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Rapanotti MC, Cugini E, Campione E, Di Raimondo C, Costanza G, Rossi P, Ferlosio A, Bernardini S, Orlandi A, De Luca A, Bianchi L. Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition Gene Signature in Circulating Melanoma Cells: Biological and Clinical Relevance. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11792. [PMID: 37511550 PMCID: PMC10380315 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411792] [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: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The most promising method for monitoring patients with minimal morbidity is the detection of circulating melanoma cells (CMCs). We have shown that CD45-CD146+ABCB5+ CMCs identify a rare primitive stem/mesenchymal CMCs population associated with disease progression. The epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) confers cancer cells a hybrid epithelial/mesenchymal phenotype promoting metastatization. Thus, we investigated the potential clinical value of the EMT gene signature of these primitive CMCs. A reliable quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) protocol was settled up using tumor cell lines RNA dilutions. Afterwards, immune-magnetically isolated CMCs from advanced melanoma patients, at onset and at the first checkpoint (following immune or targeted therapy), were tested for the level of EMT hallmarks and EMT transcription factor genes. Despite the small cohort of patients, we obtained promising results. Indeed, we observed a deep gene rewiring of the EMT investigated genes: in particular we found that the EMT gene signature of isolated CMCs correlated with patients' clinical outcomes. In conclusion, We established a reliable qRT-PCR protocol with high sensitivity and specificity to characterize the gene expression of isolated CMCs. To our knowledge, this is the first evidence demonstrating the impact of immune or targeted therapies on EMT hallmark gene expressions in CMCs from advanced melanoma patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Cristina Rapanotti
- Department of Anatomic Pathology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Viale Oxford 81, 00133 Rome, Italy
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Viale Oxford 81, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Elisa Cugini
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Viale Oxford 81, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Elena Campione
- Dermatology Unit, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Cosimo Di Raimondo
- Dermatology Unit, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Gaetana Costanza
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Viale Oxford 81, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Piero Rossi
- Surgery Division, Department of Surgery Sciences, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Amedeo Ferlosio
- Department of Anatomic Pathology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Viale Oxford 81, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Sergio Bernardini
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Viale Oxford 81, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Augusto Orlandi
- Department of Anatomic Pathology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Viale Oxford 81, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Anastasia De Luca
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Luca Bianchi
- Dermatology Unit, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
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2
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Zhao G, Wang Q, Zhang Y, Gu R, Liu M, Li Q, Zhang J, Yuan H, Feng T, Ou D, Li S, Li S, Li K, Mo C, Lin P. DDX17 induces epithelial-mesenchymal transition and metastasis through the miR-149-3p/CYBRD1 pathway in colorectal cancer. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:1. [PMID: 36593242 PMCID: PMC9807641 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-05508-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
DEAD box helicase 17 (DDX17) has been reported to be involved in the initiation and development of several cancers. However, the functional role and mechanisms of DDX17 in colorectal cancer (CRC) malignant progression and metastasis remain unclear. Here, we reported that DDX17 expression was increased in CRC tissues compared with noncancerous mucosa tissues and further upregulated in CRC liver metastasis compared with patient-paired primary tumors. High levels of DDX17 were significantly correlated with aggressive phenotypes and worse clinical outcomes in CRC patients. Ectopic expression of DDX17 promoted cell migration and invasion in vitro and in vivo, while the opposite results were obtained in DDX17-deficient CRC cells. We identified miR-149-3p as a potential downstream miRNA of DDX17 through RNA sequencing analysis, and miR-149-3p displayed a suppressive effect on the metastatic potential of CRC cells. We demonstrated that CYBRD1 (a ferric reductase that contributes to dietary iron absorption) was a direct target of miR-149-3p and that miR-149-3p was required for DDX17-mediated regulation of CYBRD1 expression. Moreover, DDX17 contributed to the metastasis and epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) of CRC cells via downregulation of miR-149-3p, which resulted in increased CYBRD1 expression. In conclusion, our findings not only highlight the significance of DDX17 in the aggressive development and prognosis of CRC patients, but also reveal a novel mechanism underlying DDX17-mediated CRC cell metastasis and EMT progression through manipulation of the miR-149-3p/CYBRD1 pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gang Zhao
- Lab of Experimental Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, and Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Qijing Wang
- Lab of Experimental Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, and Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Yue Zhang
- Lab of Experimental Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, and Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Rui Gu
- Lab of Experimental Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, and Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Min Liu
- Lab of Experimental Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, and Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Qin Li
- Lab of Experimental Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, and Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Lab of Experimental Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, and Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Hang Yuan
- Lab of Experimental Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, and Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Tianyu Feng
- Lab of Experimental Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, and Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Deqiong Ou
- Lab of Experimental Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, and Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Siqi Li
- Lab of Experimental Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, and Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Shan Li
- Lab of Experimental Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, and Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Kai Li
- Lab of Experimental Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, and Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Chunfen Mo
- Department of General Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College (China National Nuclear Corporation 416 Hospital), Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China.
| | - Ping Lin
- Lab of Experimental Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, and Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China.
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3
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Lu X, Xu Q, Tong Y, Zhang Z, Dun G, Feng Y, Tang J, Han D, Mao Y, Deng L, He X, Li Q, Xiang Y, Wang F, Zeng D, Tang B, Mao X. Long non-coding RNA EVADR induced by Fusobacterium nucleatum infection promotes colorectal cancer metastasis. Cell Rep 2022; 40:111127. [PMID: 35858553 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.111127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Both Fusobacterium nucleatum (F. nucleatum) and long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) EVADR are associated with colorectal cancer (CRC), but their relationship with CRC metastasis and the mechanisms by which EVADR promotes CRC metastasis are poorly understood. Here, we report that F. nucleatum promotes colorectal cancer cell metastasis to the liver and lung and that it can be detected in CRC-metastasis colonization in mouse models. Furthermore, F. nucleatum upregulates the expression of EVADR, which can increase the metastatic ability of CRC cells in vivo and in vitro. Mechanistically, elevated EVADR serves as a modular scaffold for the Y-box binding protein 1 (YBX1) to directly enhance the translation of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related factors, such as Snail, Slug, and Zeb1. These findings suggest that EVADR induced by F. nucleatum promotes colorectal cancer metastasis through YBX1-dependent translation. The EVADR-YBX1 axis may be useful for the prevention and treatment of patients with F. nucleatum-associated CRC metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxue Lu
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Immunology, College of Pharmacy and Laboratory Medicine Science, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Qiaolin Xu
- Department of General Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 401120, China
| | - Yanan Tong
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Immunology, College of Pharmacy and Laboratory Medicine Science, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Zhujun Zhang
- Department of Hospital Infection Control, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Guodong Dun
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Immunology, College of Pharmacy and Laboratory Medicine Science, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Yuyang Feng
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Immunology, College of Pharmacy and Laboratory Medicine Science, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Jie Tang
- Department of General Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 401120, China
| | - Dan Han
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Immunology, College of Pharmacy and Laboratory Medicine Science, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Yilan Mao
- Class of 2021 Undergraduate, Nursing College of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Ling Deng
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Immunology, College of Pharmacy and Laboratory Medicine Science, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Xiaoyi He
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Immunology, College of Pharmacy and Laboratory Medicine Science, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Qian Li
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Immunology, College of Pharmacy and Laboratory Medicine Science, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Yang Xiang
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Immunology, College of Pharmacy and Laboratory Medicine Science, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, China
| | - FengChao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Institute of Combined Injury, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Dongzhu Zeng
- Department of General Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 401120, China.
| | - Bin Tang
- Department of General Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 401120, China.
| | - Xuhu Mao
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Immunology, College of Pharmacy and Laboratory Medicine Science, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, China.
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4
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Zhuang QS, Sun XB, Chong QY, Banerjee A, Zhang M, Wu ZS, Zhu T, Pandey V, Lobie PE. ARTEMIN Promotes Oncogenicity and Resistance to 5-Fluorouracil in Colorectal Carcinoma by p44/42 MAPK Dependent Expression of CDH2. Front Oncol 2021; 11:712348. [PMID: 34422665 PMCID: PMC8377398 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.712348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
ARTEMIN (ARTN), one of the glial-cell derived neurotrophic factor family of ligands, has been reported to be associated with a number of human malignancies. In this study, the enhanced expression of ARTN in colorectal carcinoma (CRC) was observed; the expression of ARTN positively correlated with lymph node metastases and advanced tumor stages and predicted poor prognosis. Forced expression of ARTN in CRC cells enhanced oncogenic behavior, mesenchymal phenotype, stem cell-like properties and tumor growth and metastasis in a xenograft model. These functions were conversely inhibited by depletion of endogenous ARTN. Forced expression of ARTN reduced the sensitivity of CRC cells to 5-FU treatment; and 5-FU resistant CRC cells harbored enhanced expression of ARTN. The oncogenic functions of ARTN were demonstrated to be mediated by p44/42 MAP kinase dependent expression of CDH2 (CADHERIN 2, also known as N-CADHERIN). Inhibition of p44/42 MAP kinase activity or siRNA mediated depletion of endogenous CDH2 reduced the enhanced oncogenicity and chemoresistance consequent to forced expression of ARTN induced cell functions; and forced expression of CDH2 rescued the reduced mesenchymal properties and resistance to 5-FU after ARTN depletion. In conclusion, ARTN may be of prognostic and theranostic utility in CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiu-Shi Zhuang
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore and Department of Pharmacology, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.,Tsinghua Berkeley Shenzhen Institute, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, China.,Institute of Biopharmaceutical and Health Engineering, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xin-Bao Sun
- Department of Oncology of the First Affiliated Hospital, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.,Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Qing-Yun Chong
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore and Department of Pharmacology, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Arindam Banerjee
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore and Department of Pharmacology, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.,Department of Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, India
| | - Min Zhang
- Department of Oncology of the First Affiliated Hospital, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.,Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Zheng-Sheng Wu
- Department of Pathology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Tao Zhu
- Department of Oncology of the First Affiliated Hospital, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.,Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Vijay Pandey
- Tsinghua Berkeley Shenzhen Institute, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, China.,Institute of Biopharmaceutical and Health Engineering, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Peter E Lobie
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore and Department of Pharmacology, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.,Tsinghua Berkeley Shenzhen Institute, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, China.,Institute of Biopharmaceutical and Health Engineering, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, China.,Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, China
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5
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Abstract
The epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and the corresponding reverse process, mesenchymal-epithelial transition (MET), are dynamic and reversible cellular programs orchestrated by many changes at both biochemical and morphological levels. A recent surge in identifying the molecular mechanisms underlying EMT/MET has led to the development of various mathematical models that have contributed to our improved understanding of dynamics at single-cell and population levels: (a) multi-stability-how many phenotypes can cells attain during an EMT/MET?, (b) reversibility/irreversibility-what time and/or concentration of an EMT inducer marks the "tipping point" when cells induced to undergo EMT cannot revert?, (c) symmetry in EMT/MET-do cells take the same path when reverting as they took during the induction of EMT?, and (d) non-cell autonomous mechanisms-how does a cell undergoing EMT alter the tendency of its neighbors to undergo EMT? These dynamical traits may facilitate a heterogenous response within a cell population undergoing EMT/MET. Here, we present a few examples of designing different mathematical models that can contribute to decoding EMT/MET dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shubham Tripathi
- PhD Program in Systems, Synthetic, and Physical Biology, Rice University, Houston, TX, USA
- Center for Theoretical Biological Physics, Rice University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jianhua Xing
- Department of Computational and Systems Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
| | - Herbert Levine
- Center for Theoretical Biological Physics, Rice University, Houston, TX, USA.
- Department of Physics and Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Mohit Kumar Jolly
- Centre for BioSystems Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, Karnataka, India.
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6
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Deshmukh S, Saini S. Phenotypic Heterogeneity in Tumor Progression, and Its Possible Role in the Onset of Cancer. Front Genet 2020; 11:604528. [PMID: 33329751 PMCID: PMC7734151 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2020.604528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Heterogeneity among isogenic cells/individuals has been known for at least 150 years. Even Mendel, working on pea plants, realized that not all tall plants were identical. However, Mendel was more interested in the discontinuous variation between genetically distinct individuals. The concept of environment dictating distinct phenotypes among isogenic individuals has since been shown to impact the evolution of populations in numerous examples at different scales of life. In this review, we discuss how phenotypic heterogeneity and its evolutionary implications exist at all levels of life, from viruses to mammals. In particular, we discuss how a particular disease condition (cancer) is impacted by heterogeneity among isogenic cells, and propose a potential role that phenotypic heterogeneity might play toward the onset of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saniya Deshmukh
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai, India
| | - Supreet Saini
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai, India
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7
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Walcher L, Kistenmacher AK, Suo H, Kitte R, Dluczek S, Strauß A, Blaudszun AR, Yevsa T, Fricke S, Kossatz-Boehlert U. Cancer Stem Cells-Origins and Biomarkers: Perspectives for Targeted Personalized Therapies. Front Immunol 2020; 11:1280. [PMID: 32849491 PMCID: PMC7426526 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.01280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 454] [Impact Index Per Article: 113.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The use of biomarkers in diagnosis, therapy and prognosis has gained increasing interest over the last decades. In particular, the analysis of biomarkers in cancer patients within the pre- and post-therapeutic period is required to identify several types of cells, which carry a risk for a disease progression and subsequent post-therapeutic relapse. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a subpopulation of tumor cells that can drive tumor initiation and can cause relapses. At the time point of tumor initiation, CSCs originate from either differentiated cells or adult tissue resident stem cells. Due to their importance, several biomarkers that characterize CSCs have been identified and correlated to diagnosis, therapy and prognosis. However, CSCs have been shown to display a high plasticity, which changes their phenotypic and functional appearance. Such changes are induced by chemo- and radiotherapeutics as well as senescent tumor cells, which cause alterations in the tumor microenvironment. Induction of senescence causes tumor shrinkage by modulating an anti-tumorigenic environment in which tumor cells undergo growth arrest and immune cells are attracted. Besides these positive effects after therapy, senescence can also have negative effects displayed post-therapeutically. These unfavorable effects can directly promote cancer stemness by increasing CSC plasticity phenotypes, by activating stemness pathways in non-CSCs, as well as by promoting senescence escape and subsequent activation of stemness pathways. At the end, all these effects can lead to tumor relapse and metastasis. This review provides an overview of the most frequently used CSC markers and their implementation as biomarkers by focussing on deadliest solid (lung, stomach, liver, breast and colorectal cancers) and hematological (acute myeloid leukemia, chronic myeloid leukemia) cancers. Furthermore, it gives examples on how the CSC markers might be influenced by therapeutics, such as chemo- and radiotherapy, and the tumor microenvironment. It points out, that it is crucial to identify and monitor residual CSCs, senescent tumor cells, and the pro-tumorigenic senescence-associated secretory phenotype in a therapy follow-up using specific biomarkers. As a future perspective, a targeted immune-mediated strategy using chimeric antigen receptor based approaches for the removal of remaining chemotherapy-resistant cells as well as CSCs in a personalized therapeutic approach are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lia Walcher
- Department of Immunology, Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Ann-Kathrin Kistenmacher
- Department of Immunology, Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Huizhen Suo
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Reni Kitte
- Department of Immunology, Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Sarah Dluczek
- Department of Immunology, Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Alexander Strauß
- Department of Immunology, Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology, Leipzig, Germany
| | - André-René Blaudszun
- Department of Immunology, Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Tetyana Yevsa
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Stephan Fricke
- Department of Immunology, Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Uta Kossatz-Boehlert
- Department of Immunology, Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology, Leipzig, Germany
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8
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Tripathi S, Chakraborty P, Levine H, Jolly MK. A mechanism for epithelial-mesenchymal heterogeneity in a population of cancer cells. PLoS Comput Biol 2020; 16:e1007619. [PMID: 32040502 PMCID: PMC7034928 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1007619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2019] [Revised: 02/21/2020] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Epithelial-mesenchymal heterogeneity implies that cells within the same tumor can exhibit different phenotypes-epithelial, mesenchymal, or one or more hybrid epithelial-mesenchymal phenotypes. This behavior has been reported across cancer types, both in vitro and in vivo, and implicated in multiple processes associated with metastatic aggressiveness including immune evasion, collective dissemination of tumor cells, and emergence of cancer cell subpopulations with stem cell-like properties. However, the ability of a population of cancer cells to generate, maintain, and propagate this heterogeneity has remained a mystifying feature. Here, we used a computational modeling approach to show that epithelial-mesenchymal heterogeneity can emerge from the noise in the partitioning of biomolecules (such as RNAs and proteins) among daughter cells during the division of a cancer cell. Our model captures the experimentally observed temporal changes in the fractions of different phenotypes in a population of murine prostate cancer cells, and describes the hysteresis in the population-level dynamics of epithelial-mesenchymal plasticity. The model is further able to predict how factors known to promote a hybrid epithelial-mesenchymal phenotype can alter the phenotypic composition of a population. Finally, we used the model to probe the implications of phenotypic heterogeneity and plasticity for different therapeutic regimens and found that co-targeting of epithelial and mesenchymal cells is likely to be the most effective strategy for restricting tumor growth. By connecting the dynamics of an intracellular circuit to the phenotypic composition of a population, our study serves as a first step towards understanding the generation and maintenance of non-genetic heterogeneity in a population of cancer cells, and towards the therapeutic targeting of phenotypic heterogeneity and plasticity in cancer cell populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shubham Tripathi
- PhD Program in Systems, Synthetic, and Physical Biology, Rice University, Houston, TX, United States of America
- Center for Theoretical Biological Physics, Rice University, Houston, TX, United States of America
- Department of Physics, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Priyanka Chakraborty
- Centre for BioSystems Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Herbert Levine
- Center for Theoretical Biological Physics, Rice University, Houston, TX, United States of America
- Department of Physics, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, United States of America
- * E-mail: (H.L.); (M.K.J.)
| | - Mohit Kumar Jolly
- Centre for BioSystems Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
- * E-mail: (H.L.); (M.K.J.)
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9
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Lucchetti D, Perelli L, Colella F, Ricciardi-Tenore C, Scoarughi GL, Barbato G, Boninsegna A, De Maria R, Sgambato A. Low-intensity pulsed ultrasound affects growth, differentiation, migration, and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition of colorectal cancer cells. J Cell Physiol 2020; 235:5363-5377. [PMID: 31967331 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.29423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2019] [Accepted: 12/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Ultrasound (US) offers potentially important opportunities from a therapeutic point of view. Thus, the study of the biological effects of US on cancer cells is important to understand the consequences of these changes on the malignant phenotype. This study aimed to investigate the effects of low-intensity ultrasound (LIPUS) on the phenotype of colorectal cancer cell lines. Cell proliferation was evaluated by viability test and by evaluation of pERK expression, while cell motility using the scratch test. Cell differentiation was evaluated assessing alkaline phosphatase activity. Epithelial mesenchymal transition was assessed by analyzing the expression of Vimentin and E-Cadherin. Release and uptake of extracellular vesicles (EVs) were evaluated by flow cytometry. LIPUS effects on the organization of cytoskeleton were analyzed by confocal microscopy and by evaluation of Rho GTPase expression. No alterations in vitality and clonogenicity were observed when the intermediate (0.4 MPa) and the lowest (0.035 MPa) acoustic intensities were administered while the treatment with high intensity (1 MPa) induced a reduction of both cell viability and clonogenicity in both cell lines in a frequency-dependent manner. LIPUS promoted the differentiation of colon cancer cells, affected epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, promoted the closure of a wound as well as increased the release of EVs compared with untreated cells. LIPUS-induced increase in cell motility was likely due to a Rho GTPase-dependent mechanism. Overall, the results obtained warrant further studies on the potential combined effect of LIPUS with differentiating agents and on their potential use in a clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donatella Lucchetti
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Roma, Italy.,Institute of General Pathology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italy
| | - Luigi Perelli
- Institute of General Pathology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italy
| | - Filomena Colella
- Institute of General Pathology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Alma Boninsegna
- Institute of General Pathology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italy
| | - Ruggero De Maria
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Roma, Italy.,Institute of General Pathology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italy
| | - Alessandro Sgambato
- Institute of General Pathology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italy.,Scientific Direction, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico della Basilicata (IRCCS-CROB), Rionero in Vulture, Italy
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10
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Vlachavas E, Pilalis E, Papadodima O, Koczan D, Willis S, Klippel S, Cheng C, Pan L, Sachpekidis C, Pintzas A, Gregoriou V, Dimitrakopoulou-Strauss A, Chatziioannou A. Radiogenomic Analysis of F-18-Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography and Gene Expression Data Elucidates the Epidemiological Complexity of Colorectal Cancer Landscape. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2019; 17:177-185. [PMID: 30809322 PMCID: PMC6374701 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2019.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2018] [Revised: 01/18/2019] [Accepted: 01/19/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Transcriptomic profiling has enabled the neater genomic characterization of several cancers, among them colorectal cancer (CRC), through the derivation of genes with enhanced causal role and informative gene sets. However, the identification of small-sized gene signatures, which can serve as potential biomarkers in CRC, remains challenging, mainly due to the great genetic heterogeneity of the disease. METHODS We developed and exploited an analytical framework for the integrative analysis of CRC datasets, encompassing transcriptomic data and positron emission tomography (PET) measurements. Profiling data comprised two microarray datasets, pertaining biopsy specimen from 30 untreated patients with primary CRC, coupled by their F-18-Fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) PET values, using tracer kinetic analysis measurements. The computational framework incorporates algorithms for semantic processing, multivariate analysis, data mining and dimensionality reduction. RESULTS Transcriptomic and PET data feature sets, were evaluated for their discrimination performance between primary colorectal adenocarcinomas and adjacent normal mucosa. A composite signature was derived, pertaining 12 features: 7 genes and 5 PET variables. This compact signature manifests superior performance in classification accuracy, through the integration of gene expression and PET data. CONCLUSIONS This work represents an effort for the integrative, multilayered, signature-oriented analysis of CRC, in the context of radio-genomics, inferring a composite signature with promising results for patient stratification.
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Key Words
- 18F-FDG PET
- ACADM, Acyl-Coenzyme A Dehydrogenase
- AUC, Area Under the Curve
- CCT7, Chaperonin Containing TCP1 Subunit 7
- CD44, CD44 Molecule (Indian Blood Group)
- CRC, Colorectal cancer
- Colorectal cancer
- DE, Differentially Expressed
- FD, Fractal Dimension
- FDG, F-18-Fluorodeoxyglucose
- GDC, Genomics Data Commons
- GEO, Gene Expression Omnibus
- GSTP1, Glutathione S-Transferase Pi 1
- KIT, Proto-Oncogene Receptor Tyrosine Kinase
- Lasso, least absolute shrinkage and selection operator
- MFA, Multiple Factor Analysis
- Microarray analysis
- PCs, Principal Components
- PET, Positron Emission Tomography
- ROC, Receiver-operator Characteristic curve
- Radiogenomics
- SUV, Standardized Uptake Value
- TCGA
- TCGA-COAD, The Cancer Genome Atlas-Colon Adenocarcinoma
- Translational bioinformatics
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Affiliation(s)
- Efstathios–Iason Vlachavas
- Institute of Biology, Medicinal Chemistry & Biotechnology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, Athens, Greece
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Democritus University of Thrace, 68100 Dragana, Greece
- Enios Applications Private Limited Company, A17671 Athens, Greece
| | - Eleftherios Pilalis
- Institute of Biology, Medicinal Chemistry & Biotechnology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, Athens, Greece
- Enios Applications Private Limited Company, A17671 Athens, Greece
| | - Olga Papadodima
- Institute of Biology, Medicinal Chemistry & Biotechnology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, Athens, Greece
| | - Dirk Koczan
- Core Facility Micro-Array-Technology, Center of Medical Research, University of Rostock, Germany
| | | | - Sven Klippel
- Surgical Clinic A, Klinikum Ludwigshafen, Germany
| | - Caixia Cheng
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Nuclear Medicine, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Leyun Pan
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Nuclear Medicine, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Christos Sachpekidis
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Nuclear Medicine, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Alexandros Pintzas
- Institute of Biology, Medicinal Chemistry & Biotechnology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, Athens, Greece
| | - Vasilis Gregoriou
- Institute of Biology, Medicinal Chemistry & Biotechnology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Aristotelis Chatziioannou
- Institute of Biology, Medicinal Chemistry & Biotechnology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, Athens, Greece
- Enios Applications Private Limited Company, A17671 Athens, Greece
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11
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Chang K, Willis JA, Reumers J, Taggart MW, San Lucas FA, Thirumurthi S, Kanth P, Delker DA, Hagedorn CH, Lynch PM, Ellis LM, Hawk ET, Scheet PA, Kopetz S, Arts J, Guinney J, Dienstmann R, Vilar E. Colorectal premalignancy is associated with consensus molecular subtypes 1 and 2. Ann Oncol 2018; 29:2061-2067. [PMID: 30412224 PMCID: PMC6225810 DOI: 10.1093/annonc/mdy337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Gene expression-based profiling of colorectal cancer (CRC) can be used to identify four molecularly homogeneous consensus molecular subtype (CMS) groups with unique biologic features. However, its applicability to colorectal premalignant lesions remains unknown. Patients and methods We assembled the largest transcriptomic premalignancy dataset by integrating different public and proprietary cohorts of adenomatous and serrated polyps from sporadic (N = 311) and hereditary (N = 78) patient populations and carried out a comprehensive analysis of carcinogenesis pathways using the CMS random forest (RF) classifier. Results Overall, transcriptomic subtyping of sporadic and hereditary polyps revealed CMS2 and CMS1 subgroups as the predominant molecular subtypes in premalignancy. Pathway enrichment analysis showed that adenomatous polyps from sporadic or hereditary cases (including Lynch syndrome) displayed a CMS2-like phenotype with WNT and MYC activation, whereas hyperplastic and serrated polyps with CMS1-like phenotype harbored prominent immune activation. Rare adenomas with CMS4-like phenotype showed significant enrichment for stromal signatures along with transforming growth factor-β activation. There was a strong association of CMS1-like polyps with serrated pathology, right-sided anatomic location and BRAF mutations. Conclusions Based on our observations made in premalignancy, we propose a model of pathway activation associated with CMS classification in colorectal carcinogenesis. Specifically, while adenomatous polyps are largely CMS2, most hyperplastic and serrated polyps are CMS1 and may transition into other CMS groups during evolution into carcinomas. Our findings shed light on the transcriptional landscape of premalignant colonic polyps and may help guide the development of future biomarkers or preventive treatments for CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Chang
- Department of Clinical Cancer Prevention, Division of Cancer Prevention and Population Sciences, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, USA; Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, USA
| | - J A Willis
- Hematology and Oncology Fellowship Program, Division of Cancer Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, USA
| | - J Reumers
- Janssen Oncology Research & Development, Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson, Beerse, Belgium
| | - M W Taggart
- Department of Pathology, Division of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, USA
| | - F A San Lucas
- Department of Epidemiology, Division of Cancer Prevention and Population Sciences, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, USA
| | - S Thirumurthi
- Department of Gastroenterology Hepatology and Nutrition, Division of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, USA; Clinical Cancer Genetics Program, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, USA
| | - P Kanth
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of Utah Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, USA
| | - D A Delker
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of Utah Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, USA
| | - C H Hagedorn
- Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System and University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, USA
| | - P M Lynch
- Department of Gastroenterology Hepatology and Nutrition, Division of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, USA; Clinical Cancer Genetics Program, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, USA
| | - L M Ellis
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, USA; Department of Surgical Oncology, Division of Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, USA
| | - E T Hawk
- Department of Clinical Cancer Prevention, Division of Cancer Prevention and Population Sciences, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, USA
| | - P A Scheet
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, USA; Department of Epidemiology, Division of Cancer Prevention and Population Sciences, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, USA
| | - S Kopetz
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, USA; Department of GI Medical Oncology, Division of Cancer Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, USA
| | - J Arts
- Janssen Oncology Research & Development, Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson, Beerse, Belgium
| | - J Guinney
- Sage Bionetworks, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, USA
| | - R Dienstmann
- Sage Bionetworks, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, USA; Oncology Data Science (ODysSey) Group, Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Barcelona, Spain.
| | - E Vilar
- Department of Clinical Cancer Prevention, Division of Cancer Prevention and Population Sciences, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, USA; Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, USA; Clinical Cancer Genetics Program, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, USA; Department of GI Medical Oncology, Division of Cancer Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, USA.
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12
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A molecular portrait of epithelial-mesenchymal plasticity in prostate cancer associated with clinical outcome. Oncogene 2018; 38:913-934. [PMID: 30194451 PMCID: PMC6514858 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-018-0488-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2018] [Revised: 06/08/2018] [Accepted: 08/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The propensity of cancer cells to transition between epithelial and mesenchymal phenotypic states via the epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) program can regulate metastatic processes, cancer progression, and treatment resistance. Transcriptional investigations using reversible models of EMT, revealed the mesenchymal-to-epithelial reverting transition (MErT) to be enriched in clinical samples of metastatic castrate resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC). From this enrichment, a metastasis-derived gene signature was identified that predicted more rapid cancer relapse and reduced survival across multiple human carcinoma types. Additionally, the transcriptional profile of MErT is not a simple mirror image of EMT as tumour cells retain a transcriptional “memory” following a reversible EMT. This memory was also enriched in mCRPC samples. Cumulatively, our studies reveal the transcriptional profile of epithelial–mesenchymal plasticity and highlight the unique transcriptional properties of MErT. Furthermore, our findings provide evidence to support the association of epithelial plasticity with poor clinical outcomes in multiple human carcinoma types.
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13
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CYB5R1 links epithelial-mesenchymal transition and poor prognosis in colorectal cancer. Oncotarget 2017; 7:31350-60. [PMID: 27120783 PMCID: PMC5058761 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.8912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2015] [Accepted: 04/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancers show significant tumor cell heterogeneity within the same core genetic background. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is an important functional aspect of this heterogeneity and hallmark of colorectal cancer progression. Here, we identify CYB5R1, an enzyme involved in oxidative stress protection and drug metabolism, as an indicator of EMT in colon cancer. We demonstrate high CYB5R1 expression in colorectal cancer cells undergoing EMT at the infiltrative tumor edge and reveal an extraordinarily strong association of CYB5R1 expression with two core EMT gene expression signatures in a large independent colon cancer data set from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). Furthermore, we demonstrate that CYB5R1 is required for an infiltrative tumor cell phenotype, and robustly linked with poor prognosis in colorectal cancer. Our findings have important implications for colon cancer cells undergoing EMT and may be exploited for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.
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14
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Blocking endothelin-1-receptor/β-catenin circuit sensitizes to chemotherapy in colorectal cancer. Cell Death Differ 2017; 24:1811-1820. [PMID: 28708138 PMCID: PMC5596423 DOI: 10.1038/cdd.2017.121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2017] [Revised: 06/09/2017] [Accepted: 06/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The limited clinical response to conventional chemotherapeutics observed in colorectal cancer (CRC) may be related to the connections between the hyperactivated β-catenin signaling and other pathways in CRC stem-like cells (CRC-SC). Here, we show the mechanistic link between the endothelin-1 (ET-1)/ET-1 receptor (ET-1R) signaling and β-catenin pathway through the specific interaction with the signal transducer β-arrestin1 (β-arr1), which initiates signaling cascades as part of the signaling complex. Using a panel of patient-derived CRC-SC, we show that these cells secrete ET-1 and express ETAR and β-arr1, and that the activation of ETAR/β-arr1 axis promotes the cross-talk with β-catenin signaling to sustain stemness, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) phenotype and response to chemotherapy. Upon ETAR activation, β-arr1 acts as a transcription co-activator that binds β-catenin, thereby promoting nuclear complex with β-catenin/TFC4 and p300 and histone acetylation, inducing chromatin reorganization on target genes, such as ET-1. The enhanced transcription of ET-1 increases the self-sustained ET-1/β-catenin network. All these findings provide a strong rationale for targeting ET-1R to hamper downstream β-catenin/ET-1 autocrine circuit. Interestingly, treatment with macitentan, a dual ETAR and ETBR antagonist, able to interfere with tumor and microenvironment, disrupts the ET-1R/β-arr1-β-catenin interaction impairing pathways involved in cell survival, EMT, invasion, and enhancing sensitivity to oxaliplatin (OX) and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU). In CRC-SC xenografts, the combination of macitentan and OX or 5-FU enhances the therapeutic effects of cytotoxic drugs. Together, these results provide mechanistic insight into how ET-1R coopts β-catenin signaling and offer a novel therapeutic strategy to manage CRC based on the combination of macitentan and chemotherapy that might benefit patients whose tumors show high ETAR and β-catenin expression.
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15
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Balch C, Ramapuram JB, Tiwari AK. The Epigenomics of Embryonic Pathway Signaling in Colorectal Cancer. Front Pharmacol 2017; 8:267. [PMID: 28579957 PMCID: PMC5437112 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2017.00267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2017] [Accepted: 04/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second-leading cause of cancer death in developed countries. While early detection (e.g., colonoscopy) generally yields excellent outcomes, metastatic and drug-resistant disease is uniformly fatal, and non-compliance for screening remains over 25%. Familial CRCs (10% of total cases) primarily include mutations in the gene APC. Somatic disease is linked to several environmental several risk factors, including mutations in WNT, KRAS, and TGFβ. To reflect the genesis/progression of CRC, a series of five discrete stages, from normal colon mucosa to fully invasive carcinoma, each regulated by specific “gatekeeper” genes, remains well-accepted after 20 years. However, many CRC tumors do not possess those particular mutations, suggesting alternative mechanisms. More recently, embryo-like “cancer stem cells” have been proposed to undergo self-renewal and drive tumorigenesis (and possibly, metastasis), as governed by specific “epigenomic” alterations. Here, we review recent literature describing possible mechanisms that underlie these phenotypes, including cancer “stemness,” believed by many to associate with the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). We further propose that the maintenance of undifferentiated phenotypes, by the activity of distinct transcription factors, facilitates chromatin remodeling and phenotypic plasticity. With that regard, we support recent assertions that EMT is not an “either/or” event, but rather a continuous spectrum of mesenchymal vs. epithelial phenotypes (in various degrees of aberrant differentiation/undifferentiation). Finally, we discuss possible methods of pharmacologically targeting such aberrant epigenomes, with regard to their possible relevance toward halting, or even reversing, colorectal cancer progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Curt Balch
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, School of Pharmacy, University of Toledo, ToledoOH, USA.,Bioscience Advising, YpsilantiMI, USA.,Complex Biological Systems Alliance, North AndoverMA, USA
| | - Jayaram B Ramapuram
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Auburn University, AuburnAL, USA
| | - Amit K Tiwari
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, School of Pharmacy, University of Toledo, ToledoOH, USA
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16
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Sugai T, Eizuka M, Takahashi Y, Fukagawa T, Habano W, Yamamoto E, Akasaka R, Otuska K, Matsumoto T, Suzuki H. Molecular subtypes of colorectal cancers determined by PCR-based analysis. Cancer Sci 2017; 108:427-434. [PMID: 28083970 PMCID: PMC5378279 DOI: 10.1111/cas.13164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2016] [Revised: 12/05/2016] [Accepted: 01/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumor tissue consists of a heterogeneous cell population. The allelic imbalance (AI) ratio, determined in isolated tumor glands, is a good index of tumor heterogeneity. However, associations of the patterns of AI and microsatellite instability (MSI) development, observed in most cases of colorectal cancer (CRC), with tumor progression have not been reported previously. In this study, we examined whether CRC genetic profiles stratified by a combination of the AI ratio and MSI facilitate categorization of CRC, and whether these genetic profiles are associated with specific molecular alterations in CRC. A crypt isolation method was used to isolate DNA from tumors and normal glands obtained from 147 sporadic CRCs. AI and MSI statuses were determined using PCR‐based microsatellite analysis and stratified based on AI ratio and MSI status. DNA methylation status (high methylation, intermediate methylation and low methylation status and mutations in KRAS,BRAF, and TP53 were examined. In addition, mucin markers were immunostained. Based on this analysis, four subgroups were categorized. Subgroup 1 was characterized by a high MSI status and BRAF mutation; subgroup 2 was closely associated with a high AI ratio, which accumulated during the early phases of colorectal carcinogenesis, and TP53 mutation; subgroup 3 was associated with a low AI ratio, seen during the later phases of colorectal carcinogenesis, and KRAS mutation; and subgroup 4 was defined as a minor subgroup. These results confirmed that classification of distinct molecular profiles provides important insights into colorectal carcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamotsu Sugai
- Department of Molecular Diagnostic Pathology, School of Pharmacy, Iwate Medical University, Morioka, Japan
| | - Makoto Eizuka
- Department of Molecular Diagnostic Pathology, School of Pharmacy, Iwate Medical University, Morioka, Japan
| | - Yayoi Takahashi
- Department of Molecular Diagnostic Pathology, School of Pharmacy, Iwate Medical University, Morioka, Japan
| | - Tomoyuki Fukagawa
- Department of Molecular Diagnostic Pathology, School of Pharmacy, Iwate Medical University, Morioka, Japan
| | - Wataru Habano
- Pharmacodynamics and Molecular Genetics, School of Pharmacy, Iwate Medical University, Morioka, Japan
| | - Eiichiro Yamamoto
- Department of Molecular Biology, Sapporo Medical University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Risaburo Akasaka
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Iwate Medical University, Morioka, Japan
| | - Kouki Otuska
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Iwate Medical University, Morioka, Japan
| | - Takayuki Matsumoto
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Iwate Medical University, Morioka, Japan
| | - Hiromu Suzuki
- Department of Molecular Biology, Sapporo Medical University, Sapporo, Japan
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17
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Wojtukiewicz MZ, Hempel D, Sierko E, Tucker SC, Honn KV. Thrombin-unique coagulation system protein with multifaceted impacts on cancer and metastasis. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2017; 35:213-33. [PMID: 27189210 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-016-9626-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The association between blood coagulation and cancer development is well recognized. Thrombin, the pleiotropic enzyme best known for its contribution to fibrin formation and platelet aggregation during vascular hemostasis, may also trigger cellular events through protease-activated receptors, PAR-1 and PAR-4, leading to cancer progression. Our pioneering findings provided evidence that thrombin contributes to cancer metastasis by increasing adhesive potential of malignant cells. However, there is evidence that thrombin regulates every step of cancer dissemination: (1) cancer cell invasion, detachment from primary tumor, migration; (2) entering the blood vessel; (3) surviving in vasculature; (4) extravasation; (5) implantation in host organs. Recent studies have provided new molecular data about thrombin generation in cancer patients and the mechanisms by which thrombin contributes to transendothelial migration, platelet/tumor cell interactions, angiogenesis, and other processes. Though a great deal is known regarding the role of thrombin in cancer dissemination, there are new data for multiple thrombin-mediated events that justify devoting focus to this topic with a comprehensive approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marek Z Wojtukiewicz
- Department of Oncology, Medical University of Bialystok, 12 Ogrodowa St., 15-025, Bialystok, Poland. .,Department of Clinical Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center in Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland.
| | - Dominika Hempel
- Department of Oncology, Medical University of Bialystok, 12 Ogrodowa St., 15-025, Bialystok, Poland.,Department of Radiotherapy, Comprehensive Cancer Center in Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Ewa Sierko
- Department of Oncology, Medical University of Bialystok, 12 Ogrodowa St., 15-025, Bialystok, Poland.,Department of Radiotherapy, Comprehensive Cancer Center in Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Stephanie C Tucker
- Bioactive Lipids Research Program, Department of Pathology-School of Medicine, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Kenneth V Honn
- Bioactive Lipids Research Program, Department of Pathology-School of Medicine, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA.,Department of Chemistry, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA.,Department of Oncology, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Detroit, MI, USA
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18
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Calebin-A induces cell cycle arrest in human colon cancer cells and xenografts in nude mice. J Funct Foods 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2016.08.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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19
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Abstract
Although many studies have demonstrated that components of the hemostatic system may be involved in signaling leading to cancer progression, the potential mechanisms by which they contribute to cancer dissemination are not yet precisely understood. Among known coagulant factors, tissue factor (TF) and thrombin play a pivotal role in cancer invasion. They may be generated in the tumor microenvironment independently of blood coagulation and can induce cell signaling through activation of protease-activated receptors (PARs). PARs are transmembrane G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) that are activated by a unique proteolytic mechanism. They play important roles in vascular physiology, neural tube closure, hemostasis, and inflammation. All of these agents (TF, thrombin, PARs—mainly PAR-1 and PAR-2) are thought to promote cancer invasion and metastasis at least in part by facilitating tumor cell migration, angiogenesis, and interactions with host vascular cells, including platelets, fibroblasts, and endothelial cells lining blood vessels. Here, we discuss the role of PARs and their activators in cancer progression, focusing on TF- and thrombin-mediated actions. Therapeutic options tailored specifically to inhibit PAR-induced signaling in cancer patients are presented as well.
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20
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Renaud S, Falcoz PE. How can we identify new biomarkers for patients with for lung metastasectomy in colorectal cancer. Future Oncol 2016; 11:2109-11. [PMID: 26235176 DOI: 10.2217/fon.15.124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Stéphane Renaud
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Strasbourg University Hospital, Strasbourg, France.,EA 3430: Tumoral Progression & Micro-environment, Epidemiological & Translational Approaches, Translational Medicine Federation, University of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
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21
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Jepsen RK, Novotny GW, Klarskov LL, Christensen IJ, Riis LB, Høgdall E. Intra-tumor heterogeneity of microRNA-92a, microRNA-375 and microRNA-424 in colorectal cancer. Exp Mol Pathol 2016; 100:125-31. [DOI: 10.1016/j.yexmp.2015.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2015] [Revised: 12/03/2015] [Accepted: 12/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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22
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Ferrao PT, Behren A, Anderson RL, Thompson EW. Editorial: Cellular and Phenotypic Plasticity in Cancer. Front Oncol 2015; 5:171. [PMID: 26301202 PMCID: PMC4523780 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2015.00171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2015] [Accepted: 07/09/2015] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Petranel T Ferrao
- Oncogenic Signalling and Growth Control Program and Cancer Therapeutics Program, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre , East Melbourne, VIC , Australia ; The Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne , East Melbourne, VIC , Australia
| | - Andreas Behren
- Cancer Immunobiology, Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute , Heidelberg, VIC , Australia ; School of Cancer Medicine, La Trobe University , Heidelberg, VIC , Australia
| | - Robin L Anderson
- The Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne , East Melbourne, VIC , Australia ; Metastasis Research Laboratory, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre , East Melbourne, VIC , Australia
| | - Erik W Thompson
- Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation and School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology , Kelvin Grove, QLD , Australia
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23
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Gazzaniga P, Raimondi C, Nicolazzo C, Carletti R, di Gioia C, Gradilone A, Cortesi E. The rationale for liquid biopsy in colorectal cancer: a focus on circulating tumor cells. Expert Rev Mol Diagn 2015; 15:925-32. [PMID: 25959553 DOI: 10.1586/14737159.2015.1045491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Capturing circulating tumor cells (CTCs) and/or circulating tumor DNA from blood, which represents a precious source of biological material derived from both primary and metastatic tumors, has been named a 'liquid biopsy'. While the circulating tumor DNA might be more representative of the bulk of the metastatic tumor, CTCs are thought to reflect more of the metastases-initiating cells. Consequently, a liquid biopsy made of tumor cells and tumor DNA that is able to track cancer evolution, as a fingerprint of the patient's individual tumor, and is easy to perform at every stage of the disease course, sounds attractive. This article mainly focuses on the applications of CTCs to track tumor dynamics in real time using colorectal cancer as a model system. The analysis of viable CTCs at DNA, RNA and protein levels, as well as their expansion in vitro, may allow deep investigation of the features of metastases-initiating cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Gazzaniga
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare, Sapienza Università di Roma, Roma, Italy
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