Elastin is a key factor of tumor development in colorectal cancer

New insights into the mechanisms of the extracellular matrix and its therapeutic potential in anaplastic thyroid carcinoma

Anaplastic thyroid carcinoma (ATC) is the most aggressive thyroid cancer, and it has a poor prognosis and high probability of metastatic recurrence. The long-term survival of cancer cells depends on their ability to settle in a favorable environment. Cancer cells interact with other cells in the tumor microenvironment to shape the "soil" and make it suitable for cell growth by forming an extremely complex tumor ecosystem. The extracellular matrix (ECM) is an essential component of the tumor ecosystem, and its biological and mechanical changes strongly affect tumor invasion, metastasis, immune escape and drug resistance. Compared to normal tissues, biological processes, such as collagen synthesis and ECM signaling, are significantly activated in ATC tissues. However, how ATC triggers changes in the properties of the ECM and its interaction with the ECM remain poorly characterized. Therefore, an in-depth study of the regulatory mechanism of the abnormal activation of ECM signaling in ATC is highly important for achieving the therapeutic goal of exerting antitumor effects by destroying the "soil" in which cancer cells depend for survival. In this research, we revealed the aberrant activation state of ECM signaling in ATC progression and attempted to uncover the potential mechanism of action of ECM components in ATC, with the aim of providing new drug targets for ATC therapy.

Reconsideration of the laminin receptor 67LR in colorectal cancer cells

The 67 kDa laminin receptor (67LR) was identified as the first laminin receptor shown to be involved in the carcinogenesis of various cancers, including colorectal cancer. While the exact composition of this 67 kDa receptor remains unknown, it has been reported to be formed by the 37 kDa ribosomal protein SA (RPSA) covalently attached to another unidentified protein. The goal of this study was to clarify the molecular structure of 67LR to enhance our understanding of its role in malignancies. Using cell fractionation of colorectal cancer cells, the 67 kDa immunoreactive protein corresponding to 67LR was found in the soluble protein fraction, while some of the 37 kDa RPSA exhibited plasma membrane-like properties. Proteomic analysis of the 67 kDa fraction revealed the absence of RPSA but identified the β-galactosidase-related 67 kDa elastin-binding protein (67EBP), another laminin binding receptor which presents amino acid sequence similarities that can explain the immune cross reactivity with RPSA. The downregulation of β-galactosidase through short hairpin RNA (shRNA) led to a reduction in both 67LR and 67EBP immunoreactive proteins, confirming the misidentification of 67LR and 67EBP in colorectal cancer cells. Based on these findings, we propose to redefine the 67LR as the RPSA-containing laminin receptor (RCLR) to avoid confusion with the 67EBP.

Integrated single-cell RNA-seq analysis reveals mitochondrial calcium signaling as a modulator of endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition

Endothelial cells (ECs) are highly plastic, capable of differentiating into various cell types. Endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) is crucial during embryonic development and contributes substantially to vascular dysfunction in many cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). While targeting EndMT holds therapeutic promise, understanding its mechanisms and modulating its pathways remain challenging. Using single-cell RNA sequencing on three in vitro EndMT models, we identified conserved gene signatures. We validated original regulators in vitro and in vivo during embryonic heart development and peripheral artery disease. EndMT induction led to global expression changes in all EC subtypes rather than in mesenchymal clusters. We identified mitochondrial calcium uptake as a key driver of EndMT; inhibiting mitochondrial calcium uniporter (MCU) prevented EndMT in vitro, and conditional Mcu deletion in ECs blocked mesenchymal activation in a hind limb ischemia model. Tissues from patients with critical limb ischemia with EndMT features exhibited significantly elevated endothelial MCU. These findings highlight MCU as a regulator of EndMT and a potential therapeutic target.

Tissue and cellular spatiotemporal dynamics in colon aging

Tissue structure and molecular circuitry in the colon can be profoundly impacted by systemic age-related effects, but many of the underlying molecular cues remain unclear. Here, we built a cellular and spatial atlas of the colon across three anatomical regions and 11 age groups, encompassing ~1,500 mouse gut tissues profiled by spatial transcriptomics and ~400,000 single nucleus RNA-seq profiles. We developed a new computational framework, cSplotch, which learns a hierarchical Bayesian model of spatially resolved cellular expression associated with age, tissue region, and sex, by leveraging histological features to share information across tissue samples and data modalities. Using this model, we identified cellular and molecular gradients along the adult colonic tract and across the main crypt axis, and multicellular programs associated with aging in the large intestine. Our multi-modal framework for the investigation of cell and tissue organization can aid in the understanding of cellular roles in tissue-level pathology.

Reprogramming of tumor-associated macrophages by metabolites generated from tumor microenvironment

The tumor microenvironment comprises both tumor and non-tumor stromal cells, including tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), endothelial cells, and carcinoma-associated fibroblasts. TAMs, major components of non-tumor stromal cells, play a crucial role in creating an immunosuppressive environment by releasing cytokines, chemokines, growth factors, and immune checkpoint proteins that inhibit T cell activity. During tumors develop, cancer cells release various mediators, including chemokines and metabolites, that recruit monocytes to infiltrate tumor tissues and subsequently induce an M2-like phenotype and tumor-promoting properties. Metabolites are often overlooked as metabolic waste or detoxification products but may contribute to TAM polarization. Furthermore, macrophages display a high degree of plasticity among immune cells in the tumor microenvironment, enabling them to either inhibit or facilitate cancer progression. Therefore, TAM-targeting has emerged as a promising strategy in tumor immunotherapy. This review provides an overview of multiple representative metabolites involved in TAM phenotypes, focusing on their role in pro-tumoral polarization of M2.

Intestinal Dysbiosis: Microbial Imbalance Impacts on Colorectal Cancer Initiation, Progression and Disease Mitigation

The human gastrointestinal tract houses a diverse range of microbial species that play an integral part in many biological functions. Several preclinical studies using germ-free mice models have demonstrated that the gut microbiome profoundly influences carcinogenesis and progression. Colorectal cancer appears to be associated with microbial dysbiosis involving certain bacterial species, including F. nucleatum, pks+ E. coli, and B. fragilis, with virome commensals also disrupted in patients. A dysbiosis toward these pro-carcinogenic species increases significantly in CRC patients, with reduced numbers of the preventative species Clostridium butyicum, Roseburia, and Bifidobacterium evident. There is also a correlation between Clostridium infection and CRC. F. nucleatum, in particular, is strongly associated with CRC where it is associated with therapeutic resistance and poor outcomes in patients. The carcinogenic mode of action of pathogenic bacteria in CRC is a result of genotoxicity, epigenetic alterations, ROS generation, and pro-inflammatory activity. The aim of this review is to discuss the microbial species and their impact on colorectal cancer in terms of disease initiation, progression, and metastasis. The potential of anticancer peptides as anticancer agents or adjuvants is also discussed, as novel treatment options are required to combat the high levels of resistance to current pharmaceutical options.

Inflammation-Associated Cytotoxic Agents in Tumorigenesis

Chronic inflammatory processes are related to all stages of tumorigenesis. As inflammation is closely associated with the activation and release of different cytotoxic agents, the interplay between cytotoxic agents and antagonizing principles is highlighted in this review to address the question of how tumor cells overcome the enhanced values of cytotoxic agents in tumors. In tumor cells, the enhanced formation of mitochondrial-derived reactive species and elevated values of iron ions and free heme are antagonized by an overexpression of enzymes and proteins, contributing to the antioxidative defense and maintenance of redox homeostasis. Through these mechanisms, tumor cells can even survive additional stress caused by radio- and chemotherapy. Through the secretion of active agents from tumor cells, immune cells are suppressed in the tumor microenvironment and an enhanced formation of extracellular matrix components is induced. Different oxidant- and protease-based cytotoxic agents are involved in tumor-mediated immunosuppression, tumor growth, tumor cell invasion, and metastasis. Considering the special metabolic conditions in tumors, the main focus here was directed on the disturbed balance between the cytotoxic agents and protective mechanisms in late-stage tumors. This knowledge is mandatory for the implementation of novel anti-cancerous therapeutic approaches.

A novel signature of aging-related genes associated with lymphatic metastasis for survival prediction in patients with bladder cancer

Background

The predominant and most prevalent form of metastatic bladder cancer (BCa) is lymphatic metastasis, which is associated with a highly dismal prognosis for patients. Aging-related genes (ARGs) are believed to contribute significantly to tumor development. However, the effect of ARGs on lymphatic metastasis of BCa is unclear. This research sought to establish a prognosis model based on ARGs associated with lymphatic metastasis in BCa.

Methods

We downloaded BCa data from the TCGA and GEO databases and ARGs from the Aging Atlas database. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) approach was applied to obtain the characteristic ARGs of risk signature in the TCGA cohort. Verification was done using the GSE13507 dataset. The R package 'ConsensusClusterPlus' was employed to identify the molecular subtypes based on the characteristic ARGs. Protein-Protein interaction network, MCODE analysis, enrichment analysis (KEGG, GO, GSEA), and immune infiltration analysis were performed to investigate underlying mechanisms. EdU, migration and invasion assays, wound healing assays, immunofluorescence staining, and quantitative polymerase chain reaction were conducted to evaluate the impact of ELN on the proliferative, migratory, and invasive capacities of BCa cells.

Results

We identified 20 differently expressed ARGs. A four ARGs risk signature (EFEMP1, UCHL1, TP63, ELN) was constructed in the TCGA cohort. The high-risk group (category) recorded a reduced overall survival (OS) rate relative to the low-risk category (hazard ratio, 2.15; P <0.001). The risk score could predict lymphatic metastasis in TCGA cohort (AUC=0.67). The GSE13507 dataset was employed to verify the validity of this risk score. Based on the four ARGs, two distinct aging profiles (Cluster 1 and Cluster 2) were discovered utilizing the ConsensusClusterPlus, and Cluster 2 possessed a favorable OS in contrast with Cluster 1 (hazard ratio, 0.69; P =0.02). Classical tumor signaling pathways, ECM-associated signaling pathways, and immune-related signaling pathways participate in BCa progression. ELN recombinant protein affected the expression of collagen and increased migration and invasiveness in BCa cells.

Conclusion

We constructed a four-ARG risk signature and identified two aging molecular subtypes. This signature could serve as an effective survival predictor for patients with BCa.

Construction of an RNA modification-related gene predictive model associated with prognosis and immunity in gastric cancer

BACKGROUND

Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most common causes of cancer-related fatalities worldwide, and its progression is associated with RNA modifications. Here, using RNA modification-related genes (RNAMRGs), we aimed to construct a prognostic model for patients with GC.

METHODS

Based on RNAMRGs, RNA modification scores (RNAMSs) were obtained for GC samples from The Cancer Genome Atlas and were divided into high- and low-RNAMS groups. Differential analysis and weighted correlation network analysis were performed for the differential expressed genes (DEGs) to obtain the key genes. Next, univariate Cox regression, least absolute shrinkage and selection operator, and multivariate Cox regression analyses were performed to obtain the model. According to the model risk score, samples were divided into high- and low-risk groups. Enrichment analysis and immunoassays were performed for the DEGs in these groups. Four external datasets from Gene Expression Omnibus data base were used to test the accuracy of the predictive model.

RESULTS

We identified SELP and CST2 as key DEGs, which were used to generate the predictive model. The high-risk group had a worse prognosis compared to the low-risk group (p < 0.05). Enrichment analysis and immunoassays revealed that 144 DEGs related to immune cell infiltration were associated with the Wnt signaling pathway and included hub genes such as ELN. Overall mutation levels, tumor mutation burden, and microsatellite instability were lower, but tumor immune dysfunction and exclusion scores were greater (p < 0.05) in the high-risk group than in the low-risk group. The validation results showed that the prediction model score can accurately predict the prognosis of GC patients. Finally, a nomogram was constructed using the risk score combined with the clinicopathological characteristics of patients with GC.

CONCLUSION

This risk score from the prediction model related to the tumor microenvironment and immunotherapy could accurately predict the overall survival of GC patients.

The Matrix Reloaded-The Role of the Extracellular Matrix in Cancer

As the core component of all organs, the extracellular matrix (ECM) is an interlocking macromolecular meshwork of proteins, glycoproteins, and proteoglycans that provides mechanical support to cells and tissues. In cancer, the ECM can be remodelled in response to environmental cues, and it controls a plethora of cellular functions, including metabolism, cell polarity, migration, and proliferation, to sustain and support oncogenesis. The biophysical and biochemical properties of the ECM, such as its structural arrangement and being a reservoir for bioactive molecules, control several intra- and intercellular signalling pathways and induce cytoskeletal changes that alter cell shapes, behaviour, and viability. Desmoplasia is a major component of solid tumours. The abnormal deposition and composition of the tumour matrix lead to biochemical and biomechanical alterations that determine disease development and resistance to treatment. This review summarises the complex roles of ECM in cancer and highlights the possible therapeutic targets and how to potentially remodel the dysregulated ECM in the future. Furthering our understanding of the ECM in cancer is important as the modification of the ECM will probably become an important tool in the characterisation of individual tumours and personalised treatment options.

Phase-specific signatures of wound fibroblasts and matrix patterns define cancer-associated fibroblast subtypes

Healing wounds and cancers present remarkable cellular and molecular parallels, but the specific roles of the healing phases are largely unknown. We developed a bioinformatics pipeline to identify genes and pathways that define distinct phases across the time-course of healing. Their comparison to cancer transcriptomes revealed that a resolution phase wound signature is associated with increased severity in skin cancer and enriches for extracellular matrix-related pathways. Comparisons of transcriptomes of early- and late-phase wound fibroblasts vs skin cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) identified an "early wound" CAF subtype, which localizes to the inner tumor stroma and expresses collagen-related genes that are controlled by the RUNX2 transcription factor. A "late wound" CAF subtype localizes to the outer tumor stroma and expresses elastin-related genes. Matrix imaging of primary melanoma tissue microarrays validated these matrix signatures and identified collagen- vs elastin-rich niches within the tumor microenvironment, whose spatial organization predicts survival and recurrence. These results identify wound-regulated genes and matrix patterns with prognostic potential in skin cancer.

Role of elastic fiber degradation in disease pathogenesis

Elastin is a crucial extracellular matrix protein that provides structural integrity to tissues. Crosslinked elastin and associated microfibrils, named elastic fiber, contribute to biomechanics by providing the elasticity required for proper function. During aging and disease, elastic fiber can be progressively degraded and since there is little elastin synthesis in adults, degraded elastic fiber is not regenerated. There is substantial evidence linking loss or damage of elastic fibers to the clinical manifestation and pathogenesis of a variety of diseases. Disruption of elastic fiber networks by hereditary mutations, aging, or pathogenic stimuli results in systemic ailments associated with the production of elastin degradation products, inflammatory responses, and abnormal physiology. Due to its longevity, unique mechanical properties, and widespread distribution in the body, elastic fiber plays a central role in homeostasis of various physiological systems. While pathogenesis related to elastic fiber degradation has been more thoroughly studied in elastic fiber rich tissues such as the vasculature and the lungs, even tissues containing relatively small quantities of elastic fibers such as the eyes or joints may be severely impacted by elastin degradation. Elastic fiber degradation is a common observation in certain hereditary, age, and specific risk factor exposure induced diseases representing a converging point of pathological clinical phenotypes which may also help explain the appearance of co-morbidities. In this review, we will first cover the role of elastic fiber degradation in the manifestation of hereditary diseases then individually explore the structural role and degradation effects of elastic fibers in various tissues and organ systems. Overall, stabilizing elastic fiber structures and repairing lost elastin may be effective strategies to reverse the effects of these diseases.

Exploration of the skeletal phenotype of the Col1a1 +/Mov13 mouse model for haploinsufficient osteogenesis imperfecta type 1

INTRODUCTION

Osteogenesis Imperfecta is a rare genetic connective tissue disorder, characterized by skeletal dysplasia and fragile bones. Currently only two mouse models have been reported for haploinsufficient (HI) mild Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI); the Col1a1 ^+/Mov13 (Mov13) and the Col1a1 ^+/-365 mouse model. The Mov13 mice were created by random insertion of the Mouse Moloney leukemia virus in the first intron of the Col1a1 gene, preventing the initiation of transcription. Since the development of the Mov13 mice almost four decades ago and its basic phenotypic characterization in the 90s, there have not been many further studies. We aimed to extensively characterize the Mov13 mouse model in order to critically evaluate its possible use for preclinical studies of HI OI.

METHODS

Bone tissue from ten heterozygous Mov13 and ten wild-type littermates (WT) C57BL/6J mice (50% males per group) was analyzed at eight weeks of age with bone histomorphometry, micro computed tomography (microCT), 3-point bending, gene expression of different collagens, as well as serum markers of bone turnover.

RESULTS

The Mov13 mouse presented a lower bone strength and impaired material properties based on our results of 3-point bending and microCT analysis respectively. In contrast, no significant differences were found for all histomorphometric parameters. In addition, no significant differences in Col1a1 bone expression were present, but there was a significant lower P1NP concentration, a bone formation marker, measured in serum. Furthermore, bone tissue of Mov13 mice presented significantly higher expression of collagens (Col1a2, Col5a1 and Col5a2), and bone metabolism markers (Bglap, Fgf23, Smad7, Edn1 and Eln) compared to WT. Finally, we measured a significantly lower Col1a1 expression in heart and skin tissue and also determined a higher expression of other collagens in the heart tissue.

CONCLUSION

Although we did not detect a significant reduction in Col1a1 expression in the bone tissue, a change in bone structure and reduction in bone strength was noted. Regrettably, the variability of the bone phenotype and the appearance of severe lymphoma in adult Mov13 mice, does not favor their use for the testing of new long-term drug studies. As such, a new HI OI type 1 mouse model is urgently needed.

B cell expansion hinders the stroma-epithelium regenerative cross talk during mucosal healing

Therapeutic promotion of intestinal regeneration holds great promise, but defining the cellular mechanisms that influence tissue regeneration remains an unmet challenge. To gain insight into the process of mucosal healing, we longitudinally examined the immune cell composition during intestinal damage and regeneration. B cells were the dominant cell type in the healing colon, and single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) revealed expansion of an IFN-induced B cell subset during experimental mucosal healing that predominantly located in damaged areas and associated with colitis severity. B cell depletion accelerated recovery upon injury, decreased epithelial ulceration, and enhanced gene expression programs associated with tissue remodeling. scRNA-seq from the epithelial and stromal compartments combined with spatial transcriptomics and multiplex immunostaining showed that B cells decreased interactions between stromal and epithelial cells during mucosal healing. Activated B cells disrupted the epithelial-stromal cross talk required for organoid survival. Thus, B cell expansion during injury impairs epithelial-stromal cell interactions required for mucosal healing, with implications for the treatment of IBD.

Nerves in gastrointestinal cancer: from mechanism to modulations

Maintenance of gastrointestinal health is challenging as it requires balancing multifaceted processes within the highly complex and dynamic ecosystem of the gastrointestinal tract. Disturbances within this vibrant environment can have detrimental consequences, including the onset of gastrointestinal cancers. Globally, gastrointestinal cancers account for ~19% of all cancer cases and ~22.5% of all cancer-related deaths. Developing new ways to more readily detect and more efficiently target these malignancies are urgently needed. Whereas members of the tumour microenvironment, such as immune cells and fibroblasts, have already been in the spotlight as key players of cancer initiation and progression, the importance of the nervous system in gastrointestinal cancers has only been highlighted in the past few years. Although extrinsic innervations modulate gastrointestinal cancers, cells and signals from the gut's intrinsic innervation also have the ability to do so. Here, we shed light on this thriving field and discuss neural influences during gastrointestinal carcinogenesis. We focus on the interactions between neurons and components of the gastrointestinal tract and tumour microenvironment, on the neural signalling pathways involved, and how these factors affect the cancer hallmarks, and discuss the neural signatures in gastrointestinal cancers. Finally, we highlight neural-related therapies that have potential for the management of gastrointestinal cancers.

Increasing cancer permeability by photodynamic priming: from microenvironment to mechanotransduction signaling

The dense cancer microenvironment is a significant barrier that limits the penetration of anticancer agents, thereby restraining the efficacy of molecular and nanoscale cancer therapeutics. Developing new strategies to enhance the permeability of cancer tissues is of major interest to overcome treatment resistance. Nonetheless, early strategies based on small molecule inhibitors or matrix-degrading enzymes have led to disappointing clinical outcomes by causing increased chemotherapy toxicity and promoting disease progression. In recent years, photodynamic therapy (PDT) has emerged as a novel approach to increase the permeability of cancer tissues. By producing excessive amounts of reactive oxygen species selectively in the cancer microenvironment, PDT increases the accumulation, penetration depth, and efficacy of chemotherapeutics. Importantly, the increased cancer permeability has not been associated to increased metastasis formation. In this review, we provide novel insights into the mechanisms by which this effect, called photodynamic priming, can increase cancer permeability without promoting cell migration and dissemination. This review demonstrates that PDT oxidizes and degrades extracellular matrix proteins, reduces the capacity of cancer cells to adhere to the altered matrix, and interferes with mechanotransduction pathways that promote cancer cell migration and differentiation. Significant knowledge gaps are identified regarding the involvement of critical signaling pathways, and to which extent these events are influenced by the complicated PDT dosimetry. Addressing these knowledge gaps will be vital to further develop PDT as an adjuvant approach to improve cancer permeability, demonstrate the safety and efficacy of this priming approach, and render more cancer patients eligible to receive life-extending treatments.

An Aging-Related Gene Signature-Based Model for Risk Stratification and Prognosis Prediction in Lung Squamous Carcinoma

Aging is an inevitable process characterized by a decline in many physiological activities, and has been known as a significant risk factor for many kinds of malignancies, but there are few studies about aging-related genes (ARGs) in lung squamous carcinoma (LUSC). We designed this study to explore the prognostic value of ARGs and establish an ARG-based prognosis signature for LUSC patients. RNA-sequencing and corresponding clinicopathological data of patients with LUSC were downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). The ARG risk signature was developed on the basis of results of LASSO and multivariate Cox analysis in the TCGA training dataset (n = 492). Furthermore, the GSE73403 dataset (n = 69) validated the prognostic performance of this ARG signature. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining was used to verify the expression of the ARGs in the signature. A five ARG-based signature, including A2M, CHEK2, ELN, FOS, and PLAU, was constructed in the TCGA dataset, and stratified patients into low- and high-risk groups with significantly different overall survival (OS) rates. The ARG risk score remained to be considered as an independent indicator of OS in the multivariate Cox regression model for LUSC patients. Then, a prognostic nomogram incorporating the ARG risk score with T-, N-, and M-classification was established. It achieved a good discriminative ability with a C-index of 0.628 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.586-0.671) in the TCGA cohort and 0.648 (95% CI: 0.535-0.762) in the GSE73403 dataset. Calibration curves displayed excellent agreement between the actual observations and the nomogram-predicted survival. The IHC staining discovered that these five ARGs were overexpression in LUSC tissues. Besides, the immune infiltration analysis in the TCGA cohort represented a distinctly differentiated infiltration of anti-tumor immune cells between the low- and high-risk groups. We identified a novel ARG-related prognostic signature, which may serve as a potential biomarker for individualized survival predictions and personalized therapeutic recommendation of anti-tumor immunity for patients with LUSC.

Bioreactors for Vocal Fold Tissue Engineering

It is estimated that almost one-third of the United States population will be affected by a vocal fold (VF) disorder during their lifespan. Promising therapies to treat VF injury and scarring are mostly centered on VF tissue engineering strategies such as the injection of engineered biomaterials and cell therapy. VF tissue engineering, however, is a challenging field as the biomechanical properties, structure, and composition of the VF tissue change upon exposure to mechanical stimulation. As a result, the development of long-term VF treatment strategies relies on the characterization of engineered tissues under a controlled mechanical environment. In this review, we highlight the importance of bioreactors as a powerful tool for VF tissue engineering with a focus on the current state of the art of bioreactors designed to mimic phonation in vitro. We discuss the influence of the phonatory environment on the development, function, injury, and healing of the VF tissue and its importance for the development of efficient therapeutic strategies. A concise and comprehensive overview of bioreactor designs, principles, operating parameters, and scalability are presented. An in-depth analysis of VF bioreactor data to date reveals that mechanical stimulation significantly influences cell viability and the expression of proinflammatory and profibrotic genes in vitro. Although the precision and accuracy of bioreactors contribute to generating reliable results, diverse gene expression profiles across the literature suggest that future efforts should focus on the standardization of bioreactor parameters to enable direct comparisons between studies. Impact statement We present a comprehensive review of bioreactors for vocal fold (VF) tissue engineering with a focus on the influence of the phonatory environment on the development, function, injury, and healing of the VFs and the importance of mimicking phonation on engineered VF tissues in vitro. Furthermore, we put forward a strong argument for the continued development of bioreactors in this area with an emphasis on the standardization of bioreactor designs, principles, operating parameters, and oscillatory regimes to enable comparisons between studies.

Loss of Hyaluronan and Proteoglycan Link Protein-1 Induces Tumorigenesis in Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common diagnosed cancer worldwide, but there are no effective cures for it. Hyaluronan and proteoglycan link protein-1 (HAPLN1) is a component of the extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins and involved in the tumor environment in the colon. Transforming growth factor (TGF)-β is a key cytokine that regulates the deposition of ECM proteins in CRC. However, the role of HAPLN1 in TGF-β contributions to CRC remains unknown. We found that the mRNA expression of HAPLN1 was decreased in tumors from CRC patients compared with healthy controls and normal tissue adjacent to the tumor using two existing microarray datasets. This was validated at the protein level by tissue array from CRC patients (n = 59). HAPLN1 protein levels were also reduced in human CRC epithelial cells after 24 h of TGF-β stimulation, and its protein expression correlated with type I collagen alpha-1 (COL1A1) in CRC. Transfection of HAPLN1 overexpression plasmids into these cells increased protein levels but reduced COL1A1 protein, tumor growth, and cancer cell migration. TGF-β stimulation increased Smad2/3, p-Smad2/3, Smad4, and E-adhesion proteins; however, HAPLN1 overexpression restored these proteins to baseline levels in CRC epithelial cells after TGF-β stimulation. These findings suggest that HAPLN1 regulates the TGF-β signaling pathway to control collagen deposition via the TGF-β signaling pathway and mediates E-adhesion to control tumor growth. Thus, treatments that increase HAPLN1 levels may be a novel therapeutic option for CRC.

Circulating miRNA expression over the course of colorectal cancer treatment

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third-most common cancer type in males and the second-most common cancer type in females, and has the second-highest overall mortality rate worldwide. Approximately 50% of patients in stage I–III develop metastases, mostly localized to the liver. All physiological conditions occurring in the organism are also reflected in the levels of circulating microRNAs (miRNAs/miRs) in patients. miRNAs are a class of small, non-coding, single-stranded RNAs consisting of 18–25 nucleotides, which have important roles in various cellular processes. The aim of the present study was to evaluate a panel of seven circulating miRNAs (miR-106a-5p, miR-210-5p, miR-155-5p, miR-21-5p, miR-103a-3p, miR-191-5p and miR-16-5p) as biomarkers for monitoring patients undergoing adjuvant treatment of CRC. Total RNA was extracted from the plasma of patients with CRC prior to surgery, in the early post-operative period (n=60) and 3 months after surgery (n=14). The levels of the selected circulating miRNAs were measured with the miRCURY LNA miRNA PCR system and fold changes were calculated using the standard ∆∆Cq method. DIANA-miRPath analysis was used to evaluate the role of significantly deregulated miRNAs. The results indicated significant upregulation of miR-155-5p, miR-21-5p and miR-191-5p, and downregulation of miR-16-5p directly after the surgery. In paired follow-up samples, the most significant upregulation was detected for miR-106a-5p and miR-16-5p, and the most significant downregulation was for miR-21-5p. Pathway analysis outlined the role of the differentially expressed miRNAs in cancer development, but the same pathways are also involved in wound healing and regeneration of intestinal epithelium. It may be suggested that these processes should also be considered in studies investigating sensitive and easily detectable circulating biomarkers for recurrence in patients.

Circular RNA RBM33 contributes to extracellular matrix degradation via miR-4268/EPHB2 axis in abdominal aortic aneurysm

Background

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a complex vascular disease involving expansion of the abdominal aorta. Extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation is crucial to AAA pathogenesis, however, the specific molecular mechanism remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate differentially expressed circular RNAs (DEcircRNAs) involved in ECM degradation of AAA.

Methods

Transcriptome sequencing was used to analyze the DEcircRNAs between the AAA tissues and normal tissues. The expression of circRNAs in tissues and cells was validated using quantitative reverse transcription PCR (RT-qPCR). Overexpression of circRNAs in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) treated with angiotensin II (Ang II) was employed to explore its effect on ECM degradation of AAA. Bioinformatic technology, luciferase reporter gene assay, RT-qPCR, and rescue experiment were employed to evaluate the regulatory mechanism of circRNA.

Results

We identified 65 DEcircRNAs in AAA tissues compared with normal abdominal aortic tissues, including 30 up-regulated and 35 down-regulated circRNAs, which were mainly involved in inflammation and ECM-related functions and pathways. Moreover, circRBM33 was significantly increased in AAA tissues and Ang II-induced VSMCs compared with control samples. Overexpression of circRBM33 increased the expression of ECM-related molecule matrix metalloproteinase-2 and reduced the tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinases-1 expression. Mechanistically, miR-4268 targeted binding to circRBM33 and inhibited the luciferase activity of circRBM33. Overexpression of circRBM33 induced the expression of EPH receptor B2 (EPHB2), and this effect was countered by miR-4268 mimics.

Conclusions

Overall, our data suggest that circRBM33 might be involved in AAA progression by regulating ECM degradation via the miR-4268/EPHB2 axis.

Core genes involved in the regulation of acute lung injury and their association with COVID-19 and tumor progression: A bioinformatics and experimental study

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a specific form of lung damage caused by different infectious and non-infectious agents, including SARS-CoV-2, leading to severe respiratory and systemic inflammation. To gain deeper insight into the molecular mechanisms behind ALI and to identify core elements of the regulatory network associated with this pathology, key genes involved in the regulation of the acute lung inflammatory response (Il6, Ccl2, Cat, Serpine1, Eln, Timp1, Ptx3, Socs3) were revealed using comprehensive bioinformatics analysis of whole-genome microarray datasets, functional annotation of differentially expressed genes (DEGs), reconstruction of protein-protein interaction networks and text mining. The bioinformatics data were validated using a murine model of LPS-induced ALI; changes in the gene expression patterns were assessed during ALI progression and prevention by anti-inflammatory therapy with dexamethasone and the semisynthetic triterpenoid soloxolone methyl (SM), two agents with different mechanisms of action. Analysis showed that 7 of 8 revealed ALI-related genes were susceptible to LPS challenge (up-regulation: Il6, Ccl2, Cat, Serpine1, Eln, Timp1, Socs3; down-regulation: Cat) and their expression was reversed by the pre-treatment of mice with both anti-inflammatory agents. Furthermore, ALI-associated nodal genes were analysed with respect to SARS-CoV-2 infection and lung cancers. The overlap with DEGs identified in postmortem lung tissues from COVID-19 patients revealed genes (Saa1, Rsad2, Ifi44, Rtp4, Mmp8) that (a) showed a high degree centrality in the COVID-19-related regulatory network, (b) were up-regulated in murine lungs after LPS administration, and (c) were susceptible to anti-inflammatory therapy. Analysis of ALI-associated key genes using The Cancer Genome Atlas showed their correlation with poor survival in patients with lung neoplasias (Ptx3, Timp1, Serpine1, Plaur). Taken together, a number of key genes playing a core function in the regulation of lung inflammation were found, which can serve both as promising therapeutic targets and molecular markers to control lung ailments, including COVID-19-associated ALI.

Visualization and Quantification of the Extracellular Matrix in Prostate Cancer Using an Elastin Specific Molecular Probe

Human prostate cancer (PCa) is a type of malignancy and one of the most frequently diagnosed cancers in men. Elastin is an important component of the extracellular matrix and is involved in the structure and organization of prostate tissue. The present study examined prostate cancer in a xenograft mouse model using an elastin-specific molecular probe for magnetic resonance molecular imaging. Two different tumor sizes (500 mm3 and 1000 mm3) were compared and analyzed by MRI in vivo and histologically and analytically ex vivo. The T1-weighted sequence was used in a clinical 3-T scanner to calculate the relative contrast enhancement before and after probe administration. Our results show that the use of an elastin-specific probe enables better discrimination between tumors and surrounding healthy tissue. Furthermore, specific binding of the probe to elastin fibers was confirmed by histological examination and laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS). Smaller tumors showed significantly higher signal intensity (p > 0.001), which correlates with the higher proportion of elastin fibers in the histological evaluation than in larger tumors. A strong correlation was seen between relative enhancement (RE) and Elastica-van Gieson staining (R2 = 0.88). RE was related to inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry data for Gd and showed a correlation (R2 = 0.78). Thus, molecular MRI could become a novel quantitative tool for the early evaluation and detection of PCa.

Annotation of pituitary neuroendocrine tumors with genome-wide expression analysis

Pituitary neuroendocrine tumors (PitNETs) are common, generally benign tumors with complex clinical characteristics related to hormone hypersecretion and/or growing sellar tumor mass. PitNETs can be classified based on the expression pattern of anterior pituitary hormones and three main transcriptions factors (TF), SF1, PIT1 and TPIT that regulate differentiation of adenohypophysial cells. Here, we have extended this classification based on the global transcriptomics landscape using tumor tissue from a well-defined cohort comprising 51 PitNETs of different clinical and histological types. The molecular profiles were compared with current classification schemes based on immunohistochemistry. Our results identified three main clusters of PitNETs that were aligned with the main pituitary TFs expression patterns. Our analyses enabled further identification of specific genes and expression patterns, including both known and unknown genes, that could distinguish the three different classes of PitNETs. We conclude that the current classification of PitNETs based on the expression of SF1, PIT1 and TPIT reflects three distinct subtypes of PitNETs with different underlying biology and partly independent from the expression of corresponding hormones. The transcriptomic analysis reveals several potentially targetable tumor-driving genes with previously unknown role in pituitary tumorigenesis.

Role of salt‑inducible kinase 2 in the malignant behavior and glycolysis of colorectal cancer cells

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common type of cancer worldwide. Currently, surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy are the conventional approaches used to treat CRC. However, these therapy strategies cause several side effects. The present study aimed to develop an alternative and more effective treatment approach for patients with CRC. It has been reported that salt-inducible kinase 2 (SIK2) acts as an oncogene. Therefore, in the present study, the expression levels of SIK2 were determined in CRC cells using western blot analysis and reverse transcription-quantitative PCR. In addition, SIK2 was knocked down in CRC cells to evaluate its role in cell proliferation, migration, invasion and glycolysis using Cell Counting Kit-8, wound healing, Transwell assays and glycolysis cell-based assay kit, respectively. Additionally, the target genes of SIK2 were identified using bioinformatics analysis, while SIK2 overexpression experiments were carried out to determine whether SIK2 could regulate CRC cell malignant behavior and glycolysis. The results revealed that SIK2 was upregulated in CRC cells. Furthermore, SIK2 knockdown attenuated CRC cell proliferation, migration, invasion and glycolysis. Bioinformatics analysis predicted that SIK2 could interact with tripartite motif containing 28 (TRIM28), while TRIM28 overexpression could reverse the effects of SIK2 silencing on cell proliferation, migration, invasion and glycolysis. This finding indicated that the aforementioned effects of SIK2 were mediated by regulating TRIM28. In conclusion, the findings of the present study suggested that SIK2 may be involved in CRC carcinogenesis and glycolysis by regulating TRIM28 expression. These findings could provide a novel approach to targeted therapy and clinical diagnosis of CRC in the future.

The Bladder Microbiome Is Associated with Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Muscle Invasive Urothelial Bladder Carcinoma

Simple Summary

The abundance of microbial species residing within tumors is correlated to cancer progression across many different cancers, including bladder cancer. However, links between the intratumor microbiome of muscle invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) and specific mechanisms of cancer progression have not been well studied. In this paper, we aim to uncover the relationship between microbial abundance in the MIBC intratumor microbiome and epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), one key feature of cancer progression. By comparing the gene expression of EMT-associated genes to the abundance of intratumor microbes in MIBC patients, we found significant correlations between the abundance of microbes and either the upregulation or downregulation of EMT-associated genes. Our findings call for an investigation of possible mechanisms through which the microbiome may regulate EMT in MIBC patients. With further investigation, our findings can be used to provide a new, microbial approach in the diagnosis and therapy of MIBC.

Abstract

The intra-tumor microbiome has recently been linked to epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) in a number of cancers. However, the relationship between EMT and microbes in bladder cancer has not been explored. In this study, we profiled the abundance of individual microbe species in the tumor samples of over 400 muscle invasive bladder carcinoma (MIBC) patients. We then correlated microbe abundance to the expression of EMT-associated genes and genes in the extracellular matrix (ECM), which are key players in EMT. We discovered that a variety of microbes, including E. coli, butyrate-producing bacterium SM4/1, and a species of Oscillatoria, were associated with expression of classical EMT-associated genes, including E-cadherin, vimentin, SNAI2, SNAI3, and TWIST1. We also found significant correlations between microbial abundance and the expression of genes in the ECM, specifically collagens and elastin. Lastly, we found that a large number of microbes exhibiting significant correlations to EMT are also associated with clinical prognosis and outcomes. We further determined that the microbes we profiled were likely not environmental contaminants. In conclusion, we discovered that the intra-tumoral microbiome could potentially play a significant role in the regulation of EMT in MIBC.

The Use of Iron Oxide Nanoparticles to Reprogram Macrophage Responses and the Immunological Tumor Microenvironment

The synthesis and functionalization of iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) is versatile, which has enhanced the interest in studying them as theranostic agents over recent years. As IONPs begin to be used for different biomedical applications, it is important to know how they affect the immune system and its different cell types, especially their interaction with the macrophages that are involved in their clearance. How immune cells respond to therapeutic interventions can condition the systemic and local tissue response, and hence, the final therapeutic outcome. Thus, it is fundamental to understand the effects that IONPs have on the immune response, especially in cancer immunotherapy. The biological effects of IONPs may be the result of intrinsic features of their iron oxide core, inducing reactive oxygen species (ROS) and modulating intracellular redox and iron metabolism. Alternatively, their effects are driven by the nanoparticle coating, for example, through cell membrane receptor engagement. Indeed, exploiting these properties of IONPs could lead to the development of innovative therapies. In this review, after a presentation of the elements that make up the tumor immunological microenvironment, we will review and discuss what is currently known about the immunomodulatory mechanisms triggered by IONPs, mainly focusing on macrophage polarization and reprogramming. Consequently, we will discuss the implications of these findings in the context of plausible therapeutic scenarios for cancer immunotherapy.

Therapeutic targets in lung tissue remodelling and fibrosis

Structural changes involving tissue remodelling and fibrosis are major features of many pulmonary diseases, including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Abnormal deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins is a key factor in the development of tissue remodelling that results in symptoms and impaired lung function in these diseases. Tissue remodelling in the lungs is complex and differs between compartments. Some pathways are common but tissue remodelling around the airways and in the parenchyma have different morphologies. Hence it is critical to evaluate both common fibrotic pathways and those that are specific to different compartments; thereby expanding the understanding of the pathogenesis of fibrosis and remodelling in the airways and parenchyma in asthma, COPD and IPF with a view to developing therapeutic strategies for each. Here we review the current understanding of remodelling features and underlying mechanisms in these major respiratory diseases. The differences and similarities of remodelling are used to highlight potential common therapeutic targets and strategies. One central pathway in remodelling processes involves transforming growth factor (TGF)-β induced fibroblast activation and myofibroblast differentiation that increases ECM production. The current treatments and clinical trials targeting remodelling are described, as well as potential future directions. These endeavours are indicative of the renewed effort and optimism for drug discovery targeting tissue remodelling and fibrosis.

Stromal Protein-Mediated Immune Regulation in Digestive Cancers

Simple Summary

Solid cancers are surrounded by a network of non-cancerous cells comprising different cell types, including fibroblasts, and acellular protein structures. This entire network is called the tumor microenvironment (TME) and it provides a physical barrier to the tumor shielding it from infiltrating immune cells, such as lymphocytes, or therapeutic agents. In addition, the TME has been shown to dampen efficient immune responses of infiltrated immune cells, which are key in eliminating cancer cells from the organism. In this review, we will discuss how TME proteins in particular are involved in this dampening effect, known as immunosuppression. We will focus on three different types of digestive cancers: pancreatic cancer, colorectal cancer, and gastric cancer. Moreover, we will discuss current therapeutic approaches using TME proteins as targets to reverse their immunosuppressive effects.

Abstract

The stromal tumor microenvironment (TME) consists of immune cells, vascular and neural structures, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), as well as extracellular matrix (ECM), and favors immune escape mechanisms promoting the initiation and progression of digestive cancers. Numerous ECM proteins released by stromal and tumor cells are crucial in providing physical rigidity to the TME, though they are also key regulators of the immune response against cancer cells by interacting directly with immune cells or engaging with immune regulatory molecules. Here, we discuss current knowledge of stromal proteins in digestive cancers including pancreatic cancer, colorectal cancer, and gastric cancer, focusing on their functions in inhibiting tumor immunity and enabling drug resistance. Moreover, we will discuss the implication of stromal proteins as therapeutic targets to unleash efficient immunotherapy-based treatments.

The Construction and Analysis of Tumor-Infiltrating Immune Cells and ceRNA Networks in Bladder Cancer

Background

Bladder cancer (BLCA) is the 11th most common malignancy worldwide. Although significant improvements have been made in screening, diagnosis, and precise management in recent years, the prognosis of BLCA remains bleak.

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate the prognostic significance of tumor-infiltrating immune cells and construct ceRNA networks in BLCA patients.

Methods

The expression data of BLCA patients were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. A competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network was constructed to identify the hub genes involved in the prognosis of BLCA. The CIBERSORT algorithm was utilized to investigate the infiltration levels of 22 subsets of immune cells. Ultimately, the nomogram was generated to visualize the survival probability of each patient, with the calibration curve being performed to assess its performance. Furthermore, the Pearson correlation test was used to explore the correlation between the identified hub genes in the ceRNA network and the prognostic-related immune cells.

Results

A total of eight elements in the ceRNA network were considered as key members and correlated with the prognosis of BLCA, including ELN, SREBF1, DSC2, TTLL7, DIP2C, SATB1, hsa-miR-20a-5p, and hsa-miR-29c-3p. T cells CD8, T cells follicular helper (Tfh), and neutrophils were identified as independent prognostic factors in BLCA. The co-expression analysis showed that there was a significant correlation between the identified hub genes and immune cells.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that the mechanism of hsa-miR-29c-3p regulates the expression of ELN and DSC2, and the infiltration of Tfh and neutrophils might play pivotal roles in the progression of BLCA.

Surfactin from Bacillus subtilis attenuates ambient air particulate matter-promoted human oral cancer cells metastatic potential

Recently, many studies have indicated that ambient air particulate matter (PM) can increase the risk of oral cancer. The most common malignant tumor in the oral cavity is oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Usually, cancer cell migration/invasion is the most important cause of cancer mortality. Matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) and MMP-9 have been shown to play important roles in regulating metastasis and the tumor microenvironment. Here, we studied the anti-cancer effects of surfactin, a cyclic lipopeptide generated by Bacillus subtilis, on cancer cell migration and invasion. Surfactin suppressed PM-promoted cell migration and invasion and colony formation of SCC4 and SCC25 human oral squamous cell carcinoma cell lines. We observed that PM induced MMP-2 and MMP-9 expression, which was inhibited by surfactin. Transfection with p65, p50, c-Jun, c-Fos, p85, p110, Akt, mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), or interleukin-6 (IL-6) siRNA markedly inhibited PM-induced MMP-2 and MMP-9 expression. Moreover, surfactin could reduce Akt, mTOR, p65, and c-Jun activation and IL-6 secretion induced by PM. Finally, we proved that transfection with Akt, p65, or c-Jun siRNA significantly inhibited PM-induced IL-6 release. Taken together, these results suggest that surfactin functions as a suppressor of PM-induced MMP2/9-dependent oral cancer cell migration and invasion by inhibiting the activation of phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt/mTOR and PI3K/Akt/nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) and activator protein-1 (AP-1)/IL-6 signaling pathways.

SARS-CoV-2 induces transcriptional signatures in human lung epithelial cells that promote lung fibrosis

BACKGROUND

Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS)-CoV-2-induced coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) is a pandemic disease that affects > 2.8 million people worldwide, with numbers increasing dramatically daily. However, there is no specific treatment for COVID-19 and much remains unknown about this disease. Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE)2 is a cellular receptor of SARS-CoV-2. It is cleaved by type II transmembrane serine protease (TMPRSS)2 and disintegrin and metallopeptidase domain (ADAM)17 to assist viral entry into host cells. Clinically, SARS-CoV-2 infection may result in acute lung injury and lung fibrosis, but the underlying mechanisms of COVID-19 induced lung fibrosis are not fully understood.

METHODS

The networks of ACE2 and its interacting molecules were identified using bioinformatic methods. Their gene and protein expressions were measured in human epithelial cells after 24 h SARS-CoV-2 infection, or in existing datasets of lung fibrosis patients.

RESULTS

We confirmed the binding of SARS-CoV-2 and ACE2 by bioinformatic analysis. TMPRSS2, ADAM17, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP)3, angiotensinogen (AGT), transformation growth factor beta (TGFB1), connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) A and fibronectin (FN) were interacted with ACE2, and the mRNA and protein of these molecules were expressed in lung epithelial cells. SARS-CoV-2 infection increased ACE2, TGFB1, CTGF and FN1 mRNA that were drivers of lung fibrosis. These changes were also found in lung tissues from lung fibrosis patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Therefore, SARS-CoV-2 binds with ACE2 and activates fibrosis-related genes and processes to induce lung fibrosis.