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Wang G, Shen X, Jin W, Song C, Dong M, Zhou Z, Wang X. Elucidating the role of S100A10 in CD8 + T cell exhaustion and HCC immune escape via the cPLA2 and 5-LOX axis. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:573. [PMID: 39117605 PMCID: PMC11310305 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06895-0] [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: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 07/01/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common malignant tumor with a complex immune evasion mechanism posing a challenge to treatment. The role of the S100A10 gene in various cancers has garnered significant attention. This study aims to elucidate the impact of S100A10 on CD8+ T cell exhaustion via the cPLA2 and 5-LOX axis, thereby elucidating its role in immune evasion in HCC. By analyzing the HCC-related data from the GEO and TCGA databases, we identified differentially expressed genes associated with lipid metabolism and developed a prognostic risk model. Subsequently, through RNA-seq and PPI analyses, we determined vital lipid metabolism genes and downstream factors S100A10, ACOT7, and SMS, which were significantly correlated with CD8+ T cell infiltration. Given the most significant expression differences, we selected S100A10 for further investigation. Both in vitro and in vivo experiments were conducted, including co-culture experiments of CD8+ T cells with MHCC97-L cells, Co-IP experiments, and validation in an HCC mouse model. S100A10 was significantly overexpressed in HCC tissues and potentially regulates CD8+ T cell exhaustion and lipid metabolism reprogramming through the cPLA2 and 5-LOX axis. Silencing S100A10 could inhibit CD8+ T cell exhaustion, further suppressing immune evasion in HCC. S100A10 may activate the cPLA2 and 5-LOX axis, initiating lipid metabolism reprogramming and upregulating LTB4 levels, thus promoting CD8+ T cell exhaustion in HCC tissues, facilitating immune evasion by HCC cells, ultimately impacting the growth and migration of HCC cells. This research highlights the critical role of S100A10 via the cPLA2 and 5-LOX axis in immune evasion in HCC, providing new theoretical foundations and potential targets for diagnosing and treating HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ganggang Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Shanghai Pudong Hospital, Fudan University Pudong Medical Center, 2800 Gongwei Road, Pudong, Shanghai, 201399, China
| | - Xiaowei Shen
- Department of General Surgery, QingPu Branch of Zhongshan Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, QingPu District Central Hospital Shanghai, No. 1158, Gong Yuan Dong Road, Shanghai, 201700, China
| | - Wenzhi Jin
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Shanghai Pudong Hospital, Fudan University Pudong Medical Center, 2800 Gongwei Road, Pudong, Shanghai, 201399, China
| | - Chao Song
- Department of General Surgery, QingPu Branch of Zhongshan Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, QingPu District Central Hospital Shanghai, No. 1158, Gong Yuan Dong Road, Shanghai, 201700, China
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Meiyuan Dong
- Department of Endocrinology, Shanghai Pudong Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhijie Zhou
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Shanghai Pudong Hospital, Fudan University Pudong Medical Center, 2800 Gongwei Road, Pudong, Shanghai, 201399, China
| | - Xiaoliang Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Shanghai Pudong Hospital, Fudan University Pudong Medical Center, 2800 Gongwei Road, Pudong, Shanghai, 201399, China.
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2
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González-López P, Yu Y, Lin S, Escribano Ó, Gómez-Hernández A, Gisterå A. Dysregulation of micro-RNA 143-3p as a Biomarker of Carotid Atherosclerosis and the Associated Immune Reactions During Disease Progression. J Cardiovasc Transl Res 2024; 17:768-778. [PMID: 38270847 PMCID: PMC11371874 DOI: 10.1007/s12265-024-10482-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
Atherosclerosis commonly remains undiagnosed until disease manifestations occur. The disease is associated with dysregulated micro(mi)RNAs, but how this is linked to atherosclerosis-related immune reactions is largely unknown. A mouse model of carotid atherosclerosis, human APOB100-transgenic Ldlr-/- (HuBL), was used to study the spatiotemporal dysregulation of a set of miRNAs. Middle-aged HuBL mice with established atherosclerosis had decreased levels of miR-143-3p in their carotid arteries. In young HuBL mice, early atherosclerosis was observed in the carotid bifurcation, which had lower levels of miR-15a-5p, miR-143-3p, and miR-199a-3p, and higher levels of miR-155-5p. The dysregulation of these miRNAs was reflected by specific immune responses during atheroprogression. Finally, levels of miR-143-3p were 70.6% lower in extracellular vesicles isolated from the plasma of patients with carotid stenosis compared to healthy controls. Since miR-143-3p levels progressively decrease when transitioning between early and late experimental carotid atherosclerosis, we propose it as a biomarker for atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula González-López
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Yinda Yu
- Department of Medicine Solna, Center for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Shiying Lin
- Department of Medicine Solna, Center for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Óscar Escribano
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas (CIBERdem), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Almudena Gómez-Hernández
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Anton Gisterå
- Department of Medicine Solna, Center for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
- Bioclinicum J8:20, Karolinska University Hospital, Visionsgatan 4, Solna, SE-17164, Stockholm, Sweden.
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3
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Zabeti Touchaei A, Vahidi S. MicroRNAs as regulators of immune checkpoints in cancer immunotherapy: targeting PD-1/PD-L1 and CTLA-4 pathways. Cancer Cell Int 2024; 24:102. [PMID: 38462628 PMCID: PMC10926683 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-024-03293-6] [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: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy has revolutionized cancer treatment by harnessing the power of the immune system to eliminate tumors. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) block negative regulatory signals that prevent T cells from attacking cancer cells. Two key ICIs target the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway, which includes programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) and its receptor programmed death 1 (PD-1). Another ICI targets cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA-4). While ICIs have demonstrated remarkable efficacy in various malignancies, only a subset of patients respond favorably. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), small non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression, play a crucial role in modulating immune checkpoints, including PD-1/PD-L1 and CTLA-4. This review summarizes the latest advancements in immunotherapy, highlighting the therapeutic potential of targeting PD-1/PD-L1 and CTLA-4 immune checkpoints and the regulatory role of miRNAs in modulating these pathways. Consequently, understanding the complex interplay between miRNAs and immune checkpoints is essential for developing more effective and personalized immunotherapy strategies for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sogand Vahidi
- Medical Biology Research Center, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran.
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4
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Hou K, Xu X, Ge X, Jiang J, Ouyang F. Blockade of PD-1 and CTLA-4: A potent immunotherapeutic approach for hepatocellular carcinoma. Biofactors 2024; 50:250-265. [PMID: 37921427 DOI: 10.1002/biof.2012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
Immune checkpoints (ICPs) can promote tumor growth and prevent immunity-induced cancer cell apoptosis. Fortunately, targeting ICPs, such as programmed cell death 1 (PD-1) or cytotoxic T lymphocyte associated protein 4 (CTLA-4), has achieved great success in the past few years and has gradually become an effective treatment for cancers, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, many patients do not respond to ICP therapy due to acquired resistance and recurrence. Therefore, clarifying the specific mechanisms of ICP in the development of HCC is very important for enhancing the efficacy of anti-PD-1 and anti-CTLA-4 therapy. In particular, antigen presentation and interferon-γ (IFN-γ) signaling were reported to be involved in the development of resistance. In this review, we have explained the role and regulatory mechanisms of ICP therapy in HCC pathology. Moreover, we have also elaborated on combinations of ICP inhibitors and other treatments to enhance the antitumor effect. Collectively, recent advances in the pharmacological targeting of ICPs provide insights for the development of a novel alternative treatment for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Hou
- Clinical Research Center of the Second Affiliated Hospital, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, PR China
| | - Xiaohui Xu
- Department of Medicine of the Second Affiliated Hospital, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, PR China
| | - Xin Ge
- Clinical Research Center of the Second Affiliated Hospital, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, PR China
| | - Jiacen Jiang
- Department of Medicine of the Second Affiliated Hospital, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, PR China
| | - Fan Ouyang
- Department of Cardiology, Zhuzhou Hospital, the Affiliated Hospital of Xiangya Medical College of Central South University, Zhuzhou, Hunan, PR China
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Abbasi-Malati Z, Azizi SG, Milani SZ, Serej ZA, Mardi N, Amiri Z, Sanaat Z, Rahbarghazi R. Tumorigenic and tumoricidal properties of exosomes in cancers; a forward look. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:130. [PMID: 38360641 PMCID: PMC10870553 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-024-01510-3] [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: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024] Open
Abstract
In recent decades, emerging data have highlighted the critical role of extracellular vesicles (EVs), especially (exosomes) Exos, in the progression and development of several cancer types. These nano-sized vesicles are released by different cell lineages within the cancer niche and maintain a suitable platform for the interchange of various signaling molecules in a paracrine manner. Based on several studies, Exos can transfer oncogenic factors to other cells, and alter the activity of immune cells, and tumor microenvironment, leading to the expansion of tumor cells and metastasis to the remote sites. It has been indicated that the cell-to-cell crosstalk is so complicated and a wide array of factors are involved in this process. How and by which mechanisms Exos can regulate the behavior of tumor cells and non-cancer cells is at the center of debate. Here, we scrutinize the molecular mechanisms involved in the oncogenic behavior of Exos released by different cell lineages of tumor parenchyma. Besides, tumoricidal properties of Exos from various stem cell (SC) types are discussed in detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Abbasi-Malati
- Department of Applied Cell Sciences, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Seyed Ghader Azizi
- Clinical Immunology Research Center, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
| | - Soheil Zamen Milani
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Zeinab Aliyari Serej
- Department of Applied Cell Sciences, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Narges Mardi
- Biotechnology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Zahra Amiri
- Department of Tissue Engineering, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Zohreh Sanaat
- Hematology and Oncology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Reza Rahbarghazi
- Department of Applied Cell Sciences, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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Li X, Wu A, Wang Y, Li D, Wu M. Knockdown of circZMIZ1 enhances the anti-tumor activity of CD8 + T cells to alleviate hepatocellular carcinoma. Funct Integr Genomics 2024; 24:27. [PMID: 38332346 DOI: 10.1007/s10142-024-01302-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
ZMIZ1 acts as an oncogene in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). circZMIZ1 (hsa_circ_0018964) derives from ZMIZ1; its underlying mechanism in HCC has not been reported. Peripheral blood and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were obtained from HCC patients and healthy volunteers. CD8+ T cells were sorted from PBMCs of HCC patients. Applying flow cytometry, cell apoptosis and the proportion of KCNJ2/CD8+ T cells were examined. The cytotoxicity of CD8+ T cells against HCC cells was evaluated. The interaction among circZMIZ1, miR-15a-5p, and KCNJ2 was investigated by dual luciferase assay, RNA immunoprecipitation, and RNA pull-down assay. An orthotopic mouse model of HCC was constructed by intrahepatic injection of H22 cells. Upregulation of circZMIZ1 and KCNJ2 and downregulation of miR-15a-5p were observed in peripheral blood and PBMCs of HCC patients. The proportion of KCNJ2/CD8+ T cells was also increased in HCC patients. circZMIZ1 knockdown restrained apoptosis of CD8+ T cells and elevated cytotoxicity of CD8+ T cells. Mechanically speaking, circZMIZ1 elevated KCNJ2 expression by sponging miR-15a-5p. miR-15a-5p inhibitor reversed circZMIZ1 silencing-mediated inhibition of apoptosis and promotion of cytotoxicity in CD8+ T cells. In vivo, orthotopic mice of HCC exhibited increased expression of circZMIZ1 and KCNJ2, elevated proportion of KCNJ2/CD8+ T cells, and decreased expression of miR-15a-5p. This work demonstrated that circZMIZ1 inhibited the anti-tumor activity of CD8+ T cells in HCC by regulating the miR-15a-5p/KCNJ2 axis. This provides a theoretical basis for the development of effective circZMIZ1 in tumor immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Anlin Wu
- Department of Surgery, Fuzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 344000, Jiangxi, China
| | - Yixian Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, 1 Minde Road, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Die Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, 1 Minde Road, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Mingming Wu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, 1 Minde Road, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, China.
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7
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Liu Q, Yan X, Li R, Yuan Y, Wang J, Zhao Y, Fu J, Su J. Polyamine Signal through HCC Microenvironment: A Key Regulator of Mitochondrial Preservation and Turnover in TAMs. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:996. [PMID: 38256070 PMCID: PMC10816144 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25020996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 01/06/2024] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary liver cancer, and, with increasing research on the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME), the immunosuppressive micro-environment of HCC hampers further application of immunotherapy, even though immunotherapy can provide survival benefits to patients with advanced liver cancer. Current studies suggest that polyamine metabolism is not only a key metabolic pathway for the formation of immunosuppressive phenotypes in tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), but it is also profoundly involved in mitochondrial quality control signaling and the energy metabolism regulation process, so it is particularly important to further investigate the role of polyamine metabolism in the tumor microenvironment (TME). In this review, by summarizing the current research progress of key enzymes and substrates of the polyamine metabolic pathway in regulating TAMs and T cells, we propose that polyamine biosynthesis can intervene in the process of mitochondrial energy metabolism by affecting mitochondrial autophagy, which, in turn, regulates macrophage polarization and T cell differentiation. Polyamine metabolism may be a key target for the interactive dialog between HCC cells and immune cells such as TAMs, so interfering with polyamine metabolism may become an important entry point to break intercellular communication, providing new research space for developing polyamine metabolism-based therapy for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Jing Su
- Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Department of Pathophysiology, Ministry of Education, College of Basical Medical Sciences, Jilin University, 126 Xinmin Street, Changchun 130012, China; (Q.L.); (X.Y.); (R.L.); (Y.Y.); (J.W.); (Y.Z.); (J.F.)
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8
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Sartorius K, Sartorius B, Winkler C, Chuturgoon A, Shen TW, Zhao Y, An P. Serum microRNA Profiles and Pathways in Hepatitis B-Associated Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A South African Study. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:975. [PMID: 38256049 PMCID: PMC10815595 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25020975] [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: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The incidence and mortality of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in Sub-Saharan Africa is projected to increase sharply by 2040 against a backdrop of limited diagnostic and therapeutic options. Two large South African-based case control studies have developed a serum-based miRNome for Hepatitis B-associated hepatocellular carcinoma (HBV-HCC), as well as identifying their gene targets and pathways. Using a combination of RNA sequencing, differential analysis and filters including a unique molecular index count (UMI) ≥ 10 and log fold change (LFC) range > 2: <-0.5 (p < 0.05), 91 dysregulated miRNAs were characterized including 30 that were upregulated and 61 were downregulated. KEGG analysis, a literature review and other bioinformatic tools identified the targeted genes and HBV-HCC pathways of the top 10 most dysregulated miRNAs. The results, which are based on differentiating miRNA expression of cases versus controls, also develop a serum-based miRNA diagnostic panel that indicates 95.9% sensitivity, 91.0% specificity and a Youden Index of 0.869. In conclusion, the results develop a comprehensive African HBV-HCC miRNome that potentially can contribute to RNA-based diagnostic and therapeutic options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kurt Sartorius
- Faculty of Commerce, Law and Management, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg 2001, South Africa
- School of Laboratory Medicine and Molecular Sciences, University of Kwazulu-Natal, Durban 4041, South Africa;
- Africa Hepatopancreatobiliary Cancer Consortium (AHPBCC), Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA
| | - Benn Sartorius
- School of Public Health, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Cheryl Winkler
- Centre for Cancer Research, Basic Research Laboratory, National Cancer Institute, Frederick Natifol Laboratory for Cancer Research, National Institute of Health, Frederick, MD 21701, USA
| | - Anil Chuturgoon
- School of Laboratory Medicine and Molecular Sciences, University of Kwazulu-Natal, Durban 4041, South Africa;
| | - Tsai-Wei Shen
- CCR-SF Bioinformatics Group, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD 21701, USA
| | - Yongmei Zhao
- CCR-SF Bioinformatics Group, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD 21701, USA
| | - Ping An
- Centre for Cancer Research, Basic Research Laboratory, National Cancer Institute, Frederick Natifol Laboratory for Cancer Research, National Institute of Health, Frederick, MD 21701, USA
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Khalaf BH, Suleiman AA, Suwaid MA. Exploring the Regulatory Roles of miR-21, miR-15, and miR-let-7 in ABC Transporter-Mediated Chemoresistance: Implications for Breast Cancer Etiology and Treatment. Mol Biotechnol 2023:10.1007/s12033-023-00990-x. [PMID: 38133750 DOI: 10.1007/s12033-023-00990-x] [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: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer, a prevalent and aggressive malignancy among females worldwide, poses a significant challenge due to resistance to chemotherapy and tyrosine kinase inhibitors. In breast cancer, ABC transporters play a pivotal role by contributing to chemoresistance and drug efflux, a phenomenon observed also in various cancers. This study aims to elucidate the role of oncomiRs miR-15, miR-21, and miR-let-7 in breast cancer etiology and their impact on chemotherapy-resistant oncogenes ABCA1, ABCB1, and ABCC1. Blood samples from female breast cancer patients were analyzed to assess the expression levels of miRNAs and oncogenes by qPCR. Significantly, miR-21 exhibited a positive correlation with ABCA1 in newly diagnosed patients, while miR-15 and miR-let-7 displayed a positive correlation with ABCA1 in the metastasis group. Additionally, miR-let-7 demonstrated a negative correlation with ABCC1 in newly diagnosed patients. This study's findings provide valuable insights into the cancer etiology of these miRNAs and their interactions with ABCA1, ABCB1, and ABCC1. Targeting these interactions holds promise for mitigating drug efflux and chemoresistance in breast cancer, potentially enhancing current treatments and improving patient outcomes.
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Ramakrishnan K, Babu S, Shaji V, Soman S, Leelamma A, Rehman N, Raju R. Hepatitis B Virus Modulated Transcriptional Regulatory Map of Hepatic Cellular MicroRNAs. OMICS : A JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE BIOLOGY 2023; 27:581-597. [PMID: 38064540 DOI: 10.1089/omi.2023.0171] [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: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is an enveloped, hepatotropic, noncytopathic virus with a partially double-stranded DNA genome. It infects hepatocytes and is associated with progression to liver fibrosis and cirrhosis, culminating in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), accounting for 55% of total HCC cases. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) regulated by HBV play an important role in these pathologies. Mapping the miRNAs responsive to HBV and HBV-specific proteins, including HBV X protein (HBx) that harbor the majority of HBV-human protein interactions, could aid accelerate the diagnostics and therapeutics innovation against the infection and associated diseases. With this in mind, we used a unique annotation strategy whereby we first amassed 362 mature HBV responsive-human Differentially Expressed miRNAs (HBV-hDEmiRs). The core experimentally-validated messenger RNA targets of the HBV-hDEmiRs were mostly associated with viral infections and hepatic inflammation processes. Moreover, our annotation strategy enabled the characterization of HBx-dependent/independent HBV-hDEmiRs as a tool for evaluation of the impact of HBx as a therapeutic target. Bioinformatics analysis of the HBV-human protein-protein interactome revealed new insights into the transcriptional regulatory network of the HBV-hDEmiRs. We performed a comparative analysis of data on miRNAs gathered from HBV infected cell line studies and from tissue studies of fibrosis, cirrhosis, and HCC. Accordingly, we propose hsa-miR-15a-5p that is downregulated by multiple HBV proteins, including HBx, as a potential biomarker of HBV infection, and its progression to HCC. In all, this study underscores (1) the complexity of miRNA regulation in response to HBV infection and its progression into other liver pathologies and (2) provides a regulatory map of HBV-hDEmiRs and the underlying mechanisms modulating their expression through a cross talk between HBV viral proteins and human transcription factors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sreeranjini Babu
- Centre for Integrative Omics Data Science, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangalore, India
- Centre for Systems Biology and Molecular Medicine (CSBMM), Yenepoya Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Deralakatte, Mangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Vineetha Shaji
- Centre for Integrative Omics Data Science, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangalore, India
- Centre for Systems Biology and Molecular Medicine (CSBMM), Yenepoya Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Deralakatte, Mangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Sowmya Soman
- Centre for Integrative Omics Data Science, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangalore, India
| | - Anila Leelamma
- Department of Biochemistry, NSS College, Nilamel, Kollam, Kerala, India
| | - Niyas Rehman
- Centre for Integrative Omics Data Science, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangalore, India
| | - Rajesh Raju
- Centre for Integrative Omics Data Science, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangalore, India
- Centre for Systems Biology and Molecular Medicine (CSBMM), Yenepoya Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Deralakatte, Mangalore, Karnataka, India
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Papadakos SP, Machairas N, Stergiou IE, Arvanitakis K, Germanidis G, Frampton AE, Theocharis S. Unveiling the Yin-Yang Balance of M1 and M2 Macrophages in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Role of Exosomes in Tumor Microenvironment and Immune Modulation. Cells 2023; 12:2036. [PMID: 37626849 PMCID: PMC10453902 DOI: 10.3390/cells12162036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a primary liver cancer with a high mortality rate and limited treatment options. Recent research has brought attention to the significant importance of intercellular communication in the progression of HCC, wherein exosomes have been identified as critical agents facilitating cell-to-cell signaling. In this article, we investigate the impact of macrophages as both sources and targets of exosomes in HCC, shedding light on the intricate interplay between exosome-mediated communication and macrophage involvement in HCC pathogenesis. It investigates how exosomes derived from HCC cells and other cell types within the tumor microenvironment (TME) can influence macrophage behavior, polarization, and recruitment. Furthermore, the section explores the reciprocal interactions between macrophage-derived exosomes and HCC cells, stromal cells, and other immune cells, elucidating their role in tumor growth, angiogenesis, metastasis, and immune evasion. The findings presented here contribute to a better understanding of the role of macrophage-derived exosomes in HCC progression and offer new avenues for targeted interventions and improved patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stavros P. Papadakos
- First Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 10679 Athens, Greece;
| | - Nikolaos Machairas
- Second Department of Propaedeutic Surgery, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Laikon General Hospital, 11527 Athens, Greece;
| | - Ioanna E. Stergiou
- Pathophysiology Department, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece;
| | - Konstantinos Arvanitakis
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, First Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, St. Kiriakidi 1, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece; (K.A.); (G.G.)
- Basic and Translational Research Unit (BTRU), Special Unit for Biomedical Research and Education (BRESU), Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Georgios Germanidis
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, First Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, St. Kiriakidi 1, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece; (K.A.); (G.G.)
- Basic and Translational Research Unit (BTRU), Special Unit for Biomedical Research and Education (BRESU), Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Adam Enver Frampton
- Department of Surgery & Cancer, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London W12 0NN, UK
- Oncology Section, Surrey Cancer Research Institute, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, FHMS, University of Surrey, The Leggett Building, Daphne Jackson Road, Guildford GU2 7WG, UK
- HPB Surgical Unit, Royal Surrey NHS Foundation Trust, Guildford GU2 7XX, UK
| | - Stamatios Theocharis
- First Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 10679 Athens, Greece;
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12
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Tang JY, Chuang YT, Shiau JP, Yen CY, Chang FR, Tsai YH, Farooqi AA, Chang HW. Connection between Radiation-Regulating Functions of Natural Products and miRNAs Targeting Radiomodulation and Exosome Biogenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12449. [PMID: 37569824 PMCID: PMC10419287 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241512449] [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: 07/01/2023] [Revised: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Exosomes are cell-derived membranous structures primarily involved in the delivery of the payload to the recipient cells, and they play central roles in carcinogenesis and metastasis. Radiotherapy is a common cancer treatment that occasionally generates exosomal miRNA-associated modulation to regulate the therapeutic anticancer function and side effects. Combining radiotherapy and natural products may modulate the radioprotective and radiosensitizing responses of non-cancer and cancer cells, but there is a knowledge gap regarding the connection of this combined treatment with exosomal miRNAs and their downstream targets for radiation and exosome biogenesis. This review focuses on radioprotective natural products in terms of their impacts on exosomal miRNAs to target radiation-modulating and exosome biogenesis (secretion and assembly) genes. Several natural products have individually demonstrated radioprotective and miRNA-modulating effects. However, the impact of natural-product-modulated miRNAs on radiation response and exosome biogenesis remains unclear. In this review, by searching through PubMed/Google Scholar, available reports on potential functions that show radioprotection for non-cancer tissues and radiosensitization for cancer among these natural-product-modulated miRNAs were assessed. Next, by accessing the miRNA database (miRDB), the predicted targets of the radiation- and exosome biogenesis-modulating genes from the Gene Ontology database (MGI) were retrieved bioinformatically based on these miRNAs. Moreover, the target-centric analysis showed that several natural products share the same miRNAs and targets to regulate radiation response and exosome biogenesis. As a result, the miRNA-radiomodulation (radioprotection and radiosensitization)-exosome biogenesis axis in regard to natural-product-mediated radiotherapeutic effects is well organized. This review focuses on natural products and their regulating effects on miRNAs to assess the potential impacts of radiomodulation and exosome biogenesis for both the radiosensitization of cancer cells and the radioprotection of non-cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jen-Yang Tang
- School of Post-Baccalaureate Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan;
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
| | - Ya-Ting Chuang
- Graduate Institute of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan;
- Department of Biomedical Science and Environmental Biology, PhD Program in Life Sciences, College of Life Science, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
| | - Jun-Ping Shiau
- Division of Breast Oncology and Surgery, Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan;
| | - Ching-Yu Yen
- School of Dentistry, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan;
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Chi-Mei Medical Center, Tainan 71004, Taiwan
| | - Fang-Rong Chang
- Graduate Institute of Natural Products, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan; (F.-R.C.); (Y.-H.T.)
| | - Yi-Hong Tsai
- Graduate Institute of Natural Products, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan; (F.-R.C.); (Y.-H.T.)
| | - Ammad Ahmad Farooqi
- Institute of Biomedical and Genetic Engineering (IBGE), Islamabad 54000, Pakistan
| | - Hsueh-Wei Chang
- Graduate Institute of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan;
- Department of Biomedical Science and Environmental Biology, PhD Program in Life Sciences, College of Life Science, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
- Center for Cancer Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
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13
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Li T, Jiao J, Ke H, Ouyang W, Wang L, Pan J, Li X. Role of exosomes in the development of the immune microenvironment in hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1200201. [PMID: 37457718 PMCID: PMC10339802 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1200201] [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: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite numerous improved treatment methods used in recent years, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is still a disease with a high mortality rate. Many recent studies have shown that immunotherapy has great potential for cancer treatment. Exosomes play a significant role in negatively regulating the immune system in HCC. Understanding how these exosomes play a role in innate and adaptive immunity in HCC can significantly improve the immunotherapeutic effects on HCC. Further, engineered exosomes can deliver different drugs and RNA molecules to regulate the immune microenvironment of HCC by regulating the aforementioned immune pathway, thereby significantly improving the mortality rate of HCC. This study aimed to declare the role of exosomes in the development of the immune microenvironment in HCC and list engineered exosomes that could be used for clinical transformation therapy. These findings might be beneficial for clinical patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanghua Li
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiapeng Jiao
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Haoteng Ke
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wenshan Ouyang
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Luobin Wang
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jin Pan
- The Department of Electronic Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hongkong, Hongkong SAR, China
| | - Xin Li
- Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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14
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Nie J, Yang R, Zhou R, Deng Y, Li D, Gou D, Zhang Y. Circular RNA circFARSA promotes the tumorigenesis of non-small cell lung cancer by elevating B7H3 via sponging miR-15a-5p. Cell Cycle 2022; 21:2575-2589. [PMID: 35920698 PMCID: PMC9704387 DOI: 10.1080/15384101.2022.2105087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is currently one of the malignant tumors with the highest incidence and mortality rate in China. Circular RNA hsa_circ_0000896 (circFARSA) has been reported as being an oncogene and a potential biomarker for NSCL. However, the functional role and action mechanism of circFARSA in NSCLC progression have not been fully elucidated. The present study demonstrated that circFRASA was upregulated in NSCLC tissues and cell lines, and its expression was positively correlated with poor prognosis of patients with NSCLC. Further experiments revealed that circFARSA knockdown inhibited cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in vitro experiments, but overexpression of circFARSA exhibited opposite results. Mechanistically, circFARSA facilitated the malignant phenotype of NSCLC cells by enhancing B7H3 expression through sponging miR-15a-5p. In vivo experiments, knockdown of circFARSA restricted tumor growth and metastasis. In conclusion, circFARSA served as a sponge of miR-15a-5p to promote tumorigenesis and development of NSCLC by upregulation of B7H3 expression, which provided evidence of circFARSA maybe act as a novel therapeutic target for NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji Nie
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, The First People’s Hospital of Yunnan Province, The Affiliated Hospital of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Ruian Yang
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, The First People’s Hospital of Yunnan Province, The Affiliated Hospital of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Ran Zhou
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, The First People’s Hospital of Yunnan Province, The Affiliated Hospital of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Yi Deng
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, The First People’s Hospital of Yunnan Province, The Affiliated Hospital of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Dengyuan Li
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, The First People’s Hospital of Yunnan Province, The Affiliated Hospital of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Deming Gou
- Vascular Disease Research Center, College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China,Deming Gou Vascular Disease Research Center, College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518060, Guangdong, China
| | - Yunhui Zhang
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, The First People’s Hospital of Yunnan Province, The Affiliated Hospital of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China,CONTACT Yunhui Zhang Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, The First People’s Hospital of Yunnan Province. The Affiliated Hospital of Kunming University of Science and Technology, No. 157 Jinbi Road, Xishan District, Kunming, 650032, China
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15
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Yu S, Zhou L, Fu J, Xu L, Liu B, Zhao Y, Wang J, Yan X, Su J. H-TEX-mediated signaling between hepatocellular carcinoma cells and macrophages and exosome-targeted therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Immunol 2022; 13:997726. [PMID: 36311698 PMCID: PMC9608495 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.997726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
There is increasing evidence for the key role of the immune microenvironment in the occurrence and development of hepatocellular carcinoma. As an important component of the immune microenvironment, the polarization state and function of macrophages determine the maintenance of the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Hepatocellular carcinoma tumor-derived exosomes, as information carriers, regulate the physiological state of cells in the microenvironment and control cancer progression. In this review, we focus on the role of the exosome content in disease outcomes at different stages in the progression of hepatitis B virus/hepatitis C virus-induced hepatocellular carcinoma. We also explore the mechanism by which macrophages contribute to the formation of hepatocellular carcinoma and summarize the regulation of macrophage functions by the heterogeneity of exosome loading in liver cancer. Finally, with the rise of exosome modification in immunotherapy research on hepatocellular carcinoma, we summarize the application prospects of exosome-based targeted drug delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sihang Yu
- Department of Pathophysiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Lei Zhou
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Hospital to Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Jiaying Fu
- Department of Pathophysiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Long Xu
- Department of Pathophysiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Buhan Liu
- Department of Pathophysiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yuanxin Zhao
- Department of Pathophysiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jian Wang
- Department of Pathophysiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xiaoyu Yan
- Department of Pathophysiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
- *Correspondence: Xiaoyu Yan, ; Jing Su,
| | - Jing Su
- Department of Pathophysiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
- *Correspondence: Xiaoyu Yan, ; Jing Su,
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16
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Tian BW, Han CL, Dong ZR, Tan SY, Wang DX, Li T. Role of Exosomes in Immunotherapy of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14164036. [PMID: 36011030 PMCID: PMC9406927 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14164036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Revised: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Hepatocellular carcinoma is one of the most lethal malignancies, having a significantly poor prognosis. Immunotherapy, as an emerging tumor treatment option, provides new hope for many cancer patients. However, a large proportion of patients do not benefit from immunotherapy. As a critical cell-to-cell communication mediator in the tumor immune microenvironment, exosomes may play a unique role in hepatocellular carcinoma immune response and thus affect the efficiency of immunotherapy. In this review, we discuss related research on the roles of exosomes in the current immunotherapy resistance mechanism of hepatocellular carcinoma. Furthermore, we also clarify the excellent predictive value of exosomes and the roles they play in improving immunotherapy efficacy for hepatocellular carcinoma patients. We hope that our review can help readers to gain a more comprehensive understanding of exosomes’ roles in hepatocellular carcinoma immunotherapy. Abstract Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most lethal malignancies, having a significantly poor prognosis and no sufficiently efficient treatments. Immunotherapy, especially immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), has provided new therapeutic approaches for HCC patients. Nevertheless, most patients with HCC do not benefit from immunotherapy. Exosomes are biologically active lipid bilayer nano-sized vesicles ranging in size from 30 to 150 nm and can be secreted by almost any cell. In the HCC tumor microenvironment (TME), numerous cells are involved in tumor progression, and exosomes—derived from tumor cells and immune cells—exhibit unique composition profiles and act as intercellular communicators by transporting various substances. Showing the dual characteristics of tumor promotion and suppression, exosomes exert multiple functions in shaping tumor immune responses in the crosstalk between tumor cells and surrounding immune cells, mediating immunotherapy resistance by affecting the PD-1/PD-L1 axis or the anti-tumor function of immune cells in the TME. Targeting exosomes or the application of exosomes as therapies is involved in many aspects of HCC immunotherapies (e.g., ICIs, tumor vaccines, and adoptive cell therapy) and may substantially enhance their efficacy. In this review, we discuss the impact of exosomes on the HCC TME and comprehensively summarize the role of exosomes in immunotherapy resistance and therapeutic application. We also discuss the potential of exosomes as biomarkers for predicting the efficacy of immunotherapy to help clinicians in identifying HCC patients who are amenable to immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bao-Wen Tian
- Department of General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan 250000, China
| | - Cheng-Long Han
- Department of General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan 250000, China
| | - Zhao-Ru Dong
- Department of General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan 250000, China
| | - Si-Yu Tan
- Department of General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan 250000, China
| | - Dong-Xu Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan 250000, China
| | - Tao Li
- Department of General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan 250000, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Second Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan 250000, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel./Fax: +86-531-8216-6651
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17
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Gramantieri L, Fornari F, Giovannini C, Trerè D. MicroRNAs at the Crossroad between Immunoediting and Oncogenic Drivers in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12070930. [PMID: 35883486 PMCID: PMC9313100 DOI: 10.3390/biom12070930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary In recent years, treatments enhancing the antitumor immune response have revealed a new promising approach for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Beside favorable results in about one third of patients, much still remains to be done to face primary nonresponse, early, and late disease reactivation. Understanding the mechanisms underneath immune system modulation by immune checkpoint inhibitors in HCC might give additional opportunities for patient selection and combined approaches. MicroRNAs have emerged as relevant modulators of cancer cell hallmarks, including aberrant proliferation, invasion and migration capabilities, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, and glycolytic metabolism. At the same time, they contribute to the immune system development, response, and programs activation, with particular regard towards regulatory functions. Thus, miRNAs are relevant not only in cancer cells’ biology, but also in the immune response and interplay between cancer, microenvironment, and immune system. Abstract Treatments aimed to reverse the tumor-induced immune tolerance represent a promising approach for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Notwithstanding, primary nonresponse, early, and late disease reactivation still represent major clinical challenges. Here, we focused on microRNAs (miRNAs) acting both as modulators of cancer cell hallmarks and immune system response. We outlined the bidirectional function that some oncogenic miRNAs play in the differentiation and program activation of the immune system development and, at the same time, in the progression of HCC. Indeed, the multifaceted spectrum of miRNA targets allows the modulation of both immune-associated factors and oncogenic or tumor suppressor drivers at the same time. Understanding the molecular changes contributing to disease onset, progression, and resistance to treatments might help to identify possible novel biomarkers for selecting patient subgroups, and to design combined tailored treatments to potentiate antitumor approaches. Preliminary findings seem to argue in favor of a bidirectional function of some miRNAs, which enact an effective modulation of molecular pathways driving oncogenic and immune-skipping phenotypes associated with cancer aggressiveness. The identification of these miRNAs and the characterization of their ‘dual’ role might help to unravel novel biomarkers identifying those patients more likely to respond to immune checkpoint inhibitors and to identify possible therapeutic targets with both antitumor and immunomodulatory functions. In the present review, we will focus on the restricted panel of miRNAs playing a bidirectional role in HCC, influencing oncogenic and immune-related pathways at once. Even though this field is still poorly investigated in HCC, it might represent a source of candidate molecules acting as both biomarkers and therapeutic targets in the setting of immune-based treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Gramantieri
- Division of Internal Medicine, Hepatobiliary and Immunoallergic Diseases, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesca Fornari
- Department for Life Quality Studies (QuVi), University of Bologna, 47921 Rimini, Italy
- Centre for Applied Biomedical Research-CRBA, University of Bologna, IRCCS St. Orsola Hospital, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Catia Giovannini
- Centre for Applied Biomedical Research-CRBA, University of Bologna, IRCCS St. Orsola Hospital, 40138 Bologna, Italy
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Davide Trerè
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
- Departmental Program in Laboratory Medicine, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
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18
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Puhka M, Thierens L, Nicorici D, Forsman T, Mirtti T, af Hällström T, Serkkola E, Rannikko A. Exploration of Extracellular Vesicle miRNAs, Targeted mRNAs and Pathways in Prostate Cancer: Relation to Disease Status and Progression. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14030532. [PMID: 35158801 PMCID: PMC8833493 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14030532] [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: 10/29/2021] [Revised: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Prostate cancer lacks non-invasive specific biomarkers for aggressive disease. Urinary extracellular vesicles (uEV) could provide such markers; however, due to technical challenges, little is known regarding the pathogenesis pathways reflected in uEV. We performed a miRNA, target mRNA and pathway study focused on uEV, exploring the differences between cancer (1) status groups (Gleason score) and (2) progression groups. The uEV provided a surprisingly comprehensive presentation of differentially expressed miRNAs, target mRNAs and pathogenesis pathways. The miRNAs associated with prostate cancer status or progression were mostly unique, but still targeted overlapping sets of signalling, resistance, hormonal and immune pathways. Interestingly, mRNA targets of the key miRNAs (miR-892a, miR-223-3p, miR-146a-5p) were widely expressed in both uEV and plasma EV from PCa patients. The study thus suggests that uEV carry a vast presentation of PCa status and progression-linked RNAs that are worth further exploration in large personalized medicine trials. Abstract Background: Prostate cancer (PCa) lacks non-invasive specific biomarkers for aggressive disease. We studied the potential of urinary extracellular vesicles (uEV) as a liquid PCa biopsy by focusing on the micro RNA (miRNA) cargo, target messenger RNA (mRNA) and pathway analysis. Methods: We subjected uEV samples from 31 PCa patients (pre-prostatectomy) to miRNA sequencing and matched uEV and plasma EV (pEV) from three PCa patients to mRNA sequencing. EV quality control was performed by electron microscopy, Western blotting and particle and RNA analysis. We compared miRNA expression based on PCa status (Gleason Score) and progression (post-prostatectomy follow-up) and confirmed selected miRNAs by quantitative PCR. Expression of target mRNAs was mapped in matched EV. Results: Quality control showed typical small uEV, pEV, RNA and EV-protein marker enriched samples. Comparisons between PCa groups revealed mostly unique differentially expressed miRNAs. However, they targeted comprehensive and largely overlapping sets of cancer and progression-associated signalling, resistance, hormonal and immune pathways. Quantitative PCR confirmed changes in miR-892a (Gleason Score 7 vs. ≥8), miR-223-3p (progression vs. no progression) and miR-146a-5p (both comparisons). Their target mRNAs were expressed widely in PCa EV. Conclusions: PCa status and progression-linked RNAs in uEV are worth exploration in large personalized medicine trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maija Puhka
- HiPrep and EV Core, Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland FIMM, University of Helsinki, 00290 Helsinki, Finland;
- Correspondence: (M.P.); (A.R.)
| | - Lisse Thierens
- HiPrep and EV Core, Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland FIMM, University of Helsinki, 00290 Helsinki, Finland;
| | - Daniel Nicorici
- Orion Pharma, Orion Corporation, 02200 Espoo, Finland; (D.N.); (T.F.); (E.S.)
| | - Tarja Forsman
- Orion Pharma, Orion Corporation, 02200 Espoo, Finland; (D.N.); (T.F.); (E.S.)
| | - Tuomas Mirtti
- Department of Pathology, HUS Diagnostic Centre, Helsinki University Hospital, 00290 Helsinki, Finland;
- Research Program in Systems Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, 00290 Helsinki, Finland
| | | | - Elina Serkkola
- Orion Pharma, Orion Corporation, 02200 Espoo, Finland; (D.N.); (T.F.); (E.S.)
| | - Antti Rannikko
- Research Program in Systems Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, 00290 Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Urology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, 00290 Helsinki, Finland
- Correspondence: (M.P.); (A.R.)
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