1
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Tao Y, Li P, Feng C, Cao Y. New Insights into Immune Cells and Immunotherapy for Thyroid Cancer. Immunol Invest 2023; 52:1039-1064. [PMID: 37846977 DOI: 10.1080/08820139.2023.2268656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
Thyroid cancer (TC) is the most common endocrine malignancy worldwide, and the incidence of TC has gradually increased in recent decades. Differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) is the most common subtype and has a good prognosis. However, advanced DTC patients with recurrence, metastasis and iodine refractoriness, as well as more aggressive subtypes such as poorly differentiated thyroid cancer (PDTC) and anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC), still pose a great challenge for clinical management. Therefore, it is necessary to continue to explore the inherent molecular heterogeneity of different TC subtypes and the global landscape of the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) to find new potential therapeutic targets. Immunotherapy is a promising therapeutic strategy that can be used alone or in combination with drugs targeting tumor-driven genes. This article focuses on the genomic characteristics, tumor-associated immune cell infiltration and immune checkpoint expression of different subtypes of TC patients to provide guidance for immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujia Tao
- School of Medical Laboratory, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, China
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, The 960th Hospital of the PLA, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Peng Li
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, The 960th Hospital of the PLA, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Chao Feng
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, The 960th Hospital of the PLA, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yuan Cao
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, The 960th Hospital of the PLA, Jinan, Shandong, China
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2
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Qin R, Ren W, Ya G, Wang B, He J, Ren S, Jiang L, Zhao S. Role of chemokines in the crosstalk between tumor and tumor-associated macrophages. Clin Exp Med 2023; 23:1359-1373. [PMID: 36173487 PMCID: PMC10460746 DOI: 10.1007/s10238-022-00888-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Tumor microenvironment (TME) consists of a dynamic network of non-tumoral stromal cells, including cancer-associated fibroblasts, endothelial cells, tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), B and T cells. In the TME, TAMs support tumor initiation, progression, invasion and metastasis by promoting angiogenesis and immunosuppression of the tumor cells. There is close crosstalk between TAMs and tumor cells. Notably, chemokines are a significant messenger mediating the crosstalk between tumor cells and TAMs. TAMs can promote tumor progression via secretion of chemokines. Various chemokines secreted by tumors are involved in the generation and polarization of TAMs, the infiltration of TAMs in tumors, and the development of TAMs' suppressive function. This paper reviews CCL2-CCR2, CCL3/5-CCR5, CCL15-CCR1, CCL18-CCR8, CX3CL1/CCL26-CX3CR1, CXCL8-CXCR1/2, CXCL12-CXCR4/CXCR7 signaling pathways, their role in the recruitment, polarization and exertion of TAMs, and their correlation with tumor development, metastasis and prognosis. Furthermore, we present the current research progress on modulating the effects of TAMs with chemokine antagonists and discuss the prospects and potential challenges of using chemokine antagonists as therapeutic tools for cancer treatment. The TAMs targeting by chemokine receptor antagonists in combination with chemotherapy drugs, immune checkpoint inhibitors or radiotherapy appears to be a promising approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Qin
- The First Clinical Medical Institute, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Weihong Ren
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
| | - Guoqi Ya
- The First Clinical Medical Institute, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Bei Wang
- The First Clinical Medical Institute, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Jiao He
- The First Clinical Medical Institute, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Shaoxin Ren
- The First Clinical Medical Institute, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Lu Jiang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Shuo Zhao
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
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3
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Song M, Liu Q, Sun W, Zhang H. Crosstalk between Thyroid Carcinoma and Tumor-Correlated Immune Cells in the Tumor Microenvironment. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:2863. [PMID: 37345200 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15102863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2023] [Revised: 05/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Thyroid cancer (TC) is the most common malignancy in the endocrine system. Although most TC can achieve a desirable prognosis, some refractory thyroid carcinomas, including radioiodine-refractory differentiated thyroid cancer, as well as anaplastic thyroid carcinoma, face a myriad of difficulties in clinical treatment. These types of tumors contribute to the majority of TC deaths due to limited initial therapy, recurrence, and metastasis of the tumor and tumor resistance to current clinically targeted drugs, which ultimately lead to treatment failure. At present, a growing number of studies have demonstrated crosstalk between TC and tumor-associated immune cells, which affects tumor deterioration and metastasis through distinct signal transduction or receptor activation. Current immunotherapy focuses primarily on cutting off the interaction between tumor cells and immune cells. Since the advent of immunotherapy, scholars have discovered targets for TC immunotherapy, which also provides new strategies for TC treatment. This review methodically and intensively summarizes the current understanding and mechanism of the crosstalk between distinct types of TC and immune cells, as well as potential immunotherapy strategies and clinical research results in the area of the tumor immune microenvironment. We aim to explore the current research advances to formulate better individualized treatment strategies for TC patients and to provide clues and references for the study of potential immune checkpoints and the development of immunotherapy technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingyuan Song
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, The First Hospital of China Medical University, 155 Nanjing North Street, Shenyang 110001, China
| | - Qi Liu
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, The First Hospital of China Medical University, 155 Nanjing North Street, Shenyang 110001, China
| | - Wei Sun
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, The First Hospital of China Medical University, 155 Nanjing North Street, Shenyang 110001, China
| | - Hao Zhang
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, The First Hospital of China Medical University, 155 Nanjing North Street, Shenyang 110001, China
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4
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Shin E, Koo JS. Cell Component and Function of Tumor Microenvironment in Thyroid Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232012578. [PMID: 36293435 PMCID: PMC9604510 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232012578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Thyroid cancer is the most common cancer in the endocrine system. Most thyroid cancers have good prognosis, but some of them are resistant to treatment or show aggressive behavior. Like other tumors, thyroid cancers harbor tumor microenvironment (TME) composed of cancer associated fibroblasts (CAF) and immune cells. Autoimmune lymphocytic thyroiditis can occur in the thyroid, and it may be associated with cancer development. TME is involved in tumor progression through various mechanisms: (1) CAF is involved in tumor progression through cell proliferation and extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling; and (2) immune cells are involved in tumor progression through cell proliferation, angiogenesis, epithelial mesenchymal transformation (EMT), and immune suppression. These events are activated by various cytokines, chemokines, and metabolites secreted from cells that comprise TME. This review is focused on how CAF and immune cells, two important cell components of thyroid cancer TME, are involved in tumor progression, and will explore their potential as therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ja Seung Koo
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-2-2228-1772; Fax: +82-2-362-0860
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5
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Liu Q, Sun W, Zhang H. Roles and new Insights of Macrophages in the Tumor Microenvironment of Thyroid Cancer. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:875384. [PMID: 35479325 PMCID: PMC9035491 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.875384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Although most thyroid cancers have a good and predictable prognosis, the anaplastic, medullary, and refractory thyroid cancers still prone to recurrence and metastasis, resulting in poor prognosis. Although a number of newly developed targeted therapies have begun to be indicated for the above types of thyroid cancer in recent years, their ability to improve overall survival remain hindered by low efficacy. As the largest component of immune cells in tumor microenvironment, tumor-associated macrophages play a key role in the invasion and metastasis of thyroid cancer. There is much evidence that the immune system, tumor microenvironment and cancer stem cell interactions may revolutionize traditional therapeutic directions. Tumor-associated macrophages have been extensively studied in a variety of tumors, however, research on the relationship between thyroid cancer and macrophages is still insufficient. In this review, we summarize the functions of tumor-associated macrophages in different types of thyroid cancer, their cytokines or chemokines effect on thyroid cancer and the mechanisms that promote tumor proliferation and migration. In addition, we discuss the mechanisms by which tumor-associated macrophages maintain the stemness of thyroid cancer and potential strategies for targeting tumor-associated macrophages to treat thyroid cancer.
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6
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Müller A, Köhler UA, Trzebanski S, Vinik Y, Raj HM, Girault J, Ben‐Chetrit N, Maraver A, Jung S, Lev S. Mouse Modeling Dissecting Macrophage-Breast Cancer Communication Uncovered Roles of PYK2 in Macrophage Recruitment and Breast Tumorigenesis. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2022; 9:e2105696. [PMID: 35092356 PMCID: PMC8948556 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202105696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Revised: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Macrophage infiltration in mammary tumors is associated with enhanced tumor progression, metastasis, and poor clinical outcome, and considered as target for therapeutic intervention. By using different genetic mouse models, the authors show that ablation of the tyrosine kinase PYK2, either in breast cancer cells, only in the tumor microenvironment, or in both, markedly reduces the number of infiltrating tumor macrophages and concomitantly inhibits tumor angiogenesis and tumor growth. Strikingly, PYK2 ablation only in macrophages is sufficient to induce similar effects. These phenotypic changes are associated with reduced monocyte recruitment and a substantial decrease in tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs). Mechanistically, the authors show that PYK2 mediates mutual communication between breast cancer cells and macrophages through critical effects on key receptor signaling. Specifically, PYK2 ablation inhibits Notch1 signaling and consequently reduces CCL2 secretion by breast cancer cells, and concurrently reduces the levels of CCR2, CXCR4, IL-4Rα, and Stat6 activation in macrophages. These bidirectional effects modulate monocyte recruitment, macrophage polarization, and tumor angiogenesis. The expression of PYK2 is correlated with infiltrated macrophages in breast cancer patients, and its effects on macrophage infiltration and pro-tumorigenic phenotype suggest that PYK2 targeting can be utilized as an effective strategy to modulate TAMs and possibly sensitize breast cancer to immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ulrike A. Köhler
- Molecular Cell Biology DepartmentWeizmann Institute of ScienceRehovot76100Israel
| | | | - Yaron Vinik
- Molecular Cell Biology DepartmentWeizmann Institute of ScienceRehovot76100Israel
| | - Harsha Mohan Raj
- Molecular Cell Biology DepartmentWeizmann Institute of ScienceRehovot76100Israel
| | | | - Nir Ben‐Chetrit
- Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer CenterWeill Cornell MedicineNew YorkNY10065USA
| | - Antonio Maraver
- Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de MontpellierInserm U1194 – Université MontpellierMontpellier34090France
| | - Steffen Jung
- Immunology DepartmentWeizmann Institute of ScienceRehovot76100Israel
| | - Sima Lev
- Molecular Cell Biology DepartmentWeizmann Institute of ScienceRehovot76100Israel
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7
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Thyroid Cancer Stem-Like Cells: From Microenvironmental Niches to Therapeutic Strategies. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10071455. [PMID: 33916320 PMCID: PMC8037626 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10071455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Revised: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Thyroid cancer (TC) is the most common endocrine malignancy. Recent progress in thyroid cancer biology revealed a certain degree of intratumoral heterogeneity, highlighting the coexistence of cellular subpopulations with distinct proliferative capacities and differentiation abilities. Among those subpopulations, cancer stem-like cells (CSCs) are hypothesized to drive TC heterogeneity, contributing to its metastatic potential and therapy resistance. CSCs principally exist in tumor areas with specific microenvironmental conditions, the so-called stem cell niches. In particular, in thyroid cancer, CSCs' survival is enhanced in the hypoxic niche, the immune niche, and some areas with specific extracellular matrix composition. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge about thyroid CSCs, the tumoral niches that allow their survival, and the implications for TC therapy.
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8
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Feng K, Ma R, Zhang L, Li H, Tang Y, Du G, Niu D, Yin D. The Role of Exosomes in Thyroid Cancer and Their Potential Clinical Application. Front Oncol 2020; 10:596132. [PMID: 33335859 PMCID: PMC7736410 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.596132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The incidence of thyroid cancer (TC) is rapidly increasing worldwide. The diagnostic accuracy and dynamics of TC need to be improved, and traditional treatments are not effective enough for patients with poorly differentiated thyroid cancer. Exosomes are membrane vesicles secreted specifically by various cells and are involved in intercellular communication. Recent studies have shown that exosomes secreted by TC cells contribute to tumor progression, angiogenesis and metastasis. Exosomes in liquid biopsies can reflect the overall molecular information of tumors, and have natural advantages in diagnosing TC. Exosomes also play an important role in tumor therapy due to their special physicochemical properties. TC patients will benefit as more exosome patterns are discovered. In this review, we discuss the role of TC-derived exosomes in tumorigenesis and development, and describe the application of exosomes in the diagnosis and treatment of TC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaixiang Feng
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Department of Thyroid Surgery, Key Discipline Laboratory of Clinical Medicine of Henan, Zhengzhou, China.,Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Runsheng Ma
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Department of Thyroid Surgery, Key Discipline Laboratory of Clinical Medicine of Henan, Zhengzhou, China.,Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Lele Zhang
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Department of Thyroid Surgery, Key Discipline Laboratory of Clinical Medicine of Henan, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Hongqiang Li
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Department of Thyroid Surgery, Key Discipline Laboratory of Clinical Medicine of Henan, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yifeng Tang
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Department of Thyroid Surgery, Key Discipline Laboratory of Clinical Medicine of Henan, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Gongbo Du
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Department of Thyroid Surgery, Key Discipline Laboratory of Clinical Medicine of Henan, Zhengzhou, China.,Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Dongpeng Niu
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Department of Thyroid Surgery, Key Discipline Laboratory of Clinical Medicine of Henan, Zhengzhou, China.,Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Detao Yin
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Department of Thyroid Surgery, Key Discipline Laboratory of Clinical Medicine of Henan, Zhengzhou, China
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9
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MacDonald L, Jenkins J, Purvis G, Lee J, Franco AT. The Thyroid Tumor Microenvironment: Potential Targets for Therapeutic Intervention and Prognostication. Discov Oncol 2020; 11:205-217. [PMID: 32548798 DOI: 10.1007/s12672-020-00390-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 06/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Thyroid cancer is the most common endocrine malignancy and incidences are rising rapidly, in both pediatric and adult populations. Many thyroid tumors are successfully treated which results in low mortality rates, but there is often a significant morbidity associated with thyroid cancer treatments. For patients with tumors that are not successfully treated with surgical resection or radioactive iodine treatment, prognosis is dramatically reduced. Patients diagnosed with anaplastic thyroid cancer face a very grim prognosis with a median survival of 6 months post-diagnosis. There is a critical need to identify patients who are at greatest risk of developing persistent disease and progressing to poorly differentiated or anaplastic disease. Furthermore, development of treatments associated with less morbidity would represent a significant improvement for thyroid cancer survivors. It is well established the stromal cells and components of the tumor microenvironment can drive tumor progression and resistance to therapy. Here we review the current state of what is known regarding the thyroid tumor microenvironment and how these factors may contribute to thyroid tumor pathogenesis. Study of the tumor microenvironment within thyroid cancer is a relatively new field, and more studies are needed to dissect the complex and dynamic crosstalk between thyroid tumor cells and its tumor niche.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Grace Purvis
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes Department of Pediatrics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Joshua Lee
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes Department of Pediatrics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Aime T Franco
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes Department of Pediatrics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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10
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Yin H, Tang Y, Guo Y, Wen S. Immune Microenvironment of Thyroid Cancer. J Cancer 2020; 11:4884-4896. [PMID: 32626535 PMCID: PMC7330689 DOI: 10.7150/jca.44506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Thyroid cancer (TC) is a highly heterogeneous endocrine malignancy with an increased incidence in women than in men. Previous studies regarding the pathogenesis of TC focused on the pathological changes of the tumor cells while ignoring the importance of the mesenchymal cells in tumor microenvironment. However, more recently, the stable environment provided by the interaction of thyroid cancer cells with the peri-tumoral stroma has been widely studied. Studies have shown that components of an individual's immune system are closely related to the occurrence, invasion, and metastasis of TC, which may affect response to treatment and prognosis of the patients. This article presents a comprehensive review of the immune cells, secreted soluble mediators and immune checkpoints in the immune microenvironment, mechanisms that promoting TC cells immune evasion and existing immunotherapy strategies. Besides it provides new strategies for TC prognosis prediction and immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyu Yin
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Cancer, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, P.R. China.,Department of Otolaryngology Head & Neck Surgery, The First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, P.R. China
| | - Yemei Tang
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Cancer, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, P.R. China.,Department of Otolaryngology Head & Neck Surgery, The First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, P.R. China
| | - Yujia Guo
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Cancer, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, P.R. China.,Department of Otolaryngology Head & Neck Surgery, The First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, P.R. China
| | - Shuxin Wen
- Shanxi Province Clinical Medical Research Center for Precision Medicine of Head and Neck Cancer, The First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, P.R. China.,General Hospital, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518061, Guangdong, P.R. China
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11
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Veschi V, Verona F, Lo Iacono M, D'Accardo C, Porcelli G, Turdo A, Gaggianesi M, Forte S, Giuffrida D, Memeo L, Todaro M. Cancer Stem Cells in Thyroid Tumors: From the Origin to Metastasis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2020; 11:566. [PMID: 32982967 PMCID: PMC7477072 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.00566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Thyroid tumors are extremely heterogeneous varying from almost benign tumors with good prognosis as papillary or follicular tumors, to the undifferentiated ones with severe prognosis. Recently, several models of thyroid carcinogenesis have been described, mostly hypothesizing a major role of the thyroid cancer stem cell (TCSC) population in both cancer initiation and metastasis formation. However, the cellular origin of TCSC is still incompletely understood. Here, we review the principal epigenetic mechanisms relevant to TCSC origin and maintenance in both well-differentiated and anaplastic thyroid tumors. Specifically, we describe the alterations in DNA methylation, histone modifiers, and microRNAs (miRNAs) involved in TCSC survival, focusing on the potential of targeting aberrant epigenetic modifications for developing novel therapeutic approaches. Moreover, we discuss the bidirectional relationship between TCSCs and immune cells. The cells of innate and adaptive response can promote the TCSC-driven tumorigenesis, and conversely, TCSCs may favor the expansion of immune cells with protumorigenic functions. Finally, we evaluate the role of the tumor microenvironment and the complex cross-talk of chemokines, hormones, and cytokines in regulating thyroid tumor initiation, progression, and therapy refractoriness. The re-education of the stromal cells can be an effective strategy to fight thyroid cancer. Dissecting the genetic and epigenetic landscape of TCSCs and their interactions with tumor microenvironment cells is urgently needed to select more appropriate treatment and improve the outcome of patients affected by advanced differentiated and undifferentiated thyroid cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Veschi
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Stomatological Sciences (DICHIRONS), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Francesco Verona
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Stomatological Sciences (DICHIRONS), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Melania Lo Iacono
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Stomatological Sciences (DICHIRONS), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Caterina D'Accardo
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Gaetana Porcelli
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Stomatological Sciences (DICHIRONS), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Alice Turdo
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Miriam Gaggianesi
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Stomatological Sciences (DICHIRONS), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Stefano Forte
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Mediterranean Institute of Oncology (IOM), Catania, Italy
| | - Dario Giuffrida
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Mediterranean Institute of Oncology (IOM), Catania, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Memeo
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Mediterranean Institute of Oncology (IOM), Catania, Italy
| | - Matilde Todaro
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
- *Correspondence: Matilde Todaro
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12
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Rotondi M, Coperchini F, Latrofa F, Chiovato L. Role of Chemokines in Thyroid Cancer Microenvironment: Is CXCL8 the Main Player? Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2018; 9:314. [PMID: 29977225 PMCID: PMC6021500 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2018.00314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2018] [Accepted: 05/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumor-related inflammation does influence the biological behavior of neoplastic cells and ultimately the patient's outcome. With specific regard to thyroid cancer, the issue of tumor-associated inflammation has been extensively studied and recently reviewed. However, the role of chemokines, which play a crucial role in determining the immuno-phenotype of tumor-related inflammation, was not addressed in previous reviews on the topic. Experimental evidence shows that thyroid cancer cells actively secrete a wide spectrum of chemokines and, at least for some of them, solid scientific data support a role for these immune-active molecules in the aggressive behavior of the tumor. Our proposal for a review article on chemokines and thyroid cancer stems from the notion that chemokines, besides having the ability to attract and maintain immune cells at the tumor site, also produce several pro-tumorigenic actions, which include proangiogenetic, cytoproliferative, and pro-metastatic effects. Studies taking into account the role of CCL15, C-X-C motif ligand 12, CXCL16, CXCL1, CCL20, and CCL2 in the context of thyroid cancer will be reviewed with particular emphasis on CXCL8. The reason for focusing on CXCL8 is that this chemokine is the most studied one in human malignancies, displaying multifaceted pro-tumorigenic effects. These include enhancement of tumor cells growth, metastatization, and angiogenesis overall contributing to the progression of several cancers including thyroid cancer. We aim at reviewing current knowledge on the (i) ability of both normal and tumor thyroid cells to secrete CXCL8; (ii) direct/indirect pro-tumorigenic effects of CXCL8 demonstrated by in vitro and in vivo studies specifically performed on thyroid cancer cells; and (iii) pharmacologic strategies proven to be effective for lowering CXCL8 secretion and/or its effects on thyroid cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Rotondi
- Unit of Internal Medicine and Endocrinology, ICS Maugeri I.R.C.C.S., Laboratory for Endocrine Disruptors, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Francesca Coperchini
- Unit of Internal Medicine and Endocrinology, ICS Maugeri I.R.C.C.S., Laboratory for Endocrine Disruptors, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Francesco Latrofa
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Luca Chiovato
- Unit of Internal Medicine and Endocrinology, ICS Maugeri I.R.C.C.S., Laboratory for Endocrine Disruptors, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- *Correspondence: Luca Chiovato,
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13
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Savala R, Dey P, Gupta N. Artificial neural network model to distinguish follicular adenoma from follicular carcinoma on fine needle aspiration of thyroid. Diagn Cytopathol 2017; 46:244-249. [DOI: 10.1002/dc.23880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2017] [Revised: 12/01/2017] [Accepted: 12/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Rajiv Savala
- Department of Pathology; Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research; Chandigarh India
| | - Pranab Dey
- Department of Cytology; Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research; Chandigarh India
| | - Nalini Gupta
- Department of Cytology; Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research; Chandigarh India
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14
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Chi J, Zheng X, Gao M, Zhao J, Li D, Li J, Dong L, Ruan X. Integrated microRNA-mRNA analyses of distinct expression profiles in follicular thyroid tumors. Oncol Lett 2017; 14:7153-7160. [PMID: 29344146 PMCID: PMC5754833 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2017.7146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2016] [Accepted: 08/10/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs/miRs) are small non-coding RNAs identified in plants, animals and certain viruses; they function in RNA silencing and post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression. miRNAs also serve an important role in the pathogenesis, diagnosis and treatment of tumors. However, few studies have investigated the role of miRNAs in thyroid tumors. In the present study, the expression of miRNA and mRNA was compared between follicular thyroid carcinoma (FTC) and follicular thyroid adenoma (FA) samples, and then miRNA-mRNA regulatory network analysis was performed. Microarray datasets (GSE29315 and GSE62054) were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus, and profiling data were processed with R software. Differentially expressed miRNAs (DEMs) and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were determined, and Gene Ontology enrichment analysis was subsequently performed for DEGs using the Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery. The target genes of the DEMs were identified with miRWalk, miRecords and TarMir databases. Network analysis of the DEMs and DEMs-targeted DEGs was performed using Cytoscape software. In GSE62054, 23 downregulated and 9 upregulated miRNAs were identified. In GSE29315, 42 downregulated and 44 upregulated mRNAs were identified. A total of 36 miRNA-gene pairs were also identified. Network analysis indicated a co-regulatory association between miR-296-5p, miR-10a, miR-139-5p, miR-452, miR-493, miR-7, miR-137, miR-144, miR-145 and corresponding targeted mRNAs, including TNF receptor superfamily member 11b, benzodiazepine receptor (peripheral) -associated protein 1, and transforming growth factor β receptor 2. These results suggest that miRNA-mRNAs networks serve an important role in the pathogenesis, diagnosis and treatment of FTC and FA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiadong Chi
- Department of Thyroid and Neck Tumors, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Oncology Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, National Clinical Research Center of Cancer, Tianjin 300060, P.R. China.,Department of Graduate College, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, P.R. China
| | - Xiangqian Zheng
- Department of Thyroid and Neck Tumors, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Oncology Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, National Clinical Research Center of Cancer, Tianjin 300060, P.R. China
| | - Ming Gao
- Department of Thyroid and Neck Tumors, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Oncology Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, National Clinical Research Center of Cancer, Tianjin 300060, P.R. China
| | - Jingzhu Zhao
- Department of Thyroid and Neck Tumors, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Oncology Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, National Clinical Research Center of Cancer, Tianjin 300060, P.R. China
| | - Dapeng Li
- Department of Thyroid and Neck Tumors, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Oncology Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, National Clinical Research Center of Cancer, Tianjin 300060, P.R. China
| | - Jiansen Li
- Department of Thyroid and Neck Tumors, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Oncology Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, National Clinical Research Center of Cancer, Tianjin 300060, P.R. China
| | - Li Dong
- Department of Thyroid and Neck Tumors, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Oncology Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, National Clinical Research Center of Cancer, Tianjin 300060, P.R. China
| | - Xianhui Ruan
- Department of Thyroid and Neck Tumors, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Oncology Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, National Clinical Research Center of Cancer, Tianjin 300060, P.R. China
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Latteyer S, Tiedje V, Schilling B, Führer D. Perspectives for immunotherapy in endocrine cancer. Endocr Relat Cancer 2016; 23:R469-84. [PMID: 27485460 DOI: 10.1530/erc-16-0169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2016] [Accepted: 08/02/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The fight against cancer has seen major breakthroughs in recent years. More than a decade ago, tyrosine kinase inhibitors targeting constitutively activated signaling cascades within the tumor inaugurated a new era of oncological therapy. Recently, immunotherapy with immune checkpoint inhibitors has started to revolutionize the treatment of several malignancies, most notably malignant melanoma, leading to the renaissance and the long-awaited breakthrough of immunooncology. This review provides an overview of the basis of immunotherapy from its initial concepts of anti-tumor immunity and cell-based therapy to the development of immune checkpoint inhibitors and discusses published studies and the perspectives of immunooncology for the treatment of endocrine malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Latteyer
- Department of Endocrinology and MetabolismUniversity Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany Endocrine Tumour Center at West German Cancer Center (WTZ)Essen, Germany
| | - V Tiedje
- Department of Endocrinology and MetabolismUniversity Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany Endocrine Tumour Center at West German Cancer Center (WTZ)Essen, Germany
| | - B Schilling
- Department of DermatologyVenereology and Allergology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany German Cancer Consortium (DKTK)Heidelberg, Germany
| | - D Führer
- Department of Endocrinology and MetabolismUniversity Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany Endocrine Tumour Center at West German Cancer Center (WTZ)Essen, Germany
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