1
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Sheva K, Roy Chowdhury S, Kravchenko-Balasha N, Meirovitz A. Molecular Changes in Breast Cancer Induced by Radiation Therapy. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2024:S0360-3016(24)00435-8. [PMID: 38508467 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2024.03.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/10/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Breast cancer treatments are based on prognostic clinicopathologic features that form the basis for therapeutic guidelines. Although the utilization of these guidelines has decreased breast cancer-associated mortality rates over the past three decades, they are not adequate for individualized therapy. Radiation therapy (RT) is the backbone of breast cancer treatment. Although a highly successful therapeutic modality clinically, from a biological perspective, preclinical studies have shown RT to have the potential to alter tumor cell phenotype, immunogenicity, and the surrounding microenvironment, potentially changing the behavior of cancer cells and resulting in a significant variation in RT response. This review presents the recent advances in revealing the complex molecular changes induced by RT in the treatment of breast cancer and highlights the complexities of translating this information into clinically relevant tools for improved prognostic insights and the revelation of novel approaches for optimizing RT. METHODS AND MATERIALS Current literature was reviewed with a focus on recent advances made in the elucidation of tumor-associated radiation-induced molecular changes across molecular, genetic, and proteomic bases. This review was structured with the aim of providing an up-to-date overview over the very broad and complex subject matter of radiation-induced molecular changes and radioresistance, familiarizing the reader with the broader issue at hand. RESULTS The subject of radiation-induced molecular changes in breast cancer has been broached from various physiological focal points including that of the immune system, immunogenicity and the abscopal effect, tumor hypoxia, breast cancer classification and subtyping, molecular heterogeneity, and molecular plasticity. It is becoming increasingly apparent that breast cancer clinical subtyping alone does not adequately account for variation in RT response or radioresistance. Multiple components of the tumor microenvironment and immune system, delivered RT dose and fractionation schedules, radiation-induced bystander effects, and intrinsic tumor physiology and heterogeneity all contribute to the resultant RT outcome. CONCLUSIONS Despite recent advances and improvements in anticancer therapies, tumor resistance remains a significant challenge. As new analytical techniques and technologies continue to provide crucial insight into the complex molecular mechanisms of breast cancer and its treatment responses, it is becoming more evident that personalized anticancer treatment regimens may be vital in overcoming radioresistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim Sheva
- The Legacy Heritage Oncology Center & Dr Larry Norton Institute, Soroka University Medical Center, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Faculty of Medicine, Be'er Sheva, Israel.
| | - Sangita Roy Chowdhury
- The Institute of Biomedical and Oral Research, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Nataly Kravchenko-Balasha
- The Institute of Biomedical and Oral Research, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel.
| | - Amichay Meirovitz
- The Legacy Heritage Oncology Center & Dr Larry Norton Institute, Soroka University Medical Center, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Faculty of Medicine, Be'er Sheva, Israel.
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2
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Alabrahim OAA, Azzazy HMES. Synergistic anticancer effect of Pistacia lentiscus essential oils and 5-Fluorouracil co-loaded onto biodegradable nanofibers against melanoma and breast cancer. DISCOVER NANO 2024; 19:27. [PMID: 38353827 PMCID: PMC10866856 DOI: 10.1186/s11671-024-03962-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Chemoresistance and severe toxicities represent major drawbacks of chemotherapy. Natural extracts, including the essential oils of Pistacia lentiscus (PLEO), exhibit substantial anticancer and anti-inflammatory activities where different cancers are reported to dramatically recess following targeting with PLEO. PLEO has promising antimicrobial, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory properties. However, the therapeutic properties of PLEO are restricted by limited stability, bioavailability, and targeting ability. PLEO nanoformulation can maximize their physicochemical and therapeutic properties, overcoming their shortcomings. Hence, PLEO was extracted and its chemical composition was determined by GC-MS. PLEO and 5-Fluorouracil (5FU) were electrospun into poly-ε-caprolactone nanofibers (PCL-NFs), of 290.71 nm to 680.95 nm diameter, to investigate their anticancer and potential synergistic activities against triple-negative breast cancer cells (MDA-MB-231), human adenocarcinoma breast cancer cells (MCF-7), and human skin melanoma cell line (A375). The prepared nanofibers (NFs) showed enhanced thermal stability and remarkable physical integrity and tensile strength. Biodegradability studies showed prolonged stability over 42 days, supporting the NFs use as a localized therapy of breast tissues (postmastectomy) or melanoma. Release studies revealed sustainable release behaviors over 168 h, with higher released amounts of 5FU and PLEO at pH 5.4, indicating higher targeting abilities towards cancer tissues. NFs loaded with PLEO showed strong antioxidant properties. Finally, NFs loaded with either PLEO or 5FU depicted greater anticancer activities compared to free compounds. The highest anticancer activities were observed with NFs co-loaded with PLEO and 5FU. The developed 5FU-PLEO-PCL-NFs hold potential as a local treatment of breast cancer tissues (post-mastectomy) and melanoma to minimize their possible recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Obaydah Abd Alkader Alabrahim
- Department of Chemistry, School of Sciences & Engineering, The American University in Cairo, AUC Avenue, SSE # 1184, P.O. Box 74, New Cairo, 11835, Egypt
| | - Hassan Mohamed El-Said Azzazy
- Department of Chemistry, School of Sciences & Engineering, The American University in Cairo, AUC Avenue, SSE # 1184, P.O. Box 74, New Cairo, 11835, Egypt.
- Department of Nanobiophotonics, Leibniz Institute of Photonic Technology, Albert Einstein Str. 9, Jena, Germany.
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3
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Musleh Ud Din S, Streit SG, Huynh BT, Hana C, Abraham AN, Hussein A. Therapeutic Targeting of Hypoxia-Inducible Factors in Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2060. [PMID: 38396737 PMCID: PMC10888675 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25042060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
In the realm of cancer therapeutics, targeting the hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) pathway has emerged as a promising strategy. This study delves into the intricate web of HIF-associated mechanisms, exploring avenues for future anticancer therapies. Framing the investigation within the broader context of cancer progression and hypoxia response, this article aims to decipher the pivotal role played by HIF in regulating genes influencing angiogenesis, cell proliferation, and glucose metabolism. Employing diverse approaches such as HIF inhibitors, anti-angiogenic therapies, and hypoxia-activated prodrugs, the research methodologically intervenes at different nodes of the HIF pathway. Findings showcase the efficacy of agents like EZN-2968, Minnelide, and Acriflavine in modulating HIF-1α protein synthesis and destabilizing HIF-1, providing preliminary proof of HIF-1α mRNA modulation and antitumor activity. However, challenges, including toxicity, necessitate continued exploration and development, as exemplified by ongoing clinical trials. This article concludes by emphasizing the potential of targeted HIF therapies in disrupting cancer-related signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saba Musleh Ud Din
- Department of Internal Medicine, Memorial Healthcare System, 703 North Flamingo Road, Pembroke Pines, FL 33028, USA
| | - Spencer G. Streit
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Memorial Healthcare System, 703 North Flamingo Road, Pembroke Pines, FL 33028, USA; (S.G.S.); (C.H.); (A.-N.A.); (A.H.)
| | - Bao Tran Huynh
- Department of Pharmacy, Memorial Healthcare System, 703 North Flamingo Road, Pembroke Pines, FL 33028, USA
| | - Caroline Hana
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Memorial Healthcare System, 703 North Flamingo Road, Pembroke Pines, FL 33028, USA; (S.G.S.); (C.H.); (A.-N.A.); (A.H.)
| | - Anna-Ninny Abraham
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Memorial Healthcare System, 703 North Flamingo Road, Pembroke Pines, FL 33028, USA; (S.G.S.); (C.H.); (A.-N.A.); (A.H.)
| | - Atif Hussein
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Memorial Healthcare System, 703 North Flamingo Road, Pembroke Pines, FL 33028, USA; (S.G.S.); (C.H.); (A.-N.A.); (A.H.)
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4
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Bakshi HA, Mkhael M, Faruck HL, Khan AU, Aljabali AAA, Mishra V, El-Tanani M, Charbe NB, Tambuwala MM. Cellular signaling in the hypoxic cancer microenvironment: Implications for drug resistance and therapeutic targeting. Cell Signal 2024; 113:110911. [PMID: 37805102 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2023.110911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/09/2023]
Abstract
The rewiring of cellular metabolism is a defining characteristic of cancer, as tumor cells adapt to acquire essential nutrients from a nutrient-poor environment to sustain their viability and biomass. While hypoxia has been identified as a major factor depriving cancer cells of nutrients, recent studies have revealed that cancer cells distant from supporting blood vessels also face nutrient limitations. To overcome this challenge, hypoxic cancer cells, which heavily rely on glucose as an energy source, employ alternative pathways such as glycogen metabolism and reductive carboxylation of glutamine to meet their energy requirements for survival. Our preliminary studies, alongside others in the field, have shown that under glucose-deficient conditions, hypoxic cells can utilize mannose and maltose as alternative energy sources. This review aims to comprehensively examine the hypoxic cancer microenvironment, its association with drug resistance, and potential therapeutic strategies for targeting this unique niche. Furthermore, we will critically evaluate the current literature on hypoxic cancer microenvironments and explore state-of-the-art techniques used to analyze alternate carbohydrates, specifically mannose and maltose, in complex biological fluids. We will also propose the most effective analytical methods for quantifying mannose and maltose in such biological samples. By gaining a deeper understanding of the hypoxic cancer cell microenvironment and its role in drug resistance, novel therapeutic approaches can be developed to exploit this knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamid A Bakshi
- Laboratory of Cancer Therapy Resistance and Drug Target Discovery, The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, Austin MN55912, USA; School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ulster University, BT521SA, UK.
| | - Michella Mkhael
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ulster University, BT521SA, UK
| | - Hakkim L Faruck
- Laboratory of Cell Signaling and Tumorigenesis, The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, Austin MN55912, USA
| | - Asad Ullah Khan
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Chronic Diseases, The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, Austin MN55912, USA
| | - Alaa A A Aljabali
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Yarmouk University Irbid, Jordan
| | - Vijay Mishra
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab 144411, India
| | - Mohamed El-Tanani
- RAK Medical and Health Sciences University, Ras al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Nitin B Charbe
- Center for Pharmacometrics & Systems Pharmacology, Department of Pharmaceutics (Lake Nona), University of Florida, Orlando, FL, USA
| | - Murtaza M Tambuwala
- Lincoln Medical School, University of Lincoln, Brayford Pool Campus, Lincoln LN6 7TS, UK.
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5
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Wang R, Kumar P, Reda M, Wallstrum AG, Crumrine NA, Ngamcherdtrakul W, Yantasee W. Nanotechnology Applications in Breast Cancer Immunotherapy. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2023:e2308639. [PMID: 38126905 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202308639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Next-generation cancer treatments are expected not only to target cancer cells but also to simultaneously train immune cells to combat cancer while modulating the immune-suppressive environment of tumors and hosts to ensure a robust and lasting response. Achieving this requires carriers that can codeliver multiple therapeutics to the right cancer and/or immune cells while ensuring patient safety. Nanotechnology holds great potential for addressing these challenges. This article highlights the recent advances in nanoimmunotherapeutic development, with a focus on breast cancer. While immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have achieved remarkable success and lead to cures in some cancers, their response rate in breast cancer is low. The poor response rate in solid tumors is often associated with the low infiltration of anti-cancer T cells and an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). To enhance anti-cancer T-cell responses, nanoparticles are employed to deliver ICIs, bispecific antibodies, cytokines, and agents that induce immunogenic cancer cell death (ICD). Additionally, nanoparticles are used to manipulate various components of the TME, such as immunosuppressive myeloid cells, macrophages, dendritic cells, and fibroblasts to improve T-cell activities. Finally, this article discusses the outlook, challenges, and future directions of nanoimmunotherapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruijie Wang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Oregon Health & Science University, 3303 S Bond Ave, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
| | - Pramod Kumar
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Oregon Health & Science University, 3303 S Bond Ave, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
| | - Moataz Reda
- PDX Pharmaceuticals, 3303 S Bond Ave, CH13B, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
| | | | - Noah A Crumrine
- PDX Pharmaceuticals, 3303 S Bond Ave, CH13B, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
| | | | - Wassana Yantasee
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Oregon Health & Science University, 3303 S Bond Ave, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
- PDX Pharmaceuticals, 3303 S Bond Ave, CH13B, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
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6
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Cotino-Nájera S, Herrera LA, Domínguez-Gómez G, Díaz-Chávez J. Molecular mechanisms of resveratrol as chemo and radiosensitizer in cancer. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1287505. [PMID: 38026933 PMCID: PMC10667487 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1287505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
One of the primary diseases that cause death worldwide is cancer. Cancer cells can be intrinsically resistant or acquire resistance to therapies and drugs used for cancer treatment through multiple mechanisms of action that favor cell survival and proliferation, becoming one of the leading causes of treatment failure against cancer. A promising strategy to overcome chemoresistance and radioresistance is the co-administration of anticancer agents and natural compounds with anticancer properties, such as the polyphenolic compound resveratrol (RSV). RSV has been reported to be able to sensitize cancer cells to chemotherapeutic agents and radiotherapy, promoting cancer cell death. This review describes the reported molecular mechanisms by which RSV sensitizes tumor cells to radiotherapy and chemotherapy treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Cotino-Nájera
- Laboratorio de Oncología Molecular, Departamento de Genética y Biología Molecular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional (CINVESTAV-IPN), Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Luis A. Herrera
- Laboratorio de Oncología Molecular, Departamento de Genética y Biología Molecular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional (CINVESTAV-IPN), Ciudad de México, Mexico
- Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud-Tecnológico de Monterrey, México City, Mexico
| | - Guadalupe Domínguez-Gómez
- Subdirección de Investigación Clínica, Instituto Nacional de Cancerología (INCAN), Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - José Díaz-Chávez
- Unidad de Investigación en Cáncer, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas-Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Instituto Nacional de Cancerología, Ciudad de México, Mexico
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7
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Thomas JA, Gireesh Moly AG, Xavier H, Suboj P, Ladha A, Gupta G, Singh SK, Palit P, Babykutty S. Enhancement of immune surveillance in breast cancer by targeting hypoxic tumor endothelium: Can it be an immunological switch point? Front Oncol 2023; 13:1063051. [PMID: 37056346 PMCID: PMC10088512 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1063051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer ranks second among the causes of cancer-related deaths in women. In spite of the recent advances achieved in the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer, further study is required to overcome the risk of cancer resistance to treatment and thereby improve the prognosis of individuals with advanced-stage breast cancer. The existence of a hypoxic microenvironment is a well-known event in the development of mutagenesis and rapid proliferation of cancer cells. Tumor cells, purposefully cause local hypoxia in order to induce angiogenesis and growth factors that promote tumor growth and metastatic characteristics, while healthy tissue surrounding the tumor suffers damage or mutate. It has been found that these settings with low oxygen levels cause immunosuppression and a lack of immune surveillance by reducing the activation and recruitment of tumor infiltrating leukocytes (TILs). The immune system is further suppressed by hypoxic tumor endothelium through a variety of ways, which creates an immunosuppressive milieu in the tumor microenvironment. Non responsiveness of tumor endothelium to inflammatory signals or endothelial anergy exclude effector T cells from the tumor milieu. Expression of endothelial specific antigens and immunoinhibitory molecules like Programmed death ligand 1,2 (PDL-1, 2) and T cell immunoglobulin and mucin-domain containing-3 (TIM-3) by tumor endothelium adds fuel to the fire by inhibiting T lymphocytes while promoting regulatory T cells. The hypoxic microenvironment in turn recruits Myeloid Derived Suppressor Cells (MDSCs), Tumor Associated Macrophages (TAMs) and T regulatory cells (Treg). The structure and function of newly generated blood vessels within tumors, on the other hand, are aberrant, lacking the specific organization of normal tissue vasculature. Vascular normalisation may work for a variety of tumour types and show to be an advantageous complement to immunotherapy for improving tumour access. By enhancing immune response in the hypoxic tumor microenvironment, via immune-herbal therapeutic and immune-nutraceuticals based approaches that leverage immunological evasion of tumor, will be briefly reviewed in this article. Whether these tactics may be the game changer for emerging immunological switch point to attenuate the breast cancer growth and prevent metastatic cell division, is the key concern of the current study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juvin Ann Thomas
- Centre for Tumor Immunology and Microenvironment, Department of Zoology, Mar Ivanios College, Nalanchira, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
| | - Athira Gireesh Gireesh Moly
- Centre for Tumor Immunology and Microenvironment, Department of Zoology, Mar Ivanios College, Nalanchira, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
| | - Hima Xavier
- Centre for Tumor Immunology and Microenvironment, Department of Zoology, Mar Ivanios College, Nalanchira, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
| | - Priya Suboj
- Department of Botany and Biotechnology, St. Xaviers College, Thumba, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
| | - Amit Ladha
- School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, West-Midlands, United Kingdom
| | - Gaurav Gupta
- Department of Immunology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Santosh Kumar Singh
- Centre of Experimental Medicine and Surgery, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
| | - Partha Palit
- Drug Discovery Research Laboratory, Assam University, Silchar, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Assam, India
| | - Suboj Babykutty
- Centre for Tumor Immunology and Microenvironment, Department of Zoology, Mar Ivanios College, Nalanchira, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
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8
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Hypoxia-induced autophagy in triple negative breast cancer: association with prognostic variables, patients' survival and response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Virchows Arch 2023; 482:823-837. [PMID: 36939902 PMCID: PMC10156790 DOI: 10.1007/s00428-023-03527-4] [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: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/21/2023]
Abstract
Autophagy is a cellular response to diverse stresses within tumor microenvironment (TME) such as hypoxia. It enhances cell survival and triggers resistance to therapy. This study investigated the prognostic importance of HIF-1α and miR-210 in triple negative breast cancer (TNBC). Also, we studied the relation between beclin-1 and Bcl-2 and their prognostic relevance in triple negative breast cancer. Furthermore, the involvement of hypoxia-related markers, beclin-1 and Bcl-2 in mediating resistance to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) in TNBC was evaluated. Immunohistochemistry was performed to evaluate HIF-1α, beclin-1 and Bcl-2 expression whereas, miR-210 mRNA was detected by quantitative reverse transcription PCR (q-PCR) in 60 TNBC patients. High HIF-1α expression was related to larger tumors, grade III cases, positive lymphovascular invasion, advanced stage, high Ki-67 and poor overall survival (OS). High miR-210 and negative Bcl-2 expression were related to nodal metastasis, advanced stage and poor OS. High beclin-1 was associated with grade III, nodal metastasis, advanced stage and poor OS. Also, high beclin-1 and negative Bcl-2 were significantly associated with high HIF-1α and high miR-210. High HIF- 1α, miR-210 and beclin-1 as well as negative Bcl-2 were inversely related to pathologic complete response following NACT. High beclin-1 and lack of Bcl-2 are significantly related to hypoxic TME in TNBC. High HIF-1α, miR-210, and beclin-1 expression together with lack of Bcl-2 are significantly associated with poor prognosis as well as poor response to NACT. HIF-1α and miR-210 could accurately predict response to NACT in TNBC.
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9
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Guo L, Kong D, Liu J, Zhan L, Luo L, Zheng W, Zheng Q, Chen C, Sun S. Breast cancer heterogeneity and its implication in personalized precision therapy. Exp Hematol Oncol 2023; 12:3. [PMID: 36624542 PMCID: PMC9830930 DOI: 10.1186/s40164-022-00363-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 44.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer heterogeneity determines cancer progression, treatment effects, and prognosis. However, the precise mechanism for this heterogeneity remains unknown owing to its complexity. Here, we summarize the origins of breast cancer heterogeneity and its influence on disease progression, recurrence, and therapeutic resistance. We review the possible mechanisms of heterogeneity and the research methods used to analyze it. We also highlight the importance of cell interactions for the origins of breast cancer heterogeneity, which can be further categorized into cooperative and competitive interactions. Finally, we provide new insights into precise individual treatments based on heterogeneity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liantao Guo
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, No. 238 Jiefang Road, Wuchang District, Wuhan, 430060, Hubei, China
| | - Deguang Kong
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, No. 238 Jiefang Road, Wuchang District, Wuhan, 430060, Hubei, China
| | - Jianhua Liu
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, No. 238 Jiefang Road, Wuchang District, Wuhan, 430060, Hubei, China
| | - Ling Zhan
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, No. 238 Jiefang Road, Wuchang District, Wuhan, 430060, Hubei, China
| | - Lan Luo
- Department of Breast Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, No. 28 Guiyi Road, Yunyan District, Guiyang, 550001, Guizhou, China
| | - Weijie Zheng
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, No. 238 Jiefang Road, Wuchang District, Wuhan, 430060, Hubei, China
| | - Qingyuan Zheng
- Department of Urology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, No. 238 Jiefang Road, Wuchang District, Wuhan, 430060, Hubei, China
| | - Chuang Chen
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, No. 238 Jiefang Road, Wuchang District, Wuhan, 430060, Hubei, China.
| | - Shengrong Sun
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, No. 238 Jiefang Road, Wuchang District, Wuhan, 430060, Hubei, China.
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10
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Smith PJ, McKeown SR, Patterson LH. Targeting DNA topoisomerase IIα (TOP2A) in the hypoxic tumour microenvironment using unidirectional hypoxia-activated prodrugs (uHAPs). IUBMB Life 2023; 75:40-54. [PMID: 35499745 PMCID: PMC10084299 DOI: 10.1002/iub.2619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Revised: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The hypoxic tumour microenvironment (hTME), arising from inadequate and chaotic vascularity, can present a major obstacle for the treatment of solid tumours. Hypoxic tumour cells compromise responses to treatment since they can generate resistance to radiotherapy, chemotherapy and immunotherapy. The hTME impairs the delivery of a range of anti-cancer drugs, creates routes for metastasis and exerts selection pressures for aggressive phenotypes; these changes potentially occur within an immunosuppressed environment. Therapeutic strategies aimed at the hTME include targeting the molecular changes associated with hypoxia. An alternative approach is to exploit the prevailing lack of oxygen as a principle for the selective activation of prodrugs to target cellular components within the hTME. This review focuses on the design concepts and rationale for the use of unidirectional Hypoxia-Activated Prodrugs (uHAPs) to target the hTME as exemplified by the uHAPs AQ4N and OCT1002. These agents undergo irreversible reduction in a hypoxic environment to active forms that target DNA topoisomerase IIα (TOP2A). This nuclear enzyme is essential for cell division and is a recognised chemotherapeutic target. An activated uHAP interacts with the enzyme-DNA complex to induce DNA damage, cell cycle arrest and tumour cell death. uHAPs are designed to overcome the shortcomings of conventional HAPs and offer unique pharmacodynamic properties for effective targeting of TOP2A in the hTME. uHAP therapy in combination with standard of care treatments has the potential to enhance outcomes by co-addressing the therapeutic challenge presented by the hTME.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul J Smith
- Cancer and Genetics Division, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | | | - Laurence H Patterson
- Institute of Cancer Therapeutics, School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Bradford, Bradford, UK
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11
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Han D, Zhang X, Ma Y, Yang X, Li Z. The development of live microorganism-based oxygen shuttles for enhanced hypoxic tumor therapy. Mater Today Bio 2022; 18:100517. [PMID: 36578285 PMCID: PMC9791452 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2022.100517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Revised: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Hypoxia is a prominent feature of malignant tumors and contributes to tumor proliferation, metastasis, and drug resistance in various solid tumors. Therefore, improving tumor oxygenation is crucial for curing tumors. To date, multiple strategies, including oxygen delivering and producing materials, have been designed to increase the oxygen concentration in hypoxic tumors. However, the unsustainable supply of oxygen is still the main obstacle, resulting in a suboptimal outcome in treating oxygen-deprived tumors. Thus, a sufficient oxygen supply is highly desirable in the treatment of hypoxic tumors. Photosynthesis, as the main source of oxygen in nature through the conversion of light energy into chemical energy and oxygen, has been widely studied in scientific research. Moreover, photosynthetic microorganisms have been increasingly applied in cancer therapy by increasing oxygenation, which improves the therapeutic effect of oxygen-consuming tumor therapeutic tools such as radiotherapy and photodynamic therapy. In this review, we summarize recent advances in the design and manufacture of live bacteria as oxygen shuttles for a new generation of hypoxic tumor treatment strategies. Finally, current challenges and future directions are also discussed for successfully addressing hypoxic tumor issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dandan Han
- Affiliated Dongguan Hospital, Southern Medical University, Dongguan, 523059, China,College of Chemistry & Environmental Science, Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Diagnosis of Ministry of Education, Chemical Biology Key Laboratory of Hebei Province, Hebei University, Baoding, 071002, China
| | - Xing Zhang
- College of Chemistry & Environmental Science, Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Diagnosis of Ministry of Education, Chemical Biology Key Laboratory of Hebei Province, Hebei University, Baoding, 071002, China
| | - Yichuan Ma
- College of Chemistry & Environmental Science, Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Diagnosis of Ministry of Education, Chemical Biology Key Laboratory of Hebei Province, Hebei University, Baoding, 071002, China
| | - Xinjian Yang
- College of Chemistry & Environmental Science, Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Diagnosis of Ministry of Education, Chemical Biology Key Laboratory of Hebei Province, Hebei University, Baoding, 071002, China,Corresponding author.
| | - Zhenhua Li
- Affiliated Dongguan Hospital, Southern Medical University, Dongguan, 523059, China,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Shock and Microcirculation, Guangdong, 510515, PR China,Corresponding author. Affiliated Dongguan Hospital, Southern Medical University, Dongguan, 523059, China.
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12
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Lin X, Kong D, Chen ZS. Editorial: Chemo-Radiation-Resistance in Cancer Therapy. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:904063. [PMID: 35662703 PMCID: PMC9159921 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.904063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoping Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Department of Nuclear Medicine, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Dexin Kong
- Tianjin Key Laboratory on Technologies Enabling Development of Clinical Therapeutics and Diagnostics, School of Pharmacy, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhe-Sheng Chen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Institute for Biotechnology, St. John's University, Queens, New York, NY, United States
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13
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Ionizing radiation-induced long noncoding RNA CRYBG3 regulates YAP/TAZ through mechanotransduction. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:209. [PMID: 35246511 PMCID: PMC8897501 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-04650-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 01/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Mechanotransduction sensing of tissue architecture and cellular microenvironment is a fundamental regulator of cell fate, including cancer. Meanwhile, long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) play multifunctions during cancer development and treatment. However, the link between lncRNAs and cellular mechanotransduction in the context of cancer progression has not yet been elucidated. In this study, using atomic force microscopy (AFM), we find that ionizing radiation reduces tumor stiffness. Ionizing radiation-induced lncRNA CRYBG3 can blunt YAP/TAZ activity through interference with mechanotransduction, resulting in the inhibition of cell proliferation, invasion, and metastasis of lung cancer cells. In vivo, we found that loss of lncRNA CRYBG3 could power the tumor initiation and metastasis ability, but this was abolished by concomitant deplete TAZ. At the molecular level, lncRNA CRYBG3 that in turn dysregulates F-actin organization, activates the LATS1/2 kinase, all in all resulting in YAP/TAZ nuclear exclusion. Our research proposes that lncRNA CRYBG3 is a mediator of radiotherapy through its control of cancer-tissue mechanotransduction and wiring YAP/TAZ activity to control tumor growth and metastasis.
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14
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Jiang S, Liu Z, Tian Y, Zhuang M, Piao S, Gao Y, Tam A, Hu H, Cheng W. A Comprehensive Evaluation of ZrC Nanoparticle in Combined Photothermal and Radiation Therapy for Treatment of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. Front Oncol 2021; 11:801352. [PMID: 34993150 PMCID: PMC8724783 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.801352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Because of the difficulty in treating triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), the search for treatments has never stopped. Treatment opinions remain limited for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). The current treatment approach of using photothermal therapy (PTT) is often imprecise and has limited penetration below the surface of the skin. On the other hand, radiation therapy (RT) has its unavoidable disadvantages, such as side effects or ineffectiveness against hypoxic tumor microenvironment (TME). In this study, we proposed the use of ZrC nanoparticles in conjunction with RT/PTT to enhance antitumor and antimetastatic effect. We modified the ZrC nanoparticle with bovine serum albumin (BSA) and folic acid (FA), sizing desirable about 100nm. The photothermal conversion efficiency was calculated to be 40.51% and sensitizer enhancement ration (SER) was 1.8. With addition of ZrC NPs, more DNA were damaged in γ-H2AX and more ROS were detected with immunofluorescence. In vitro and vivo, the combined therapy with ZrC NPS showed the best effect of tumor cell inhibition and safety. Our results provide evidence that the combination of ZrC NPs, PT, and RT is effective in of TNBC, making it a great potential application for cancer therapy in clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan Jiang
- Department of Ultrasound, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Zhao Liu
- Department of Ultrasound, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Yuhang Tian
- Department of Ultrasound, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Ming Zhuang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Shiqi Piao
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Yan Gao
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Andrew Tam
- Department of Radiation Oncology, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA, United States
| | - Hongtao Hu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
- *Correspondence: Wen Cheng, ; Hongtao Hu,
| | - Wen Cheng
- Department of Ultrasound, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
- *Correspondence: Wen Cheng, ; Hongtao Hu,
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15
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Fan Z, Yang G, Zhang W, Liu Q, Liu G, Liu P, Xu L, Wang J, Yan Z, Han H, Liu R, Shu M. Hypoxia blocks ferroptosis of hepatocellular carcinoma via suppression of METTL14 triggered YTHDF2-dependent silencing of SLC7A11. J Cell Mol Med 2021; 25:10197-10212. [PMID: 34609072 PMCID: PMC8572766 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.16957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2021] [Revised: 09/12/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Residue hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells enduring hypoxic environment triggered by interventional embolization obtain more malignant potential with little clarified mechanism. The N6 -methyladenosine (m6 A) biological activity plays essential roles in diverse physiological processes. However, its role under hypoxic condition remains largely unexplored. RT-qPCR and Western blot were used to evaluate METTL14 expression in hypoxic HCC cells. MDA assay and electronic microscopy photography were used to evaluate ferroptosis. The correlation between SLC7A11 and METTL14 was conducted by bioinformatical analysis. Flow cytometry was used to verify the effect of SLC7A11 on ROS production. Cell counting kit-8 assay was performed to detect cells proliferation ability. Hypoxia triggered suppression of METTL14 in a HIF-1α-dependent manner potently abrogated ferroptosis of HCC cells. Mechanistic investigation identified SLC7A11 was a direct target of METTL14. Both in vitro and in vivo assay demonstrated that METTL14 induced m6 A modification at 5'UTR of SLC7A11 mRNA, which in turn underwent degradation relied on the YTHDF2-dependent pathway. Importantly, ectopic expression of SLC7A11 strongly blocked METTL14-induced tumour-suppressive effect in hypoxic HCC. Our investigations lay the emphasis on the hypoxia-regulated ferroptosis in HCC cells and identify the HIF-1α /METTL14/YTHDF2/SLC7A11 axis as a potential therapeutic target for the HCC interventional embolization treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuoyang Fan
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Guowei Yang
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qian Liu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Guangqin Liu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Pingping Liu
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ligang Xu
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianhua Wang
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhiping Yan
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hong Han
- Department of Ultrasound, Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Rong Liu
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Department of Interventional Radiology, Xiamen Branch, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Minfeng Shu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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16
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Hong X, Xu X, Liu Z, Liu S, Yu J, Wu M, Ma Y, Shuai Q. Hyaluronan-fullerene/AIEgen nanogel as CD44-targeted delivery of tirapazamine for synergistic photodynamic-hypoxia activated therapy. NANOTECHNOLOGY 2021; 32:465701. [PMID: 34325415 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6528/ac18da] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/25/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The therapeutic effect of oxygen-concentration-dependent photodynamic therapy (PDT) can be diminished in the hypoxic environment of solid tumours, the effective solution to this problem is utilising hypoxic-activated bioreduction therapy (BRT). In this research, a biocompatible HA-C60/TPENH2nanogel which can specifically bind to CD44 receptor was developed for highly efficient PDT-BRT synergistic therapy. The nanogel was degradable in acidic microenvironments of tumours and facilitated the release of biological reduction prodrug tirapazamine (TPZ). Importantly, HA-C60/TPENH2nanogel produced reactive oxygen species and consumed oxygen content in the cell to activate TPZ, leading to higher cytotoxicity than the free TPZ did. The intracellular observation of nanogel indicated that the HA-C60/TPENH2nanogel was self-fluorescence for cell imaging. This study applied PDT-BRT to design smart HA-based nanogel with targeted delivery, pH response, and AIEgen feature for efficient cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xia Hong
- College of Chemistry & Pharmacy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, Shaanxi Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaomei Xu
- College of Chemistry & Pharmacy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, Shaanxi Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhicheng Liu
- College of Chemistry & Pharmacy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, Shaanxi Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Shupeng Liu
- College of Chemistry & Pharmacy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, Shaanxi Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Jie Yu
- College of Chemistry & Pharmacy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, Shaanxi Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Mingyuan Wu
- College of Chemistry & Pharmacy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, Shaanxi Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuwei Ma
- College of Chemistry & Pharmacy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, Shaanxi Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Qi Shuai
- College of Chemistry & Pharmacy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, Shaanxi Province, People's Republic of China
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17
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Burguin A, Diorio C, Durocher F. Breast Cancer Treatments: Updates and New Challenges. J Pers Med 2021; 11:808. [PMID: 34442452 PMCID: PMC8399130 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11080808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is the most frequent cancer diagnosed in women worldwide. This heterogeneous disease can be classified into four molecular subtypes (luminal A, luminal B, HER2 and triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC)) according to the expression of the estrogen receptor (ER) and the progesterone receptor (PR), and the overexpression of the human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2). Current BC treatments target these receptors (endocrine and anti-HER2 therapies) as a personalized treatment. Along with chemotherapy and radiotherapy, these therapies can have severe adverse effects and patients can develop resistance to these agents. Moreover, TNBC do not have standardized treatments. Hence, a deeper understanding of the development of new treatments that are more specific and effective in treating each BC subgroup is key. New approaches have recently emerged such as immunotherapy, conjugated antibodies, and targeting other metabolic pathways. This review summarizes current BC treatments and explores the new treatment strategies from a personalized therapy perspective and the resulting challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Burguin
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC G1T 1C2, Canada;
- Cancer Research Center, CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Quebec City, QC G1V 4G2, Canada;
| | - Caroline Diorio
- Cancer Research Center, CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Quebec City, QC G1V 4G2, Canada;
- Department of Preventive and Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC G1T 1C2, Canada
| | - Francine Durocher
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC G1T 1C2, Canada;
- Cancer Research Center, CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Quebec City, QC G1V 4G2, Canada;
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