1
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Wang G, Jiang X, Torabian P, Yang Z. Investigating autophagy and intricate cellular mechanisms in hepatocellular carcinoma: Emphasis on cell death mechanism crosstalk. Cancer Lett 2024; 588:216744. [PMID: 38431037 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216744] [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: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) stands as a formidable global health challenge due to its prevalence, marked by high mortality and morbidity rates. This cancer type exhibits a multifaceted etiology, prominently linked to viral infections, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and genomic mutations. The inherent heterogeneity of HCC, coupled with its proclivity for developing drug resistance, presents formidable obstacles to effective therapeutic interventions. Autophagy, a fundamental catabolic process, plays a pivotal role in maintaining cellular homeostasis, responding to stressors such as nutrient deprivation. In the context of HCC, tumor cells exploit autophagy, either augmenting or impeding its activity, thereby influencing tumorigenesis. This comprehensive review underscores the dualistic role of autophagy in HCC, acting as both a pro-survival and pro-death mechanism, impacting the trajectory of tumorigenesis. The anti-carcinogenic potential of autophagy is evident in its ability to enhance apoptosis and ferroptosis in HCC cells. Pertinently, dysregulated autophagy fosters drug resistance in the carcinogenic context. Both genomic and epigenetic factors can regulate autophagy in HCC progression. Recognizing the paramount importance of autophagy in HCC progression, this review introduces pharmacological compounds capable of modulating autophagy-either inducing or inhibiting it, as promising avenues in HCC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gang Wang
- Department of Interventional, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110032, PR China
| | - Xiaodi Jiang
- Department of Infectious Disease, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110020, PR China
| | - Pedram Torabian
- Arnie Charbonneau Cancer Research Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, T2N 4Z6, Canada; Department of Medical Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, T2N 4Z6, Canada.
| | - Zhi Yang
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110032, PR China.
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2
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Imodoye SO, Adedokun KA, Bello IO. From complexity to clarity: unravelling tumor heterogeneity through the lens of tumor microenvironment for innovative cancer therapy. Histochem Cell Biol 2024; 161:299-323. [PMID: 38189822 DOI: 10.1007/s00418-023-02258-6] [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] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
Despite the tremendous clinical successes recorded in the landscape of cancer therapy, tumor heterogeneity remains a formidable challenge to successful cancer treatment. In recent years, the emergence of high-throughput technologies has advanced our understanding of the variables influencing tumor heterogeneity beyond intrinsic tumor characteristics. Emerging knowledge shows that drivers of tumor heterogeneity are not only intrinsic to cancer cells but can also emanate from their microenvironment, which significantly favors tumor progression and impairs therapeutic response. Although much has been explored to understand the fundamentals of the influence of innate tumor factors on cancer diversity, the roles of the tumor microenvironment (TME) are often undervalued. It is therefore imperative that a clear understanding of the interactions between the TME and other tumor intrinsic factors underlying the plastic molecular behaviors of cancers be identified to develop patient-specific treatment strategies. This review highlights the roles of the TME as an emerging factor in tumor heterogeneity. More particularly, we discuss the role of the TME in the context of tumor heterogeneity and explore the cutting-edge diagnostic and therapeutic approaches that could be used to resolve this recurring clinical conundrum. We conclude by speculating on exciting research questions that can advance our understanding of tumor heterogeneity with the goal of developing customized therapeutic solutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sikiru O Imodoye
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
| | - Kamoru A Adedokun
- Department of Immunology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, 14263, USA
| | - Ibrahim O Bello
- Department of Oral Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Dentistry, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
- Department of Pathology, University of Helsinki, Haartmaninkatu 3, 00014, Helsinki, Finland.
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3
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Varisli L, Vlahopoulos S. Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Acute Leukemias. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2173. [PMID: 38396852 PMCID: PMC10889420 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25042173] [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: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 01/27/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a metabolic process that confers phenotypic flexibility to cells and the ability to adapt to new functions. This transition is critical during embryogenesis and is required for the differentiation of many tissues and organs. EMT can also be induced in advanced-stage cancers, leading to further malignant behavior and chemotherapy resistance, resulting in an unfavorable prognosis for patients. Although EMT was long considered and studied only in solid tumors, it has been shown to be involved in the pathogenesis of hematological malignancies, including acute leukemias. Indeed, there is increasing evidence that EMT promotes the progression of acute leukemias, leading to the emergence of a more aggressive phenotype of the disease, and also causes chemotherapy resistance. The current literature suggests that the levels and activities of EMT inducers and markers can be used to predict prognosis, and that targeting EMT in addition to conventional therapies may increase treatment success in acute leukemias.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lokman Varisli
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Science Faculty, Dicle University, Diyarbakir 21280, Turkey
| | - Spiros Vlahopoulos
- First Department of Pediatrics, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Thivon & Levadeias 8, Goudi, 11527 Athens, Greece
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4
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Imodoye SO, Adedokun KA. EMT-induced immune evasion: connecting the dots from mechanisms to therapy. Clin Exp Med 2023; 23:4265-4287. [PMID: 37966552 DOI: 10.1007/s10238-023-01229-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a dynamic program crucial for organismal development and tissue regeneration. Unfortunately, this program is often hijacked by epithelial tumors to facilitate metastasis. Beyond its role in cancer spread, EMT increases cancer cell survival by activating stem cell programs and bypassing apoptotic programs. Importantly, the capacity of EMT to enforce tumor progression by altering the tumor cell phenotype without triggering immune responses opens the intriguing possibility of a mechanistic link between EMT-driven cancers and immune evasion. Indeed, EMT has been acknowledged as a of driver immune evasion, but the mechanisms are still evolving. Here, we review recent insights into the influence of EMT on tumor immune evasion. Specifically, we focus on the mechanistic roles of EMT in immune escape as the basis that may provide a platform for innovative therapeutic approaches in advanced tumors. We summarize promising therapeutic approaches currently in clinical trials and trending preclinical studies aimed at reinvigorating the tumor microenvironment to create immune-permissive conditions that facilitates immune-mediated tumor clearance. We anticipate that this will assist researchers and pharmaceutical companies in understanding how EMT compromises the immune response, potentially paving the way for effective cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sikiru O Imodoye
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, USA.
| | - Kamoru A Adedokun
- Department of Immunology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, 14263, USA
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5
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Adedokun KA, Oluogun WA, Oyenike MA, Imodoye SO, Yunus LA, Lasisi SA, Bello IO, Kamorudeen RT, Adekola SA. Expression Patterns of ER, PR, HER-2/neu and p53 in Association with Nottingham Tumour Grade in Breast Cancer Patients. Sultan Qaboos Univ Med J 2023; 23:526-533. [PMID: 38090235 PMCID: PMC10712386 DOI: 10.18295/squmj.7.2023.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 03/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives Recent molecular studies show that breast cancer (BC) is a heterogeneous disease, and several molecular changes may accumulate over time to influence treatment response. As a result, employing reliable molecular biomarkers to monitor these modifications may help deliver personalised treatment. However, this may be unrealistic in the resource-limited parts of the world. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the expression pattern of hormone receptors and p53 tumour suppressor using immunohistochemistry (IHC) in BC compared to the traditional tumour grade. Methods In total, 205 cases were investigated, and the Modified Bloom-Richardson score system was adopted in grading the tumours. The tissue sections of the cases were stained with specific primary antibodies at dilutions of 1:60 for oestrogen receptors (ER) and progesterone receptors (PR), 1:350 for the human epidermal growth factor (HER-2/neu) and 1:50 for p53. Results Invasive ductal carcinoma of no-specific type (n = 190, 92.7%) was predominant and grade II tumour (n = 146, 71.2%) was the most frequent. Hormone receptors ER (n = 127) and PR (n = 145) had 62.0% and 70.7% positive cases, respectively; 34.1% (n = 70) were positive for HER-2/neu, while 76.1% (n = 156) were positive for p53. Significant associations between Nottingham grade and expression patterns of ER (P <0.01), PR (P <0.001), HER-2/neu (P <0.001) and p53 (P = 0.001) were observed. Conclusion Nottingham grade had a high degree of concordance with the patterns of expression of hormone receptors, HER-2/neu and p53, suggesting that it may play an important role in connection with the predictive and prognostic biomarkers for BC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamoru A. Adedokun
- Department of Immunology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Waheed A. Oluogun
- Department of Morbid Anatomy and Histopathology Osun State University Teaching Hospital (UNIOSUNTH), Osogbo, Nigeria
| | - Musiliu A. Oyenike
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomosho, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | - Sikiru O. Imodoye
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Lukman A. Yunus
- Department of Morbid Anatomy and Histopathology Osun State University Teaching Hospital (UNIOSUNTH), Osogbo, Nigeria
| | - smaila A. Lasisi
- Laboratory Unit, Health Centre, Osun State Polytechnic Iree, Osun State, Nigeria
| | - Ibrahim O. Bello
- Department of Biological Sciences, Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville, Edwardsville, Illinois, USA
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Cebulski K, Piotrowska A, Kmiecik A, Haczkiewicz-Leśniak K, Ciesielska U, Grzegrzółka J, Jabłońska K, Romanowicz H, Smolarz B, Dzięgiel P, Podhorska-Okołów M, Nowińska K. The Role of Irisin/FNDC5 Expression and Its Serum Level in Breast Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24108628. [PMID: 37239973 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24108628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Irisin (Ir) is an adipomyokine formed from fibronectin type III domain-containing protein 5 (FNDC5), which can be found in various cancer tissues. Additionally, FNDC5/Ir is suspected of inhibiting the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process. This relationship has been poorly studied for breast cancer (BC). The ultrastructural cellular localizations of FNDC5/Ir were examined in BC tissues and BC cell lines. Furthermore, we compared serum levels of Ir with FNDC5/Ir expression in BC tissues. The aim of this study was to examine the levels of EMT markers, such as E-cadherin, N-cadherin, SNAIL, SLUG, and TWIST, and to compare their expression levels with FNDC5/Ir in BC tissues. Tissue microarrays with 541 BC samples were used to perform immunohistochemical reactions. Serum levels of Ir were assessed in 77 BC patients. We investigated FNDC5/Ir expression and ultrastructural localization in MCF-7, MDA-MB-231, and MDA-MB-468 BC cell lines and in the normal breast cell line (Me16c), which was used as the control. FNDC5/Ir was present in BC cell cytoplasm and tumor fibroblasts. FNDC5/Ir expression levels in BC cell lines were higher compared to those in the normal breast cell line. Serum Ir levels did not correlate with FNDC5/Ir expression in BC tissues but were associated with lymph node metastasis (N) and histological grade (G). We found that FNDC5/Ir correlated moderately with E-cadherin and SNAIL. Higher Ir serum level is associated with lymph node metastasis and increased grade of malignancy. FNDC5/Ir expression is associated with E-cadherin expression level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamil Cebulski
- Division of Histology and Embryology, Department of Human Morphology and Embryology, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-368 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Piotrowska
- Division of Histology and Embryology, Department of Human Morphology and Embryology, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-368 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Alicja Kmiecik
- Division of Histology and Embryology, Department of Human Morphology and Embryology, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-368 Wroclaw, Poland
| | | | - Urszula Ciesielska
- Division of Histology and Embryology, Department of Human Morphology and Embryology, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-368 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Jędrzej Grzegrzółka
- Division of Histology and Embryology, Department of Human Morphology and Embryology, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-368 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Karolina Jabłońska
- Division of Histology and Embryology, Department of Human Morphology and Embryology, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-368 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Hanna Romanowicz
- Department of Pathology, Polish Mother Memorial Hospital-Research Institute, 93-338 Lodz, Poland
| | - Beata Smolarz
- Department of Pathology, Polish Mother Memorial Hospital-Research Institute, 93-338 Lodz, Poland
| | - Piotr Dzięgiel
- Division of Histology and Embryology, Department of Human Morphology and Embryology, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-368 Wroclaw, Poland
- Department of Human Biology, Faculty of Physiotherapy, Wroclaw University of Health and Sport Sciences, 51-612 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Marzenna Podhorska-Okołów
- Division of Ultrastructural Research, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-368 Wroclaw, Poland
- Department of Human Biology, Faculty of Physiotherapy, Wroclaw University of Health and Sport Sciences, 51-612 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Nowińska
- Division of Histology and Embryology, Department of Human Morphology and Embryology, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-368 Wroclaw, Poland
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7
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Stankiewicz LN, Salim K, Flaschner EA, Wang YX, Edgar JM, Lin BZB, Bingham GC, Major MC, Jones RD, Blau HM, Rideout EJ, Levings MK, Zandstra PW, Rossi FMV. Sex biased human thymic architecture guides T cell development through spatially defined niches. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.04.13.536804. [PMID: 37090676 PMCID: PMC10120731 DOI: 10.1101/2023.04.13.536804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/25/2023]
Abstract
Within the thymus, regulation of the cellular cross-talk directing T cell development is dependent on spatial interactions within specialized niches. To create a holistic, spatially defined map of tissue niches guiding postnatal T cell development we employed the multidimensional imaging platform CO-detection by indEXing (CODEX), as well as CITE-seq and ATAC-seq. We generated age-matched 4-5-month-old postnatal thymus datasets for male and female donors, and identify significant sex differences in both T cell and thymus biology. We demonstrate a crucial role for JAG ligands in directing thymic-like dendritic cell development, reveal important functions of a novel population of ECM- fibroblasts, and characterize the medullary niches surrounding Hassall's corpuscles. Together, these data represent a unique age-matched spatial multiomic resource to investigate how sex-based differences in thymus regulation and T cell development arise, and provide an essential resource to understand the mechanisms underlying immune function and dysfunction in males and females.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kevin Salim
- Department of Surgery, University of British Columbia, Canada
- BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Canada
| | - Emily A Flaschner
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Canada
| | - Yu Xin Wang
- Center for Genetic Disorders and Aging, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - John M Edgar
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Canada
| | - Bruce ZB Lin
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Canada
| | - Grace C Bingham
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, USA
| | - Matthew C Major
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Canada
| | - Ross D Jones
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Canada
| | - Helen M Blau
- Baxter Laboratory for Stem Cell Biology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, USA
| | | | - Megan K Levings
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Surgery, University of British Columbia, Canada
- BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Canada
| | - Peter W Zandstra
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Canada
- Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia, Canada
- These authors contributed equally
- Lead contact
| | - Fabio MV Rossi
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Canada
- These authors contributed equally
- Lead contact
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8
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Feigelman G, Simanovich E, Brockmeyer P, Rahat MA. Knocking-Down CD147/EMMPRIN Expression in CT26 Colon Carcinoma Forces the Cells into Cellular and Angiogenic Dormancy That Can Be Reversed by Interactions with Macrophages. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11030768. [PMID: 36979746 PMCID: PMC10044868 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11030768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Metastasis in colorectal cancer is responsible for most of the cancer-related deaths. For metastasis to occur, tumor cells must first undergo the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), which is driven by the transcription factors (EMT-TFs) Snail, Slug twist1, or Zeb1, to promote their migration. In the distant organs, tumor cells may become dormant for years, until signals from their microenvironment trigger and promote their outgrowth. Here we asked whether CD147/EMMPRIN controls entry and exit from dormancy in the aggressive and proliferative (i.e., non-dormant) CT26 mouse colon carcinoma cells, in its wild-type form (CT26-WT cells). To this end, we knocked down EMMPRIN expression in CT26 cells (CT26-KD), and compared their EMT and cellular dormancy status (e.g., proliferation, pERK/pP38 ratio, vimentin expression, expression of EMT-TFs and dormancy markers), and angiogenic dormancy (e.g., VEGF and MMP-9 secretion, healing of the wounded bEND3 mouse endothelial cells), to the parental cells (CT26-WT). We show that knocking-down EMMPRIN expression reduced the pERK/pP38 ratio, enhanced the expression of vimentin, the EMT-TFs and the dormancy markers, and reduced the proliferation and angiogenic potential, cumulatively indicating that cells were pushed towards dormancy. When macrophages were co-cultured with both types of CT26 cells, the CT26-WT cells increased their angiogenic potential, but did not change their proliferation, state of EMT, or dormancy, whereas the CT26-KD cells exhibited values mostly similar to those of the co-cultured CT26-WT cells. Addition of recombinant TGFβ or EMMPRIN that simulated the presence of macrophages yielded similar results. Combinations of low concentrations of TGFβ and EMMPRIN had a minimal additive effect only in the CT26-KD cells, suggesting that they work along the same signaling pathway. We conclude that EMMPRIN is important as a gatekeeper that prevents cells from entering a dormant state, and that macrophages can promote an exit from dormancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriele Feigelman
- Immunotherapy Laboratory, Carmel Medical Center, Haifa 3436212, Israel
- Ruth and Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 3109601, Israel
| | - Elina Simanovich
- Immunotherapy Laboratory, Carmel Medical Center, Haifa 3436212, Israel
| | - Phillipp Brockmeyer
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37073 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Michal A. Rahat
- Immunotherapy Laboratory, Carmel Medical Center, Haifa 3436212, Israel
- Ruth and Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 3109601, Israel
- Correspondence:
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9
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From the Catastrophic Objective Irreproducibility of Cancer Research and Unavoidable Failures of Molecular Targeted Therapies to the Sparkling Hope of Supramolecular Targeted Strategies. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032796. [PMID: 36769134 PMCID: PMC9917659 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032796] [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: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 01/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The unprecedented non-reproducibility of the results published in the field of cancer research has recently come under the spotlight. In this short review, we try to highlight some general principles in the organization and evolution of cancerous tumors, which objectively lead to their enormous variability and, consequently, the irreproducibility of the results of their investigation. This heterogeneity is also extremely unfavorable for the effective use of molecularly targeted medicine. Against the seemingly comprehensive background of this heterogeneity, we single out two supramolecular characteristics common to all tumors: the clustered nature of tumor interactions with their microenvironment and the formation of biomolecular condensates with tumor-specific distinctive features. We suggest that these features can form the basis of strategies for tumor-specific supramolecular targeted therapies.
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10
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Liang L, Kaufmann AM. The Significance of Cancer Stem Cells and Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Metastasis and Anti-Cancer Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032555. [PMID: 36768876 PMCID: PMC9917228 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) have been identified and characterized in both hematopoietic and solid tumors. Their existence was first predicted by Virchow and Cohnheim in the 1870s. Later, many studies showed that CSCs can be identified and isolated by their expression of specific cell markers. The significance of CSCs with respect to tumor biology and anti-cancer treatment lies in their ability to maintain quiescence with very slow proliferation, indefinite self-renewal, differentiation, and trans-differentiation such as epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and its reverse process mesenchymal-epithelial transition (MET). The ability for detachment, migration, extra- and intravasation, invasion and thereby of completing all necessary steps of the metastatic cascade highlights their significance for metastasis. CSCs comprise the cancer cell populations responsible for tumor growth, resistance to therapies and cancer metastasis. In this review, the history of the CSC theory, their identification and characterization and their biology are described. The contribution of the CSC ability to undergo EMT for cancer metastasis is discussed. Recently, novel strategies for drug development have focused on the elimination of the CSCs specifically. The unique functional and molecular properties of CSCs are discussed as possible therapeutic vulnerabilities for the development of novel anti-metastasis treatments. Prospectively, this may provide precise personalized anti-cancer treatments with improved therapeutic efficiency with fewer side effects and leading to better prognosis.
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11
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Salzillo A, Ragone A, Spina A, Naviglio S, Sapio L. Forskolin affects proliferation, migration and Paclitaxel-mediated cytotoxicity in non-small-cell lung cancer cell lines via adenylyl cyclase/cAMP axis. Eur J Cell Biol 2023; 102:151292. [PMID: 36736051 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejcb.2023.151292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) is considered one of the most frequently diagnosed cancers and the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Despite the undoubted therapeutic advances that have occurred in clinical practice over time, due to its high degree in both heterogeneity and resistance, NSCLC remains largely incurable. As a natural cAMP elevating agent, Forskolin has shown anti-cancer properties in different tumor types, thus supposing its possible usage in treating malignancies. In this study, we investigated the Forskolin outcome in H1299 and A549 NSCLC cell lines, either alone or in combination with Paclitaxel. We proved that Forskolin impairs cell growth and migration ability of these cells, concurrently. Albeit with a different extent between H1299 and A549, changes in cell-cycle progression and epithelial-mesenchymal markers were observed in response to Forskolin administration. Interestingly, comparable cell growth impairment was also obtained with the cAMP phosphodiesterase inhibitor IBMX, while the employment of adenylyl cyclase inhibitor SQ22536 counteracted, at least in part, the Forskolin-mediated anticancer effects. Besides as a single agent, we also demonstrated that Forskolin strongly enhances Paclitaxel-induced cytotoxicity, affecting cell death mainly via apoptosis induction. Notably, H89-mediated protein kinase A (PKA) inhibition further deteriorated the combination outcome. Altogether, our data designate Forskolin as a possible anticancer molecule in NSCLC, and recognize the adenylyl cyclase/cAMP axis as one of the pathways involved in. Although achieved at preclinical stage, our findings encourage the design of future studies aimed at further exploring the Forskolin employment in NSCLC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Salzillo
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Angela Ragone
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Annamaria Spina
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Silvio Naviglio
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy.
| | - Luigi Sapio
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
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12
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Zou X, Li T, Mao Y, Zhu M, Chen X, Niu J, Dong T, Jiang J, Yang X. Multifunctional Drug-Loaded Phase-Change Nanoparticles Inhibit the Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition of Hepatocellular Carcinoma by Affecting the Activity of Activated Hepatic Stellate Cells. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 2022:6441179. [PMID: 36411770 PMCID: PMC9675611 DOI: 10.1155/2022/6441179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
Objectives. Preparation of a multifunctional drug-loaded phase-change nanoparticle (NP), pirfenidone perfluoropentane liposome NPs (PPL NPs), and combined with low-intensity focused ultrasound (LIFU) to influence epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) by inhibiting the activity of activated Hepatic Stellate Cells (a-HSCs). Methods. PPL NPs were prepared by the thin film dispersion method. The appearance, particle size, zeta potential, encapsulation efficiency, drug loading rate, drug release in vitro, and stability of PPL NPs were tested. The role of a-HSCs in HCC metastasis was studied by CCK-8, colony formation assay, apoptosis, cellular uptake assay, wound healing assay, and Transwell assay. Western blot was used to detect the related protein expression levels. In vitro and vivo, the acoustic droplet vaporization (ADV) of PPL NPs was tested at different times and LIFU intensities. Biosafety of the PPL NPs was assessed by measuring nude mouse body weight and hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining. Results. The results showed that the PPL NPs had good biosafety, with an average particle size of 346.6 ± 62.21 nm and an average zeta potential of -15.23 mV. When the LIFU power is 2.4 W/cm2, it can improve the permeability of cells, further promote the uptake of drugs by cells, and improve the toxicity of drugs. In vitro experiments showed that PPL NPs could inhibit the proliferation of a-HSCs cells, thereby affecting the metastasis of HCC, and were related to the TGFβ-Smad2/3-Snail signaling pathway. Both in vivo and in vitro PPL NPs enhanced ultrasound imaging by LIFU-triggered ADV. Conclusion. The PPL NPs designed and prepared in this study combined with LIFU irradiation could significantly alter the EMT of HCC by inhibiting LX2. Clinically, PPL NPs will also be considered a promising contrast agent due to their ultrasound imaging capabilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaomeng Zou
- Department of Abdominal Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150001, China
| | - Tiantian Li
- Department of Abdominal Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150001, China
| | - Yingxuan Mao
- Department of Abdominal Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150001, China
| | - Mingwei Zhu
- Department of Abdominal Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150001, China
| | - Xi Chen
- Department of Abdominal Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150001, China
| | - Jiamei Niu
- Department of Abdominal Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150001, China
| | - Tianxiu Dong
- Department of Abdominal Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150001, China
| | - Jian Jiang
- Department of Abdominal Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150001, China
| | - Xiuhua Yang
- Department of Abdominal Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150001, China
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Anwar S, Malik JA, Ahmed S, Kameshwar VA, Alanazi J, Alamri A, Ahemad N. Can Natural Products Targeting EMT Serve as the Future Anticancer Therapeutics? MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27227668. [PMID: 36431766 PMCID: PMC9698579 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27227668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Cancer is the leading cause of death and has remained a big challenge for the scientific community. Because of the growing concerns, new therapeutic regimens are highly demanded to decrease the global burden. Despite advancements in chemotherapy, drug resistance is still a major hurdle to successful treatment. The primary challenge should be identifying and developing appropriate therapeutics for cancer patients to improve their survival. Multiple pathways are dysregulated in cancers, including disturbance in cellular metabolism, cell cycle, apoptosis, or epigenetic alterations. Over the last two decades, natural products have been a major research interest due to their therapeutic potential in various ailments. Natural compounds seem to be an alternative option for cancer management. Natural substances derived from plants and marine sources have been shown to have anti-cancer activity in preclinical settings. They might be proved as a sword to kill cancerous cells. The present review attempted to consolidate the available information on natural compounds derived from plants and marine sources and their anti-cancer potential underlying EMT mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sirajudheen Anwar
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Hail, Hail 81422, Saudi Arabia
- Molecular Diagnostics Unit and Personalized Treatment, University of Hail, Hail 81422, Saudi Arabia
- Correspondence:
| | - Jonaid Ahmad Malik
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Guwahati 781101, Assam, India
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Ropar, Rupnagar 140001, Punjab, India
| | - Sakeel Ahmed
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Ahmedabad 382355, Gujarat, India
| | - Verma Abhishek Kameshwar
- Department of Pharmacology, Amrita School of Pharmacy, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Kochi 641112, Kerala, India
| | - Jowaher Alanazi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Hail, Hail 81422, Saudi Arabia
- Molecular Diagnostics Unit and Personalized Treatment, University of Hail, Hail 81422, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulwahab Alamri
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Hail, Hail 81422, Saudi Arabia
- Molecular Diagnostics Unit and Personalized Treatment, University of Hail, Hail 81422, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nafees Ahemad
- School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia, Jalan lagoon Selatan, Bandar Sunway, Petaling Jaya 47500, Selangor DE, Malaysia
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Gomez RL, Ibragimova S, Ramachandran R, Philpott A, Ali FR. Tumoral heterogeneity in neuroblastoma. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2022; 1877:188805. [PMID: 36162542 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2022.188805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Revised: 08/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/17/2022] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
Neuroblastoma is a solid, neuroendocrine tumor with divergent clinical behavior ranging from asymptomatic to fatal. The diverse clinical presentations of neuroblastoma are directly linked to the high intra- and inter-tumoral heterogeneity it presents. This heterogeneity is strongly associated with therapeutic resistance and continuous relapses, often leading to fatal outcomes. The development of successful risk assessment and tailored treatment strategies lies in evaluating the extent of heterogeneity via the accurate genetic and epigenetic profiling of distinct cell subpopulations present in the tumor. Recent studies have focused on understanding the molecular mechanisms that drive tumoral heterogeneity in pursuing better therapeutic and diagnostic approaches. This review describes the cellular, genetic, and epigenetic aspects of neuroblastoma heterogeneity. In addition, we summarize the recent findings on three crucial factors that can lead to heterogeneity in solid tumors: the inherent diversity of the progenitor cells, the presence of cancer stem cells, and the influence of the tumor microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roshna Lawrence Gomez
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai Healthcare City, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Shakhzada Ibragimova
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai Healthcare City, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Revathy Ramachandran
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai Healthcare City, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Anna Philpott
- Department of Oncology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom; Wellcome-MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Center, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Fahad R Ali
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai Healthcare City, Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
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15
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Alnuaimi AR, Nair VA, Malhab LJB, Abu-Gharbieh E, Ranade AV, Pintus G, Hamad M, Busch H, Kirfel J, Hamoudi R, Abdel-Rahman WM. Emerging role of caldesmon in cancer: A potential biomarker for colorectal cancer and other cancers. World J Gastrointest Oncol 2022; 14:1637-1653. [PMID: 36187394 PMCID: PMC9516648 DOI: 10.4251/wjgo.v14.i9.1637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a devastating disease, mainly because of metastasis. As a result, there is a need to better understand the molecular basis of invasion and metastasis and to identify new biomarkers and therapeutic targets to aid in managing these tumors. The actin cytoskeleton and actin-binding proteins are known to play an important role in the process of cancer metastasis because they control and execute essential steps in cell motility and contractility as well as cell division. Caldesmon (CaD) is an actin-binding protein encoded by the CALD1 gene as multiple transcripts that mainly encode two protein isoforms: High-molecular-weight CaD, expressed in smooth muscle, and low-molecular weight CaD (l-CaD), expressed in nonsmooth muscle cells. According to our comprehensive review of the literature, CaD, particularly l-CaD, plays a key role in the development, metastasis, and resistance to chemoradiotherapy in colorectal, breast, and urinary bladder cancers and gliomas, among other malignancies. CaD is involved in many aspects of the carcinogenic hallmarks, including epithelial mesenchymal transition via transforming growth factor-beta signaling, angiogenesis, resistance to hormonal therapy, and immune evasion. Recent data show that CaD is expressed in tumor cells as well as in stromal cells, such as cancer-associated fibroblasts, where it modulates the tumor microenvironment to favor the tumor. Interestingly, CaD undergoes selective tumor-specific splicing, and the resulting isoforms are generally not expressed in normal tissues, making these transcripts ideal targets for drug design. In this review, we will analyze these features of CaD with a focus on CRC and show how the currently available data qualify CaD as a potential candidate for targeted therapy in addition to its role in the diagnosis and prognosis of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alya R Alnuaimi
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
- College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Vidhya A Nair
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Lara J Bou Malhab
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Eman Abu-Gharbieh
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Clinical Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Anu Vinod Ranade
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Gianfranco Pintus
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari 07100, Italy
| | - Mohamad Hamad
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Hauke Busch
- University Cancer Center Schleswig-Holstein and Luebeck Institute for Experimental Dermatology, University of Luebeck, Luebeck 23560, Germany
| | - Jutta Kirfel
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Luebeck 23560, Germany
| | - Rifat Hamoudi
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Clinical Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
- Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom
| | - Wael M Abdel-Rahman
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
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Spirulina phycocyanin extract and its active components suppress epithelial-mesenchymal transition process in endometrial cancer via targeting TGF-beta1/SMAD4 signaling pathway. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 152:113219. [PMID: 35691155 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113219] [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] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Revised: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Metastasis is a major challenge in aggressive endometrial cancer treatment accounting for the high recurrence risk and poor prognosis of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), regulated by the transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) signaling pathway, facilitates tumor metastasis. Spirulina phycocyanin extract (SPE) and its purified products allophycocyanin (APC) and C-phycocyanin (C-PC), derived from Spirulina platensis, can be considered a nutraceutical compound with the ability to inhibit tumor growth and metastasis. Current study aims to investigate the anti-metastatic potential of SPE, and its purified products APC, and C-PC on endometrial cancer both in vitro and in vivo. Firstly, human endometrial cancer cell lines (HEC-1A and Ishikawa) as an in vitro model. Secondly, HEC-1A cells transfected with luminescence gene were implanted into female nude mice as a xenograft model. MTT assay, transwell migration assay, immunoblotting assay, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction assay, and IVIS XRMS analysis techniques were used. The in vitro results showed that SPE and its purified products APC and C-PC inhibited cell migration, and altered the expression of EMT-related phenotypes by reversing the TGFβ/SMADs signaling pathway. The in vivo results indicated that SPE repressed the metastasis of HEC-1A-LUC cells through modulating EMT-related markers expression. Overall, SPE and its efficient components APC and C-PC reversed the EMT through targeting the TGFβ/SMADs signaling pathway, suggesting an effective therapeutic strategy for metastatic endometrial cancer.
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