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Farahani M, Ghazimoradi MH. Dissecting the roles of exosomal cancer-associated fibroblasts-derived non-coding RNAs in tumor progression: A complete guide. Pathol Res Pract 2024; 262:155576. [PMID: 39232286 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2024.155576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2024] [Revised: 08/28/2024] [Accepted: 08/29/2024] [Indexed: 09/06/2024]
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts are the most important cellular component of the tumor microenvironment, controlling cancer progression and therapeutic response. These cells in the tumor microenvironment regulate tumor progression and development as oncogenic or tumor suppressor agents. However, the mechanisms by which CAFs communicate with cancer cells remain to investigate. Here, we review evidence that extracellular vesicles, particularly exosomes, serve as vehicles for the intercellular transfer of bioactive cargos, notably microRNAs and long non-coding RNAs, from CAFs to cancer cells. We try to highlight molecular pathways of non-coding RNAs and the interaction among these molecules. Together, these findings elucidate a critical exosome-based communication axis by which CAFs create mostly a supportive pro-tumorigenic microenvironment and highlight therapeutic opportunities for disrupting this intercellular crosstalk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahnaz Farahani
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Hazrat Rasool-E Akram, General Hospital, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad H Ghazimoradi
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Biological Science, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
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Akhlaghipour I, Moghbeli M. MicroRNA-98 as a novel diagnostic marker and therapeutic target in cancer patients. Discov Oncol 2024; 15:385. [PMID: 39210158 PMCID: PMC11362465 DOI: 10.1007/s12672-024-01270-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 08/23/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
The progress of cancer treatment methods in the last decade has significantly reduced mortality rate among these patients. Nevertheless, cancer is still recognized as one of the main causes of human deaths. One of the main reasons for the high death rate in cancer patients is the late diagnosis in the advanced tumor stages. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate the molecular biology of tumor progressions in order to introduce early diagnostic markers. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have an important role in regulating cellular processes associated with tumor progression. Due to the high stability of miRNAs in body fluids, they are widely used as non-invasive markers in the early tumor diagnosis. Since, deregulation of miR-98 has been reported in a wide range of cancers, we investigated the molecular mechanisms of miR-98 during tumor progression. It has been reported that miR-98 mainly inhibits the tumor growth by the modulation of transcription factors and signaling pathways. Therefore, miR-98 can be introduced as a tumor marker and therapeutic target among cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iman Akhlaghipour
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Meysam Moghbeli
- Department of Medical Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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Nedaeinia R, Najafgholian S, Salehi R, Goli M, Ranjbar M, Nickho H, Haghjooy Javanmard S, A Ferns G, Manian M. The role of cancer-associated fibroblasts and exosomal miRNAs-mediated intercellular communication in the tumor microenvironment and the biology of carcinogenesis: a systematic review. Cell Death Discov 2024; 10:380. [PMID: 39187523 PMCID: PMC11347635 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-024-02146-5] [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: 04/08/2024] [Revised: 07/24/2024] [Accepted: 08/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/28/2024] Open
Abstract
CAFs (cancer-associated fibroblasts) are highly flexible cells of the cancer microenvironment. They produce the extracellular matrix (ECM) constituents that form the structure of the tumor stroma but are also a source of metabolites, growth factors, chemokines, and exosomes that impact every aspect of the tumor, including its response to treatment. It is believed that exosomal miRNAs facilitate intercellular signaling, which is essential for the development of cancer. The role of miRNAs and CAFs in the tumor microenvironment (TME) and carcinogenesis is reviewed in this paper. The preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) 2020 guidelines were used to perform a systematic review. Several databases, including Web of Science, Medline, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Scopus, were searched using the following keywords: CAFs, CAF, cancer-associated fibroblasts, stromal fibroblasts, miRNA, exosomal miRNAs, exosome and similar terms. We identified studies investigating exosomal miRNAs and CAFs in the TME and their role in carcinogenesis. A total of 12,572 papers were identified. After removing duplicates (n = 3803), 8774 articles were screened by title and abstract. Of these, 421 were excluded from further analysis. It has been reported that if exosomal miRNAs in CAFs are not functioning correctly, this may influence the secretory phenotype of tip cells and contribute to increased tumor invasiveness, tumor spread, decreased treatment efficacy, and a poorer prognosis. Under their influence, normal fibroblasts (NFs) are transformed into CAFs. Furthermore, they participate in metabolic reprogramming, which allows for fast proliferation of the cancer cell population, adaptation to growing energy demands, and the capacity to avoid immune system identification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reza Nedaeinia
- Pediatric Inherited Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Primordial Prevention of Non-Communicable Disease, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran.
| | - Simin Najafgholian
- Department of Emergency Medicine, School of Medicine, Valiasr Hospital, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
| | - Rasoul Salehi
- Pediatric Inherited Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Primordial Prevention of Non-Communicable Disease, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Goli
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Laser and Biophotonics in Biotechnologies Research Center, Isfahan (Khorasgan) Branch, Islamic Azad University, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Maryam Ranjbar
- Advanced Materials Research Center, Department of Materials Engineering, Najafabad Branch, Islamic Azad University, Najafabad, Iran
| | - Hamid Nickho
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shaghayegh Haghjooy Javanmard
- Applied Physiology Research Center, Cardiovascular Research Institute, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Gordon A Ferns
- Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Division of Medical Education, Falmer, Brighton, Sussex, UK
| | - Mostafa Manian
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Medical Science Kermanshah Branch, Islamic Azad University, Kermanshah, Iran.
- Isfahan Neurosciences Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran.
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Hazari V, Samali SA, Izadpanahi P, Mollaei H, Sadri F, Rezaei Z. MicroRNA-98: the multifaceted regulator in human cancer progression and therapy. Cancer Cell Int 2024; 24:209. [PMID: 38872210 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-024-03386-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024] Open
Abstract
MicroRNA-98 (miR-98) stands as an important molecule in the intricate landscape of oncology. As a subset of microRNAs, these small non-coding RNAs have accompanied a new era in cancer research, underpinning their significant roles in tumorigenesis, metastasis, and therapeutic interventions. This review provides a comprehensive insight into the biogenesis, molecular properties, and physiological undertakings of miR-98, highlighting its double-edged role in cancer progression-acting both as a tumor promoter and suppressor. Intriguingly, miR-98 has profound implications for various aspects of cancer progression, modulating key cellular functions, including proliferation, apoptosis, and the cell cycle. Given its expression patterns, the potential of miR-98 as a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker, especially in liquid biopsies and tumor tissues, is explored, emphasizing the hurdles in translating these findings clinically. The review concludes by evaluating therapeutic avenues to modulate miR-98 expression, addressing the challenges in therapy resistance, and assessing the efficacy of miR-98 interventions. In conclusion, while miR-98's involvement in cancer showcases promising diagnostic and therapeutic avenues, future research should pivot towards understanding its role in tumor-stroma interactions, immune modulation, and metabolic regulation, thereby unlocking novel strategies for cancer management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vajihe Hazari
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Rooyesh Infertility Center, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Sahar Ahmad Samali
- Department of Microbiology, Yasooj Branch, Islamic Azad University, Yasooj, Iran
| | | | - Homa Mollaei
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Birjand, Birjand, Iran
| | - Farzad Sadri
- Student Research Committee, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran.
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran.
| | - Zohreh Rezaei
- Department of Biology, University of Sistan and Baluchestan, Zahedan, Iran.
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran.
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Chen J, Yang L, Ma Y, Zhang Y. Recent advances in understanding the immune microenvironment in ovarian cancer. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1412328. [PMID: 38903506 PMCID: PMC11188340 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1412328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024] Open
Abstract
The occurrence of ovarian cancer (OC) is a major factor in women's mortality rates. Despite progress in medical treatments, like new drugs targeting homologous recombination deficiency, survival rates for OC patients are still not ideal. The tumor microenvironment (TME) includes cancer cells, fibroblasts linked to cancer (CAFs), immune-inflammatory cells, and the substances these cells secrete, along with non-cellular components in the extracellular matrix (ECM). First, the TME mainly plays a role in inhibiting tumor growth and protecting normal cell survival. As tumors progress, the TME gradually becomes a place to promote tumor cell progression. Immune cells in the TME have attracted much attention as targets for immunotherapy. Immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy has the potential to regulate the TME, suppressing factors that facilitate tumor advancement, reactivating immune cells, managing tumor growth, and extending the survival of patients with advanced cancer. This review presents an outline of current studies on the distinct cellular elements within the OC TME, detailing their main functions and possible signaling pathways. Additionally, we examine immunotherapy rechallenge in OC, with a specific emphasis on the biological reasons behind resistance to ICIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinxin Chen
- Department of Gynecology, Cancer Hospital of Dalian University of Technology, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning Cancer Hospital & Institute, Shenyang, China
| | - Lu Yang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Cancer Hospital of Dalian University of Technology, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning Cancer Hospital & Institute, Shenyang, China
| | - Yiming Ma
- Department of Medical Oncology, Liaoning Cancer Hospital & Institute, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
- Liaoning Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Cancer Translational Research, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Ye Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Hospital of Dalian University of Technology, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning Cancer Hospital & Institute, Shenyang, China
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Plesselova S, Calar K, Axemaker H, Sahly E, de la Puente P. Multicompartmentalized microvascularized tumor-on-a-chip to study tumor-stroma interactions and drug resistance in ovarian cancer. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.29.596456. [PMID: 38853974 PMCID: PMC11160770 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.29.596456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
Introduction The majority of ovarian cancer (OC) patients receiving standard of care chemotherapy develop chemoresistance within 5 years. The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a dynamic and influential player in disease progression and therapeutic response. However, there is a lack of models that allow us to elucidate the compartmentalized nature of TME in a controllable, yet physiologically relevant manner and its critical role in modulating drug resistance. Methods We developed a 3D microvascularized multiniche tumor-on-a-chip formed by five chambers (central cancer chamber, flanked by two lateral stromal chambers and two external circulation chambers) to recapitulate OC-TME compartmentalization and study its influence on drug resistance. Stromal chambers included endothelial cells alone or cocultured with normal fibroblasts or cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF). Results The tumor-on-a-chip recapitulated spatial TME compartmentalization including vessel-like structure, stromal-mediated extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling, generation of oxygen gradients, and delayed drug diffusion/penetration from the circulation chamber towards the cancer chamber. The cancer chamber mimicked metastasis-like migration and increased drug resistance to carboplatin/paclitaxel treatment in the presence of CAF when compared to normal fibroblasts. CAF-mediated drug resistance was rescued by ECM targeted therapy. Critically, these results demonstrate that cellular crosstalk recreation and spatial organization through compartmentalization are essential to determining the effect of the compartmentalized OC-TME on drug resistance. Conclusions Our results present a functionally characterized microvascularized multiniche tumor-on-a-chip able to recapitulate TME compartmentalization influencing drug resistance. This technology holds the potential to guide the design of more effective and targeted therapeutic strategies to overcome chemoresistance in OC.
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Rashid H, Ullah A, Ahmad S, Aljahdali SM, Waheed Y, Shaker B, Al-Harbi AI, Alabbas AB, Alqahtani SM, Akiel MA, Irfan M. Identification of Novel Genes and Pathways of Ovarian Cancer Using a Comprehensive Bioinformatic Framework. Appl Biochem Biotechnol 2024; 196:3056-3075. [PMID: 37615851 DOI: 10.1007/s12010-023-04702-8] [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] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
Ovarian cancer (OC) is a significant contributor to gynecological cancer-related deaths worldwide, with a high mortality rate. Despite several advances in understanding the pathogenesis of OC, the molecular mechanisms underlying its development and prognosis remain poorly understood. Therefore, the current research study aimed to identify hub genes involved in the pathogenesis of OC that could serve as selective diagnostic and therapeutic targets. To achieve this, the dataset GEO2R was used to retrieve differentially expressed genes. The study identified a total of five genes (CDKN1A, DKK1, CYP1B1, NTS, and GDF15) that were differentially expressed in OC. Subsequently, a network analysis was performed using the STRING database, followed by the construction of a network using Cytoscape. The network analyzer tool in Cytoscape predicted 276 upregulated and 269 downregulated genes. Furthermore, KEGG analysis was conducted to identify different pathways related to OC. Subsequently, survival analysis was performed to validate gene expression alterations and predict hub genes, using a p-value of 0.05 as a threshold. Four genes (CDKN1A, DKK1, CYP1B1, and NTS) were predicted as significant hub genes, while one gene (GDF15) was predicted as non-significant. The adjusted P values of said predicted genes are 2.85E - 07, 5.49E - 06, 4.28E - 07, 1.43E - 07, and 3.70E - 07 for CDKN1A, DKK1, NTS, GDF15, and CYP1B1 respectively; additionally 6.08, 5.76, 5.74, 5.01, and 4.9 LogFc values of the said genes were predicted in GEO data set. In a boxplot analysis, the expression of these genes was analyzed in normal and tumor cells. The study found that three genes were highly expressed in tumor cells, while two genes (CDKN1A and DKK1) were more elevated in normal cells. According to the boxplot analysis for CDKN1A, 50% of tumor cells ranged between approx 3.8 and 5, while 50% of normal cells ranged between approx 6.9 and 7.9, which is greater than tumor cells. This shows that in normal cells, the CYP1B1 has a high expression level according to the GEPIA boxplot; addtionally the boxplot for DKK1 indicated that 50% of tumor cells ranged between approx 0 and 0.5, which was less than that of normal cells which ranged between approx 0.3 and 0.9. It shows that DKK1 is highly expressed in normal genes. Overall, the current study provides novel insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying OC. The identified hub genes and drug candidate targets could potentially serve as alternative diagnostic and therapeutic options for OC patients. Further research is needed to investigate the clinical significance of these findings and develop effective interventions that can improve the prognosis of patients with OC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hibba Rashid
- Department of Health and Biological Sciences, Abasyn University, Peshawar, 25000, Pakistan
| | - Asad Ullah
- Department of Health and Biological Sciences, Abasyn University, Peshawar, 25000, Pakistan
| | - Sajjad Ahmad
- Department of Health and Biological Sciences, Abasyn University, Peshawar, 25000, Pakistan.
- Gilbert and Rose-Marie Chagoury School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, Byblos, 1401, Lebanon.
- Department of Natural Sciences, Lebanese American University, Beirut P.O. Box 36, Lebanon, Beirut, Lebanon.
| | - Salma Mohammed Aljahdali
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Yasir Waheed
- Gilbert and Rose-Marie Chagoury School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, Byblos, 1401, Lebanon
- Office of Research, Innovation and Commercialization, Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto Medical University (SZABMU), Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan
| | - Bilal Shaker
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Chung-Ang University, 84 Heukseok-Ro, Dongjak-Gu, Seoul, 06974, Republic of Korea
| | - Alhanouf I Al-Harbi
- Department of Medical Laboratory, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taibah University, Yanbu, Saudi Arabia
| | - Alhumaidi B Alabbas
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj, Saudi Arabia
| | - Safar M Alqahtani
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Science, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences (KSAU-HS), Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Maaged A Akiel
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Science, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences (KSAU-HS), Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center (KAIMRC), Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhammad Irfan
- Department of Oral Biology, College of Dentistry, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
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Biegała Ł, Kołat D, Gajek A, Płuciennik E, Marczak A, Śliwińska A, Mikula M, Rogalska A. Uncovering miRNA-mRNA Regulatory Networks Related to Olaparib Resistance and Resensitization of BRCA2MUT Ovarian Cancer PEO1-OR Cells with the ATR/CHK1 Pathway Inhibitors. Cells 2024; 13:867. [PMID: 38786089 PMCID: PMC11119970 DOI: 10.3390/cells13100867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Resistance to olaparib is the major obstacle in targeted therapy for ovarian cancer (OC) with poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors (PARPis), prompting studies on novel combination therapies to enhance olaparib efficacy. Despite identifying various mechanisms, understanding how OC cells acquire PARPi resistance remains incomplete. This study investigated microRNA (miRNA) expression in olaparib-sensitive (PEO1, PEO4) and previously established olaparib-resistant OC cell lines (PEO1-OR) using high-throughput RT-qPCR and bioinformatic analyses. The role of miRNAs was explored regarding acquired resistance and resensitization with the ATR/CHK1 pathway inhibitors. Differentially expressed miRNAs were used to construct miRNA-mRNA regulatory networks and perform functional enrichment analyses for target genes with miRNet 2.0. TCGA-OV dataset was analyzed to explore the prognostic value of selected miRNAs and target genes in clinical samples. We identified potential processes associated with olaparib resistance, including cell proliferation, migration, cell cycle, and growth factor signaling. Resensitized PEO1-OR cells were enriched in growth factor signaling via PDGF, EGFR, FGFR1, VEGFR2, and TGFβR, regulation of the cell cycle via the G2/M checkpoint, and caspase-mediated apoptosis. Antibody microarray analysis confirmed dysregulated growth factor expression. The addition of the ATR/CHK1 pathway inhibitors to olaparib downregulated FGF4, FGF6, NT-4, PLGF, and TGFβ1 exclusively in PEO1-OR cells. Survival and differential expression analyses for serous OC patients revealed prognostic miRNAs likely associated with olaparib resistance (miR-99b-5p, miR-424-3p, and miR-505-5p) and resensitization to olaparib (miR-324-5p and miR-424-3p). Essential miRNA-mRNA interactions were reconstructed based on prognostic miRNAs and target genes. In conclusion, our data highlight distinct miRNA profiles in olaparib-sensitive and olaparib-resistant cells, offering molecular insights into overcoming resistance with the ATR/CHK1 inhibitors in OC. Moreover, some miRNAs might serve as potential predictive signature molecules of resistance and therapeutic response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Łukasz Biegała
- Department of Medical Biophysics, Institute of Biophysics, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, Pomorska 141/143, 90-236 Lodz, Poland; (Ł.B.); (A.G.); (A.M.)
- Doctoral School of Exact and Natural Sciences, University of Lodz, Jana Matejki 21/23, 90-237 Lodz, Poland
| | - Damian Kołat
- Department of Functional Genomics, Medical University of Lodz, Żeligowskiego 7/9, 90-752 Lodz, Poland; (D.K.); (E.P.)
- Department of Biomedicine and Experimental Surgery, Medical University of Lodz, Narutowicza 60, 90-136 Lodz, Poland
| | - Arkadiusz Gajek
- Department of Medical Biophysics, Institute of Biophysics, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, Pomorska 141/143, 90-236 Lodz, Poland; (Ł.B.); (A.G.); (A.M.)
| | - Elżbieta Płuciennik
- Department of Functional Genomics, Medical University of Lodz, Żeligowskiego 7/9, 90-752 Lodz, Poland; (D.K.); (E.P.)
| | - Agnieszka Marczak
- Department of Medical Biophysics, Institute of Biophysics, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, Pomorska 141/143, 90-236 Lodz, Poland; (Ł.B.); (A.G.); (A.M.)
| | - Agnieszka Śliwińska
- Department of Nucleic Acid Biochemistry, Medical University of Lodz, Pomorska 251, 92-213 Lodz, Poland
| | - Michał Mikula
- Department of Genetics, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Roentgena 5, 02-781 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Aneta Rogalska
- Department of Medical Biophysics, Institute of Biophysics, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, Pomorska 141/143, 90-236 Lodz, Poland; (Ł.B.); (A.G.); (A.M.)
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Yu D, Yang J, Wang B, Li Z, Wang K, Li J, Zhu C. New genetic insights into immunotherapy outcomes in gastric cancer via single-cell RNA sequencing and random forest model. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2024; 73:112. [PMID: 38693422 PMCID: PMC11063021 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-024-03684-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The high mortality rate of gastric cancer, traditionally managed through surgery, underscores the urgent need for advanced therapeutic strategies. Despite advancements in treatment modalities, outcomes remain suboptimal, necessitating the identification of novel biomarkers to predict sensitivity to immunotherapy. This study focuses on utilizing single-cell sequencing for gene identification and developing a random forest model to predict immunotherapy sensitivity in gastric cancer patients. METHODS Differentially expressed genes were identified using single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) and gene set enrichment analysis (GESA). A random forest model was constructed based on these genes, and its effectiveness was validated through prognostic analysis. Further, analyses of immune cell infiltration, immune checkpoints, and the random forest model provided deeper insights. RESULTS High METTL1 expression was found to correlate with improved survival rates in gastric cancer patients (P = 0.042), and the random forest model, based on METTL1 and associated prognostic genes, achieved a significant predictive performance (AUC = 0.863). It showed associations with various immune cell types and negative correlations with CTLA4 and PDCD1 immune checkpoints. Experiments in vitro and in vivo demonstrated that METTL1 enhances gastric cancer cell activity by suppressing T cell proliferation and upregulating CTLA4 and PDCD1. CONCLUSION The random forest model, based on scRNA-seq, shows high predictive value for survival and immunotherapy sensitivity in gastric cancer patients. This study underscores the potential of METTL1 as a biomarker in enhancing the efficacy of gastric cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dajun Yu
- Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Second Clinical Medical College (Shenzhen People's Hospital) of Jinan University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China.
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu, 233000, People's Republic of China.
| | - Jie Yang
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu, 233000, People's Republic of China
| | - BinBin Wang
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu, 233000, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhixiang Li
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu, 233000, People's Republic of China
| | - Kai Wang
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu, 233000, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Li
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu, 233000, People's Republic of China
| | - Chao Zhu
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu, 233000, People's Republic of China
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Xu C, Xu P, Zhang J, He S, Hua T, Huang A. Exosomal noncoding RNAs in gynecological cancers: implications for therapy resistance and biomarkers. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1349474. [PMID: 38737906 PMCID: PMC11082286 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1349474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Gynecologic cancers, including ovarian cancer (OC), cervical cancer (CC), and endometrial cancer (EC), pose a serious threat to women's health and quality of life due to their high incidence and lethality. Therapeutic resistance in tumors refers to reduced sensitivity of tumor cells to therapeutic drugs or radiation, which compromises the efficacy of treatment or renders it ineffective. Therapeutic resistance significantly contributes to treatment failure in gynecologic tumors, although the specific molecular mechanisms remain unclear. Exosomes are nanoscale vesicles released and received by distinct kinds of cells. Exosomes contain proteins, lipids, and RNAs closely linked to their origins and functions. Recent studies have demonstrated that exosomal ncRNAs may be involved in intercellular communication and can modulate the progression of tumorigenesis, aggravation and metastasis, tumor microenvironment (TME), and drug resistance. Besides, exosomal ncRNAs also have the potential to become significant diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in various of diseases. In this paper, we reviewed the biological roles and mechanisms of exosomal ncRNAs in the drug resistance of gynecologic tumors, as well as explored the potential of exosomal ncRNAs acting as the liquid biopsy molecular markers in gynecologic cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Aiwu Huang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics , Hangzhou Lin'an Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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Gou Z, Li J, Liu J, Yang N. The hidden messengers: cancer associated fibroblasts-derived exosomal miRNAs as key regulators of cancer malignancy. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1378302. [PMID: 38694824 PMCID: PMC11061421 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1378302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), a class of stromal cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME), play a key role in controlling cancer cell invasion and metastasis, immune evasion, angiogenesis, and resistance to chemotherapy. CAFs mediate their activities by secreting soluble chemicals, releasing exosomes, and altering the extracellular matrix (ECM). Exosomes contain various biomolecules, such as nucleic acids, lipids, and proteins. microRNA (miRNA), a 22-26 nucleotide non-coding RNA, can regulate the cellular transcription processes. Studies have shown that miRNA-loaded exosomes secreted by CAFs engage in various regulatory communication networks with other TME constituents. This study focused on the roles of CAF-derived exosomal miRNAs in generating cancer malignant characteristics, including immune modulation, tumor growth, migration and invasion, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and treatment resistance. This study thoroughly examines miRNA's dual regulatory roles in promoting and suppressing cancer. Thus, changes in the CAF-derived exosomal miRNAs can be used as biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of patients, and their specificity can be used to develop newer therapies. This review also discusses the pressing problems that require immediate attention, aiming to inspire researchers to explore more novel avenues in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zixuan Gou
- Bethune First Clinical School of Medicine, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jiannan Li
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jianming Liu
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Na Yang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
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12
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Piwocka O, Piotrowski I, Suchorska WM, Kulcenty K. Dynamic interactions in the tumor niche: how the cross-talk between CAFs and the tumor microenvironment impacts resistance to therapy. Front Mol Biosci 2024; 11:1343523. [PMID: 38455762 PMCID: PMC10918473 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2024.1343523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a complex ecosystem of cells, signaling molecules, and extracellular matrix components that profoundly influence cancer progression. Among the key players in the TME, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) have gained increasing attention for their diverse and influential roles. CAFs are activated fibroblasts found abundantly within the TME of various cancer types. CAFs contribute significantly to tumor progression by promoting angiogenesis, remodeling the extracellular matrix, and modulating immune cell infiltration. In order to influence the microenvironment, CAFs engage in cross-talk with immune cells, cancer cells, and other stromal components through paracrine signaling and direct cell-cell interactions. This cross-talk can result in immunosuppression, tumor cell proliferation, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition, contributing to disease progression. Emerging evidence suggests that CAFs play a crucial role in therapy resistance, including resistance to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. CAFs can modulate the tumor response to treatment by secreting factors that promote drug efflux, enhance DNA repair mechanisms, and suppress apoptosis pathways. This paper aims to understand the multifaceted functions of CAFs within the TME, discusses cross-talk between CAFs with other TME cells, and sheds light on the contibution of CAFs to therapy resistance. Targeting CAFs or disrupting their cross-talk with other cells holds promise for overcoming drug resistance and improving the treatment efficacy of various cancer types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oliwia Piwocka
- Department of Electroradiology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
- Doctoral School, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
- Radiobiology Laboratory, Department of Medical Physics, Greater Poland Cancer Centre, Poznan, Poland
| | - Igor Piotrowski
- Radiobiology Laboratory, Department of Medical Physics, Greater Poland Cancer Centre, Poznan, Poland
| | - Wiktoria M. Suchorska
- Department of Electroradiology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
- Radiobiology Laboratory, Department of Medical Physics, Greater Poland Cancer Centre, Poznan, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Kulcenty
- Radiobiology Laboratory, Department of Medical Physics, Greater Poland Cancer Centre, Poznan, Poland
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13
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Sun L, Ke M, Yin M, Zeng Y, Ji Y, Hu Y, Fu S, Zhang C. Extracellular vesicle-encapsulated microRNA-296-3p from cancer-associated fibroblasts promotes ovarian cancer development through regulation of the PTEN/AKT and SOCS6/STAT3 pathways. Cancer Sci 2024; 115:155-169. [PMID: 37972389 PMCID: PMC10823290 DOI: 10.1111/cas.16014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), as important components of the tumor microenvironment, can regulate intercellular communication and tumor development by secreting extracellular vesicles (EVs). However, the role of CAF-derived EVs in ovarian cancer has not been fully elucidated. Here, using an EV-microRNA sequencing analysis, we reveal specific overexpression of microRNA (miR)-296-3p in activated CAF-derived EVs, which can be transferred to tumor cells to regulate the malignant phenotypes of ovarian cancer cells. Moreover, overexpression of miR-296-3p significantly promotes the proliferation, migration, invasion, and drug resistance of ovarian cancer cells in vitro, as well as tumor growth in vivo, while its inhibition has the opposite effects. Further mechanistic studies reveal that miR-296-3p promotes ovarian cancer progression by directly targeting PTEN and SOCS6 and activating AKT and STAT3 signaling pathways. Importantly, increased expression of miR-296-3p encapsulated in plasma EVs is closely correlated with tumorigenesis and chemoresistance in patients with ovarian cancer. Our results highlight the cancer-promoting role of CAF-derived EVs carrying miR-296-3p in ovarian cancer progression for the first time, and suggest that miR-296-3p encapsulated in CAF-derived EVs could be a diagnostic biomarker and therapeutic target for ovarian cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luyao Sun
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, School of MedicineSouth China University of TechnologyGuangzhouChina
- Department of BiologyHainan Medical UniversityHaikouChina
| | - Miaola Ke
- Department of Blood Transfusion, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South ChinaSun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouChina
| | - Mengyuan Yin
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, School of MedicineSouth China University of TechnologyGuangzhouChina
| | - Ying Zeng
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, School of MedicineSouth China University of TechnologyGuangzhouChina
| | - Yutong Ji
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, School of MedicineSouth China University of TechnologyGuangzhouChina
| | - Yiming Hu
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, School of MedicineSouth China University of TechnologyGuangzhouChina
| | - Songbin Fu
- Key Laboratory of Preservation of Human Genetic Resources and Disease Control in China (Harbin Medical University), Ministry of EducationHarbinChina
| | - Chunyu Zhang
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, School of MedicineSouth China University of TechnologyGuangzhouChina
- Key Laboratory of Preservation of Human Genetic Resources and Disease Control in China (Harbin Medical University), Ministry of EducationHarbinChina
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14
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Fanale D, Corsini LR, Bono M, Randazzo U, Barraco N, Brando C, Cancelliere D, Contino S, Giurintano A, Magrin L, Pedone E, Perez A, Piraino P, Pivetti A, Giovanni ED, Russo TDB, Prestifilippo O, Gennusa V, Pantuso G, Russo A, Bazan V. Clinical relevance of exosome-derived microRNAs in Ovarian Cancer: Looking for new tumor biological fingerprints. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2024; 193:104220. [PMID: 38036154 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2023.104220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Specific tumor-derived extracellular vesicles, called exosomes, are considered as potential key players in cross-talk between immune system and tumor microenvironment in several solid tumors. Different studies highlighted the clinical relevance of exosomes in ovarian cancer (OC) for their role in early diagnosis, prognosis, chemoresistance, targeted therapy. The exosomes are nanosize vesicles carrying lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids. In particular, exosomes shuttle a wide spectrum of microRNAs (miRNAs) able to induce phenotypic reprogramming of target cells, contributing to tumor progression. In this review, we will discuss the promising role of miRNAs shuttled by exosomes, called exosomal miRNAs (exo-miRNAs), as potential biomarkers for early detection, tumour progression and metastasis, prognosis, and response to therapy in OC women, in order to search for new potential biological fingerprints able to better characterize the evolution of this malignancy and provide a clinically relevant non-invasive approach useful for adopting, in future, personalized therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Fanale
- Section of Medical Oncology, Department of Surgical, Oncological and Oral Sciences, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Lidia Rita Corsini
- Section of Medical Oncology, Department of Surgical, Oncological and Oral Sciences, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Marco Bono
- Section of Medical Oncology, Department of Surgical, Oncological and Oral Sciences, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Ugo Randazzo
- Section of Medical Oncology, Department of Surgical, Oncological and Oral Sciences, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Nadia Barraco
- Section of Medical Oncology, Department of Surgical, Oncological and Oral Sciences, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Chiara Brando
- Section of Medical Oncology, Department of Surgical, Oncological and Oral Sciences, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Daniela Cancelliere
- Section of Medical Oncology, Department of Surgical, Oncological and Oral Sciences, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Silvia Contino
- Section of Medical Oncology, Department of Surgical, Oncological and Oral Sciences, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Ambra Giurintano
- Section of Medical Oncology, Department of Surgical, Oncological and Oral Sciences, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Luigi Magrin
- Section of Medical Oncology, Department of Surgical, Oncological and Oral Sciences, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Erika Pedone
- Section of Medical Oncology, Department of Surgical, Oncological and Oral Sciences, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Alessandro Perez
- Section of Medical Oncology, Department of Surgical, Oncological and Oral Sciences, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Paola Piraino
- Section of Medical Oncology, Department of Surgical, Oncological and Oral Sciences, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Alessia Pivetti
- Section of Medical Oncology, Department of Surgical, Oncological and Oral Sciences, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Emilia Di Giovanni
- Section of Medical Oncology, Department of Surgical, Oncological and Oral Sciences, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Tancredi Didier Bazan Russo
- Section of Medical Oncology, Department of Surgical, Oncological and Oral Sciences, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Ornella Prestifilippo
- Section of Medical Oncology, Department of Surgical, Oncological and Oral Sciences, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Gennusa
- Section of Medical Oncology, Department of Surgical, Oncological and Oral Sciences, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Gianni Pantuso
- Division of General and Oncological Surgery, Department of Surgical, Oncological and Oral Sciences, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Antonio Russo
- Section of Medical Oncology, Department of Surgical, Oncological and Oral Sciences, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy.
| | - Viviana Bazan
- Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy
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15
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Ostrowska-Lesko M, Rajtak A, Moreno-Bueno G, Bobinski M. Scientific and clinical relevance of non-cellular tumor microenvironment components in ovarian cancer chemotherapy resistance. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2024; 1879:189036. [PMID: 38042260 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2023.189036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/04/2023]
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) components play a crucial role in cancer cells' resistance to chemotherapeutic agents. This phenomenon is exceptionally fundamental in patients with ovarian cancer (OvCa), whose outcome depends mainly on their response to chemotherapy. Until now, most reports have focused on the role of cellular components of the TME, while less attention has been paid to the stroma and other non-cellular elements of the TME, which may play an essential role in the therapy resistance. Inhibiting these components could help define new therapeutic targets and potentially restore chemosensitivity. The aim of the present article is both to summarize the knowledge about non-cellular components of the TME in the development of OvCa chemoresistance and to suggest targeting of non-cellular elements of the TME as a valuable strategy to overcome chemoresistance and to develop new therapeutic strategies in OvCA patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Ostrowska-Lesko
- Chair and Department of Toxicology, Medical University of Lublin, 8b Jaczewskiego Street, 20-090 Lublin, Poland.
| | - Alicja Rajtak
- 1st Chair and Department of Oncological Gynecology and Gynecology, Medical University of Lublin, Poland
| | - Gema Moreno-Bueno
- Biochemistry Department, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM), Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas 'Sols-Morreale' (IIBm-CISC), Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Spain; Fundación MD Anderson Internacional (FMDA), Spain.
| | - Marcin Bobinski
- 1st Chair and Department of Oncological Gynecology and Gynecology, Medical University of Lublin, Poland.
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16
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Zhang C, Qin M. Extracellular vesicles targeting tumor microenvironment in ovarian cancer. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 252:126300. [PMID: 37573911 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.126300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
Ovarian cancer (OC) is a prevalent neoplastic condition affecting women. Extracellular vesicles (EVs), nano-sized membrane vesicles, are secreted by various cells in both physiological and pathological states. The profound interplay between EVs and the tumor microenvironment (TME) in ovarian cancer is crucial. In this review, we explores the pivotal role of EVs in facilitating intercellular communication between cancer cells and the TME, emphasizing the potential of EVs as promising diagnostic markers and innovative therapeutic targets for ovarian cancer. The comprehensive analysis outlines the specific mechanisms by which EVs engage in communication with the constituents of the TME, including the modulation of tumor growth through EVs carrying matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and EV-mediated inhibition of angiogenesis, among other factors. Additionally, the we discuss the potential clinical applications of EVs that target the TME in ovarian cancer, encompassing the establishment of novel treatment strategies and the identification of novel biomarkers for early detection and prognosis. Finally, this review identifies novel strategies for therapeutic interventions, such as utilizing EVs as carriers for drug delivery and targeting specific EV-mediated signaling pathways. In summary, this manuscript offers valuable insights into the role of EVs in ovarian cancer and highlights the significance of comprehending intercellular communication in the realm of cancer biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunmei Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, China
| | - Meiying Qin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, China.
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17
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Yang LR, Li L, Meng MY, Li TT, Zhao YY, Yang SL, Gao H, Tang WW, Yang Y, Yang LL, Wang WJ, Liao LW, Hou ZL. IL-7 promotes CD19-directed CAR-T cells proliferation through miRNA-98-5p by targeting CDKN1A. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 124:110974. [PMID: 37757633 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.110974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
CAR-T targeting CD19 have achieved significant effects in the treatment of B-line leukemia and lymphoma. However, the treated patients frequently relapsed and could not achieve complete remission. Therefore, improving the proliferation and cytotoxicity of CAR-T cells, reducing exhaustion and enhancing infiltration capacity are still issues to be solved. The IL-7 has been shown to enhance the memory characteristics of CAR-T cells, but the specific mechanism has yet to be elaborated. miRNAs play an important role in T cell activity. However, whether miRNA is involved in the activation of CAR-T cells by IL-7 has not yet been reported. Our previous study had established the 3rd generation CAR-T cells. The present study further found that IL-7 significantly increased the proliferation of anti-CD19 CAR-T cells, the ratio of CD4 + CAR + cells and the S phase of cell cycle. In vivo study NAMALWA xenograft model showed that IL-7-stimulated CAR-T cells possessed stronger tumoricidal efficiency. Further we validated that IL-7 induced CAR-T cells had low expression of CDKN1A and high expression of miRNA-98-5p. Additionally, CDKN1A was associated with miRNA-98-5p. Our results, for the first time, suggested IL-7 could conspicuously enhance the proliferation of CAR-T cells through miRNA-98-5p targeting CDKN1A expression, which should be applied to CAR-T production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Rong Yang
- Central Laboratory of Yan'an Hospital Affiliated to Kunming Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunological Prevention and Treatment, Yunnan Province, China; Department of Oncology, The Third People's Hospital of Chengdu, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, China
| | - Lin Li
- Central Laboratory of Yan'an Hospital Affiliated to Kunming Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunological Prevention and Treatment, Yunnan Province, China; Yunnan Cell Biology and Clinical Translation Research Center, China
| | - Ming-Yao Meng
- Central Laboratory of Yan'an Hospital Affiliated to Kunming Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunological Prevention and Treatment, Yunnan Province, China; Yunnan Cell Biology and Clinical Translation Research Center, China
| | - Tian-Tian Li
- Central Laboratory of Yan'an Hospital Affiliated to Kunming Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunological Prevention and Treatment, Yunnan Province, China; Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan Province, China
| | - Yi-Yi Zhao
- Central Laboratory of Yan'an Hospital Affiliated to Kunming Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunological Prevention and Treatment, Yunnan Province, China; Yunnan Cell Biology and Clinical Translation Research Center, China
| | - Song-Lin Yang
- Central Laboratory of Yan'an Hospital Affiliated to Kunming Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunological Prevention and Treatment, Yunnan Province, China; Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan Province, China
| | - Hui Gao
- Central Laboratory of Yan'an Hospital Affiliated to Kunming Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunological Prevention and Treatment, Yunnan Province, China; Yunnan Cell Biology and Clinical Translation Research Center, China
| | - Wei-Wei Tang
- Central Laboratory of Yan'an Hospital Affiliated to Kunming Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunological Prevention and Treatment, Yunnan Province, China; Yunnan Cell Biology and Clinical Translation Research Center, China
| | - Yang Yang
- Central Laboratory of Yan'an Hospital Affiliated to Kunming Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunological Prevention and Treatment, Yunnan Province, China; Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan Province, China
| | - Li-Li Yang
- Central Laboratory of Yan'an Hospital Affiliated to Kunming Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunological Prevention and Treatment, Yunnan Province, China; Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan Province, China
| | - Wen-Ju Wang
- Central Laboratory of Yan'an Hospital Affiliated to Kunming Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunological Prevention and Treatment, Yunnan Province, China; Yunnan Cell Biology and Clinical Translation Research Center, China
| | - Li-Wei Liao
- Central Laboratory of Yan'an Hospital Affiliated to Kunming Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunological Prevention and Treatment, Yunnan Province, China; Yunnan Cell Biology and Clinical Translation Research Center, China.
| | - Zong-Liu Hou
- Central Laboratory of Yan'an Hospital Affiliated to Kunming Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunological Prevention and Treatment, Yunnan Province, China; Yunnan Cell Biology and Clinical Translation Research Center, China.
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18
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Zhao Z, Li T, Sun L, Yuan Y, Zhu Y. Potential mechanisms of cancer-associated fibroblasts in therapeutic resistance. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 166:115425. [PMID: 37660643 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite continuous improvements in research and new cancer therapeutics, the goal of eradicating cancer remains elusive because of drug resistance. For a long time, drug resistance research has been focused on tumor cells themselves; however, recent studies have found that the tumor microenvironment also plays an important role in inducing drug resistance. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are a main component of the tumor microenvironment. They cross-talk with cancer cells to support their survival in the presence of anticancer drugs. This review summarizes the current knowledge of the role of CAFs in tumor drug resistance. An in-depth understanding of the mechanisms underlying the cross-talk between CAFs and cancer cells and insight into the importance of CAFs in drug resistance can guide the development of new anticancer strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zehua Zhao
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Dalian University of Technology (Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University), Shenyang, China
| | - Tianming Li
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Dalian University of Technology (Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University), Shenyang, China
| | - Liping Sun
- Tumor Etiology and Screening Department of Cancer Institute and General Surgery, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Etiology and Prevention in Liaoning Education Department, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China; Key Laboratory of GI Cancer Etiology and Prevention in Liaoning Province, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China.
| | - Yuan Yuan
- Tumor Etiology and Screening Department of Cancer Institute and General Surgery, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Etiology and Prevention in Liaoning Education Department, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China; Key Laboratory of GI Cancer Etiology and Prevention in Liaoning Province, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China.
| | - Yanmei Zhu
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Dalian University of Technology (Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University), Shenyang, China.
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19
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Zhao Y, Shen M, Wu L, Yang H, Yao Y, Yang Q, Du J, Liu L, Li Y, Bai Y. Stromal cells in the tumor microenvironment: accomplices of tumor progression? Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:587. [PMID: 37666813 PMCID: PMC10477351 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-06110-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2023] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) is made up of cells and extracellular matrix (non-cellular component), and cellular components include cancer cells and non-malignant cells such as immune cells and stromal cells. These three types of cells establish complex signals in the body and further influence tumor genesis, development, metastasis and participate in resistance to anti-tumor therapy. It has attracted scholars to study immune cells in TME due to the significant efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) and chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) in solid tumors and hematologic tumors. After more than 10 years of efforts, the role of immune cells in TME and the strategy of treating tumors based on immune cells have developed rapidly. Moreover, ICI have been recommended by guidelines as first- or second-line treatment strategies in a variety of tumors. At the same time, stromal cells is another major class of cellular components in TME, which also play a very important role in tumor metabolism, growth, metastasis, immune evasion and treatment resistance. Stromal cells can be recruited from neighboring non-cancerous host stromal cells and can also be formed by transdifferentiation from stromal cells to stromal cells or from tumor cells to stromal cells. Moreover, they participate in tumor genesis, development and drug resistance by secreting various factors and exosomes, participating in tumor angiogenesis and tumor metabolism, regulating the immune response in TME and extracellular matrix. However, with the deepening understanding of stromal cells, people found that stromal cells not only have the effect of promoting tumor but also can inhibit tumor in some cases. In this review, we will introduce the origin of stromal cells in TME as well as the role and specific mechanism of stromal cells in tumorigenesis and tumor development and strategies for treatment of tumors based on stromal cells. We will focus on tumor-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), tumor-associated adipocytes (CAAs), tumor endothelial cells (TECs) and pericytes (PCs) in stromal cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zhao
- Department of Oncology and Hematology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, 130033, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Meili Shen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, 130033, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Liangqiang Wu
- Key Laboratory of Special Engineering Plastics Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, 130012, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Haiqin Yang
- Key Laboratory of Special Engineering Plastics Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, 130012, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Yixuan Yao
- Key Laboratory of Special Engineering Plastics Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, 130012, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Qingbiao Yang
- Key Laboratory of Special Engineering Plastics Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, 130012, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Jianshi Du
- Key Laboratory of Lymphatic Surgery Jilin Province, Jilin Engineering Laboratory for Lymphatic Surgery Jilin Province, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, 130033, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Linlin Liu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, 130033, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Yapeng Li
- Key Laboratory of Special Engineering Plastics Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, 130012, Changchun, Jilin, China.
| | - Yuansong Bai
- Department of Oncology and Hematology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, 130033, Changchun, Jilin, China.
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20
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Tan S, Chen X, Liu W. Tumor-suppressive role of miR-139-5p in angiogenesis and tumorigenesis of ovarian cancer: Based on GEO microarray analysis and experimental validation. Cell Signal 2023; 109:110730. [PMID: 37244634 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2023.110730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
This study clarified the possible molecular mechanisms by which the miR-139-5p/SOX4/TMEM2 axis affected angiogenesis and tumorigenesis of ovarian cancer (OC) based on GEO microarray datasets and experimental support. The expression of miR-139-5p and SOX4 was examined in clinical OC samples. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and human OC cell lines were included in vitro experiments. Tube formation assay was conducted in HUVECs. The expression of SOX4, SOX4, and VEGF in OC cells was identified using Western blot and immunohistochemistry. Luciferase assays were conducted to validate the targeting relationship between miR-139-5p and SOX4 and between SOX4 and TMEM2. A RIP assay assessed the binding of SOX4 and miR-139-5p. The impact of miR-139-5p and SOX4 on OC tumorigenesis in vivo was evaluated in nude mice. SOX4 was up-regulated, while miR-139-5p was down-regulated in OC tissues and cells. Ectopic miR-139-5p expression or SOX4 knockdown inhibited angiogenesis and tumorigenicity of OC. By targeting SOX4 in OC, miR-139-5p lowered VEGF expression, angiogenesis, and TMEM2 expression. The miR-139-5p/SOX4/TMEM2 axis also reduced VEGF expression and angiogenesis, which might curtail OC growth in vivo. Collectively, miR-139-5p represses VEGF expression and angiogenesis by targeting the transcription factor SOX4 and down-regulating TMEM2 expression, thereby impeding OC tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu Tan
- Department of Gynecology Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin 150081, PR China
| | - Xiuwei Chen
- Department of Gynecology Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin 150081, PR China
| | - Wei Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150086, PR China.
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21
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Liu Y, Li X, Zhang T, Liu G. The Roles of Exosomes in Ovarian Cancer Chemo-resistance. J Cancer 2023; 14:2128-2144. [PMID: 37497408 PMCID: PMC10367924 DOI: 10.7150/jca.84930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
As common gynecological oncology, ovarian cancer has a high fatality rate and poor overall survival, mainly because of nonspecific symptoms in the early stages and chemotherapy resistance. Exosomes, nano-sized vesicles secreted by almost all types of cells, carry valuable commodities such as proteins, lipids, enzymes, mRNAs, and miRNAs between cells. They take part in remodeling the tumor microenvironment, promoting tumor angiogenesis and metastasis, and regulating immune metastasis and chemotherapy resistance in ovarian cancer. Previous studies have reported that exosomes could transfer chemotherapy resistance from drug-resistant tumor cells to sensitive ones by delivering proteins and miRNAs. Also, exosomes are involved in chemotherapy resistance by transferring multidrug-resistance-related transporters, decreasing apoptosis, promoting epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, and changing signal transduction pathways. Furthermore, they play a significant role in early detection, chemotherapy efficacy evaluation, and treatment of ovarian cancer. Exosomes are applied as chemotherapeutic delivery vehicles and therapeutic targets to inhibit anti-tumor immune responses. In addition, exosomes can be developed for cancer immunotherapy because of their immunomodulatory potential. Therefore, the article reviews the latest research progress of exosomes in ovarian cancer to elaborate on the mechanisms of exosome-mediated chemotherapy resistance in ovarian cancer patients and provide a forecast on their clinical therapeutic potential in improving chemotherapy sensitivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Liu
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Xiao Li
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Tianyu Zhang
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Guoyan Liu
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Huanhuxi Road, Hexi District, Tianjin, 300060, China
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22
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Heenatigala Palliyage G, Samart P, Bobbala S, Rojanasakul LW, Coyle J, Martin K, Callery PS, Rojanasakul Y. Chemotherapy-induced PDL-1 expression in cancer-associated fibroblasts promotes chemoresistance in NSCLC. Lung Cancer 2023; 181:107258. [PMID: 37245409 PMCID: PMC10330668 DOI: 10.1016/j.lungcan.2023.107258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES A cure for cancer is out of reach for most patients due to chemoresistance. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) play a vital role in cancer chemoresistance, but detailed understanding of the process particularly in chemoresistant lung cancer is lacking. In this study, we investigated programmed death-ligand 1 (PDL-1) as a potential biomarker for CAF-induced chemoresistance and evaluated its role and the underlying mechanisms of chemoresistance in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). MATERIALS AND METHODS A systemic search of gene expression profiles of multiple tissues in NSCLC was carried out to determine the expression intensities of traditional fibroblast biomarkers and CAF-secreted protumorigenic cytokines. PDL-1 expression in CAFs was analyzed by ELISA, Western blotting, and flow cytometry. Human cytokine array was used to identify specific cytokines secreted from CAFs. Role of PDL-1 in NSCLC chemoresistance was assessed using CRISPR/Cas9 knockdown and various functional assays including MTT, cell invasion, sphere formation, and cell apoptosis. In vivo experiments were conducted using a co-implantation xenograft mouse model with live cell imaging and immunohistochemistry. RESULTS We demonstrated that chemotherapy-stimulated CAFs promoted tumorigenic and stem cell-like properties of NSCLC cells, which contribute to their chemoresistance. Subsequently, we revealed that PDL-1 expression is upregulated in chemotherapy-treated CAFs and is associated with poor prognosis. Silencing PDL-1 expression suppressed CAFs' ability to promote stem cell-like properties and invasiveness of lung cancer cells, favoring chemoresistance. Mechanistically, an upregulation of PDL-1 in chemotherapy-treated CAFs led to an increase in hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) secretion, which stimulates cancer progression, cell invasion, and stemness of lung cancer cells, while inhibiting apoptosis. CONCLUSION Our results show that PDL-1-positive CAFs modulate stem cell-like properties of NSCLC cells by secreting elevated HGF, thereby promoting chemoresistance. Our finding supports PDL-1 in CAFs as a chemotherapy response biomarker and as a drug delivery and therapeutic target for chemoresistant NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Parinya Samart
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA; Siriraj Center of Excellence for Stem Cell Research, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Sharan Bobbala
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Liying W Rojanasakul
- Allergy and Clinical Immunology Branch, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | | | - Karen Martin
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Cell Biology, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA; West Virginia University Cancer Institute, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA; Department of Research & Graduate Education, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Patrick S Callery
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Yon Rojanasakul
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA; West Virginia University Cancer Institute, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA.
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23
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Wang H, Liu L, Liu Q, Zheng J, Zheng Q, Chen Y, Xia H, Wu Q, Sun Y. Identification of upregulated exosomal miRNAs between A2780 and A2780/DDP human ovarian cancer cells by high-throughput sequencing. J Ovarian Res 2023; 16:94. [PMID: 37179363 PMCID: PMC10182643 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-023-01157-7] [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: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Exosomal miRNAs are known to play important roles in ovarian cancer and chemotherapeutic resistance. However, a systematic evaluation of characteristics of exosomal miRNAs involved in cisplatin resistance in ovarian cancer remains totally unclear. Exosomes (Exo-A2780, Exo-A2780/DDP) were extracted from cisplatin-sensitive cells (A2780) and cisplatin-resistant cells (A2780/DDP). Differential exosomal miRNA expression profiles were found by high-throughput sequencing (HTS). Target genes of the exo-miRNAs were predicted by using two online databases to increase the prediction accuracy. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses were utilized to find biological relationships with chemoresistance. RT‒qPCR of three exosomal miRNAs was performed, and a protein‒protein interaction (PPI) network was established to identify the hub genes. The GDSC database was used to prove the association between hsa-miR-675-3p expression and the IC50 value. An integrated miRNA-mRNA network was constructed to predict miRNA-mRNA associations. The connection between hsa-miR-675-3p and ovarian cancer was discovered by immune microenvironment analyses. The upregulated exosomal miRNAs could regulate gene targets through signalling pathways such as the Ras, PI3K/Akt, Wnt, and ErbB pathways. GO and KEGG analyses indicated that the target genes were involved in protein binding, transcription regulator activity and DNA binding. The RT‒qPCR results were consistent with the HTS data, and the results of PPI network analysis suggested that FMR1 and CD86 were the hub genes. GDSC database analysis and construction of the integrated miRNA-mRNA network suggested that hsa-miR-675-3p was associated with drug resistance. Immune microenvironment analyses showed that hsa-miR-675-3p was crucial in ovarian cancer. The study suggested that exosomal hsa-miR-675-3p is a potential target for treating ovarian cancer and overcoming cisplatin resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huihui Wang
- Department of Gynecology, Clinical Oncology School of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Cancer Hospital, No.420 Fuma Road, Jin'an District, Fuzhou, 350014, Fujian Province, China
- Department of Anesthesiology, Wenzhou Central Hospital, Wenzhou, 325099, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Li Liu
- Department of Gynecology, Clinical Oncology School of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Cancer Hospital, No.420 Fuma Road, Jin'an District, Fuzhou, 350014, Fujian Province, China
| | - Qinying Liu
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Biotherapy, Clinical Oncology School of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Cancer Hospital, Fujian Province, 350014, Fuzhou, China
| | - Jianfeng Zheng
- Department of Gynecology, Clinical Oncology School of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Cancer Hospital, No.420 Fuma Road, Jin'an District, Fuzhou, 350014, Fujian Province, China
| | - Qiuhong Zheng
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Biotherapy, Clinical Oncology School of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Cancer Hospital, Fujian Province, 350014, Fuzhou, China
| | - Yuwei Chen
- Department of Gynecology, Clinical Oncology School of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Cancer Hospital, No.420 Fuma Road, Jin'an District, Fuzhou, 350014, Fujian Province, China
| | - Hongmei Xia
- Department of Gynecology, Clinical Oncology School of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Cancer Hospital, No.420 Fuma Road, Jin'an District, Fuzhou, 350014, Fujian Province, China
| | - Qiaoling Wu
- Department of Gynecology, Clinical Oncology School of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Cancer Hospital, No.420 Fuma Road, Jin'an District, Fuzhou, 350014, Fujian Province, China
| | - Yang Sun
- Department of Gynecology, Clinical Oncology School of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Cancer Hospital, No.420 Fuma Road, Jin'an District, Fuzhou, 350014, Fujian Province, China.
- Department of Gynecology, Fujian Cancer Hospital, Fujian Province, 350014, Fuzhou, China.
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24
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Han Q, Tan S, Gong L, Li G, Wu Q, Chen L, Du S, Li W, Liu X, Cai J, Wang Z. Omental cancer-associated fibroblast-derived exosomes with low microRNA-29c-3p promote ovarian cancer peritoneal metastasis. Cancer Sci 2023; 114:1929-1942. [PMID: 36644823 PMCID: PMC10154903 DOI: 10.1111/cas.15726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer (OC) is characterized by frequent widespread peritoneal metastasis. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) represent a critical stromal component of metastatic niche and promote omentum metastasis in OC patients. However, the role of exosomes derived from omental CAFs in metastasis remains unclear. We isolated exosomes from primary omental normal fibroblasts (NFs) and CAFs from OC patients (NF-Exo and CAF-Exo, respectively) and assessed their effect on metastasis. In mice bearing orthotopic OC xenografts, CAF-Exo treatment led to more rapid intraperitoneal tumor dissemination and shorter animal survival. Similar results were observed in mice undergoing intraperitoneal injection of tumor cells. Among the miRNAs downregulated in CAF-Exo, miR-29c-3p in OC tissues was associated with metastasis and survival in patients. Moreover, increasing miR-29c-3p in CAF-Exo significantly weakened the metastasis-promoting effect of CAF-Exo. Based on RNA sequencing, expression assays, and luciferase assays, matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2) was identified as a direct target of miR-29c-3p. These results verify the significant contribution of exosomes from omental CAFs to OC peritoneal metastasis, which could be partially due to the relief of MMP2 expression inhibition mediated by low exosomal miR-29c-3p.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Han
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
- China Three Gorges University People's HospitalChina Three Gorges UniversityYichangChina
| | - Shuran Tan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Lanqing Gong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Guoqing Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Qiulei Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Le Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Shi Du
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Wenhan Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Xiaoli Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Jing Cai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Zehua Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
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25
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Wieder R. Fibroblasts as Turned Agents in Cancer Progression. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:2014. [PMID: 37046676 PMCID: PMC10093070 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15072014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 03/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Differentiated epithelial cells reside in the homeostatic microenvironment of the native organ stroma. The stroma supports their normal function, their G0 differentiated state, and their expansion/contraction through the various stages of the life cycle and physiologic functions of the host. When malignant transformation begins, the microenvironment tries to suppress and eliminate the transformed cells, while cancer cells, in turn, try to resist these suppressive efforts. The tumor microenvironment encompasses a large variety of cell types recruited by the tumor to perform different functions, among which fibroblasts are the most abundant. The dynamics of the mutual relationship change as the sides undertake an epic battle for control of the other. In the process, the cancer "wounds" the microenvironment through a variety of mechanisms and attracts distant mesenchymal stem cells to change their function from one attempting to suppress the cancer, to one that supports its growth, survival, and metastasis. Analogous reciprocal interactions occur as well between disseminated cancer cells and the metastatic microenvironment, where the microenvironment attempts to eliminate cancer cells or suppress their proliferation. However, the altered microenvironmental cells acquire novel characteristics that support malignant progression. Investigations have attempted to use these traits as targets of novel therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Wieder
- Rutgers New Jersey Medical School and the Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
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26
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Masoudi-Khoram N, Soheilifar MH, Ghorbanifar S, Nobari S, Hakimi M, Hassani M. Exosomes derived from cancer-associated fibroblasts mediate response to cancer therapy. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2023; 185:103967. [PMID: 36965647 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2023.103967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are the prominent stromal cell population in the tumor microenvironment (TME), which play an indispensable role in cancer progression and response to therapy. CAFs provide communication between tumor cells and surrounding cells by secreting soluble biomolecules and extracellular vesicles (EVs). Exosomes are small membrane-bound EVs that contain various cargos, including growth factors, non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), cytokines, and chemokines. These biomolecules can be transferred between cells within the TME and alter the behavior of recipient cells. Some studies have shown that exosomes secreted by CAFs contribute to resistance to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. This review focuses on CAF-derived exosomes in different types of tumors, with emphasis on resistance to chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nastaran Masoudi-Khoram
- Endocrine Research Center, Institute of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Shima Ghorbanifar
- Department of Medical Laser, Medical Laser Research Center, Yara Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sima Nobari
- Research Center for Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Maryam Hakimi
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahmoud Hassani
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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27
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Ovarian Cancer—Insights into Platinum Resistance and Overcoming It. Medicina (B Aires) 2023; 59:medicina59030544. [PMID: 36984544 PMCID: PMC10057458 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59030544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer is the most lethal gynecologic malignancy. Platinum-based chemotherapy is the backbone of treatment for ovarian cancer, and although the majority of patients initially have a platinum-sensitive disease, through multiple recurrences, they will acquire resistance. Platinum-resistant recurrent ovarian cancer has a poor prognosis and few treatment options with limited efficacy. Resistance to platinum compounds is a complex process involving multiple mechanisms pertaining not only to the tumoral cell but also to the tumoral microenvironment. In this review, we discuss the molecular mechanism involved in ovarian cancer cells’ resistance to platinum-based chemotherapy, focusing on the alteration of drug influx and efflux pathways, DNA repair, the dysregulation of epigenetic modulation, and the involvement of the tumoral microenvironment in the acquisition of the platinum-resistant phenotype. Furthermore, we review promising alternative treatment approaches that may improve these patients’ poor prognosis, discussing current strategies, novel combinations, and therapeutic agents.
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28
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Dai X, Zhu K. Cold atmospheric plasma: Novel opportunities for tumor microenvironment targeting. Cancer Med 2023; 12:7189-7206. [PMID: 36762766 PMCID: PMC10067048 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.5491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Revised: 07/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
With mounting preclinical and clinical evidences on the prominent roles of the tumor microenvironment (TME) played during carcinogenesis, the TME has been recognized and used as an important onco-therapeutic target during the past decade. Delineating our current knowledge on TME components and their functionalities can help us recognize novel onco-therapeutic opportunities and establish treatment modalities towards desirable anti-cancer outcome. By identifying and focusing on primary cellular components in the TME, that is, tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, tumor-associated macrophages, cancer-associated fibroblasts and mesenchymal stem cells, we decomposed their primary functionalities during carcinogenesis, categorized current therapeutic approaches utilizing traits of these components, and forecasted possible benefits that cold atmospheric plasma, a redox modulating tool with selectivity against cancer cells, may convey by targeting the TME. Our insights may open a novel therapeutic avenue for cancer control taking advantages of redox homeostasis and immunostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaofeng Dai
- Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Kaiyuan Zhu
- Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
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29
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Villegas-Pineda JC, Ramírez-de-Arellano A, Bueno-Urquiza LJ, Lizarazo-Taborda MDR, Pereira-Suárez AL. Cancer-associated fibroblasts in gynecological malignancies: are they really allies of the enemy? Front Oncol 2023; 13:1106757. [PMID: 37168385 PMCID: PMC10164963 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1106757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Molecular and cellular components of the tumor microenvironment are essential for cancer progression. The cellular element comprises cancer cells and heterogeneous populations of non-cancer cells that satisfy tumor needs. Immune, vascular, and mesenchymal cells provide the necessary factors to feed the tumor mass, promote its development, and favor the spread of cancer cells from the primary site to adjacent and distant anatomical sites. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are mesenchymal cells that promote carcinogenesis and progression of various malignant neoplasms. CAFs act through the secretion of metalloproteinases, growth factors, cytokines, mitochondrial DNA, and non-coding RNAs, among other molecules. Over the last few years, the evidence on the leading role of CAFs in gynecological cancers has notably increased, placing them as the cornerstone of neoplastic processes. In this review, the recently reported findings regarding the promoting role that CAFs play in gynecological cancers, their potential use as therapeutic targets, and the new evidence suggesting that they could act as tumor suppressors are analyzed and discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julio César Villegas-Pineda
- Departamento de Microbiología y Patología, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Mexico
| | - Adrián Ramírez-de-Arellano
- Instituto de Investigación en Ciencias Biomédicas, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Mexico
| | - Lesly Jazmín Bueno-Urquiza
- Instituto de Investigación en Ciencias Biomédicas, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Mexico
- Departamento de Fisiología, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Mexico
| | | | - Ana Laura Pereira-Suárez
- Departamento de Microbiología y Patología, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Mexico
- Instituto de Investigación en Ciencias Biomédicas, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Mexico
- *Correspondence: Ana Laura Pereira-Suárez,
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30
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Naito Y, Yoshioka Y, Ochiya T. Intercellular crosstalk between cancer cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts via extracellular vesicles. Cancer Cell Int 2022; 22:367. [PMID: 36424598 PMCID: PMC9686122 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-022-02784-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Intercellular communication plays an important role in cancer initiation and progression through direct contact and indirect interactions, such as via secretory molecules. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are one of the principal components of such communication with cancer cells, modulating cancer metastasis and tumour mechanics and influencing angiogenesis, the immune system, and therapeutic resistance. Over the past few years, there has been a significant increase in research on extracellular vesicles (EVs) as regulatory agents in intercellular communication. EVs enable the transfer of functional molecules, including proteins, mRNAs and microRNAs (miRNAs), to recipient cells. Cancer cells utilize EVs to dictate the specific characteristics of CAFs within the tumour microenvironment, thereby promoting cancer progression. In response to such "education" by cancer cells, CAFs contribute to cancer progression via EVs. In this review, we summarize experimental data indicating the pivotal roles of EVs in intercellular communication between cancer cells and CAFs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutaka Naito
- grid.410821.e0000 0001 2173 8328Department of Bioregulation, Institute for Advanced Medical Sciences, Nippon Medical School, 1-1-5, Sendagi, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, 113-8602 Japan
| | - Yusuke Yoshioka
- grid.410793.80000 0001 0663 3325Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo Medical University, 6-7-1, Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku-Ku, Tokyo, 160-0023 Japan
| | - Takahiro Ochiya
- grid.410793.80000 0001 0663 3325Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo Medical University, 6-7-1, Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku-Ku, Tokyo, 160-0023 Japan
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31
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Cui M, Liu Y, Cheng L, Li T, Deng Y, Liu D. Research progress on anti-ovarian cancer mechanism of miRNA regulating tumor microenvironment. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1050917. [DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1050917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer is the most deadly malignancy among women, but its complex pathogenesis is unknown. Most patients with ovarian cancer have a poor prognosis due to high recurrence rates and chemotherapy resistance as well as the lack of effective early diagnostic methods. The tumor microenvironment mainly includes extracellular matrix, CAFs, tumor angiogenesis and immune-associated cells. The interaction between tumor cells and TME plays a key role in tumorigenesis, progression, metastasis and treatment, affecting tumor progression. Therefore, it is significant to find new tumor biomarkers and therapeutic targets. MicroRNAs are non-coding RNAs that post-transcriptionally regulate the expression of target genes and affect a variety of biological processes. Studies have shown that miRNAs regulate tumor development by affecting TME. In this review, we summarize the mechanisms by which miRNAs affect ovarian cancer by regulating TME and highlight the key role of miRNAs in TME, which provides new targets and theoretical basis for ovarian cancer treatment.
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32
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Xu M, Zhang T, Xia R, Wei Y, Wei X. Targeting the tumor stroma for cancer therapy. Mol Cancer 2022; 21:208. [PMID: 36324128 PMCID: PMC9628074 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-022-01670-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 46.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumors are comprised of both cancer cells and surrounding stromal components. As an essential part of the tumor microenvironment, the tumor stroma is highly dynamic, heterogeneous and commonly tumor-type specific, and it mainly includes noncellular compositions such as the extracellular matrix and the unique cancer-associated vascular system as well as a wide variety of cellular components including activated cancer-associated fibroblasts, mesenchymal stromal cells, pericytes. All these elements operate with each other in a coordinated fashion and collectively promote cancer initiation, progression, metastasis and therapeutic resistance. Over the past few decades, numerous studies have been conducted to study the interaction and crosstalk between stromal components and neoplastic cells. Meanwhile, we have also witnessed an exponential increase in the investigation and recognition of the critical roles of tumor stroma in solid tumors. A series of clinical trials targeting the tumor stroma have been launched continually. In this review, we introduce and discuss current advances in the understanding of various stromal elements and their roles in cancers. We also elaborate on potential novel approaches for tumor-stroma-based therapeutic targeting, with the aim to promote the leap from bench to bedside.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maosen Xu
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Sichuan University, No. 17, Block 3, Southern Renmin Road, 610041, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Tao Zhang
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Sichuan University, No. 17, Block 3, Southern Renmin Road, 610041, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Ruolan Xia
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Sichuan University, No. 17, Block 3, Southern Renmin Road, 610041, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Yuquan Wei
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Sichuan University, No. 17, Block 3, Southern Renmin Road, 610041, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Xiawei Wei
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Sichuan University, No. 17, Block 3, Southern Renmin Road, 610041, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China.
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Wang Y, Liang H, Zheng J. Exosomal microRNAs mediating crosstalk between cancer cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts in the tumor microenvironment. Pathol Res Pract 2022; 239:154159. [DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2022.154159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Revised: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Ding H, Zhang J, Zhang F, Xu Y, Yu Y, Liang W, Li Q. Role of Cancer-Associated fibroblast in the pathogenesis of ovarian Cancer: Focus on the latest therapeutic approaches. Int Immunopharmacol 2022; 110:109052. [DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2022.109052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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Sun L, Ke M, Wang X, Yin M, Wei J, Xu L, Tian X, Wang F, Zhang H, Fu S, Zhang C. FAP high α-SMA low cancer-associated fibroblast-derived SLPI protein encapsulated in extracellular vesicles promotes ovarian cancer development via activation of PI3K/AKT and downstream signaling pathways. Mol Carcinog 2022; 61:910-923. [PMID: 35801406 PMCID: PMC9541539 DOI: 10.1002/mc.23445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Revised: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Ovarian cancer is the most lethal gynecological malignancy worldwide with high metastasis and poor prognosis rates. Cancer‐associated fibroblasts (CAFs), a heterogeneous population of cells that constitutes a major component of the tumor microenvironment, secrete extracellular vesicles (EVs) loading with proteins, lipids, and RNAs to promote tumorigenesis. However, the specific roles of CAF‐derived proteins contained in EVs in ovarian cancer remain poorly understood at present. Using the gene expression microarray analysis, we identified a list of dysregulated genes between the α‐SMA+CAF and FAP+CAF subpopulations, from which secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor (SLPI) was chosen for further validation. Quantitative PCR, western blot, immunohistochemistry, and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays were used to assess SLPI expression in ovarian cancer cells, tissues, CAFs, and EVs. Additionally, we evaluated the effects of exogenous SLPI on proliferation, migration, invasion, and adhesion of ovarian cancer cells in vitro. Our results showed SLPI protein was upregulated in CAFs, particularly in the FAPhighα‐SMAlowCAF subpopulation, and associated with increased tumor grade and decreased overall survival (OS). Importantly, CAF‐derived SLPI protein could be encapsulated in EVs for delivery to ovarian cancer cells, thus facilitating cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and adhesion via activating the PI3K/AKT and downstream signaling pathways. Moreover, high plasma expression of SLPI encapsulated in EVs was closely correlated with tumor stage in ovarian cancer patients. Our collective results highlight an oncogenic role of plasma EV‐encapsulated SLPI secreted by CAFs in tumor progression for the first time, supporting its potential utility as a prognostic biomarker of ovarian cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luyao Sun
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Miaola Ke
- Department of Blood Transfusion, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Surgery, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Mengyuan Yin
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Junni Wei
- Key Laboratory of Preservation of Human Genetic Resources and Disease Control in China (Harbin Medical University), Ministry of Education, Harbin, China
| | - Lu Xu
- Key Laboratory of Preservation of Human Genetic Resources and Disease Control in China (Harbin Medical University), Ministry of Education, Harbin, China
| | - Xing Tian
- Key Laboratory of Preservation of Human Genetic Resources and Disease Control in China (Harbin Medical University), Ministry of Education, Harbin, China
| | - Fei Wang
- Key Laboratory of Preservation of Human Genetic Resources and Disease Control in China (Harbin Medical University), Ministry of Education, Harbin, China
| | - He Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Preservation of Human Genetic Resources and Disease Control in China (Harbin Medical University), Ministry of Education, Harbin, China
| | - Songbin Fu
- Key Laboratory of Preservation of Human Genetic Resources and Disease Control in China (Harbin Medical University), Ministry of Education, Harbin, China
| | - Chunyu Zhang
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Preservation of Human Genetic Resources and Disease Control in China (Harbin Medical University), Ministry of Education, Harbin, China
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PITPNA-AS1/miR-98-5p to Mediate the Cisplatin Resistance of Gastric Cancer. JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY 2022; 2022:7981711. [PMID: 35578599 PMCID: PMC9107361 DOI: 10.1155/2022/7981711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Gastric cancer (GC) is the most deadly gastrointestinal malignancy with high incidence and mortality. Although, molecular mechanisms which drive gastric cancer progression are extensively investigated, the roles of long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) in gastric cancer growth and drug sensitivity remain unclear. Platinum is a mainstay to treat gastric cancer, and platinum resistance always leads to the local recurrence of gastric cancer. Therefore, it is important to identify biomarkers or therapeutic targets to sensitize gastric cancer to platinum. In this study, we employ noncoding RNA sequencing and found that lncRNA PITPNA-AS1 is overexpressed in gastric cancer tissues and associated with poor survival of gastric cancer patients. Kockdown of PITPNA-AS1 in gastric cancer cells significantly inhibited cell growth and triggered apoptotic cell death in gastric cancer cells. Also, cisplatin treatment could decrease PITPNA-AS1 levels in gastric cancer cells through inhibiting H3K27ac. Besides, PITPNA-AS1 is elevated in cisplatin-resistant gastric cancer cells and tissues, PITPNA-AS1 knockdown could sensitize gastric cancer cells to cisplatin treatment. Furthermore, we identified that PITPNA-AS1 directly interacts and inhibits miR-98-5p. Therefore, PITPNA-AS1 could be served as a potential biomarkers and curative therapeutic targets for gastric cancer progression.
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Feng B, Wu J, Shen B, Jiang F, Feng J. Cancer-associated fibroblasts and resistance to anticancer therapies: status, mechanisms, and countermeasures. Cancer Cell Int 2022; 22:166. [PMID: 35488263 PMCID: PMC9052457 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-022-02599-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are critical components of the tumor microenvironment (TME) with diverse functions such as extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling, modulation of metabolism and angiogenesis, and crosstalk with both cancer cells and infiltrating immune cells by production of growth factors, cytokines, and chemokines. Within the TME milieu, CAFs exhibit morphological and functional transitions with relatively specific markers and hold tremendous potential to facilitate tumorigenesis, development, and resistance towards multiple therapeutic strategies including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapy, anti-angiogenesis therapy, immunotherapy, and endocrine therapy. Accordingly, CAFs themselves and the downstream effectors and/or signaling pathways are potential targets for optimizing the sensitivity of anti-cancer therapies. This review aims to provide a detailed landscape of the role that CAFs play in conferring therapeutic resistance in different cancers and the underlying mechanisms. The translational and therapeutic perspectives of CAFs in the individualized treatment of malignant tumors are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing Feng
- Jiangsu Cancer Hospital & Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research & The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 42 Baiziting, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Jianzhong Wu
- Jiangsu Cancer Hospital & Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research & The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 42 Baiziting, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Bo Shen
- Jiangsu Cancer Hospital & Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research & The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 42 Baiziting, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Feng Jiang
- Jiangsu Cancer Hospital & Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research & The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 42 Baiziting, Nanjing, 210009, China.
| | - Jifeng Feng
- Jiangsu Cancer Hospital & Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research & The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 42 Baiziting, Nanjing, 210009, China.
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Saw PE, Chen J, Song E. Targeting CAFs to overcome anticancer therapeutic resistance. Trends Cancer 2022; 8:527-555. [PMID: 35331673 DOI: 10.1016/j.trecan.2022.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The view of cancer as a tumor cell-centric disease is now replaced by our understanding of the interconnection and dependency of tumor stroma. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), the most abundant stromal cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME), are involved in anticancer therapeutic resistance. As we unearth more solid evidence on the link between CAFs and tumor progression, we gain insight into the role of CAFs in establishing resistance to cancer therapies. Herein, we review the origin, heterogeneity, and function of CAFs, with a focus on how CAF subsets can be used as biomarkers and can contribute to therapeutic resistance in cancer. We also depict current breakthroughs in targeting CAFs to overcome anticancer therapeutic resistance and discuss emerging CAF-targeting modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phei Er Saw
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA Medicine, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510120, China; Medical Research Center, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510120, China
| | - Jianing Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA Medicine, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510120, China; Medical Research Center, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510120, China
| | - Erwei Song
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA Medicine, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510120, China; Medical Research Center, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510120, China; Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health Guangdong Laboratory, Guangzhou 510005, China; Fountain-Valley Institute for Life Sciences, Guangzhou Institute of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510530, China.
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Feng C, Kou L, Yin P, Jing Y. Excessive activation of IL‑33/ST2 in cancer‑associated fibroblasts promotes invasion and metastasis in ovarian cancer. Oncol Lett 2022; 23:158. [PMID: 35399326 PMCID: PMC8987947 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2022.13278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer is highly prevalent and has high mortality rates due to metastasis and relapse. The cross communication between cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and cancer-associated macrophages (CAMs) in the ovarian tumor microenvironment leads to cancer cell invasion and metastasis. However, the role of overproduction of IL-33/ST2 in the CAFs of ovarian cancer is still unclear. The expression of IL-33, ST2, apoptosis-related proteins and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers was measured by western blotting. Primary normal fibroblasts and CAFs from ovarian cancerous tissue were isolated and cultured in vitro, and the medium was used to stimulate blood-derived monocytes. Flow cytometry analysis was used to detect the frequency of M2-like macrophages in blood-derived monocytes from patients with ovarian cancer. Cell invasion were evaluated using Transwell assays. A xenograft model was used to study tumor growth in ST2-knockout and wild-type NOD-SCID mice. The results demonstrated higher expression of IL-33 and ST2 in carcinoma tissues compared with in para-carcinoma tissues, and there was a survival improvement associated with elevated IL-33. IL-33 and culture supernatants from CAFs, rather than normal ovarian fibroblasts, led to a higher expression of M2 macrophage marker genes in human blood-derived monocytes. Invasion and migration were aggravated in COC1 cells co-cultured with CAF-induced CAMs, and the EMT marker genes were upregulated. It was reported that EMT marker genes were downregulated and tumor volumes were significantly reduced in ST2-deficient mice. Overall, the IL-33/ST2 axis in ovarian cancer might integrate IL-33-expressing CAFs with M2 type-like CAMs, which aggravated invasion and metastasis by promoting EMT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caixia Feng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yulin First Hospital, Yulin, Shaanxi 719000, P.R. China
| | - Li Kou
- Department of Gynecology, Baoji People's Hospital, Baoji, Shaanxi 721000, P.R. China
| | - Panyue Yin
- Department of Gynecology, Baoji People's Hospital, Baoji, Shaanxi 721000, P.R. China
| | - Yuan Jing
- Department of Gynecology, Baoji People's Hospital, Baoji, Shaanxi 721000, P.R. China
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Bête Noire of Chemotherapy and Targeted Therapy: CAF-Mediated Resistance. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14061519. [PMID: 35326670 PMCID: PMC8946545 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14061519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Revised: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Tumor cells struggle to survive following treatment. The struggle ends in either of two ways. The drug combination used for the treatment blocks the proliferation of tumor cells and initiates apoptosis of cells, which is a win for the patient, or tumor cells resist the effect of the drug combination used for the treatment and continue to evade the effect of anti-tumor drugs, which is a bête noire of therapy. Cancer-associated fibroblasts are the most abundant non-transformed element of the microenvironment in solid tumors. Tumor cells play a direct role in establishing the cancer-associated fibroblasts’ population in its microenvironment. Since cancer-associated fibroblasts are activated by tumor cells, cancer-associated fibroblasts show unconditional servitude to tumor cells in their effort to resist treatment. Thus, cancer-associated fibroblasts, as the critical or indispensable component of resistance to the treatment, are one of the most logical targets within tumors that eventually progress despite therapy. We evaluate the participatory role of cancer-associated fibroblasts in the development of drug resistance in solid tumors. In the future, we will establish the specific mode of action of cancer-associated fibroblasts in solid tumors, paving the way for cancer-associated-fibroblast-inclusive personalized therapy. Abstract In tumor cells’ struggle for survival following therapy, they resist treatment. Resistance to therapy is the outcome of well-planned, highly efficient adaptive strategies initiated and utilized by these transformed tumor cells. Cancer cells undergo several reprogramming events towards adapting this opportunistic behavior, leading them to gain specific survival advantages. The strategy involves changes within the transformed tumors cells as well as in their neighboring non-transformed extra-tumoral support system, the tumor microenvironment (TME). Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts (CAFs) are one of the components of the TME that is used by tumor cells to achieve resistance to therapy. CAFs are diverse in origin and are the most abundant non-transformed element of the microenvironment in solid tumors. Cells of an established tumor initially play a direct role in the establishment of the CAF population for its own microenvironment. Like their origin, CAFs are also diverse in their functions in catering to the pro-tumor microenvironment. Once instituted, CAFs interact in unison with both tumor cells and all other components of the TME towards the progression of the disease and the worst outcome. One of the many functions of CAFs in influencing the outcome of the disease is their participation in the development of resistance to treatment. CAFs resist therapy in solid tumors. A tumor–CAF relationship is initiated by tumor cells to exploit host stroma in favor of tumor progression. CAFs in concert with tumor cells and other components of the TME are abettors of resistance to treatment. Thus, this liaison between CAFs and tumor cells is a bête noire of therapy. Here, we portray a comprehensive picture of the modes and functions of CAFs in conjunction with their role in orchestrating the development of resistance to different chemotherapies and targeted therapies in solid tumors. We investigate the various functions of CAFs in various solid tumors in light of their dialogue with tumor cells and the two components of the TME, the immune component, and the vascular component. Acknowledgment of the irrefutable role of CAFs in the development of treatment resistance will impact our future strategies and ability to design improved therapies inclusive of CAFs. Finally, we discuss the future implications of this understanding from a therapeutic standpoint and in light of currently ongoing and completed CAF-based NIH clinical trials.
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Szczepanek J, Skorupa M, Tretyn A. MicroRNA as a Potential Therapeutic Molecule in Cancer. Cells 2022; 11:1008. [PMID: 35326459 PMCID: PMC8947269 DOI: 10.3390/cells11061008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Small noncoding RNAs, as post-translational regulators of many target genes, are not only markers of neoplastic disease initiation and progression, but also markers of response to anticancer therapy. Hundreds of miRNAs have been identified as biomarkers of drug resistance, and many have demonstrated the potential to sensitize cancer cells to therapy. Their properties of modulating the response of cells to therapy have made them a promising target for overcoming drug resistance. Several methods have been developed for the delivery of miRNAs to cancer cells, including introducing synthetic miRNA mimics, DNA plasmids containing miRNAs, and small molecules that epigenetically alter endogenous miRNA expression. The results of studies in animal models and preclinical studies for solid cancers and hematological malignancies have confirmed the effectiveness of treatment protocols using microRNA. Nevertheless, the use of miRNAs in anticancer therapy is not without limitations, including the development of a stable nanoconstruct, delivery method choices, and biodistribution. The aim of this review was to summarize the role of miRNAs in cancer treatment and to present new therapeutic concepts for these molecules. Supporting anticancer therapy with microRNA molecules has been verified in numerous clinical trials, which shows great potential in the treatment of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Szczepanek
- Centre for Modern Interdisciplinary Technologies, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Ul. Wilenska 4, 87-100 Torun, Poland;
| | - Monika Skorupa
- Centre for Modern Interdisciplinary Technologies, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Ul. Wilenska 4, 87-100 Torun, Poland;
- Faculty of Biological and Veterinary Sciences, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Ul. Lwowska 1, 87-100 Torun, Poland;
| | - Andrzej Tretyn
- Faculty of Biological and Veterinary Sciences, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Ul. Lwowska 1, 87-100 Torun, Poland;
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Ye M, Wang J, Pan S, Zheng L, Wang ZW, Zhu X. Nucleic acids and proteins carried by exosomes of different origins as potential biomarkers for gynecologic cancers. Mol Ther Oncolytics 2022; 24:101-113. [PMID: 35024437 PMCID: PMC8718571 DOI: 10.1016/j.omto.2021.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Miaomiao Ye
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, No. 109 Xueyuan Xi Road, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, No. 109 Xueyuan Xi Road, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Shuya Pan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, No. 109 Xueyuan Xi Road, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Lihong Zheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, No. 109 Xueyuan Xi Road, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Zhi-Wei Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, No. 109 Xueyuan Xi Road, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
- Corresponding author Zhi-Wei Wang, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, No. 109 Xueyuan Xi Road, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China.
| | - Xueqiong Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, No. 109 Xueyuan Xi Road, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
- Corresponding author Xueqiong Zhu, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, No. 109 Xueyuan Xi Road, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China.
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Extracellular vesicles in ovarian cancer chemoresistance, metastasis, and immune evasion. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:64. [PMID: 35042862 PMCID: PMC8766448 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-04510-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Revised: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Chemoresistance and metastasis are the major challenges for the current ovarian cancer treatment. Understanding the mechanisms of ovarian cancer progression and metastasis is critically important for developing novel therapies. The advances in extracellular vesicles (EVs) research in recent years have attracted extensive attention. EVs contain a variety of proteins, RNAs, DNAs, and metabolites. Accumulating evidence indicates that ovarian cancer cells secrete a large amount of EVs, playing an important role in tumor progression and recurrence. In the microenvironment of ovarian tumor, EVs participate in the information transmission between stromal cells and immune cells, promoting the immune escape of ovarian cancer cells and facilitating cancer metastasis. Here, we review the recent advances of EVs in chemoresistance, mechanisms of metastasis, and immune evasion of ovarian cancer. Furthermore, we also discuss the challenges of EV research and future application of EVs as promising biomarker sources in response to therapy and in therapy-delivery approaches for ovarian cancer patients.
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Li C, Teixeira AF, Zhu HJ, Ten Dijke P. Cancer associated-fibroblast-derived exosomes in cancer progression. Mol Cancer 2021; 20:154. [PMID: 34852849 PMCID: PMC8638446 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-021-01463-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 42.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
To identify novel cancer therapies, the tumor microenvironment (TME) has received a lot of attention in recent years in particular with the advent of clinical successes achieved by targeting immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). The TME consists of multiple cell types that are embedded in the extracellular matrix (ECM), including immune cells, endothelial cells and cancer associated fibroblasts (CAFs), which communicate with cancer cells and each other during tumor progression. CAFs are a dominant and heterogeneous cell type within the TME with a pivotal role in controlling cancer cell invasion and metastasis, immune evasion, angiogenesis and chemotherapy resistance. CAFs mediate their effects in part by remodeling the ECM and by secreting soluble factors and extracellular vesicles. Exosomes are a subtype of extracellular vesicles (EVs), which contain various biomolecules such as nucleic acids, lipids, and proteins. The biomolecules in exosomes can be transmitted from one to another cell, and thereby affect the behavior of the receiving cell. As exosomes are also present in circulation, their contents can also be explored as biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of cancer patients. In this review, we concentrate on the role of CAFs-derived exosomes in the communication between CAFs and cancer cells and other cells of the TME. First, we introduce the multiple roles of CAFs in tumorigenesis. Thereafter, we discuss the ways CAFs communicate with cancer cells and interplay with other cells of the TME, and focus in particular on the role of exosomes. Then, we elaborate on the mechanisms by which CAFs-derived exosomes contribute to cancer progression, as well as and the clinical impact of exosomes. We conclude by discussing aspects of exosomes that deserve further investigation, including emerging insights into making treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitor blockade more efficient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Li
- Oncode Institute and Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Adilson Fonseca Teixeira
- Department of Surgery, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Hong-Jian Zhu
- Department of Surgery, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Peter Ten Dijke
- Oncode Institute and Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands.
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Villegas-Pineda JC, Lizarazo-Taborda MDR, Ramírez-de-Arellano A, Pereira-Suárez AL. Exosomal miRNAs and lncRNAs: The Modulator Keys of Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts in the Genesis and Progression of Malignant Neoplasms. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:717478. [PMID: 34912797 PMCID: PMC8667074 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.717478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 10/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment is made up of a universe of molecular and cellular components that promote or inhibit the development of neoplasms. Among the molecular elements are cytokines, metalloproteinases, proteins, mitochondrial DNA, and nucleic acids, within which the ncRNAs: miRNAs and lncRNAs stand out due to their direct modulating effects on the genesis and progression of various cancers. Regarding cellular elements, the solid tumor microenvironment is made up of tumor cells, healthy adjacent epithelial cells, immune system cells, endothelial cells, and stromal cells, such as cancer-associated fibroblasts, which are capable of generating a modulating communication network with the other components of the tumor microenvironment through, among other mechanisms, the secretion of exosomal vesicles loaded with miRNAs and lncRNAs. These ncRNAs are key pieces in developing neoplasms since they have diverse effects on cancer cells and healthy cells, favoring or negatively regulating protumoral cellular events, such as migration, invasion, proliferation, metastasis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and resistance to treatment. Due to the growing number of relevant evidence in recent years, this work focused on reviewing, analyzing, highlighting, and showing the current state of research on exosomal ncRNAs derived from cancer-associated fibroblasts and their effects on different neoplasms. A future perspective on using these ncRNAs as real therapeutic tools in the treatment of cancer patients is also proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julio César Villegas-Pineda
- Doctorado en Ciencias Biomédicas, Departamento de Fisiología, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Mexico
- Instituto de Investigación en Ciencias Biomédicas, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Mexico
| | | | - Adrián Ramírez-de-Arellano
- Instituto de Investigación en Ciencias Biomédicas, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Mexico
| | - Ana Laura Pereira-Suárez
- Instituto de Investigación en Ciencias Biomédicas, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Mexico
- Departamento de Microbiología y Patología, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Mexico
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Wang J, Liu L. MiR-149-3p promotes the cisplatin resistance and EMT in ovarian cancer through downregulating TIMP2 and CDKN1A. J Ovarian Res 2021; 14:165. [PMID: 34798882 PMCID: PMC8605569 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-021-00919-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Ovarian cancer (OC), a kind of gynecological cancer, is characterized by high mortality rate, with microRNAs (miRNAs) playing essential roles in it. However, the clinical significance of miRNAs and their molecular mechanisms in OC are mostly unknown. Methods miR-149-3p expression was predicted through Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) data in OC and confirmed by q-PCR in various OC cells and tissues from patients with different clinical characteristics. Moreover, its roles in terms of proliferation, migration and invasion were measured by CCK-8, colony formation, wound healing and transwell assays in OC cells including cisplatin-resistant and cisplatin-sensitive cells. And its effect on epithelial-mesenchymal transition was also assessed through detecting related protein expression. Additionally, its potential targets were verified by dual luciferase assay and Ago-RIP assay. Finally, its oncogenic functions were explored in vivo. Results In data from GSE79943, GSE131790, and TCGA, miR-149-3p was found to be highly expressed in OC tissues and associated with poor survival. In metastasis and chemoresistant tissues and cisplatin-resistant OC cells, its high expression was confirmed. In terms of tumorigenic effects, miR-149-3p knockdown in cisplatin-resistant OC cells inhibited its cisplatin resistance and other malignant phenotypes, while miR-149-3p overexpression in cisplatin-resistant OC cells led to contrary results. Mechanistically, miR-149-3p targeted 3’UTR of CDKN1A and TIMP2 to function as an oncogenic miRNA. Conclusion In brief, miR-149-3p promoted cisplatin resistance and EMT in OC by downregulating CDKN1A and TIMP2, which might provide a potential therapeutic target for OC treatment. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13048-021-00919-5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Wang
- Department of Gynecology, Banan People's Hospital of Chongqing, No. 659, Yunan Avenue, Banan District, Chongqing, 401320, China
| | - Lingxia Liu
- Department of Gynecology, Banan People's Hospital of Chongqing, No. 659, Yunan Avenue, Banan District, Chongqing, 401320, China.
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Ke Y, Chen X, Su Y, Chen C, Lei S, Xia L, Wei D, Zhang H, Dong C, Liu X, Yin F. Low Expression of SLC7A11 Confers Drug Resistance and Worse Survival in Ovarian Cancer via Inhibition of Cell Autophagy as a Competing Endogenous RNA. Front Oncol 2021; 11:744940. [PMID: 34790572 PMCID: PMC8591223 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.744940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Drug resistance is the main cause of chemotherapy failure in ovarian cancer (OC), and identifying potential druggable targets of autophagy is a novel and promising approach to overcoming drug resistance. In this study, 131 genes associated with autophagy were identified from three autophagy-related databases, and of these, 14 were differentially expressed in 90 drug-resistant OC tissues versus 197 sensitive tissues according to the Cancer Genome Atlas ovarian cancer cohort. Among these 14 genes, SLC7A11 was significantly decreased in two paclitaxel-resistant OC cells (HeyA8-R and SKOV3-R) and in 90 drug-resistant tissues compared with their controls. In vitro overexpression of SLC7A11 significantly increased the sensitivity of HeyA8-R cells to paclitaxel, inhibited colony formation, induced apoptosis, and arrested cell cycle. Further, low SLC7A11 expression was correlated with poor overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), and post-progression survival (PPS) in 1815 OC patients. Mechanistically, SLC7A11 strongly regulated cell autophagy as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) based on pan-cancer analyses of 32 tumor types. Specifically, as a ceRNA for autophagy genes STX17, RAB33B, and UVRAG, SLC7A11 was strongly and positively co-expressed with these three genes in 20, 12, and 12 different tumors, respectively, in 379 OC tissues and in 90 drug-resistant OC tissues, and the former two were significantly upregulated in SLC7A11-overexpressed HeyA8-R cells. Further, SLC7A11 induced the protein expression of other autophagy genes, such as LC3, Atg16L1, and Atg7, and the expression of the respective proteins was further increased when the cells were treated with paclitaxel. The results strongly suggest that SLC7A11 regulates autophagy via ceRNA interactions with the three abovementioned genes in pan-cancer and in drug-resistant OC. Moreover, low expression of STX17 and UVRAG also significantly predicted low OS, PFS, and PPS. The combination of SLC7A11 with STX17 was more predictive of OS and PFS than either individually, and the combination of SLC7A11 with UVRAG was highly predictive of OS and PPS. The above results indicated that decreased SLC7A11 resulted in drug resistance and effected low rates of survival in OC patients, probably via ceRNA interactions with autophagy genes, and thus the gene could serve as a therapeutic target and potential biomarker in OC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Ke
- Life Sciences Institute, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Xiaoying Chen
- Life Sciences Institute, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Yuting Su
- Life Sciences Institute, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Cuilan Chen
- Life Sciences Institute, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Shunmei Lei
- Key Laboratory of Longevity and Ageing-Related Disease of Chinese Ministry of Education, Centre for Translational Medicine and School of Preclinical Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Lianping Xia
- Life Sciences Institute, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Dan Wei
- Key Laboratory of Longevity and Ageing-Related Disease of Chinese Ministry of Education, Centre for Translational Medicine and School of Preclinical Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Han Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Longevity and Ageing-Related Disease of Chinese Ministry of Education, Centre for Translational Medicine and School of Preclinical Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Caihua Dong
- Key Laboratory of Longevity and Ageing-Related Disease of Chinese Ministry of Education, Centre for Translational Medicine and School of Preclinical Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Xia Liu
- Key Laboratory of Longevity and Ageing-Related Disease of Chinese Ministry of Education, Centre for Translational Medicine and School of Preclinical Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Fuqiang Yin
- Life Sciences Institute, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China.,Key Laboratory of High-Incidence-Tumor Prevention and Treatment (Guangxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, Nanning, China
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Exosomal microRNA-98-5p from hypoxic bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells inhibits myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury by reducing TLR4 and activating the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. Int Immunopharmacol 2021; 101:107592. [PMID: 34715573 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2021.107592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Revised: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are essential biomarkers during development of human diseases. We aimed to explore the role of hypoxia-induced bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs)-derived exosomal miR-98-5p in myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury (MI/RI). METHODS BMSCs were isolated, cultured, stimulated by hypoxia and transfected with adenovirus expressing miR-98-5p. The exosomes were extracted from BMSCs and named as BMSC-exos. The rat MI/RI models were established by ligation of left anterior descending artery and were respectively injected. Then, hemodynamic indices, myocardial enzymes, oxidative stress factors, inflammatory factors, macrophage infiltration and infarct size in these rats were determined. Expression of miR-98-5p, toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) and the phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/Akt) signaling pathway-related proteins was assessed. The target relation between miR-98-5p and TLR4 was confirmed by bioinformatic method and dual luciferase report gene assay. RESULTS MiR-98-5p was downregulated, TLR4 was upregulated and the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway was inactivated in MI/RI rat myocardial tissues. Exosomal miR-98-5p from hypoxic BMSCs promoted cardiac function and suppressed myocardial enzyme levels, oxidative stress, inflammation response, macrophage infiltration and infarct size in I/R myocardial tissues. Moreover, TRL4 was targeted by miR-98-5p and miR-98-5p activated PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. CONCLUSION Hypoxia-induced BMSC-exos elevated miR-98-5p to protect against MI/RI. This study may be helpful for treatment of MI/RI.
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Pascual-Antón L, Cardeñes B, Sainz de la Cuesta R, González-Cortijo L, López-Cabrera M, Cabañas C, Sandoval P. Mesothelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition and Exosomes in Peritoneal Metastasis of Ovarian Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222111496. [PMID: 34768926 PMCID: PMC8584135 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Most patients with ovarian cancer (OvCA) present peritoneal disseminated disease at the time of diagnosis. During peritoneal metastasis, cancer cells detach from the primary tumor and disseminate through the intraperitoneal fluid. The peritoneal mesothelial cell (PMC) monolayer that lines the abdominal cavity is the first barrier encountered by OvCA cells. Subsequent progression of tumors through the peritoneum leads to the accumulation into the peritoneal stroma of a sizeable population of carcinoma-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), which is mainly originated from a mesothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (MMT) process. A common characteristic of OvCA patients is the intraperitoneal accumulation of ascitic fluid, which is composed of cytokines, chemokines, growth factors, miRNAs, and proteins contained in exosomes, as well as tumor and mesothelial suspended cells, among other components that vary in proportion between patients. Exosomes are small extracellular vesicles that have been shown to mediate peritoneal metastasis by educating a pre-metastatic niche, promoting the accumulation of CAFs via MMT, and inducing tumor growth and chemoresistance. This review summarizes and discusses the pivotal role of exosomes and MMT as mediators of OvCA peritoneal colonization and as emerging diagnostic and therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucía Pascual-Antón
- Tissue and Organ Homeostasis Program, Cell-Cell Communication and Inflammation Unit, Centro de Biología Molecular “Severo Ochoa” (UAM-CSIC), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, 28049 Madrid, Spain; (L.P.-A.); (B.C.); (M.L.-C.)
| | - Beatriz Cardeñes
- Tissue and Organ Homeostasis Program, Cell-Cell Communication and Inflammation Unit, Centro de Biología Molecular “Severo Ochoa” (UAM-CSIC), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, 28049 Madrid, Spain; (L.P.-A.); (B.C.); (M.L.-C.)
| | | | | | - Manuel López-Cabrera
- Tissue and Organ Homeostasis Program, Cell-Cell Communication and Inflammation Unit, Centro de Biología Molecular “Severo Ochoa” (UAM-CSIC), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, 28049 Madrid, Spain; (L.P.-A.); (B.C.); (M.L.-C.)
| | - Carlos Cabañas
- Tissue and Organ Homeostasis Program, Cell-Cell Communication and Inflammation Unit, Centro de Biología Molecular “Severo Ochoa” (UAM-CSIC), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, 28049 Madrid, Spain; (L.P.-A.); (B.C.); (M.L.-C.)
- Department of Immunology, Ophthalmology and Otorhinolaryngology, School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
- Lymphocyte Immunobiology Group, Inflammatory and Immune Disorders Area, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (i+12), 28041 Madrid, Spain
- Correspondence: (C.C.); (P.S.); Tel.: +34-91-196-4513 (C.C.); +34-91-196-4707 (P.S.)
| | - Pilar Sandoval
- Tissue and Organ Homeostasis Program, Cell-Cell Communication and Inflammation Unit, Centro de Biología Molecular “Severo Ochoa” (UAM-CSIC), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, 28049 Madrid, Spain; (L.P.-A.); (B.C.); (M.L.-C.)
- Correspondence: (C.C.); (P.S.); Tel.: +34-91-196-4513 (C.C.); +34-91-196-4707 (P.S.)
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De P, Aske J, Dey N. Cancer-Associated Fibroblast Functions as a Road-Block in Cancer Therapy. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:5246. [PMID: 34680395 PMCID: PMC8534063 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13205246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Revised: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The journey of a normal resident fibroblast belonging to the tumor microenvironment (TME) from being a tumor pacifier to a tumor patron is fascinating. We introduce cancer-associated fibroblast (CAF) as a crucial component of the TME. Activated-CAF partners with tumor cells and all components of TME in an established solid tumor. We briefly overview the origin, activation, markers, and overall functions of CAF with a particular reference to how different functions of CAF in an established tumor are functionally connected to the development of resistance to cancer therapy in solid tumors. We interrogate the role of CAF in mediating resistance to different modes of therapies. Functional diversity of CAF in orchestrating treatment resistance in solid tumors portrays CAF as a common orchestrator of treatment resistance; a roadblock in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Nandini Dey
- Translational Oncology Laboratory, Avera Cancer Institute, Sioux Falls, SD 57105, USA; (P.D.); (J.A.)
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