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Liu Y, Liang J, Zhang Y, Guo Q. Drug resistance and tumor immune microenvironment: An overview of current understandings (Review). Int J Oncol 2024; 65:96. [PMID: 39219258 PMCID: PMC11387120 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2024.5684] [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: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 08/08/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
The use of antitumor drugs represents a reliable strategy for cancer therapy. Unfortunately, drug resistance has become increasingly common and contributes to tumor metastasis and local recurrence. The tumor immune microenvironment (TME) consists of immune cells, cytokines and immunomodulators, and collectively they influence the response to treatment. Epigenetic changes including DNA methylation and histone modification, as well as increased drug exportation have been reported to contribute to the development of drug resistance in cancers. In the past few years, the majority of studies on tumors have only focused on the development and progression of a tumor from a mechanistic standpoint; few studies have examined whether the changes in the TME can also affect tumor growth and drug resistance. Recently, emerging evidence have raised more concerns regarding the role of TME in the development of drug resistance. In the present review, it was discussed how the suppressive TME adapts to drug resistance characterized by the cooperation of immune cells, cytokines, immunomodulators, stromal cells and extracellular matrix. Furthermore, it was reviewed how these immunological or metabolic changes alter immuno‑surveillance and thus facilitate tumor drug resistance. In addition, potential targets present in the TME for developing novel therapeutic strategies to improve individualized therapy for cancer treatment were revealed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Liu
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, P.R. China
| | - Jun Liang
- Department of Radiology, Qingdao Haici Hospital, Qingdao, Shandong 266000, P.R. China
| | - Yanping Zhang
- Department of Radiology, Qingdao Haici Hospital, Qingdao, Shandong 266000, P.R. China
| | - Qie Guo
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, P.R. China
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2
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Zhang F, Ma Y, Li D, Wei J, Chen K, Zhang E, Liu G, Chu X, Liu X, Liu W, Tian X, Yang Y. Cancer associated fibroblasts and metabolic reprogramming: unraveling the intricate crosstalk in tumor evolution. J Hematol Oncol 2024; 17:80. [PMID: 39223656 PMCID: PMC11367794 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-024-01600-2] [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: 06/25/2024] [Accepted: 08/20/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fusheng Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China
| | - Yongsu Ma
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China
| | - Dongqi Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China
| | - Jianlei Wei
- Key laboratory of Microecology-immune Regulatory Network and Related Diseases School of Basic Medicine, Jiamusi University, Jiamusi, Heilongjiang Province, 154007, China
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Kai Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China
| | - Enkui Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China
| | - Guangnian Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China
| | - Xiangyu Chu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China
| | - Xinxin Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China
| | - Weikang Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China
| | - Xiaodong Tian
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China.
| | - Yinmo Yang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China.
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3
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Kot M, Simiczyjew A, Wądzyńska J, Ziętek M, Matkowski R, Nowak D. Characterization of two melanoma cell lines resistant to BRAF/MEK inhibitors (vemurafenib and cobimetinib). Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:410. [PMID: 39175042 PMCID: PMC11342534 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-024-01788-3] [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: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 08/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/24/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND BRAF (v-raf murine sarcoma viral oncogene homolog B1)/MEK (mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase) inhibitors are used for melanoma treatment. Unfortunately, patients treated with this combined therapy develop resistance to treatment quite quickly, but the mechanisms underlying this phenomenon are not yet fully understood. Here, we report and characterize two melanoma cell lines (WM9 and Hs294T) resistant to BRAF (vemurafenib) and MEK (cobimetinib) inhibitors. METHODS Cell viability was assessed via the XTT test. The level of selected proteins as well as activation of signaling pathways were evaluated using Western blotting. The expression of the chosen genes was assessed by RT-PCR. The distribution of cell cycle phases was analyzed by flow cytometry, and confocal microscopy was used to take photos of spheroids. The composition of cytokines secreted by cells was determined using a human cytokine array. RESULTS The resistant cells had increased survival and activation of ERK kinase in the presence of BRAF/MEK inhibitors. The IC50 values for these cells were over 1000 times higher than for controls. Resistant cells also exhibited elevated activation of AKT, p38, and JNK signaling pathways with increased expression of EGFR, ErbB2, MET, and PDGFRβ receptors as well as reduced expression of ErbB3 receptor. Furthermore, these cells demonstrated increased expression of genes encoding proteins involved in drug transport and metabolism. Resistant cells also exhibited features of epithelial-mesenchymal transition and cancer stem cells as well as reduced proliferation rate and elevated cytokine secretion. CONCLUSIONS In summary, this work describes BRAF/MEK-inhibitor-resistant melanoma cells, allowing for better understanding the underlying mechanisms of resistance. The results may thus contribute to the development of new, more effective therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Kot
- Department of Cell Pathology, Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Wroclaw, Joliot-Curie 14a, Wroclaw, 50-383, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Simiczyjew
- Department of Cell Pathology, Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Wroclaw, Joliot-Curie 14a, Wroclaw, 50-383, Poland.
| | - Justyna Wądzyńska
- Department of Cell Pathology, Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Wroclaw, Joliot-Curie 14a, Wroclaw, 50-383, Poland
| | - Marcin Ziętek
- Department of Oncology, Division of Surgical Oncology, Wroclaw Medical University, Plac Hirszfelda 12, Wroclaw, 53-413, Poland
- Lower Silesian Oncology, Pulmonology, and Hematology Center, Plac Hirszfelda 12, Wroclaw, 53-413, Poland
| | - Rafał Matkowski
- Department of Oncology, Division of Surgical Oncology, Wroclaw Medical University, Plac Hirszfelda 12, Wroclaw, 53-413, Poland
- Lower Silesian Oncology, Pulmonology, and Hematology Center, Plac Hirszfelda 12, Wroclaw, 53-413, Poland
| | - Dorota Nowak
- Department of Cell Pathology, Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Wroclaw, Joliot-Curie 14a, Wroclaw, 50-383, Poland
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Limonta P, Chiaramonte R, Casati L. Unveiling the Dynamic Interplay between Cancer Stem Cells and the Tumor Microenvironment in Melanoma: Implications for Novel Therapeutic Strategies. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:2861. [PMID: 39199632 PMCID: PMC11352669 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16162861] [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: 06/28/2024] [Revised: 08/07/2024] [Accepted: 08/13/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Cutaneous melanoma still represents a significant health burden worldwide, being responsible for the majority of skin cancer deaths. Key advances in therapeutic strategies have significantly improved patient outcomes; however, most patients experience drug resistance and tumor relapse. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a small subpopulation of cells in different tumors, including melanoma, endowed with distinctive capacities of self-renewal and differentiation into bulk tumor cells. Melanoma CSCs are characterized by the expression of specific biomarkers and intracellular pathways; moreover, they play a pivotal role in tumor onset, progression and drug resistance. In recent years, great efforts have been made to dissect the molecular mechanisms underlying the protumor activities of melanoma CSCs to provide the basis for novel CSC-targeted therapies. Herein, we highlight the intricate crosstalk between melanoma CSCs and bystander cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME), including immune cells, endothelial cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), and its role in melanoma progression. Specifically, we discuss the peculiar capacities of melanoma CSCs to escape the host immune surveillance, to recruit immunosuppressive cells and to educate immune cells toward an immunosuppressive and protumor phenotype. We also address currently investigated CSC-targeted strategies that could pave the way for new promising therapeutic approaches for melanoma care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrizia Limonta
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences “R. Paoletti”, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Raffaella Chiaramonte
- Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20142 Milan, Italy;
| | - Lavinia Casati
- Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20142 Milan, Italy;
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5
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Sui M, Wang C, Tian Y, Zhang H. Laser-enzyme dual responsive liposomes to regulate autophagy in synergy with phototherapy for melanoma treatment. J Drug Target 2024:1-15. [PMID: 39073439 DOI: 10.1080/1061186x.2024.2386624] [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: 05/07/2024] [Revised: 07/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
Phototherapy can cause autophagy while killing tumour cells, leading to tumour recurrence and metastasis. Here, we constructed a laser and enzyme dual responsive nanodrug delivery system Tf-Te@CTSL-HCQ (TT@CH) to precisely regulate autophagy in synergy with phototherapy to inhibit the proliferation and metastasis of melanoma. Firstly, transferrin (Tf) was used as a nanoreactor to synthesise phototherapy agent Tf-Te by the biological template mineralisation method. Then, the thermosensitive liposome modified with FAP-α-responsive peptide (CAP) was used as a carrier to encapsulate autophagy inhibitor hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) and Tf-Te, to obtain an intelligent TT@CH delivery system. Once arriving at the tumour site, TT@CH can be cleaved by FAP-α overexpressed on cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), and release Tf-Te and HCQ. Then Tf-Te can target melanoma cells and exert PTT/PDT anti-tumour effect. What's more, hyperpyrexia induced by PTT can further promote drugs release from TT@CH. Meanwhile, HCQ simultaneously inhibited autophagy of CAFs and melanoma cells, and down-regulated IL-6 and HMGB1 secretion, thus effectively inhibiting melanoma metastasis. Pharmacodynamic results exhibited the best anti-tumour effect of TT@CH with the highest tumour inhibition rate of 91.3%. Meanwhile, lung metastatic nodules of TT@CH treated mice reduced by 124.33 compared with that of mice in control group. Overall, TT@CH provided an effective therapy strategy for melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingli Sui
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Chaoqun Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yingmei Tian
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Huijuan Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Nanomedicine for Targeting Diagnosis and Treatment, Henan Province, Zhengzhou, China
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6
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Robertson BM, Fane ME, Weeraratna AT, Rebecca VW. Determinants of resistance and response to melanoma therapy. NATURE CANCER 2024; 5:964-982. [PMID: 39020103 DOI: 10.1038/s43018-024-00794-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/19/2024]
Abstract
Metastatic melanoma is among the most enigmatic advanced cancers to clinically manage despite immense progress in the way of available therapeutic options and historic decreases in the melanoma mortality rate. Most patients with metastatic melanoma treated with modern targeted therapies (for example, BRAFV600E/K inhibitors) and/or immune checkpoint blockade (for example, anti-programmed death 1 therapy) will progress, owing to profound tumor cell plasticity fueled by genetic and nongenetic mechanisms and dichotomous host microenvironmental influences. Here we discuss the determinants of tumor heterogeneity, mechanisms of therapy resistance and effective therapy regimens that hold curative promise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bailey M Robertson
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Mitchell E Fane
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Ashani T Weeraratna
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Vito W Rebecca
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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Liao Q, Shi H, Yang J, Ge S, Jia R, Song X, Chai P, Jia R. FTO elicits tumor neovascularization in cancer-associated fibroblasts through eliminating m 6A modifications of multiple pro-angiogenic factors. Cancer Lett 2024; 592:216911. [PMID: 38685450 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216911] [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: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) exhibit notable versatility, plasticity, and robustness, actively participating in cancer progression through intricate interactions within the tumor microenvironment (TME). N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification is the most prevalent modification in eukaryotic mRNA, playing essential roles in mRNA metabolism and various biological processes. Howbeit, the precise involvement of m6A in CAF activation remains enigmatic. In this study, we revealed that the m6A demethylase FTO supports CAF-mediated angiogenesis through activation of EGR1 and VEGFA in conjunctival melanoma (CoM). First, single-cell transcriptome analysis revealed that FTO was specifically upregulated in the CAF population, thereby contributing to the hypo-m6A status in the TME of CoM. Moreover, CAFs of CoM displayed extensive proangiogenic potential, which was largely compromised by FTO inhibition, both in vitro and in vivo. By employing multi-omics analysis, we showed that FTO effectively eliminates the m6A modifications of VEGFA and EGR1. This process subsequently disrupts the YTHDF2-dependent mRNA decay pathway, resulting in increased mRNA stability and upregulated expression of these molecules. Collectively, our findings initially indicate that the upregulation of FTO plays a pivotal role in tumor development by promoting CAF-mediated angiogenesis. Therapeutically, targeting FTO may show promise as a potential antiangiogenic strategy to optimize cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qili Liao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, PR China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 200025, PR China
| | - Hanhan Shi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, PR China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 200025, PR China
| | - Jie Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, PR China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 200025, PR China
| | - Shengfang Ge
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, PR China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 200025, PR China
| | - Ruobing Jia
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, PR China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 200025, PR China
| | - Xin Song
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, PR China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 200025, PR China.
| | - Peiwei Chai
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, PR China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 200025, PR China.
| | - Renbing Jia
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, PR China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 200025, PR China.
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Németh A, Bányai GL, Dobos NK, Kós T, Gaál A, Varga Z, Buzás EI, Khamari D, Dank M, Takács I, Szász AM, Garay T. Extracellular vesicles promote migration despite BRAF inhibitor treatment in malignant melanoma cells. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:282. [PMID: 38778340 PMCID: PMC11110207 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-024-01660-4] [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: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) constitute a vital component of intercellular communication, exerting significant influence on metastasis formation and drug resistance mechanisms. Malignant melanoma (MM) is one of the deadliest forms of skin cancers, because of its high metastatic potential and often acquired resistance to oncotherapies. The prevalence of BRAF mutations in MM underscores the importance of BRAF-targeted therapies, such as vemurafenib and dabrafenib, alone or in combination with the MEK inhibitor, trametinib. This study aimed to elucidate the involvement of EVs in MM progression and ascertain whether EV-mediated metastasis promotion persists during single agent BRAF (vemurafenib, dabrafenib), or MEK (trametinib) and combined BRAF/MEK (dabrafenib/trametinib) inhibition.Using five pairs of syngeneic melanoma cell lines, we assessed the impact of EVs - isolated from their respective supernatants - on melanoma cell proliferation and migration. Cell viability and spheroid growth assays were employed to evaluate proliferation, while migration was analyzed through mean squared displacement (MSD) and total traveled distance (TTD) measurements derived from video microscopy and single-cell tracking.Our results indicate that while EV treatments had remarkable promoting effect on cell migration, they exerted only a modest effect on cell proliferation and spheroid growth. Notably, EVs demonstrated the ability to mitigate the inhibitory effects of BRAF inhibitors, albeit they were ineffective against a MEK inhibitor and the combination of BRAF/MEK inhibitors. In summary, our findings contribute to the understanding of the intricate role played by EVs in tumor progression, metastasis, and drug resistance in MM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afrodité Németh
- Faculty of Information Technology and Bionics, Pázmány Péter Catholic University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Gréta L Bányai
- Faculty of Information Technology and Bionics, Pázmány Péter Catholic University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Nikolett K Dobos
- Faculty of Information Technology and Bionics, Pázmány Péter Catholic University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Tamás Kós
- Faculty of Information Technology and Bionics, Pázmány Péter Catholic University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Anikó Gaál
- Institute of Materials and Environmental Chemistry; Biological Nanochemistry Research Group, HUN-REN Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Zoltán Varga
- Institute of Materials and Environmental Chemistry; Biological Nanochemistry Research Group, HUN-REN Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Edit I Buzás
- Department of Genetics, Cell- and Immunobiology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- ELKH-SE Translational Extracellular Vesicle Research Group, Budapest, Hungary
- HCEMM-SE Extracellular Vesicle Research Group, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Delaram Khamari
- Department of Genetics, Cell- and Immunobiology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Magdolna Dank
- Department of Internal Medicine and Oncology, Division of Oncology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - István Takács
- Department of Internal Medicine and Oncology, Division of Oncology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - A Marcell Szász
- Department of Internal Medicine and Oncology, Division of Oncology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Tamás Garay
- Faculty of Information Technology and Bionics, Pázmány Péter Catholic University, Budapest, Hungary.
- Department of Internal Medicine and Oncology, Division of Oncology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary.
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9
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Heaton AR, Burkard NJ, Sondel PM, Skala MC. Quantifying in vivo collagen reorganization during immunotherapy in murine melanoma with second harmonic generation imaging. BIOPHOTONICS DISCOVERY 2024; 1:015004. [PMID: 39011049 PMCID: PMC11247620 DOI: 10.1117/1.bios.1.1.015004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/17/2024]
Abstract
Significance Increased collagen linearization and deposition during tumorigenesis can impede immune cell infiltration and lead to tumor metastasis. Although melanoma is well studied in immunotherapy research, studies that quantify collagen changes during melanoma progression and treatment are lacking. Aim We aim to image in vivo collagen in preclinical melanoma models during immunotherapy and quantify the collagen phenotype in treated and control mice. Approach Second-harmonic generation imaging of collagen was performed in mouse melanoma tumors in vivo over a treatment time course. Animals were treated with a curative radiation and immunotherapy combination. Collagen morphology was quantified over time at an image and single-fiber level using CurveAlign and CT-FIRE software. Results In immunotherapy-treated mice, collagen was reorganized toward a healthy phenotype, including shorter, wider, curlier collagen fibers, with modestly higher collagen density. Temporally, collagen fiber straightness and length changed late in treatment (days 9 and 12), while width and density changed early (day 6) compared with control mice. Single-fiber collagen features calculated in CT-FIRE were the most sensitive to the changes among treatment groups compared with bulk collagen features. Conclusions Quantitative second-harmonic generation imaging can provide insight into collagen dynamics in vivo during immunotherapy, with key implications in improving immunotherapy response in melanoma and other cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexa R. Heaton
- Morgridge Institute for Research, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
- University of Wisconsin, Department of Human Oncology, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
| | - Nathaniel J. Burkard
- University of Wisconsin, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
| | - Paul M. Sondel
- University of Wisconsin, Department of Human Oncology, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
- University of Wisconsin, Department of Pediatrics, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
| | - Melissa C. Skala
- Morgridge Institute for Research, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
- University of Wisconsin, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
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Korbecki J, Bosiacki M, Szatkowska I, Kupnicka P, Chlubek D, Baranowska-Bosiacka I. The Clinical Significance and Involvement in Molecular Cancer Processes of Chemokine CXCL1 in Selected Tumors. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4365. [PMID: 38673949 PMCID: PMC11050300 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25084365] [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: 01/29/2024] [Revised: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Chemokines play a key role in cancer processes, with CXCL1 being a well-studied example. Due to the lack of a complete summary of CXCL1's role in cancer in the literature, in this study, we examine the significance of CXCL1 in various cancers such as bladder, glioblastoma, hemangioendothelioma, leukemias, Kaposi's sarcoma, lung, osteosarcoma, renal, and skin cancers (malignant melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma), along with thyroid cancer. We focus on understanding how CXCL1 is involved in the cancer processes of these specific types of tumors. We look at how CXCL1 affects cancer cells, including their proliferation, migration, EMT, and metastasis. We also explore how CXCL1 influences other cells connected to tumors, like promoting angiogenesis, recruiting neutrophils, and affecting immune cell functions. Additionally, we discuss the clinical aspects by exploring how CXCL1 levels relate to cancer staging, lymph node metastasis, patient outcomes, chemoresistance, and radioresistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Korbecki
- Department of Biochemistry and Medical Chemistry, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Powstańców Wlkp. 72, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland; (J.K.); (M.B.); (D.C.)
- Department of Anatomy and Histology, Collegium Medicum, University of Zielona Góra, Zyty 28, 65-046 Zielona Góra, Poland
| | - Mateusz Bosiacki
- Department of Biochemistry and Medical Chemistry, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Powstańców Wlkp. 72, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland; (J.K.); (M.B.); (D.C.)
| | - Iwona Szatkowska
- Department of Ruminants Science, Faculty of Biotechnology and Animal Husbandry, West Pomeranian University of Technology, Klemensa Janickiego 29 St., 71-270 Szczecin, Poland;
| | - Patrycja Kupnicka
- Department of Biochemistry and Medical Chemistry, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Powstańców Wlkp. 72, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland; (J.K.); (M.B.); (D.C.)
| | - Dariusz Chlubek
- Department of Biochemistry and Medical Chemistry, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Powstańców Wlkp. 72, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland; (J.K.); (M.B.); (D.C.)
| | - Irena Baranowska-Bosiacka
- Department of Biochemistry and Medical Chemistry, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Powstańców Wlkp. 72, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland; (J.K.); (M.B.); (D.C.)
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11
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Heaton AR, Burkard NJ, Sondel PM, Skala MC. Quantifying in vivo collagen reorganization during immunotherapy in murine melanoma with second harmonic generation imaging. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.11.09.566407. [PMID: 38014149 PMCID: PMC10680631 DOI: 10.1101/2023.11.09.566407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
Significance Increased collagen linearization and deposition during tumorigenesis can impede immune cell infiltration and lead to tumor metastasis. Although melanoma is well studied in immunotherapy research, studies that quantify collagen changes during melanoma progression and treatment are lacking. Aim Image in vivo collagen in preclinical melanoma models during immunotherapy and quantify the collagen phenotype in treated and control mice. Approach Second harmonic generation imaging of collagen was performed in mouse melanoma tumors in vivo over a treatment time-course. Animals were treated with a curative radiation and immunotherapy combination. Collagen morphology was quantified over time at an image and single fiber level using CurveAlign and CT-FIRE software. Results In immunotherapy-treated mice, collagen reorganized toward a healthy phenotype, including shorter, wider, curlier collagen fibers, with modestly higher collagen density. Temporally, collagen fiber straightness and length changed late in treatment (Day 9 and 12) while width and density changed early (Day 6) compared to control mice. Single fiber level collagen analysis was most sensitive to the changes between treatment groups compared to image level analysis. Conclusions Quantitative second harmonic generation imaging can provide insight into collagen dynamics in vivo during immunotherapy, with key implications in improving immunotherapy response in melanoma and other cancers.
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Simiczyjew A, Wądzyńska J, Pietraszek-Gremplewicz K, Kot M, Ziętek M, Matkowski R, Nowak D. Melanoma cells induce dedifferentiation and metabolic changes in adipocytes present in the tumor niche. Cell Mol Biol Lett 2023; 28:58. [PMID: 37481560 PMCID: PMC10363323 DOI: 10.1186/s11658-023-00476-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND One of the factors that affect the progression of melanoma is the tumor microenvironment, which consists of cellular elements, extracellular matrix, acidification, and a hypoxic state. Adipocytes are one of the types of cell present in the niche and are localized in the deepest layer of the skin. However, the relationship between fat cells and melanoma remains unclear. METHODS We assessed the influence of melanoma cells on adipocytes using an indirect coculture system. We estimated the level of cancer-associated adipocyte (CAA) markers through quantitative PCR analysis. The fibroblastic phenotype of CAAs was confirmed by cell staining and western blotting analysis. The lipid content was estimated by lipid detection in CAAs using LipidSpot and by quantitative analysis using Oil Red O. The expression of proteins involved in lipid synthesis, delipidation, and metabolic processes were assessed through quantitative PCR or western blotting analysis. Lactate secretion was established using a Lactate-Glo™ assay. Proteins secreted by CAAs were identified in cytokine and angiogenesis arrays. The proliferation of melanoma cells cocultured with CAAs was assessed using an XTT proliferation assay. Statistical analysis was performed using a one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey's test in GraphPad Prism 7 software. RESULTS Obtained CAAs were identified by decreased levels of leptin, adiponectin, resistin, and FABP4. Adipocytes cocultured with melanoma presented fibroblastic features, such as a similar proteolytic pattern to that of 3T3L1 fibroblasts and increased levels of vimentin and TGFβRIII. Melanoma cells led to a reduction of lipid content in CAAs, possibly by downregulation of lipid synthesis pathways (lower FADS, SC4MOL, FASN) or enhancement of lipolysis (higher level of phosphorylation of ERK and STAT3). Adipocytes cocultured with melanoma cells secreted higher IL6 and SerpinE1 levels and produced less CCL2, CXCL1, and angiogenic molecules. CAAs also showed metabolic changes comprising the increased secretion of lactate and enhanced production of glucose, lactate, and ion transporters. In addition, changes in adipocytes observed following melanoma coculture resulted in a higher proliferation rate of cancer cells. CONCLUSIONS Melanoma cells led to decreased lipid content in adipocytes, which might be related to enhanced delipidation or reduction of lipid synthesis. Fibroblast-like CAAs showed metabolic changes that may be the reason for accelerated proliferation of melanoma cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Simiczyjew
- Department of Cell Pathology, Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Wroclaw, 50-383, Wroclaw, Poland.
| | - Justyna Wądzyńska
- Department of Cell Pathology, Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Wroclaw, 50-383, Wroclaw, Poland
| | | | - Magdalena Kot
- Department of Cell Pathology, Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Wroclaw, 50-383, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Marcin Ziętek
- Department of Oncology and Division of Surgical Oncology, Wroclaw Medical University, Plac Hirszfelda 12, 53-413, Wroclaw, Poland
- Lower Silesian Oncology, Pulmonology, and Hematology Center, Plac Hirszfelda 12, 53-413, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Rafał Matkowski
- Department of Oncology and Division of Surgical Oncology, Wroclaw Medical University, Plac Hirszfelda 12, 53-413, Wroclaw, Poland
- Lower Silesian Oncology, Pulmonology, and Hematology Center, Plac Hirszfelda 12, 53-413, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Dorota Nowak
- Department of Cell Pathology, Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Wroclaw, 50-383, Wroclaw, Poland
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Liu J, Zheng R, Zhang Y, Jia S, He Y, Liu J. The Cross Talk between Cellular Senescence and Melanoma: From Molecular Pathogenesis to Target Therapies. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15092640. [PMID: 37174106 PMCID: PMC10177054 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15092640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is a malignant skin tumor that originates from melanocytes. The pathogenesis of melanoma involves a complex interaction that occurs between environmental factors, ultraviolet (UV)-light damage, and genetic alterations. UV light is the primary driver of the skin aging process and development of melanoma, which can induce reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and the presence of DNA damage in the cells, and results in cell senescence. As cellular senescence plays an important role in the relationship that exists between the skin aging process and the development of melanoma, the present study provides insight into the literature concerning the topic at present and discusses the relationship between skin aging and melanoma, including the mechanisms of cellular senescence that drive melanoma progression, the microenvironment in relation to skin aging and melanoma factors, and the therapeutics concerning melanoma. This review focuses on defining the role of cellular senescence in the process of melanoma carcinogenesis and discusses the targeting of senescent cells through therapeutic approaches, highlighting the areas that require more extensive research in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiahua Liu
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics of Aging and Tumor, Medical School, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Runzi Zheng
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics of Aging and Tumor, Medical School, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Yanghuan Zhang
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics of Aging and Tumor, Medical School, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Shuting Jia
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics of Aging and Tumor, Medical School, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Yonghan He
- Key Laboratory of Healthy Aging Research of Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650201, China
| | - Jing Liu
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics of Aging and Tumor, Medical School, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
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Wang Z, Wang J, Lan T, Zhang L, Yan Z, Zhang N, Xu Y, Tao Q. Role and mechanism of fibroblast-activated protein-α expression on the surface of fibroblast-like synoviocytes in rheumatoid arthritis. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1135384. [PMID: 37006278 PMCID: PMC10064071 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1135384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibroblast-activated protein-α (FAP) is a type II integrated serine protease expressed by activated fibroblasts during fibrosis or inflammation. Fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLSs) in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) synovial sites abundantly and stably overexpress FAP and play important roles in regulating the cellular immune, inflammatory, invasion, migration, proliferation, and angiogenesis responses in the synovial region. Overexpression of FAP is regulated by the initial inflammatory microenvironment of the disease and epigenetic signaling, which promotes RA development by regulating FLSs or affecting the signaling cross-linking FLSs with other cells at the local synovium and inflammatory stimulation. At present, several treatment options targeting FAP are in the process of development. This review discusses the basic features of FAP expressed on the surface of FLSs and its role in RA pathophysiology and advances in targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zihan Wang
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Department of Rheumatism, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
- Graduate school, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Jinping Wang
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Department of Rheumatism, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Tianyi Lan
- Graduate school, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Liubo Zhang
- Graduate school, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Zeran Yan
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Department of Rheumatism, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Nan Zhang
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Department of Rheumatism, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yuan Xu
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Department of Rheumatism, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Yuan Xu, ; Qingwen Tao,
| | - Qingwen Tao
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Department of Rheumatism, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Yuan Xu, ; Qingwen Tao,
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Yan H, Lin G, Liu Z, Gu F, Zhang Y. Nano-adjuvants and immune agonists promote antitumor immunity of peptide amphiphiles. Acta Biomater 2023; 161:213-225. [PMID: 36858163 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2023.02.034] [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: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 02/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2023]
Abstract
Immunostimulatory cues play an important role in priming antitumor immunity and promoting the efficacy of subunit cancer vaccines. However, the clinical use of many immunostimulatory agents is often hampered by their inefficient in vivo delivery which may decrease immune response to the vaccination. To promote vaccine efficacy, we develop vaccine formulations which integrate three key elements: (1) a nano-adjuvant formulated by conjugating an agonistic anti-CD40 monoclonal antibody (αCD40) to the surface of a polyIC-loaded lipid nanoparticle, (2) a peptide amphiphile containing an optimized CD8+ T-cell epitope that derived from a melanoma antigen gp100, (3) an agonistic anti-4-1BB monoclonal antibody (α4-1BB) that boosts the efficacy of vaccinations. In a syngeneic mouse model of melanoma, the vaccine formulations enhanced innate immunity and activated multiple innate immune signaling pathways within draining lymph nodes, as well as promoted antigen-specific immune responses and reduced immunosuppression in the tumor microenvironment, leading to profound tumor growth inhibition and prolonged survival. Thus, our vaccine formulations represent an attractive strategy to stimulate antitumor immunity and control tumor progression. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: The clinical use of many immunostimulatory agents is often hampered by their inefficient in vivo delivery which may decrease immune response to the vaccination. To promote the antitumor immunity of subunit vaccines, we develop novel vaccine formulations that integrate multifunctional modalities including (1) a nano-adjuvant containing anti-CD40 monoclonal antibody (αCD40) and TLR3 agonist which activate innate immunity through diverse signaling pathways, (2) a peptide amphiphile containing an optimized CD8+ T-cell epitope from tumor antigen, (3) an anti-4-1BB monoclonal antibody (α4-1BB) that boosts the efficacy of vaccinations. In this study, our vaccine formulations stimulate superior antitumor immunity and control tumor progression. The above nano-engineered platform and immunogenic biomacromolecules can be further applied to other T-cell-inducing vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan Yan
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou International Campus, Guangzhou, 511442, PR China; National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China; Key Laboratory of Biomedical Materials and Engineering of the Ministry of Education, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China
| | - Guibin Lin
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou International Campus, Guangzhou, 511442, PR China; National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China; Key Laboratory of Biomedical Materials and Engineering of the Ministry of Education, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China
| | - Zhanyan Liu
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou International Campus, Guangzhou, 511442, PR China; National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China; Key Laboratory of Biomedical Materials and Engineering of the Ministry of Education, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China
| | - Fei Gu
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou International Campus, Guangzhou, 511442, PR China; National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China; Key Laboratory of Biomedical Materials and Engineering of the Ministry of Education, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China
| | - Yuan Zhang
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou International Campus, Guangzhou, 511442, PR China; National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China; Key Laboratory of Biomedical Materials and Engineering of the Ministry of Education, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China.
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Secretome of Stromal Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts (CAFs): Relevance in Cancer. Cells 2023; 12:cells12040628. [PMID: 36831295 PMCID: PMC9953839 DOI: 10.3390/cells12040628] [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: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 02/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The cancer secretome reflects the assortment of proteins released by cancer cells. Investigating cell secretomes not only provides a deeper knowledge of the healthy and transformed state but also helps in the discovery of novel biomarkers. Secretomes of cancer cells have been studied in the past, however, the secretome contribution of stromal cells needs to be studied. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are one of the predominantly present cell populations in the tumor microenvironment (TME). CAFs play key role in functions associated with matrix deposition and remodeling, reciprocal exchange of nutrients, and molecular interactions and signaling with neighboring cells in the TME. Investigating CAFs secretomes or CAFs-secreted factors would help in identifying novel CAF-specific biomarkers, unique druggable targets, and an improved understanding for personalized cancer diagnosis and prognosis. In this review, we have tried to include all studies available in PubMed with the keywords "CAFs Secretome". We aim to provide a comprehensive summary of the studies investigating role of the CAF secretome on cancer development, progression, and therapeutic outcome. However, challenges associated with this process have also been addressed in the later sections. We have highlighted the functions and clinical relevance of secretome analysis in stromal CAF-rich cancer types. This review specifically discusses the secretome of stromal CAFs in cancers. A deeper understanding of the components of the CAF secretome and their interactions with cancer cells will help in the identification of personalized biomarkers and a more precise treatment plan.
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Mazurkiewicz J, Simiczyjew A, Dratkiewicz E, Kot M, Pietraszek-Gremplewicz K, Wilk D, Ziętek M, Matkowski R, Nowak D. Melanoma stimulates the proteolytic activity of HaCaT keratinocytes. Cell Commun Signal 2022; 20:146. [PMID: 36123693 PMCID: PMC9484146 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-022-00961-w] [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: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Keratinocytes constitute a major part of the melanoma microenvironment, considering their protective role towards melanocytes in physiological conditions. However, their interactions with tumor cells following melanomagenesis are still unclear. Methods We used two in vitro models (melanoma-conditioned media and indirect co-culture of keratinocytes with melanoma cells on Transwell inserts) to activate immortalized keratinocytes towards cancer-associated ones. Western Blotting and qPCR were used to evaluate keratinocyte markers and mediators of cell invasiveness on protein and mRNA expression level respectively. The levels and activity of proteases and cytokines were analysed using gelatin-FITC staining, gelatin zymography, chemiluminescent enzymatic test, as well as protein arrays. Finally, to further study the functional changes influenced by melanoma we assessed the rate of proliferation of keratinocytes and their invasive abilities by employing wound healing assay and the Transwell filter invasion method. Results HaCaT keratinocytes activated through incubation with melanoma-conditioned medium or indirect co-culture exhibit properties of less differentiated cells (downregulation of cytokeratin 10), which also prefer to form connections with cancer cells rather than adjacent keratinocytes (decreased level of E-cadherin). While they express only a small number of cytokines, the variety of secreted proteases is quite prominent especially considering that several of them were never reported as a part of secretome of activated keratinocytes’ (e.g., matrix metalloproteinase 3 (MMP3), ADAM metallopeptidase with thrombospondin type 1 motif 1). Activated keratinocytes also seem to exhibit a high level of proteolytic activity mediated by MMP9 and MMP14, reduced expression of TIMPs (tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases), upregulation of ERK activity and increased levels of MMP expression regulators-RUNX2 and galectin 3. Moreover, cancer-associated keratinocytes show slightly elevated migratory and invasive abilities, however only following co-culture with melanoma cells on Transwell inserts. Conclusions Our study offers a more in-depth view of keratinocytes residing in the melanoma niche, drawing attention to their unique secretome and mediators of invasive abilities, factors which could be used by cancer cells to support their invasion of surrounding tissues. Video abstract
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12964-022-00961-w.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justyna Mazurkiewicz
- Department of Cell Pathology, Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Wroclaw, Joliot-Curie 14a, 50-383, Wrocław, Poland.
| | - Aleksandra Simiczyjew
- Department of Cell Pathology, Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Wroclaw, Joliot-Curie 14a, 50-383, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Ewelina Dratkiewicz
- Department of Cell Pathology, Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Wroclaw, Joliot-Curie 14a, 50-383, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Magdalena Kot
- Department of Cell Pathology, Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Wroclaw, Joliot-Curie 14a, 50-383, Wrocław, Poland
| | | | - Dominika Wilk
- Department of Cell Pathology, Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Wroclaw, Joliot-Curie 14a, 50-383, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Marcin Ziętek
- Department of Oncology and Division of Surgical Oncology, Wroclaw Medical University, Plac Hirszfelda 12, 53-413, Wrocław, Poland.,Wroclaw Comprehensive Cancer Center, Plac Hirszfelda 12, 53-413, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Rafał Matkowski
- Department of Oncology and Division of Surgical Oncology, Wroclaw Medical University, Plac Hirszfelda 12, 53-413, Wrocław, Poland.,Wroclaw Comprehensive Cancer Center, Plac Hirszfelda 12, 53-413, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Dorota Nowak
- Department of Cell Pathology, Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Wroclaw, Joliot-Curie 14a, 50-383, Wrocław, Poland
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