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Berland L, Gabr Z, Chang M, Ilié M, Hofman V, Rignol G, Ghiringhelli F, Mograbi B, Rashidian M, Hofman P. Further knowledge and developments in resistance mechanisms to immune checkpoint inhibitors. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1384121. [PMID: 38903504 PMCID: PMC11188684 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1384121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024] Open
Abstract
The past decade has witnessed a revolution in cancer treatment, shifting from conventional drugs (chemotherapies) towards targeted molecular therapies and immune-based therapies, in particular immune-checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). These immunotherapies release the host's immune system against the tumor and have shown unprecedented durable remission for patients with cancers that were thought incurable, such as metastatic melanoma, metastatic renal cell carcinoma (RCC), microsatellite instability (MSI) high colorectal cancer and late stages of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, about 80% of the patients fail to respond to these immunotherapies and are therefore left with other less effective and potentially toxic treatments. Identifying and understanding the mechanisms that enable cancerous cells to adapt to and eventually overcome therapy can help circumvent resistance and improve treatment. In this review, we describe the recent discoveries on the onco-immunological processes which govern the tumor microenvironment and their impact on the resistance to PD-1/PD-L1 checkpoint blockade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Léa Berland
- Inserm U1081 Institute for Research on Cancer and Aging, Nice (IRCAN) Team 4, Université Côte d’Azur, Institut Hospitalo Universitaire (IHU) RespirERA, Federation Hospitalo Universitaire (FHU) OncoAge, Nice, France
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Zeina Gabr
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, United States
- School of Life Science, Ecole Polytechnique Federale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Michelle Chang
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Marius Ilié
- Inserm U1081 Institute for Research on Cancer and Aging, Nice (IRCAN) Team 4, Université Côte d’Azur, Institut Hospitalo Universitaire (IHU) RespirERA, Federation Hospitalo Universitaire (FHU) OncoAge, Nice, France
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Pathology, Institut Hospitalo Universitaire (IHU) RespirERA, Federation Hospitalo Universitaire (FHU) OncoAge, Pasteur Hospital, Université Côte d’Azur, Nice, France
- Institut Hospitalo Universitaire (IHU) RespirERA, Nice, France
- Hospital-Integrated Biobank (BB-0033–00025), Pasteur Hospital, Nice, France
| | - Véronique Hofman
- Inserm U1081 Institute for Research on Cancer and Aging, Nice (IRCAN) Team 4, Université Côte d’Azur, Institut Hospitalo Universitaire (IHU) RespirERA, Federation Hospitalo Universitaire (FHU) OncoAge, Nice, France
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Pathology, Institut Hospitalo Universitaire (IHU) RespirERA, Federation Hospitalo Universitaire (FHU) OncoAge, Pasteur Hospital, Université Côte d’Azur, Nice, France
- Institut Hospitalo Universitaire (IHU) RespirERA, Nice, France
- Hospital-Integrated Biobank (BB-0033–00025), Pasteur Hospital, Nice, France
| | - Guylène Rignol
- Inserm U1081 Institute for Research on Cancer and Aging, Nice (IRCAN) Team 4, Université Côte d’Azur, Institut Hospitalo Universitaire (IHU) RespirERA, Federation Hospitalo Universitaire (FHU) OncoAge, Nice, France
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Pathology, Institut Hospitalo Universitaire (IHU) RespirERA, Federation Hospitalo Universitaire (FHU) OncoAge, Pasteur Hospital, Université Côte d’Azur, Nice, France
- Institut Hospitalo Universitaire (IHU) RespirERA, Nice, France
| | - François Ghiringhelli
- Institut Hospitalo Universitaire (IHU) RespirERA, Nice, France
- Department of Biology and Pathology of Tumors, Georges-Francois Leclerc Cancer Center-UNICANCER, Dijon, France
| | - Baharia Mograbi
- Inserm U1081 Institute for Research on Cancer and Aging, Nice (IRCAN) Team 4, Université Côte d’Azur, Institut Hospitalo Universitaire (IHU) RespirERA, Federation Hospitalo Universitaire (FHU) OncoAge, Nice, France
- Institut Hospitalo Universitaire (IHU) RespirERA, Nice, France
| | - Mohamad Rashidian
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Paul Hofman
- Inserm U1081 Institute for Research on Cancer and Aging, Nice (IRCAN) Team 4, Université Côte d’Azur, Institut Hospitalo Universitaire (IHU) RespirERA, Federation Hospitalo Universitaire (FHU) OncoAge, Nice, France
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Pathology, Institut Hospitalo Universitaire (IHU) RespirERA, Federation Hospitalo Universitaire (FHU) OncoAge, Pasteur Hospital, Université Côte d’Azur, Nice, France
- Institut Hospitalo Universitaire (IHU) RespirERA, Nice, France
- Hospital-Integrated Biobank (BB-0033–00025), Pasteur Hospital, Nice, France
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El-Tanani M, Rabbani SA, Babiker R, Rangraze I, Kapre S, Palakurthi SS, Alnuqaydan AM, Aljabali AA, Rizzo M, El-Tanani Y, Tambuwala MM. Unraveling the tumor microenvironment: Insights into cancer metastasis and therapeutic strategies. Cancer Lett 2024; 591:216894. [PMID: 38626856 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
This comprehensive review delves into the pivotal role of the tumor microenvironment (TME) in cancer metastasis and therapeutic response, offering fresh insights into the intricate interplay between cancer cells and their surrounding milieu. The TME, a dynamic ecosystem comprising diverse cellular and acellular elements, not only fosters tumor progression but also profoundly affects the efficacy of conventional and emerging cancer therapies. Through nuanced exploration, this review illuminates the multifaceted nature of the TME, elucidating its capacity to engender drug resistance via mechanisms such as hypoxia, immune evasion, and the establishment of physical barriers to drug delivery. Moreover, it investigates innovative therapeutic approaches aimed at targeting the TME, including stromal reprogramming, immune microenvironment modulation, extracellular matrix (ECM)-targeting agents, and personalized medicine strategies, highlighting their potential to augment treatment outcomes. Furthermore, this review critically evaluates the challenges posed by the complexity and heterogeneity of the TME, which contribute to variable therapeutic responses and potentially unintended consequences. This underscores the need to identify robust biomarkers and advance predictive models to anticipate treatment outcomes, as well as advocate for combination therapies that address multiple facets of the TME. Finally, the review emphasizes the necessity of an interdisciplinary approach and the integration of cutting-edge technologies to unravel the intricacies of the TME, thereby facilitating the development of more effective, adaptable, and personalized cancer treatments. By providing critical insights into the current state of TME research and its implications for the future of oncology, this review highlights the dynamic and evolving landscape of this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed El-Tanani
- College of Pharmacy, Ras Al Khaimah Medical and Health Sciences University, Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates.
| | - Syed Arman Rabbani
- College of Pharmacy, Ras Al Khaimah Medical and Health Sciences University, Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rasha Babiker
- Physiology Department, RAK College of Medical Sciences, RAK Medical and Health Sciences University, Ras-al-Khaimah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Imran Rangraze
- Internal Medicine Department, RAK College of Medical Sciences, RAK Medical and Health Sciences University, Ras-al-Khaimah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Sumedha Kapre
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Irma Lerma Rangel School of Pharmacy, Texas A&M University, Kingsville, TX, 78363, USA
| | - Sushesh Srivastsa Palakurthi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Irma Lerma Rangel School of Pharmacy, Texas A&M University, Kingsville, TX, 78363, USA
| | - Abdullah M Alnuqaydan
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Alaa A Aljabali
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, Yarmouk University, Irbid, 21163, Jordan
| | - Manfredi Rizzo
- (D)epartment of Health Promotion, Mother and Childcare, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, School of Medicine, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Yahia El-Tanani
- Medical School, St George's University of London, Cranmer Terrace, Tooting, London, SW17 0RE, UK.
| | - Murtaza M Tambuwala
- College of Pharmacy, Ras Al Khaimah Medical and Health Sciences University, Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates; Lincoln Medical School, University of Lincoln, Brayford Pool Campus, Lincoln, LN6 7TS, UK.
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Guo T, Xu J. Cancer-associated fibroblasts: a versatile mediator in tumor progression, metastasis, and targeted therapy. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2024:10.1007/s10555-024-10186-7. [PMID: 38602594 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-024-10186-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
Tumor microenvironment (TME) has been demonstrated to play a significant role in tumor initiation, progression, and metastasis. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are the major component of TME and exhibit heterogeneous properties in their communication with tumor cells. This heterogeneity of CAFs can be attributed to various origins, including quiescent fibroblasts, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), adipocytes, pericytes, endothelial cells, and mesothelial cells. Moreover, single-cell RNA sequencing has identified diverse phenotypes of CAFs, with myofibroblastic CAFs (myCAFs) and inflammatory CAFs (iCAFs) being the most acknowledged, alongside newly discovered subtypes like antigen-presenting CAFs (apCAFs). Due to these heterogeneities, CAFs exert multiple functions in tumorigenesis, cancer stemness, angiogenesis, immunosuppression, metabolism, and metastasis. As a result, targeted therapies aimed at the TME, particularly focusing on CAFs, are rapidly developing, fueling the promising future of advanced tumor-targeted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianchen Guo
- Women's Reproductive Health Laboratory of Zhejiang Province, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, Zhejiang, China
| | - Junfen Xu
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, Zhejiang, China.
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Kuznetsova O, Fedyanin M, Zavalishina L, Moskvina L, Kuznetsova O, Lebedeva A, Tryakin A, Kireeva G, Borshchev G, Tjulandin S, Ignatova E. Prognostic and predictive role of immune microenvironment in colorectal cancer. World J Gastrointest Oncol 2024; 16:643-652. [PMID: 38577454 PMCID: PMC10989368 DOI: 10.4251/wjgo.v16.i3.643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) represents a molecularly heterogeneous disease and one of the most frequent causes of cancer-related death worldwide. The traditional classification of CRC is based on pathomorphological and molecular characteristics of tumor cells (mucinous, ring-cell carcinomas, etc.), analysis of mechanisms of carcinogenesis involved (chromosomal instability, microsatellite instability, CpG island methylator phenotype) and mutational statuses of commonly altered genes (KRAS, NRAS, BRAF, APC, etc.), as well as expression signatures (CMS 1-4). It is also suggested that the tumor microenvironment is a key player in tumor progression and metastasis in CRC. According to the latest data, the immune microenvironment can also be predictive of the response to immune checkpoint inhibitors. In this review, we highlight how the immune environment influences CRC prognosis and sensitivity to systemic therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olesya Kuznetsova
- Department of Chemotherapy, Federal State Budgetary Institution (N.N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology) of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow 115478, Russia
| | - Mikhail Fedyanin
- Department of Chemotherapy, Federal State Budgetary Institution (N.N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology) of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow 115478, Russia
| | - Larisa Zavalishina
- Department of Pathology, Russian Medical Academy of Continuous Professional Education, Moscow 123242, Russia
| | - Larisa Moskvina
- Department of Pathology, Russian Medical Academy of Continuous Professional Education, Moscow 123242, Russia
| | - Olga Kuznetsova
- Department of Pathology, Russian Medical Academy of Continuous Professional Education, Moscow 123242, Russia
| | | | - Alexey Tryakin
- Department of Chemotherapy, Federal State Budgetary Institution (N.N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology) of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow 115478, Russia
| | - Galina Kireeva
- Federal State Budgetary Institution “National Medical and Surgical Center named after N.I. Pirogov” of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow 105203, Russia
| | - Gleb Borshchev
- Federal State Budgetary Institution “National Medical and Surgical Center named after N.I. Pirogov” of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow 105203, Russia
| | - Sergei Tjulandin
- Department of Chemotherapy, Federal State Budgetary Institution (N.N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology) of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow 115478, Russia
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You T, Tang H, Wu W, Gao J, Li X, Li N, Xu X, Xing J, Ge H, Xiao Y, Guo J, Wu B, Li X, Zhou L, Zhao L, Bai C, Han Q, Sun Z, Zhao RC. POSTN Secretion by Extracellular Matrix Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts (eCAFs) Correlates with Poor ICB Response via Macrophage Chemotaxis Activation of Akt Signaling Pathway in Gastric Cancer. Aging Dis 2023; 14:2177-2192. [PMID: 37199594 PMCID: PMC10676785 DOI: 10.14336/ad.2023.0503] [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: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapy has revolutionized cancer treatment, but its clinical benefit is limited in advanced gastric cancer (GC). Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) have been reported to be associated with ICB resistance, but the underlying mechanism has not been fully elucidated. Our previous single-cell RNA-seq analysis of GC revealed that POSTN+FAP+ extracellular matrix CAFs (eCAFs) communicate with macrophages. Here, we evaluated the correlation between eCAFs and ICB response in TCGA-STAD and real-world cohorts. Immune infiltration analysis and correlation analysis were performed to assess the relationship between eCAFs and macrophages. We first confirmed a negative correlation between the abundance of eCAFs and the overall response rate (ORR) to anti-PD-1 treatment in TCGA-STAD and real-world GC cohorts. Overexpression of POSTN in CAFs enhanced macrophage chemotaxis, while POSTN interference showed the opposite effect in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, the cell density of POSTN+ CAFs was positively correlated with the infiltration level of CD163+ macrophages in GC patient tissues. The results demonstrated that POSTN secreted by CAFs enhances macrophage chemotaxis by activating the Akt signaling pathway in macrophages. Additionally, we found that POSTN+FAP+ eCAFs may exist in multiple solid tumors and are associated with ICB resistance. eCAFs promote macrophage chemotaxis through the secretion of POSTN, thereby leading to ICB resistance. High expression of POSTN is likely to predict a poor response to ICB. POSTN downregulation may be considered as a candidate therapeutic strategy to improve ICB efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting You
- Department of Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
| | - Hui Tang
- Department of Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
| | - Wenjing Wu
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Center of Excellence in Tissue Engineering Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing Key Laboratory, Beijing, China.
| | - Jingxi Gao
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Center of Excellence in Tissue Engineering Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing Key Laboratory, Beijing, China.
| | - Xuechun Li
- Department of Stomatology Center, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.
- Academician Workstation for Oral-Maxillofacial Regenerative Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China.
| | - Ningning Li
- Department of Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
| | - Xiuxiu Xu
- Department of Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
| | - Jiazhang Xing
- Department of Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
| | - Hui Ge
- Department of Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
| | - Yi Xiao
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
| | - Junchao Guo
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
| | - Bin Wu
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
| | - Xiaoyi Li
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
| | - Liangrui Zhou
- Department of Pathology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
| | - Lin Zhao
- Department of Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
| | - Chunmei Bai
- Department of Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
| | - Qin Han
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Center of Excellence in Tissue Engineering Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing Key Laboratory, Beijing, China.
| | - Zhao Sun
- Department of Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
| | - Robert Chunhua Zhao
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Center of Excellence in Tissue Engineering Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing Key Laboratory, Beijing, China.
- School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
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Zhang D, Sun R, Di C, Li L, Zhao F, Han Y, Zhang W. Microdissection of cancer-associated fibroblast infiltration subtypes unveils the secreted SERPINE2 contributing to immunosuppressive microenvironment and immuotherapeutic resistance in gastric cancer: A large-scale study integrating bulk and single-cell transcriptome profiling. Comput Biol Med 2023; 166:107406. [PMID: 37729702 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2023.107406] [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: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
In the era of immunotherapy, the suboptimal response rate and the development of acquired resistance among the initial beneficiaries continue to present significant challenges across multiple malignancies, including gastric cancer (GC). Considering that the interactions of tumor stroma, especially the cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), with immune and tumor cells, play indispensable roles in tumor progression, tumor microenvironment remodeling and therapeutic responsiveness, in-depth exploration on the roles of CAFs and pivotal mediators of their functions may provide novel clues to increase the effectiveness of current immunotherapeutic drugs and further achieve synergistic antitumor response. Herein, through the consensus clustering of canonical biomarkers, three GC subclasses with different abundance of CAFs were virtually microdissected in four integrated bulk cohorts encompassing 2148 GC patients from 11 independent datasets. An extensive immunogenomic analysis revealed that tumors with high CAFs infiltration were characterized with unfavorable outcomes, aggressive phenotypes, decreased tumor immunogenicity, high risk of immune evasion and thus immunotherapeutic resistance. By leveraging large-scale single-cell transcriptomic profiling, a series of CAF-secreted proteins were identified, among which the SERPINE2 was confirmed to be restrictively enriched in stromal fibroblasts of GC tissues and contribute to promoting a protumor milieu and fostering an immunosuppressive microenvironment via bioinformatics computations and tissue microarray analysis. Moreover, pan-cancer investigations generalized the immunological roles of SERPINE2, especially in pan-gastrointestinal malignancies, with multiple real-world immunotherapy cohorts further confirming its implications on predicting immunotherapeutic efficacy. In conclusion, these findings suggest that the CAF-derived SERPINE2 is a promising immune-oncology target with therapeutic implications to further synergize the immunotherapeutic combinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Zhang
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, General Surgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China; Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, General Surgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China; Department of Breast Surgery, General Surgery, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China; Department of Clinical Medicine, The First Clinical College, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China.
| | - Rui Sun
- Department of Clinical Medicine, The First Clinical College, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Chenyu Di
- Department of Breast Surgery, General Surgery, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China; Department of Clinical Medicine, The First Clinical College, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Lin Li
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, 250000, China
| | - Faming Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Yu Han
- Department of Pathology, Shengli Oilfield Central Hospital, Dongying, Shandong, 257000, China
| | - Wenjie Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, 250011, China; Department of General Surgery, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250011, China.
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Hosseini R, Hosseinzadeh N, Asef-Kabiri L, Akbari A, Ghezelbash B, Sarvnaz H, Akbari ME. Small extracellular vesicle TGF-β in cancer progression and immune evasion. Cancer Gene Ther 2023; 30:1309-1322. [PMID: 37344681 DOI: 10.1038/s41417-023-00638-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023]
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) is a well-known cytokine that controls various processes in normal physiology and disease context. Strong preclinical and clinical literature supports the crucial roles of the TGF-β in several aspects of cancer biology. Recently emerging evidence reveals that the release of TGF-β from tumor/immune/stromal cells in small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) plays an important part in tumor development and immune evasion. Hence, this review aims to address the packaging, release, and signaling pathways of TGF-β carried in sEVs (sEV-TGF-β) in cancer, and to explore its underpinning roles in tumor development, growth, progression, metastasis, etc. We also highlight key progresses in deciphering the roles of sEV-TGF-β in subverting anti-tumor immune responses. The paper ends with a focus on the clinical significance of TGF-β carried in sEVs and draws attention to its diagnostic, therapeutic, and prognostic importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reza Hosseini
- Cancer Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Nashmin Hosseinzadeh
- Cancer Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Leila Asef-Kabiri
- Cancer Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Atieh Akbari
- Cancer Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Behrooz Ghezelbash
- Laboratory Hematology and Blood Banking, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Hamzeh Sarvnaz
- Department of Immunology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Yang M, Qin C, Tao L, Cheng G, Li J, Lv F, Yang N, Xing Z, Chu X, Han X, Huo M, Yin L. Synchronous targeted delivery of TGF-β siRNA to stromal and tumor cells elicits robust antitumor immunity against triple-negative breast cancer by comprehensively remodeling the tumor microenvironment. Biomaterials 2023; 301:122253. [PMID: 37536040 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2023.122253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
The poor permeability of therapeutic drugs, limited T-cell infiltration, and strong immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) acts as a prominent barrier to the delivery of drugs and immunotherapy including programmed cell death ligand-1 antibody (anti-PD-L1). Transforming growth factor (TGF)-β, an important cytokine produced by cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and tumor cells contributes to the pathological vasculature, dense tumor stroma and strong immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). Herein, a nanomedicine platform (HA-LSL/siTGF-β) employing dual-targeting, alongside hyaluronidase (HAase) and glutathione (GSH) triggered release was elaborately constructed to efficiently deliver TGF-β small interference RNA (siTGF-β). It was determined that this system was able to improve the efficacy of anti-PD-L1. The siTGF-β nanosystem efficiently silenced TGF-β-related signaling pathways in both activated NIH 3T3 cells and 4T1 cells in vitro and in vivo. This occurred firstly, through CD44-mediated uptake, followed by rapid escape mediated by HAase in endo/lysosomes and release of siRNA mediated by high GSH concentrations in the cytoplasm. By simultaneous silencing of TGF-β in stromal and tumor cells, HA-LSL/siTGF-β dramatically reduced stroma deposition, promoted the penetration of nanomedicines for deep remodeling of the TME, improved oxygenation, T cells infiltration and subsequent anti-PD-L1 deep penetration. The double suppression of TGF-β has been demonstrated to promote blood vessel normalization, inhibit an epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and further modify the immunosuppressive TME, which was supported by an overall increase in the proportion of dendritic cells and cytotoxic T cells. Further, a reduction in the proportion of immunosuppression cells such as regulatory T cells and myeloid-derived suppressor cells was also observed in the TME. Based on the comprehensive remodeling of the tumor microenvironment by this nanosystem, subsequent anti-PD-L1 therapy elicited robust antitumor immunity. Specifically, this system was able to suppress the growth of both primary and distant tumor while preventing tumor metastasis to the lung. Therefore, the combination of the dual-targeted siTGF-β nanosystem, alongside anti-PD-L1 may serve as a novel method to enhance antitumor immunotherapy against stroma-rich TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengmeng Yang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, PR China
| | - Chao Qin
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, PR China
| | - Linlin Tao
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, PR China
| | - Gang Cheng
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, PR China
| | - Jingjing Li
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, PR China
| | - Fangnan Lv
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, PR China
| | - Nan Yang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, PR China
| | - Zuhang Xing
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, PR China
| | - Xinyu Chu
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, PR China
| | - Xiaopeng Han
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, PR China
| | - Meirong Huo
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, PR China.
| | - Lifang Yin
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, PR China; Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceutics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, PR China.
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9
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Huang Y, Chau YF, Bai H, Wu X, Duan J. Biomarkers for Immunotherapy in Driver-Gene-Negative Advanced NSCLC. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14521. [PMID: 37833968 PMCID: PMC10572984 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241914521] [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: 07/30/2023] [Revised: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Outcome improvement in patients with driver-gene-negative advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) has been significantly enhanced through targeting the immune system, specifically the PD-L1/PD-1 axis. Nevertheless, only a subset of patients with advanced NSCLC may derive benefits from immuno-monotherapy or immunotherapy combined with chemotherapy. Hence, in order to identify patients who will gain the maximum advantage from immunotherapy, it is crucial to investigate predictive biomarkers. This review provides a summary of the currently identified biomarkers associated with the extent of benefit from immuno-monotherapy or immunotherapy combined with chemotherapy in patients with advanced NSCLC. These biomarkers can be categorized into three groups: tumor-related, tumor-microenvironment-related, and host-factor-related.Tumor-related factors include PD-L1 expression, tumor mutational burden and specific genetic mutations, while tumor-microenvironment-related factors include extracellular vesicles and T-cell receptors, and host-related factors include systemic inflammation, circulating fatty acid profile, and the microbiome.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Jianchun Duan
- CAMS Key Laboratory of Translational Research on Lung Cancer, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China; (Y.H.); (Y.-F.C.); (H.B.); (X.W.)
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10
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Najafi S, Mortezaee K. Advances in dendritic cell vaccination therapy of cancer. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 164:114954. [PMID: 37257227 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114954] [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: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Traditionally, vaccines have helped eradication of several infectious diseases and also saved millions of lives in the human history. Those prophylactic vaccines have acted through inducing immune responses against a live attenuated, killed organism or antigenic subunits to protect the recipient against a real infection caused by the pathogenic microorganism. Nevertheless, development of anticancer vaccines as valuable targets in human health has faced challenges and requires further optimizations. Dendritic cells (DCs) are the most potent antigen presenting cells (APCs) that play essential roles in tumor immunotherapies through induction of CD8+ T cell immunity. Accordingly, various strategies have been tested to employ DCs as therapeutic vaccines for exploiting their activity against tumor cells. Application of whole tumor cells or purified/recombinant antigen peptides are the most common approaches for pulsing DCs, which then are injected back into the patients. Although some hopeful results are reported for a number of DC vaccines tested in animal and clinical trials of cancer patients, such approaches are still inefficient and require optimization. Failure of DC vaccination is postulated due to immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME), overexpression of checkpoint proteins, suboptimal avidity of tumor-associated antigen (TAA)-specific T lymphocytes, and lack of appropriate adjuvants. In this review, we have an overview of the current experiments and trials evaluated the anticancer efficacy of DC vaccination as well as focusing on strategies to improve their potential including combination therapy with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs).
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Affiliation(s)
- Sajad Najafi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Keywan Mortezaee
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran.
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11
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Alonso-Juarranz M, Mascaraque M, Carrasco E, Gracia-Cazaña T, De La Sen O, Gilaberte Y, Gonzalez S, Juarranz Á, Falahat F. The Distinctive Features behind the Aggressiveness of Oral and Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinomas. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3227. [PMID: 37370836 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15123227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Squamous cell carcinomas arise from stratified squamous epithelia. Here, a comparative analysis based on recent studies defining the genetic alterations and composition of the stroma of oral and cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas (OSCC and CSCC, respectively) was performed. Both carcinomas share some but not all histological and genetic features. This review was focused on how mutations in tumor suppressor genes and protooncogenes cooperate to determine the differentiation, aggressiveness, and metastatic potential of OSCC and CSCC. In fact, driver mutations in tumor suppressor genes are more frequently observed in OSCC than CSCC. These include mutations in TP53 (encoding pP53 protein), CDKN2A (encoding cyclin dependent kinase inhibitor 2A), FAT1 (encoding FAT atypical cadherin 1), and KMT2D (encoding lysine methyltransferase 2D), with the exception of NOTCH (encoding Notch receptor 1), whose mutation frequency is lower in OSCC compared to CSCC. Finally, we describe the differential composition of the tumor microenvironment and how this influences the aggressiveness of each tumor type. Although both OSCC and CSCC tumors are highly infiltrated by immune cells, high levels of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) have been more frequently reported as predictors of better outcomes in OSCC than CSCC. In conclusion, OSCC and CSCC partially share genetic alterations and possess different causal factors triggering their development. The tumor microenvironment plays a key role determining the outcome of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel Alonso-Juarranz
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Service, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, 28040 Madrid, Spain
- Surgery Department, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Complutense, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta Mascaraque
- Department of Biology, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28049 Madrid, Spain
- Translational Research Unit, Miguel Servet University Hospital, Instituto Investigación Sanitaria Aragón (IIS), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Elisa Carrasco
- Department of Biology, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28049 Madrid, Spain
- Department of Experimental Dermatology and Skin Biology, Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria, IRYCIS, 28034 Madrid, Spain
| | - Tamara Gracia-Cazaña
- Department of Dermatology, Miguel Servet University Hospital, Instituto Investigación Sanitaria Aragón (IIS), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Oscar De La Sen
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Service, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, 28040 Madrid, Spain
- Surgery Department, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Complutense, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Yolanda Gilaberte
- Department of Dermatology, Miguel Servet University Hospital, Instituto Investigación Sanitaria Aragón (IIS), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Salvador Gonzalez
- Department of Experimental Dermatology and Skin Biology, Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria, IRYCIS, 28034 Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialties, Universidad de Alcalá, 28871 Madrid, Spain
| | - Ángeles Juarranz
- Department of Biology, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28049 Madrid, Spain
- Department of Experimental Dermatology and Skin Biology, Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria, IRYCIS, 28034 Madrid, Spain
| | - Farzin Falahat
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Service, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, 28040 Madrid, Spain
- Surgery Department, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Complutense, 28040 Madrid, Spain
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12
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Gupta R, Kadhim MM, Turki Jalil A, Qasim Alasheqi M, Alsaikhan F, Khalimovna Mukhamedova N, Alexis Ramírez-Coronel A, Hassan Jawhar Z, Ramaiah P, Najafi M. The interactions of docetaxel with tumor microenvironment. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 119:110214. [PMID: 37126985 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.110214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 04/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
There are several interactions within the tumor microenvironment (TME) that affect the response of cancer cells to therapy. There are also a large number of cells and secretions in TME that increase resistance to therapy. Following the release of immunosuppressive, pro-angiogenic, and metastatic molecules by certain cells such as tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), and cancer cells, immune evasion, angiogenesis, and metastasis may be induced. However, natural killer (NK) cells and cytotoxic CD8 + T lymphocytes (CTLs) can responsively release anticancer molecules. In addition, anticancer drugs can modulate these cells and their interactions in favor of either cancer resistance or therapy. Docetaxel belongs to taxanes, a class of anti-tumor drugs, which acts through the polymerization of tubulin and the induction of cell cycle arrest. Also, it has been revealed that taxanes including docetaxel affect cancer cells and the other cells within TME through some other mechanisms such as modulation of immune system responses, angiogenesis, and metastasis. In this paper, we explain the basic mechanisms of docetaxel interactions with malignant cells. Besides, we review the diverse effects of docetaxel on TME and cancer cells in consequence. Lastly, the modulatory effects of docetaxel alone or in conjunction with other anticancer agents on anti-tumor immunity, cancer cell resistance, angiogenesis, and metastasis will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reena Gupta
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, GLA University, District-Mathura, 281406 U. P., India
| | - Mustafa M Kadhim
- Department of Dentistry, Kut University College, Kut, Wasit 52001, Iraq; Medical Laboratory Techniques Department, Al-Farahidi University, Baghdad 10022, Iraq
| | - Abduladheem Turki Jalil
- Medical Laboratories Techniques Department, Al-Mustaqbal University College, Babylon, Hilla 51001, Iraq.
| | | | - Fahad Alsaikhan
- College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Alkharj 11942, Saudi Arabia.
| | | | - Andrés Alexis Ramírez-Coronel
- Azogues Campus Nursing Career, Health and Behavior Research Group (HBR), Psychometry and Ethology Laboratory, Catholic University of Cuenca, Cuenca 010107, Ecuador; Epidemiology and Biostatistics Research Group, CES University, Medillin 050001, Colombia; Educational Statistics Research Group (GIEE), National University of Education, Azogues 030102, Ecuador
| | - Zanko Hassan Jawhar
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Health Sciences, Lebanese French University, Erbil 44001, Iraq; Clinical Biochemistry Department, College of Health Sciences, Hawler Medical University, Erbil 44001, Iraq
| | | | - Masoud Najafi
- Medical Technology Research Center, Institute of Health Technology, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah 6715847141, Iran.
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13
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Ros J, Balconi F, Baraibar I, Saoudi Gonzalez N, Salva F, Tabernero J, Elez E. Advances in immune checkpoint inhibitor combination strategies for microsatellite stable colorectal cancer. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1112276. [PMID: 36816981 PMCID: PMC9932591 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1112276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors have reshaped the prognostic of several tumor types, including metastatic colorectal tumors with microsatellite instability (MSI). However, 90-95% of metastatic colorectal tumors are microsatellite stable (MSS) in which immunotherapy has failed to demonstrate meaningful clinical results. MSS colorectal tumors are considered immune-cold tumors. Several factors have been proposed to account for this lack of response to immune checkpoint blockade including low levels of tumor infiltrating lymphocytes, low tumor mutational burden, a high rate of WNT/β-catenin pathway mutations, and liver metastases which have been associated with immunosuppression. However, studies with novel combinations based on immune checkpoint inhibitors are showing promising activity in MSS colorectal cancer. Here, we review the underlying biological facts that preclude immunotherapy activity, and detail the different immune checkpoint inhibitor combinations evaluated, along with novel immune-based therapies, to overcome innate mechanisms of resistance in MSS colorectal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Ros
- Medical Oncology, Vall d’Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Barcelona, Spain,Oncologia Medica, Dipartimento di Medicina di Precisione, Università degli Studi della Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesca Balconi
- Medical Oncology, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Iosune Baraibar
- Medical Oncology, Vall d’Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Francesc Salva
- Medical Oncology, Vall d’Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Josep Tabernero
- Medical Oncology, Vall d’Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Elena Elez
- Medical Oncology, Vall d’Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Barcelona, Spain,*Correspondence: Elena Elez,
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14
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Owen JS, Clayton A, Pearson HB. Cancer-Associated Fibroblast Heterogeneity, Activation and Function: Implications for Prostate Cancer. Biomolecules 2022; 13:67. [PMID: 36671452 PMCID: PMC9856041 DOI: 10.3390/biom13010067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The continuous remodeling of the tumor microenvironment (TME) during prostate tumorigenesis is emerging as a critical event that facilitates cancer growth, progression and drug-resistance. Recent advances have identified extensive communication networks that enable tumor-stroma cross-talk, and emphasized the functional importance of diverse, heterogeneous stromal fibroblast populations during malignant growth. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are a vital component of the TME, which mediate key oncogenic events including angiogenesis, immunosuppression, metastatic progression and therapeutic resistance, thus presenting an attractive therapeutic target. Nevertheless, how fibroblast heterogeneity, recruitment, cell-of-origin and differential functions contribute to prostate cancer remains to be fully delineated. Developing our molecular understanding of these processes is fundamental to developing new therapies and biomarkers that can ultimately improve clinical outcomes. In this review, we explore the current challenges surrounding fibroblast identification, discuss new mechanistic insights into fibroblast functions during normal prostate tissue homeostasis and tumorigenesis, and illustrate the diverse nature of fibroblast recruitment and CAF generation. We also highlight the promise of CAF-targeted therapies for the treatment of prostate cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmine S. Owen
- The European Cancer Stem Cell Research Institute, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK
| | - Aled Clayton
- Tissue Microenvironment Group, Division of Cancer & Genetics, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF14 4XN, UK
| | - Helen B. Pearson
- The European Cancer Stem Cell Research Institute, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK
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15
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Liu B, Fang X, Kwong DLW, Zhang Y, Verhoeft K, Gong L, Zhang B, Chen J, Yu Q, Luo J, Tang Y, Huang T, Ling F, Fu L, Yan Q, Guan XY. Targeting TROY-mediated P85a/AKT/TBX3 signaling attenuates tumor stemness and elevates treatment response in hepatocellular carcinoma. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2022; 41:182. [PMID: 35610614 PMCID: PMC9131684 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-022-02401-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Previous in vitro hepatocyte differentiation model showed that TROY was specifically expressed in liver progenitor cells and a small proportion of hepatocellular carcinoma cells, suggesting that TROY may participate in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) stemness regulation. Here, we aim to investigate the role and mechanism of TROY in HCC pathogenesis. Method Bioinformatics analysis of the TCGA dataset has been used to identify the function and mechanism of TROY. Spheroid, apoptosis, and ALDH assay were performed to evaluate the stemness functions. Validation of the downstream pathway was based on Western blot, co-immunoprecipitation, and double immunofluorescence. Results HCC tissue microarray study found that a high frequency of TROY-positive cells was detected in 53/130 (40.8%) of HCC cases, which was significantly associated with poor prognosis and tumor metastasis. Functional studies revealed that TROY could promote self-renewal, drug resistance, tumorigenicity, and metastasis of HCC cells. Mechanism study found that TROY could interact with PI3K subunit p85α, inducing its polyubiquitylation and degradation. The degradation of p85α subsequently activate PI3K/AKT/TBX3 signaling and upregulated pluripotent genes expression including SOX2, NANOG, and OCT4, and promoted EMT in HCC cells. Interestingly, immune cell infiltration analysis found that upregulation of TROY in HCC tissues was induced by TGF-β1 secreted from CAFs. PI3K inhibitor wortmannin could effectively impair tumor stemness to sorafenib. Conclusion We demonstrated that TROY is an HCC CSC marker and plays an important role in HCC stemness regulation. Targeting TROY-positive CSCs with PI3K inhibitor wortmannin combined with chemo- or targeted drugs might be a novel therapeutic strategy for HCC patients. Graphical abstract ![]()
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13046-022-02401-6.
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16
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Wang J, Liu T, Huang T, Shang M, Wang X. The mechanisms on evasion of anti-tumor immune responses in gastric cancer. Front Oncol 2022; 12:943806. [PMID: 36439472 PMCID: PMC9686275 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.943806] [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: 05/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 10/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The immune system and the tumor have been at each other's throats for so long that the neoplasm has learned to avoid detection and avoid being attacked, which is called immune evasion. Malignant tumors, such as gastric cancer (GC), share the ability to evade the body's immune system as a defining feature. Immune evasion includes alterations to tumor-associated antigens (TAAs), antigen presentation mechanisms (APMs), and the tumor microenvironment (TME). While TAA and APM are simpler in nature, they both involve mutations or epigenetic regulation of genes. The TME is comprised of numerous cell types, cytokines, chemokines and extracellular matrix, any one of which might be altered to have an effect on the surrounding ecosystem. The NF-kB, MAPK, PI3K/AKT, JAK/STAT, Wnt/β-catenin, Notch, Hippo and TGF-β/Smad signaling pathways are all associated with gastric cancer tumor immune evasion. In this review, we will delineate the functions of these pathways in immune evasion.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Xudong Wang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Nutrition and Hernia Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
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17
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Schirrmacher V, van Gool S, Stuecker W. Counteracting Immunosuppression in the Tumor Microenvironment by Oncolytic Newcastle Disease Virus and Cellular Immunotherapy. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:13050. [PMID: 36361831 PMCID: PMC9655431 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232113050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/23/2022] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
An apparent paradox exists between the evidence for spontaneous systemic T cell- mediated anti-tumor immune responses in cancer patients, observed particularly in their bone marrow, and local tumor growth in the periphery. This phenomenon, known as "concomitant immunity" suggests that the local tumor and its tumor microenvironment (TME) prevent systemic antitumor immunity to become effective. Oncolytic Newcastle disease virus (NDV), an agent with inherent anti-neoplastic and immune stimulatory properties, is capable of breaking therapy resistance and immunosuppression. This review updates latest information about immunosuppression by the TME and discusses mechanisms of how oncolytic viruses, in particular NDV, and cellular immunotherapy can counteract the immunosuppressive effect of the TME. With regard to cellular immunotherapy, the review presents pre-clinical studies of post-operative active-specific immunotherapy and of adoptive T cell-mediated therapy in immunocompetent mice. Memory T cell (MTC) transfer in tumor challenged T cell-deficient nu/nu mice demonstrates longevity and functionality of these cells. Graft-versus-leukemia (GvL) studies in mice demonstrate complete remission of late-stage disease including metastases and cachexia. T cell based immunotherapy studies with human cells in human tumor xenotransplanted NOD/SCID mice demonstrate superiority of bone marrow-derived as compared to blood-derived MTCs. Results from clinical studies presented include vaccination studies using two different types of NDV-modified cancer vaccine and a pilot adoptive T-cell mediated therapy study using re-activated bone marrow-derived cancer-reactive MTCs. As an example for what can be expected from clinical immunotherapy against tumors with an immunosuppressive TME, results from vaccination studies are presented from the aggressive brain tumor glioblastoma multiforme. The last decades of basic research in virology, oncology and immunology can be considered as a success story. Based on discoveries of these research areas, translational research and clinical studies have changed the way of treatment of cancer by introducing and including immunotherapy.
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18
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Cerro PA, Mascaraque M, Gallego-Rentero M, Almenara-Blasco M, Nicolás-Morala J, Santiago JL, González S, Gracia-Cazaña T, Juarranz Á, Gilaberte Y. Tumor microenvironment in non-melanoma skin cancer resistance to photodynamic therapy. Front Oncol 2022; 12:970279. [PMID: 36338755 PMCID: PMC9634550 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.970279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-melanoma skin cancer has recently seen an increase in prevalence, and it is estimated that this grow will continue in the coming years. In this sense, the importance of therapy effectiveness has increased, especially photodynamic therapy. Photodynamic therapy has attracted much attention as a minimally invasive, selective and repeatable approach for skin cancer treatment and prevention. Although its high efficiency, this strategy has also faced problems related to tumor resistance, where the tumor microenvironment has gained a well-deserved role in recent years. Tumor microenvironment denotes a wide variety of elements, such as cancer-associated fibroblasts, immune cells, endothelial cells or the extracellular matrix, where their interaction and the secretion of a wide diversity of cytokines. Therefore, the need of designing new strategies targeting elements of the tumor microenvironment to overcome the observed resistance has become evident. To this end, in this review we focus on the role of cancer-associated fibroblasts and tumor-associated macrophages in the resistance to photodynamic therapy. We are also exploring new approaches consisting in the combination of new and old drugs targeting these cells with photodynamic therapy to enhance treatment outcomes of non-melanoma skin cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulina A. Cerro
- Department of Dermatology, Miguel Servet University Hospital, Instituto Investigación Sanitaria (IIS), Zaragoza, Aragón, Spain
| | - Marta Mascaraque
- Department of Biology, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Experminetal Dermatology and Skin Biology, Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigaciones Sanitarias, IRYCIS, Madrid, Spain
| | - María Gallego-Rentero
- Department of Biology, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Experminetal Dermatology and Skin Biology, Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigaciones Sanitarias, IRYCIS, Madrid, Spain
| | - Manuel Almenara-Blasco
- Department of Dermatology, Miguel Servet University Hospital, Instituto Investigación Sanitaria (IIS), Zaragoza, Aragón, Spain
| | - Jimena Nicolás-Morala
- Department of Biology, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Experminetal Dermatology and Skin Biology, Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigaciones Sanitarias, IRYCIS, Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan Luis Santiago
- Servicio de Dermatología, Hospital General de Ciudad Real, Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - Salvador González
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialties, Universidad de Alcalá, Madrid, Spain
| | - Tamara Gracia-Cazaña
- Department of Dermatology, Miguel Servet University Hospital, Instituto Investigación Sanitaria (IIS), Zaragoza, Aragón, Spain
| | - Ángeles Juarranz
- Department of Biology, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Experminetal Dermatology and Skin Biology, Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigaciones Sanitarias, IRYCIS, Madrid, Spain
- *Correspondence: Ángeles Juarranz, ; Yolanda Gilaberte,
| | - Yolanda Gilaberte
- Department of Dermatology, Miguel Servet University Hospital, Instituto Investigación Sanitaria (IIS), Zaragoza, Aragón, Spain
- *Correspondence: Ángeles Juarranz, ; Yolanda Gilaberte,
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Han X, Ye J, Huang R, Li Y, Liu J, Meng T, Song D. Pan-cancer analysis reveals interleukin-17 family members as biomarkers in the prediction for immune checkpoint inhibitor curative effect. Front Immunol 2022; 13:900273. [PMID: 36159856 PMCID: PMC9493092 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.900273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The interleukin-17 (IL-17) family contains six homologous genes, IL-17A to IL-17F. Growing evidence indicates that dysregulated IL-17 family members act as major pathogenic factors in the early and late stages of cancer development and progression. However, the prevalence and predictive value of IL-17 for immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapeutic effectiveness in multiple tumor types remain largely unknown, and the associations between its expression levels and immunotherapy-associated signatures also need to be explored. Methods The pan-cancer dataset in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) was downloaded from UCSC Xena (http://xena.ucsc.edu/). The immunotherapeutic cohorts included IMvigor210, which were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus database and included in a previously published study. Other datasets, namely, the GEO dataset and PRECOG, GEO, and METABRIC databases, were also included. In 33 TCGA tumor types, a pan-cancer analysis was carried out including their expression map, clinical risk assessment, and immune subtype analysis, along with their association with the stemness indices, tumor microenvironment (TME) in pan-cancer, immune infiltration analysis, ICI-related immune indicators, and drug sensitivity. RT-PCR was also carried out to verify the gene expression levels among MCF-10A and MCF-7 cell lines. Results The expression of the IL-17 family is different between tumor and normal tissue in most cancers, and consistency has been observed between gene activity and gene expression. RT-PCR results show that the expression differences in the IL-17 family of human cell (MCF-10A and MCF-7) are consistent with the bioinformatics differential expression analysis. Moreover, the expression of the IL-17 family can be a sign of patients’ survival prognosis in some tumors and varies in different immune subtypes. Moreover, the expression of the IL-17 family presents a robust correlation with immune cell infiltration, ICI-related immune indicators, and drug sensitivity. High expression of the IL-17 family is significantly related to immune-relevant pathways, and the low expression of IL-17B means a better immunotherapeutic response in BLCA. Conclusion Collectively, IL-17 family members may act as biomarkers in predicting the prognosis of the tumor and the therapeutic effects of ICIs, which provides new guidance for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaying Han
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jianxin Ye
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Runzhi Huang
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Division of Spine, Department of Orthopedics, Tongji Hospital Affiliated to Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yongai Li
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianpeng Liu
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Dianwen Song, ; Tong Meng, ; Jianpeng Liu,
| | - Tong Meng
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Dianwen Song, ; Tong Meng, ; Jianpeng Liu,
| | - Dianwen Song
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Dianwen Song, ; Tong Meng, ; Jianpeng Liu,
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20
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Zou R, Jiang Q, Jin T, Chen M, Yao L, Ding H. Pan-cancer analyses and molecular subtypes based on the cancer-associated fibroblast landscape and tumor microenvironment infiltration characterization reveal clinical outcome and immunotherapy response in epithelial ovarian cancer. Front Immunol 2022; 13:956224. [PMID: 36032075 PMCID: PMC9402225 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.956224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are essential components of the tumor microenvironment (TME). These cells play a supportive role throughout cancer progression. Their ability to modulate the immune system has also been noted. However, there has been limited investigation of CAFs in the TME of epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC). Methods We comprehensively evaluated the CAF landscape and its association with gene alterations, clinical features, prognostic value, and immune cell infiltration at the pan-cancer level using multi-omic data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). The CAF contents were characterized by CAF scores based on the expression levels of seven CAF markers using the R package “GSVA.” Next, we identified the molecular subtypes defined by CAF markers and constructed a CAF riskscore system using principal component analysis in the EOC cohort. The correlation between CAF riskscore and TME cell infiltration was investigated. The ability of the CAF riskscore to predict prognosis and immunotherapy response was also examined. Results CAF components were involved in multiple immune-related processes, including transforming growth factor (TGF)-β signaling, IL2-STAT signaling, inflammatory responses, and Interleukin (IL) 2-signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) signaling. Considering the positive correlation between CAF scores and macrophages, neutrophils, and mast cells, CAFs may exert immunosuppressive effects in both pan-cancer and ovarian cancer cohorts, which may explain accelerated tumor progression and poor outcomes. Notably, two distinct CAF molecular subtypes were defined in the EOC cohort. Low CAF riskscores were characterized by favorable overall survival (OS) and higher efficacy of immunotherapy. Furthermore, 24 key genes were identified in CAF subtypes. These genes were significantly upregulated in EOC and showed a strong correlation with CAF markers. Conclusions Identifying CAF subtypes provides insights into EOC heterogeneity. The CAF riskscore system can predict prognosis and select patients who may benefit from immunotherapy. The mechanism of interactions between key genes, CAF markers, and associated cancer-promoting effects needs to be further elucidated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruoyao Zou
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qidi Jiang
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Tianqiang Jin
- Department of General Surgery, ShengJing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Mo Chen
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Liangqing Yao
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Hongda Ding, ; Liangqing Yao,
| | - Hongda Ding
- Department of General Surgery, ShengJing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- *Correspondence: Hongda Ding, ; Liangqing Yao,
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21
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Kim I, Choi S, Yoo S, Lee M, Kim IS. Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts in the Hypoxic Tumor Microenvironment. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14143321. [PMID: 35884382 PMCID: PMC9320406 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14143321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Cancers have regions of low oxygen concentration where hypoxia-related signaling pathways are activated. The hypoxic tumor microenvironment has been widely accepted as a hallmark of cancer and shown to be a critical factor in the crosstalk between cancer and stromal cells. Fibroblasts are one of the most abundant cellular components in the tumor stroma and are also significantly affected by oxygen deprivation. In this case, we discuss the molecular and cellular mechanisms that regulate fibroblasts under hypoxic conditions and their effect on cancer development and progression. Unraveling these regulatory mechanisms could be exploited in developing potential fibroblast-specific therapeutics for cancer. Abstract Solid cancers are composed of malignant cells and their surrounding matrix components. Hypoxia plays a critical role in shaping the tumor microenvironment that contributes to cancer progression and treatment failure. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are one of the most prominent components of the tumor microenvironment. CAFs are highly sensitive to hypoxia and participates in the crosstalk with cancer cells. Hypoxic CAFs modulate several mechanisms that induce cancer malignancy, such as extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling, immune evasion, metabolic reprogramming, angiogenesis, metastasis, and drug resistance. Key signaling molecules regulating CAFs in hypoxia include transforming growth factor (TGF-β) and hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs). In this article, we summarize the mechanisms underlying the hypoxic regulation of CAFs and how hypoxic CAFs affect cancer development and progression. We also discuss the potential therapeutic strategies focused on targeting CAFs in the hypoxic tumor microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iljin Kim
- Department of Pharmacology and Research Center for Controlling Intercellular Communication, Inha University College of Medicine, Incheon 22212, Korea; (S.C.); (S.Y.)
- Correspondence: (I.K.); (I.-S.K.)
| | - Sanga Choi
- Department of Pharmacology and Research Center for Controlling Intercellular Communication, Inha University College of Medicine, Incheon 22212, Korea; (S.C.); (S.Y.)
| | - Seongkyeong Yoo
- Department of Pharmacology and Research Center for Controlling Intercellular Communication, Inha University College of Medicine, Incheon 22212, Korea; (S.C.); (S.Y.)
| | - Mingyu Lee
- Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA;
| | - In-San Kim
- KU-KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Korea
- Medicinal Materials Research Center, Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Korea
- Correspondence: (I.K.); (I.-S.K.)
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22
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Sahin IH, Ciombor KK, Diaz LA, Yu J, Kim R. Immunotherapy for Microsatellite Stable Colorectal Cancers: Challenges and Novel Therapeutic Avenues. Am Soc Clin Oncol Educ Book 2022; 42:1-12. [PMID: 35658496 DOI: 10.1200/edbk_349811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
With the development of immune checkpoint inhibitors, immunotherapy researchers have facilitated substantial progress for patients with mismatch repair deficient/microsatellite instability-high colorectal cancer, which has led to practice changes at a head-spinning pace. However, this benefit has not been translated into microsatellite stable colorectal cancer, which carries the hallmarks of chromosomal instability. So far, clinical trials have not shown any substantial clinical benefits of immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy for patients with microsatellite stable colorectal cancer, which has been disappointing. Recently, combinations of immune checkpoint inhibitors with tyrosine kinase inhibitors and targeted therapies have been investigated for potential synergistic effects that may increase antitumor activity in the tumor microenvironment and achieve more substantial clinical and radiologic responses. In this article, we discuss the current state of the science for the use of immune checkpoint inhibitors in microsatellite stable colorectal cancers, and we review the molecular underpinnings of inherited physiologic barriers for the delivery of effective immunotherapy. We also elaborate on existing therapeutic opportunities to convert microsatellite stable colorectal cancer into an "immune hot" cancer, which may define the future treatment paradigm of colorectal cancer for which there is a great unmet need.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Luis A Diaz
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | | | - Richard Kim
- H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa FL
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23
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Srinivasan S, Kryza T, Batra J, Clements J. Remodelling of the tumour microenvironment by the kallikrein-related peptidases. Nat Rev Cancer 2022; 22:223-238. [PMID: 35102281 DOI: 10.1038/s41568-021-00436-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Kallikrein-related peptidases (KLKs) are critical regulators of the tumour microenvironment. KLKs are proteolytic enzymes regulating multiple functions of bioactive molecules including hormones and growth factors, membrane receptors and the extracellular matrix architecture involved in cancer progression and metastasis. Perturbations of the proteolytic cascade generated by these peptidases, and their downstream signalling actions, underlie tumour emergence or blockade of tumour growth. Recent studies have also revealed their role in tumour immune suppression and resistance to cancer therapy. Here, we present an overview of the complex biology of the KLK family and its context-dependent nature in cancer, and discuss the different therapeutic strategies available to potentially target these proteases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srilakshmi Srinivasan
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Australian Prostate Cancer Research Centre-Queensland, Translational Research Institute, Woolloongabba, Queensland, Australia
| | - Thomas Kryza
- Australian Prostate Cancer Research Centre-Queensland, Translational Research Institute, Woolloongabba, Queensland, Australia
- Mater Research Institute, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jyotsna Batra
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Australian Prostate Cancer Research Centre-Queensland, Translational Research Institute, Woolloongabba, Queensland, Australia
- Centre for Genomics and Personalised Medicine, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Judith Clements
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.
- Australian Prostate Cancer Research Centre-Queensland, Translational Research Institute, Woolloongabba, Queensland, Australia.
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24
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Zhang P, Qin C, Liu N, Zhou X, Chu X, Lv F, Gu Y, Yin L, Liu J, Zhou J, Huo M. The programmed site-specific delivery of LY3200882 and PD-L1 siRNA boosts immunotherapy for triple-negative breast cancer by remodeling tumor microenvironment. Biomaterials 2022; 284:121518. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2022.121518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 04/02/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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25
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Hosseini R, Sarvnaz H, Arabpour M, Ramshe SM, Asef-Kabiri L, Yousefi H, Akbari ME, Eskandari N. Cancer exosomes and natural killer cells dysfunction: biological roles, clinical significance and implications for immunotherapy. Mol Cancer 2022; 21:15. [PMID: 35031075 PMCID: PMC8759167 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-021-01492-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumor-derived exosomes (TDEs) play pivotal roles in several aspects of cancer biology. It is now evident that TDEs also favor tumor growth by negatively affecting anti-tumor immunity. As important sentinels of immune surveillance system, natural killer (NK) cells can recognize malignant cells very early and counteract the tumor development and metastasis without a need for additional activation. Based on this rationale, adoptive transfer of ex vivo expanded NK cells/NK cell lines, such as NK-92 cells, has attracted great attention and is widely studied as a promising immunotherapy for cancer treatment. However, by exploiting various strategies, including secretion of exosomes, cancer cells are able to subvert NK cell responses. This paper reviews the roles of TDEs in cancer-induced NK cells impairments with mechanistic insights. The clinical significance and potential approaches to nullify the effects of TDEs on NK cells in cancer immunotherapy are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reza Hosseini
- Department of Immunology School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran.
| | - Hamzeh Sarvnaz
- Department of Immunology School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maedeh Arabpour
- Department of Medical Genetics School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Samira Molaei Ramshe
- Student Research Committee, Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine Shahid, Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Leila Asef-Kabiri
- Surgical Oncologist Cancer Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Hassan Yousefi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, LSUHSC School of Medicine, New Orleans, USA
| | - Mohammad Esmaeil Akbari
- Surgical Oncologist Cancer Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nahid Eskandari
- Department of Immunology School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
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26
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Matricellular proteins in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. Adv Cancer Res 2022; 156:249-281. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.acr.2022.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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27
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Gulley JL, Schlom J, Barcellos-Hoff MH, Wang XJ, Seoane J, Audhuy F, Lan Y, Dussault I, Moustakas A. Dual inhibition of TGF-β and PD-L1: a novel approach to cancer treatment. Mol Oncol 2021; 16:2117-2134. [PMID: 34854206 PMCID: PMC9168966 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.13146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Revised: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) and programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) initiate signaling pathways with complementary, nonredundant immunosuppressive functions in the tumor microenvironment (TME). In the TME, dysregulated TGF-β signaling suppresses antitumor immunity and promotes cancer fibrosis, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and angiogenesis. Meanwhile, PD-L1 expression inactivates cytotoxic T cells and restricts immunosurveillance in the TME. Anti-PD-L1 therapies have been approved for the treatment of various cancers, but TGF-β signaling in the TME is associated with resistance to these therapies. In this Review, we discuss the importance of the TGF-β and PD-L1 pathways in cancer, as well as clinical strategies using combination therapies that block these pathways separately or approaches with dual-targeting agents (bispecific and bifunctional immunotherapies) that may block them simultaneously. Currently, the furthest developed dual-targeting agent is bintrafusp alfa. This drug is a first-in-class bifunctional fusion protein that consists of the extracellular domain of the TGF-βRII receptor (a TGF-β "trap") fused to a human immunoglobulin G1 (IgG1) monoclonal antibody blocking PD-L1. Given the immunosuppressive effects of the TGF-β and PD-L1 pathways within the TME, colocalized and simultaneous inhibition of these pathways may potentially improve clinical activity and reduce toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- James L Gulley
- Genitourinary Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Jeffrey Schlom
- Laboratory of Tumor Immunology and Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | | | - Xiao-Jing Wang
- Department of Pathology, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Joan Seoane
- ICREA, Vall D'Hebron Institute of Oncology, Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, CIBERONC, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Yan Lan
- EMD Serono, Billerica, MA, USA
| | - Isabelle Dussault
- EMD Serono, Billerica, MA, USA.,Current affiliation: Fusion Pharmaceuticals, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Aristidis Moustakas
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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28
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Cancer-Associated Fibroblast Functions as a Road-Block in Cancer Therapy. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13205246. [PMID: 34680395 PMCID: PMC8534063 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13205246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Revised: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary An overwhelming percentage of deaths in solid tumors are caused by treatment failure due to the disease’s unresponsiveness when tumor cells tolerate treatment. Aggressive cancer contains tumors cells that are surrounded by many other non-tumor cells, including fibroblasts cells. These fibroblasts near tumor cells are converted by the tumor cells into specialized fibroblasts called cancer-associated fibroblasts that favor the growth of tumors. This review examines how cancer-associated fibroblasts interact with tumor cells, immune cells, and endothelial cells in aiding and abetting the development of resistance to different types of cancer therapy. As cancer-associated fibroblasts’ function blocks the road to recovery, we need to neutralize their function for the clinical management of the disease to be successful. The knowledge about the role of cancer-associated fibroblasts in resisting therapy is fundamental to design an appropriate remedy to counteract drug resistance and improve the outcome of the disease. Abstract The journey of a normal resident fibroblast belonging to the tumor microenvironment (TME) from being a tumor pacifier to a tumor patron is fascinating. We introduce cancer-associated fibroblast (CAF) as a crucial component of the TME. Activated-CAF partners with tumor cells and all components of TME in an established solid tumor. We briefly overview the origin, activation, markers, and overall functions of CAF with a particular reference to how different functions of CAF in an established tumor are functionally connected to the development of resistance to cancer therapy in solid tumors. We interrogate the role of CAF in mediating resistance to different modes of therapies. Functional diversity of CAF in orchestrating treatment resistance in solid tumors portrays CAF as a common orchestrator of treatment resistance; a roadblock in cancer therapy
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29
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Chandra Jena B, Sarkar S, Rout L, Mandal M. The transformation of cancer-associated fibroblasts: Current perspectives on the role of TGF-β in CAF mediated tumor progression and therapeutic resistance. Cancer Lett 2021; 520:222-232. [PMID: 34363903 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2021.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Revised: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Over the last few years, the Transforming growth factor- β (TGF-β) has been significantly considered as an effective and ubiquitous mediator of cell growth. The cytokine, TGF-β is being increasingly recognized as the most potent inducer of cancer cell initiation, differentiation, migration as well as progression through both the SMAD-dependent and independent pathways. There is growing evidence that supports the role of secretory cytokine TGF-β as a crucial mediator of tumor-stroma crosstalk. Contextually, the CAFs are the prominent component of tumor stroma that helps in tumor progression and onset of chemoresistance. The interplay between the CAFs and the tumor cells through the paracrine signals is facilitated by cytokine TGF-β to induce the malignant progression. Here in this review, we have dissected the most recent advancements in understanding the mechanisms of TGF-β induced CAF activation, their multiple origins, and most importantly their role in conferring chemoresistance. Considering the pivotal role of TGF-β in tumor perogression and associated stemness, it is one the proven clinical targets We have also included the clinical trials going on, targeting the TGF-β and CAFs crosstalk with the tumor cells. Ultimately, we have underscored some of the outstanding issues that must be deciphered with utmost importance to unravel the successful strategies of anti-cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bikash Chandra Jena
- School of Medical Science and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur, West Bengal, India
| | - Siddik Sarkar
- CSIR-Indian Institue of Chemical Biology, Translational Research Unit of Excellence, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Lipsa Rout
- Department of Chemistry, Institute of Technical Education and Research, Siksha'O'Anusandhan Deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | - Mahitosh Mandal
- School of Medical Science and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur, West Bengal, India.
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30
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Belhabib I, Zaghdoudi S, Lac C, Bousquet C, Jean C. Extracellular Matrices and Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts: Targets for Cancer Diagnosis and Therapy? Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:3466. [PMID: 34298680 PMCID: PMC8303391 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13143466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Revised: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Solid cancer progression is dictated by neoplastic cell features and pro-tumoral crosstalks with their microenvironment. Stroma modifications, such as fibroblast activation into cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling, are now recognized as critical events for cancer progression and as potential therapeutic or diagnostic targets. The recent appreciation of the key, complex and multiple roles of the ECM in cancer and of the CAF diversity, has revolutionized the field and raised innovative but challenging questions. Here, we rapidly present CAF heterogeneity in link with their specific ECM remodeling features observed in cancer, before developing each of the impacts of such ECM modifications on tumor progression (survival, angiogenesis, pre-metastatic niche, chemoresistance, etc.), and on patient prognosis. Finally, based on preclinical studies and recent results obtained from clinical trials, we highlight key mechanisms or proteins that are, or may be, used as potential therapeutic or diagnostic targets, and we report and discuss benefits, disappointments, or even failures, of recently reported stroma-targeting strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Christine Jean
- Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Toulouse (CRCT), INSERM U1037, Université Toulouse III Paul Sabatier, ERL5294 CNRS, 31037 Toulouse, France; (I.B.); (S.Z.); (C.L.); (C.B.)
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31
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Kabel AM, Ashour AM, Ali DA, Arab HH. The immunomodulatory effects of topiramate on azoxymethane-induced colon carcinogenesis in rats: The role of the inflammatory cascade, vascular endothelial growth factor, AKT/mTOR/MAP kinase signaling and the apoptotic markers. Int Immunopharmacol 2021; 98:107830. [PMID: 34118646 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2021.107830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Revised: 05/08/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Colon cancer is a malignant condition that affects the lower gastrointestinal tract and has unfavorable prognosis. Its mechanisms range from enhanced production of reactive oxygen species, inflammatory changes in the colon microenvironment and affection of the apoptotic pathways. Due to the high incidence of resistance of colon cancer to the traditional chemotherapeutic agents, a need for finding safe/effective agents that can attenuate the malignant changes had emerged. OBJECTIVE To investigate the possible immunomodulatory and antitumor effects of topiramate on azoxymethane-induced colon cancer in rats. METHODOLOGY Fifty male Wistar rats were randomized into five equal groups as follows: Control; azoxymethane-induced colon cancer; azoxymethane + methyl cellulose; azoxymethane + topiramate small dose; and azoxymethane + topiramate large dose. The body weight gain, serum carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), tissue antioxidant status, proinflammatory cytokines, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), Nrf2/HO-1 content, p-AKT, mTOR, p38 MAP kinase, caspase 9, nerve growth factor beta and beclin-1 were measured. Also, parts of the colon had undergone histopathological and immunohistochemical evaluation. KEY FINDINGS Topiramate improved the body weight gain, decreased serum CEA, augmented the antioxidant defenses in the colonic tissues with significant amelioration of the inflammatory changes, decline in tissue VEGF and p-AKT/mTOR/MAP kinase signaling and increased Nrf2/HO-1 content in a dose-dependent manner when compared to rats treated with azoxymethane alone. In addition, topiramate, in a dose-dependent manner, significantly enhanced apoptosis and improved the histopathological picture in comparison to animals treated with azoxymethane alone. CONCLUSION Taking these findings together, topiramate might serve as a new effective adjuvant line of treatment of colon cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed M Kabel
- Pharmacology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta 31527, Egypt.
| | - Ahmed M Ashour
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Umm Al Qura University, P.O. Box 13578, Makkah 21955, Saudi Arabia
| | - Dina A Ali
- Clinical Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta 31527, Egypt
| | - Hany H Arab
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia
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32
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Chen L, Musa AE. Boosting immune system against cancer by resveratrol. Phytother Res 2021; 35:5514-5526. [PMID: 34101276 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2021] [Revised: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Modulation of the immune system is a critical part of anticancer therapies including immunotherapy, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. The aim of immunomodulation in cancer therapy is boosting immune system cells including CD8+ T lymphocytes and natural killer (NK) cells, as well as suppression of immunosuppressive responses by macrophages and regulatory T cells (Tregs). Usually, using single or dual modality can induce immune system responses against cancer. However, immunosuppressive responses attenuate antitumor immunity following cancer therapy. Using some agents to boost immune system's function against cancer can increase therapeutic efficiency of anticancer therapy. Resveratrol, as a natural agent, has shown ability to modulate the immune system to potentiate antitumor immunity. Resveratrol has been shown to induce the release of anticancer cytokines such as IFN-γ and TNF-α and also inhibits the release of TGF-β. It also can stimulate the polarization of CD4+ T cells and macrophages toward anticancer cells and reduce infiltration and polarization of immunosuppressive cells. Furthermore, resveratrol can sensitize cancer cells to the released dead signals by anticancer immune cells. This review explains how resveratrol can boost the immune system against cancer via modulation of immune cell responses within tumor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Libo Chen
- School of Pharmaceutical and Environmental Technology, Jilin Vocational College of Industry and Technology, Jilin, China
| | - Ahmed Eleojo Musa
- Department of Medical Physics, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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33
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Su M, Zhang Z, Zhou L, Han C, Huang C, Nice EC. Proteomics, Personalized Medicine and Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:2512. [PMID: 34063807 PMCID: PMC8196570 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13112512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2021] [Revised: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
As of 2020 the human genome and proteome are both at >90% completion based on high stringency analyses. This has been largely achieved by major technological advances over the last 20 years and has enlarged our understanding of human health and disease, including cancer, and is supporting the current trend towards personalized/precision medicine. This is due to improved screening, novel therapeutic approaches and an increased understanding of underlying cancer biology. However, cancer is a complex, heterogeneous disease modulated by genetic, molecular, cellular, tissue, population, environmental and socioeconomic factors, which evolve with time. In spite of recent advances in treatment that have resulted in improved patient outcomes, prognosis is still poor for many patients with certain cancers (e.g., mesothelioma, pancreatic and brain cancer) with a high death rate associated with late diagnosis. In this review we overview key hallmarks of cancer (e.g., autophagy, the role of redox signaling), current unmet clinical needs, the requirement for sensitive and specific biomarkers for early detection, surveillance, prognosis and drug monitoring, the role of the microbiome and the goals of personalized/precision medicine, discussing how emerging omics technologies can further inform on these areas. Exemplars from recent onco-proteogenomic-related publications will be given. Finally, we will address future perspectives, not only from the standpoint of perceived advances in treatment, but also from the hurdles that have to be overcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miao Su
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu 610041, China; (M.S.); (Z.Z.); (L.Z.); (C.H.)
| | - Zhe Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu 610041, China; (M.S.); (Z.Z.); (L.Z.); (C.H.)
| | - Li Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu 610041, China; (M.S.); (Z.Z.); (L.Z.); (C.H.)
| | - Chao Han
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu 610041, China; (M.S.); (Z.Z.); (L.Z.); (C.H.)
| | - Canhua Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu 610041, China; (M.S.); (Z.Z.); (L.Z.); (C.H.)
| | - Edouard C. Nice
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
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Biomarkers for Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma-A Novel View on Inflammation. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13040658. [PMID: 33562138 PMCID: PMC7916017 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13040658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Revised: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is an aggressive disease with limited treatment response and devastating prognosis. Exposure to asbestos and chronic inflammation are acknowledged as main risk factors. Since immune therapy evolved as a promising novel treatment modality, we want to reevaluate and summarize the role of the inflammatory system in MPM. This review focuses on local tumor associated inflammation on the one hand and systemic inflammatory markers, and their impact on MPM outcome, on the other hand. Identification of new biomarkers helps to select optimal patient tailored therapy, avoid ineffective treatment with its related side effects and consequently improves patient's outcome in this rare disease. Additionally, a better understanding of the tumor promoting and tumor suppressing inflammatory processes, influencing MPM pathogenesis and progression, might also reveal possible new targets for MPM treatment. After reviewing the currently available literature and according to our own research, it is concluded that the suppression of the specific immune system and the activation of its innate counterpart are crucial drivers of MPM aggressiveness translating to poor patient outcome.
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Transforming Growth Factor-β Signaling in Fibrotic Diseases and Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10121666. [PMID: 33322749 PMCID: PMC7763058 DOI: 10.3390/biom10121666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Revised: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling is essential in embryo development and maintaining normal homeostasis. Extensive evidence shows that TGF-β activation acts on several cell types, including epithelial cells, fibroblasts, and immune cells, to form a pro-fibrotic environment, ultimately leading to fibrotic diseases. TGF-β is stored in the matrix in a latent form; once activated, it promotes a fibroblast to myofibroblast transition and regulates extracellular matrix (ECM) formation and remodeling in fibrosis. TGF-β signaling can also promote cancer progression through its effects on the tumor microenvironment. In cancer, TGF-β contributes to the generation of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) that have different molecular and cellular properties from activated or fibrotic fibroblasts. CAFs promote tumor progression and chronic tumor fibrosis via TGF-β signaling. Fibrosis and CAF-mediated cancer progression share several common traits and are closely related. In this review, we consider how TGF-β promotes fibrosis and CAF-mediated cancer progression. We also discuss recent evidence suggesting TGF-β inhibition as a defense against fibrotic disorders or CAF-mediated cancer progression to highlight the potential implications of TGF-β-targeted therapies for fibrosis and cancer.
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