1
|
Sentek H, Braun A, Budeus B, Klein D. Non-small cell lung cancer cells and concomitant cancer therapy induce a resistance-promoting phenotype of tumor-associated mesenchymal stem cells. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1406268. [PMID: 39011489 PMCID: PMC11246879 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1406268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The tumor microenvironment gained attraction over the last decades as stromal cells significantly impact on tumor development, progression and metastasis, and immune evasion as well as on cancer therapy resistance. We previously reported that lung-resident mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) were mobilized and activated in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) progression and could even mediate radiation resistance in co-cultured NSCLC cells. Methods We investigated how MSCs were affected by NSCLC cells in combination with cancer (radiation) therapy in indirect co-cultures using tumor-conditioned medium and Transwells or direct three-dimensional NSCLC-MSC spheroid co-cultures in order to unravel the resistance-mediating action of tumor-associated MSCs. Results Although no obvious phenotypic and functional alterations in MSCs following NSCLC co-culture could be observed, MSC senescence was induced following co-applied radiotherapy (RT). Global gene expression profiling, in combination with gene set enrichment analysis upon treatment, was used to confirm the senescent phenotype of irradiated MSC and to reveal relevant senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) factors that could meditate NSCLC RT resistance. We identified senescent tumor-associated MSC-derived serine proteinase inhibitor (serpin) E1/PAI1 as potential SASP factor mediating NSCLC progression and RT resistance. Discussion Specified intra-tumor-stroma interactions and cell type-specific pro-tumorigenic functions could not only improve lung cancer classification but could even be used for a more precise profiling of individual patients, finally paving an additional way for the discovery of potential drug targets for NSCLC patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Diana Klein
- Institute of Cell Biology (Cancer Research), University of Duisburg-Essen, University Hospital, Essen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Xu J, Zhang J, Chen W, Ni X. The tumor-associated fibrotic reactions in microenvironment aggravate glioma chemoresistance. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1388700. [PMID: 38863628 PMCID: PMC11165034 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1388700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Malignant gliomas are one of the most common and lethal brain tumors with poor prognosis. Most patients with glioblastoma (GBM) die within 2 years of diagnosis, even after receiving standard treatments including surgery combined with concomitant radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Temozolomide (TMZ) is the first-line chemotherapeutic agent for gliomas, but the frequent acquisition of chemoresistance generally leads to its treatment failure. Thus, it's urgent to investigate the strategies for overcoming glioma chemoresistance. Currently, many studies have elucidated that cancer chemoresistance is not only associated with the high expression of drug-resistance genes in glioma cells but also can be induced by the alterations of the tumor microenvironment (TME). Numerous studies have explored the use of antifibrosis drugs to sensitize chemotherapy in solid tumors, and surprisingly, these preclinical and clinical attempts have exhibited promising efficacy in treating certain types of cancer. However, it remains unclear how tumor-associated fibrotic alterations in the glioma microenvironment (GME) mediate chemoresistance. Furthermore, the possible mechanisms behind this phenomenon are yet to be determined. In this review, we have summarized the molecular mechanisms by which tumor-associated fibrotic reactions drive glioma transformation from a chemosensitive to a chemoresistant state. Additionally, we have outlined antitumor drugs with antifibrosis functions, suggesting that antifibrosis strategies may be effective in overcoming glioma chemoresistance through TME normalization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiaqi Xu
- The Second Clinical Medical School, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ji Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wubing Chen
- Department of Radiology, Wuxi Fifth People’s Hospital, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Xiangrong Ni
- The Second Clinical Medical School, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Translational Medicine Research Center, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Yavuz A, Simsek K, Alpsoy A, Altunay B, Gedik EO, Unal B, Bassorgun CI, Tatli AM, Elpek GO. Prognostic significance of tumor budding, desmoplastic reaction, and lymphocytic infiltration in patients with gastric adenocarcinoma. World J Gastrointest Pathophysiol 2024; 15:91237. [PMID: 38682027 PMCID: PMC11045359 DOI: 10.4291/wjgp.v15.i1.91237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent studies have shown that the tumor microenvironment significantly influences the behavior of solid tumors. In this context, Accumulated data suggests that pathological evaluation of tumor budding (TB), desmoplastic reaction (DR), and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) may be crucial in determining tumor behavior in the gastrointestinal tract. Regarding gastric adenocarcinoma (GAC), although some results suggest that TB and TILs may be effective in determining the course of the disease, the data do not agree. Moreover, very few studies have investigated the relationship between DR and survival. At present, the associations between tumor TB, DR and TILs in GAC patients have not been determined. AIM To establish the relationships between TB, DR, and TILs in patients with GAC and to assess their influence on prognosis. METHODS Our study group comprised 130 patients diagnosed with GAC. The definition of TB was established based on the International TB Consensus Conference. The DR was categorized into three groups according to the level of tumor stroma maturation. The assessment of TILs was conducted using a semiquantitative approach, employing a cutoff value of 5%. The statistical analysis of the whole group and 100 patients with an intestinal subtype of GAC was performed using SPSS version 27. RESULTS A significant correlation between peritumoral budding (PTB) and intratumoral budding (ITB) was noted (r = 0.943). Tumors with high PTBs and ITBs had a greater incidence of immature DRs and low TILs (P < 0.01). PTB and ITB were associated with histological subtype, lymph node metastasis (LNM), and stage (P < 0.01). ITB, PTB, LNM, DR, and stage were significant risk factors associated with poor prognosis. The multivariate Cox regression analysis identified ITB, PTB, and LNM as independent prognostic variables (P < 0.05). In intestinal-type adenocarcinomas, a positive correlation between PTB and ITB was noted (r = 0.972). While univariate analysis revealed that LNM, stage, PTB, ITB, and DR were strong parameters for predicting survival (P < 0.05), only PTB and ITB were found to be independent prognostic factors (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION TB may be a potential prognostic marker in GAC. However, further studies are needed to delineate its role in pathology reporting protocols and the predictive effects of DR and TILs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aysen Yavuz
- Department of Pathology, Akdeniz University Medical School, Antalya 07070, Türkiye
| | - Kubra Simsek
- Department of Pathology, Akdeniz University Medical School, Antalya 07070, Türkiye
| | - Anil Alpsoy
- Department of Pathology, Akdeniz University Medical School, Antalya 07070, Türkiye
| | - Busra Altunay
- Department of Pathology, Akdeniz University Medical School, Antalya 07070, Türkiye
| | - Elif Ocak Gedik
- Department of Pathology, Akdeniz University Medical School, Antalya 07070, Türkiye
| | - Betul Unal
- Department of Pathology, Akdeniz University Medical School, Antalya 07070, Türkiye
| | | | - Ali Murat Tatli
- Department of Medical Oncology, Akdeniz University Medical School, Antalya 07070, Türkiye
| | - Gulsum Ozlem Elpek
- Department of Pathology, Akdeniz University Medical School, Antalya 07070, Türkiye
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Padathpeedika Khalid J, Mary Martin T, Prathap L, Abhimanyu Nisargandha M, Boopathy N, Kishore Kumar MS. Exploring Tumor-Promoting Qualities of Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts and Innovative Drug Discovery Strategies With Emphasis on Thymoquinone. Cureus 2024; 16:e53949. [PMID: 38468988 PMCID: PMC10925941 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.53949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Tumor epithelial development and chemoresistance are highly promoted by the tumor microenvironment (TME), which is mostly made up of the cancer stroma. This is due to several causes. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) stand out among them as being essential for the promotion of tumors. Understanding the fibroblastic population within a single tumor is made more challenging by the undeniable heterogeneity within it, even though particular stromal alterations are still up for debate. Numerous chemical signals released by tumors improve the connections between heterotypic fibroblasts and CAFs, promoting the spread of cancer. It becomes essential to have a thorough understanding of this complex microenvironment to effectively prevent solid tumor growth. Important new insights into the role of CAFs in the TME have been revealed by recent studies. The objective of this review is to carefully investigate the relationship between CAFs in tumors and plant secondary metabolites, with a focus on thymoquinone (TQ). The literature published between 2010 and 2023 was searched in PubMed and Google Scholar with keywords such as TQ, TME, cancer-associated fibroblasts, mechanism of action, and flavonoids. The results showed a wealth of data substantiating the activity of plant secondary metabolites, particularly TQ's involvement in blocking CAF operations. Scrutinized research also clarified the wider effect of flavonoids on pathways related to cancer. The present study highlights the complex dynamics of the TME and emphasizes the critical role of CAFs. It also examines the possible interventions provided by secondary metabolites found in plants, with TQ playing a vital role in regulating CAF function based on recent literature.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jabir Padathpeedika Khalid
- Department of Physiology, Saveetha Medical College and Hospital, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, IND
| | - Taniya Mary Martin
- Department of Anatomy, Biomedical Research Unit and Laboratory Animal Centre, Saveetha Dental College and Hospital, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, IND
| | - Lavanya Prathap
- Department of Anatomy, Saveetha Medical College and Hospital, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, IND
| | - Milind Abhimanyu Nisargandha
- Department of Physiology, Saveetha Medical College and Hospital, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, IND
| | - Nisha Boopathy
- Department of Community Medicine, Saveetha Medical College and Hospital, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, IND
| | - Meenakshi Sundaram Kishore Kumar
- Department of Anatomy, Biomedical Research Unit and Laboratory Animal Centre, Saveetha Dental College and Hospital, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, IND
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Bagger MM, Sjölund J, Kim J, Kohler KT, Villadsen R, Jafari A, Kassem M, Pietras K, Rønnov-Jessen L, Petersen OW. Evidence of steady-state fibroblast subtypes in the normal human breast as cells-of-origin for perturbed-state fibroblasts in breast cancer. Breast Cancer Res 2024; 26:11. [PMID: 38229104 PMCID: PMC10790388 DOI: 10.1186/s13058-024-01763-3] [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: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human breast cancer most frequently originates within a well-defined anatomical structure referred to as the terminal duct lobular unit (TDLU). This structure is endowed with its very own lobular fibroblasts representing one out of two steady-state fibroblast subtypes-the other being interlobular fibroblasts. While cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are increasingly appreciated as covering a spectrum of perturbed states, we lack a coherent understanding of their relationship-if any-with the steady-state fibroblast subtypes. To address this, we here established two autologous CAF lines representing inflammatory CAFs (iCAFs) and myofibroblast CAFs (myCAFs) and compared them with already established interlobular- and lobular fibroblasts with respect to their origin and impact on tumor formation. METHODS Primary breast tumor-derived CAFs were transduced to express human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) and sorted into CD105low and CD105high populations using fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS). The two populations were tested for differentiation similarities to iCAF and myCAF states through transcriptome-wide RNA-Sequencing (RNA-Seq) including comparison to an available iCAF-myCAF cell state atlas. Inference of origin in interlobular and lobular fibroblasts relied on RNA-Seq profiles, immunocytochemistry and growth characteristics. Osteogenic differentiation and bone formation assays in culture and in vivo were employed to gauge for origin in bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (bMSCs). Functional characteristics were assessed with respect to contractility in culture and interaction with tumor cells in mouse xenografts. The cells' gene expression signatures were tested for association with clinical outcome of breast cancer patients using survival data from The Cancer Genome Atlas database. RESULTS We demonstrate that iCAFs have properties in common with interlobular fibroblasts while myCAFs and lobular fibroblasts are related. None of the CAFs qualify as bMSCs as revealed by lack of critical performance in bone formation assays. Functionally, myCAFs and lobular fibroblasts are almost equally tumor promoting as opposed to iCAFs and interlobular fibroblasts. A myCAF gene signature is found to associate with poor breast cancer-specific survival. CONCLUSIONS We propose that iCAFs and myCAFs originate in interlobular and lobular fibroblasts, respectively, and more importantly, that the tumor-promoting properties of lobular fibroblasts render the TDLU an epicenter for breast cancer evolution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mikkel Morsing Bagger
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University Cancer Centre, Lund University, Lund, Sweden.
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Jonas Sjölund
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University Cancer Centre, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Jiyoung Kim
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - René Villadsen
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Abbas Jafari
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Moustapha Kassem
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Laboratory of Molecular Endocrinology, KMEB, Department of Endocrinology, Odense University Hospital and University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Kristian Pietras
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University Cancer Centre, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Lone Rønnov-Jessen
- Section for Cell Biology and Physiology, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ole William Petersen
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Borzone FR, Giorello MB, Sanmartin MC, Yannarelli G, Martinez LM, Chasseing NA. Mesenchymal stem cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts as a therapeutic strategy for breast cancer. Br J Pharmacol 2024; 181:238-256. [PMID: 35485850 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer and the leading cause of death among women. Recent evidence suggests that mesenchymal stromal/stem cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) have an essential role in cancer progression, invasion and therapy resistance. Therefore, they are considered as highly promising future therapeutic targets against breast cancer. The intrinsic tumour tropism and immunomodulatory capacities of mesenchymal stromal/stem cells are of special relevance for developing mesenchymal stromal/stem cells-based anti-tumour therapies that suppress primary tumour growth and metastasis. In addition, the utilization of therapies that target the stromal components of the tumour microenvironment in combination with standard drugs is an innovative tool that could improve patients' response to therapies and their survival. In this review, we discuss the currently available information regarding the possible use of mesenchymal stromal/stem cells-derived anti-tumour therapies, as well as the utilization of therapies that target CAFs in breast cancer microenvironment. Finally, these data can serve as a guide map for future research in this field, ultimately aiding the effective transition of these results into the clinic. LINKED ARTICLES: This article is part of a themed issue on Cancer Microenvironment and Pharmacological Interventions. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v181.2/issuetoc.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Raúl Borzone
- Laboratorio de Inmunohematología, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME) - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María Belén Giorello
- Laboratorio de Inmunohematología, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME) - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María Cecilia Sanmartin
- Laboratorio de Inmunohematología, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME) - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Laboratorio de Regulación Génica y Células Madre, Instituto de Medicina Traslacional, Trasplante y Bioingeniería (IMeTTyB), Universidad Favaloro-CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Gustavo Yannarelli
- Laboratorio de Regulación Génica y Células Madre, Instituto de Medicina Traslacional, Trasplante y Bioingeniería (IMeTTyB), Universidad Favaloro-CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Leandro Marcelo Martinez
- Hematology and Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, USA
| | - Norma Alejandra Chasseing
- Laboratorio de Inmunohematología, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME) - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Mu HY, Lin CM, Chu LA, Lin YH, Li J, Liu CY, Huang HC, Cheng SL, Lee TY, Lee HM, Chen HM, Tsai YJ, Chen Y, Huang JH. Ex Vivo Evaluation of Combination Immunotherapy Using Tumor-Microenvironment-on-Chip. Adv Healthc Mater 2024; 13:e2302268. [PMID: 37748773 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202302268] [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: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 09/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
Combination immunotherapy has emerged as a promising strategy to address the challenges associated with immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy in breast cancer. The efficacy of combination immunotherapy hinges upon the intricate and dynamic nature of the tumor microenvironment (TME), characterized by cellular heterogeneity and molecular gradients. However, current methodologies for drug screening often fail to accurately replicate these complex conditions, resulting in limited predictive capacity for treatment outcomes. Here, a tumor-microenvironment-on-chip (TMoC), integrating a circulation system and ex vivo tissue culture with physiological oxygen and nutrient gradients, is described. This platform enables spatial infiltration of cytotoxic CD8+ T cells and their targeted attack on the tumor, while preserving the high complexity and heterogeneity of the TME. The TMoC is employed to assess the synergistic effect of five targeted therapy drugs and five chemotherapy drugs in combination with immunotherapy, demonstrating strong concordance between chip and animal model responses. The TMoC holds significant potential for advancing drug development and guiding clinical decision-making, as it offers valuable insights into the complex dynamics of the TME.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hsuan-Yu Mu
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, 101, Sec. 2, Kuang-Fu Rd., Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, 101, Sec. 2, Kuang-Fu Rd., Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan
| | - Chiao-Min Lin
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, 101, Sec. 2, Kuang-Fu Rd., Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan
| | - Li-An Chu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Environmental Sciences, National Tsing Hua University, 101, Sec. 2, Kuang-Fu Rd., Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan
- Brain Research Center, National Tsing Hua University, 101, Sec. 2, Kuang-Fu Rd., Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan
| | - Ya-Hui Lin
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, 101, Sec. 2, Kuang-Fu Rd., Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan
| | - Ji Li
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, 101, Sec. 2, Kuang-Fu Rd., Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Environmental Sciences, National Tsing Hua University, 101, Sec. 2, Kuang-Fu Rd., Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan
| | - Chao-Yu Liu
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, 101, Sec. 2, Kuang-Fu Rd., Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan
| | - Hsi-Chien Huang
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, 101, Sec. 2, Kuang-Fu Rd., Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, 101, Sec. 2, Kuang-Fu Rd., Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan
| | - Sheng-Liang Cheng
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, 101, Sec. 2, Kuang-Fu Rd., Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan
| | - Tsung-Ying Lee
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, 101, Sec. 2, Kuang-Fu Rd., Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan
| | - Hsin Mei Lee
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, 101, Sec. 2, Kuang-Fu Rd., Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Min Chen
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, 101, Sec. 2, Kuang-Fu Rd., Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan
| | - Yun-Jen Tsai
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, 101, Sec. 2, Kuang-Fu Rd., Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan
| | - Yunching Chen
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, 101, Sec. 2, Kuang-Fu Rd., Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan
| | - Jen-Huang Huang
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, 101, Sec. 2, Kuang-Fu Rd., Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Peri SS, Narayanaa Y K, Hubert TD, Rajaraman R, Arfuso F, Sundaram S, Archana B, Warrier S, Dharmarajan A, Perumalsamy LR. Navigating Tumour Microenvironment and Wnt Signalling Crosstalk: Implications for Advanced Cancer Therapeutics. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:5847. [PMID: 38136392 PMCID: PMC10741643 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15245847] [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: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer therapeutics face significant challenges due to drug resistance and tumour recurrence. The tumour microenvironment (TME) is a crucial contributor and essential hallmark of cancer. It encompasses various components surrounding the tumour, including intercellular elements, immune system cells, the vascular system, stem cells, and extracellular matrices, all of which play critical roles in tumour progression, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, metastasis, drug resistance, and relapse. These components interact with multiple signalling pathways, positively or negatively influencing cell growth. Abnormal regulation of the Wnt signalling pathway has been observed in tumorigenesis and contributes to tumour growth. A comprehensive understanding and characterisation of how different cells within the TME communicate through signalling pathways is vital. This review aims to explore the intricate and dynamic interactions, expressions, and alterations of TME components and the Wnt signalling pathway, offering valuable insights into the development of therapeutic applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shraddha Shravani Peri
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Technology and Research, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai 600116, India; (S.S.P.); (K.N.Y.); (T.D.H.); (R.R.)
| | - Krithicaa Narayanaa Y
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Technology and Research, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai 600116, India; (S.S.P.); (K.N.Y.); (T.D.H.); (R.R.)
| | - Therese Deebiga Hubert
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Technology and Research, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai 600116, India; (S.S.P.); (K.N.Y.); (T.D.H.); (R.R.)
| | - Roshini Rajaraman
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Technology and Research, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai 600116, India; (S.S.P.); (K.N.Y.); (T.D.H.); (R.R.)
| | - Frank Arfuso
- School of Human Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia;
| | - Sandhya Sundaram
- Department of Pathology, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai 600116, India; (S.S.); (B.A.)
| | - B. Archana
- Department of Pathology, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai 600116, India; (S.S.); (B.A.)
| | - Sudha Warrier
- Department of Biotechnology, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai 600116, India;
| | - Arun Dharmarajan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Technology and Research, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai 600116, India; (S.S.P.); (K.N.Y.); (T.D.H.); (R.R.)
- School of Human Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia;
- Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin University, Perth, WA 6102, Australia
- Curtin Medical School, Curtin University, Perth, WA 6102, Australia
| | - Lakshmi R. Perumalsamy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Technology and Research, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai 600116, India; (S.S.P.); (K.N.Y.); (T.D.H.); (R.R.)
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Guo Z, Han S. Targeting cancer stem cell plasticity in triple-negative breast cancer. EXPLORATION OF TARGETED ANTI-TUMOR THERAPY 2023; 4:1165-1181. [PMID: 38213533 PMCID: PMC10776602 DOI: 10.37349/etat.2023.00190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a highly aggressive breast cancer subtype with limited treatment options. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are thought to play a crucial role in TNBC progression and resistance to therapy. CSCs are a small subpopulation of cells within tumors that possess self-renewal and differentiation capabilities and are responsible for tumor initiation, maintenance, and metastasis. CSCs exhibit plasticity, allowing them to switch between states and adapt to changing microenvironments. Targeting CSC plasticity has emerged as a promising strategy for TNBC treatment. This review summarizes recent advances in understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying CSC plasticity in TNBC and discusses potential therapeutic approaches targeting CSC plasticity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhengwang Guo
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Integration of Chinese and Western Medicine, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing 100142, China
| | - Shuyan Han
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Integration of Chinese and Western Medicine, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing 100142, China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Guha A, Goswami KK, Sultana J, Ganguly N, Choudhury PR, Chakravarti M, Bhuniya A, Sarkar A, Bera S, Dhar S, Das J, Das T, Baral R, Bose A, Banerjee S. Cancer stem cell-immune cell crosstalk in breast tumor microenvironment: a determinant of therapeutic facet. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1245421. [PMID: 38090567 PMCID: PMC10711058 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1245421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is globally one of the leading killers among women. Within a breast tumor, a minor population of transformed cells accountable for drug resistance, survival, and metastasis is known as breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs). Several experimental lines of evidence have indicated that BCSCs influence the functionality of immune cells. They evade immune surveillance by altering the characteristics of immune cells and modulate the tumor landscape to an immune-suppressive type. They are proficient in switching from a quiescent phase (slowly cycling) to an actively proliferating phenotype with a high degree of plasticity. This review confers the relevance and impact of crosstalk between immune cells and BCSCs as a fate determinant for BC prognosis. It also focuses on current strategies for targeting these aberrant BCSCs that could open avenues for the treatment of breast carcinoma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aishwarya Guha
- Department of Immunoregulation and Immunodiagnostics, Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute, Kolkata, India
| | | | - Jasmine Sultana
- Department of Immunoregulation and Immunodiagnostics, Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute, Kolkata, India
| | - Nilanjan Ganguly
- Department of Immunoregulation and Immunodiagnostics, Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute, Kolkata, India
| | - Pritha Roy Choudhury
- Department of Immunoregulation and Immunodiagnostics, Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute, Kolkata, India
| | - Mohona Chakravarti
- Department of Immunoregulation and Immunodiagnostics, Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute, Kolkata, India
| | - Avishek Bhuniya
- Department of Immunoregulation and Immunodiagnostics, Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute, Kolkata, India
| | - Anirban Sarkar
- Department of Immunoregulation and Immunodiagnostics, Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute, Kolkata, India
| | - Saurav Bera
- Department of Immunoregulation and Immunodiagnostics, Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute, Kolkata, India
| | - Sukanya Dhar
- Department of Immunoregulation and Immunodiagnostics, Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute, Kolkata, India
| | - Juhina Das
- Department of Immunoregulation and Immunodiagnostics, Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute, Kolkata, India
| | - Tapasi Das
- Department of Immunoregulation and Immunodiagnostics, Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute, Kolkata, India
| | - Rathindranath Baral
- Department of Immunoregulation and Immunodiagnostics, Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute, Kolkata, India
| | - Anamika Bose
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology Biotechnology National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER) Sahibzada Ajit Singh (S.A.S.) Nagar, Mohali, Punjab, India
| | - Saptak Banerjee
- Department of Immunoregulation and Immunodiagnostics, Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute, Kolkata, India
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Li YR, Fang Y, Lyu Z, Zhu Y, Yang L. Exploring the dynamic interplay between cancer stem cells and the tumor microenvironment: implications for novel therapeutic strategies. J Transl Med 2023; 21:686. [PMID: 37784157 PMCID: PMC10546755 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04575-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) have emerged as key contributors to tumor initiation, growth, and metastasis. In addition, CSCs play a significant role in inducing immune evasion, thereby compromising the effectiveness of cancer treatments. The reciprocal communication between CSCs and the tumor microenvironment (TME) is observed, with the TME providing a supportive niche for CSC survival and self-renewal, while CSCs, in turn, influence the polarization and persistence of the TME, promoting an immunosuppressive state. Consequently, these interactions hinder the efficacy of current cancer therapies, necessitating the exploration of novel therapeutic approaches to modulate the TME and target CSCs. In this review, we highlight the intricate strategies employed by CSCs to evade immune surveillance and develop resistance to therapies. Furthermore, we examine the dynamic interplay between CSCs and the TME, shedding light on how this interaction impacts cancer progression. Moreover, we provide an overview of advanced therapeutic strategies that specifically target CSCs and the TME, which hold promise for future clinical and translational studies in cancer treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Ruide Li
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.
| | - Ying Fang
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Zibai Lyu
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Yichen Zhu
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Lili Yang
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Rastegar-Pouyani N, Montazeri V, Marandi N, Aliebrahimi S, Andalib M, Jafarzadeh E, Montazeri H, Ostad SN. The Impact of Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts on Drug Resistance, Stemness, and Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Bladder Cancer: A Comparison between Recurrent and Non-Recurrent Patient-Derived CAFs. Cancer Invest 2023; 41:656-671. [PMID: 37462514 DOI: 10.1080/07357907.2023.2237576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
This study comparatively evaluated the possible effects of recurrent and non-recurrent patient-derived Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts (CAFs-R and -NR) on the bladder cancer cell line, EJ138. Both groups of CAFs increased cisplatin resistance and altered cell cycle distribution alongside induced resistance to apoptosis. Later, the scratch assay confirmed the cell migration-inducing effects of CAFs on cells. Nonetheless, only CAFs-R managed to increase sphere-formation and clonogenic levels in EJ138 cells, which were later validated by upregulating pluripotency transcription factors. Besides, CAFs-R also affected the expression levels of some of the EMT markers. Our study suggests that CAFs-R had stronger pro-tumorigenic effects on EJ138 cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nima Rastegar-Pouyani
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Vahideh Montazeri
- Department of Artificial Intelligence, Smart University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nikoo Marandi
- School of Pharmacy, Islamic Azad University of Medical Sciences, Tehran Iran
| | - Shima Aliebrahimi
- Department of Artificial Intelligence, Smart University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Melika Andalib
- Department of Pharmacognosy and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Emad Jafarzadeh
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamed Montazeri
- Department of Pharmacognosy and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Nasser Ostad
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Toxicology and Poisoning Research Centre, Department of Toxicology and Pharmacology, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Wahab R, Hasan MM, Azam Z, Grippo PJ, Al-Hilal TA. The role of coagulome in the tumor immune microenvironment. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2023; 200:115027. [PMID: 37517779 PMCID: PMC11099942 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2023.115027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
The rising incidence and persistent thrombosis in multiple cancers including those that are immunosuppressive highlight the need for understanding the tumor coagulome system and its role beyond hemostatic complications. Immunotherapy has shown significant benefits in solid organ tumors but has been disappointing in the treatment of hypercoagulable cancers, such as glioblastoma and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas. Thus, targeting thrombosis to prevent immunosuppression seems a clinically viable approach in cancer treatment. Hypercoagulable tumors often develop fibrin clots within the tumor microenvironment (TME) that dictates the biophysical characteristics of the tumor tissue. The application of systems biology and single-cell approaches highlight the potential role of coagulome or thrombocytosis in shaping the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME). In-depth knowledge of the tumor coagulome would provide unprecedented opportunities to better predict the hemostatic complications, explore how thrombotic stroma modulates tumor immunity, reexamine the significance of clinical biomarkers, and enable steering the stromal versus systemic immune response for boosting the effectiveness of immune checkpoint inhibitors in cancer treatment. We focus on the role of coagulation factors in priming a suppressive TIME and the huge potential of existing anticoagulant drugs in the clinical settings of cancer immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Riajul Wahab
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, USA
| | - Md Mahedi Hasan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, USA; Department of Environmental Science & Engineering, College of Science, University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, USA
| | - Zulfikar Azam
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, USA
| | - Paul J Grippo
- Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Taslim A Al-Hilal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, USA; Department of Environmental Science & Engineering, College of Science, University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Greimelmaier K, Klopp N, Mairinger E, Wessolly M, Borchert S, Steinborn J, Schmid KW, Wohlschlaeger J, Mairinger FD. Fibroblast activation protein-α expression in fibroblasts is common in the tumor microenvironment of colorectal cancer and may serve as a therapeutic target. Pathol Oncol Res 2023; 29:1611163. [PMID: 37614665 PMCID: PMC10442481 DOI: 10.3389/pore.2023.1611163] [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: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is still one of the leading causes of cancer death worldwide, emphasizing the need for further diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. Cancer invasion and metastasis are affected by the tumor microenvironment (TME), with cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) being the predominant cellular component. An important marker for CAF is fibroblast activation protein-α (FAP) which has been evaluated as therapeutic target for, e.g., radioligand therapy. The aim of this study was to examine CRC regarding the FAP expression as a candidate for targeted therapy. Methods: 67 CRC, 24 adenomas, 18 tissue samples of inflammation sites and 28 non-neoplastic, non-inflammatory tissue samples of colonic mucosa were evaluated for immunohistochemical FAP expression of CAF in tissue microarrays. The results were correlated with clinicopathological data, tumor biology and concurrent expression of additional immunohistochemical parameters. Results: 53/67 (79%) CRC and 6/18 (33%) inflammatory tissue specimens showed expression of FAP. However, FAP was only present in 1/24 (4%) adenomas and absent in normal mucosa (0/28). Thus, FAP expression in CRC was significantly higher than in the other investigated groups. Within the CRC cohort, expression of FAP did not correlate with tumor stage, grading or the MSI status. However, it was observed that tumors exhibiting high immunohistochemical expression of Ki-67, CD3, p53, and β-Catenin showed a significantly higher incidence of FAP expression. Conclusion: In the crosstalk between tumor cells and TME, CAF play a key role in carcinogenesis and metastatic spread. Expression of FAP was detectable in the majority of CRC but nearly absent in precursor lesions and non-neoplastic, non-inflammatory tissue. This finding indicates that FAP has the potential to emerge as a target for new diagnostic and therapeutic concepts in CRC. Additionally, the association between FAP expression and other immunohistochemical parameters displays the interaction between different components of the TME and demands further investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K. Greimelmaier
- Institut für Pathologie, Diakonissenkrankenhaus Flensburg, Flensburg, Germany
| | - N. Klopp
- Institut für Pathologie, Universitätsklinikum Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - E. Mairinger
- Institut für Pathologie, Universitätsklinikum Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - M. Wessolly
- Institut für Pathologie, Universitätsklinikum Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - S. Borchert
- Institut für Pathologie, Universitätsklinikum Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - J. Steinborn
- Institut für Pathologie, Universitätsklinikum Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - K. W. Schmid
- Institut für Pathologie, Universitätsklinikum Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - J. Wohlschlaeger
- Institut für Pathologie, Diakonissenkrankenhaus Flensburg, Flensburg, Germany
| | - F. D. Mairinger
- Institut für Pathologie, Universitätsklinikum Essen, Essen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Aboussekhra A, Islam SS, Alraouji NN. Activated breast stromal fibroblasts exhibit myoepithelial and mammary stem cells features. Transl Oncol 2023; 35:101721. [PMID: 37329829 PMCID: PMC10366632 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2023.101721] [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: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Active breast cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) promote tumor growth and spread, and like tumor cells they are also heterogeneous with various molecular sub-types and different pro-tumorigenic capacities. METHODS We have used immunoblotting as well as quantitative RT-PCR to assess the expression of various epithelial/mesenchymal as well as stemness markers in breast stromal fibroblasts. Immunofluorescence was utilized to assess the level of different myoepithelial and luminal markers at the cellular level. Flow cytometry allowed to determine the proportion of CD44- and ALDH1-positive breast fibroblasts, while sphere formation assay was used to test the ability of these cells to form mammospheres. RESULTS We have shown here that IL-6-dependent activation of breast and skin fibroblasts promotes mesenchymal-to-epithelial transition and stemness in a STAT3- and p16-dependent manner. Interestingly, most primary CAFs isolated from breast cancer patients exhibited such transition and expressed lower levels of the mesenchymal markers N-cadherin and vimentin as compared to their adjacent normal fibroblasts (TCFs) isolated from the same patients. We have also shown that some CAFs and IL-6-activated fibroblasts express high levels of the myoepithelial markers cytokeratin 14 and CD10. Interestingly, 12 CAFs isolated from breast tumors showed higher proportions of CD24low/CD44high and ALDHhigh cells, compared to their corresponding TCF cells. These CD44high cells have higher abilities to form mammospheres and to enhance cell proliferation of breast cancer cells in a paracrine manner relative to their corresponding CD44low cells. CONCLUSION Together, the present findings show novel characteristics of active breast stromal fibroblasts, which exhibit additional myoepithelial/progenitor features.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abdelilah Aboussekhra
- Department of Molecular Oncology, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, MBC # 03, PO BOX 3354, Riyadh 11211, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Syed S Islam
- Department of Molecular Oncology, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, MBC # 03, PO BOX 3354, Riyadh 11211, Saudi Arabia
| | - Noura N Alraouji
- Department of Molecular Oncology, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, MBC # 03, PO BOX 3354, Riyadh 11211, Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Zhao Y, Qin C, Zhao B, Wang Y, Li Z, Li T, Yang X, Wang W. Pancreatic cancer stemness: dynamic status in malignant progression. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2023; 42:122. [PMID: 37173787 PMCID: PMC10182699 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-023-02693-2] [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: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) is one of the most aggressive malignancies worldwide. Increasing evidence suggests that the capacity for self-renewal, proliferation, and differentiation of pancreatic cancer stem cells (PCSCs) contribute to major challenges with current PC therapies, causing metastasis and therapeutic resistance, leading to recurrence and death in patients. The concept that PCSCs are characterized by their high plasticity and self-renewal capacities is central to this review. We focused specifically on the regulation of PCSCs, such as stemness-related signaling pathways, stimuli in tumor cells and the tumor microenvironment (TME), as well as the development of innovative stemness-targeted therapies. Understanding the biological behavior of PCSCs with plasticity and the molecular mechanisms regulating PC stemness will help to identify new treatment strategies to treat this horrible disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yutong Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure On Translational Medicine in, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
| | - Cheng Qin
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure On Translational Medicine in, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
| | - Bangbo Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure On Translational Medicine in, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuanyang Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure On Translational Medicine in, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
| | - Zeru Li
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure On Translational Medicine in, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
| | - Tianyu Li
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure On Translational Medicine in, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoying Yang
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure On Translational Medicine in, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
| | - Weibin Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China.
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China.
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure On Translational Medicine in, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Gordon JAR, Evans MF, Ghule PN, Lee K, Vacek P, Sprague BL, Weaver DL, Stein GS, Stein JL. Identification of molecularly unique tumor-associated mesenchymal stromal cells in breast cancer patients. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0282473. [PMID: 36940196 PMCID: PMC10027225 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0282473] [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: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment is a complex mixture of cell types that bi-directionally interact and influence tumor initiation, progression, recurrence, and patient survival. Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) of the tumor microenvironment engage in crosstalk with cancer cells to mediate epigenetic control of gene expression. We identified CD90+ MSCs residing in the tumor microenvironment of patients with invasive breast cancer that exhibit a unique gene expression signature. Single-cell transcriptional analysis of these MSCs in tumor-associated stroma identified a distinct subpopulation characterized by increased expression of genes functionally related to extracellular matrix signaling. Blocking the TGFβ pathway reveals that these cells directly contribute to cancer cell proliferation. Our findings provide novel insight into communication between breast cancer cells and MSCs that are consistent with an epithelial to mesenchymal transition and acquisition of competency for compromised control of proliferation, mobility, motility, and phenotype.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan A. R. Gordon
- Department of Biochemistry, Larner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, United States of America
| | - Mark F. Evans
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Larner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, United States of America
| | - Prachi N. Ghule
- Department of Biochemistry, Larner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, United States of America
| | - Kyra Lee
- Department of Biochemistry, Larner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, United States of America
| | - Pamela Vacek
- Department of Surgery, Larner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, United States of America
| | - Brian L. Sprague
- Department of Surgery, Larner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, United States of America
| | - Donald L. Weaver
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Larner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, United States of America
| | - Gary S. Stein
- Department of Biochemistry, Larner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, United States of America
| | - Janet L. Stein
- Department of Biochemistry, Larner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Jiménez MC, Prieto K, Lasso P, Gutiérrez M, Rodriguez-Pardo V, Fiorentino S, Barreto A. Plant extract from Caesalpinia spinosa inhibits cancer-associated fibroblast-like cells generation and function in a tumor microenvironment model. Heliyon 2023; 9:e14148. [PMID: 36923867 PMCID: PMC10009686 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e14148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Interactions in the tumor microenvironment (TME) between tumor cells and stromal cells such as cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) favor increased survival, progression, and transformation of cancer cells by activating mechanisms of invasion and metastasis. The design of new therapies to modulate or eliminate the CAF phenotype or functionality has been the subject of recent research including natural product-based therapies. We have previously described the generation of a standardized extract rich in polyphenols obtained from the Caesalpinia spinosa plant (P2Et), which present antitumor activities in breast cancer and melanoma models through activities that modulate the metabolism of tumor cells or induce the development of the immune response. In this work, a model of CAF generation was initially developed from the exposure of 3T3 fibroblasts to the cytokine TGFβ1. CAF-like cells generated in this way exhibited changes in the expression of Caveolin-1 and α-SMA, and alterations in glucose metabolism and redox status, typical of CAFs isolated from tumor tissues. Then, P2Et was shown to counteract in vitro-induced CAF-like cell generation, preventing caveolin-1 loss and attenuating changes in glucose uptake and redox profile. This protective effect of P2Et translates into a decrease in the functional ability of CAFs to support colony formation and migration of 4T1 murine breast cancer tumor cells. In addition to the functional interference, the P2Et extract also decreased the expression of genes associated with the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and functional activities related to the modulation of the cancer stem cells (CSC) population. This work is an in vitro approach to evaluate natural extracts' effect on the interaction between CAF and tumor cells in the tumor microenvironment; thus, these results open the chance to design a more profound and mechanistic analysis to explore the molecular mechanisms of P2Et multimolecular activity and extent this analysis to an in vivo perspective. In summary, we present here a standardized polymolecular natural extract that has the potential to act in the TME by interfering with CAF generation and functionality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Camila Jiménez
- Grupo de Inmunobiología y Biología Celular, Facultad de Ciencias, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Colombia
| | - Karol Prieto
- Grupo de Inmunobiología y Biología Celular, Facultad de Ciencias, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Colombia
| | - Paola Lasso
- Grupo de Inmunobiología y Biología Celular, Facultad de Ciencias, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Colombia
| | - Melisa Gutiérrez
- Grupo de Inmunobiología y Biología Celular, Facultad de Ciencias, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Colombia
| | - Viviana Rodriguez-Pardo
- Grupo de Inmunobiología y Biología Celular, Facultad de Ciencias, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Colombia
| | - Susana Fiorentino
- Grupo de Inmunobiología y Biología Celular, Facultad de Ciencias, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Colombia
| | - Alfonso Barreto
- Grupo de Inmunobiología y Biología Celular, Facultad de Ciencias, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Colombia
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Jenner AL, Kelly W, Dallaston M, Araujo R, Parfitt I, Steinitz D, Pooladvand P, Kim PS, Wade SJ, Vine KL. Examining the efficacy of localised gemcitabine therapy for the treatment of pancreatic cancer using a hybrid agent-based model. PLoS Comput Biol 2023; 19:e1010104. [PMID: 36649330 PMCID: PMC9891514 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1010104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The prognosis for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) patients has not significantly improved in the past 3 decades, highlighting the need for more effective treatment approaches. Poor patient outcomes and lack of response to therapy can be attributed, in part, to a lack of uptake of perfusion of systemically administered chemotherapeutic drugs into the tumour. Wet-spun alginate fibres loaded with the chemotherapeutic agent gemcitabine have been developed as a potential tool for overcoming the barriers in delivery of systemically administrated drugs to the PDAC tumour microenvironment by delivering high concentrations of drug to the tumour directly over an extended period. While exciting, the practicality, safety, and effectiveness of these devices in a clinical setting requires further investigation. Furthermore, an in-depth assessment of the drug-release rate from these devices needs to be undertaken to determine whether an optimal release profile exists. Using a hybrid computational model (agent-based model and partial differential equation system), we developed a simulation of pancreatic tumour growth and response to treatment with gemcitabine loaded alginate fibres. The model was calibrated using in vitro and in vivo data and simulated using a finite volume method discretisation. We then used the model to compare different intratumoural implantation protocols and gemcitabine-release rates. In our model, the primary driver of pancreatic tumour growth was the rate of tumour cell division. We were able to demonstrate that intratumoural placement of gemcitabine loaded fibres was more effective than peritumoural placement. Additionally, we quantified the efficacy of different release profiles from the implanted fibres that have not yet been tested experimentally. Altogether, the model developed here is a tool that can be used to investigate other drug delivery devices to improve the arsenal of treatments available for PDAC and other difficult-to-treat cancers in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adrianne L. Jenner
- School of Mathematical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- * E-mail:
| | - Wayne Kelly
- School of Computer Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Michael Dallaston
- School of Mathematical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Robyn Araujo
- School of Mathematical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Isobelle Parfitt
- School of Mathematical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Dominic Steinitz
- Tweag Software Innovation Lab, London, United Kingdom
- Kingston University, Kingston, United Kingdom
| | - Pantea Pooladvand
- School of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Peter S. Kim
- School of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Samantha J. Wade
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Kara L. Vine
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Castro JL, Erler JT. Tipping the balance: New insights into stromal regulation of cancer. Cancer Cell 2022; 40:1467-1469. [PMID: 36513048 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccell.2022.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Desmoplastic extracellular matrix (ECM) exerts a seemingly paradoxical role in cancer, restricting or promoting progression. Two recent back-to-back Nature reports shed light on this conundrum, revealing the role of different hepatic stellate cell (HSC) populations and different collagen I cleavage states in directing the progression of cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joana Leitão Castro
- Biotech Research and Innovation Centre (BRIC), University of Copenhagen (UCPH), Ole Maaløes Vej 5, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Janine Terra Erler
- Biotech Research and Innovation Centre (BRIC), University of Copenhagen (UCPH), Ole Maaløes Vej 5, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Wang H, Wu S, Wang Y, Tang B. Rosiglitazone disrupts pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma progression by activating the tumor suppressor ESE3/EHF. Cancer Biol Med 2022; 19:j.issn.2095-3941.2022.0299. [PMID: 35856565 PMCID: PMC9334757 DOI: 10.20892/j.issn.2095-3941.2022.0299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Hongquan Wang
- Department of Pancreatic Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin, Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, China
| | - Shuang Wu
- Department of Pancreatic Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin, Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Department of Pancreatic Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin, Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, China
| | - Bo Tang
- Department of Pancreatic Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin, Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, China
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Chen J, Wei Y, Yang W, Huang Q, Chen Y, Zeng K, Chen J. IL-6: The Link Between Inflammation, Immunity and Breast Cancer. Front Oncol 2022; 12:903800. [PMID: 35924148 PMCID: PMC9341216 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.903800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of mortality in females. Over the past decades, intensive efforts have been made to uncover the pathogenesis of breast cancer. Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a pleiotropic factor which has a vital role in host defense immunity and acute stress. Moreover, a wide range of studies have identified the physiological and pathological roles of IL-6 in inflammation, immune and cancer. Recently, several IL-6 signaling pathway-targeted monoclonal antibodies have been developed for cancer and immune therapy. Combination of IL-6 inhibitory antibody with other pathways blockage drugs have demonstrated promising outcome in both preclinical and clinical trials. This review focuses on emerging studies on the strong linkages of IL-6/IL-6R mediated regulation of inflammation and immunity in cancer, especially in breast cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juan Chen
- Department of Medicine and Rehabilitation, Tung Wah Eastern Hospital, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yanghui Wei
- Department of Surgery, The Eighth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen, China
- *Correspondence: Yanghui Wei, ; Jiawei Chen,
| | - Weiqin Yang
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Qingnan Huang
- Department of Surgery, The Eighth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yong Chen
- Department of Surgery, The Eighth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Kai Zeng
- Department of Surgery, The Eighth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jiawei Chen
- Department of Surgery, The Eighth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen, China
- *Correspondence: Yanghui Wei, ; Jiawei Chen,
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Boyd LNC, Andini KD, Peters GJ, Kazemier G, Giovannetti E. Heterogeneity and plasticity of cancer-associated fibroblasts in the pancreatic tumor microenvironment. Semin Cancer Biol 2022; 82:184-196. [PMID: 33737108 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2021.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Revised: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an aggressive disease with a notably poor prognosis, in urgent need of improved treatment strategies. The desmoplastic PDAC tumor microenvironment (TME), marked by a high concentration of cancer-associated-fibroblasts (CAFs), is a dynamic part of PDAC pathophysiology which occasions a variety of effects throughout the course of pancreatic tumorigenesis and disease evolution. A better understanding of the desmoplastic TME and CAF biology in particular, should provide new opportunities for improving therapeutics. That CAFs have a tumor-supportive role in oncogenesis is well known, yet research evidence has shown that CAFs also have tumor-repressive functions. In this review, we seek to clarify the intriguing heterogeneity and plasticity of CAFs and their ambivalent role in PDAC tumorigenesis and progression. Additionally, we provide recommendations to advance the implementation of CAF-directed PDAC care. An improved understanding of CAFs' origins, spatial location, functional diversity, and marker determination, as well as CAF behavior during the course of PDAC progression and metastasis will provide essential knowledge for the future improvement of therapeutic strategies for patients suffering from PDAC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lenka N C Boyd
- Department of Surgery, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, De Boelelaan 1118, 1081 HZ, Postbus 7057, 1007 MB, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Medical Oncology, Lab of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, De Boelelaan 1118, 1081 HZ, Postbus 7057, 1007 MB, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Katarina D Andini
- Department of Medical Oncology, Lab of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, De Boelelaan 1118, 1081 HZ, Postbus 7057, 1007 MB, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Godefridus J Peters
- Department of Medical Oncology, Lab of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, De Boelelaan 1118, 1081 HZ, Postbus 7057, 1007 MB, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Biochemistry, Medical University of Gdansk, Marii Skłodowskiej-Curie 3a, 80-210, Gdańsk, Poland.
| | - Geert Kazemier
- Department of Surgery, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, De Boelelaan 1118, 1081 HZ, Postbus 7057, 1007 MB, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Elisa Giovannetti
- Department of Medical Oncology, Lab of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, De Boelelaan 1118, 1081 HZ, Postbus 7057, 1007 MB, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Cancer Pharmacology Lab, AIRC Start-Up Unit, Fondazione Pisana per la Scienza, Via Ferruccio Giovannini, 13, 56017, San Giuliano Terme PI, Pisa, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Chang YH, Hoang NN, Khanh VC, Yamashita T, Osaka M, Hiramatsu Y, Ohneda O. Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Promotes the Differentiation of Adipose Tissue-derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells into Cancer-associated Fibroblasts, Induced by Breast Cancer Cells. Stem Cells Dev 2022; 31:659-671. [PMID: 35734905 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2022.0086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) is a highly aggressive and invasive type of breast cancer. In addition, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is recognized as a risk factor for cancer metastasis, which is associated with mortality in patients with breast cancer. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) generated from adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells (AT-MSCs) play a vital role in the progression of TNBC. However, to date, whether T2DM affects the ability of AT-MSCs to differentiate into CAFs is still unclear. In the present study, we found that in coculture with TNBC cells (BCCs) under hypoxic conditions, AT-MSCs derived from T2DM donors (dAT-MSCs) were facilitated to differentiate into CAFs, which showed fibroblastic morphology, and the induced expression of fibroblastic markers, such as FAP, FSP and vimentin. This was involved in the higher expression of TGFRand the phosphorylation of Smad2/3. Furthermore, T2DM affected the fate and functions of CAFs derived from dAT-MSCs. While CAFs derived from AT-MSCs of healthy donors (AT-CATs) exhibited the markers of inflammatory CAFs, those derived from dAT-MSCs (dAT-CAFs) showed the markers of myofibroblastic CAFs. Of note, in comparison to AT-CAFs, dAT-CAFs showed a higher ability to induce the proliferation and in vivo metastasis of BCCs, which was involved in the activation of the TGF-Smad2/3 signaling pathway. Collectively, our study suggests that T2DM contributes to metastasis of BCCs by inducing the myofibroblastic CAFs differentiation of dAT-MSCs. In addition, targeting the TGF-Smad2/3 signaling pathway in dAT-MSCs may be useful in cancer therapy for TNBC patients with T2DM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yun-Hsuan Chang
- University of Tsukuba, 13121, Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Biology, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan;
| | - Ngo Nhat Hoang
- University of Tsukuba, 13121, Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Biology, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan;
| | - Vuong Cat Khanh
- University of Tsukuba, Regenerative Medicine, Tsukuba, Japan;
| | | | - Motoo Osaka
- University of Tsukuba, Cardiovascular Surgery, Tsukuba, Japan;
| | - Yuji Hiramatsu
- University of Tsukuba, Cardiovascular Surgery, Tsukuba, Japan;
| | - Osamu Ohneda
- University of Tsukuba, Regenerative Medicine, 1-1-1 Tennoudai, Tsukuba, Japan, 305-8575;
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Hirata N, Yamada S, Yanagida S, Ono A, Yasuhiko Y, Kanda Y. Transforming Growth Factor Beta Promotes the Expansion of Cancer Stem Cells <i>via</i> S1PR3 by Ligand-Independent Notch Activation. Biol Pharm Bull 2022; 45:649-658. [DOI: 10.1248/bpb.b22-00112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Naoya Hirata
- Division of Pharmacology, National Institute of Health Sciences
| | - Shigeru Yamada
- Division of Pharmacology, National Institute of Health Sciences
| | - Shota Yanagida
- Division of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Graduated School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University
| | - Atsushi Ono
- Division of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Graduated School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University
| | - Yukuto Yasuhiko
- Division of Pharmacology, National Institute of Health Sciences
| | - Yasunari Kanda
- Division of Pharmacology, National Institute of Health Sciences
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Fromme JE, Zigrino P. The Role of Extracellular Matrix Remodeling in Skin Tumor Progression and Therapeutic Resistance. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:864302. [PMID: 35558554 PMCID: PMC9086898 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.864302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The extracellular matrix remodeling in the skin results from a delicate balance of synthesis and degradation of matrix components, ensuring tissue homeostasis. These processes are altered during tumor invasion and growth, generating a microenvironment that supports growth, invasion, and metastasis. Apart from the cellular component, the tumor microenvironment is rich in extracellular matrix components and bound factors that provide structure and signals to the tumor and stromal cells. The continuous remodeling in the tissue compartment sustains the developing tumor during the various phases providing matrices and proteolytic enzymes. These are produced by cancer cells and stromal fibroblasts. In addition to fostering tumor growth, the expression of specific extracellular matrix proteins and proteinases supports tumor invasion after the initial therapeutic response. Lately, the expression and structural modification of matrices were also associated with therapeutic resistance. This review will focus on the significant alterations in the extracellular matrix components and the function of metalloproteinases that influence skin cancer progression and support the acquisition of therapeutic resistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julia E. Fromme
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Mildred Scheel School of Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Düsseldorf (MSSO ABCD), Cologne, Germany
| | - Paola Zigrino
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- *Correspondence: Paola Zigrino,
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Liu Q, Sun W, Zhang H. Roles and new Insights of Macrophages in the Tumor Microenvironment of Thyroid Cancer. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:875384. [PMID: 35479325 PMCID: PMC9035491 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.875384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Although most thyroid cancers have a good and predictable prognosis, the anaplastic, medullary, and refractory thyroid cancers still prone to recurrence and metastasis, resulting in poor prognosis. Although a number of newly developed targeted therapies have begun to be indicated for the above types of thyroid cancer in recent years, their ability to improve overall survival remain hindered by low efficacy. As the largest component of immune cells in tumor microenvironment, tumor-associated macrophages play a key role in the invasion and metastasis of thyroid cancer. There is much evidence that the immune system, tumor microenvironment and cancer stem cell interactions may revolutionize traditional therapeutic directions. Tumor-associated macrophages have been extensively studied in a variety of tumors, however, research on the relationship between thyroid cancer and macrophages is still insufficient. In this review, we summarize the functions of tumor-associated macrophages in different types of thyroid cancer, their cytokines or chemokines effect on thyroid cancer and the mechanisms that promote tumor proliferation and migration. In addition, we discuss the mechanisms by which tumor-associated macrophages maintain the stemness of thyroid cancer and potential strategies for targeting tumor-associated macrophages to treat thyroid cancer.
Collapse
|
29
|
Simon Davis DA, Atmosukarto II, Garrett J, Gosling K, Syed FM, Quah BJ. Irradiation immunity interactions. J Med Imaging Radiat Oncol 2022; 66:519-535. [PMID: 35261190 PMCID: PMC9314628 DOI: 10.1111/1754-9485.13399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The immune system can influence cancer development by both impeding and/or facilitating tumour growth and spread. A better understanding of this complex relationship is fundamental to optimise current and future cancer therapeutic strategies. Although typically regarded as a localised and immunosuppressive anti‐cancer treatment modality, radiation therapy has been associated with generating profound systemic effects beyond the intended target volume. These systemic effects are immune‐driven suggesting radiation therapy can enhance anti‐tumour immunosurveillance in some instances. In this review, we summarise how radiation therapy can positively and negatively affect local and systemic anti‐tumour immune responses, how co‐administration of immunotherapy with radiation therapy may help promote anti‐tumour immunity, and how the use of immune biomarkers may help steer radiation therapy‐immunotherapy personalisation to optimise clinical outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David A Simon Davis
- Irradiation Immunity Interaction Laboratory, John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia.,Division of Genome Sciences & Cancer, John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Ines I Atmosukarto
- Irradiation Immunity Interaction Laboratory, John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia.,Division of Genome Sciences & Cancer, John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Jessica Garrett
- Division of Genome Sciences & Cancer, John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Katharine Gosling
- Division of Genome Sciences & Cancer, John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Farhan M Syed
- Irradiation Immunity Interaction Laboratory, John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia.,Division of Genome Sciences & Cancer, John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia.,Radiation Oncology Department, Canberra Hospital, Canberra Health Services, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Ben Jc Quah
- Irradiation Immunity Interaction Laboratory, John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia.,Division of Genome Sciences & Cancer, John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia.,Radiation Oncology Department, Canberra Hospital, Canberra Health Services, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Fan C, Liao M, Xie L, Huang L, Lv S, Cai S, Su X, Wang Y, Wang H, Wang M, Liu Y, Wang Y, Guo H, Yang H, Liu Y, Wang T, Ma L. Single-Cell Transcriptome Integration Analysis Reveals the Correlation Between Mesenchymal Stromal Cells and Fibroblasts. Front Genet 2022; 13:798331. [PMID: 35360851 PMCID: PMC8961367 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.798331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) and fibroblasts show similar morphology, surface marker expression, and proliferation, differentiation, and immunomodulatory capacities. These similarities not only blur their cell identities but also limit their application. Methods: We performed single-cell transcriptome sequencing of the human umbilical cord and foreskin MSCs (HuMSCs and FSMSCs) and extracted the single-cell transcriptome data of the bone marrow and adipose MSCs (BMSCs and ADMSCs) from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Then, we performed quality control, batch effect correction, integration, and clustering analysis of the integrated single-cell transcriptome data from the HuMSCs, FMSCs, BMSCs, and ADMSCs. The cell subsets were annotated based on the surface marker phenotypes for the MSCs (CD105 + , CD90 +, CD73 +, CD45 -, CD34 -, CD19 -, HLA-DRA -, and CD11b -), fibroblasts (VIM +, PECAM1 -, CD34 -, CD45 -, EPCAM -, and MYH11 -), and pericytes (CD146 +, PDGFRB +, PECAM1 -, CD34 -, and CD45 -). The expression levels of common fibroblast markers (ACTA2, FAP, PDGFRA, PDGFRB, S100A4, FN1, COL1A1, POSTN, DCN, COL1A2, FBLN2, COL1A2, DES, and CDH11) were also analyzed in all cell subsets. Finally, the gene expression profiles, differentiation status, and the enrichment status of various gene sets and regulons were compared between the cell subsets. Results: We demonstrated 15 distinct cell subsets in the integrated single-cell transcriptome sequencing data. Surface marker annotation demonstrated the MSC phenotype in 12 of the 15 cell subsets. C10 and C14 subsets demonstrated both the MSC and pericyte phenotypes. All 15 cell subsets demonstrated the fibroblast phenotype. C8, C12, and C13 subsets exclusively demonstrated the fibroblast phenotype. We identified 3,275 differentially expressed genes, 305 enriched gene sets, and 34 enriched regulons between the 15 cell subsets. The cell subsets that exclusively demonstrated the fibroblast phenotype represented less primitive and more differentiated cell types. Conclusion: Cell subsets with the MSC phenotype also demonstrated the fibroblast phenotype, but cell subsets with the fibroblast phenotype did not necessarily demonstrate the MSC phenotype, suggesting that MSCs represented a subclass of fibroblasts. We also demonstrated that the MSCs and fibroblasts represented highly heterogeneous populations with distinct cell subsets, which could be identified based on the differentially enriched gene sets and regulons that specify proliferating, differentiating, metabolic, and/or immunomodulatory functions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chuiqin Fan
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Maochuan Liao
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Lichun Xie
- Department of Pediatrics, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (The Women and Children’s Medical Center of Guangzhou Medical University), Guangzhou, China
| | - Liangping Huang
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Siyu Lv
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Shenzhen Children’s Hospital of China Medical University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Siyu Cai
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Xing Su
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Yue Wang
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Shenzhen Children’s Hospital of China Medical University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Hongwu Wang
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Shenzhen Children’s Hospital of China Medical University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Manna Wang
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Shenzhen Children’s Hospital of China Medical University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yulin Liu
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Yu Wang
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Shenzhen Children’s Hospital of China Medical University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Huijie Guo
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Shenzhen Children’s Hospital of China Medical University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Hanhua Yang
- Department of Pediatrics, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (The Women and Children’s Medical Center of Guangzhou Medical University), Guangzhou, China
| | - Yufeng Liu
- Department of Pediatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Tianyou Wang
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Beijing Children’s Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Lian Ma
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
- Department of Pediatrics, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (The Women and Children’s Medical Center of Guangzhou Medical University), Guangzhou, China
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Shenzhen Children’s Hospital of China Medical University, Shenzhen, China
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Abstract
Drug resistance and metastasis—the major complications in cancer—both entail adaptation of cancer cells to stress, whether a drug or a lethal new environment. Intriguingly, these adaptive processes share similar features that cannot be explained by a pure Darwinian scheme, including dormancy, increased heterogeneity, and stress-induced plasticity. Here, we propose that learning theory offers a framework to explain these features and may shed light on these two intricate processes. In this framework, learning is performed at the single-cell level, by stress-driven exploratory trial-and-error. Such a process is not contingent on pre-existing pathways but on a random search for a state that diminishes the stress. We review underlying mechanisms that may support this search, and show by using a learning model that such exploratory learning is feasible in a high-dimensional system as the cell. At the population level, we view the tissue as a network of exploring agents that communicate, restraining cancer formation in health. In this view, disease results from the breakdown of homeostasis between cellular exploratory drive and tissue homeostasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aseel Shomar
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 32000, Israel
- Network Biology Research Laboratory, Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 32000, Israel
| | - Omri Barak
- Network Biology Research Laboratory, Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 32000, Israel
- Rappaport Faculty of Medicine Technion, Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 32000, Israel
| | - Naama Brenner
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 32000, Israel
- Network Biology Research Laboratory, Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 32000, Israel
- Corresponding author
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts: Mechanisms of Tumor Progression and Novel Therapeutic Targets. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14051231. [PMID: 35267539 PMCID: PMC8909913 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14051231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The tumor microenvironment plays an important role in determining the biological behavior of several of the more aggressive malignancies. Among the various cell types evident in the tumor “field”, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are a heterogenous collection of activated fibroblasts secreting a wide repertoire of factors that regulate tumor development and progression, inflammation, drug resistance, metastasis and recurrence. Insensitivity to chemotherapeutics and metastatic spread are the major contributors to cancer patient mortality. This review discusses the complex interactions between CAFs and the various populations of normal and neoplastic cells that interact within the dynamic confines of the tumor microenvironment with a focus on the involved pathways and genes. Abstract Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are a heterogenous population of stromal cells found in solid malignancies that coexist with the growing tumor mass and other immune/nonimmune cellular elements. In certain neoplasms (e.g., desmoplastic tumors), CAFs are the prominent mesenchymal cell type in the tumor microenvironment, where their presence and abundance signal a poor prognosis in multiple cancers. CAFs play a major role in the progression of various malignancies by remodeling the supporting stromal matrix into a dense, fibrotic structure while secreting factors that lead to the acquisition of cancer stem-like characteristics and promoting tumor cell survival, reduced sensitivity to chemotherapeutics, aggressive growth and metastasis. Tumors with high stromal fibrotic signatures are more likely to be associated with drug resistance and eventual relapse. Clarifying the molecular basis for such multidirectional crosstalk among the various normal and neoplastic cell types present in the tumor microenvironment may yield novel targets and new opportunities for therapeutic intervention. This review highlights the most recent concepts regarding the complexity of CAF biology including CAF heterogeneity, functionality in drug resistance, contribution to a progressively fibrotic tumor stroma, the involved signaling pathways and the participating genes.
Collapse
|
33
|
Xu P, Zhang S, Tan L, Wang L, Yang Z, Li J. Local Anesthetic Ropivacaine Exhibits Therapeutic Effects in Cancers. Front Oncol 2022; 12:836882. [PMID: 35186766 PMCID: PMC8851418 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.836882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the significant progress in cancer treatment, new anticancer therapeutics drugs with new structures and/or mechanisms are still in urgent need to tackle many key challenges. Drug repurposing is a feasible strategy in discovering new drugs among the approved drugs by defining new indications. Recently, ropivacaine, a local anesthetic that has been applied in clinical practice for several decades, has been found to possess inhibitory activity and sensitizing effects when combined with conventional chemotherapeutics toward cancer cells. While its full applications and the exact targets remain to be revealed, it has been indicated that its anticancer potency was mediated by multiple mechanisms, such as modulating sodium channel, inducing mitochondria-associated apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, inhibiting autophagy, and/or regulating other key players in cancer cells, which can be termed as multi-targets/functions that require more in-depth studies. In this review, we attempted to summarize the research past decade of using ropivacaine in suppressing cancer growth and sensitizing anticancer drugs both in-vitro and in-vivo, and tried to interpret the underlying action modes. The information gained in these findings may inspire multidisciplinary efforts to develop/discover more novel anticancer agents via drug repurposing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peng Xu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shaobo Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Lili Tan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Gansu Provincial Maternity and Child Care Hospital, Lanzhou, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Gansu Provincial Maternity and Child Care Hospital, Lanzhou, China
| | - Zhongwei Yang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jinbao Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Jing Y, Liang W, Zhang L, Tang J, Huang Z. The Role of Mesenchymal Stem Cells in the Induction of Cancer-Stem Cell Phenotype. Front Oncol 2022; 12:817971. [PMID: 35251985 PMCID: PMC8891610 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.817971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) modify and form their microenvironment by recruiting and activating specific cell types such as mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Tumor-infiltrating MSCs help to establish a suitable tumor microenvironment for the restoration of CSCs and tumor progression. In addition, crosstalk between cancer cells and MSCs in the microenvironment induces a CSC phenotype in cancer cells. Many mechanisms are involved in crosstalk between CSCs/cancer cells and MSCs including cell-cell interaction, secretion of exosomes, and paracrine secretion of several molecules including inflammatory mediators, cytokines, and growth factors. Since this crosstalk may contribute to drug resistance, metastasis, and tumor growth, it is suggested that blockade of the crosstalk between MSCs and CSCs/cancer cells can provide a new avenue to improving the cancer therapeutic tools. In this review, we will discuss the role of MSCs in the induction of cancer stem cell phenotype and the restoration of CSCs. We also discuss targeting the crosstalk between MSCs and CSCs/cancer cells as a therapeutic strategy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuanming Jing
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Shaoxing People’s Hospital (Shaoxing Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine), Shaoxing, China
| | - Wenqing Liang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Zhoushan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Zhoushan, China
| | - Lin Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Shaoxing People’s Hospital, Shaoxing Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Shaoxing, China
| | - Junjun Tang
- Department of Radiology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Zongliang Huang, ; Junjun Tang ,
| | - Zongliang Huang
- Department of Radiology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Zongliang Huang, ; Junjun Tang ,
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Zhou T, Liu J, Xie Y, Yuan S, Guo Y, Bai W, Zhao K, Jiang W, Wang H, Wang H, Zhao T, Huang C, Gao S, Wang X, Yang S, Hao J. ESE3/EHF, a promising target of rosiglitazone, suppresses pancreatic cancer stemness by downregulating CXCR4. Gut 2022; 71:357-371. [PMID: 33674341 PMCID: PMC9422994 DOI: 10.1136/gutjnl-2020-321952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2020] [Revised: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS The crosstalk between cancer stem cells (CSCs) and their niche is required for the maintenance of stem cell-like phenotypes of CSCs. Here, we identified E26 transformation-specific homologous factor (EHF) as a key molecule in decreasing the sensitivity of pancreatic cancer (PC) cells to CSCs' niche stimulus. We also explored a therapeutic strategy to restore the expression of EHF. DESIGN We used a LSL-KrasG12D/+mice, LSL-Trp53R172H/+ and Pdx1-Cre (KPC) mouse model and samples from patients with PC. Immunostaining, flow cytometry, sphere formation assays, anchorage-independent growth assay, in vivo tumourigenicity, reverse transcription PCR, chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) and luciferase analyses were conducted in this study. RESULTS CXCL12 derived from pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) mediates the crosstalk between PC cells and PSCs to promote PC stemness. Tumorous EHF suppressed CSC stemness by decreasing the sensitivity of PC to CXCL12 stimulus and inhibiting the crosstalk between PC and CSC-supportive niches. Mechanically, EHF suppressed the transcription of the CXCL12 receptor CXCR4. EHF had a cell autonomous role in suppressing cancer stemness by inhibiting the transcription of Sox9, Sox2, Oct4 and Nanog. Rosiglitazone suppressed PC stemness and inhibited the crosstalk between PC and PSCs by upregulating EHF. Preclinical KPC mouse cohorts demonstrated that rosiglitazone sensitised PDAC to gemcitabine therapy. CONCLUSIONS EHF decreased the sensitivity of PC to the stimulus from PSC-derived CSC-supportive niche by negatively regulating tumorous CXCR4. Rosiglitazone could be used to target PC stem cells and the crosstalk between CSCs and their niche by upregulating EHF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tianxing Zhou
- Department of Pancreatic Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer; Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, PR China
| | - Jing Liu
- Department of Pancreatic Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer; Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, PR China.,Department of Breast Oncoplastic Surgery, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin, Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin Medical University, Ministry of Education, China
| | - Yongjie Xie
- Department of Pancreatic Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer; Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, PR China
| | - Shuai Yuan
- Department of Pancreatic Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer; Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, PR China
| | - Yu Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology and College of Pharmacy, Nankai University, 38 Tongyan Road, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Weiwei Bai
- Department of Pancreatic Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer; Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, PR China
| | - Kaili Zhao
- Department of Pancreatic Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer; Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, PR China
| | - Wenna Jiang
- Department of Pancreatic Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer; Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, PR China
| | - Hongwei Wang
- Department of Pancreatic Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer; Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, PR China
| | - Haotian Wang
- Department of Pancreatic Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer; Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, PR China
| | - Tiansuo Zhao
- Department of Pancreatic Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer; Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, PR China
| | - Chongbiao Huang
- Department of Pancreatic Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer; Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, PR China
| | - Song Gao
- Department of Pancreatic Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer; Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, PR China
| | - Xiuchao Wang
- Department of Pancreatic Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer; Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, PR China
| | - Shengyu Yang
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA
| | - Jihui Hao
- Department of Pancreatic Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer; Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, PR China
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Kim J, Park C, Kim KH, Kim EH, Kim H, Woo JK, Seong JK, Nam KT, Lee YC, Cho SY. Single-cell analysis of gastric pre-cancerous and cancer lesions reveals cell lineage diversity and intratumoral heterogeneity. NPJ Precis Oncol 2022; 6:9. [PMID: 35087207 PMCID: PMC8795238 DOI: 10.1038/s41698-022-00251-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Single-cell transcriptomic profiles analysis has proposed new insights for understanding the behavior of human gastric cancer (GC). GC offers a unique model of intratumoral heterogeneity. However, the specific classes of cells involved in carcinogenetic passage, and the tumor microenvironment of stromal cells was poorly understood. We characterized the heterogeneous cell population of precancerous lesions and gastric cancer at the single-cell resolution by RNA sequencing. We identified 10 gastric cell subtypes and showed the intestinal and diffuse-type cancer were characterized by different cell population. We found that the intestinal and diffuse-type cancer cells have the differential metaplastic cell lineages: intestinal-type cancer cells differentiated along the intestinal metaplasia lineage while diffuse-type cancer cells resemble de novo pathway. We observed an enriched CCND1 mutation in premalignant disease state and discovered cancer-associated fibroblast cells harboring pro-stemness properties. In particular, tumor cells could be categorized into previously proposed molecular subtypes and harbored specific subtype of malignant cell with high expression level of epithelial-myofibroblast transition which was correlated with poor clinical prognosis. In addition to intratumoral heterogeneity, the analysis revealed different cellular lineages were responsible for potential carcinogenetic pathways. Single-cell transcriptomes analysis of gastric pre-cancerous lesions and cancer may provide insights for understanding GC cell behavior, suggesting potential targets for the diagnosis and treatment of GC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jihyun Kim
- National Cancer Center, 323 Ilsan-ro, Goyang-si, Gyeonggi-do, 10408, Republic of Korea
| | - Charny Park
- National Cancer Center, 323 Ilsan-ro, Goyang-si, Gyeonggi-do, 10408, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwang H Kim
- Severance Biomedical Science Institute, Brain Korea 21 PLUS Project for Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun Hye Kim
- Institute of Gastroenterology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Department of Internal Medicine, Severance Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyunki Kim
- Department of Pathology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong Kyu Woo
- Korea Mouse Phenotyping Center (KMPC), Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Je Kyung Seong
- Korea Mouse Phenotyping Center (KMPC), Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea. .,Laboratory of Developmental Biology and Genomics, Research Institute of Veterinary Science, BK21 Program Plus for Advanced Veterinary Science, College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea. .,Interdisciplinary Program for Bioinformatics, Program for Cancer Biology and BIO-MAX institute, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea.
| | - Ki Taek Nam
- Severance Biomedical Science Institute, Brain Korea 21 PLUS Project for Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea.
| | - Yong Chan Lee
- Institute of Gastroenterology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea. .,Department of Internal Medicine, Severance Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
| | - Soo Young Cho
- National Cancer Center, 323 Ilsan-ro, Goyang-si, Gyeonggi-do, 10408, Republic of Korea. .,Department of Molecular and Life Science, Hanyang University, Ansan, 15588, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Wilczyński JR. Cancer Stem Cells: An Ever-Hiding Foe. EXPERIENTIA SUPPLEMENTUM (2012) 2022; 113:219-251. [PMID: 35165866 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-91311-3_8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells are a population of cells enable to reproduce the original phenotype of the tumor and capable to self-renewal, which is crucial for tumor proliferation, differentiation, recurrence, and metastasis, as well as chemoresistance. Therefore, the cancer stem cells (CSCs) have become one of the main targets for anticancer therapy and many ongoing clinical trials test anti-CSCs efficacy of plenty of drugs. This chapter describes CSCs starting from general description of this cell population, through CSCs markers, signaling pathways, genetic and epigenetic regulation, role of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) transition and autophagy, cooperation with microenvironment (CSCs niche), and finally role of CSCs in escaping host immunosurveillance against cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jacek R Wilczyński
- Department of Gynecologic Surgery and Gynecologic Oncology, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Thomas SC, Madaan T, Kamble NS, Siddiqui NA, Pauletti GM, Kotagiri N. Engineered Bacteria Enhance Immunotherapy and Targeted Therapy through Stromal Remodeling of Tumors. Adv Healthc Mater 2022; 11:e2101487. [PMID: 34738725 PMCID: PMC8770579 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202101487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Revised: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Desmoplastic solid tumors are characterized by the rapid build-up of extracellular matrix (ECM) macromolecules, such as hyaluronic acid (HA). The resulting physiological barrier prevents the infiltration of immune cells and also impedes the delivery of anticancer agents. The development of a hypervesiculating Escherichia coli Nissle (ΔECHy) based tumor targeting bacterial system capable of distributing a fusion peptide, cytolysin A (ClyA)-hyaluronidase (Hy) via outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) is reported. The capability of targeting hypoxic tumors, manufacturing recombinant proteins in situ and the added advantage of an on-site OMV based distribution system makes the engineered bacterial vector a unique candidate for peptide delivery. The HA degrading potential of Hy for stromal modulation is combined with the cytolytic activity of ClyA followed by testing it within syngeneic cancer models. ΔECHy is combined with immune checkpoint antibodies and tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) to demonstrate that remodeling the tumor stroma results in the improvement of immunotherapy outcomes and enhancing the efficacy of biological signaling inhibitors. The biocompatibility of ΔECHy is also investigated to show that the engineered bacteria are effectively cleared, elicit minimal inflammatory and immune responses, and therefore could be a reliable candidate as a live biotherapeutic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shindu C. Thomas
- Division of Pharmaceutical Sciences, James L. Winkle College of Pharmacy, University of Cincinnati, 231 Albert Sabin Way, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | - Tushar Madaan
- Division of Pharmaceutical Sciences, James L. Winkle College of Pharmacy, University of Cincinnati, 231 Albert Sabin Way, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | - Nitin S. Kamble
- Division of Pharmaceutical Sciences, James L. Winkle College of Pharmacy, University of Cincinnati, 231 Albert Sabin Way, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | - Nabil A. Siddiqui
- Division of Pharmaceutical Sciences, James L. Winkle College of Pharmacy, University of Cincinnati, 231 Albert Sabin Way, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | - Giovanni M. Pauletti
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Administrative Sciences, University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy in St. Louis, 1 Pharmacy Place, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Nalinikanth Kotagiri
- Division of Pharmaceutical Sciences, James L. Winkle College of Pharmacy, University of Cincinnati, 231 Albert Sabin Way, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Charlestin V, Fulkerson D, Arias Matus CE, Walker ZT, Carthy K, Littlepage LE. Aquaporins: New players in breast cancer progression and treatment response. Front Oncol 2022; 12:988119. [PMID: 36212456 PMCID: PMC9532844 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.988119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Aquaporins (AQPs) are a family of small transmembrane proteins that selectively transport water and other small molecules and ions following an osmotic gradient across cell plasma membranes. This enables them to regulate numerous functions including water homeostasis, fat metabolism, proliferation, migration, and adhesion. Previous structural and functional studies highlight a strong biological relationship between AQP protein expression, localization, and key biological functions in normal and cancer tissues, where aberrant AQP expression correlates with tumorigenesis and metastasis. In this review, we discuss the roles of AQP1, AQP3, AQP4, AQP5, and AQP7 in breast cancer progression and metastasis, including the role of AQPs in the tumor microenvironment, to highlight potential contributions of stromal-derived to epithelial-derived AQPs to breast cancer. Emerging evidence identifies AQPs as predictors of response to cancer therapy and as targets for increasing their sensitivity to treatment. However, these studies have not evaluated the requirements for protein structure on AQP function within the context of breast cancer. We also examine how AQPs contribute to a patient's response to cancer treatment, existing AQP inhibitors and how AQPs could serve as novel predictive biomarkers of therapy response in breast cancer. Future studies also should evaluate AQP redundancy and compensation as mechanisms used to overcome aberrant AQP function. This review highlights the need for additional research into how AQPs contribute molecularly to therapeutic resistance and by altering the tumor microenvironment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Verodia Charlestin
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, United States.,Harper Cancer Research Institute, University of Notre Dame, South Bend, IN, United States
| | - Daniel Fulkerson
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, United States.,Harper Cancer Research Institute, University of Notre Dame, South Bend, IN, United States
| | - Carlos E Arias Matus
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, United States.,Harper Cancer Research Institute, University of Notre Dame, South Bend, IN, United States.,Department of Biotechnology, Universidad Popular Autónoma del Estado de Puebla, Pue, Mexico
| | - Zachary T Walker
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, United States.,Harper Cancer Research Institute, University of Notre Dame, South Bend, IN, United States
| | - Kevin Carthy
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, United States.,Harper Cancer Research Institute, University of Notre Dame, South Bend, IN, United States
| | - Laurie E Littlepage
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, United States.,Harper Cancer Research Institute, University of Notre Dame, South Bend, IN, United States
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Kochetkova M, Samuel MS. Differentiation of the tumor microenvironment: are CAFs the Organizer? Trends Cell Biol 2021; 32:285-294. [PMID: 34895986 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcb.2021.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Revised: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Cancers contain a suite of genetically stable cells within an extracellular matrix, collectively termed the tumor microenvironment (TME). The TME strongly influences disease outcome for patients. Gleaning clues from the literature, we propose that the TME should be viewed not as disparate populations of cells constituting a pathological lesion, but as a cohesive tissue constituting a novel pathological organ, arising from the coordinated differentiation of its constituent cell types - a process we have termed tumor-associated neodifferentiation (TAND). We also discuss why cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) may assume the role of Organizer of this organ, directing the recruitment and differentiation of cells within the TME. Viewing the microenvironment in this way will reveal new cancer vulnerabilities that may be exploited for therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marina Kochetkova
- Centre for Cancer Biology, an alliance between SA Pathology and the University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Michael Susithiran Samuel
- Centre for Cancer Biology, an alliance between SA Pathology and the University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia; Adelaide Medical School, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
The Colorectal Cancer Tumor Microenvironment and Its Impact on Liver and Lung Metastasis. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13246206. [PMID: 34944826 PMCID: PMC8699466 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13246206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Revised: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer worldwide. Metastasis to secondary organs, such as the liver and lungs, is a key driver of CRC-related mortality. The tumor microenvironment, which consists of the primary cancer cells, as well as associated support and immune cells, significantly affects the behavior of CRC cells at the primary tumor site, as well as in metastatic lesions. In this paper, we review the role of the individual components of the tumor microenvironment on tumor progression, immune evasion, and metastasis, and we discuss the implications of these components on antitumor therapies. Abstract Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common malignancy and the second most common cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. A total of 20% of CRC patients present with distant metastases, most frequently to the liver and lung. In the primary tumor, as well as at each metastatic site, the cellular components of the tumor microenvironment (TME) contribute to tumor engraftment and metastasis. These include immune cells (macrophages, neutrophils, T lymphocytes, and dendritic cells) and stromal cells (cancer-associated fibroblasts and endothelial cells). In this review, we highlight how the TME influences tumor progression and invasion at the primary site and its function in fostering metastatic niches in the liver and lungs. We also discuss emerging clinical strategies to target the CRC TME.
Collapse
|
42
|
Ghoneum A, Almousa S, Warren B, Abdulfattah AY, Shu J, Abouelfadl H, Gonzalez D, Livingston C, Said N. Exploring the clinical value of tumor microenvironment in platinum-resistant ovarian cancer. Semin Cancer Biol 2021; 77:83-98. [PMID: 33476723 PMCID: PMC8286277 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2020.12.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2020] [Revised: 12/20/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Platinum resistance in epithelial ovarian cancer (OvCa) is rising at an alarming rate, with recurrence of chemo-resistant high grade serous OvCa (HGSC) in roughly 75 % of all patients. Additionally, HGSC has an abysmal five-year survival rate, standing at 39 % and 17 % for FIGO stages III and IV, respectively. Herein we review the crucial cellular interactions between HGSC cells and the cellular and non-cellular components of the unique peritoneal tumor microenvironment (TME). We highlight the role of the extracellular matrix (ECM), ascitic fluid as well as the mesothelial cells, tumor associated macrophages, neutrophils, adipocytes and fibroblasts in platinum-resistance. Moreover, we underscore the importance of other immune-cell players in conferring resistance, including natural killer cells, myeloid-derived suppressive cells (MDSCs) and T-regulatory cells. We show the clinical relevance of the key platinum-resistant markers and their correlation with the major pathways perturbed in OvCa. In parallel, we discuss the effect of immunotherapies in re-sensitizing platinum-resistant patients to platinum-based drugs. Through detailed analysis of platinum-resistance in HGSC, we hope to advance the development of more effective therapy options for this aggressive disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alia Ghoneum
- Departments of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston Salem, NC, 27157, USA
| | - Sameh Almousa
- Departments of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston Salem, NC, 27157, USA
| | - Bailey Warren
- Departments of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston Salem, NC, 27157, USA
| | - Ammar Yasser Abdulfattah
- Departments of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston Salem, NC, 27157, USA; Alexandria University School of Medicine, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Junjun Shu
- Departments of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston Salem, NC, 27157, USA; The Third Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, China
| | - Hebatullah Abouelfadl
- Departments of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston Salem, NC, 27157, USA; Department of Genetics, Animal Health Research Institute, Dokki, Egypt
| | - Daniela Gonzalez
- Departments of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston Salem, NC, 27157, USA
| | - Christopher Livingston
- Departments of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston Salem, NC, 27157, USA
| | - Neveen Said
- Departments of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston Salem, NC, 27157, USA; Departments of Urology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston Salem, NC, 27157, USA; Comprehensive Cancer Center, Winston Salem, NC, 27157, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Nallasamy P, Nimmakayala RK, Karmakar S, Leon F, Seshacharyulu P, Lakshmanan I, Rachagani S, Mallya K, Zhang C, Ly QP, Myers MS, Josh L, Grabow CE, Gautam SK, Kumar S, Lele SM, Jain M, Batra SK, Ponnusamy MP. Pancreatic Tumor Microenvironment Factor Promotes Cancer Stemness via SPP1-CD44 Axis. Gastroenterology 2021; 161:1998-2013.e7. [PMID: 34418441 PMCID: PMC10069715 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2021.08.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Revised: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 08/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Tumor-microenvironment factors and cancer stem cells (CSCs) play a critical role in the aggressiveness of pancreatic cancer (PC). However, the degree to which tumor-microenvironment factors promote stemness remains unexplored. Here, we examined whether cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) promote CSC features in PC. METHODS PC cells were treated long-term (30, 60, and 90 days) with conditioned media (CM)-derived from normal human fibroblasts (NFs) and CAFs. The stemness features of tumorsphere formation and stemness populations, along with CSCs markers, were analyzed using 2-dimensional and 3-dimensional sodium alginate bead-based co-culture models. Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence staining were performed for CSCs and fibroblast markers in autochthonous KrasG12D/+; Trp53R172H/+; Pdx1-Cre mice and human pancreatic tumors. Polymerase chain reaction array and gene knockdown were performed to identify the mechanism of stemness enrichment. RESULTS Long-term treatment of PC cells with CAF-CM enriched stemness, as indicated by significantly higher CD44+, ALDH+, and AF+ populations in PC cells. Increased tumorsphere formation and elevated CSC, self-renewal, and drug-resistance markers in CAF-CM-treated PC cells were observed. In addition, CAFs co-cultured with PC cells in the 3-dimensional model showed a substantial increase in stemness features. CD44 and α-smooth muscle actin were positively correlated and their expressions progressively increased from the early to late stages of KrasG12D/+; Trp53R172H/+; Pdx1-Cre mouse and human pancreatic tumors. Osteopontin/secreted phosphoprotein 1 was identified as the top differentially overexpressed gene in CAF-CM-treated PC cells and knockdown of osteopontin/secreted phosphoprotein 1 significantly reduced stemness characteristics in CAF-CM-treated PC cells. CONCLUSIONS Our data uncovered novel insight into the interplay between CAF and enrichment of stemness population through the osteopontin/secreted phosphoprotein 1-CD44 axis in PC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Palanisamy Nallasamy
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Rama Krishna Nimmakayala
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Saswati Karmakar
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Frank Leon
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Parthasarathy Seshacharyulu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Imayavaramban Lakshmanan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Satyanarayana Rachagani
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Kavita Mallya
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Chunmeng Zhang
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Quan P Ly
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Molly S Myers
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Lindenberger Josh
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Corinn E Grabow
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Shailendra K Gautam
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Sushil Kumar
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Subodh M Lele
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Maneesh Jain
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska; Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Surinder K Batra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska; Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska.
| | - Moorthy P Ponnusamy
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska; Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska.
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Du Y, Cao J, Jiang X, Cai X, Wang B, Wang Y, Wang X, Xue B. Comprehensive analysis of CXCL12 expression reveals the significance of inflammatory fibroblasts in bladder cancer carcinogenesis and progression. Cancer Cell Int 2021; 21:613. [PMID: 34801033 PMCID: PMC8606085 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-021-02314-y] [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: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Bladder cancer (BLCA) is the most common genitourinary tumor but lacks specific diagnostic biomarkers. Recent years have witnessed significant advances in the use and approval of immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapy to manage BLCA at advanced stages when platinum-based therapy has failed. The tumor microenvironment (TME) is essential in impacting BLCA patients' prognosis and responsiveness to ICB therapy. CXCL12 is a stromal secreted factor that was essentially involved in regulating the TME among cancers. In this article, we thoroughly investigated the TME regulating roles of CXCL12 in BLCA and revealed its critical involvement in the development of BLCA, which was closely correlated with inflammatory fibroblasts (iCAFs). Methods We examined the gene expression profiles in the TCGA and GEO database to reveal the potential association of CXCL12 with the carcinogenesis and prognosis of BLCA. The receiver operating characteristic curve was used to explore the accuracy of CXCL12 along with multiple iCAFs-associated genes in the diagnosis of BLCA. The MCP-COUNTER, ESTIMATE, and TIDE algorithms were applied to estimate the TME components and predict immunotherapy responsiveness. An iCAFs signature was constructed using the ssGSEA algorithm. The "maftool" R package analyzed the oncogenic mutations in BLCA patients. Bioinformatics analysis results were further validated through immunohistochemistry of clinical samples. IMvigor210 cohort was used to validate bioinformatic predictions of therapeutic responsiveness to immune checkpoint inhibitors. Results This manuscript revealed a significantly reduced expression of CXCL12 in BLCA compared with normal tissue. The expressions of various marker genes for iCAFs were also reduced considerably in BLCA tissues, highlighting the reduction of iCAFs in the pathogenesis of BLCA. Further studies revealed that CXCL12 and iCAFs were associated with pathological features, TME remodeling and aging in BLCA patients. The iCAFs signature further confirmed the intricate immunomodulatory roles of iCAFs in BLCA. Gene mutation analysis revealed the essential relationship between iCAFs and the mutation frequency of oncogenic genes, including TP53 and FGFR3. Meantimes, iCAFs levels also significantly affected BLCA patients' mutations in the TP53 and RTK-RAS pathways. Finally, our results confirmed the significant exclusion of CD8 + T cells by iCAFs, which further influenced the immunotherapy responsiveness in BLCA patients. Conclusions This article highlighted the impact of CXCL12 on the pathogenesis and progression of BLCA. The reduced expression levels of iCAFs markers, including CXCL12, were highly accurate in the diagnosis of BLCA, suggesting the reduction of iCAFs accompanied bladder carcinogenesis. However, both CXCL12 and iCAFs significantly impacted the prognosis and immunotherapy responsiveness for BLCA patients by remodeling the TME. Our results critically suggested the dual roles of iCAFs in the carcinogenesis and progression of BLCA. Further exploration of iCAFs might unravel potential diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for BLCA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- YiHeng Du
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215004, China.,Department of Urology, Suzhou Kowloon Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Suzhou, 215028, China
| | - Jin Cao
- Department of Pathology, Suzhou Kowloon Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Suzhou, 215028, China
| | - Xiang Jiang
- Department of Pathology, Suzhou Kowloon Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Suzhou, 215028, China
| | - XiaoWei Cai
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215004, China
| | - Bo Wang
- Department of Urology, Suzhou Kowloon Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Suzhou, 215028, China
| | - Yi Wang
- Department of Urology, Suzhou Kowloon Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Suzhou, 215028, China
| | - XiZhi Wang
- Department of Urology, Suzhou Kowloon Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Suzhou, 215028, China.
| | - BoXin Xue
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215004, China.
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Tumorigenic Aspects of MSC Senescence-Implication in Cancer Development and Therapy. J Pers Med 2021; 11:jpm11111133. [PMID: 34834485 PMCID: PMC8618265 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11111133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Revised: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
As an organism ages, many physiological processes change, including the immune system. This process, called immunosenescence, characterized by abnormal activation and imbalance of innate and adaptive immunity, leads to a state of chronic low-grade systemic inflammation, termed inflammaging. Aging and inflammaging are considered to be the root of many diseases of the elderly, as infections, autoimmune and chronic inflammatory diseases, degenerative diseases, and cancer. The role of mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSCs) in the inflammaging process and the age-related diseases is not completely established, although numerous features of aging MSCs, including altered immunomodulatory properties, impeded MSC niche supporting functions, and senescent MSC secretory repertoire are consistent with inflammaging development. Although senescence has its physiological function and can represent a mechanism of tumor prevention, in most cases it eventually transforms into a deleterious (para-)inflammatory process that promotes tumor growth. In this review we are going through current literature, trying to explore the role of senescent MSCs in making and/or sustaining a microenvironment permissive to tumor development and to analyze the therapeutic options that could target this process.
Collapse
|
46
|
Villasante A, Godier-Furnemont A, Hernandez-Barranco A, Coq JL, Boskovic J, Peinado H, Mora J, Samitier J, Vunjak-Novakovic G. Horizontal transfer of the stemness-related markers EZH2 and GLI1 by neuroblastoma-derived extracellular vesicles in stromal cells. Transl Res 2021; 237:82-97. [PMID: 34217898 PMCID: PMC9204390 DOI: 10.1016/j.trsl.2021.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Revised: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Neuroblastoma (NB) is the most common extracranial pediatric solid cancer originating from undifferentiated neural crest cells. NB cells express EZH2 and GLI1 genes that are known to maintain the undifferentiated phenotype of cancer stem cells (CSC) in NB. Recent studies suggest that tumor-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) can regulate the transformation of surrounding cells into CSC by transferring tumor-specific molecules they contain. However, the horizontal transfer of EVs molecules in NB remains largely unknown. We report the analysis of NB-derived EVs in bioengineered models of NB that are based on a collagen 1/hyaluronic acid scaffold designed to mimic the native tumor niche. Using these models, we observed an enrichment of GLI1 and EZH2 mRNAs in NB-derived EVs. As a consequence of the uptake of NB-derived EVs, the host cells increased the expression levels of GLI1 and EZH2. These results suggest the alteration of the expression profile of stromal cells through an EV-based mechanism, and point the GLI1 and EZH2 mRNAs in the EV cargo as diagnostic biomarkers in NB.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aranzazu Villasante
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, New York,USA; Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain; Department of Electronics and Biomedical Engineering, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
| | | | - Alberto Hernandez-Barranco
- Microenvironment and Metastasis Laboratory, Molecular Oncology Programme, Spanish National Cancer Research Center (CNIO), Madrid, Spain
| | - Johanne Le Coq
- Electron Microscopy Unit, Structural Biology Programme, Spanish National Cancer Research Center (CNIO), Madrid, Spain
| | - Jasminka Boskovic
- Electron Microscopy Unit, Structural Biology Programme, Spanish National Cancer Research Center (CNIO), Madrid, Spain
| | - Hector Peinado
- Microenvironment and Metastasis Laboratory, Molecular Oncology Programme, Spanish National Cancer Research Center (CNIO), Madrid, Spain
| | - Jaume Mora
- Oncology Department, Pediatric Cancer Center Barcelona, Hospital Sant Joan de Deu, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Josep Samitier
- Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain; Department of Electronics and Biomedical Engineering, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Biomedical Research Networking Center in Bioengineering, Biomaterials, and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), Madrid, Spain
| | - Gordana Vunjak-Novakovic
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, New York,USA; Department of Medicine, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Muñoz R, Girotti A, Hileeto D, Arias FJ. Metronomic Anti-Cancer Therapy: A Multimodal Therapy Governed by the Tumor Microenvironment. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13215414. [PMID: 34771577 PMCID: PMC8582362 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13215414] [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: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Metronomic chemotherapy with different mechanisms of action against cancer cells and their microenvironment represents an exceptional holistic cancer treatment. Each type of tumor has its own characteristics, including each individual tumor in each patient. Understanding the complexity of the dynamic interactions that take place between tumor and stromal cells and the microenvironment in tumor progression and metastases, as well as the response of the host and the tumor itself to anticancer therapy, will allow therapeutic actions with long-lasting effects to be implemented using metronomic regimens. This study aims to highlight the complexity of cellular interactions in the tumor microenvironment and summarize some of the preclinical and clinical results that explain the multimodality of metronomic therapy, which, together with its low toxicity, supports an inhibitory effect on the primary tumor and metastases. We also highlight the possible use of nano-therapeutic agents as good partners for metronomic chemotherapy. Abstract The concept of cancer as a systemic disease, and the therapeutic implications of this, has gained special relevance. This concept encompasses the interactions between tumor and stromal cells and their microenvironment in the complex setting of primary tumors and metastases. These factors determine cellular co-evolution in time and space, contribute to tumor progression, and could counteract therapeutic effects. Additionally, cancer therapies can induce cellular and molecular responses in the tumor and host that allow them to escape therapy and promote tumor progression. In this study, we describe the vascular network, tumor-infiltrated immune cells, and cancer-associated fibroblasts as sources of heterogeneity and plasticity in the tumor microenvironment, and their influence on cancer progression. We also discuss tumor and host responses to the chemotherapy regimen, at the maximum tolerated dose, mainly targeting cancer cells, and a multimodal metronomic chemotherapy approach targeting both cancer cells and their microenvironment. In a combination therapy context, metronomic chemotherapy exhibits antimetastatic efficacy with low toxicity but is not exempt from resistance mechanisms. As such, a better understanding of the interactions between the components of the tumor microenvironment could improve the selection of drug combinations and schedules, as well as the use of nano-therapeutic agents against certain malignancies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raquel Muñoz
- Department of Biochemistry, Physiology and Molecular Biology, University of Valladolid, Paseo de Belén, 47011 Valladolid, Spain
- Smart Biodevices for NanoMed Group, University of Valladolid, LUCIA Building, Paseo de Belén, 47011 Valladolid, Spain;
- Correspondence:
| | - Alessandra Girotti
- BIOFORGE (Group for Advanced Materials and Nanobiotechnology), University of Valladolid, CIBER-BBN, LUCIA Building, Paseo de Belén, 47011 Valladolid, Spain;
| | - Denise Hileeto
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 361, Canada;
| | - Francisco Javier Arias
- Smart Biodevices for NanoMed Group, University of Valladolid, LUCIA Building, Paseo de Belén, 47011 Valladolid, Spain;
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Elwakeel E, Weigert A. Breast Cancer CAFs: Spectrum of Phenotypes and Promising Targeting Avenues. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:11636. [PMID: 34769066 PMCID: PMC8583860 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Activationof the tumor-associated stroma to support tumor growth is a common feature observed in different cancer entities. This principle is exemplified by cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), which are educated by the tumor to shape its development across all stages. CAFs can alter the extracellular matrix (ECM) and secrete a variety of different molecules. In that manner they have the capability to affect activation, survival, proliferation, and migration of other stromal cells and cancer cell themselves. Alteration of the ECM, desmoplasia, is a common feature of breast cancer, indicating a prominent role for CAFs in shaping tumor development in the mammary gland. In this review, we summarize the multiple roles CAFs play in mammary carcinoma. We discuss experimental and clinical strategies to interfere with CAFs function in breast cancer. Moreover, we highlight the issues arising from CAFs heterogeneity and the need for further research to identify CAFs subpopulation(s) that can be targeted to improve breast cancer therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eiman Elwakeel
- Institute of Biochemistry I, Faculty of Medicine, Goethe-University Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt, Germany;
| | - Andreas Weigert
- Institute of Biochemistry I, Faculty of Medicine, Goethe-University Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt, Germany;
- Frankfurt Cancer Institute, Goethe-University Frankfurt, 60596 Frankfurt, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Manoukian P, Bijlsma M, van Laarhoven H. The Cellular Origins of Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts and Their Opposing Contributions to Pancreatic Cancer Growth. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:743907. [PMID: 34646829 PMCID: PMC8502878 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.743907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic tumors are known to harbor an abundant and highly desmoplastic stroma. Among the various cell types that reside within tumor stroma, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) have gained a lot of attention in the cancer field due to their contributions to carcinogenesis and tumor architecture. These cells are not a homogeneous population, but have been shown to have different origins, phenotypes, and contributions. In pancreatic tumors, CAFs generally emerge through the activation and/or recruitment of various cell types, most notably resident fibroblasts, pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs), and tumor-infiltrating mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). In recent years, single cell transcriptomic studies allowed the identification of distinct CAF populations in pancreatic tumors. Nonetheless, the exact sources and functions of those different CAF phenotypes remain to be fully understood. Considering the importance of stromal cells in pancreatic cancer, many novel approaches have aimed at targeting the stroma but current stroma-targeting therapies have yielded subpar results, which may be attributed to heterogeneity in the fibroblast population. Thus, fully understanding the roles of different subsets of CAFs within the stroma, and the cellular dynamics at play that contribute to heterogeneity in CAF subsets may be essential for the design of novel therapies and improving clinical outcomes. Fortunately, recent advances in technologies such as microfluidics and bio-printing have made it possible to establish more advanced ex vivo models that will likely prove useful. In this review, we will present the different roles of stromal cells in pancreatic cancer, focusing on CAF origin as a source of heterogeneity, and the role this may play in therapy failure. We will discuss preclinical models that could be of benefit to the field and that may contribute to further clinical development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paul Manoukian
- Laboratory for Experimental Oncology and Radiobiology, Center for Experimental and Molecular Medicine, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands.,Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Maarten Bijlsma
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Hanneke van Laarhoven
- Laboratory for Experimental Oncology and Radiobiology, Center for Experimental and Molecular Medicine, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands.,Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Sentek H, Klein D. Lung-Resident Mesenchymal Stem Cell Fates within Lung Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13184637. [PMID: 34572864 PMCID: PMC8472774 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13184637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Revised: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Herein, the heterogeneous tumor stroma decisively impacts on tumor progression, therapy resistance, and, thus, poor clinical outcome. Among the numerous non-epithelial cells constructing the complex environment of lung carcinomas, mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) gained attraction being stromal precursor cells that could be recruited and ‘educated’ by lung cancer cells to adopt a tumor-associated MSC phenotype, serve as source for activated fibroblasts and presumably for vascular mural cells finally reinforcing tumor progression. Lung-resident MSCs should be considered as ‘local MSCs in stand by’ ready to be arranged within the cancer stroma. Abstract Lung-resident mesenchymal stem cells (LR-MSCs) are non-hematopoietic multipotent stromal cells that predominately reside adventitial within lung blood vessels. Based on their self-renewal and differentiation properties, LR-MSCs turned out to be important regulators of normal lung homeostasis. LR-MSCs exert beneficial effects mainly by local secretion of various growth factors and cytokines that in turn foster pulmonary regeneration including suppression of inflammation. At the same time, MSCs derived from various tissues of origins represent the first choice of cells for cell-based therapeutic applications in clinical medicine. Particularly for various acute as well as chronic lung diseases, the therapeutic applications of exogenous MSCs were shown to mediate beneficial effects, hereby improving lung function and survival. In contrast, endogenous MSCs of normal lungs seem not to be sufficient for lung tissue protection or repair following a pathological trigger; LR-MSCs could even contribute to initiation and/or progression of lung diseases, particularly lung cancer because of their inherent tropism to migrate towards primary tumors and metastatic sites. However, the role of endogenous LR-MSCs to be multipotent tumor-associated (stromal) precursors remains to be unraveled. Here, we summarize the recent knowledge how ‘cancer-educated’ LR-MSCs impact on lung cancer with a focus on mesenchymal stem cell fates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Diana Klein
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-(0)-201-7238-3342
| |
Collapse
|