1
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Moon DO. Interplay between paclitaxel, gap junctions, and kinases: unraveling mechanisms of action and resistance in cancer therapy. Mol Biol Rep 2024; 51:472. [PMID: 38551726 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-024-09411-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
This comprehensive review elucidates the multifaceted roles of paclitaxel, a key chemotherapeutic agent, in cancer therapy, with a focus on its interactions with gap junctions and related kinases. Paclitaxel, with its complex diterpene structure, mediates its anticancer effects predominantly through specific interactions with β-tubulin, instigating cell cycle arrest and triggering various cell death pathways, including apoptosis, pyroptosis, ferroptosis, and necroptosis. The paper systematically delineates the chemical attributes and action mechanisms of paclitaxel and its analogs, underscoring their capacity to disrupt microtubule dynamics, thereby leading to mitotic arrest and subsequent cell death induction. It also scrutinizes the pivotal role of gap junctions, composed of connexin proteins, in the modulation of cancer cell behavior and chemoresistance, especially in the milieu of paclitaxel administration. The review articulates how gap junctions can either suppress tumors or contribute to cancer progression, thereby influencing chemotherapy outcomes. Furthermore, the paper provides an in-depth analysis of how paclitaxel modulates gap junction-associated kinases via phosphorylation, influencing the drug's therapeutic efficacy and resistance profiles. By integrating insights from numerous key studies, the review offers a comprehensive understanding of the interplay between paclitaxel, gap junctions, and kinases, shedding light on potential approaches to augment paclitaxel's anti-tumor effectiveness and counteract chemoresistance in cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong-Oh Moon
- Department of Biology Education, Daegu University, 201, Daegudae-ro, Gyeongsan-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do, 38453, Republic of Korea.
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2
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Ebrahim T, Ebrahim AS, Kandouz M. Diversity of Intercellular Communication Modes: A Cancer Biology Perspective. Cells 2024; 13:495. [PMID: 38534339 DOI: 10.3390/cells13060495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/10/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
From the moment a cell is on the path to malignant transformation, its interaction with other cells from the microenvironment becomes altered. The flow of molecular information is at the heart of the cellular and systemic fate in tumors, and various processes participate in conveying key molecular information from or to certain cancer cells. For instance, the loss of tight junction molecules is part of the signal sent to cancer cells so that they are no longer bound to the primary tumors and are thus free to travel and metastasize. Upon the targeting of a single cell by a therapeutic drug, gap junctions are able to communicate death information to by-standing cells. The discovery of the importance of novel modes of cell-cell communication such as different types of extracellular vesicles or tunneling nanotubes is changing the way scientists look at these processes. However, are they all actively involved in different contexts at the same time or are they recruited to fulfill specific tasks? What does the multiplicity of modes mean for the overall progression of the disease? Here, we extend an open invitation to think about the overall significance of these questions, rather than engage in an elusive attempt at a systematic repertory of the mechanisms at play.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thanzeela Ebrahim
- Department of Pathology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
| | - Abdul Shukkur Ebrahim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Visual and Anatomical Sciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
| | - Mustapha Kandouz
- Department of Pathology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
- Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
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3
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Kitagawa M, Tran TM, Jackson D. Traveling with purpose: cell-to-cell transport of plant mRNAs. Trends Cell Biol 2024; 34:48-57. [PMID: 37380581 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcb.2023.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Revised: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
Messenger RNAs (mRNAs) in multicellular organisms can act as signals transported cell-to-cell and over long distances. In plants, mRNAs traffic cell-to-cell via plasmodesmata (PDs) and over long distances via the phloem vascular system to control diverse biological processes - such as cell fate and tissue patterning - in destination organs. Research on long-distance transport of mRNAs in plants has made remarkable progress, including the cataloguing of many mobile mRNAs, characterization of mRNA features important for transport, identification of mRNA-binding proteins involved in their transport, and understanding of the physiological roles of mRNA transport. However, information on short-range mRNA cell-to-cell transport is still limited. This review discusses the regulatory mechanisms and physiological functions of mRNA transport at the cellular and whole plant levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Munenori Kitagawa
- National Key Laboratory for Germplasm Innovation & Utilization of Horticultural Crops, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, PR China
| | - Thu M Tran
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY 11724, USA
| | - David Jackson
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY 11724, USA.
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4
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Chen X, Peng Z, Yang Z. Metabolomics studies of cell-cell interactions using single cell mass spectrometry combined with fluorescence microscopy. Chem Sci 2022; 13:6687-6695. [PMID: 35756524 PMCID: PMC9172575 DOI: 10.1039/d2sc02298b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell-cell interactions are critical for transmitting signals among cells and maintaining their normal functions from the single-cell level to tissues. In cancer studies, interactions between drug-resistant and drug-sensitive cells play an important role in the development of chemotherapy resistance of tumors. As metabolites directly reflect the cell status, metabolomics studies provide insight into cell-cell communication. Mass spectrometry (MS) is a powerful tool for metabolomics studies, and single cell MS (SCMS) analysis can provide unique information for understanding interactions among heterogeneous cells. In the current study, we utilized a direct co-culture system (with cell-cell contact) to study metabolomics of single cells affected by cell-cell interactions in their living status. A fluorescence microscope was utilized to distinguish these two types of cells for SCMS metabolomics studies using the Single-probe SCMS technique under ambient conditions. Our results show that through interactions with drug-resistant cells, drug-sensitive cancer cells acquired significantly increased drug resistance and exhibited drastically altered metabolites. Further investigation found that the increased drug resistance was associated with multiple metabolism regulations in drug-sensitive cells through co-culture such as the upregulation of sphingomyelins lipids and lactic acid and the downregulation of TCA cycle intermediates. The method allows for direct MS metabolomics studies of individual cells labeled with fluorescent proteins or dyes among heterogeneous populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingxiu Chen
- Chemistry and Biochemistry Department, University of Oklahoma Norman Oklahoma 73072 USA
| | - Zongkai Peng
- Chemistry and Biochemistry Department, University of Oklahoma Norman Oklahoma 73072 USA
| | - Zhibo Yang
- Chemistry and Biochemistry Department, University of Oklahoma Norman Oklahoma 73072 USA
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5
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Sato H, Shimizu A, Okawa T, Uzu M, Goto M, Hisaka A. Metabolome Shift in Both Metastatic Breast Cancer Cells and Astrocytes Which May Contribute to the Tumor Microenvironment. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22147430. [PMID: 34299050 PMCID: PMC8308096 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22147430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2021] [Revised: 06/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The role of astrocytes in the periphery of metastatic brain tumors is unclear. Since astrocytes regulate central nervous metabolism, we hypothesized that changes in astrocytes induced by contact with cancer cells would appear in the metabolome of both cells and contribute to malignant transformation. Coculture of astrocytes with breast cancer cell supernatants altered glutamate (Glu)-centered arginine–proline metabolism. Similarly, the metabolome of cancer cells was also altered by astrocyte culture supernatants, and the changes were further amplified in astrocytes exposed to Glu. Inhibition of Glu uptake in astrocytes reduces the variability in cancer cells. Principal component analysis of the cancer cells revealed that all these changes were in the first principal component (PC1) axis, where the responsible metabolites were involved in the metabolism of the arginine–proline, pyrimidine, and pentose phosphate pathways. The contribution of these changes to the tumor microenvironment needs to be further pursued.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiromi Sato
- Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacometrics, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba-shi, Chiba 260-8675, Japan; (A.S.); (T.O.); (M.U.); (M.G.); (A.H.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Ayaka Shimizu
- Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacometrics, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba-shi, Chiba 260-8675, Japan; (A.S.); (T.O.); (M.U.); (M.G.); (A.H.)
| | - Toya Okawa
- Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacometrics, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba-shi, Chiba 260-8675, Japan; (A.S.); (T.O.); (M.U.); (M.G.); (A.H.)
| | - Miaki Uzu
- Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacometrics, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba-shi, Chiba 260-8675, Japan; (A.S.); (T.O.); (M.U.); (M.G.); (A.H.)
- Institute of Agrobiological Sciences, National Agriculture and Food Research Organization, 1-2 Owashi, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8634, Japan
| | - Momoko Goto
- Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacometrics, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba-shi, Chiba 260-8675, Japan; (A.S.); (T.O.); (M.U.); (M.G.); (A.H.)
| | - Akihiro Hisaka
- Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacometrics, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba-shi, Chiba 260-8675, Japan; (A.S.); (T.O.); (M.U.); (M.G.); (A.H.)
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6
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RNA transfer through tunneling nanotubes. Biochem Soc Trans 2020; 49:145-160. [PMID: 33367488 DOI: 10.1042/bst20200113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Revised: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
It was already suggested in the early '70's that RNA molecules might transfer between mammalian cells in culture. Yet, more direct evidence for RNA transfer in animal and plant cells was only provided decades later, as this field became established. In this mini-review, we will describe evidence for the transfer of different types of RNA between cells through tunneling nanotubes (TNTs). TNTs are long, yet thin, open-ended cellular protrusions that are structurally distinct from filopodia. TNTs connect cells and can transfer many types of cargo, including small molecules, proteins, vesicles, pathogens, and organelles. Recent work has shown that TNTs can also transfer mRNAs, viral RNAs and non-coding RNAs. Here, we will review the evidence for TNT-mediated RNA transfer, discuss the technical challenges in this field, and conjecture about the possible significance of this pathway in health and disease.
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7
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Luo KJ, Chen CX, Yang JP, Huang YC, Cardenas ER, Jiang JX. Connexins in Lung Cancer and Brain Metastasis. Front Oncol 2020; 10:599383. [PMID: 33425756 PMCID: PMC7786366 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.599383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Connexins (Cxs) are involved in the brain metastasis of lung cancer cells. Thus, it is necessary to determine whether gap junction-forming Cxs are involved in the communication between lung cancer cells and the host cells, such as endothelial cells, forming the brain–blood-barrier, and cells in the central nervous system. Data from multiple studies support that Cxs function as tumor suppressors during lung cancer occurrence. However, recent evidence suggests that during metastasis to the brain, cancer cells establish communication with the host. This review discusses junctional or non-junctional hemichannel studies in lung cancer development and brain metastasis, highlighting important unanswered questions and controversies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai-Jun Luo
- School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, China.,Key Laboratory of the University in Yunnan Province for International Cooperation in Intercellular Communications and Regulations, Yunnan University, Kunming, China
| | - Chang-Xu Chen
- School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, China.,Key Laboratory of the University in Yunnan Province for International Cooperation in Intercellular Communications and Regulations, Yunnan University, Kunming, China
| | - Jia-Peng Yang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery I, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University/Yunnan Cancer Hospital, Yunnan Cancer Center, Kunming, China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Regional Tumor in High Altitude Area, Kunming, China
| | - Yun-Chao Huang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery I, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University/Yunnan Cancer Hospital, Yunnan Cancer Center, Kunming, China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Regional Tumor in High Altitude Area, Kunming, China
| | - Eduardo R Cardenas
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - Jean X Jiang
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, United States
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8
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Zhu T, Bao X, Chen M, Lin R, Zhuyan J, Zhen T, Xing K, Zhou W, Zhu S. Mechanisms and Future of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Metastasis. Front Oncol 2020; 10:585284. [PMID: 33262947 PMCID: PMC7686569 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.585284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer, renowned for its fast progression and metastatic potency, is rising to become a leading cause of death globally. It has been long observed that lung cancer is particularly ept in spawning distant metastasis at its early stages, and it can readily colonize virtually any human organ. In recent years, cancer research has shed light on why lung cancer is endowed with its exceptional ability to metastasize. In this review, we will take a comprehensive look at the current research on lung cancer metastasis, including molecular pathways, anatomical features and genetic traits that make lung cancer intrinsically metastatic, as we go from lung cancer’s general metastatic potential to the particular metastasis mechanisms in multiple organs. We highly concerned about the advanced discovery and development of lung cancer metastasis, indicating the importance of lung cancer specific gene mutations, heterogeneity or biomarker discovery, and discussing potential opportunities and challenges. We will also introduce some current treatments that targets certain metastatic strategies of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Advances made in these regards could be critical to our current knowledge base of lung cancer metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianhao Zhu
- School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Starriver Bilingual School, Shanghai, China
| | | | - Mingyu Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Rui Lin
- Department of General Surgery, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University Medical School, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianan Zhuyan
- Shanghai Starriver Bilingual School, Shanghai, China
| | | | | | - Wei Zhou
- Department of Emergency, Souths Campus, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Sibo Zhu
- School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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9
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Vilariño N, Bruna J, Bosch-Barrera J, Valiente M, Nadal E. Immunotherapy in NSCLC patients with brain metastases. Understanding brain tumor microenvironment and dissecting outcomes from immune checkpoint blockade in the clinic. Cancer Treat Rev 2020; 89:102067. [PMID: 32682248 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctrv.2020.102067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2020] [Revised: 06/01/2020] [Accepted: 06/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Brain metastases are frequent complications in patients with non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) associated with significant morbidity and poor prognosis. Our goal is to give a global overlook on clinical efficacy from immune checkpoint inhibitors in this setting and to review the role of biomarkers and molecular interactions in brain metastases from patients with NSCLC. METHODS We reviewed clinical trials reporting clinical outcomes of patients with NSCLC with brain metastases as well as publications assessing the tumor microenvironment and the complex molecular interactions of tumor cells with immune and resident cells in brain metastases from NSCLC biopsies or preclinical models. RESULTS Although limited data are available on immunotherapy in patients with brain metastases, immune checkpoint inhibitors alone or in combination with chemotherapy have shown promising intracranial efficacy and safety results. The underlying mechanism of action of immune checkpoint inhibitors in the brain niche and their influence on tumor microenvironment are still not known. Lower PD-L1 expression and less T CD8+ infiltration were found in brain metastases compared with matched NSCLC primary tumors, suggesting an immunosuppressive microenvironment in the brain. Reactive astrocytes and tumor associated macrophages are paramount in NSCLC brain metastases and play a role in promoting tumor progression and immune evasion. CONCLUSIONS Discordances in the immune profile between primary tumours and brain metastases underscore differences in the tumour microenvironment and immune system interactions within the lung and brain niche. The characterization of immune phenotype of brain metastases and dissecting the interplay among immune cells and resident stromal cells along with cancer cells is crucial to unravel effective immunotherapeutic approaches in patients with NSCLC and brain metastases.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Vilariño
- Department of Medical Oncology, Catalan Institute of Oncology, Hospital Duran i Reynals, Avinguda de la Gran Via de l'Hospitalet, 199-203, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain; Clinical Research in Solid Tumors (CReST) Group, Molecular Mechanisms and Experimental Therapeutics in Cancer (Oncobell). IDIBELL, Avinguda de la Gran Via de l'Hospitalet, 199-203, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - J Bruna
- Neuro-Oncology Unit, Bellvitge University Hospital-ICO (IDIBELL), Avinguda de la Gran Via de l'Hospitalet, 199-203, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - J Bosch-Barrera
- Department of Medical Oncology, Catalan Institute of Oncology, Doctor Josep Trueta University Hospital, Avinguda França-Sant Ponç, 0, 17007 Girona, Spain.
| | - M Valiente
- Brain Metastases Group, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO), Calle Melchor Fernández Almagro, 3, 28029 Madrid, Spain.
| | - E Nadal
- Department of Medical Oncology, Catalan Institute of Oncology, Hospital Duran i Reynals, Avinguda de la Gran Via de l'Hospitalet, 199-203, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain; Clinical Research in Solid Tumors (CReST) Group, Molecular Mechanisms and Experimental Therapeutics in Cancer (Oncobell). IDIBELL, Avinguda de la Gran Via de l'Hospitalet, 199-203, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain.
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10
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Buruiană A, Florian ȘI, Florian AI, Timiș TL, Mihu CM, Miclăuș M, Oșan S, Hrapșa I, Cataniciu RC, Farcaș M, Șușman S. The Roles of miRNA in Glioblastoma Tumor Cell Communication: Diplomatic and Aggressive Negotiations. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21061950. [PMID: 32178454 PMCID: PMC7139390 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21061950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Revised: 03/05/2020] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) consists of a heterogeneous collection of competing cellular clones which communicate with each other and with the tumor microenvironment (TME). MicroRNAs (miRNAs) present various exchange mechanisms: free miRNA, extracellular vesicles (EVs), or gap junctions (GJs). GBM cells transfer miR-4519 and miR-5096 to astrocytes through GJs. Oligodendrocytes located in the invasion front present high levels of miR-219-5p, miR-219-2-3p, and miR-338-3p, all related to their differentiation. There is a reciprocal exchange between GBM cells and endothelial cells (ECs) as miR-5096 promotes angiogenesis after being transferred into ECs, whereas miR-145-5p acts as a tumor suppressor. In glioma stem cells (GSCs), miR-1587 and miR-3620-5p increase the proliferation and miR-1587 inhibits the hormone receptor co-repressor-1 (NCOR1) after EVs transfers. GBM-derived EVs carry miR-21 and miR-451 that are up-taken by microglia and monocytes/macrophages, promoting their proliferation. Macrophages release EVs enriched in miR-21 that are transferred to glioma cells. This bidirectional miR-21 exchange increases STAT3 activity in GBM cells and macrophages, promoting invasion, proliferation, angiogenesis, and resistance to treatment. miR-1238 is upregulated in resistant GBM clones and their EVs, conferring resistance to adjacent cells via the CAV1/EGFR signaling pathway. Decrypting these mechanisms could lead to a better patient stratification and the development of novel target therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrei Buruiană
- Department of Medical Genetics, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 8 Victor Babes Street, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (A.B.); (S.O.); (I.H.); (R.C.C.); (M.F.)
| | - Ștefan Ioan Florian
- Department of Neurosurgery, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 8 Victor Babes Street, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (Ș.I.F.); (A.I.F.)
- Department of Neurosurgery, Emergency County Hospital, 3-5 Clinicilor Street, 400006 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Alexandru Ioan Florian
- Department of Neurosurgery, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 8 Victor Babes Street, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (Ș.I.F.); (A.I.F.)
- Department of Neurosurgery, Emergency County Hospital, 3-5 Clinicilor Street, 400006 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Teodora-Larisa Timiș
- Department of Physiology, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 8 Victor Babes Street, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - Carmen Mihaela Mihu
- Department of Morphological Sciences-Histology, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 8 Victor Babes Street, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - Maria Miclăuș
- Department of Medical Genetics, Emergency Hospital for Children, 68 Moților Street, 400370 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - Sergiu Oșan
- Department of Medical Genetics, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 8 Victor Babes Street, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (A.B.); (S.O.); (I.H.); (R.C.C.); (M.F.)
| | - Iona Hrapșa
- Department of Medical Genetics, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 8 Victor Babes Street, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (A.B.); (S.O.); (I.H.); (R.C.C.); (M.F.)
| | - Radu Constantin Cataniciu
- Department of Medical Genetics, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 8 Victor Babes Street, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (A.B.); (S.O.); (I.H.); (R.C.C.); (M.F.)
| | - Marius Farcaș
- Department of Medical Genetics, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 8 Victor Babes Street, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (A.B.); (S.O.); (I.H.); (R.C.C.); (M.F.)
- Department of Genetics, IMOGEN Research Center, Louis Pasteur Street, 400349 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Sergiu Șușman
- Department of Morphological Sciences-Histology, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 8 Victor Babes Street, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
- Department of Pathology, IMOGEN Research Center, Louis Pasteur Street, 400349 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Correspondence:
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11
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Inhibition of Gap Junctions Sensitizes Primary Glioblastoma Cells for Temozolomide. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11060858. [PMID: 31226836 PMCID: PMC6628126 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11060858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2019] [Revised: 06/15/2019] [Accepted: 06/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Gap junctions have recently been shown to interconnect glioblastoma cells to a multicellular syncytial network, thereby allowing intercellular communication over long distances as well as enabling glioblastoma cells to form routes for brain microinvasion. Against this backdrop gap junction-targeted therapies might provide for an essential contribution to isolate cancer cells within the brain, thus increasing the tumor cells’ vulnerability to the standard chemotherapeutic agent temozolomide. By utilizing INI-0602—a novel gap junction inhibitor optimized for crossing the blood brain barrier—in an oncological setting, the present study was aimed at evaluating the potential of gap junction-targeted therapy on primary human glioblastoma cell populations. Pharmacological inhibition of gap junctions profoundly sensitized primary glioblastoma cells to temozolomide-mediated cell death. On the molecular level, gap junction inhibition was associated with elevated activity of the JNK signaling pathway. With the use of a novel gap junction inhibitor capable of crossing the blood–brain barrier—thus constituting an auspicious drug for clinical applicability—these results may constitute a promising new therapeutic strategy in the field of current translational glioblastoma research.
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12
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Aasen T, Leithe E, Graham SV, Kameritsch P, Mayán MD, Mesnil M, Pogoda K, Tabernero A. Connexins in cancer: bridging the gap to the clinic. Oncogene 2019; 38:4429-4451. [PMID: 30814684 PMCID: PMC6555763 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-019-0741-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2018] [Revised: 01/26/2019] [Accepted: 01/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Gap junctions comprise arrays of intercellular channels formed by connexin proteins and provide for the direct communication between adjacent cells. This type of intercellular communication permits the coordination of cellular activities and plays key roles in the control of cell growth and differentiation and in the maintenance of tissue homoeostasis. After more than 50 years, deciphering the links among connexins, gap junctions and cancer, researchers are now beginning to translate this knowledge to the clinic. The emergence of new strategies for connexin targeting, combined with an improved understanding of the molecular bases underlying the dysregulation of connexins during cancer development, offers novel opportunities for clinical applications. However, different connexin isoforms have diverse channel-dependent and -independent functions that are tissue and stage specific. This can elicit both pro- and anti-tumorigenic effects that engender significant challenges in the path towards personalised medicine. Here, we review the current understanding of the role of connexins and gap junctions in cancer, with particular focus on the recent progress made in determining their prognostic and therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trond Aasen
- Translational Molecular Pathology, Vall d'Hebron Institute of Research (VHIR), Autonomous University of Barcelona, CIBERONC, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Edward Leithe
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital and K.G. Jebsen Colorectal Cancer Research Centre, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Sheila V Graham
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Petra Kameritsch
- Walter Brendel Centre of Experimental Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München and Munich University Hospital, München, Germany
| | - María D Mayán
- CellCOM Research Group, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de A Coruña (INIBIC), Servizo Galego de Saúde (SERGAS), University of A Coruña, A Coruña, Spain
| | - Marc Mesnil
- STIM Laboratory, Faculté des Sciences Fondamentales et Appliquées, Université de Poitiers, Poitiers, France
| | - Kristin Pogoda
- Walter Brendel Centre of Experimental Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München and Munich University Hospital, München, Germany
| | - Arantxa Tabernero
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Instituto de Neurociencias de Castilla y León (INCYL), Universidad de Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain.
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13
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Aasen T, Sansano I, Montero MÁ, Romagosa C, Temprana-Salvador J, Martínez-Marti A, Moliné T, Hernández-Losa J, Ramón y Cajal S. Insight into the Role and Regulation of Gap Junction Genes in Lung Cancer and Identification of Nuclear Cx43 as a Putative Biomarker of Poor Prognosis. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11030320. [PMID: 30845770 PMCID: PMC6468764 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11030320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2019] [Revised: 02/25/2019] [Accepted: 03/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Direct intercellular communication, mediated by gap junctions formed by the connexin transmembrane protein family, is frequently dysregulated in cancer. Connexins have been described as tumour suppressors, but emerging evidence suggests that they can also act as tumour promoters. This feature is connexin- and tissue-specific and may be mediated by complex signalling pathways through gap junctions or hemichannels or by completely junction-independent events. Lung cancer is the number one cancer in terms of mortality worldwide, and novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets are urgently needed. Our objective was to gain a better understanding of connexins in this setting. We used several in silico tools to analyse TCGA data in order to compare connexin mRNA expression between healthy lung tissue and lung tumours and correlated these results with gene methylation patterns. Using Kaplan-Meier plotter tools, we analysed a microarray dataset and an RNA-seq dataset of non-small cell lung tumours in order to correlate connexin expression with patient prognosis. We found that connexin mRNA expression is frequently either upregulated or downregulated in lung tumours. This correlated with both good and poor prognosis (overall survival) in a clear connexin isoform-dependent manner. These associations were strongly influenced by the histological subtype (adenocarcinoma versus squamous cell carcinoma). We present an overview of all connexins but particularly focus on four isoforms implicated in lung cancer: Cx26, Cx30.3, Cx32 and Cx43. We further analysed the protein expression and localization of Cx43 in a series of 73 human lung tumours. We identified a subset of tumours that exhibited a unique strong nuclear Cx43 expression pattern that predicted worse overall survival (p = 0.014). Upon sub-stratification, the prognostic value remained highly significant in the adenocarcinoma subtype (p = 0.002) but not in the squamous carcinoma subtype (p = 0.578). This finding highlights the importance of analysis of connexin expression at the protein level, particularly the subcellular localization. Elucidation of the underlying pathways regulating Cx43 localization may provide for novel therapeutic opportunities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trond Aasen
- Translational Molecular Pathology, Vall d'Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), Barcelona 08035, Spain.
| | - Irene Sansano
- Pathology Department, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, Barcelona 08035, Spain.
| | | | - Cleofé Romagosa
- Pathology Department, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, Barcelona 08035, Spain.
| | | | | | - Teresa Moliné
- Pathology Department, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, Barcelona 08035, Spain.
| | | | - Santiago Ramón y Cajal
- Translational Molecular Pathology, Vall d'Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), Barcelona 08035, Spain.
- Pathology Department, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, Barcelona 08035, Spain.
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14
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Zhang X, Ding K, Wang J, Li X, Zhao P. Chemoresistance caused by the microenvironment of glioblastoma and the corresponding solutions. Biomed Pharmacother 2018; 109:39-46. [PMID: 30391707 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2018.10.063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2018] [Revised: 10/03/2018] [Accepted: 10/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common and aggressive primary human brain tumor. Although comprehensive therapies combining radiotherapy and chemotherapy after surgery can prolong survival, the prognosis is still poor with a median survival of only 14.6 months. Chemoresistance is one of the major causes of relapse as well as poor survival in glioma patients. Therefore, novel strategies to overcome chemoresistance are desperately needed for improved treatment of human GBM. Recent studies have demonstrated that the tumor microenvironment plays a critical role in the chemoresistance of various tumor types, which makes it a suitable target in anti-cancer therapies, as well as a valuable biomarker for prognostic purposes. This review focuses on chemoresistance in GBM induced by stromal cells, including the endothelium of blood vessels, astrocytes, and myeloid cells, as well as non-cellular factors in the tumor microenvironment. Corresponding therapies are discussed, including progressive strategies involving 3-dimensional models integrating engineering as well as biological advances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Institute of Brain and Brain-Inspired Science, Shandong University, PR China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Brain Function Remodeling, PR China
| | - Kaikai Ding
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Brain Function Remodeling, PR China; Department of Radiation Oncology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, PR China
| | - Jian Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Institute of Brain and Brain-Inspired Science, Shandong University, PR China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Brain Function Remodeling, PR China; Department of Biomedicine, University of Bergen, 5009, Bergen, Norway
| | - Xingang Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Institute of Brain and Brain-Inspired Science, Shandong University, PR China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Brain Function Remodeling, PR China
| | - Peng Zhao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Institute of Brain and Brain-Inspired Science, Shandong University, PR China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Brain Function Remodeling, PR China.
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15
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Lemcke H, David R. Potential mechanisms of microRNA mobility. Traffic 2018; 19:910-917. [PMID: 30058163 DOI: 10.1111/tra.12606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2018] [Revised: 07/26/2018] [Accepted: 07/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
microRNAs (miRNAs) are important epigenetic modulators of gene expression that control cellular physiology as well as tissue homeostasis, and development. In addition to the temporal aspects of miRNA-mediated gene regulation, the intracellular localization of miRNA is crucial for its silencing activity. Recent studies indicated that miRNA is even translocated between cells via gap junctional cell-cell contacts, allowing spatiotemporal modulation of gene expression within multicellular systems. Although non coding RNA remains a focus of intense research, studies regarding the intra-and intercellular mobility of small RNAs are still largely missing. Emerging data from experimental and computational work suggest the involvement of transport mechanisms governing proper localization of miRNA in single cells and cellular syncytia. Based on these data, we discuss a model of miRNA translocation that could help to address the spatial aspects of miRNA function and the impact of miRNA molecules on the intercellular signaling network.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heiko Lemcke
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Reference and Translation Center for Cardiac Stem Cell Therapy (RTC), University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany.,Department Life, Light & Matter, University of Rostock, 18051 Rostock, Germany
| | - Robert David
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Reference and Translation Center for Cardiac Stem Cell Therapy (RTC), University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany.,Department Life, Light & Matter, University of Rostock, 18051 Rostock, Germany
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16
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Valdebenito S, Lou E, Baldoni J, Okafo G, Eugenin E. The Novel Roles of Connexin Channels and Tunneling Nanotubes in Cancer Pathogenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:E1270. [PMID: 29695070 PMCID: PMC5983846 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19051270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2018] [Revised: 04/13/2018] [Accepted: 04/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Neoplastic growth and cellular differentiation are critical hallmarks of tumor development. It is well established that cell-to-cell communication between tumor cells and "normal" surrounding cells regulates tumor differentiation and proliferation, aggressiveness, and resistance to treatment. Nevertheless, the mechanisms that result in tumor growth and spread as well as the adaptation of healthy surrounding cells to the tumor environment are poorly understood. A major component of these communication systems is composed of connexin (Cx)-containing channels including gap junctions (GJs), tunneling nanotubes (TNTs), and hemichannels (HCs). There are hundreds of reports about the role of Cx-containing channels in the pathogenesis of cancer, and most of them demonstrate a downregulation of these proteins. Nonetheless, new data demonstrate that a localized communication via Cx-containing GJs, HCs, and TNTs plays a key role in tumor growth, differentiation, and resistance to therapies. Moreover, the type and downstream effects of signals communicated between the different populations of tumor cells are still unknown. However, new approaches such as artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) could provide new insights into these signals communicated between connected cells. We propose that the identification and characterization of these new communication systems and their associated signaling could provide new targets to prevent or reduce the devastating consequences of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvana Valdebenito
- Public Health Research Institute (PHRI), Newark, NJ 07103, USA.
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers the State University of NJ, Newark, NJ 07103, USA.
| | - Emil Lou
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Oncology and Transplantation, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.
| | - John Baldoni
- GlaxoSmithKline, In-Silico Drug Discovery Unit, 1250 South Collegeville Road, Collegeville, PA 19426, USA.
| | - George Okafo
- GlaxoSmithKline, In-Silico Drug Discovery Unit, Stevenage SG1 2NY, UK.
| | - Eliseo Eugenin
- Public Health Research Institute (PHRI), Newark, NJ 07103, USA.
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers the State University of NJ, Newark, NJ 07103, USA.
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17
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Ren D, Zhu X, Kong R, Zhao Z, Sheng J, Wang J, Xu X, Liu J, Cui K, Zhang XHF, Zhao H, Wong STC. Targeting Brain-Adaptive Cancer Stem Cells Prohibits Brain Metastatic Colonization of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. Cancer Res 2018; 78:2052-2064. [PMID: 29567857 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-17-2994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2017] [Revised: 11/29/2017] [Accepted: 02/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) exhibits more traits possessed by cancer stem cells (CSC) than other breast cancer subtypes and is more likely to develop brain metastases. TNBC patients usually have shorter survival time after diagnosis of brain metastasis, suggesting an innate ability of TNBC tumor cells in adapting to the brain. In this study, we establish novel animal models to investigate early tumor adaptation in brain metastases by introducing both patient-derived and cell line-derived CSC-enriched brain metastasis tumorsphere cells into mice. We discovered astrocyte-involved tumor activation of protocadherin 7 (PCDH7)-PLCβ-Ca2+-CaMKII/S100A4 signaling as a mediator of brain metastatic tumor outgrowth. We further identified and evaluated the efficacy of a known drug, the selective PLC inhibitor edelfosine, in suppressing the PCDH7 signaling pathway to prohibit brain metastases in the animal models. The results of this study reveal a novel signaling pathway for brain metastases in TNBC and indicate a promising strategy of metastatic breast cancer prevention and treatment by targeting organ-adaptive cancer stem cells.Significance: These findings identify a compound to block adaptive signaling between cancer stem cells and brain astrocytes. Cancer Res; 78(8); 2052-64. ©2018 AACR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ding Ren
- Department of Systems Medicine and Bioengineering, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, Houston, Texas.,Outpatient Center, PLA NO.85 Hospital, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoping Zhu
- Department of Systems Medicine and Bioengineering, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Ren Kong
- Department of Systems Medicine and Bioengineering, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, Houston, Texas.,Institute of Bioinformatics and Medical Engineering, School of Electrical and Information Engineering, Jiangsu University of Technology, Changzhou, P.R. China
| | - Zhen Zhao
- Department of Systems Medicine and Bioengineering, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, Houston, Texas.,Department of Radiology, Zhongda Hospital, Medical School of Southeast University, Nanjing, P.R. China
| | - Jianting Sheng
- Department of Systems Medicine and Bioengineering, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Jiang Wang
- Department of Systems Medicine and Bioengineering, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, Houston, Texas.,Department of Orthopedics, Tongji Hospital, Wuhan, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoyun Xu
- Department of Systems Medicine and Bioengineering, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Jiyong Liu
- Department of Systems Medicine and Bioengineering, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, Houston, Texas.,Department of Pharmacy, Changhai Hospital, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Kemi Cui
- Department of Systems Medicine and Bioengineering, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Xiang H-F Zhang
- Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Hong Zhao
- Department of Systems Medicine and Bioengineering, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, Houston, Texas.
| | - Stephen T C Wong
- Department of Systems Medicine and Bioengineering, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, Houston, Texas. .,Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas.,Houston Methodist Cancer Center, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas
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18
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Gleisner MA, Navarrete M, Hofmann F, Salazar-Onfray F, Tittarelli A. Mind the Gaps in Tumor Immunity: Impact of Connexin-Mediated Intercellular Connections. Front Immunol 2017; 8:1067. [PMID: 28919895 PMCID: PMC5585150 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.01067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2017] [Accepted: 08/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Gap junctions (GJs)-mediated intercellular communications (GJICs) are connexin (Cx)-formed plasma membrane channels that allow for the passage of small molecules between adjacent cells, and are involved in several physiopathological processes, including immune responses against cancer. In general, tumor cells are poorly coupled through GJs, mainly due to low Cx expression or reduced channel activity, suggesting that Cxs may have tumor suppressor roles. However, more recent data indicate that Cxs and/or GJICs may also in some cases promote tumor progression. This dual role of Cx channels in tumor outcome may be due, at least partially, to the fact that GJs not only interconnect cells from the same type, such as cancer cells, but also promote the intercellular communication of tumor cells with different types of cells from their microenvironment, and such diverse intercellular interactions have distinctive impact on tumor development. For example, whereas GJ-mediated interactions among tumor cells and microglia have been implicated in promotion of tumor growth, tumor cells delivery to dendritic cells of antigenic peptides through GJs have been associated with enhanced immune-mediated tumor elimination. In this review, we provide an updated overview on the role of GJICs in tumor immunity, focusing on the pro-tumor and antitumor effect of GJs occurring among tumor and immune cells. Accumulated data suggest that GJICs may act as tumor suppressors or enhancers depending on whether tumor cells interact predominantly with antitumor immune cells or with stromal cells. The complex modulation of immune-tumor cell GJICs should be taken into consideration in order to potentiate current cancer immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Alejandra Gleisner
- Disciplinary Program of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile.,Faculty of Medicine, Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Mariela Navarrete
- Disciplinary Program of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile.,Faculty of Medicine, Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Francisca Hofmann
- Disciplinary Program of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile.,Faculty of Medicine, Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Flavio Salazar-Onfray
- Disciplinary Program of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile.,Faculty of Medicine, Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Andrés Tittarelli
- Disciplinary Program of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile.,Faculty of Medicine, Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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19
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Thuringer D, Solary E, Garrido C. The Microvascular Gap Junction Channel: A Route to Deliver MicroRNAs for Neurological Disease Treatment. Front Mol Neurosci 2017; 10:246. [PMID: 28824376 PMCID: PMC5543088 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2017.00246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2017] [Accepted: 07/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain microvascular endothelial cells (BMECs) separate the peripheral blood from the brain. These cells, which are surrounded by basal lamina, pericytes and glial cells, are highly interconnected through tight and gap junctions. Their permeability properties restrict the transfer of potentially useful therapeutic agents. In such a hermetic system, the gap junctional exchange of small molecules between cerebral endothelial and non-endothelial cells is crucial for maintaining tissue homeostasis. MicroRNA were shown to cross gap junction channels, thereby modulating gene expression and function of the recipient cell. It was also shown that, when altered, BMEC could be regenerated by endothelial cells derived from pluripotent stem cells. Here, we discuss the transfer of microRNA through gap junctions between BMEC, the regeneration of BMEC from induced pluripotent stem cells that could be engineered to express specific microRNA, and how such an innovative approach could benefit to the treatment of glioblastoma and other neurological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Eric Solary
- INSERM U1170, Institut Gustave RoussyVillejuif, France
| | - Carmen Garrido
- INSERM U1231, Université de Bourgogne Franche ComtéDijon, France
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20
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Zhao HB. Hypothesis of K +-Recycling Defect Is Not a Primary Deafness Mechanism for Cx26 ( GJB2) Deficiency. Front Mol Neurosci 2017; 10:162. [PMID: 28603488 PMCID: PMC5445178 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2017.00162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2017] [Accepted: 05/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
K+-recycling defect is a long-standing hypothesis for deafness mechanism of Connexin26 (Cx26, GJB2) mutations, which cause the most common hereditary deafness and are responsible for >50% of nonsyndromic hearing loss. The hypothesis states that Cx26 deficiency may disrupt inner ear gap junctions and compromise sinking and recycling of expelled K+ ions after hair cell excitation, causing accumulation of K+-ions in the extracellular space around hair cells producing K+-toxicity, which eventually induces hair cell degeneration and hearing loss. However, this hypothesis has never been directly evidenced, even though it has been widely referred to. Recently, more and more experiments demonstrate that this hypothesis may not be a deafness mechanism underlying Cx26 deficiency. In this review article, we summarized recent advances on the K+-recycling and mechanisms underlying Cx26 deficiency induced hearing loss. The mechanisms underlying K+-sinking, which is the first step for K+-recycling in the cochlea, and Cx26 deficiency induced cochlear developmental disorders, which are responsible for Cx26 deficiency induced congenital deafness and associated with disruption of permeability of inner ear gap junctional channels to miRNAs, are also summarized and discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Bo Zhao
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Kentucky Medical CenterLexington, KY, United States
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21
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Abstract
Fifty years ago, tumour cells were found to lack electrical coupling, leading to the hypothesis that loss of direct intercellular communication is commonly associated with cancer onset and progression. Subsequent studies linked this phenomenon to gap junctions composed of connexin proteins. Although many studies support the notion that connexins are tumour suppressors, recent evidence suggests that, in some tumour types, they may facilitate specific stages of tumour progression through both junctional and non-junctional signalling pathways. This Timeline article highlights the milestones connecting gap junctions to cancer, and underscores important unanswered questions, controversies and therapeutic opportunities in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trond Aasen
- (Co-corresponding authors) Correspondence to
T.A. () and D.W.L.
()
| | - Marc Mesnil
- STIM Laboratory ERL 7368 CNRS - Faculté des Sciences
Fondamentales et Appliquées, Université de Poitiers, Poitiers,
France
| | - Christian C. Naus
- Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, The Life
Sciences Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British
Columbia, Canada
| | - Paul D. Lampe
- Translational Research Program, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research
Center, Seattle, United States
| | - Dale W. Laird
- (Co-corresponding authors) Correspondence to
T.A. () and D.W.L.
()
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22
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Mao XY, Li QQ, Gao YF, Zhou HH, Liu ZQ, Jin WL. Gap junction as an intercellular glue: Emerging roles in cancer EMT and metastasis. Cancer Lett 2016; 381:133-7. [PMID: 27490999 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2016.07.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2016] [Revised: 07/27/2016] [Accepted: 07/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Metastasis is a common phenomenon in the progression and dissemination of cancer. It is estimated that metastasis accounts for 90% cancer-related mortality. Although the formation of tumor metastasis is relatively well understood, the underlying molecular mechanisms responsible for the emergence of aggressive cancer phenotype are still elusive. Figuring out the mechanisms by which cancer cells evade from the tumor is beneficial for obtaining novel and effectively therapeutic approaches. Primary tumors are composed of various subpopulations of cells with heterogeneous metastatic characteristics and the occurrence of metastatic dissemination is mainly dependent upon the interactions between tumor and the surrounding microenvironment. Tumor microenvironment (TME) such as extracellular matrix, macrophages, fibroblasts, stem cells and endothelial cells can orchestrate events critical to tumor evolution toward metastasis. GJ serves as an important communication between tumor cells and stromal cells. Increased GJs coupling blocks metastatic potential in some cancer animal models such as breast cancer and melanoma. Besides, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is also a crucial step in the metastatic process and there are signs that GJs contribute to cell adhesion and migration (the pathological feature of EMT) in breast cancer. Therefore, we propose that GJ serves as an intercellular glue to suppress EMT and cancer metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Yuan Mao
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China; Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Hunan Key Laboratory of Pharmacogenetics, Central South University, Changsha 410078, China.
| | - Qiu-Qi Li
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China; Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Hunan Key Laboratory of Pharmacogenetics, Central South University, Changsha 410078, China
| | - Yuan-Feng Gao
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China; Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Hunan Key Laboratory of Pharmacogenetics, Central South University, Changsha 410078, China
| | - Hong-Hao Zhou
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China; Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Hunan Key Laboratory of Pharmacogenetics, Central South University, Changsha 410078, China
| | - Zhao-Qian Liu
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China; Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Hunan Key Laboratory of Pharmacogenetics, Central South University, Changsha 410078, China.
| | - Wei-Lin Jin
- Institute of Nano Biomedicine and Engineering, Department of Instrument Science and Engineering, Key Lab. for Thin Film and Microfabrication Technology of Ministry of Education, School of Electronic Information and Electronic Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China; National Centers for Translational Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China.
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