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Chen B, Liu J. Advances in ovarian tumor stem cells and therapy. Cell Biochem Biophys 2024; 82:1871-1892. [PMID: 38955927 DOI: 10.1007/s12013-024-01385-8] [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] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
Ovarian cancer is considered the most lethal among all gynecological malignancies due to its early metastatic dissemination, extensive spread, and malignant ascites. The current standard of care for advanced ovarian cancer involves a combination of cytoreductive surgery and chemotherapy utilizing platinum-based and taxane-based agents. Although initial treatment yields clinical remission in 70-80% of patients, the majority eventually develop treatment resistance and tumor recurrence. A growing body of evidence indicates the existence of cancer stem cells within diverse solid tumors, including ovarian cancer, which function as a subpopulation to propel tumor growth and disease advancement by means of drug resistance, recurrence, and metastasis. The presence of ovarian cancer stem cells is widely considered to be a significant contributor to the unfavorable clinical outcomes observed in patients with ovarian cancer, as they play a crucial role in mediating chemotherapy resistance, recurrence, and metastasis. Ovarian cancer stem cells possess the capacity to reassemble within the entirety of the tumor following conventional treatment, thereby instigating the recurrence of ovarian cancer and inducing resistance to treatment. Consequently, the creation of therapeutic approaches aimed at eliminating ovarian cancer stem cells holds great potential for the management of ovarian cancer. These cells are regarded as one of the most auspicious targets and mechanisms for the treatment of ovarian cancer. There is a pressing need for a comprehensive comprehension of the fundamental mechanisms of ovarian cancer's recurrence, metastasis, and drug resistance, alongside the development of effective strategies to overcome chemoresistance, metastasis, and recurrence. The implementation of cancer stem cell therapies may potentially augment the tumor cells' sensitivity to existing chemotherapy protocols, thereby mitigating the risks of tumor metastasis and recurrence, and ultimately improving the survival rates of ovarian cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Biqing Chen
- Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China.
| | - Jiaqi Liu
- Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
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2
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Hung CN, Chen M, DeArmond DT, Chiu CHL, Limboy CA, Tan X, Kusi M, Chou CW, Lin LL, Zhang Z, Wang CM, Chen CL, Mitsuya K, Osmulski PA, Gaczynska ME, Kirma NB, Vadlamudi RK, Gibbons DL, Warner S, Brenner AJ, Mahadevan D, Michalek JE, Huang THM, Taverna JA. AXL-initiated paracrine activation of pSTAT3 enhances mesenchymal and vasculogenic supportive features of tumor-associated macrophages. Cell Rep 2023; 42:113067. [PMID: 37659081 PMCID: PMC10577802 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.113067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are integral to the development of complex tumor microenvironments (TMEs) and can execute disparate cellular programs in response to extracellular cues. However, upstream signaling processes underpinning this phenotypic plasticity remain to be elucidated. Here, we report that concordant AXL-STAT3 signaling in TAMs is triggered by lung cancer cells or cancer-associated fibroblasts in the cytokine milieu. This paracrine action drives TAM differentiation toward a tumor-promoting "M2-like" phenotype with upregulation of CD163 and putative mesenchymal markers, contributing to TAM heterogeneity and diverse cellular functions. One of the upregulated markers, CD44, mediated by AXL-IL-11-pSTAT3 signaling cascade, enhances macrophage ability to interact with endothelial cells and facilitate formation of primitive vascular networks. We also found that AXL-STAT3 inhibition can impede the recruitment of TAMs in a xenograft mouse model, thereby suppressing tumor growth. These findings suggest the potential application of AXL-STAT3-related markers to quantitatively assess metastatic potential and inform therapeutic strategies in lung cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Nung Hung
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Meizhen Chen
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Daniel T DeArmond
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Cheryl H-L Chiu
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Catherine A Limboy
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Xi Tan
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Meena Kusi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Chih-Wei Chou
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Li-Ling Lin
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Zhao Zhang
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Chiou-Miin Wang
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Chun-Liang Chen
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, USA; Office of Nursing Research & Scholarship, School of Nursing, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Kohzoh Mitsuya
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Pawel A Osmulski
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Maria E Gaczynska
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Nameer B Kirma
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Ratna K Vadlamudi
- Mays Cancer Center, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Don L Gibbons
- Department of Thoracic, Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | - Andrew J Brenner
- Mays Cancer Center, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, USA; Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Daruka Mahadevan
- Mays Cancer Center, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, USA; Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Joel E Michalek
- Department of Population Health Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Tim H-M Huang
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, USA; Mays Cancer Center, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, USA.
| | - Josephine A Taverna
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, USA; Mays Cancer Center, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, USA; Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, USA.
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Sharma R, Balta S, Raza A, Escalona RM, Kannourakis G, Prithviraj P, Ahmed N. In Vitro and In Silico Analysis of Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition and Cancer Stemness as Prognostic Markers of Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15092586. [PMID: 37174052 PMCID: PMC10177434 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15092586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The process of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) involves the phenotypic transformation of cells from epithelial to mesenchymal status. The cells exhibiting EMT contain features of cancer stem cells (CSC), and the dual processes are responsible for progressive cancers. Activation of hypoxia-inducible factors (HIF) is fundamental to the pathogenesis of clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC), and their role in promoting EMT and CSCs is crucial for ccRCC tumour cell survival, disease progression, and metastatic spread. In this study, we explored the status of HIF genes and their downstream targets, EMT and CSC markers, by immunohistochemistry on in-house accrued ccRCC biopsies and adjacent non-tumorous tissues from patients undergoing partial or radical nephrectomy. In combination, we comprehensively analysed the expression of HIF genes and its downstream EMT and CSC-associated targets relevant to ccRCC by using publicly available datasets, the cancer genome atlas (TCGA) and the clinical proteome tumour analysis consortium (CPTAC). The aim was to search for novel biological prognostic markers that can stratify high-risk patients likely to experience metastatic disease. Using the above two approaches, we report the development of novel gene signatures that may help to identify patients at a high risk of developing metastatic and progressive disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Revati Sharma
- Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute, Ballarat, VIC 3353, Australia
- Health Innovation and Transformation Centre, Mt Helen Campus, Federation University Australia, Ballarat, VIC 3350, Australia
| | - Showan Balta
- Dorevitch Pathology, Ballarat Base Hospital, Drummond Street, Ballarat, VIC 3350, Australia
| | - Ali Raza
- Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute, Ballarat, VIC 3353, Australia
- Health Innovation and Transformation Centre, Mt Helen Campus, Federation University Australia, Ballarat, VIC 3350, Australia
| | - Ruth M Escalona
- Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute, Ballarat, VIC 3353, Australia
- Centre for Reproductive Health, The Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - George Kannourakis
- Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute, Ballarat, VIC 3353, Australia
- Health Innovation and Transformation Centre, Mt Helen Campus, Federation University Australia, Ballarat, VIC 3350, Australia
| | - Prashanth Prithviraj
- Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute, Ballarat, VIC 3353, Australia
- Health Innovation and Transformation Centre, Mt Helen Campus, Federation University Australia, Ballarat, VIC 3350, Australia
| | - Nuzhat Ahmed
- Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute, Ballarat, VIC 3353, Australia
- Health Innovation and Transformation Centre, Mt Helen Campus, Federation University Australia, Ballarat, VIC 3350, Australia
- Centre for Reproductive Health, The Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
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Rizwi FA, Abubakar M, Puppala ER, Goyal A, Bhadrawamy CV, Naidu VGM, Roshan S, Tazneem B, Almalki WH, Subramaniyan V, Rawat S, Gupta G. Janus Kinase-Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription Inhibitors for the Treatment and Management of Cancer. J Environ Pathol Toxicol Oncol 2023; 42:15-29. [PMID: 37522565 DOI: 10.1615/jenvironpatholtoxicoloncol.2023045403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cancer is the second-highest cause of mortality worldwide, killing nearly 9.6 million people annually. Despite the advances in diagnosis and treatment during the last couple of decades, it remains a serious concern due to the limitations of currently available cancer management strategies. Therefore, alternative strategies are highly required to overcome these glitches. In addition, many etiological factors such as environmental and genetic factors initiate the activation of the Janus kinase (JAK)-signal transducer and activator of the transcription (STAT) pathway. This aberrant activation of the JAK-STAT pathway has been reported in various disease states, including inflammatory conditions, hematologic malignancies, and cancer. For instance, many patients with myeloproliferative neoplasms carry the acquired gain-of-function JAK2 V617F somatic mutation. This knowledge has dramatically improved our understanding of pathogenesis and has facilitated the development of therapeutics capable of suppressing the constitutive activation of the JAK-STAT pathway. Our aim is not to be expansive but to highlight emerging ideas towards preventive therapy in a modern view of JAK-STAT inhibitors. A series of agents with different specificities against different members of the JAK family of proteins is currently undergoing evaluation in clinical trials. Here we give a summary of how JAK-STAT inhibitors function and a detailed review of current clinical drugs for managing cancer as a new therapeutic approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fahim Anwar Rizwi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research-Guwahati, Sila Katamur, Halugurisuk P.O-Changsari, Kamrup, Assam, India-781101
| | - Md Abubakar
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research-Guwahati, Sila Katamur, Halugurisuk P.O-Changsari, Kamrup, Assam, India-781101
| | - Eswara Rao Puppala
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research-Guwahati, Sila Katamur, Halugurisuk P.O-Changsari, Kamrup, Assam, India-781101
| | - Ahsas Goyal
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, GLA University, Mathura, U.P., India
| | - Ch Veera Bhadrawamy
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research-Guwahati, Sila Katamur, Halugurisuk P.O-Changsari, Kamrup, Assam, India-781101
| | - V G M Naidu
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research-Guwahati, Sila Katamur, Halugurisuk P.O-Changsari, Kamrup, Assam, India-781101
| | - S Roshan
- Deccan School of Pharmacy, Hyderabad, India
| | - B Tazneem
- Deccan School of Pharmacy, Hyderabad, India
| | - Waleed Hassan Almalki
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Vetriselvan Subramaniyan
- Pharmacology Unit, Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, MONASH University, Malaysia
| | - Sushama Rawat
- Nirma University, Institute of Pharmacy, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 382481, India; School of Pharmacy, Suresh Gyan Vihar University, Mahal Road, Jagatpura 302017, Jaipur, India
| | - Gaurav Gupta
- School of Pharmacy, Suresh Gyan Vihar University, Mahal Road, Jagatpura 302017, Jaipur, India; Department of Pharmacology, Saveetha Dental College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, India; Uttaranchal Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Uttaranchal University, Dehradun, India
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Escalona RM, Chu S, Kadife E, Kelly JK, Kannourakis G, Findlay JK, Ahmed N. Knock down of TIMP-2 by siRNA and CRISPR/Cas9 mediates diverse cellular reprogramming of metastasis and chemosensitivity in ovarian cancer. Cancer Cell Int 2022; 22:422. [PMID: 36585738 PMCID: PMC9805260 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-022-02838-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The endogenous tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-2 (TIMP-2), through its homeostatic action on certain metalloproteinases, plays a vital role in remodelling extracellular matrix (ECM) to facilitate cancer progression. This study investigated the role of TIMP-2 in an ovarian cancer cell line in which the expression of TIMP-2 was reduced by either siRNA or CRISPR/Cas9. METHODS OVCAR5 cells were transiently and stably transfected with either single or pooled TIMP-2 siRNAs (T2-KD cells) or by CRISPR/Cas9 under the influence of two distinct guide RNAs (gRNA1 and gRNA2 cell lines). The expression of different genes was analysed at the mRNA level by quantitative real time PCR (qRT-PCR) and at the protein level by immunofluorescence (IF) and western blot. Proliferation of cells was investigated by 5-Ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU) assay or staining with Ki67. Cell migration/invasion was determined by xCELLigence. Cell growth in vitro was determined by 3D spheroid cultures and in vivo by a mouse xenograft model. RESULTS Approximately 70-90% knock down of TIMP-2 expression were confirmed in T2-KD, gRNA1 and gRNA2 OVCAR5 ovarian cancer cells at the protein level. T2-KD, gRNA1 and gRNA2 cells exhibited a significant downregulation of MMP-2 expression, but concurrently a significant upregulation in the expression of membrane bound MMP-14 compared to control and parental cells. Enhanced proliferation and invasion were exhibited in all TIMP-2 knocked down cells but differences in sensitivity to paclitaxel (PTX) treatment were observed, with T2-KD cells and gRNA2 cell line being sensitive, while the gRNA1 cell line was resistant to PTX treatment. In addition, significant differences in the growth of gRNA1 and gRNA2 cell lines were observed in in vitro 3D cultures as well as in an in vivo mouse xenograft model. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that the inhibition of TIMP-2 by siRNA and CRISPR/Cas-9 modulate the expression of MMP-2 and MMP-14 and reprogram ovarian cancer cells to facilitate proliferation and invasion. Distinct disparities in in vitro chemosensitivity and growth in 3D culture, and differences in tumour burden and invasion to proximal organs in a mouse model imply that selective suppression of TIMP-2 expression by siRNA or CRISPR/Cas-9 alters important aspects of metastasis and chemosensitivity in ovarian cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth M. Escalona
- grid.1008.90000 0001 2179 088XDepartment of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3052 Australia ,grid.1002.30000 0004 1936 7857Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research and Department of Translational Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3168 Australia ,Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute, Suites 23, 106-110 Lydiard Street South, Ballarat Technology Park Central, Ballarat, VIC 3350 Australia
| | - Simon Chu
- grid.1002.30000 0004 1936 7857Centre for Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hudson Institute of Medical Research and Department of Translational Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3168 Australia
| | - Elif Kadife
- Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute, Suites 23, 106-110 Lydiard Street South, Ballarat Technology Park Central, Ballarat, VIC 3350 Australia
| | - Jason K. Kelly
- Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute, Suites 23, 106-110 Lydiard Street South, Ballarat Technology Park Central, Ballarat, VIC 3350 Australia
| | - George Kannourakis
- Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute, Suites 23, 106-110 Lydiard Street South, Ballarat Technology Park Central, Ballarat, VIC 3350 Australia ,grid.1040.50000 0001 1091 4859School of Science, Psychology and Sport, Federation University, Mt Helen, VIC 3350 Australia
| | - Jock K. Findlay
- grid.1008.90000 0001 2179 088XDepartment of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3052 Australia ,grid.1002.30000 0004 1936 7857Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research and Department of Translational Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3168 Australia
| | - Nuzhat Ahmed
- grid.1008.90000 0001 2179 088XDepartment of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3052 Australia ,grid.1002.30000 0004 1936 7857Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research and Department of Translational Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3168 Australia ,Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute, Suites 23, 106-110 Lydiard Street South, Ballarat Technology Park Central, Ballarat, VIC 3350 Australia ,grid.1040.50000 0001 1091 4859School of Science, Psychology and Sport, Federation University, Mt Helen, VIC 3350 Australia
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6
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Targeting protein kinases in cancer stem cells. Essays Biochem 2022; 66:399-412. [PMID: 35607921 DOI: 10.1042/ebc20220002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Revised: 05/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are subpopulations of cancer cells within the tumor bulk that have emerged as an attractive therapeutic target for cancer therapy. Accumulating evidence has shown the critical involvement of protein kinase signaling pathways in driving tumor development, cancer relapse, metastasis, and therapeutic resistance. Given that protein kinases are druggable targets for cancer therapy, tremendous efforts are being made to target CSCs with kinase inhibitors. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge and overview of the roles of protein kinases in various signaling pathways in CSC regulation and drug resistance. Furthermore, we provide an update on the preclinical and clinical studies for the use of kinase inhibitors alone or in combination with current therapies for effective cancer therapy. Despite great premises for the use of kinase inhibitors against CSCs, further investigations are needed to evaluate their efficiencies without any adverse effects on normal stem cells.
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Runde AP, Mack R, S J PB, Zhang J. The role of TBK1 in cancer pathogenesis and anticancer immunity. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2022; 41:135. [PMID: 35395857 PMCID: PMC8994244 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-022-02352-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The TANK-binding kinase 1 (TBK1) is a serine/threonine kinase belonging to the non-canonical inhibitor of nuclear factor-κB (IκB) kinase (IKK) family. TBK1 can be activated by pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs), inflammatory cytokines, and oncogenic kinases, including activated K-RAS/N-RAS mutants. TBK1 primarily mediates IRF3/7 activation and NF-κB signaling to regulate inflammatory cytokine production and the activation of innate immunity. TBK1 is also involved in the regulation of several other cellular activities, including autophagy, mitochondrial metabolism, and cellular proliferation. Although TBK1 mutations have not been reported in human cancers, aberrant TBK1 activation has been implicated in the oncogenesis of several types of cancer, including leukemia and solid tumors with KRAS-activating mutations. As such, TBK1 has been proposed to be a feasible target for pharmacological treatment of these types of cancer. Studies suggest that TBK1 inhibition suppresses cancer development not only by directly suppressing the proliferation and survival of cancer cells but also by activating antitumor T-cell immunity. Several small molecule inhibitors of TBK1 have been identified and interrogated. However, to this point, only momelotinib (MMB)/CYT387 has been evaluated as a cancer therapy in clinical trials, while amlexanox (AMX) has been evaluated clinically for treatment of type II diabetes, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and obesity. In this review, we summarize advances in research into TBK1 signaling pathways and regulation, as well as recent studies on TBK1 in cancer pathogenesis. We also discuss the potential molecular mechanisms of targeting TBK1 for cancer treatment. We hope that our effort can help to stimulate the development of novel strategies for targeting TBK1 signaling in future approaches to cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Austin P Runde
- Department of Cancer Biology, Oncology Institute, Cardinal Bernardin Cancer Center, Loyola University Medical Center, Maywood, IL, 60153, USA
| | - Ryan Mack
- Department of Cancer Biology, Oncology Institute, Cardinal Bernardin Cancer Center, Loyola University Medical Center, Maywood, IL, 60153, USA
| | - Peter Breslin S J
- Department of Cancer Biology, Oncology Institute, Cardinal Bernardin Cancer Center, Loyola University Medical Center, Maywood, IL, 60153, USA.,Departments of Molecular/Cellular Physiology and Biology, Loyola University Medical Center and Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60660, USA
| | - Jiwang Zhang
- Department of Cancer Biology, Oncology Institute, Cardinal Bernardin Cancer Center, Loyola University Medical Center, Maywood, IL, 60153, USA. .,Departments of Pathology and Radiation Oncology, Loyola University Medical Center, Maywood, IL, 60153, USA.
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8
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Karati D, Mahadik KR, Trivedi P, Kumar D. The Emerging Role of Janus Kinase Inhibitors in the Treatment of Cancer. Curr Cancer Drug Targets 2022; 22:221-233. [PMID: 35232350 DOI: 10.2174/1568009622666220301105214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide. The Janus kinase (JAK) signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) signalling pathway is activated abnormally, which promotes carcinogenesis. Several cytokines are important cancer drivers. These proteins bind to receptors and use the Janus kinase (JAK) and STAT pathways to communicate their responses. Cancer risks are linked to genetic differences in the JAK-STAT system. JAK inhibitors have shown to reduce STAT initiation, tissue propagation, and cell existence in preclinical investigations in solid tumour cell line models. JAK inhibitors, notably ruxolitinib, a, JAK1 or 2 blockers, make cell lines and mouse models more susceptible to radiotherapy, biological response modifier therapy, and oncolytic viral treatment. Numerous JAK antagonists have been or are now being evaluated in cancerous patients as monotherapy or by combining with other drugs in clinical studies. In preclinical investigations, certain JAK inhibitors showed promise anticancer effects; however, clinical trials explicitly evaluating their effectiveness against the JAK/STAT system in solid tumours have yet to be completed. JAK inhibition is a promising strategy to target the JAK/STAT system in solid tumours, and it deserves to be tested further in clinical studies. The function of directing Janus kinases (JAKs), an upstream accelerator of STATs, as a technique for lowering STAT activity in various malignant circumstances is summarized in this article, which will help scientists to generate more specific drug molecules in future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dipanjan Karati
- Poona college of Pharmacy, Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be Unoiversity), Erandwane, Pune- 411038, Maharashtra, India
| | - Kakasaheb Ramoo Mahadik
- Centre of Innovation and Translational Research, Poona College of Pharmacy, Bharati Vidyapeeth, Pune 411038, India
| | - Piyush Trivedi
- Centre of Innovation and Translational Research, Poona College of Pharmacy, Bharati Vidyapeeth, Pune 411038, India
| | - Dileep Kumar
- Poona college of Pharmacy, Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be Unoiversity), Erandwane, Pune- 411038, Maharashtra, India
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Wilczyński JR, Wilczyński M, Paradowska E. Cancer Stem Cells in Ovarian Cancer-A Source of Tumor Success and a Challenging Target for Novel Therapies. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23052496. [PMID: 35269636 PMCID: PMC8910575 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23052496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2022] [Revised: 02/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer is the most lethal neoplasm of the female genital organs. Despite indisputable progress in the treatment of ovarian cancer, the problems of chemo-resistance and recurrent disease are the main obstacles for successful therapy. One of the main reasons for this is the presence of a specific cell population of cancer stem cells. The aim of this review is to show the most contemporary knowledge concerning the biology of ovarian cancer stem cells (OCSCs) and their impact on chemo-resistance and prognosis in ovarian cancer patients, as well as to present the treatment options targeted exclusively on the OCSCs. The review presents data concerning the role of cancer stem cells in general and then concentrates on OCSCs. The surface and intracellular OCSCs markers and their meaning both for cancer biology and clinical prognosis, signaling pathways specifically activated in OCSCs, the genetic and epigenetic regulation of OCSCs function including the recent studies on the non-coding RNA regulation, cooperation between OCSCs and the tumor microenvironment (ovarian cancer niche) including very specific environment such as ascites fluid, the role of shear stress, autophagy and metabolic changes for the function of OCSCs, and finally mechanisms of OCSCs escape from immune surveillance, are described and discussed extensively. The possibilities of anti-OCSCs therapy both in experimental settings and in clinical trials are presented, including the recent II phase clinical trials and immunotherapy. OCSCs are a unique population of cancer cells showing a great plasticity, self-renewal potential and resistance against anti-cancer treatment. They are responsible for the progression and recurrence of the tumor. Several completed and ongoing clinical trials have tested different anti-OCSCs drugs which, however, have shown unsatisfactory efficacy in most cases. We propose a novel approach to ovarian cancer diagnosis and therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacek R Wilczyński
- Department of Gynecological Surgery and Gynecological Oncology, Medical University of Lodz, 4 Kosciuszki Str., 90-419 Lodz, Poland
- Correspondence:
| | - Miłosz Wilczyński
- Department of Gynecological, Endoscopic and Oncological Surgery, Polish Mother’s Health Center—Research Institute, 281/289 Rzgowska Str., 93-338 Lodz, Poland;
- Department of Surgical and Endoscopic Gynecology, Medical University of Lodz, 4 Kosciuszki Str., 90-419 Lodz, Poland
| | - Edyta Paradowska
- Laboratory of Virology, Institute of Medical Biology of the Polish Academy of Sciences, 106 Lodowa Str., 93-232 Lodz, Poland;
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10
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Dolatabadi S, Jonasson E, Andersson L, Luna Santamaría M, Lindén M, Österlund T, Åman P, Ståhlberg A. FUS-DDIT3 Fusion Oncoprotein Expression Affects JAK-STAT Signaling in Myxoid Liposarcoma. Front Oncol 2022; 12:816894. [PMID: 35186752 PMCID: PMC8851354 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.816894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Myxoid liposarcoma is one of the most common sarcoma entities characterized by FET fusion oncogenes. Despite a generally favorable prognosis of myxoid liposarcoma, chemotherapy resistance remains a clinical problem. This cancer stem cell property is associated with JAK-STAT signaling, but the link to the myxoid-liposarcoma-specific FET fusion oncogene FUS-DDIT3 is not known. Here, we show that ectopic expression of FUS-DDIT3 resulted in elevated levels of STAT3 and phosphorylated STAT3. RNA sequencing identified 126 genes that were regulated by both FUS-DDIT3 expression and JAK1/2 inhibition using ruxolitinib. Sixty-six of these genes were connected in a protein interaction network. Fifty-three and 29 of these genes were confirmed as FUS-DDIT3 and STAT3 targets, respectively, using public chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing data sets. Enriched gene sets among the 126 regulated genes included processes related to cytokine signaling, adipocytokine signaling, and chromatin remodeling. We validated CD44 as a target gene of JAK1/2 inhibition and as a potential cancer stem cell marker in myxoid liposarcoma. Finally, we showed that FUS-DDIT3 interacted with phosphorylated STAT3 in association with subunits of the SWI/SNF chromatin remodeling complex and PRC2 repressive complex. Our data show that the function of FUS-DDIT3 is closely connected to JAK-STAT signaling. Detailed deciphering of molecular mechanisms behind tumor progression opens up new avenues for targeted therapies in sarcomas and leukemia characterized by FET fusion oncogenes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soheila Dolatabadi
- Sahlgrenska Center for Cancer Research, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Emma Jonasson
- Sahlgrenska Center for Cancer Research, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Lisa Andersson
- Sahlgrenska Center for Cancer Research, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Manuel Luna Santamaría
- Sahlgrenska Center for Cancer Research, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Wallenberg Centre for Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Malin Lindén
- Sahlgrenska Center for Cancer Research, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Tobias Österlund
- Wallenberg Centre for Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Region Västra Götaland, Department of Clinical Genetics and Genomics, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Pierre Åman
- Sahlgrenska Center for Cancer Research, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Anders Ståhlberg
- Sahlgrenska Center for Cancer Research, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Wallenberg Centre for Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Region Västra Götaland, Department of Clinical Genetics and Genomics, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
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11
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Escalona RM, Kannourakis G, Findlay JK, Ahmed N. Expression of TIMPs and MMPs in Ovarian Tumors, Ascites, Ascites-Derived Cells, and Cancer Cell Lines: Characteristic Modulatory Response Before and After Chemotherapy Treatment. Front Oncol 2022; 11:796588. [PMID: 35047406 PMCID: PMC8762252 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.796588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinase (TIMPs) and their associated metalloproteinase (MMPs) are essential regulators of tissue homeostasis and are essential for cancer progression. This study analyzed the expression of TIMP-1,-2,-3 and the associated MMPs (MMP-2,-9,-11,-14) in different Stages, Grades and World Health Organization (WHO) classifications of serous ovarian tumors, ascites, ascites-derived cells from chemo-naïve (CN) and relapsed (CR) patients, and in ovarian cancer cell lines. The status of TIMPs and associated MMPs in response to chemotherapy treatment was assessed in cancer cell lines; TCGA data was interrogated to gauge TIMPs and associated MMPs as prognostic and platinum-response indicators. Methods The levels of TIMP-1, -2 and -3 were assessed by immunohistochemistry. The mRNA expression of TIMPs and MMPs was quantified by real time PCR (qRT-PCR). The chemosensitivity (IC50 values) to Cisplatin or Paclitaxel in cell lines was evaluated by MTT assay. The levels of TIMPs in ascites and cell lysates were analyzed by an ELISA assay. Results The expression of TIMP-2 was significantly upregulated in Type 2 compared to Type 1 tumors and normal/benign ovarian tissues. TIMP-3 expression was significantly enhanced in Stage III, Grade 3 and Type 2 tumors compared to normal/benign ovarian tissues. The mRNA expression of MMP-9,-11 and -14 was significantly upregulated in Stage IV compared to normal/benign ovarian tissues. The expression of TIMP-1 was highest, followed by TIMP-2 and then TIMP-3 in CN ascites. At the cellular level, TIMP-2 mRNA expression was significantly higher in CN compared to CR epithelial cells in patients. The expression of TIMP-1 and -2, MMPs and cancer stem cells (CSCs) were upregulated in response to chemotherapy treatments in cancer cell lines. Interrogation of the TCGA dataset suggests shifts in platinum responses in patients consistent with genetic alterations in TIMP-2, -3 and MMP-2, -11 genes in tumors; and decreased overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) in patients with altered MMP-14 genes. Conclusions TIMPs and related MMPs are differentially expressed in serous ovarian tumors, ascites, ascites-derived cells and ovarian cancer cell lines. Chemotherapy treatment modulates expression of TIMPs and MMPs in association with increased expression of genes related to cancer stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth M Escalona
- Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute, Ballarat, VIC, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Department of Translational Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - George Kannourakis
- Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute, Ballarat, VIC, Australia.,School of Science, Psychology and Sport, Federation University Australia, Ballarat, VIC, Australia
| | - Jock K Findlay
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Department of Translational Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Nuzhat Ahmed
- Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute, Ballarat, VIC, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Department of Translational Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,School of Science, Psychology and Sport, Federation University Australia, Ballarat, VIC, Australia
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12
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Samanta S, Mahata R, Santra MK. The Cross-Talk between Epigenetic Gene Regulation and Signaling Pathways Regulates Cancer Pathogenesis. Subcell Biochem 2022; 100:427-472. [PMID: 36301502 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-07634-3_13] [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: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Cancer begins due to uncontrolled cell division. Cancer cells are insensitive to the signals that control normal cell proliferation. This uncontrolled cell division is due to the accumulation of abnormalities in different factors associated with the cell division, including different cyclins, cell cycle checkpoint inhibitors, and cellular signaling. Cellular signaling pathways are aberrantly activated in cancer mainly due to epigenetic regulation and post-translational regulation. In this chapter, the role of epigenetic regulation in aberrant activation of PI3K/AKT, Ras, Wnt, Hedgehog, Notch, JAK/STAT, and mTOR signaling pathways in cancer progression is discussed. The role of epigenetic regulators in controlling the upstream regulatory proteins and downstream effector proteins responsible for abnormal cellular signaling-mediated cancer progression is covered in this chapter. Similarly, the role of signaling pathways in controlling epigenetic gene regulation-mediated cancer progression is also discussed. We have tried to ascertain the current status of potential epigenetic drugs targeting several epigenetic regulators to prevent different cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Snigdha Samanta
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, National Centre for Cell Science, NCCS Complex, S. P. Pune University Campus, Ganeshkhind Road, Pune, Maharashtra, India
- Department of Biotechnology, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | - Rumpa Mahata
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, National Centre for Cell Science, NCCS Complex, S. P. Pune University Campus, Ganeshkhind Road, Pune, Maharashtra, India
- Department of Biotechnology, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | - Manas Kumar Santra
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, National Centre for Cell Science, NCCS Complex, S. P. Pune University Campus, Ganeshkhind Road, Pune, Maharashtra, India.
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13
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Yang B, Wang X, Dong D, Pan Y, Wu J, Liu J. Existing Drug Repurposing for Glioblastoma to Discover Candidate Drugs as a New a Approach. LETT DRUG DES DISCOV 2022. [DOI: 10.2174/1570180818666210509141735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Aims:
Repurposing of drugs has been hypothesized as a means of identifying novel
treatment methods for certain diseases.
Background:
Glioblastoma (GB) is an aggressive type of human cancer; the most effective treatment
for glioblastoma is chemotherapy, whereas, when repurposing drugs, a lot of time and money can be
saved.
Objective:
Repurposing of the existing drug may be used to discover candidate drugs for individualized
treatments of GB.
Method:
We used the bioinformatics method to obtain the candidate drugs. In addition, the drugs
were verified by MTT assay, Transwell® assays, TUNEL staining, and in vivo tumor formation experiments,
as well as statistical analysis.
Result:
We obtained 4 candidate drugs suitable for the treatment of glioma, camptothecin, doxorubicin,
daunorubicin and mitoxantrone, by the expression spectrum data IPAS algorithm analysis and
drug-pathway connectivity analysis. These validation experiments showed that camptothecin was
more effective in treating the GB, such as MTT assay, Transwell® assays, TUNEL staining, and in
vivo tumor formation.
Conclusion:
With regard to personalized treatment, this present study may be used to guide the research
of new drugs via verification experiments and tumor formation. The present study also provides
a guide to systematic, individualized drug discovery for complex diseases and may contribute
to the future application of individualized treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Hangzhou Medical College Affiliated Lin’an People’s Hospital, The First People’s
Hospital of Hangzhou Lin’an District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311300, China
| | - Xiande Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Hangzhou Medical College Affiliated Lin’an People’s Hospital, The First People’s
Hospital of Hangzhou Lin’an District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311300, China
| | - Dong Dong
- Department of Neurosurgery, Hangzhou Medical College Affiliated Lin’an People’s Hospital, The First People’s
Hospital of Hangzhou Lin’an District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311300, China
| | - Yunqing Pan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Hangzhou Medical College Affiliated Lin’an People’s Hospital, The First People’s
Hospital of Hangzhou Lin’an District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311300, China
| | - Junhua Wu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Hangzhou Medical College Affiliated Lin’an People’s Hospital, The First People’s
Hospital of Hangzhou Lin’an District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311300, China
| | - Jianjian Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Hangzhou Medical College Affiliated Lin’an People’s Hospital, The First People’s
Hospital of Hangzhou Lin’an District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311300, China
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14
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Plasticity of Cancer Stem Cell: Origin and Role in Disease Progression and Therapy Resistance. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2021; 16:397-412. [PMID: 31965409 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-019-09942-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
In embryonic development and throughout life, there are some cells can exhibit phenotypic plasticity. Phenotypic plasticity is the ability of cells to differentiate into multiple lineages. In normal development, plasticity is highly regulated whereas cancer cells re-activate this dynamic ability for their own progression. The re-activation of these mechanisms enables cancer cells to acquire a cancer stem cell (CSC) phenotype- a subpopulation of cells with increased ability to survive in a hostile environment and resist therapeutic insults. There are several contributors fuel CSC plasticity in different stages of disease progression such as a complex network of tumour stroma, epidermal microenvironment and different sub-compartments within tumour. These factors play a key role in the transformation of tumour cells from a stable condition to a progressive state. In addition, flexibility in the metabolic state of CSCs helps in disease progression. Moreover, epigenetic changes such as chromatin, DNA methylation could stimulate the phenotypic change of CSCs. Development of resistance to therapy due to highly plastic behaviour of CSCs is a major cause of treatment failure in cancers. However, recent studies explored that plasticity can also expose the weaknesses in CSCs, thereby could be utilized for future therapeutic development. Therefore, in this review, we discuss how cancer cells acquire the plasticity, especially the role of the normal developmental process, tumour microenvironment, and epigenetic changes in the development of plasticity. We further highlight the therapeutic resistance property of CSCs attributed by plasticity. Also, outline some potential therapeutic options against plasticity of CSCs. Graphical Abstract .
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15
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Induced Mitochondrial Alteration and DNA Damage via IFNGR-JAK2-STAT1-PARP1 Pathway Facilitates Viral Hepatitis Associated Hepatocellular Carcinoma Aggressiveness and Stemness. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13112755. [PMID: 34199353 PMCID: PMC8199505 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13112755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2021] [Revised: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Hepatitis virus is a major risk factor for liver cancer. We analyzed possible synergism between momelotinib and sorafenib in hepatitis virus-associated liver cancer. The combined effect of momelotinib and sorafenib both at in vitro and in vivo synergistically sup-presses the proliferation of vHCC cells and effectively reduces the tumor burden. Our results showed that momelotinib effectively suppressed the expression of the IFNGR-JAK-STAT-PARP1 pathway, which results in the downregulation of cancer stem cell genes and enhances the antitumor efficacy of sorafenib by initiating the expression of apoptosis-related genes and inhibiting the DNA repair gene in vHCC cells, thus maximizing its therapeutic potential for patients with HCC. Abstract Background: Hepatitis virus is a major risk factor for liver cancer. The mitochondrial dysfunction IFN gamma-related pathways are activated after virus infection. Jak family-related protein is involved in the downstream of IFN gamma-related pathways. However, the effect of the IFNGR-JAK-STAT pathway acting as functional regulators of their related protein expression on virus infection and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains unclear. Interestingly, the role of the DNA repair gene (PARP1) in therapy resistant cancers also has not been studied and explored well. In this study, we hypothesized that momelotinib could suppress the progression of HCC by targeting Jak family related and PARP1 DNA repair protein. Based on this observation, we link the relevant targets of the JAK family and the potential applications of targeted therapy inhibitors. Methods: We analyzed possible synergism between momelotinib and sorafenib in hepatitis virus-associated liver cancer. Immunostaining, colony formation assay, cell invasion, migration, and tumorsphere-formation assay were used for drug cytotoxicity, cell viability, and possible molecular mechanism. Result: We first demonstrated that the expression of Jak1 and 2 is significantly upregulated in vHCC than in nvHCC/normal liver tissues. In addition, the gene expression of IFN gamma-related pathways is activated after virus infection. Additionally, we found that momelotinib significantly inhibited the growth of HCC cells and reduces the expression of Jak2, which showed the importance of momelotinib in targeting Jak2 and reducing tumorigenesis in HCC. Meanwhile, momelotinib effectively inhibited the IFNGR-JAK-STAT pathway and reduced the migratory/invasive ability of vHCC cells through down-regulating EMT biomarkers (E-cadherin and vimentin), transcription factor (Slug), and significantly inhibits the DNA damage repair enzyme PARP1. It also induced cell apoptosis of vHCC cells. Furthermore, the combined effect of momelotinib and sorafenib both at in vitro and in vivo synergistically suppresses the proliferation of vHCC cells and effectively reduces the tumor burden. Conclusions: Our results showed that momelotinib effectively suppressed the expression of the IFNGR-JAK-STAT-PARP1 pathway, which results in the downregulation of cancer stem cell genes and enhances the antitumor efficacy of sorafenib by initiating the expression of apoptosis-related genes and inhibiting the DNA repair gene in vHCC cells, thus maximizing its therapeutic potential for patients with HCC.
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16
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Wesley T, Berzins S, Kannourakis G, Ahmed N. The attributes of plakins in cancer and disease: perspectives on ovarian cancer progression, chemoresistance and recurrence. Cell Commun Signal 2021; 19:55. [PMID: 34001250 PMCID: PMC8127266 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-021-00726-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 02/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The plakin family of cytoskeletal proteins play an important role in cancer progression yet are under-studied in cancer, especially ovarian cancer. These large cytoskeletal proteins have primary roles in the maintenance of cytoskeletal integrity but are also associated with scaffolds of intermediate filaments and hemidesmosomal adhesion complexes mediating signalling pathways that regulate cellular growth, migration, invasion and differentiation as well as stress response. Abnormalities of plakins, and the closely related spectraplakins, result in diseases of the skin, striated muscle and nervous tissue. Their prevalence in epithelial cells suggests that plakins may play a role in epithelial ovarian cancer progression and recurrence. In this review article, we explore the roles of plakins, particularly plectin, periplakin and envoplakin in disease-states and cancers with emphasis on ovarian cancer. We discuss the potential role the plakin family of proteins play in regulating cancer cell growth, survival, migration, invasion and drug resistance. We highlight potential relationships between plakins, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and cancer stem cells (CSCs) and discuss how interaction of these processes may affect ovarian cancer progression, chemoresistance and ultimately recurrence. We propose that molecular changes in the expression of plakins leads to the transition of benign ovarian tumours to carcinomas, as well as floating cellular aggregates (commonly known as spheroids) in the ascites microenvironment, which may contribute to the sustenance and progression of the disease. In this review, attempts have been made to understand the crucial changes in plakin expression in relation to progression and recurrence of ovarian cancer. Video Abstract
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamsin Wesley
- Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute, Ballarat Technology Central Park, Suites 23-26, 106-110 Lydiard Street South, Ballarat, VIC, 3353, Australia.,School of Science, Psychology and Sport, Federation University Australia, Ballarat, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - Stuart Berzins
- Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute, Ballarat Technology Central Park, Suites 23-26, 106-110 Lydiard Street South, Ballarat, VIC, 3353, Australia.,School of Science, Psychology and Sport, Federation University Australia, Ballarat, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - George Kannourakis
- Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute, Ballarat Technology Central Park, Suites 23-26, 106-110 Lydiard Street South, Ballarat, VIC, 3353, Australia.,School of Science, Psychology and Sport, Federation University Australia, Ballarat, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - Nuzhat Ahmed
- Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute, Ballarat Technology Central Park, Suites 23-26, 106-110 Lydiard Street South, Ballarat, VIC, 3353, Australia. .,School of Science, Psychology and Sport, Federation University Australia, Ballarat, VIC, 3010, Australia. .,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, 3052, Australia. .,Centre for Reproductive Health, The Hudson Institute of Medical Research and Department of Translational Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3168, Australia.
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17
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Jain S, Annett SL, Morgan MP, Robson T. The Cancer Stem Cell Niche in Ovarian Cancer and Its Impact on Immune Surveillance. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:4091. [PMID: 33920983 PMCID: PMC8071330 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22084091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Revised: 04/11/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer is an aggressive gynaecological cancer with extremely poor prognosis, due to late diagnosis as well as the development of chemoresistance after first-line therapy. Research advances have found stem-like cells present in ovarian tumours, which exist in a dynamic niche and persist through therapy. The stem cell niche interacts extensively with the immune and non-immune components of the tumour microenvironment. Significant pathways associated with the cancer stem cell niche have been identified which interfere with the immune component of the tumour microenvironment, leading to immune surveillance evasion, dysfunction and suppression. This review aims to summarise current evidence-based knowledge on the cancer stem cell niche within the ovarian cancer tumour microenvironment and its effect on immune surveillance. Furthermore, the review seeks to understand the clinical consequences of this dynamic interaction by highlighting current therapies which target these processes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Tracy Robson
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Science, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, 123 St Stephen’s Green, D02 YN77 Dublin, Ireland; (S.J.); (S.L.A.); (M.P.M.)
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18
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Nabil G, Alzhrani R, Alsaab HO, Atef M, Sau S, Iyer AK, Banna HE. CD44 Targeted Nanomaterials for Treatment of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13040898. [PMID: 33672756 PMCID: PMC7924562 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13040898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Identified as the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among American women after lung cancer, breast cancer of all types has been the focus of numerous research studies. Even though triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) represents 15-20% of the number of breast cancer cases worldwide, its existing therapeutic options are fairly limited. Due to the pivotal role of the presence/absence of specific receptors to luminal A, luminal B, HER-2+, and TNBC in the molecular classification of breast cancer, the lack of these receptors has accounted for the aforementioned limitation. Thereupon, in an attempt to participate in the ongoing research endeavors to overcome such a limitation, the conducted study adopts a combination strategy as a therapeutic paradigm for TNBC, which has proven notable results with respect to both: improving patient outcomes and survivability rates. The study hinges upon an investigation of a promising NPs platform for CD44 mediated theranostic that can be combined with JAK/STAT inhibitors for the treatment of TNBC. The ability of momelotinib (MMB), which is a JAK/STAT inhibitor, to sensitize the TNBC to apoptosis inducer (CFM-4.16) has been evaluated in MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468. MMB + CFM-4.16 combination with a combination index (CI) ≤0.5, has been selected for in vitro and in vivo studies. MMB has been combined with CD44 directed polymeric nanoparticles (PNPs) loaded with CFM-4.16, namely CD44-T-PNPs, which selectively delivered the payload to CD44 overexpressing TNBC with a significant decrease in cell viability associated with a high dose reduction index (DRI). The mechanism underlying their synergism is based on the simultaneous downregulation of P-STAT3 and the up-regulation of CARP-1, which has induced ROS-dependent apoptosis leading to caspase 3/7 elevation, cell shrinkage, DNA damage, and suppressed migration. CD44-T-PNPs showed a remarkable cellular internalization, demonstrated by uptake of a Rhodamine B dye in vitro and S0456 (NIR dye) in vivo. S0456 was conjugated to PNPs to form CD44-T-PNPs/S0456 that simultaneously delivered CFM-4.16 and S0456 parenterally with selective tumor targeting, prolonged circulation, minimized off-target distribution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghazal Nabil
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza 12211, Egypt; (G.N.); (M.A.)
- Use-Inspired Biomaterials & Integrated Nano Delivery (U-BiND) Systems Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, 259 Mack Ave, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48201, USA; (R.A.); (H.O.A.); (S.S.)
| | - Rami Alzhrani
- Use-Inspired Biomaterials & Integrated Nano Delivery (U-BiND) Systems Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, 259 Mack Ave, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48201, USA; (R.A.); (H.O.A.); (S.S.)
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, Taif 21944, Egypt
| | - Hashem O. Alsaab
- Use-Inspired Biomaterials & Integrated Nano Delivery (U-BiND) Systems Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, 259 Mack Ave, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48201, USA; (R.A.); (H.O.A.); (S.S.)
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, Taif 21944, Egypt
| | - Mohammed Atef
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza 12211, Egypt; (G.N.); (M.A.)
| | - Samaresh Sau
- Use-Inspired Biomaterials & Integrated Nano Delivery (U-BiND) Systems Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, 259 Mack Ave, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48201, USA; (R.A.); (H.O.A.); (S.S.)
| | - Arun K. Iyer
- Use-Inspired Biomaterials & Integrated Nano Delivery (U-BiND) Systems Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, 259 Mack Ave, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48201, USA; (R.A.); (H.O.A.); (S.S.)
- Molecular Imaging Program, Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University, School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA
- Correspondence: (A.K.I.); (H.E.B.); Tel.: +1-3135775875 (A.K.I.); +2-01004552557 (H.E.B.)
| | - Hossny El Banna
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza 12211, Egypt; (G.N.); (M.A.)
- Correspondence: (A.K.I.); (H.E.B.); Tel.: +1-3135775875 (A.K.I.); +2-01004552557 (H.E.B.)
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19
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Escalona RM, Bilandzic M, Western P, Kadife E, Kannourakis G, Findlay JK, Ahmed N. TIMP-2 regulates proliferation, invasion and STAT3-mediated cancer stem cell-dependent chemoresistance in ovarian cancer cells. BMC Cancer 2020; 20:960. [PMID: 33023532 PMCID: PMC7542139 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-020-07274-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 08/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The metzincin family of metalloproteinases and the tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) are essential proteins required for biological processes during cancer progression. This study aimed to determine the role of TIMP-2 in ovarian cancer progression and chemoresistance by reducing TIMP-2 expression in vitro in Fallopian tube secretory epithelial (FT282) and ovarian cancer (JHOS2 and OVCAR4) cell lines. METHODS FT282, JHOS2 and OVCAR4 cells were transiently transfected with either single or pooled TIMP-2 siRNAs. The expression of different genes after TIMP-2 knock down (T2-KD) or in response to chemotherapy was determined at the mRNA level by quantitative real time PCR (qRT-PCR) and at the protein level by immunofluorescence. Sensitivity of the cell lines in response to chemotherapy after TIMP-2 knock down was investigated by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) and 5-Ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU) assays. Cell invasion in response to TIMP-2 knockdown was determined by xCELLigence. RESULTS Sixty to 90 % knock down of TIMP-2 expression was confirmed in FT282, OVCAR4 and JHOS2 cell lines at the mRNA and protein levels. TIMP-2 knock down did not change the mRNA expression of TIMP-1 or TIMP-3. However, a significant downregulation of MMP-2 in T2-KD cells occurred at both the protein and activation levels, compared to Control (Cont; scrambled siRNA) and Parental cells (P, transfection reagent only). In contrast, membrane bound MT1-MMP protein levels were significantly upregulated in T2-KD compared to Cont and P cells. T2-KD cells exhibited enhanced proliferation and increased sensitivity to cisplatin and paclitaxel treatments. Enhanced invasion was observed in the T2-KD-JOSH2 and OVCAR4 cells but not in T2-KD-FT282 cells. Treatment with cisplatin or paclitaxel significantly elevated the expression of TIMP-2 in Cont cells but not in T2-KD cells, consistent with significantly elevated expression of chemoresistance and CSC markers and activation of STAT3. Furthermore, a potent inhibitor of STAT3 activation, Momelotinib, suppressed chemotherapy-induced activation of P-STAT3 in OVCAR4 cells with concomitant reductions in the expression of chemoresistance genes and CSC markers. CONCLUSIONS The above results suggest that TIMP-2 may have a novel role in ovarian cancer proliferation, invasion and chemoresistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth M Escalona
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, 3050, Australia.,Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, and the Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3168, Australia.,Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute, Ballarat, 3353, Australia
| | - Maree Bilandzic
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, and the Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3168, Australia
| | - Patrick Western
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, and the Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3168, Australia
| | - Elif Kadife
- Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute, Ballarat, 3353, Australia
| | - George Kannourakis
- Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute, Ballarat, 3353, Australia.,Federation University Australia, Vic, Ballarat, 3010, Australia
| | - Jock K Findlay
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, 3050, Australia.,Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, and the Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3168, Australia
| | - Nuzhat Ahmed
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, 3050, Australia. .,Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, and the Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3168, Australia. .,Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute, Ballarat, 3353, Australia. .,Federation University Australia, Vic, Ballarat, 3010, Australia.
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20
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Qureshy Z, Johnson DE, Grandis JR. Targeting the JAK/STAT pathway in solid tumors. JOURNAL OF CANCER METASTASIS AND TREATMENT 2020; 6:27. [PMID: 33521321 PMCID: PMC7845926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Aberrant activation of signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) proteins is associated with the development and progression of solid tumors. However, as transcription factors, these proteins are difficult to target directly. In this review, we summarize the role of targeting Janus kinases (JAKs), upstream activators of STATs, as a strategy for decreasing STAT activation in solid tumors. Preclinical studies in solid tumor cell line models show that JAK inhibitors decrease STAT activation, cell proliferation, and cell survival; in in vivo models, they also inhibit tumor growth. JAK inhibitors, particularly the JAK1/2 inhibitor ruxolitinib, sensitize cell lines and murine models to chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and oncolytic viral therapy. Ten JAK inhibitors have been or are actively being tested in clinical trials as monotherapy or in combination with other agents in patients with solid tumors; two of these inhibitors are already Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved for the treatment of myeloproliferative disorders and rheumatoid arthritis, making them attractive agents for use in patients with solid tumors as they are known to be well-tolerated. Four JAK inhibitors (two of which are FDA approved for other indications) have exhibited promising anti-cancer effects in preclinical studies; however, clinical studies specifically assessing their activity against the JAK/STAT pathway in solid tumors have not yet been conducted. In summary, JAK inhibition is a viable option for targeting the JAK/STAT pathway in solid tumors and merits further testing in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoya Qureshy
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco 94158, USA
| | - Daniel E Johnson
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco 94158, USA
| | - Jennifer R Grandis
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco 94158, USA
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Ovarian Cancer, Cancer Stem Cells and Current Treatment Strategies: A Potential Role of Magmas in the Current Treatment Methods. Cells 2020; 9:cells9030719. [PMID: 32183385 PMCID: PMC7140629 DOI: 10.3390/cells9030719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2019] [Revised: 03/01/2020] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) constitutes 90% of ovarian cancers (OC) and is the eighth most common cause of cancer-related death in women. The cancer histologically and genetically is very complex having a high degree of tumour heterogeneity. The pathogenic variability in OC causes significant impediments in effectively treating patients, resulting in a dismal prognosis. Disease progression is predominantly influenced by the peritoneal tumour microenvironment rather than properties of the tumor and is the major contributor to prognosis. Standard treatment of OC patients consists of debulking surgery, followed by chemotherapy, which in most cases end in recurrent chemoresistant disease. This review discusses the different origins of high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC), the major sub-type of EOC. Tumour heterogeneity, genetic/epigenetic changes, and cancer stem cells (CSC) in facilitating HGSOC progression and their contribution in the circumvention of therapy treatments are included. Several new treatment strategies are discussed including our preliminary proof of concept study describing the role of mitochondria-associated granulocyte macrophage colony-stimulating factor signaling protein (Magmas) in HGSOC and its unique potential role in chemotherapy-resistant disease.
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22
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Wu CJ, Sundararajan V, Sheu BC, Huang RYJ, Wei LH. Activation of STAT3 and STAT5 Signaling in Epithelial Ovarian Cancer Progression: Mechanism and Therapeutic Opportunity. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 12:cancers12010024. [PMID: 31861720 PMCID: PMC7017004 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12010024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2019] [Revised: 12/13/2019] [Accepted: 12/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is the most lethal of all gynecologic malignancies. Despite advances in surgical and chemotherapeutic options, most patients with advanced EOC have a relapse within three years of diagnosis. Unfortunately, recurrent disease is generally not curable. Recent advances in maintenance therapy with anti-angiogenic agents or Poly ADP-ribose polymerase (PARP) inhibitors provided a substantial benefit concerning progression-free survival among certain women with advanced EOC. However, effective treatment options remain limited in most recurrent cases. Therefore, validated novel molecular therapeutic targets remain urgently needed in the management of EOC. Signal transducer and activator of transcription-3 (STAT3) and STAT5 are aberrantly activated through tyrosine phosphorylation in a wide variety of cancer types, including EOC. Extrinsic tumor microenvironmental factors in EOC, such as inflammatory cytokines, growth factors, hormones, and oxidative stress, can activate STAT3 and STAT5 through different mechanisms. Persistently activated STAT3 and, to some extent, STAT5 increase EOC tumor cell proliferation, survival, self-renewal, angiogenesis, metastasis, and chemoresistance while suppressing anti-tumor immunity. By doing so, the STAT3 and STAT5 activation in EOC controls properties of both tumor cells and their microenvironment, driving multiple distinct functions during EOC progression. Clinically, increasing evidence indicates that the activation of the STAT3/STAT5 pathway has significant correlation with reduced survival of recurrent EOC, suggesting the importance of STAT3/STAT5 as potential therapeutic targets for cancer therapy. This review summarizes the distinct role of STAT3 and STAT5 activities in the progression of EOC and discusses the emerging therapies specifically targeting STAT3 and STAT5 signaling in this disease setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chin-Jui Wu
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, National Taiwan University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10002, Taiwan; (C.-J.W.); (B.-C.S.)
| | - Vignesh Sundararajan
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Center for Translational Medicine, Singapore 117599, Singapore;
| | - Bor-Ching Sheu
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, National Taiwan University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10002, Taiwan; (C.-J.W.); (B.-C.S.)
| | - Ruby Yun-Ju Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119077, Singapore;
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10051, Taiwan
| | - Lin-Hung Wei
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, National Taiwan University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10002, Taiwan; (C.-J.W.); (B.-C.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +886-2-2312-3456 (ext. 71570); Fax: +886-2-2311-4965
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Paclitaxel-Induced Src Activation Is Inhibited by Dasatinib Treatment, Independently of Cancer Stem Cell Properties, in a Mouse Model of Ovarian Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11020243. [PMID: 30791462 PMCID: PMC6406511 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11020243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2018] [Revised: 02/12/2019] [Accepted: 02/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Approximately seventy percent of ovarian cancer patients succumb to the disease within the first 5 years of diagnosis, even after successful surgery and effective chemotherapy treatment. A small subset of chemotherapy resistant cancer stem cells (CSCs) cause relapse of ovarian cancers. This study investigated the association between paclitaxel-mediated Src activation (p-Src) and CSC populations in driving ovarian cancer progression. We demonstrate that patients with high-stage serous ovarian carcinomas have significantly elevated levels of p-Src, compared to patient with low-stage and benign ovarian tumours. Additionally, p-Src was significantly enhanced in ascites-derived tumour cells obtained from recurrent patients, compared to chemonaïve patients. Paclitaxel treatment increased Src activation in ovarian cancer cells, causing enrichment of CSC marker expression in the surviving cells in vitro and in xenografts of nude mice. Dasatinib in combination with paclitaxel significantly suppressed p-Src in ovarian cancer cell lines and xenografts but had no effect on the expression of CSC markers. However, combination of paclitaxel and Dasatinib showed lower trend in invasion in liver and pancreas, compared to paclitaxel-only treatment. The tumours treated with combination therapy also had significantly lower infiltration of mononuclear cells. Robust recurrent tumour growth was observed in all mice groups after termination of treatments. The above results suggest that Dasatinib-mediated inhibition of p-Src may not be crucial for paclitaxel-induced CSC-mediated recurrence in ovarian cancer.
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Giordano G, Parcesepe P, D’Andrea MR, Coppola L, Di Raimo T, Remo A, Manfrin E, Fiorini C, Scarpa A, Amoreo CA, Conciatori F, Milella M, Caruso FP, Cerulo L, Porras A, Pancione M. JAK/Stat5-mediated subtype-specific lymphocyte antigen 6 complex, locus G6D (LY6G6D) expression drives mismatch repair proficient colorectal cancer. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2019; 38:28. [PMID: 30670049 PMCID: PMC6343337 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-018-1019-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2018] [Accepted: 12/26/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human microsatellite-stable (MSS) colorectal cancers (CRCs) are immunologically "cold" tumour subtypes characterized by reduced immune cytotoxicity. The molecular linkages between immune-resistance and human MSS CRC is not clear. METHODS We used transcriptome profiling, in silico analysis, immunohistochemistry, western blot, RT-qPCR and immunofluorescence staining to characterize novel CRC immune biomarkers. The effects of selective antagonists were tested by in vitro assays of long term viability and analysis of kinase active forms using anti-phospho antibodies. RESULTS We identified the lymphocyte antigen 6 complex, locus G6D (LY6G6D) as significantly overexpressed (around 15-fold) in CRC when compared with its relatively low expression in other human solid tumours. LY6G6D up-regulation was predominant in MSS CRCs characterized by an enrichment of immune suppressive regulatory T-cells and a limited repertoire of PD-1/PD-L1 immune checkpoint receptors. Coexpression of LY6G6D and CD15 increases the risk of metastatic relapse in response to therapy. Both JAK-STAT5 and RAS-MEK-ERK cascades act in concert as key regulators of LY6G6D and Fucosyltransferase 4 (FUT4), which direct CD15-mediated immune-resistance. Momelotinib, an inhibitor of JAK1/JAK2, consistently abrogated the STAT5/LY6G6D axis in vitro, sensitizing MSS cancer cells with an intact JAK-STAT signaling, to efficiently respond to trametinib, a MEK inhibitor used in clinical setting. Notably, colon cancer cells can evade JAK2/JAK1-targeted therapy by a reversible shift of the RAS-MEK-ERK pathway activity, which explains the treatment failure of JAK1/2 inhibitors in refractory CRC. CONCLUSIONS Combined targeting of STAT5 and MAPK pathways has superior therapeutic effects on immune resistance. In addition, the new identified LY6G6D antigen is a promising molecular target for human MSS CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guido Giordano
- 0000 0004 1757 9135grid.413503.0Oncology Unit, Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza-IRCCS, San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
- grid.416357.2Medical Oncology and Anatomic Pathology Unit, San Filippo Neri Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Pietro Parcesepe
- 0000 0004 1756 948Xgrid.411475.2Department of Diagnostics and Public Health – Section of Pathology, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Mario Rosario D’Andrea
- grid.416357.2Medical Oncology and Anatomic Pathology Unit, San Filippo Neri Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Luigi Coppola
- grid.416357.2Medical Oncology and Anatomic Pathology Unit, San Filippo Neri Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Tania Di Raimo
- grid.416357.2Medical Oncology and Anatomic Pathology Unit, San Filippo Neri Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Remo
- Pathology Unit, “Mater Salutis” Hospital AULSS9, Legnago (Verona), Italy
| | - Erminia Manfrin
- 0000 0004 1756 948Xgrid.411475.2Department of Diagnostics and Public Health – Section of Pathology, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Claudia Fiorini
- 0000 0004 1756 948Xgrid.411475.2Department of Diagnostics and Public Health – Section of Pathology, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Aldo Scarpa
- 0000 0004 1756 948Xgrid.411475.2Department of Diagnostics and Public Health – Section of Pathology, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Carla Azzurra Amoreo
- 0000 0004 1760 5276grid.417520.5Pathology, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome Italy, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144 Rome, Italy
| | - Fabiana Conciatori
- 0000 0004 1760 5276grid.417520.5Medical Oncology, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome Italy, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144 Rome, Italy
| | - Michele Milella
- 0000 0004 1760 5276grid.417520.5Medical Oncology, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome Italy, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Pia Caruso
- 0000 0001 0724 3038grid.47422.37Department of Sciences and Technologies, University of Sannio, Via Port’Arsa, 1182100 Benevento, Italy
- Bioinformatics Laboratory, BIOGEM scrl, Ariano Irpino, Avellino, Italy
| | - Luigi Cerulo
- 0000 0001 0724 3038grid.47422.37Department of Sciences and Technologies, University of Sannio, Via Port’Arsa, 1182100 Benevento, Italy
- Bioinformatics Laboratory, BIOGEM scrl, Ariano Irpino, Avellino, Italy
| | - Almudena Porras
- 0000 0001 2157 7667grid.4795.fDepartment of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- grid.414780.eHealth Research Institute of the Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Massimo Pancione
- 0000 0001 0724 3038grid.47422.37Department of Sciences and Technologies, University of Sannio, Via Port’Arsa, 1182100 Benevento, Italy
- 0000 0001 2157 7667grid.4795.fDepartment of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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Tumour microenvironment and metabolic plasticity in cancer and cancer stem cells: Perspectives on metabolic and immune regulatory signatures in chemoresistant ovarian cancer stem cells. Semin Cancer Biol 2018; 53:265-281. [DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2018.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2018] [Revised: 10/05/2018] [Accepted: 10/08/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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26
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Zhai J, Luwor RB, Ahmed N, Escalona R, Tan FH, Fong C, Ratcliffe J, Scoble JA, Drummond CJ, Tran N. Paclitaxel-Loaded Self-Assembled Lipid Nanoparticles as Targeted Drug Delivery Systems for the Treatment of Aggressive Ovarian Cancer. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2018; 10:25174-25185. [PMID: 29963859 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.8b08125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Chemotherapy using cytotoxic agents, such as paclitaxel (PTX), is one of the most effective treatments for advanced ovarian cancer. However, due to nonspecific targeting of the drug and the presence of toxic solvents required for dissolving PTX prior to injection, there are several serious side effects associated with this treatment. In this study, we explored self-assembled lipid-based nanoparticles as PTX carriers, which were able to improve its antitumour efficacy against ovarian cancer. The nanoparticles were also functionalized with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) antibody fragments to explore the benefit of tumor active targeting. The formulated bicontinuous cubic- and sponge-phase nanoparticles, which were stabilized by Pluronic F127 and a lipid poly(ethylene glycol) stabilizer, showed a high capacity of PTX loading. These PTX-loaded nanoparticles also showed significantly higher cytotoxicity than a free drug formulation against HEY ovarian cancer cell lines in vitro. More importantly, the nanoparticle-based PTX treatments, with or without EGFR targeting, reduced the tumor burden by 50% compared to PTX or nondrug control in an ovarian cancer mouse xenograft model. In addition, the PTX-loaded nanoparticles were able to extend the survival of the treatment groups by up to 10 days compared to groups receiving free PTX or nondrug control. This proof-of-concept study has demonstrated the potential of these self-assembled lipid nanomaterials as effective drug delivery nanocarriers for poorly soluble chemotherapeutics, such as PTX.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiali Zhai
- School of Science, College of Science, Engineering and Health , RMIT University , Melbourne , VIC 3000 , Australia
| | - Rodney B Luwor
- Department of Surgery, Royal Melbourne Hospital , University of Melbourne , Melbourne , VIC 3052 , Australia
| | - Nuzhat Ahmed
- Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute , Ballarat , VIC 3353 , Australia
- Federation University Australia , Ballarat , VIC 3010 , Australia
- The Hudson Institute of Medical Research , Clayton , VIC 3168 , Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology , University of Melbourne , Parkville , VIC 3052 , Australia
| | - Ruth Escalona
- Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute , Ballarat , VIC 3353 , Australia
- The Hudson Institute of Medical Research , Clayton , VIC 3168 , Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology , University of Melbourne , Parkville , VIC 3052 , Australia
| | - Fiona H Tan
- School of Science, College of Science, Engineering and Health , RMIT University , Melbourne , VIC 3000 , Australia
- Department of Surgery, Royal Melbourne Hospital , University of Melbourne , Melbourne , VIC 3052 , Australia
| | - Celesta Fong
- School of Science, College of Science, Engineering and Health , RMIT University , Melbourne , VIC 3000 , Australia
- CSIRO Manufacturing , Clayton , VIC 3168 , Australia
| | | | - Judith A Scoble
- CSIRO Manufacturing , 343 Royal Parade , Parkville , Victoria 3052 , Australia
| | - Calum J Drummond
- School of Science, College of Science, Engineering and Health , RMIT University , Melbourne , VIC 3000 , Australia
| | - Nhiem Tran
- School of Science, College of Science, Engineering and Health , RMIT University , Melbourne , VIC 3000 , Australia
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