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Sharma S. Unraveling the role of long non-coding RNAs in therapeutic resistance in acute myeloid leukemia: New prospects & challenges. Noncoding RNA Res 2024; 9:1203-1221. [PMID: 39036603 PMCID: PMC11259994 DOI: 10.1016/j.ncrna.2024.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2024] [Revised: 05/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) is a fatal hematological disease characterized by the unchecked proliferation of immature myeloid blasts in different tissues developed by various mutations in hematopoiesis. Despite intense chemotherapeutic regimens, patients often experience poor outcomes, leading to substandard remission rates. In recent years, long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have increasingly become important prognostic and therapeutic hotspots, due to their contributions to dysregulating many functional epigenetic, transcriptional, and post-translational mechanisms leading to alterations in cell expressions, resulting in increased chemoresistance and reduced apoptosis in leukemic cells. Through this review, I highlight and discuss the latest advances in understanding the major mechanisms through which lncRNAs confer therapy resistance in AML. In addition, I also provide perspective on the current strategies to target lncRNA expressions. A better knowledge of the critical role that lncRNAs play in controlling treatment outcomes in AML will help improve existing medications and devise new ones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siddhant Sharma
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6T 1Z3, Canada
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2
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Krawczynska N, Wang Y, Lim K, Das Gupta A, Lenczowski A, Abughazaleh M, Bendre SV, Kockaya LI, Schane CP, Fei Y, Hernandez AG, Drnevich J, Chan J, Dobrucki LW, Boppart MD, Ostrander J, Nelson ER. Neutrophils exposed to a cholesterol metabolite secrete extracellular vesicles that promote epithelial-mesenchymal transition and stemness in breast cancer cells. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.08.02.606061. [PMID: 39131340 PMCID: PMC11312600 DOI: 10.1101/2024.08.02.606061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/13/2024]
Abstract
Small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) are emerging as critical mediators of intercellular communication in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Here, we investigate the mechanisms by which sEVs derived from neutrophils treated with the cholesterol metabolite, 27-hydroxycholesterol (27HC), influence breast cancer progression. sEVs released from 27HC treated neutrophils enhance epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and stem-like properties in breast cancer cells, resulting in loss of adherence, increased migratory capacity and resistance to cytotoxic chemotherapy. Decreased microRNAs (miRs) within the sEVs resulted in activation of the WNT/β-catenin signaling pathway in recipient cells and suggest that this may be a predominant pathway for stem-like phenotype and EMT. Our findings underscore a novel mechanism by which 27HC-modulated neutrophils contribute to breast cancer pathophysiology through EV-mediated intercellular communication, suggesting potential therapeutic targets in cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Krawczynska
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana Illinois, 61801 USA
- Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana Illinois, 61801 USA
| | - Yu Wang
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana Illinois, 61801 USA
| | - Ki Lim
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana Illinois, 61801 USA
| | - Anasuya Das Gupta
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana Illinois, 61801 USA
| | - Adam Lenczowski
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana Illinois, 61801 USA
| | - Marwan Abughazaleh
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana Illinois, 61801 USA
| | - Shruti V. Bendre
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana Illinois, 61801 USA
| | - Lara I. Kockaya
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana Illinois, 61801 USA
| | - Claire P. Schane
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana Illinois, 61801 USA
| | - Yifan Fei
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana Illinois, 61801 USA
| | - Alvaro G Hernandez
- Roy J. Carver Biotechnology Center, The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana Illinois, 61801 USA
| | - Jenny Drnevich
- Roy J. Carver Biotechnology Center, The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana Illinois, 61801 USA
| | - Jefferson Chan
- Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana Illinois, 61801 USA
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana Illinois, 61801 USA
- Cancer Center at Illinois, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana Illinois, 61801 USA
| | - Lawrence W. Dobrucki
- Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana Illinois, 61801 USA
- Cancer Center at Illinois, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana Illinois, 61801 USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana Illinois, 61801 USA
- Carle-Illinois College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana Illinois, 61801 USA
| | - Marni D. Boppart
- Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana Illinois, 61801 USA
- Department of Health and Kinesiology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana Illinois, 61801 USA
- Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology- Regenerative Biology & Tissue Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana Illinois, 61801 USA
| | - Julie Ostrander
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis Minnesota, 55455 USA
- Department of Medicine (Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Transplantation), University of Minnesota, Minneapolis Minnesota, 55455 USA
| | - Erik R. Nelson
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana Illinois, 61801 USA
- Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana Illinois, 61801 USA
- Cancer Center at Illinois, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana Illinois, 61801 USA
- Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology- Anticancer Discovery from Pets to People, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana Illinois, 61801 USA
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana Illinois, 61801 USA
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3
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Zou Z, Luo T, Wang X, Wang B, Li Q. Exploring the interplay between triple-negative breast cancer stem cells and tumor microenvironment for effective therapeutic strategies. J Cell Physiol 2024; 239:e31278. [PMID: 38807378 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.31278] [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: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a highly aggressive and metastatic malignancy with poor treatment outcomes. The interaction between the tumor microenvironment (TME) and breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) plays an important role in the development of TNBC. Owing to their ability of self-renewal and multidirectional differentiation, BCSCs maintain tumor growth, drive metastatic colonization, and facilitate the development of drug resistance. TME is the main factor regulating the phenotype and metastasis of BCSCs. Immune cells, cancer-related fibroblasts (CAFs), cytokines, mesenchymal cells, endothelial cells, and extracellular matrix within the TME form a complex communication network, exert highly selective pressure on the tumor, and provide a conducive environment for the formation of BCSC niches. Tumor growth and metastasis can be controlled by targeting the TME to eliminate BCSC niches or targeting BCSCs to modify the TME. These approaches may improve the treatment outcomes and possess great application potential in clinical settings. In this review, we summarized the relationship between BCSCs and the progression and drug resistance of TNBC, especially focusing on the interaction between BCSCs and TME. In addition, we discussed therapeutic strategies that target the TME to inhibit or eliminate BCSCs, providing valuable insights into the clinical treatment of TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuoling Zou
- Queen Mary College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Tinglan Luo
- Department of Oncology, The Seventh People's Hospital of Chongqing (Affiliated Central Hospital of Chongqing University of Technology), Chongqing, China
| | - Xinyuan Wang
- Department of Clinical Medicine, The Second Clinical College of Chongqing Medicine University, Chongqing, China
| | - Bin Wang
- Department of Oncology, The Seventh People's Hospital of Chongqing (Affiliated Central Hospital of Chongqing University of Technology), Chongqing, China
| | - Qing Li
- Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
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Gao F, Liu S, Wang J, Wei G, Yu C, Zheng L, Sun L, Wang G, Sun Y, Bao Y, Song Z. TSP50 facilitates breast cancer stem cell-like properties maintenance and epithelial-mesenchymal transition via PI3K p110α mediated activation of AKT signaling pathway. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2024; 43:201. [PMID: 39030572 PMCID: PMC11264956 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-024-03118-4] [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: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/21/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies have confirmed that epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and cancer stem cell (CSC)-like properties are conducive to cancer metastasis. In recent years, testes-specific protease 50 (TSP50) has been identified as a prognostic factor and is involved in tumorigenesis regulation. However, the role and molecular mechanisms of TSP50 in EMT and CSC-like properties maintenance remain unclear. METHODS The expression and prognostic value of TSP50 in breast cancer were excavated from public databases and explored using bioinformatics analysis. Then the expression of TSP50 and related genes was further validated by quantitative RT-PCR (qRT-PCR), Western blot, and immunohistochemistry (IHC). In order to investigate the function of TSP50 in breast cancer, loss- and gain-of-function experiments were conducted, both in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, immunofluorescence (IF) and immunoprecipitation (IP) assays were performed to explore the potential molecular mechanisms of TSP50. Finally, the correlation between the expression of TSP50 and related genes in breast cancer tissue microarray and clinicopathological characteristics was analyzed by IHC. RESULTS TSP50 was negatively correlated with the prognosis of patients with breast cancer. TSP50 promoted CSC-like traits and EMT in both breast cancer cells and mouse xenograft tumor tissues. Additionally, inhibition of PI3K/AKT partly reversed TSP50-induced activation of CSC-like properties, EMT and tumorigenesis. Mechanistically, TSP50 and PI3K p85α regulatory subunit could competitively interact with the PI3K p110α catalytic subunit to promote p110α enzymatic activity, thereby activating the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway for CSC-like phenotypes maintenance and EMT promotion. Moreover, IHC analysis of human breast cancer specimens revealed that TSP50 expression was positively correlated with p-AKT and ALDH1 protein levels. Notably, breast cancer clinicopathological characteristics, such as patient survival time, tumor size, Ki67, pathologic stage, N stage, estrogen receptor (ER) and progesterone receptor (PR) levels, correlated well with TSP50/p-AKT/ALDH1 expression status. CONCLUSION The effects of TSP50 on EMT and CSC-like properties promotion were verified to be dependent on PI3K p110α. Together, our study revealed a novel mechanism by which TSP50 facilitates the progression of breast cancer, which can provide new insights into TSP50-based breast cancer treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Gao
- National Engineering Laboratory for Druggable Gene and Protein Screening, Northeast Normal University, NO.5268 Renmin Street, Changchun, 130117, China
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Quality Control of Cell and Gene Therapy Medicine Products, Northeast Normal University, NO.5268 Renmin Street, Changchun, 130117, China
- China International Joint Research Center for Human Stem Cell Bank, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, Jilin, 130024, China
| | - Sichen Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery/Neuro-Oncology, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, China
| | - Jing Wang
- National Engineering Laboratory for Druggable Gene and Protein Screening, Northeast Normal University, NO.5268 Renmin Street, Changchun, 130117, China
| | - Gang Wei
- Department of Breast Surgery, Jilin Province Cancer Hospital, Changchun, 130012, China
| | - Chunlei Yu
- National Engineering Laboratory for Druggable Gene and Protein Screening, Northeast Normal University, NO.5268 Renmin Street, Changchun, 130117, China
| | - Lihua Zheng
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Quality Control of Cell and Gene Therapy Medicine Products, Northeast Normal University, NO.5268 Renmin Street, Changchun, 130117, China
| | - Luguo Sun
- National Engineering Laboratory for Druggable Gene and Protein Screening, Northeast Normal University, NO.5268 Renmin Street, Changchun, 130117, China
| | - Guannan Wang
- China International Joint Research Center for Human Stem Cell Bank, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, Jilin, 130024, China
| | - Ying Sun
- China International Joint Research Center for Human Stem Cell Bank, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, Jilin, 130024, China
| | - Yongli Bao
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Quality Control of Cell and Gene Therapy Medicine Products, Northeast Normal University, NO.5268 Renmin Street, Changchun, 130117, China.
| | - Zhenbo Song
- National Engineering Laboratory for Druggable Gene and Protein Screening, Northeast Normal University, NO.5268 Renmin Street, Changchun, 130117, China.
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Wang J, Huang D, Nguyen TAT, Phan LM, Wei W, Rezaeian AH. CD74-AKT Axis Is a Potential Therapeutic Target in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. BIOLOGY 2024; 13:481. [PMID: 39056676 PMCID: PMC11274071 DOI: 10.3390/biology13070481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2024] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells are often resistant to FAS (CD95)-mediated apoptosis, but the underlying molecular mechanism(s) is not fully understood yet. Notably, the expression of the type II transmembrane protein, CD74, is correlated with chemotherapy-resistant and more invasive forms of cancers via unknown mechanisms. Here, we analyzed gene expression pattern of cancer patients and/or patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models and found that mRNA and protein levels of CD74 are highly expressed in TNBC and correlated with cancer stem cells (CSCs) and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) properties. Mechanistically, we found that AKT activation is likely critical for maintaining CD74 expression and protein stability to favor its oncogenic functions. Physiologically, epidermal growth factor (EGF) along with CD74 could activate AKT signaling, likely through binding of phosphorylated AKT (S473) to CD74, whereas inhibition of AKT could impair stability of CD74. We also revealed that CD74 binds to FAS and interferes with the intrinsic signaling of FAS-mediated apoptosis. As such, selective targeting of the CD74/FAS complex using the AKT inhibitor along with the CD74-derived peptide could synergistically restore and activate FAS-mediated apoptosis. Therefore, our approach of mobilizing apoptosis pathways likely provides a rationale for TNBC treatment by targeting the CD74/FAS and CD74-AKT axes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingchao Wang
- Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Daoyuan Huang
- Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Thu Anh Thai Nguyen
- Genome and Systems Biology Degree Program, College of Life Science, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10617, Taiwan
| | - Liem Minh Phan
- David Grant USAF Medical Center, Clinical Investigation Facility, 60th Medical Group, Travis Air Force Base, Fairfield, CA 94535, USA
| | - Wenyi Wei
- Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Abdol-Hossein Rezaeian
- Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
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Baldasici O, Soritau O, Roman A, Lisencu C, Visan S, Maja L, Pop B, Fetica B, Cismaru A, Vlase L, Balacescu L, Balacescu O, Russom A, Tudoran O. The transcriptional landscape of cancer stem-like cell functionality in breast cancer. J Transl Med 2024; 22:530. [PMID: 38831317 PMCID: PMC11149333 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-05281-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer stem-like cells (CSCs) have been extensively researched as the primary drivers of therapy resistance and tumor relapse in patients with breast cancer. However, due to lack of specific molecular markers, increased phenotypic plasticity and no clear clinicopathological features, the assessment of CSCs presence and functionality in solid tumors is challenging. While several potential markers, such as CD24/CD44, have been proposed, the extent to which they truly represent the stem cell potential of tumors or merely provide static snapshots is still a subject of controversy. Recent studies have highlighted the crucial role of the tumor microenvironment (TME) in influencing the CSC phenotype in breast cancer. The interplay between the tumor and TME induces significant changes in the cancer cell phenotype, leading to the acquisition of CSC characteristics, therapeutic resistance, and metastatic spread. Simultaneously, CSCs actively shape their microenvironment by evading immune surveillance and attracting stromal cells that support tumor progression. METHODS In this study, we associated in vitro mammosphere formation assays with bulk tumor microarray profiling and deconvolution algorithms to map CSC functionality and the microenvironmental landscape in a large cohort of 125 breast tumors. RESULTS We found that the TME score was a significant factor associated with CSC functionality. CSC-rich tumors were characterized by an immune-suppressed TME, while tumors devoid of CSC potential exhibited high immune infiltration and activation of pathways involved in the immune response. Gene expression analysis revealed IFNG, CXCR5, CD40LG, TBX21 and IL2RG to be associated with the CSC phenotype and also displayed prognostic value for patients with breast cancer. CONCLUSION These results suggest that the characterization of CSCs content and functionality in tumors can be used as an attractive strategy to fine-tune treatments and guide clinical decisions to improve patients therapy response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oana Baldasici
- Department of Genetics, Genomics and Experimental Pathology, The Oncology Institute "Prof. Dr. Ion Chiricuță", Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmaceutics, University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Iuliu Hatieganu" , Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Olga Soritau
- Department of Genetics, Genomics and Experimental Pathology, The Oncology Institute "Prof. Dr. Ion Chiricuță", Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Andrei Roman
- Department of Radiology, The Oncology Institute "Prof. Dr. Ion Chiricuță", Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Carmen Lisencu
- Department of Radiology, The Oncology Institute "Prof. Dr. Ion Chiricuță", Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Simona Visan
- Department of Genetics, Genomics and Experimental Pathology, The Oncology Institute "Prof. Dr. Ion Chiricuță", Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Laura Maja
- Department of Pathology, The Oncology Institute "Prof. Dr. Ion Chiricuță", Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Bogdan Pop
- Department of Pathology, The Oncology Institute "Prof. Dr. Ion Chiricuță", Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Bogdan Fetica
- Department of Pathology, The Oncology Institute "Prof. Dr. Ion Chiricuță", Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Andrei Cismaru
- Research Center for Functional Genomics, Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Iuliu Hatieganu", Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Laurian Vlase
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmaceutics, University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Iuliu Hatieganu" , Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Loredana Balacescu
- Department of Genetics, Genomics and Experimental Pathology, The Oncology Institute "Prof. Dr. Ion Chiricuță", Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Ovidiu Balacescu
- Department of Genetics, Genomics and Experimental Pathology, The Oncology Institute "Prof. Dr. Ion Chiricuță", Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Aman Russom
- Division of Nanobiotechnology, Department of Protein Science, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Oana Tudoran
- Department of Genetics, Genomics and Experimental Pathology, The Oncology Institute "Prof. Dr. Ion Chiricuță", Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
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Shome R, Sen P, Sarkar S, Ghosh SS. Single-cell transcriptomics reveals the intra-tumoral heterogeneity and SQSTM1/P62 and Wnt/β-catenin mediated epithelial to mesenchymal transition and stemness of triple-negative breast cancer. Exp Cell Res 2024; 438:114032. [PMID: 38583856 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2024.114032] [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: 02/24/2024] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is characterized by the complex tumor microenvironment (TME) consisting of an abundance of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), which is known to facilitate epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). The development of single-cell genomics is a powerful method for defining the intricate genetic landscapes of malignancies. In this study, we have employed single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) to dissect the intra-tumoral heterogeneity and analyze the single-cell transcriptomic landscape to detect rare consequential cell subpopulations of significance. The scRNA-seq analysis of TNBC and Normal patient derived samples revealed that EMT markers and transcription factors were most upregulated in MSC population. Further, exploration of gene expression analysis among TNBC and Normal patient-derived MSCs ascertained the role of SQSTM1/P62 and Wnt/β-catenin in TNBC progression. Wnt/β-catenin and Wnt/PCP signaling pathways are prominent contributors of EMT, stemness, and cancer stem cell (CSC) properties of TNBC. SQSTM1/P62 cooperates with the components of the Wnt/PCP signaling pathway and is critically involved at the interface of autophagy and EMT. Moreover, siRNA targeting SQSTM1/P62 and inhibitor of Wnt/β-catenin (FH535) in conjunction was used to explore molecular modification of EMT and stemness markers. Although SQSTM1/P62 is not crucial for cell survival, cytotoxicity assay revealed synergistic interaction between the siRNA/inhibitor. Modulation of these important pathways helped in reduction of expression of genes and proteins contributing to CSC properties. Gene and protein expression analysis revealed the induction of EMT to MET. Moreover, co-treatment resulted in inactivation of non-canonical Wnt VANGL2-JNK signaling axis. The synergistic impact of inhibition of SQSTM1/P62 and Wnt/β-catenin signaling facilitates the development of a potential therapeutic regimen for TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajib Shome
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, 39, Assam, India
| | - Plaboni Sen
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, 39, Assam, India
| | - Shilpi Sarkar
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, 39, Assam, India
| | - Siddhartha Sankar Ghosh
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, 39, Assam, India; Centre for Nanotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, 39, Assam, India.
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8
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Ding L, Jiang H, Li Q, Li Q, Zhang TT, Shang L, Xie B, Zhu Y, Ding K, Shi X, Zhu T, Zhu Y. Ropivacaine as a novel AKT1 specific inhibitor regulates the stemness of breast cancer. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2024; 43:90. [PMID: 38523299 PMCID: PMC10962119 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-024-03016-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ropivacaine, a local anesthetic, exhibits anti-tumor effects in various cancer types. However, its specific functions and the molecular mechanisms involved in breast cancer cell stemness remain elusive. METHODS The effects of ropivacaine on breast cancer stemness were investigated by in vitro and in vivo assays (i.e., FACs, MTT assay, mammosphere formation assay, transwell assays, western blot, and xenograft model). RNA-seq, bioinformatics analysis, Western blot, Luciferase reporter assay, and CHIP assay were used to explore the mechanistic roles of ropivacaine subsequently. RESULTS Our study showed that ropivacaine remarkably suppressed stem cells-like properties of breast cancer cells both in vitro and in vivo. RNA-seq analysis identified GGT1 as the downstream target gene responding to ropivacaine. High GGT1 levels are positively associated with a poor prognosis in breast cancer. Ropivacaine inhibited GGT1 expression by interacting with the catalytic domain of AKT1 directly to impair its kinase activity with resultant inactivation of NF-κB. Interestingly, NF-κB can bind to the promoter region of GGT1. KEGG and GSEA analysis indicated silence of GGT1 inhibited activation of NF-κB signaling pathway. Depletion of GGT1 diminished stem phenotypes of breast cancer cells, indicating the formation of NF-κB /AKT1/GGT1/NF-κB positive feedback loop in the regulation of ropivacaine-repressed stemness in breast cancer cells. CONCLUSION Our finding revealed that local anesthetic ropivacaine attenuated breast cancer stemness through AKT1/GGT1/NF-κB signaling pathway, suggesting the potential clinical value of ropivacaine in breast cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Ding
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Hui Jiang
- Department of Anesthesiology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Qiangwei Li
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Qiushuang Li
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Tian-Tian Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Limeng Shang
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Bin Xie
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Yaling Zhu
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Keshuo Ding
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Xuanming Shi
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China.
| | - Tao Zhu
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230027, China.
- Key Laboratory of Immune Response and Immunotherapy, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230027, China.
- Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, 518055, China.
| | - Yong Zhu
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China.
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Singh D, Siddique HR. Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition in cancer progression: unraveling the immunosuppressive module driving therapy resistance. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2024; 43:155-173. [PMID: 37775641 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-023-10141-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
Cancer cells undergo phenotypic switching (cancer cell plasticity) in response to microenvironmental cues, including exposure to therapy/treatment. Phenotypic plasticity enables the cancer cells to acquire more mesenchymal traits promoting cancer cells' growth, survival, therapy resistance, and disease recurrence. A significant program in cancer cell plasticity is epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), wherein a comprehensive reprogramming of gene expression occurs to facilitate the translational shift from epithelial-to-mesenchymal phenotypes resulting in increased invasiveness and metastasis. In addition, EMT plays a pivotal role in facilitating cancer cells' escape from the body's immune system using several mechanisms, such as the downregulation of major histocompatibility complex-mediated antigen presentation, upregulation of immune checkpoint molecules, and recruitment of immune-suppressive cells. Cancer cells' ability to undergo phenotypic switching and EMT-driven immune escape presents a formidable obstacle in cancer management, highlighting the need to unravel the intricate mechanisms underlying these processes and develop novel therapeutic strategies. This article discusses the role of EMT in promoting immune evasion and therapy resistance. We also discuss the ongoing research on developing therapeutic approaches targeting intrinsic and induced cell plasticity within the immune suppressive microenvironment. We believe this review article will update the current research status and equip researchers, clinicians, and other healthcare professionals with valuable insights enhancing their existing knowledge and shedding light on promising directions for future cancer research. This will facilitate the development of innovative strategies for managing therapy-resistant cancers and improving patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepti Singh
- Molecular Cancer Genetics & Translational Research Lab, Section of Genetics, Department of Zoology, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, 202002, India
| | - Hifzur R Siddique
- Molecular Cancer Genetics & Translational Research Lab, Section of Genetics, Department of Zoology, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, 202002, India.
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10
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Khan SU, Fatima K, Aisha S, Malik F. Unveiling the mechanisms and challenges of cancer drug resistance. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:109. [PMID: 38347575 PMCID: PMC10860306 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01302-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer treatment faces many hurdles and resistance is one among them. Anti-cancer treatment strategies are evolving due to innate and acquired resistance capacity, governed by genetic, epigenetic, proteomic, metabolic, or microenvironmental cues that ultimately enable selected cancer cells to survive and progress under unfavorable conditions. Although the mechanism of drug resistance is being widely studied to generate new target-based drugs with better potency than existing ones. However, due to the broader flexibility in acquired drug resistance, advanced therapeutic options with better efficacy need to be explored. Combination therapy is an alternative with a better success rate though the risk of amplified side effects is commonplace. Moreover, recent groundbreaking precision immune therapy is one of the ways to overcome drug resistance and has revolutionized anticancer therapy to a greater extent with the only limitation of being individual-specific and needs further attention. This review will focus on the challenges and strategies opted by cancer cells to withstand the current therapies at the molecular level and also highlights the emerging therapeutic options -like immunological, and stem cell-based options that may prove to have better potential to challenge the existing problem of therapy resistance. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sameer Ullah Khan
- Division of Genitourinary Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
- Division of Cancer Pharmacology, CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Srinagar-190005, Jammu and Kashmir, India.
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad-201002, India.
| | - Kaneez Fatima
- Division of Cancer Pharmacology, CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Srinagar-190005, Jammu and Kashmir, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad-201002, India
| | - Shariqa Aisha
- Division of Cancer Pharmacology, CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Srinagar-190005, Jammu and Kashmir, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad-201002, India
| | - Fayaz Malik
- Division of Cancer Pharmacology, CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Srinagar-190005, Jammu and Kashmir, India.
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad-201002, India.
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11
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Thalappil MA, Singh P, Carcereri de Prati A, Sahoo SK, Mariotto S, Butturini E. Essential oils and their nanoformulations for breast cancer therapy. Phytother Res 2024; 38:556-591. [PMID: 37919622 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.8054] [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: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
Breast Cancer (BC) is the most prevalent type of cancer in the world. Current treatments include surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy but often are associated with high toxicity to normal tissues, chemoresistance, and relapse. Thus, developing novel therapies which could combat these limitations is essential for effective treatment. In this context, phytochemicals are increasingly getting popular due to their safety profile, ability to efficiently target tumors, and circumvent limitations of existing treatments. Essential Oils (EOs) are mixtures of various phytochemicals which have shown potential anticancer activity in preclinical BC models. However, their clinical translation is limited by factors such as high volatility, low stability, and poor solubility. Nanotechnology has facilitated their encapsulation in a variety of nanostructures and proven to overcome these limitations. In this review, we have efficiently summarized the current knowledge on the anticancer effect of EOs and constituents in both in in vitro and in in vivo BC models. Further, we also provide a descriptive account on the potential of nanotechnology in enhancing the anti-BC activity of EOs and their constituents. The papers discussed in this review were selected using the keywords "antiproliferative Essential Oils in breast cancer," "anticancer activity of Essential Oil in breast cancer," and "cytotoxicity of Essential Oils in breast cancer" performed in PubMed and ScienceDirect databases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammed Ashiq Thalappil
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Biological Chemistry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Priya Singh
- Nanomedicine Laboratory, Institute of Life Sciences, Bhubaneswar, India
| | - Alessandra Carcereri de Prati
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Biological Chemistry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | | | - Sofia Mariotto
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Biological Chemistry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Elena Butturini
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Biological Chemistry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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12
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Cossu C, Di Lorenzo A, Fiorilla I, Todesco AM, Audrito V, Conti L. The Role of the Toll-like Receptor 2 and the cGAS-STING Pathways in Breast Cancer: Friends or Foes? Int J Mol Sci 2023; 25:456. [PMID: 38203626 PMCID: PMC10778705 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25010456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer stands as a primary malignancy among women, ranking second in global cancer-related deaths. Despite treatment advancements, many patients progress to metastatic stages, posing a significant therapeutic challenge. Current therapies primarily target cancer cells, overlooking their intricate interactions with the tumor microenvironment (TME) that fuel progression and treatment resistance. Dysregulated innate immunity in breast cancer triggers chronic inflammation, fostering cancer development and therapy resistance. Innate immune pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) have emerged as crucial regulators of the immune response as well as of several immune-mediated or cancer cell-intrinsic mechanisms that either inhibit or promote tumor progression. In particular, several studies showed that the Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) and the cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathways play a central role in breast cancer progression. In this review, we present a comprehensive overview of the role of TLR2 and STING in breast cancer, and we explore the potential to target these PRRs for drug development. This information will significantly impact the scientific discussion on the use of PRR agonists or inhibitors in cancer therapy, opening up new and promising avenues for breast cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Cossu
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences–Molecular Biotechnology Center “Guido Tarone”, University of Turin, Piazza Nizza 44, 10126 Turin, Italy; (C.C.); (A.D.L.)
| | - Antonino Di Lorenzo
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences–Molecular Biotechnology Center “Guido Tarone”, University of Turin, Piazza Nizza 44, 10126 Turin, Italy; (C.C.); (A.D.L.)
| | - Irene Fiorilla
- Department of Science and Technological Innovation (DISIT), University of Eastern Piedmont, 15121 Alessandria, Italy; (I.F.); (A.M.T.); (V.A.)
| | - Alberto Maria Todesco
- Department of Science and Technological Innovation (DISIT), University of Eastern Piedmont, 15121 Alessandria, Italy; (I.F.); (A.M.T.); (V.A.)
| | - Valentina Audrito
- Department of Science and Technological Innovation (DISIT), University of Eastern Piedmont, 15121 Alessandria, Italy; (I.F.); (A.M.T.); (V.A.)
| | - Laura Conti
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences–Molecular Biotechnology Center “Guido Tarone”, University of Turin, Piazza Nizza 44, 10126 Turin, Italy; (C.C.); (A.D.L.)
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13
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Lin X, Wang Y, Fang K, Guo Z, Lin N, Li L. The application of nanoparticles in theranostic systems targeting breast cancer stem cells: current progress and future challenges. Stem Cell Res Ther 2023; 14:356. [PMID: 38072976 PMCID: PMC10712155 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-023-03584-1] [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: 01/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is one of the diseases with the highest female mortality rates in the world and is closely related to breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs). Conventional breast cancer chemotherapy drugs target noncancer stem cells (non-CSCs), while cancer stem cells (CSCs) can still survive, which is an important reason for breast cancer drug resistance and local recurrence or distant metastasis. How to eradicate BCSCs while killing BCs is the key factor to improve the effect, and it is also an important scientific problem to be solved urgently. Therefore, targeted BCSC therapy has become a research hotspot. Interestingly, the emergence of nanotechnology provides a new idea for targeting BCSCs. This study summarizes the current application status of nanomaterials in targeting BCSCs, and attempts to construct a new type of lipid nanoparticle (LNP) that can target BCSCs through mRNA, providing a new idea for the treatment of BC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyu Lin
- Oncology Institute, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214062, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Oncology Institute, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214062, Jiangsu, China
| | - Kai Fang
- Oncology Institute, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214062, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zijian Guo
- Department of Oncological Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214062, Jiangsu, China
| | - Nan Lin
- Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Shandong, 250000, China
| | - Lihua Li
- Oncology Institute, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214062, Jiangsu, China.
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14
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Sa P, Mohapatra P, Swain SS, Khuntia A, Sahoo SK. Phytochemical-Based Nanomedicine for Targeting Tumor Microenvironment and Inhibiting Cancer Chemoresistance: Recent Advances and Pharmacological Insights. Mol Pharm 2023; 20:5254-5277. [PMID: 37596986 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.3c00286] [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] [Indexed: 08/21/2023]
Abstract
Cancer remains the leading cause of death and rapidly evolving disease worldwide. The understanding of disease pathophysiology has improved through advanced research investigation, and several therapeutic strategies are being used for better cancer treatment. However, the increase in cancer relapse and metastatic-related deaths indicate that available therapies and clinically approved chemotherapy drugs are not sufficient to combat cancer. Further, the constant crosstalk between tumor cells and the tumor microenvironment (TME) is crucial for the development, progression, metastasis, and therapeutic response to tumors. In this regard, phytochemicals with multimodal targeting abilities can be used as an alternative to current cancer therapy by inhibiting cancer survival pathways or modulating TME. However, due to their poor pharmacokinetics and low bioavailability, the success of phytochemicals in clinical trials is limited. Therefore, developing phytochemical-based nanomedicine or phytonanomedicine can improve the pharmacokinetic profile of these phytochemicals. Herein, the molecular characteristics and pharmacological insights of the proposed phytonanomedicine in cancer therapy targeting tumor tissue and altering the characteristics of cancer stem cells, chemoresistance, TME, and cancer immunity are well discussed. Further, we have highlighted the clinical perspective and challenges of phytonanomedicine in filling the gap in potential cancer therapeutics using various nanoplatforms. Overall, we have discussed how clinical success and pharmacological insights could make it more beneficial to boost the concept of nanomedicine in the academic and pharmaceutical fields to counter cancer metastases and drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pratikshya Sa
- Institute of Life Sciences, Nalco Square, Bhubaneswar 751023, Odisha, India
- Regional Centre for Biotechnology, Faridabad, Haryana 121001, NCR Delhi, India
| | - Priyanka Mohapatra
- Institute of Life Sciences, Nalco Square, Bhubaneswar 751023, Odisha, India
- Regional Centre for Biotechnology, Faridabad, Haryana 121001, NCR Delhi, India
| | | | - Auromira Khuntia
- Institute of Life Sciences, Nalco Square, Bhubaneswar 751023, Odisha, India
- Regional Centre for Biotechnology, Faridabad, Haryana 121001, NCR Delhi, India
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15
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Kim SL, Choi HS, Lee DS. BRD4/nuclear PD-L1/RelB circuit is involved in the stemness of breast cancer cells. Cell Commun Signal 2023; 21:315. [PMID: 37924094 PMCID: PMC10623882 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01319-6] [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: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breast cancer (BC) is the most common cancer diagnosed in women worldwide. BC stem cells (BCSCs) have been known to be involved in the carcinogenesis of the breast and contribute to therapeutic resistance. The programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression of BC correlated with a poor prognosis. Immunotherapies that target PD-L1 have great potential and have been successful when applied to cancer treatment. However, whether PD-L1 regulates BCSC formation is unknown. METHODS BCSCs were enriched by serum-free suspension culture. The properties of BCSCs were examined by mammosphere formation assay, CD44+/Cd24-, aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) assay, CSC marker analysis, and mammosphere growth assay. To elucidate the functions of bromodomain-containing protein 4 (BRD4), nuclear PD-L1, and RelB proteins in the stemness of BCSCs, mammosphere formation was examined using BRD4 inhibitor and degrader, PD-L1 degrader, and RelB inhibitor. The antitumor function of 3',4',7,8-tetrahydroxyflavone (THF), a specific BRD4 inhibitor, was studied through in vivo tumor model and mouse studies, and the protein levels of c-Myc, PD-L1, and RelB were examined in tumor model under THF treatment. RESULTS BRD4 was upregulated in breast CSCs and regulates the stemness of BCs. The downregulation of BRD4 using BRD4 PROTAC, ARV-825, and BRD4 inhibitor, (+)-JQ1, inhibits mammosphere formation and reduces the levels of breast CSC markers (CD44+/CD24- and ALDH1), stem cell marker genes, and mammosphere growth. BRD4 inhibitor (JQ1) and degrader (ARV825) downregulate membrane and nuclear fractions of PD-L1 through the inhibition of PD-L1 transcript levels. The knockdown of PD-L1 inhibits mammosphere formation. Verteporfin, a PD-L1 degrader, inhibits the transcripts and protein levels of PD-L1 and downregulates the transcript and protein levels of RelB. Calcitriol, a RelB inhibitor, and the knockdown of RelB using si-RelB regulate mammosphere formation through interleukin-6 (IL-6) expression. THF is a natural product and a potent selective BRD4 inhibitor, inhibits mammosphere formation, and reduces the levels of CD44+/CD24- and mammosphere growth by downregulating c-Myc, PD-L1, and RelB. 3',4',7,8-THF shows tumoricidal activity and increased levels of CD3+CD4+ and CD3+CD8+ T-cells in the tumor and tumor-draining lymph nodes (TDLNs) in the murine tumor model using 4T1 and MC38 cells. CONCLUSIONS The results show the first evidence of the essential role of the BRD4/nuclear PD-L1/RelB axis in breast CSC formation. The nuclear PD-L1 regulates RelB, and the RelB/p65 complex induces IL6 and breast CSC formation. Targeting nuclear PD-L1 represents a potential and novel tool for immunotherapies of intractable BC. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Su-Lim Kim
- Bio-Health Materials Core-Facility Center, Jeju National University, Jeju, 63243, Republic of Korea
- Graduate Program for Bio-health/Innovative Drug Development using Subtropical Bio-Resources, Jeju National University, Jeju, 63243, Republic of Korea
| | - Hack Sun Choi
- Subtropical/Tropical Organism Gene Bank, Jeju National University, Jeju, 63243, Republic of Korea.
- Faculty of Biotechnology, College of Applied Life Sciences, Jeju National University, SARI, Jeju, 63243, Republic of Korea.
| | - Dong-Sun Lee
- Bio-Health Materials Core-Facility Center, Jeju National University, Jeju, 63243, Republic of Korea.
- Graduate Program for Bio-health/Innovative Drug Development using Subtropical Bio-Resources, Jeju National University, Jeju, 63243, Republic of Korea.
- Subtropical/Tropical Organism Gene Bank, Jeju National University, Jeju, 63243, Republic of Korea.
- Faculty of Biotechnology, College of Applied Life Sciences, Jeju National University, SARI, Jeju, 63243, Republic of Korea.
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16
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Shivhare S, Choudhury S, Singh D, Das A. ZEB1 potentiates chemoresistance in breast cancer stem cells by evading apoptosis. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2023; 1870:119528. [PMID: 37356459 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2023.119528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023]
Abstract
Chemoresistance renders a challenge to the clinics to treat breast cancer patients. Current treatment strategies are effective in mitigating tumor growth but remain largely ineffective against cancer-initiating cells or breast Cancer Stem Cells (CSCs). Epithelial-to-mesenchymal-transition (EMT) regulates breast CSC physiology. Zinc finger E-box binding homeobox 1 (ZEB1) is a key EMT-transcription factor that regulates breast CSC - differentiation and metastasis. However, its potential role in modulating tumor chemoresistance has not yet been fully understood. In-silico analysis revealed a higher ZEB1 expression in breast cancer patients that leads to decreased overall and relapse-free survival. We generated sorted breast CSC with stable ZEB1 overexpression (CD24-/CD44+GFP-ZEB1) and/or silencing (CD24-/CD44+ZEB1 shRNA) as well as breast cancer cells with stable ZEB1 overexpression (CD24+GFP-ZEB1) and/or silencing (CD24+ZEB1 shRNA). An increased colony-forming efficiency and doxorubicin accumulation correlated with decreased promoter activity and expression profile of ABCC1 drug-efflux ABC transporter in CD24-/CD44+GFP-ZEB1. Additionally, CD24-/CD44+GFP-ZEB1 demonstrated doxorubicin-induced higher anti-apoptotic and lower pro-apoptotic protein expressions in the mitochondrial and cytosolic fractions. Chemoresistant CD24-/CD44+GFP-ZEB1 cells depicted 1000-fold higher IC-50 values of doxorubicin and decreased activation of JNK-p38 stress kinase molecular signaling-dependent mammosphere forming efficiency to evade apoptosis. Thus, ZEB1 and its downstream effectors are plausible therapeutic targets for the mitigation of breast cancer chemoresistance in patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Surbhi Shivhare
- Department of Applied Biology, Council of Scientific & Industrial Research-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (CSIR-IICT), Uppal Road, Tarnaka, Hyderabad 500 007, TS, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research, Ghaziabad, UP 201 002, India
| | - Subholakshmi Choudhury
- Department of Applied Biology, Council of Scientific & Industrial Research-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (CSIR-IICT), Uppal Road, Tarnaka, Hyderabad 500 007, TS, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research, Ghaziabad, UP 201 002, India
| | - Digvijay Singh
- Department of Applied Biology, Council of Scientific & Industrial Research-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (CSIR-IICT), Uppal Road, Tarnaka, Hyderabad 500 007, TS, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research, Ghaziabad, UP 201 002, India
| | - Amitava Das
- Department of Applied Biology, Council of Scientific & Industrial Research-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (CSIR-IICT), Uppal Road, Tarnaka, Hyderabad 500 007, TS, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research, Ghaziabad, UP 201 002, India.
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Chamandi G, El-Hajjar L, El Kurdi A, Le Bras M, Nasr R, Lehmann-Che J. ER Negative Breast Cancer and miRNA: There Is More to Decipher Than What the Pathologist Can See! Biomedicines 2023; 11:2300. [PMID: 37626796 PMCID: PMC10452617 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11082300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC), the most prevalent cancer in women, is a heterogenous disease. Despite advancements in BC diagnosis, prognosis, and therapeutics, survival rates have drastically decreased in the metastatic setting. Therefore, BC still remains a medical challenge. The evolution of high-throughput technology has highlighted gaps in the classification system of BCs. Of particular interest is the notorious triple negative BC, which was recounted as being heterogenous itself and it overlaps with distinct subtypes, namely molecular apocrine (MA) and luminal androgen (LAR) BCs. These subtypes are, even today, still misdiagnosed and poorly treated. As such, researchers and clinicians have been looking for ways through which to refine BC classification in order to properly understand the initiation, development, progression, and the responses to the treatment of BCs. One tool is biomarkers and, specifically, microRNA (miRNA), which are highly reported as associated with BC carcinogenesis. In this review, the diverse roles of miRNA in estrogen receptor negative (ER-) and androgen receptor positive (AR+) BC are depicted. While highlighting their oncogenic and tumor suppressor functions in tumor progression, we will discuss their diagnostic, prognostic, and predictive biomarker potentials, as well as their drug sensitivity/resistance activity. The association of several miRNAs in the KEGG-reported pathways that are related to ER-BC carcinogenesis is presented. The identification and verification of accurate miRNA panels is a cornerstone for tackling BC classification setbacks, as is also the deciphering of the carcinogenesis regulators of ER - AR + BC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghada Chamandi
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, 11-0236 Beirut, Lebanon; (G.C.); (L.E.-H.)
- Pathophysiology of Breast Cancer Team, INSERM U976, Immunologie Humaine, Pathophysiologie, Immunothérapie (HIPI), Université Paris Cité, 75010 Paris, France;
| | - Layal El-Hajjar
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, 11-0236 Beirut, Lebanon; (G.C.); (L.E.-H.)
- Office of Basic/Translational Research and Graduate Studies, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, 11-0236 Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Abdallah El Kurdi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, 11-0236 Beirut, Lebanon;
| | - Morgane Le Bras
- Pathophysiology of Breast Cancer Team, INSERM U976, Immunologie Humaine, Pathophysiologie, Immunothérapie (HIPI), Université Paris Cité, 75010 Paris, France;
| | - Rihab Nasr
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, 11-0236 Beirut, Lebanon; (G.C.); (L.E.-H.)
| | - Jacqueline Lehmann-Che
- Pathophysiology of Breast Cancer Team, INSERM U976, Immunologie Humaine, Pathophysiologie, Immunothérapie (HIPI), Université Paris Cité, 75010 Paris, France;
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18
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Garrido-Cano I, Adam-Artigues A, Lameirinhas A, Blandez JF, Candela-Noguera V, Lluch A, Bermejo B, Sancenón F, Cejalvo JM, Martínez-Máñez R, Eroles P. Delivery of miR-200c-3p Using Tumor-Targeted Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles for Breast Cancer Therapy. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2023; 15:38323-38334. [PMID: 37549382 PMCID: PMC10436244 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c07541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023]
Abstract
Despite advances in breast cancer treatment, it remains the leading cause of cancer-related death in women worldwide. In this context, microRNAs have emerged as potential therapeutic targets but still present some limitations for in vivo applications. Particularly, miR-200c-3p is a well-known tumor suppressor microRNA that inhibits tumor progression and metastasis in breast cancer through downregulating ZEB1 and ZEB2. Based on the above, we describe the design and validation of a nanodevice using mesoporous silica nanoparticles for miR-200c-3p delivery for breast cancer treatment. We demonstrate the biocompatibility of the synthesized nanodevices as well as their ability to escape from endosomes/lysosomes and inhibit tumorigenesis, invasion, migration, and proliferation of tumor cells in vitro. Moreover, tumor targeting and effective delivery of miR-200c-3p from the nanoparticles in vivo are confirmed in an orthotopic breast cancer mouse model, and the therapeutic efficacy is also evidenced by a decrease in tumor size and lung metastasis, while showing no signs of toxicity. Overall, our results provide evidence that miR-200c-3p-loaded nanoparticles are a potential strategy for breast cancer therapy and a safe and effective system for tumor-targeted delivery of microRNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iris Garrido-Cano
- Biomedical
Research Institute INCLIVA, Valencia 46010, Spain
- Instituto
Interuniversitario de Investigación de Reconocimiento Molecular
y Desarrollo Tecnológico (IDM), Universitat Politècnica
de València, Universitat de València, Valencia 46010, Spain
| | | | - Ana Lameirinhas
- Biomedical
Research Institute INCLIVA, Valencia 46010, Spain
| | - Juan F. Blandez
- Instituto
Interuniversitario de Investigación de Reconocimiento Molecular
y Desarrollo Tecnológico (IDM), Universitat Politècnica
de València, Universitat de València, Valencia 46010, Spain
- CIBER
de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Madrid 28029, Spain
- Unidad
Mixta de Investigación en Nanomedicina y Sensores, Universitat Politècnica de València,
IIS La Fe, Valencia 46026, Spain
| | - Vicente Candela-Noguera
- Instituto
Interuniversitario de Investigación de Reconocimiento Molecular
y Desarrollo Tecnológico (IDM), Universitat Politècnica
de València, Universitat de València, Valencia 46010, Spain
| | - Ana Lluch
- Biomedical
Research Institute INCLIVA, Valencia 46010, Spain
- Centro
de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Madrid 28029, Spain
- Universitat
de València, Valencia 46010, Spain
- Clinical
Oncology Department, Hospital Clínico
Universitario de Valencia, Valencia 46010, Spain
| | - Begoña Bermejo
- Biomedical
Research Institute INCLIVA, Valencia 46010, Spain
- Centro
de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Madrid 28029, Spain
- Clinical
Oncology Department, Hospital Clínico
Universitario de Valencia, Valencia 46010, Spain
| | - Felix Sancenón
- Instituto
Interuniversitario de Investigación de Reconocimiento Molecular
y Desarrollo Tecnológico (IDM), Universitat Politècnica
de València, Universitat de València, Valencia 46010, Spain
- CIBER
de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Madrid 28029, Spain
- Unidad
Mixta de Investigación en Nanomedicina y Sensores, Universitat Politècnica de València,
IIS La Fe, Valencia 46026, Spain
- Unidad
Mixta UPV-CIPF de Investigación en Mecanismos de Enfermedades
y Nanomedicina. Universitat Politècnica de Valencia, Centro de Investigación Príncipe Felipe, Valencia 46012, Spain
| | - Juan Miguel Cejalvo
- Biomedical
Research Institute INCLIVA, Valencia 46010, Spain
- Centro
de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Madrid 28029, Spain
- Clinical
Oncology Department, Hospital Clínico
Universitario de Valencia, Valencia 46010, Spain
| | - Ramón Martínez-Máñez
- Instituto
Interuniversitario de Investigación de Reconocimiento Molecular
y Desarrollo Tecnológico (IDM), Universitat Politècnica
de València, Universitat de València, Valencia 46010, Spain
- CIBER
de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Madrid 28029, Spain
- Unidad
Mixta de Investigación en Nanomedicina y Sensores, Universitat Politècnica de València,
IIS La Fe, Valencia 46026, Spain
- Unidad
Mixta UPV-CIPF de Investigación en Mecanismos de Enfermedades
y Nanomedicina. Universitat Politècnica de Valencia, Centro de Investigación Príncipe Felipe, Valencia 46012, Spain
| | - Pilar Eroles
- Biomedical
Research Institute INCLIVA, Valencia 46010, Spain
- Centro
de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Madrid 28029, Spain
- Universitat
de València, Valencia 46010, Spain
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19
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Wilczyński JR, Wilczyński M, Paradowska E. "DEPHENCE" system-a novel regimen of therapy that is urgently needed in the high-grade serous ovarian cancer-a focus on anti-cancer stem cell and anti-tumor microenvironment targeted therapies. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1201497. [PMID: 37448521 PMCID: PMC10338102 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1201497] [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: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer, especially high-grade serous type, is the most lethal gynecological malignancy. The lack of screening programs and the scarcity of symptomatology result in the late diagnosis in about 75% of affected women. Despite very demanding and aggressive surgical treatment, multiple-line chemotherapy regimens and both approved and clinically tested targeted therapies, the overall survival of patients is still unsatisfactory and disappointing. Research studies have recently brought some more understanding of the molecular diversity of the ovarian cancer, its unique intraperitoneal biology, the role of cancer stem cells, and the complexity of tumor microenvironment. There is a growing body of evidence that individualization of the treatment adjusted to the molecular and biochemical signature of the tumor as well as to the medical status of the patient should replace or supplement the foregoing therapy. In this review, we have proposed the principles of the novel regimen of the therapy that we called the "DEPHENCE" system, and we have extensively discussed the results of the studies focused on the ovarian cancer stem cells, other components of cancer metastatic niche, and, finally, clinical trials targeting these two environments. Through this, we have tried to present the evolving landscape of treatment options and put flesh on the experimental approach to attack the high-grade serous ovarian cancer multidirectionally, corresponding to the "DEPHENCE" system postulates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacek R Wilczyński
- Department of Gynecological Surgery and Gynecological Oncology, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
| | - Miłosz Wilczyński
- Department of Gynecological, Endoscopic and Oncological Surgery, Polish Mother's Health Center-Research Institute, Lodz, Poland
- Department of Surgical and Endoscopic Gynecology, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
| | - Edyta Paradowska
- Laboratory of Virology, Institute of Medical Biology of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Lodz, Poland
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20
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Wang Y, Wang R, Liu X, Liu M, Sun L, Pan X, Hu H, Jiang B, Zou Y, Liu Q, Gong Y, Wang M, Sun G. Chemotherapy-induced executioner caspase activation increases breast cancer malignancy through epigenetic de-repression of CDH12. Oncogenesis 2023; 12:34. [PMID: 37355711 DOI: 10.1038/s41389-023-00479-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer relapse and metastasis are major obstacles for effective treatment. One important mechanism to eliminate cancer cells is to induce apoptosis. Activation of executioner caspases is the key step in apoptosis and was considered "a point of no return". However, in recent years, accumulating evidence has demonstrated that cells can survive executioner caspase activation in response to apoptotic stimuli through a process named anastasis. Here we show that breast cancer cells that have survived through anastasis (anastatic cells) after exposure to chemotherapeutic drugs acquire enhanced proliferation and migration. Mechanistically, cadherin 12 (CDH12) is persistently upregulated in anastatic cells and promotes breast cancer malignancy via activation of ERK and CREB. Moreover, we demonstrate that executioner caspase activation induced by chemotherapeutic drugs results in loss of DNA methylation and repressive histone modifications in the CDH12 promoter region, leading to increased CDH12 expression. Our work unveils the mechanism underlying anastasis-induced enhancement in breast cancer malignancy, offering new therapeutic targets for preventing post-chemotherapy cancer relapse and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxing Wang
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology, Ministry of Education, Institute of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Ru Wang
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology, Ministry of Education, Institute of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Xiaohe Liu
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology, Ministry of Education, Institute of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Menghao Liu
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology, Ministry of Education, Institute of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Lili Sun
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology, Ministry of Education, Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Xiaohua Pan
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China
| | - Huili Hu
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology, Ministry of Education, Institute of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Department of Systems Biomedicine and Research Center of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Baichun Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology, Ministry of Education, Institute of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Yongxin Zou
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology, Ministry of Education, Institute of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Qiao Liu
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology, Ministry of Education, Institute of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Yaoqin Gong
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology, Ministry of Education, Institute of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Molin Wang
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology, Ministry of Education, Institute of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China.
| | - Gongping Sun
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology, Ministry of Education, Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China.
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21
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Le Minh G, Esquea EM, Dhameliya TT, Merzy J, Lee MH, Ball LE, Reginato MJ. Kruppel-like factor 8 regulates triple negative breast cancer stem cell-like activity. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1141834. [PMID: 37152043 PMCID: PMC10155275 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1141834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Breast tumor development is regulated by a sub-population of breast cancer cells, termed cancer stem-like cells (CSC), which are capable of self-renewing and differentiating, and are involved in promoting breast cancer invasion, metastasis, drug resistance and relapse. CSCs are highly adaptable, capable of reprogramming their own metabolism and signaling activity in response to stimuli within the tumor microenvironment. Recently, the nutrient sensor O-GlcNAc transferase (OGT) and O-GlcNAcylation was shown to be enriched in CSC populations, where it promotes the stemness and tumorigenesis of breast cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. This enrichment was associated with upregulation of the transcription factor Kruppel-like-factor 8 (KLF8) suggesting a potential role of KLF8 in regulating CSCs properties. Methods Triple-negative breast cancer cells were genetically modified to generate KLF8 overexpressing or KLF8 knock-down cells. Cancer cells, control or with altered KLF8 expression were analyzed to assess mammosphere formation efficiency, CSCs frequency and expression of CSCs factors. Tumor growth in vivo of control or KLF8 knock-down cells was assessed by fat-pad injection of these cell in immunocompromised mice. Results Here, we show that KLF8 is required and sufficient for regulating CSC phenotypes and regulating transcription factors SOX2, NANOG, OCT4 and c-MYC. KLF8 levels are associated with chemoresistance in triple negative breast cancer patients and overexpression in breast cancer cells increased paclitaxel resistance. KLF8 and OGT co-regulate each other to form a feed-forward loop to promote CSCs phenotype and mammosphere formation of breast cancer cells. Discussion These results suggest a critical role of KLF8 and OGT in promoting CSCs and cancer progression, that may serve as potential targets for developing strategy to target CSCs specifically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giang Le Minh
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Emily M. Esquea
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Tejsi T. Dhameliya
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Jessica Merzy
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Mi-Hye Lee
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Lauren E. Ball
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Mauricio J. Reginato
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Translational and Cellular Oncology Program, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center of Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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22
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Loric S, Denis JA, Desbene C, Sabbah M, Conti M. Extracellular Vesicles in Breast Cancer: From Biology and Function to Clinical Diagnosis and Therapeutic Management. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:7208. [PMID: 37108371 PMCID: PMC10139222 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is the first worldwide most frequent cancer in both sexes and the most commonly diagnosed in females. Although BC mortality has been thoroughly declining over the past decades, there are still considerable differences between women diagnosed with early BC and when metastatic BC is diagnosed. BC treatment choice is widely dependent on precise histological and molecular characterization. However, recurrence or distant metastasis still occurs even with the most recent efficient therapies. Thus, a better understanding of the different factors underlying tumor escape is mainly mandatory. Among the leading candidates is the continuous interplay between tumor cells and their microenvironment, where extracellular vesicles play a significant role. Among extracellular vesicles, smaller ones, also called exosomes, can carry biomolecules, such as lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids, and generate signal transmission through an intercellular transfer of their content. This mechanism allows tumor cells to recruit and modify the adjacent and systemic microenvironment to support further invasion and dissemination. By reciprocity, stromal cells can also use exosomes to profoundly modify tumor cell behavior. This review intends to cover the most recent literature on the role of extracellular vesicle production in normal and cancerous breast tissues. Specific attention is paid to the use of extracellular vesicles for early BC diagnosis, follow-up, and prognosis because exosomes are actually under the spotlight of researchers as a high-potential source of liquid biopsies. Extracellular vesicles in BC treatment as new targets for therapy or efficient nanovectors to drive drug delivery are also summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvain Loric
- INSERM U538, CRSA, Saint-Antoine University Hospital, 75012 Paris, France; (J.A.D.)
| | | | - Cédric Desbene
- INSERM U538, CRSA, Saint-Antoine University Hospital, 75012 Paris, France; (J.A.D.)
| | - Michèle Sabbah
- INSERM U538, CRSA, Saint-Antoine University Hospital, 75012 Paris, France; (J.A.D.)
| | - Marc Conti
- INSERM U538, CRSA, Saint-Antoine University Hospital, 75012 Paris, France; (J.A.D.)
- INTEGRACELL SAS, 91160 Longjumeau, France
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23
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Zer NS, Ben-Ghedalia-Peled N, Gheber LA, Vago R. CD44 in Bone Metastasis Development: A Key Player in the Fate Decisions of the Invading Cells? Clin Exp Metastasis 2023; 40:125-135. [PMID: 37038009 DOI: 10.1007/s10585-023-10203-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/12/2023]
Abstract
A participant in key developmental processes, the adhesion glycoprotein CD44 is also expressed in several types of malignancies and can promote metastasis. In addition, the expression of CD44 isoforms in different types of cancer such as prostate and breast cancers may facilitate bone metastases by enhancing tumorigenicity, osteomimicry, cell migration, homing to bone, and anchorage within the bone specialized domains. Moreover, there is evidence that the CD44-ICD fragments in breast cancer cells may promote the cells' osteolytic nature. Yet the mechanisms by which CD44 and its downstream effectors promote the establishment of these cells within the bone are not fully elucidated. In this review, we summarize the current data on the roles played by CD44 in cancer progression and bone metastasis and the possible effects of its interaction with the different components of the bone marrow milieu.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noy Shir Zer
- Avram and Stella Goldstein-Goren Department of Biotechnology Engineering, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, 8410501, Israel
| | - Noa Ben-Ghedalia-Peled
- Avram and Stella Goldstein-Goren Department of Biotechnology Engineering, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, 8410501, Israel
| | - Levi A Gheber
- Avram and Stella Goldstein-Goren Department of Biotechnology Engineering, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, 8410501, Israel
| | - Razi Vago
- Avram and Stella Goldstein-Goren Department of Biotechnology Engineering, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, 8410501, Israel.
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24
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Azari M, Bahreini F, Uversky VN, Rezaei N. Current therapeutic approaches and promising perspectives of using bioengineered peptides in fighting chemoresistance in triple-negative breast cancer. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 210:115459. [PMID: 36813121 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 02/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer is a collation of malignancies that manifest in the mammary glands at the early stages. Among breast cancer subtypes, triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) shows the most aggressive behavior, with apparent stemness features. Owing to the lack of response to hormone therapy and specific targeted therapies, chemotherapy remains the first line of the TNBC treatment. However, the acquisition of resistance to chemotherapeutic agents increase therapy failure, and promotes cancer recurrence and distant metastasis. Invasive primary tumors are the birthplace of cancer burden, though metastasis is a key attribute of TNBC-associated morbidity and mortality. Targeting the chemoresistant metastases-initiating cells via specific therapeutic agents with affinity to the upregulated molecular targets is a promising step in the TNBC clinical management. Exploring the capacity of peptides as biocompatible entities with the specificity of action, low immunogenicity, and robust efficacy provides a principle for designing peptide-based drugs capable of increasing the efficacy of current chemotherapy agents for selective targeting of the drug-tolerant TNBC cells. Here, we first focus on the resistance mechanisms that TNBC cells acquire to evade the effect of chemotherapeutic agents. Next, the novel therapeutic approaches employing tumor-targeting peptides to exploit the mechanisms of drug resistance in chemorefractory TNBC are described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mandana Azari
- School of Chemical Engineering-Biotechnology, College of Engineering, University of Tehran, Iran; Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy and Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Farbod Bahreini
- Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy and Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran; Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Vladimir N Uversky
- Department of Molecular Medicine and USF Health Byrd Alzheimer's Research Institute, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, USA
| | - Nima Rezaei
- Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy and Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran; Research Center for Immunodeficiencies (RCID), Children's Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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25
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Li Q, Zhu Q. The role of demethylase AlkB homologs in cancer. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1153463. [PMID: 37007161 PMCID: PMC10060643 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1153463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The AlkB family (ALKBH1-8 and FTO), a member of the Fe (II)- and α-ketoglutarate-dependent dioxygenase superfamily, has shown the ability to catalyze the demethylation of a variety of substrates, including DNA, RNA, and histones. Methylation is one of the natural organisms’ most prevalent forms of epigenetic modifications. Methylation and demethylation processes on genetic material regulate gene transcription and expression. A wide variety of enzymes are involved in these processes. The methylation levels of DNA, RNA, and histones are highly conserved. Stable methylation levels at different stages can coordinate the regulation of gene expression, DNA repair, and DNA replication. Dynamic methylation changes are essential for the abilities of cell growth, differentiation, and division. In some malignancies, the methylation of DNA, RNA, and histones is frequently altered. To date, nine AlkB homologs as demethylases have been identified in numerous cancers’ biological processes. In this review, we summarize the latest advances in the research of the structures, enzymatic activities, and substrates of the AlkB homologs and the role of these nine homologs as demethylases in cancer genesis, progression, metastasis, and invasion. We provide some new directions for the AlkB homologs in cancer research. In addition, the AlkB family is expected to be a new target for tumor diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiao Li
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Qingsan Zhu
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
- *Correspondence: Qingsan Zhu,
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26
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Shi ZD, Pang K, Wu ZX, Dong Y, Hao L, Qin JX, Wang W, Chen ZS, Han CH. Tumor cell plasticity in targeted therapy-induced resistance: mechanisms and new strategies. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:113. [PMID: 36906600 PMCID: PMC10008648 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01383-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 46.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the success of targeted therapies in cancer treatment, therapy-induced resistance remains a major obstacle to a complete cure. Tumor cells evade treatments and relapse via phenotypic switching driven by intrinsic or induced cell plasticity. Several reversible mechanisms have been proposed to circumvent tumor cell plasticity, including epigenetic modifications, regulation of transcription factors, activation or suppression of key signaling pathways, as well as modification of the tumor environment. Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, tumor cell and cancer stem cell formation also serve as roads towards tumor cell plasticity. Corresponding treatment strategies have recently been developed that either target plasticity-related mechanisms or employ combination treatments. In this review, we delineate the formation of tumor cell plasticity and its manipulation of tumor evasion from targeted therapy. We discuss the non-genetic mechanisms of targeted drug-induced tumor cell plasticity in various types of tumors and provide insights into the contribution of tumor cell plasticity to acquired drug resistance. New therapeutic strategies such as inhibition or reversal of tumor cell plasticity are also presented. We also discuss the multitude of clinical trials that are ongoing worldwide with the intention of improving clinical outcomes. These advances provide a direction for developing novel therapeutic strategies and combination therapy regimens that target tumor cell plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen-Duo Shi
- Department of Urology, Xuzhou Clinical School of Xuzhou Medical University, Jiangsu, China.,Department of Urology, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China.,School of Life Sciences, Jiangsu Normal University, Jiangsu, China.,Department of Urology, Heilongjiang Provincial Hospital, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Kun Pang
- Department of Urology, Xuzhou Clinical School of Xuzhou Medical University, Jiangsu, China.,Department of Urology, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhuo-Xun Wu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY, 11439, USA
| | - Yang Dong
- Department of Urology, Xuzhou Clinical School of Xuzhou Medical University, Jiangsu, China.,Department of Urology, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lin Hao
- Department of Urology, Xuzhou Clinical School of Xuzhou Medical University, Jiangsu, China.,Department of Urology, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jia-Xin Qin
- Department of Urology, Xuzhou Clinical School of Xuzhou Medical University, Jiangsu, China.,Department of Urology, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Medical College, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhe-Sheng Chen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY, 11439, USA.
| | - Cong-Hui Han
- Department of Urology, Xuzhou Clinical School of Xuzhou Medical University, Jiangsu, China. .,Department of Urology, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China. .,School of Life Sciences, Jiangsu Normal University, Jiangsu, China. .,Department of Urology, Heilongjiang Provincial Hospital, Heilongjiang, China.
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27
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Alhasan B, Mikeladze M, Guzhova I, Margulis B. Autophagy, molecular chaperones, and unfolded protein response as promoters of tumor recurrence. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2023; 42:217-254. [PMID: 36723697 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-023-10085-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Tumor recurrence is a paradoxical function of a machinery, whereby a small proportion of the cancer cell population enters a resistant, dormant state, persists long-term in this condition, and then transitions to proliferation. The dormant phenotype is typical of cancer stem cells, tumor-initiating cells, disseminated tumor cells, and drug-tolerant persisters, which all demonstrate similar or even equivalent properties. Cancer cell dormancy and its conversion to repopulation are regulated by several protein signaling systems that inhibit or induce cell proliferation and provide optimal interrelations between cancer cells and their special niche; these systems act in close connection with tumor microenvironment and immune response mechanisms. During dormancy and reawakening periods, cell proteostasis machineries, autophagy, molecular chaperones, and the unfolded protein response are recruited to protect refractory tumor cells from a wide variety of stressors and therapeutic insults. Proteostasis mechanisms functionally or even physically interfere with the main regulators of tumor relapse, and the significance of these interactions and implications in the tumor recurrence phases are discussed in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bashar Alhasan
- Institute of Cytology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Tikhoretsky Ave. 4, 194064, St. Petersburg, Russia.
| | - Marina Mikeladze
- Institute of Cytology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Tikhoretsky Ave. 4, 194064, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Irina Guzhova
- Institute of Cytology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Tikhoretsky Ave. 4, 194064, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Boris Margulis
- Institute of Cytology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Tikhoretsky Ave. 4, 194064, St. Petersburg, Russia
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28
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Liquid biopsy for monitoring of tumor dormancy and early detection of disease recurrence in solid tumors. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2023; 42:161-182. [PMID: 36607507 PMCID: PMC10014694 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-022-10075-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Cancer is one of the three leading causes of death worldwide. Even after successful therapy and achieving remission, the risk of relapse often remains. In this context, dormant residual cancer cells in secondary organs such as the bone marrow constitute the cellular reservoir from which late tumor recurrences arise. This dilemma leads the term of minimal residual disease, which reflects the presence of tumor cells disseminated from the primary lesion to distant organs in patients who lack any clinical or radiological signs of metastasis or residual tumor cells left behind after therapy that eventually lead to local recurrence. Disseminated tumor cells have the ability to survive in a dormant state following treatment and linger unrecognized for more than a decade before emerging as recurrent disease. They are able to breakup their dormant state and to readopt their proliferation under certain circumstances, which can finally lead to distant relapse and cancer-associated death. In recent years, extensive molecular and genetic characterization of disseminated tumor cells and blood-based biomarker has contributed significantly to our understanding of the frequency and prevalence of tumor dormancy. In this article, we describe the clinical relevance of disseminated tumor cells and highlight how latest advances in different liquid biopsy approaches can be used to detect, characterize, and monitor minimal residual disease in breast cancer, prostate cancer, and melanoma patients.
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29
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Dormancy, stemness, and therapy resistance: interconnected players in cancer evolution. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2023; 42:197-215. [PMID: 36757577 PMCID: PMC10014678 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-023-10092-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
The biological complexity of cancer represents a tremendous clinical challenge, resulting in the frequent failure of current treatment protocols. In the rapidly evolving scenario of a growing tumor, anticancer treatments impose a drastic perturbation not only to cancer cells but also to the tumor microenvironment, killing a portion of the cells and inducing a massive stress response in the survivors. Consequently, treatments can act as a double-edged sword by inducing a temporary response while laying the ground for therapy resistance and subsequent disease progression. Cancer cell dormancy (or quiescence) is a central theme in tumor evolution, being tightly linked to the tumor's ability to survive cytotoxic challenges, metastasize, and resist immune-mediated attack. Accordingly, quiescent cancer cells (QCCs) have been detected in virtually all the stages of tumor development. In recent years, an increasing number of studies have focused on the characterization of quiescent/therapy resistant cancer cells, unveiling QCCs core transcriptional programs, metabolic plasticity, and mechanisms of immune escape. At the same time, our partial understanding of tumor quiescence reflects the difficulty to identify stable QCCs biomarkers/therapeutic targets and to control cancer dormancy in clinical settings. This review focuses on recent discoveries in the interrelated fields of dormancy, stemness, and therapy resistance, discussing experimental evidences in the frame of a nonlinear dynamics approach, and exploring the possibility that tumor quiescence may represent not only a peril but also a potential therapeutic resource.
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Organotropism of breast cancer metastasis: A comprehensive approach to the shared gene network. GENE REPORTS 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.genrep.2023.101749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
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Liang L, Kaufmann AM. The Significance of Cancer Stem Cells and Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Metastasis and Anti-Cancer Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032555. [PMID: 36768876 PMCID: PMC9917228 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) have been identified and characterized in both hematopoietic and solid tumors. Their existence was first predicted by Virchow and Cohnheim in the 1870s. Later, many studies showed that CSCs can be identified and isolated by their expression of specific cell markers. The significance of CSCs with respect to tumor biology and anti-cancer treatment lies in their ability to maintain quiescence with very slow proliferation, indefinite self-renewal, differentiation, and trans-differentiation such as epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and its reverse process mesenchymal-epithelial transition (MET). The ability for detachment, migration, extra- and intravasation, invasion and thereby of completing all necessary steps of the metastatic cascade highlights their significance for metastasis. CSCs comprise the cancer cell populations responsible for tumor growth, resistance to therapies and cancer metastasis. In this review, the history of the CSC theory, their identification and characterization and their biology are described. The contribution of the CSC ability to undergo EMT for cancer metastasis is discussed. Recently, novel strategies for drug development have focused on the elimination of the CSCs specifically. The unique functional and molecular properties of CSCs are discussed as possible therapeutic vulnerabilities for the development of novel anti-metastasis treatments. Prospectively, this may provide precise personalized anti-cancer treatments with improved therapeutic efficiency with fewer side effects and leading to better prognosis.
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Pinto MT, Ribeiro AS, Paredes J. The Chick CAM as an In Vivo System to Study Stem Cell Activity. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2572:155-166. [PMID: 36161415 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2703-7_12] [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] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The chick embryo chorioallantoic membrane (CAM), an extensively vascularized extraembryonic membrane, has been widely used to study several aspects of tumor development including tumor-induced angiogenesis, tumor cell proliferation, and metastasis. Based on the tumor cell/CAM system, we focused here on the identification and quantification of cancer stem cells. We validated the CAM model as a suitable model to evaluate stem cell activity in a given mixed cell population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Teixeira Pinto
- i3S-Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal.
- In Vivo CAM Assays Scientific Platform, i3S, Porto, Portugal.
- Ipatimup - Instituto de Patologia e Imunologia Molecular, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal.
| | - Ana Sofia Ribeiro
- i3S-Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Ipatimup - Instituto de Patologia e Imunologia Molecular, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Joana Paredes
- i3S-Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- In Vivo CAM Assays Scientific Platform, i3S, Porto, Portugal
- Ipatimup - Instituto de Patologia e Imunologia Molecular, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
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Kim R, Kawai A, Wakisaka M, Shimoyama M, Yasuda N, Kin T, Arihiro K. Breast cancer recurrence and survival rates in patients who underwent breast-conserving surgery under non-mechanically ventilated anesthesia. Cancer Rep (Hoboken) 2023; 6:e1643. [PMID: 35655440 PMCID: PMC9875645 DOI: 10.1002/cnr2.1643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recurrence after primary treatment is an important obstacle to the curing of primary breast cancer. Less-immunosuppressive anesthetic techniques, such as local anesthesia with lidocaine, intravenous anesthesia (IVA) with propofol, and/or sedation with midazolam under spontaneous breathing may reduce breast cancer recurrence compared with standard general anesthesia techniques such as IVA and inhalation anesthesia with opioids under mechanical ventilation. AIM The aim of this study was to analyze the factors involved in breast cancer recurrence in patients who underwent breast-conserving surgery (BCS) under non-mechanically ventilated anesthesia. METHODS The study included 491 consecutive patients with stages 0-III breast cancer who underwent BCS/axillary lymph-node management with local anesthesia and IVA and/or sedation under non-mechanical ventilation between May 2008 and September 2021. Survival and recurrence were assessed by retrospective cohort analysis. RESULTS The median follow-up period was 2565 days (range, 28-4834 days). The overall and breast cancer-specific survival rates were 92.9% and 95.6%, respectively. Twenty-one deaths, of which 11 were breast cancer-related, occurred. Disease recurred in 29 (5.9%) patients, of whom 15 patients received neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) and 14 patients received adjuvant therapy (chemotherapy in 12 cases). The surgical procedure performed, but not other clinicopathological factors [recurrence site, P stage, tumor subtype, and disease-free interval (DFI)], differed between the NAC and adjuvant therapy groups. The DFI tended to be shorter in the NAC group than in the adjuvant therapy group. The pathological therapeutic effect grade after NAC was 1 in 12 patients and ≥2 in 3 patients. CONCLUSION More than 50% (15/29) of patients with recurrence who underwent BCS were given NAC, but most patients did not respond to it. Similarly, adjuvant chemotherapy may not have contributed to the eradication of residual tumor cells after BCS. To reduce breast cancer recurrence in patients undergoing BCS, treatment strategies, especially for patients who do not respond to NAC or adjuvant chemotherapy, need to be developed. Non-mechanical ventilation anesthesia may also affect the incidence of breast cancer recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryungsa Kim
- Department of Breast SurgeryHiroshima Mark ClinicHiroshimaJapan
| | - Ami Kawai
- Department of Breast SurgeryHiroshima Mark ClinicHiroshimaJapan
| | - Megumi Wakisaka
- Department of Breast SurgeryHiroshima Mark ClinicHiroshimaJapan
| | - Mika Shimoyama
- Department of Breast SurgeryHiroshima Mark ClinicHiroshimaJapan
| | - Naomi Yasuda
- Department of Breast SurgeryHiroshima Mark ClinicHiroshimaJapan
| | - Takanori Kin
- Department of Breast SurgeryHiroshima City HospitalHiroshimaJapan
| | - Koji Arihiro
- Department of Anatomical PathologyHiroshima University HospitalHiroshimaJapan
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Zekri ARN, Bahnassy A, Mourad M, Malash I, Ahmed O, Abdellateif MS. Genetic profiling of different phenotypic subsets of breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) in breast cancer patients. Cancer Cell Int 2022; 22:423. [PMID: 36585652 PMCID: PMC9805169 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-022-02841-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) have a crucial role in breast carcinogenesis, development, and progression. The aim of the current study is to characterize the BCSCs through the genetic profiling of different BCSCs phenotypic subsets to determine their related genetic pathways. METHODS Fresh tumor tissue samples were obtained from 31 breast cancer (BC) patients for (1) Mammosphere culture. (2) Magnetic separation of the BCSCs subsets using CD24, CD44, and CD326 Microbeads. (3) Flow cytometry (FCM) assay using CD44, CD24, and EpCAM. (4) RT-PCR profiler Arrays using stem cell (SC) panel of 84 genes for four group of cells (1) CD44+/CD24-/EpCAM- BCSCs, (2) CD44+/CD24- /EpCAM+ BCSCs, (3) mammospheres, and (4) normal breast tissues. RESULTS The BCSCs (CD44+/CD24-/EpCAM-) showed significant downregulation in 13 genes and upregulation in 15, where the CD44, GJB1 and GDF3 showed the maximal expression (P = 0.001, P = 0.003 and P = 0.007); respectively). The CD44+/CD24-/EpCAM+ BCSCs showed significant upregulation in 28 genes, where the CD44, GDF3, and GJB1 showed maximal expression (P < 0.001, P = 0.001 and P = 0.003; respectively). The mammospheres showed significant downregulation in 9 genes and a significant upregulation in 35 genes. The maximal overexpression was observed in GJB1 and FGF2 (P = 0.001, P = 0.001; respectively). The genes which achieved significant overexpression in all SC subsets were CD44, COL9A1, FGF1, FGF2, GDF3, GJA1, GJB1, GJB2, HSPA9, and KRT15. While significant downregulation in BMP2, BMP3, EP300, and KAT8. The genes which were differentially expressed by the mammospheres compared to the other BCSC subsets were CCND2, FGF3, CD4, WNT1, KAT2A, NUMB, ACAN, COL2A1, TUBB3, ASCL2, FOXA2, ISL1, DTX1, and DVL1. CONCLUSION BCSCs have specific molecular profiles that differ according to their phenotypes which could affect patients' prognosis and outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdel-Rahman N. Zekri
- grid.7776.10000 0004 0639 9286Virology and Immunology Unit, Cancer Biology Department, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Abeer Bahnassy
- grid.7776.10000 0004 0639 9286Pathology Department, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Magda Mourad
- grid.7776.10000 0004 0639 9286Pathology Department, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ibrahim Malash
- grid.7776.10000 0004 0639 9286Medical Oncology Department, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ola Ahmed
- grid.7776.10000 0004 0639 9286Virology and Immunology Unit, Cancer Biology Department, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mona S. Abdellateif
- grid.7776.10000 0004 0639 9286Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Cancer Biology Department, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
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Fischer D, Fluegen G, Garcia P, Ghaffari-Tabrizi-Wizsy N, Gribaldo L, Huang RYJ, Rasche V, Ribatti D, Rousset X, Pinto MT, Viallet J, Wang Y, Schneider-Stock R. The CAM Model-Q&A with Experts. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 15:cancers15010191. [PMID: 36612187 PMCID: PMC9818221 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15010191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The chick chorioallantoic membrane (CAM), as an extraembryonic tissue layer generated by the fusion of the chorion with the vascularized allantoic membrane, is easily accessible for manipulation. Indeed, grafting tumor cells on the CAM lets xenografts/ovografts develop in a few days for further investigations. Thus, the CAM model represents an alternative test system that is a simple, fast, and low-cost tool to study tumor growth, drug response, or angiogenesis in vivo. Recently, a new era for the CAM model in immune-oncology-based drug discovery has been opened up. Although there are many advantages offering extraordinary and unique applications in cancer research, it has also disadvantages and limitations. This review will discuss the pros and cons with experts in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dagmar Fischer
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Chemistry and Pharmacy, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91058 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Georg Fluegen
- Department of General, Visceral, Thoracic and Pediatric Surgery (A), Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, University Hospital Duesseldorf, 40225 Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Paul Garcia
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Research Center Université Grenoble Alpes (UGA)/Inserm U 1209/CNRS 5309, 38700 La Tronche, France
- R&D Department, Inovotion, 38700 La Tronche, France
| | - Nassim Ghaffari-Tabrizi-Wizsy
- SFL Chicken CAM Lab, Department of Immunology, Otto Loewi Research Center, Medical University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Laura Gribaldo
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), 21027 Ispra, Italy
| | - Ruby Yun-Ju Huang
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10051, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Oncology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10051, Taiwan
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119077, Singapore
| | - Volker Rasche
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Ulm University Medical Center, 89073 Ulm, Germany
| | - Domenico Ribatti
- Department of Translational Biomedicine and Neurosciences, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | | | - Marta Texeira Pinto
- i3S—Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Ipatimup—Instituto de Patologia e Imunologia Molecular da Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Jean Viallet
- R&D Department, Inovotion, 38700 La Tronche, France
| | - Yan Wang
- R&D Department, Inovotion, 38700 La Tronche, France
| | - Regine Schneider-Stock
- Experimental Tumorpathology, Institute of Pathology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN (CCC ER-EMN), Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg, 94054 Erlangen, Germany
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-9131-8526-069
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Endometriosis Stem Cells as a Possible Main Target for Carcinogenesis of Endometriosis-Associated Ovarian Cancer (EAOC). Cancers (Basel) 2022; 15:cancers15010111. [PMID: 36612107 PMCID: PMC9817684 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15010111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a serious recurrent disease impairing the quality of life and fertility, and being a risk for some histologic types of ovarian cancer defined as endometriosis-associated ovarian cancers (EAOC). The presence of stem cells in the endometriotic foci could account for the proliferative, migrative and angiogenic activity of the lesions. Their phenotype and sources have been described. The similarly disturbed expression of several genes, miRNAs, galectins and chaperones has been observed both in endometriotic lesions and in ovarian or endometrial cancer. The importance of stem cells for nascence and sustain of malignant tumors is commonly appreciated. Although the proposed mechanisms promoting carcinogenesis leading from endometriosis into the EAOC are not completely known, they have been discussed in several articles. However, the role of endometriosis stem cells (ESCs) has not been discussed in this context. Here, we postulate that ESCs may be a main target for the carcinogenesis of EAOC and present the possible sequence of events resulting finally in the development of EAOC.
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Shirinsokhan A, Azarmehr Z, Jalili A, Sadrabadi AE, Partan AS, Tutunchi S, Bereimipour A. Selection hub MicroRNAs as biomarkers in breast cancer stem cells in extracellular matrix using bioinformatics analyses. EGYPTIAN JOURNAL OF MEDICAL HUMAN GENETICS 2022. [DOI: 10.1186/s43042-022-00359-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in women, and many people get it every year. The cancer stem cells are maybe crucial role to exacerbates and relapse the breast cancer. Therefore, finding biomarkers in human secretions can be an suitable solution for early detection and neo adjuvant therapy. This study aimed to investigate the molecular events related to the cancer stem cells in breast cancer, after which we nominated a suitable MicroRNAs participates in breast cancer pathogenesis.
Methods
In this study, we investigated the relationship between molecular pathways using a bioinformatics approach. First, we selected the appropriate RNA-Seq datasets from the GEO database. We used Enrichr, KEGG, and Shiny GO databases to evaluate the signal pathways and gene ontology after isolating the gene expression profiles. In the next step, we used the STRING database to assess the protein network, and we used the Targetscan database to nominate the MicroRNA.
Results
510 high-expression genes and 460 low-expression genes were associated with breast cancer and the cancer stem cells. Highly expressed genes were involved in the cell cycle and cellular aging pathways. On the other hand, low-expression genes were involved in the RNA transports, spliceosome, and apoptosis pathways. After evaluating the ontology of genes and the relationship between proteins, high-expression SPARC, INHBA, FN1, and GBA proteins were nominated. In the next section, the MicroRNAs related to these genes were hsa miR-9.5p, hsa miR-203.3p, and hsa miR-429.
Conclusion
In general, we examined more closely and more the relationship between the cancer stem cells pathway and breast cancer using a regular and accurate bioinformatics framework. Finally, we nominated suitable MicroRNAs that were involved in breast cancer stem cells.
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Bryl R, Piwocka O, Kawka E, Mozdziak P, Kempisty B, Knopik-Skrocka A. Cancer Stem Cells-The Insight into Non-Coding RNAs. Cells 2022; 11:cells11223699. [PMID: 36429127 PMCID: PMC9688207 DOI: 10.3390/cells11223699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Revised: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Since their initial identification three decades ago, there has been extensive research regarding cancer stem cells (CSCs). It is important to consider the biology of cancer stem cells with a particular focus on their phenotypic and metabolic plasticity, the most important signaling pathways, and non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) regulating these cellular entities. Furthermore, the current status of therapeutic approaches against CSCs is an important consideration regarding employing the technology to improve human health. Cancer stem cells have claimed to be one of the most important group of cells for the development of several common cancers as they dictate features, such as resistance to radio- and chemotherapy, metastasis, and secondary tumor formation. Therapies which could target these cells may develop into an effective strategy for tumor eradication and a hope for patients for whom this disease remains uncurable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rut Bryl
- Section of Regenerative Medicine and Cancer Research, Natural Sciences Club, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University, 61-614 Poznań, Poland
| | - Oliwia Piwocka
- Section of Regenerative Medicine and Cancer Research, Natural Sciences Club, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University, 61-614 Poznań, Poland
- Department of Electroradiology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 61-701 Poznań, Poland
- Doctoral School, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 61-701 Poznań, Poland
| | - Emilia Kawka
- Section of Regenerative Medicine and Cancer Research, Natural Sciences Club, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University, 61-614 Poznań, Poland
| | - Paul Mozdziak
- Prestage Department of Poultry Science, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Bartosz Kempisty
- Prestage Department of Poultry Science, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
- Department of Human Morphology and Embryology, Division of Anatomy, Medical University of Wrocław, 50-367 Wroclaw, Poland
- Department of Veterinary Surgery, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Nicolaus Copernicus University, 87-100 Torun, Poland
- Correspondence: or
| | - Agnieszka Knopik-Skrocka
- Section of Regenerative Medicine and Cancer Research, Natural Sciences Club, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University, 61-614 Poznań, Poland
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University, 61-614 Poznań, Poland
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Khan SU, Fatima K, Aisha S, Hamza B, Malik F. Redox balance and autophagy regulation in cancer progression and their therapeutic perspective. MEDICAL ONCOLOGY (NORTHWOOD, LONDON, ENGLAND) 2022; 40:12. [PMID: 36352310 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-022-01871-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Cellular ROS production participates in various cellular functions but its accumulation decides the cell fate. Malignant cells have higher levels of ROS and active antioxidant machinery, a characteristic hallmark of cancer with an outcome of activation of stress-induced pathways like autophagy. Autophagy is an intracellular catabolic process that produces alternative raw materials to meet the energy demand of cells and is influenced by the cellular redox state thus playing a definite role in cancer cell fate. Since damaged mitochondria are the main source of ROS in the cell, however, cancer cells remove them by upregulating the process of mitophagy which is known to play a decisive role in tumorigenesis and tumor progression. Chemotherapy exploits cell machinery which results in the accumulation of toxic levels of ROS in cells resulting in cell death by activating either of the pathways like apoptosis, necrosis, ferroptosis or autophagy in them. So understanding these redox and autophagy regulations offers a promising method to design and develop new cancer therapies that can be very effective and durable for years. This review will give a summary of the current therapeutic molecules targeting redox regulation and autophagy for the treatment of cancer. Further, it will highlight various challenges in developing anticancer agents due to autophagy and ROS regulation in the cell and insights into the development of future therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sameer Ullah Khan
- Division of Cancer Pharmacology, CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Sanat Nagar, Srinagar, 190005, Jammu and Kashmir, India.
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Sanat Nagar, Ghaziabad, 201002, India.
| | - Kaneez Fatima
- Division of Cancer Pharmacology, CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Sanat Nagar, Srinagar, 190005, Jammu and Kashmir, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Sanat Nagar, Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Shariqa Aisha
- Division of Cancer Pharmacology, CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Sanat Nagar, Srinagar, 190005, Jammu and Kashmir, India
| | - Baseerat Hamza
- Division of Cancer Pharmacology, CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Sanat Nagar, Srinagar, 190005, Jammu and Kashmir, India
| | - Fayaz Malik
- Division of Cancer Pharmacology, CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Sanat Nagar, Srinagar, 190005, Jammu and Kashmir, India.
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Sanat Nagar, Ghaziabad, 201002, India.
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Karagiorgou Z, Fountas PN, Manou D, Knutsen E, Theocharis AD. Proteoglycans Determine the Dynamic Landscape of EMT and Cancer Cell Stemness. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:5328. [PMID: 36358747 PMCID: PMC9653992 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14215328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2022] [Revised: 10/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 03/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Proteoglycans (PGs) are pivotal components of extracellular matrices, involved in a variety of processes such as migration, invasion, morphogenesis, differentiation, drug resistance, and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Cellular plasticity is a crucial intermediate phenotypic state acquired by cancer cells, which can modulate EMT and the generation of cancer stem cells (CSCs). PGs affect cell plasticity, stemness, and EMT, altering the cellular shape and functions. PGs control these functions, either by direct activation of signaling cascades, acting as co-receptors, or through regulation of the availability of biological compounds such as growth factors and cytokines. Differential expression of microRNAs is also associated with the expression of PGs and their interplay is implicated in the fine tuning of cancer cell phenotype and potential. This review summarizes the involvement of PGs in the regulation of EMT and stemness of cancer cells and highlights the molecular mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoi Karagiorgou
- Biochemistry, Biochemical Analysis & Matrix Pathobiology Research Group, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Chemistry, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | - Panagiotis N. Fountas
- Biochemistry, Biochemical Analysis & Matrix Pathobiology Research Group, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Chemistry, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | - Dimitra Manou
- Biochemistry, Biochemical Analysis & Matrix Pathobiology Research Group, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Chemistry, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | - Erik Knutsen
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT the Arctic University of Norway, 9010 Tromsø, Norway
- Centre for Clinical Research and Education, University Hospital of North Norway, 9038 Tromsø, Norway
| | - Achilleas D. Theocharis
- Biochemistry, Biochemical Analysis & Matrix Pathobiology Research Group, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Chemistry, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
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Inoue S, Imanishi M, Kanzaki A, Fujimoto A, Maeyama M, Okamoto A, Matsuda H, Yoshikawa K, Takahashi R. Role of Cancer Stem-like Cells in the Process of Invasion and Mesenchymal Transformation by a Reconstituted Triple-negative Breast Cancer Cell Population Resistant to p53-induced Apoptosis. Acta Histochem Cytochem 2022; 55:169-184. [PMID: 36405550 PMCID: PMC9631983 DOI: 10.1267/ahc.22-00076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
We investigated the role of cancer stem cells (CSCs) in a population of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells that are resistant to apoptosis. A human breast cancer cell population capable of inducing p53 expression with doxycycline (Dox) was created and used as an untreated control (UT). After the addition of Dox to UT for 5 days, the cell population reconstituted with cells showing resistance to apoptosis was named RE. Fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) and immunostaining revealed that after the addition of Dox, the ratio of cells in the S and G2/M phases decreased in UT as apoptosis proceeded, but did not markedly change in apoptosis-resistant RE. CSC-like cells in RE exhibited a cell morphology with a larger ratio of the major/minor axis than UT. FACS showed that RE had a higher proportion of CSC-like cells and contained more CD44+CD24- mesenchymal CSCs than ALDH1A3+ epithelial-like CSCs. In a Matrigel invasion assay, UT was more likely to form a three-dimensional cell population, whereas RE exhibited a planar population, higher migration ability, and the up-regulated expression of epithelial-mesenchymal transition-related genes. These results provide insights into the mechanisms by which TNBC cells acquire treatment resistance at the time of recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sana Inoue
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences Doshisha Women’s College of Liberal Arts, Kyoto, Japan
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences Doshisha Women’s College of Liberal Arts, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Miki Imanishi
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences Doshisha Women’s College of Liberal Arts, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Ai Kanzaki
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences Doshisha Women’s College of Liberal Arts, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Atsumi Fujimoto
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences Doshisha Women’s College of Liberal Arts, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Marina Maeyama
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences Doshisha Women’s College of Liberal Arts, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Ayaka Okamoto
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences Doshisha Women’s College of Liberal Arts, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Hiroka Matsuda
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences Doshisha Women’s College of Liberal Arts, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Kiyotsugu Yoshikawa
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences Doshisha Women’s College of Liberal Arts, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Rei Takahashi
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences Doshisha Women’s College of Liberal Arts, Kyoto, Japan
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences Doshisha Women’s College of Liberal Arts, Kyoto, Japan
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42
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Lowe L, LaValley JW, Felsher DW. Tackling heterogeneity in treatment-resistant breast cancer using a broad-spectrum therapeutic approach. CANCER DRUG RESISTANCE (ALHAMBRA, CALIF.) 2022; 5:917-925. [PMID: 36627896 PMCID: PMC9771755 DOI: 10.20517/cdr.2022.40] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Revised: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Tumor heterogeneity can contribute to the development of therapeutic resistance in cancer, including advanced breast cancers. The object of the Halifax project was to identify new treatments that would address mechanisms of therapeutic resistance through tumor heterogeneity by uncovering combinations of therapeutics that could target the hallmarks of cancer rather than focusing on individual gene products. A taskforce of 180 cancer researchers, used molecular profiling to highlight key targets responsible for each of the hallmarks of cancer and then find existing therapeutic agents that could be used to reach those targets with limited toxicity. In many cases, natural health products and re-purposed pharmaceuticals were identified as potential agents. Hence, by combining the molecular profiling of tumors with therapeutics that target the hallmark features of cancer, the heterogeneity of advanced-stage breast cancers can be addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leroy Lowe
- Getting to Know Cancer (NGO), Truro, Nova Scotia B2N 1X5, Canada
| | | | - Dean W. Felsher
- Division of Oncology, Departments of Medicine and Pathology, Stanford University, CA CCSR 1105, USA
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43
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Mahmoud R, Ordóñez-Morán P, Allegrucci C. Challenges for Triple Negative Breast Cancer Treatment: Defeating Heterogeneity and Cancer Stemness. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14174280. [PMID: 36077812 PMCID: PMC9454775 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14174280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Revised: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) subtype is known to have a more aggressive clinical course compared to other breast cancer subtypes. Targeted therapies for this type of breast cancer are limited and patients are mostly treated with conventional chemo- and radio-therapies which are not specific and do not target resistant cells. Therefore, one of the major clinical challenges is to find compounds that target the drug-resistant cell populations which are responsible for reforming secondary tumours. The molecular profiling of the different TNBC subtypes holds a promise for better defining these resistant cells specific to each tumour. To this end, a better understanding of TNBC heterogeneity and cancer stemness is required, and extensive genomic analysis can help to understand the disease complexity and distinguish new molecular drivers that can be targeted in the clinics. The use of persister cancer cell-targeting therapies combined with other therapies may provide a big advance to improve TNBC patients' survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rinad Mahmoud
- Centre for Cancer Sciences, Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
- Translational Medical Sciences Unit, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Paloma Ordóñez-Morán
- Centre for Cancer Sciences, Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
- Translational Medical Sciences Unit, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
- Correspondence: (P.O.-M.); (C.A.)
| | - Cinzia Allegrucci
- Centre for Cancer Sciences, Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
- Nottingham Breast Cancer Research Centre, Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
- SVMS, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough LE12 5RD, UK
- Correspondence: (P.O.-M.); (C.A.)
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44
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Znhit1 and HIF-2α are correlated with cancer stem cell markers in breast cancer patients. Sci Rep 2022; 12:13918. [PMID: 35978075 PMCID: PMC9385614 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-18133-8] [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: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic alterations have emerged as fundamental players in development and progression of breast cancer (BC). A hypoxic tumour microenvironment regulates the stemness phenotype in breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs). The aim of this study was to investigate Znhit1 and HIF-2α gene expression in breast cancer tissues as well as their relation to CSCs markers LGR5, ALDH1A1 and β-catenin in tissue and serum of BC patients. The present study included 160 females divided into two groups, group I: 80 healthy females served as control group and group II: 80 breast cancer patients. Gene expression of tissue Znhit1 and HIF-2α was determined by qRT-PCR. Tissue and serum ALDH1A1, LGR5 and β-catenin levels were determined by ELISA. We found that gene expression of Znhit1 was significantly downregulated in BC tissues. Moreover, it was significantly negatively correlated with clinical stage and β-catenin levels in BC patients. Regarding HIF-2α, gene expression of HIF-2α was significantly upregulated in BC tissues. Moreover, it was significantly positively correlated with Her-2/neu expression and β-catenin levels in BC patients. Based upon our results, Znhit1 and HIF-2α may serve as novel therapeutic targets for BC therapy. Additionally, each of serum ALDH1A1, LGR5 and β-catenin may play a crucial role in non-invasive detection of BC with a high specificity and sensitivity.
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45
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Comprehensive Computational Analysis of Honokiol Targets for Cell Cycle Inhibition and Immunotherapy in Metastatic Breast Cancer Stem Cells. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2022; 2022:4172531. [PMID: 35845599 PMCID: PMC9286982 DOI: 10.1155/2022/4172531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) play a critical role in chemoresistance, metastasis, and poor prognosis of breast cancer. BCSCs are mostly dormant, and therefore, activating them and modulating the cell cycle are important for successful therapy against BCSCs. The tumor microenvironment (TME) promotes BCSC survival and cancer progression, and targeting the TME can aid in successful immunotherapy. Honokiol (HNK), a bioactive polyphenol isolated from the bark and seed pods of Magnolia spp., is known to exert anticancer effects, such as inducing cell cycle arrest, inhibiting metastasis, and overcoming immunotherapy resistance in breast cancer cells. However, the molecular mechanisms of action of HNK in BCSCs, as well as its effects on the cell cycle, remain unclear. This study aimed to explore the potential targets and molecular mechanisms of HNK on metastatic BCSC (mBCSC)-cell cycle arrest and the impact of the TME. Using bioinformatics analyses, we predicted HNK protein targets from several databases and retrieved the genes differentially expressed in mBCSCs from the GEO database. The intersection between the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and the HNK-targets was determined using a Venn diagram, and the results were analyzed using a protein-protein interaction network, hub gene selection, gene ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment analyses, genetic alteration analysis, survival rate, and immune cell infiltration levels. Finally, the interaction between HNK and two HNK-targets regulating the cell cycle was analyzed using molecular docking analysis. The identified potential therapeutic targets of HNK (PTTH) included CCND1, SIRT2, AURKB, VEGFA, HDAC1, CASP9, HSP90AA1, and HSP90AB1, which can potentially inhibit the cell cycle of mBCSCs. Moreover, our results showed that PTTH could modulate the PI3K/Akt/mTOR and HIF1/NFkB/pathways. Overall, these findings highlight the potential of HNK as an immunotherapeutic agent for mBCSCs by modulating the tumor immune environment.
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Prajapati KS, Shuaib M, Gupta S, Kumar S. Withaferin A mediated changes of miRNA expression in breast cancer-derived mammospheres. Mol Carcinog 2022; 61:876-889. [PMID: 35770722 DOI: 10.1002/mc.23440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Revised: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer is a heterogeneous disease consisting of atypical cell populations that share stem cell-like characteristics associated with therapeutic resistance, disease relapse, and poor clinical outcome. MicroRNAs (miRNA), and small noncoding RNA, are pivotal in the regulation of self-renewal, stemness, and cellular differentiation. Withaferin A (WA), a steroidal lactone, is a major bioactive constituent of Withania somnifera (Solanaceae) known for its anticancer properties. In this study, the effect of WA on modulation of miRNA expression in breast cancer-derived mammosphere was assessed utilizing small RNA sequencing. Treatment with WA inhibited MCF-7 and T47D cells derived mammosphere formation with a significant decrease in CD44, EpCAM, Nanog, OCT4, and SOX2 as markers of self-renewal and stemness. Small RNA sequencing demonstrated a total of 395 differentially expressed miRNAs (DEMs) including 194 upregulated and 201 downregulated miRNAs in WA-treated MCF-7 mammospheres. Bioinformatics analysis utilizing the KEGG pathway, Gene Ontology enrichment, protein-protein, and miRNA-mRNA interaction network identified altered expression in a few hub genes viz. AKT1, PTEN, MYC, CCND1, VEGFA, NOTCH1, and IGFR1 associated with DEMs in WA-treated mammospheres. Further quantitative RT-PCR analysis validated the expression of DEMs including miR-549a-5p, miR-1247-5p, miR-124-5p, miR-137-5p, miR-34a-5p, miR-146a-5p, miR-99a-5p, miR-181a-5p, let-7c-5p, and let-7a-5p. In particular, let-7c-5p is designated as a tumor suppressor in breast cancer. An increase in miR-let-7c-5p expression was noted after WA treatment, with a simultaneous decrease in CCND1 and c-MYC at mRNA and protein levels. Taken together, our study demonstrated WA-mediated miRNA expression, in particular, upregulation of miR-let-7c-5p, leads to the inhibition of breast cancer cells derived mammospheres.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kumari Sunita Prajapati
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Signaling & Drug Discovery Laboratory, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Mohd Shuaib
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Signaling & Drug Discovery Laboratory, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Sanjay Gupta
- Department of Urology, Nutrition, Pharmacology and Pathology, The James and Eilleen Dicke Research Laboratory, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Shashank Kumar
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Signaling & Drug Discovery Laboratory, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
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47
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Liu Z, Nan Y, Luo Q, Wu X, Liu S, Zhao P, Chang W, Zhou A. DLGAP1-AS2-Mediated Phosphatidic Acid Synthesis Activates YAP Signaling and Confers Chemoresistance in Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Cancer Res 2022; 82:2887-2903. [PMID: 35731019 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-22-0717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Squamous cell carcinomas (SCC) constitute a group of human malignancies that originate from the squamous epithelium. Most SCC patients experience treatment failure and relapse and have a poor prognosis due to de novo and acquired resistance to first-line chemotherapeutic agents. To identify chemoresistance mechanisms and explore novel targets for chemosensitization, we performed whole-transcriptome sequencing of paired resistant and parental SCC cells. We identified DLGAP1 antisense RNA 2 (D-AS2) as a crucial noncoding RNA that contributes to chemoresistance in SCC. Mechanistically, D-AS2 affected chromatin accessibility around the histone mark H3K27ac of FAM3 metabolism regulating signaling molecule D (FAM3D), reducing FAM3D mRNA transcription and extracellular protein secretion. FAM3D interacted with the Gαi-coupled G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) formyl peptide receptor 1 (FPR1) and FPR2 to suppress phospholipase D (PLD) activity, and reduced FAM3D increased PLD signaling. Moreover, activated PLD promoted phosphatidic acid (PA) production and subsequent nuclear translocation of yes-associated protein (YAP). Accordingly, in vivo administration of a D-AS2-targeting antisense oligonucleotide sensitized SCC to cisplatin treatment. In summary, this study shows that D-AS2/FAM3D-mediated PLD/PA lipid signaling is essential for SCC chemoresistance, suggesting D-AS2 can be targeted to sensitize SCC to cytotoxic chemotherapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhihua Liu
- National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yabing Nan
- National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Qingyu Luo
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Xiaowei Wu
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Shi Liu
- National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Pengfei Zhao
- National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Wan Chang
- National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Aiping Zhou
- National Cancer Center / National Clinical Research Center for Cancer / Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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48
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Yang R, Yi M, Xiang B. Novel Insights on Lipid Metabolism Alterations in Drug Resistance in Cancer. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:875318. [PMID: 35646898 PMCID: PMC9136290 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.875318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapy is one of the primary treatments for most human cancers. Despite great progress in cancer therapeutics, chemotherapy continues to be important for improving the survival of cancer patients, especially for those who has unresectable metastatic tumors or fail to respond to immunotherapy. However, intrinsic or acquired chemoresistance results in tumor recurrence, which remains a major obstacle in anti-cancer treatment. The high prevalence of chemoresistant cancer makes it urgent to deepen our understanding on chemoresistance mechanisms and to develop novel therapeutic strategies. Multiple mechanisms, including drug efflux, enhanced DNA damage reparability, increased detoxifying enzymes levels, presence of cancer stem cells (CSCs), epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT), autophagy, ferroptosis and resistance to apoptosis, underlie the development of chemoresistance. Recently, accumulating evidence suggests that lipid metabolism alteration is closely related to drug resistance in tumor. Targeting lipid metabolism in combination with traditional chemotherapeutic drugs is a promising strategy to overcome drug resistance. Therefore, this review compiles the current knowledge about aberrant lipid metabolism in chemoresistant cancer, mainly focusing on aberrant fatty acid metabolism, and presents novel therapeutic strategies targeting altered lipid metabolism to overcome chemoresistance in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruixue Yang
- Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hypertension Center, FuWai Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Mei Yi
- Department of Dermatology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Bo Xiang
- Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
- The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis of the Chinese Ministry of Health, Cancer Research Institute and School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
- The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute and School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
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49
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Ruiu R, Di Lorenzo A, Cavallo F, Conti L. Are Cancer Stem Cells a Suitable Target for Breast Cancer Immunotherapy? Front Oncol 2022; 12:877384. [PMID: 35530300 PMCID: PMC9069673 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.877384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
There is substantial evidence to suggest that complete tumor eradication relies on the effective elimination of cancer stem cells (CSCs). CSCs have been widely described as mediators of resistance to conventional therapies, including chemo- and radiotherapy, as well as of tumor metastasization and relapse in different tumor types, including breast cancer. However, the resistant phenotype of CSCs makes their targeting a tough task, and immunotherapy may therefore be an interesting option. Nevertheless, although immunotherapeutic approaches to cancer treatment have generated great enthusiasm due to recent success in clinics, breast cancer treatment mostly relies on standard approaches. In this context, we review the existing literature on the immunological properties of breast CSC and immunotherapeutic approaches to them. We will thus attempt to clarify whether there is room for the immunotargeting of breast CSCs in the current landscape of breast cancer therapies. Finally, we will provide our opinion on the CSC-targeting immunotherapeutic strategies that could prospectively be attempted.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Federica Cavallo
- Molecular Biotechnology Center, Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
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50
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Tellez-Gabriel M, Tekpli X, Reine TM, Hegge B, Nielsen SR, Chen M, Moi L, Normann LS, Busund LTR, Calin GA, Mælandsmo GM, Perander M, Theocharis AD, Kolset SO, Knutsen E. Serglycin Is Involved in TGF-β Induced Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition and Is Highly Expressed by Immune Cells in Breast Cancer Tissue. Front Oncol 2022; 12:868868. [PMID: 35494005 PMCID: PMC9047906 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.868868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Serglycin is a proteoglycan highly expressed by immune cells, in which its functions are linked to storage, secretion, transport, and protection of chemokines, proteases, histamine, growth factors, and other bioactive molecules. In recent years, it has been demonstrated that serglycin is also expressed by several other cell types, such as endothelial cells, muscle cells, and multiple types of cancer cells. Here, we show that serglycin expression is upregulated in transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Functional studies provide evidence that serglycin plays an important role in the regulation of the transition between the epithelial and mesenchymal phenotypes, and it is a significant EMT marker gene. We further find that serglycin is more expressed by breast cancer cell lines with a mesenchymal phenotype as well as the basal-like subtype of breast cancers. By examining immune staining and single cell sequencing data of breast cancer tissue, we show that serglycin is highly expressed by infiltrating immune cells in breast tumor tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Tellez-Gabriel
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT-The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Xavier Tekpli
- Department of Medical Genetics, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Trine M. Reine
- Department of Interphase Genetics, Institute for Cancer Genetics and Informatics, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Beate Hegge
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT-The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Stephanie R. Nielsen
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT-The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Meng Chen
- Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Line Moi
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT-The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
- Department of Clinical Pathology, University Hospital of North Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Lisa Svartdal Normann
- Department of Tumor Biology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Research and Innovation, Vestre Viken Hospital Trust, Drammen, Norway
| | - Lill-Tove R. Busund
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT-The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
- Department of Clinical Pathology, University Hospital of North Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - George A. Calin
- Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
- Center for RNA Interference and Non-Coding RNAs, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Gunhild M. Mælandsmo
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT-The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
- Department of Tumor Biology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Maria Perander
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT-The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Achilleas D. Theocharis
- Biochemistry, Biochemical Analysis & Matrix Pathobiology Research Group, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Chemistry, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | | | - Erik Knutsen
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT-The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
- Centre for Clinical Research and Education, University Hospital of North Norway, Tromsø, Norway
- *Correspondence: Erik Knutsen,
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