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Weidle UH, Nopora A. CircRNAs in Pancreatic Cancer: New Tools for Target Identification and Therapeutic Intervention. Cancer Genomics Proteomics 2024; 21:327-349. [PMID: 38944427 PMCID: PMC11215428 DOI: 10.21873/cgp.20451] [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: 05/07/2024] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/01/2024] Open
Abstract
We have reviewed the literature for circular RNAs (circRNAs) with efficacy in preclinical pancreatic-cancer related in vivo models. The identified circRNAs target chemoresistance mechanisms (n=5), secreted proteins and transmembrane receptors (n=15), transcription factors (n=9), components of the signaling- (n=11), ubiquitination- (n=2), autophagy-system (n=2), and others (n=9). In addition to identifying targets for therapeutic intervention, circRNAs are potential new entities for treatment of pancreatic cancer. Up-regulated circRNAs can be inhibited by antisense oligonucleotides (ASO), small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), short hairpin RNAs (shRNAs) or clustered regularly interspaced short-palindromic repeats-CRISPR associated protein (CRISPR-CAS)-based intervention. The function of down-regulated circRNAs can be reconstituted by replacement therapy using plasmids or virus-based vector systems. Target validation experiments and the development of improved delivery systems for corresponding agents were examined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrich H Weidle
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Munich, Penzberg, Germany
| | - Adam Nopora
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Munich, Penzberg, Germany
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2
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Nopour R. Establishment of prediction model for mortality risk of pancreatic cancer: a retrospective study. BMC Med Inform Decis Mak 2024; 24:181. [PMID: 38937795 PMCID: PMC11210158 DOI: 10.1186/s12911-024-02590-4] [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: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Pancreatic cancer possesses a high prevalence and mortality rate among other cancers. Despite the low survival rate of this cancer type, the early prediction of this disease has a crucial role in decreasing the mortality rate and improving the prognosis. So, this study. MATERIALS AND METHODS In this retrospective study, we used 654 alive and dead PC cases to establish the prediction model for PC. The six chosen machine learning algorithms and prognostic factors were utilized to build the prediction models. The importance of the predictive factors was assessed using the relative importance of a high-performing algorithm. RESULTS The XG-Boost with AU-ROC of 0.933 (95% CI= [0.906-0.958]) and AU-ROC of 0.836 (95% CI= [0.789-0.865] in internal and external validation modes were considered as the best-performing model for predicting the mortality risk of PC. The factors, including tumor size, smoking, and chemotherapy, were considered the most influential for prediction. CONCLUSION The XG-Boost gained more performance efficiency in predicting the mortality risk of PC patients, so this model can promote the clinical solutions that doctors can achieve in healthcare environments to decrease the mortality risk of these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raoof Nopour
- Department of Health Information Management, Student Research Committee, School of Health Management and Information Sciences Branch, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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3
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Su J, Wang DS, Hu GX, Liu YY, Hu M, Chen Y, Wang QQ, Yan RC, Wu Y, Li YJ, Ma K, Qi YY, Ding LF, Wu XD. Anti-pancreatic cancer activity of cassane diterpenoids isolated from the seeds of Caesalpinia sappan mediated by autophagy activation via ROS/AMPK/mTORC1 pathway. PHYTOCHEMISTRY 2024; 222:114105. [PMID: 38657886 DOI: 10.1016/j.phytochem.2024.114105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Three undescribed cassane diterpenoids, caesalpanins D-F (1-3), and seven known ones were isolated from the seeds of Caesalpinia sappan. Structures and absolute configurations of 1-3 were elucidated based on the extensive spectroscopic analysis, single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis, and ECD calculations. Structurally, compound 1 was the first example of 18-norcassane diterpenoid and 2 was a rare 20-norcassane diterpenoid having an unusual five-membered oxygen bridge between C-10/C-18. The anti-proliferative activity of 1, 3, and 4-10 against PANC-1 cells (pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma cell line) was evaluated, and phanginin H (4) was found to exhibit anti-cancer activity with IC50 value of 18.13 ± 0.63 μM. Compound 4 inhibited PANC-1 cell growth by arresting the cell cycle at G2/M phase via regulation of cyclin-dependent kinases, and the self-renewal and metastasis of PANC-1 cells by suppressing cancer cell stemness. Furthermore, compound 4 induced ROS generation and subsequently activated autophagy, which was demonstrated by the formation of autophagic vacuoles and dynamic change of autophagic flux. The induced ROS accumulation resulted in AMPK activation and subsequently regulation of mTORC1 activity and ULK phosphorylation, indicating that 4 triggered autophagy through ROS/AMPK/mTORC1 pathway. These findings suggested that 4 might potentially be an autophagy inducer for the therapy of pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Su
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, Kunming, 650500, PR China
| | - De-Sheng Wang
- Key Laboratory of Ethnic Medicine Resource Chemistry, State Ethnic Affairs Commission & Ministry of Education, Yunnan Minzu University, Kunming, 650504, PR China; School of Pharmaceutical Science & Yunnan Key Laboratory of Pharmacology for Natural Products, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, 650500, PR China
| | - Guo-Xian Hu
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, Kunming, 650500, PR China
| | - Yu-Yao Liu
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, Kunming, 650500, PR China
| | - Ming Hu
- Key Laboratory of Ethnic Medicine Resource Chemistry, State Ethnic Affairs Commission & Ministry of Education, Yunnan Minzu University, Kunming, 650504, PR China
| | - Ya Chen
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, Kunming, 650500, PR China
| | - Qi-Qi Wang
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, Kunming, 650500, PR China
| | - Run-Cheng Yan
- Key Laboratory of Ethnic Medicine Resource Chemistry, State Ethnic Affairs Commission & Ministry of Education, Yunnan Minzu University, Kunming, 650504, PR China
| | - Yun Wu
- Key Laboratory of Ethnic Medicine Resource Chemistry, State Ethnic Affairs Commission & Ministry of Education, Yunnan Minzu University, Kunming, 650504, PR China
| | - Yong-Jiao Li
- Key Laboratory of Ethnic Medicine Resource Chemistry, State Ethnic Affairs Commission & Ministry of Education, Yunnan Minzu University, Kunming, 650504, PR China
| | - Ke Ma
- Yunnan Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Kunming, 650011, PR China
| | - Yan-Yan Qi
- Key Laboratory of Ethnic Medicine Resource Chemistry, State Ethnic Affairs Commission & Ministry of Education, Yunnan Minzu University, Kunming, 650504, PR China.
| | - Lin-Fen Ding
- School of Pharmaceutical Science & Yunnan Key Laboratory of Pharmacology for Natural Products, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, 650500, PR China; College of Modern Biomedical Industry, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, 650500, PR China.
| | - Xing-De Wu
- Key Laboratory of Ethnic Medicine Resource Chemistry, State Ethnic Affairs Commission & Ministry of Education, Yunnan Minzu University, Kunming, 650504, PR China.
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4
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Silva LGDO, Lemos FFB, Luz MS, Rocha Pinheiro SL, Calmon MDS, Correa Santos GL, Rocha GR, de Melo FF. New avenues for the treatment of immunotherapy-resistant pancreatic cancer. World J Gastrointest Oncol 2024; 16:1134-1153. [PMID: 38660642 PMCID: PMC11037047 DOI: 10.4251/wjgo.v16.i4.1134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) is characterized by its extremely aggressive nature and ranks 14th in the number of new cancer cases worldwide. However, due to its complexity, it ranks 7th in the list of the most lethal cancers worldwide. The pathogenesis of PC involves several complex processes, including familial genetic factors associated with risk factors such as obesity, diabetes mellitus, chronic pancreatitis, and smoking. Mutations in genes such as KRAS, TP53, and SMAD4 are linked to the appearance of malignant cells that generate pancreatic lesions and, consequently, cancer. In this context, some therapies are used for PC, one of which is immunotherapy, which is extremely promising in various other types of cancer but has shown little response in the treatment of PC due to various resistance mechanisms that contribute to a drop in immunotherapy efficiency. It is therefore clear that the tumor microenvironment (TME) has a huge impact on the resistance process, since cellular and non-cellular elements create an immunosuppressive environment, characterized by a dense desmoplastic stroma with cancer-associated fibroblasts, pancreatic stellate cells, extracellular matrix, and immunosuppressive cells. Linked to this are genetic mutations in TP53 and immunosuppressive factors that act on T cells, resulting in a shortage of CD8+ T cells and limited expression of activation markers such as interferon-gamma. In this way, finding new strategies that make it possible to manipulate resistance mechanisms is necessary. Thus, techniques such as the use of TME modulators that block receptors and stromal molecules that generate resistance, the use of genetic manipulation in specific regions, such as microRNAs, the modulation of extrinsic and intrinsic factors associated with T cells, and, above all, therapeutic models that combine these modulation techniques constitute the promising future of PC therapy. Thus, this study aims to elucidate the main mechanisms of resistance to immunotherapy in PC and new ways of manipulating this process, resulting in a more efficient therapy for cancer patients and, consequently, a reduction in the lethality of this aggressive cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Fabian Fellipe Bueno Lemos
- Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Vitória da Conquista 45029-094, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Marcel Silva Luz
- Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Vitória da Conquista 45029-094, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Samuel Luca Rocha Pinheiro
- Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Vitória da Conquista 45029-094, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Mariana dos Santos Calmon
- Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Vitória da Conquista 45029-094, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Lima Correa Santos
- Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Vitória da Conquista 45029-094, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Reis Rocha
- Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Vitória da Conquista 45029-094, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Fabrício Freire de Melo
- Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Vitória da Conquista 45029-094, Bahia, Brazil
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Kandathil A, Subramaniam R. Quarter-Century PET/Computed Tomography Transformation of Oncology: Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer. PET Clin 2024; 19:163-175. [PMID: 38212214 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpet.2023.12.003] [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: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
[18F] Fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) PET/CT can improve the staging accuracy and clinical management of patients with hepatobiliary and pancreatic cancers, by detection of unsuspected metastases. 18F-FDG PET/CT metabolic parameters are valuable in predicting treatment response and survival. Metabolic response on 18F-FDG PET/CT can predict preoperative pathologic response to neoadjuvant therapy in patients with pancreatic cancer and determine prognosis. Several novel non-FDG tracers, such as 68Ga prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) and 68Ga-fibroblast activation protein inhibitor (FAPI) PET/CT, show promise for imaging hepatobiliary and pancreatic cancers with potential for radioligand therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asha Kandathil
- Department of Radiology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
| | - Rathan Subramaniam
- Faculty of Medicine, Nursing, Midwifery and Health Sciences, University of Notre Dame Australia, Sydney, Australia; Department of Radiology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA; Department of Medicine, University of Otago Medical School, Dunedin, New Zealand
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Chen SJ, Ren LK, Fei XB, Liu P, Wang X, Zhu CH, Pan YZ. A study on the role of Taxifolin in inducing apoptosis of pancreatic cancer cells: screening results using weighted gene co-expression network analysis. Aging (Albany NY) 2024; 16:2617-2637. [PMID: 38305809 PMCID: PMC10911370 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205500] [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: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
Pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAAD) is a frequent malignant tumor in the pancreas. The incomplete understanding of cancer etiology and pathogenesis, as well as the limitations in early detection and diagnostic methods, have created an urgent need for the discovery of new therapeutic targets and drugs to control this disease. As a result, the current therapeutic options are limited. In this study, the weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) method was employed to identify key genes associated with the progression and prognosis of pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAAD) patients in the Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA) database. To identify small molecule drugs with potential in the treatment of pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAAD), we compared key genes to the reference dataset in the CMAP database. First, we analyzed the antitumor properties of small molecule drugs using cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8), AO/EB and Transwell assays. Subsequently, we integrated network pharmacology with molecular docking to explore the potential mechanisms of the identified molecules' anti-tumor effects. Our findings indicated that the progression and prognosis of PAAD patients in pancreatic cancer were associated with 11 genes, namely, DKK1, S100A2, CDA, KRT6A, ITGA3, GPR87, IL20RB, ZBED2, PMEPA1, CST6, and MUC16. These genes were filtered based on their therapeutic potential through comparing them with the reference dataset in the CMAP database. Taxifolin, a natural small molecule drug with the potential for treating PAAD, was screened by comparing it with the reference dataset in the CMAP database. Cell-based experiments have validated the potential of Taxifolin to facilitate apoptosis in pancreatic cancer cells while restraining their invasion and metastasis. This outcome is believed to be achieved via the HIF-1 signaling pathway. In conclusion, this study provided a theoretical basis for screening genes related to the progression of pancreatic cancer and discovered potentially active small molecule drugs. The experimental results confirm that Taxifolin has the ability to promote apoptosis in pancreatic cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shao-Jie Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
- School of Clinical Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Li-Kun Ren
- School of Clinical Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Xiao-Bin Fei
- School of Clinical Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Peng Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Xing Wang
- School of Clinical Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Chang-Hao Zhu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Yao-Zhen Pan
- School of Clinical Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
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7
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Hu J, Wu Q, Ding Q, Wu W, Li Q, Zheng Z. High Level of Adropin Promotes the Progression of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma. Curr Cancer Drug Targets 2024; 24:629-641. [PMID: 37990897 DOI: 10.2174/0115680096267203231024093601] [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: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Preliminary experiments have revealed the abnormally high expression level of adropin in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA). This study investigated the role of adropin in the progression of PDA. METHODS The paraffin-embedded samples of 20 patients with PDA were obtained from the hospital biobank, and immunohistochemistry was used to evaluate adropin expression. PDA cell lines were cultured and treated with recombinant adropin or adropin knockdown. Cell behavior was assessed, and the expression of phospho-vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (p-VEGFR2) and other related proteins was detected. The cell-derived xenograft (CDX) of PDA was established, and the effects of adropin or adropin knockdown on tumor growth were observed. RESULTS The PDA cancer tissues exhibited elevated adropin protein expression compared with the paracancerous tissues, and the expression was positively correlated with carbohydrate antigen 19-9 levels in patients. Adropin significantly promoted the proliferation and migration of PDA cells and upregulated the expression of p-VEGFR2, Ki67, cyclin D1, and matrix metalloprotein 2 (MMP2). After the knockdown of adropin expression or blockade of VEGFR2, the above effects of adropin were significantly reversed. Adropin supplementation significantly accelerated tumor growth in PDA CDX; upregulated the expression of p-VEGFR2, Ki67, cyclin D1, and MMP2; and promoted angiogenesis in tumor tissue microenvironment. However, CDX inoculated with adropin knockdown cells produced the opposite results. CONCLUSION Adropin overexpression in PDA promotes cancer cell proliferation and angiogenesis in tumor microenvironment by continuously activating VEGFR2 signaling, thereby creating conditions for tumor progression. Thus, targeting adropin may be an effective anti-PDA strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jilong Hu
- Department of Abdominal Surgery Oncology, Jiangxi Cancer Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi, P.R. China
| | - Qinrong Wu
- Department of General Surgery, Yingtan People's Hospital, Yingtan, Jiangxi, P.R. China
| | - Qunhua Ding
- Department of Abdominal Surgery Oncology, Jiangxi Cancer Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi, P.R. China
| | - Weibo Wu
- Department of Abdominal Surgery Oncology, Jiangxi Cancer Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi, P.R. China
| | - Qiyun Li
- Department of Abdominal Surgery Oncology, Jiangxi Cancer Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi, P.R. China
| | - Zhinan Zheng
- Department of Pharmacy, Jiangxi Cancer Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi, P.R. China
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Xing L, Lv L, Ren J, Yu H, Zhao X, Kong X, Xiang H, Tao X, Dong D. Advances in targeted therapy for pancreatic cancer. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 168:115717. [PMID: 37862965 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) represents a group of malignant tumours originating from pancreatic duct epithelial cells and acinar cells, and the 5-year survival rate of PC patients is only approximately 12%. Molecular targeted drugs are specific drugs designed to target and block oncogenes, and they have become promising strategies for the treatment of PC. Compared to traditional chemotherapy drugs, molecular targeted drugs have greater targeting precision, and they have significant therapeutic effects and minimal side effects. This article reviews several molecular targeted drugs that are currently in the experimental stage for the treatment of PC; these include antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), aptamer-drug conjugates (ApDCs) and peptide-drug conjugates (PDCs). ADCs can specifically recognize cell surface antigens and reduce systemic exposure and toxicity of chemotherapy drugs. By delivering nucleic acid drugs to target cells, the targeting RNA of ApDCs can inhibit the expression or translation of mutated genes, thereby inhibiting tumour development. Moreover, PDCs can effectively penetrate tumour cells, and the peptide groups in PDCs preferentially target tumour cells with minimal side effects. In the targeted therapy of PC, molecular targeted drugs have very broad prospects, which provides new hope for the clinical treatment of PC patients and is worth further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Xing
- Department of Pharmacy, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, China; School of Pharmacy, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116044, China
| | - Linlin Lv
- Department of Pharmacy, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, China
| | - Jiaqi Ren
- Department of Pharmacy, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, China
| | - Hao Yu
- Department of Pharmacy, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, China
| | - Xinya Zhao
- Department of Pharmacy, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, China
| | - Xin Kong
- Department of Pharmacy, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, China
| | - Hong Xiang
- Laboratory of Integrative Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, China.
| | - Xufeng Tao
- Department of Pharmacy, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, China.
| | - Deshi Dong
- Department of Pharmacy, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, China.
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Liu J, Gu X, Guan Z, Huang D, Xing H, Zheng L. Role of m6A modification in regulating the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway in cancer. J Transl Med 2023; 21:774. [PMID: 37915034 PMCID: PMC10619263 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04651-0] [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: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT signaling pathway plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of cancer. The dysregulation of this pathway has been linked to the development and initiation of various types of cancer. Recently, epigenetic modifications, particularly N6-methyladenosine (m6A), have been recognized as essential contributors to mRNA-related biological processes and translation. The abnormal expression of m6A modification enzymes has been associated with oncogenesis, tumor progression, and drug resistance. Here, we review the role of m6A modification in regulating the PI3K/AKT pathway in cancer and its implications in the development of novel strategies for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Liu
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, No. 1 Jianshe East Road, Erqi District, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China
| | - Xinyu Gu
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Clinical Medicine, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, 471000, Henan, China
| | - Zhenjie Guan
- Department of Stomatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China
| | - Di Huang
- Department of Child Health Care, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450000, Henan, China
| | - Huiwu Xing
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, No. 1 Jianshe East Road, Erqi District, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China.
| | - Lian Zheng
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, No. 1 Jianshe East Road, Erqi District, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China.
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10
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Li D, Zhang Q, Tang Y, Mao F, Zeng J, Ji A. LncRNAs associated with vascular mimicry establish a novel molecular subtype and prognostic model for pancreatic cancer. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2023; 149:11571-11584. [PMID: 37400573 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-023-05015-3] [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: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vascular mimicry (VM) epitomizes an innovative tumor angiogenesis pathway, potentially serving as an alternate conduit under the assumption of traditional tumor angiogenesis pathway inhibition. The role of VM in pancreatic cancer (PC), however, remains unexplored. METHODS Using differential analysis and Spearman correlation, we identified key long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) signatures in PC from the collected set of VM-associated genes in the literature. We identified optimal clusters using the non-negative matrix decomposition (NMF) algorithm, and then compared clinicopathological features and prognostic differences between clusters. We also assessed tumor microenvironmental (TME) differences between clusters using multiple algorithms. Using univariate Cox regression analyses as well as lasso regression, we constructed and validated new lncRNA prognostic risk models for PC. We used Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) to analyze model-enriched functions and pathways. Nomograms were then developed to predict patient survival in association with clinicopathological factors. In addition, single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) analysis was used to analyze the expression patterns of VM-related genes and lncRNAs in the PC of TME. Finally, we used the Connectivity Map (cMap) database to predict local anaesthetics that could modify the VM of PC. RESULTS In this study, we developed a novel three-cluster molecular subtype using the identified VM-associated lncRNA signatures of PC. The different subtypes have significantly different clinical characteristics and prognostic value, and also show differential treatment response and TME. Following an in-depth analysis, we constructed and validated a novel prognostic risk model for PC based on the VM-associated lncRNA signatures. Enrichment analysis suggested that high riskscores were significantly associated with functions and pathways, including extracellular matrix remodeling, et al. In addition, we predicted eight local anaesthetics that could modulate VM in PC. Finally, we discovered differential expression of VM-related genes and lncRNAs across various cell types within pancreatic cancer. CONCLUSION VM has a critical role in PC. This study pioneers the development of a VM-based molecular subtype that demonstrates substantial differentiation in PC populations. Furthermore, we highlighted the significance of VM within the immune microenvironment of PC. Moreover, VM might contribute to PC tumorigenesis through its mediation of mesenchymal remodeling and endothelial transdifferentiation-related pathways, which offers a new perspective on its role in PC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Da Li
- Hepatobiliary Surgery Department, Yangzhou University Affiliated Hospital, Yangzhou, 225000, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qiang Zhang
- Medical College of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225000, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yubao Tang
- Medical College of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225000, Jiangsu, China
| | - Feiyu Mao
- Hepatobiliary Surgery Department, Yangzhou University Affiliated Hospital, Yangzhou, 225000, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jia Zeng
- Hepatobiliary Surgery Department, Yangzhou University Affiliated Hospital, Yangzhou, 225000, Jiangsu, China
| | - Anlai Ji
- Hepatobiliary Surgery Department, Yangzhou University Affiliated Hospital, Yangzhou, 225000, Jiangsu, China.
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11
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Shin KC. A Novel Metabolic Detour for Pancreatic Cancer Survival. Mol Cells 2023; 46:345-347. [PMID: 37288483 PMCID: PMC10258460 DOI: 10.14348/molcells.2023.0067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Kyung Cheul Shin
- Center for Adipocyte Structure and Function, Institute of Molecular Biology and Genetics, School of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
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12
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Parrasia S, Rossa A, Roncaglia N, Mattarei A, Honisch C, Szabò I, Ruzza P, Biasutto L. DA7R: A 7-Letter Zip Code to Target PDAC. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15051508. [PMID: 37242749 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15051508] [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: 04/07/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the most common type of pancreatic cancer, and is among the most aggressive and still incurable cancers. Innovative and successful therapeutic strategies are extremely needed. Peptides represent a versatile and promising tool to achieve tumor targeting, thanks to their ability to recognize specific target proteins (over)expressed on the surface of cancer cells. A7R is one such peptide, binding neuropilin-1 (NRP-1) and VEGFR2. Since PDAC expresses these receptors, the aim of this study was to test if A7R-drug conjugates could represent a PDAC-targeting strategy. PAPTP, a promising mitochondria-targeted anticancer compound, was selected as the cargo for this proof-of-concept study. Derivatives were designed as prodrugs, using a bioreversible linker to connect PAPTP to the peptide. Both the retro-inverso (DA7R) and the head-to-tail cyclic (cA7R) protease-resistant analogs of A7R were tested, and a tetraethylene glycol chain was introduced to improve solubility. Uptake of a fluorescent DA7R conjugate, as well as of the PAPTP-DA7R derivative into PDAC cell lines was found to be related to the expression levels of NRP-1 and VEGFR2. Conjugation of DA7R to therapeutically active compounds or nanovehicles might allow PDAC-targeted drug delivery, improving the efficacy of the therapy and reducing off-target effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Parrasia
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Viale G. Colombo 3, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Andrea Rossa
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Padova, Via F. Marzolo 1, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Nicola Roncaglia
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Padova, Via F. Marzolo 1, 35131 Padova, Italy
- CNR Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, Padua Unit, Via F. Marzolo 1, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Andrea Mattarei
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Via F. Marzolo 5, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Claudia Honisch
- CNR Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, Padua Unit, Via F. Marzolo 1, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Ildikò Szabò
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Viale G. Colombo 3, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Paolo Ruzza
- CNR Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, Padua Unit, Via F. Marzolo 1, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Lucia Biasutto
- CNR Neuroscience Institute, Padua Unit, Viale G. Colombo 3, 35131 Padova, Italy
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Gillani M, Rosen SA. Current Controversies in the Management of Locally Advanced Colon Cancer. Am Surg 2023:31348231175490. [PMID: 37183413 DOI: 10.1177/00031348231175490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Mishal Gillani
- Department of Surgery, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Seth Alan Rosen
- Department of Surgery, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Olajubutu O, Ogundipe OD, Adebayo A, Adesina SK. Drug Delivery Strategies for the Treatment of Pancreatic Cancer. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15051318. [PMID: 37242560 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15051318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 04/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is fast becoming a global menace and it is projected to be the second leading cause of cancer-related death by 2030. Pancreatic adenocarcinomas, which develop in the pancreas' exocrine region, are the predominant type of pancreatic cancer, representing about 95% of total pancreatic tumors. The malignancy progresses asymptomatically, making early diagnosis difficult. It is characterized by excessive production of fibrotic stroma known as desmoplasia, which aids tumor growth and metastatic spread by remodeling the extracellular matrix and releasing tumor growth factors. For decades, immense efforts have been harnessed toward developing more effective drug delivery systems for pancreatic cancer treatment leveraging nanotechnology, immunotherapy, drug conjugates, and combinations of these approaches. However, despite the reported preclinical success of these approaches, no substantial progress has been made clinically and the prognosis for pancreatic cancer is worsening. This review provides insights into challenges associated with the delivery of therapeutics for pancreatic cancer treatment and discusses drug delivery strategies to minimize adverse effects associated with current chemotherapy options and to improve the efficiency of drug treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Omotola D Ogundipe
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Howard University, Washington, DC 20059, USA
| | - Amusa Adebayo
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Howard University, Washington, DC 20059, USA
| | - Simeon K Adesina
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Howard University, Washington, DC 20059, USA
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Ahmed AA, Greenhalf W, Palmer DH, Williams N, Worthington J, Arshad T, Haider S, Alexandrou E, Guneri D, Waller ZAE, Neidle S. The Potent G-Quadruplex-Binding Compound QN-302 Downregulates S100P Gene Expression in Cells and in an In Vivo Model of Pancreatic Cancer. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28062452. [PMID: 36985425 PMCID: PMC10051992 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28062452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The naphthalene diimide compound QN-302, designed to bind to G-quadruplex DNA sequences within the promoter regions of cancer-related genes, has high anti-proliferative activity in pancreatic cancer cell lines and anti-tumor activity in several experimental models for the disease. We show here that QN-302 also causes downregulation of the expression of the S100P gene and the S100P protein in cells and in vivo. This protein is well established as being involved in key proliferation and motility pathways in several human cancers and has been identified as a potential biomarker in pancreatic cancer. The S100P gene contains 60 putative quadruplex-forming sequences, one of which is in the promoter region, 48 nucleotides upstream from the transcription start site. We report biophysical and molecular modeling studies showing that this sequence forms a highly stable G-quadruplex in vitro, which is further stabilized by QN-302. We also report transcriptome analyses showing that S100P expression is highly upregulated in tissues from human pancreatic cancer tumors, compared to normal pancreas material. The extent of upregulation is dependent on the degree of differentiation of tumor cells, with the most poorly differentiated, from more advanced disease, having the highest level of S100P expression. The experimental drug QN-302 is currently in pre-IND development (as of Q1 2023), and its ability to downregulate S100P protein expression supports a role for this protein as a marker of therapeutic response in pancreatic cancer. These results are also consistent with the hypothesis that the S100P promoter G-quadruplex is a potential therapeutic target in pancreatic cancer at the transcriptional level for QN-302.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed A Ahmed
- The School of Pharmacy, University College London, London WC1N 1AX, UK
- Guy's Cancer Centre, Guy's Hospital, London SE1 9RT, UK
| | - William Greenhalf
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 7BE, UK
| | - Daniel H Palmer
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 7BE, UK
| | | | | | | | - Shozeb Haider
- The School of Pharmacy, University College London, London WC1N 1AX, UK
| | | | - Dilek Guneri
- The School of Pharmacy, University College London, London WC1N 1AX, UK
| | - Zoe A E Waller
- The School of Pharmacy, University College London, London WC1N 1AX, UK
| | - Stephen Neidle
- The School of Pharmacy, University College London, London WC1N 1AX, UK
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16
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Li X, Zhou J, Wang X, Li C, Ma Z, Wan Q, Peng F. Pancreatic cancer and fibrosis: Targeting metabolic reprogramming and crosstalk of cancer-associated fibroblasts in the tumor microenvironment. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1152312. [PMID: 37033960 PMCID: PMC10073477 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1152312] [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: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is one of the most dangerous types of cancer today, notable for its low survival rate and fibrosis. Deciphering the cellular composition and intercellular interactions in the tumor microenvironment (TME) is a necessary prerequisite to combat pancreatic cancer with precision. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), as major producers of extracellular matrix (ECM), play a key role in tumor progression. CAFs display significant heterogeneity and perform different roles in tumor progression. Tumor cells turn CAFs into their slaves by inducing their metabolic dysregulation, exacerbating fibrosis to acquire drug resistance and immune evasion. This article reviews the impact of metabolic reprogramming, effect of obesity and cellular crosstalk of CAFs and tumor cells on fibrosis and describes relevant therapies targeting the metabolic reprogramming.
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17
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Zhou BG, Mei YZ, Wang JS, Xia JL, Jiang X, Ju SY, Ding YB. Is Helicobacter pylori infection associated with pancreatic cancer? A systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies. Ther Adv Chronic Dis 2023; 14:20406223231155119. [PMID: 36890981 PMCID: PMC9986679 DOI: 10.1177/20406223231155119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Objectives Recent observational studies have investigated the association between Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection and pancreatic cancer with conflicting data. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the potential association. Design This is a systematic review and meta-analysis. Methods We searched three databases (PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science) from inception to 30 August 2022. The summary results as odds ratio (OR) or hazard ratio (HR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) were pooled by generic inverse variance method based on random-effects model. Results A total of 20 observational studies involving 67,718 participants were included in the meta-analysis. Meta-analysis of data from 12 case-control studies and 5 nested case-control studies showed that there was no significant association between H. pylori infection and the risk of pancreatic cancer (OR = 1.20, 95% CI = 0.95-1.51, p = 0.13). Similarly, we also did not find significant association between cytotoxin-associated gene A (CagA) positive strains, CagA negative strains, vacuolating cytotoxin gene A (VacA) positive strains H. pylori infection, and the risk of pancreatic cancer. Meta-analysis of data from three cohort studies showed that H. pylori infection was not significantly associated with an increased risk of incident pancreatic cancer (HR = 1.26, 95% CI = 0.65-2.42, p = 0.50). Conclusion We found insufficient evidence to support the proposed association between H. pylori infection and increased risk of pancreatic cancer. To better understand any association, future evidence from large, well-designed, high-quality prospective cohort studies that accounts for diverse ethnic populations, certain H. pylori strains, and confounding factors would be useful to settle this controversy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben-Gang Zhou
- Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China.,Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Yu-Zhou Mei
- Department of Gastroenterology, The People's Hospital of China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
| | - Jing-Shu Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The People's Hospital of China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
| | - Jian-Lei Xia
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China.,Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Xin Jiang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China.,Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Sheng-Yong Ju
- Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, No. 368, Hanjiang Middle Road, Hanjiang District, Yangzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yan-Bing Ding
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, No. 368, Hanjiang Middle Road, Hanjiang District, Yangzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
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