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Guillard J, Schwörer S. Metabolic control of collagen synthesis. Matrix Biol 2024; 133:43-56. [PMID: 39084474 PMCID: PMC11402592 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2024.07.003] [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: 05/26/2024] [Revised: 07/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/26/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) is present in all tissues and crucial in maintaining normal tissue homeostasis and function. Defects in ECM synthesis and remodeling can lead to various diseases, while overproduction of ECM components can cause severe conditions like organ fibrosis and influence cancer progression and therapy resistance. Collagens are the most abundant core ECM proteins in physiological and pathological conditions and are predominantly synthesized by fibroblasts. Previous efforts to target aberrant collagen synthesis in fibroblasts by inhibiting pro-fibrotic signaling cascades have been ineffective. More recently, metabolic rewiring downstream of pro-fibrotic signaling has emerged as a critical regulator of collagen synthesis in fibroblasts. Here, we propose that targeting the metabolic pathways involved in ECM biomass generation provides a novel avenue for treating conditions characterized by excessive collagen accumulation. This review summarizes the unique metabolic challenges collagen synthesis imposes on fibroblasts and discusses how underlying metabolic networks could be exploited to create therapeutic opportunities in cancer and fibrotic disease. Finally, we provide a perspective on open questions in the field and how conceptual and technical advances will help address them to unlock novel metabolic vulnerabilities of collagen synthesis in fibroblasts and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julien Guillard
- Section of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Biological Sciences Division, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Simon Schwörer
- Section of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Biological Sciences Division, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA; Committee on Cancer Biology, Committee on Molecular Metabolism and Nutrition, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA.
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2
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Wu C, Zhai Y, Ji J, Yang X, Ye L, Lu G, Shi X, Zhai G. Advances in tumor stroma-based targeted delivery. Int J Pharm 2024; 664:124580. [PMID: 39142464 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2024.124580] [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: 05/13/2024] [Revised: 08/06/2024] [Accepted: 08/10/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024]
Abstract
The tumor stroma plays a crucial role in tumor progression, and the interactions between the extracellular matrix, tumor cells, and stromal cells collectively influence tumor progression and the efficacy of therapeutic agents. Currently, utilizing components of the tumor stroma for drug delivery is a noteworthy strategy. A number of targeted drug delivery systems designed based on tumor stromal components are entering clinical trials. Therefore, this paper provides a thorough examination of the function of tumor stroma in the advancement of targeted drug delivery systems. One approach is to use tumor stromal components for targeted drug delivery, which includes certain stromal components possessing inherent targeting capabilities like HA, laminin, along with targeting stromal cells homologously. Another method entails directly focusing on tumor stromal components to reshape the tumor stroma and facilitate drug delivery. These drug delivery systems exhibit great potential in more effective cancer therapy strategies, such as precise targeting, enhanced penetration, improved safety profile, and biocompatibility. Ultimately, the deployment of these drug delivery systems can deepen our comprehension of tumor stroma and the advanced development of corresponding drug delivery systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunyan Wu
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), NMPA Key Laboratory for Technology Research and Evaluation of Drug Products, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, PR China
| | - Yujia Zhai
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84124, United States
| | - Jianbo Ji
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), NMPA Key Laboratory for Technology Research and Evaluation of Drug Products, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, PR China
| | - Xiaoye Yang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), NMPA Key Laboratory for Technology Research and Evaluation of Drug Products, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, PR China
| | - Lei Ye
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), NMPA Key Laboratory for Technology Research and Evaluation of Drug Products, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, PR China
| | - Guoliang Lu
- Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland 1142, New Zealand; Maurice Wilkins Centre, University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Xiaoqun Shi
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), NMPA Key Laboratory for Technology Research and Evaluation of Drug Products, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, PR China.
| | - Guangxi Zhai
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), NMPA Key Laboratory for Technology Research and Evaluation of Drug Products, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, PR China.
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3
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Arpinati L, Carradori G, Scherz-Shouval R. CAF-induced physical constraints controlling T cell state and localization in solid tumours. Nat Rev Cancer 2024; 24:676-693. [PMID: 39251836 DOI: 10.1038/s41568-024-00740-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/05/2024] [Indexed: 09/11/2024]
Abstract
Solid tumours comprise cancer cells that engage in continuous interactions with non-malignant cells and with acellular components, forming the tumour microenvironment (TME). The TME has crucial and diverse roles in tumour progression and metastasis, and substantial efforts have been dedicated into understanding the functions of different cell types within the TME. These efforts highlighted the importance of non-cell-autonomous signalling in cancer, mediating interactions between the cancer cells, the immune microenvironment and the non-immune stroma. Much of this non-cell-autonomous signalling is mediated through acellular components of the TME, known as the extracellular matrix (ECM), and controlled by the cells that secrete and remodel the ECM - the cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). In this Review, we delve into the complex crosstalk among cancer cells, CAFs and immune cells, highlighting the effects of CAF-induced ECM remodelling on T cell functions and offering insights into the potential of targeting ECM components to improve cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ludovica Arpinati
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, The Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Giulia Carradori
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, The Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Ruth Scherz-Shouval
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, The Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel.
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4
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Ju Y, Xu D, Liao MM, Sun Y, Bao WD, Yao F, Ma L. Barriers and opportunities in pancreatic cancer immunotherapy. NPJ Precis Oncol 2024; 8:199. [PMID: 39266715 PMCID: PMC11393360 DOI: 10.1038/s41698-024-00681-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 08/27/2024] [Indexed: 09/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) presents a fatal clinical challenge characterized by a dismal 5-year overall survival rate, primarily due to the lack of early diagnosis and limited therapeutic efficacy. Immunotherapy, a proven success in multiple cancers, has yet to demonstrate significant benefits in PDAC. Recent studies have revealed the immunosuppressive characteristics of the PDAC tumor microenvironment (TME), including immune cells with suppressive properties, desmoplastic stroma, microbiome influences, and PDAC-specific signaling pathways. In this article, we review recent advances in understanding the immunosuppressive TME of PDAC, TME differences among various mouse models of pancreatic cancer, and the mechanisms underlying resistance to immunotherapeutic interventions. Furthermore, we discuss the potential of targeting cancer cell-intrinsic pathways and TME components to sensitize PDAC to immune therapies, providing insights into strategies and future perspectives to break through the barriers in improving pancreatic cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yixin Ju
- Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, College of Biomedicine and Health, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430070, China
- Shenzhen Institute of Nutrition and Health, Huazhong Agricultural University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518000, China
| | - Dongzhi Xu
- Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, College of Biomedicine and Health, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430070, China
- Shenzhen Institute of Nutrition and Health, Huazhong Agricultural University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518000, China
| | - Miao-Miao Liao
- Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, College of Biomedicine and Health, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430070, China
| | - Yutong Sun
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Wen-Dai Bao
- Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, College of Biomedicine and Health, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430070, China
| | - Fan Yao
- Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, College of Biomedicine and Health, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430070, China.
- Shenzhen Institute of Nutrition and Health, Huazhong Agricultural University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518000, China.
- Shenzhen Branch, Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Genome Analysis Laboratory of the Ministry of Agriculture, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518000, China.
| | - Li Ma
- Department of Experimental Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Houston Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
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5
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Delgado-Coka LA, Roa-Peña L, Babu S, Horowitz M, Petricoin EF, Matrisian LM, Blais EM, Marchenko N, Allard FD, Akalin A, Jiang W, Larson BK, Hendifar AE, Picozzi VJ, Choi M, Shroyer KR, Escobar-Hoyos LF. Keratin 17 is a prognostic and predictive biomarker in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Am J Clin Pathol 2024; 162:314-326. [PMID: 38642081 PMCID: PMC11369068 DOI: 10.1093/ajcp/aqae038] [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: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/22/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine the role of keratin 17 (K17) as a predictive biomarker for response to chemotherapy by defining thresholds of K17 expression based on immunohistochemical tests that could be used to optimize therapeutic intervention for patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). METHODS We profiled K17 expression, a hallmark of the basal molecular subtype of PDAC, by immunohistochemistry in 2 cohorts of formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded PDACs (n = 305). We determined a K17 threshold of expression to optimize prognostic stratification according to the lowest Akaike information criterion and explored the potential relationship between K17 and chemoresistance by multivariate predictive analyses. RESULTS Patients with advanced-stage, low K17 PDACs treated using 5-fluorouracil (5-FU)-based chemotherapeutic regimens had 3-fold longer survival than corresponding cases treated with gemcitabine-based chemotherapy. By contrast, PDACs with high K17 did not respond to either regimen. The predictive value of K17 was independent of tumor mutation status and other clinicopathologic variables. CONCLUSIONS The detection of K17 in 10% or greater of PDAC cells identified patients with shortest survival. Among patients with low K17 PDACs, 5-FU-based treatment was more likely than gemcitabine-based therapies to extend survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lyanne A Delgado-Coka
- Departments of Pathology
- Departments of Preventative Medicine, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, US
| | - Lucia Roa-Peña
- Departments of Pathology
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá, Colombia
| | | | | | - Emanuel F Petricoin
- Center for Applied Proteomics and Molecular Medicine, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, US
- Perthera, McLean, VA, US
| | - Lynn M Matrisian
- Scientific and Medical Affairs, Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, Manhattan Beach, CA, US
| | | | | | - Felicia D Allard
- Department of Pathology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, US
| | - Ali Akalin
- Department of Pathology, University of Massachusetts Memorial Medical Center, Worcester, MA, US
| | - Wei Jiang
- Department of Pathology, Anatomy and Cell Biology, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA, US
| | - Brent K Larson
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, US
| | - Andrew E Hendifar
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, US
| | | | | | | | - Luisa F Escobar-Hoyos
- Departments of Pathology
- Departments of Therapeutic Radiology
- Departments of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry
- Department of Medicine, Division of Oncology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, US
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6
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Shah A, Ganguly K, Rauth S, Sheree SS, Khan I, Ganti AK, Ponnusamy MP, Kumar S, Jain M, Batra SK. Unveiling the resistance to therapies in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Drug Resist Updat 2024; 77:101146. [PMID: 39243602 DOI: 10.1016/j.drup.2024.101146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2024] [Revised: 08/15/2024] [Accepted: 08/23/2024] [Indexed: 09/09/2024]
Abstract
Despite the ongoing advances in interventional strategies (surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy) for managing pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), the development of therapy refractory phenotypes remains a significant challenge. Resistance to various therapeutic modalities in PDAC emanates from a combination of inherent and acquired factors and is attributable to cancer cell-intrinsic and -extrinsic mechanisms. The critical determinants of therapy resistance include oncogenic signaling and epigenetic modifications that drive cancer cell stemness and metabolic adaptations, CAF-mediated stromagenesis that results in ECM deposition altered mechanotransduction, and secretome and immune evasion. We reviewed the current understanding of these multifaceted mechanisms operating in the PDAC microenvironment, influencing the response to chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy regimens. We then describe how the lessons learned from these studies can guide us to discover novel therapeutic regimens to prevent, delay, or revert resistance and achieve durable clinical responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashu Shah
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5870, USA
| | - Koelina Ganguly
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5870, USA
| | - Sanchita Rauth
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5870, USA
| | - Shamema S Sheree
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5870, USA
| | - Imran Khan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5870, USA
| | - Apar K Ganti
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5870, USA; Division of Oncology-hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, VA Nebraska Western Iowa Health Care System and University of Nebraska Medical Center, USA; Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5870, USA
| | - Moorthy P Ponnusamy
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5870, USA; Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5870, USA; Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha 68198-5870, USA
| | - Sushil Kumar
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5870, USA
| | - Maneesh Jain
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5870, USA; Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5870, USA; Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha 68198-5870, USA.
| | - Surinder K Batra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5870, USA; Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5870, USA; Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha 68198-5870, USA.
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7
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Datta M, Via LE, Dartois V, Xu L, Barry CE, Jain RK. Leveraging insights from cancer to improve tuberculosis therapy. Trends Mol Med 2024:S1471-4914(24)00205-3. [PMID: 39142973 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2024.07.011] [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: 06/18/2024] [Revised: 07/21/2024] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024]
Abstract
Exploring and exploiting the microenvironmental similarities between pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) granulomas and malignant tumors has revealed new strategies for more efficacious host-directed therapies (HDTs). This opinion article discusses a paradigm shift in TB therapeutic development, drawing on critical insights from oncology. We summarize recent efforts to characterize and overcome key shared features between tumors and granulomas, including excessive fibrosis, abnormal angiogenesis, hypoxia and necrosis, and immunosuppression. We provide specific examples of cancer therapy application to TB to overcome these microenvironmental abnormalities, including matrix-targeting therapies, antiangiogenic agents, and immune-stimulatory drugs. Finally, we propose a new framework for combining HDTs with anti-TB agents to maximize therapeutic delivery and efficacy while reducing treatment dosages, duration, and harmful side effects to benefit TB patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meenal Datta
- Department of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, USA.
| | - Laura E Via
- Tuberculosis Research Section, Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Véronique Dartois
- Center for Discovery and Innovation, Hackensack Meridian Health, Nutley, NJ 07110, USA; Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, Hackensack Meridian Health, Nutley, NJ 07110, USA
| | - Lei Xu
- Edwin L. Steele Laboratories for Tumor Biology, Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Clifton E Barry
- Tuberculosis Research Section, Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
| | - Rakesh K Jain
- Edwin L. Steele Laboratories for Tumor Biology, Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
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8
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Dong D, Yu X, Xu J, Yu N, Liu Z, Sun Y. Cellular and molecular mechanisms of gastrointestinal cancer liver metastases and drug resistance. Drug Resist Updat 2024; 77:101125. [PMID: 39173439 DOI: 10.1016/j.drup.2024.101125] [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: 04/20/2024] [Revised: 07/30/2024] [Accepted: 08/05/2024] [Indexed: 08/24/2024]
Abstract
Distant metastases and drug resistance account for poor survival of patients with gastrointestinal (GI) malignancies such as gastric cancer, pancreatic cancer, and colorectal cancer. GI cancers most commonly metastasize to the liver, which provides a unique immunosuppressive tumour microenvironment to support the development of a premetastatic niche for tumor cell colonization and metastatic outgrowth. Metastatic tumors often exhibit greater resistance to drugs than primary tumors, posing extra challenges in treatment. The liver metastases and drug resistance of GI cancers are regulated by complex, intertwined, and tumor-dependent cellular and molecular mechanisms that influence tumor cell behavior (e.g. epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, or EMT), tumor microenvironment (TME) (e.g. the extracellular matrix, cancer-associated fibroblasts, and tumor-infiltrating immune cells), tumor cell-TME interactions (e.g. through cytokines and exosomes), liver microenvironment (e.g. hepatic stellate cells and macrophages), and the route and mechanism of tumor cell dissemination (e.g. circulating tumor cells). This review provides an overview of recent advances in the research on cellular and molecular mechanisms that regulate liver metastases and drug resistance of GI cancers. We also discuss recent advances in the development of mechanism-based therapy for these GI cancers. Targeting these cellular and molecular mechanisms, either alone or in combination, may potentially provide novel approaches to treat metastatic GI malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daosong Dong
- Department of Pain, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110001, China
| | - Xue Yu
- Department of Surgical Oncology and General Surgery, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Key Laboratory of Molecular Pathology and Epidemiology of Gastric Cancer in the Universities of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, Liaoning 110001, China
| | - Jingjing Xu
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110001, China
| | - Na Yu
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Institute of Respiratory Disease, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110001, China
| | - Zhe Liu
- Department of Pancreatic-Biliary Surgery, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110001, China.
| | - Yanbin Sun
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110001, China.
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Prakash J, Shaked Y. The Interplay between Extracellular Matrix Remodeling and Cancer Therapeutics. Cancer Discov 2024; 14:1375-1388. [PMID: 39091205 PMCID: PMC11294818 DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.cd-24-0002] [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: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) is an abundant noncellular component of most solid tumors known to support tumor progression and metastasis. The interplay between the ECM and cancer therapeutics opens up new avenues in understanding cancer biology. While the ECM is known to protect the tumor from anticancer agents by serving as a biomechanical barrier, emerging studies show that various cancer therapies induce ECM remodeling, resulting in therapy resistance and tumor progression. This review discusses critical issues in this field including how the ECM influences treatment outcome, how cancer therapies affect ECM remodeling, and the challenges associated with targeting the ECM. Significance: The intricate relationship between the extracellular matrix (ECM) and cancer therapeutics reveals novel insights into tumor biology and its effective treatment. While the ECM may protect tumors from anti-cancer agents, recent research highlights the paradoxical role of therapy-induced ECM remodeling in promoting treatment resistance and tumor progression. This review explores the key aspects of the interplay between ECM and cancer therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jai Prakash
- Engineered Therapeutics Group, Department of Advanced Organ Bioengineering and Therapeutics, Technical Medical Centre, University of Twente, Enschede, the Netherlands.
| | - Yuval Shaked
- Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Rappaport-Technion Integrated Cancer Center, Technion – Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel.
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10
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Musale V, Murdoch CE, Banah AK, Hasib A, Hennayake CK, Dong B, Lang CC, Wasserman DH, Kang L. Limiting extracellular matrix expansion in diet-induced obese mice reduces cardiac insulin resistance and prevents myocardial remodelling. Mol Metab 2024; 86:101970. [PMID: 38908792 PMCID: PMC11334943 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmet.2024.101970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2024] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/24/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Obesity increases deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) components of cardiac tissue. Since obesity aggregates with insulin resistance and heart disease, it is imperative to determine whether the increased ECM deposition contributes to this disease cluster. The hypotheses tested in this study were that in cardiac tissue of obese mice i) increased deposition of ECM components (collagens and hyaluronan) contributes to cardiac insulin resistance and that a reduction in these components improves cardiac insulin action and ii) reducing excess collagens and hyaluronan mitigates obesity-associated cardiac dysfunction. METHODS Genetic and pharmacological approaches that manipulated collagen and hyaluronan contents were employed in obese C57BL/6 mice fed a high fat (HF) diet. Cardiac insulin sensitivity was measured by hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp and cardiac function was measured by pressure-volume loop analysis in vivo. RESULTS We demonstrated a tight association between increased ECM deposition with cardiac insulin resistance. Increased collagen deposition by genetic deletion of matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9) exacerbated cardiac insulin resistance and pirfenidone, a clinically available anti-fibrotic medication which inhibits collagen expression, improved cardiac insulin resistance in obese mice. Furthermore, decreased hyaluronan deposition by treatment with PEGylated human recombinant hyaluronidase PH20 (PEGPH20) improved cardiac insulin resistance in obese mice. These relationships corresponded to functional changes in the heart. Both PEGPH20 and pirfenidone treatment in obese mice ameliorated HF diet-induced abnormal myocardial remodelling. CONCLUSION Our results provide important new insights into the role of ECM deposition in the pathogenesis of cardiac insulin resistance and associated dysfunction in obesity of distinct mouse models. These findings support the novel therapeutic potential of targeting early cardiac ECM abnormalities in the prevention and treatment of obesity-related cardiovascular complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vishal Musale
- Division of Cellular and Systems Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee, Scotland, UK
| | - Colin E. Murdoch
- Division of Cellular and Systems Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee, Scotland, UK
| | - Ayman K. Banah
- Division of Cellular and Systems Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee, Scotland, UK
| | - Annie Hasib
- Division of Cellular and Systems Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee, Scotland, UK
| | - Chandani K. Hennayake
- Division of Cellular and Systems Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee, Scotland, UK
| | - Bo Dong
- Department of Cardiology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Shandong, Jinan, China
| | - Chim C. Lang
- Division of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee, Scotland, UK
| | - David H. Wasserman
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Mouse Metabolic Phenotyping Center, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Li Kang
- Division of Cellular and Systems Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee, Scotland, UK
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11
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Chen Y, Yin X, Xu R, Ruze R, Song J, Yin C, Hu C, Wang C, Xu Q, Zhao Y. Cancer-Associated Endocrine Cells Participate in Pancreatic Carcinogenesis. Gastroenterology 2024:S0016-5085(24)05225-9. [PMID: 39048054 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2024.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS The pancreas is composed of endocrine and exocrine parts, and its interlacing structure indicates potential interaction between endocrine and exocrine cells. Although the tumor microenvironment of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has been well characterized, the role of pancreatic endocrine cells during carcinogenesis is relatively understudied. METHODS The changes of endocrine cells in PDAC by single-cell transcriptome sequencing, spatial transcriptome sequencing, and multiplex immunohistochemistry were depicted. After that, the interaction between pancreatic carcinogenesis and endocrine changes was explored in orthotopic transplantation mice, KrasLSL-G12DPdx1-Cre mice, and KrasLSL-G12Dp53LoxPPdx1-CreER mice. Finally, we proved the mechanism of the interaction between endocrine and exocrine parts of the pancreas through islet isolation, co-culture in vitro and co-injection in vivo. RESULTS Pancreatic endocrine cells displayed significantly different transcriptomic characteristics and increased interaction with exocrine part in PDAC. Specifically, among all of the changes, pancreatic polypeptide-positive cells showed a sharp increment accompanied by the progression of the cancer lesion, which might be derived from the transdifferentiation of α and β cells. Interestingly, it was proved that PDAC cells were able to induce the transdifferentiation of pancreatic α cells and β cells into glucagon-pancreatic polypeptide and insulin-pancreatic polypeptide double-positive cells, which further promoted carcinogenesis and development of PDAC in a paracrine-dependent manner and formed a reciprocal interaction. CONCLUSIONS This study systematically maps the alteration of pancreatic endocrine cells in PDAC and elucidates the potential endocrine-exocrine interaction mechanisms during PDAC carcinogenesis. In addition, cancer-associated endocrine cells are defined and characterized, thereby further broadening the composition of PDAC microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China; State Key Laboratory of Complex, Severe, and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Xinpeng Yin
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China; State Key Laboratory of Complex, Severe, and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Ruiyuan Xu
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China; State Key Laboratory of Complex, Severe, and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Rexiati Ruze
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China; State Key Laboratory of Complex, Severe, and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianlu Song
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China; State Key Laboratory of Complex, Severe, and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Chenxue Yin
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China; State Key Laboratory of Complex, Severe, and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Chenglin Hu
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China; State Key Laboratory of Complex, Severe, and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Chengcheng Wang
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China; State Key Laboratory of Complex, Severe, and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People's Republic of China; National Infrastructures for Translational Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Institute of Clinical Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, People's Republic of China.
| | - Qiang Xu
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China; State Key Laboratory of Complex, Severe, and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People's Republic of China; National Infrastructures for Translational Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yupei Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China; State Key Laboratory of Complex, Severe, and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People's Republic of China; National Infrastructures for Translational Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, People's Republic of China.
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12
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Li X, Hou W, Xiao C, Yang H, Zhao C, Cao D. Panoramic tumor microenvironment in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Cell Oncol (Dordr) 2024:10.1007/s13402-024-00970-6. [PMID: 39008192 DOI: 10.1007/s13402-024-00970-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is notorious for its resistance to various treatment modalities. The genetic heterogeneity of PDAC, coupled with the presence of a desmoplastic stroma within the tumor microenvironment (TME), contributes to an unfavorable prognosis. The mechanisms and consequences of interactions among different cell types, along with spatial variations influencing cellular function, potentially play a role in the pathogenesis of PDAC. Understanding the diverse compositions of the TME and elucidating the functions of microscopic neighborhoods may contribute to understanding the immune microenvironment status in pancreatic cancer. As we delve into the spatial biology of the microscopic neighborhoods within the TME, aiding in deciphering the factors that orchestrate this intricate ecosystem. This overview delineates the fundamental constituents and the structural arrangement of the PDAC microenvironment, highlighting their impact on cancer cell biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoying Li
- Department of Abdominal Oncology, Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610017, People's Republic of China
| | - Wanting Hou
- Department of Abdominal Oncology, Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610017, People's Republic of China
| | - Chaoxin Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China HospitaL, Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610017, People's Republic of China
| | - Heqi Yang
- Department of Abdominal Oncology, Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610017, People's Republic of China
| | - Chengjian Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China HospitaL, Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610017, People's Republic of China
| | - Dan Cao
- Department of Abdominal Oncology, Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610017, People's Republic of China.
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13
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Cui G, Deng S, Zhang B, Wang M, Lin Z, Lan X, Li Z, Yao G, Yu M, Yan J. Overcoming the Tumor Collagen Barriers: A Multistage Drug Delivery Strategy for DDR1-Mediated Resistant Colorectal Cancer Therapy. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024:e2402107. [PMID: 38953306 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202402107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2024] [Revised: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) is critical for drug resistance in colorectal cancer (CRC). The abundant collagen within the ECM significantly influences tumor progression and matrix-mediated drug resistance (MMDR) by binding to discoidin domain receptor 1 (DDR1), but the specific mechanisms by which tumor cells modulate ECM via DDR1 and ultimately regulate TME remain poorly understand. Furthermore, overcoming drug resistance by modulating the tumor ECM remains a challenge in CRC treatment. In this study, a novel mechanism is elucidated by which DDR1 mediates the interactions between tumor cells and collagen, enhances collagen barriers, inhibits immune infiltration, promotes drug efflux, and leads to MMDR in CRC. To address this issue, a multistage drug delivery system carrying DDR1-siRNA and chemotherapeutic agents is employed to disrupt collagen barriers by silencing DDR1 in tumor, enhancing chemotherapy drugs diffusion and facilitating immune infiltration. These findings not only revealed a novel role for collagen-rich matrix mediated by DDR1 in tumor resistance, but also introduced a promising CRC treatment strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guangman Cui
- Department of General Surgery & Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Gastrointestinal Tumor, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Shaohui Deng
- The Tenth Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Dongguan, Guangdong, 523059, China
| | - Biao Zhang
- Department of General Surgery & Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Gastrointestinal Tumor, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Manchun Wang
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Drug Metabolism & Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening & Guangdong-Hongkong-Macao Joint Laboratory for New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Zhousheng Lin
- Breast Center, Department of General Surgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Xinyue Lan
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Drug Metabolism & Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening & Guangdong-Hongkong-Macao Joint Laboratory for New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Zelong Li
- Breast Center, Department of General Surgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Guangyu Yao
- Breast Center, Department of General Surgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Meng Yu
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Drug Metabolism & Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening & Guangdong-Hongkong-Macao Joint Laboratory for New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
- Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510282, China
| | - Jun Yan
- Department of General Surgery & Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Gastrointestinal Tumor, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Shenzhen People's Hospital, Second Clinical Medical College of Jinan University, First Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518020, China
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14
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Pan X, Han T, Zhao Z, Wang X, Fang X. Emerging Nanotechnology in Preclinical Pancreatic Cancer Immunotherapy: Driving Towards Clinical Applications. Int J Nanomedicine 2024; 19:6619-6641. [PMID: 38975321 PMCID: PMC11227336 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s466459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024] Open
Abstract
The high malignant degree and poor prognosis of pancreatic cancer (PC) pose severe challenges to the basic research and clinical translation of next-generation therapies. The rise of immunotherapy has improved the treatment of a variety of solid tumors, while the application in PC is highly restricted by the challenge of immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. The latest progress of nanotechnology as drug delivery platform and immune adjuvant has improved drug delivery in a variety of disease backgrounds and enhanced tumor therapy based on immunotherapy. Based on the immune loop of PC and the status quo of clinical immunotherapy of tumors, this article discussed and critically analyzed the key transformation difficulties of immunotherapy adaptation to the treatment of PC, and then proposed the rational design strategies of new nanocarriers for drug delivery and immune regulation, especially the design of combined immunotherapy. This review also put forward prospective views on future research directions, so as to provide information for the new means of clinical treatment of PC combined with the next generation of nanotechnology and immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Pan
- Department of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College (Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College), Wuhu, 241000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ting Han
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College (Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College), Wuhu, 241000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zixuan Zhao
- The Translational Research Institute for Neurological Disorders of Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College (Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College), Wuhu, 241000, People’s Republic of China
- The Institute of Brain Science, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, 241000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaoming Wang
- Department of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College (Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College), Wuhu, 241000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaosan Fang
- Department of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College (Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College), Wuhu, 241000, People’s Republic of China
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15
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Aloss K, Hamar P. Augmentation of the EPR effect by mild hyperthermia to improve nanoparticle delivery to the tumor. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2024; 1879:189109. [PMID: 38750699 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2024.189109] [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: 02/12/2024] [Revised: 05/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
The clinical translation of the nanoparticle (NP)-based anticancer therapies is still unsatisfactory due to the heterogeneity of the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect. Despite the promising preclinical outcome of the pharmacological EPR enhancers, their systemic toxicity can limit their clinical application. Hyperthermia (HT) presents an efficient tool to augment the EPR by improving tumor blood flow (TBF) and vascular permeability, lowering interstitial fluid pressure (IFP), and disrupting the structure of the extracellular matrix (ECM). Furthermore, the HT-triggered intravascular release approach can overcome the EPR effect. In contrast to pharmacological approaches, HT is safe and can be focused to cancer tissues. Moreover, HT conveys direct anti-cancer effects, which improve the efficacy of the anti-cancer agents encapsulated in NPs. However, the clinical application of HT is challenging due to the heterogeneous distribution of temperature within the tumor, the length of the treatment and the complexity of monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenan Aloss
- Institute of Translational Medicine - Semmelweis University - 1094, Tűzoltó utca, 37-49, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Péter Hamar
- Institute of Translational Medicine - Semmelweis University - 1094, Tűzoltó utca, 37-49, Budapest, Hungary.
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16
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Lu P, Ruan D, Huang M, Tian M, Zhu K, Gan Z, Xiao Z. Harnessing the potential of hydrogels for advanced therapeutic applications: current achievements and future directions. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:166. [PMID: 38945949 PMCID: PMC11214942 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01852-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: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Abstract
The applications of hydrogels have expanded significantly due to their versatile, highly tunable properties and breakthroughs in biomaterial technologies. In this review, we cover the major achievements and the potential of hydrogels in therapeutic applications, focusing primarily on two areas: emerging cell-based therapies and promising non-cell therapeutic modalities. Within the context of cell therapy, we discuss the capacity of hydrogels to overcome the existing translational challenges faced by mainstream cell therapy paradigms, provide a detailed discussion on the advantages and principal design considerations of hydrogels for boosting the efficacy of cell therapy, as well as list specific examples of their applications in different disease scenarios. We then explore the potential of hydrogels in drug delivery, physical intervention therapies, and other non-cell therapeutic areas (e.g., bioadhesives, artificial tissues, and biosensors), emphasizing their utility beyond mere delivery vehicles. Additionally, we complement our discussion on the latest progress and challenges in the clinical application of hydrogels and outline future research directions, particularly in terms of integration with advanced biomanufacturing technologies. This review aims to present a comprehensive view and critical insights into the design and selection of hydrogels for both cell therapy and non-cell therapies, tailored to meet the therapeutic requirements of diverse diseases and situations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peilin Lu
- Nanomedicine Research Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510630, PR China
- Department of Minimally Invasive Interventional Radiology, and Laboratory of Interventional Radiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, PR China
| | - Dongxue Ruan
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, National Center for Respiratory Medicine, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Guangzhou Institute for Respiratory Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510120, PR China
| | - Meiqi Huang
- Department of Minimally Invasive Interventional Radiology, and Laboratory of Interventional Radiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, PR China
| | - Mi Tian
- Department of Stomatology, Chengdu Second People's Hospital, Chengdu, 610021, PR China
| | - Kangshun Zhu
- Department of Minimally Invasive Interventional Radiology, and Laboratory of Interventional Radiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, PR China.
| | - Ziqi Gan
- Hospital of Stomatology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510055, PR China.
| | - Zecong Xiao
- Nanomedicine Research Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510630, PR China.
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17
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Knoll L, Hamm J, Stroebel P, Jovan T, Goetze R, Singh S, Hessmann E, Ellenrieder V, Ammer-Herrmenau C, Neesse A. Expression of gemcitabine metabolizing enzymes and stromal components reveal complexities of preclinical pancreatic cancer models for therapeutic testing. Neoplasia 2024; 53:101002. [PMID: 38744194 PMCID: PMC11109879 DOI: 10.1016/j.neo.2024.101002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2024] [Revised: 04/20/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) poorly responds to antineoplastic agents. Discrepancies between preclinical success and clinical failure of compounds has been a continuous challenge and major obstacle in PDAC research. AIM To investigate the association of the tumor microenvironment (TME) composition and gemcitabine metabolizing enzyme (GME) expression in vitro and several in vivo models. METHODS mRNA expression and protein levels of GME (cytosolic 5'-nucleotidase 1 A; NT5C1A, cytidine deaminase; CDA, deoxycytidine kinase; DCK), gemcitabine transporters (ENT1, ENT2, RRM1, RRM2) and stromal components (hyaluroninc acid, podoplanin, masson trichrome, picrosirius) were assessed by qRT-PCR and immunohistochemistry in murine LSL-KrasG12D/+;LSL-Trp53R172 H/+; Pdx-1-Cre (KPC), orthotopically transplanted mice (OTM), human primary resected PDAC tissue (hPRT), corresponding patient-derived xenograft (PDX) mice, and KPC-SPARC-/- mice. mRNA expression of GME was analyzed in PDAC cell lines (Panc-1, MIA PaCa, BXPC3 and L3.6) upon incubation on collagen or pancreatic stellate cell (PSC) conditioned media by qRT-PCR. RESULTS Endogenous KPC tumors exhibited significantly higher levels of GME compared to OTM. However, GME levels did not differ between hPRT and corresponding PDX mice. Using Kendalls Tau correlation coefficient we did not show a significant correlation of GME and components of the TME except for NT5C1A and hyaluronic acid in PDX mice (p=0.029). GME were not significantly altered upon SPARC depletion in vivo, and upon treatment with PSC-conditioned media or incubation on collagen plated dishes in vitro. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that the expression of GME is independent from the deposition of stromal components. KPC mice are most appropriate to study stromal composition whereas PDX mice maintain GME expression of the corresponding hPRT and could be best suited for pharmacokinetic studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Knoll
- Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, University Hospital Hannover, Carl-Neuberg-Straße 1, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Jacob Hamm
- Department of Gastroenterology, Gastrointestinal Oncology and Endocrinology, University Medical Centre Goettingen, Robert-Koch-Straße 40, 37075 Goettingen, Germany
| | - Philipp Stroebel
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany; Clinical Research Unit KFO5002, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Todorovic Jovan
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany; Clinical Research Unit KFO5002, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Robert Goetze
- Department of Gastroenterology, Gastrointestinal Oncology and Endocrinology, University Medical Centre Goettingen, Robert-Koch-Straße 40, 37075 Goettingen, Germany
| | - Shiv Singh
- Department of Gastroenterology, Gastrointestinal Oncology and Endocrinology, University Medical Centre Goettingen, Robert-Koch-Straße 40, 37075 Goettingen, Germany; Clinical Research Unit KFO5002, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Elisabeth Hessmann
- Department of Gastroenterology, Gastrointestinal Oncology and Endocrinology, University Medical Centre Goettingen, Robert-Koch-Straße 40, 37075 Goettingen, Germany; Clinical Research Unit KFO5002, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Volker Ellenrieder
- Department of Gastroenterology, Gastrointestinal Oncology and Endocrinology, University Medical Centre Goettingen, Robert-Koch-Straße 40, 37075 Goettingen, Germany; Clinical Research Unit KFO5002, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Christoph Ammer-Herrmenau
- Department of Gastroenterology, Gastrointestinal Oncology and Endocrinology, University Medical Centre Goettingen, Robert-Koch-Straße 40, 37075 Goettingen, Germany; Clinical Research Unit KFO5002, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Albrecht Neesse
- Department of Gastroenterology, Gastrointestinal Oncology and Endocrinology, University Medical Centre Goettingen, Robert-Koch-Straße 40, 37075 Goettingen, Germany; Clinical Research Unit KFO5002, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany.
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18
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Zhong H, Zhou S, Yin S, Qiu Y, Liu B, Yu H. Tumor microenvironment as niche constructed by cancer stem cells: Breaking the ecosystem to combat cancer. J Adv Res 2024:S2090-1232(24)00251-0. [PMID: 38866179 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2024.06.014] [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: 04/08/2024] [Revised: 05/27/2024] [Accepted: 06/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a distinct subpopulation of cancer cells with the capacity to constantly self-renew and differentiate, and they are the main driver in the progression of cancer resistance and relapse. The tumor microenvironment (TME) constructed by CSCs is the "soil" adapted to tumor growth, helping CSCs evade immune killing, enhance their chemical resistance, and promote cancer progression. AIM OF REVIEW We aim to elaborate the tight connection between CSCs and immunosuppressive components of the TME. We attempt to summarize and provide a therapeutic strategy to eradicate CSCs based on the destruction of the tumor ecological niche. KEY SCIENTIFIC CONCEPTS OF REVIEW This review is focused on three main key concepts. First, we highlight that CSCs recruit and transform normal cells to construct the TME, which further provides ecological niche support for CSCs. Second, we describe the main characteristics of the immunosuppressive components of the TME, targeting strategies and summarize the progress of corresponding drugs in clinical trials. Third, we explore the multilevel insights of the TME to serve as an ecological niche for CSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Component-Based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China; Key Laboratory of Pharmacology of Traditional Chinese Medical Formulae, Ministry of Education, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China; Haihe Laboratory of Modern Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Shiyue Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Component-Based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China; Key Laboratory of Pharmacology of Traditional Chinese Medical Formulae, Ministry of Education, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China; Haihe Laboratory of Modern Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Shuangshuang Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Component-Based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China; Key Laboratory of Pharmacology of Traditional Chinese Medical Formulae, Ministry of Education, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China; Haihe Laboratory of Modern Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Yuling Qiu
- School of Pharmacy, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China.
| | - Bo Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, China.
| | - Haiyang Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Component-Based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China; Key Laboratory of Pharmacology of Traditional Chinese Medical Formulae, Ministry of Education, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China; Haihe Laboratory of Modern Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.
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Qin Q, Yu R, Eriksson JE, Tsai HI, Zhu H. Cancer-associated fibroblasts in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma therapy: Challenges and opportunities. Cancer Lett 2024; 591:216859. [PMID: 38615928 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216859] [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: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 03/30/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a solid organ malignancy with a high mortality rate. Statistics indicate that its incidence has been increasing as well as the associated deaths. Most patients with PDAC show poor response to therapies making the clinical management of this cancer difficult. Stromal cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME) contribute to the development of resistance to therapy in PDAC cancer cells. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), the most prevalent stromal cells in the TME, promote a desmoplastic response, produce extracellular matrix proteins and cytokines, and directly influence the biological behavior of cancer cells. These multifaceted effects make it difficult to eradicate tumor cells from the body. As a result, CAF-targeting synergistic therapeutic strategies have gained increasing attention in recent years. However, due to the substantial heterogeneity in CAF origin, definition, and function, as well as high plasticity, majority of the available CAF-targeting therapeutic approaches are not effective, and in some cases, they exacerbate disease progression. This review primarily elucidates on the effect of CAFs on therapeutic efficiency of various treatment modalities, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy. Strategies for CAF targeting therapies are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin Qin
- Institute of Medical Imaging and Artificial Intelligence, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212001, China
| | - Rong Yu
- Institute of Medical Imaging and Artificial Intelligence, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212001, China
| | - John E Eriksson
- Cell Biology, Biosciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Åbo Akademi University, Turku, FI-20520 Finland
| | - Hsiang-I Tsai
- Institute of Medical Imaging and Artificial Intelligence, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212001, China; Department of Medical Imaging, The Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212001, China.
| | - Haitao Zhu
- Institute of Medical Imaging and Artificial Intelligence, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212001, China; Department of Medical Imaging, The Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212001, China.
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20
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Arias-Lorza AM, Costello JR, Hingorani SR, Von Hoff DD, Korn RL, Raghunand N. Magnetic resonance imaging of tumor response to stroma-modifying pegvorhyaluronidase alpha (PEGPH20) therapy in early-phase clinical trials. Sci Rep 2024; 14:11570. [PMID: 38773189 PMCID: PMC11109088 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-62470-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Pre-clinical and clinical studies have shown that PEGPH20 depletes intratumoral hyaluronic acid (HA), which is linked to high interstitial fluid pressures and poor distribution of chemotherapies. 29 patients with metastatic advanced solid tumors received quantitative magnetic resonance imaging (qMRI) in 3 prospective clinical trials of PEGPH20: HALO-109-101 (NCT00834704), HALO-109-102 (NCT01170897), and HALO-109-201 (NCT01453153). Apparent Diffusion Coefficient of water (ADC), T1, ktrans, vp, ve, and iAUC maps were computed from qMRI acquired at baseline and ≥ 1 time point post-PEGPH20. Tumor ADC and T1 decreased, while iAUC, ktrans, vp, and ve increased, on day 1 post-PEGPH20 relative to baseline values. This is consistent with HA depletion leading to a decrease in tumor extracellular water content and an increase in perfusion, permeability, extracellular matrix space, and vascularity. Baseline parameter values predictive of pharmacodynamic responses were: ADC > 1.46 × 10-3 mm2/s (Balanced Accuracy (BA) = 72%, p < 0.01), T1 > 0.54 s (BA = 82%, p < 0.01), iAUC < 9.2 mM-s (BA = 76%, p < 0.05), ktrans < 0.07 min-1 (BA = 72%, p = 0.2), ve < 0.17 (BA = 68%, p < 0.01), and vp < 0.02 (BA = 60%, p < 0.01). A low ve at baseline was moderately predictive of response in any parameter (BA = 65.6%, p < 0.01 averaged across patients). These qMRI biomarkers are potentially useful for guiding patient pre-selection and post-treatment follow-up in future clinical studies of PEGPH20 and other tumor stroma-modifying anti-cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sunil R Hingorani
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
- Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, Pancreatic Cancer Center of Excellence, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Daniel D Von Hoff
- Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen), Scottsdale, AZ, USA
- HonorHealth Clinical Research Institute, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | | | - Natarajan Raghunand
- Department of Cancer Physiology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, USA.
- Department of Oncologic Sciences, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA.
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21
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Peng XL, Kharitonova EV, Xu Y, Kearney JF, Luan C, Chan PS, Hariharan A, McCabe IC, Leary JR, Morrison AB, Trembath HE, LaBella ME, Herera Loeza SG, Cliff A, Kim HJ, Belt BA, Panni RZ, Linehan DC, Damrauer JS, Iuga AC, Kim WY, Rashid NU, Yeh JJ. Determination of permissive and restraining cancer-associated fibroblast (DeCAF) subtypes. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.14.594197. [PMID: 38798565 PMCID: PMC11118336 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.14.594197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblast (CAF) subpopulations in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) have been identified using single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNAseq) with divergent characteristics, but their clinical relevance remains unclear. We translate scRNAseq-derived CAF cell-subpopulation-specific marker genes to bulk RNAseq data, and develop a single- sample classifier, DeCAF, for the classification of clinically rest raining and perm issive CAF subtypes. We validate DeCAF in 19 independent bulk transcriptomic datasets across four tumor types (PDAC, mesothelioma, bladder and renal cell carcinoma). DeCAF subtypes have distinct histology features, immune landscapes, and are prognostic and predict response to therapy across cancer types. We demonstrate that DeCAF is clinically replicable and robust for the classification of CAF subtypes in patients for multiple tumor types, providing a better framework for the future development and translation of therapies against permissive CAF subtypes and preservation of restraining CAF subtypes. Significance We introduce a replicable and robust classifier, DeCAF, that delineates the significance of the role of permissive and restraining CAF subtypes in cancer patients. DeCAF is clinically tractable, prognostic and predictive of treatment response in multiple cancer types and lays the translational groundwork for the preclinical and clinical development of CAF subtype specific therapies.
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22
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Musiu C, Lupo F, Agostini A, Lionetto G, Bevere M, Paiella S, Carbone C, Corbo V, Ugel S, De Sanctis F. Cellular collusion: cracking the code of immunosuppression and chemo resistance in PDAC. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1341079. [PMID: 38817612 PMCID: PMC11137177 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1341079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite the efforts, pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is still highly lethal. Therapeutic challenges reside in late diagnosis and establishment of peculiar tumor microenvironment (TME) supporting tumor outgrowth. This stromal landscape is highly heterogeneous between patients and even in the same patient. The organization of functional sub-TME with different cellular compositions provides evolutive advantages and sustains therapeutic resistance. Tumor progressively establishes a TME that can suit its own needs, including proliferation, stemness and invasion. Cancer-associated fibroblasts and immune cells, the main non-neoplastic cellular TME components, follow soluble factors-mediated neoplastic instructions and synergize to promote chemoresistance and immune surveillance destruction. Unveiling heterotypic stromal-neoplastic interactions is thus pivotal to breaking this synergism and promoting the reprogramming of the TME toward an anti-tumor milieu, improving thus the efficacy of conventional and immune-based therapies. We underscore recent advances in the characterization of immune and fibroblast stromal components supporting or dampening pancreatic cancer progression, as well as novel multi-omic technologies improving the current knowledge of PDAC biology. Finally, we put into context how the clinic will translate the acquired knowledge to design new-generation clinical trials with the final aim of improving the outcome of PDAC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Musiu
- Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Francesca Lupo
- Department of Engineering for Innovation Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Antonio Agostini
- Medical Oncology, Department of Translational Medicine, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
- Medical Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli Istituti di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
| | - Gabriella Lionetto
- General and Pancreatic Surgery Unit, Pancreas Institute, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Michele Bevere
- ARC-Net Research Centre, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Salvatore Paiella
- General and Pancreatic Surgery Unit, Pancreas Institute, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Carmine Carbone
- Medical Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli Istituti di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Corbo
- Department of Engineering for Innovation Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Stefano Ugel
- Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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23
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Zheng R, Liu X, Zhang Y, Liu Y, Wang Y, Guo S, Jin X, Zhang J, Guan Y, Liu Y. Frontiers and future of immunotherapy for pancreatic cancer: from molecular mechanisms to clinical application. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1383978. [PMID: 38756774 PMCID: PMC11096556 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1383978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is a highly aggressive malignant tumor, that is becoming increasingly common in recent years. Despite advances in intensive treatment modalities including surgery, radiotherapy, biological therapy, and targeted therapy, the overall survival rate has not significantly improved in patients with pancreatic cancer. This may be attributed to the insidious onset, unknown pathophysiology, and poor prognosis of the disease. It is therefore essential to identify and develop more effective and safer treatments for pancreatic cancer. Tumor immunotherapy is the new and fourth pillar of anti-tumor therapy after surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. Significant progress has made in the use of immunotherapy for a wide variety of malignant tumors in recent years; a breakthrough has also been made in the treatment of pancreatic cancer. This review describes the advances in immune checkpoint inhibitors, cancer vaccines, adoptive cell therapy, oncolytic virus, and matrix-depletion therapies for the treatment of pancreatic cancer. At the same time, some new potential biomarkers and potential immunotherapy combinations for pancreatic cancer are discussed. The molecular mechanisms of various immunotherapies have also been elucidated, and their clinical applications have been highlighted. The current challenges associated with immunotherapy and proposed strategies that hold promise in overcoming these limitations have also been discussed, with the aim of offering new insights into immunotherapy for pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Zheng
- Department of Medical Immunology, Medical College of Yan’an University, Yanan, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xiaobin Liu
- Department of Medical Immunology, Medical College of Yan’an University, Yanan, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yufu Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Yan’an University, Yan’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yongxian Liu
- Department of Medical Immunology, Medical College of Yan’an University, Yanan, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yaping Wang
- Department of Medical Immunology, Medical College of Yan’an University, Yanan, Shaanxi, China
| | - Shutong Guo
- Department of Medical Immunology, Medical College of Yan’an University, Yanan, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xiaoyan Jin
- Department of Medical Immunology, Medical College of Yan’an University, Yanan, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Medical Immunology, Medical College of Yan’an University, Yanan, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yuehong Guan
- Department of Medical Immunology, Medical College of Yan’an University, Yanan, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yusi Liu
- Department of Medical Immunology, Medical College of Yan’an University, Yanan, Shaanxi, China
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24
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Tanaka HY, Nakazawa T, Miyazaki T, Cabral H, Masamune A, Kano MR. Targeting ROCK2 improves macromolecular permeability in a 3D fibrotic pancreatic cancer microenvironment model. J Control Release 2024; 369:283-295. [PMID: 38522816 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.03.041] [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: 02/06/2024] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is characterized by a densely fibrotic stroma. The fibrotic stroma hinders the intratumoral penetration of nanomedicine and diminishes therapeutic efficacy. Fibrosis is characterized by an abnormal organization of extracellular matrix (ECM) components, namely the abnormal deposition and/or orientation of collagen and fibronectin. Abnormal ECM organization is chiefly driven by pathological signaling in pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs), the main cell type involved in fibrogenesis. However, whether targeting signaling pathways involved in abnormal ECM organization improves the intratumoral penetration of nanomedicines is unknown. Here, we show that targeting transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ)/Rho-associated kinase (ROCK) 1/2 signaling in PSCs normalizes ECM organization and concomitantly improves macromolecular permeability of the fibrotic stroma. Using a 3-dimensional cell culture model of the fibrotic pancreatic cancer microenvironment, we found that pharmacological inhibition of TGFβ or ROCK1/2 improves the permeation of various macromolecules. By using an isoform-specific pharmacological inhibitor and siRNAs, we show that targeting ROCK2, but not ROCK1, alone is sufficient to normalize ECM organization and improve macromolecular permeability. Moreover, we found that ROCK2 inhibition/knockdown attenuates Yes-associated protein (YAP) nuclear localization in fibroblasts co-cultured with pancreatic cancer cells in 3D. Finally, pharmacological inhibition or siRNA-mediated knockdown of YAP normalized ECM organization and improved macromolecular permeability. Our results together suggest that the TGFβ/ROCK2/YAP signaling axis may be therapeutically targeted to normalize ECM organization and improve macromolecular permeability to augment therapeutic efficacy of nanomedicines in pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroyoshi Y Tanaka
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biomedicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, 1-1-1 Tsushima-naka, Kita-ku, Okayama-shi, Okayama 700-8530, Japan
| | - Takuya Nakazawa
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biomedicine, Graduate School of Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering in Health Systems, Okayama University, 1-1-1 Tsushima-naka, Kita-ku, Okayama-shi, Okayama 700-8530, Japan
| | - Takuya Miyazaki
- Kanagawa Institute of Industrial Science and Technology (KISTEC), 705-1 Shimoimaizumi, Ebina-shi, Kanagawa 243-0435, Japan
| | - Horacio Cabral
- Department of Bioengineering, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan
| | - Atsushi Masamune
- Division of Gastroenterology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai-shi, Miyagi 980-8574, Japan
| | - Mitsunobu R Kano
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biomedicine, Graduate School of Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering in Health Systems, Okayama University, 1-1-1 Tsushima-naka, Kita-ku, Okayama-shi, Okayama 700-8530, Japan.
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25
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Kou Z, Liu C, Zhang W, Sun C, Liu L, Zhang Q. Heterogeneity of primary and metastatic CAFs: From differential treatment outcomes to treatment opportunities (Review). Int J Oncol 2024; 64:54. [PMID: 38577950 PMCID: PMC11015919 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2024.5642] [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: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Compared with primary tumor sites, metastatic sites appear more resistant to treatments and respond differently to the treatment regimen. It may be due to the heterogeneity in the microenvironment between metastatic sites and primary tumors. Cancer‑associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are widely present in the tumor stroma as key components of the tumor microenvironment. Primary tumor CAFs (pCAFs) and metastatic CAFs (mCAFs) are heterogeneous in terms of source, activation mode, markers and functional phenotypes. They can shape the tumor microenvironment according to organ, showing heterogeneity between primary tumors and metastases, which may affect the sensitivity of these sites to treatment. It was hypothesized that understanding the heterogeneity between pCAFs and mCAFs can provide a glimpse into the difference in treatment outcomes, providing new ideas for improving the rate of metastasis control in various cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zixing Kou
- College of First Clinical Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong 250355, P.R. China
| | - Cun Liu
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang, Shandong 261053, P.R. China
| | - Wenfeng Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine and Faculty of Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa Island 999078, Macau SAR, P.R. China
| | - Changgang Sun
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang, Shandong 261053, P.R. China
- Department of Oncology, Weifang Traditional Chinese Hospital, Weifang, Shandong 621000, P.R. China
| | - Lijuan Liu
- Department of Oncology, Weifang Traditional Chinese Hospital, Weifang, Shandong 621000, P.R. China
| | - Qiming Zhang
- College of First Clinical Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong 250355, P.R. China
- Department of Experimental Research Center, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100007, P.R. China
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26
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Singh SP, Dosch AR, Mehra S, De Castro Silva I, Bianchi A, Garrido VT, Zhou Z, Adams A, Amirian H, Box EW, Sun X, Ban Y, Datta J, Nagathihalli NS, Merchant NB. Tumor Cell-Intrinsic p38 MAPK Signaling Promotes IL1α-Mediated Stromal Inflammation and Therapeutic Resistance in Pancreatic Cancer. Cancer Res 2024; 84:1320-1332. [PMID: 38285896 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-23-1200] [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: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is characterized by a KRAS-driven inflammatory program and a desmoplastic stroma, which contribute to the profoundly chemoresistant phenotype. The tumor stroma contains an abundance of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF), which engage in extensive paracrine cross-talk with tumor cells to perpetuate protumorigenic inflammation. IL1α, a pleiotropic, tumor cell-derived cytokine, plays a critical role in shaping the stromal landscape. To provide insights into the molecular mechanisms regulating IL1A expression in PDAC, we performed transcriptional profiling of The Cancer Genome Atlas datasets and pharmacologic screening in PDAC cells and identified p38α MAPK as a key positive regulator of IL1A expression. Both genetic and pharmacologic inhibition of p38 MAPK significantly diminished IL1α production in vitro. Chromatin- and coimmunoprecipitation analyses revealed that p38 MAPK coordinates the transcription factors Sp1 and the p65 subunit of NFκB to drive IL1A overexpression. Single-cell RNA sequencing of a highly desmoplastic murine PDAC model, Ptf1aCre/+; LSL-KrasG12D/+; Tgfbr2flox/flox (PKT), confirmed that p38 MAPK inhibition significantly decreases tumor cell-derived Il1a and attenuates the inflammatory CAF phenotype in a paracrine IL1α-dependent manner. Furthermore, p38 MAPK inhibition favorably modulated intratumoral immunosuppressive myeloid populations and augmented chemotherapeutic efficacy to substantially reduce tumor burden and improve overall survival in PKT mice. These findings illustrate a cellular mechanism of tumor cell-intrinsic p38-p65/Sp1-IL1α signaling that is responsible for sustaining stromal inflammation and CAF activation, offering an attractive therapeutic approach to enhance chemosensitivity in PDAC. SIGNIFICANCE Inhibition of p38 MAPK suppresses tumor cell-derived IL1α and attenuates the inflammatory stroma and immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment to overcome chemotherapeutic resistance in pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samara P Singh
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
| | - Austin R Dosch
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
| | - Siddharth Mehra
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
| | - Iago De Castro Silva
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
| | - Anna Bianchi
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
| | - Vanessa T Garrido
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
| | - Zhiqun Zhou
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
| | - Andrew Adams
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
| | - Haleh Amirian
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
| | - Edmond W Box
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
| | - Xiaodian Sun
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
| | - Yuguang Ban
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miami, Florida
| | - Jashodeep Datta
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miami, Florida
| | - Nagaraj S Nagathihalli
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miami, Florida
| | - Nipun B Merchant
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miami, Florida
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27
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Melisi D, Casalino S, Pietrobono S, Quinzii A, Zecchetto C, Merz V. Integration of liposomal irinotecan in the first-line treatment of metastatic pancreatic cancer: try to do not think about the white bear. Ther Adv Med Oncol 2024; 16:17588359241234487. [PMID: 38584763 PMCID: PMC10996353 DOI: 10.1177/17588359241234487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
The approval of novel therapeutic agents remains widely reliant on evidence derived from large phase III randomized controlled trials. Liposomal irinotecan (ONIVYDE®) stands out as the only drug that has demonstrated improved survival both as a first-line therapy in combination with oxaliplatin and 5-fluorouracil/leucovorin (5FU/LV) (NALIRIFOX) compared to the standard gemcitabine plus nab-paclitaxel in the NAPOLI3 trial, and as a second-line treatment in combination with 5FU/LV compared to the standard 5FU/LV in the NAPOLI1 trial. However, just as the white bear of the Dostoevsky's paradox, the judgment of these results is invariably distracted by the intrusive thought of how different they might be if compared to similar regimens containing standard-free irinotecan as FOLFIRINOX or FOLFIRI, respectively. Here, we present and thoroughly discuss the evidence encompassing the pharmacologic, preclinical, and clinical development of liposomal irinotecan that can dispel any intrusive thoughts and foster a rational and well-considered judgment of this agent and its potential integration into the therapeutic strategies for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davide Melisi
- Investigational Cancer Therapeutics Clinical Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata, Verona, Italy
- Digestive Molecular Clinical Oncology Research Unit, University of Verona, Piazzale L.A. Scuro, 10, Verona 37134, Italy
| | - Simona Casalino
- Digestive Molecular Clinical Oncology Research Unit, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Silvia Pietrobono
- Digestive Molecular Clinical Oncology Research Unit, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Alberto Quinzii
- Digestive Molecular Clinical Oncology Research Unit, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Camilla Zecchetto
- Digestive Molecular Clinical Oncology Research Unit, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Valeria Merz
- Digestive Molecular Clinical Oncology Research Unit, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
- Medical Oncology Unit, Santa Chiara Hospital, Trento, Italy
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28
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Pegoraro C, Domingo-Ortí I, Conejos-Sánchez I, Vicent MJ. Unlocking the Mitochondria for Nanomedicine-based Treatments: Overcoming Biological Barriers, Improving Designs, and Selecting Verification Techniques. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2024; 207:115195. [PMID: 38325562 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2024.115195] [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: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
Enhanced targeting approaches will support the treatment of diseases associated with dysfunctional mitochondria, which play critical roles in energy generation and cell survival. Obstacles to mitochondria-specific targeting include the presence of distinct biological barriers and the need to pass through (or avoid) various cell internalization mechanisms. A range of studies have reported the design of mitochondrially-targeted nanomedicines that navigate the complex routes required to influence mitochondrial function; nonetheless, a significant journey lies ahead before mitochondrially-targeted nanomedicines become suitable for clinical use. Moving swiftly forward will require safety studies, in vivo assays confirming effectiveness, and methodologies to validate mitochondria-targeted nanomedicines' subcellular location/activity. From a nanomedicine standpoint, we describe the biological routes involved (from administration to arrival within the mitochondria), the features influencing rational design, and the techniques used to identify/validate successful targeting. Overall, rationally-designed mitochondria-targeted-based nanomedicines hold great promise for precise subcellular therapeutic delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilla Pegoraro
- Polymer Therapeutics Laboratory and CIBERONC, Príncipe Felipe Research Center, Av. Eduardo Primo Yúfera 3, E-46012 Valencia, Spain.
| | - Inés Domingo-Ortí
- Polymer Therapeutics Laboratory and CIBERONC, Príncipe Felipe Research Center, Av. Eduardo Primo Yúfera 3, E-46012 Valencia, Spain.
| | - Inmaculada Conejos-Sánchez
- Polymer Therapeutics Laboratory and CIBERONC, Príncipe Felipe Research Center, Av. Eduardo Primo Yúfera 3, E-46012 Valencia, Spain.
| | - María J Vicent
- Polymer Therapeutics Laboratory and CIBERONC, Príncipe Felipe Research Center, Av. Eduardo Primo Yúfera 3, E-46012 Valencia, Spain.
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29
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Wang Y, Chen K, Liu G, Du C, Cheng Z, Wei D, Li F, Li C, Yang Y, Zhao Y, Nie G. Disruption of Super-Enhancers in Activated Pancreatic Stellate Cells Facilitates Chemotherapy and Immunotherapy in Pancreatic Cancer. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2308637. [PMID: 38417121 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202308637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2023] [Revised: 01/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/01/2024]
Abstract
One major obstacle in the drug treatment of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is its highly fibrotic tumor microenvironment, which is replete with activated pancreatic stellate cells (a-PSCs). These a-PSCs generate abundant extracellular matrix and secrete various cytokines to form biophysical and biochemical barriers, impeding drug access to tumor tissues. Therefore, it is imperative to develop a strategy for reversing PSC activation and thereby removing the barriers to facilitate PDAC drug treatment. Herein, by integrating chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP)-seq, Assays for Transposase-Accessible Chromatin (ATAC)-seq, and RNA-seq techniques, this work reveals that super-enhancers (SEs) promote the expression of various genes involved in PSC activation. Disruption of SE-associated transcription with JQ1 reverses the activated phenotype of a-PSCs and decreases stromal fibrosis in both orthotopic and patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models. More importantly, disruption of SEs by JQ1 treatments promotes vascularization, facilitates drug delivery, and alters the immune landscape in PDAC, thereby improving the efficacies of both chemotherapy (with gemcitabine) and immunotherapy (with IL-12). In summary, this study not only elucidates the contribution of SEs of a-PSCs in shaping the PDAC tumor microenvironment but also highlights that targeting SEs in a-PSCs may become a gate-opening strategy that benefits PDAC drug therapy by removing stromal barriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yazhou Wang
- Pancreas Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210000, China
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials & Nanosafety, CAS Center of Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Beijing, 100190, China
| | - Kai Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China
| | - Gang Liu
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Epigenetics of the Ministry of Education, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, 130024, China
| | - Chong Du
- Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, China
| | - Zhaoxia Cheng
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials & Nanosafety, CAS Center of Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Beijing, 100190, China
| | - Dan Wei
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials & Nanosafety, CAS Center of Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Beijing, 100190, China
| | - Fenfen Li
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials & Nanosafety, CAS Center of Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Beijing, 100190, China
| | - Chen Li
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials & Nanosafety, CAS Center of Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Beijing, 100190, China
| | - Yinmo Yang
- Department of General Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China
| | - Ying Zhao
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials & Nanosafety, CAS Center of Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Beijing, 100190, China
| | - Guangjun Nie
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials & Nanosafety, CAS Center of Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Beijing, 100190, China
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Kearney JF, Trembath HE, Chan PS, Morrison AB, Xu Y, Luan CF, McCabe IC, Zarmer SA, Kim HJ, Peng XL, Yeh JJ. Myofibroblastic cancer-associated fibroblast subtype heterogeneity in pancreatic cancer. J Surg Oncol 2024; 129:860-868. [PMID: 38233984 PMCID: PMC11307498 DOI: 10.1002/jso.27582] [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: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has a fibrotic stroma that has both tumor-promoting and tumor-restraining properties. Different types of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) have been described. Here, we investigated whether CAFs within the same subtype exhibit heterogeneous functions. METHODS We evaluated the gene and protein expression differences in two myofibroblastic CAF (myCAF) lines using single-cell and bulk RNA-sequencing. We utilized proliferation and migration assays to determine the effect of different CAF lines on a tumor cell line. RESULTS We found that myCAF lines express an activated stroma subtype gene signature, which is associated with a shorter survival in patients. Although both myCAF lines expressed α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), platelet-derived growth factor-α (PDGFR-α), fibroblast-activated protein (FAP), and vimentin, we observed heterogeneity between the two lines. Similarly, despite being consistent with myCAF gene expression overall, heterogeneity within specific genes was observed. We found that these differences extended to the functional level where the two myCAF lines had different effects on the same tumor cell line. The myCAF216 line, which had slightly increased inflammatory CAF-like gene expression and higher protein expression of α-SMA, PDGFR-α, and FAP was found to restrain migration of tumor cells. CONCLUSIONS We found that two myCAF lines with globally similar expression characteristics had different effects on the same tumor cell line, one promoting and the other restraining migration. Our study highlights that there may be unappreciated heterogeneity within CAF subtypes. Further investigation and attention to specific genes or proteins that may drive this heterogeneity will be important.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph F. Kearney
- The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Department of Surgery, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Hannah E. Trembath
- The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Department of Surgery, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Priscilla S. Chan
- The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Ashley B. Morrison
- The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Yi Xu
- The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Chang Fei Luan
- The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Ian C. McCabe
- The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Sandra A. Zarmer
- The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Hong Jin Kim
- The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Department of Surgery, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Xianlu L. Peng
- The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jen Jen Yeh
- The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Department of Surgery, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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31
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Newhook TE, Tsai S, Meric-Bernstam F. Precision Oncology in Hepatopancreatobiliary Cancer Surgery. Surg Oncol Clin N Am 2024; 33:343-367. [PMID: 38401914 DOI: 10.1016/j.soc.2023.12.016] [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] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
Advances in technology have allowed for the characterization of tumors at the genomic, transcriptomic, and proteomic levels. There are well-established targets for biliary tract cancers, with exciting new targets emerging in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma and potential targets in hepatocellular carcinoma. Taken together, these data suggest an important role for molecular profiling for personalizing cancer therapy in advanced disease and need for design of novel neoadjuvant studies to leverage these novel therapeutics perioperatively in the surgical patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy E Newhook
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Division of Surgery, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Susan Tsai
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, N924 Doan Hall, 410 West 10th Avenue, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Funda Meric-Bernstam
- Department of Investigational Cancer Therapeutics, Division of Cancer Medicine, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1400 Holcombe Boulevard, FC8.3044, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
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32
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Cantallops Vilà P, Ravichandra A, Agirre Lizaso A, Perugorria MJ, Affò S. Heterogeneity, crosstalk, and targeting of cancer-associated fibroblasts in cholangiocarcinoma. Hepatology 2024; 79:941-958. [PMID: 37018128 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 04/06/2023]
Abstract
Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) comprises diverse tumors of the biliary tree and is characterized by late diagnosis, short-term survival, and chemoresistance. CCAs are mainly classified according to their anatomical location and include diverse molecular subclasses harboring inter-tumoral and intratumoral heterogeneity. Besides the tumor cell component, CCA is also characterized by a complex and dynamic tumor microenvironment where tumor cells and stromal cells crosstalk in an intricate network of interactions. Cancer-associated fibroblasts, one of the most abundant cell types in the tumor stroma of CCA, are actively involved in cholangiocarcinogenesis by participating in multiple aspects of the disease including extracellular matrix remodeling, immunomodulation, neo-angiogenesis, and metastasis. Despite their overall tumor-promoting role, recent evidence indicates the presence of transcriptional and functional heterogeneous CAF subtypes with tumor-promoting and tumor-restricting properties. To elucidate the complexity and potentials of cancer-associated fibroblasts as therapeutic targets in CCA, this review will discuss the origin of cancer-associated fibroblasts, their heterogeneity, crosstalk, and role during tumorigenesis, providing an overall picture of the present and future perspectives toward cancer-associated fibroblasts targeting CCA.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Aashreya Ravichandra
- Medical Clinic and Polyclinic II, Klinikum Rechts Der Isar, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Aloña Agirre Lizaso
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Research Institute, Donostia University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV-EHU), Donostia-San Sebastian, Spain
| | - Maria J Perugorria
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Research Institute, Donostia University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV-EHU), Donostia-San Sebastian, Spain
- CIBERehd, Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country, UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain
| | - Silvia Affò
- August Pi i Sunyer Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
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Wang S, Li Y, Xu C, Dong J, Wei J. An oncolytic vaccinia virus encoding hyaluronidase reshapes the extracellular matrix to enhance cancer chemotherapy and immunotherapy. J Immunother Cancer 2024; 12:e008431. [PMID: 38458640 PMCID: PMC10921532 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2023-008431] [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] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The redundant extracellular matrix (ECM) within tumor microenvironment (TME) such as hyaluronic acid (HA) often impairs intratumoral dissemination of antitumor drugs. Oncolytic viruses (OVs) are being studied extensively for cancer therapy either alone or in conjunction with chemotherapy and immunotherapy. Here, we designed a novel recombinant vaccinia virus encoding a soluble version of hyaluronidase Hyal1 (OVV-Hyal1) to degrade the HA and investigated its antitumor effects in combination with chemo drugs, polypeptide, immune cells, and antibodies. METHODS We constructed a recombinant oncolytic vaccinia virus encoding the hyaluronidase, and investigated its function in remodeling the ECM of the TME, the antitumor efficacy both in vitro and in several murine solid tumors either alone, or in combination with chemo drugs including doxorubicin and gemcitabine, with polypeptide liraglutide, with immune therapeutics such as PD-L1/PD-1 blockade, CD47 antibody, and with CAR-T cells. RESULTS Compared with control OVV, intratumoral injection of OVV-Hyal1 showed superior antitumor efficacies in a series of mouse subcutaneous tumor models. Moreover, HA degradation by OVV-Hyal1 resulted in increased intratumoral dissemination of chemo drugs, infiltration of T cells, NK cells, macrophages, and activation of CD8+ T cells. When OVV-Hyal1 was combined with some antitumor therapeutics, for example, doxorubicin, gemcitabine, liraglutide, anti-PD-1, anti-CD47 blockade, or CAR-T cells, more profound therapeutic outcomes were obtained. CONCLUSIONS OVV-Hyal1 effectively degrades HA to reshape the TME, therefore overcoming some major hurdles in current cancer therapy, such as limited OVs spread, unfavored dissemination of chemo drugs, polypeptides, antibodies, and insufficient infiltration of effector immune cells. OVV-Hyal1 holds the promise to improve the antitumor outcomes of current cancer therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shibing Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Cancer Center, Department of Pathology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yuxin Li
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chuning Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jie Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jiwu Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
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Mittelheisser V, Gensbittel V, Bonati L, Li W, Tang L, Goetz JG. Evidence and therapeutic implications of biomechanically regulated immunosurveillance in cancer and other diseases. NATURE NANOTECHNOLOGY 2024; 19:281-297. [PMID: 38286876 DOI: 10.1038/s41565-023-01535-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Abstract
Disease progression is usually accompanied by changes in the biochemical composition of cells and tissues and their biophysical properties. For instance, hallmarks of cancer include the stiffening of tissues caused by extracellular matrix remodelling and the softening of individual cancer cells. In this context, accumulating evidence has shown that immune cells sense and respond to mechanical signals from the environment. However, the mechanisms regulating these mechanical aspects of immune surveillance remain partially understood. The growing appreciation for the 'mechano-immunology' field has urged researchers to investigate how immune cells sense and respond to mechanical cues in various disease settings, paving the way for the development of novel engineering strategies that aim at mechanically modulating and potentiating immune cells for enhanced immunotherapies. Recent pioneer developments in this direction have laid the foundations for leveraging 'mechanical immunoengineering' strategies to treat various diseases. This Review first outlines the mechanical changes occurring during pathological progression in several diseases, including cancer, fibrosis and infection. We next highlight the mechanosensitive nature of immune cells and how mechanical forces govern the immune responses in different diseases. Finally, we discuss how targeting the biomechanical features of the disease milieu and immune cells is a promising strategy for manipulating therapeutic outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Mittelheisser
- Tumor Biomechanics, INSERM UMR_S1109, Strasbourg, France
- Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
- Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg (FMTS), Strasbourg, France
- Equipe Labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer, Strasbourg, France
| | - Valentin Gensbittel
- Tumor Biomechanics, INSERM UMR_S1109, Strasbourg, France
- Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
- Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg (FMTS), Strasbourg, France
- Equipe Labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer, Strasbourg, France
| | - Lucia Bonati
- Institute of Bioengineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Weilin Li
- Institute of Bioengineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Li Tang
- Institute of Bioengineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland.
- Institute of Materials Science and Engineering, EPFL, Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Jacky G Goetz
- Tumor Biomechanics, INSERM UMR_S1109, Strasbourg, France.
- Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France.
- Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg (FMTS), Strasbourg, France.
- Equipe Labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer, Strasbourg, France.
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35
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Joseph AM, Al Aiyan A, Al-Ramadi B, Singh SK, Kishore U. Innate and adaptive immune-directed tumour microenvironment in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1323198. [PMID: 38384463 PMCID: PMC10879611 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1323198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
One of the most deadly and aggressive cancers in the world, pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), typically manifests at an advanced stage. PDAC is becoming more common, and by the year 2030, it is expected to overtake lung cancer as the second greatest cause of cancer-related death. The poor prognosis can be attributed to a number of factors, including difficulties in early identification, a poor probability of curative radical resection, limited response to chemotherapy and radiotherapy, and its immunotherapy resistance. Furthermore, an extensive desmoplastic stroma that surrounds PDAC forms a mechanical barrier that prevents vascularization and promotes poor immune cell penetration. Phenotypic heterogeneity, drug resistance, and immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment are the main causes of PDAC aggressiveness. There is a complex and dynamic interaction between tumor cells in PDAC with stromal cells within the tumour immune microenvironment. The immune suppressive microenvironment that promotes PDAC aggressiveness is contributed by a range of cellular and humoral factors, which itself are modulated by the cancer. In this review, we describe the role of innate and adaptive immune cells, complex tumor microenvironment in PDAC, humoral factors, innate immune-mediated therapeutic advances, and recent clinical trials in PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann Mary Joseph
- Department of Veterinary Medicine (CAVM), United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ahmad Al Aiyan
- Department of Veterinary Medicine (CAVM), United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Basel Al-Ramadi
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
- Zayed Center for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
- ASPIRE Precision Medicine Research Institute Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Shiv K. Singh
- Department of Gastroenterology and Gastrointestinal Oncology, University Medical Center, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Uday Kishore
- Department of Veterinary Medicine (CAVM), United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
- Zayed Center for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
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36
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Francescone R, Crawford HC, Vendramini-Costa DB. Rethinking the Roles of Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts in Pancreatic Cancer. Cell Mol Gastroenterol Hepatol 2024; 17:737-743. [PMID: 38316215 PMCID: PMC10966284 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcmgh.2024.01.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Bearing a dismal 5-year survival rate, pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a challenging disease that features a unique fibroinflammatory tumor microenvironment. As major components of the PDAC tumor microenvironment, cancer-associated fibroblasts are still poorly understood and their contribution to the several hallmarks of PDAC, such as resistance to therapies, immunosuppression, and high incidence of metastasis, is likely underestimated. There have been encouraging advances in the understanding of these fascinating cells, but many controversies remain, leaving the field still actively exploring the full scope of their contributions in PDAC progression. Here we pose several important considerations regarding PDAC cancer-associated fibroblast functions. We posit that transcriptomic analyses be interpreted with caution, when aiming to uncover the functional contributions of these cells. Moreover, we propose that normalizing these functions, rather than eliminating them, will provide the opportunity to enhance therapeutic response. Finally, we propose that cancer-associated fibroblasts should not be studied in isolation, but in conjunction with its extracellular matrix, because their respective functions are coordinated and concordant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ralph Francescone
- Department of Surgery, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, Michigan; Henry Ford Pancreatic Cancer Center, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, Michigan
| | - Howard C Crawford
- Department of Surgery, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, Michigan; Henry Ford Pancreatic Cancer Center, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, Michigan
| | - Debora Barbosa Vendramini-Costa
- Department of Surgery, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, Michigan; Henry Ford Pancreatic Cancer Center, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, Michigan.
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37
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Hartupee C, Nagalo BM, Chabu CY, Tesfay MZ, Coleman-Barnett J, West JT, Moaven O. Pancreatic cancer tumor microenvironment is a major therapeutic barrier and target. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1287459. [PMID: 38361931 PMCID: PMC10867137 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1287459] [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: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is projected to become the 2nd leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. Limitations in early detection and treatment barriers contribute to the lack of substantial success in the treatment of this challenging-to-treat malignancy. Desmoplasia is the hallmark of PDAC microenvironment that creates a physical and immunologic barrier. Stromal support cells and immunomodulatory cells face aberrant signaling by pancreatic cancer cells that shifts the complex balance of proper repair mechanisms into a state of dysregulation. The product of this dysregulation is the desmoplastic environment that encases the malignant cells leading to a dense, hypoxic environment that promotes further tumorigenesis, provides innate systemic resistance, and suppresses anti-tumor immune invasion. This desmoplastic environment combined with the immunoregulatory events that allow it to persist serve as the primary focus of this review. The physical barrier and immune counterbalance in the tumor microenvironment (TME) make PDAC an immunologically cold tumor. To convert PDAC into an immunologically hot tumor, tumor microenvironment could be considered alongside the tumor cells. We discuss the complex network of microenvironment molecular and cellular composition and explore how they can be targeted to overcome immuno-therapeutic challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Conner Hartupee
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Louisiana State University (LSU) Health, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Bolni Marius Nagalo
- Department of Pathology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS), Little Rock, AR, United States
- The Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS), Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - Chiswili Y. Chabu
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
- Siteman Cancer Center, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Mulu Z. Tesfay
- Department of Pathology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS), Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - Joycelynn Coleman-Barnett
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Louisiana State University (LSU) Health, New Orleans, LA, United States
- Department of Interdisciplinary Oncology, Louisiana Cancer Research Center, Louisiana State University (LSU) Health, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - John T. West
- Department of Interdisciplinary Oncology, Louisiana Cancer Research Center, Louisiana State University (LSU) Health, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Omeed Moaven
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Louisiana State University (LSU) Health, New Orleans, LA, United States
- Department of Interdisciplinary Oncology, Louisiana Cancer Research Center, Louisiana State University (LSU) Health, New Orleans, LA, United States
- Louisiana State University - Louisiana Children's Medical Center (LSU - LCMC) Cancer Center, New Orleans, LA, United States
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38
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Sun T, Kang L, Zhao H, Zhao Y, Gu Y. Photoacid Generators for Biomedical Applications. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2302875. [PMID: 38039443 PMCID: PMC10837391 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202302875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023]
Abstract
Photoacid generators (PAGs) are compounds capable of producing hydrogen protons (H+ ) upon irradiation, including irreversible and reversible PAGs, which have been widely studied in photoinduced polymerization and degradation for a long time. In recent years, the applications of PAGs in the biomedical field have attracted more attention due to their promising clinical value. So, an increasing number of novel PAGs have been reported. In this review, the recent progresses of PAGs for biomedical applications is systematically summarized, including tumor treatment, antibacterial treatment, regulation of protein folding and unfolding, control of drug release and so on. Furthermore, a concept of water-dependent reversible photoacid (W-RPA) and its antitumor effect are highlighted. Eventually, the challenges of PAGs for clinical applications are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianzhen Sun
- School of Medical TechnologyBeijing Institute of TechnologyNo. 5 South Street, ZhongguancunHaidian DistrictBeijing100081China
| | - Lin Kang
- Key Laboratory of Photochemical Conversion and Optoelectronic MaterialsTechnical Institute of Physics and ChemistryChinese Academy of SciencesNo. 29 Zhongguancun East Road, Haidian DistrictBeijing100190China
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesNo. 19A Yuquan RoadBeijing100049China
| | - Hongyou Zhao
- School of Medical TechnologyBeijing Institute of TechnologyNo. 5 South Street, ZhongguancunHaidian DistrictBeijing100081China
| | - Yuxia Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Photochemical Conversion and Optoelectronic MaterialsTechnical Institute of Physics and ChemistryChinese Academy of SciencesNo. 29 Zhongguancun East Road, Haidian DistrictBeijing100190China
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesNo. 19A Yuquan RoadBeijing100049China
| | - Ying Gu
- Department of Laser MedicineThe First Medical CentreChinese PLA General HospitalNo. 28 Fuxing Road, Haidian DistrictBeijing100853China
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Xiong J, Xiao R, Zhao J, Zhao Q, Luo M, Li F, Zhang W, Wu M. Matrix stiffness affects tumor-associated macrophage functional polarization and its potential in tumor therapy. J Transl Med 2024; 22:85. [PMID: 38246995 PMCID: PMC10800063 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04810-3] [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: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) plays critical roles in cytoskeletal support, biomechanical transduction and biochemical signal transformation. Tumor-associated macrophage (TAM) function is regulated by matrix stiffness in solid tumors and is often associated with poor prognosis. ECM stiffness-induced mechanical cues can activate cell membrane mechanoreceptors and corresponding mechanotransducers in the cytoplasm, modulating the phenotype of TAMs. Currently, tuning TAM polarization through matrix stiffness-induced mechanical stimulation has received increasing attention, whereas its effect on TAM fate has rarely been summarized. A better understanding of the relationship between matrix stiffness and macrophage function will contribute to the development of new strategies for cancer therapy. In this review, we first introduced the overall relationship between macrophage polarization and matrix stiffness, analyzed the changes in mechanoreceptors and mechanotransducers mediated by matrix stiffness on macrophage function and tumor progression, and finally summarized the effects of targeting ECM stiffness on tumor prognosis to provide insight into this new field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaqiang Xiong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Rourou Xiao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Jiahui Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Qiuyan Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Manwen Luo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Feng Li
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China.
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Allergy and Immunology, Wuhan, 430071, China.
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China.
| | - Meng Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430032, China.
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40
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Horvat NK, Karpovsky I, Phillips M, Wyatt MM, Hall MA, Herting CJ, Hammons J, Mahdi Z, Moffitt RA, Paulos CM, Lesinski GB. Clinically relevant orthotopic pancreatic cancer models for adoptive T cell transfer therapy. J Immunother Cancer 2024; 12:e008086. [PMID: 38191243 PMCID: PMC10806555 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2023-008086] [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] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an aggressive tumor. Prognosis is poor and survival is low in patients diagnosed with this disease, with a survival rate of ~12% at 5 years. Immunotherapy, including adoptive T cell transfer therapy, has not impacted the outcomes in patients with PDAC, due in part to the hostile tumor microenvironment (TME) which limits T cell trafficking and persistence. We posit that murine models serve as useful tools to study the fate of T cell therapy. Currently, genetically engineered mouse models (GEMMs) for PDAC are considered a "gold-standard" as they recapitulate many aspects of human disease. However, these models have limitations, including marked tumor variability across individual mice and the cost of colony maintenance. METHODS Using flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry, we characterized the immunological features and trafficking patterns of adoptively transferred T cells in orthotopic PDAC (C57BL/6) models using two mouse cell lines, KPC-Luc and MT-5, isolated from C57BL/6 KPC-GEMM (KrasLSL-G12D/+p53-/- and KrasLSL-G12D/+p53LSL-R172H/+, respectively). RESULTS The MT-5 orthotopic model best recapitulates the cellular and stromal features of the TME in the PDAC GEMM. In contrast, far more host immune cells infiltrate the KPC-Luc tumors, which have less stroma, although CD4+ and CD8+ T cells were similarly detected in the MT-5 tumors compared with KPC-GEMM in mice. Interestingly, we found that chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells redirected to recognize mesothelin on these tumors that signal via CD3ζ and 41BB (Meso-41BBζ-CAR T cells) infiltrated the tumors of mice bearing stroma-devoid KPC-Luc orthotopic tumors, but not MT-5 tumors. CONCLUSIONS Our data establish for the first time a reproducible and realistic clinical system useful for modeling stroma-rich and stroma-devoid PDAC tumors. These models shall serve an indepth study of how to overcome barriers that limit antitumor activity of adoptively transferred T cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie K Horvat
- Department of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Immunology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Isaac Karpovsky
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Maggie Phillips
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Megan M Wyatt
- Department of Surgery, Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Emory University Winship Cancer Institute, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Margaret A Hall
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Cameron J Herting
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Jacklyn Hammons
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Zaid Mahdi
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Richard A Moffitt
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Chrystal M Paulos
- Department of Surgery, Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Emory University Winship Cancer Institute, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Gregory B Lesinski
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Emory University Winship Cancer Institute, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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Luo W, Wen T, Qu X. Tumor immune microenvironment-based therapies in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma: time to update the concept. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2024; 43:8. [PMID: 38167055 PMCID: PMC10759657 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-023-02935-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the most lethal solid tumors. The tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) formed by interactions among cancer cells, immune cells, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF), and extracellular matrix (ECM) components drives PDAC in a more immunosuppressive direction: this is a major cause of therapy resistance and poor prognosis. In recent years, research has advanced our understanding of the signaling mechanism by which TIME components interact with the tumor and the evolution of immunophenotyping. Through revolutionary technologies such as single-cell sequencing, we have gone from simply classifying PDACs as "cold" and "hot" to a more comprehensive approach of immunophenotyping that considers all the cells and matrix components. This is key to improving the clinical efficacy of PDAC treatments. In this review, we elaborate on various TIME components in PDAC, the signaling mechanisms underlying their interactions, and the latest research into PDAC immunophenotyping. A deep understanding of these network interactions will contribute to the effective combination of TIME-based therapeutic approaches, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI), adoptive cell therapy, therapies targeting myeloid cells, CAF reprogramming, and stromal normalization. By selecting the appropriate integrated therapies based on precise immunophenotyping, significant advances in the future treatment of PDAC are possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenyu Luo
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning, China
- Key Laboratory of Anticancer Drugs and Biotherapy of Liaoning Province, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning, China
- Clinical Cancer Research Center of Shenyang, the First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, China
- Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Gastrointestinal Tumors, Ministry of Education, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning, China
| | - Ti Wen
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning, China.
- Key Laboratory of Anticancer Drugs and Biotherapy of Liaoning Province, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning, China.
- Clinical Cancer Research Center of Shenyang, the First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, China.
- Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Gastrointestinal Tumors, Ministry of Education, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning, China.
| | - Xiujuan Qu
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning, China.
- Key Laboratory of Anticancer Drugs and Biotherapy of Liaoning Province, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning, China.
- Clinical Cancer Research Center of Shenyang, the First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, China.
- Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Gastrointestinal Tumors, Ministry of Education, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning, China.
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Nichetti F, Rota S, Ambrosini P, Pircher C, Gusmaroli E, Droz Dit Busset M, Pusceddu S, Sposito C, Coppa J, Morano F, Pietrantonio F, Di Bartolomeo M, Mariani L, Mazzaferro V, de Braud F, Niger M. NALIRIFOX, FOLFIRINOX, and Gemcitabine With Nab-Paclitaxel as First-Line Chemotherapy for Metastatic Pancreatic Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. JAMA Netw Open 2024; 7:e2350756. [PMID: 38190183 PMCID: PMC10774994 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.50756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Importance The NAPOLI 3 trial showed the superiority of fluorouracil, leucovorin, liposomal irinotecan, and oxaliplatin (NALIRIFOX) over the combination of gemcitabine and nab-paclitaxel (GEM-NABP) as first-line treatment of metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Analyses comparing NALIRIFOX and GEM-NABP with fluorouracil, leucovorin, irinotecan, and oxaliplatin (FOLFIRINOX) have not yet been reported. Objective To derive survival, response, and toxic effects data from phase 3 clinical trials and compare NALIRIFOX, FOLFIRINOX, and GEM-NABP. Data Sources After a systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and American Society of Clinical Oncology and European Society for Medical Oncology meetings' libraries, Kaplan-Meier curves were extracted from phase 3 clinical trials conducted from January 1, 2011, until September 12, 2023. Study Selection Phase 3 clinical trials that tested NALIRIFOX, FOLFIRINOX, or GEM-NABP as first-line treatment of metastatic PDAC and reported overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) curves were selected. This study followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses of Individual Participant Data reporting guidelines. Data Extraction And Synthesis Individual patient OS and PFS data were extracted from Kaplan-Meier plots of original trials via a graphic reconstructive algorithm. Overall response rates (ORRs) and grade 3 or higher toxic effects rates were also collected. A pooled analysis was conducted, and results were validated via a network meta-analysis. Main Outcomes and Measures The primary end point was OS. Secondary outcomes included PFS, ORR, and toxic effects rates. Results A total of 7 trials with data on 2581 patients were analyzed, including 383 patients treated with NALIRIFOX, 433 patients treated with FOLFIRINOX, and 1756 patients treated with GEM-NABP. Median PFS was longer in patients treated with NALIRIFOX (7.4 [95% CI, 6.1-7.7] months) or FOLFIRINOX (7.3 [95% CI, 6.5-7.9] months; [HR], 1.21 [95% CI, 0.86-1.70]; P = .28) compared with patients treated with GEM-NABP (5.7 [95% CI, 5.6-6.1] months; HR vs NALIRIFOX, 1.45 [95% CI, 1.22-1.73]; P < .001). Similarly, GEM-NABP was associated with poorer OS (10.4 [95% CI, 9.8-10.8]; months) compared with NALIRIFOX (HR, 1.18 [95% CI, 1.00-1.39]; P = .05], while no difference was observed between FOLFIRINOX (11.7 [95% CI, 10.4-13.0] months) and NALIRIFOX (11.1 [95% CI, 10.1-12.3] months; HR, 1.06 [95% CI, 0.81-1.39]; P = .65). There were no statistically significant differences in ORR among NALIRIFOX (41.8%), FOLFIRINOX (31.6%), and GEM-NABP (35.0%). NALIRIFOX was associated with lower incidence of grade 3 or higher hematological toxic effects (eg, platelet count decreased 1.6% vs 11.8% with FOLFIRINOX and 10.8% with GEM-NABP), but higher rates of severe diarrhea compared with GEM-NABP (20.3% vs 15.7%). Conclusions and Relevance In this systematic review and meta-analysis, NALIRIFOX and FOLFIRINOX were associated with similar PFS and OS as first-line treatment of advanced PDAC, although NALIRIFOX was associated with a different toxicity profile. Careful patient selection, financial toxic effects consideration, and direct comparison between FOLFIRINOX and NALIRIFOX are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federico Nichetti
- Department of Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
- Computational Oncology Group, Molecular Precision Oncology Program, National Center for Tumor Diseases and German Cancer Research Center , Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Simone Rota
- Department of Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Ambrosini
- Department of Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara Pircher
- Department of Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Eleonora Gusmaroli
- Department of Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Michele Droz Dit Busset
- Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery and Liver Transplantation, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Sara Pusceddu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Carlo Sposito
- Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery and Liver Transplantation, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Jorgelina Coppa
- Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery and Liver Transplantation, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Federica Morano
- Department of Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Filippo Pietrantonio
- Department of Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Di Bartolomeo
- Department of Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Luigi Mariani
- Department of Epidemiology and Data Science, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Mazzaferro
- Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery and Liver Transplantation, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Filippo de Braud
- Department of Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Monica Niger
- Department of Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
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Hu ZI, O'Reilly EM. Therapeutic developments in pancreatic cancer. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2024; 21:7-24. [PMID: 37798442 DOI: 10.1038/s41575-023-00840-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has a rising incidence and is one of the most lethal human malignancies. Much is known regarding the biology and pathophysiology of PDAC, but translating this knowledge to the clinic to improve patient outcomes has been challenging. In this Review, we discuss advances and practice-changing trials for PDAC. We briefly review therapeutic failures as well as ongoing research to refine the standard of care, including novel biomarkers and clinical trial designs. In addition, we highlight contemporary areas of research, including poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors, KRAS-targeted therapies and immunotherapies. Finally, we discuss the future of pancreatic cancer research and areas for improvement in the next decade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z Ian Hu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Eileen M O'Reilly
- Gastrointestinal Oncology Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
- Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA.
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Grierson PM, Suresh R, Tan B, Pedersen KS, Amin M, Park H, Trikalinos NA, Liu J, Boice N, Brown A, Bansod S, Wang-Gillam A, Lim KH. A Pilot Study of Paricalcitol plus Nanoliposomal Irinotecan and 5-FU/LV in Advanced Pancreatic Cancer Patients after Progression on Gemcitabine-Based Therapy. Clin Cancer Res 2023; 29:4733-4739. [PMID: 37801295 PMCID: PMC11123290 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-23-1405] [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: 05/13/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Vitamin D analogues remodel the desmoplastic stroma, and improve vascularity and efficacy of chemotherapy in preclinical pancreas cancer models. PATIENTS AND METHODS We conducted a pilot study to evaluate the safety and preliminary efficacy of the vitamin D analogue paricalcitol in combination with nanoliposomal irinotecan (Nal-iri) plus 5-fluorouracil/leucovorin (5-FU/LV) in patients with advanced pancreatic cancer who had progressed on gemcitabine-based therapy. Two dose levels (DL) of paricalcitol were tested: fixed dose weekly (75 mcg, DL1) and weight-based weekly (7 mcg/kg, /DL2). The primary endpoint was safety, and secondary endpoints included overall response rate, progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS). Correlative objectives aimed to identify molecular predictors of response and alterations in the tumor stroma. RESULTS Twenty patients (10 each in DL1 and DL2) enrolled between March 2019 and May 2021. No grade 3/4 adverse events related to paricalcitol were observed. The most common toxicities were nausea, diarrhea and fatigue, which were similar in both cohorts. Three patients discontinued study after one cycle and were not radiographically evaluable. Of the remaining 17 evaluable patients, 2 had partial response and 12 had stable disease. The median PFS for response-evaluable patients in DL1 was 4.14 months, for DL2 was 4.83 months. Intent-to-treat median OS was 6.15 and 6.66 months for DL1 and DL2, respectively. Correlative studies showed increased tumor vascularity in posttreatment samples in patients receiving the higher dose of paricalcitol (DL2). CONCLUSIONS Paricalcitol at 7 mcg/kg/week in combination with Nal-iri/ 5-FU/LV is safely tolerated, may increase tumor vascularity and warrants further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick M. Grierson
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Rama Suresh
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Benjamin Tan
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Katrina S. Pedersen
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Manik Amin
- Section of Hematology/Oncology, Norris Cotton Cancer Center, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, NH
| | - Haeseong Park
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Nikolaos A Trikalinos
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Jingxia Liu
- Division of Public Health Sciences, Department of Surgery Washington University, St. Louis, MO
| | - Nicholas Boice
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Amberly Brown
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Sapana Bansod
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Andrea Wang-Gillam
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Kian-Huat Lim
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, USA
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Hilmi M, Delaye M, Muzzolini M, Nicolle R, Cros J, Hammel P, Cardot-Ruffino V, Neuzillet C. The immunological landscape in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma and overcoming resistance to immunotherapy. Lancet Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 8:1129-1142. [PMID: 37866368 DOI: 10.1016/s2468-1253(23)00207-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2023] [Revised: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma is associated with a poor prognosis and there are few treatment options. The development of immunotherapy in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma has been difficult, and immune checkpoint inhibitors are only effective in a very small subset of patients. Most obstacles for treatment have been related to intertumoural and intratumoural heterogeneity, the composition of tumour stroma, and crosstalk with cancer cells. Improved molecular characterisation of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma and a better understanding of its microenvironment have paved the way for novel immunotherapy strategies, including the identification of predictive biomarkers, the development of rational combinations to optimise effectiveness, and the targeting of new mechanisms. Future immunotherapy strategies should consider individual characteristics to move beyond the traditional immune targets and circumvent the resistance to therapies that have been developed so far.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Hilmi
- Gastrointestinal Oncology, Medical Oncology Department, Institut Curie, Université Versailles Saint-Quentin-Université Paris-Saclay, Saint-Cloud, France; Molecular Oncology, PSL Research University, CNRS, UMR 144, Institut Curie, Paris, France
| | - Matthieu Delaye
- Gastrointestinal Oncology, Medical Oncology Department, Institut Curie, Université Versailles Saint-Quentin-Université Paris-Saclay, Saint-Cloud, France; Molecular Oncology, PSL Research University, CNRS, UMR 144, Institut Curie, Paris, France
| | - Milena Muzzolini
- Digestive Surgery Department, Ambroise Paré Hospital, APHP, Université Versailles Saint-Quentin-Université Paris-Saclay, Boulogne Billancourt, France
| | - Rémy Nicolle
- Université Paris Cité, Centre de Recherche sur l'Inflammation (CRI), INSERM, U1149, CNRS, ERL 8252, Paris, France
| | - Jérôme Cros
- Université Paris Cité, Pathology Department, Beaujon Hospital, FHU MOSAIC, AP-HP, Clichy, France
| | - Pascal Hammel
- Université Paris-Saclay, Department of Digestive and Medical Oncology, Paul-Brousse Hospital (APHP Sud), Villejuif, France
| | | | - Cindy Neuzillet
- Gastrointestinal Oncology, Medical Oncology Department, Institut Curie, Université Versailles Saint-Quentin-Université Paris-Saclay, Saint-Cloud, France; Molecular Oncology, PSL Research University, CNRS, UMR 144, Institut Curie, Paris, France.
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Militello AM, Orsi G, Cavaliere A, Niger M, Avallone A, Salvatore L, Tortora G, Rapposelli IG, Giordano G, Noventa S, Giommoni E, Bozzarelli S, Macchini M, Peretti U, Procaccio L, Puccini A, Cascinu S, Montagna C, Milella M, Reni M. Clinical outcomes and response to chemotherapy in a cohort of pancreatic cancer patients with germline variants of unknown significance (VUS) in BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. Cancer Chemother Pharmacol 2023; 92:501-510. [PMID: 37725113 DOI: 10.1007/s00280-023-04585-w] [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: 02/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The clinical outcome and the efficacy of chemotherapy in pancreatic cancer patients with BRCA1/2 Variants of Unknown Significance (VUS) is unknown. We explored the effects of chemotherapy with or without Platinum in non metastatic and metastatic pancreatic cancer patients with BRCA1/2 VUS. METHODS A retrospective analysis of non-metastatic or metastatic pancreatic cancer patients with gBRCA1/2 VUS treated in 13 Italian centers between November 2015 and December 2020 was performed. All patients were assessed for toxicity and RECIST 1.1 response. Metastatic patients were evaluated for survival outcome. RESULTS 30 pancreatic cancer patients with gBRCA1/2 VUS were considered: 20 were M+ and 10 were non-M+. Pl-CT was recommended to 16 patients: 10 M+ (6 FOLFIRINOX and 4 PAXG) and 6 non-M+ (3 FOLFIRINOX and 3 PAXG); 11 patients received Nabpaclitaxel-Gemcitabine (AG; 8 M+) and 3 patients (2 M+) were treated with Gemcitabine (G). The RECIST 1.1 response rate was 27% for AG and 44% for Pl-CT (22% for (m) FOLFIRINOX and 71% PAXG). 1 year Progression-Free Survival was 37.5% for patients treated with AG and 33% in the Pl-CT subgroup. Median Overall Survival (OS) was 23.5 months for patients treated with AG and 14 months for the Pl-CT subgroup. 1 Year and 2 Year OS were numerically better for AG (1 Year OS: 75% vs 60% and 2 Year OS: 50% and 20% in AG and Pl-CT subgroups, respectively) as well. CONCLUSIONS Pl-CT does not seem to be associated with a better outcome compared to AG chemotherapy in PDAC patients with BRCA 1/2 VUS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Maria Militello
- Department of Medical Oncology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Vita-Salute University, Via Olgettina 60, 20123, Milan, Italy
- Pancreas Translational & Clinical Research Center, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Giulia Orsi
- Department of Medical Oncology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Vita-Salute University, Via Olgettina 60, 20123, Milan, Italy
- Pancreas Translational & Clinical Research Center, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandro Cavaliere
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, Candiolo, Italy
- Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO - IRCCS Candiolo, Candiolo, Italy
| | - Monica Niger
- Medical Oncology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Dei Tumori Di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Antonio Avallone
- Biologia Cellulare e Bioterapie, Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori ''Fondazione Giovanni Pascale'' - IRCCS, Naples, Italy
| | - Lisa Salvatore
- Unit of Medical Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario, Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Giampaolo Tortora
- Unit of Medical Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario, Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Ilario Giovanni Rapposelli
- Department of Medical Oncology, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) ''Dino Amadori'', Meldola, Italy
| | - Guido Giordano
- Unit of Medical Oncology and Biomolecular Therapy, Policlinico Riuniti, Foggia, Italy
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Silvia Noventa
- Department of Medical Oncology, Fondazione Poliambulanza Istituto Ospedaliero, Brescia, Italy
| | - Elisa Giommoni
- Medical Oncology Division, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Careggi, Florence, Italy
| | - Silvia Bozzarelli
- Department of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Humanitas Cancer Center, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Marina Macchini
- Department of Medical Oncology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Vita-Salute University, Via Olgettina 60, 20123, Milan, Italy
- Pancreas Translational & Clinical Research Center, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Umberto Peretti
- Department of Medical Oncology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Vita-Salute University, Via Olgettina 60, 20123, Milan, Italy
- Pancreas Translational & Clinical Research Center, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Letizia Procaccio
- Medical Oncology 1 Unit, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV-IRCCS, Padua, Italy
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Alberto Puccini
- University of Genoa, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino IRCCS, Genoa, Italy
| | - Stefano Cascinu
- Department of Medical Oncology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Vita-Salute University, Via Olgettina 60, 20123, Milan, Italy
- Pancreas Translational & Clinical Research Center, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Cristina Montagna
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Genomic Instability and Cancer Genetics, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Michele Milella
- Section of Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Verona School of Medicine and Verona University Hospital Trust, Verona, Italy
| | - Michele Reni
- Department of Medical Oncology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Vita-Salute University, Via Olgettina 60, 20123, Milan, Italy.
- Pancreas Translational & Clinical Research Center, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy.
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Aguirre GA, Goulart MR, Dalli J, Kocher HM. Arachidonate 15-lipoxygenase-mediated production of Resolvin D5 n-3 DPA abrogates pancreatic stellate cell-induced cancer cell invasion. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1248547. [PMID: 38035115 PMCID: PMC10687150 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1248547] [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: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Activation of pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) to cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) is responsible for the extensive desmoplastic reaction observed in PDAC stroma: a key driver of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) chemoresistance leading to poor prognosis. Specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs) are prime modulators of inflammation and its resolution, traditionally thought to be produced by immune cells. Using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)-based lipid mediator profiling PSCs as well as primary human CAFs express enzymes and receptors to produce and respond to SPMs. Human PSC/CAF SPM secretion profile can be modulated by rendering these cells activated [transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β)] or quiescent [all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA)]. ATRA-induced nuclear translocation of arachidonate-15-lipoxygenase (ALOX15) was linked to increased production of n-3 docosapentaenoic acid-derived Resolvin D5 (RvD5n-3 DPA), among other SPMs. Inhibition of RvD5n-3 DPA formation increases cancer cell invasion, whereas addback of this molecule reduced activated PSC-mediated cancer cell invasion. We also observed that circulating concentrations of RvD5n-3 DPA levels were decreased in peripheral blood of metastatic PDAC patients when compared with those measured in plasma of non-metastatic PDAC patients. Together, these findings indicate that RvD5n-3 DPA may regulate cancer-stroma cross-talk and invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel A. Aguirre
- Centre for Tumour Biology, Barts Cancer Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Jesmond Dalli
- William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, John Vane Science Centre, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Hemant M. Kocher
- Centre for Tumour Biology, Barts Cancer Institute, London, United Kingdom
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Franco-Valls H, Tusquets-Uxó E, Sala L, Val M, Peña R, Iaconcig A, Villarino Á, Jiménez-Arriola M, Massó P, Trincado JL, Eyras E, Muro AF, Otero J, García de Herreros A, Baulida J. Formation of an invasion-permissive matrix requires TGFβ/SNAIL1-regulated alternative splicing of fibronectin. Breast Cancer Res 2023; 25:143. [PMID: 37964360 PMCID: PMC10647173 DOI: 10.1186/s13058-023-01736-y] [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: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND As in most solid cancers, the emergence of cells with oncogenic mutations in the mammary epithelium alters the tissue homeostasis. Some soluble factors, such as TGFβ, potently modify the behavior of healthy stromal cells. A subpopulation of cancer-associated fibroblasts expressing a TGFβ target, the SNAIL1 transcription factor, display myofibroblastic abilities that rearrange the stromal architecture. Breast tumors with the presence of SNAIL1 in the stromal compartment, and with aligned extracellular fiber, are associated with poor survival prognoses. METHODS We used deep RNA sequencing and biochemical techniques to study alternative splicing and human tumor databases to test for associations (correlation t-test) between SNAIL1 and fibronectin isoforms. Three-dimensional extracellular matrices generated from fibroblasts were used to study the mechanical properties and actions of the extracellular matrices on tumor cell and fibroblast behaviors. A metastatic mouse model of breast cancer was used to test the action of fibronectin isoforms on lung metastasis. RESULTS In silico studies showed that SNAIL1 correlates with the expression of the extra domain A (EDA)-containing (EDA+) fibronectin in advanced human breast cancer and other types of epithelial cancers. In TGFβ-activated fibroblasts, alternative splicing of fibronectin as well as of 500 other genes was modified by eliminating SNAIL1. Biochemical analyses demonstrated that SNAIL1 favors the inclusion of the EDA exon by modulating the activity of the SRSF1 splicing factor. Similar to Snai1 knockout fibroblasts, EDA- fibronectin fibroblasts produce an extracellular matrix that does not sustain TGFβ-induced fiber organization, rigidity, fibroblast activation, or tumor cell invasion. The presence of EDA+ fibronectin changes the action of metalloproteinases on fibronectin fibers. Critically, in an mouse orthotopic breast cancer model, the absence of the fibronectin EDA domain completely prevents lung metastasis. CONCLUSIONS Our results support the requirement of EDA+ fibronectin in the generation of a metastasis permissive stromal architecture in breast cancers and its molecular control by SNAIL1. From a pharmacological point of view, specifically blocking EDA+ fibronectin deposition could be included in studies to reduce the formation of a pro-metastatic environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Héctor Franco-Valls
- Programa de Recerca en Càncer, Hospital del Mar Research Institute (IMIM), Dr. Aiguader, 88, 08003, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Elsa Tusquets-Uxó
- Programa de Recerca en Càncer, Hospital del Mar Research Institute (IMIM), Dr. Aiguader, 88, 08003, Barcelona, Spain
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Laura Sala
- Programa de Recerca en Càncer, Hospital del Mar Research Institute (IMIM), Dr. Aiguader, 88, 08003, Barcelona, Spain
- National Institutes of Health: Intramural Research Program, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Maria Val
- Programa de Recerca en Càncer, Hospital del Mar Research Institute (IMIM), Dr. Aiguader, 88, 08003, Barcelona, Spain
- Vall Hebron Institute of Research, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Raúl Peña
- Programa de Recerca en Càncer, Hospital del Mar Research Institute (IMIM), Dr. Aiguader, 88, 08003, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Alessandra Iaconcig
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy
| | - Álvaro Villarino
- Unitat Biofísica i Bioenginyeria, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER de Enfermedades Respiratorias, Madrid, Spain
| | - Martín Jiménez-Arriola
- Programa de Recerca en Càncer, Hospital del Mar Research Institute (IMIM), Dr. Aiguader, 88, 08003, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Pere Massó
- Programa de Recerca en Càncer, Hospital del Mar Research Institute (IMIM), Dr. Aiguader, 88, 08003, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Juan L Trincado
- Research Program of Biomedical Informatics, Hospital del Mar Research Institute (IMIM), Barcelona, Spain
- Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Eduardo Eyras
- Research Program of Biomedical Informatics, Hospital del Mar Research Institute (IMIM), Barcelona, Spain
- John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Andrés F Muro
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy
| | - Jorge Otero
- Unitat Biofísica i Bioenginyeria, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER de Enfermedades Respiratorias, Madrid, Spain
| | - Antonio García de Herreros
- Programa de Recerca en Càncer, Hospital del Mar Research Institute (IMIM), Dr. Aiguader, 88, 08003, Barcelona, Spain
- Departament de Medicina i Ciències de la Vida, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Josep Baulida
- Programa de Recerca en Càncer, Hospital del Mar Research Institute (IMIM), Dr. Aiguader, 88, 08003, Barcelona, Spain.
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49
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Liu Z, Hou P, Fang J, Shao C, Shi Y, Melino G, Peschiaroli A. Hyaluronic acid metabolism and chemotherapy resistance: recent advances and therapeutic potential. Mol Oncol 2023. [PMID: 37953485 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.13551] [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: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a major component of the extracellular matrix, providing essential mechanical scaffolding for cells and, at the same time, mediating essential biochemical signals required for tissue homeostasis. Many solid tumors are characterized by dysregulated HA metabolism, resulting in increased HA levels in cancer tissues. HA interacts with several cell surface receptors, such as cluster of differentiation 44 and receptor for hyaluronan-mediated motility, thus co-regulating important signaling pathways in cancer development and progression. In this review, we describe the enzymes controlling HA metabolism and its intracellular effectors emphasizing their impact on cancer chemotherapy resistance. We will also explore the current and future prospects of HA-based therapy, highlighting the opportunities and challenges in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhanhong Liu
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
- Institutes for Translational Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, China
| | - Pengbo Hou
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
- Institutes for Translational Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, China
| | - Jiankai Fang
- Institutes for Translational Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, China
| | - Changshun Shao
- Institutes for Translational Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, China
| | - Yufang Shi
- Institutes for Translational Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, China
| | - Gerry Melino
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Angelo Peschiaroli
- Institute of Translational Pharmacology (IFT), National Research Council (CNR), Rome, Italy
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50
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Kalli M, Poskus MD, Stylianopoulos T, Zervantonakis IK. Beyond matrix stiffness: targeting force-induced cancer drug resistance. Trends Cancer 2023; 9:937-954. [PMID: 37558577 PMCID: PMC10592424 DOI: 10.1016/j.trecan.2023.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
During tumor progression, mechanical abnormalities in the tumor microenvironment (TME) trigger signaling pathways in cells that activate cellular programs, resulting in tumor growth and drug resistance. In this review, we describe mechanisms of action for anti-cancer therapies and mechanotransduction programs that regulate cellular processes, including cell proliferation, apoptosis, survival and phenotype switching. We discuss how the therapeutic response is impacted by the three main mechanical TME abnormalities: high extracellular matrix (ECM) composition and stiffness; interstitial fluid pressure (IFP); and elevated mechanical forces. We also review drugs that normalize these abnormalities or block mechanosensors and mechanotransduction pathways. Finally, we discuss current challenges and perspectives for the development of new strategies targeting mechanically induced drug resistance in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Kalli
- Cancer Biophysics Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Matthew D Poskus
- Department of Bioengineering and Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Triantafyllos Stylianopoulos
- Cancer Biophysics Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus.
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