1
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Linke JA, Munn LL, Jain RK. Compressive stresses in cancer: characterization and implications for tumour progression and treatment. Nat Rev Cancer 2024:10.1038/s41568-024-00745-z. [PMID: 39390249 DOI: 10.1038/s41568-024-00745-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/20/2024] [Indexed: 10/12/2024]
Abstract
Beyond their many well-established biological aberrations, solid tumours create an abnormal physical microenvironment that fuels cancer progression and confers treatment resistance. Mechanical forces impact tumours across a range of biological sizes and timescales, from rapid events at the molecular level involved in their sensing and transmission, to slower and larger-scale events, including clonal selection, epigenetic changes, cell invasion, metastasis and immune response. Owing to challenges with studying these dynamic stimuli in biological systems, the mechanistic understanding of the effects and pathways triggered by abnormally elevated mechanical forces remains elusive, despite clear correlations with cancer pathophysiology, aggressiveness and therapeutic resistance. In this Review, we examine the emerging and diverse roles of physical forces in solid tumours and provide a comprehensive framework for understanding solid stress mechanobiology. We first review the physiological importance of mechanical forces, especially compressive stresses, and discuss their defining characteristics, biological context and relative magnitudes. We then explain how abnormal compressive stresses emerge in tumours and describe the experimental challenges in investigating these mechanically induced processes. Finally, we discuss the clinical translation of mechanotherapeutics that alleviate solid stresses and their potential to synergize with chemotherapy, radiotherapy and immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia A Linke
- Edwin L. Steele Laboratories, Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Lance L Munn
- Edwin L. Steele Laboratories, Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Rakesh K Jain
- Edwin L. Steele Laboratories, Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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2
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Chi WY, Hu Y, Huang HC, Kuo HH, Lin SH, Kuo CTJ, Tao J, Fan D, Huang YM, Wu AA, Hung CF, Wu TC. Molecular targets and strategies in the development of nucleic acid cancer vaccines: from shared to personalized antigens. J Biomed Sci 2024; 31:94. [PMID: 39379923 PMCID: PMC11463125 DOI: 10.1186/s12929-024-01082-x] [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: 07/19/2024] [Accepted: 09/01/2024] [Indexed: 10/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Recent breakthroughs in cancer immunotherapies have emphasized the importance of harnessing the immune system for treating cancer. Vaccines, which have traditionally been used to promote protective immunity against pathogens, are now being explored as a method to target cancer neoantigens. Over the past few years, extensive preclinical research and more than a hundred clinical trials have been dedicated to investigating various approaches to neoantigen discovery and vaccine formulations, encouraging development of personalized medicine. Nucleic acids (DNA and mRNA) have become particularly promising platform for the development of these cancer immunotherapies. This shift towards nucleic acid-based personalized vaccines has been facilitated by advancements in molecular techniques for identifying neoantigens, antigen prediction methodologies, and the development of new vaccine platforms. Generating these personalized vaccines involves a comprehensive pipeline that includes sequencing of patient tumor samples, data analysis for antigen prediction, and tailored vaccine manufacturing. In this review, we will discuss the various shared and personalized antigens used for cancer vaccine development and introduce strategies for identifying neoantigens through the characterization of gene mutation, transcription, translation and post translational modifications associated with oncogenesis. In addition, we will focus on the most up-to-date nucleic acid vaccine platforms, discuss the limitations of cancer vaccines as well as provide potential solutions, and raise key clinical and technical considerations in vaccine development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Yu Chi
- Physiology, Biophysics and Systems Biology Graduate Program, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Yingying Hu
- Tri-Institutional PhD Program in Chemical Biology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Hsin-Che Huang
- Tri-Institutional PhD Program in Chemical Biology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Hui-Hsuan Kuo
- Pharmacology PhD Program, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Shu-Hong Lin
- Department of Epidemiology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
- The University of Texas Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences at Houston and MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Chun-Tien Jimmy Kuo
- Division of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Julia Tao
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, 1550 Orleans St, CRB II Room 309, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA
| | - Darrell Fan
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, 1550 Orleans St, CRB II Room 309, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA
| | - Yi-Min Huang
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, 1550 Orleans St, CRB II Room 309, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA
| | - Annie A Wu
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, 1550 Orleans St, CRB II Room 309, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA
| | - Chien-Fu Hung
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, 1550 Orleans St, CRB II Room 309, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA
- Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - T-C Wu
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, 1550 Orleans St, CRB II Room 309, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA.
- Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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3
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Johansen AM, Forsythe SD, McGrath CT, Barker G, Jimenez H, Paluri RK, Pasche BC. TGFβ in Pancreas and Colorectal Cancer: Opportunities to Overcome Therapeutic Resistance. Clin Cancer Res 2024; 30:3676-3687. [PMID: 38916900 PMCID: PMC11371528 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-24-0468] [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: 02/09/2024] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
TGFβ is a pleiotropic signaling pathway that plays a pivotal role in regulating a multitude of cellular functions. TGFβ has a dual role in cell regulation where it induces growth inhibition and cell death; however, it can switch to a growth-promoting state under cancerous conditions. TGFβ is upregulated in colorectal cancer and pancreatic cancer, altering the tumor microenvironment and immune system and promoting a mesenchymal state. The upregulation of TGFβ in certain cancers leads to resistance to immunotherapy, and attempts to inhibit TGFβ expression have led to reduced therapeutic resistance when combined with chemotherapy and immunotherapy. Here, we review the current TGFβ inhibitor drugs in clinical trials for pancreatic and colorectal cancer, with the goal of uncovering advances in improving clinical efficacy for TGFβ combinational treatments in patients. Furthermore, we discuss the relevance of alterations in TGFβ signaling and germline variants in the context of personalizing treatment for patients who show lack of response to current therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allan M Johansen
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Steven D Forsythe
- Neuroendocrine Therapy Section, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Callum T McGrath
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Grayson Barker
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
- Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan
| | - Hugo Jimenez
- Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan
| | - Ravi K Paluri
- Section of Hematology/Oncology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Boris C Pasche
- Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan
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4
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Lu Z, Verginadis I, Kumazoe M, Castillo GM, Yao Y, Guerra RE, Bicher S, You M, McClung G, Qiu R, Xiao Z, Miao Z, George SS, Beiting DP, Nojiri T, Tanaka Y, Fujimura Y, Onda H, Hatakeyama Y, Nishimoto-Ashfield A, Bykova K, Guo W, Fan Y, Buynov NM, Diehl JA, Stanger BZ, Tachibana H, Gade TP, Puré E, Koumenis C, Bolotin EM, Fuchs SY. Modified C-type natriuretic peptide normalizes tumor vasculature, reinvigorates antitumor immunity, and improves solid tumor therapies. Sci Transl Med 2024; 16:eadn0904. [PMID: 39167664 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.adn0904] [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: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024]
Abstract
Deficit of oxygen and nutrients in the tumor microenvironment (TME) triggers abnormal angiogenesis that produces dysfunctional and leaky blood vessels, which fail to adequately perfuse tumor tissues. Resulting hypoxia, exacerbation of metabolic disturbances, and generation of an immunosuppressive TME undermine the efficacy of anticancer therapies. Use of carefully scheduled angiogenesis inhibitors has been suggested to overcome these problems and normalize the TME. Here, we propose an alternative agonist-based normalization approach using a derivative of the C-type natriuretic peptide (dCNP). Multiple gene expression signatures in tumor tissues were affected in mice treated with dCNP. In several mouse orthotopic and subcutaneous solid tumor models including colon and pancreatic adenocarcinomas, this well-tolerated agent stimulated formation of highly functional tumor blood vessels to reduce hypoxia. Administration of dCNP also inhibited stromagenesis and remodeling of the extracellular matrix and decreased tumor interstitial fluid pressure. In addition, treatment with dCNP reinvigorated the antitumor immune responses. Administration of dCNP decelerated growth of primary mouse tumors and suppressed their metastases. Moreover, inclusion of dCNP into the chemo-, radio-, or immune-therapeutic regimens increased their efficacy against solid tumors in immunocompetent mice. These results demonstrate the proof of principle for using vasculature normalizing agonists to improve therapies against solid tumors and characterize dCNP as the first in class among such agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen Lu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Ioannis Verginadis
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Motofumi Kumazoe
- Division of Applied Biological Chemistry, Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
| | | | - Yao Yao
- PharmaIN Corp., Bothell, WA 98011, USA
| | | | - Sandra Bicher
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Menghao You
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - George McClung
- Department of Radiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Rong Qiu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Zebin Xiao
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Zhen Miao
- Department of Biology, School of Arts & Sciences, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Subin S George
- Institute for Biomedical Informatics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Daniel P Beiting
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Takashi Nojiri
- Department of General Thoracic Surgery, Higashiosaka City Medical Center, Higashiosaka 578-8588, Japan
| | - Yasutake Tanaka
- Division of Applied Biological Chemistry, Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
| | - Yoshinori Fujimura
- Division of Applied Biological Chemistry, Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Onda
- Division of Applied Biological Chemistry, Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
| | - Yui Hatakeyama
- Division of Applied Biological Chemistry, Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
| | | | | | - Wei Guo
- Department of Biology, School of Arts & Sciences, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Yi Fan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | | | - J Alan Diehl
- Department of Biochemistry, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Ben Z Stanger
- Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Hirofumi Tachibana
- Division of Applied Biological Chemistry, Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
| | - Terence P Gade
- Department of Radiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Ellen Puré
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Constantinos Koumenis
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | | | - Serge Y Fuchs
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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5
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Spiga M, Martini E, Maffia MC, Ciceri F, Ruggiero E, Potenza A, Bonini C. Harnessing the tumor microenvironment to boost adoptive T cell therapy with engineered lymphocytes for solid tumors. Semin Immunopathol 2024; 46:8. [PMID: 39060547 DOI: 10.1007/s00281-024-01011-y] [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: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
Adoptive cell therapy (ACT) using Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) and T Cell Receptor (TCR) engineered T cells represents an innovative therapeutic approach for the treatment of hematological malignancies, yet its application for solid tumors is still suboptimal. The tumor microenvironment (TME) places several challenges to overcome for a satisfactory therapeutic effect, such as physical barriers (fibrotic capsule and stroma), and inhibitory signals impeding T cell function. Some of these obstacles can be faced by combining ACT with other anti-tumor approaches, such as chemo/radiotherapy and checkpoint inhibitors. On the other hand, cutting edge technological tools offer the opportunity to overcome and, in some cases, take advantage of TME intrinsic characteristics to boost ACT efficacy. These include: the exploitation of chemokine gradients and integrin expression for preferential T-cell homing and extravasation; metabolic changes that have direct or indirect effects on TCR-T and CAR-T cells by increasing antigen presentation and reshaping T cell phenotype; introduction of additional synthetic receptors on TCR-T and CAR-T cells with the aim of increasing T cells survival and fitness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Spiga
- Experimental Hematology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Elisa Martini
- Experimental Hematology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Chiara Maffia
- Experimental Hematology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Fabio Ciceri
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
- Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplant Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Eliana Ruggiero
- Experimental Hematology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessia Potenza
- Experimental Hematology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy.
| | - Chiara Bonini
- Experimental Hematology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy.
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy.
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6
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Benmelech S, Le T, McKay M, Nam J, Subramaniam K, Tellez D, Vlasak G, Mak M. Biophysical and biochemical aspects of immune cell-tumor microenvironment interactions. APL Bioeng 2024; 8:021502. [PMID: 38572312 PMCID: PMC10990568 DOI: 10.1063/5.0195244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME), composed of and influenced by a heterogeneous set of cancer cells and an extracellular matrix, plays a crucial role in cancer progression. The biophysical aspects of the TME (namely, its architecture and mechanics) regulate interactions and spatial distributions of cancer cells and immune cells. In this review, we discuss the factors of the TME-notably, the extracellular matrix, as well as tumor and stromal cells-that contribute to a pro-tumor, immunosuppressive response. We then discuss the ways in which cells of the innate and adaptive immune systems respond to tumors from both biochemical and biophysical perspectives, with increased focus on CD8+ and CD4+ T cells. Building upon this information, we turn to immune-based antitumor interventions-specifically, recent biophysical breakthroughs aimed at improving CAR-T cell therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shoham Benmelech
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut 06511, USA
| | - Thien Le
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut 06511, USA
| | - Maggie McKay
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut 06511, USA
| | - Jungmin Nam
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut 06511, USA
| | - Krupakar Subramaniam
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut 06511, USA
| | - Daniela Tellez
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut 06511, USA
| | - Grace Vlasak
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut 06511, USA
| | - Michael Mak
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut 06511, USA
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7
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Xu J, Zhang J, Chen W, Ni X. The tumor-associated fibrotic reactions in microenvironment aggravate glioma chemoresistance. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1388700. [PMID: 38863628 PMCID: PMC11165034 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1388700] [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: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Malignant gliomas are one of the most common and lethal brain tumors with poor prognosis. Most patients with glioblastoma (GBM) die within 2 years of diagnosis, even after receiving standard treatments including surgery combined with concomitant radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Temozolomide (TMZ) is the first-line chemotherapeutic agent for gliomas, but the frequent acquisition of chemoresistance generally leads to its treatment failure. Thus, it's urgent to investigate the strategies for overcoming glioma chemoresistance. Currently, many studies have elucidated that cancer chemoresistance is not only associated with the high expression of drug-resistance genes in glioma cells but also can be induced by the alterations of the tumor microenvironment (TME). Numerous studies have explored the use of antifibrosis drugs to sensitize chemotherapy in solid tumors, and surprisingly, these preclinical and clinical attempts have exhibited promising efficacy in treating certain types of cancer. However, it remains unclear how tumor-associated fibrotic alterations in the glioma microenvironment (GME) mediate chemoresistance. Furthermore, the possible mechanisms behind this phenomenon are yet to be determined. In this review, we have summarized the molecular mechanisms by which tumor-associated fibrotic reactions drive glioma transformation from a chemosensitive to a chemoresistant state. Additionally, we have outlined antitumor drugs with antifibrosis functions, suggesting that antifibrosis strategies may be effective in overcoming glioma chemoresistance through TME normalization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaqi Xu
- The Second Clinical Medical School, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ji Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wubing Chen
- Department of Radiology, Wuxi Fifth People’s Hospital, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Xiangrong Ni
- The Second Clinical Medical School, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Translational Medicine Research Center, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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8
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Kang C, Yun D, Yoon H, Hong M, Hwang J, Shin HM, Park S, Cheon S, Han D, Moon KC, Kim HY, Choi EY, Lee EY, Kim MH, Jeong CW, Kwak C, Kim DK, Oh KH, Joo KW, Lee DS, Kim YS, Han SS. Glutamyl-prolyl-tRNA synthetase (EPRS1) drives tubulointerstitial nephritis-induced fibrosis by enhancing T cell proliferation and activity. Kidney Int 2024; 105:997-1019. [PMID: 38320721 DOI: 10.1016/j.kint.2024.01.011] [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: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
Toxin- and drug-induced tubulointerstitial nephritis (TIN), characterized by interstitial infiltration of immune cells, frequently necessitates dialysis for patients due to irreversible fibrosis. However, agents modulating interstitial immune cells are lacking. Here, we addressed whether the housekeeping enzyme glutamyl-prolyl-transfer RNA synthetase 1 (EPRS1), responsible for attaching glutamic acid and proline to transfer RNA, modulates immune cell activity during TIN and whether its pharmacological inhibition abrogates fibrotic transformation. The immunological feature following TIN induction by means of an adenine-mixed diet was infiltration of EPRS1high T cells, particularly proliferating T and γδ T cells. The proliferation capacity of both CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, along with interleukin-17 production of γδ T cells, was higher in the kidneys of TIN-induced Eprs1+/+ mice than in the kidneys of TIN-induced Eprs1+/- mice. This discrepancy contributed to the fibrotic amelioration observed in kidneys of Eprs1+/- mice. TIN-induced fibrosis was also reduced in Rag1-/- mice adoptively transferred with Eprs1+/- T cells compared to the Rag1-/- mice transferred with Eprs1+/+ T cells. The use of an EPRS1-targeting small molecule inhibitor (bersiporocin) under clinical trials to evaluate its therapeutic potential against idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis alleviated immunofibrotic aggravation in TIN. EPRS1 expression was also observed in human kidney tissues and blood-derived T cells, and high expression was associated with worse patient outcomes. Thus, EPRS1 may emerge as a therapeutic target in toxin- and drug-induced TIN, modulating the proliferation and activity of infiltrated T cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaelin Kang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Donghwan Yun
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea; Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Haein Yoon
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Minki Hong
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Juhyeon Hwang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyun Mu Shin
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Seokwoo Park
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Seongmin Cheon
- Proteomics Core Facility, Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Dohyun Han
- Proteomics Core Facility, Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea; Transdisciplinary Department of Medicine and Advanced Technology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kyung Chul Moon
- Department of Pathology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hye Young Kim
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Eun Young Choi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Eun-Young Lee
- Microbiome Convergence Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Myung Hee Kim
- Microbiome Convergence Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Chang Wook Jeong
- Department of Urology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Cheol Kwak
- Department of Urology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Dong Ki Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kook-Hwan Oh
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kwon Wook Joo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Dong-Sup Lee
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yon Su Kim
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea; Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Seung Seok Han
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
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9
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Lv D, Fei Y, Chen H, Wang J, Han W, Cui B, Feng Y, Zhang P, Chen J. Crosstalk between T lymphocyte and extracellular matrix in tumor microenvironment. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1340702. [PMID: 38690275 PMCID: PMC11058664 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1340702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a complex three-dimensional structure composed of proteins, glycans, and proteoglycans, constituting a critical component of the tumor microenvironment. Complex interactions among immune cells, extracellular matrix, and tumor cells promote tumor development and metastasis, consequently influencing therapeutic efficacy. Hence, elucidating these interaction mechanisms is pivotal for precision cancer therapy. T lymphocytes are an important component of the immune system, exerting direct anti-tumor effects by attacking tumor cells or releasing lymphokines to enhance immune effects. The ECM significantly influences T cells function and infiltration within the tumor microenvironment, thereby impacting the behavior and biological characteristics of tumor cells. T cells are involved in regulating the synthesis, degradation, and remodeling of the extracellular matrix through the secretion of cytokines and enzymes. As a result, it affects the proliferation and invasive ability of tumor cells as well as the efficacy of immunotherapy. This review discusses the mechanisms underlying T lymphocyte-ECM interactions in the tumor immune microenvironment and their potential application in immunotherapy. It provides novel insights for the development of innovative tumor therapeutic strategies and drug.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Jiao Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and National Center for Stomatology and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
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10
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Katsikis PD, Ishii KJ, Schliehe C. Challenges in developing personalized neoantigen cancer vaccines. Nat Rev Immunol 2024; 24:213-227. [PMID: 37783860 DOI: 10.1038/s41577-023-00937-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023]
Abstract
The recent success of cancer immunotherapies has highlighted the benefit of harnessing the immune system for cancer treatment. Vaccines have a long history of promoting immunity to pathogens and, consequently, vaccines targeting cancer neoantigens have been championed as a tool to direct and amplify immune responses against tumours while sparing healthy tissue. In recent years, extensive preclinical research and more than one hundred clinical trials have tested different strategies of neoantigen discovery and vaccine formulations. However, despite the enthusiasm for neoantigen vaccines, proof of unequivocal efficacy has remained beyond reach for the majority of clinical trials. In this Review, we focus on the key obstacles pertaining to vaccine design and tumour environment that remain to be overcome in order to unleash the true potential of neoantigen vaccines in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter D Katsikis
- Department of Immunology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands.
| | - Ken J Ishii
- Division of Vaccine Science, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo (IMSUT), Tokyo, Japan
- International Vaccine Design Center (vDesC), The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo (IMSUT), Tokyo, Japan
| | - Christopher Schliehe
- Department of Immunology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
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11
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Sleeboom JJF, van Tienderen GS, Schenke-Layland K, van der Laan LJW, Khalil AA, Verstegen MMA. The extracellular matrix as hallmark of cancer and metastasis: From biomechanics to therapeutic targets. Sci Transl Med 2024; 16:eadg3840. [PMID: 38170791 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.adg3840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) is essential for cell support during homeostasis and plays a critical role in cancer. Although research often concentrates on the tumor's cellular aspect, attention is growing for the importance of the cancer-associated ECM. Biochemical and physical ECM signals affect tumor formation, invasion, metastasis, and therapy resistance. Examining the tumor microenvironment uncovers intricate ECM dysregulation and interactions with cancer and stromal cells. Anticancer therapies targeting ECM sensors and remodelers, including integrins and matrix metalloproteinases, and ECM-remodeling cells, have seen limited success. This review explores the ECM's role in cancer and discusses potential therapeutic strategies for cell-ECM interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jelle J F Sleeboom
- Department of Surgery, Erasmus MC Transplant Institute, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Postbox 2040, 3000CA Rotterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Biomechanical Engineering, Delft University of Technology, Mekelweg 2, 2628CD Delft, Netherlands
| | - Gilles S van Tienderen
- Department of Surgery, Erasmus MC Transplant Institute, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Postbox 2040, 3000CA Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Katja Schenke-Layland
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Department for Medical Technologies and Regenerative Medicine, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
- NMI Natural and Medical Sciences Institute at the University Tübingen, 72770 Reutlingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) "Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies," Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Luc J W van der Laan
- Department of Surgery, Erasmus MC Transplant Institute, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Postbox 2040, 3000CA Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Antoine A Khalil
- Center for Molecular Medicine, University Medical Center Utrecht, Universiteitsweg 100, 3584 CG Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Monique M A Verstegen
- Department of Surgery, Erasmus MC Transplant Institute, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Postbox 2040, 3000CA Rotterdam, Netherlands
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12
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Borzone FR, Giorello MB, Sanmartin MC, Yannarelli G, Martinez LM, Chasseing NA. Mesenchymal stem cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts as a therapeutic strategy for breast cancer. Br J Pharmacol 2024; 181:238-256. [PMID: 35485850 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer and the leading cause of death among women. Recent evidence suggests that mesenchymal stromal/stem cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) have an essential role in cancer progression, invasion and therapy resistance. Therefore, they are considered as highly promising future therapeutic targets against breast cancer. The intrinsic tumour tropism and immunomodulatory capacities of mesenchymal stromal/stem cells are of special relevance for developing mesenchymal stromal/stem cells-based anti-tumour therapies that suppress primary tumour growth and metastasis. In addition, the utilization of therapies that target the stromal components of the tumour microenvironment in combination with standard drugs is an innovative tool that could improve patients' response to therapies and their survival. In this review, we discuss the currently available information regarding the possible use of mesenchymal stromal/stem cells-derived anti-tumour therapies, as well as the utilization of therapies that target CAFs in breast cancer microenvironment. Finally, these data can serve as a guide map for future research in this field, ultimately aiding the effective transition of these results into the clinic. LINKED ARTICLES: This article is part of a themed issue on Cancer Microenvironment and Pharmacological Interventions. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v181.2/issuetoc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Raúl Borzone
- Laboratorio de Inmunohematología, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME) - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María Belén Giorello
- Laboratorio de Inmunohematología, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME) - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María Cecilia Sanmartin
- Laboratorio de Inmunohematología, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME) - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Laboratorio de Regulación Génica y Células Madre, Instituto de Medicina Traslacional, Trasplante y Bioingeniería (IMeTTyB), Universidad Favaloro-CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Gustavo Yannarelli
- Laboratorio de Regulación Génica y Células Madre, Instituto de Medicina Traslacional, Trasplante y Bioingeniería (IMeTTyB), Universidad Favaloro-CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Leandro Marcelo Martinez
- Hematology and Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, USA
| | - Norma Alejandra Chasseing
- Laboratorio de Inmunohematología, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME) - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
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13
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Wrenn ED, Apfelbaum AA, Rudzinski ER, Deng X, Jiang W, Sud S, Van Noord RA, Newman EA, Garcia NM, Miyaki A, Hoglund VJ, Bhise SS, Kanaan SB, Waltner OG, Furlan SN, Lawlor ER. Cancer-Associated Fibroblast-Like Tumor Cells Remodel the Ewing Sarcoma Tumor Microenvironment. Clin Cancer Res 2023; 29:5140-5154. [PMID: 37471463 PMCID: PMC10801911 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-23-1111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Despite limited genetic and histologic heterogeneity, Ewing sarcoma (EwS) tumor cells are transcriptionally heterogeneous and display varying degrees of mesenchymal lineage specification in vitro. In this study, we investigated if and how transcriptional heterogeneity of EwS cells contributes to heterogeneity of tumor phenotypes in vivo. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN Single-cell proteogenomic-sequencing of EwS cell lines was performed and integrated with patient tumor transcriptomic data. Cell subpopulations were isolated by FACS for assessment of gene expression and phenotype. Digital spatial profiling and human whole transcriptome analysis interrogated transcriptomic heterogeneity in EwS xenografts. Tumor cell subpopulations and matrix protein deposition were evaluated in xenografts and patient tumors using multiplex immunofluorescence staining. RESULTS We identified CD73 as a biomarker of highly mesenchymal EwS cell subpopulations in tumor models and patient biopsies. CD73+ tumor cells displayed distinct transcriptional and phenotypic properties, including selective upregulation of genes that are repressed by EWS::FLI1, and increased migratory potential. CD73+ cells were distinguished in vitro and in vivo by increased expression of matrisomal genes and abundant deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins. In epithelial-derived malignancies, ECM is largely deposited by cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF), and we thus labeled CD73+ EwS cells, CAF-like tumor cells. Marked heterogeneity of CD73+ EwS cell frequency and distribution was detected in tumors in situ, and CAF-like tumor cells and associated ECM were observed in peri-necrotic regions and invasive foci. CONCLUSIONS EwS tumor cells can adopt CAF-like properties, and these distinct cell subpopulations contribute to tumor heterogeneity by remodeling the tumor microenvironment. See related commentary by Kuo and Amatruda, p. 5002.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma D. Wrenn
- Ben Towne Center for Childhood Cancer Research, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, WA
| | - April A. Apfelbaum
- Ben Towne Center for Childhood Cancer Research, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, WA
- Cancer Biology PhD Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Erin R. Rudzinski
- Pathology Department, Seattle Children’s Hospital, Seattle, Washington
| | - Xuemei Deng
- Pathology Department, Seattle Children’s Hospital, Seattle, Washington
| | - Wei Jiang
- Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Sudha Sud
- Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | | | - Erika A. Newman
- Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Nicolas M. Garcia
- Ben Towne Center for Childhood Cancer Research, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, WA
| | - Aya Miyaki
- Ben Towne Center for Childhood Cancer Research, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, WA
| | - Virginia J. Hoglund
- Ben Towne Center for Childhood Cancer Research, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, WA
| | - Shruti S. Bhise
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, Washington
| | - Sami B. Kanaan
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, Washington
| | - Olivia G. Waltner
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, Washington
| | - Scott N. Furlan
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, Washington
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Elizabeth R. Lawlor
- Ben Towne Center for Childhood Cancer Research, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, WA
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, Washington
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
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14
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Wang H, Wei L, Mao D, Che X, Ye X, Liu Y, Chen Y. Combination of oxymatrine (Om) and astragaloside IV (As) enhances the infiltration and function of TILs in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 125:111026. [PMID: 37866315 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.111026] [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: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most aggressive subtype and has a poor response to treatment due to an immunosuppressive microenvironment. Chinese Medicine effective constituents such as oxymatrine (Om) and astragaloside IV (As) have shown promise in cancer treatment by providing anti-fibrosis and immune-enhancing effects. However, the potential combined effect of Om and As on TNBC and its mechanism is still uncertain. This study focuses on exploring the impact of Om and As on enhancing the immunosuppressive microenvironment of TNBC and uncovering the potential mechanism behind it. In this study, a trans-Cancer associated fibroblasts (CAFs) infiltration system of T cells was utilized to investigate the potential benefits of Om, while the impact of As on the morphology and quantity of mitochondria in T cells was examined in a co-culture system with tumor cells. Further to investigate the combined effects of Om and As on tumor suppression and immunosuppressive microenvironment improvement, this study established an in situ TNBC mouse model with 4 T1-luc. In vitro, our findings indicate that Om can effectively suppress the activation of CAFs by downregulating the expression of FAP and α-SMA, and also promoting the infiltration of T cells trans CAFs. It was discovered that the mitochondrial activity of T cells could be improved by increasing the number of mitochondria and cristae. In vivo, the optimal ratio of Om and As (2:1) was found to increase the apoptosis rate of tumor cells in a co-culture system and enhance the infiltration of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, as confirmed by Flow Cytometry results. Our study suggests that Om and As could enhance the immune system's ability to treat TNBC by improving the infiltration and increasing the anti-tumor function of TILs. This intervention may lead to a promising therapeutic direction for the treatment of TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Wang
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210028, China; Jiangsu Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210028, China
| | - Liangyin Wei
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210028, China; Jiangsu Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210028, China
| | - Dengxuan Mao
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210028, China; Jiangsu Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210028, China
| | - Xiaoyu Che
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210028, China; Jiangsu Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210028, China
| | - Xietao Ye
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210028, China; Jiangsu Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210028, China
| | - Yuping Liu
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210028, China; Jiangsu Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210028, China.
| | - Yan Chen
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210028, China; Jiangsu Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210028, China.
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15
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Bantug GR, Hess C. The immunometabolic ecosystem in cancer. Nat Immunol 2023; 24:2008-2020. [PMID: 38012409 DOI: 10.1038/s41590-023-01675-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
Our increased understanding of how key metabolic pathways are activated and regulated in malignant cells has identified metabolic vulnerabilities of cancers. Translating this insight to the clinics, however, has proved challenging. Roadblocks limiting efficacy of drugs targeting cancer metabolism may lie in the nature of the metabolic ecosystem of tumors. The exchange of metabolites and growth factors between cancer cells and nonmalignant tumor-resident cells is essential for tumor growth and evolution, as well as the development of an immunosuppressive microenvironment. In this Review, we will examine the metabolic interplay between tumor-resident cells and how targeted inhibition of specific metabolic enzymes in malignant cells could elicit pro-tumorigenic effects in non-transformed tumor-resident cells and inhibit the function of tumor-specific T cells. To improve the efficacy of metabolism-targeted anticancer strategies, a holistic approach that considers the effect of metabolic inhibitors on major tumor-resident cell populations is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Glenn R Bantug
- Department of Biomedicine, Immunobiology, University of Basel and University Hospital of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Christoph Hess
- Department of Biomedicine, Immunobiology, University of Basel and University Hospital of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
- Department of Medicine, CITIID, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
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16
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Yuan D, Zheng BW, Zheng BY, Niu HQ, Zou MX, Liu SL, Liu FS. Global cluster analysis and network visualization in cancer-associated fibroblast: insights from Web of Science database from 1999 to 2021. Eur J Med Res 2023; 28:549. [PMID: 38031121 PMCID: PMC10685623 DOI: 10.1186/s40001-023-01527-3] [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: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A scientific and comprehensive analysis of the current status and trends in the field of cancer-associated fibroblast (CAF) research is worth investigating. This study aims to investigate and visualize the development, research frontiers, and future trends in CAFs both quantitatively and qualitatively based on a bibliometric approach. METHODS A total of 5518 publications were downloaded from the Science Citation Index Expanded of Web of Science Core Collection from 1999 to 2021 and identified for bibliometric analysis. Visualized approaches, OriginPro (version 9.8.0.200) and R (version 4.2.0) software tools were used to perform bibliometric and knowledge-map analysis. RESULTS The number of publications on CAFs increased each year, and the same tendency was observed in the RRI. Apart from China, the countries with the largest number of publications and the most cited frequency were mainly Western developed countries, especially the USA. Cancers was the journal with the largest number of articles published in CAFs, and Oncology was the most popular research orientation. The most productive author was Lisanti MP, and the University of Texas System was ranked first in the institutions. In addition, the topics of CAFs could be divided into five categories, including tumor classification, prognostic study, oncologic therapies, tumor metabolism and tumor microenvironment. CONCLUSIONS This is the first thoroughly scientific bibliometric analysis and visualized study of the global research field on CAFs over the past 20 years. The study may provide benefits for researchers to master CAFs' dynamic evolution and research trends.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dun Yuan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Bo-Wen Zheng
- Musculoskeletal Tumor Center, Peking University People's Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, 100044, China
| | - Bo-Yv Zheng
- Department of Orthopedics Surgery, General Hospital of the Central Theater Command, Wuhan, 430061, China
| | - Hua-Qing Niu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450014, Henan, China
| | - Ming-Xiang Zou
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, China
| | - Song-Lin Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.
| | - Fu-Sheng Liu
- Department of Spine Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410011, China.
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17
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Guo L, Yang J, Wang H, Yi Y. Multistage Self-Assembled Nanomaterials for Cancer Immunotherapy. Molecules 2023; 28:7750. [PMID: 38067480 PMCID: PMC10707962 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28237750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 11/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Advances in nanotechnology have brought innovations to cancer therapy. Nanoparticle-based anticancer drugs have achieved great success from bench to bedside. However, insufficient therapy efficacy due to various physiological barriers in the body remains a key challenge. To overcome these biological barriers and improve the therapeutic efficacy of cancers, multistage self-assembled nanomaterials with advantages of stimuli-responsiveness, programmable delivery, and immune modulations provide great opportunities. In this review, we describe the typical biological barriers for nanomedicines, discuss the recent achievements of multistage self-assembled nanomaterials for stimuli-responsive drug delivery, highlighting the programmable delivery nanomaterials, in situ transformable self-assembled nanomaterials, and immune-reprogramming nanomaterials. Ultimately, we perspective the future opportunities and challenges of multistage self-assembled nanomaterials for cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lamei Guo
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Hazardous Waste Safety Disposal and Recycling Technology, School of Environmental Science and Safety Engineering, Tianjin University of Technology, 391 Binshui Xidao, Xiqing District, Tianjin 300384, China; (L.G.); (J.Y.)
- CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, CAS Key Laboratory for Biological Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology (NCNST), No. 11 Beiyitiao, Zhongguancun, Beijing 100190, China;
| | - Jinjun Yang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Hazardous Waste Safety Disposal and Recycling Technology, School of Environmental Science and Safety Engineering, Tianjin University of Technology, 391 Binshui Xidao, Xiqing District, Tianjin 300384, China; (L.G.); (J.Y.)
| | - Hao Wang
- CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, CAS Key Laboratory for Biological Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology (NCNST), No. 11 Beiyitiao, Zhongguancun, Beijing 100190, China;
| | - Yu Yi
- CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, CAS Key Laboratory for Biological Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology (NCNST), No. 11 Beiyitiao, Zhongguancun, Beijing 100190, China;
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18
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Mascharak S, Guo JL, Foster DS, Khan A, Davitt MF, Nguyen AT, Burcham AR, Chinta MS, Guardino NJ, Griffin M, Lopez DM, Miller E, Januszyk M, Raghavan SS, Longacre TA, Delitto DJ, Norton JA, Longaker MT. Desmoplastic stromal signatures predict patient outcomes in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Cell Rep Med 2023; 4:101248. [PMID: 37865092 PMCID: PMC10694604 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2023.101248] [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: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/23/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is projected to become the second leading cause of cancer-related death. Hallmarks include desmoplasia with variable extracellular matrix (ECM) architecture and a complex microenvironment with spatially defined tumor, stromal, and immune populations. Nevertheless, the role of desmoplastic spatial organization in patient/tumor variability remains underexplored, which we elucidate using two technologies. First, we quantify ECM patterning in 437 patients, revealing architectures associated with disease-free and overall survival. Second, we spatially profile the cellular milieu of 78 specimens using codetection by indexing, identifying an axis of pro-inflammatory cell interactions predictive of poorer outcomes. We discover that clinical characteristics, including neoadjuvant chemotherapy status, tumor stage, and ECM architecture, correlate with differential stromal-immune organization, including fibroblast subtypes with distinct niches. Lastly, we define unified signatures that predict survival with areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUCs) of 0.872-0.903, differentiating survivorship by 655 days. Overall, our findings establish matrix ultrastructural and cellular organizations of fibrosis linked to poorer outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shamik Mascharak
- Hagey Laboratory of Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Jason L Guo
- Hagey Laboratory of Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Deshka S Foster
- Hagey Laboratory of Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Anum Khan
- Cell Sciences Imaging Facility, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Michael F Davitt
- Hagey Laboratory of Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Alan T Nguyen
- Hagey Laboratory of Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Austin R Burcham
- Hagey Laboratory of Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Malini S Chinta
- Hagey Laboratory of Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Nicholas J Guardino
- Hagey Laboratory of Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Michelle Griffin
- Hagey Laboratory of Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - David M Lopez
- Hagey Laboratory of Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Elisabeth Miller
- Department of Pathology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA
| | - Michael Januszyk
- Hagey Laboratory of Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Shyam S Raghavan
- Department of Pathology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA
| | - Teri A Longacre
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Daniel J Delitto
- Hagey Laboratory of Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Jeffrey A Norton
- Hagey Laboratory of Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
| | - Michael T Longaker
- Hagey Laboratory of Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
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19
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Liu S, Jia M, Dai R. Deciphering the tumour immune microenvironment of hepatocellular carcinoma. Scand J Immunol 2023; 98:e13327. [PMID: 38441331 DOI: 10.1111/sji.13327] [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: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 08/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
Current treatments for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are less effective and prone to recurrence after surgery, so it's needed to seek new ideas for its therapy. Tumour immune microenvironment (TME) is crucial for the pathogenesis, development and metastasis of HCC. Interactions between immune cells and tumour cells significantly impact responses to immunotherapies and patient prognosis. In recent years, immunotherapies for HCC have shown promising potential, but the response rate is still unsatisfactory. Understanding their cross-talks is helpful for selecting potential therapeutic targets, predicting immunotherapy responses, determining immunotherapy efficacy, identifying prognostic markers and selecting individualized treatment options. In this paper, we reviewed the research advances on the roles of immune cells and multi-omic research associated with HCC pathogenesis and therapy, and future perspectives on TME.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sha Liu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Department of Pain, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Man Jia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Rongyang Dai
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
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20
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Zhang H, Yue X, Chen Z, Liu C, Wu W, Zhang N, Liu Z, Yang L, Jiang Q, Cheng Q, Luo P, Liu G. Define cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in the tumor microenvironment: new opportunities in cancer immunotherapy and advances in clinical trials. Mol Cancer 2023; 22:159. [PMID: 37784082 PMCID: PMC10544417 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-023-01860-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 42.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite centuries since the discovery and study of cancer, cancer is still a lethal and intractable health issue worldwide. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) have gained much attention as a pivotal component of the tumor microenvironment. The versatility and sophisticated mechanisms of CAFs in facilitating cancer progression have been elucidated extensively, including promoting cancer angiogenesis and metastasis, inducing drug resistance, reshaping the extracellular matrix, and developing an immunosuppressive microenvironment. Owing to their robust tumor-promoting function, CAFs are considered a promising target for oncotherapy. However, CAFs are a highly heterogeneous group of cells. Some subpopulations exert an inhibitory role in tumor growth, which implies that CAF-targeting approaches must be more precise and individualized. This review comprehensively summarize the origin, phenotypical, and functional heterogeneity of CAFs. More importantly, we underscore advances in strategies and clinical trials to target CAF in various cancers, and we also summarize progressions of CAF in cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xinghai Yue
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhe Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Chao Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Central Hospital of Zhuzhou, Zhuzhou, China
| | - Wantao Wu
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Nan Zhang
- College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zaoqu Liu
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Liping Yang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Qing Jiang
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Quan Cheng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.
| | - Peng Luo
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.
- Department of Oncology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Guodong Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.
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21
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Flies DB, Langermann S, Jensen C, Karsdal MA, Willumsen N. Regulation of tumor immunity and immunotherapy by the tumor collagen extracellular matrix. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1199513. [PMID: 37662958 PMCID: PMC10470046 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1199513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
It has been known for decades that the tumor extracellular matrix (ECM) is dysfunctional leading to loss of tissue architecture and promotion of tumor growth. The altered ECM and tumor fibrogenesis leads to tissue stiffness that act as a physical barrier to immune cell infiltration into the tumor microenvironment (TME). It is becoming increasingly clear that the ECM plays important roles in tumor immune responses. A growing body of data now indicates that ECM components also play a more active role in immune regulation when dysregulated ECM components act as ligands to interact with receptors on immune cells to inhibit immune cell subpopulations in the TME. In addition, immunotherapies such as checkpoint inhibitors that are approved to treat cancer are often hindered by ECM changes. In this review we highlight the ways by which ECM alterations affect and regulate immunity in cancer. More specifically, how collagens and major ECM components, suppress immunity in the complex TME. Finally, we will review how our increased understanding of immune and immunotherapy regulation by the ECM is leading towards novel disruptive strategies to overcome immune suppression.
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22
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Rafaeva M, Jensen ARD, Horton ER, Zornhagen KW, Strøbech JE, Fleischhauer L, Mayorca-Guiliani AE, Nielsen SR, Grønseth DS, Kuś F, Schoof EM, Arnes L, Koch M, Clausen-Schaumann H, Izzi V, Reuten R, Erler JT. Fibroblast-derived matrix models desmoplastic properties and forms a prognostic signature in cancer progression. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1154528. [PMID: 37539058 PMCID: PMC10395327 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1154528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The desmoplastic reaction observed in many cancers is a hallmark of disease progression and prognosis, particularly in breast and pancreatic cancer. Stromal-derived extracellular matrix (ECM) is significantly altered in desmoplasia, and as such plays a critical role in driving cancer progression. Using fibroblast-derived matrices (FDMs), we show that cancer cells have increased growth on cancer associated FDMs, when compared to FDMs derived from non-malignant tissue (normal) fibroblasts. We assess the changes in ECM characteristics from normal to cancer-associated stroma at the primary tumor site. Compositional, structural, and mechanical analyses reveal significant differences, with an increase in abundance of core ECM proteins, coupled with an increase in stiffness and density in cancer-associated FDMs. From compositional changes of FDM, we derived a 36-ECM protein signature, which we show matches in large part with the changes in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) tumor and metastases progression. Additionally, this signature also matches at the transcriptomic level in multiple cancer types in patients, prognostic of their survival. Together, our results show relevance of FDMs for cancer modelling and identification of desmoplastic ECM components for further mechanistic studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Rafaeva
- Biotech Research and Innovation Centre, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Adina R. D. Jensen
- Biotech Research and Innovation Centre, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Edward R. Horton
- Biotech Research and Innovation Centre, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kamilla W. Zornhagen
- Biotech Research and Innovation Centre, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jan E. Strøbech
- Biotech Research and Innovation Centre, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lutz Fleischhauer
- Center for Applied Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine-CANTER, Munich University of Applied Sciences, Munich, Germany
- Center for NanoScience – CsNS, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | | | - Sebastian R. Nielsen
- Biotech Research and Innovation Centre, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Dina S. Grønseth
- Biotech Research and Innovation Centre, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Filip Kuś
- Biotech Research and Innovation Centre, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Erwin M. Schoof
- Biotech Research and Innovation Centre, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
- The Finsen Laboratory, Rigshospitalet, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Centre for Stem Cell Biology, DanStem, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Luis Arnes
- Biotech Research and Innovation Centre, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Manuel Koch
- Center for Biochemistry, Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Institute for Dental Research and Oral Musculoskeletal Biology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Hauke Clausen-Schaumann
- Center for Applied Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine-CANTER, Munich University of Applied Sciences, Munich, Germany
- Center for NanoScience – CsNS, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Valerio Izzi
- Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
- Foundation for the Finnish Cancer Institute, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Raphael Reuten
- Biotech Research and Innovation Centre, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical Faculty, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Center, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Janine T. Erler
- Biotech Research and Innovation Centre, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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23
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Myo Min KK, Ffrench CB, Jessup CF, Shepherdson M, Barreto SG, Bonder CS. Overcoming the Fibrotic Fortress in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma: Challenges and Opportunities. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:2354. [PMID: 37190281 PMCID: PMC10137060 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15082354] [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: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
An overabundance of desmoplasia in the tumour microenvironment (TME) is one of the defining features that influences pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) development, progression, metastasis, and treatment resistance. Desmoplasia is characterised by the recruitment and activation of fibroblasts, heightened extracellular matrix deposition (ECM) and reduced blood supply, as well as increased inflammation through an influx of inflammatory cells and cytokines, creating an intrinsically immunosuppressive TME with low immunogenic potential. Herein, we review the development of PDAC, the drivers that initiate and/or sustain the progression of the disease and the complex and interwoven nature of the cellular and acellular components that come together to make PDAC one of the most aggressive and difficult to treat cancers. We review the challenges in delivering drugs into the fortress of PDAC tumours in concentrations that are therapeutic due to the presence of a highly fibrotic and immunosuppressive TME. Taken together, we present further support for continued/renewed efforts focusing on aspects of the extremely dense and complex TME of PDAC to improve the efficacy of therapy for better patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kay K. Myo Min
- Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia; (K.K.M.M.); (C.B.F.)
| | - Charlie B. Ffrench
- Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia; (K.K.M.M.); (C.B.F.)
| | - Claire F. Jessup
- College of Medicine & Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia
- Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Mia Shepherdson
- College of Medicine & Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia
- Hepatopancreatobiliary & Liver Transplant Unit, Division of Surgery & Perioperative Medicine, Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia
| | - Savio George Barreto
- College of Medicine & Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia
- Hepatopancreatobiliary & Liver Transplant Unit, Division of Surgery & Perioperative Medicine, Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia
| | - Claudine S. Bonder
- Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia; (K.K.M.M.); (C.B.F.)
- Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
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24
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Wrenn ED, Apfelbaum AA, Rudzinski ER, Deng X, Jiang W, Sud S, Van Noord RA, Newman EA, Garcia NM, Hoglund VJ, Bhise SS, Kanaan SB, Waltner OG, Furlan SN, Lawlor ER. Carcinoma-associated fibroblast-like tumor cells remodel the Ewing sarcoma tumor microenvironment. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.04.12.536619. [PMID: 37090655 PMCID: PMC10120623 DOI: 10.1101/2023.04.12.536619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/25/2023]
Abstract
Tumor heterogeneity is a major driver of cancer progression. In epithelial-derived malignancies, carcinoma-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) contribute to tumor heterogeneity by depositing extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins that dynamically remodel the tumor microenvironment (TME). Ewing sarcomas (EwS) are histologically monomorphous, mesenchyme-derived tumors that are devoid of CAFs. Here we identify a previously uncharacterized subpopulation of transcriptionally distinct EwS tumor cells that deposit pro-tumorigenic ECM. Single cell analyses revealed that these CAF-like cells differ from bulk EwS cells by their upregulation of a matrisome-rich gene signature that is normally repressed by EWS::FLI1, the oncogenic fusion transcription factor that underlies EwS pathogenesis. Further, our studies showed that ECM-depositing tumor cells express the cell surface marker CD73, allowing for their isolation ex vivo and detection in situ. Spatial profiling of tumor xenografts and patient biopsies demonstrated that CD73 + EwS cells and tumor cell-derived ECM are prevalent along tumor borders and invasive fronts. Importantly, despite loss of EWS::FLI1-mediated gene repression, CD73 + EwS cells retain expression of EWS::FLI1 and the fusion-activated gene signature, as well as tumorigenic and proliferative capacities. Thus, EwS tumor cells can be reprogrammed to adopt CAF-like properties and these transcriptionally and phenotypically distinct cell subpopulations contribute to tumor heterogeneity by remodeling the TME.
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25
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Nicolini G, Balzan S, Forini F. Activated fibroblasts in cardiac and cancer fibrosis: An overview of analogies and new potential therapeutic options. Life Sci 2023; 321:121575. [PMID: 36933828 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.121575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
Heart disease and cancer are two major causes of morbidity and mortality in the industrialized countries, and their increasingly recognized connections are shifting the focus from single disease studies to an interdisciplinary approach. Fibroblast-mediated intercellular crosstalk is critically involved in the evolution of both pathologies. In healthy myocardium and in non-cancerous conditions, resident fibroblasts are the main cell source for synthesis of the extracellular matrix (ECM) and important sentinels of tissue integrity. In the setting of myocardial disease or cancer, quiescent fibroblasts activate, respectively, into myofibroblasts (myoFbs) and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), characterized by increased production of contractile proteins, and by a highly proliferative and secretory phenotype. Although the initial activation of myoFbs/CAFs is an adaptive process to repair the damaged tissue, massive deposition of ECM proteins leads to maladaptive cardiac or cancer fibrosis, a recognized marker of adverse outcome. A better understanding of the key mechanisms orchestrating fibroblast hyperactivity may help developing innovative therapeutic options to restrain myocardial or tumor stiffness and improve patient prognosis. Albeit still unappreciated, the dynamic transition of myocardial and tumor fibroblasts into myoFbs and CAFs shares several common triggers and signaling pathways relevant to TGF-β dependent cascade, metabolic reprogramming, mechanotransduction, secretory properties, and epigenetic regulation, which might lay the foundation for future antifibrotic intervention. Therefore, the aim of this review is to highlight emerging analogies in the molecular signature underlying myoFbs and CAFs activation with the purpose of identifying novel prognostic/diagnostic biomarkers, and to elucidate the potential of drug repositioning strategies to mitigate cardiac/cancer fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Silvana Balzan
- CNR Institute of Clinical Physiology, Via G.Moruzzi 1, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - Francesca Forini
- CNR Institute of Clinical Physiology, Via G.Moruzzi 1, 56124 Pisa, Italy.
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26
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Naba A. 10 years of extracellular matrix proteomics: Accomplishments, challenges, and future perspectives. Mol Cell Proteomics 2023; 22:100528. [PMID: 36918099 PMCID: PMC10152135 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcpro.2023.100528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a complex assembly of hundreds of proteins forming the architectural scaffold of multicellular organisms. In addition to its structural role, the ECM conveys signals orchestrating cellular phenotypes. Alterations of ECM composition, abundance, structure, or mechanics, have been linked to diseases and disorders affecting all physiological systems, including fibrosis and cancer. Deciphering the protein composition of the ECM and how it changes in pathophysiological contexts is thus the first step toward understanding the roles of the ECM in health and disease and toward the development of therapeutic strategies to correct disease-causing ECM alterations. Potentially, the ECM also represents a vast, yet untapped reservoir of disease biomarkers. ECM proteins are characterized by unique biochemical properties that have hindered their study: they are large, heavily and uniquely post-translationally modified, and highly insoluble. Overcoming these challenges, we and others have devised mass-spectrometry-based proteomic approaches to define the ECM composition, or "matrisome", of tissues. This review provides a historical overview of ECM proteomics research and presents the latest advances that now allow the profiling of the ECM of healthy and diseased tissues. The second part highlights recent examples illustrating how ECM proteomics has emerged as a powerful discovery pipeline to identify prognostic cancer biomarkers. The third part discusses remaining challenges limiting our ability to translate findings to clinical application and proposes approaches to overcome them. Last, the review introduces readers to resources available to facilitate the interpretation of ECM proteomics datasets. The ECM was once thought to be impenetrable. MS-based proteomics has proven to be a powerful tool to decode the ECM. In light of the progress made over the past decade, there are reasons to believe that the in-depth exploration of the matrisome is within reach and that we may soon witness the first translational application of ECM proteomics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Naba
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA; University of Illinois Cancer Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA.
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27
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Caramelo B, Zagorac S, Corral S, Marqués M, Real FX. Cancer-associated Fibroblasts in Bladder Cancer: Origin, Biology, and Therapeutic Opportunities. Eur Urol Oncol 2023:S2588-9311(23)00043-3. [PMID: 36890105 DOI: 10.1016/j.euo.2023.02.011] [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: 08/11/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Bladder cancer (BLCA) is a highly prevalent tumour and a health problem worldwide, especially among men. Recent work has highlighted the relevance of the tumour microenvironment (TME) in cancer biology with translational implications. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are a prominent, heterogeneous population of cells in the TME. CAFs have been associated with tumour development, progression, and poor prognosis in several neoplasms. However, their role in BLCA has not yet been exploited deeply. OBJECTIVE To review the role of CAFs in BLCA biology and provide an understanding of CAF origin, subtypes, markers, and phenotypic and functional characteristics to improve patient management. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION A PubMed search was performed to review manuscripts published using the terms "cancer associated fibroblast" and "bladder cancer" or "urothelial cancer". All abstracts were reviewed, and the full content of all relevant manuscripts was analysed. In addition, selected manuscripts on CAFs in other tumours were considered. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS CAFs have been studied less extensively in BLCA than in other tumours. Thanks to new techniques, such as single-cell RNA-seq and spatial transcriptomics, it is now possible to accurately map and molecularly define the phenotype of fibroblasts in normal bladder and BLCA. Bulk transcriptomic analyses have revealed the existence of subtypes among both non-muscle-invasive and muscle-invasive BLCA; these subtypes display distinct features regarding their CAF content. We provide a higher-resolution map of the phenotypic diversity of CAFs in these tumour subtypes. Preclinical studies and recent promising clinical trials leverage on this knowledge through the combined targeting of CAFs or their effectors and the immune microenvironment. CONCLUSIONS Current knowledge of BLCA CAFs and the TME is being increasingly applied to improve BLCA therapy. There is a need to acquire a deeper understanding of CAF biology in BLCA. PATIENT SUMMARY Tumour cells are surrounded by nontumoural cells that contribute to the determination of the behaviour of cancers. Among them are cancer-associated fibroblasts. The "neighbourhoods" established through these cellular interactions can now be studied with much greater resolution. Understanding these features of tumours will contribute to the designing of more effective therapies, especially in relationship to bladder cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Belén Caramelo
- Instituto de Investigación Marqués de Valdecilla, IDIVAL, Santander, Spain; Hospital Sierrallana, Torrelavega, Spain
| | - Sladjana Zagorac
- Epithelial Carcinogenesis Group, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre-CNIO, Madrid, Spain
| | - Sonia Corral
- Epithelial Carcinogenesis Group, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre-CNIO, Madrid, Spain
| | - Miriam Marqués
- Epithelial Carcinogenesis Group, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre-CNIO, Madrid, Spain; CIBERONC, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Francisco X Real
- Epithelial Carcinogenesis Group, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre-CNIO, Madrid, Spain; CIBERONC, Madrid, Spain; Department of Medicine and Life Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain.
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28
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Huang Y, Sun H, Guo P. Research Progress of Tumor Microenvironment Targeted Therapy for Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma. Cancer Control 2023; 30:10732748231155700. [PMID: 36772805 PMCID: PMC9926375 DOI: 10.1177/10732748231155700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Renal clear cell carcinoma (ccRCC) and the tumor microenvironment (TME) influence each other, leading to the tumor microenvironment that can guide the corresponding treatment. With the deepening of research, some treatment options have achieved good results, such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors, immune checkpoint inhibitors, and so on. As the link between TME and malignancy is constantly discovered, more targeted studies on different components of TME are increasing, and this targeted therapy is a new method for treating ccRCC, and also a current research hotspot. This review summarizes the characteristics of the ccRCC tumor microenvironment, the outcomes of different treatments, and some potential targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongqiang Huang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, China
| | - Hong Sun
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, China
| | - Pu Guo
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, China,Pu Guo, Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical college, Bengbu 233000, China.
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29
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Promises and challenges for targeting the immunological players in the tumor micro-environment – Critical determinants for NP-based therapy. OPENNANO 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.onano.2023.100134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
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30
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Repurposing Drugs in Small Animal Oncology. Animals (Basel) 2022; 13:ani13010139. [PMID: 36611747 PMCID: PMC9817697 DOI: 10.3390/ani13010139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2022] [Revised: 12/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Repurposing drugs in oncology consists of using off-label drugs that are licensed for various non-oncological medical conditions to treat cancer. Repurposing drugs has the advantage of using drugs that are already commercialized, with known mechanisms of action, proven safety profiles, and known toxicology, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, and posology. These drugs are usually cheaper than new anti-cancer drugs and thus more affordable, even in low-income countries. The interest in repurposed anti-cancer drugs has led to numerous in vivo and in vitro studies, with some promising results. Some randomized clinical trials have also been performed in humans, with certain drugs showing some degree of clinical efficacy, but the true clinical benefit for most of these drugs remains unknown. Repurposing drugs in veterinary oncology is a very new concept and only a few studies have been published so far. In this review, we summarize both the benefits and challenges of using repurposed anti-cancer drugs; we report and discuss the most relevant studies that have been previously published in small animal oncology, and we suggest potential drugs that could be clinically investigated for anti-cancer treatment in dogs and cats.
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31
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Zhang T, Ren Y, Yang P, Wang J, Zhou H. Cancer-associated fibroblasts in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:897. [PMID: 36284087 PMCID: PMC9596464 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-05351-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a lethal cancer with a prominent extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition and poor prognosis. High levels of ECM proteins derived from tumour cells reduce the efficacy of conventional cancer treatment paradigms and contribute to tumour progression and metastasis. As abundant tumour-promoting cells in the ECM, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are promising targets for novel anti-tumour interventions. Nonetheless, related clinical trials are hampered by the lack of specific markers and elusive differences between CAF subtypes. Here, we review the origins and functional diversity of CAFs and show how they create a tumour-promoting milieu, focusing on the crosstalk between CAFs, tumour cells, and immune cells in the tumour microenvironment. Furthermore, relevant clinical advances and potential therapeutic strategies relating to CAFs are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianyi Zhang
- grid.410726.60000 0004 1797 8419University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China ,grid.450259.f0000 0004 1804 2516Key Laboratory of Space Radiobiology of Gansu Province & Key Laboratory of Heavy Ion Radiation Biology and Medicine, Institute of Modern Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, China
| | - Yanxian Ren
- grid.412643.60000 0004 1757 2902Department of General Surgery, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Pengfei Yang
- grid.410726.60000 0004 1797 8419University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China ,grid.450259.f0000 0004 1804 2516Key Laboratory of Space Radiobiology of Gansu Province & Key Laboratory of Heavy Ion Radiation Biology and Medicine, Institute of Modern Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, China
| | - Jufang Wang
- grid.410726.60000 0004 1797 8419University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China ,grid.450259.f0000 0004 1804 2516Key Laboratory of Space Radiobiology of Gansu Province & Key Laboratory of Heavy Ion Radiation Biology and Medicine, Institute of Modern Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, China
| | - Heng Zhou
- grid.410726.60000 0004 1797 8419University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China ,grid.450259.f0000 0004 1804 2516Key Laboratory of Space Radiobiology of Gansu Province & Key Laboratory of Heavy Ion Radiation Biology and Medicine, Institute of Modern Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, China
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32
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Rimal R, Desai P, Daware R, Hosseinnejad A, Prakash J, Lammers T, Singh S. Cancer-associated fibroblasts: Origin, function, imaging, and therapeutic targeting. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2022; 189:114504. [PMID: 35998825 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2022.114504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 07/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) is emerging as one of the primary barriers in cancer therapy. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) are a common inhabitant of the TME in several tumor types and play a critical role in tumor progression and drug resistance via different mechanisms such as desmoplasia, angiogenesis, immune modulation, and cancer metabolism. Due to their abundance and significance in pro-tumorigenic mechanisms, CAF are gaining attention as a diagnostic target as well as to improve the efficacy of cancer therapy by their modulation. In this review, we highlight existing imaging techniques that are used for the visualization of CAF and CAF-induced fibrosis and provide an overview of compounds that are known to modulate CAF activity. Subsequently, we also discuss CAF-targeted and CAF-modulating nanocarriers. Finally, our review addresses ongoing challenges and provides a glimpse into the prospects that can spearhead the transition of CAF-targeted therapies from opportunity to reality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahul Rimal
- Max Planck Institute for Medical Research (MPImF), Jahnstrasse 29, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Prachi Desai
- DWI-Leibniz Institute for Interactive Materials, RWTH Aachen University, Forkenbeckstrasse 50, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Rasika Daware
- Department of Nanomedicine and Theranostics, Institute for Experimental Molecular Imaging, Faculty of Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Aisa Hosseinnejad
- DWI-Leibniz Institute for Interactive Materials, RWTH Aachen University, Forkenbeckstrasse 50, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Jai Prakash
- Department of Advanced Organ Bioengineering and Therapeutics, Section: Engineered Therapeutics, Technical Medical Centre, University of Twente, 7500AE Enschede, the Netherlands.
| | - Twan Lammers
- Department of Nanomedicine and Theranostics, Institute for Experimental Molecular Imaging, Faculty of Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany.
| | - Smriti Singh
- Max Planck Institute for Medical Research (MPImF), Jahnstrasse 29, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany.
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33
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Baldari S, Di Modugno F, Nisticò P, Toietta G. Strategies for Efficient Targeting of Tumor Collagen for Cancer Therapy. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14194706. [PMID: 36230627 PMCID: PMC9563908 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14194706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The tumor microenvironment encompasses the cellular and extracellular matrix components that support and shape the three-dimensional framework in which solid tumors develop and grow. The extracellular matrix of the tumor is characterized by increased deposition and aberrant architecture of collagen fibers. Therefore, as a key mechanical component of the tumor microenvironment, collagen plays a critical role in cancer progression, metastasis, and therapeutic response. To boost the efficacy of current anticancer therapies, including immunotherapy, innovative approaches should take into account strategies directed against the dysregulated non-cancer cell stromal components. In the current review, we provide an overview of the principal approaches to target tumor collagen to provide therapeutic benefits. Abstract The tumor stroma, which comprises stromal cells and non-cellular elements, is a critical component of the tumor microenvironment (TME). The dynamic interactions between the tumor cells and the stroma may promote tumor progression and metastasis and dictate resistance to established cancer therapies. Therefore, novel antitumor approaches should combine anticancer and anti-stroma strategies targeting dysregulated tumor extracellular matrix (ECM). ECM remodeling is a hallmark of solid tumors, leading to extensive biochemical and biomechanical changes, affecting cell signaling and tumor tissue three-dimensional architecture. Increased deposition of fibrillar collagen is the most distinctive alteration of the tumor ECM. Consequently, several anticancer therapeutic strategies have been developed to reduce excessive tumor collagen deposition. Herein, we provide an overview of the current advances and challenges of the main approaches aiming at tumor collagen normalization, which include targeted anticancer drug delivery, promotion of degradation, modulation of structure and biosynthesis of collagen, and targeting cancer-associated fibroblasts, which are the major extracellular matrix producers.
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Wang C, Yang J. Mechanical forces: The missing link between idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and lung cancer. Eur J Cell Biol 2022; 101:151234. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejcb.2022.151234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
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Choi YS, Kim MJ, Choi EA, Kim S, Lee EJ, Park MJ, Kim MJ, Kim YW, Ahn HS, Jung JY, Jang G, Kim Y, Kim H, Kim K, Kim JY, Hong SM, Kim SC, Chang S. Antibody-mediated blockade for galectin-3 binding protein in tumor secretome abrogates PDAC metastasis. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2119048119. [PMID: 35858411 PMCID: PMC9335190 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2119048119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The major challenges in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) management are local or distant metastasis and limited targeted therapeutics to prevent it. To identify a druggable target in tumor secretome and to explore its therapeutic intervention, we performed a liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)-based proteomic analysis of tumors obtained from a patient-derived xenograft model of PDAC. Galectin-3 binding protein (Gal-3BP) is identified as a highly secreted protein, and its overexpression is further validated in multiple PDAC tumors and primary cells. Knockdown and exogenous treatment of Gal-3BP showed that it is required for PDAC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Mechanistically, we revealed that Gal-3BP enhances galectin-3-mediated epidermal growth factor receptor signaling, leading to increased cMyc and epithelial-mesenchymal transition. To explore the clinical impact of these findings, two antibody clones were developed, and they profoundly abrogated the metastasis of PDAC cells in vivo. Altogether, our data demonstrate that Gal-3BP is an important therapeutic target in PDAC, and we propose its blockade by antibody as a therapeutic option for suppressing PDAC metastasis.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Antigens, Neoplasm/genetics
- Antigens, Neoplasm/immunology
- Antineoplastic Agents, Immunological/immunology
- Antineoplastic Agents, Immunological/therapeutic use
- Biomarkers, Tumor/antagonists & inhibitors
- Biomarkers, Tumor/genetics
- Biomarkers, Tumor/immunology
- Carcinoma, Pancreatic Ductal/genetics
- Carcinoma, Pancreatic Ductal/secondary
- Carcinoma, Pancreatic Ductal/therapy
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Cell Movement
- Cell Proliferation
- Chromatography, Liquid
- Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition
- Gene Knockdown Techniques
- Humans
- Mice
- Pancreatic Neoplasms/genetics
- Pancreatic Neoplasms/pathology
- Pancreatic Neoplasms/therapy
- Proteomics
- Secretome
- Tandem Mass Spectrometry
- Xenograft Model Antitumor Assays
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeon-Sook Choi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul 05505, South Korea
| | - Myung Ji Kim
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul 05505, South Korea
| | - Eun A. Choi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul 05505, South Korea
| | - Sinae Kim
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul 05505, South Korea
| | - Eun ji Lee
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul 05505, South Korea
| | - Min Ji Park
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul 05505, South Korea
| | - Mi-Ju Kim
- Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, 05505, South Korea
| | - Yeon Wook Kim
- Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, 05505, South Korea
| | - Hee-Sung Ahn
- Department of Convergence Medicine, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul 05505, South Korea
| | - Jae Yun Jung
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul 05505, South Korea
| | - Gayoung Jang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul 05505, South Korea
| | - Yongsub Kim
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul 05505, South Korea
| | - Hyori Kim
- Department of Convergence Medicine, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul 05505, South Korea
| | - Kyunggon Kim
- Department of Convergence Medicine, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul 05505, South Korea
| | - Jin Young Kim
- Research Center for Bioconvergence Analysis, Korea Basic Science Institute, Ochang, 28119, South Korea
| | - Seung-Mo Hong
- Department of Pathology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul 05505, South Korea
| | - Song Cheol Kim
- Division of Hepato-Biliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul 05505, South Korea
| | - Suhwan Chang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul 05505, South Korea
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Shah K, Mallik SB, Gupta P, Iyer A. Targeting Tumour-Associated Fibroblasts in Cancers. Front Oncol 2022; 12:908156. [PMID: 35814453 PMCID: PMC9258494 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.908156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumours develop within complex tissue environments consisting of aberrant oncogenic cancer cells, diverse innate and adaptive immune cells, along with structural stromal cells, extracellular matrix and vascular networks, and many other cellular and non-cellular soluble constituents. Understanding the heterogeneity and the complex interplay between these cells remains a key barrier in treating tumours and cancers. The immune status of the pre-tumour and tumour milieu can dictate if the tumour microenvironment (TME) supports either a pro-malignancy or an anti-malignancy phenotype. Identification of the factors and cell types that regulate the dysfunction of the TME is crucial in order to understand and modulate the immune status of tumours. Among these cell types, tumour-associated fibroblasts are emerging as a major component of the TME that is often correlated with poor prognosis and therapy resistance, including immunotherapies. Thus, a deeper understanding of the complex roles of tumour-associated fibroblasts in regulating tumour immunity and cancer therapy could provide new insight into targeting the TME in various human cancers. In this review, we summarize recent studies investigating the role of immune and key stromal cells in regulating the immune status of the TME and discuss the therapeutic potential of targeting stromal cells, especially tumour-associated fibroblasts, within the TME as an adjuvant therapy to sensitize immunosuppressive tumours and prevent cancer progression, chemo-resistance and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kairav Shah
- Alembic Discovery & Innovation, Alembic Pharmaceuticals, Hyderabad, India
| | | | - Praveer Gupta
- Alembic Discovery & Innovation, Alembic Pharmaceuticals, Hyderabad, India
| | - Abishek Iyer
- Alembic Discovery & Innovation, Alembic Pharmaceuticals, Hyderabad, India
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Lin Z, Pei Y, Tang X, Rong L, Chen L, Jiang X. Classification and rising medication therapy in stiff skin syndrome: A case report and literature review. Dermatol Ther 2022; 35:e15633. [PMID: 35686816 DOI: 10.1111/dth.15633] [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: 11/16/2021] [Revised: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Stiff skin syndrome (SSS) is a rare disorder characterized by skin induration and limited joint mobility in the absence of visceral, musculoskeletal, vascular, or immunologic abnormalities. Distinctive subsets of SSS could be distinguished by various manifestation and mechanism, which accounts for the high heterogeneity in SSS cases. Although rehabilitation training remains the mainstay of management, rising medications has drawn awareness in recent years, owing to the potential efficacy. Nevertheless, experience was limited, especially in widespread SSS. We report on a 5-year-old girl with widespread SSS, whose lesion stopped progressing after combination therapy by mycophenolic acid (MPA) and losartan (LST) in addition to rehabilitation exercise. Despite limited experience, a combined therapy of MPA and LST seems to be effective in retarding progression of widespread SSS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhilang Lin
- Department of Pediatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yuxin Pei
- Department of Pediatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xuhua Tang
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Liping Rong
- Department of Pediatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Lizhi Chen
- Department of Pediatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiaoyun Jiang
- Department of Pediatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
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Tumor immune-gene expression profiles and peripheral immune phenotypes associated with clinical outcomes of locally advanced pancreatic cancer following FOLFIRINOX. ESMO Open 2022; 7:100484. [PMID: 35576696 PMCID: PMC9271485 DOI: 10.1016/j.esmoop.2022.100484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background A comprehensive analysis of peripheral immune cell phenotypes and tumor immune-gene expression profiles in locally advanced pancreatic cancer patients treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy in a phase II clinical trial was carried out. Methods Patients were treated with neoadjuvant modified folinic acid, fluorouracil, irinotecan hydrochloride, oxaliplatin (mFOLFIRINOX) followed by surgery and adjuvant gemcitabine at the Asan Medical Center. Correlations between survival outcomes and baseline peripheral immune cells and their changes during preoperative chemotherapy were analyzed. Patients who had surgery were divided into two groups according to achievement of disease-free survival >10 months (achieved versus failed). Differential expression and pathway analysis of immune-related genes were carried out using the Nanostring platform, and immune cells within the tumor microenvironment were compared by immunohistochemistry. Results Forty-four patients were treated in the phase II clinical trial. Higher baseline CD14+CD11c+HLA-DR+ monocytes (P = 0.044) and lower Foxp3+CD4+ T cells (P = 0.02) were associated with poor progression-free survival of neoadjuvant mFOLFIRINOX. During the preoperative chemotherapy, PD-1 T cells significantly decreased (P = 0.0110). Differential expression and pathway analysis of immune-genes from the resected tumor after neoadjuvant treatment revealed transforming growth factor-β pathway enrichment and higher expression of MARCO (adjusted P < 0.05) associated with early recurrence. Enrichment of the Th1 pathway and higher peritumoral CD8+ T cells (P = 0.0103) were associated with durable disease-free survival from surgery (>10 months) following neoadjuvant mFOLFIRINOX. Conclusions Our results identify potential immune biomarkers for locally advanced pancreatic cancer and provide insights into pancreatic cancer immunity. We performed immune profiling of locally advanced pancreatic cancer treated with neoadjuvant therapy in a phase II trial. Proportion of programmed cell death protein 1-expressing peripheral CD8+ cells decreased after neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Lower peripheral monocytes and higher regulatory T cells were associated with better progression-free survival. Th1 pathway and higher peritumoral CD8+ T cells were associated with longer disease-free survival from surgery. Transforming growth factor-β pathway and higher MARCO expression were associated with early recurrence after surgery.
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Serfling SE, Hartrampf PE, Zhi Y, Higuchi T, Rowe SP, Bundschuh L, Essler M, Buck AK, Bundschuh RA, Werner RA. Interobserver Agreement Rates on Fibroblast Activation Protein Inhibitor-Directed Molecular Imaging and Therapy. Clin Nucl Med 2022; 47:512-516. [PMID: 35439187 PMCID: PMC9071032 DOI: 10.1097/rlu.0000000000004189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Fibroblast activation protein (FAP) has emerged as a novel target for FAP inhibitor (FAPI)-directed molecular imaging and endoradiotherapy (ERT). We aimed to assess the interobserver agreement rates for interpretation of 68Ga-FAPI-4 PET/CT and decision for ERT. PATIENTS AND METHODS A random order of 68Ga-FAPI-4 PET/CTs from 49 oncology patients were independently interpreted by 4 blinded readers. Per scan, visual assessment was performed, including overall scan impression, number of organ/lymph node (LN) metastases, and number of affected organs/LN regions. Moreover, a maximum of 3 target lesions, defined as largest in size and/or most intense, per organ compartment were identified, which allowed for an additional quantitative interobserver assessment of LN and organ lesions. To investigate potential reference tissues, quantification also included unaffected liver parenchyma and blood pool. Readers also had to indicate whether FAPI-directed ERT should be considered (based on intensity of uptake and widespread disease). Interobserver agreement rates were evaluated using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) and interpreted according to Cicchetti (with 0.4-0.59 indicating fair, and 0.6-0.74 good, agreement). RESULTS On a visual basis, the agreement rate for an overall scan impression was fair (ICC, 0.42; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.27-0.57). The concordance rate for number of affected LN areas was also fair (ICC, 0.59; 95% CI, 0.45-0.72), whereas the number of LN metastases, number of affected organs, and number of organ metastases achieved good agreement rates (ICC, ≥0.63). In a quantitative analysis, concordance rates for LN were good (ICC, 0.70; 0.48-0.88), but only fair for organ lesions (ICC, 0.43; 0.26-0.60). In regards to background tissues, ICCs were good for unaffected liver parenchyma (0.68; 0.54-0.79) and fair for blood pool (0.43; 0.29-0.58). When readers should decide on ERT, concordance rates were also fair (ICC, 0.59; 95% CI, 0.46-0.73). CONCLUSIONS For FAPI-directed molecular imaging and therapy, a fair to good interobserver agreement rate was achieved, supporting the adoption of this radiotracer for clinical routine and multicenter trials.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Yingjun Zhi
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Plastic, Aesthetic and Reconstructive Head and Neck Surgery, Julius Maximilian University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Takahiro Higuchi
- From the Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Würzburg
- Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, Okayama, Japan
| | - Steven P. Rowe
- The Russell H Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Lena Bundschuh
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Markus Essler
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Andreas K. Buck
- From the Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Würzburg
| | | | - Rudolf A. Werner
- From the Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Würzburg
- The Russell H Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
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Willumsen N, Jensen C, Green G, Nissen NI, Neely J, Nelson DM, Pedersen RS, Frederiksen P, Chen IM, Boisen MK, Johansen AZ, Madsen DH, Svane IM, Lipton A, Leitzel K, Ali SM, Erler JT, Hurkmans DP, Mathijssen RHJ, Aerts J, Eslam M, George J, Christiansen C, Bissel MJ, Karsdal MA. Fibrotic activity quantified in serum by measurements of type III collagen pro-peptides can be used for prognosis across different solid tumor types. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:204. [PMID: 35332383 PMCID: PMC8948122 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04226-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Due to activation of fibroblast into cancer-associated fibroblasts, there is often an increased deposition of extracellular matrix and fibrillar collagens, e.g. type III collagen, in the tumor microenvironment (TME) that leads to tumor fibrosis (desmoplasia). Tumor fibrosis is closely associated with treatment response and poor prognosis for patients with solid tumors. To assure that the best possible treatment option is provided for patients, there is medical need for identifying patients with high (or low) fibrotic activity in the TME. Measuring unique collagen fragments such as the pro-peptides released into the bloodstream during fibrillar collagen deposition in the TME can provide a non-invasive measure of the fibrotic activity. Based on data from 8 previously published cohorts, this review provides insight into the prognostic value of quantifying tumor fibrosis by measuring the pro-peptide of type III collagen in serum of a total of 1692 patients with different solid tumor types and discusses the importance of tumor fibrosis for understanding prognosis and for potentially guiding future drug development efforts that aim at overcoming the poor outcome associated with a fibrotic TME.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Christina Jensen
- Nordic Bioscience, Herlev Hovedgade 205-207, 2730, Herlev, Denmark
| | | | - Neel I Nissen
- Nordic Bioscience, Herlev Hovedgade 205-207, 2730, Herlev, Denmark
| | | | | | | | | | - Inna M Chen
- Department of Oncology, Herlev and Gentofte Hospital, Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Mogens K Boisen
- Department of Oncology, Herlev and Gentofte Hospital, Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Astrid Z Johansen
- Department of Oncology, Herlev and Gentofte Hospital, Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Daniel H Madsen
- Center for Cancer Immune Therapy, Department of Oncology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Inge Marie Svane
- Center for Cancer Immune Therapy, Department of Oncology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Allan Lipton
- Penn State Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Kim Leitzel
- Penn State Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, PA, USA
| | | | - Janine T Erler
- Biotech Research and Innovation Centre (BRIC), University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Daan P Hurkmans
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ron H J Mathijssen
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Joachim Aerts
- Department of Pulmonology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Mohammed Eslam
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead Hospital and University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Jacob George
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead Hospital and University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Mina J Bissel
- Biological Systems and Engineering Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Morten A Karsdal
- Nordic Bioscience, Herlev Hovedgade 205-207, 2730, Herlev, Denmark
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Nissen NI, Johansen AZ, Chen I, Johansen JS, Pedersen RS, Hansen CP, Karsdal MA, Willumsen N. Collagen Biomarkers Quantify Fibroblast Activity In Vitro and Predict Survival in Patients with Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:819. [PMID: 35159087 PMCID: PMC8833921 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14030819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of novel tools to understand tumour-fibrosis in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and novel anti-fibrotic treatments are highly needed. We established a pseudo-3D in vitro model including humane pancreatic fibroblasts (PFs) and pancreatic cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in combination with clinical collagen biomarkers, as a translational anti-fibrotic drug screening tool. Furthermore, we investigated the prognostic potential of serum collagen biomarkers in 810 patients with PDAC. PFs and CAFs were cultured in Ficoll-media. Cells were treated w/wo TGF-ß1 and the anti-fibrotic compound ALK5i. Biomarkers measuring the formation of type III (PRO-C3) and VI (PRO-C6) collagens were measured by ELISA in supernatant at days 3, 6, 9, and 12. PRO-C3 and PRO-C6, and their association with overall survival (OS), were evaluated in serum with PDAC (n = 810). PRO-C3 and PRO-C6 were upregulated in CAFs compared to PFs (p < 0.0001.). TGF-ß1 increased PRO-C3 in both PFs and CAFs (p < 0.0001). The anti-fibrotic compound ALK5i inhibited both PRO-C3 and PRO-C6 (p < 0.0001). High serum levels of PRO-C3 and PRO-C6 in patients with PDAC were associated with short OS (PRO-C3: HR = 1.48, 95%CI: 1.29-1.71, p < 0.0001 and PRO-C6: HR = 1.31, 95%CI: 1.14-1.50, p = 0.0002). PRO-C3 and PRO-C6 have the potential to be used both pre-clinically and clinically as a measure of tumor fibrosis and CAF activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neel I. Nissen
- Biotech Research & Innovation Centre (BRIC), University of Copenhagen (UCPH), 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Biomarkers & Research, Nordic Bioscience, 2730 Herlev, Denmark; (R.S.P.); (M.A.K.); (N.W.)
| | - Astrid Z. Johansen
- Department of Oncology, Copenhagen University Hospital—Herlev and Gentofte, 2730 Herlev, Denmark; (A.Z.J.); (I.C.); (J.S.J.)
| | - Inna Chen
- Department of Oncology, Copenhagen University Hospital—Herlev and Gentofte, 2730 Herlev, Denmark; (A.Z.J.); (I.C.); (J.S.J.)
| | - Julia S. Johansen
- Department of Oncology, Copenhagen University Hospital—Herlev and Gentofte, 2730 Herlev, Denmark; (A.Z.J.); (I.C.); (J.S.J.)
- Department of Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital—Herlev and Gentofte, 2730 Herlev, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Rasmus S. Pedersen
- Biomarkers & Research, Nordic Bioscience, 2730 Herlev, Denmark; (R.S.P.); (M.A.K.); (N.W.)
- Department of Biomedical Science, University of Copenhagen (UCPH), 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Carsten P. Hansen
- Department of Surgery, Copenhagen University Hospital—Rigshospitalet, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark;
| | - Morten A. Karsdal
- Biomarkers & Research, Nordic Bioscience, 2730 Herlev, Denmark; (R.S.P.); (M.A.K.); (N.W.)
| | - Nicholas Willumsen
- Biomarkers & Research, Nordic Bioscience, 2730 Herlev, Denmark; (R.S.P.); (M.A.K.); (N.W.)
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Beeghly GF, Amofa KY, Fischbach C, Kumar S. Regulation of Tumor Invasion by the Physical Microenvironment: Lessons from Breast and Brain Cancer. Annu Rev Biomed Eng 2022; 24:29-59. [PMID: 35119915 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-bioeng-110220-115419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The success of anticancer therapies is often limited by heterogeneity within and between tumors. While much attention has been devoted to understanding the intrinsic molecular diversity of tumor cells, the surrounding tissue microenvironment is also highly complex and coevolves with tumor cells to drive clinical outcomes. Here, we propose that diverse types of solid tumors share common physical motifs that change in time and space, serving as universal regulators of malignancy. We use breast cancer and glioblastoma as instructive examples and highlight how invasion in both diseases is driven by the appropriation of structural guidance cues, contact-dependent heterotypic interactions with stromal cells, and elevated interstitial fluid pressure and flow. We discuss how engineering strategies show increasing value for measuring and modeling these physical properties for mechanistic studies. Moreover, engineered systems offer great promise for developing and testing novel therapies that improve patient prognosis by normalizing the physical tumor microenvironment. Expected final online publication date for the Annual Review of Biomedical Engineering, Volume 24 is June 2022. Please see http://www.annualreviews.org/page/journal/pubdates for revised estimates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Garrett F Beeghly
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA;
| | - Kwasi Y Amofa
- University of California, Berkeley-University of California, San Francisco Graduate Program in Bioengineering, Berkeley, California, USA; .,Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Claudia Fischbach
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA; .,Kavli Institute at Cornell for Nanoscale Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Sanjay Kumar
- University of California, Berkeley-University of California, San Francisco Graduate Program in Bioengineering, Berkeley, California, USA; .,Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California, USA.,Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California, USA.,Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
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Roalsø MTT, Hald ØH, Alexeeva M, Søreide K. Emerging Role of Epigenetic Alterations as Biomarkers and Novel Targets for Treatments in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14030546. [PMID: 35158814 PMCID: PMC8833770 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14030546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Epigenetic alterations cause changes in gene expression without affecting the DNA sequence and are found to affect several molecular pathways in pancreatic tumors. Such changes are reversible, making them potential drug targets. Furthermore, epigenetic alterations occur early in the disease course and may thus be explored for early detection. Hence, a deeper understanding of epigenetics in pancreatic cancer may lead to improved diagnostics, treatments, and prognostication. Abstract Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a lethal disease with limited treatment options. Emerging evidence shows that epigenetic alterations are present in PDAC. The changes are potentially reversible and therefore promising therapeutic targets. Epigenetic aberrations also influence the tumor microenvironment with the potential to modulate and possibly enhance immune-based treatments. Epigenetic marks can also serve as diagnostic screening tools, as epigenetic changes occur at early stages of the disease. Further, epigenetics can be used in prognostication. The field is evolving, and this review seeks to provide an updated overview of the emerging role of epigenetics in the diagnosis, treatment, and prognostication of PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcus T. T. Roalsø
- Department of Quality and Health Technology, University of Stavanger, 4036 Stavanger, Norway;
- HPB Unit, Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Stavanger University Hospital, 4068 Stavanger, Norway;
- Gastrointestinal Translational Research Unit, Laboratory for Molecular Medicine, Stavanger University Hospital, 4068 Stavanger, Norway
| | - Øyvind H. Hald
- Department of Oncology, University Hospital of North Norway, 9038 Tromsø, Norway;
| | - Marina Alexeeva
- HPB Unit, Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Stavanger University Hospital, 4068 Stavanger, Norway;
- Gastrointestinal Translational Research Unit, Laboratory for Molecular Medicine, Stavanger University Hospital, 4068 Stavanger, Norway
| | - Kjetil Søreide
- HPB Unit, Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Stavanger University Hospital, 4068 Stavanger, Norway;
- Gastrointestinal Translational Research Unit, Laboratory for Molecular Medicine, Stavanger University Hospital, 4068 Stavanger, Norway
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen, 5020 Bergen, Norway
- Correspondence:
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Engineering tumor stromal mechanics for improved T cell therapy. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2022; 1866:130095. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2022.130095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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Fu Y, Saraswat AL, Monpara J, Patel K. Stromal disruption facilitating invasion of a 'nano-arsenal' into the solid tumor. Drug Discov Today 2021; 27:1132-1141. [PMID: 34823002 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2021.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Revised: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Owing to the indispensable role of nanotechnology in cancer therapy, it is imperative to comprehend every aspect limiting its therapeutic potential. Several preclinical reports have demonstrated the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR)-mediated preferential tumor uptake of nanoparticles. However, the therapeutic outcome of nanotherapeutics is severely compromised by heterogeneous drug distribution and insufficient penetration of nanomedicine in a solid tumor owing to the dense tumor extracellular matrix (ECM). Herein, we elaborate on various preclinically investigated tumor stromal disrupting strategies, which we call 'cannons', to compromise the impenetrable 'fortress-like' solid tumor microenvironment. We have described and summarized major approaches to enhance the penetration of a 'nano-arsenal' in solid tumors. ECM remodeling strategies could be very beneficial in enhancing the therapeutic efficacy of monoclonal antibodies and translational nanomedicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yige Fu
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY 11439, USA; Genentech, Inc, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Aishwarya L Saraswat
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY 11439, USA
| | | | - Ketan Patel
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY 11439, USA.
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Horst EN, Bregenzer ME, Mehta P, Snyder CS, Repetto T, Yang-Hartwich Y, Mehta G. Personalized models of heterogeneous 3D epithelial tumor microenvironments: Ovarian cancer as a model. Acta Biomater 2021; 132:401-420. [PMID: 33940195 PMCID: PMC8969826 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2021.04.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Revised: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Intractable human diseases such as cancers, are context dependent, unique to both the individual patient and to the specific tumor microenvironment. However, conventional cancer treatments are often nonspecific, targeting global similarities rather than unique drivers. This limits treatment efficacy across heterogeneous patient populations and even at different tumor locations within the same patient. Ultimately, this poor efficacy can lead to adverse clinical outcomes and the development of treatment-resistant relapse. To prevent this and improve outcomes, it is necessary to be selective when choosing a patient's optimal adjuvant treatment. In this review, we posit the use of personalized, tumor-specific models (TSM) as tools to achieve this remarkable feat. First, using ovarian cancer as a model disease, we outline the heterogeneity and complexity of both the cellular and extracellular components in the tumor microenvironment. Then we examine the advantages and disadvantages of contemporary cancer models and the rationale for personalized TSM. We discuss how to generate precision 3D models through careful and detailed analysis of patient biopsies. Finally, we provide clinically relevant applications of these versatile personalized cancer models to highlight their potential impact. These models are ideal for a myriad of fundamental cancer biology and translational studies. Importantly, these approaches can be extended to other carcinomas, facilitating the discovery of new therapeutics that more effectively target the unique aspects of each individual patient's TME. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: In this article, we have presented the case for the application of biomaterials in developing personalized models of complex diseases such as cancers. TSM could bring about breakthroughs in the promise of precision medicine. The critical components of the diverse tumor microenvironments, that lead to treatment failures, include cellular- and extracellular matrix- heterogeneity, and biophysical signals to the cells. Therefore, we have described these dynamic components of the tumor microenvironments, and have highlighted how contemporary biomaterials can be utilized to create personalized in vitro models of cancers. We have also described the application of the TSM to predict the dynamic patterns of disease progression, and predict effective therapies that can produce durable responses, limit relapses, and treat any minimal residual disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric N Horst
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
| | - Michael E Bregenzer
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
| | - Pooja Mehta
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
| | - Catherine S Snyder
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
| | - Taylor Repetto
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
| | - Yang Yang-Hartwich
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06510, United States
| | - Geeta Mehta
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States; Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States; Macromolecular Science and Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States; Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States; Precision Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States.
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Deasy SK, Erez N. A glitch in the matrix: organ-specific matrisomes in metastatic niches. Trends Cell Biol 2021; 32:110-123. [PMID: 34479765 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcb.2021.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Revised: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Modification of the extracellular matrix (ECM) is a critical aspect of developing a metastasis-supportive organ niche. Recent work investigating ECM changes that facilitate metastasis has revealed ways in which different metastatic organ niches are similar as well as the distinct characteristics that make them unique. In this review, we present recent findings regarding how ECM modifications support metastasis in four frequent metastatic sites: the lung, liver, bone, and brain. We discuss ways in which these modifications are shared between metastatic organs as well as features specific to each location. We also discuss areas of technical innovation that could be advantageous to future research and areas of inquiry that merit further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah K Deasy
- Department of Pathology, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Neta Erez
- Department of Pathology, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.
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Pan Y, Song X, Wang Y, Wei J. Firing up the Tumor Microenvironment with Nanoparticle-Based Therapies. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13091338. [PMID: 34575414 PMCID: PMC8472427 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13091338] [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: 07/22/2021] [Revised: 08/14/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Therapies mobilizing host immunity against cancer cells have profoundly improved prognosis of cancer patients. However, efficacy of immunotherapies depends on local immune conditions. The "cold" tumor, which is characterized by lacking inflamed T cells, is insensitive to immunotherapy. Current strategies of improving the "cold" tumor microenvironment are far from satisfying. Nanoparticle-based therapies provide novel inspiration in firing up the tumor microenvironment. In this review, we presented progress and limitations of conventional immunotherapies. Then, we enumerate advantages of nanoparticle-based therapies in remodeling the "cold" tumor microenvironment. Finally, we discuss the prospect of nanoparticle-based therapies in clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunfeng Pan
- The Comprehensive Cancer Centre of Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University & Clinical Cancer Institute of Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, China; (Y.P.); (X.S.); (Y.W.)
| | - Xueru Song
- The Comprehensive Cancer Centre of Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University & Clinical Cancer Institute of Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, China; (Y.P.); (X.S.); (Y.W.)
| | - Yue Wang
- The Comprehensive Cancer Centre of Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University & Clinical Cancer Institute of Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, China; (Y.P.); (X.S.); (Y.W.)
| | - Jia Wei
- The Comprehensive Cancer Centre of Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University & Clinical Cancer Institute of Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, China; (Y.P.); (X.S.); (Y.W.)
- Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center (ChemBIC), Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, China
- Correspondence:
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De Lellis L, Veschi S, Tinari N, Mokini Z, Carradori S, Brocco D, Florio R, Grassadonia A, Cama A. Drug Repurposing, an Attractive Strategy in Pancreatic Cancer Treatment: Preclinical and Clinical Updates. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:3946. [PMID: 34439102 PMCID: PMC8394389 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13163946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) is one of the deadliest malignancies worldwide, since patients rarely display symptoms until an advanced and unresectable stage of the disease. Current chemotherapy options are unsatisfactory and there is an urgent need for more effective and less toxic drugs to improve the dismal PC therapy. Repurposing of non-oncology drugs in PC treatment represents a very promising therapeutic option and different compounds are currently being considered as candidates for repurposing in the treatment of this tumor. In this review, we provide an update on some of the most promising FDA-approved, non-oncology, repurposed drug candidates that show prominent clinical and preclinical data in pancreatic cancer. We also focus on proposed mechanisms of action and known molecular targets that they modulate in PC. Furthermore, we provide an explorative bioinformatic analysis, which suggests that some of the PC repurposed drug candidates have additional, unexplored, oncology-relevant targets. Finally, we discuss recent developments regarding the immunomodulatory role displayed by some of these drugs, which may expand their potential application in synergy with approved anticancer immunomodulatory agents that are mostly ineffective as single agents in PC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura De Lellis
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d’Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (S.V.); (S.C.); (D.B.); (R.F.)
| | - Serena Veschi
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d’Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (S.V.); (S.C.); (D.B.); (R.F.)
| | - Nicola Tinari
- Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences, G. d’Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (N.T.); (A.G.)
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology—CAST, G. d’Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Zhirajr Mokini
- European Society of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care (ESAIC) Mentorship Programme, ESAIC, 24 Rue des Comédiens, BE-1000 Brussels, Belgium;
| | - Simone Carradori
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d’Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (S.V.); (S.C.); (D.B.); (R.F.)
| | - Davide Brocco
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d’Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (S.V.); (S.C.); (D.B.); (R.F.)
| | - Rosalba Florio
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d’Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (S.V.); (S.C.); (D.B.); (R.F.)
| | - Antonino Grassadonia
- Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences, G. d’Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (N.T.); (A.G.)
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology—CAST, G. d’Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Alessandro Cama
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d’Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (S.V.); (S.C.); (D.B.); (R.F.)
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology—CAST, G. d’Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
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Cioni P, Gabellieri E, Campanini B, Bettati S, Raboni S. Use of Exogenous Enzymes in Human Therapy: Approved Drugs and Potential Applications. Curr Med Chem 2021; 29:411-452. [PMID: 34259137 DOI: 10.2174/0929867328666210713094722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The development of safe and efficacious enzyme-based human therapies has increased greatly in the last decades, thanks to remarkable advances in the understanding of the molecular mechanisms responsible for different diseases, and the characterization of the catalytic activity of relevant exogenous enzymes that may play a remedial effect in the treatment of such pathologies. Several enzyme-based biotherapeutics have been approved by FDA (the U.S. Food and Drug Administration) and EMA (the European Medicines Agency) and many are undergoing clinical trials. Apart from enzyme replacement therapy in human genetic diseases, which is not discussed in this review, approved enzymes for human therapy find applications in several fields, from cancer therapy to thrombolysis and the treatment, e.g., of clotting disorders, cystic fibrosis, lactose intolerance and collagen-based disorders. The majority of therapeutic enzymes are of microbial origin, the most convenient source due to fast, simple and cost-effective production and manipulation. The use of microbial recombinant enzymes has broadened prospects for human therapy but some hurdles such as high immunogenicity, protein instability, short half-life and low substrate affinity, still need to be tackled. Alternative sources of enzymes, with reduced side effects and improved activity, as well as genetic modification of the enzymes and novel delivery systems are constantly searched. Chemical modification strategies, targeted- and/or nanocarrier-mediated delivery, directed evolution and site-specific mutagenesis, fusion proteins generated by genetic manipulation are the most explored tools to reduce toxicity and improve bioavailability and cellular targeting. This review provides a description of exogenous enzymes that are presently employed for the therapeutic management of human diseases with their current FDA/EMA-approved status, along with those already experimented at the clinical level and potential promising candidates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrizia Cioni
- Institute of Biophysics, National Research Council, Via Moruzzi 1, 56124 Pisa. Italy
| | - Edi Gabellieri
- Institute of Biophysics, National Research Council, Via Moruzzi 1, 56124 Pisa. Italy
| | - Barbara Campanini
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 23/A, 43124 Parma. Italy
| | - Stefano Bettati
- Institute of Biophysics, National Research Council, Via Moruzzi 1, 56124 Pisa. Italy
| | - Samanta Raboni
- Institute of Biophysics, National Research Council, Via Moruzzi 1, 56124 Pisa. Italy
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