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Xie Y, Wang J, Wang Y, Wen Y, Pu Y, Wang B. Parasite-enhanced immunotherapy: transforming the "cold" tumors to "hot" battlefields. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:448. [PMID: 39327550 PMCID: PMC11426008 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-024-01822-4] [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: 07/05/2024] [Accepted: 09/08/2024] [Indexed: 09/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy has emerged as a highly effective treatment for various tumors. However, the variable response rates associated with current immunotherapies often restrict their beneficial impact on a subset of patients. Therefore, more effective treatment approaches that can broaden the scope of therapeutic benefits to a larger patient population are urgently needed. Studies have shown that some parasites and their products, for example, Plasmodium, Toxoplasma, Trypanosoma, and Echinococcus, can effectively transform "cold" tumors into "hot" battlefields and reshape the tumor microenvironment, thereby stimulating innate and adaptive antitumor immune responses. These parasitic infections not only achieve the functional reversal of innate immune cells, such as neutrophils, macrophages, myeloid-derived suppressor cells, regulatory T cells, and dendritic cells, in tumors but also successfully activate CD4+/CD8+ T cells and even B cells to produce antibodies, ultimately resulting in an antitumor-specific immune response and antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity. Animal studies have confirmed these findings. This review discusses the abovementioned content and the challenges faced in the future clinical application of antitumor treatment strategies based on parasitic infections. With the potential of these parasites and their byproducts to function as anticancer agents, we anticipate that further investigations in this field could yield significant advancements in cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujun Xie
- Laboratory of Tumor Immunobiology, Department of Public Health and Pathogen Biology, College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine (College of Life Science), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, 230012, China
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, 230012, China
- Graduate School, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, 230012, China
| | - Jinyan Wang
- College of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110122, China
| | - Yafei Wang
- Faculty of Arts and Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 3G3, Canada
| | - Yalin Wen
- Laboratory of Tumor Immunobiology, Department of Public Health and Pathogen Biology, College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine (College of Life Science), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, 230012, China
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, 230012, China
- Graduate School, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, 230012, China
| | - Yanping Pu
- Graduate School, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, 230012, China
| | - Benfan Wang
- Laboratory of Tumor Immunobiology, Department of Public Health and Pathogen Biology, College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine (College of Life Science), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, 230012, China.
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, 230012, China.
- Institute of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, 230038, China.
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2
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Walter NS, Bhattacharyya S. Mining parasites for their potential as novel therapeutic agents against cancer. Med Oncol 2024; 41:211. [PMID: 39073638 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-024-02458-7] [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: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
Despite recent advances in the management and therapeutic of cancer, the treatment of the disease is limited by its high cost and severe side effects. In this scenario, there is an unmet need to identify novel treatment alternatives for this dreaded disease. Recently there is growing evidence that parasites may cause anticancer effects because of a negative correlation between parasitic infections and tumour growth despite some parasites that are known to exhibit pro-carcinogenic effects. It has been observed that parasites exert an anticancer effect either by activating the host's immune response or by secreting certain molecules that exhibit anticancer potential. The activation of the immune response by these parasitic organisms results in the inhibition of some of the hallmarks of cancer such as tumour proliferation, angiogenesis, and metastasis. This review summarizes the current advances as well as the mechanisms underlying the possible implications of this diverse group of organisms as anticancer agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neha Sylvia Walter
- Department of Biophysics, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, 160012, India
| | - Shalmoli Bhattacharyya
- Department of Biophysics, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, 160012, India.
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3
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Schreiber M, Vajs V, Horák P. How tapeworms interact with cancers: a mini-review. PeerJ 2024; 12:e17196. [PMID: 38563013 PMCID: PMC10984186 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.17196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer is one of the leading causes of death, with an estimated 19.3 million new cases and 10 million deaths worldwide in 2020 alone. Approximately 2.2 million cancer cases are attributed to infectious diseases, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Despite the apparent involvement of some parasitic helminths (especially trematodes) in cancer induction, there are also records of the potential suppressive effects of helminth infections on cancer. Tapeworms such as Echinococcus granulosus, Taenia crassiceps, and more seem to have the potential to suppress malignant cell development, although in a few cases the evidence might be contradictory. Our review aims to summarize known epidemiological data on the cancer-helminth co-occurrence in the human population and the interactions of tapeworms with cancers, i.e., proven or hypothetical effects of tapeworms and their products on cancer cells in vivo (i.e., in experimental animals) or in vitro. The prospect of bioactive tapeworm molecules helping reduce the growth and metastasis of cancer is within the realm of future possibility, although extensive research is yet required due to certain concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manfred Schreiber
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Vojtěch Vajs
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Horák
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
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Baysal İ, Örsten S, Cengiz G, Ünal E, Doğrul AB, Çiftçi T, Çiftçi SY, Akinci D, Akhan O. Assessing the Potential Apoptotic Effects of Different Hydatid Cyst Fluids on Human Healthy Hepatocytes and Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells. Acta Parasitol 2024; 69:700-709. [PMID: 38372909 PMCID: PMC11001659 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-024-00797-z] [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: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Cystic Echinococcosis (CE) is a zoonotic infection caused by the larval form of Echinococcus granulosus in humans. Emerging evidence suggests an intriguing inverse association between E. granulosus infection and the occurrence of cancer. This study aimed to investigate the influence of diverse host-derived hydatid cyst fluids (HCF) with distinct genotypes on human liver hepatocytes (HC) and hepatocellular carcinoma cells (HepG2). Specifically, we examined their effects on cell proliferation, apoptosis sensitivity (BAX/BCL-2), apoptosis-related p53 expression, and the expression of cancer-related microRNA (hsa-miR-181b-3p). Cell proliferation assays, real-time PCR, and ELISA studies were conducted to evaluate potential anti-cancer properties. The findings revealed that animal-origin HCF (G1(A)) induced direct cell death by augmenting the susceptibility of HepG2 cells to apoptosis. Treatment with both G1(A) and G1(H) HCF sensitized HepG2 and HC cell lines to apoptosis by modulating the BAX/BCL-2 ratio, accompanied by upregulation of the p53 gene. Additionally, G1(A) HCF and human-derived HCFs (G1(H), G7(H)) reduced the expression of miR-181b-3p in HepG2 cells. Consequently, this study demonstrates the potential anti-cancer effect of HCF in HepG2 cells and provides the first comparative assessment of HCFs from human and animal sources with diverse genotypes, offering novel insights into this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- İpek Baysal
- Vocational School of Health Services, Hacettepe University, 06100, Ankara, Turkey.
| | - Serra Örsten
- Vocational School of Health Services, Hacettepe University, 06100, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Görkem Cengiz
- Vocational School of Health Services, Yüksek İhtisas University, 06291, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Emre Ünal
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiology, Hacettepe University, 06100, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Ahmet Bülent Doğrul
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of General Surgery, Hacettepe University, 06100, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Türkmen Çiftçi
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiology, Hacettepe University, 06100, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Samiye Yabanoğlu Çiftçi
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Biochemistry, Hacettepe University, 06100, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Devrim Akinci
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiology, Hacettepe University, 06100, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Okan Akhan
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiology, Hacettepe University, 06100, Ankara, Turkey
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Lotfalizadeh N, Sadr S, Morovati S, Lotfalizadeh M, Hajjafari A, Borji H. A potential cure for tumor-associated immunosuppression by Toxoplasma gondii. Cancer Rep (Hoboken) 2024; 7:e1963. [PMID: 38109851 PMCID: PMC10850000 DOI: 10.1002/cnr2.1963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recently, immunotherapy has become very hopeful for cancer therapy. Cancer treatment through immunotherapy has excellent specificity and less toxicity than conventional chemoradiotherapy. Pathogens have been used in cancer immunotherapy for a long time. The current study aims to evaluate the possibility of Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) as a probable treatment for cancers such as melanoma, breast, ovarian, lung, and pancreatic cancer. RECENT FINDINGS Nonreplicating type I uracil auxotrophic mutants of T. gondii can stimulate immune responses against tumors by reverse immunosuppression at the cellular level. T. gondii can be utilized to research T helper 1 (Th1) cell immunity in intracellular infections. Avirulent T. gondii uracil auxotroph vaccine can change the tumor's immunosuppression and improve the production of type 1 helper cell cytokines, i.e., Interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) and Interleukin-12 (IL-12) and activate tumor-related Cluster of Differentiation 8 (CD8+) T cells to identify and destroy cancer cells. The T. gondii profilin protein, along with T. gondii secreted proteins, have been found to exhibit promising properties in the treatment of various cancers. These proteins are being studied for their potential to inhibit tumor growth and enhance the effectiveness of cancer therapies. Their unique mechanisms of action make them valuable candidates for targeted interventions in ovarian cancer, breast cancer, pancreatic cancer, melanoma, and lung cancer treatments. CONCLUSION In summary, the study underscores the significant potential of harnessing T. gondii, including its diverse array of proteins and antigens, particularly in its avirulent form, as a groundbreaking approach in cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narges Lotfalizadeh
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineFerdowsi University of MashhadMashhadIran
| | - Soheil Sadr
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineFerdowsi University of MashhadMashhadIran
| | - Solmaz Morovati
- Division of Biotechnology, Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary MedicineShiraz UniversityShirazIran
| | - Mohammadhassan Lotfalizadeh
- Board Certificate Oral and Maxillofacial RadiologistNorth Khorasan University of Medical Sciences (NKUMS)BojnurdIran
| | - Ashkan Hajjafari
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineIslamic Azad University, Science and Research BranchTehranIran
| | - Hassan Borji
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineFerdowsi University of MashhadMashhadIran
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6
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Zheng Z, Lu X, Zhou D, Deng XF, Liu QX, Liu XB, Zhang J, Li YQ, Zheng H, Dai JG. A novel enemy of cancer: recent investigations into protozoan anti-tumor properties. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2024; 13:1325144. [PMID: 38274735 PMCID: PMC10808745 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1325144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer remains a significant global health issue, despite advances in screening and treatment. While existing tumor treatment protocols such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy have proven effective in enhancing the prognosis for some patients, these treatments do not benefit all patients. Consequently, certain types of cancer continue to exhibit a relatively low 5-year survival rate. Therefore, the pursuit of novel tumor intervention strategies may help improve the current effectiveness of tumor treatment. Over the past few decades, numerous species of protozoa and their components have exhibited anti-tumor potential via immune and non-immune mechanisms. This discovery introduces a new research direction for the development of new and effective cancer treatments. Through in vitro experiments and studies involving tumor-bearing mice, the anti-tumor ability of Toxoplasma gondii, Plasmodium, Trypanosoma cruzi, and other protozoa have unveiled diverse mechanisms by which protozoa combat cancer, demonstrating encouraging prospects for their application. In this review, we summarize the anti-tumor ability and anti-tumor mechanisms of various protozoa and explore the potential for their clinical development and application.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Hong Zheng
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Xinqiao Hospital, Army (Third Military) Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ji-gang Dai
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Xinqiao Hospital, Army (Third Military) Medical University, Chongqing, China
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7
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Sadr S, Borji H. Echinococcus granulosus as a Promising Therapeutic Agent against Triplenegative Breast Cancer. CURRENT CANCER THERAPY REVIEWS 2023; 19:292-297. [DOI: 10.2174/1573394719666230427094247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Revised: 11/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2024]
Abstract
Abstract:Breast cancer is a major cause of cancer deaths in women, with approximately 1.2 million new cases per year. Current treatment options for breast cancer include surgery, radiation, hormone therapy, and chemotherapy. However, the non-selective cytotoxicity of chemotherapeutic agents often leads to severe side effects, while drug resistance can worsen patient outcomes. Therefore, the development of more effective and less toxic anticancer drugs is a critical need. This study aimed to review the literature on Echinococcus granulosus antigens with anticancer potential against triple-negative breast cancer. Recent studies have suggested that certain parasite antigens may have potential anticancer effects. Specifically, research has shown that echinococcosis, a disease caused by the parasitic cestode Echinococcus granulosus, may have a protective effect against cancer. These findings offer new insights into the potential use of E. granulosus antigens in the development of novel cancer therapies and tumor cell vaccines. The findings of recent studies suggested that E. granulosus antigens may have the potential to be used in effective and less toxic cancer treatments. However, further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind the anticancer effects of these antigens and develop new cancer therapies and vaccines
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Affiliation(s)
- Soheil Sadr
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hassan Borji
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
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Motavallihaghi S, Tanzadehpanah H, Soleimani Asl S, Shojaeian A, Yousefimashouf M, Barati N. In vitro anticancer activity of hydatid cyst fluid on colon cancer cell line (C26). EGYPTIAN JOURNAL OF MEDICAL HUMAN GENETICS 2023. [DOI: 10.1186/s43042-023-00394-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Colon cancer is the third most common cancer and the fourth leading cause of death from cancer. Some parasites are introduced as an antineoplastic agents that can inhibit the progress of some cancers. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of crude hydatid cyst fluid (HCF) on clone cancer cell line (C26).
Methods
HCF was isolated from hydatid cysts by syringe, and at the first, its toxicity was obtained by 2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Cell cycle analysis and apoptosis were measured by flow cytometer, and also the expression of Bcl-2 Associated X-protein (BAX) and B-cell lymphoma-2 (BCL2) genes was measured by quantitative reverse transcription PCR.
Results
The amount of apoptosis was increased in B antigen-treated cell lines in comparison with the control group. Also, the expression of BAX was increased in the treated group, while the BCL2 expression was decreased in comparison with the control one. Cell cycle analysis in the antigen-treated group compared to the other groups showed that the cells were more in the G0/G1 phase, as well as in the G2/M phase, and fewer cells were in the synthesis phase.
Conclusion
Our finding showed that HCF possibly contains active compounds and can limit the growth and development of C26 cell line by reducing or increasing the genes involved in apoptosis and finally the effect on the cell cycle.
Graphical Abstract
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Zhou Y, Luo T, Gong Y, Guo Y, Wang D, Gao Z, Sun F, Fu L, Liu H, Pan W, Yang X. The non-oral infection of larval Echinococcus granulosus induces immune and metabolic reprogramming in the colon of mice. Front Immunol 2023; 13:1084203. [PMID: 36713407 PMCID: PMC9880436 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1084203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The intestinal tract serves as a critical regulator for nutrient absorption and overall health. However, its involvement in anti-parasitic infection and immunity has been largely neglected, especially when a parasite is not transmitted orally. The present study investigated the colonic histopathology and functional reprogramming in mice with intraperitoneal infection of the larval Echinococcus granulosus (E. granulosus). Results Compared with the control group, the E. granulosus-infected mice exhibited deteriorated secreted mucus, shortened length, decreased expression of tight junction proteins zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1), and occludin in the colon. Moreover, RNA sequencing was employed to characterize colonic gene expression after infection. In total, 3,019 differentially expressed genes (1,346 upregulated and 1,673 downregulated genes) were identified in the colon of infected mice. KEGG pathway and GO enrichment analysis revealed that differentially expressed genes involved in intestinal immune responses, infectious disease-associated pathways, metabolism, or focal adhesion were significantly enriched. Among these, 18 tight junction-relative genes, 44 immune response-associated genes, and 23 metabolic genes were annotated. Furthermore, mebendazole treatment could reverse the colonic histopathology induced by E. granulosus infection. Conclusions Intraperitoneal infection with E. granulosus induced the pathological changes and functional reprogramming in the colon of mice, and mebendazole administration alleviated above alternations, highlighting the significance of the colon as a protective barrier against parasitic infection. The findings provide a novel perspective on host-parasite interplay and propose intestine as a possible target for treating parasitic diseases that are not transmitted orally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuying Zhou
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
- The First Clinical Medical College, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Tiancheng Luo
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
- The First Clinical Medical College, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yuying Gong
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yuxin Guo
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
- The First Clinical Medical College, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Dingmin Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zixuan Gao
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Basic Medical College, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Fenfen Sun
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Linlin Fu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Hua Liu
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research, National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, World Health Organization (WHO) Collaborating Centre for Tropical Diseases, National Center for International Research on Tropical Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Pan
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiaoying Yang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
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Shi C, Zhou X, Yang W, Wu J, Bai M, Zhang Y, Zhao W, Yang H, Nagai A, Yin M, Gao X, Ding S, Zhao J. Proteomic Analysis of Plasma-Derived Extracellular Vesicles From Mice With Echinococcus granulosus at Different Infection Stages and Their Immunomodulatory Functions. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:805010. [PMID: 35360110 PMCID: PMC8960237 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.805010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The globally distributed cystic echinococcosis (CE) is caused by the larval stage of Echinococcus granulosus (E. granulosus), a cosmopolitan and zoonotic disease with potentially life-threatening complications in humans. The emerging roles for extracellular vesicles (EVs) in parasitic infection include transferring proteins and modifying host cell gene expression to modulate host immune responses. Few studies focused on the host-derived EVs and its protein profiles. We focused on the EVs from mouse infected with E. granulosus at different stages. ExoQuick kit was used for isolating EVs from mouse plasma and ExoEasy Maxi kit was used for isolating protoscolex culture supernatant (PCS) and hydatid cyst fluid (HCF). Firstly, EVs were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA) and immunoblot. Secondly, the proteins of plasma EVs were identified using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS). The resulting LC–MS/MS data were processed using Maxquant search engine (v 1.5.2.8). Tandem mass spectra were researched against the mice and E. granulosus proteins database in the NCBI. The differentially expressed proteins are performed by proteomic label-free quantitative analysis and bioinformatics. Thirdly, in vitro experiment, the results of co-culture of plasma EVs and spleen mononuclear cells showed that 7W-EVs can increase the relative abundance of regulatory T (Treg) cells and IL-10. We further verified that EVs can be internalized by CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, B cells, and myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC). These results implied host-derived EVs are multidirectional immune modulators. The findings can contribute to a better understanding of the role of host-derived EVs which are the optimal vehicle to transfer important cargo into host immune system. In addition, we have found several important proteins associated with E. granulosus and identified in infected mouse plasma at different stages. Furthermore, our study further highlighted the proteomics and immunological function of EVs from mouse infected with E. granulosus protoscoleces at different infection stages. We have laid a solid foundation for the role of EVs in cystic echinococcosis in the future research and supplemented a unique dataset for this E. granulosus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunli Shi
- School of Basic Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
- Department of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Centre for Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaojing Zhou
- College of Clinical Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
- Department of Neurology, Shimane University Faculty of Medicine, Izumo, Japan
| | - Wenjuan Yang
- College of Clinical Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Jianwen Wu
- School of Basic Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Min Bai
- School of Basic Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- School of Basic Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Wei Zhao
- School of Basic Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
- Research Center for Medical Science and Technology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
- Ningxia Institute of Medical Science, Yinchuan, China
- Ningxia Key Laboratory of Prevention and Control of Common Infectious Diseases, Yinchuan, China
| | - Hui Yang
- Research Center for Medical Science and Technology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
- Ningxia Institute of Medical Science, Yinchuan, China
- Ningxia Key Laboratory of Prevention and Control of Common Infectious Diseases, Yinchuan, China
| | - Atsushi Nagai
- Department of Neurology, Shimane University Faculty of Medicine, Izumo, Japan
| | - Mei Yin
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Xiaoping Gao
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Shuqin Ding
- Department of Medical Laboratory, School of Clinical Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
- *Correspondence: Jiaqing Zhao, ; Shuqin Ding,
| | - Jiaqing Zhao
- School of Basic Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
- Research Center for Medical Science and Technology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
- Ningxia Institute of Medical Science, Yinchuan, China
- Ningxia Key Laboratory of Prevention and Control of Common Infectious Diseases, Yinchuan, China
- *Correspondence: Jiaqing Zhao, ; Shuqin Ding,
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11
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Exopolysaccharides isolated from Rhizopus nigricans induced colon cancer cell apoptosis in vitro and in vivo via activating the AMPK pathway. Biosci Rep 2021; 40:221749. [PMID: 31894839 PMCID: PMC6960068 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20192774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2019] [Revised: 12/30/2019] [Accepted: 12/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of cancer-related human deaths. The exopolysaccharide (EPS1-1), isolated from Rhizopus nigricans, has been described as exhibiting anti-tumor and pro-apoptotic activity against CRC, although the underlying mechanism is poorly understood. Herein, we investigate how EPS1-1 induces apoptosis of CRC cells in vitro and in vivo. Our results show that, in vitro, EPS1-1 suppressed cell growth and facilitated apoptosis in a dose- and time-dependent manner by activating the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) pathway in mouse colon cancer CT26 cells. However, treatment with small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) targeting AMPKα or with compound C, an AMPK inhibitor, interfered with the pro-apoptosis effects of EPS1-1. We also show that EPS1-1 initiated the release of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and liver kinase B1 (LKB1), both of which are necessary signals for AMPK activation. Furthermore, EPS1-1-mediated apoptosis is regulated by inactivation of mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) and activation of the jun-NH2 kinase (JNK)-p53 signaling axis dependent on AMPK activation. In vivo, azoxymethane/dextran sulfate sodium (AOM/DSS)-treated CRC mice, when administered EPS1-1, exhibited activation of the AMPK pathway, inhibition of mTORC1, and accumulation of p53 in tumor tissues. Collectively, these findings suggest that EPS1-1-induced apoptosis relies on the activation of the AMPK pathway. The present study provides evidence suggesting that EPS1-1 may be an effective target for development of novel CRC therapeutic agents.
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Miranda-Galvis M, Loveless R, Kowalski LP, Teng Y. Impacts of Environmental Factors on Head and Neck Cancer Pathogenesis and Progression. Cells 2021; 10:cells10020389. [PMID: 33668576 PMCID: PMC7917998 DOI: 10.3390/cells10020389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Epidemiological and clinical studies over the past two decades have provided strong evidence that genetic elements interacting with environmental components can individually and collectively influence one’s susceptibility to cancer. In addition to tumorigenic properties, numerous environmental factors, such as nutrition, chemical carcinogens, and tobacco/alcohol consumption, possess pro-invasive and pro-metastatic cancer features. In contrast to traditional cancer treatment, modern therapeutics not only take into account an individual’s genetic makeup but also consider gene–environment interactions. The current review sharpens the focus by elaborating on the impact that environmental factors have on the pathogenesis and progression of head and neck cancer and the underlying molecular mechanisms involved. Recent advances, challenges, and future perspectives in this area of research are also discussed. Inhibiting key environmental drivers of tumor progression should yield survival benefits for patients at any stage of head and neck cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marisol Miranda-Galvis
- Department of Oral Biology and Diagnostic Sciences, Dental College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA; (M.M.-G.); (R.L.)
| | - Reid Loveless
- Department of Oral Biology and Diagnostic Sciences, Dental College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA; (M.M.-G.); (R.L.)
| | - Luiz Paulo Kowalski
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery and Otorhinolaryngology, A.C. Camargo Cancer Center, São Paulo 01509, Brazil;
- Head and Neck Surgery Department, Medical School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 01509, Brazil
| | - Yong Teng
- Department of Oral Biology and Diagnostic Sciences, Dental College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA; (M.M.-G.); (R.L.)
- Georgia Cancer Center, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
- Department of Medical Laboratory, Imaging and Radiologic Sciences, College of Allied Health, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-70-6446-5611; Fax: +1-70-6721-9415
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Yasen A, Wang M, Ran B, Lv G, Aji T, Xiao H, Shao Y, Wen H. Echinococcus granulosus protoscoleces promotes proliferation and invasion of hepatocellular carcinoma cells. Cytotechnology 2021; 73:13-22. [PMID: 33505110 PMCID: PMC7817750 DOI: 10.1007/s10616-020-00437-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
There may exist a connection between Echinococcus granulosus infection and cancer development. Here, it is aimed to investigate specific effects of E. granulosus protoscoleces (PSCs) on the proliferation and invasion capacities of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells in vitro and ex vitro. HepG2 cells were cultured with different quantities of E. granulosus PSCs in vitro. MTT analysis was used to evaluate effects of E. granulosus PSCs on the proliferation of HepG2 cells. Besides, scratch and transwell assays were respectively used for the detection of HepG2 cells migration and invasion capacities after co-culture with E. granulosus PSCs. Then, HepG2 cells were subcutaneously transplanted into nude mice with or without E. granulosus PSCs. From the 25th day of transplantation, the volume of subcutaneous lesions was measured every four days. At the 37th day, subcutaneous lesions were removed and their weight was evaluated. H&E staining was used for detecting basic pathological changes. HepG2 cells grew well without obvious morphological changes. Proliferation rate and migration capacity of HepG2 cells were higher in the co-culture group than the control group, which was closely associated with quantities of E. granulosus PSCs and co-culture time length. Moreover, HepG2 cells co-cultured with E. granulosus PSCs had stronger invasion ability than the control HepG2 cells. Importantly, there existed significant differences in the volume and weight of subcutaneous lesions after transplanting HepG2 cells with E. granulosus PSCs than the control group. HepG2 cells were also more pathologically heterogeneous in morphology after transplantation with E. granulosus PSCs. Thus, E. granulosus PSCs may promote proliferation and invasion of HCC cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aimaiti Yasen
- Hepatobiliary and Hydatid Disease Department, Digestive and Vascular Surgery Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830054 Xinjiang People’s Republic of China
- The First Clinical College of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830011 Xinjiang People’s Republic of China
| | - Maolin Wang
- Hepatobiliary and Hydatid Disease Department, Digestive and Vascular Surgery Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830054 Xinjiang People’s Republic of China
- The First Clinical College of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830011 Xinjiang People’s Republic of China
| | - Bo Ran
- The First Clinical College of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830011 Xinjiang People’s Republic of China
- Digestive and Vascular Surgery Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830054 Xinjiang People’s Republic of China
- School of Public Health, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830011 Xinjiang People’s Republic of China
| | - Guodong Lv
- Clinical Medical Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830054 Xinjiang People’s Republic of China
| | - Tuerganaili Aji
- Hepatobiliary and Hydatid Disease Department, Digestive and Vascular Surgery Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830054 Xinjiang People’s Republic of China
- Digestive and Vascular Surgery Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830054 Xinjiang People’s Republic of China
| | - Hui Xiao
- School of Public Health, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830011 Xinjiang People’s Republic of China
| | - Yingmei Shao
- Hepatobiliary and Hydatid Disease Department, Digestive and Vascular Surgery Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830054 Xinjiang People’s Republic of China
- Digestive and Vascular Surgery Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830054 Xinjiang People’s Republic of China
| | - Hao Wen
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis, Prevention and Treatment of High Incidence Diseases in Central Asia, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830054 Xinjiang People’s Republic of China
- Hepatobiliary and Hydatid Disease Department, Digestive and Vascular Surgery Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830054 Xinjiang People’s Republic of China
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Porras-Silesky C, Mejías-Alpízar MJ, Mora J, Baneth G, Rojas A. Spirocerca lupi Proteomics and Its Role in Cancer Development: An Overview of Spirocercosis-Induced Sarcomas and Revision of Helminth-Induced Carcinomas. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10020124. [PMID: 33530324 PMCID: PMC7911836 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10020124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2020] [Revised: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Spirocerca lupi is a parasitic nematode of canids that induces a myriad of clinical manifestations in its host and, in 25% of infections, leads to the formation of sarcomas. The description of the protein composition of the excretory and secretory products (Sl-ESP) of S. lupi has shed light on its possible interactions with the host environment, including migration within the host and mechanisms of immunomodulation. Despite this, the process by which S. lupi induces cancer in the dog remains poorly understood, and some hypotheses have arisen regarding these possible mechanisms. In this review, we discuss the role of specific ESP from the carcinogenic helminths Clonorchis sinensis, Opisthorchis viverrini and Schistosoma haematobium in inducing chronic inflammation and cancer in their host’s tissues. The parasitic worms Taenia solium, Echinococcus granulosus, Heterakis gallinarum, Trichuris muris and Strongyloides stercoralis, which have less-characterized mechanisms of cancer induction, are also analyzed. Based on the pathological findings in spirocercosis and the mechanisms by which other parasitic helminths induce cancer, we propose that the sustained inflammatory response in the dog´s tissues produced in response to the release of Sl-ESP homologous to those of other carcinogenic worms may lead to the malignant process in infected dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catalina Porras-Silesky
- Laboratory of Helminthology, Centro de Investigación en Enfermedades Tropicales, University of Costa Rica, 11501-2060 San José, Costa Rica; (C.P.-S.); (M.J.M.-A.); (J.M.)
| | - María José Mejías-Alpízar
- Laboratory of Helminthology, Centro de Investigación en Enfermedades Tropicales, University of Costa Rica, 11501-2060 San José, Costa Rica; (C.P.-S.); (M.J.M.-A.); (J.M.)
| | - Javier Mora
- Laboratory of Helminthology, Centro de Investigación en Enfermedades Tropicales, University of Costa Rica, 11501-2060 San José, Costa Rica; (C.P.-S.); (M.J.M.-A.); (J.M.)
| | - Gad Baneth
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot 7610001, Israel;
| | - Alicia Rojas
- Laboratory of Helminthology, Centro de Investigación en Enfermedades Tropicales, University of Costa Rica, 11501-2060 San José, Costa Rica; (C.P.-S.); (M.J.M.-A.); (J.M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +506-2511-8644
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MicroRNA expression profile in patients with cystic echinococcosis and identification of possible cellular pathways. J Helminthol 2021; 95:e1. [PMID: 33441208 DOI: 10.1017/s0022149x2000098x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Cystic echinococcosis (CE) is a neglected tropical disease, caused by metacestode (larval) form of the Echinococcus granulosus sensu lato (sl) in humans. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, stable, tissue-specific RNA molecules encoded by the genome that are not translated into proteins. Circulating miRNA expression profiles vary in health and disease. The aim of this study is to determine the altered cellular pathways in CE by comparing the miRNA profiles of controls and CE patients with active or inactive cysts. Following abdominal ultrasonography (US) examination, 20 patients diagnosed with active CE (CE1, CE2, CE3a and CE3b) or inactive CE (CE4 and CE5) and three healthy controls were included in the study. The expression profiles of 372 biologically relevant human miRNAs were investigated in serum samples from CE patients and healthy controls with miScript miRNA HC PCR Array. Compared with the control group, expression of 6 miRNAs (hsa-miR-4659a-5p, hsa-miR-4518, hsa-miR-3977, hsa-miR-4692, hsa-miR-181b-3p, hsa-miR-4491) and one miRNA (hsa-miR-4687-5p) were found to be downregulated in CE patients with active and inactive cysts, respectively (p < 0.05). For downregulated miRNAs in this study, predicted targets were found to be associated mainly with cell proliferation, apoptosis, cell-cell interactions and cell cycle regulation. Further studies in this direction may elucidate the pathogenesis of human CE and the relationship between CE and other pathologies.
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