1
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Qiao X, Huang N, Meng W, Liu Y, Li J, Li C, Wang W, Lai Y, Zhao Y, Ma Z, Li J, Zhang X, Weng Z, Wu C, Li L, Li B. Beyond mitochondrial transfer, cell fusion rescues metabolic dysfunction and boosts malignancy in adenoid cystic carcinoma. Cell Rep 2024; 43:114652. [PMID: 39217612 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.114652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 08/01/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer cells with mitochondrial dysfunction can be rescued by cells in the tumor microenvironment. Using human adenoid cystic carcinoma cell lines and fibroblasts, we find that mitochondrial transfer occurs not only between human cells but also between human and mouse cells both in vitro and in vivo. Intriguingly, spontaneous cell fusion between cancer cells and fibroblasts could also emerge; specific chromosome loss might be essential for nucleus reorganization and the post-hybrid selection process. Both mitochondrial transfer through tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) and cell fusion "selectively" revive cancer cells, with mitochondrial dysfunction as a key motivator. Beyond mitochondrial transfer, cell fusion significantly enhances cancer malignancy and promotes epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Mechanistically, mitochondrial dysfunction in cancer cells causes L-lactate secretion to attract fibroblasts to extend TNTs and TMEM16F-mediated phosphatidylserine externalization, facilitating TNT formation and cell-membrane fusion. Our findings offer insights into mitochondrial transfer and cell fusion, highlighting potential cancer therapy targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianghe Qiao
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center for Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China
| | - Nengwen Huang
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center for Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Wanrong Meng
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center for Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yunkun Liu
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center for Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Jinjin Li
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center for Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China
| | - Chunjie Li
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center for Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Wenxuan Wang
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center for Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yi Lai
- Department of Medical Genetics/Prenatal Diagnostic Center, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yongjiang Zhao
- Genetics and Prenatal Diagnostic Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan Engineering Research Center for Gene Editing of Human Genetic Disease, Zhengzhou 450052, China
| | - Zhongkai Ma
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center for Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Jingya Li
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center for Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Xuan Zhang
- Department of Medical Genetics/Prenatal Diagnostic Center, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Zhijie Weng
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center for Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Chenzhou Wu
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center for Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Longjiang Li
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center for Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
| | - Bo Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center for Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; Department of Orthodontics, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
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2
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Luo Y, Pezacki AT, Matier CD, Wang WX. A novel route of intercellular copper transport and detoxification in oyster hemocytes. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 476:135003. [PMID: 38917627 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.135003] [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: 04/28/2024] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
Bivalve hemocytes are oyster immune cells composed of several cellular subtypes with different functions. Hemocytes accumulate high concentrations of copper (Cu) and exert critical roles in metal sequestration and detoxification in oysters, however the specific biochemical mechanisms that govern this have yet to be fully uncovered. Herein, we demonstrate that Cu(I) is predominately sequestered in lysosomes via the Cu transporter ATP7A in hemocytes to reduce the toxic effects of intracellular Cu(I). We also found that Cu(I) is translocated along tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) relocating from high Cu(I) cells to low Cu(I) cells, effectively reducing the burden caused by overloaded Cu(I), and that ATP7A facilitates the efflux of intracellular Cu(I) in both TNTs and hemocyte subtypes. We identify that elevated glutathione (GSH) contents and heat-shock protein (Hsp) levels, as well as the activation of the cell cycle were critical in maintaining the cellular homeostasis and function of hemocytes exposed to Cu. Cu exposure also increased the expression of membrane proteins (MYOF, RalA, RalBP1, and cadherins) and lipid transporter activity which can induce TNT formation, and activated the lysosomal signaling pathway, promoting intercellular lysosomal trafficking dependent on increased hydrolase activity and ATP-dependent activity. This study explores the intracellular and intercellular transport and detoxification of Cu in oyster hemocytes, which may help in understanding the potential toxicity and fate of metals in marine animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yali Luo
- School of Energy and Environment and State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China; Research Centre for the Oceans and Human Health, City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518057, China
| | - Aidan T Pezacki
- Departments of Chemistry and Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - Carson D Matier
- Departments of Chemistry and Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - Wen-Xiong Wang
- School of Energy and Environment and State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China; Research Centre for the Oceans and Human Health, City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518057, China.
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3
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Chang X, Wang WX. Differential cellular uptake and trafficking of nanoplastics in two hemocyte subpopulations of mussels Perna viridis. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 471:134388. [PMID: 38669925 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Xinyi Chang
- School of Energy and Environment and State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China; Research Centre for the Oceans and Human Health, City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518057, China
| | - Wen-Xiong Wang
- School of Energy and Environment and State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China; Research Centre for the Oceans and Human Health, City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518057, China.
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4
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Musgrove MRB, Mikhaylova M, Bredy TW. Fundamental Neurochemistry Review: At the intersection between the brain and the immune system: Non-coding RNAs spanning learning, memory and adaptive immunity. J Neurochem 2024; 168:961-976. [PMID: 38339812 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.16071] [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: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are highly plastic RNA molecules that can sequester cellular proteins and other RNAs, serve as transporters of cellular cargo and provide spatiotemporal feedback to the genome. Mounting evidence indicates that ncRNAs are central to biology, and are critical for neuronal development, metabolism and intra- and intercellular communication in the brain. Their plasticity arises from state-dependent dynamic structure states that can be influenced by cell type and subcellular environment, which can subsequently enable the same ncRNA with discrete functions in different contexts. Here, we highlight different classes of brain-enriched ncRNAs, including microRNA, long non-coding RNA and other enigmatic ncRNAs, that are functionally important for both learning and memory and adaptive immunity, and describe how they may promote cross-talk between these two evolutionarily ancient biological systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mason R B Musgrove
- Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Marina Mikhaylova
- AG Optobiologie, Institute für Biologie, Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Timothy W Bredy
- Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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5
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Iorio R, Petricca S, Mattei V, Delle Monache S. Horizontal mitochondrial transfer as a novel bioenergetic tool for mesenchymal stromal/stem cells: molecular mechanisms and therapeutic potential in a variety of diseases. J Transl Med 2024; 22:491. [PMID: 38790026 PMCID: PMC11127344 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-05047-4] [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: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Intercellular mitochondrial transfer (MT) is a newly discovered form of cell-to-cell signalling involving the active incorporation of healthy mitochondria into stressed/injured recipient cells, contributing to the restoration of bioenergetic profile and cell viability, reduction of inflammatory processes and normalisation of calcium dynamics. Recent evidence has shown that MT can occur through multiple cellular structures and mechanisms: tunneling nanotubes (TNTs), via gap junctions (GJs), mediated by extracellular vesicles (EVs) and other mechanisms (cell fusion, mitochondrial extrusion and migrasome-mediated mitocytosis) and in different contexts, such as under physiological (tissue homeostasis and stemness maintenance) and pathological conditions (hypoxia, inflammation and cancer). As Mesenchimal Stromal/ Stem Cells (MSC)-mediated MT has emerged as a critical regulatory and restorative mechanism for cell and tissue regeneration and damage repair in recent years, its potential in stem cell therapy has received increasing attention. In particular, the potential therapeutic role of MSCs has been reported in several articles, suggesting that MSCs can enhance tissue repair after injury via MT and membrane vesicle release. For these reasons, in this review, we will discuss the different mechanisms of MSCs-mediated MT and therapeutic effects on different diseases such as neuronal, ischaemic, vascular and pulmonary diseases. Therefore, understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms of MT and demonstrating its efficacy could be an important milestone that lays the foundation for future clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Iorio
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Via Vetoio, 67100, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Sabrina Petricca
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Via Vetoio, 67100, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Mattei
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita, Della Salute e delle Professioni Sanitarie, Link Campus University, Via del Casale di San Pio V 44, 00165, Rome, Italy.
| | - Simona Delle Monache
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Via Vetoio, 67100, L'Aquila, Italy.
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6
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Zhou C, Huang M, Wang S, Chu S, Zhang Z, Chen N. Tunneling nanotubes: The transport highway for astrocyte-neuron communication in the central nervous system. Brain Res Bull 2024; 209:110921. [PMID: 38447659 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2024.110921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) have emerged as pivotal structures for intercellular communication, enabling the transfer of cellular components across distant cells. Their involvement in neurological disorders has attracted considerable scientific interest. This review delineates the functions of TNTs within the central nervous system, examining their role in the transmission of bioenergetic substrates, and signaling molecules, and their multifaceted impact on both physiological and pathological processes, with an emphasis on neurodegenerative diseases. The review highlights the selectivity and specificity of TNTs as dedicated pathways for intercellular cargo delivery, particularly under stress conditions that provoke increased TNT formation. The potential of TNTs as therapeutic targets is explored in depth. We pay particular attention to the interactions between astrocytes and neurons mediated by TNTs, which are fundamental to brain architecture and function. Dysfunctions in these interactions are implicated in the spread of protein aggregates and mitochondrial anomalies, contributing to the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases. The review culminates with a synthesis of the current understanding of TNT biology and identifies research gaps, advocating for intensified exploration into TNTs as a promising therapeutic frontier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cuixiang Zhou
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China; State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica & Neuroscience Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Min Huang
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China; State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica & Neuroscience Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Shasha Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica & Neuroscience Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China; Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510405, China
| | - Shifeng Chu
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica & Neuroscience Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Zhao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica & Neuroscience Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China.
| | - Naihong Chen
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China; State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica & Neuroscience Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China; Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510405, China.
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7
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Halász H, Tárnai V, Matkó J, Nyitrai M, Szabó-Meleg E. Cooperation of Various Cytoskeletal Components Orchestrates Intercellular Spread of Mitochondria between B-Lymphoma Cells through Tunnelling Nanotubes. Cells 2024; 13:607. [PMID: 38607046 PMCID: PMC11011538 DOI: 10.3390/cells13070607] [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: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Membrane nanotubes (NTs) are dynamic communication channels connecting spatially separated cells even over long distances and promoting the transport of different cellular cargos. NTs are also involved in the intercellular spread of different pathogens and the deterioration of some neurological disorders. Transport processes via NTs may be controlled by cytoskeletal elements. NTs are frequently observed membrane projections in numerous mammalian cell lines, including various immune cells, but their functional significance in the 'antibody factory' B cells is poorly elucidated. Here, we report that as active channels, NTs of B-lymphoma cells can mediate bidirectional mitochondrial transport, promoted by the cooperation of two different cytoskeletal motor proteins, kinesin along microtubules and myosin VI along actin, and bidirectional transport processes are also supported by the heterogeneous arrangement of the main cytoskeletal filament systems of the NTs. We revealed that despite NTs and axons being different cell extensions, the mitochondrial transport they mediate may exhibit significant similarities. Furthermore, we found that microtubules may improve the stability and lifespan of B-lymphoma-cell NTs, while F-actin strengthens NTs by providing a structural framework for them. Our results may contribute to a better understanding of the regulation of the major cells of humoral immune response to infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henriett Halász
- Department of Biophysics, Medical School, University of Pécs, H-7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Viktória Tárnai
- Department of Biophysics, Medical School, University of Pécs, H-7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - János Matkó
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Science, Eötvös Loránd University, H-1117 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Miklós Nyitrai
- Department of Biophysics, Medical School, University of Pécs, H-7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Edina Szabó-Meleg
- Department of Biophysics, Medical School, University of Pécs, H-7624 Pécs, Hungary
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8
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Szabó-Meleg E. Intercellular Highways in Transport Processes. Results Probl Cell Differ 2024; 73:173-201. [PMID: 39242380 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-62036-2_9] [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: 09/09/2024]
Abstract
Communication among cells is vital in multicellular organisms. Various structures and mechanisms have evolved over time to achieve the intricate flow of material and information during this process. One such way of communication is through tunnelling membrane nanotubes (TNTs), which were initially described in 2004. These TNTs are membrane-bounded actin-rich cellular extensions, facilitating direct communication between distant cells. They exhibit remarkable diversity in terms of structure, morphology, and function, in which cytoskeletal proteins play an essential role. Biologically, TNTs play a crucial role in transporting membrane components, cell organelles, and nucleic acids, and they also present opportunities for the efficient transmission of bacteria and viruses, furthermore, may contribute to the dissemination of misfolded proteins in certain neurodegenerative diseases. Convincing results of studies conducted both in vitro and in vivo indicate that TNTs play roles in various biomedical processes, including cell differentiation, tissue regeneration, neurodegenerative diseases, immune response and function, as well as tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edina Szabó-Meleg
- Department of Biophysics, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary.
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9
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Kapoor D, Sharma P, Siani A, Azhar E, Elste J, Kohlmeir EK, Shukla D, Tiwari V. Tunneling Nanotubes: The Cables for Viral Spread and Beyond. Results Probl Cell Differ 2024; 73:375-417. [PMID: 39242387 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-62036-2_16] [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: 09/09/2024]
Abstract
Multicellular organisms require cell-to-cell communication to maintain homeostasis and thrive. For cells to communicate, a network of filamentous, actin-rich tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) plays a pivotal role in facilitating efficient cell-to-cell communication by connecting the cytoplasm of adjacent or distant cells. Substantial documentation indicates that diverse cell types employ TNTs in a sophisticated and intricately organized fashion for both long and short-distance communication. Paradoxically, several pathogens, including viruses, exploit the structural integrity of TNTs to facilitate viral entry and rapid cell-to-cell spread. These pathogens utilize a "surfing" mechanism or intracellular transport along TNTs to bypass high-traffic cellular regions and evade immune surveillance and neutralization. Although TNTs are present across various cell types in healthy tissue, their magnitude is increased in the presence of viruses. This heightened induction significantly amplifies the role of TNTs in exacerbating disease manifestations, severity, and subsequent complications. Despite significant advancements in TNT research within the realm of infectious diseases, further studies are imperative to gain a precise understanding of TNTs' roles in diverse pathological conditions. Such investigations are essential for the development of novel therapeutic strategies aimed at leveraging TNT-associated mechanisms for clinical applications. In this chapter, we emphasize the significance of TNTs in the life cycle of viruses, showcasing the potential for a targeted approach to impede virus-host cell interactions during the initial stages of viral infections. This approach holds promise for intervention and prevention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Divya Kapoor
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Pankaj Sharma
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Akash Siani
- Hinsdale Central High School, Hinsdale, IL, USA
| | - Eisa Azhar
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine, Midwestern University, Downers Grove, IL, USA
| | - James Elste
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine, Midwestern University, Downers Grove, IL, USA
| | | | - Deepak Shukla
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Vaibhav Tiwari
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine, Midwestern University, Downers Grove, IL, USA.
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10
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Budinger D, Baker V, Heneka MT. Tunneling Nanotubes in the Brain. Results Probl Cell Differ 2024; 73:203-227. [PMID: 39242381 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-62036-2_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/09/2024]
Abstract
Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) have emerged as intriguing structures facilitating intercellular communications across diverse cell types, which are integral to several biological processes, as well as participating in various disease progression. This review provides an in-depth analysis of TNTs, elucidating their structural characteristics and functional roles, with a particular focus on their significance within the brain environment and their implications in neurological and neurodegenerative disorders. We explore the interplay between TNTs and neurological diseases, offering potential mechanistic insights into disease progression, while also highlighting their potential as viable therapeutic targets. Additionally, we address the significant challenges associated with studying TNTs, from technical limitations to their investigation in complex biological systems. By addressing some of these challenges, this review aims to pave the way for further exploration into TNTs, establishing them as a central focus in advancing our understanding of neurodegenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitri Budinger
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, Esch-Belval, Luxembourg
| | - Vivian Baker
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, Esch-Belval, Luxembourg
| | - Michael T Heneka
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, Esch-Belval, Luxembourg.
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11
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Wang YF, Shen ZF, Xiang FY, Wang H, Zhang P, Zhang Q. The direct transfer approach for transcellular drug delivery. Drug Deliv 2023; 30:2288799. [PMID: 38037327 PMCID: PMC10987047 DOI: 10.1080/10717544.2023.2288799] [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: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
A promising paradigm for drug administration that has garnered increasing attention in recent years is the direct transfer (DT) of nanoparticles for transcellular drug delivery. DT requires direct cell-cell contact and facilitates unidirectional and bidirectional matter exchange between neighboring cells. Consequently, DT enables fast and deep penetration of drugs into the targeted tissues. This comprehensive review discusses the direct transfer concept, which can be delineated into the following three distinct modalities: membrane contact-direct transfer, gap junction-mediated direct transfer (GJ-DT), and tunneling nanotubes-mediated direct transfer (TNTs-DT). Further, the intercellular structures for each modality of direct transfer and their respective merits and demerits are summarized. The review also discusses the recent progress on the drugs or drug delivery systems that could activate DT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Fan Wang
- Graduate Department, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui, China
- Urology & Nephrology Center, Department of Urology, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, Affiliated People’s Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ze-Fan Shen
- Urology & Nephrology Center, Department of Urology, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, Affiliated People’s Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Fang-yue Xiang
- School of Stomatology, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Heng Wang
- Urology & Nephrology Center, Department of Urology, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, Affiliated People’s Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Pu Zhang
- Urology & Nephrology Center, Department of Urology, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, Affiliated People’s Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qi Zhang
- Graduate Department, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui, China
- Urology & Nephrology Center, Department of Urology, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, Affiliated People’s Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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12
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Belian S, Korenkova O, Zurzolo C. Actin-based protrusions at a glance. J Cell Sci 2023; 136:jcs261156. [PMID: 37987375 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.261156] [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] [Indexed: 11/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Actin-based protrusions are at the base of many fundamental cellular processes, such as cell adhesion, migration and intercellular communication. In recent decades, the discovery of new types of actin-based protrusions with unique functions has enriched our comprehension of cellular processes. However, as the repertoire of protrusions continues to expand, the rationale behind the classification of newly identified and previously known structures becomes unclear. Although current nomenclature allows good categorization of protrusions based on their functions, it struggles to distinguish them when it comes to structure, composition or formation mechanisms. In this Cell Science at a Glance article, we discuss the different types of actin-based protrusions, focusing on filopodia, cytonemes and tunneling nanotubes, to help better distinguish and categorize them based on their structural and functional differences and similarities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sevan Belian
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, CNRS UMR 3691, Membrane Traffic and Pathogenesis, F-75015 Paris, France
- Université Paris-Saclay, 91190 Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Olga Korenkova
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, CNRS UMR 3691, Membrane Traffic and Pathogenesis, F-75015 Paris, France
- Université Paris-Saclay, 91190 Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Chiara Zurzolo
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, CNRS UMR 3691, Membrane Traffic and Pathogenesis, F-75015 Paris, France
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13
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Sáenz-de-Santa-María I, Henderson JM, Pepe A, Zurzolo C. Identification and Characterization of Tunneling Nanotubes for Intercellular Trafficking. Curr Protoc 2023; 3:e939. [PMID: 37994667 DOI: 10.1002/cpz1.939] [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: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) are thin membranous channels providing a direct cytoplasmic connection between remote cells. They are commonly observed in different cell cultures and increasing evidence supports their role in intercellular communication, and pathogen and amyloid protein transfer. However, the study of TNTs presents several pitfalls (e.g., difficulty in preserving such delicate structures, possible confusion with other protrusions, structural and functional heterogeneity, etc.) and therefore requires thoroughly designed approaches. The methods described in this protocol represent a guideline for the characterization of TNTs (or TNT-like structures) in cell culture. Specifically, optimized protocols to (1) identify TNTs and the cytoskeletal elements present inside them; (2) evaluate TNT frequency in cell culture; (3) unambiguously distinguish them from other cellular connections or protrusions; (4) monitor their formation in living cells; (5) characterize TNTs by a micropatterning approach; and (6) investigate TNT ultrastructure by cryo-EM are provided. Finally, this article describes how to assess TNT-mediated cell-to-cell transfer of cellular components, which is a fundamental criterion for identifying functional TNTs. © 2023 Wiley Periodicals LLC. Basic Protocol 1: Identification of tunneling nanotubes Alternate Protocol 1: Identifying the cytoskeletal elements present in tunneling nanotubes Alternate Protocol 2: Distinguishing tunneling nanotubes from intercellular bridges formed during cell division Basic Protocol 2: Deciphering tunneling nanotube formation and lifetime by live fluorescent microscopy Alternate Protocol 3: Deciphering tunneling nanotube formation using a live-compatible dye Basic Protocol 3: Assessing tunneling nanotubes functionality in intercellular transfer Alternate Protocol 4: Flow cytometry approach to quantify the rate of vesicle or mitochondria transfer Support Protocol: Controls to support TNT-mediated transfer Basic Protocol 4: Studies of tunneling nanotubes by cell micropatterning Basic Protocol 5: Characterization of the ultrastructure of tunneling nanotubes by cryo-EM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inés Sáenz-de-Santa-María
- Unité de Trafic Membranaire et Pathogénèse, Département de Biologie Cellulaire et Infection, Institut Pasteur, CNRS UMR3691, Paris, France
| | - J Michael Henderson
- Unité de Trafic Membranaire et Pathogénèse, Département de Biologie Cellulaire et Infection, Institut Pasteur, CNRS UMR3691, Paris, France
| | - Anna Pepe
- Unité de Trafic Membranaire et Pathogénèse, Département de Biologie Cellulaire et Infection, Institut Pasteur, CNRS UMR3691, Paris, France
| | - Chiara Zurzolo
- Unité de Trafic Membranaire et Pathogénèse, Département de Biologie Cellulaire et Infection, Institut Pasteur, CNRS UMR3691, Paris, France
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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14
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Melwani PK, Pandey BN. Tunneling nanotubes: The intercellular conduits contributing to cancer pathogenesis and its therapy. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2023; 1878:189028. [PMID: 37993000 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2023.189028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) are intercellular conduits which meet the communication needs of non-adjacent cells situated in the same tissue but at distances up to a few hundred microns. TNTs are unique type of membrane protrusion which contain F-actin and freely hover over substratum in the extracellular space to connect the distant cells. TNTs, known to form through actin remodeling mechanisms, are intercellular bridges that connect cytoplasm of two cells, and facilitate the transfer of organelles, molecules, and pathogens among the cells. In tumor microenvironment, TNTs act as communication channel among cancer, normal, and immune cells to facilitate the transfer of calcium waves, mitochondria, lysosomes, and proteins, which in turn contribute to the survival, metastasis, and chemo-resistance in cancer cells. Recently, TNTs were shown to mediate the transfer of nanoparticles, drugs, and viruses between cells, suggesting that TNTs could be exploited as a potential route for delivery of anti-cancer agents and oncolytic viruses to the target cells. The present review discusses the emerging concepts and role of TNTs in the context of chemo- and radio-resistance with implications in the cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pooja Kamal Melwani
- Radiation Biology & Health Sciences Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai 400085, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute, Anushakti Nagar, Mumbai 400094, India
| | - Badri Narain Pandey
- Radiation Biology & Health Sciences Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai 400085, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute, Anushakti Nagar, Mumbai 400094, India.
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15
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Awanis G, Banerjee S, Johnson R, Raveenthiraraj S, Elmeligy A, Warren D, Gavrilovic J, Sobolewski A. HGF/c-Met/β1-integrin signalling axis induces tunneling nanotubes in A549 lung adenocarcinoma cells. Life Sci Alliance 2023; 6:e202301953. [PMID: 37550007 PMCID: PMC10427768 DOI: 10.26508/lsa.202301953] [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: 01/26/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) are thin cytoplasmic extensions involved in long-distance intercellular communication and can transport intracellular organelles and signalling molecules. In cancer cells, TNT formation contributes to cell survival, chemoresistance, and malignancy. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying TNT formation are not well defined, especially in different cancers. TNTs are present in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients with adenocarcinoma. In NSCLC, hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and its receptor, c-Met, are mutationally upregulated, causing increased cancer cell growth, survival, and invasion. This study identifies c-Met, β1-integrin, and paxillin as novel components of TNTs in A549 lung adenocarcinoma cells, with paxillin localised at the protrusion site of TNTs. The HGF-induced TNTs in our study demonstrate the ability to transport lipid vesicles and mitochondria. HGF-induced TNT formation is mediated by c-Met and β1-integrin in conjunction with paxillin, followed by downstream activation of MAPK and PI3K pathways and the Arp2/3 complex. These findings demonstrate a potential novel approach to inhibit TNT formation through targeting HGF/c-Met receptor and β1-integrin signalling interactions, which has implications for multi-drug targeting in NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Robert Johnson
- School of Pharmacy, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| | | | - Aya Elmeligy
- School of Pharmacy, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| | - Derek Warren
- School of Pharmacy, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| | - Jelena Gavrilovic
- School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
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16
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Mahadik P, Patwardhan S. ECM stiffness-regulated exosomal thrombospondin-1 promotes tunneling nanotubes-based cellular networking in breast cancer cells. Arch Biochem Biophys 2023; 742:109624. [PMID: 37146866 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2023.109624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 04/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Intercellular communication is pivotal in various stages of cancer progression. For smart and effective communication, cancer cells employ diverse modes of messaging that may be further fine-tuned by the microenvironmental changes. Extracellular matrix (ECM) stiffening due to excess deposition and crosslinking of collagen is one of the crucial tumor-microenvironmental changes that influence a plethora of cellular processes, including cell-cell communication. We herein studied the crosstalk between exosomes and tunneling nanotubes (TNT), the two distinct means of cell-cell communication under varying ECM-stiffness conditions. We show that exosomes promote the formation of tunneling nanotubes in breast cancer cells, which results in cellular internet. Interestingly, exosomes drastically increased the fraction of cells connected by TNT; however, they elicited no effect on the number of TNTs per pair of connected cells or the length of TNT. The observed pro-TNT effects of exosomes were found to be ECM-stiffness dependent. ECM-stiffness tuned exosomes were found to promote TNT formation predominantly via the 'cell dislodgment model'. At the molecular level, exosomal thrombospondin-1 was identified as a critical pro-TNT factor. These findings underline the influence of ECM stiffening on two diverse modes of cell communication and their interdependence, which may have significant implications in cancer biomedical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pratiksha Mahadik
- Patwardhan Lab, Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research and Education in Cancer, (ACTREC), Tata Memorial Centre, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai, 410210, India
| | - Sejal Patwardhan
- Patwardhan Lab, Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research and Education in Cancer, (ACTREC), Tata Memorial Centre, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai, 410210, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute, Training School Complex, Anushakti Nagar, Mumbai, 400094, India.
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17
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Barutta F, Bellini S, Kimura S, Hase K, Corbetta B, Corbelli A, Fiordaliso F, Bruno S, Biancone L, Barreca A, Papotti M, Hirsh E, Martini M, Gambino R, Durazzo M, Ohno H, Gruden G. Protective effect of the tunneling nanotube-TNFAIP2/M-sec system on podocyte autophagy in diabetic nephropathy. Autophagy 2023; 19:505-524. [PMID: 35659195 PMCID: PMC9851239 DOI: 10.1080/15548627.2022.2080382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Podocyte injury leading to albuminuria is a characteristic feature of diabetic nephropathy (DN). Hyperglycemia and advanced glycation end products (AGEs) are major determinants of DN. However, the underlying mechanisms of podocyte injury remain poorly understood. The cytosolic protein TNFAIP2/M-Sec is required for tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) formation, which are membrane channels that transiently connect cells, allowing organelle transfer. Podocytes express TNFAIP2 and form TNTs, but the potential relevance of the TNFAIP2-TNT system in DN is unknown. We studied TNFAIP2 expression in both human and experimental DN and the renal effect of tnfaip2 deletion in streptozotocin-induced DN. Moreover, we explored the role of the TNFAIP2-TNT system in podocytes exposed to diabetes-related insults. TNFAIP2 was overexpressed by podocytes in both human and experimental DN and exposre of podocytes to high glucose and AGEs induced the TNFAIP2-TNT system. In diabetic mice, tnfaip2 deletion exacerbated albuminuria, renal function loss, podocyte injury, and mesangial expansion. Moreover, blockade of the autophagic flux due to lysosomal dysfunction was observed in diabetes-injured podocytes both in vitro and in vivo and exacerbated by tnfaip2 deletion. TNTs allowed autophagosome and lysosome exchange between podocytes, thereby ameliorating AGE-induced lysosomal dysfunction and apoptosis. This protective effect was abolished by tnfaip2 deletion, TNT inhibition, and donor cell lysosome damage. By contrast, Tnfaip2 overexpression enhanced TNT-mediated transfer and prevented AGE-induced autophagy and lysosome dysfunction and apoptosis. In conclusion, TNFAIP2 plays an important protective role in podocytes in the context of DN by allowing TNT-mediated autophagosome and lysosome exchange and may represent a novel druggable target.Abbreviations: AGEs: advanced glycation end products; AKT1: AKT serine/threonine kinase 1; AO: acridine orange; ALs: autolysosomes; APs: autophagosomes; BM: bone marrow; BSA: bovine serum albumin; CTSD: cathepsin D; DIC: differential interference contrast; DN: diabetic nephropathy; FSGS: focal segmental glomerulosclerosis; HG: high glucose; KO: knockout; LAMP1: lysosomal-associated membrane protein 1; LMP: lysosomal membrane permeabilization; MAP1LC3/LC3: microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3; PI3K: phosphoinositide 3-kinase; STZ: streptozotocin; TNF: tumor necrosis factor; TNFAIP2: tumor necrosis factor, alpha-induced protein 2; TNTs: tunneling nanotubes; WT: wild type.
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Affiliation(s)
- F. Barutta
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy,CONTACT F. Barutta Department of Medical Sciences, Corso Dogliotti 1410126, Turin, Italy
| | - S. Bellini
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - S. Kimura
- Division of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - K. Hase
- Division of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - B. Corbetta
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - A. Corbelli
- Unit of Bioimaging, Department of Molecular Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - F. Fiordaliso
- Unit of Bioimaging, Department of Molecular Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - S. Bruno
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - L. Biancone
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - A. Barreca
- Division of Pathology, Città della Salute e della Scienza Hospital, Turin, Italy
| | - M.G. Papotti
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - E. Hirsh
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - M. Martini
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - R. Gambino
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - M. Durazzo
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - H. Ohno
- Laboratory for Intestinal Ecosystem, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama, Japan
| | - G. Gruden
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
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18
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Resnik N, Baraga D, Glažar P, Jokhadar Zemljič Š, Derganc J, Sepčić K, Veranič P, Kreft ME. Molecular, morphological and functional properties of tunnelling nanotubes between normal and cancer urothelial cells: New insights from the in vitro model mimicking the situation after surgical removal of the urothelial tumor. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:934684. [PMID: 36601539 PMCID: PMC9806176 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.934684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Tunnelling nanotubes (TNTs) are membranous connections that represent a unique type of intercellular communication in different cell types. They are associated with cell physiology and cancer pathology. The possible existence of tunnelling nanotubes communication between urothelial cancer and normal cells has not yet been elucidated. Therefore, we analyzed TNTs formed by T24 cells (human invasive cancer urothelial cells) and normal porcine urothelial (NPU) cells, which serve as surrogate models for healthy human urothelial cells. Monocultures and cocultures of NPU and T24 cells were established and analyzed using live-cell imaging, optical tweezers, fluorescence microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. TNTs of NPU cells differed significantly from tunnelling nanotubes of T24 cells in number, length, diameter, lipid composition, and elastic properties. Membrane domains enriched in cholesterol/sphingomyelin were present in tunnelling nanotubes of T24 cells but not in NPU cells. The tunnelling nanotubes in T24 cells were also easier to bend than the tunnelling nanotubes in NPU cells. The tunnelling nanotubes of both cell types were predominantly tricytoskeletal, and contained actin filaments, intermediate filaments, and microtubules, as well as the motor proteins myosin Va, dynein, and kinesin 5B. Mitochondria were transported within tunnelling nanotubes in living cells, and were colocalized with microtubules and the microtubule-associated protein dynamin 2. In cocultures, heterocellular tunnelling nanotubes were formed between NPU cells and T24 cells and vice versa. The presence of connexin 43 at the end of urothelial tunnelling nanotubes suggests a junctional connection and the involvement of tunnelling nanotube in signal transduction. In this study, we established a novel urothelial cancer-normal coculture model and showed cells in the minority tend to form tunnelling nanotubes with cells in the majority. The condition with cancer cells in the minority is an attractive model to mimic the situation after surgical resection with remaining cancer cells and may help to understand cancer progression and recurrence. Our results shed light on the biological activity of tunnelling nanotubes and have the potential to advance the search for anticancer drugs that target tunnelling nanotubes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nataša Resnik
- Institute of Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Diana Baraga
- Institute of Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Polona Glažar
- Institute of Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Špela Jokhadar Zemljič
- Institute of Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Jure Derganc
- Institute of Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Kristina Sepčić
- Department of Biology, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Peter Veranič
- Institute of Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Mateja Erdani Kreft
- Institute of Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia,*Correspondence: Mateja Erdani Kreft,
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19
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Chen Y, Yang F, Chu Y, Yun Z, Yan Y, Jin J. Mitochondrial transplantation: opportunities and challenges in the treatment of obesity, diabetes, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Lab Invest 2022; 20:483. [PMID: 36273156 PMCID: PMC9588235 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-022-03693-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Metabolic diseases, including obesity, diabetes, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), are rising in both incidence and prevalence and remain a major global health and socioeconomic burden in the twenty-first century. Despite an increasing understanding of these diseases, the lack of effective treatments remains an ongoing challenge. Mitochondria are key players in intracellular energy production, calcium homeostasis, signaling, and apoptosis. Emerging evidence shows that mitochondrial dysfunction participates in the pathogeneses of metabolic diseases. Exogenous supplementation with healthy mitochondria is emerging as a promising therapeutic approach to treating these diseases. This article reviews recent advances in the use of mitochondrial transplantation therapy (MRT) in such treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifei Chen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Wujin Hospital Affiliated With Jiangsu University (The Wujin Clinical College of Xuzhou Medical University), Changzhou, 213017, Jiangsu Province, China.,School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, ZhenjiangJiangsu Province, 212013, China
| | - Fuji Yang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Wujin Hospital Affiliated With Jiangsu University (The Wujin Clinical College of Xuzhou Medical University), Changzhou, 213017, Jiangsu Province, China.,School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, ZhenjiangJiangsu Province, 212013, China
| | - Ying Chu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Wujin Hospital Affiliated With Jiangsu University (The Wujin Clinical College of Xuzhou Medical University), Changzhou, 213017, Jiangsu Province, China.,Central Laboratory, Wujin Hospital Affiliated With Jiangsu University (The Wujin Clinical College of Xuzhou Medical University), Changzhou, 213017, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Zhihua Yun
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Wujin Hospital Affiliated With Jiangsu University (The Wujin Clinical College of Xuzhou Medical University), Changzhou, 213017, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yongmin Yan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Wujin Hospital Affiliated With Jiangsu University (The Wujin Clinical College of Xuzhou Medical University), Changzhou, 213017, Jiangsu Province, China. .,Central Laboratory, Wujin Hospital Affiliated With Jiangsu University (The Wujin Clinical College of Xuzhou Medical University), Changzhou, 213017, Jiangsu Province, China.
| | - Jianhua Jin
- Department of Oncology, Wujin Hospital Affiliated With Jiangsu University (The Wujin Clinical College of Xuzhou Medical University), Changzhou, 213017, Jiangsu Province, China.
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20
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Venkataramani V, Schneider M, Giordano FA, Kuner T, Wick W, Herrlinger U, Winkler F. Disconnecting multicellular networks in brain tumours. Nat Rev Cancer 2022; 22:481-491. [PMID: 35488036 DOI: 10.1038/s41568-022-00475-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Cancer cells can organize and communicate in functional networks. Similarly to other networks in biology and sociology, these can be highly relevant for growth and resilience. In this Perspective, we demonstrate by the example of glioblastomas and other incurable brain tumours how versatile multicellular tumour networks are formed by two classes of long intercellular membrane protrusions: tumour microtubes and tunnelling nanotubes. The resulting networks drive tumour growth and resistance to standard therapies. This raises the question of how to disconnect brain tumour networks to halt tumour growth and whether this can make established therapies more effective. Emerging principles of tumour networks, their potential relevance for tumour types outside the brain and translational implications, including clinical trials that are already based on these discoveries, are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Varun Venkataramani
- Neurology Clinic, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.
- National Center for Tumour Diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Neurooncology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.
- Department of Functional Neuroanatomy, Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany.
| | | | - Frank Anton Giordano
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Bonn, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Thomas Kuner
- Department of Functional Neuroanatomy, Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Wick
- Neurology Clinic, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- National Center for Tumour Diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Neurooncology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ulrich Herrlinger
- Division of Clinical Neurooncology, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Bonn, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany.
| | - Frank Winkler
- Neurology Clinic, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.
- National Center for Tumour Diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Neurooncology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.
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21
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Nahacka Z, Novak J, Zobalova R, Neuzil J. Miro proteins and their role in mitochondrial transfer in cancer and beyond. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:937753. [PMID: 35959487 PMCID: PMC9358137 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.937753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Mitochondria are organelles essential for tumor cell proliferation and metastasis. Although their main cellular function, generation of energy in the form of ATP is dispensable for cancer cells, their capability to drive their adaptation to stress originating from tumor microenvironment makes them a plausible therapeutic target. Recent research has revealed that cancer cells with damaged oxidative phosphorylation import healthy (functional) mitochondria from surrounding stromal cells to drive pyrimidine synthesis and cell proliferation. Furthermore, it has been shown that energetically competent mitochondria are fundamental for tumor cell migration, invasion and metastasis. The spatial positioning and transport of mitochondria involves Miro proteins from a subfamily of small GTPases, localized in outer mitochondrial membrane. Miro proteins are involved in the structure of the MICOS complex, connecting outer and inner-mitochondrial membrane; in mitochondria-ER communication; Ca2+ metabolism; and in the recycling of damaged organelles via mitophagy. The most important role of Miro is regulation of mitochondrial movement and distribution within (and between) cells, acting as an adaptor linking organelles to cytoskeleton-associated motor proteins. In this review, we discuss the function of Miro proteins in various modes of intercellular mitochondrial transfer, emphasizing the structure and dynamics of tunneling nanotubes, the most common transfer modality. We summarize the evidence for and propose possible roles of Miro proteins in nanotube-mediated transfer as well as in cancer cell migration and metastasis, both processes being tightly connected to cytoskeleton-driven mitochondrial movement and positioning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuzana Nahacka
- Laboratory of Molecular Therapy, Institute of Biotechnology, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czechia
- *Correspondence: Zuzana Nahacka, ; Jiri Neuzil,
| | - Jaromir Novak
- Laboratory of Molecular Therapy, Institute of Biotechnology, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czechia
- Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Renata Zobalova
- Laboratory of Molecular Therapy, Institute of Biotechnology, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czechia
| | - Jiri Neuzil
- Laboratory of Molecular Therapy, Institute of Biotechnology, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czechia
- School of Pharmacy and Medical Science, Griffith University, Southport, QLD, Australia
- *Correspondence: Zuzana Nahacka, ; Jiri Neuzil,
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22
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Eugenin E, Camporesi E, Peracchia C. Direct Cell-Cell Communication via Membrane Pores, Gap Junction Channels, and Tunneling Nanotubes: Medical Relevance of Mitochondrial Exchange. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:6133. [PMID: 35682809 PMCID: PMC9181466 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23116133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Revised: 05/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The history of direct cell-cell communication has evolved in several small steps. First discovered in the 1930s in invertebrate nervous systems, it was thought at first to be an exception to the "cell theory", restricted to invertebrates. Surprisingly, however, in the 1950s, electrical cell-cell communication was also reported in vertebrates. Once more, it was thought to be an exception restricted to excitable cells. In contrast, in the mid-1960s, two startling publications proved that virtually all cells freely exchange small neutral and charged molecules. Soon after, cell-cell communication by gap junction channels was reported. While gap junctions are the major means of cell-cell communication, in the early 1980s, evidence surfaced that some cells might also communicate via membrane pores. Questions were raised about the possible artifactual nature of the pores. However, early in this century, we learned that communication via membrane pores exists and plays a major role in medicine, as the structures involved, "tunneling nanotubes", can rescue diseased cells by directly transferring healthy mitochondria into compromised cells and tissues. On the other hand, pathogens/cancer could also use these communication systems to amplify pathogenesis. Here, we describe the evolution of the discovery of these new communication systems and the potential therapeutic impact on several uncurable diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eliseo Eugenin
- Department of Neuroscience, Cell Biology, and Anatomy, University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB), 105 11th Street, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Enrico Camporesi
- Department of Surgery and TEAM Health Anesthesia, University of South Florida, 2 Tampa General Circle, Tampa, FL 33606, USA;
| | - Camillo Peracchia
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, School of Medicine and Dentistry, University Rochester, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Rochester, NY 14642, USA;
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Hönigova K, Navratil J, Peltanova B, Polanska HH, Raudenska M, Masarik M. Metabolic tricks of cancer cells. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2022; 1877:188705. [PMID: 35276232 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2022.188705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
One of the characteristics of cancer cells important for tumorigenesis is their metabolic plasticity. Indeed, in various stress conditions, cancer cells can reshape their metabolic pathways to support the increased energy request due to continuous growth and rapid proliferation. Moreover, selective pressures in the tumor microenvironment, such as hypoxia, acidosis, and competition for resources, force cancer cells to adapt by complete reorganization of their metabolism. In this review, we highlight the characteristics of cancer metabolism and discuss its clinical significance, since overcoming metabolic plasticity of cancer cells is a key objective of modern cancer therapeutics and a better understanding of metabolic reprogramming may lead to the identification of possible targets for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katerina Hönigova
- Department of Pathological Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University / Kamenice 5, CZ-625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jiri Navratil
- Department of Pathological Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University / Kamenice 5, CZ-625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Barbora Peltanova
- Department of Pathological Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University / Kamenice 5, CZ-625 00 Brno, Czech Republic; Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University / Kamenice 5, CZ-625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Hana Holcova Polanska
- Department of Pathological Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University / Kamenice 5, CZ-625 00 Brno, Czech Republic; Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University / Kamenice 5, CZ-625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Martina Raudenska
- Department of Pathological Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University / Kamenice 5, CZ-625 00 Brno, Czech Republic; Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University / Kamenice 5, CZ-625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Michal Masarik
- Department of Pathological Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University / Kamenice 5, CZ-625 00 Brno, Czech Republic; Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University / Kamenice 5, CZ-625 00 Brno, Czech Republic; BIOCEV, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prumyslova 595, CZ-252 50 Vestec, Czech Republic.
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Ottonelli I, Caraffi R, Tosi G, Vandelli MA, Duskey JT, Ruozi B. Tunneling Nanotubes: A New Target for Nanomedicine? Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23042237. [PMID: 35216348 PMCID: PMC8878036 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23042237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs), discovered in 2004, are thin, long protrusions between cells utilized for intercellular transfer and communication. These newly discovered structures have been demonstrated to play a crucial role in homeostasis, but also in the spreading of diseases, infections, and metastases. Gaining much interest in the medical research field, TNTs have been shown to transport nanomedicines (NMeds) between cells. NMeds have been studied thanks to their advantageous features in terms of reduced toxicity of drugs, enhanced solubility, protection of the payload, prolonged release, and more interestingly, cell-targeted delivery. Nevertheless, their transfer between cells via TNTs makes their true fate unknown. If better understood, TNTs could help control NMed delivery. In fact, TNTs can represent the possibility both to improve the biodistribution of NMeds throughout a diseased tissue by increasing their formation, or to minimize their formation to block the transfer of dangerous material. To date, few studies have investigated the interaction between NMeds and TNTs. In this work, we will explain what TNTs are and how they form and then review what has been published regarding their potential use in nanomedicine research. We will highlight possible future approaches to better exploit TNT intercellular communication in the field of nanomedicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Ottonelli
- Clinical and Experimental Medicine PhD Program, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy;
- Nanotech Lab, Te.Far.T.I., Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (R.C.); (G.T.); (M.A.V.); (B.R.)
| | - Riccardo Caraffi
- Nanotech Lab, Te.Far.T.I., Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (R.C.); (G.T.); (M.A.V.); (B.R.)
| | - Giovanni Tosi
- Nanotech Lab, Te.Far.T.I., Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (R.C.); (G.T.); (M.A.V.); (B.R.)
| | - Maria Angela Vandelli
- Nanotech Lab, Te.Far.T.I., Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (R.C.); (G.T.); (M.A.V.); (B.R.)
| | - Jason Thomas Duskey
- Nanotech Lab, Te.Far.T.I., Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (R.C.); (G.T.); (M.A.V.); (B.R.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Barbara Ruozi
- Nanotech Lab, Te.Far.T.I., Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (R.C.); (G.T.); (M.A.V.); (B.R.)
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25
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Specialized Intercellular Communications via Tunnelling Nanotubes in Acute and Chronic Leukemia. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14030659. [PMID: 35158927 PMCID: PMC8833474 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14030659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) are cytoplasmic channels which regulate the contacts between cells and allow the transfer of several elements, including ions, mitochondria, microvesicles, exosomes, lysosomes, proteins, and microRNAs. Through this transport, TNTs are implicated in different physiological and pathological phenomena, such as immune response, cell proliferation and differentiation, embryogenesis, programmed cell death, and angiogenesis. TNTs can promote cancer progression, transferring substances capable of altering apoptotic dynamics, modifying the metabolism and energy balance, inducing changes in immunosurveillance, or affecting the response to chemotherapy. In this review, we evaluated their influence on hematologic malignancies’ progression and resistance to therapies, focusing on acute and chronic myeloid and acute lymphoid leukemia. Abstract Effectual cell-to-cell communication is essential to the development and differentiation of organisms, the preservation of tissue tasks, and the synchronization of their different physiological actions, but also to the proliferation and metastasis of tumor cells. Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) are membrane-enclosed tubular connections between cells that carry a multiplicity of cellular loads, such as exosomes, non-coding RNAs, mitochondria, and proteins, and they have been identified as the main participants in healthy and tumoral cell communication. TNTs have been described in numerous tumors in in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo models favoring the onset and progression of tumors. Tumor cells utilize TNT-like membranous channels to transfer information between themselves or with the tumoral milieu. As a result, tumor cells attain novel capabilities, such as the increased capacity of metastasis, metabolic plasticity, angiogenic aptitude, and chemoresistance, promoting tumor severity. Here, we review the morphological and operational characteristics of TNTs and their influence on hematologic malignancies’ progression and resistance to therapies, focusing on acute and chronic myeloid and acute lymphoid leukemia. Finally, we examine the prospects and challenges for TNTs as a therapeutic approach for hematologic diseases by examining the development of efficient and safe drugs targeting TNTs.
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Three-dimensional bioprinted cancer models: A powerful platform for investigating tunneling nanotube-like cell structures in complex microenvironments. MATERIALS SCIENCE & ENGINEERING. C, MATERIALS FOR BIOLOGICAL APPLICATIONS 2021; 128:112357. [PMID: 34474904 DOI: 10.1016/j.msec.2021.112357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2021] [Revised: 07/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Bioprinting technology offers layer-by-layer positioning of cells within 3D space with complexity and a defined architecture. Cancer models based in this biofabrication technique are important tools to achieve representative and realistic in vivo conditions of the tumor microenvironment. Here, we show the development of a proof-of-concept three-dimensional bioprinted cancer model that successfully recapitulates the intercellular communication via the assembly of functional tunneling nanotube (TNT)-like cell projections. Different combinations of collagen-containing culture medium, sodium alginate and gelatin were initially prepared and rheologically evaluated. The optimized mixture was used to print two preliminary 3D models for cancer cell seeding. Favourable results in cell viability and proliferation led to the inclusion of 786-O renal cancer cells into the biomaterial mixture to directly bioprint the most suitable 3D model with embedded cells. Bioprinted cells remained viable for at least 15 days of culture and proliferated. More importantly, these cancer cells were able to build TNT-like cellular projections inside the hydrogel that established direct contacts between distant cells. We show that these structures were used as channels for the scrolling and intercellular transfer of mitochondria thus reproducing TNT's function in 2D culture systems. This 3D bioprinted renal cancer model provides a novel alternative tool for studying the functional relevance of TNT-like structures in tumorigenesis and anticancer drug susceptibility in a highly controlled and reproducible tumor microenvironment.
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27
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Mentor S, Fisher D. High-Resolution Insights Into the in vitro Developing Blood-Brain Barrier: Novel Morphological Features of Endothelial Nanotube Function. Front Neuroanat 2021; 15:661065. [PMID: 34248507 PMCID: PMC8267063 DOI: 10.3389/fnana.2021.661065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
High-resolution electron microscopy (HREM) imaging of the in vitro blood-brain barrier (BBB), is a promising modality for investigating the dynamic morphological interplay underpinning BBB development. The successful establishment of BBB integrity is grounded in the brain endothelial cells (BEC’s) ability to occlude its paracellular spaces of brain capillaries through the expression of the intercellular tight junction (TJ) proteins. The impermeability of these paracellular spaces are crucial in the regulation of transcellular transport systems to achieve homeostasis of the central nervous system. To-date research describing morphologically, the dynamics by which TJ interaction is orchestrated to successfully construct a specialized barrier remains undescribed. In this study, the application of HREM illuminates the novel, dynamic and highly restrictive BEC paracellular pathway which is founded based on lateral membrane alignment which is the functional imperative for the mechanical juxtapositioning of TJ zones that underpin molecular bonding and sealing of the paracellular space. For the first time, we report on the secretion of a basement membrane in vitro, which allow BECs to orientate themselves into distinct basolateral and apicolateral domains and establish a 3-dimensional BEC construct. We report for the first time, on the expression of nanovesicles bound to the plasma membrane surfaces of the BECs. These membrane-bound vesicles are reported to possess an array of DNA/RNA constituents and chemotaxic properties affecting the formation of nanotubes that span the paracellular space between BECs, facilitating BBB construction, alluding to a functional role in mediating cell-to-cell communication. This study suggests that novel, ultrathin nanotubular (NT) structures are involved in functional roles in bringing into alignment the paracellular space of BECs. Immortalized mouse BECs (b.End3, b.End5) and primary rat cardiac microvascular ECs were used to further validate the in vitro BBB model by profiling variances in peripheral EC monolayer development. These cardiac capillary ECs presented with an opposite topographical profile: large fenestra and intercellular spaces, devoid of morphological ultrastructures. This comparative study alludes to the role of NT facilitation in TJ-induced hemifusion of apicolateral BEC membranes, as a structural event forming the basis for establishing a polarized BBB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shireen Mentor
- Neurobiology Research Group, Department of Medical Biosciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - David Fisher
- Neurobiology Research Group, Department of Medical Biosciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa.,Adjunct Professor in School of Health Professions, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
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Tiwari V, Koganti R, Russell G, Sharma A, Shukla D. Role of Tunneling Nanotubes in Viral Infection, Neurodegenerative Disease, and Cancer. Front Immunol 2021; 12:680891. [PMID: 34194434 PMCID: PMC8236699 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.680891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The network of tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) represents the filamentous (F)-actin rich tubular structure which is connected to the cytoplasm of the adjacent and or distant cells to mediate efficient cell-to-cell communication. They are long cytoplasmic bridges with an extraordinary ability to perform diverse array of function ranging from maintaining cellular physiology and cell survival to promoting immune surveillance. Ironically, TNTs are now widely documented to promote the spread of various pathogens including viruses either during early or late phase of their lifecycle. In addition, TNTs have also been associated with multiple pathologies in a complex multicellular environment. While the recent work from multiple laboratories has elucidated the role of TNTs in cellular communication and maintenance of homeostasis, this review focuses on their exploitation by the diverse group of viruses such as retroviruses, herpesviruses, influenza A, human metapneumovirus and SARS CoV-2 to promote viral entry, virus trafficking and cell-to-cell spread. The later process may aggravate disease severity and the associated complications due to widespread dissemination of the viruses to multiple organ system as observed in current coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients. In addition, the TNT-mediated intracellular spread can be protective to the viruses from the circulating immune surveillance and possible neutralization activity present in the extracellular matrix. This review further highlights the relevance of TNTs in ocular and cardiac tissues including neurodegenerative diseases, chemotherapeutic resistance, and cancer pathogenesis. Taken together, we suggest that effective therapies should consider precise targeting of TNTs in several diseases including virus infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vaibhav Tiwari
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine, Midwestern University, Downers Grove, IL, United States
| | - Raghuram Koganti
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Greer Russell
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Graduate Studies, Midwestern University, Downers Grove, IL, United States
| | - Ananya Sharma
- Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Deepak Shukla
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States.,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
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29
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Pandkar MR, Dhamdhere SG, Shukla S. Oxygen gradient and tumor heterogeneity: The chronicle of a toxic relationship. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2021; 1876:188553. [PMID: 33915221 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2021.188553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2020] [Revised: 04/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The commencement of cancer is attributed to one or a few cells that become rogue and attain the property of immortality. The inception of distinct cancer cell clones during the hyperplastic and dysplastic stages of cancer progression is the utimate consequence of the dysregulated cellular pathways and the proliferative potential itself. Furthermore, a critical factor that adds a layer of complexity to this pre-existent intra-tumoral heterogeneity (ITH) is the foundation of an oxygen gradient, that is established due to the improper architecture of the tumor vasculature. Therefore, as a resultant effect, the poorly oxygenated regions thus formed and characterized as hypoxic, promote the emergence of aggressive and treatment-resistant cancer cell clones. The extraordinary property of the hypoxic cancer cells to exist harmoniously with cancerous and non-cancerous cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME) further increases the intricacies of ITH. Here in this review, the pivotal influence of differential oxygen concentrations in shaping the ITH is thoroughly discussed. We also emphasize on the vitality of the interacting networks that govern the overall fate of oxygen gradient-dependent origin of tumor heterogeneity. Additionally, the implications of less-appreciated reverse Warburg effect, a symbiotic metabolic coupling, and the associated epigenetic regulation of rewiring of cancer metabolism in response to oxygen gradients, have been highlighted as critical influencers of ITH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madhura R Pandkar
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh 462066, India
| | - Shruti G Dhamdhere
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh 462066, India
| | - Sanjeev Shukla
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh 462066, India.
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30
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Wang XT, Sun H, Chen NH, Yuan YH. Tunneling nanotubes: A novel pharmacological target for neurodegenerative diseases? Pharmacol Res 2021; 170:105541. [PMID: 33711434 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2021.105541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Revised: 03/06/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Diversiform ways of intercellular communication are vital links in maintaining homeostasis and disseminating physiological states. Among intercellular bridges, tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) discovered in 2004 were recognized as potential pharmacology targets related to the pathogenesis of common or infrequent neurodegenerative disorders. The neurotoxic aggregates in neurodegenerative diseases including scrapie prion protein (PrPSc), mutant tau protein, amyloid-beta (Aβ) protein, alpha-synuclein (α-syn) as well as mutant Huntington (mHTT) protein could promote TNT formation via certain physiological mechanisms, in turn, mediating the intercellular transmission of neurotoxicity. In this review, we described in detail the skeleton, the formation, the physicochemical properties, and the functions of TNTs, while paying particular attention to the key role of TNTs in the transport of pathological proteins during neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Tong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica& Neuroscience Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China.
| | - Hua Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica& Neuroscience Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Drug Addiction Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China.
| | - Nai-Hong Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica& Neuroscience Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China.
| | - Yu-He Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica& Neuroscience Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China.
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31
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Opportunities and Challenges in Tunneling Nanotubes Research: How Far from Clinical Application? Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22052306. [PMID: 33669068 PMCID: PMC7956326 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22052306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2021] [Revised: 02/21/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) are recognized long membrane nanotubes connecting distance cells. In the last decade, growing evidence has shown that these subcellular structures mediate the specific transfer of cellular materials, pathogens, and electrical signals between cells. As intercellular bridges, they play a unique role in embryonic development, collective cell migration, injured cell recovery, cancer treatment resistance, and pathogen propagation. Although TNTs have been considered as potential drug targets for treatment, there is still a long way to go to translate the research findings into clinical practice. Herein, we emphasize the heterogeneous nature of TNTs by systemically summarizing the current knowledge on their morphology, structure, and biogenesis in different types of cells. Furthermore, we address the communication efficiency and biological outcomes of TNT-dependent transport related to diseases. Finally, we discuss the opportunities and challenges of TNTs as an exciting therapeutic approach by focusing on the development of efficient and safe drugs targeting TNTs.
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Shahar M, Szalat A, Rosen H. Pathogenic Stress Induces Human Monocyte to Express an Extracellular Web of Tunneling Nanotubes. Front Immunol 2021; 12:620734. [PMID: 33679763 PMCID: PMC7933571 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.620734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Actin-based tunneling nanotubes are a means of intercellular communication between remote cells. In the last decade, this type of nanotube was described in a wide variety of cell types and it became widely accepted that communication through these nanotubes is related to response to environmental changes. Few reports, however, are available regarding the expression of similar nanotubes in vivo or in primary cells. Moreover, the functional significance of this intercellular communication for health and disease is largely unknown. In this context, and as a first step in unraveling these questions, we examined the formation of similar nanotubes in primary peripheral human monocytes. To that end, we combined the use of a live cell imaging system along with advanced methods of fluorescent and scanning electron microscopy. This experimental approach reveals for the first time that the bacterial lipopolysaccharide endotoxin induces a transient expression of an unexpected abundance of actin-based tunneling nanotubes associated with vesicles. In addition, it was found that a similar response can be achieved by treating human monocytes with various bacterial and yeast membrane components, as well as with a viral component analog. In all these cases, this response is mediated by distinct complexes of toll-like receptors. Therefore, we suggest that the observed phenomena are related to a broad type of monocyte pathogen response, and raise the possibility that the phenomena described above may be involved in many clinical situations related to inflammation as a new topic of study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Shahar
- The Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Institute for Medical Research-Israel-Canada, Hebrew University - Hadassah Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Auryan Szalat
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Haim Rosen
- The Kuvin Center for the Study of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Institute for Medical Research-Israel-Canada, Hebrew University - Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel
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Zhu C, Shi Y, You J. Immune Cell Connection by Tunneling Nanotubes: The Impact of Intercellular Cross-Talk on the Immune Response and Its Therapeutic Applications. Mol Pharm 2021; 18:772-786. [PMID: 33529022 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.0c01248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Direct intercellular communication is an important prerequisite for the development of multicellular organisms, the regeneration of tissue, and the maintenance of various physiological activities. Tunnel nanotubes (TNTs), which have diameters of approximately 50-1500 nm and lengths of up to several cell diameters, can connect cells over long distances and have emerged as one of the most important recently discovered types of efficient communication between cells. Moreover, TNTs can also directly transfer organelles, vehicles, proteins, genetic material, ions, and small molecules from one cell to adjacent and even distant cells. However, the mechanism of intercellular communication between various immune cells within the complex immune system has not been fully elucidated. Studies in the past decades have confirmed the existence of TNTs in many types of cells, especially in various kinds of immune cells. TNTs display different structural and functional characteristics between and within different immunocytes, playing a major role in the transmission of signals across various kinds of immune cells. In this review, we introduce the discovery and structure of TNTs, as well as their different functional properties within different immune cells. We also discuss the roles of TNTs in potentiating the immune response and their potential therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunqi Zhu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, 866 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, People's Republic of China
| | - Yingying Shi
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, 866 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, People's Republic of China
| | - Jian You
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, 866 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, People's Republic of China
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34
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Blockage of Squamous Cancer Cell Collective Invasion by FAK Inhibition Is Released by CAFs and MMP-2. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12123708. [PMID: 33321813 PMCID: PMC7764466 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12123708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Cancers include a diverse collection of cells harboring distinct molecular signatures with different levels of pro-metastatic activities. This intratumoral heterogeneity and phenotypic plasticity are major causes of targeted therapeutic failure and it should be considered when developing prognostic tests. Through the analysis of the Focal Adhesion Kinase (FAK) protein and the matrix metalloprotease MMP-2, both implicated in multiple steps of the metastatic spectrum, in complex multicellular tumor spheroids we show that cancer cell populations over-expressing MMP-2 or cancer-associated fibroblasts can release FAK-deficient cancer cells from their constrained metastatic fitness. Consistently, MMP-2, not FAK, serves as an independent prognostic factor in head and neck squamous cell carcinomas. Measurement of intratumor heterogeneity facilitate the development of more efficient biomarkers to predict the risk of metastasis and of more-effective personalized cancer therapies. Abstract Metastasis remains a clinically unsolved issue in cancer that is initiated by the acquisition of collective migratory properties of cancer cells. Phenotypic and functional heterogeneity that arise among cancer cells within the same tumor increase cellular plasticity and promote metastasis, however, their impact on collective cell migration is incompletely understood. Here, we show that in vitro collective cancer cell migration depends on FAK and MMP-2 and on the presence of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). The absence of functional FAK rendered cancer cells incapable of invading the surrounding stroma. However, CAFs and cancer cells over-expressing MMP-2 released FAK-deficient cells from this constraint by taking the leader positions in the invasive tracks, pushing FAK-deficient squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) cells towards the stroma and leading to the transformation of non-invasive cells into invasive cells. Our cell-based studies and the RNAseq data from the TCGA cohort of patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinomas reveal that, although both FAK and MMP-2 over-expression are associated with epithelial–mesenchymal transition, it is only MMP-2, not FAK, that functions as an independent prognostic factor. Given the significant role of MMP-2 in cancer dissemination, targeting of this molecule, better than FAK, presents a more promising opportunity to block metastasis.
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35
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Eckardt M, Painter KJ, Surulescu C, Zhigun A. Nonlocal and local models for taxis in cell migration: a rigorous limit procedure. J Math Biol 2020; 81:1251-1298. [PMID: 33068155 PMCID: PMC7716906 DOI: 10.1007/s00285-020-01536-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2019] [Revised: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
A rigorous limit procedure is presented which links nonlocal models involving adhesion or nonlocal chemotaxis to their local counterparts featuring haptotaxis and classical chemotaxis, respectively. It relies on a novel reformulation of the involved nonlocalities in terms of integral operators applied directly to the gradients of signal-dependent quantities. The proposed approach handles both model types in a unified way and extends the previous mathematical framework to settings that allow for general solution-dependent coefficient functions. The previous forms of nonlocal operators are compared with the new ones introduced in this paper and the advantages of the latter are highlighted by concrete examples. Numerical simulations in 1D provide an illustration of some of the theoretical findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Eckardt
- Felix-Klein-Zentrum für Mathematik, Technische Universität Kaiserslautern, Paul-Ehrlich-Str. 31, 67663, Kaiserslautern, Germany
| | - Kevin J Painter
- Department of Mathematics & Maxwell Institute, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, EH14 4AS, Scotland, UK
| | - Christina Surulescu
- Felix-Klein-Zentrum für Mathematik, Technische Universität Kaiserslautern, Paul-Ehrlich-Str. 31, 67663, Kaiserslautern, Germany
| | - Anna Zhigun
- School of Mathematics and Physics, Queen's University Belfast, University Road, Belfast, BT7 1NN, Northern Ireland, UK.
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Franco S, Noureddine A, Guo J, Keth J, Paffett ML, Brinker CJ, Serda RE. Direct Transfer of Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles between Macrophages and Cancer Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12102892. [PMID: 33050177 PMCID: PMC7600949 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12102892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Revised: 10/04/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Macrophages line the walls of microvasculature, extending processes into the blood flow to capture foreign invaders, including nano-scale materials. Using mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) as a model nano-scale system, we show the interplay between macrophages and MSNs from initial uptake to intercellular trafficking to neighboring cells along microtubules. The nature of cytoplasmic bridges between cells and their role in the cell-to-cell transfer of nano-scale materials is examined, as is the ability of macrophages to function as carriers of nanomaterials to cancer cells. Both direct administration of nanoparticles and adoptive transfer of nanoparticle-loaded splenocytes in mice resulted in abundant localization of nanomaterials within macrophages 24 h post-injection, predominately in the liver. While heterotypic, trans-species nanomaterial transfer from murine macrophages to human HeLa cervical cancer cells or A549 lung cancer cells was robust, transfer to syngeneic 4T1 breast cancer cells was not detected in vitro or in vivo. Cellular connections and nanomaterial transfer in vivo were rich among immune cells, facilitating coordinated immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Franco
- Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Science Center, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA; (S.F.); (J.G.); (J.K.)
| | - Achraf Noureddine
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA; (A.N.); (C.J.B.)
| | - Jimin Guo
- Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Science Center, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA; (S.F.); (J.G.); (J.K.)
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA; (A.N.); (C.J.B.)
| | - Jane Keth
- Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Science Center, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA; (S.F.); (J.G.); (J.K.)
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA; (A.N.); (C.J.B.)
| | - Michael L. Paffett
- Fluorescence Microscopy Shared Resource, University of New Mexico Comprehensive Cancer Center, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA;
| | - C. Jeffrey Brinker
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA; (A.N.); (C.J.B.)
| | - Rita E. Serda
- Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Science Center, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA; (S.F.); (J.G.); (J.K.)
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA; (A.N.); (C.J.B.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-505−272−7698
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Bhat S, Ljubojevic N, Zhu S, Fukuda M, Echard A, Zurzolo C. Rab35 and its effectors promote formation of tunneling nanotubes in neuronal cells. Sci Rep 2020; 10:16803. [PMID: 33033331 PMCID: PMC7544914 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-74013-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) are F-actin rich structures that connect distant cells, allowing the transport of many cellular components, including vesicles, organelles and molecules. Rab GTPases are the major regulators of vesicle trafficking and also participate in actin cytoskeleton remodelling, therefore, we examined their role in TNTs. Rab35 functions with several proteins that are involved in vesicle trafficking such as ACAP2, MICAL-L1, ARF6 and EHD1, which are known to be involved in neurite outgrowth. Here we show that Rab35 promotes TNT formation and TNT-mediated vesicle transfer in a neuronal cell line. Furthermore, our data indicates that Rab35-GTP, ACAP2, ARF6-GDP and EHD1 act in a cascade mechanism to promote TNT formation. Interestingly, MICAL-L1 overexpression, shown to be necessary for the action of Rab35 on neurite outgrowth, showed no effect on TNTs, indicating that TNT formation and neurite outgrowth may be processed through similar but not identical pathways, further supporting the unique identity of these cellular protrusions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaarvari Bhat
- Unit of Membrane Traffic and Pathogenesis, UMR3691 CNRS, Institut Pasteur, 28 rue du Dr Roux, 75015, Paris, France
- Université Paris-Sud, Université Paris-Saclay, 91405, Orsay, France
| | - Nina Ljubojevic
- Unit of Membrane Traffic and Pathogenesis, UMR3691 CNRS, Institut Pasteur, 28 rue du Dr Roux, 75015, Paris, France
- Sorbonne Université, ED394-Physiologie, Physiopathologie et Thérapeutique, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Seng Zhu
- Unit of Membrane Traffic and Pathogenesis, UMR3691 CNRS, Institut Pasteur, 28 rue du Dr Roux, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Mitsunori Fukuda
- Department of Integrative Life Sciences, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Tohoku University, Aobayama, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagi, 980-8578, Japan
| | - Arnaud Echard
- Membrane Traffic and Cell Division Lab, UMR3691 CNRS, Institut Pasteur, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Chiara Zurzolo
- Unit of Membrane Traffic and Pathogenesis, UMR3691 CNRS, Institut Pasteur, 28 rue du Dr Roux, 75015, Paris, France.
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Tunneling Nanotubes: The Fuel of Tumor Progression? Trends Cancer 2020; 6:874-888. [DOI: 10.1016/j.trecan.2020.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2020] [Revised: 04/29/2020] [Accepted: 04/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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Mandal M, Ghosh B, Rajput M, Chatterjee J. Impact of intercellular connectivity on epithelial mesenchymal transition plasticity. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2020; 1867:118784. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2020.118784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2020] [Revised: 06/14/2020] [Accepted: 06/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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40
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Tishchenko A, Azorín DD, Vidal-Brime L, Muñoz MJ, Arenas PJ, Pearce C, Girao H, Ramón y Cajal S, Aasen T. Cx43 and Associated Cell Signaling Pathways Regulate Tunneling Nanotubes in Breast Cancer Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:E2798. [PMID: 33003486 PMCID: PMC7601615 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12102798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2020] [Revised: 09/25/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Connexin 43 (Cx43) forms gap junctions that mediate the direct intercellular diffusion of ions and small molecules between adjacent cells. Cx43 displays both pro- and anti-tumorigenic properties, but the mechanisms underlying these characteristics are not fully understood. Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) are long and thin membrane projections that connect cells, facilitating the exchange of not only small molecules, but also larger proteins, organelles, bacteria, and viruses. Typically, TNTs exhibit increased formation under conditions of cellular stress and are more prominent in cancer cells, where they are generally thought to be pro-metastatic and to provide growth and survival advantages. Cx43 has been described in TNTs, where it is thought to regulate small molecule diffusion through gap junctions. Here, we developed a high-fidelity CRISPR/Cas9 system to knockout (KO) Cx43. We found that the loss of Cx43 expression was associated with significantly reduced TNT length and number in breast cancer cell lines. Notably, secreted factors present in conditioned medium stimulated TNTs more potently when derived from Cx43-expressing cells than from KO cells. Moreover, TNT formation was significantly induced by the inhibition of several key cancer signaling pathways that both regulate Cx43 and are regulated by Cx43, including RhoA kinase (ROCK), protein kinase A (PKA), focal adhesion kinase (FAK), and p38. Intriguingly, the drug-induced stimulation of TNTs was more potent in Cx43 KO cells than in wild-type (WT) cells. In conclusion, this work describes a novel non-canonical role for Cx43 in regulating TNTs, identifies key cancer signaling pathways that regulate TNTs in this setting, and provides mechanistic insight into a pro-tumorigenic role of Cx43 in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Tishchenko
- Patologia Molecular Translacional, Vall d’Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Vall d’Hebron Hospital Universitari, Vall d’Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, Passeig Vall d’Hebron 119-129, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (A.T.); (D.D.A.); (L.V.-B.); (M.J.M.); (P.J.A.); (C.P.); (S.R.yC.)
| | - Daniel D. Azorín
- Patologia Molecular Translacional, Vall d’Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Vall d’Hebron Hospital Universitari, Vall d’Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, Passeig Vall d’Hebron 119-129, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (A.T.); (D.D.A.); (L.V.-B.); (M.J.M.); (P.J.A.); (C.P.); (S.R.yC.)
| | - Laia Vidal-Brime
- Patologia Molecular Translacional, Vall d’Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Vall d’Hebron Hospital Universitari, Vall d’Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, Passeig Vall d’Hebron 119-129, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (A.T.); (D.D.A.); (L.V.-B.); (M.J.M.); (P.J.A.); (C.P.); (S.R.yC.)
| | - María José Muñoz
- Patologia Molecular Translacional, Vall d’Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Vall d’Hebron Hospital Universitari, Vall d’Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, Passeig Vall d’Hebron 119-129, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (A.T.); (D.D.A.); (L.V.-B.); (M.J.M.); (P.J.A.); (C.P.); (S.R.yC.)
| | - Pol Jiménez Arenas
- Patologia Molecular Translacional, Vall d’Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Vall d’Hebron Hospital Universitari, Vall d’Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, Passeig Vall d’Hebron 119-129, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (A.T.); (D.D.A.); (L.V.-B.); (M.J.M.); (P.J.A.); (C.P.); (S.R.yC.)
| | - Christopher Pearce
- Patologia Molecular Translacional, Vall d’Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Vall d’Hebron Hospital Universitari, Vall d’Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, Passeig Vall d’Hebron 119-129, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (A.T.); (D.D.A.); (L.V.-B.); (M.J.M.); (P.J.A.); (C.P.); (S.R.yC.)
| | - Henrique Girao
- Biomedical Research (iCBR), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Celas, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal;
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Centre of Coimbra, CACC, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Santiago Ramón y Cajal
- Patologia Molecular Translacional, Vall d’Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Vall d’Hebron Hospital Universitari, Vall d’Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, Passeig Vall d’Hebron 119-129, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (A.T.); (D.D.A.); (L.V.-B.); (M.J.M.); (P.J.A.); (C.P.); (S.R.yC.)
- Anatomía Patológica, Vall d’Hebron Hospital Universitari, Vall d’Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, Passeig Vall d’Hebron 119-129, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Avenida de Monforte de Lemos 3-5, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Trond Aasen
- Patologia Molecular Translacional, Vall d’Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Vall d’Hebron Hospital Universitari, Vall d’Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, Passeig Vall d’Hebron 119-129, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (A.T.); (D.D.A.); (L.V.-B.); (M.J.M.); (P.J.A.); (C.P.); (S.R.yC.)
- CIBER de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Avenida de Monforte de Lemos 3-5, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
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Lu M, Guo J, Wu B, Zhou Y, Wu M, Farzaneh M, Khoshnam SE. Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Mediated Mitochondrial Transfer: a Therapeutic Approach for Ischemic Stroke. Transl Stroke Res 2020; 12:212-229. [PMID: 32975692 DOI: 10.1007/s12975-020-00853-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Stroke is the leading cause of death and adult disability worldwide. Mitochondrial dysfunction is one of the hallmarks of stroke-induced neuronal death, and maintaining mitochondrial function is essential in cell survival and neurological progress following ischemic stroke. Stem cell-mediated mitochondrial transfer represents an emerging therapeutic approach for ischemic stroke. Accumulating evidence suggests that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can directly transfer healthy mitochondria to damaged cells, and rescue mitochondrial damage-provoked tissue degeneration. This review summarizes the research on MSCs-mediated mitochondrial transfer as a therapeutic strategy against ischemic stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Lu
- Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450046, China.,Hebei Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Research on Cardio-Cerebrovascular Disease, Shijiazhuang, 050091, China.,Department of Formulaology, Basic Medicine College, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, 050200, China
| | - Jindong Guo
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Research on Cardio-Cerebrovascular Disease, Shijiazhuang, 050091, China.,Department of Formulaology, Basic Medicine College, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, 050200, China
| | - Bowen Wu
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Research on Cardio-Cerebrovascular Disease, Shijiazhuang, 050091, China.,Department of Biochemistry, Basic Medicine College, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, 050200, China
| | - Yuhui Zhou
- Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450046, China.,Hebei Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Research on Cardio-Cerebrovascular Disease, Shijiazhuang, 050091, China.,Department of Formulaology, Basic Medicine College, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, 050200, China
| | - Mishan Wu
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Research on Cardio-Cerebrovascular Disease, Shijiazhuang, 050091, China. .,Department of Formulaology, Basic Medicine College, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, 050200, China.
| | - Maryam Farzaneh
- Physiology Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Seyed Esmaeil Khoshnam
- Physiology Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.
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42
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Mitochondrial Transfer as a Therapeutic Strategy Against Ischemic Stroke. Transl Stroke Res 2020; 11:1214-1228. [PMID: 32592024 DOI: 10.1007/s12975-020-00828-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2020] [Revised: 06/08/2020] [Accepted: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Stroke is a debilitating disease that remains the second leading cause of death and disability worldwide. Despite accumulating knowledge of the disease pathology, treatments for stroke are limited, and clinical translation of the neuroprotective agents has not been a complete success. Accumulating evidence links mitochondrial dysfunction to brain impairments after stroke. Recent studies have implicated the important roles of healthy mitochondria in neuroprotection and neural recovery following ischemic stroke. New and convincing studies have shown that mitochondrial transfer to the damaged cells can help revive cells energetic in the recipient cells. Hence, mitochondrial transplantation has shown to replace impaired or dysfunctional mitochondria with exogenous healthy mitochondria after ischemic stroke. We highlight the potential of mitochondrial transfer by stem cells as a therapeutic strategy for the treatment of ischemic stroke. This review captures the recent advances in the mitochondrial transfer as a novel and promising treatment for ischemic stroke.
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43
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Latario CJ, Schoenfeld LW, Howarth CL, Pickrell LE, Begum F, Fischer DA, Grbovic-Huezo O, Leach SD, Sanchez Y, Smith KD, Higgs HN. Tumor microtubes connect pancreatic cancer cells in an Arp2/3 complex-dependent manner. Mol Biol Cell 2020; 31:1259-1272. [PMID: 32267199 PMCID: PMC7353147 DOI: 10.1091/mbc.e19-11-0605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2019] [Revised: 03/18/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Actin-based tubular connections between cells have been observed in many cell types. Termed "tunneling nanotubes (TNTs)," "membrane nanotubes," "tumor microtubes (TMTs)," or "cytonemes," these protrusions interconnect cells in dynamic networks. Structural features in these protrusions vary between cellular systems, including tubule diameter and the presence of microtubules. We find tubular protrusions, which we classify as TMTs, in a pancreatic cancer cell line, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Pancreatic Cancer (DHPC)-018. TMTs are present in DHPC-018-derived tumors in mice, as well as in a mouse model of pancreatic cancer and a subset of primary human tumors. DHPC-018 TMTs have heterogeneous diameter (0.39-5.85 µm, median 1.92 µm) and contain actin filaments, microtubules, and cytokeratin 19-based intermediate filaments. TMTs do not allow intercellular transfer of cytoplasmic GFP. Actin filaments are cortical within the protrusion, as opposed to TNTs, in which filaments run down the center. TMTs are dynamic in length, but are long lived (median >60 min). Inhibition of actin polymerization, but not microtubules, results in TMT loss. Extracellular calcium is necessary for TMT maintenance. A second class of tubular protrusion, which we term cell-substrate protrusion, has similar width range and cytoskeletal features but makes contact with the substratum as opposed to another cell. Similar to previous work on TNTs, we find two assembly mechanisms for TMTs, which we term "pull-away" and "search-and-capture." Inhibition of Arp2/3 complex inhibits TMT assembly by both mechanisms. This work demonstrates that the actin architecture of TMTs in pancreatic cancer cells is fundamentally different from that of TNTs and demonstrates the role of Arp2/3 complex in TMT assembly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Casey J. Latario
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH 03755
| | - Lori W. Schoenfeld
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH 03755
| | - Charles L. Howarth
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology, and Norris Cotton Cancer Center, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH 03755
| | - Laura E. Pickrell
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH 03755
| | - Fatema Begum
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH 03755
| | - Dawn A. Fischer
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH 03756
| | - Olivera Grbovic-Huezo
- David M. Rubenstein Center for Pancreatic Cancer Research, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065
| | - Steven D. Leach
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology, and Norris Cotton Cancer Center, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH 03755
| | - Yolanda Sanchez
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology, and Norris Cotton Cancer Center, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH 03755
| | - Kerrington D. Smith
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH 03756
| | - Henry N. Higgs
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH 03755
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Investigating Tunneling Nanotubes in Cancer Cells: Guidelines for Structural and Functional Studies through Cell Imaging. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 2020:2701345. [PMID: 32351987 PMCID: PMC7174938 DOI: 10.1155/2020/2701345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
By allowing insured communication between cancer cells themselves and with the neighboring stromal cells, tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) are involved in the multistep process of cancer development from tumorigenesis to the treatment resistance. However, despite their critical role in the biology of cancer, the study of the TNTs has been announced challenging due to not only the absence of a specific biomarker but also the fragile and transitory nature of their structure and the fact that they are hovering freely above the substratum. Here, we proposed to review guidelines to follow for studying the structure and functionality of TNTs in tumoral neuroendocrine cells (PC12) and nontumorigenic human bronchial epithelial cells (HBEC-3, H28). In particular, we reported how crucial is it (i) to consider the culture conditions (culture surface, cell density), (ii) to visualize the formation of TNTs in living cells (mechanisms of formation, 3D representation), and (iii) to identify the cytoskeleton components and the associated elements (categories, origin, tip, and formation/transport) in the TNTs. We also focused on the input of high-resolution cell imaging approaches including Stimulated Emission Depletion (STED) nanoscopy, Transmitted and Scanning Electron Microscopies (TEM and SEM). In addition, we underlined the important role of the organelles in the mechanisms of TNT formation and transfer between the cancer cells. Finally, new biological models for the identification of the TNTs between cancer cells and stromal cells (liquid air interface, ex vivo, in vivo) and the clinical considerations will also be discussed.
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45
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Tunneling Nanotubes and Tumor Microtubes in Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12040857. [PMID: 32244839 PMCID: PMC7226329 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12040857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Accepted: 03/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Intercellular communication among cancer cells and their microenvironment is crucial to disease progression. The mechanisms by which communication occurs between distant cells in a tumor matrix remain poorly understood. In the last two decades, experimental evidence from different groups proved the existence of thin membranous tubes that interconnect cells, named tunneling nanotubes, tumor microtubes, cytonemes or membrane bridges. These highly dynamic membrane protrusions are conduits for direct cell-to-cell communication, particularly for intercellular signaling and transport of cellular cargo over long distances. Tunneling nanotubes and tumor microtubes may play an important role in the pathogenesis of cancer. They may contribute to the resistance of tumor cells against treatments such as surgery, radio- and chemotherapy. In this review, we present the current knowledge about the structure and function of tunneling nanotubes and tumor microtubes in cancer and discuss the therapeutic potential of membrane tubes in cancer treatment.
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46
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The Leader Position of Mesenchymal Cells Expressing N-Cadherin in the Collective Migration of Epithelial Cancer. Cells 2020; 9:cells9030731. [PMID: 32188112 PMCID: PMC7140612 DOI: 10.3390/cells9030731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Revised: 03/11/2020] [Accepted: 03/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding how heterogeneous cancer cell populations migrate collectively is of paramount importance to arrest metastasis. Here, we applied 3D culture-based approaches for in vitro modeling of the collective migration of squamous carcinoma cells and examine the impact of epithelial and mesenchymal cell interactions on this type of migration. We show that both mesenchymal N-cadherin-expressing cancer cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts cooperate in collective migration of epithelial cancer cells by leading their collective migration. This was consistent with the observed distribution of E-cadherin/N-cadherin in the human carcinoma tissues of head and neck. The presence of “leader” mesenchymal cancer cells or “leader” fibroblasts was significantly associated with metastasis development, recurrent disease and low overall disease survival in head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC). In silico analysis of independent public datasets revealed that increased N-cadherin expression in the heterogeneous cancer tissues is associated with disease progression not only in HNSCC but also in other prevalent tumors, such as colorectal, breast and lung cancer. Collectively, our data highlight the importance of mesenchymal cells in collective cell migration and disease progression, findings that may have a broad significance in cancer, especially in those in which aberrant N-cadherin expression negatively impacts disease survival.
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47
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Carter KP, Segall JE, Cox D. Microscopic Methods for Analysis of Macrophage-Induced Tunneling Nanotubes. Methods Mol Biol 2020; 2108:273-279. [PMID: 31939188 PMCID: PMC7594733 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-0247-8_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/12/2023]
Abstract
Macrophages are known to play multiple roles in the breast cancer microenvironment including the promotion of tumor cell invasion that is dependent on soluble factors or through direct contact. Macrophages can also enhance the production of Tunneling Nanotubes (TNTs) in tumor cells which can be mimicked using macrophage-conditioned medium. TNTs are long thin F-actin structures that connect two or more cells together that have been found in many different cell types including macrophages and tumor cells and have been implicated in enhancing tumor cells functions, such as invasion. Here we describe basic procedures used to stimulate tumor cell TNT formation through macrophage-conditioned medium along with methods for quantifying TNTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiersten P Carter
- Department of Anatomy and Structural Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Jeffrey E Segall
- Department of Anatomy and Structural Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
- Gruss-Lipper Biophotonics Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Dianne Cox
- Department of Anatomy and Structural Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA.
- Gruss-Lipper Biophotonics Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA.
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA.
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48
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He Z, Ning N, Zhou Q, Khoshnam SE, Farzaneh M. Mitochondria as a therapeutic target for ischemic stroke. Free Radic Biol Med 2020; 146:45-58. [PMID: 31704373 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2019.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 143] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2019] [Revised: 10/07/2019] [Accepted: 11/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Stroke is the leading cause of death and physical disability worldwide. Mitochondrial dysfunction has been considered as one of the hallmarks of ischemic stroke and contributes to the pathology of ischemia and reperfusion. Mitochondria is essential in promoting neural survival and neurological improvement following ischemic stroke. Therefore, mitochondria represent an important drug target for stroke treatment. This review discusses the mitochondrial molecular mechanisms underlying cerebral ischemia and involved in reactive oxygen species generation, mitochondrial electron transport dysfunction, mitochondria-mediated regulation of inflammasome activation, mitochondrial dynamics and biogenesis, and apoptotic cell death. We highlight the potential of mitochondrial transfer by stem cells as a therapeutic target for stroke treatment and provide valuable insights for clinical strategies. A better understanding of the roles of mitochondria in ischemia-induced cell death and protection may provide a rationale design of novel therapeutic interventions in the ischemic stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi He
- Department of Pharmacy, Luohe Medical College, Luohe, 462000, China
| | - Niya Ning
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shaoling District People's Hospital of Luohe City, Luohe, 462300, China
| | - Qiongxiu Zhou
- Institute of Blood Transfusion, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Chengdu, 610052, China.
| | - Seyed Esmaeil Khoshnam
- Physiology Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.
| | - Maryam Farzaneh
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
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Venkatesh VS, Lou E. Tunneling nanotubes: A bridge for heterogeneity in glioblastoma and a new therapeutic target? Cancer Rep (Hoboken) 2019; 2:e1185. [PMID: 32729189 PMCID: PMC7941610 DOI: 10.1002/cnr2.1185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2018] [Revised: 03/10/2019] [Accepted: 04/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The concept of tumour heterogeneity is not novel but is fast becoming a paradigm by which to explain part of the highly recalcitrant nature of aggressive malignant tumours. Glioblastoma is a prime example of such difficult-to-treat, invasive, and incurable malignancies. With the advent of the post-genomic age and increased access to next-generation sequencing technologies, numerous publications have described the presence and extent of intratumoural and intertumoural heterogeneity present in glioblastoma. Moreover, there have been numerous reports more directly correlating the heterogeneity of glioblastoma to its refractory, reoccurring, and inevitably terminal nature. It is therefore prudent to consider the different forms of heterogeneity seen in glioblastoma and how to harness this understanding to better strategize novel therapeutic approaches. One of the most central questions of tumour heterogeneity is how these numerous different cell types (both tumour and non-tumour) in the tumour mass communicate. RECENT FINDINGS This chapter provides a brief review on the variable heterogeneity of glioblastoma, with a focus on cellular heterogeneity and on modalities of communication that can induce further molecular diversity within the complex and ever-evolving tumour microenvironment. We provide particular emphasis on the emerging role of actin-based cellular conduits called tunnelling nanotubes (TNTs) and tumour microtubes (TMs) and outline the perceived current problems in the field that need to be resolved before pharmacological targeting of TNTs can become a reality. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that TNTs and TMs provide a new and exciting avenue for the therapeutic targeting of glioblastoma and that numerous inroads have already made into TNT and TM biology. However, to target TMs and TNTs, several advances must be made before this aim can become a reality.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Emil Lou
- Division of Hematology, Oncology and TransplantationUniversity of MinnesotaMinneapolisMinnesota
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Triple labelling of actin filaments, intermediate filaments and microtubules for broad application in cell biology: uncovering the cytoskeletal composition in tunneling nanotubes. Histochem Cell Biol 2019; 152:311-317. [PMID: 31392410 DOI: 10.1007/s00418-019-01806-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
We report a protocol for simultaneous triple labelling of intermediate filaments, microtubules and actin filaments. The described procedure offers an optimal preservation of the structure and antigenicity of individual representatives of cytoskeletal elements and is applicable for labelling of tissue samples and cultured cells. Namely, we demonstrate that using this protocol the cytoskeletal elements are well-preserved and detectable in the whole mount urinary bladder tissue pieces, cryosections of the urinary bladder, and in cultured normal and cancer urothelial cells including their delicate intercellular connections such as tunneling nanotubes (TnTs). The protocol uncovers for the first time the co-distribution of actin filaments, intermediate filaments and microtubules in TnTs, which were up to now known as mono- or bi-cytoskeletal structures. Presented triple labelling protocol provides an efficient tool for studying co-distribution of actin filaments, intermediate filaments, and microtubules and therefore offers new insights into their cellular and tissue distribution.
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