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Mares-Quiñones MD, Galán-Vásquez E, Pérez-Rueda E, Pérez-Ishiwara DG, Medel-Flores MO, Gómez-García MDC. Identification of modules and key genes associated with breast cancer subtypes through network analysis. Sci Rep 2024; 14:12350. [PMID: 38811600 PMCID: PMC11137066 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-61908-4] [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: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most common malignancy in women around the world. Intratumor and intertumoral heterogeneity persist in mammary tumors. Therefore, the identification of biomarkers is essential for the treatment of this malignancy. This study analyzed 28,143 genes expressed in 49 breast cancer cell lines using a Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis to determine specific target proteins for Basal A, Basal B, Luminal A, Luminal B, and HER2 ampl breast cancer subtypes. Sixty-five modules were identified, of which five were characterized as having a high correlation with breast cancer subtypes. Genes overexpressed in the tumor were found to participate in the following mechanisms: regulation of the apoptotic process, transcriptional regulation, angiogenesis, signaling, and cellular survival. In particular, we identified the following genes, considered as hubs: IFIT3, an inhibitor of viral and cellular processes; ETS1, a transcription factor involved in cell death and tumorigenesis; ENSG00000259723 lncRNA, expressed in cancers; AL033519.3, a hypothetical gene; and TMEM86A, important for regulating keratinocyte membrane properties, considered as a key in Basal A, Basal B, Luminal A, Luminal B, and HER2 ampl breast cancer subtypes, respectively. The modules and genes identified in this work can be used to identify possible biomarkers or therapeutic targets in different breast cancer subtypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Daniela Mares-Quiñones
- Laboratorio de Biomedicina Molecular, Programa de Doctorado en Biotecnología, Escuela Nacional de Medicina y Homeopatía, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Edgardo Galán-Vásquez
- Departamento de Ingeniería de Sistemas Computacionales y Automatización, Instituto de Investigaciones en Matemáticas Aplicadas y en Sistemas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Ernesto Pérez-Rueda
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Matemáticas Aplicadas y en Sistemas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Unidad Académica del Estado de Yucatán, Mérida, Mexico
| | - D Guillermo Pérez-Ishiwara
- Laboratorio de Biomedicina Molecular, Programa de Doctorado en Biotecnología, Escuela Nacional de Medicina y Homeopatía, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - María Olivia Medel-Flores
- Laboratorio de Biomedicina Molecular, Programa de Doctorado en Biotecnología, Escuela Nacional de Medicina y Homeopatía, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - María Del Consuelo Gómez-García
- Laboratorio de Biomedicina Molecular, Programa de Doctorado en Biotecnología, Escuela Nacional de Medicina y Homeopatía, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México, Mexico.
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2
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Ferreira Almeida C, Correia-da-Silva G, Teixeira N, Amaral C. Influence of tumor microenvironment on the different breast cancer subtypes and applied therapies. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 223:116178. [PMID: 38561089 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2024.116178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Despite the significant improvements made in breast cancer therapy during the last decades, this disease still has increasing incidence and mortality rates. Different targets involved in general processes, like cell proliferation and survival, have become alternative therapeutic options for this disease, with some of them already used in clinic, like the CDK4/6 inhibitors for luminal A tumors treatment. Nevertheless, there is a demand for novel therapeutic strategies focused not only on tumor cells, but also on their microenvironment. Tumor microenvironment (TME) is a very complex and dynamic system that, more than surrounding and supporting tumor cells, actively participates in tumor development and progression. During the last decades, it has become clear that the cellular and acellular components of TME differ between the various breast cancer subtypes and shape the differences regarding their severity and prognosis. The pivotal role of the TME in controlling tumor growth and influencing responses to therapy represents a potential source for novel targets and therapeutic strategies. In this review, we present a description of the multiple therapeutic options used for different breast cancer subtypes, as well as the influence that the TME may exert on the development of the disease and on the response to the distinct therapies, which in some cases may explain their failure by the occurrence of relapses and resistance. Furthermore, the ongoing studies focused on the use of TME components for developing potential cancer treatments are described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Ferreira Almeida
- UCIBIO, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, n° 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; Associate Laboratory i4HB, Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, n° 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Georgina Correia-da-Silva
- UCIBIO, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, n° 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; Associate Laboratory i4HB, Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, n° 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal.
| | - Natércia Teixeira
- UCIBIO, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, n° 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; Associate Laboratory i4HB, Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, n° 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Cristina Amaral
- UCIBIO, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, n° 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; Associate Laboratory i4HB, Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, n° 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal.
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3
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Ranasinghe ADCU, Tennakoon TMPB, Schwarz MA. Emerging Epigenetic Targets and Their Molecular Impact on Vascular Remodeling in Pulmonary Hypertension. Cells 2024; 13:244. [PMID: 38334636 PMCID: PMC10854593 DOI: 10.3390/cells13030244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary Hypertension (PH) is a terminal disease characterized by severe pulmonary vascular remodeling. Unfortunately, targeted therapy to prevent disease progression is limited. Here, the vascular cell populations that contribute to the molecular and morphological changes of PH in conjunction with current animal models for studying vascular remodeling in PH will be examined. The status quo of epigenetic targeting for treating vascular remodeling in different PH subtypes will be dissected, while parallel epigenetic threads between pulmonary hypertension and pathogenic cancer provide insight into future therapeutic PH opportunities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Margaret A. Schwarz
- Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, 1234 Notre Dame Ave, South Bend, IN 46617, USA
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4
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Li X, Zhang Y, Zhang T, Zhao L, Lin CG, Hu H, Zheng H. Tafazzin mediates tamoxifen resistance by regulating cellular phospholipid composition in ER-positive breast cancer. Cancer Gene Ther 2024; 31:69-81. [PMID: 37935981 DOI: 10.1038/s41417-023-00683-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023]
Abstract
Tamoxifen is the frontline therapeutic agent for the estrogen receptor-positive (ER + ) subtype of breast cancer patients, which accounts for 70-80% of total breast cancer incidents. However, clinical resistance to tamoxifen has become increasingly common, highlighting the need to identify the underlying cellular mechanisms. In our study, we employed a genome-scale CRISPR-Cas9 loss-of-function screen and validation experiments to discover that Tafazzin (TAZ), a mitochondrial transacylase, is crucial for maintaining the cellular sensitivity of ER+ breast cancer cells to tamoxifen and other chemotherapies. Mechanistically, we found that cardiolipin, whose synthesis and maturation rely on TAZ, is required to maintain cellular sensitivity to tamoxifen. Loss of metabolic enzymatic activity of TAZ causes ERα downregulation and therapy resistance. Interestingly, we observed that TAZ deficiency also led to the upregulation of lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC), which in turn suppressed ERα expression and nuclear localization, thereby contributing to tamoxifen resistance. LPC is further metabolized to lysophosphatidic acid (LPA), a bioactive molecule that supports cell survival. Thus, our findings suggest that the depletion of TAZ promotes tamoxifen resistance through an LPC-LPA phospholipid synthesis axis, and targeting this lipid metabolic pathway could restore cell susceptibility to tamoxifen treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Department of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, 100084, Beijing, China
- Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yuan Zhang
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, 100084, Beijing, China
| | - Tengjiang Zhang
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, 100084, Beijing, China
| | - Luyang Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Department of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, 100084, Beijing, China
| | - Christopher G Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Department of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, 100084, Beijing, China
| | - Haitian Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Department of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, 100084, Beijing, China
| | - Hanqiu Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Department of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, 100084, Beijing, China.
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5
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Pu Q, Gao H. The Role of the Tumor Microenvironment in Triple-Positive Breast Cancer Progression and Therapeutic Resistance. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:5493. [PMID: 38001753 PMCID: PMC10670777 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15225493] [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: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BRCA) is a highly heterogeneous systemic disease. It is ranked first globally in the incidence of new cancer cases and has emerged as the primary cause of cancer-related death among females. Among the distinct subtypes of BRCA, triple-positive breast cancer (TPBC) has been associated with increased metastasis and invasiveness, exhibiting greater resistance to endocrine therapy involving trastuzumab. It is now understood that invasion, metastasis, and treatment resistance associated with BRCA progression are not exclusively due to breast tumor cells but are from the intricate interplay between BRCA and its tumor microenvironment (TME). Accordingly, understanding the pathogenesis and evolution of the TPBC microenvironment demands a comprehensive approach. Moreover, addressing BRCA treatment necessitates a holistic consideration of the TME, bearing significant implications for identifying novel targets for anticancer interventions. This review expounds on the relationship between critical cellular components and factors in the TPBC microenvironment and the inception, advancement, and therapeutic resistance of breast cancer to provide perspectives on the latest research on TPBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Pu
- Department of Breast Surgery, Qilu Hospital (Qingdao), Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Qingdao 266035, China;
- Oncology Laboratory, Qilu Hospital (Qingdao), Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Qingdao 266035, China
| | - Haidong Gao
- Department of Breast Surgery, Qilu Hospital (Qingdao), Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Qingdao 266035, China;
- Oncology Laboratory, Qilu Hospital (Qingdao), Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Qingdao 266035, China
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6
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Yuan J, Yang L, Li Z, Zhang H, Wang Q, Huang J, Wang B, Mohan CD, Sethi G, Wang G. The role of the tumor microenvironment in endocrine therapy resistance in hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1261283. [PMID: 37900137 PMCID: PMC10611521 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1261283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Endocrine therapy is the prominent strategy for the treatment of hormone-positive breast cancers. The emergence of resistance to endocrine therapy is a major health concern among hormone-positive breast cancer patients. Resistance to endocrine therapy demands the design of newer therapeutic strategies. The understanding of underlying molecular mechanisms of endocrine resistance, components of the tumor microenvironment (TME), and interaction of resistant breast cancer cells with the cellular/acellular components of the intratumoral environment are essential to formulate new therapeutic strategies for the treatment of endocrine therapy-resistant breast cancers. In the first half of the article, we have discussed the general mechanisms (including mutations in estrogen receptor gene, reregulated activation of signaling pathways, epigenetic changes, and cell cycle alteration) responsible for endocrine therapy resistance in hormone-positive breast cancers. In the latter half, we have emphasized the precise role of cellular (cancer-associated fibroblasts, immune cells, and cancer stem cells) and acellular components (collagen, fibronectin, and laminin) of TME in the development of endocrine resistance in hormone-positive breast cancers. In sum, the article provides an overview of the relationship between endocrine resistance and TME in hormone-positive breast cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Yuan
- Department of Endocrine and Vascular Surgery, Taihe Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Hubei, China
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Li Yang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Taihe Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Hubei, China
| | - Zhi Li
- Department of Endocrine and Vascular Surgery, Taihe Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Hubei, China
| | - Hua Zhang
- Department of Endocrine and Vascular Surgery, Taihe Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Hubei, China
| | - Qun Wang
- Department of Endocrine and Vascular Surgery, Taihe Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Hubei, China
| | - Jun Huang
- Department of Endocrine and Vascular Surgery, Taihe Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Hubei, China
| | - Bei Wang
- Department of Endocrine and Vascular Surgery, Taihe Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Hubei, China
| | - Chakrabhavi Dhananjaya Mohan
- Department of Studies in Molecular Biology, University of Mysore, Manasagangotri, Mysore Karnataka, India
- FEST Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Toxicology Research, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Gautam Sethi
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Geng Wang
- Department of Endocrine and Vascular Surgery, Taihe Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Hubei, China
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7
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Kumar S, Dhar R, Kumar LBSS, Shivji GG, Jayaraj R, Devi A. Theranostic signature of tumor-derived exosomes in cancer. Med Oncol 2023; 40:321. [PMID: 37798480 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-023-02176-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
Cancer is the most challenging global health crisis. In the recent times, studies on extracellular vesicles (EVs) are adding a new chapter to cancer research and reports on EVs explores cancer in a new dimension. Exosomes are a group of subpopulations of EVs. It originates from the endosomes and carries biologically active molecules to the neighboring cells which in turn transforms the recipient cell activity. In general, it plays a role in cellular communication. The correlation between exosomes and cancer is fascinating. Tumor-derived exosomes (TEXs) play a dynamic role in cancer progression and are associated with uncontrolled cell growth, angiogenesis, immune suppression, and metastasis. Its molecular cargo is an excellent source of cancer biomarkers. Several advanced molecular profiling approaches assist in exploring the TEXs in depth. This paves the way for a strong foundation for identifying and detecting more specific and efficient biomarkers. TEXs are also gaining importance in scientific society for its role in cancer therapy and several clinical trials based on TEXs is a proof of its significance. In this review, we have highlighted the role of TEXs in mediating immune cell reprogramming, cancer development, metastasis, EMT, organ-specific metastasis, and its clinical significance in cancer theranostics. TEXs profiling is an effective method to understand the complications associated with cancer leading to good health and well-being of the individual and society as a whole.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samruti Kumar
- Cancer and Stem Cell Biology Laboratory, Department of Genetic Engineering, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Chengalpattu District, Kattankulathur, Tamil Nadu, 603203, India
| | - Rajib Dhar
- Cancer and Stem Cell Biology Laboratory, Department of Genetic Engineering, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Chengalpattu District, Kattankulathur, Tamil Nadu, 603203, India
| | - Lokesh Babu Sirkali Suresh Kumar
- Cancer and Stem Cell Biology Laboratory, Department of Genetic Engineering, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Chengalpattu District, Kattankulathur, Tamil Nadu, 603203, India
| | - Gauresh Gurudas Shivji
- Cancer and Stem Cell Biology Laboratory, Department of Genetic Engineering, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Chengalpattu District, Kattankulathur, Tamil Nadu, 603203, India
| | - Rama Jayaraj
- Jindal Institute of Behavioral Sciences (JIBS), Jindal Global Institution of Eminence Deemed to Be University, 28, Sonipat, 131001, India
- Director of Clinical Sciences, Northern Territory Institute of Research and Training, Darwin, NT, 0909, Australia
| | - Arikketh Devi
- Cancer and Stem Cell Biology Laboratory, Department of Genetic Engineering, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Chengalpattu District, Kattankulathur, Tamil Nadu, 603203, India.
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Breast cancer cells interact with tumor-derived extracellular matrix in a molecular subtype-specific manner. BIOMATERIALS ADVANCES 2023; 146:213301. [PMID: 36709629 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioadv.2023.213301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Mimicking the native microenvironment is vital for tumor engineering. Breast cancer is a highly heterogeneous disease with various molecular subtypes exhibiting distinct biological behaviors and treatment responsiveness. The heterogeneity of extracellular matrix (ECM) of breast cancer has remained largely unexplored and underestimated. The present study addressed this issue by comparing the composition, architecture, and functional roles of ECMs derived from breast cancers of two molecular subtypes, which are luminal-A breast cancer (less aggressive, ERα+)-derived ECM (LA-ECM) and triple-negative breast cancer (high aggressive, ERα-)-derived ECM (TN-ECM). Compared with normal breast tissue-derived ECMs (B-ECM), tumor-derived ECMs showed higher contents of pro-collagen I, fibronectin, and laminin, in addition with a significantly altered architecture. Transcriptome sequencing revealed that, compared with those cultured with B-ECM, MCF7 cells (an estrogen receptor (ER)α + luminal-A breast cancer cell line) cultured with LA-ECM and TN-ECM showed approximately 9.65 % and 9.04 % changes in the expression of all detected genes, respectively. The TN-ECM induced proliferation, promoted epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, downregulated ERα expression, and reduced endocrine treatment sensitivity of MCF7. Above results have elucidated the role of phenotype-specific tumor ECM in cell phenotype maintenance, treatment sensitivity, and cancer progression, which highlighted the importance of ECM heterogeneity as well as its role in tumor microenvironment engineering and drug screening.
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9
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Vijayakumar G, Swetha US, Sudhagar S. Tamoxifen modulates mitochondrial dynamics through AMPK and MAPK during nutrition deprivation. Cell Biol Int 2022; 46:1661-1671. [PMID: 35819094 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.11853] [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: 02/14/2022] [Revised: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The interaction of cancer cells with their tumor microenvironment determines key events in the progression of the disease, therapeutic efficacy, and the development of drug resistance. Here, we presented evidence that tamoxifen support breast cancer growth during nutrition deprivation by modulating mitochondrial dynamics through AMPK and MAPK signaling. Tamoxifen enhances mitochondrial fusion under nutrition-deprived conditions by suppressing Drp1 ser616 phosphorylation and upregulating Mfn1 levels. Tamoxifen-induced mitochondrial fusion is mediated by the activation of AMPK as evident by the pharmacological inhibition of AMPK reverse mitochondrial fusion. Interestingly, JNK activation by tamoxifen controls the mitochondrial fusion morphology by downregulating Mfn2. Collectively, tamoxifen support cell growth by enhancing mitochondrial fusion by regulating stress kinase signaling under nutrition deprivation condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gangipangi Vijayakumar
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Guwahati, Assam, India
| | - Uppalapati S Swetha
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Guwahati, Assam, India
| | - Selvaraju Sudhagar
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Guwahati, Assam, India
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10
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Chimento A, De Luca A, Avena P, De Amicis F, Casaburi I, Sirianni R, Pezzi V. Estrogen Receptors-Mediated Apoptosis in Hormone-Dependent Cancers. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:1242. [PMID: 35163166 PMCID: PMC8835409 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
It is known that estrogen stimulates growth and inhibits apoptosis through estrogen receptor(ER)-mediated mechanisms in many cancer cell types. Interestingly, there is strong evidence that estrogens can also induce apoptosis, activating different ER isoforms in cancer cells. It has been observed that E2/ERα complex activates multiple pathways involved in both cell cycle progression and apoptotic cascade prevention, while E2/ERβ complex in many cases directs the cells to apoptosis. However, the exact mechanism of estrogen-induced tumor regression is not completely known. Nevertheless, ERs expression levels of specific splice variants and their cellular localization differentially affect outcome of estrogen-dependent tumors. The goal of this review is to provide a general overview of current knowledge on ERs-mediated apoptosis that occurs in main hormone dependent-cancers. Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying the induction of ER-mediated cell death will be useful for the development of specific ligands capable of triggering apoptosis to counteract estrogen-dependent tumor growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adele Chimento
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Via Pietro Bucci, Arcavacata di Rende, 87036 Cosenza, Italy
| | - Arianna De Luca
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Via Pietro Bucci, Arcavacata di Rende, 87036 Cosenza, Italy
| | - Paola Avena
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Via Pietro Bucci, Arcavacata di Rende, 87036 Cosenza, Italy
| | - Francesca De Amicis
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Via Pietro Bucci, Arcavacata di Rende, 87036 Cosenza, Italy
| | - Ivan Casaburi
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Via Pietro Bucci, Arcavacata di Rende, 87036 Cosenza, Italy
| | - Rosa Sirianni
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Via Pietro Bucci, Arcavacata di Rende, 87036 Cosenza, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Pezzi
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Via Pietro Bucci, Arcavacata di Rende, 87036 Cosenza, Italy
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11
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Domenici G, Trindade G, Estrada MF, Cartaxo AL, Alves PM, André S, Brito C. Patient-Derived Breast Cancer Tissue Cultures for Anti-Endocrine Drug Assays. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2535:11-31. [PMID: 35867219 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2513-2_2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer is a complex and heterogeneous pathology, characterized by a variety of histological and molecular phenotypes. The majority of the breast cancers express the estrogen receptor alpha (ER), which plays a pivotal role in the pathobiology of the disease and are therefore classified as ER-positive (ER+). In fact, targeting of the ER signaling pathway is the main therapeutic strategy for ER+ breast cancer. Despite the success of endocrine therapy, intrinsic and acquired resistance are reported in 30-50% of the ER+ breast cancers. However, the mechanisms underlying ER heterogeneity and therapeutic resistance are far from being fully disclosed, and efficacious clinical strategies to overcome resistance are still pending. One of the hurdles in studying ER+ breast cancer resistance is related with the scarcity of experimental models that can recapitulate ER heterogeneity and signaling. This is the case of ER+ breast cancer cell models, typically based on cells derived from metastasis, which also fail to recapitulate tumor complexity. Primary cultures of patient-derived breast cancer cells are difficult to establish, and generally characterized by stromal fibroblasts overgrowth and rapid loss of phenotypic and molecular traits of the tumor cells, including ER expression. Ex vivo cultures of breast cancer tissue have been reported to retain the tissue architecture, with preservation of the tumor microenvironment (TME) and ER expression for short periods of time.Given the cumulating evidence on the role of the TME in sustaining ER+ tumor cells, we hypothesized that TME preservation in culture would favor the long-term retention of ER expression and signaling. We employed alginate encapsulation to provide a supporting scaffold to breast cancer tissue microstructures, coupled to dynamic culture to improve the lifespan of the culture by avoiding diffusional limitations. In this chapter, we provide a detailed description of this culture methodology, which has been previously published by our group (Cartaxo et al., J Exp Clin Cancer Res 39:161, 2020), based on electrostatically driven breast cancer tissue encapsulation in alginate, coupled to culture under agitation in a defined culture medium. We also describe challenge of the ex vivo model with an ER activator and inhibitors (anti-endocrine drugs) and a gene expression endpoint of drug response using reverse transcription PCR-based analysis of three distinct genes downstream of ER.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Domenici
- iBET, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, Oeiras, Portugal
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Gonçalo Trindade
- iBET, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, Oeiras, Portugal
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Marta F Estrada
- iBET, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, Oeiras, Portugal
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Ana Luísa Cartaxo
- iBET, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, Oeiras, Portugal
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Paula M Alves
- iBET, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, Oeiras, Portugal
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Saudade André
- IPOLFG, Instituto Português de Oncologia de Lisboa Francisco Gentil, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Catarina Brito
- iBET, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, Oeiras, Portugal.
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Portugal.
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12
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Wang X, Sun C, Huang X, Li J, Fu Z, Li W, Yin Y. The Advancing Roles of Exosomes in Breast Cancer. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:731062. [PMID: 34790660 PMCID: PMC8591197 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.731062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) develops from breast tissue and is the most common aggressive malignant tumor in women worldwide. Although advanced treatment strategies have been applied and reduced current mortality rates, BC control remains unsatisfactory. It is essential to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms to assist clinical options. Exosomes are a type of extracellular vesicles and mediate cellular communications by delivering various biomolecules (oncogenes, oncomiRs, proteins, and even pharmacological compounds). These bioactive molecules can be transferred to change the transcriptome of target cells and influence tumor-related signaling pathways. Extensive studies have implicated exosomes in BC biology, including therapeutic resistance and the surrounding microenvironment. This review focuses on discussing the functions of exosomes in tumor treatment resistance, invasion and metastasis of BC. Moreover, we will also summarize multiple interactions between exosomes and the BC tumor microenvironment. Finally, we propose promising clinical applications of exosomes in BC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Wang
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,The First School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Chunxiao Sun
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiang Huang
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jun Li
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ziyi Fu
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Nanjing Maternity and Child Medical Institute, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yongmei Yin
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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13
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Li Y, Kong X, Xuan L, Wang Z, Huang YH. Prolactin and endocrine therapy resistance in breast cancer: The next potential hope for breast cancer treatment. J Cell Mol Med 2021; 25:10327-10348. [PMID: 34651424 PMCID: PMC8581311 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.16946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 08/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer, a hormone‐dependent tumour, generally includes four molecular subtypes (luminal A, luminal B, HER2 enriched and triple‐negative) based on oestrogen receptor, progesterone receptor and human epidermal growth factor receptor‐2. Multiple hormones in the body regulate the development of breast cancer. Endocrine therapy is one of the primary treatments for hormone‐receptor‐positive breast cancer, but endocrine resistance is the primary clinical cause of treatment failure. Prolactin (PRL) is a protein hormone secreted by the pituitary gland, mainly promoting mammary gland growth, stimulating and maintaining lactation. Previous studies suggest that high PRL levels can increase the risk of invasive breast cancer in women. The expression levels of PRL and PRLR in breast cancer cells and breast cancer tissues are elevated in most ER+ and ER− tumours. PRL activates downstream signalling pathways and affects endocrine therapy resistance by combining with prolactin receptor (PRLR). In this review, we illustrated and summarized the correlations between endocrine therapy resistance in breast cancer and PRL, as well as the pathophysiological mechanisms and clinical practices. The study on PRL and its receptor would help explore reversing endocrine therapy‐resistance for breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Li
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xiangyi Kong
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Lixue Xuan
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Zhongzhao Wang
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yen-Hua Huang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
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14
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Chien TJ. A review of the endocrine resistance in hormone-positive breast cancer. Am J Cancer Res 2021; 11:3813-3831. [PMID: 34522451 PMCID: PMC8414389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Hormone-positive breast cancer (BC) is a unique heterogeneous disease with a favorable prognosis compared to other types of breast cancer. As tumor biology influences the prognosis and clinical treatment, a deep understanding of how the molecular mechanisms regulate hormone sensitivity or resistance is critical in improving the efficacy and overcoming the endocrine resistance. This article comprehensively reviews the endocrine resistance in hormone-positive BC from a molecular and genetic perspective, encompassing the updated treatment and developing direction. This review includes the mechanisms of hormone resistance, which vary from epigenetic changes, crosstalk between signaling networks, cell cycle aberrance, and even change in the tumor microenvironment (TME) or stem cell. These mechanisms may contribute to treatment resistance. Current targeted therapy for hormone-resistant tumors includes PI3K/AKT/mTOR and cdk4/6 inhibitors. Several relevant pathways, biomarkers, and predictor genes have also been identified. Immunotherapy so far has a relatively less crucial role in hormone-positive than in triple-negative BC. Furthermore, the methodology to identify the PDL1 is not standardized. In a molecule and gene study, next-generation sequencing with circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) has recently appeared as a sensitive and minimally invasive tool worth investigating.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsai-Ju Chien
- Division of Hemato-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Branch of Zhong-Zhou, Taipei City HospitalTaipei, Taiwan
- Division of Hemato-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Branch of Jen-Ai, Taipei City HospitalTaipei, Taiwan
- Institute of Traditional Medicine, National Yang-Ming Chiao Tung UniversityTaipei, Taiwan
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15
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Gustafsson A, Garre E, Leiva MC, Salerno S, Ståhlberg A, Landberg G. Patient-derived scaffolds as a drug-testing platform for endocrine therapies in breast cancer. Sci Rep 2021; 11:13334. [PMID: 34172801 PMCID: PMC8233392 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-92724-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Three-dimensional cell culture platforms based on decellularised patient-based microenvironments provide in vivo-like growth conditions allowing cancer cells to interact with intact structures and components of the surrounding tissue. A patient-derived scaffold (PDS) model was therefore evaluated as a testing platform for the endocrine therapies (Z)-4-Hydroxytamoxifen (4OHT) and fulvestrant as well as the CDK4/6-inhibitor palbociclib, monitoring the treatment responses in breast cancer cell lines MCF7 and T47D adapted to the patient-based microenvironments. MCF7 cells growing in PDSs showed increased resistance to 4OHT and fulvestrant treatment (100- and 20-fold) compared to 2D cultures. Quantitative PCR analyses of endocrine treated cancer cells in PDSs revealed upregulation of pluripotency markers further supported by increased self-renewal capacity in sphere formation assays. When comparing different 3D growth platforms including PDS, matrigel, gelatin sponges and 3D-printed hydrogels, 3D based cultures showed slightly varying responses to fulvestrant and palbociclib whereas PDS and matrigel cultures showed more similar gene expression profiles for 4OHT treatment compared to the other platforms. The results support that the PDS technique maximized to provide a multitude of smaller functional PDS replicates from each primary breast cancer, is an up-scalable patient-derived drug-testing platform available for gene expression profiling and downstream functional assays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Gustafsson
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, Sahlgrenska Center for Cancer Research, University of Gothenburg, 41390, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Elena Garre
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, Sahlgrenska Center for Cancer Research, University of Gothenburg, 41390, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Maria Carmen Leiva
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, Sahlgrenska Center for Cancer Research, University of Gothenburg, 41390, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Simona Salerno
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, Sahlgrenska Center for Cancer Research, University of Gothenburg, 41390, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Anders Ståhlberg
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, Sahlgrenska Center for Cancer Research, University of Gothenburg, 41390, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Wallenberg Center for Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Gothenburg, 41390, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Genetics and Genomics, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, 41390, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Göran Landberg
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, Sahlgrenska Center for Cancer Research, University of Gothenburg, 41390, Gothenburg, Sweden.
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16
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Belachew EB, Sewasew DT. Molecular Mechanisms of Endocrine Resistance in Estrogen-Positive Breast Cancer. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:599586. [PMID: 33841325 PMCID: PMC8030661 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.599586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The estrogen receptor is a vital receptor for therapeutic targets in estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer. The main strategy for the treatment of estrogen receptor-positive breast cancers is blocking the estrogen action on estrogen receptors by endocrine therapy but this can be restricted via endocrine resistance. Endocrine resistance occurs due to both de novo and acquired resistance. This review focuses on the mechanisms of the ligand-dependent and ligand-independent pathways and other coregulators, which are responsible for endocrine resistance. It concludes that combinatorial drugs that target different signaling pathways and coregulatory proteins together with endocrine therapy could be a novel therapeutic modality to stop endocrine resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esmael Besufikad Belachew
- Biology, Mizan Tepi University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- Microbial, Cellular and Molecular Biology Department, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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17
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Sharifi M, Bai Q, Babadaei MMN, Chowdhury F, Hassan M, Taghizadeh A, Derakhshankhah H, Khan S, Hasan A, Falahati M. 3D bioprinting of engineered breast cancer constructs for personalized and targeted cancer therapy. J Control Release 2021; 333:91-106. [PMID: 33774120 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2021.03.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Revised: 03/21/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The bioprinting technique with specialized tissue production allows the study of biological, physiological, and behavioral changes of cancerous and non-cancerous tissues in response to pharmacological compounds in personalized medicine. To this end, to evaluate the efficacy of anticancer drugs before entering the clinical setting, tissue engineered 3D scaffolds containing breast cancer and derived from the especially patient, similar to the original tissue architecture, can potentially be used. Despite recent advances in the manufacturing of 3D bioprinted breast cancer tissue (BCT), many studies still suffer from reproducibility primarily because of the uncertainty of the materials used in the scaffolds and lack of printing methods. In this review, we present an overview of the breast cancer environment to optimize personalized treatment by examining and identifying the physiological and biological factors that mimic BCT. We also surveyed the materials and techniques related to 3D bioprinting, i.e, 3D bioprinting systems, current strategies for fabrication of 3D bioprinting tissues, cell adhesion and migration in 3D bioprinted BCT, and 3D bioprinted breast cancer metastasis models. Finally, we emphasized on the prospective future applications of 3D bioprinted cancer models for rapid and accurate drug screening in breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Majid Sharifi
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China; Department of Tissue Engineering, School of Medicine, Shahroud University of Medical Science, Shahroud, Iran; Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Qian Bai
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Mohammad Mahdi Nejadi Babadaei
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Biological Science, North Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farhan Chowdhury
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Energy Processes, Southern Illinois University Carbondale, Carbondale, IL 62901, USA
| | - Mahbub Hassan
- The University of Sydney, School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Akbar Taghizadeh
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hossein Derakhshankhah
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Health Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah 6714415153, Iran
| | - Suliman Khan
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.
| | - Anwarul Hasan
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, College of Engineering, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar; Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar.
| | - Mojtaba Falahati
- Department of Nanotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Sciences and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
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18
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La Camera G, Gelsomino L, Caruso A, Panza S, Barone I, Bonofiglio D, Andò S, Giordano C, Catalano S. The Emerging Role of Extracellular Vesicles in Endocrine Resistant Breast Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13051160. [PMID: 33800302 PMCID: PMC7962645 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13051160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Revised: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Two-thirds of breast cancer patients present an estrogen receptor–positive tumor at diagnosis, and the main treatment options for these patients are endocrine therapies such as aromatase inhibitors, selective modulators of estrogen receptor activity or selective estrogen receptor down-regulators. Although endocrine therapies have high efficacy in early-stage breast cancers, the failure of the therapeutic response to these hormonal treatments remains the major clinical challenge. Recently, extracellular vesicles (EVs) have emerged as a novel mechanism of drug resistance. Indeed, EVs isolated from tumor and stromal cells act as key messengers in intercellular communications able to propagate traits of resistance and/or educate the microenvironment to sustain a breast cancer resistant phenotype. Understanding the EV-mediated molecular mechanisms involved in hormonal resistance can provide the rationale for novel and effective treatment modalities and allow for the identification of potential biomarkers to monitor therapy response in ER-positive breast cancer patients. Abstract Breast cancer is the most common solid malignancy diagnosed in females worldwide, and approximately 70% of these tumors express estrogen receptor α (ERα), the main biomarker of endocrine therapy. Unfortunately, despite the use of long-term anti-hormone adjuvant treatment, which has significantly reduced patient mortality, resistance to the endocrine treatments often develops, leading to disease recurrence and limiting clinical benefits. Emerging evidence indicates that extracellular vesicles (EVs), nanosized particles that are released by all cell types and responsible for local and systemic intercellular communications, might represent a newly identified mechanism underlying endocrine resistance. Unraveling the role of EVs, released by transformed cells during the tumor evolution under endocrine therapy, is still an open question in the cancer research area and the molecular mechanisms involved should be better defined to discover alternative therapeutic approaches to overcome resistance. In this review, we will provide an overview of recent findings on the involvement of EVs in sustaining hormonal resistance in breast cancer and discuss opportunities for their potential use as biomarkers to monitor the therapeutic response and disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giusi La Camera
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, CS, Italy; (G.L.C.); (L.G.); (A.C.); (S.P.); (I.B.); (D.B.); (S.A.)
| | - Luca Gelsomino
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, CS, Italy; (G.L.C.); (L.G.); (A.C.); (S.P.); (I.B.); (D.B.); (S.A.)
| | - Amanda Caruso
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, CS, Italy; (G.L.C.); (L.G.); (A.C.); (S.P.); (I.B.); (D.B.); (S.A.)
| | - Salvatore Panza
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, CS, Italy; (G.L.C.); (L.G.); (A.C.); (S.P.); (I.B.); (D.B.); (S.A.)
| | - Ines Barone
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, CS, Italy; (G.L.C.); (L.G.); (A.C.); (S.P.); (I.B.); (D.B.); (S.A.)
| | - Daniela Bonofiglio
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, CS, Italy; (G.L.C.); (L.G.); (A.C.); (S.P.); (I.B.); (D.B.); (S.A.)
- Centro Sanitario, University of Calabria, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, CS, Italy
| | - Sebastiano Andò
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, CS, Italy; (G.L.C.); (L.G.); (A.C.); (S.P.); (I.B.); (D.B.); (S.A.)
- Centro Sanitario, University of Calabria, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, CS, Italy
| | - Cinzia Giordano
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, CS, Italy; (G.L.C.); (L.G.); (A.C.); (S.P.); (I.B.); (D.B.); (S.A.)
- Centro Sanitario, University of Calabria, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, CS, Italy
- Correspondence: (C.G.); (S.C.); Tel.: +39-0984-496216 (C.G.); +39-0984-496207 (S.C.)
| | - Stefania Catalano
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, CS, Italy; (G.L.C.); (L.G.); (A.C.); (S.P.); (I.B.); (D.B.); (S.A.)
- Centro Sanitario, University of Calabria, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, CS, Italy
- Correspondence: (C.G.); (S.C.); Tel.: +39-0984-496216 (C.G.); +39-0984-496207 (S.C.)
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19
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Molehin D, Rasha F, Rahman RL, Pruitt K. Regulation of aromatase in cancer. Mol Cell Biochem 2021; 476:2449-2464. [PMID: 33599895 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-021-04099-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The regulation of aromatase, an enzyme involved in the biosynthesis of estrogen in normal and cancer cells, has been associated with growth factor signaling and immune response modulation. The tissue-specific regulatory roles of these factors are of particular importance as local aromatase expression is strongly linked to cancer development/progression and disease outcomes in patients. Therefore, aromatase has become a chemotherapeutic target and aromatase inhibitors (AIs) are used in the clinic for treating hormone-dependent cancers. Although AIs have shown promising results in the treatment of cancers, the emerging increase in AI-resistance necessitates the development of new and improved targeted therapies. This review discusses the role of tumor and stromal-derived growth factors and immune cell modulators in regulating aromatase. Current single-agent and combination therapies with or without AIs targeting growth factors and immune checkpoints are also discussed. This review highlights recent studies that show new connections between growth factors, mediators of immune response, and aromatase regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah Molehin
- Department of Immunology & Molecular Microbiology, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | - Fahmida Rasha
- Department of Immunology & Molecular Microbiology, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | | | - Kevin Pruitt
- Department of Immunology & Molecular Microbiology, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA. .,Department of Immunology & Molecular Microbiology, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, 3601 4th Street, Lubbock, TX, 79430-6591, USA.
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20
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Mijic S, Dabrosin C. Platelet Activation In Situ in Breasts at High Risk of Cancer: Relationship with Mammographic Density and Estradiol. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2021; 106:485-500. [PMID: 33180937 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgaa820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT High mammographic density in postmenopausal women is an independent risk factor for breast cancer by undetermined mechanisms. No preventive therapy for this risk group is available. Activated platelets release growth factors that modulate the microenvironment into a protumorigenic state. Estrogens may affect the risk of breast cancer and platelet function. Whether platelets are activated in situ in breast cancer or in normal breast tissue at high risk of breast cancer and the association to estradiol remains elusive. OBJECTIVE To investigate whether platelets are activated in situ in breast cancers and in dense breast tissue of postmenopausal women and explore correlations between estradiol, released platelet factors, and inflammatory proteins. SETTING AND DESIGN Sampling of in vivo proteins was performed using microdialysis in a total of 71 women: 10 with breast cancer, 42 healthy postmenopausal women with different breast densities, and 19 premenopausal women. RESULTS Our data demonstrate increased levels of coagulation factors in dense breast tissue similar to that found in breast cancers, indicating excessive platelet activation. Premenopausal breasts exhibited similar levels of coagulation factors as postmenopausal dense breasts. Out of 13 coagulations factors that were upregulated in dense breasts, 5 exhibited significant correlations with estradiol, both locally in the breast and systemically. In breast tissue, positive correlations between coagulation factors and key inflammatory proteins and matrix metalloproteinases were detected. CONCLUSIONS Breast density, not estradiol, is the major determinant of local platelet activation. Inactivation of platelets may be a therapeutic strategy for cancer prevention in postmenopausal women with dense breasts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofija Mijic
- Department of Oncology and Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Charlotta Dabrosin
- Department of Oncology and Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
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21
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Banik D, Noonepalle S, Hadley M, Palmer E, Gracia-Hernandez M, Zevallos-Delgado C, Manhas N, Simonyan H, Young CN, Popratiloff A, Chiappinelli KB, Fernandes R, Sotomayor EM, Villagra A. HDAC6 Plays a Noncanonical Role in the Regulation of Antitumor Immune Responses, Dissemination, and Invasiveness of Breast Cancer. Cancer Res 2020; 80:3649-3662. [PMID: 32605998 PMCID: PMC7484424 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-19-3738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2019] [Revised: 03/27/2020] [Accepted: 06/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Despite the outstanding clinical results of immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) in melanoma and other cancers, clinical trials in breast cancer have reported low responses to these therapies. Current efforts are now focused on improving the treatment efficacy of ICB in breast cancer using new combination designs such as molecularly targeted agents, including histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi). These epigenetic drugs have been widely described as potent cytotoxic agents for cancer cells. In this work, we report new noncanonical regulatory properties of ultra-selective HDAC6i over the expression and function of epithelial-mesenchymal transition pathways and the invasiveness potential of breast cancer. These unexplored roles position HDAC6i as attractive options to potentiate ongoing immunotherapeutic approaches. These new functional activities of HDAC6i involved regulation of the E-cadherin/STAT3 axis. Pretreatment of tumors with HDAC6i induced critical changes in the tumor microenvironment, resulting in improved effectiveness of ICB and preventing dissemination of cancer cells to secondary niches. Our results demonstrate for the first time that HDAC6i can both improve ICB antitumor immune responses and diminish the invasiveness of breast cancer with minimal cytotoxic effects, thus departing from the cytotoxicity-centric paradigm previously assigned to HDACi. SIGNIFICANCE: Ultraselective HDAC6 inhibitors can reduce tumor growth and invasiveness of breast cancer by noncanonical mechanisms unrelated to the previously cytotoxic properties attributed to HDAC inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Erica Palmer
- The George Washington University, Washington, DC
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22
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Fiocchetti M, Solar Fernandez V, Segatto M, Leone S, Cercola P, Massari A, Cavaliere F, Marino M. Extracellular Neuroglobin as a Stress-Induced Factor Activating Pre-Adaptation Mechanisms against Oxidative Stress and Chemotherapy-Induced Cell Death in Breast Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12092451. [PMID: 32872414 PMCID: PMC7564643 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12092451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Components of tumor microenvironment, including tumor and/or stromal cells-derived factors, exert a critical role in breast cancer (BC) progression. Here we evaluated the possible role of neuroglobin (NGB), a monomeric globin that acts as a compensatory protein against oxidative and apoptotic processes, as part of BC microenvironment. The extracellular NGB levels were evaluated by immunofluorescence of BC tissue sections and by Western blot of the culture media of BC cell lines. Moreover, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, cell apoptosis, and cell migration were evaluated in different BC cells and non-tumorigenic epithelial mammary cells treated with BC cells (i.e., Michigan Cancer Foundation-7, MCF-7) conditioned culture media and extracellular NGB. Results demonstrate that NGB is a component of BC microenvironment. NGB is released in tumor microenvironment by BC cells only under oxidative stress conditions where it can act as autocrine/paracrine factor able to communicate cell resilience against oxidative stress and chemotherapeutic treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Fiocchetti
- Department of Science, University Roma Tre, Viale Guglielmo Marconi 446, I-00146 Roma, Italy; (V.S.F.); (S.L.)
- Correspondence: (M.F.); (M.M.); Tel.: +39-06-5733-6455 (M.F.); +39-06-5733-6320 (M.M.); Fax: +39-06-5733-6321 (M.F. & M.M.)
| | - Virginia Solar Fernandez
- Department of Science, University Roma Tre, Viale Guglielmo Marconi 446, I-00146 Roma, Italy; (V.S.F.); (S.L.)
| | - Marco Segatto
- Department of Biosciences and Territory, University of Molise, Contrada Fonte Lappone, 86090 Pesche (IS), Italy;
| | - Stefano Leone
- Department of Science, University Roma Tre, Viale Guglielmo Marconi 446, I-00146 Roma, Italy; (V.S.F.); (S.L.)
| | - Paolo Cercola
- Division of Senology, Belcolle Hospital, Str. Sammartinese, 01100 Viterbo, Italy; (P.C.); (A.M.); (F.C.)
| | - Annalisa Massari
- Division of Senology, Belcolle Hospital, Str. Sammartinese, 01100 Viterbo, Italy; (P.C.); (A.M.); (F.C.)
| | - Francesco Cavaliere
- Division of Senology, Belcolle Hospital, Str. Sammartinese, 01100 Viterbo, Italy; (P.C.); (A.M.); (F.C.)
| | - Maria Marino
- Department of Science, University Roma Tre, Viale Guglielmo Marconi 446, I-00146 Roma, Italy; (V.S.F.); (S.L.)
- Correspondence: (M.F.); (M.M.); Tel.: +39-06-5733-6455 (M.F.); +39-06-5733-6320 (M.M.); Fax: +39-06-5733-6321 (M.F. & M.M.)
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23
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Cartaxo AL, Estrada MF, Domenici G, Roque R, Silva F, Gualda EJ, Loza-Alvarez P, Sflomos G, Brisken C, Alves PM, André S, Brito C. A novel culture method that sustains ERα signaling in human breast cancer tissue microstructures. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2020; 39:161. [PMID: 32807212 PMCID: PMC7430012 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-020-01653-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Accepted: 07/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Estrogen receptor α (ERα) signaling is a defining and driving event in most breast cancers; ERα is detected in malignant epithelial cells of 75% of all breast cancers (classified as ER-positive breast cancer) and, in these cases, ERα targeting is the main therapeutic strategy. However, the biological determinants of ERα heterogeneity and the mechanisms underlying therapeutic resistance are still elusive, hampered by the challenges in developing experimental models recapitulative of intra-tumoral heterogeneity and in which ERα signaling is sustained. Ex vivo cultures of human breast cancer tissue have been proposed to retain the original tissue architecture, epithelial and stromal cell components and ERα. However, loss of cellularity, viability and ERα expression are well-known culture-related phenomena. METHODS BC samples were collected and brought to the laboratory. Then they were minced, enzymatically digested, entrapped in alginate and cultured for 1 month. The histological architecture, cellular composition and cell proliferation of tissue microstructures were assessed by immunohistochemistry. Cell viability was assessed by measurement of cell metabolic activity and histological evaluation. The presence of ERα was accessed by immunohistochemistry and RT-qPCR and its functionality evaluated by challenge with 17-β-estradiol and fulvestrant. RESULTS We describe a strategy based on entrapment of breast cancer tissue microstructures in alginate capsules and their long-term culture under agitation, successfully applied to tissue obtained from 63 breast cancer patients. After 1 month in culture, the architectural features of the encapsulated tissue microstructures were similar to the original patient tumors: epithelial, stromal and endothelial compartments were maintained, with an average of 97% of cell viability compared to day 0. In ERα-positive cases, fibers of collagen, the main extracellular matrix component in vivo, were preserved. ERα expression was at least partially retained at gene and protein levels and response to ERα stimulation and inhibition was observed at the level of downstream targets, demonstrating active ER signaling. CONCLUSIONS The proposed model system is a new methodology to study ex vivo breast cancer biology, in particular ERα signaling. It is suitable for interrogating the long-term effects of anti-endocrine drugs in a set-up that closely resembles the original tumor microenvironment, with potential application in pre- and co-clinical assays of ERα-positive breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Luísa Cartaxo
- iBET, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, Oeiras, Portugal
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Marta F Estrada
- iBET, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, Oeiras, Portugal
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Giacomo Domenici
- iBET, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, Oeiras, Portugal
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Ruben Roque
- IPOLFG, Instituto Português de Oncologia de Lisboa Francisco Gentil, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Fernanda Silva
- CEDOC, Chronic Diseases Research Centre, NOVA Medical School, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Emilio J Gualda
- ICFO, Institut de Ciències Fotòniques, The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Castelldefels, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Pablo Loza-Alvarez
- ICFO, Institut de Ciències Fotòniques, The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Castelldefels, Barcelona, Spain
| | - George Sflomos
- Swiss Institute for Experimental Cancer Research, School of Life Sciences, Ecole polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Cathrin Brisken
- Swiss Institute for Experimental Cancer Research, School of Life Sciences, Ecole polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Paula M Alves
- iBET, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, Oeiras, Portugal
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Saudade André
- IPOLFG, Instituto Português de Oncologia de Lisboa Francisco Gentil, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Catarina Brito
- iBET, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, Oeiras, Portugal.
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Oeiras, Portugal.
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24
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Cantile M, Di Bonito M, Cerrone M, Collina F, De Laurentiis M, Botti G. Long Non-Coding RNA HOTAIR in Breast Cancer Therapy. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12051197. [PMID: 32397382 PMCID: PMC7281113 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12051197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Revised: 05/05/2020] [Accepted: 05/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is the most common cancer type among women, and morbidity and mortality rates are still very high. Despite new innovative therapeutic approaches for all BC molecular subtypes, the discovery of new molecular biomarkers involved in tumor progression has been fundamental for the implementation of personalized treatment strategies and improvement of patient management. Many experimental studies indicate that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are strongly involved in BC initiation, metastatic progression, and drug resistance. In particular, aberrant expression of HOX transcript antisense intergenic RNA (HOTAIR) lncRNA plays an important role in BC contributing to its progression and represents a predictor of BC metastasis. For its proven prognostic value, HOTAIR could represent a potential therapeutic target in BC. In the present review, we summarize the role of HOTAIR in cancer progression and drug resistance, in particular in BC, and we illustrate the main approaches for silencing it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Cantile
- Pathology Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori-Irccs-Fondazione G.Pascale, 80131 Naples, Italy; (M.D.B.); (M.C.); (F.C.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0815903471; Fax: +39-0815903718
| | - Maurizio Di Bonito
- Pathology Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori-Irccs-Fondazione G.Pascale, 80131 Naples, Italy; (M.D.B.); (M.C.); (F.C.)
| | - Margherita Cerrone
- Pathology Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori-Irccs-Fondazione G.Pascale, 80131 Naples, Italy; (M.D.B.); (M.C.); (F.C.)
| | - Francesca Collina
- Pathology Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori-Irccs-Fondazione G.Pascale, 80131 Naples, Italy; (M.D.B.); (M.C.); (F.C.)
| | | | - Gerardo Botti
- Scientific Direction, Istituto Nazionale Tumori-Irccs-Fondazione G.Pascale, 80131 Naples, Italy;
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