Targeting interleukin-1β and inflammation in lung cancer

The Role of Exhaled Breath Condensate in Chronic Inflammatory and Neoplastic Diseases of the Respiratory Tract

Asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are among the most common chronic respiratory diseases. Chronic inflammation of the airways leads to an increased production of inflammatory markers by the effector cells of the respiratory tract and lung tissue. These biomarkers allow the assessment of physiological and pathological processes and responses to therapeutic interventions. Lung cancer, which is characterized by high mortality, is one of the most frequently diagnosed cancers worldwide. Current screening methods and tissue biopsies have limitations that highlight the need for rapid diagnosis, patient differentiation, and effective management and monitoring. One promising non-invasive diagnostic method for respiratory diseases is the assessment of exhaled breath condensate (EBC). EBC contains a mixture of volatile and non-volatile biomarkers such as cytokines, leukotrienes, oxidative stress markers, and molecular biomarkers, providing significant information about inflammatory and neoplastic states in the lungs. This article summarizes the research on the application and development of EBC assessment in diagnosing and monitoring respiratory diseases, focusing on asthma, COPD, and lung cancer. The process of collecting condensate, potential issues, and selected groups of markers for detailed disease assessment in the future are discussed. Further research may contribute to the development of more precise and personalized diagnostic and treatment methods.

Senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) and uterine fibroids: Association with PD-L1 activation and collagen deposition

Uterine fibroids (or uterine leiomyoma, UFs) are one of the most prevalent benign uterine tumors with high proliferation and collagen synthesis capabilities. UFs are a significant worldwide health issue for women, affecting their physical and financial well-being. Risk factors for UFs include age, racial disparities, obesity, uterine infections, hormonal variation, and lifestyle (i.e., diet, exercise, stress, and smoking). Senescence and its associated secretory phenotypes (SASPs) are among the most salient changes accompanying the aging process. As a result, SASPs are suggested to be one of the major contributors to developing UFs. Interleukin 6 (IL-6), IL-8, IL-1, chemokine ligand 20 (CCL-20), and transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) are the most prominent SASPs associated with aging. In addition, different processes contribute to UFs such as collagen deposition and the changes in the immune microenvironment. Programmed death ligand 1 is a major player in the tumor immune microenvironment, which helps tumor cells evade immune attacks. This review focuses on the correlation of SASPs on two axes of tumor progression: immune suppression and collagen deposition. This review opens the door towards more investigations regarding changes in the UF immune microenvironment and age-UFs correlation and thus, a novel targeting approach for UF treatment.

Potential therapeutic targets in myeloid cell therapy for overcoming chemoresistance and immune suppression in gastrointestinal tumors

In the tumor microenvironment (TME), myeloid cells play a pivotal role. Myeloid-derived immunosuppressive cells, including tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) and myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), are central components in shaping the immunosuppressive milieu of the tumor. Within the TME, a majority of TAMs assume an M2 phenotype, characterized by their pro-tumoral activity. These cells promote tumor cell growth, angiogenesis, invasion, and migration. In contrast, M1 macrophages, under appropriate activation conditions, exhibit cytotoxic capabilities against cancer cells. However, an excessive M1 response may lead to pro-tumoral inflammation. As a result, myeloid cells have emerged as crucial targets in cancer therapy. This review concentrates on gastrointestinal tumors, detailing methods for targeting macrophages to enhance tumor radiotherapy and immunotherapy sensitivity. We specifically delve into monocytes and tumor-associated macrophages' various functions, establishing an immunosuppressive microenvironment, promoting tumorigenic inflammation, and fostering neovascularization and stromal remodeling. Additionally, we examine combination therapeutic strategies.

Extracellular vesicles-powered immunotherapy: Unleashing the potential for safer and more effective cancer treatment

Cancer treatment has seen significant advancements with the introduction of Onco-immunotherapies (OIMTs). Although some of these therapies have received approval for use, others are either undergoing testing or are still in the early stages of development. Challenges persist in making immunotherapy widely applicable to cancer treatment. To maximize the benefits of immunotherapy and minimize potential side effects, it's essential to improve response rates across different immunotherapy methods. A promising development in this area is the use of extracellular vesicles (EVs) as novel delivery systems. These small vesicles can effectively deliver immunotherapies, enhancing their effectiveness and reducing harmful side effects. This article discusses the importance of integrating nanomedicines into OIMTs, highlighting the challenges with current anti-OIMT methods. It also explores key considerations for designing nanomedicines tailored for OIMTs, aiming to improve upon existing immunotherapy techniques. Additionally, the article looks into innovative approaches like biomimicry and the use of natural biomaterial-based nanocarriers (NCs). These advancements have the potential to transform the delivery of immunotherapy. Lastly, the article addresses the challenges of moving OIMTs from theory to clinical practice, providing insights into the future of using advanced nanotechnology in cancer treatment.

Combination of percutaneous thermal ablation and adoptive Th9 cell transfer therapy against non-small cell lung cancer

BACKGROUND

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is one of the predominant malignancies globally. Percutaneous thermal ablation (PTA) has gained widespread use among NSCLC patients, with the potential to elicit immune responses but limited therapeutic efficacies for advanced-stage disease. T-helper type 9 (Th9) cells are a subset of CD4+ effector T cells with robust and persistent anti-tumor effects. This study proposes to develop PTA-Th9 cell integrated therapy as a potential strategy for NSCLC treatment.

METHODS

The therapeutic efficacies were measured in mice models with subcutaneously transplanted, recurrence, or lung metastatic tumors. The tumor microenvironments (TMEs) were evaluated by flow cytometry. The cytokine levels were assessed by ELISA. The signaling molecules were determined by quantitative PCR and Western blotting. The translational potential was tested in the humanized NSCLC patient-derived xenograft (PDX) model.

RESULTS

We find that PTA combined with adoptive Th9 cell transfer therapy substantially suppresses tumor growth, recurrence, and lung metastasis, ultimately extending the survival of mice with NSCLC grafts, outperforming both PTA and Th9 cell transfer monotherapy. Analysis of TMEs indicates that combinatorial therapy significantly augments tumor-infiltrating Th9 cells, boosts anti-tumor effects of CD8+ T cells, and remodels tumor immunosuppressive microenvironments. Moreover, combinatorial therapy significantly strengthens the regional and circulation immune response of CD8+ T cells in mice with tumor lung metastasis and induces peripheral CD8+ T effector memory cells in mice with tumor recurrence. Mechanically, PTA reinforces the anti-tumor ability of Th9 cells primarily through upregulating interleukin (IL)-1β and subsequently activating the downstream STAT1/IRF1 pathway, which could be effectively blocked by intercepting IL-1β signaling. Finally, the enhanced therapeutic effect of combinatorial therapy is validated in humanized NSCLC PDX models.

CONCLUSIONS

Collectively, this study demonstrates that combinatorial therapy displays robust and durable anti-tumor efficacy and excellent translational potential, offering excellent prospects for translation and emerging as a promising approach for NSCLC treatment.

Clinical significance of PNO1 as a novel biomarker and therapeutic target of hepatocellular carcinoma

The RNA-binding protein PNO1 plays an essential role in ribosome biogenesis. Recent studies have shown that it is involved in tumorigenesis; however, its role in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is not well understood. The purpose of this study was to examine whether PNO1 can be used as a biomarker of HCC and also examine the therapeutic potential of PNO1 knockout for the treatment of HCC. PNO1 expression was upregulated in HCC and associated with poor prognosis. PNO1 expression was positively associated with tumour stage, lymph node metastasis and poor survival. PNO1 expression was significantly higher in HCC compared to that in fibrolamellar carcinoma or normal tissues. Furthermore, HCC tissues with mutant Tp53 expressed higher PNO1 than those with wild-type Tp53. PNO1 knockout suppressed cell viability, colony formation and EMT of HCC cells. Since activation of Notch signalling pathway promotes HCC, we measured the effects of PNO1 knockout on the components of Notch pathway and its targets. PNO1 knockout suppressed Notch signalling by modulating the expression of Notch ligands and their receptors, and downstream targets. PNO1 knockout also inhibited genes involved in surface adhesion, cell cycle, inflammation and chemotaxis. PNO1 knockout also inhibited colony and spheroid formation, cell migration and invasion, and markers of stem cells, pluripotency and EMT in CSCs. Overall, our data suggest that PNO1 can be used as a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker of HCC, and knockout of PNO1 by CRISPR/Cas9 can be beneficial for the management of HCC by targeting CSCs.

Putative Molecular Mechanisms Underpinning the Inverse Roles of Mitochondrial Respiration and Heme Function in Lung Cancer and Alzheimer's Disease

Mitochondria are the powerhouse of the cell. Mitochondria serve as the major source of oxidative stress. Impaired mitochondria produce less adenosine triphosphate (ATP) but generate more reactive oxygen species (ROS), which could be a major factor in the oxidative imbalance observed in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Well-balanced mitochondrial respiration is important for the proper functioning of cells and human health. Indeed, recent research has shown that elevated mitochondrial respiration underlies the development and therapy resistance of many types of cancer, whereas diminished mitochondrial respiration is linked to the pathogenesis of AD. Mitochondria govern several activities that are known to be changed in lung cancer, the largest cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Because of the significant dependence of lung cancer cells on mitochondrial respiration, numerous studies demonstrated that blocking mitochondrial activity is a potent strategy to treat lung cancer. Heme is a central factor in mitochondrial respiration/oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS), and its association with cancer is the subject of increased research in recent years. In neural cells, heme is a key component in mitochondrial respiration and the production of ATP. Here, we review the role of impaired heme metabolism in the etiology of AD. We discuss the numerous mitochondrial effects that may contribute to AD and cancer. In addition to emphasizing the significance of heme in the development of both AD and cancer, this review also identifies some possible biological connections between the development of the two diseases. This review explores shared biological mechanisms (Pin1, Wnt, and p53 signaling) in cancer and AD. In cancer, these mechanisms drive cell proliferation and tumorigenic functions, while in AD, they lead to cell death. Understanding these mechanisms may help advance treatments for both conditions. This review discusses precise information regarding common risk factors, such as aging, obesity, diabetes, and tobacco usage.

Mitochondria driven innate immune signaling and inflammation in cancer growth, immune evasion, and therapeutic resistance

Mitochondria play an important and multifaceted role in cellular function, catering to the cell's energy and biosynthetic requirements. They modulate apoptosis while responding to diverse extracellular and intracellular stresses including reactive oxygen species (ROS), nutrient and oxygen scarcity, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and signaling via surface death receptors. Integral components of mitochondria, such as mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), mitochondrial RNA (mtRNA), Adenosine triphosphate (ATP), cardiolipin, and formyl peptides serve as major damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs). These molecules activate multiple innate immune pathways both in the cytosol [such as Retionoic Acid-Inducible Gene-1 (RIG-1) and Cyclic GMP-AMP Synthase (cGAS)] and on the cell surface [including Toll-like receptors (TLRs)]. This activation cascade leads to the release of various cytokines, chemokines, interferons, and other inflammatory molecules and oxidative species. The innate immune pathways further induce chronic inflammation in the tumor microenvironment which either promotes survival and proliferation or promotes epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), metastasis and therapeutic resistance in the cancer cell's. Chronic activation of innate inflammatory pathways in tumors also drives immunosuppressive checkpoint expression in the cancer cells and boosts the influx of immune-suppressive populations like Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells (MDSCs) and Regulatory T cells (Tregs) in cancer. Thus, sensing of cellular stress by the mitochondria may lead to enhanced tumor growth. In addition to that, the tumor microenvironment also becomes a source of immunosuppressive cytokines. These cytokines exert a debilitating effect on the functioning of immune effector cells, and thus foster immune tolerance and facilitate immune evasion. Here we describe how alteration of the mitochondrial homeostasis and cellular stress drives innate inflammatory pathways in the tumor microenvironment.

EZH2 Inhibition Promotes Tumor Immunogenicity in Lung Squamous Cell Carcinomas

Two important factors that contribute to resistance to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) are an immune-suppressive microenvironment and limited antigen presentation by tumor cells. In this study, we examine whether inhibition of the methyltransferase enhancer of zeste 2 (EZH2) can increase ICI response in lung squamous cell carcinomas (LSCC). Our in vitro experiments using two-dimensional human cancer cell lines as well as three-dimensional murine and patient-derived organoids treated with two inhibitors of the EZH2 plus IFNγ showed that EZH2 inhibition leads to expression of both MHC class I and II (MHCI/II) expression at both the mRNA and protein levels. Chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing confirmed loss of EZH2-mediated histone marks and gain of activating histone marks at key loci. Furthermore, we demonstrate strong tumor control in models of both autochthonous and syngeneic LSCC treated with anti-PD1 immunotherapy with EZH2 inhibition. Single-cell RNA sequencing and immune cell profiling demonstrated phenotypic changes toward more tumor suppressive phenotypes in EZH2 inhibitor-treated tumors. These results indicate that EZH2 inhibitors could increase ICI responses in patients undergoing treatment for LSCC.

SIGNIFICANCE

The data described here show that inhibition of the epigenetic enzyme EZH2 allows derepression of multiple immunogenicity factors in LSCC, and that EZH2 inhibition alters myeloid cells in vivo. These data support clinical translation of this combination therapy for treatment of this deadly tumor type.

Impact of IL-6 and IL-1β Gene Variants on Non-small-cell Lung Cancer Risk in Egyptian Patients

Lung cancer is a serious health and life issue, with the fastest-growing incidence and fatality rates worldwide. It is now clear that inflammation is a key factor involved in all aspects of carcinogenesis, notably lung cancer development. Genetic changes, including polymorphisms in inflammatory genes, are supposed to be a significant cause of increased lung cancer risk. The main idea of this research was to disclose the linkage between both IL-6 rs1800795 and IL-1β rs16944 variants and susceptibility to non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in Egyptians. This case-control design was composed of 127 cases and 138 controls, which were genotyped using the ARMS-PCR technique. To examine the NSCLC susceptibility under various genetic models, the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were determined by logistic regression. Rs1800795 of the IL-6 gene was linked to higher odds of NSCLC under the allele model (adjusted, OR 2.28; 95% CI 1.2-4.33; p = 0.011). In the genetic models, IL-6 rs1800795 elevated the odds of NSCLC, while IL-1β rs16944 decreased the odds of NSCLC. Stratification analysis showed that IL-6 rs1800795 greatly increased the NSCLC risk in females and adenocarcinoma subtypes, whereas IL-1β rs16944 largely decreased the NSCLC risk for males, patients aged < 55, and nonsmokers. Regarding clinical data, the IL-6 variant was remarkably correlated with tumor size. This work primarily established that IL-6 and IL-1β variants have a great impact on NSCLC development in the Egyptian population; thus, it may be a supportive guide for earlier NSCLC prevention.

Exosomal non-coding RNAs: Blueprint in colorectal cancer metastasis and therapeutic targets

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is ranked as the world's third-most prevalent cancer, and metastatic CRC considerably increases cancer-related fatalities globally. A number of complex mechanisms that are strictly controlled at the molecular level are involved in metastasis, which is the primary reason for death in people with CRC. Recently, it has become clear that exosomes, which are small extracellular vesicles released by non-tumorous and tumorigenic cells, play a critical role as communication mediators among tumor microenvironment (TME). To facilitate communication between the TME and cancer cells, non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) play a crucial role and are recognized as potent regulators of gene expression and cellular processes, such as metastasis and drug resistance. NcRNAs are now recognized as potent regulators of gene expression and many hallmarks of cancer, including metastasis. Exosomal ncRNAs, like miRNAs, circRNAs, and lncRNAs, have been demonstrated to influence a number of cellular mechanisms that contribute to CRC metastasis. However, the molecular mechanisms that link exosomal ncRNAs with CRC metastasis are not well understood. This review highlights the essential roles that exosomal ncRNAs play in the progression of CRC metastatic disease and explores the therapeutic choices that are open to patients who have CRC metastases. However, exosomal ncRNA treatment strategy development is still in its early phases; consequently, additional investigation is required to improve delivery methods and find novel therapeutic targets as well as confirm the effectiveness and safety of these therapies in preclinical and clinical contexts.

Tumor-associated neutrophils upregulate PANoptosis to foster an immunosuppressive microenvironment of non-small cell lung cancer

Tumor microenvironment (TME) cells orchestrate an immunosuppressive milieu that supports cancer cell proliferation. Tumor-associated neutrophils (TANs) have gained attention as inflammation biomarkers. However, the role of heterogeneous TAN populations in TME immune tolerance and their clinical potential remain unclear. Herein, we used public database to conduct single-cell transcriptomic analysis of 81 patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) to elucidate TAN phenotypes linked to unfavorable clinical outcomes. We identified a pro-tumoral TAN cluster characterized by elevated HMGB1 expression, which could potentially engage with the TME through HMGB1-TIM-3 interaction. GATA2 was the transcription factor that drove HMGB1 expression in this pro-tumoral TAN subcluster. Further in vivo experiments confirmed the recruitment of HMGB1-positive TANs to the tumor lesion. Dual-luciferase reporter assays consolidated that the transcription factor GATA2 mediated HMGB1 expression by binding to its promoter region. Moreover, surgical NSCLC specimens verified the putative association between HMGB1-positive TAN and the pathological grades of primary tumors. Overall, this report revealed a pro-tumoral TAN cluster with HMGB1 overexpression that potentially dampen anti-tumoral immunity and contributed to immune evasion via the GATA2/HMGB1/TIM-3 axis. Moreover, this report suggests that this specific phenotype of TAN could serve as an indicator to clinical outcomes and immunotherapy effects for NSCLC.

Patient Preferences for Lung Cancer Interception Therapy

Importance

Interception therapy requires individuals to undergo treatment to prevent a future medical event, but little is known about preferences of individuals at high risk for lung cancer and whether they would be interested in this type of treatment.

Objective

To explore preferences of individuals at high risk for lung cancer for potential interception therapies to reduce this risk.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This survey study used a discrete-choice experiment and included hypothetical lung cancer interception treatments with 4 attributes: reduction in lung cancer risk over 3 years, injection site reaction severity, nonfatal serious infection, and death from serious infection. Respondents were assigned to a baseline lung cancer risk of 6%, 10%, or 16% over 3 years. The discrete-choice experiment was administered online (July 13 to September 6, 2022) to US respondents eligible for lung cancer screening according to US Preventive Services Task Force guidelines. Participants included adults aged 50 to 80 years with at least a 20 pack-year smoking history. Statistical analysis was performed from September to December 2022.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Attribute-level preference weights were estimated, and conditional relative attribute importance, maximum acceptable risks, and minimum acceptable benefits were calculated. Characteristics of respondents who always selected no treatment were also explored.

Results

Of the 803 survey respondents, 495 (61.6%) were female, 138 (17.2%) were African American or Black, 55 (6.8%) were Alaska Native, American Indian, or Native American, 44 (5.5%) were Asian or Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander, 104 (13.0%) were Hispanic, Latin American, or Latinx, and 462 (57.5%) were White, Middle Eastern or North African, or a race or ethnicity not listed; and mean (SD) age was 63.0 (7.5) years. Most respondents were willing to accept interception therapy and viewed reduction in lung cancer risk as the most important attribute. Respondents would accept a greater than or equal to a 12.0 percentage point increase in risk of nonfatal serious infection if lung cancer risk was reduced by at least 20.0 percentage points; and a greater than or equal to 1.2 percentage point increase in risk of fatal serious infection if lung cancer risk was reduced by at least 30.0 percentage points. Respondents would require at least a 15.4 (95% CI, 10.6-20.2) percentage point decrease in lung cancer risk to accept a 12.0 percentage point increase in risk of nonfatal serious infection; and at least a 23.1 (95% CI, 16.4-29.8) percentage point decrease in lung cancer risk to accept a 1.2 percentage point increase in risk of death from serious infection. Respondents who were unwilling to accept interception therapy in any question (129 [16.1%]) were more likely to be older and to currently smoke with no prior cessation attempt, and less likely to have been vaccinated against COVID-19 or examined for skin cancer.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this survey study of individuals at high risk of lung cancer, most respondents were willing to consider interception therapy. These results suggest the importance of benefit-risk assessments for future lung cancer interception treatments.

Extracellular vesicle-based drug delivery in cancer immunotherapy

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are a group of nanoscale membrane-bound organelles including exosomes, microvesicles (MVs), membrane particles, and apoptotic bodies, which are released from almost all eukaryotic cells. Owing to their ingredients, EVs can be employed as biomarkers for human diseases. Interestingly, EVs show favorable features as candidates for targeted drug delivery and thus, they are suggested as ideal drug carriers as well as good vaccines for various human diseases including cancer. Among various drugs loaded in EVs for targeted drug delivery, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), including antibodies against programmed cell death-1 (PD-1), programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1), and cytotoxic-T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA-4), have attracted an increasing attention for cancer researchers and clinicians. Animal and clinical studies have shown combination of EVs and immunotherapy antibodies to improve the efficacy and reduce possible side effects in systemic administration of ICIs. In this review, we discuss the EVs and their significance in drug delivery with a focus on cancer immunotherapy agents.

HHV-6A Infection of Papillary Thyroid Cancer Cells Induces Several Effects Related to Cancer Progression

Recent studies have shown that thyrocytes are permissive to HHV-6A infection and that the virus may contribute to the pathogenesis of autoimmune thyroiditis. Thyroid autoimmune diseases increase the risk of papillary cancer, which is not surprising considering that chronic inflammation activates pathways that are also pro-oncogenic. Moreover, in this condition, cell proliferation is stimulated as an attempt to repair tissue damage caused by the inflammatory process. Interestingly, it has been reported that the well-differentiated papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC), the less aggressive form of thyroid tumor, may progress to the more aggressive follicular thyroid carcinoma (FTC) and eventually to the anaplastic thyroid carcinoma (ATC), and that to such progression contributes the presence of an inflammatory/immune suppressive tumor microenvironment. In this study, we investigated whether papillary tumor cells (BCPAP) could be infected by human herpes virus-6A (HHV-6A), and if viral infection could induce effects related to cancer progression. We found that the virus dysregulated the expression of several microRNAs, such as miR-155, miR-9, and the miR-221/222 cluster, which are involved in different steps of carcinogenesis, and increased the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines, particularly IL-6, which may also sustain thyroid tumor cell growth and promote cancer progression. Genomic instability and the expression of PTEN, reported to act as an oncogene in mutp53-carrying cells such as BCPAP, also increased following HHV-6A-infection. These findings suggest that a ubiquitous herpesvirus such as HHV-6A, which displays a marked tropism for thyrocytes, could be involved in the progression of PTC towards more aggressive forms of thyroid tumor.

Systems Biology and Cytokines Potential Role in Lung Cancer Immunotherapy Targeting Autophagic Axis

Lung cancer accounts for the highest number of deaths among men and women worldwide. Although extensive therapies, either alone or in conjunction with some specific drugs, continue to be the principal regimen for evolving lung cancer, significant improvements are still needed to understand the inherent biology behind progressive inflammation and its detection. Unfortunately, despite every advancement in its treatment, lung cancer patients display different growth mechanisms and continue to die at significant rates. Autophagy, which is a physiological defense mechanism, serves to meet the energy demands of nutrient-deprived cancer cells and sustain the tumor cells under stressed conditions. In contrast, autophagy is believed to play a dual role during different stages of tumorigenesis. During early stages, it acts as a tumor suppressor, degrading oncogenic proteins; however, during later stages, autophagy supports tumor cell survival by minimizing stress in the tumor microenvironment. The pivotal role of the IL6-IL17-IL23 signaling axis has been observed to trigger autophagic events in lung cancer patients. Since the obvious roles of autophagy are a result of different immune signaling cascades, systems biology can be an effective tool to understand these interconnections and enhance cancer treatment and immunotherapy. In this review, we focus on how systems biology can be exploited to target autophagic processes that resolve inflammatory responses and contribute to better treatment in carcinogenesis.

Sanikovich V, S. Rusanov A, N. Pirogova Y, Boroda A, Rozhkov A, Kemfang Ngowa JD, N. Bagmet L, I. Sekacheva M. Angiogenesis in Lung Cancer: Understanding the Roles of Growth Factors

Research has shown the role of growth factors in lung cancer angiogenesis. Angiogenesis promotes lung cancer progression by stimulating tumor growth, enhancing tumor invasion, contributing to metastasis, and modifying immune system responses within the tumor microenvironment. As a result, new treatment techniques based on the anti-angiogenic characteristics of compounds have been developed. These compounds selectively block the growth factors themselves, their receptors, or the downstream signaling pathways activated by these growth factors. The EGF and VEGF families are the primary targets in this approach, and several studies are being conducted to propose anti-angiogenic drugs that are increasingly suitable for the treatment of lung cancer, either as monotherapy or as combined therapy. The efficacy of the results are encouraging, but caution must be placed on the higher risk of toxicity, outlining the importance of personalized follow-up in the management of these patients.

Combined dandelion extract and all-trans retinoic acid induces cytotoxicity in human breast cancer cells

Breast cancer is one of the most prevalent and deadly cancers among women worldwide. Recently, natural compounds have been widely used for the treatment of breast cancer. Present study evaluated antiproliferative and anti-metastasis activities of two natural compounds of dandelion and all-trans-retinoic acid (ATRA) in human MCF-7 and MDA-MB231 breast cancer cells. We also evaluated the expression of MMP-2, MMP-9, IL-1β, p53, NM23 and KAI1 genes. Data showed a clear additive cytotoxic effect in concentrations of 40 μM ATRA with 1.5 and 4 mg/ml of dandelion extract in MCF-7 and MDA-MB231 cells, respectively. In both cell lines, compared with the untreated cells, the expression levels of MMP-9 and IL-1β were significantly decreased while p53 and KAI1 expression levels were increased. Besides, MMP-2 and NM23 had different expressions in the two studied cell lines. In conclusion, dandelion/ATRA co-treatment, in addition to having strong cytotoxic effects, has putative effects on the expression of anti-metastatic genes in both breast cancer cells.

Comprehensive Review: Unveiling the Pro-Oncogenic Roles of IL-1ß and PD-1/PD-L1 in NSCLC Development and Targeting Their Pathways for Clinical Management

In the past decade, targeted therapies for solid tumors, including non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), have advanced significantly, offering tailored treatment options for patients. However, individuals without targetable mutations pose a clinical challenge, as they may not respond to standard treatments like immune-checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and novel targeted therapies. While the mechanism of action of ICIs seems promising, the lack of a robust response limits their widespread use. Although the expression levels of programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) on tumor cells are used to predict ICI response, identifying new biomarkers, particularly those associated with the tumor microenvironment (TME), is crucial to address this unmet need. Recently, inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) have emerged as a key area of focus and hold significant potential implications for future clinical practice. Combinatorial approaches of IL-1β inhibitors and ICIs may provide a potential therapeutic modality for NSCLC patients without targetable mutations. Recent advancements in our understanding of the intricate relationship between inflammation and oncogenesis, particularly involving the IL-1β/PD-1/PD-L1 pathway, have shed light on their application in lung cancer development and clinical outcomes of patients. Targeting these pathways in cancers like NSCLC holds immense potential to revolutionize cancer treatment, particularly for patients lacking targetable genetic mutations. However, despite these promising prospects, there remain certain aspects of this pathway that require further investigation, particularly regarding treatment resistance. Therefore, the objective of this review is to delve into the role of IL-1β in NSCLC, its participation in inflammatory pathways, and its intricate crosstalk with the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway. Additionally, we aim to explore the potential of IL-1β as a therapeutic target for NSCLC treatment.

Impact of diabetes on stage I lung cancer treatment patterns and prognosis in older adults: A population-based cohort study

Background

Diabetes is a common comorbidity in patients with early-stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), a growing population due to increased LC screening. However, it is unknown if diabetes is associated with less aggressive NSCLC treatment and worse NSCLC outcomes. This study aimed to investigate treatment patterns and outcomes of older patients with Stage I NSCLC and diabetes.

Methods

Using national cancer registry data linked to Medicare, we identified patients ≥65 years old with Stage I NSCLC. Patients were categorized as having no diabetes, diabetes without severe complications (DM-c), or diabetes with ≥1 severe complication (DM + c). We used multinomial logistic regression to assess the association of diabetes and NSCLC treatment. The association of diabetes category with NSCLC and non-NSCLC survival was analyzed with Fine-Grey competing-risks regression.

Results

In 25,358 patients (75% no diabetes, 12% DM-c and 13% had DM + c), adjusted analyses showed that DM-c and DM + c were associated with increased odds of receiving limited resection rather than lobectomy (odds ratio [OR]: 1.22, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.07-1.37 and OR 1.42, 95% CI 1.26-1.59, respectively). Competing risk regression showed diabetes was associated with increased risk of non-NSCLC death (DM-c hazard ratio [HR] 1.16, 95% CI: 1.08-1.25, DM + c HR 1.49, 95% CI: 1.40-1.59), but not NSCLC-specific death.

Conclusion

This study uncovers critical information on how diabetes is associated with less aggressive early-stage NSCLC care in older patients. This study also confirms that diabetes increases death from non-lung cancer causes and managing comorbidities is crucial to improving outcomes in older early-stage NSCLC survivors.

EZH2 inhibition promotes tumor immunogenicity in lung squamous cell carcinomas

Two important factors that contribute to resistance to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are an immune-suppressive microenvironment and limited antigen presentation by tumor cells. In this study, we examine if inhibition of the methyltransferase EZH2 can increase ICI response in lung squamous cell carcinomas (LSCCs). Our in vitro experiments using 2D human cancer cell lines as well as 3D murine and patient derived organoids treated with two inhibitors of the EZH2 plus interferon-γ (IFNγ) showed that EZH2 inhibition leads to expression of both major histocompatibility complex class I and II (MHCI/II) expression at both the mRNA and protein levels. ChIP-sequencing confirmed loss of EZH2-mediated histone marks and gain of activating histone marks at key loci. Further, we demonstrate strong tumor control in models of both autochthonous and syngeneic LSCC treated with anti-PD1 immunotherapy with EZH2 inhibition. Single-cell RNA sequencing and immune cell profiling demonstrated phenotypic changes towards more tumor suppressive phenotypes in EZH2 inhibitor treated tumors. These results indicate that this therapeutic modality could increase ICI responses in patients undergoing treatment for LSCC.

Lung inflammation perturbation by engineered nanoparticles

In recent years, the unique and diverse physicochemical properties of nanoparticles have brought about their wide use in many fields; however, it is necessary to better understand the possible human health risks caused by their release in the environment. Although the adverse health effects of nanoparticles have been proposed and are still being clarified, their effects on lung health have not been fully studied. In this review, we focus on the latest research progress on the pulmonary toxic effects of nanoparticles, and we summarized their disturbance of the pulmonary inflammatory response. First, the activation of lung inflammation by nanoparticles was reviewed. Second, we discussed how further exposure to nanoparticles aggravated the ongoing lung inflammation. Third, we summarized the inhibition of the ongoing lung inflammation by nanoparticles loaded with anti-inflammatory drugs. Forth, we introduced how the physicochemical properties of nanoparticles affect the related pulmonary inflammatory disturbance. Finally, we discussed the main gaps in current research and the challenges and countermeasures in future research.

Dismantling the tumoral cloak of self-protection

Tumors protect themselves from immune clearance by promoting extramedullary hematopoiesis. A new study in PLOS Biology provides insights into the mechanisms underlying this process, which may hold the key to disrupting generation of the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment.

Molecules promoting circulating clusters of cancer cells suggest novel therapeutic targets for treatment of metastatic cancers

Treatment of metastatic disease remains among the most challenging tasks in oncology. One of the early events that predicts a poor prognosis and precedes the development of metastasis is the occurrence of clusters of cancer cells in the blood flow. Moreover, the presence of heterogeneous clusters of cancerous and noncancerous cells in the circulation is even more dangerous. Review of pathological mechanisms and biological molecules directly involved in the formation and pathogenesis of the heterotypic circulating tumor cell (CTC) clusters revealed their common properties, which include increased adhesiveness, combined epithelial-mesenchymal phenotype, CTC-white blood cell interaction, and polyploidy. Several molecules involved in the heterotypic CTC interactions and their metastatic properties, including IL6R, CXCR4 and EPCAM, are targets of approved or experimental anticancer drugs. Accordingly, analysis of patient survival data from the published literature and public datasets revealed that the expression of several molecules affecting the formation of CTC clusters predicts patient survival in multiple cancer types. Thus, targeting of molecules involved in CTC heterotypic interactions might be a valuable strategy for the treatment of metastatic cancers.

Sorafenib Alleviates Inflammatory Signaling of Tumor Microenvironment in Precancerous Lung Injuries

According to population-based studies, lung cancer is the prominent reason for cancer-related mortality worldwide in males and is also rising in females at an alarming rate. Sorafenib (SOR), which is approved for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma and renal cell carcinoma, is a multitargeted protein kinase inhibitor. Additionally, SOR is the subject of interest for preclinical and clinical trials in lung cancer. This study was designed to assess in vivo the possible effects of sorafenib (SOR) in diethylnitrosamine (DEN)-induced lung carcinogenesis and examine its probable mechanisms of action. A total of 30 adult male rats were divided into three groups (1) control, (2) DEN, and (3) DEN + SOR. The chemical induction of lung carcinogenesis was performed by injection of DEN intraperitoneally at 150 mg/kg once a week for two weeks. The DEN-administered rats were co-treated with SOR of 10 mg/kg by oral gavage for 42 alternate days. Serum and lung tissue samples were analyzed to determine SRY-box transcription factor 2 (SOX-2) levels. The tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) levels were measured in lung tissue supernatants. Lung sections were analyzed for cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) histopathologically. In addition, cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) were analyzed by immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence methods, respectively. SOR reduced the level of SOX-2 that maintenance of cancer stemness and tumorigenicity, and TNF-α and IL-1β levels. Histopathological analysis demonstrated widespread inflammatory cell infiltration, disorganized alveolar structure, hyperemia in the vessels, and thickened alveolar walls in DEN-induced rats. The damage was markedly reduced upon SOR treatment. Further, immunohistochemical and immunofluorescence analysis also revealed increased expression of COX-2 and JNK expression in DEN-intoxicated rats. However, SOR treatment alleviated the expression of these inflammatory markers in DEN-induced lung carcinogenesis. These findings suggested that SOR inhibits DEN-induced lung precancerous lesions through decreased inflammation with concomitant in reduced SOX-2 levels, which enables the maintenance of cancer stem cell properties.

Long-term exposure to house dust mites accelerates lung cancer development in mice

BACKGROUND

Individuals with certain chronic inflammatory lung diseases have a higher risk of developing lung cancer (LC). However, the underlying mechanisms remain largely unknown. Here, we hypothesized that chronic exposure to house dust mites (HDM), a common indoor aeroallergen associated with the development of asthma, accelerates LC development through the induction of chronic lung inflammation (CLI).  METHODS: The effects of HDM and heat-inactivated HDM (HI-HDM) extracts were evaluated in two preclinical mouse models of LC (a chemically-induced model using the carcinogen urethane and a genetically-driven model with oncogenic KrasG12D activation in lung epithelial cells) and on murine macrophages in vitro. Pharmacological blockade or genetic deletion of the Nod-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome, caspase-1, interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and C-C motif chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2) or treatment with an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) was used to uncover the pro-tumorigenic effect of HDM.  RESULTS: Chronic intranasal (i.n) instillation of HDM accelerated LC development in the two mouse models. Mechanistically, HDM caused a particular subtype of CLI, in which the NLRP3/IL-1β signaling pathway is chronically activated in macrophages, and made the lung microenvironment conducive to tumor development. The tumor-promoting effect of HDM was significantly decreased by heat treatment of the HDM extract and was inhibited by NLRP3, IL-1β, and CCL2 neutralization, or ICS treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Collectively, these data indicate that long-term exposure to HDM can accelerate lung tumorigenesis in susceptible hosts (e.g., mice and potentially humans exposed to lung carcinogens or genetically predisposed to develop LC).

Inhibition of ribosome assembly factor PNO1 by CRISPR/Cas9 technique suppresses lung adenocarcinoma and Notch pathway: Clinical application

Growth is crucially controlled by the functional ribosomes available in cells. To meet the enhanced energy demand, cancer cells re-wire and increase their ribosome biogenesis. The RNA-binding protein PNO1, a ribosome assembly factor, plays an essential role in ribosome biogenesis. The purpose of this study was to examine whether PNO1 can be used as a biomarker for lung adenocarcinoma and also examine the molecular mechanisms by which PNO1 knockdown by CRISPR/Cas9 inhibited growth and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). The expression of PNO1 was significantly higher in lung adenocarcinoma compared to normal lung tissues. PNO1 expression in lung adenocarcinoma patients increased with stage, nodal metastasis, and smoking. Lung adenocarcinoma tissues from males expressed higher PNO1 than those from females. Furthermore, lung adenocarcinoma tissues with mutant Tp53 expressed higher PNO1 than those with wild-type Tp53, suggesting the influence of Tp53 status on PNO1 expression. PNO1 knockdown inhibited cell viability, colony formation, and EMT, and induced apoptosis. Since dysregulated signalling through the Notch receptors promotes lung adenocarcinoma, we measured the effects of PNO1 inhibition on the Notch pathway. PNO1 knockdown inhibited Notch signalling by suppressing the expression of Notch receptors, their ligands, and downstream targets. PNO1 knockdown also suppressed CCND1, p21, PTGS-2, IL-1α, IL-8, and CXCL-8 genes. Overall, our data suggest that PNO1 can be used as a diagnostic biomarker, and also can be an attractive therapeutic target for the treatment of lung adenocarcinoma.

Insights and Strategies of Melanoma Immunotherapy: Predictive Biomarkers of Response and Resistance and Strategies to Improve Response Rates

Despite the recent successes and durable responses with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI), many cancer patients, including those with melanoma, do not derive long-term benefits from ICI therapies. The lack of predictive biomarkers to stratify patients to targeted treatments has been the driver of primary treatment failure and represents an unmet medical need in melanoma and other cancers. Understanding genomic correlations with response and resistance to ICI will enhance cancer patients' benefits. Building on insights into interplay with the complex tumor microenvironment (TME), the ultimate goal should be assessing how the tumor 'instructs' the local immune system to create its privileged niche with a focus on genomic reprogramming within the TME. It is hypothesized that this genomic reprogramming determines the response to ICI. Furthermore, emerging genomic signatures of ICI response, including those related to neoantigens, antigen presentation, DNA repair, and oncogenic pathways, are gaining momentum. In addition, emerging data suggest a role for checkpoint regulators, T cell functionality, chromatin modifiers, and copy-number alterations in mediating the selective response to ICI. As such, efforts to contextualize genomic correlations with response into a more insightful understanding of tumor immune biology will help the development of novel biomarkers and therapeutic strategies to overcome ICI resistance.

The Educational Program of Macrophages toward a Hyperprogressive Disease-Related Phenotype Is Orchestrated by Tumor-Derived Extracellular Vesicles

Hyperprogressive disease (HPD), an aggressive acceleration of tumor growth, was observed in a group of cancer patients treated with anti-PD1/PDL1 antibodies. The presence of a peculiar macrophage subset in the tumor microenvironment is reported to be a sort of "immunological prerequisite" for HPD development. These macrophages possess a unique phenotype that it is not clear how they acquire. We hypothesized that certain malignant cells may promote the induction of an "HPD-related" phenotype in macrophages. Bone-marrow-derived macrophages were exposed to the conditioned medium of five non-small cell lung cancer cell lines. Macrophage phenotype was analyzed by microarray gene expression profile and real-time PCR. We found that human NSCLC cell lines, reported as undergoing HPD-like tumor growth in immunodeficient mice, polarized macrophages towards a peculiar pro-inflammatory phenotype sharing both M1 and M2 features. Lipid-based factors contained in cancer cell-conditioned medium induced the over-expression of several pro-inflammatory cytokines and the activation of innate immune receptor signaling pathways. We also determined that tumor-derived Extracellular Vesicles represent the main components involved in the observed macrophage re-education program. The present study might represent the starting point for the future development of diagnostic tools to identify potential hyperprogressors.

(-)-Epigallocatechin-3-Gallate Prevents IL-1β-Induced uPAR Expression and Invasiveness via the Suppression of NF-κB and AP-1 in Human Bladder Cancer Cells

(-)-Epigallocatechin-3-O-gallate (EGCG), a primary green tea polyphenol, has powerful iron scavengers, belongs to the family of flavonoids with antioxidant properties, and can be used to prevent cancer. Urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptors (uPARs) are glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored cell membrane receptors that have crucial roles in cell invasion and metastasis of several cancers including bladder cancer. The mechanism of action of EGCG on uPAR expression has not been reported clearly yet. In this study, we investigated the effect of EGCG on interleukin (IL)-1β-induced cell invasion and uPAR activity in T24 human bladder cancer cells. Interestingly, nuclear factor (NF)-κB and activator protein (AP)-1 transcription factors were critically required for IL-1β-induced high uPAR expression, and EGCG suppressed the transcriptional activity of both the ERK1/2 and JNK signaling pathways with the AP-1 subunit c-Jun. EGCG blocked the IL-1β-stimulated reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, in turn suppressing NF-κB signaling and anti-invasion effects by inhibiting uPAR expression. These results suggest that EGCG may exert at least part of its anticancer effect by controlling uPAR expression through the suppression of ERK1/2, JNK, AP-1, and NF-κB.

The effects of glucocorticoids and immunosuppressants on cancer outcomes in checkpoint inhibitor therapy

The emergence of checkpoint inhibitors has created a paradigm shift for the treatment of various malignancies. However, although these therapies are associated with improved survival rates, they also carry the risk of immune-related adverse events (irAEs). Moderate to severe irAEs are typically treated with glucocorticoids, sometimes with the addition of immunosuppressants as steroid-sparing therapy. However, it is unclear how glucocorticoids and immunosuppressants may impact cancer survival and the efficacy of immune checkpoint therapy on cancer. In this narrative review, we discuss the effects of glucocorticoids and immunosuppressants including methotrexate, hydroxychloroquine, azathioprine, mycophenolate mofetil, tumor-necrosis factor (TNF)-inhibitors, interleukin-6 inhibitors, interleukin-1 inhibitors, abatacept, rituximab, and Janus kinase inhibitors (JAKi) on cancer-specific outcomes in the setting of immune checkpoint inhibitor use.

Characterization of ENM Dynamic Dose-Dependent MOA in Lung with Respect to Immune Cells Infiltration

The molecular effects of exposures to engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) are still largely unknown. In classical inhalation toxicology, cell composition of bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) is a toxicity indicator at the lung tissue level that can aid in interpreting pulmonary histological changes. Toxicogenomic approaches help characterize the mechanism of action (MOA) of ENMs by investigating the differentially expressed genes (DEG). However, dissecting which molecular mechanisms and events are directly induced by the exposure is not straightforward. It is now generally accepted that direct effects follow a monotonic dose-dependent pattern. Here, we applied an integrated modeling approach to study the MOA of four ENMs by retrieving the DEGs that also show a dynamic dose-dependent profile (dddtMOA). We further combined the information of the dddtMOA with the dose dependency of four immune cell populations derived from BAL counts. The dddtMOA analysis highlighted the specific adaptation pattern to each ENM. Furthermore, it revealed the distinct effect of the ENM physicochemical properties on the induced immune response. Finally, we report three genes dose-dependent in all the exposures and correlated with immune deregulation in the lung. The characterization of dddtMOA for ENM exposures, both for apical endpoints and molecular responses, can further promote toxicogenomic approaches in a regulatory context.

In Vitro and In Vivo Anticancer Activity of Basil (Ocimum spp.): Current Insights and Future Prospects

Simple Summary

Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is a medicinal herb of the family Lamiaceae that contains a variety of potential bioactive compounds, such as polyphenols, flavonoids, phenolics, and essential oils. Ocimum basilicum can boost phagocytic action of neutrophils and immunostimulant effect, antimicrobial activity due to linalool by having inhibitory action toward all tested microorganism, and additionally, rosmarinic acid shows inhibition in DNA synthesis, as well as protein synthesis when experimented on hepatoma-derived cell line (HepG2), this resulted by lower DNA fragments plus suppression on caspase-3 activation, which blocks apoptosis. The aim of this review is to spotlight and discuss the anti-cancer activity of basil (Ocimum) and its implications in cancer prevention and treatment. Antioxidants and other bioactive compounds in basil leaves show important potential anti-cancer activity regards to cell death and viability inhibition, cytotoxicity, inducing apoptosis, slowing down tumor growth and especially on cell cycle arrest both in vivo and in vitro.

Abstract

Background: Cancer is an irregular proliferation of cells that starts with a gene mutation that alters cellular function, is triggered by several factors, and can be inherited or acquired. The aim of this review is to discuss the anticancer activity of basil and its components’ strength, focusing on its implication in cancer prevention and treatment. Methods: This systematic review involves all of the studies published from 1 January 2010 through 1 January 2022. Results: In this review, 16 research articles are included to discuss the potential anticancer ability of the extracts of various Ocimum basilicum varieties at various dosages, applied to different cancer cells. Of those 16 articles, 2 were in vivo studies, 13 were in vitro studies, and 1 study conducted both in vivo and in vitro experiments. Antioxidants and other bioactive compounds in basil leaves show important potential anticancer activity at dosage of 4 mg/mL as aqueous extract or essential oil up to 200 µg/mL could slow-down tumor growth and progression with regards to cell death and viability inhibition. At dosages from 50 to 500 µg/mL is effective as anti-proliferative activities. cytotoxicity, inducing apoptosis, slowing down tumor growth, and especially cell cycle arrest, both in vivo and in vitro. Human studies show effects at dosages from 1 to 2.5 mg/daily on general vital activities and on reducing cytokines activity. Conclusions: Based on 16 published studies, basil demonstrates important anticancer activities in vivo and vitro models, and it could act as a potential cancer.

Cytokines: Can Cancer Get the Message?

Simple Summary

Cytokines are important molecular players in cancer development, progression, and potential targets for treatment. Despite being small and overlooked, research has revealed that cytokines influence cancer biology in multiple ways. Cytokines are often found to contribute to immune function, cell damage, inflammation, angiogenesis, metastasis, and several other cellular processes important to tumor survival. Cytokines have also proven to have powerful effects on complex tumor microenvironment molecular biology and microbiology. Due to their heavy involvement in critical cancer-related processes, cytokines have also become attractive therapeutic targets for cancer treatment. In this review, we describe the relationship between several cytokines and crucial cancer-promoting processes and their therapeutic potential.

Abstract

Cytokines are small molecular messengers that have profound effects on cancer development. Increasing evidence shows that cytokines are heavily involved in regulating both pro- and antitumor activities, such as immune activation and suppression, inflammation, cell damage, angiogenesis, cancer stem-cell-like cell maintenance, invasion, and metastasis. Cytokines are often required to drive these cancer-related processes and, therefore, represent an important research area for understanding cancer development and the potential identification of novel therapeutic targets. Interestingly, some cytokines are reported to be related to both pro- and anti-tumorigenicity, indicating that cytokines may play several complex roles relating to cancer pathogenesis. In this review, we discuss some major cancer-related processes and their relationship with several cytokines.