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Wei Z, Guo X, Li D, Wang J, Lin C, Tan C, Wang Y, Zhu X, Tan S. Prognostic value of CMTM6 protein in hepatocellular carcinoma involving the regulation of the immune microenvironment. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 275:133618. [PMID: 38971275 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.133618] [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: 05/20/2024] [Revised: 06/25/2024] [Accepted: 06/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/08/2024]
Abstract
There have been notable irregularities in CMTM6 expression observed in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), with an evident correlation between CMTM6 dysregulation and patient prognosis. The cell cycle progression came to a halt at the G2/M phase. In-depth RNA-sequencing analysis of CMTM6 knockdown Hep3B cells revealed that the most prominent effect of CMTM6 perturbation was on the expression of CXCL8, a chemokine involved in immune responses, particularly through the interleukin-17F (IL-17F) signaling pathway. By carefully examining the RNA-sequencing data obtained from CMTM6 knockdown Hep3B cells and cross-referencing it with the TCGA-LIHC database, we were able to discern that CMTM6 and programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) collaboratively partake in immune regulation within T cells. Furthermore, CMTM6 exerted an influential role in modulating the infiltration of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in the HCC microenvironment, thereby impacting the overall immune response. Our investigation found that HCC cases characterized by an elevated co-expression of CMTM6 and PD-L1, along with augmented CD4+ T cell infiltration, demonstrated comparatively longer overall and progression-free survival rates when contrasted with those displaying lower CD4+ T cell infiltration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongheng Wei
- Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities Affiliated Hospital, Baise, Guangxi 533000, China
| | - Xuefeng Guo
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Environmental Exposomics and Entire Lifecycle Health, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, Guangxi 541199, China
| | - Di Li
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Environmental Exposomics and Entire Lifecycle Health, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, Guangxi 541199, China
| | - Jianchu Wang
- Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities Affiliated Hospital, Baise, Guangxi 533000, China
| | - Cheng Lin
- Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities Affiliated Hospital, Baise, Guangxi 533000, China
| | - Chao Tan
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Environmental Exposomics and Entire Lifecycle Health, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, Guangxi 541199, China
| | - Yue Wang
- Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities Affiliated Hospital, Baise, Guangxi 533000, China; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Wright State University, Dayton, OH 45435, USA
| | - Xiaonian Zhu
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Environmental Exposomics and Entire Lifecycle Health, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, Guangxi 541199, China.
| | - Shengkui Tan
- Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities Affiliated Hospital, Baise, Guangxi 533000, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Environmental Exposomics and Entire Lifecycle Health, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, Guangxi 541199, China.
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Li J, Su P, Li T, Hao Y, Wang T, Fu L, Liu X. The Role and Clinical Relevance of Glycolysis-Associated Genes on Immune Infiltration in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. J Cell Biochem 2024:e30620. [PMID: 38923014 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.30620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2024] [Revised: 05/31/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) poses a significant challenge with dismal survival rates, necessitating a deeper understanding of its molecular mechanisms and the development of improved therapies. Metabolic reprogramming, particularly heightened glycolysis, plays a crucial role in HCC progression. Glycolysis-associated genes (GAGs) emerge as key players in HCC pathogenesis, influencing the tumor microenvironment and immune responses. This study aims to investigate the intricate interplay between GAGs and the immune landscape within HCC, offering valuable insights into potential prognostic markers and therapeutic targets to enhance treatment strategies and patient outcomes. Through the exploration of GAGs, we have identified two distinct molecular glycolytic subtypes in HCC patients, each exhibiting significant differences in both the immune microenvironment and prognosis. A risk model comprising five key GAGs was formulated and subsequently evaluated for their predictive accuracy. Our findings underscore the diverse tumor microenvironment and immune responses associated with the varying glycolytic subtypes observed in HCC. The identified key GAGs hold promise as prognostic indicators for evaluating HCC risk levels, predicting patient outcomes, and guiding clinical treatment decisions, particularly in the context of anticipating responses to immunotherapy drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Li
- Wisdom Lake Academy of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, Suzhou, China
- Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Peng Su
- Wisdom Lake Academy of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, Suzhou, China
- Department of Biostatistics, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Ting Li
- Wisdom Lake Academy of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, Suzhou, China
| | - Yang Hao
- Wisdom Lake Academy of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, Suzhou, China
- Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Tianjun Wang
- Wisdom Lake Academy of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, Suzhou, China
- Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Lei Fu
- Wisdom Lake Academy of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, Suzhou, China
| | - Xin Liu
- Wisdom Lake Academy of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, Suzhou, China
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Syrnioti A, Petousis S, Newman LA, Margioula-Siarkou C, Papamitsou T, Dinas K, Koletsa T. Triple Negative Breast Cancer: Molecular Subtype-Specific Immune Landscapes with Therapeutic Implications. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:2094. [PMID: 38893213 PMCID: PMC11171372 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16112094] [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: 05/01/2024] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) is characterized by distinct molecular subtypes with unique biological and clinical features. This systematic review aimed to identify articles examining the differences in the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) across different TNBC molecular subtypes. Six studies meeting inclusion criteria were analyzed, utilizing gene expression profiling and bioinformatic analyses to classify TNBC samples into molecular subtypes, as well as immunohistochemistry and cell deconvolution methods to characterize the TIME. Results revealed significant heterogeneity in immune cell composition among TNBC subtypes, with the immunomodulatory (IM) subtype demonstrating robust immune infiltration, composed mainly of adaptive immune cells along with an increased density of CTLA-4+ and PD-1+ TILs, high PD-L1 tumor cell expression, and upregulation of FOXP3+ Tregs. A more immunosuppressive TIME with a predominance of innate immune cells and lower levels of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) was observed in luminal androgen receptor (LAR) tumors. In mesenchymal stem-like (MSL) tumors, the TIME was mainly composed of innate immune cells, with a high number of M2 tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), while the BL and M tumors displayed poor adaptive and innate immune responses, indicating an "immune-cold" phenotype. Differential activation of signaling pathways, genomic diversity, and metabolic reprogramming were identified as contributors to TIME heterogeneity. Understanding this interplay is crucial for tailoring therapeutic strategies, especially regarding immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonia Syrnioti
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Stamatios Petousis
- 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece; (S.P.); (K.D.)
| | - Lisa A. Newman
- Department of Breast Surgery, New York Presbyterian-Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA;
| | - Chrysoula Margioula-Siarkou
- MSc Program in Gynaecologic Oncology and Breast Oncology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Theodora Papamitsou
- Laboratory of Histology-Embryology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Konstantinos Dinas
- 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece; (S.P.); (K.D.)
| | - Triantafyllia Koletsa
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
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Yu T, Liu Z, Tao Q, Xu X, Li X, Li Y, Chen M, Liu R, Chen D, Wu M, Yu J. Targeting tumor-intrinsic SLC16A3 to enhance anti-PD-1 efficacy via tumor immune microenvironment reprogramming. Cancer Lett 2024; 589:216824. [PMID: 38522774 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 03/17/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Abstract
Immunotherapy, especially immune checkpoint inhibitors, has revolutionized clinical practice within the last decade. However, primary and secondary resistance to immunotherapy is common in patients with diverse types of cancer. It is well-acknowledged that tumor cells can facilitate the formation of immunosuppressive microenvironments via metabolism reprogramming, and lactic acid, the metabolite of glycolysis, is a significant contributor. SLC16A3 (also named as MCT4) is a transporter mediating lactic acid efflux. In this study, we investigated the role of glycolysis in immunotherapy resistance and aimed to improve the immunotherapy effects via Slc16a3 inhibition. Bioinformatical analysis revealed that the expression of glycolysis-related genes correlated with less CD8+ T cell infiltration and increased myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC) enrichment. We found that high glycolytic activity in tumor cells adversely affected the antitumor immune responses and efficacy of immunotherapy and radiotherapy. As the transporter of lactic acid, SLC16A3 is highly expressed in glycolytic B16-F10 (RRID: CVCL_0159) cells, as well as human non-small cell lung carcinoma. We validated that Slc16a3 expression in tumor cells negatively correlated with anti-PD-1 efficiency. Overexpression of Slc16a3 in tumor cells promoted lactic acid production and efflux, and reduced tumor response to anti-PD-1 inhibitors by inhibiting CD8+ T cell function. Genetic and pharmacological inhibition of Slc16a3 dramatically reduced the glycolytic activity and lactic acid production in tumor cells, and ameliorated the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironments (TMEs), leading to boosted antitumor effects via anti-PD-1 blockade. Our study therefore demonstrates that tumor cell-intrinsic SLC16A3 may be a potential target to reverse tumor resistance to immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Yu
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250117, Shandong, PR China; Department of Oncology, Shandong University Cancer Center, Jinan, 250117, Shandong, PR China; Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute &Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, PR China; Cancer Center, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, PR China
| | - Zhaoyun Liu
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250117, Shandong, PR China; Department of Oncology, Shandong University Cancer Center, Jinan, 250117, Shandong, PR China
| | - Qingxu Tao
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250117, Shandong, PR China
| | - Xin Xu
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250117, Shandong, PR China; Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute &Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, PR China
| | - Xinyang Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250117, Shandong, PR China; School of Clinical Medicine, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, PR China
| | - Yang Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250117, Shandong, PR China; Department of Oncology, Shandong University Cancer Center, Jinan, 250117, Shandong, PR China
| | - Minxin Chen
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250117, Shandong, PR China; Department of Oncology, Shandong University Cancer Center, Jinan, 250117, Shandong, PR China
| | - Rufei Liu
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250117, Shandong, PR China; Department of Oncology, Shandong University Cancer Center, Jinan, 250117, Shandong, PR China
| | - Dawei Chen
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250117, Shandong, PR China; Department of Oncology, Shandong University Cancer Center, Jinan, 250117, Shandong, PR China
| | - Meng Wu
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250117, Shandong, PR China; Department of Oncology, Shandong University Cancer Center, Jinan, 250117, Shandong, PR China.
| | - Jinming Yu
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250117, Shandong, PR China; Department of Oncology, Shandong University Cancer Center, Jinan, 250117, Shandong, PR China; Research Unit of Radiation Oncology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, PR China.
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Somova M, Simm S, Padmyastuti A, Ehrhardt J, Schoon J, Wolff I, Burchardt M, Roennau C, Pinto PC. Integrating tumor and healthy epithelium in a micro-physiology multi-compartment approach to study renal cell carcinoma pathophysiology. Sci Rep 2024; 14:9357. [PMID: 38653823 PMCID: PMC11039668 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-60164-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The advent of micro-physiological systems (MPS) in biomedical research has enabled the introduction of more complex and relevant physiological into in vitro models. The recreation of complex morphological features in three-dimensional environments can recapitulate otherwise absent dynamic interactions in conventional models. In this study we developed an advanced in vitro Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC) that mimics the interplay between healthy and malignant renal tissue. Based on the TissUse Humimic platform our model combines healthy renal proximal tubule epithelial cells (RPTEC) and RCC. Co-culturing reconstructed RPTEC tubules with RCC spheroids in a closed micro-perfused circuit resulted in significant phenotypical changes to the tubules. Expression of immune factors revealed that interleukin-8 (IL-8) and tumor necrosis factor-alfa (TNF-α) were upregulated in the non-malignant cells while neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) was downregulated in both RCC and RPTEC. Metabolic analysis showed that RCC prompted a shift in the energy production of RPTEC tubules, inducing glycolysis, in a metabolic adaptation that likely supports RCC growth and immunogenicity. In contrast, RCC maintained stable metabolic activity, emphasizing their resilience to external factors. RNA-seq and biological process analysis of primary RTPTEC tubules demonstrated that the 3D tubular architecture and MPS conditions reverted cells to a predominant oxidative phosphorylate state, a departure from the glycolytic metabolism observed in 2D culture. This dynamic RCC co-culture model, approximates the physiology of healthy renal tubules to that of RCC, providing new insights into tumor-host interactions. Our approach can show that an RCC-MPS can expand the complexity and scope of pathophysiology and biomarker studies in kidney cancer research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryna Somova
- Department of Urology, University Medicine Greifswald, DZ7 J05.15, Fleischmannstraße 8, 17475, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Stefan Simm
- Institute of Bioinformatics, University Medicine Greifswald, Fleischmannstraße 8, 17475, Greifswald, Germany
- Institute for Bioanalysis, Coburg University of Applied Sciences and Arts, Friedrich-Streib-Str. 2, 96450, Coburg, Germany
| | - Adventina Padmyastuti
- Department of Urology, University Medicine Greifswald, DZ7 J05.15, Fleischmannstraße 8, 17475, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Jens Ehrhardt
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medicine Greifswald, Fleischmannstraße 8, 17475, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Janosch Schoon
- Center for Orthopaedics, Trauma Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, University Medicine Greifswald, Fleichmannstraße 8, 17475, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Ingmar Wolff
- Department of Urology, University Medicine Greifswald, DZ7 J05.15, Fleischmannstraße 8, 17475, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Martin Burchardt
- Department of Urology, University Medicine Greifswald, DZ7 J05.15, Fleischmannstraße 8, 17475, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Cindy Roennau
- Department of Urology, University Medicine Greifswald, DZ7 J05.15, Fleischmannstraße 8, 17475, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Pedro Caetano Pinto
- Department of Urology, University Medicine Greifswald, DZ7 J05.15, Fleischmannstraße 8, 17475, Greifswald, Germany.
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Shukla M, Bhowmick R, Ganguli P, Sarkar RR. Metabolic reprogramming and signalling cross-talks in tumour-immune interaction: a system-level exploration. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2024; 11:231574. [PMID: 38481985 PMCID: PMC10933535 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.231574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Tumour-immune microenvironment (TIME) is pivotal in tumour progression and immunoediting. Within TIME, immune cells undergo metabolic adjustments impacting nutrient supply and the anti-tumour immune response. Metabolic reprogramming emerges as a promising approach to revert the immune response towards a pro-inflammatory state and conquer tumour dominance. This study proposes immunomodulatory mechanisms based on metabolic reprogramming and employs the regulatory flux balance analysis modelling approach, which integrates signalling, metabolism and regulatory processes. For the first time, a comprehensive system-level model is constructed to capture signalling and metabolic cross-talks during tumour-immune interaction and regulatory constraints are incorporated by considering the time lag between them. The model analysis identifies novel features to enhance the immune response while suppressing tumour activity. Particularly, altering the exchange of succinate and oxaloacetate between glioma and macrophage enhances the pro-inflammatory response of immune cells. Inhibition of glutamate uptake in T-cells disrupts the antioxidant mechanism of glioma and reprograms metabolism. Metabolic reprogramming through adenosine monophosphate (AMP)-activated protein kinase (AMPK), coupled with glutamate uptake inhibition, was identified as the most impactful combination to restore T-cell function. A comprehensive understanding of metabolism and gene regulation represents a favourable approach to promote immune cell recovery from tumour dominance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mudita Shukla
- Chemical Engineering and Process Development Division, CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory, Pune, Maharashtra, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh 201002, India
| | - Rupa Bhowmick
- Chemical Engineering and Process Development Division, CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory, Pune, Maharashtra, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh 201002, India
| | - Piyali Ganguli
- Chemical Engineering and Process Development Division, CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory, Pune, Maharashtra, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh 201002, India
| | - Ram Rup Sarkar
- Chemical Engineering and Process Development Division, CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory, Pune, Maharashtra, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh 201002, India
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7
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Rai S, Roy G, Hajam YA. Melatonin: a modulator in metabolic rewiring in T-cell malignancies. Front Oncol 2024; 13:1248339. [PMID: 38260850 PMCID: PMC10800968 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1248339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Melatonin, (N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine) an indoleamine exerts multifaced effects and regulates numerous cellular pathways and molecular targets associated with circadian rhythm, immune modulation, and seasonal reproduction including metabolic rewiring during T cell malignancy. T-cell malignancies encompass a group of hematological cancers characterized by the uncontrolled growth and proliferation of malignant T-cells. These cancer cells exhibit a distinct metabolic adaptation, a hallmark of cancer in general, as they rewire their metabolic pathways to meet the heightened energy requirements and biosynthesis necessary for malignancies is the Warburg effect, characterized by a shift towards glycolysis, even when oxygen is available. In addition, T-cell malignancies cause metabolic shift by inhibiting the enzyme pyruvate Dehydrogenase Kinase (PDK) which in turn results in increased acetyl CoA enzyme production and cellular glycolytic activity. Further, melatonin plays a modulatory role in the expression of essential transporters (Glut1, Glut2) responsible for nutrient uptake and metabolic rewiring, such as glucose and amino acid transporters in T-cells. This modulation significantly impacts the metabolic profile of T-cells, consequently affecting their differentiation. Furthermore, melatonin has been found to regulate the expression of critical signaling molecules involved in T-cell activations, such as CD38, and CD69. These molecules are integral to T-cell adhesion, signaling, and activation. This review aims to provide insights into the mechanism of melatonin's anticancer properties concerning metabolic rewiring during T-cell malignancy. The present review encompasses the involvement of oncogenic factors, the tumor microenvironment and metabolic alteration, hallmarks, metabolic reprogramming, and the anti-oncogenic/oncostatic impact of melatonin on various cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seema Rai
- Department of Zoology Guru Ghasidas Vishwavidyalaya, Bilaspur, India
| | - Gunja Roy
- Department of Zoology Guru Ghasidas Vishwavidyalaya, Bilaspur, India
| | - Younis Ahmad Hajam
- Department of Life Sciences and Allied Health Sciences, Sant Bhag Singh University, Jalandhar, India
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Jalil AT, Abdulhadi MA, Alkubaisy SA, Thejeel SH, Essa IM, Merza MS, Zabibah RS, Al-Tamimi R. The role of endoplasmic reticulum stress in promoting aerobic glycolysis in cancer cells: An overview. Pathol Res Pract 2023; 251:154905. [PMID: 37925820 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2023.154905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Aerobic glycolysis, also known as the Warburg effect, is a metabolic phenomenon frequently observed in cancer cells, characterized by the preferential utilization of glucose through glycolysis, even under normal oxygen conditions. This metabolic shift provides cancer cells with a proliferative advantage and supports their survival and growth. While the Warburg effect has been extensively studied, the underlying mechanisms driving this metabolic adaptation in cancer cells remain incompletely understood. In recent years, emerging evidence has suggested a potential link between endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and the promotion of aerobic glycolysis in cancer cells. The ER is a vital organelle involved in protein folding, calcium homeostasis, and lipid synthesis. Various cellular stresses, such as hypoxia, nutrient deprivation, and accumulation of misfolded proteins, can lead to ER stress. In response, cells activate the unfolded protein response (UPR) to restore ER homeostasis. However, prolonged or severe ER stress can activate alternative signaling pathways that modulate cellular metabolism, including the promotion of aerobic glycolysis. This review aims to provide an overview of the current understanding regarding the influence of ER stress on aerobic glycolysis in cancer cells to shed light on the complex interplay between ER stress and metabolic alterations in cancer cells. Understanding the intricate relationship between ER stress and the promotion of aerobic glycolysis in cancer cells may provide valuable insights for developing novel therapeutic strategies targeting metabolic vulnerabilities in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mohanad Ali Abdulhadi
- Department of Medical Laboratory Techniques, Al-Maarif University College, Al-Anbar, Iraq
| | | | - Sara Hamed Thejeel
- National University of Science and Technology, Al-Nasiriyah, Thi-Qar, Iraq
| | - Israa M Essa
- Department of Veterinary Parasitology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Basrah, Basrah, Iraq
| | - Muna S Merza
- Prosthetic Dental Techniques Department, Al-Mustaqbal, University College, Hillah, Babylon, Iraq
| | - Rahman S Zabibah
- Medical Laboratory Technology Department, College of Medical Technology, The Islamic University of Najaf, Najaf, Iraq
| | - Raad Al-Tamimi
- Medical Technical College, Al-Farahidi University, Baghdad, Iraq
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Zheng D, Long S, Xi M. A comprehensive pan-cancer analysis identifies a novel glycolysis score and its hub genes as prognostic and immunological biomarkers. Transl Cancer Res 2023; 12:2852-2874. [PMID: 37969385 PMCID: PMC10643978 DOI: 10.21037/tcr-23-325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023]
Abstract
Background Glycolysis plays significant roles in tumor progression and immune response. However, the exact role of glycolysis in prognosis and immune regulation has not been explored in all cancer types. This study first calculated a novel glycolysis score and screened out 12 glycolytic hub genes, and comprehensively analyzed molecular expression, clinical implications, and immune features of glycolysis among pan-cancer. Methods The glycolysis score was derived by the single sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA) algorithm. The correlations of glycolysis with clinical parameters were analyzed using "limma" package. Downstream pathways of glycolysis were identified by Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA). The immune cell infiltration was explored and validated by three databases. The association between glycolysis and some immunotherapy biomarkers was explored by Pearson correlation analysis. Single-nucleotide variation (SNV), copy number variation (CNV), DNA methylation, and drug sensitivity analyses of 12 glycolytic hub genes were investigated. IMvigor210 and GSE91061 immunotherapeutic cohorts were retrieved to assess the ability of glycolysis score to predict immunotherapy efficacy. The expression of glycolysis key genes was detected in normal and endometrial cancer cell lines. Results We found that glycolysis score was generally higher in tumor tissues compared to normal tissues and a high glycolysis score predominated as a risk prognostic factor. A high glycolysis score was associated with decreased immunostimulatory natural killer (NK) cells and CD8+ T cells infiltration, well increased immunosuppressive M2-tumor-associated macrophages (M2-TAM) cells infiltration. Tumor mutational burden (TMB), microsatellite instability (MSI), and immune checkpoints (ICPs) all closely interacted with glycolysis score and the frequency of gene mutation was confirmed to be higher in colon adenocarcinoma (COAD) patients with higher glycolysis score. The SNV, CNV, and DNA methylation of 12 glycolysis key genes occurred at different frequencies and showed different impacts on survival outcomes. The predictive and prognostic value of glycolysis score for immunotherapy outcomes was validated in two immunotherapy cohorts. The expression levels of key genes differ in normal endometrial and three endometrial cancer cell lines. Conclusions This work indicated that glycolysis score and 12 glycolytic hub genes were correlated with an immunosuppressive microenvironment. They could be served as promising biomarkers aiding diagnosis, predicting prognosis and immunotherapy response for some tumor patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danxi Zheng
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Siyu Long
- Laboratory of Molecular Translational Medicine, Center for Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Mingrong Xi
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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10
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Zhang W, Lang R. Macrophage metabolism in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1257596. [PMID: 37868954 PMCID: PMC10586316 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1257596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and its inflammatory and often progressive subtype nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), have emerged as significant contributors to hepatic morbidity worldwide. The pathophysiology of NAFLD/NASH is multifaceted, variable, and remains incompletely understood. The pivotal role of liver-resident and recruited macrophages in the pathogenesis of NAFLD and NASH is widely acknowledged as a crucial factor in innate immunity. The remarkable plasticity of macrophages enables them to assume diverse activation and polarization states, dictated by their immunometabolism microenvironment and functional requirements. Recent studies in the field of immunometabolism have elucidated that alterations in the metabolic profile of macrophages can profoundly influence their activation state and functionality, thereby influencing various pathological processes. This review primarily focuses on elucidating the polarization and activation states of macrophages, highlighting the correlation between their metabolic characteristics and the transition from pro-inflammatory to anti-inflammatory phenotypes. Additionally, we explore the potential of targeting macrophage metabolism as a promising therapeutic approach for the management of NAFLD/NASH.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ren Lang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital Affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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11
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Cadenas-De Miguel S, Lucianer G, Elia I. The metabolic cross-talk between cancer and T cells. Trends Biochem Sci 2023; 48:597-609. [PMID: 37080875 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibs.2023.03.004] [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: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023]
Abstract
The metabolic cross-talk between cancer cells and T cells dictates cancer formation and progression. These cells possess metabolic plasticity. Thus, they adapt their metabolic profile to meet their phenotypic requirements. However, the nutrient microenvironment of a tumor is a very hostile niche in which these cells are forced to compete for the available nutrients. The hyperactive metabolism of tumor cells often outcompetes the antitumorigenic CD8+ T cells while promoting the protumorigenic exhausted CD8+ T cells and T regulatory (Treg) cells. Thus, cancer cells elude the immune response and spread in an uncontrolled manner. Identifying the metabolic pathways necessary to shift the balance from a protumorigenic to an antitumorigenic immune phenotype is essential to potentiate antitumor immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Giulia Lucianer
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ilaria Elia
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.
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12
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El Hadi C, Hilal G, Aoun R. Enhancing cancer treatment and understanding through clustering of gene responses to categorical stressors. Sci Rep 2023; 13:6517. [PMID: 37085609 PMCID: PMC10121664 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-33785-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 04/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer cells have a unique metabolic activity in the glycolysis pathway compared to normal cells, which allows them to maintain their growth and proliferation. Therefore, inhibition of glycolytic pathways may be a promising therapeutic approach for cancer treatment. In this novel study, we analyzed the genetic responses of cancer cells to stressors, particularly to drugs that target the glycolysis pathway. Gene expression data for experiments on different cancer cell types were extracted from the Gene Expression Omnibus and the expression fold change was then clustered after dimensionality reduction. We identified four groups of responses: the first and third were most affected by anti-glycolytic drugs, especially those acting on multiple pathways at once, and consisted mainly of squamous and mesenchymal tissues, showing higher mitotic inhibition and apoptosis. The second and fourth groups were relatively unaffected by treatment, comprising mainly gynecologic and hormone-sensitive groups, succumbing least to glycolysis inhibitors. Hexokinase-targeted drugs mainly showed this blunted effect on cancer cells. This study highlights the importance of analyzing the molecular states of cancer cells to identify potential targets for personalized cancer therapies and to improve our understanding of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - George Hilal
- Cancer and Metabolism Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine, Saint-Joseph University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Rita Aoun
- Cancer and Metabolism Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine, Saint-Joseph University, Beirut, Lebanon
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13
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Silva A, Cerqueira MC, Rosa B, Sobral C, Pinto-Ribeiro F, Costa MF, Baltazar F, Afonso J. Prognostic Value of Monocarboxylate Transporter 1 Overexpression in Cancer: A Systematic Review. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065141. [PMID: 36982217 PMCID: PMC10049181 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Energy production by cancer is driven by accelerated glycolysis, independently of oxygen levels, which results in increased lactate production. Lactate is shuttled to and from cancer cells via monocarboxylate transporters (MCTs). MCT1 works both as an importer and an extruder of lactate, being widely studied in recent years and generally associated with a cancer aggressiveness phenotype. The aim of this systematic review was to assess the prognostic value of MCT1 immunoexpression in different malignancies. Study collection was performed by searching nine different databases (PubMed, EMBASE, ScienceDirect, Scopus, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, OVID, TRIP and PsycINFO), using the keywords "cancer", "Monocarboxylate transporter 1", "SLC16A1" and "prognosis". Results showed that MCT1 is an indicator of poor prognosis and decreased survival for cancer patients in sixteen types of malignancies; associations between the transporter's overexpression and larger tumour sizes, higher disease stage/grade and metastasis occurrence were also frequently observed. Yet, MCT1 overexpression correlated with better outcomes in colorectal cancer, pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma and non-small cell lung cancer patients. These results support the applicability of MCT1 as a biomarker of prognosis, although larger cohorts would be necessary to validate the overall role of MCT1 as an outcome predictor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Silva
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus of Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - Mónica Costa Cerqueira
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus of Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - Beatriz Rosa
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus of Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - Catarina Sobral
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus of Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - Filipa Pinto-Ribeiro
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus of Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - Marta Freitas Costa
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus of Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - Fátima Baltazar
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus of Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - Julieta Afonso
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus of Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
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14
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Zhang L, Wang Y, Song M, Chang A, Zhuo W, Zhu Y. Fibronectin 1 as a Key Gene in the Genesis and Progression of Cadmium-Related Bladder Cancer. Biol Trace Elem Res 2022:10.1007/s12011-022-03510-1. [PMID: 36471209 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-022-03510-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Exposure to cadmium (Cd), a non-essential heavy metal, leads to the malignant transformation of urothelial cells and promotes bladder cancer (BC) development, but the mechanisms are unclear. Therefore, we aimed to explore the possible molecules associated with Cd-related BC. By analyzing and mining biological big data in public databases, we screened genes associated with the malignant transformation of uroepithelial cells caused by Cd and further screened the key gene associated with BC prognosis from these genes. The possible roles of the key gene in BC progression were then further explored through biological big data analysis and cellular experiments. Data mining yielded a total of 387 malignant transformation-related genes, which were enriched in multiple cancer-related signaling pathways, such as cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction, Toll-like receptor signaling pathway, and Jak-STAT signaling pathway. Further screening identified Fibronectin 1 (FN1) as the key gene. High expression of FN1 was associated with the advanced pathologic stage, T stage, N stage, and M stage and predicted an unfavorable outcome in BC patients. FN1 expression was positively associated with the infiltration of several types of immune cells, particularly tumor-associated macrophages and cancer-associated fibroblasts. Overexpression of FN1 could be detected in Cd-treated urothelial cells and BC cell lines. Interestingly, silencing of FN1 impaired the proliferation and invasive capacity of BC cells. In conclusion, the present study provides new insight into the mechanism of Cd-related BC. FN1 might be a prognostic marker and therapeutic target for BC. Future studies are needed to confirm these results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Zhang
- College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
- Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Minghan Song
- College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Aoshuang Chang
- Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Wenlei Zhuo
- Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yi Zhu
- College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China.
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15
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SnSe Nanosheets Mimic Lactate Dehydrogenase to Reverse Tumor Acid Microenvironment Metabolism for Enhancement of Tumor Therapy. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27238552. [PMID: 36500643 PMCID: PMC9738583 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27238552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The acidic tumor microenvironment (TME) is unfriendly to the activity and function of immune cells in the TME. Here, we report inorganic nanozymes (i.e., SnSe NSs) that mimic the catalytic activity of lactate dehydrogenase to degrade lactate to pyruvate, contributing to the metabolic treatment of tumors. As found in this study, SnSe NSs successfully decreased lactate levels in cells and tumors, as well as reduced tumor acidity. This is associated with activation of the immune response of T cells, thus alleviating the immunosuppressive environment of the TME. More importantly, the nanozyme successfully inhibited tumor growth in mutilate mouse tumor models. Thus, SnSe NSs show a promising result in lactate depletion and tumor suppression, which exemplifies its potential strategy in targeting lactate for metabolic therapy.
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