Fibroblast-derived CXCL12 regulates PTEN expression and is associated with the proliferation and invasion of colon cancer cells via PI3k/Akt signaling

Characteristics of Gut Microbiome in the Murine Model of Pancreatic Cancer with Damp-Heat Syndrome

PURPOSE

Murine models of pancreatic cancer with damp-heat syndrome were established based on two methods to explore the differences in the composition of intestinal flora and to seek characteristic genera with potential for model evaluation.

METHODS

In our study, thirty-four C57BL/6J male mice were randomly divided into a control group (Con), a model group (Mod), a classic damp-heat syndrome group (CDHS), and a climate-chamber group (CC). CDHS and CC groups were fed with a high-fat diet and glucose water, while the CDHS group was given 2.4 g/kg alcohol by gavage for 10 days, and the CC group was placed in a climatic chamber with a set temperature of (32 ± 1) °C and humidity of (92 ± 2)% for 10 days. The Mod group, CDHS group, and CC group underwent tumor-building experiments on day 11. Tumorigenicity was then assessed twice a week. After 4 weeks, feces, colon tissue, and tumor tissue were taken from the mice and were tested, and the mice were euthanized afterwards.

RESULTS

Mice in the CDHS and CC groups showed symptoms similar to the clinical damp-heat syndrome observed in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), and exhibited a worse general condition and more rapid tumor growth trend than those in the Mod group. The pathological examination indicated that inflammation was prevalent in the CDHS and CC groups. Both groups had a disrupted intestinal barrier and an overgrowth of pathogenic bacteria such as c_Gammaproteobacteria, o_Enterobacteriales, and g_Bacteroides. Their microbiota composition showed greater diversity.

CONCLUSIONS

Intestinal flora may have a promising future in the discovery of indicators for evaluating a model of damp-heat syndrome in pancreatic cancer.

Cancer associated fibroblasts and metabolic reprogramming: unraveling the intricate crosstalk in tumor evolution

Metabolic reprogramming provides tumors with an energy source and biofuel to support their survival in the malignant microenvironment. Extensive research into the intrinsic oncogenic mechanisms of the tumor microenvironment (TME) has established that cancer-associated fibroblast (CAFs) and metabolic reprogramming regulates tumor progression through numerous biological activities, including tumor immunosuppression, chronic inflammation, and ecological niche remodeling. Specifically, immunosuppressive TME formation is promoted and mediators released via CAFs and multiple immune cells that collectively support chronic inflammation, thereby inducing pre-metastatic ecological niche formation, and ultimately driving a vicious cycle of tumor proliferation and metastasis. This review comprehensively explores the process of CAFs and metabolic regulation of the dynamic evolution of tumor-adapted TME, with particular focus on the mechanisms by which CAFs promote the formation of an immunosuppressive microenvironment and support metastasis. Existing findings confirm that multiple components of the TME act cooperatively to accelerate the progression of tumor events. The potential applications and challenges of targeted therapies based on CAFs in the clinical setting are further discussed in the context of advancing research related to CAFs.

Genome-Wide Identification and Evolutionary and Mutational Analysis of the Bos taurus Pax Gene Family

Bos taurus is known for its tolerance of coarse grains, adaptability, high temperature, humidity, and disease resistance. Primarily, cattle are raised for their meat and milk, and pinpointing genes associated with traits relevant to meat production can enhance their overall productivity. The aim of this study was to identify the genome, analyze the evolution, and explore the function of the Pax gene family in B. taurus to provide a new molecular target for breeding in meat-quality-trait cattle. In this study, 44 Pax genes were identified from the genome database of five species using bioinformatics technology, indicating that the genetic relationships of bovids were similar. The Pax3 and Pax7 protein sequences of the five animals were highly consistent. In general, the Pax gene of the buffalo corresponds to the domestic cattle. In summary, there are differences in affinity between the Pax family genes of buffalo and domestic cattle in the Pax1/9, Pax2/5/8, Pax3/7, and Pax4/6 subfamilies. We believe that Pax1/9 has an effect on the growth traits of buffalo and domestic cattle. The Pax3/7 gene is conserved in the evolution of buffalo and domestic animals and may be a key gene regulating the growth of B. taurus. The Pax2/5/8 subfamily affects coat color, reproductive performance, and milk production performance in cattle. The Pax4/6 subfamily had an effect on the milk fat percentage of B. taurus. The results provide a theoretical basis for understanding the evolutionary, structural, and functional characteristics of the Pax family members of B. taurus and for molecular genetics and the breeding of meat-production B. taurus species.

Targeting CXCR4 impaired T regulatory function through PTEN in renal cancer patients

BACKGROUND

Tregs trafficking is controlled by CXCR4. In Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC), the effect of the new CXCR4 antagonist, R54, was explored in peripheral blood (PB)-Tregs isolated from primary RCC patients.

METHODS

PB-Tregs were isolated from 77 RCC patients and 38 healthy donors (HDs). CFSE-T effector-Tregs suppression assay, IL-35, IFN-γ, IL-10, TGF-β1 secretion, and Nrp-1+Tregs frequency were evaluated. Tregs were characterised for CTLA-4, PD-1, CD40L, PTEN, CD25, TGF-β1, FOXP3, DNMT1 transcriptional profile. PTEN-pAKT signalling was evaluated in the presence of R54 and/or triciribine (TCB), an AKT inhibitor. Methylation of TSDR (Treg-Specific-Demethylated-Region) was conducted.

RESULTS

R54 impaired PB-RCC-Tregs function, reduced Nrp-1+Tregs frequency, the release of IL-35, IL-10, and TGF-β1, while increased IFN-γ Teff-secretion. The CXCR4 ligand, CXCL12, recruited CD25+PTEN+Tregs in RCC while R54 significantly reduced it. IL-2/PMA activates Tregs reducing pAKT+Tregs while R54 increases it. The AKT inhibitor, TCB, prevented the increase in pAKT+Tregs R54-mediated. Moreover, R54 significantly reduced FOXP3-TSDR demethylation with DNMT1 and FOXP3 downregulation.

CONCLUSION

R54 impairs Tregs function in primary RCC patients targeting PTEN/PI3K/AKT pathway, reducing TSDR demethylation and FOXP3 and DNMT1 expression. Thus, CXCR4 targeting is a strategy to inhibit Tregs activity in the RCC tumour microenvironment.

The functional roles of chemokines and chemokine receptors in colorectal cancer progression

Colorectal cancer is a common malignancy with significant rates of morbidity and mortality. A number of factors, including the tumor microenvironment, chemokines, the inflammatory response, have an impact on the development of colorectal cancer. A critical component of the tumor microenvironment is chemokines. Various cell subsets are attracted to the tumor microenvironment through interactions with chemokine receptors. These cells have varying effects on the development of the tumor and the effectiveness of treatment. Additionally, chemokines can participate in inflammatory processes and have effects that are either pro- or anti-tumor. Chemokines can be exploited as targets for medication resistance and treatment in colorectal cancer. In this review, we discuss the expression of chemokines and chemokine receptors, and their relationship with immune cells in the tumor microenvironment. At the same time, we also collect and discuss the significance of chemokines and chemokine receptors in colorectal cancer progression, and their potential as molecular targets for CRC treatment.

Role of cancer-associated fibroblasts in colorectal cancer and their potential as therapeutic targets

Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are mesenchymal cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME). CAFs are the most abundant cellular components in the TME of solid tumors. They affect the progression and course of chemotherapy and radiotherapy in various types of tumors including colorectal cancer (CRC). CAFs can promote tumor proliferation, invasion, and metastasis; protect tumor cells from immune surveillance; and resist tumor cell apoptosis caused by chemotherapy, resulting in drug resistance to chemotherapy. In recent years, researchers have become increasingly interested CAF functions and have conducted extensive research. However, compared to other types of malignancies, our understanding of the interaction between CRC cells and CAFs remains limited. Therefore, we searched the relevant literature published in the past 10 years, and reviewed the origin, biological characteristics, heterogeneity, role in the TME, and potential therapeutic targets of CAFs, to aid future research on CAFs and tumors.

THBS1-producing tumor-infiltrating monocyte-like cells contribute to immunosuppression and metastasis in colorectal cancer

Mesenchymal activation, characterized by dense stromal infiltration of immune and mesenchymal cells, fuels the aggressiveness of colorectal cancers (CRC), driving progression and metastasis. Targetable molecules in the tumor microenvironment (TME) need to be identified to improve the outcome in CRC patients with this aggressive phenotype. This study reports a positive link between high thrombospondin-1 (THBS1) expression and mesenchymal characteristics, immunosuppression, and unfavorable CRC prognosis. Bone marrow-derived monocyte-like cells recruited by CXCL12 are the primary source of THBS1, which contributes to the development of metastasis by inducing cytotoxic T-cell exhaustion and impairing vascularization. Furthermore, in orthotopically generated CRC models in male mice, THBS1 loss in the TME renders tumors partially sensitive to immune checkpoint inhibitors and anti-cancer drugs. Our study establishes THBS1 as a potential biomarker for identifying mesenchymal CRC and as a critical suppressor of antitumor immunity that contributes to the progression of this malignancy with a poor prognosis.

The pathological role of C-X-C chemokine receptor type 4 (CXCR4) in colorectal cancer (CRC) progression; special focus on molecular mechanisms and possible therapeutics

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is comprised of transformed cells and non-malignant cells including cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF), endothelial vasculature cells, and tumor-infiltrating cells. These nonmalignant cells, as well as soluble factors (e.g., cytokines), and the extracellular matrix (ECM), form the tumor microenvironment (TME). In general, the cancer cells and their surrounding TME can crosstalk by direct cell-to-cell contact and via soluble factors, such as cytokines (e.g., chemokines). TME not only promotes cancer progression through growth-promoting cytokines but also provides resistance to chemotherapy. Understanding the mechanisms of tumor growth and progression and the roles of chemokines in CRC will likely suggest new therapeutic targets. In this line, a plethora of reports has evidenced the critical role of chemokine receptor type 4 (CXCR4)/C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 12 (CXCL12 or SDF-1) axis in CRC pathogenesis. In the current review, we take a glimpse into the role of the CXCR4/CXCL12 axis in CRC growth, metastasis, angiogenesis, drug resistance, and immune escape. Also, a summary of recent reports concerning targeting CXCR4/CXCL12 axis for CRC management and therapy has been delivered.

Avermectin B1a Shows Potential Anti-Proliferative and Anticancer Effects in HCT-116 Cells via Enhancing the Stability of Microtubules

Avermectins are a group of macrocyclic lactones that are commonly used as pesticides to treat pests and parasitic worms. Some members of the avermectin family, such as ivermectin, have been found to exhibit anti-proliferative activity toward cancer cells. This study aimed to investigate the potential anti-cancer activities of avermectin B1a using the HCT-116 colon cancer cell line. The MTT assay was used to calculate the IC50 by incubating cells with increasing doses of avermectin B1a for 24, 48, and 72 h. Flow cytometry was used to evaluate apoptosis following the 24 h incubation of cells. The migration capacity of the HCT-116 cells in the absence or presence of avermectin B1a was also investigated. Finally, tubulin polymerization in the presence of avermectin B1a was evaluated. Avermectin B1a presented anti-proliferative activity with an IC50 value of 30 μM. Avermectin B1a was found to promote tubulin polymerization at 30 μM. In addition, avermectin B1a induced apoptosis in HCT-116 cells and substantially diminished their ability to migrate. Avermectin B1a exhibits significant anti-cancer activity and enhances tubulin polymerization, suggesting that it can be used as a promising microtubule-targeting agent for the development of future anticancer drugs.

[MiR-30e-5p overexpression promotes proliferation and migration of colorectal cancer cells by activating the CXCL12 axis via downregulating PTEN]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the regulatory effects of miR-30e-5p on biological behaviors of colorectal cancer cells and the role of PTEN/CXCL12 axis in mediating these effects.

METHODS

Bioinformatic analysis was performed to explore the differential expression of miR-30e-5p between colorectal cancer tissues and normal tissues. RT-qPCR was used to detect the differential expression of miR-30e-5p in intestinal epithelial cells and colorectal cancer cells. Bioinformatics and dual luciferase assay were used to predict and validate the targeting relationship between miR-30e-5p and PTEN. Human and murine colorectal cancer cell lines were transfected with miR-30e-5p mimics, miR-30e-5p inhibitor, miR-30e-5p mimics+LV-PTEN, or miR-30e-5p inhibitor + si-PTEN. The changes in biological behaviors of the cells were detected using plate clone formation assay, CCK-8 assay, flow cytometry, scratch healing and Transwell assays. PTEN and CXCL12 expressions in the cancer cells were detected by Western blotting. The effects of miR-30e-5p inhibitor on colorectal carcinogenesis and development were observed in nude mice.

RESULTS

Bioinformatic analysis showed that miR-30e-5p expression was significantly elevated in colorectal cancer tissues compared with the adjacent tissue (P < 0.01). Higher miR-30e-5p expression was detected in colorectal cancer cell lines than in intestinal epithelial cells (P < 0.01). Dual luciferase assay confirmed the targeting relationship between miR-30e-5p and PTEN (P < 0.05). Transfection with miR-30e-5p mimics significantly enhanced proliferation and metastasis and inhibited apoptosis of the colorectal cancer cells (P < 0.05), and co-transfection with LV-PTEN obviously reversed these changes (P < 0.05). MiR-30e-5p mimics significantly inhibited PTEN expression and enhanced CXCL12 expression in the cancer cells (P < 0.01), and miR-30e-5p inhibitor produced the opposite effect. Transfection with miR-30e-5p inhibitor caused cell cycle arrest in the cancer cells, which was reversed by co-transfection with si-PTEN (P < 0.05). In the in vivo experiments, the colorectal cancer cells transfected with miR-30e-5p inhibitor showed significantly lowered tumorigenesis.

CONCLUSION

Overexpression of miR-30e-5p promotes the malignant behaviors of colorectal cancer cells by downregulating PTEN to activate the CXCL12 axis.

Knockdown of PTEN promotes colon cancer progression and induces M2 macrophage polarization in the colon cancer cell environment

Objective

This article aims to study the effect of phosphate and tension homolog deleted on chromosome ten (PTEN) knockdown on colon cancer progression and macrophage polarization in the cancer environment.

Materials and Methods and Results

The expression of PTEN in colon cancer tissues and colon cancer cells was significantly lower than in precancerous tissues or CCD-18Co cells, and the decrease was most evident in SW620 cells. The expressions of phosphate (p)-p38, c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), activator protein 1 (AP-1), B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) protein in colon cancer tissues and cells were significantly higher than in precancerous tissues or CCD-18Co cells (P-values < 0.05). Bcl-2-associated X (Bax) and Caspase-3 expressions in colon cancer tissues and cells were significantly lower than in precancerous tissues or CCD-18Co cells (P-values < 0.05). 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) was applied to measure cell viability. Transwell evaluated the cell migration and invasion ability. Si-PTEN improved the proliferation, migration, and invasion of SW620 cells (P-values < 0.05). The expression levels of arginase-1 (Arg-1), CD163, CD206 in colon cancer tissues were significantly higher than in precancerous tissues (P-values < 0.05). The cell cycle, the number of M1 and M2 double-positive cells were assessed by flow cytometry. Si-PTEN reduced the expression of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1beta (IL-1β), and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), which upregulated the expression of Arg-1, CD206, CD163, p-p38, JNK, and AP-1 (P-values < 0.05).

Conclusion

Si-PTEN promoted colon cancer progression and induced the polarization of M2 tumor-associated macrophages in the colon cancer cell environment.

Morphology-guided transcriptomic analysis of human pancreatic cancer organoids reveals microenvironmental signals that enhance invasion

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) frequently presents with metastasis, but the molecular programs in human PDAC cells that drive invasion are not well understood. Using an experimental pipeline enabling PDAC organoid isolation and collection based on invasive phenotype, we assessed the transcriptomic programs associated with invasion in our organoid model. We identified differentially expressed genes in invasive organoids compared with matched noninvasive organoids from the same patients, and we confirmed that the encoded proteins were enhanced in organoid invasive protrusions. We identified 3 distinct transcriptomic groups in invasive organoids, 2 of which correlated directly with the morphological invasion patterns and were characterized by distinct upregulated pathways. Leveraging publicly available single-cell RNA-sequencing data, we mapped our transcriptomic groups onto human PDAC tissue samples, highlighting differences in the tumor microenvironment between transcriptomic groups and suggesting that non-neoplastic cells in the tumor microenvironment can modulate tumor cell invasion. To further address this possibility, we performed computational ligand-receptor analysis and validated the impact of multiple ligands (TGF-β1, IL-6, CXCL12, MMP9) on invasion and gene expression in an independent cohort of fresh human PDAC organoids. Our results identify molecular programs driving morphologically defined invasion patterns and highlight the tumor microenvironment as a potential modulator of these programs.

Silencing of RhoC induces macrophage M1 polarization to inhibit migration and invasion in colon cancer via regulating the PTEN/FOXO1 pathway

Ras homologue family member C (RhoC) is an oncogene in diverse types of human cancers, whereas its regulatory mechanisms involving macrophage polarization is rarely investigated. This study is designed to explore the regulatory role of RhoC in colon cancer and the underlying molecular mechanisms involving macrophage polarization. We detected RhoC expression by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and western blot, and analysed the biological function of RhoC knockdown in CC cells by the MTT, wound healing and transwell assay. Macrophage polarization-associated markers, genes associated with migration, phosphatase and tensin homologue (PTEN) and forkhead box O (FOXO) were determined by qRT-PCR and western blot. The xenograft tumour mouse model was used to assess the role of RhoC in vivo. RhoC is highly expressed in CC cells. The cell viability, invasion and migration abilities of CC cells were reduced by knockdown of RhoC. RhoC knockdown promoted M1 polarization, inhibited M2 polarization and decreased levels of genes associated with migration (matrix metalloproteinase-2 and matrix metalloproteinase-9). Silencing of RhoC inhibited tumour growth and expression of genes associated with migration in the xenografted model. In addition, silencing of RhoC promoted PTEN/FOXO1 expression, and PTEN inhibitor (SF1670) reversed the inhibitory effects of RhoC silencing. We demonstrated that silencing of RhoC reduced CC cells invasion and migration, and tumour growth by suppressing M2 macrophage polarization via regulating the PTEN/FOXO1 pathway.

Recruitment mechanisms and therapeutic implications of tumor-associated macrophages in the glioma microenvironment

As one of the main components of the glioma immune microenvironment, glioma-associated macrophages (GAMs) have increasingly drawn research interest. Primarily comprised of resident microglias and peripherally derived mononuclear macrophages, GAMs are influential in a variety of activities such as tumor cell resistance to chemotherapy and radiotherapy as well as facilitation of glioma pathogenesis. In addition to in-depth research of GAM polarization, study of mechanisms relevant in tumor microenvironment recruitment has gradually increased. Suppression of GAMs at their source is likely to produce superior therapeutic outcomes. Here, we summarize the origin and recruitment mechanism of GAMs, as well as the therapeutic implications of GAM inhibition, to facilitate future glioma-related research and formulation of more effective treatment strategies.

Single-cell and bulk RNA sequencing reveal ligands and receptors associated with worse overall survival in serous ovarian cancer

Background

Serous ovarian carcinoma is the most frequent histological subgroup of ovarian cancer and the leading cause of death among gynecologic tumors. The tumor microenvironment and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) have a critical role in the origin and progression of cancer. We comprehensively characterized the crosstalk between CAFs and ovarian cancer cells from malignant fluids to identify specific ligands and receptors mediating intercellular communications and disrupted pathways related to prognosis and therapy response.

Methods

Malignant fluids of serous ovarian cancer, including tumor-derived organoids, CAFs-enriched (eCAFs), and malignant effusion cells (no cultured) paired with normal ovarian tissues, were explored by RNA-sequencing. These data were integrated with single-cell RNA-sequencing data of ascites from ovarian cancer patients. The most relevant ligand and receptor interactions were used to identify differentially expressed genes with prognostic values in ovarian cancer.

Results

CAF ligands and epithelial cancer cell receptors were enriched for PI3K-AKT, focal adhesion, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition signaling pathways. Collagens, MIF, MDK, APP, and laminin were detected as the most significant signaling, and the top ligand-receptor interactions THBS2/THBS3 (CAFs)—CD47 (cancer cells), MDK (CAFs)—NCL/SDC2/SDC4 (cancer cells) as potential therapeutic targets. Interestingly, 34 genes encoding receptors and ligands of the PI3K pathway were associated with the outcome, response to treatment, and overall survival in ovarian cancer. Up-regulated genes from this list consistently predicted a worse overall survival (hazard ratio > 1.0 and log-rank P < 0.05) in two independent validation cohorts.

Conclusions

This study describes critical signaling pathways, ligands, and receptors involved in the communication between CAFs and cancer cells that have prognostic and therapeutic significance in ovarian cancer.

Function of normal oral mucosa revealed by single-cell RNA sequencing

The functions of oral mucosa include barrier, sensation, and secretion. The barrier protection function is particularly important, which includes physical barrier and immunological barrier. Few studies have revealed the function of oral mucosa by displaying the map of normal oral mucosal cells from the perspective of single cells. Here, single-cell transcriptome sequencing was used to bring a relatively comprehensive map of the normal oral mucosal cells. In total, 26,398 cells from three cases of normal oral mucosa were analyzed by single-cell RNA-sequencing and 14 distinct cell groups were defined, 7 of which were immune cells. We performed subgroup classification and heterogeneity analysis of epithelial cells, T cells, and macrophagocytes, which found a subpopulation of epithelial cells with high expression of major histocompatibility complex class II molecules, a subpopulation CD8⁺ GZMK⁺ T cells, and two kinds of active macrophagocytes. Meanwhile, we identified ligand-receptor pairs among the major cell types to explore the interactions and how they maintain the homeostasis of normal oral mucosa. Based on these results, the epithelial barrier function, immunological barrier function, and potential maintenance function of stromal cells in the oral mucosa were described at the single-cell level, which provides basic data resources for further studies of oral mucosal diseases.

Chemokines in progression, chemoresistance, diagnosis, and prognosis of colorectal cancer

Plenty of factors affect the oncogenesis and progression of colorectal cancer in the tumor microenvironment, including various immune cells, stromal cells, cytokines, and other factors. Chemokine is a member of the cytokine superfamily. It is an indispensable component in the tumor microenvironment. Chemokines play an antitumor or pro-tumor role by recruitment or polarization of recruiting immune cells. Meanwhile, chemokines, as signal molecules, participate in the formation of a cross talk among signaling pathways and non-coding RNAs, which may be involved in promoting tumor progression. In addition, they also function in immune escape. Chemokines are related to drug resistance of tumor cells and may even provide reference for the diagnosis, therapy, and prognosis of patients with colorectal cancer.

Tumor microenvironment involvement in colorectal cancer progression via Wnt/β-catenin pathway: Providing understanding of the complex mechanisms of chemoresistance

Colorectal cancer (CRC) continues to be one of the main causes of death from cancer because patients progress unfavorably due to resistance to current therapies. Dysregulation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway plays a fundamental role in the genesis and progression of several types of cancer, including CRC. In many subtypes of CRC, hyperactivation of the β-catenin pathway is associated with mutations of the adenomatous polyposis coli gene. However, it can also be associated with other causes. In recent years, studies of the tumor microenvironment (TME) have demonstrated its importance in the development and progression of CRC. In this tumor nest, several cell types, structures, and biomolecules interact with neoplastic cells to pave the way for the spread of the disease. Cross-communications between tumor cells and the TME are then established primarily through paracrine factors, which trigger the activation of numerous signaling pathways. Crucial advances in the field of oncology have been made in the last decade. This Minireview aims to actualize what is known about the central role of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in CRC chemoresistance and aggressiveness, focusing on cross-communication between CRC cells and the TME. Through this analysis, our main objective was to increase the understanding of this complex disease considering a more global context. Since many treatments for advanced CRC fail due to mechanisms involving chemoresistance, the data here exposed and analyzed are of great interest for the development of novel and effective therapies.

Advances in Research on the Effects and Mechanisms of Chemokines and Their Receptors in Cancer

Cancer is a common and intractable disease that seriously affects quality of life of patients and imposes heavy economic burden on families and the entire society. Current medications and intervention strategies for cancer have respective shortcomings. In recent years, it has been increasingly spotlighted that chemokines and their receptors play vital roles in the pathophysiology of cancer. Chemokines are a class of structurally similar short-chain secreted proteins that initiate intracellular signaling pathways through the activation of corresponding G protein-coupled receptors and participate in physiological and pathological processes such as cell migration and proliferation. Studies have shown that chemokines and their receptors have close relationships with cancer epigenetic regulation, growth, progression, invasion, metastasis, and angiogenesis. Chemokines and their receptors may also serve as potential targets for cancer treatment. We herein summarize recent research progresses on anti-tumor effects and mechanisms of chemokines and their receptors, suggesting avenues for future studies. Perspectives for upcoming explorations, such as development of multi-targeted chemokine-based anti-tumor drugs, are also discussed in the present review.

Chemokines and chemokine receptors in colorectal cancer; multifarious roles and clinical impact

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is considered the second cause of cancer death worldwide. The early diagnosis plays a key role in patient prognosis and subsequently overall survival. Similar to several types of cancer, colorectal cancer is also characterised by drug resistance and heterogeneity that contribute to its complexity -especially at advanced stages. However, despite the extensive research related to the identification of biomarkers associated to early diagnosis, accurate prognosis and the management of CRC patients, little progress has been made thus far. Therefore, the mortality rates, especially at advanced stages, remain high. A large family of chemoattractant cytokines called chemokines are known for their significant role in inflammation and immunity. Chemokines released by the different tumorous cells play a key role in increasing the complexity of the tumour's microenvironment. The current review investigates the role of chemokines and chemokine receptors in colorectal cancer and their potential as clinical molecular signatures that could be effectively used as a personalised therapeutic approach. We discussed how chemokine and chemokine receptors regulate the microenvironment and lead to heterogeneity in CRC. An important aspect of chemokines is their role in drug resistance which has been extensively discussed. This review also provides an overview of the current advances in the search for chemokines and chemokine receptors in CRC.

The Evasion Mechanisms of Cancer Immunity and Drug Intervention in the Tumor Microenvironment

Recently, in the field of cancer treatment, the paradigm has changed to immunotherapy that activates the immune system to induce cancer attacks. Among them, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) are attracting attention as excellent and continuous clinical results. However, it shows not only limitations such as efficacy only in some patients or some indications, but also side-effects and resistance occur. Therefore, it is necessary to understand the factors of the tumor microenvironment (TME) that affect the efficacy of immunotherapy, that is, the mechanism by which cancer grows while evading or suppressing attacks from the immune system within the TME. Tumors can evade attacks from the immune system through various mechanisms such as restricting antigen recognition, inhibiting the immune system, and inducing T cell exhaustion. In addition, tumors inhibit or evade the immune system by accumulating specific metabolites and signal factors within the TME or limiting the nutrients available to immune cells. In order to overcome the limitations of immunotherapy and develop effective cancer treatments and therapeutic strategies, an approach is needed to understand the functions of cancer and immune cells in an integrated manner based on the TME. In this review, we will examine the effects of the TME on cancer cells and immune cells, especially how cancer cells evade the immune system, and examine anti-cancer strategies based on TME.

Comprehensive Analyses of Stromal-Immune Score-Related Competing Endogenous RNA Networks In Colon Adenocarcinoma

Although recent clinical investigations emphasize the roles of myriad diversities of RNAs in stromal and immune components in the tumor microenvironment, especially in colon adenocarcinoma, however, analyses of “competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNA)” network in association with stromal and immune scores have yet to be determined. This study was conducted to explore the regulatory mechanisms of a stromal-immune score-based ceRNA network in colon adenocarcinoma. Stromal and immune scores of colon adenocarcinoma tumor samples were calculated by using the ESTIMATE algorithm. Differential expression analysis between samples with high/low stromal and immune scores was performed, followed by functional annotation for the overlapping DEmRNAs. The ceRNA network was constructed by differential expression analysis, prediction of RNA-RNA interaction, and correlation with clinicopathological parameters of the patients, which were further verified by external datasets and experiments. Colon adenocarcinoma patients having higher immune scores exhibited prolonged overall survival. RNA dataset analyses from TCGA revealed aberrant expressions of a total of 2052 mRNAs, 108 lncRNAs, and 70 miRNAs between high and low stromal/immune groups. Functional annotation mapped the differentially overexpressed mRNAs for immune-associated GO terms. To construct the ceRNA network, a total of 48 lncRNAs, 40 miRNAs, and 199 mRNAs were sorted out. A dysregulated ceRNA network consisting of 6 lncRNAs, 11 miRNAs, and 39 mRNAs was constructed by comparing RNA expressions between cancer as well as adjacent normal tissues. The ceRNA regulatory axis “MIAT/miR-532-3p/STC1” was regarded as a potential hit by the comprehensive analysis. The RT-qPCR assay showed upregulation of MIAT and STC1 while downregulation of hsa-miR-532-3p expression in cancer. Thus, our study highlights the potential role of a stromal-immune score-based ceRNA network in the colon adenocarcinoma microenvironment. The ceRNA axis MIAT/miR-532-3p/STC1 could serve as a promising therapeutic target for colon adenocarcinoma.

MicroRNA-656-3p inhibits colorectal cancer cell migration, invasion, and chemo-resistance by targeting sphingosine-1-phosphate phosphatase 1

Colorectal cancer presents high rates of recurrence and metastasis, and the occurrence and progression and mechanism of its invasion and metastasis are not fully understood. The expression of miR-656-3p in patient samples and 10 cell lines were measured. Bioinformatic databases were used to predict miRNAs. Protein expressions were examined using Western blot. Transwell assay was used to measure cell migration and invasion. Transplanted tumor model in nude mice was established. Removal of the miR-656-3p by specific knocking-down of this gene promoted the chemo-resistance of colorectal cancer cells. Critically, we identified sphingosine-1-phosphate phosphatase 1 (SGPP1) as a downsteam target of the miR-656-3p, which we first obtained from 199 potential target genes from Targetscan, 200 genes from miRDB and 200 genes from DIANA, respectively. Then, we identified the interaction between SGPP1 and the miR-656-3p on 3’ UTR of SGPP1 gene. Knockdown of SGPP1 greatly suppressed the tumor growth in vivo and epithelial mesenchymal transition process. miR-656-3p could regulate cell proliferation and chemoresistance in the colorectal cancer that associate to downstream target with SGPP1. Along with its downstream molecule, we would like to predict that the SGPP1 associated miR-656-3p could be used to develop early for early diagnostics for CRC oncogenesis.

Exosomal microRNA-125a-3p from human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells promotes angiogenesis of wound healing through inhibiting PTEN

Angiogenesis plays a key in the process of tissue repair and wound healing. Human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (HADSCs) have been found to act a promotion role during angiogenesis. Moreover, miR-125a-3p in HADSCs could promote the angiogenesis of HUVECs, but their specific mechanism in wound healing needs further study. Western blotting and qRT-PCR were used for detecting the protein and mRNA level, respectively. Exosomes were isolated successfully, and transmission electron microscope was used to identify exosomes. Angiogenesis, cell migration, and proliferation were detected with tube formation, wound healing, and MTT assays. The interactions of miR-125a-3p and PTEN were validated using dual-luciferase reporter assay. Animal model was used to evaluate the effect of miR-125a-3p on wound healing. HADSCs-exosome remarkably promoted the viability, migration, and angiogenesis of HUVECs. Knockdown of miR-125a-3p in HADSCs could inhibit the effect of HADSCs-exosome, while overexpression of miR-125a-3p could further promote the effect of HADSCs-exosome on HUVECs. MiR-125a-3p from HADSCs-exosome inhibited the expression of PTEN in HUVECs. Knockdown of PTEN promoted the viability, migration, and angiogenesis of HUVECs and reversed the effect of miR-125a-3p knockdown on HUVECs. Finally, miR-125a-3p from HADSCs-exosome could promote wound healing and angiogenesis in mice by inhibiting PTEN in mice wound granulation tissues. MiR-125a-3p from the HADSCs-exosome promoted the wound healing and angiogenesis, and these effects were achieved through regulating PTEN. This study may provide a new thought for the treatment and prevention of tissue repair.

Recent Updates on Mechanisms of Resistance to 5-Fluorouracil and Reversal Strategies in Colon Cancer Treatment

5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) plus leucovorin (LV) remain as the mainstay standard adjuvant chemotherapy treatment for early stage colon cancer, and the preferred first-line option for metastatic colon cancer patients in combination with oxaliplatin in FOLFOX, or irinotecan in FOLFIRI regimens. Despite treatment success to a certain extent, the incidence of chemotherapy failure attributed to chemotherapy resistance is still reported in many patients. This resistance, which can be defined by tumor tolerance against chemotherapy, either intrinsic or acquired, is primarily driven by the dysregulation of various components in distinct pathways. In recent years, it has been established that the incidence of 5-FU resistance, akin to multidrug resistance, can be attributed to the alterations in drug transport, evasion of apoptosis, changes in the cell cycle and DNA-damage repair machinery, regulation of autophagy, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, cancer stem cell involvement, tumor microenvironment interactions, miRNA dysregulations, epigenetic alterations, as well as redox imbalances. Certain resistance mechanisms that are 5-FU-specific have also been ascertained to include the upregulation of thymidylate synthase, dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase, methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase, and the downregulation of thymidine phosphorylase. Indeed, the successful modulation of these mechanisms have been the game plan of numerous studies that had employed small molecule inhibitors, plant-based small molecules, and non-coding RNA regulators to effectively reverse 5-FU resistance in colon cancer cells. It is hoped that these studies would provide fundamental knowledge to further our understanding prior developing novel drugs in the near future that would synergistically work with 5-FU to potentiate its antitumor effects and improve the patient's overall survival.

Signaling pathways in cancer-associated fibroblasts and targeted therapy for cancer

To flourish, cancers greatly depend on their surrounding tumor microenvironment (TME), and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in TME are critical for cancer occurrence and progression because of their versatile roles in extracellular matrix remodeling, maintenance of stemness, blood vessel formation, modulation of tumor metabolism, immune response, and promotion of cancer cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and therapeutic resistance. CAFs are highly heterogeneous stromal cells and their crosstalk with cancer cells is mediated by a complex and intricate signaling network consisting of transforming growth factor-beta, phosphoinositide 3-kinase/AKT/mammalian target of rapamycin, mitogen-activated protein kinase, Wnt, Janus kinase/signal transducers and activators of transcription, epidermal growth factor receptor, Hippo, and nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells, etc., signaling pathways. These signals in CAFs exhibit their own special characteristics during the cancer progression and have the potential to be targeted for anticancer therapy. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of these signaling cascades in interactions between cancer cells and CAFs is necessary to fully realize the pivotal roles of CAFs in cancers. Herein, in this review, we will summarize the enormous amounts of findings on the signals mediating crosstalk of CAFs with cancer cells and its related targets or trials. Further, we hypothesize three potential targeting strategies, including, namely, epithelial-mesenchymal common targets, sequential target perturbation, and crosstalk-directed signaling targets, paving the way for CAF-directed or host cell-directed antitumor therapy.

The multifaceted roles of the chemokines CCL2 and CXCL12 in osteophilic metastatic cancers

Breast and prostate cancers have a great propensity to metastasize to long bones. The development of bone metastases is life-threatening, incurable, and drastically reduces patients' quality of life. The chemokines CCL2 and CXCL12 and their respective receptors, CCR2 and CXCR4, are central instigators involved in all stages leading to cancer cell dissemination and secondary tumor formation in distant target organs. They orchestrate tumor cell survival, growth and migration, tumor invasion and angiogenesis, and the formation of micrometastases in the bone marrow. The bone niche is of particular importance in metastasis formation, as it expresses high levels of CCL2 and CXCL12, which attract tumor cells and contribute to malignancy. The limited number of available effective treatment strategies highlights the need to better understand the pathophysiology of bone metastases and reduce the skeletal tumor burden in patients diagnosed with metastatic bone disease. This review focuses on the involvement of the CCL2/CCR2 and CXCL12/CXCR4 chemokine axes in the formation and development of bone metastases, as well as on therapeutic perspectives aimed at targeting these chemokine-receptor pairs.

CXCL12-mediated HOXB5 overexpression facilitates Colorectal Cancer metastasis through transactivating CXCR4 and ITGB3

Background: Metastasis is the major reason for the high mortality of colorectal cancer (CRC). However, the molecular mechanism underlying CRC metastasis remains unclear. Here, we report a novel role of homeobox B5 (HOXB5), a member of the HOX family, in promoting CRC metastasis. Method: The expression of HOXB5 and its target genes were examined by immunohistochemistry in human CRC. Chromatin immunoprecipitation and luciferase reporter assays were performed to measure the transcriptional regulation of target genes by HOXB5. The metastatic capacities of CRC cells were evaluated by in vivo lung and liver metastatic models. Results: The elevated expression of HOXB5 was positively correlated with distant metastasis, higher AJCC stage, and poor prognosis in CRC patients. HOXB5 expression was an independent and significant risk factor for the recurrence and survival in CRC patients. Overexpression of HOXB5 promoted CRC metastasis by transactivating metastatic related genes, C-X-C motif chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4) and integrin subunit beta 3 (ITGB3). C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 12 (CXCL12), which is the ligand of CXCR4, upregulated HOXB5 expression through the extracellular regulated protein kinase (ERK)/ETS proto-oncogene 1, transcription factor (ETS1) pathway. The knockdown of HOXB5 decreased CXCL12-enhanced CRC metastasis. Furthermore, AMD3100, a specific CXCR4 inhibitor, significantly suppressed HOXB5-mediated CRC metastasis. HOXB5 expression was positively correlated with CXCR4 and ITGB3 expression in human CRC tissues, and patients with positive co-expression of HOXB5/CXCR4, or HOXB5/ITGB3 exhibited the worst prognosis. Conclusion: Our study implicates HOXB5 as a prognostic biomarker in CRC, and defines a CXCL12-HOXB5-CXCR4 positive feedback loop that plays an important role in promoting CRC metastasis.

The Roles of Stroma-Derived Chemokine in Different Stages of Cancer Metastases

The intricate interplay between malignant cells and host cellular and non-cellular components play crucial role in different stages of tumor development, progression, and metastases. Tumor and stromal cells communicate to each other through receptors such as integrins and secretion of signaling molecules like growth factors, cytokines, chemokines and inflammatory mediators. Chemokines mediated signaling pathways have emerged as major mechanisms underlying multifaceted roles played by host cells during tumor progression. In response to tumor stimuli, host cells-derived chemokines further activates signaling cascades that support the ability of tumor cells to invade surrounding basement membrane and extra-cellular matrix. The host-derived chemokines act on endothelial cells to increase their permeability and facilitate tumor cells intravasation and extravasation. The tumor cells-host neutrophils interaction within the vasculature initiates chemokines driven recruitment of inflammatory cells that protects circulatory tumor cells from immune attack. Chemokines secreted by tumor cells and stromal immune and non-immune cells within the tumor microenvironment enter the circulation and are responsible for formation of a "pre-metastatic niche" like a "soil" in distant organs whereby circulating tumor cells "seed' and colonize, leading to formation of metastatic foci. Given the importance of host derived chemokines in cancer progression and metastases several drugs like Mogamulizumab, Plerixafor, Repertaxin among others are part of ongoing clinical trial which target chemokines and their receptors against cancer pathogenesis. In this review, we focus on recent advances in understanding the complexity of chemokines network in tumor microenvironment, with an emphasis on chemokines secreted from host cells. We especially summarize the role of host-derived chemokines in different stages of metastases, including invasion, dissemination, migration into the vasculature, and seeding into the pre-metastatic niche. We finally provide a brief description of prospective drugs that target chemokines in different clinical trials against cancer.

Integrating Tumor Stroma Biomarkers With Clinical Indicators for Colon Cancer Survival Stratification

The tumor stroma plays an important role in tumor progression and chemotherapeutic resistance; however, its role in colon cancer (CC) survival prognosis remains to be investigated. Here, we identified tumor stroma biomarkers and evaluated their role in CC prognosis stratification. Four independent datasets containing a total of 1,313 patients were included in this study and were divided into training and testing sets. Stromal scores calculated using the estimation of stromal and immune cells in malignant tumors using expression data (ESTIMATE) algorithm were used to assess the tumor stroma level. Kaplan-Meier curves and the log-rank test were used to identify relationships between stromal score and prognosis. Tumor stroma biomarkers were identified by cross-validation of multiple datasets and bioinformatics methods. Cox proportional hazards regression models were constructed using four prognosis factors (age, tumor stage, the ESTIMATE stromal score, and the biomarker stromal score) in different combinations for prognosis prediction and compared. Patients with high stromal scores had a lower overall survival rate (p = 0.00016), higher risk of recurrence (p < 0.0001), and higher probability of chemotherapeutic resistance (p < 0.0001) than those with low scores. We identified 16 tumor stroma biomarkers and generated a new prognosis indicator termed the biomarker stromal score (ranging from 0 to 16) based on their expression levels. Its addition to an age/tumor stage-based model significantly improved prognosis prediction accuracy. In conclusion, the tumor stromal score is significantly negatively associated with CC survival prognosis, and the new tumor stroma indicator can improve CC prognosis stratification.

Overview of current targeted therapy in gallbladder cancer

Gallbladder cancer (GBC) is rare, but is the most malignant type of biliary tract tumor. Unfortunately, only a small population of cancer patients is acceptable for the surgical resection, the current effective regimen; thus, the high mortality rate has been static for decades. To substantially circumvent the stagnant scenario, a number of therapeutic approaches owing to the creation of advanced technologic measures (e.g., next-generation sequencing, transcriptomics, proteomics) have been intensively innovated, which include targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and nanoparticle-based delivery systems. In the current review, we primarily focus on the targeted therapy capable of specifically inhibiting individual key molecules that govern aberrant signaling cascades in GBC. Global clinical trials of targeted therapy in GBC are updated and may offer great value for novel pathologic and therapeutic insights of this deadly disease, ultimately improving the efficacy of treatment.

Discovery of oxyepiberberine as a novel tubulin polymerization inhibitor and an anti-colon cancer agent against LS-1034 cells

Coptis chinensis Franch. has been extensively used in traditional Chinese medicine. The chemical structure of oxyepiberberine, as an alkaloid isolated from Coptis chinensis Franch., has been previously studied. However, anti-cancer effects and underlying mechanisms of oxyepiberberine need to be explored. This study aimed to investigate the anti-cancer effects and underlying mechanisms of oxyepiberberine on LS-1034 human colon cancer cells. The anti-proliferative effects of six derivatives of oxyepiberberine on colon cancer cells were assessed. Among six derivatives, oxyepiberberine showed the greatest anti-proliferative effect on LS-1034 cells with an IC₅₀ value of 1.36 μM. Oxyepiberberine also induced apoptosis and inhibited migration of LS-1034 cells in a concentration-dependent manner. Importantly, oxyepiberberine was identified as a potent tubulin polymerization inhibitor. The tubulin polymerization inhibitory effects of oxyepiberberine in a concentration-dependent manner with an IC₅₀ value of 1.26 μM were observed. A xenograft mouse model of colon cancer showed that oxyepiberberine could suppress tumor growth without an obvious toxicity. Conclusion Oxyepiberberine was found as a novel tubulin polymerization inhibitor, and it could be a promising agent to treat colon cancer.

IRF1-mediated immune cell infiltration is associated with metastasis in colon adenocarcinoma

BACKGROUND

Evidence suggests that metastasis is chiefly responsible for the poor prognosis of colon adenocarcinoma (COAD). The tumor microenvironment plays a vital role in regulating this biological process. However, the mechanisms involved remain unclear. The aim of this study was to identify crucial metastasis-related biomarkers in the tumor microenvironment and investigate its association with tumor-infiltrating immune cells.

METHODS

We obtained gene expression profiles and clinical information from The Cancer Genome Atlas database. According to the "Estimation of STromal and Immune cells in MAlignant Tumor tissue using Expression data" algorithm, each sample generated the immune and stromal scores. Following correlation analysis, the metastasis-related gene was identified in The Cancer Genome Atlas database and validated in the GSE40967 dataset from Gene Expression Omnibus. The correlation between metastasis-related gene and infiltrating immune cells was assessed using the Tumor IMmune Estimation Resource database.

RESULTS

The analysis included 332 patients; the metastatic COAD samples showed a low immune score. Correlation analysis results showed that interferon regulatory factor 1 (IRF1) was associated with tumor stage, lymph node metastasis, and distant metastasis. Furthermore, significant associations between IRF1 and CD8+ T cells, T cell (general), dendritic cells, T-helper 1 cells, and T cell exhaustion were demonstrated by Spearmans correlation coefficients and P values.

CONCLUSIONS

The present findings suggest that IRF1 is associated with metastasis and the degree of immune infiltration of CD8+ T cells (general), dendritic cells, T-helper 1 cells, and T cell exhaustion in COAD. These results may provide information for immunotherapy in colon cancer.

Investigating potential molecular mechanisms of serum exosomal miRNAs in colorectal cancer based on bioinformatics analysis

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the most common malignant gastrointestinal tumor worldwide. Serum exosomal microRNAs (miRNAs) play a critical role in tumor progression and metastasis. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms are poorly understood.The miRNAs expression profile (GSE39833) was downloaded from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. GEO2R was applied to screen the differentially expressed miRNAs (DEmiRNAs) between healthy and CRC serum exosome samples. The target genes of DEmiRNAs were predicted by starBase v3.0 online tool. The gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genomes pathway (KEGG) enrichment analysis were performed using the Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery (DAVID) online tool. The protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was established by the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes (STRING) visualized using Cytoscape software. Molecular Complex Detection (MCODE) and cytohubba plug-in were used to screen hub genes and gene modules.In total, 102 DEmiRNAs were identified including 67 upregulated and 35 downregulated DEmiRNAs, and 1437 target genes were predicted. GO analysis showed target genes of upregulated DEmiRNAs were significantly enriched in transcription regulation, protein binding, and ubiquitin protein ligase activity. While the target genes of downregulated DEmiRNAs were mainly involved in transcription from RNA polymerase II promoter, SMAD binding, and DNA binding. The KEGG pathway enrichment analyses showed target genes of upregulated DEmiRNAs were significantly enriched in proteoglycans in cancer, microRNAs in cancer, and phosphatidylinositol-3 kinases/Akt (PI3K-Akt) signaling pathway, while target genes of downregulated DEmiRNAs were mainly enriched in transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) signaling pathway and proteoglycans in cancer. The genes of the top 3 modules were mainly enriched in ubiquitin mediated proteolysis, spliceosome, and mRNA surveillance pathway. According to the cytohubba plugin, 37 hub genes were selected, and 4 hub genes including phosphoinositide-3-kinase regulatory subunit 1 (PIK3R1), SRC, cell division cycle 42 (CDC42), E1A binding protein p300 (EP300) were identified by combining 8 ranked methods of cytohubba.The study provides a comprehensive analysis of exosomal DEmiRNAs and target genes regulatory network in CRC, which can better understand the roles of exosomal miRNAs in the development of CRC. However, these findings require further experimental validation in future studies.

The Chemokine Receptor CXCR4 in Cell Proliferation and Tissue Regeneration

The CXCR4 receptor upon binding its ligands triggers multiple signaling pathways that orchestrate cell migration, hematopoiesis and cell homing, and retention in the bone marrow. However, CXCR4 also directly controls cell proliferation of non-hematopoietic cells. This review focuses on recent reports pointing to its pivotal role in tissue regeneration and stem cell activation, and discusses the connection to the known role of CXCR4 in promoting tumor growth. The mechanisms may be similar in all cases, since regeneration often recapitulates developmental processes, and cancer often exploits developmental pathways. Moreover, cell migration and cell proliferation appear to be downstream of the same signaling pathways. A deeper understanding of the complex signaling originating from CXCR4 is needed to exploit the opportunities to repair damaged organs safely and effectively.

PTEN, a Barrier for Proliferation and Metastasis of Gastric Cancer Cells: From Molecular Pathways to Targeting and Regulation

Cancer is one of the life-threatening disorders that, in spite of excellent advances in medicine and technology, there is no effective cure for. Surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy are extensively applied in cancer therapy, but their efficacy in eradication of cancer cells, suppressing metastasis, and improving overall survival of patients is low. This is due to uncontrolled proliferation of cancer cells and their high migratory ability. Finding molecular pathways involved in malignant behavior of cancer cells can pave the road to effective cancer therapy. In the present review, we focus on phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) signaling as a tumor-suppressor molecular pathway in gastric cancer (GC). PTEN inhibits the PI3K/Akt pathway from interfering with the migration and growth of GC cells. Its activation leads to better survival of patients with GC. Different upstream mediators of PTEN in GC have been identified that can regulate PTEN in suppressing growth and invasion of GC cells, such as microRNAs, long non-coding RNAs, and circular RNAs. It seems that antitumor agents enhance the expression of PTEN in overcoming GC. This review focuses on aforementioned topics to provide a new insight into involvement of PTEN and its downstream and upstream mediators in GC. This will direct further studies for evaluation of novel signaling networks and their targeting for suppressing GC progression.

Upregulated insulin receptor tyrosine kinase substrate promotes the proliferation of colorectal cancer cells via the bFGF/AKT signaling pathway

Background

Some recent studies on insulin receptor tyrosine kinase substrate (IRTKS) have focused more on its functions in diseases. However, there is a lack of research on the role of IRTKS in carcinomas and its mechanism remains ambiguous. In this study, we aimed to clarify the role and mechanism of IRTKS in the carcinogenesis of colorectal cancer (CRC).

Methods

We analysed the expression of IRTKS in CRC tissues and normal tissues by researching public databases. Cancer tissues and adjacent tissues of 67 CRC patients who had undergone radical resection were collected from our center. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry were performed in 52 and 15 pairs of samples, respectively. In vitro and in vivo experiments were conducted to observe the effect of IRTKS on CRC cells. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis and Metascape platforms were used for functional annotation and enrichment analysis. We detected the protein kinase B (AKT) phosphorylation and cell viability of SW480 transfected with small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) with or without basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) through immunoblotting and proliferation assays.

Results

The expression of IRTKS in CRC tissues was higher than that in adjacent tissues and normal tissues (all P < 0.05). Disease-free survival of patients with high expression was shorter. Overexpression of IRTKS significantly increased the proliferation rate of CRC cells in vitro and the number of tumor xenografts in vivo. The phosphorylation level of AKT in CRC cells transfected with pLVX-IRTKS was higher than that in the control group. Furthermore, siRNA-IRTKS significantly decreased the proliferation rate of tumor cells and the phosphorylation level of AKT induced by bFGF.

Conclusion

IRTKS mediated the bFGF-induced cell proliferation through the phosphorylation of AKT in CRC cells, which may contribute to tumorigenicity in vivo.

Role of PI3K/AKT pathway in cancer: the framework of malignant behavior

Given that the PI3K/AKT pathway has manifested its compelling influence on multiple cellular process, we further review the roles of hyperactivation of PI3K/AKT pathway in various human cancers. We state the abnormalities of PI3K/AKT pathway in different cancers, which are closely related with tumorigenesis, proliferation, growth, apoptosis, invasion, metastasis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, stem-like phenotype, immune microenvironment and drug resistance of cancer cells. In addition, we investigated the current clinical trials of inhibitors against PI3K/AKT pathway in cancers and found that the clinical efficacy of these inhibitors as monotherapy has so far been limited despite of the promising preclinical activity, which means combinations of targeted therapy may achieve better efficacies in cancers. In short, we hope to feature PI3K/AKT pathway in cancers to the clinic and bring the new promising to patients for targeted therapies.

CXCL12/CXCR4 axis in the microenvironment of solid tumors: A critical mediator of metastasis

Tumors are dynamic tissue masses, so requiring continuous exposure to the host cells, nurturing them into pave a path for tumor growth and metastasis. C-X-C chemokine ligand 12 (CXCL12)/C-X-C chemokine receptor type 4 (CXCR4) is the key signaling for such aim. Gathering knowledge about the activity within this axis would deepen our insight into the utmost importance this signaling taken to attract and cross-connect multiple cells within the tumor microenvironment (TME) aiming for tumor progression and metastasis. The concept behind this review is to underscore the multi-tasking roles taken by CXCL12/CXCR4 signaling in tumor metastasis, and to also suggest some strategies to target the activities within this axis.