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Dong H, Zeng X, Xu J, He C, Sun Z, Liu L, Huang Y, Sun Z, Cao Y, Peng Z, Qiu YA, Yu T. Advances in immune regulation of the G protein-coupled estrogen receptor. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 136:112369. [PMID: 38824903 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112369] [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: 02/16/2024] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
Estrogen and related receptors have been shown to have a significant impact on human development, reproduction, metabolism and immune regulation and to play a critical role in tumor development and treatment. Traditionally, the nuclear estrogen receptors (nERs) ERα and ERβ have been thought to be involved in mediating the estrogenic effects. However, our group and others have previously demonstrated that the G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) is the third independent ER, and estrogen signaling mediated by GPER is known to play an important role in normal physiology and a variety of abnormal diseases. Interestingly, recent studies have progressively revealed GPER involvement in the maintenance of the normal immune system, abnormal immune diseases, and inflammatory lesions, which may be of significant clinical value primarily in the immunotherapy of tumors. In this article, we review current advances in GPER-related immunomodulators and provide a theoretical basis and potential clinical targets to ameliorate immune-related diseases and immunotherapy for tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanzhi Dong
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330000, China
| | - Xiaoqiang Zeng
- Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330000, China
| | - Jiawei Xu
- Department of Breast Surgery, Jiangxi Cancer Hospital, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Nanchang 330029, China
| | - Chongwu He
- Department of Breast Surgery, Jiangxi Cancer Hospital, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Nanchang 330029, China
| | - Zhengkui Sun
- Department of Breast Surgery, Jiangxi Cancer Hospital, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Nanchang 330029, China
| | - Liyan Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, Jiangxi Cancer Hospital, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Nanchang 330029, China
| | - Yanxiao Huang
- Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330000, China
| | - Zhe Sun
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330000, China
| | - Yuan Cao
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330000, China
| | - Zhiqiang Peng
- Department of Lymphohematology, Jiangxi Cancer Hospital, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Nanchang 330029, China.
| | - Yu-An Qiu
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Jiangxi Cancer Hospital, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Nanchang 330029, China.
| | - Tenghua Yu
- Department of Breast Surgery, Jiangxi Cancer Hospital, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Nanchang 330029, China.
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Wu D, Gong T, Sun Z, Yao X, Wang D, Chen Q, Guo Q, Li X, Guo Y, Lu Y. Dual-crosslinking gelatin-hyaluronic acid methacrylate based biomimetic PDAC desmoplastic niche enhances tumor-associated macrophages recruitment and M2-like polarization. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 269:131826. [PMID: 38679256 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.131826] [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: 12/28/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is characterized by deposition of desmoplastic matrix (including collagen and hyaluronic acid). And the interactions between tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) and tumor cells play a crucial role in progression of PDAC. Hence, the appropriate model of tumor cell-macrophage interaction within the unique PDAC TME is of significantly important. To this end, a 3D tumor niche based on dual-crosslinking gelatin methacrylate and hyaluronic acid methacrylate hydrogels was constructed to simulate the desmoplastic tumor matrix with matching compressive modulus and composition. The bionic 3D tumor niche creates an immunosuppressive microenvironment characterized by the downregulation of M1 markers and upregulation of M2 markers in TAMs. Mechanistically, RNA-seq analysis revealed that the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway might modulate the phenotypic balance and recruitment of macrophages through regulating SELE and VCAM-1. Furthermore, GO and GSEA revealed the biological process of leukocyte migration and the activation of cytokine-associated signaling were involved. Finally, the 3D tumor-macrophage niches with three different ratios were fabricated which displayed increased M2-like polarization and stemness. The utilization of the 3D tumor niche has the potential to provide a more accurate investigation of the interplay between PDAC tumor cells and macrophages within an in vivo setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Di Wu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, PR China; Research Center of Clinical Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu province 226001, PR China
| | - Tiancheng Gong
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, PR China; Research Center of Clinical Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu province 226001, PR China
| | - Zhongxiang Sun
- Research Center of Clinical Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu province 226001, PR China
| | - Xihao Yao
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, PR China; Research Center of Clinical Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu province 226001, PR China
| | - Dongzhi Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, PR China; Research Center of Clinical Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu province 226001, PR China
| | - Qiyang Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, PR China; Research Center of Clinical Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu province 226001, PR China
| | - Qingsong Guo
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, PR China
| | - Xiaohong Li
- Research Center of Clinical Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu province 226001, PR China
| | - Yibing Guo
- Research Center of Clinical Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu province 226001, PR China.
| | - Yuhua Lu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, PR China.
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Zhang Y, Chen Z, Shen Z, Qian D, Wang G, Wang X, Xi S, Wang X. ITGB6 promotes pancreatic fibrosis and aggravates the malignant process of pancreatic cancer via JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2024:10.1007/s00210-024-03003-z. [PMID: 38418753 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-024-03003-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Integrin β6 (ITGB6) is upregulated in multiple tumor types and elevated ITGB6 levels have been detected in patients with chronic pancreatitis. However, the role of ITGB6 in pancreatic fibrosis and cancer remains to be elucidated. In the present study, ITGB6 expression was assessed using western blotting and qRT-PCR. Besides, cell proliferation, cycling, migration, and invasion were evaluated using CCK-8, flow cytometry, wound healing, and transwell assays, respectively. The expression of fibrosis and JAK2/STAT3 signaling markers was detected by western blotting and immunofluorescence analysis. Moreover, nude mice were subcutaneously injected with co-cultured cell suspensions to establish an in vivo model. The results showed that ITGB6 was highly expressed in pancreatic cancer tissues and TGF-β-induced pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs). Inhibition of ITGB6 expression in PSCs resulted in clear inhibition of activated PSC proliferation, migration, and fibrogenesis. Additionally, reduced ITGB6 expression inhibits the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway. Interestingly, activators of the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway reversed the effects of ITGB6 disruption on PSCs. Activated PSCs notably promoted the proliferation, invasion, and migration of pancreatic cancer cells in a co-culture assay. In contrast, activated PSCs with low ITGB6 expression failed to significantly affect the malignancy of pancreatic cancer cells. Moreover, in vivo results showed that interference with ITGB6 inhibited the activation of PSCs and promoted the development of pancreatic cancer. Silencing ITGB6 inhibited the proliferation, migration, and fibrosis-like effects of activated PSCs and indirectly inhibited the metastasis and malignant process of pancreatic cancer by inhibiting the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway. Therefore, ITGB6 is a potential candidate target for pancreatic cancer prevention and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhang
- Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, People's Republic of China
- Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, People's Republic of China
- Department of Emergency Surgery, The Lu'an Hospital Affiliated to Anhui Medical University, The Lu'an People's Hospital, Lu'an, Anhui, 237005, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhiyuan Chen
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, No.2 Zheshan West Road, Jinghu District, Wuhu, Anhui, 241001, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhengchao Shen
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, No.2 Zheshan West Road, Jinghu District, Wuhu, Anhui, 241001, People's Republic of China
| | - Daohai Qian
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, No.2 Zheshan West Road, Jinghu District, Wuhu, Anhui, 241001, People's Republic of China
| | - Guannan Wang
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, No.2 Zheshan West Road, Jinghu District, Wuhu, Anhui, 241001, People's Republic of China
| | - Xu Wang
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, No.2 Zheshan West Road, Jinghu District, Wuhu, Anhui, 241001, People's Republic of China
| | - Shihang Xi
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, No.2 Zheshan West Road, Jinghu District, Wuhu, Anhui, 241001, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoming Wang
- Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, People's Republic of China.
- Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, People's Republic of China.
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, No.2 Zheshan West Road, Jinghu District, Wuhu, Anhui, 241001, People's Republic of China.
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Hartupee C, Nagalo BM, Chabu CY, Tesfay MZ, Coleman-Barnett J, West JT, Moaven O. Pancreatic cancer tumor microenvironment is a major therapeutic barrier and target. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1287459. [PMID: 38361931 PMCID: PMC10867137 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1287459] [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: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is projected to become the 2nd leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. Limitations in early detection and treatment barriers contribute to the lack of substantial success in the treatment of this challenging-to-treat malignancy. Desmoplasia is the hallmark of PDAC microenvironment that creates a physical and immunologic barrier. Stromal support cells and immunomodulatory cells face aberrant signaling by pancreatic cancer cells that shifts the complex balance of proper repair mechanisms into a state of dysregulation. The product of this dysregulation is the desmoplastic environment that encases the malignant cells leading to a dense, hypoxic environment that promotes further tumorigenesis, provides innate systemic resistance, and suppresses anti-tumor immune invasion. This desmoplastic environment combined with the immunoregulatory events that allow it to persist serve as the primary focus of this review. The physical barrier and immune counterbalance in the tumor microenvironment (TME) make PDAC an immunologically cold tumor. To convert PDAC into an immunologically hot tumor, tumor microenvironment could be considered alongside the tumor cells. We discuss the complex network of microenvironment molecular and cellular composition and explore how they can be targeted to overcome immuno-therapeutic challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Conner Hartupee
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Louisiana State University (LSU) Health, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Bolni Marius Nagalo
- Department of Pathology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS), Little Rock, AR, United States
- The Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS), Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - Chiswili Y. Chabu
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
- Siteman Cancer Center, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Mulu Z. Tesfay
- Department of Pathology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS), Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - Joycelynn Coleman-Barnett
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Louisiana State University (LSU) Health, New Orleans, LA, United States
- Department of Interdisciplinary Oncology, Louisiana Cancer Research Center, Louisiana State University (LSU) Health, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - John T. West
- Department of Interdisciplinary Oncology, Louisiana Cancer Research Center, Louisiana State University (LSU) Health, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Omeed Moaven
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Louisiana State University (LSU) Health, New Orleans, LA, United States
- Department of Interdisciplinary Oncology, Louisiana Cancer Research Center, Louisiana State University (LSU) Health, New Orleans, LA, United States
- Louisiana State University - Louisiana Children's Medical Center (LSU - LCMC) Cancer Center, New Orleans, LA, United States
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Zhang H, Cao K, Xiang J, Zhang M, Zhu M, Xi Q. Hypoxia induces immunosuppression, metastasis and drug resistance in pancreatic cancers. Cancer Lett 2023; 571:216345. [PMID: 37558084 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2023.216345] [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: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is one of the common malignant tumors of the digestive system and is known as the "king of cancers". It is extremely difficult to diagnose at an early stage, the disease progresses rapidly, and the effect of chemotherapy and radiotherapy is poor, so the prognosis of pancreatic cancer patients is very poor. Numerous studies have suggested that hypoxia is closely related to the development and progression of pancreatic cancer. Inadequate blood supply and desmoplasia in the microenvironment of pancreatic cancer can result in its extreme hypoxia. This hypoxic microenvironment can further contribute to angiogenesis and desmoplasia. Hypoxia is mediated by the complex hypoxia inducible factor (HIF) signaling pathway and plays an important role in the formation of a highly immunosuppressive microenvironment and the metastasis of pancreatic cancer. Further work on the hypoxic microenvironment will help clarify the specific mechanisms of the role of hypoxia in pancreatic cancer and provide a basis for the realization of hypoxia-targeted therapeutic and diagnostic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Kailei Cao
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Jingrong Xiang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Mengting Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Mengxin Zhu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Qinhua Xi
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China.
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Chen K, Wang Q, Liu X, Tian X, Dong A, Yang Y. Immune profiling and prognostic model of pancreatic cancer using quantitative pathology and single-cell RNA sequencing. J Transl Med 2023; 21:210. [PMID: 36944944 PMCID: PMC10031915 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04051-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has a complex tumor immune microenvironment (TIME), the clinical value of which remains elusive. This study aimed to delineate the immune landscape of PDAC and determine the clinical value of immune features in TIME. METHODS Univariable and multivariable Cox regression analyses were performed to evaluate the clinical value of immune features and establish a new prognostic model. We also conducted single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) to further characterize the immune profiles of PDAC and explore cell-to-cell interactions. RESULTS There was a significant difference in the immune profiles between PDAC and adjacent noncancerous tissues. Several novel immune features were captured by quantitative pathological analysis on multiplex immunohistochemistry (mIHC), some of which were significantly correlated with the prognosis of patients with PDAC. A risk score-based prognostic model was established based on these immune features. We also constructed a user-friendly nomogram plot to predict the overall survival (OS) of patients by combining the risk score and clinicopathological features. Both mIHC and scRNA-seq analysis revealed PD-L1 expression was low in PDAC. We found that PD1 + cells were distributed in different T cell subpopulations, and were not enriched in a specific subpopulation. In addition, there were other conserved receptor-ligand pairs (CCL5-SDC1/4) besides the PD1-PD-L1 interaction between PD1 + T cells and PD-L1 + tumor cells. CONCLUSION Our findings reveal the immune landscape of PDAC and highlight the significant value of the combined application of mIHC and scRNA-seq for uncovering TIME, which might provide new clues for developing immunotherapy combination strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, 8th Xishiku Street, Beijing, 100034, China
| | - Qi Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, 8th Xishiku Street, Beijing, 100034, China
| | - Xinxin Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, 8th Xishiku Street, Beijing, 100034, China
| | - Xiaodong Tian
- Department of General Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, 8th Xishiku Street, Beijing, 100034, China.
| | - Aimei Dong
- Department of Endocrinology, Peking University First Hospital, 8th Xishiku Street, Beijing, 100034, China.
| | - Yinmo Yang
- Department of General Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, 8th Xishiku Street, Beijing, 100034, China.
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Li Y, Liu L, Pan Y, Fang F, Xie T, Cheng N, Guo C, Xue X, Zeng H, Xue L. Integrated molecular characterization of esophageal basaloid squamous cell carcinoma: a subtype with distinct RNA expression pattern and immune characteristics, but no specific genetic mutations. J Pathol 2023; 259:136-148. [PMID: 36371676 DOI: 10.1002/path.6028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Revised: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Esophageal basaloid squamous cell carcinoma (bSCC) is a subtype of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) with a different behavior and poor prognosis. Exploring bSCC's molecular characteristics and treatment strategies are of great clinical significance. We performed multi-omics analysis of paired bSCC and common SCC (cSCC) using whole exome sequencing and a NanoString nCounter gene expression panel. Immunohistochemistry was used for verification of candidate biomarkers. Different treatment response was analyzed on both patients receiving neoadjuvant treatment and late-stage patients. The common genetically-clonal origin of bSCC and cSCC was confirmed. No significant differences between their genetic alterations or mutation spectra were observed. Mutation signature 15 (associated with defective DNA damage repair) was less prominent, and tumor mutational burden (TMB) was lower in bSCC. bSCC with an RNA expression pattern resembling cSCC had a better survival than other bSCCs. Moreover, bSCC showed significant upregulation of expression of genes associated with angiogenesis response, basement membranes, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and downregulation of KRT14 (squamous differentiation) and CCL21 (associated with immune response). Immunohistochemistry for SFRP1 was shown to be highly sensitive and specific for bSCC diagnosis (p < 0.001). In addition, bSCC receiving neoadjuvant immuno-chemotherapy had a worse pathological response than bSCC receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy (but without statistical significance), even in bSCC positive for PD-L1. Our results demonstrated the molecular characteristics of esophageal bSCC as a subtype with a distinct RNA expression pattern and immune characteristics, but no specific genetic mutations. We provided a useful biomarker, SFRP1, for diagnosis. After outcome analysis for six bSCCs with neoadjuvant immunotherapy treatment and four late-stage bSCCs with immunotherapy, we found that immunotherapy may not be an effective treatment option for most bSCCs. This may also provide a clue for the same subtypes of lung and head and neck cancer. Our study highlighted the heterogeneity among bSCC patients, and might explain the conflicting results of bSCC outcomes in existing studies. © 2022 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Li
- Department of Pathology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, PR China
| | - Linxiu Liu
- Department of Pathology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, PR China.,Department of Pathology, The First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, The Affiliated Hospital of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, PR China
| | - Yi Pan
- Department of Pathology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, PR China
| | - Fang Fang
- Department of Pathology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, PR China.,Department of Pathology, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Beijing, PR China
| | - Tongji Xie
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, PR China
| | - Na Cheng
- Department of Pathology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, PR China
| | - Changyuan Guo
- Department of Pathology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, PR China
| | - Xuemin Xue
- Department of Pathology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, PR China
| | - Hua Zeng
- Department of Pathology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, PR China
| | - Liyan Xue
- Department of Pathology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, PR China.,Center for Cancer Precision Medicine, Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, PR China
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Targeting Periostin Expression Makes Pancreatic Cancer Spheroids More Vulnerable to Natural Killer Cells. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11020270. [PMID: 36830807 PMCID: PMC9952976 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11020270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2022] [Revised: 01/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PaCa) characteristically has a dense tumor microenvironment, which results in poor patient prognosis. Pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) are the most abundant cells in the PaCa microenvironment and the principal source of collagen. Periostin, a matricellular protein, is produced specifically by PSCs and promotes the aggressiveness of PaCa cells by facilitating extracellular collagen assembly. Here, we aimed to decrease extracellular collagen assembly by suppressing periostin, thereby increasing the cytotoxic activity of natural killer (NK) cells. Periostin expression was suppressed in PSCs (called PSC-P) using CRISPR-Cas9. PaCa cells (BxPC-3) were co-cultured with PSC and PSC-P cells in a 3D environment to form tumor spheroids mimicking the tumor microenvironment. The extracellular collagen production of spheroids was evaluated by Masson's trichrome staining. The cytotoxic activity of NK-92 cells was analyzed by flow cytometry and confocal microscopy via CD107a staining. Cell death in BxPC-3 cells was evaluated by measuring Annexin-V and PI positivity using flow cytometry. As a result, periostin suppression decreased extracellular collagen and increased the infiltration of NK-92 cells into spheroids, and induced cell death in PaCa cells. In conclusion, we suggest that periostin might be a therapeutic target for PaCa and further analysis is warranted using in vivo models for proof-of-concept.
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Zhu P, Lu H, Wang M, Chen K, Chen Z, Yang L. Targeted mechanical forces enhance the effects of tumor immunotherapy by regulating immune cells in the tumor microenvironment. Cancer Biol Med 2023; 20:j.issn.2095-3941.2022.0491. [PMID: 36647779 PMCID: PMC9843446 DOI: 10.20892/j.issn.2095-3941.2022.0491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Mechanical forces in the tumor microenvironment (TME) are associated with tumor growth, proliferation, and drug resistance. Strong mechanical forces in tumors alter the metabolism and behavior of cancer cells, thus promoting tumor progression and metastasis. Mechanical signals are transformed into biochemical signals, which activate tumorigenic signaling pathways through mechanical transduction. Cancer immunotherapy has recently made exciting progress, ushering in a new era of "chemo-free" treatments. However, immunotherapy has not achieved satisfactory results in a variety of tumors, because of the complex tumor microenvironment. Herein, we discuss the effects of mechanical forces on the tumor immune microenvironment and highlight emerging therapeutic strategies for targeting mechanical forces in immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengfei Zhu
- Cancer Center, Department of Medical Oncology, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital (Affiliated People’s Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou 310014, China
- Graduate School of Clinical Medicine, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu 233000, China
| | - Hongrui Lu
- Cancer Center, Department of Medical Oncology, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital (Affiliated People’s Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou 310014, China
- Graduate School of Clinical Medicine, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu 233000, China
| | - Mingxing Wang
- Cancer Center, Department of Medical Oncology, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital (Affiliated People’s Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou 310014, China
- Graduate School of Clinical Medicine, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu 233000, China
| | - Ke Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology & Pancreatic Surgery, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Zheling Chen
- Cancer Center, Department of Medical Oncology, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital (Affiliated People’s Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou 310014, China
- Correspondence to: Zheling Chen and Liu Yang, E-mail: and
| | - Liu Yang
- Cancer Center, Department of Medical Oncology, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital (Affiliated People’s Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou 310014, China
- Graduate School of Clinical Medicine, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu 233000, China
- Correspondence to: Zheling Chen and Liu Yang, E-mail: and
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Complement and Fungal Dysbiosis as Prognostic Markers and Potential Targets in PDAC Treatment. Curr Oncol 2022; 29:9833-9854. [PMID: 36547187 PMCID: PMC9777542 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol29120773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is still hampered by a dismal prognosis. A better understanding of the tumor microenvironment within the pancreas and of the factors affecting its composition is of utmost importance for developing new diagnostic and treatment tools. In this context, the complement system plays a prominent role. Not only has it been shown to shape a T cell-mediated immune response, but it also directly affects proliferation and apoptosis of the tumor cells, influencing angiogenesis, metastatic spread and therapeutic resistance. This makes complement proteins appealing not only as early biomarkers of PDAC development, but also as therapeutic targets. Fungal dysbiosis is currently the new kid on the block in tumorigenesis with cancer-associated mycobiomes extracted from several cancer types. For PDAC, colonization with the yeast Malassezia seems to promote cancer progression, already in precursor lesions. One responsible mechanism appears to be complement activation via the lectin pathway. In the present article, we review the role of the complement system in tumorigenesis, presenting observations that propose it as the missing link between fungal dysbiosis and PDAC development. We also present the results of a small pilot study supporting the crucial interplay between the complement system and Malassezia colonization in PDAC pathogenesis.
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11
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Xu M, Zhang T, Xia R, Wei Y, Wei X. Targeting the tumor stroma for cancer therapy. Mol Cancer 2022; 21:208. [PMID: 36324128 PMCID: PMC9628074 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-022-01670-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumors are comprised of both cancer cells and surrounding stromal components. As an essential part of the tumor microenvironment, the tumor stroma is highly dynamic, heterogeneous and commonly tumor-type specific, and it mainly includes noncellular compositions such as the extracellular matrix and the unique cancer-associated vascular system as well as a wide variety of cellular components including activated cancer-associated fibroblasts, mesenchymal stromal cells, pericytes. All these elements operate with each other in a coordinated fashion and collectively promote cancer initiation, progression, metastasis and therapeutic resistance. Over the past few decades, numerous studies have been conducted to study the interaction and crosstalk between stromal components and neoplastic cells. Meanwhile, we have also witnessed an exponential increase in the investigation and recognition of the critical roles of tumor stroma in solid tumors. A series of clinical trials targeting the tumor stroma have been launched continually. In this review, we introduce and discuss current advances in the understanding of various stromal elements and their roles in cancers. We also elaborate on potential novel approaches for tumor-stroma-based therapeutic targeting, with the aim to promote the leap from bench to bedside.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maosen Xu
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Sichuan University, No. 17, Block 3, Southern Renmin Road, 610041, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Tao Zhang
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Sichuan University, No. 17, Block 3, Southern Renmin Road, 610041, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Ruolan Xia
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Sichuan University, No. 17, Block 3, Southern Renmin Road, 610041, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Yuquan Wei
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Sichuan University, No. 17, Block 3, Southern Renmin Road, 610041, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Xiawei Wei
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Sichuan University, No. 17, Block 3, Southern Renmin Road, 610041, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China.
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12
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Bhatia R, Bhyravbhatla N, Kisling A, Li X, Batra SK, Kumar S. Cytokines chattering in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma tumor microenvironment. Semin Cancer Biol 2022; 86:499-510. [PMID: 35346801 PMCID: PMC9510605 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2022.03.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) tumor microenvironment (TME) consists of multiple cell types interspersed by dense fibrous stroma. These cells communicate through low molecular weight signaling molecules called cytokines. The cytokines, through their receptors, facilitate PDAC initiation, progression, metastasis, and distant colonization of malignant cells. These signaling mediators secreted from tumor-associated macrophages, and cancer-associated fibroblasts in conjunction with oncogenic Kras mutation initiate acinar to ductal metaplasia (ADM), resulting in the appearance of early preneoplastic lesions. Further, M1- and M2-polarized macrophages provide proinflammatory conditions and promote deposition of extracellular matrix, whereas myofibroblasts and T-lymphocytes, such as Th17 and T-regulatory cells, create a fibroinflammatory and immunosuppressive environment with a significantly reduced cytotoxic T-cell population. During PDAC progression, cytokines regulate the expression of various oncogenic regulators such as NFκB, c-myc, growth factor receptors, and mucins resulting in the formation of high-grade PanIN lesions, epithelial to mesenchymal transition, invasion, and extravasation of malignant cells, and metastasis. During metastasis, PDAC cells colonize at the premetastatic niche created in the liver, and lung, an organotropic function primarily executed by cytokines in circulation or loaded in the exosomes from the primary tumor cells. The indispensable contribution of these cytokines at every stage of PDAC tumorigenesis makes them exciting candidates in combination with immune-, chemo- and targeted radiation therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rakesh Bhatia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Namita Bhyravbhatla
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Andrew Kisling
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Xiaoqi Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Surinder K Batra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA; Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, Omaha, NE, USA; Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA.
| | - Sushil Kumar
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA; Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, Omaha, NE, USA.
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13
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Chen X, Yuan Q, Liu J, Xia S, Shi X, Su Y, Wang Z, Li S, Shang D. Comprehensive characterization of extracellular matrix-related genes in PAAD identified a novel prognostic panel related to clinical outcomes and immune microenvironment: A silico analysis with in vivo and vitro validation. Front Immunol 2022; 13:985911. [PMID: 36311789 PMCID: PMC9606578 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.985911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a vital component of the tumor microenvironment, which interplays with stromal and tumor cells to stimulate the capacity of cancer cells to proliferate, migrate, invade, and undergo angiogenesis. Nevertheless, the crucial functions of ECM-related genes (ECMGs) in pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAAD) have not been systematically evaluated. Hence, a comprehensive evaluation of the ECMGs is required in pan-cancer, especially in PAAD. First, a pan-cancer overview of ECMGs was explored through the integration of expression profiles, prognostic values, mutation information, methylation levels, and pathway-regulation relationships. Seven ECMGs (i.e. LAMB3, LAMA3, ITGB6, ITGB4, ITGA2, LAMC2, and COL11A1) were identified to be hub genes of PAAD, which were obviously up-regulated in PAAD and considerably linked to tumor stage as well as prognosis. Subsequently, patients with PAAD were divided into 3 clusters premised on ECMG expression and ECM scores. Cluster 2 was the subtype with the best prognosis accompanied by the lowest ECM scores, further verifying ECM’s significant contribution to the pathophysiological processes of PAAD. Significant differences were observed for oncogene and tumor suppressor gene expression, immune microenvironment, and chemotherapy sensitivity across three ECM subtypes. After applying a variety of bioinformatics methods, a novel and robust ECM-associated mRNA-lncRNA-based prognostic panel (ECM-APP) was developed and validated for accurately predicting clinical outcomes of patients with PAAD. Patients with PAAD were randomly categorized into the train, internal validation, and external validation cohorts; meanwhile, each patient was allocated into high-risk (unfavorable prognosis) and low-risk (favorable prognosis) populations premised on the expression traits of ECM-related mRNAs and lncRNAs. The discrepancy in the tumor mutation burden and immune microenvironment might be responsible for the difference in prognoses across the high-risk and low-risk populations. Overall, our findings identified and validated seven ECMGs remarkably linked to the onset and progression of PAAD. ECM-based molecular classification and prognostic panel aid in the prognostic assessment and personalized intervention of patients with PAAD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu Chen
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
- Laboratory of Integrative Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Qihang Yuan
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Jifeng Liu
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Shilin Xia
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
- Laboratory of Integrative Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
- Institute (College) of Integrative Medicine, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Xueying Shi
- Laboratory of Integrative Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
- Institute (College) of Integrative Medicine, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Yuxin Su
- Department of Medical Imaging, Cardiovascular Research Institute, Northern Theater Command General Hospital, Shenyang, China
| | - Zhizhou Wang
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
- Laboratory of Integrative Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
- *Correspondence: Dong Shang, ; Shuang Li, ; Zhizhou Wang,
| | - Shuang Li
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
- Laboratory of Integrative Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
- Institute (College) of Integrative Medicine, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
- *Correspondence: Dong Shang, ; Shuang Li, ; Zhizhou Wang,
| | - Dong Shang
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
- Laboratory of Integrative Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
- Institute (College) of Integrative Medicine, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
- *Correspondence: Dong Shang, ; Shuang Li, ; Zhizhou Wang,
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14
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Metabolic Pathways as a Novel Landscape in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14153799. [PMID: 35954462 PMCID: PMC9367608 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14153799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Metabolism plays a fundamental role in both human physiology and pathology, including pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and other tumors. Anabolic and catabolic processes do not only have energetic implications but are tightly associated with other cellular activities, such as DNA duplication, redox reactions, and cell homeostasis. PDAC displays a marked metabolic phenotype and the observed reduction in tumor growth induced by calorie restriction with in vivo models supports the crucial role of metabolism in this cancer type. The aggressiveness of PDAC might, therefore, be reduced by interventions on bioenergetic circuits. In this review, we describe the main metabolic mechanisms involved in PDAC growth and the biological features that may favor its onset and progression within an immunometabolic context. We also discuss the need to bridge the gap between basic research and clinical practice in order to offer alternative therapeutic approaches for PDAC patients in the more immediate future.
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Neutrophil Extracellular Traps and Pancreatic Cancer Development: A Vicious Cycle. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14143339. [PMID: 35884400 PMCID: PMC9318070 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14143339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Revised: 07/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are a neutrophil-generated extracellular network of chromatin and chromatin-bound molecules with antimicrobial potency. Recent data suggest that NETs are associated with cancer progression and cancer-associated hypercoagulability. Pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a lethal type of cancer in which hypercoagulability and cancer-related thrombosis are among the main complications. In the current report, we summarize the available data on the interplay between NET formation and PDAC development. We conclude that NETs support a dual role during PDAC progression and metastasis. Their formation is on the one hand an important event that shapes the cancer microenvironment to support cancer cell proliferation, invasion and metastasis. On the other hand, NETs may lead to cancer-associated thrombosis. Both mechanisms seem to be dependent on distinct molecular mechanisms that link inflammation to cancer progression. Collectively, NET formation may contribute to the pathogenesis of PDAC, while during cancer development, the proinflammatory environment enables the induction of new NETs and thrombi, forming a vicious cycle. We suggest that targeting NET formation may be an effective mechanism to inhibit both PDAC development and the accompanying hypercoagulability.
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Wu J, Wang L, Xu J. The role of pyroptosis in modulating the tumor immune microenvironment. Biomark Res 2022; 10:45. [PMID: 35739593 PMCID: PMC9229852 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-022-00391-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) plays a key role in immunosuppression in cancer, which results in tumorigenesis and tumor progression, and contributes to insensitivity to chemotherapy and immunotherapy. Understanding the mechanism of TIME formation is critical for overcoming cancer. Pyroptosis exerts a dual role in modulating the TIME. In this review, we summarize the regulatory mechanisms of pyroptosis in modulating the TIME and the potential application of targeted pyroptosis therapy in the clinic. Several treatments targeting pyroptosis have been developed; however, the majority of treatments are still in preclinical studies. Only a few agents have been used in clinic, but the outcomes are unsatisfactory. More studies are necessary to determine the role of pyroptosis in cancer, and more research is required to realize the application of treatments targeting pyroptosis in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinxiang Wu
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong Province, China
| | - Jianwei Xu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong Province, China.
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17
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Preface of the Special Issue on the Role of Extracellular Matrix in Development and Cancer Progression. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12030362. [PMID: 35327554 PMCID: PMC8945115 DOI: 10.3390/biom12030362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
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18
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Perryman L, Gray SG. Fibrosis in Mesothelioma: Potential Role of Lysyl Oxidases. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14040981. [PMID: 35205728 PMCID: PMC8870010 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14040981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapies (such as checkpoint inhibitors) and standard chemotherapies (such as cisplatin) have limitations in the successful treatment of malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM). Fibrosis is the accumulation of collagen in the extracellular matrix (ECM) of tissues, making them denser than that of healthy tissues and thereby affecting drug delivery and immune cell infiltration. Moreover, fibrosis severely affects the patient's breathing and quality of life. The production of collagen and its assembly is highly regulated by various enzymes such as lysyl oxidases. Many solid tumors aberrantly express the family of lysyl oxidases (LOX/LOXL). This review examines how LOX/LOXLs were found to be dysregulated in noncancerous and cancerous settings, discusses their roles in solid tumor fibrosis and pathogenesis and explores the role of fibrosis in the development and poor clinical outcomes of patients with MPM. We examine the current preclinical status of drugs targeting LOX/LOXLs and how the incorporation of such drugs may have therapeutic benefits in the treatment and management of patients with MPM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara Perryman
- Drug Discovery Department, Pharmaxis Ltd., Sydney, NSW 2086, Australia;
| | - Steven G. Gray
- Thoracic Oncology, Labmed Directorate, St James’s Hospital, D08 RX0X Dublin, Ireland
- Correspondence:
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Macrophage and Neutrophil Interactions in the Pancreatic Tumor Microenvironment Drive the Pathogenesis of Pancreatic Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 14:cancers14010194. [PMID: 35008355 PMCID: PMC8750413 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14010194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Revised: 12/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The survival rates for patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma are very low. This dismal prognosis is due in part to late detection and early development of metastases, and successful treatments for pancreatic adenocarcinoma are also lacking. One potential method of treatment is immunotherapy, which has been successfully implemented in several cancers. Despite success in other cancer types, there has been little progress in pancreatic adenocarcinoma. To understand these shortcomings, we explore the roles of macrophages and neutrophils, two prominent immune cell types in the pancreatic tumor environment. In this review, we discuss how macrophages and neutrophils lead to the harsh environment that is unique to pancreatic adenocarcinoma. We further explore how these immune cells can impact standard of care therapies and decrease their effectiveness. Macrophages and neutrophils could ultimately be targeted to improve outcomes for patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma. Abstract Despite modest improvements in survival in recent years, pancreatic adenocarcinoma remains a deadly disease with a 5-year survival rate of only 9%. These poor outcomes are driven by failure of early detection, treatment resistance, and propensity for early metastatic spread. Uncovering innovative therapeutic modalities to target the resistance mechanisms that make pancreatic cancer largely incurable are urgently needed. In this review, we discuss the immune composition of pancreatic tumors, including the counterintuitive fact that there is a significant inflammatory immune infiltrate in pancreatic cancer yet anti-tumor mechanisms are subverted and immune behaviors are suppressed. Here, we emphasize how immune cell interactions generate tumor progression and treatment resistance. We narrow in on tumor macrophage (TAM) spatial arrangement, polarity/function, recruitment, and origin to introduce a concept where interactions with tumor neutrophils (TAN) perpetuate the microenvironment. The sequelae of macrophage and neutrophil activities contributes to tumor remodeling, fibrosis, hypoxia, and progression. We also discuss immune mechanisms driving resistance to standard of care modalities. Finally, we describe a cadre of treatment targets, including those intended to overcome TAM and TAN recruitment and function, to circumvent barriers presented by immune infiltration in pancreatic adenocarcinoma.
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20
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Giatagana EM, Berdiaki A, Tsatsakis A, Tzanakakis GN, Nikitovic D. Lumican in Carcinogenesis-Revisited. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11091319. [PMID: 34572532 PMCID: PMC8466546 DOI: 10.3390/biom11091319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Carcinogenesis is a multifactorial process with the input and interactions of environmental, genetic, and metabolic factors. During cancer development, a significant remodeling of the extracellular matrix (ECM) is evident. Proteoglycans (PGs), such as lumican, are glycosylated proteins that participate in the formation of the ECM and are established biological mediators. Notably, lumican is involved in cellular processes associated with tumorigeneses, such as EMT (epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition), cellular proliferation, migration, invasion, and adhesion. Furthermore, lumican is expressed in various cancer tissues and is reported to have a positive or negative correlation with tumor progression. This review focuses on significant advances achieved regardingthe role of lumican in the tumor biology. Here, the effects of lumican on cancer cell growth, invasion, motility, and metastasis are discussed, as well as the repercussions on autophagy and apoptosis. Finally, in light of the available data, novel roles for lumican as a cancer prognosis marker, chemoresistance regulator, and cancer therapy target are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eirini-Maria Giatagana
- Laboratory of Histology-Embryology, Department of Morphology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece; (E.-M.G.); (A.B.); (G.N.T.)
| | - Aikaterini Berdiaki
- Laboratory of Histology-Embryology, Department of Morphology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece; (E.-M.G.); (A.B.); (G.N.T.)
| | - Aristidis Tsatsakis
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Morphology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece;
| | - George N. Tzanakakis
- Laboratory of Histology-Embryology, Department of Morphology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece; (E.-M.G.); (A.B.); (G.N.T.)
| | - Dragana Nikitovic
- Laboratory of Histology-Embryology, Department of Morphology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece; (E.-M.G.); (A.B.); (G.N.T.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +30-281-039-4557
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