike K, Fodor R, Lathia JD. Unexplored Functions of Sex Hormones in Glioblastoma Cancer Stem Cells. Endocrinology 2022; 163:bqac002. [PMID: 35023543 PMCID: PMC8807164 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqac002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Biological sex impacts a wide array of molecular and cellular functions that impact organismal development and can influence disease trajectory in a variety of pathophysiological states. In nonreproductive cancers, epidemiological sex differences have been observed in a series of tumors, and recent work has identified previously unappreciated sex differences in molecular genetics and immune response. However, the extent of these sex differences in terms of drivers of tumor growth and therapeutic response is less clear. In glioblastoma (GBM), the most common primary malignant brain tumor, there is a male bias in incidence and outcome, and key genetic and epigenetic differences, as well as differences in immune response driven by immune-suppressive myeloid populations, have recently been revealed. GBM is a prototypic tumor in which cellular heterogeneity is driven by populations of therapeutically resistant cancer stem cells (CSCs) that underlie tumor growth and recurrence. There is emerging evidence that GBM CSCs may show a sex difference, with male tumor cells showing enhanced self-renewal, but how sex differences impact CSC function is not clear. In this mini-review, we focus on how sex hormones may impact CSCs in GBM and implications for other cancers with a pronounced CSC population. We also explore opportunities to leverage new models to better understand the contribution of sex hormones vs sex chromosomes to CSC function. With the rising interest in sex differences in cancer, there is an immediate need to understand the extent to which sex differences impact tumor growth, including effects on CSC function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juyeun Lee
- Department of Cardiovascular & Metabolic Sciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic
| | - Katie Troike
- Department of Cardiovascular & Metabolic Sciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic
- Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine of Case Western Reserve University
| | - R’ay Fodor
- Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine of Case Western Reserve University
| | - Justin D Lathia
- Department of Cardiovascular & Metabolic Sciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic
- Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine of Case Western Reserve University
- Rose Ella Burkhardt Brain Tumor and Neuro-Oncology Center, Cleveland Clinic
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center
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7
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Semina SE, Alejo LH, Chopra S, Kansara NS, Kastrati I, Sartorius CA, Frasor J. Identification of a novel ER-NFĸB-driven stem-like cell population associated with relapse of ER+ breast tumors. Breast Cancer Res 2022; 24:88. [PMID: 36482488 PMCID: PMC9733334 DOI: 10.1186/s13058-022-01585-1] [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: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Up to 40% of patients with estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) breast cancer experience relapse. This can be attributed to breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs), which are known to be involved in therapy resistance, relapse, and metastasis. Therefore, there is an urgent need to identify genes/pathways that drive stem-like cell properties in ER+ breast tumors. METHODS Using single-cell RNA sequencing and various bioinformatics approaches, we identified a unique stem-like population and established its clinical relevance. With follow-up studies, we validated our bioinformatics findings and confirmed the role of ER and NFĸB in the promotion of stem-like properties in breast cancer cell lines and patient-derived models. RESULTS We identified a novel quiescent stem-like cell population that is driven by ER and NFĸB in multiple ER+ breast cancer models. Moreover, we found that a gene signature derived from this stem-like population is expressed in primary ER+ breast tumors, endocrine therapy-resistant and metastatic cell populations and predictive of poor patient outcome. CONCLUSIONS These findings indicate a novel role for ER and NFĸB crosstalk in BCSCs biology and understanding the mechanism by which these pathways promote stem properties can be exploited to improve outcomes for ER+ breast cancer patients at risk of relapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Svetlana E. Semina
- grid.185648.60000 0001 2175 0319Department of Physiology and Biophysics, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, 909 S Wolcott Avenue (MC 901), 2040 COMRB, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
| | - Luis H. Alejo
- grid.185648.60000 0001 2175 0319Department of Physiology and Biophysics, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, 909 S Wolcott Avenue (MC 901), 2040 COMRB, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
| | - Shivani Chopra
- grid.185648.60000 0001 2175 0319Department of Physiology and Biophysics, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, 909 S Wolcott Avenue (MC 901), 2040 COMRB, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
| | - Nidhi S. Kansara
- grid.185648.60000 0001 2175 0319Department of Physiology and Biophysics, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, 909 S Wolcott Avenue (MC 901), 2040 COMRB, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
| | - Irida Kastrati
- grid.185648.60000 0001 2175 0319Department of Physiology and Biophysics, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, 909 S Wolcott Avenue (MC 901), 2040 COMRB, Chicago, IL 60612 USA ,grid.164971.c0000 0001 1089 6558Present Address: Department of Cancer Biology, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL 60153 USA
| | - Carol A. Sartorius
- grid.430503.10000 0001 0703 675XDepartment of Pathology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045 USA
| | - Jonna Frasor
- grid.185648.60000 0001 2175 0319Department of Physiology and Biophysics, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, 909 S Wolcott Avenue (MC 901), 2040 COMRB, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
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8
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Dittmer J. Nuclear Mechanisms Involved in Endocrine Resistance. Front Oncol 2021; 11:736597. [PMID: 34604071 PMCID: PMC8480308 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.736597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Endocrine therapy is a standard treatment offered to patients with ERα (estrogen receptor α)-positive breast cancer. In endocrine therapy, ERα is either directly targeted by anti-estrogens or indirectly by aromatase inhibitors which cause estrogen deficiency. Resistance to these drugs (endocrine resistance) compromises the efficiency of this treatment and requires additional measures. Endocrine resistance is often caused by deregulation of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway and/or cyclin-dependent kinase 4 and 6 activities allowing inhibitors of these factors to be used clinically to counteract endocrine resistance. The nuclear mechanisms involved in endocrine resistance are beginning to emerge. Exploring these mechanisms may reveal additional druggable targets, which could help to further improve patients' outcome in an endocrine resistance setting. This review intends to summarize our current knowledge on the nuclear mechanisms linked to endocrine resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jürgen Dittmer
- Clinic for Gynecology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
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9
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Zheng Y, Karnoub AE. Endocrine regulation of cancer stem cell compartments in breast tumors. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2021; 535:111374. [PMID: 34242715 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2021.111374] [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: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Cancer cells within breast tumors exist within a hierarchy in which only a small and rare subset of cells is able to regenerate growths with the heterogeneity of the original tumor. These highly malignant cancer cells, which behave like stem cells for new cancers and are called "cancer stem cells" or CSCs, have also been shown to possess increased resistance to therapeutics, and represent the root cause underlying therapy failures, persistence of residual disease, and relapse. As >90% of cancer deaths are due to refractory tumors, identification of critical molecular drivers of the CSC-state would reveal vulnerabilities that can be leveraged in designing therapeutics that eradicate advanced disease and improve patient survival outcomes. An expanding and complex body of work has now described the exquisite susceptibility of CSC pools to the regulatory influences of local and systemic hormones. Indeed, breast CSCs express a plethora of hormonal receptors, which funnel hormonal influences over every aspect of breast neoplasia - be it tumor onset, growth, survival, invasion, metastasis, or therapy resistance - via directly impacting CSC behavior. This article is intended to shed light on this active area of investigation by attempting to provide a systematic and comprehensive overview of the available evidence directly linking hormones to breast CSC biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yurong Zheng
- Department of Pathology and Cancer Center, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Antoine E Karnoub
- Department of Pathology and Cancer Center, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215, USA; Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA.
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10
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Chen W, Wei W, Yu L, Ye Z, Huang F, Zhang L, Hu S, Cai C. Mammary Development and Breast Cancer: a Notch Perspective. J Mammary Gland Biol Neoplasia 2021; 26:309-320. [PMID: 34374886 PMCID: PMC8566423 DOI: 10.1007/s10911-021-09496-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammary gland development primarily occurs postnatally, and this unique process is complex and regulated by systemic hormones and local growth factors. The mammary gland is also a highly dynamic organ that undergoes profound changes at puberty and during the reproductive cycle. These changes are driven by mammary stem cells (MaSCs). Breast cancer is one of the most common causes of cancer-related death in women. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) play prominent roles in tumor initiation, drug resistance, tumor recurrence, and metastasis. The highly conserved Notch signaling pathway functions as a key regulator of the niche mediating mammary organogenesis and breast neoplasia. In this review, we discuss mechanisms by which Notch contributes to breast carcinoma pathology and suggest potentials for therapeutic targeting of Notch in breast cancer. In summary, we provide a comprehensive overview of Notch functions in regulating MaSCs, mammary development, and breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weizhen Chen
- Department of Orthopaedics, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Wei Wei
- Department of Orthopaedics, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Liya Yu
- Department of Orthopaedics, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Zi Ye
- Department of Orthopaedics, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Fujing Huang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Liyan Zhang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Shiqi Hu
- DU-ANU Joint Science College, Shandong University, Weihai, 264200, China
| | - Cheguo Cai
- Department of Orthopaedics, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China.
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11
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La Camera G, Gelsomino L, Malivindi R, Barone I, Panza S, De Rose D, Giordano F, D'Esposito V, Formisano P, Bonofiglio D, Andò S, Giordano C, Catalano S. Adipocyte-derived extracellular vesicles promote breast cancer cell malignancy through HIF-1α activity. Cancer Lett 2021; 521:155-168. [PMID: 34425186 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2021.08.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Revised: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are emerging key protagonists in intercellular communication between adipocytes and breast cancer (BC) cells. Here, we described a new mechanism by which EVs released by mature adipocytes promoted breast cancer cell malignancy "in vitro" and "in vivo". We found that adipocyte-derived EVs enhanced growth, motility and invasion, stem cell-like properties, as well as specific traits of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition in both estrogen receptor positive and triple negative BC cells. Of note, adipocyte-derived EVs aid breast tumor cells in lung metastatic colonization after tail-vein injection in mice. These EV-mediated effects occur via the induction of HIF-1α activity, since they were abrogated by the use of the HIF-1α inhibitor KC7F2 or in cells silenced for HIF-1α expression. Moreover, using an "ex vivo" model of obese adipocytes we found that the depletion of EVs counteracted the ability of obese adipocytes to sustain pro-invasive phenotype in BC cells. Interestingly, EVs released by undifferentiated adipocytes failed to induce aggressiveness and HIF-1α expression. These findings shed new light on the role of adipocyte-derived EVs in breast cancer progression, suggesting the possibility to target HIF-1α activity to block the harmful adipocyte-tumor cell dialogue, especially in obese settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giusi La Camera
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, Via P. Bucci, University of Calabria, 87036, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), Italy
| | - Luca Gelsomino
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, Via P. Bucci, University of Calabria, 87036, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), Italy
| | - Rocco Malivindi
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, Via P. Bucci, University of Calabria, 87036, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), Italy
| | - Ines Barone
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, Via P. Bucci, University of Calabria, 87036, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), Italy
| | - Salvatore Panza
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, Via P. Bucci, University of Calabria, 87036, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), Italy
| | - Daniela De Rose
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, Via P. Bucci, University of Calabria, 87036, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), Italy; Centro Sanitario, Via P. Bucci, University of Calabria, 87036, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), Italy
| | - Francesca Giordano
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, Via P. Bucci, University of Calabria, 87036, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), Italy
| | - Vittoria D'Esposito
- Department of Translational Medicine, Federico II University of Naples, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Pietro Formisano
- Department of Translational Medicine, Federico II University of Naples, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Daniela Bonofiglio
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, Via P. Bucci, University of Calabria, 87036, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), Italy; Centro Sanitario, Via P. Bucci, University of Calabria, 87036, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), Italy
| | - Sebastiano Andò
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, Via P. Bucci, University of Calabria, 87036, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), Italy; Centro Sanitario, Via P. Bucci, University of Calabria, 87036, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), Italy
| | - Cinzia Giordano
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, Via P. Bucci, University of Calabria, 87036, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), Italy; Centro Sanitario, Via P. Bucci, University of Calabria, 87036, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), Italy.
| | - Stefania Catalano
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, Via P. Bucci, University of Calabria, 87036, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), Italy; Centro Sanitario, Via P. Bucci, University of Calabria, 87036, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), Italy.
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12
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Edwards A, Brennan K. Notch Signalling in Breast Development and Cancer. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:692173. [PMID: 34295896 PMCID: PMC8290365 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.692173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The Notch signalling pathway is a highly conserved developmental signalling pathway, with vital roles in determining cell fate during embryonic development and tissue homeostasis. Aberrant Notch signalling has been implicated in many disease pathologies, including cancer. In this review, we will outline the mechanism and regulation of the Notch signalling pathway. We will also outline the role Notch signalling plays in normal mammary gland development and how Notch signalling is implicated in breast cancer tumorigenesis and progression. We will cover how Notch signalling controls several different hallmarks of cancer within epithelial cells with sections focussed on its roles in proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, and metastasis. We will provide evidence for Notch signalling in the breast cancer stem cell phenotype, which also has implications for therapy resistance and disease relapse in breast cancer patients. Finally, we will summarise the developments in therapeutic targeting of Notch signalling, and the pros and cons of this approach for the treatment of breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail Edwards
- Division of Cancer Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Keith Brennan
- Division of Cancer Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
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13
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Gustafsson A, Garre E, Leiva MC, Salerno S, Ståhlberg A, Landberg G. Patient-derived scaffolds as a drug-testing platform for endocrine therapies in breast cancer. Sci Rep 2021; 11:13334. [PMID: 34172801 PMCID: PMC8233392 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-92724-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Three-dimensional cell culture platforms based on decellularised patient-based microenvironments provide in vivo-like growth conditions allowing cancer cells to interact with intact structures and components of the surrounding tissue. A patient-derived scaffold (PDS) model was therefore evaluated as a testing platform for the endocrine therapies (Z)-4-Hydroxytamoxifen (4OHT) and fulvestrant as well as the CDK4/6-inhibitor palbociclib, monitoring the treatment responses in breast cancer cell lines MCF7 and T47D adapted to the patient-based microenvironments. MCF7 cells growing in PDSs showed increased resistance to 4OHT and fulvestrant treatment (100- and 20-fold) compared to 2D cultures. Quantitative PCR analyses of endocrine treated cancer cells in PDSs revealed upregulation of pluripotency markers further supported by increased self-renewal capacity in sphere formation assays. When comparing different 3D growth platforms including PDS, matrigel, gelatin sponges and 3D-printed hydrogels, 3D based cultures showed slightly varying responses to fulvestrant and palbociclib whereas PDS and matrigel cultures showed more similar gene expression profiles for 4OHT treatment compared to the other platforms. The results support that the PDS technique maximized to provide a multitude of smaller functional PDS replicates from each primary breast cancer, is an up-scalable patient-derived drug-testing platform available for gene expression profiling and downstream functional assays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Gustafsson
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, Sahlgrenska Center for Cancer Research, University of Gothenburg, 41390, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Elena Garre
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, Sahlgrenska Center for Cancer Research, University of Gothenburg, 41390, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Maria Carmen Leiva
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, Sahlgrenska Center for Cancer Research, University of Gothenburg, 41390, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Simona Salerno
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, Sahlgrenska Center for Cancer Research, University of Gothenburg, 41390, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Anders Ståhlberg
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, Sahlgrenska Center for Cancer Research, University of Gothenburg, 41390, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Wallenberg Center for Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Gothenburg, 41390, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Genetics and Genomics, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, 41390, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Göran Landberg
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, Sahlgrenska Center for Cancer Research, University of Gothenburg, 41390, Gothenburg, Sweden.
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14
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Pappas K, Martin TC, Wolfe AL, Nguyen CB, Su T, Jin J, Hibshoosh H, Parsons R. NOTCH and EZH2 collaborate to repress PTEN expression in breast cancer. Commun Biol 2021; 4:312. [PMID: 33750924 PMCID: PMC7943788 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-021-01825-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2018] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Downregulation of the PTEN tumor suppressor transcript is frequent in breast cancer and associates with poor prognosis and triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) when comparing breast cancers to one another. Here we show that in almost all cases, when comparing breast tumors to adjacent normal ducts, PTEN expression is decreased and the PRC2-associated methyltransferase EZH2 is increased. We further find that when comparing breast cancer cases in large cohorts, EZH2 inversely correlates with PTEN expression. Within the highest EZH2 expressing group, NOTCH alterations are frequent, and also associate with decreased PTEN expression. We show that repression of PTEN occurs through the combined action of NOTCH (NOTCH1 or NOTCH2) and EZH2 alterations in a subset of breast cancers. In fact, in cases harboring NOTCH1 mutation or a NOTCH2 fusion gene, NOTCH drives EZH2, HES-1, and HEY-1 expression to repress PTEN transcription at the promoter, which may contribute to poor prognosis in this subgroup. Restoration of PTEN expression can be achieved with an EZH2 inhibitor (UNC1999), a γ-secretase inhibitor (Compound E), or knockdown of EZH2 or NOTCH. These findings elucidate a mechanism of transcriptional repression of PTEN induced by NOTCH1 or NOTCH2 alterations, and identifies actionable signaling pathways responsible for driving a large subset of poor-prognosis breast cancers. Pappas et al. show that the combination of NOTCH and EZH2 alterations drive transcriptional repression of PTEN through reversible epigenetic modification of the PTEN promoter. These results suggest an actionable target for treating poor-prognosis breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyrie Pappas
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.,The Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Pharmacology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA.,Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Tiphaine C Martin
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.,The Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Andrew L Wolfe
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.,The Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.,Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Christie B Nguyen
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.,The Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Tao Su
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jian Jin
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.,The Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.,Mount Sinai Center for Therapeutics Discovery, Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Hanina Hibshoosh
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ramon Parsons
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA. .,The Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.
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15
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Unlocking the Secrets of Cancer Stem Cells with γ-Secretase Inhibitors: A Novel Anticancer Strategy. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26040972. [PMID: 33673088 PMCID: PMC7917912 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26040972] [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] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The dysregulation of Notch signaling is associated with a wide variety of different human cancers. Notch signaling activation mostly relies on the activity of the γ-secretase enzyme that cleaves the Notch receptors and releases the active intracellular domain. It is well-documented that γ-secretase inhibitors (GSIs) block the Notch activity, mainly by inhibiting the oncogenic activity of this pathway. To date, several GSIs have been introduced clinically for the treatment of various diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease and various cancers, and their impacts on Notch inhibition have been found to be promising. Therefore, GSIs are of great interest for cancer therapy. The objective of this review is to provide a systematic review of in vitro and in vivo studies for investigating the effect of GSIs on various cancer stem cells (CSCs), mainly by modulation of the Notch signaling pathway. Various scholarly electronic databases were searched and relevant studies published in the English language were collected up to February 2020. Herein, we conclude that GSIs can be potential candidates for CSC-targeting therapy. The outcome of our study also indicates that GSIs in combination with anticancer drugs have a greater inhibitory effect on CSCs.
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16
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Zheng Q, Zhang M, Zhou F, Zhang L, Meng X. The Breast Cancer Stem Cells Traits and Drug Resistance. Front Pharmacol 2021; 11:599965. [PMID: 33584277 PMCID: PMC7876385 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.599965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Drug resistance is a major challenge in breast cancer (BC) treatment at present. Accumulating studies indicate that breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) are responsible for the BC drugs resistance, causing relapse and metastasis in BC patients. Thus, BCSCs elimination could reverse drug resistance and improve drug efficacy to benefit BC patients. Consequently, mastering the knowledge on the proliferation, resistance mechanisms, and separation of BCSCs in BC therapy is extremely helpful for BCSCs-targeted therapeutic strategies. Herein, we summarize the principal BCSCs surface markers and signaling pathways, and list the BCSCs-related drug resistance mechanisms in chemotherapy (CT), endocrine therapy (ET), and targeted therapy (TT), and display therapeutic strategies for targeting BCSCs to reverse drug resistance in BC. Even more importantly, more attention should be paid to studies on BCSC-targeted strategies to overcome the drug resistant dilemma of clinical therapies in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinghui Zheng
- Department of Breast Surgery, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Hangzhou, China
| | - Mengdi Zhang
- MOE Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis and Protection and Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Fangfang Zhou
- Institutes of Biology and Medical Science, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Long Zhang
- MOE Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis and Protection and Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xuli Meng
- Department of Breast Surgery, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Hangzhou, China
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17
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Carcinoma-Associated Fibroblasts Promote Growth of Sox2-Expressing Breast Cancer Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12113435. [PMID: 33228022 PMCID: PMC7699386 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12113435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Revised: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The tumor microenvironment has a strong impact on the behavior of tumor cells. One major cell type residing in the tumor microenvironment is the carcinoma-associated fibroblast (CAF). We were interested in the effect of CAFs on Sox2 (sex determining region Y (SRY)-box 2), which not only is an essential embryonal stem cell transcription factor, but also plays a role in cancer stem cell activity. We found that long-term exposure of ERα-positive breast cancer cells to the cocktail of CAF-secreted factors strongly increased Sox2 expression involving tumor-related proteins and signaling pathways. However, Sox2 was not only present in those tumor cells that express stem cell markers, but was equally abundant in other tumor cells. By being widely expressed, Sox2 may have functions in non-stem cells. In fact, Sox2 was found to regulate ERα expression, to act anti-apoptotically, to promote cellular growth and to protect cells against the anti-estrogen fulvestrant. Abstract CAFs (Carcinoma-associated fibroblasts) play an important role in cancer progression. For instance, they promote resistance to anti-estrogens, such as fulvestrant. Here, we show that, in ERα-positive breast cancer cell lines, the cocktail of factors secreted by CAFs (CAF-CM) induce the expression of the embryonal stem cell transcription factor Sox2 (sex determining region Y (SRY)-box 2). Long-term exposure to CAF-CM was able to give rise to very high Sox2 levels both in the absence and presence of fulvestrant. IL-6 (interleukin-6), a major component of CAF-CM, failed to raise Sox2 expression. In MCF-7 sublines established in the presence of CAF-CM, almost all cells showed Sox2 expression, whereas long-term treatment of T47D cells with CAF-CM resulted in a ~60-fold increase in the proportions of two distinct populations of Sox2 high and low expresser cells. Exposure of BT474 cells to CAF-CM raised the fraction of Sox2 high expresser cells by ~3-fold. Cell sorting based on CD44 and CD24 expression or ALDH (aldehyde dehydrogenase) activity revealed that most Sox2 high expresser cells were not CD44hi/CD24lo- or ALDH-positive cells suggesting that they were not CSCs (cancer stem cells), though CD44 played a role in Sox2 expression. Functionally, Sox2 was found to protect CAF-CM-treated cells against apoptosis and to allow higher growth activity in the presence of fulvestrant. Mechanistically, the key drivers of Sox2 expression was found to be STAT3 (Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3), Bcl-3 (B-cell lymphoma 3) and the PI3K (Phosphoinositide 3-kinase)/AKT pathway, whose activities/expression can all be upregulated by CAF-CM. These data suggest that CAF-CM induces Sox2 expression in non-CSCs by activating proteins involved in growth control and drug resistance, leading to higher protection against apoptosis.
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18
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Chen B, Ye P, Chen Y, Liu T, Cha JH, Yan X, Yang WH. Involvement of the Estrogen and Progesterone Axis in Cancer Stemness: Elucidating Molecular Mechanisms and Clinical Significance. Front Oncol 2020; 10:1657. [PMID: 33014829 PMCID: PMC7498570 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.01657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Estrogen and progesterone regulate the growth and development of human tissues, including the reproductive system and breasts, through estrogen and progesterone receptors, respectively. These receptors are also important indicators for the clinical prognosis of breast cancer and various reproductive cancers. Many studies have reported that cancer stem cells (CSCs) play a key role in tumor initiation, progression, metastasis, and recurrence. Although the role of estrogen and progesterone in human organs and various cancers has been studied, the molecular mechanisms underlying the action of these hormones on CSCs remain unclear. Therefore, further elucidation of the effects of estrogen and progesterone on CSCs should provide a new direction for developing pertinent therapies. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on the estrogen and progesterone axis involved in cancer stemness and discuss potential therapeutic strategies to inhibit CSCs by targeting relevant pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bi Chen
- Affiliated Cancer Hospital and Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Peng Ye
- Affiliated Cancer Hospital and Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yeh Chen
- Institute of New Drug Development, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Tong Liu
- Department of Breast Surgery, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China.,The Institute of Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Jong-Ho Cha
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Inha University, Incheon, South Korea
| | - Xiuwen Yan
- Affiliated Cancer Hospital and Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wen-Hao Yang
- Affiliated Cancer Hospital and Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
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19
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Bai JW, Wei M, Li JW, Zhang GJ. Notch Signaling Pathway and Endocrine Resistance in Breast Cancer. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:924. [PMID: 32636747 PMCID: PMC7318302 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.00924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Accepted: 06/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Nearly 70% of breast cancers express the estrogen receptor (ER) and are hormone-dependent for cell proliferation and survival. Anti-estrogen therapies with aromatase inhibitors (AIs), selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) or selective estrogen receptor down regulators (SERDs) are the standard endocrine therapy approach for ER positive breast cancer patients. However, about 30% of patients receiving endocrine therapy will progress during the therapy or become endocrine resistance eventually. The intrinsic or acquired endocrine resistance has become a major obstacle for endocrine therapy. The mechanism of endocrine resistance is very complicated and recently emerging evidence indicates dysregulation of Notch signaling pathway contributes to endocrine resistance in breast cancer patients. The potential mechanisms include regulation of ER, promotion of cancer stem cell (CSC) phenotype and mesenchymal cell ratio, alteration of the local tumor microenvironment and cell cycle. This review will summarize the latest progress on the investigation of Notch signaling pathway in breast cancer endocrine resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing-Wen Bai
- Department of Oncology, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China.,Cancer Research Center, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Min Wei
- Cancer Research Center, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China.,Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Ji-Wei Li
- Clinical Central Research Core, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Guo-Jun Zhang
- Cancer Research Center, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China.,Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
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20
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Bernardo C, Santos J, Costa C, Tavares A, Amaro T, Marques I, Gouveia MJ, Félix V, Afreixo V, Brindley PJ, Costa JM, Amado F, Helguero L, Santos LL. Estrogen receptors in urogenital schistosomiasis and bladder cancer: Estrogen receptor alpha-mediated cell proliferation. Urol Oncol 2020; 38:738.e23-738.e35. [PMID: 32507545 DOI: 10.1016/j.urolonc.2020.04.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2019] [Revised: 03/30/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Estrogen-like metabolites have been identified in S. haematobium, the helminth parasite that causes urogenital schistosomiasis (UGS) and in patients´ blood and urine during UGS. Estrogen receptor (ER) activation is enriched in the luminal molecular subtype bladder cancer (BlaCa). To date, the significance of ER to these diseases remains elusive. We evaluated ERα and ERβ expression in UGS-related BlaCa (n = 27), UGS-related non-malignant lesions (n = 35), and noninfected BlaCa (n = 80). We investigated the potential of ERα to recognize S. haematobium-derived metabolites by docking and molecular dynamics simulations and studied ERα modulation in vitro using 3 BlaCa cell lines, T24, 5637 and HT1376. ERα was expressed in tumor and stromal cells in approximately 20% noninfected cases and in 30% of UGS-related BlaCa, predominantly in the epithelial cells. Overall, ERα expression was associated with features of tumor aggressiveness such as high proliferation and p53 positive expression. ERα expression correlated with presence of schistosome eggs. ERβ was widely expressed in both cohorts but weaker in UGS-related cases. molecular dynamics simulations of the 4 most abundant S. haematobium-derived metabolites revealed that smaller metabolites have comparable affinity for the ERα active state than 17β-estradiol, while the larger metabolites present higher affinity. Our in vitro findings suggested that ERα activation promotes proliferation in ERα expressing BlaCa cells and that this can be reverted with anti-estrogenic therapy. In summary, we report differential ER expression between UGS-related BlaCa and noninfected BlaCa and provide evidence supporting a role of active ERα during UGS and UGS-induced carcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carina Bernardo
- Hormones and Cancer Lab, Department of Medical Sciences, Institute of Biomedicine, iBiMED, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal; Experimental Pathology and Therapeutics, Research Center, Portuguese Oncology Institute - Porto (IPO-Porto), Porto, Portugal
| | - Júlio Santos
- Urology Department, Hospital Américo Boavida, Luanda, Angola; Center for the Study of Animal Science, CECA/ICETA, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Céu Costa
- Fernando Pessoa Energy, Environment and Health Research Unit/Biomedical Research Center (FP-ENAS/CEBIMED), Faculty of Health Sciences, Fernando Pessoa University, Porto, Portugal
| | - Ana Tavares
- Experimental Pathology and Therapeutics, Research Center, Portuguese Oncology Institute - Porto (IPO-Porto), Porto, Portugal
| | - Teresina Amaro
- Department of Pathology, Hospital Pedro Hispano, Matosinhos, Portugal
| | - Igor Marques
- Department of Chemistry, CICECO - Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Maria João Gouveia
- Center for the Study of Animal Science, CECA/ICETA, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal; Department of Infectious Diseases, R&D Unit, INSA-National Health Institute Dr. Ricardo Jorge, Porto, Portugal
| | - Vítor Félix
- Department of Chemistry, CICECO - Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Vera Afreixo
- Center for Research and Development in Mathematics and Applications (CIDMA), Department of Mathematics, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Paul J Brindley
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Tropical Medicine, and Research Center for Neglected Diseases of Poverty, School of Medicine & Health Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - José Manuel Costa
- Center for the Study of Animal Science, CECA/ICETA, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal; Department of Infectious Diseases, R&D Unit, INSA-National Health Institute Dr. Ricardo Jorge, Porto, Portugal
| | - Francisco Amado
- Mass Spectrometry Group, QOPNA, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Luisa Helguero
- Hormones and Cancer Lab, Department of Medical Sciences, Institute of Biomedicine, iBiMED, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Lúcio L Santos
- Experimental Pathology and Therapeutics, Research Center, Portuguese Oncology Institute - Porto (IPO-Porto), Porto, Portugal; Department of Surgical Oncology, Portuguese Oncology Institute - Porto (IPO-Porto), Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal.
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21
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Ueda S, Takanashi M, Sudo K, Kanekura K, Kuroda M. miR-27a ameliorates chemoresistance of breast cancer cells by disruption of reactive oxygen species homeostasis and impairment of autophagy. J Transl Med 2020; 100:863-873. [PMID: 32066826 DOI: 10.1038/s41374-020-0409-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2019] [Accepted: 01/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In patients with breast cancer, primary chemotherapy often fails due to survival of chemoresistant breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) which results in recurrence and metastasis of the tumor. However, the factors determining the chemoresistance of BCSCs have remained to be investigated. Here, we profiled a series of differentially expressed microRNAs (miRNAs) between parental adherent breast cancer cells and BCSC-mimicking mammosphere-derived cancer cells, and identified hsa-miR-27a as a negative regulator for survival and chemoresistance of BCSCs. In the mammosphere, we found that the expression of hsa-miR-27a was downregulated, and ectopic overexpression of hsa-miR-27a reduced both number and size of mammospheres. In addition, overexpression of hsa-miR-27a sensitized breast cancer cells to anticancer drugs by downregulation of genes essential for detoxification of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and impairment of autophagy. Therefore, enhancing the hsa-miR-27a signaling pathway can be a potential therapeutic modality for breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shinobu Ueda
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Tokyo Medical University, 6-1-1 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-8402, Japan
| | - Masakatsu Takanashi
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Tokyo Medical University, 6-1-1 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-8402, Japan
| | - Katsuko Sudo
- Preclinical Research Center, Tokyo Medical University, 6-1-1 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-8402, Japan
| | - Kohsuke Kanekura
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Tokyo Medical University, 6-1-1 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-8402, Japan
| | - Masahiko Kuroda
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Tokyo Medical University, 6-1-1 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-8402, Japan.
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22
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Kong D, Hughes CJ, Ford HL. Cellular Plasticity in Breast Cancer Progression and Therapy. Front Mol Biosci 2020; 7:72. [PMID: 32391382 PMCID: PMC7194153 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2020.00072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
With the exception of non-melanoma skin cancer, breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed malignant disease among women, with the majority of mortality being attributable to metastatic disease. Thus, even with improved early screening and more targeted treatments which may enable better detection and control of early disease progression, metastatic disease remains a significant problem. While targeted therapies exist for breast cancer patients with particular subtypes of the disease (Her2+ and ER/PR+), even in these subtypes the therapies are often not efficacious once the patient's tumor metastasizes. Increases in stemness or epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in primary breast cancer cells lead to enhanced plasticity, enabling tumor progression, therapeutic resistance, and distant metastatic spread. Numerous signaling pathways, including MAPK, PI3K, STAT3, Wnt, Hedgehog, and Notch, amongst others, play a critical role in maintaining cell plasticity in breast cancer. Understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms that regulate breast cancer cell plasticity is essential for understanding the biology of breast cancer progression and for developing novel and more effective therapeutic strategies for targeting metastatic disease. In this review we summarize relevant literature on mechanisms associated with breast cancer plasticity, tumor progression, and drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deguang Kong
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
- Department of General Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Connor J. Hughes
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
- Pharmacology Graduate Program, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Heide L. Ford
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
- Pharmacology Graduate Program, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
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23
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Hampsch RA, Wells JD, Traphagen NA, McCleery CF, Fields JL, Shee K, Dillon LM, Pooler DB, Lewis LD, Demidenko E, Huang YH, Marotti JD, Goen AE, Kinlaw WB, Miller TW. AMPK Activation by Metformin Promotes Survival of Dormant ER + Breast Cancer Cells. Clin Cancer Res 2020; 26:3707-3719. [PMID: 32321715 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-20-0269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2020] [Revised: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Despite adjuvant endocrine therapy for patients with estrogen receptor alpha (ER)-positive breast cancer, dormant residual disease can persist for years and eventually cause tumor recurrence. We sought to deduce mechanisms underlying the persistence of dormant cancer cells to identify therapeutic strategies. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN Mimicking the aromatase inhibitor-induced depletion of estrogen levels used to treat patients, we developed preclinical models of dormancy in ER+ breast cancer induced by estrogen withdrawal in mice. We analyzed tumor xenografts and cultured cancer cells for molecular and cellular responses to estrogen withdrawal and drug treatments. Publicly available clinical breast tumor gene expression datasets were analyzed for responses to neoadjuvant endocrine therapy. RESULTS Dormant breast cancer cells exhibited upregulated 5' adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) levels and activity, and upregulated fatty acid oxidation. While the antidiabetes AMPK-activating drug metformin slowed the estrogen-driven growth of cells and tumors, metformin promoted the persistence of estrogen-deprived cells and tumors through increased mitochondrial respiration driven by fatty acid oxidation. Pharmacologic or genetic inhibition of AMPK or fatty acid oxidation promoted clearance of dormant residual disease, while dietary fat increased tumor cell survival. CONCLUSIONS AMPK has context-dependent effects in cancer, cautioning against the widespread use of an AMPK activator across disease settings. The development of therapeutics targeting fat metabolism is warranted in ER+ breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riley A Hampsch
- Department of Molecular & Systems Biology, Norris Cotton Cancer Center, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, New Hampshire
| | - Jason D Wells
- Department of Molecular & Systems Biology, Norris Cotton Cancer Center, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, New Hampshire
| | - Nicole A Traphagen
- Department of Molecular & Systems Biology, Norris Cotton Cancer Center, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, New Hampshire
| | - Charlotte F McCleery
- Department of Molecular & Systems Biology, Norris Cotton Cancer Center, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, New Hampshire
| | - Jennifer L Fields
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Norris Cotton Cancer Center, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, New Hampshire
| | - Kevin Shee
- Department of Molecular & Systems Biology, Norris Cotton Cancer Center, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, New Hampshire
| | - Lloye M Dillon
- Department of Molecular & Systems Biology, Norris Cotton Cancer Center, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, New Hampshire
| | - Darcy B Pooler
- Department of Medicine, Norris Cotton Cancer Center, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, New Hampshire
| | - Lionel D Lewis
- Department of Medicine, Norris Cotton Cancer Center, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, New Hampshire
| | - Eugene Demidenko
- Department of Community & Family Medicine, Norris Cotton Cancer Center, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, New Hampshire
| | - Yina H Huang
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Norris Cotton Cancer Center, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, New Hampshire
| | - Jonathan D Marotti
- Department of Pathology, Norris Cotton Cancer Center, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, New Hampshire.,Department of Comprehensive Breast Program, Norris Cotton Cancer Center, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, New Hampshire
| | - Abigail E Goen
- Department of Molecular & Systems Biology, Norris Cotton Cancer Center, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, New Hampshire
| | - William B Kinlaw
- Department of Medicine, Norris Cotton Cancer Center, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, New Hampshire
| | - Todd W Miller
- Department of Molecular & Systems Biology, Norris Cotton Cancer Center, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, New Hampshire. .,Department of Comprehensive Breast Program, Norris Cotton Cancer Center, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, New Hampshire
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24
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Zacarías-Lara OJ, Méndez-Luna D, Martínez-Ruíz G, García-Sanchéz JR, Fragoso-Vázquez MJ, Bello M, Becerra-Martínez E, García-Vázquez JB, Correa-Basurto J. Synthesis and In Vitro Evaluation of Tetrahydroquinoline Derivatives as Antiproliferative Compounds of Breast Cancer via Targeting the GPER. Anticancer Agents Med Chem 2020; 19:760-771. [PMID: 30451119 DOI: 10.2174/1871520618666181119094144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2018] [Revised: 07/03/2018] [Accepted: 11/04/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Some reports have demonstrated the role of the G Protein-coupled Estrogen Receptor (GPER) in growth and proliferation of breast cancer cells. OBJECTIVE In an effort to develop new therapeutic strategies against breast cancer, we employed an in silico study to explore the binding modes of tetrahydroquinoline 2 and 4 to be compared with the reported ligands G1 and G1PABA. METHODS This study aimed to design and filter ligands by in silico studies determining their Lipinski's rule, toxicity and binding properties with GPER to achieve experimental assays as anti-proliferative compounds of breast cancer cell lines. RESULTS In silico studies suggest as promissory two tetrahydroquinoline 2 and 4 which contain a carboxyl group instead of the acetyl group (as is needed for G1 synthesis), which add low (2) and high hindrance (4) chemical moieties to explore the polar, hydrophobic and hindrance effects. Docking and molecular dynamics simulations of the target compounds were performed with GPER to explore their binding mode and free energy values. In addition, the target small molecules were synthesized and assayed in vitro using breast cancer cells (MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231). Experimental assays showed that compound 2 decreased cell proliferation, showing IC50 values of 50µM and 25µM after 72h of treatment of MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cell lines, respectively. Importantly, compound 2 showed a similar inhibitory effect on proliferation as G1 compound in MDA-MB-231 cells, suggesting that both ligands reach the GPER-binding site in a similar way, as was demonstrated through in silico studies. CONCLUSION A concentration-dependent inhibition of cell proliferation occurred with compound 2 in the two cell lines regardless of GPER.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oscar J Zacarías-Lara
- Laboratorio de Diseno y Desarrollo de Nuevos Farmacos e Innovacion Biotecnologica (Laboratory for the Design and Development of New Drugs and Biotechnological Innovation), Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politecnico Nacional, Plan de San Luis y Diaz Miron, 11340 Mexico, CDMX, Mexico
| | - David Méndez-Luna
- Laboratorio de Diseno y Desarrollo de Nuevos Farmacos e Innovacion Biotecnologica (Laboratory for the Design and Development of New Drugs and Biotechnological Innovation), Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politecnico Nacional, Plan de San Luis y Diaz Miron, 11340 Mexico, CDMX, Mexico
| | - Gustavo Martínez-Ruíz
- Unidad de Investigacion en Enfermedades Oncologicas, Hospital Infantil de Mexico, Federico Gomez, Mexico
| | - José R García-Sanchéz
- Laboratorio de Oncologia Molecular y Estres Oxidativo, Seccion de Estudios de Posgrado e Investigacion, Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politecnico Nacional, Plan de San Luis y Diaz Miron, 11340 Mexico, CDMX, Mexico
| | - Manuel J Fragoso-Vázquez
- Laboratorio de Diseno y Desarrollo de Nuevos Farmacos e Innovacion Biotecnologica (Laboratory for the Design and Development of New Drugs and Biotechnological Innovation), Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politecnico Nacional, Plan de San Luis y Diaz Miron, 11340 Mexico, CDMX, Mexico.,Departamento de Química Orgánica, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias, Biológicas, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Prolongación de Carpio y Plan de Ayala, México, CDMX., 11340 México
| | - Martiniano Bello
- Laboratorio de Diseno y Desarrollo de Nuevos Farmacos e Innovacion Biotecnologica (Laboratory for the Design and Development of New Drugs and Biotechnological Innovation), Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politecnico Nacional, Plan de San Luis y Diaz Miron, 11340 Mexico, CDMX, Mexico
| | - Elvia Becerra-Martínez
- Laboratorio de RMN, Centro de Nanociencias y Micro y Nanotecnologias, Instituto Politecnico Nacional, Calle Luis Enrique Erro s/n, Unidad Profesional Adolfo Lopez Mateos, Gustavo A, Madero, 07738 Mexico, Ciudad de Mexico, Mexico
| | - Juan B García-Vázquez
- Laboratorio de Diseno y Desarrollo de Nuevos Farmacos e Innovacion Biotecnologica (Laboratory for the Design and Development of New Drugs and Biotechnological Innovation), Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politecnico Nacional, Plan de San Luis y Diaz Miron, 11340 Mexico, CDMX, Mexico
| | - José Correa-Basurto
- Laboratorio de Diseno y Desarrollo de Nuevos Farmacos e Innovacion Biotecnologica (Laboratory for the Design and Development of New Drugs and Biotechnological Innovation), Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politecnico Nacional, Plan de San Luis y Diaz Miron, 11340 Mexico, CDMX, Mexico
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25
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Bak MJ, Furmanski P, Shan NL, Lee HJ, Bao C, Lin Y, Shih WJ, Yang CS, Suh N. Tocopherols inhibit estrogen-induced cancer stemness and OCT4 signaling in breast cancer. Carcinogenesis 2019; 39:1045-1055. [PMID: 29846560 DOI: 10.1093/carcin/bgy071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2017] [Revised: 05/02/2018] [Accepted: 05/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Estrogen plays an important role in breast cancer development. While the mechanism of the estrogen effects is not fully elucidated, one possible route is by increasing the stem cell-like properties in the tumors. Tocopherols are known to reduce breast cancer development and progression. The aim of the present study is to investigate the effects of tocopherols on the regulation of breast cancer stemness mediated by estrogen. To determine the effects of tocopherols on estrogen-influenced breast cancer stem cells, the MCF-7 tumorsphere culture system, which enriches for mammary progenitor cells and putative breast cancer stem cells, was utilized. Treatment with estrogen resulted in an increase in the CD44+/CD24- subpopulation and aldehyde dehydrogenase activity in tumorspheres as well as the number and size of tumorspheres. Tocopherols inhibited the estrogen-induced expansion of the breast cancer stem population. Tocopherols decreased the levels of stem cell markers, including octamer-binding transcription factor 4 (OCT4), CD44 and SOX-2, as well as estrogen-related markers, such as trefoil factor (TFF)/pS2, cathepsin D, progesterone receptor and SERPINA1, in estrogen-stimulated tumorspheres. Overexpression of OCT4 increased CD44 and sex-determining region Y-box-2 levels and significantly increased cell invasion and expression of the invasion markers, matrix metalloproteinases, tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinase and urokinase plasminogen activator, and tocopherols inhibited these OCT4-mediated effects. These results suggest a potential inhibitory mechanism of tocopherols in estrogen-induced stemness and cell invasion in breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Ji Bak
- Department of Chemical Biology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Philip Furmanski
- Department of Chemical Biology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Naing Lin Shan
- Department of Chemical Biology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Hong Jin Lee
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Chung-Ang University, Anseong, South Korea
| | - Cheng Bao
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Chung-Ang University, Anseong, South Korea
| | - Yong Lin
- Department of Biostatistics, Rutgers School of Public Health, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA.,Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Weichung Joe Shih
- Department of Biostatistics, Rutgers School of Public Health, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA.,Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Chung S Yang
- Department of Chemical Biology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA.,Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Nanjoo Suh
- Department of Chemical Biology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA.,Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
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26
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Peiffer DS, Wyatt D, Zlobin A, Piracha A, Ng J, Dingwall AK, Albain KS, Osipo C. DAXX Suppresses Tumor-Initiating Cells in Estrogen Receptor-Positive Breast Cancer Following Endocrine Therapy. Cancer Res 2019; 79:4965-4977. [PMID: 31387918 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-19-1110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2019] [Revised: 07/03/2019] [Accepted: 08/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Estrogen receptor (ER)-positive breast cancer recurrence is thought to be driven by tumor-initiating cells (TIC). TICs are enriched by endocrine therapy through NOTCH signaling. Side effects have limited clinical trial testing of NOTCH-targeted therapies. Death-associated factor 6 (DAXX) is a newly identified marker whose RNA expression inversely correlates with NOTCH in human ER+ breast tumor samples. In this study, knockdown and overexpression approaches were used to investigate the role of DAXX on stem/pluripotent gene expression, TIC survival in vitro, and TIC frequency in vivo, and the mechanism by which DAXX suppresses TICs in ER+ breast cancer. 17β-Estradiol (E2)-mediated ER activation stabilized the DAXX protein, which was required for repressing stem/pluripotent genes (NOTCH4, SOX2, OCT4, NANOG, and ALDH1A1), and TICs in vitro and in vivo. Conversely, endocrine therapy promoted rapid protein depletion due to increased proteasome activity. DAXX was enriched at promoters of stem/pluripotent genes, which was lost with endocrine therapy. Ectopic expression of DAXX decreased stem/pluripotent gene transcripts to levels similar to E2 treatment. DAXX-mediated repression of stem/pluripotent genes and suppression of TICs was dependent on DNMT1. DAXX or DNMT1 was necessary to inhibit methylation of CpGs within the SOX2 promoter and moderately within the gene body of NOTCH4, NOTCH activation, and TIC survival. E2-mediated stabilization of DAXX was necessary and sufficient to repress stem/pluripotent genes by recruiting DNMT1 to methylate some promoters and suppress TICs. These findings suggest that a combination of endocrine therapy and DAXX-stabilizing agents may inhibit ER+ tumor recurrence. SIGNIFICANCE: Estradiol-mediated stabilization of DAXX is necessary and sufficient to repress genes associated with stemness, suggesting that the combination of endocrine therapy and DAXX-stabilizing agents may inhibit tumor recurrence in ER+ breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel S Peiffer
- MD/PhD and Integrated Cell Biology Programs, Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, Maywood, Illinois
| | - Debra Wyatt
- Department of Cancer Biology, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, Illinois
| | - Andrei Zlobin
- Department of Cancer Biology, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, Illinois
| | - Ali Piracha
- Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Jeffrey Ng
- Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Andrew K Dingwall
- Department of Pathology, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, Illinois
| | - Kathy S Albain
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Cardinal Bernardin Cancer Center, Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, Maywood, Illinois
| | - Clodia Osipo
- Department of Cancer Biology, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, Illinois. .,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, Illinois
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27
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Santiago-Gómez A, Kedward T, Simões BM, Dragoni I, NicAmhlaoibh R, Trivier E, Sabin V, Gee JM, Sims AH, Howell SJ, Clarke RB. PAK4 regulates stemness and progression in endocrine resistant ER-positive metastatic breast cancer. Cancer Lett 2019; 458:66-75. [DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2019.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2019] [Revised: 04/29/2019] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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28
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Rodriguez D, Ramkairsingh M, Lin X, Kapoor A, Major P, Tang D. The Central Contributions of Breast Cancer Stem Cells in Developing Resistance to Endocrine Therapy in Estrogen Receptor (ER)-Positive Breast Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11071028. [PMID: 31336602 PMCID: PMC6678134 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11071028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2019] [Revised: 07/17/2019] [Accepted: 07/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer stem cells (BCSC) play critical roles in the acquisition of resistance to endocrine therapy in estrogen receptor (ER)-positive (ER + ve) breast cancer (BC). The resistance results from complex alterations involving ER, growth factor receptors, NOTCH, Wnt/β-catenin, hedgehog, YAP/TAZ, and the tumor microenvironment. These mechanisms are likely converged on regulating BCSCs, which then drive the development of endocrine therapy resistance. In this regard, hormone therapies enrich BCSCs in ER + ve BCs under both pre-clinical and clinical settings along with upregulation of the core components of “stemness” transcriptional factors including SOX2, NANOG, and OCT4. SOX2 initiates a set of reactions involving SOX9, Wnt, FXY3D, and Src tyrosine kinase; these reactions stimulate BCSCs and contribute to endocrine resistance. The central contributions of BCSCs to endocrine resistance regulated by complex mechanisms offer a unified strategy to counter the resistance. ER + ve BCs constitute approximately 75% of BCs to which hormone therapy is the major therapeutic approach. Likewise, resistance to endocrine therapy remains the major challenge in the management of patients with ER + ve BC. In this review we will discuss evidence supporting a central role of BCSCs in developing endocrine resistance and outline the strategy of targeting BCSCs to reduce hormone therapy resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Rodriguez
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4K1, Canada
- The Research Institute of St Joe's Hamilton, St Joseph's Hospital, Hamilton, ON L8N 4A6, Canada
- Urological Cancer Center for Research and Innovation (UCCRI), St Joseph's Hospital, Hamilton, ON L8N 4A6, Canada
- The Hamilton Center for Kidney Research, St. Joseph's Hospital, Hamilton, ON L8N 4A6, Canada
| | - Marc Ramkairsingh
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4K1, Canada
- The Research Institute of St Joe's Hamilton, St Joseph's Hospital, Hamilton, ON L8N 4A6, Canada
- Urological Cancer Center for Research and Innovation (UCCRI), St Joseph's Hospital, Hamilton, ON L8N 4A6, Canada
- The Hamilton Center for Kidney Research, St. Joseph's Hospital, Hamilton, ON L8N 4A6, Canada
| | - Xiaozeng Lin
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4K1, Canada
- The Research Institute of St Joe's Hamilton, St Joseph's Hospital, Hamilton, ON L8N 4A6, Canada
- Urological Cancer Center for Research and Innovation (UCCRI), St Joseph's Hospital, Hamilton, ON L8N 4A6, Canada
- The Hamilton Center for Kidney Research, St. Joseph's Hospital, Hamilton, ON L8N 4A6, Canada
| | - Anil Kapoor
- The Research Institute of St Joe's Hamilton, St Joseph's Hospital, Hamilton, ON L8N 4A6, Canada
- Urological Cancer Center for Research and Innovation (UCCRI), St Joseph's Hospital, Hamilton, ON L8N 4A6, Canada
- Department of Surgery, McMaster University, Hamilton, Hamilton, ON L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - Pierre Major
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Oncology, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, L8V 5C2, Canada
| | - Damu Tang
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4K1, Canada.
- The Research Institute of St Joe's Hamilton, St Joseph's Hospital, Hamilton, ON L8N 4A6, Canada.
- Urological Cancer Center for Research and Innovation (UCCRI), St Joseph's Hospital, Hamilton, ON L8N 4A6, Canada.
- The Hamilton Center for Kidney Research, St. Joseph's Hospital, Hamilton, ON L8N 4A6, Canada.
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McClements L, Annett S, Yakkundi A, O’Rourke M, Valentine A, Moustafa N, Alqudah A, Simões BM, Furlong F, Short A, McIntosh SA, McCarthy HO, Clarke RB, Robson T. FKBPL and its peptide derivatives inhibit endocrine therapy resistant cancer stem cells and breast cancer metastasis by downregulating DLL4 and Notch4. BMC Cancer 2019; 19:351. [PMID: 30975104 PMCID: PMC6460676 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-019-5500-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2018] [Accepted: 03/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Optimising breast cancer treatment remains a challenge. Resistance to therapy is a major problem in both ER- and ER+ breast cancer. Tumour recurrence after chemotherapy and/or targeted therapy leads to more aggressive tumours with enhanced metastatic ability. Self-renewing cancer stem cells (CSCs) have been implicated in treatment resistance, recurrence and the development of metastatic disease. METHODS In this study, we utilised in vitro, in vivo and ex vivo breast cancer models using ER+ MCF-7 and ER- MDA-MB-231 cells, as well as solid and metastatic breast cancer patient samples, to interrogate the effects of FKBPL and its peptide therapeutics on metastasis, endocrine therapy resistant CSCs and DLL4 and Notch4 expression. The effects of FKBPL overexpression or peptide treatment were assessed using a t-test or one-way ANOVA with Dunnett's multiple comparison test. RESULTS We demonstrated that FKBPL overexpression or treatment with FKBPL-based therapeutics (AD-01, pre-clinical peptide /ALM201, clinical peptide) inhibit i) CSCs in both ER+ and ER- breast cancer, ii) cancer metastasis in a triple negative breast cancer metastasis model and iii) endocrine therapy resistant CSCs in ER+ breast cancer, via modulation of the DLL4 and Notch4 protein and/or mRNA expression. AD-01 was effective at reducing triple negative MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell migration (n ≥ 3, p < 0.05) and invasion (n ≥ 3, p < 0.001) and this was translated in vivo where AD-01 inhibited breast cancer metastasis in MDA-MB-231-lucD3H1 in vivo model (p < 0.05). In ER+ MCF-7 cells and primary breast tumour samples, we demonstrated that ALM201 inhibits endocrine therapy resistant mammospheres, representative of CSC content (n ≥ 3, p < 0.05). Whilst an in vivo limiting dilution assay, using SCID mice, demonstrated that ALM201 alone or in combination with tamoxifen was very effective at delaying tumour recurrence by 12 (p < 0.05) or 21 days (p < 0.001), respectively, by reducing the number of CSCs. The potential mechanism of action, in addition to CD44, involves downregulation of DLL4 and Notch4. CONCLUSION This study demonstrates, for the first time, the pre-clinical activity of novel systemic anti-cancer therapeutic peptides, ALM201 and AD-01, in the metastatic setting, and highlights their impact on endocrine therapy resistant CSCs; both areas of unmet clinical need.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lana McClements
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, UK
- School of Pharmacy, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, UK
- The School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Stephanie Annett
- School of Pharmacy, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, UK
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Therapeutics, Irish Centre for Vascular Biology, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, RCSI, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Anita Yakkundi
- School of Pharmacy, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Martin O’Rourke
- School of Pharmacy, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, UK
- Charles River Labs, 8-9 Spire Green Centre, Essex, Harlow, CM19 5TR UK
| | - Andrea Valentine
- School of Pharmacy, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, UK
- Charles River Labs, 8-9 Spire Green Centre, Essex, Harlow, CM19 5TR UK
| | | | - Abdelrahim Alqudah
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, UK
- School of Pharmacy, Hashemite University, Amman, Jordan
| | - Bruno M. Simões
- Manchester Breast Centre, Division of Cancer Sciences, University of Manchester, Oglesby Cancer Research Building, Manchester, UK
| | - Fiona Furlong
- School of Pharmacy, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Amy Short
- School of Pharmacy, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Stuart A. McIntosh
- Centre for Cancer Research and Cell Biology, Queen’s University Belfast and Breast Surgery Department, Belfast City Hospital, Belfast, UK
| | | | - Robert B. Clarke
- Manchester Breast Centre, Division of Cancer Sciences, University of Manchester, Oglesby Cancer Research Building, Manchester, UK
| | - Tracy Robson
- School of Pharmacy, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, UK
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Therapeutics, Irish Centre for Vascular Biology, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, RCSI, Dublin, Ireland
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30
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Mollen EWJ, Ient J, Tjan-Heijnen VCG, Boersma LJ, Miele L, Smidt ML, Vooijs MAGG. Moving Breast Cancer Therapy up a Notch. Front Oncol 2018; 8:518. [PMID: 30515368 PMCID: PMC6256059 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2018.00518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2018] [Accepted: 10/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the second most common malignancy, worldwide. Treatment decisions are based on tumor stage, histological subtype, and receptor expression and include combinations of surgery, radiotherapy, and systemic treatment. These, together with earlier diagnosis, have resulted in increased survival. However, initial treatment efficacy cannot be guaranteed upfront, and these treatments may come with (long-term) serious adverse effects, negatively affecting a patient's quality of life. Gene expression-based tests can accurately estimate the risk of recurrence in early stage breast cancers. Disease recurrence correlates with treatment resistance, creating a major need to resensitize tumors to treatment. Notch signaling is frequently deregulated in cancer and is involved in treatment resistance. Preclinical research has already identified many combinatory therapeutic options where Notch involvement enhances the effectiveness of radiotherapy, chemotherapy or targeted therapies for breast cancer. However, the benefit of targeting Notch has remained clinically inconclusive. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on targeting the Notch pathway to enhance current treatments for breast cancer and to combat treatment resistance. Furthermore, we propose mechanisms to further exploit Notch-based therapeutics in the treatment of breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik W J Mollen
- Department of Radiotherapy, GROW School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands.,Department of Radiation Oncology (MAASTRO), Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, Netherlands.,Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Jonathan Ient
- Department of Radiotherapy, GROW School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Vivianne C G Tjan-Heijnen
- Department of Radiotherapy, GROW School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands.,Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Liesbeth J Boersma
- Department of Radiotherapy, GROW School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands.,Department of Radiation Oncology (MAASTRO), Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Lucio Miele
- Department of Genetics, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, United States.,Stanley S. Scott Cancer Center, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Marjolein L Smidt
- Department of Radiotherapy, GROW School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands.,Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Marc A G G Vooijs
- Department of Radiotherapy, GROW School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands.,Department of Radiation Oncology (MAASTRO), Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, Netherlands
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Shabana AA, Butler IS, Castonguay A, Mostafa M, Jean-Claude BJ, Mostafa SI. DNA interaction and anticancer evaluation of new palladium(II), platinum(II) and silver(I) complexes based on (Δ)- and (Λ)-1,2–bis-(1H-benzimidazol-2-yl)-1,2-ethanediol enantiomers. Polyhedron 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.poly.2018.07.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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Voutsadakis IA. HER2 in stemness and epithelial-mesenchymal plasticity of breast cancer. Clin Transl Oncol 2018; 21:539-555. [PMID: 30306401 DOI: 10.1007/s12094-018-1961-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2018] [Accepted: 10/03/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer had been the first non-hematologic malignancy where sub-types based on molecular characterization had entered clinical practice. HER2 over-expression, due to either gene amplification or protein up-regulation, defines one of these sub-types and is clinically exploited by addition of HER2-targeted treatments to the regimens of treatment. Nevertheless, in many occasions HER2-positive cancers are resistant or become refractory to these therapies. Several mechanisms, such as activation of alternative pathways or loss of expression of the receptor in cancer cells, have been proposed as the cause of these therapeutic failures. Cancer stem cells (CSCs, alternatively called tumor-initiating cells) comprise a small percentage of the tumor cells, but are capable of reconstituting and propagating tumors due to their superior intrinsic capacity for regeneration, survival and resistance to therapies. CSCs possess circuits enabling epigenetic plasticity which endow them with the ability to alternate between epithelial and mesenchymal states. This paper will discuss the expression and regulation of HER2 in CSCs of the different sub-types of breast cancer and relationships of the receptor with both the circuits of stemness and epithelial-mesenchymal plasticity. Therapeutic repercussions of the relationship of HER2-initiated signaling with stemness networks will also be proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- I A Voutsadakis
- Algoma District Cancer Program, Sault Area Hospital, 750 Great Northern Road, Sault Ste. Marie, ON, P6B 0A8, Canada. .,Section of Internal Medicine, Division of Clinical Sciences, Northern Ontario School of Medicine, Sudbury, ON, Canada.
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Gelsomino L, Panza S, Giordano C, Barone I, Gu G, Spina E, Catalano S, Fuqua S, Andò S. Mutations in the estrogen receptor alpha hormone binding domain promote stem cell phenotype through notch activation in breast cancer cell lines. Cancer Lett 2018; 428:12-20. [DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2018.04.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2018] [Revised: 04/17/2018] [Accepted: 04/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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Dittmer J. Breast cancer stem cells: Features, key drivers and treatment options. Semin Cancer Biol 2018; 53:59-74. [PMID: 30059727 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2018.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2018] [Revised: 07/10/2018] [Accepted: 07/18/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The current view is that breast cancer is a stem cell disease characterized by the existence of cancer cells with stem-like features and tumor-initiating potential. These cells are made responsible for tumor dissemination and metastasis. Common therapies by chemotherapeutic drugs fail to eradicate these cells and rather increase the pool of cancer stem cells in tumors, an effect that may increase the likelyhood of recurrence. Fifteen years after the first evidence for a small stem-like subpopulation playing a major role in breast cancer initiation has been published a large body of knowledge has been accumulated regarding the signaling cascades and proteins involved in maintaining stemness in breast cancer. Differences in the stem cell pool size and in mechanisms regulating stemness in the different breast cancer subtypes have emerged. Overall, this knowledge offers new approaches to intervene with breast cancer stem cell activity. New options are particularly needed for the treatment of triple-negative breast cancer subtype, which is particularly rich in cancer stem cells and is also the subtype for which specific therapies are still not available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jürgen Dittmer
- Clinic for Gynecology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Germany.
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Wang C, Bai F, Zhang LH, Scott A, Li E, Pei XH. Estrogen promotes estrogen receptor negative BRCA1-deficient tumor initiation and progression. Breast Cancer Res 2018; 20:74. [PMID: 29996906 PMCID: PMC6042319 DOI: 10.1186/s13058-018-0996-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2018] [Accepted: 05/30/2018] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Estrogen promotes breast cancer development and progression mainly through estrogen receptor (ER). However, blockage of estrogen production or action prevents development of and suppresses progression of ER-negative breast cancers. How estrogen promotes ER-negative breast cancer development and progression is poorly understood. We previously discovered that deletion of cell cycle inhibitors p16Ink4a (p16) or p18Ink4c (p18) is required for development of Brca1-deficient basal-like mammary tumors, and that mice lacking p18 develop luminal-type mammary tumors. METHODS A genetic model system with three mouse strains, one that develops ER-positive mammary tumors (p18 single deletion) and the others that develop ER-negative tumors (p16;Brca1 and p18;Brca1 compound deletion), human BRCA1 mutant breast cancer patient-derived xenografts, and human BRCA1-deficient and BRCA1-proficient breast cancer cells were used to determine the role of estrogen in activating epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), stimulating cell proliferation, and promoting ER-negative mammary tumor initiation and metastasis. RESULTS Estrogen stimulated the proliferation and tumor-initiating potential of both ER-positive Brca1-proficient and ER-negative Brca1-deficient tumor cells. Estrogen activated EMT in a subset of Brca1-deficient mammary tumor cells that maintained epithelial features, and enhanced the number of cancer stem cells, promoting tumor progression and metastasis. Estrogen activated EMT independent of ER in Brca1-deficient, but not Brca1-proficient, tumor cells. Estrogen activated the AKT pathway in BRCA1-deficient tumor cells independent of ER, and pharmaceutical inhibition of AKT activity suppressed EMT and cell proliferation preventing BRCA1 deficient tumor progression. CONCLUSIONS This study reveals for the first time that estrogen promotes BRCA1-deficient tumor initiation and progression by stimulation of cell proliferation and activation of EMT, which are dependent on AKT activation and independent of ER.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuying Wang
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi 710061 People’s Republic of China
- Molecular Oncology Program, Division of Surgical Oncology, Dewitt Daughtry Family Department of Surgery, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136 USA
| | - Feng Bai
- Molecular Oncology Program, Division of Surgical Oncology, Dewitt Daughtry Family Department of Surgery, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136 USA
| | - Li-han Zhang
- Molecular Oncology Program, Division of Surgical Oncology, Dewitt Daughtry Family Department of Surgery, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136 USA
| | - Alexandria Scott
- Molecular Oncology Program, Division of Surgical Oncology, Dewitt Daughtry Family Department of Surgery, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136 USA
| | - Enxiao Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi 710061 People’s Republic of China
| | - Xin-Hai Pei
- Molecular Oncology Program, Division of Surgical Oncology, Dewitt Daughtry Family Department of Surgery, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136 USA
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136 USA
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The Notch Pathway in Breast Cancer Progression. ScientificWorldJournal 2018; 2018:2415489. [PMID: 30111989 PMCID: PMC6077551 DOI: 10.1155/2018/2415489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2017] [Revised: 05/10/2018] [Accepted: 06/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Notch signaling pathway is a vital parameter of the mammalian vascular system. In this review, the authors summarize the current knowledge about the impact of the Notch signaling pathway in breast cancer progression and the therapeutic role of Notch's inhibition. Methods The available literature in MEDLINE, PubMed, and Scopus, regarding the role of the Notch pathway in breast cancer progression was searched for related articles from about 1973 to 2017 including terms such as “Notch,” “Breast Cancer,” and “Angiogenesis.” Results. Notch signaling controls the differentiation of breast epithelial cells during normal development. Studies confirm that the Notch pathway has a major participation in breast cancer progression through overexpression and/or abnormal genetic type expression of the notch receptors and ligands that determine angiogenesis. The cross-talk of Notch and estrogens, the effect of Notch in breast cancer stem cells formation, and the dependable Notch overexpression during breast tumorigenesis have been studied enough and undoubtedly linked to breast cancer development. The already applied therapeutic inhibition of Notch for breast cancer can drastically change the course of the disease. Conclusion Current data prove that Notch pathway has a major participation and multiple roles during breast tumor progression. Inhibition of Notch receptors and ligands provides innovative therapeutic results and could become the therapy of choice in the next few years, even though further research is needed to reach safe conclusions.
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Zolfaroli I, Tarín JJ, Cano A. The action of estrogens and progestogens in the young female breast. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2018; 230:204-207. [PMID: 29627127 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2018.03.057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2018] [Revised: 03/25/2018] [Accepted: 03/27/2018] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Evidence from different sources sustains a pro-oncogenic role of hormones, estrogens and progestogens, on the breast. The issue is of interest for young women, who are exposed to the hormonal changes imposed by the ovarian cycle and, often, take hormones with contraceptive purposes. Experimental and clinical studies show that both estrogens and progesterone are involved in mammary development during puberty and lactation, the changes being observed across mammalian species, including humans. Estrogen receptors, and more particularly the alpha isoform, participate in molecular processes of stem cells differentiation and epithelial proliferation through paracrine actions implicating growth factors. Progesterone also contributes through paracrine mechanisms involving one member of the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) family, the receptor activator of nuclear factor κB ligand (RANKL) and its receptor (RANK). Epidemiological studies have found that the length of the exposure to endogenous hormones, as determined by an early menarche or a late menopause, is a risk factor for breast cancer. Additional evidence has derived from studies with compounds modulating the estrogen or the progesterone receptors. Selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERM), like tamoxifen, have been shown to decrease the risk of breast cancer in both pre- and post-menopausal women. Aromatase inhibitors, which drastically reduce the levels of circulating estrogens, have reproduced the findings. The selective progesterone receptor modulators (SPRM) have been less investigated and issues concerning safety have arisen. These observations have interest for young women. High-risk women may consider the use of SERMs, for example, to reduce their risk. Much more common is the case of women who take hormones for contraception. The goal of the present article is twofold: i) to summarize the actual knowledge of the mechanisms implicating estrogens and progestogens on the risk for breast cancer and ii) to provide rationality for the debate about potential cancer risk of hormonal contraceptives, frequently used by premenopausal women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Zolfaroli
- Service of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital Clínico Universitario-INCLIVA, Av Blasco Ibáñez 17, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - Juan J Tarín
- Department of Cellular Biology, Functional Biology and Physical Anthropology, University of Valencia, C/Doctor Moliner, 50, 46100 Burjassot, Spain
| | - Antonio Cano
- Service of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital Clínico Universitario-INCLIVA, Av Blasco Ibáñez 17, 46010 Valencia, Spain; Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Valencia, Av. Blasco Ibáñez, 15, 46010 Valencia, Spain.
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Alferez DG, Simões BM, Howell SJ, Clarke RB. The Role of Steroid Hormones in Breast and Effects on Cancer Stem Cells. CURRENT STEM CELL REPORTS 2018; 4:81-94. [PMID: 29600163 PMCID: PMC5866269 DOI: 10.1007/s40778-018-0114-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of Review This review will discuss how the steroid hormones, estrogen and progesterone, as well as treatments that target steroid receptors, can regulate cancer stem cell (CSC) activity. The CSC theory proposes a hierarchical organization in tumors where at its apex lies a subpopulation of cancer cells endowed with self-renewal and differentiation capacity. Recent Findings In breast cancer (BC), CSCs have been suggested to play a key role in tumor maintenance, disease progression, and the formation of metastases. In preclinical models of BC, only a few CSCs are required sustain tumor re-growth, especially after conventional anti-endocrine treatments. CSCs include therapy-resistant clones that survive standard of care treatments like chemotherapy, irradiation, and hormonal therapy. Summary The relevance of hormones for both normal mammary gland and BC development is well described, but it was only recently that the activities of hormones on CSCs have been investigated, opening new directions for future BC treatments and CSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denis G. Alferez
- Breast Biology Group, Division of Cancer Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine, and Health, Manchester Cancer Research Centre, Wilmslow Road, Manchester, M20 4GJ UK
| | - Bruno M. Simões
- Breast Biology Group, Division of Cancer Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine, and Health, Manchester Cancer Research Centre, Wilmslow Road, Manchester, M20 4GJ UK
| | - Sacha J. Howell
- Breast Biology Group, Division of Cancer Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine, and Health, Manchester Cancer Research Centre, Wilmslow Road, Manchester, M20 4GJ UK
- Department of Medical Oncology, The University of Manchester, The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, M20 4BX UK
| | - Robert B. Clarke
- Breast Biology Group, Division of Cancer Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine, and Health, Manchester Cancer Research Centre, Wilmslow Road, Manchester, M20 4GJ UK
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Jallow F, Brockman JL, Helzer KT, Rugowski DE, Goffin V, Alarid ET, Schuler LA. 17 β-Estradiol and ICI182,780 Differentially Regulate STAT5 Isoforms in Female Mammary Epithelium, With Distinct Outcomes. J Endocr Soc 2018; 2:293-309. [PMID: 29594259 PMCID: PMC5842396 DOI: 10.1210/js.2017-00399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2017] [Accepted: 02/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Prolactin (PRL) and estrogen cooperate in lobuloalveolar development of the mammary gland and jointly regulate gene expression in breast cancer cells in vitro. Canonical PRL signaling activates STAT5A/B, homologous proteins that have different target genes and functions. Although STAT5A/B are important for physiological mammary function and tumor pathophysiology, little is known about regulation of their expression, particularly of STAT5B, and the consequences for hormone action. In this study, we examined the effect of two estrogenic ligands, 17β-estradiol (E2) and the clinical antiestrogen, ICI182,780 (ICI, fulvestrant) on expression of STAT5 isoforms and resulting crosstalk with PRL in normal and tumor murine mammary epithelial cell lines. In all cell lines, E2 and ICI significantly increased protein and corresponding nascent and mature transcripts for STAT5A and STAT5B, respectively. Transcriptional regulation of STAT5A and STAT5B by E2 and ICI, respectively, is associated with recruitment of estrogen receptor alpha and increased H3K27Ac at a common intronic enhancer 10 kb downstream of the Stat5a transcription start site. Further, E2 and ICI induced different transcripts associated with differentiation and tumor behavior. In tumor cells, E2 also significantly increased proliferation, invasion, and stem cell-like activity, whereas ICI had no effect. To evaluate the role of STAT5B in these responses, we reduced STAT5B expression using short hairpin (sh) RNA. shSTAT5B blocked ICI-induced transcripts associated with metastasis and the epithelial mesenchymal transition in both cell types. shSTAT5B also blocked E2-induced invasion of tumor epithelium without altering E2-induced transcripts. Together, these studies indicate that STAT5B mediates a subset of protumorigenic responses to both E2 and ICI, underscoring the need to understand regulation of its expression and suggesting exploration as a possible therapeutic target in breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatou Jallow
- Endocrinology/Reproductive Physiology Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Jennifer L Brockman
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Kyle T Helzer
- Department of Oncology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Debra E Rugowski
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Vincent Goffin
- Inserm Unit 1151, Institut Necker Enfants Malades, Université Paris Descartes, Paris, France
| | - Elaine T Alarid
- Department of Oncology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
- University of Wisconsin Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Linda A Schuler
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
- University of Wisconsin Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
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Release of HER2 repression of trefoil factor 3 (TFF3) expression mediates trastuzumab resistance in HER2+/ER+ mammary carcinoma. Oncotarget 2017; 8:74188-74208. [PMID: 29088778 PMCID: PMC5650333 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.18431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2016] [Accepted: 05/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
HER2+/ER+ breast cancer, a subset of the luminal B subtype, makes up approximately 10% of all breast cancers. The bidirectional crosstalk between HER2 and estrogen receptor (ER) in HER2+/ER+ breast cancer contributes to resistance towards both anti-estrogens and HER2-targeted therapies. TFF3 promotes breast cancer progression and has been implicated in anti-estrogen resistance in breast cancer. Herein, we investigated the cross-regulation between HER2 and estrogen-responsive TFF3, and the role of TFF3 in mediating trastuzumab resistance in HER2+/ER+ breast cancer. TFF3 expression was decreased by HER2 activation, and increased by inhibition of HER2 with trastuzumab in HER2+/ER+ breast cancer cells, partially in an ERα-independent manner. In contrast, the forced expression of TFF3 activated the entire HER family of receptor tyrosine kinases (HER1-4). Hence, HER2 negatively regulates its own signalling through the transcriptional repression of TFF3, while trastuzumab inhibition of HER2 results in increased TFF3 expression to compensate for the loss of HER2 signalling. In HER2+/ER+ breast cancer cells with acquired trastuzumab resistance, TFF3 expression was markedly upregulated and associated with a corresponding decrease in HER signalling. siRNA mediated depletion or small molecule inhibition of TFF3 decreased the survival and growth advantage of the trastuzumab resistant cells without re-sensitization to trastuzumab. Furthermore, TFF3 inhibition abrogated the enhanced cancer stem cell-like behaviour in trastuzumab resistant HER2+/ER+ breast cancer cells. Collectively, TFF3 may function as a potential biomarker and therapeutic target in trastuzumab resistant HER2+/ER+ breast cancer.
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Sulaiman A, Sulaiman B, Khouri L, McGarry S, Nessim C, Arnaout A, Li X, Addison C, Dimitroulakos J, Wang L. Both bulk and cancer stem cell subpopulations in triple-negative breast cancer are susceptible to Wnt, HDAC, and ERα coinhibition. FEBS Lett 2016; 590:4606-4616. [PMID: 27859250 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.12496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2016] [Revised: 10/21/2016] [Accepted: 10/31/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Development of targeted therapies for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC, a more aggressive subtype) is an unmet medical need. We analyzed data from 887 patients with invasive breast cancer and observed that increased Wnt and histone deacetylase (HDAC) activities are associated with estrogen receptor 1 (ESR1) and progesterone receptor (PGR) repression, poor survival, and increased relapse. The inverse correlation between Wnt signaling and repression of ESR1 and PGR expression was found to be magnified in cancer stem cell (CSC) subpopulations in TNBC cell lines. Cosuppression of Wnt, HDAC, and ESR1 using clinically relevant low-dose inhibitors effectively repressed both bulk and CSC subpopulations and converted CSCs to non-CSCs in TNBC cells without affecting MCF-10A mammary epithelial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Sulaiman
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Canada
| | - Brandon Sulaiman
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Canada
| | - Lara Khouri
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Canada
| | - Sarah McGarry
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Canada
| | - Carolyn Nessim
- Centre for Cancer Therapeutics, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Canada
| | - Angel Arnaout
- Centre for Cancer Therapeutics, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Canada
| | - Xuguang Li
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Canada.,Centre for Biologics Evaluation, Biologics and Genetic Therapies Directorate, Health Canada Sir Frederick G. Banting Research Centre, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Christina Addison
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Canada.,Centre for Cancer Therapeutics, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Canada
| | - Jim Dimitroulakos
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Canada.,Centre for Cancer Therapeutics, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Canada
| | - Lisheng Wang
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Canada.,Regenerative Medicine Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Canada.,Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology, University of Ottawa, Canada
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Callari M, Guffanti A, Soldà G, Merlino G, Fina E, Brini E, Moles A, Cappelletti V, Daidone MG. In-depth characterization of breast cancer tumor-promoting cell transcriptome by RNA sequencing and microarrays. Oncotarget 2016; 7:976-94. [PMID: 26556871 PMCID: PMC4808046 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.5810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2015] [Accepted: 10/22/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Numerous studies have reported the existence of tumor-promoting cells (TPC) with self-renewal potential and a relevant role in drug resistance. However, pathways and modifications involved in the maintenance of such tumor subpopulations are still only partially understood. Sequencing-based approaches offer the opportunity for a detailed study of TPC including their transcriptome modulation. Using microarrays and RNA sequencing approaches, we compared the transcriptional profiles of parental MCF7 breast cancer cells with MCF7-derived TPC (i.e. MCFS). Data were explored using different bioinformatic approaches, and major findings were experimentally validated. The different analytical pipelines (Lifescope and Cufflinks based) yielded similar although not identical results. RNA sequencing data partially overlapped microarray results and displayed a higher dynamic range, although overall the two approaches concordantly predicted pathway modifications. Several biological functions were altered in TPC, ranging from production of inflammatory cytokines (i.e., IL-8 and MCP-1) to proliferation and response to steroid hormones. More than 300 non-coding RNAs were defined as differentially expressed, and 2,471 potential splicing events were identified. A consensus signature of genes up-regulated in TPC was derived and was found to be significantly associated with insensitivity to fulvestrant in a public breast cancer patient dataset. Overall, we obtained a detailed portrait of the transcriptome of a breast cancer TPC line, highlighted the role of non-coding RNAs and differential splicing, and identified a gene signature with a potential as a context-specific biomarker in patients receiving endocrine treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maurizio Callari
- Department of Experimental Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Giulia Soldà
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Rozzano, Milan, Italy.,Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Merlino
- Department of Experimental Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Emanuela Fina
- Department of Experimental Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | | | | | - Vera Cappelletti
- Department of Experimental Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Daidone
- Department of Experimental Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
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Brooks MD, Burness ML, Wicha MS. Therapeutic Implications of Cellular Heterogeneity and Plasticity in Breast Cancer. Cell Stem Cell 2016; 17:260-71. [PMID: 26340526 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2015.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 268] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Cellular heterogeneity represents one of the greatest challenges in cancer therapeutics. In many malignancies, this heterogeneity is generated during tumor evolution through a combination of genetic alterations and epigenetic events that recapitulate normal developmental processes including stem cell self-renewal and differentiation. Many, if not most, tumors display similar hierarchal organization, at the apex of which are "stem-like cells" that drive tumor growth, mediate metastasis, and contribute to treatment resistance. Using breast cancer as a model, we discuss how an improved understanding of tumor cellular heterogeneity and plasticity may lead to development of more effective therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael D Brooks
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Monika L Burness
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Max S Wicha
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
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Papi A, Orlandi M. Role of nuclear receptors in breast cancer stem cells. World J Stem Cells 2016; 8:62-72. [PMID: 27022437 PMCID: PMC4807310 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v8.i3.62] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2015] [Revised: 12/17/2015] [Accepted: 01/27/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The recapitulation of primary tumour heterogenity and the existence of a minor sub-population of cancer cells, capable of initiating tumour growth in xenografts on serial passages, led to the hypothesis that cancer stem cells (CSCs) exist. CSCs are present in many tumours, among which is breast cancer. Breast CSCs (BCSCs) are likely to sustain the growth of the primary tumour mass, as well as to be responsible for disease relapse and metastatic spreading. Consequently, BCSCs represent the most significant target for new drugs in breast cancer therapy. Both the hypoxic condition in BCSCs biology and pro-inflammatory cytokine network has gained increasing importance in the recent past. Breast stromal cells are crucial components of the tumours milieu and are a major source of inflammatory mediators. Recently, the anti-inflammatory role of some nuclear receptors ligands has emerged in several diseases, including breast cancer. Therefore, the use of nuclear receptors ligands may be a valid strategy to inhibit BCSCs viability and consequently breast cancer growth and disease relapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessio Papi
- Alessio Papi, Marina Orlandi, Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Science (BiGea), University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Marina Orlandi
- Alessio Papi, Marina Orlandi, Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Science (BiGea), University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
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Voutsadakis IA. Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) and Regulation of EMT Factors by Steroid Nuclear Receptors in Breast Cancer: A Review and in Silico Investigation. J Clin Med 2016; 5:E11. [PMID: 26797644 PMCID: PMC4730136 DOI: 10.3390/jcm5010011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2015] [Revised: 12/23/2015] [Accepted: 12/30/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Steroid Nuclear Receptors (SNRs) are transcription factors of the nuclear receptor super-family. Estrogen Receptor (ERα) is the best-studied and has a seminal role in the clinic both as a prognostic marker but also as a predictor of response to anti-estrogenic therapies. Progesterone Receptor (PR) is also used in the clinic but with a more debatable prognostic role and the role of the four other SNRs, ERβ, Androgen Receptor (AR), Glucocorticoid Receptor (GR) and Mineralocorticoid Receptor (MR), is starting only to be appreciated. ERα, but also to a certain degree the other SNRs, have been reported to be involved in virtually every cancer-enabling process, both promoting and impeding carcinogenesis. Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) and the reverse Mesenchymal Epithelial Transition (MET) are such carcinogenesis-enabling processes with important roles in invasion and metastasis initiation but also establishment of tumor in the metastatic site. EMT is governed by several signal transduction pathways culminating in core transcription factors of the process, such as Snail, Slug, ZEB1 and ZEB2, and Twist, among others. This paper will discuss direct regulation of these core transcription factors by SNRs in breast cancer. Interrogation of publicly available databases for binding sites of SNRs on promoters of core EMT factors will also be included in an attempt to fill gaps where other experimental data are not available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis A Voutsadakis
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Sault Area Hospital, Sault Ste Marie, ON P6B 0A8, Canada.
- Division of Clinical Sciences, Northern Ontario School of Medicine, Sudbury, QC P3E 2C6, Canada.
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LIU YANCHEN, ZOU TIANBIAO, WANG SHUHUAI, CHEN HONG, SU DONGJU, FU XIAONA, ZHANG QINGYUAN, KANG XINMEI. Genistein-induced differentiation of breast cancer stem/progenitor cells through a paracrine mechanism. Int J Oncol 2016; 48:1063-72. [DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2016.3351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2015] [Accepted: 11/18/2015] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
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Tanei T, Choi DS, Rodriguez AA, Liang DH, Dobrolecki L, Ghosh M, Landis MD, Chang JC. Antitumor activity of Cetuximab in combination with Ixabepilone on triple negative breast cancer stem cells. Breast Cancer Res 2016; 18:6. [PMID: 26757880 PMCID: PMC4711100 DOI: 10.1186/s13058-015-0662-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2014] [Accepted: 12/14/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Developing novel strategies against treatment-resistant triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells remains a significant challenge. The ErbB family, including epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), plays key roles in metastasis, tumorigenesis, cell proliferation, and drug resistance. Recently, these characteristics have been linked to a small subpopulation of cells classified as cancer stem cells (CSC) which are believed to be responsible for tumor initiation and maintenance. Ixabepilone is a new generation microtubule-stabilizing agent, which has been expected to be more efficacious than conventional taxanes. Here we aim to investigate whether the EGFR monoclonal antibody Cetuximab, in combination with Ixabepilone, is more effective in eliminating CSC populations compared to chemotherapy alone in TNBC. Methods Representative TNBC cell lines (MDA-MB-231 and SUM159) were used to evaluate breast CSC populations. We used fluorescence-activated cell sorter analysis (CD44+ and CD24-/low, or Aldefluor+) and a self-renewal assay called mammosphere formation efficiency (MSFE) to measure CSC population size after treatment with Cetuximab, or Cetuximab plus Ixabepilone in vitro. Results Although there was no significant decrease in cell viability, Cetuximab reduced MSFE and the CSC population in breast cancer cells in vitro and in vivo through inhibition of autophagy. Also, SUM159 and MDA-MB-231 orthotopic tumors demonstrated partial response to Centuximab or Ixabepilone monotherapy; however, the effect of the combination treatment was significant only in SUM159 tumors (p <0.0001), when compared to Ixabepilone alone. Conclusions Overall, our findings demonstrate that EGFR-targeted therapy by Cetuximab effectively reduces the CSC population in TNBC tumors. However, combination therapy with Ixabepilone may be effective only in a small subset of TNBCs, warranting further investigation of alternative approaches to target multiple pathways for TNBC treatment. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13058-015-0662-4) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomonori Tanei
- Methodist Cancer Center, Houston Methodist Hospital, 6445 Main Street, P21-34, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - Dong Soon Choi
- Methodist Cancer Center, Houston Methodist Hospital, 6445 Main Street, P21-34, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - Angel A Rodriguez
- Methodist Cancer Center, Houston Methodist Hospital, 6445 Main Street, P21-34, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - Diana Hwang Liang
- Department of Surgery, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - Lacey Dobrolecki
- Methodist Cancer Center, Houston Methodist Hospital, 6445 Main Street, P21-34, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - Madhumita Ghosh
- Methodist Cancer Center, Houston Methodist Hospital, 6445 Main Street, P21-34, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - Melissa D Landis
- Methodist Cancer Center, Houston Methodist Hospital, 6445 Main Street, P21-34, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - Jenny C Chang
- Methodist Cancer Center, Houston Methodist Hospital, 6445 Main Street, P21-34, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
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A Role for Notch Signalling in Breast Cancer and Endocrine Resistance. Stem Cells Int 2016; 2016:2498764. [PMID: 26880941 PMCID: PMC4736972 DOI: 10.1155/2016/2498764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2015] [Accepted: 12/20/2015] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the past decade, there has been growing interest in the Notch signalling pathway within the breast cancer field. This interest stemmed initially from the observation that Notch signalling is aberrantly activated in breast cancer and its effects on various cellular processes including proliferation, apoptosis, and cancer stem cell activity. However more recently, elevated Notch signalling has been correlated with therapy resistance in oestrogen receptor-positive breast cancer. As a result, inhibiting Notch signalling with therapeutic agents is being explored as a promising treatment option for breast cancer patients.
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Simões BM, Alferez DG, Howell SJ, Clarke RB. The role of steroid hormones in breast cancer stem cells. Endocr Relat Cancer 2015; 22:T177-86. [PMID: 26381288 DOI: 10.1530/erc-15-0350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/15/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) are potent tumor-initiating cells in breast cancer, the most common cancer among women. BCSCs have been suggested to play a key role in tumor initiation which can lead to disease progression and formation of metastases. Moreover, BCSCs are thought to be the unit of selection for therapy-resistant clones since they survive conventional treatments, such as chemotherapy, irradiation, and hormonal therapy. The importance of the role of hormones for both normal mammary gland and breast cancer development is well established, but it was not until recently that the effects of hormones on BCSCs have been investigated. This review will discuss recent studies highlighting how ovarian steroid hormones estrogen and progesterone, as well as therapies against them, can regulate BCSC activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno M Simões
- Breast Biology GroupBreast Cancer Now Research Unit, Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Manchester, Wilmslow Road, Manchester M20 4BX, UKDepartment of Medical OncologyThe Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Wilmslow Road, Manchester M20 4BX, UK
| | - Denis G Alferez
- Breast Biology GroupBreast Cancer Now Research Unit, Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Manchester, Wilmslow Road, Manchester M20 4BX, UKDepartment of Medical OncologyThe Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Wilmslow Road, Manchester M20 4BX, UK
| | - Sacha J Howell
- Breast Biology GroupBreast Cancer Now Research Unit, Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Manchester, Wilmslow Road, Manchester M20 4BX, UKDepartment of Medical OncologyThe Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Wilmslow Road, Manchester M20 4BX, UK Breast Biology GroupBreast Cancer Now Research Unit, Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Manchester, Wilmslow Road, Manchester M20 4BX, UKDepartment of Medical OncologyThe Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Wilmslow Road, Manchester M20 4BX, UK
| | - Robert B Clarke
- Breast Biology GroupBreast Cancer Now Research Unit, Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Manchester, Wilmslow Road, Manchester M20 4BX, UKDepartment of Medical OncologyThe Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Wilmslow Road, Manchester M20 4BX, UK
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Abstract
Breast cancer is no longer considered a single disease, but instead is made up of multiple subtypes with genetically and most likely epigenetically heterogeneous tumors composed of numerous clones. Both the hierarchical cancer stem cell and clonal evolution models have been invoked to help explain this intratumoral heterogeneity. Several recent studies have helped define the functional interactions among the different cellular subpopulations necessary for the evolution of this complex ecosystem. These interactions involve paracrine interactions that include locally acting Wnt family members, reminiscent of the signaling pathways important for normal mammary gland development and stem cell self-renewal. In this review, we discuss the interactions among various cell populations in both normal and tumor tissues. A better understanding of these interactions, especially in the metastatic setting, will be important for the development of improved combinatorial therapies designed to prevent relapse and to ultimately decrease mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei Zhang
- Department of Developmental Biology, University of Pittsburgh, 204 Craft Ave., Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - Jeffrey M Rosen
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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