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Chen B, Liu J. Advances in ovarian tumor stem cells and therapy. Cell Biochem Biophys 2024:10.1007/s12013-024-01385-8. [PMID: 38955927 DOI: 10.1007/s12013-024-01385-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
Ovarian cancer is considered the most lethal among all gynecological malignancies due to its early metastatic dissemination, extensive spread, and malignant ascites. The current standard of care for advanced ovarian cancer involves a combination of cytoreductive surgery and chemotherapy utilizing platinum-based and taxane-based agents. Although initial treatment yields clinical remission in 70-80% of patients, the majority eventually develop treatment resistance and tumor recurrence. A growing body of evidence indicates the existence of cancer stem cells within diverse solid tumors, including ovarian cancer, which function as a subpopulation to propel tumor growth and disease advancement by means of drug resistance, recurrence, and metastasis. The presence of ovarian cancer stem cells is widely considered to be a significant contributor to the unfavorable clinical outcomes observed in patients with ovarian cancer, as they play a crucial role in mediating chemotherapy resistance, recurrence, and metastasis. Ovarian cancer stem cells possess the capacity to reassemble within the entirety of the tumor following conventional treatment, thereby instigating the recurrence of ovarian cancer and inducing resistance to treatment. Consequently, the creation of therapeutic approaches aimed at eliminating ovarian cancer stem cells holds great potential for the management of ovarian cancer. These cells are regarded as one of the most auspicious targets and mechanisms for the treatment of ovarian cancer. There is a pressing need for a comprehensive comprehension of the fundamental mechanisms of ovarian cancer's recurrence, metastasis, and drug resistance, alongside the development of effective strategies to overcome chemoresistance, metastasis, and recurrence. The implementation of cancer stem cell therapies may potentially augment the tumor cells' sensitivity to existing chemotherapy protocols, thereby mitigating the risks of tumor metastasis and recurrence, and ultimately improving the survival rates of ovarian cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Biqing Chen
- Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China.
| | - Jiaqi Liu
- Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
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2
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Acevedo S, Segovia MF, de la Fuente-Ortega E. Emerging Perspectives in Zinc Transporter Research in Prostate Cancer: An Updated Review. Nutrients 2024; 16:2026. [PMID: 38999774 PMCID: PMC11243615 DOI: 10.3390/nu16132026] [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: 05/09/2024] [Revised: 06/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Dysregulation of zinc and zinc transporters families has been associated with the genesis and progression of prostate cancer. The prostate epithelium utilizes two types of zinc transporters, the ZIP (Zrt-, Irt-related Protein) and the ZnTs (Zinc Transporter), to transport zinc from the blood plasma to the gland lumen. ZIP transporters uptake zinc from extracellular space and organelle lumen, while ZnT transporters release zinc outside the cells or to organelle lumen. In prostate cancer, a commonly observed low zinc concentration in prostate tissue has been correlated with downregulations of certain ZIPs (e.g., ZIP1, ZIP2, ZIP3, ZIP14) and upregulations of specific ZnTs (e.g., ZnT1, ZnT9, ZnT10). These alterations may enable cancer cells to adapt to toxic high zinc levels. While zinc supplementation has been suggested as a potential therapy for this type of cancer, studies have yielded inconsistent results because some trials have indicated that zinc supplementation could exacerbate cancer risk. The reason for this discrepancy remains unclear, but given the high molecular and genetic variability present in prostate tumors, it is plausible that some zinc transporters-comprising 14 ZIP and 10 ZnT members-could be dysregulated in others patterns that promote cancer. From this perspective, this review highlights novel dysregulation, such as ZIP-Up/ZnT-Down, observed in prostate cancer cell lines for ZIP4, ZIP8, ZnT2, ZnT4, ZnT5, etc. Additionally, an in silico analysis of an available microarray from mouse models of prostate cancer (Nkx3.1;Pten) predicts similar dysregulation pattern for ZIP4, ZIP8, and ZnT2, which appear in early stages of prostate cancer progression. Furthermore, similar dysregulation patterns are supported by an in silico analysis of RNA-seq data from human cancer tumors available in cBioPortal. We discuss how these dysregulations of zinc transporters could impact zinc supplementation trials, particularly focusing on how the ZIP-Up/ZnT-Down dysregulation through various mechanisms might promote prostate cancer progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Acevedo
- Laboratorio Estrés Celular y Enfermedades Crónicas No Transmisibles, Departamento de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Católica del Norte, Larrondo 1281, Coquimbo 1781421, Chile
| | - María Fernanda Segovia
- Laboratorio Estrés Celular y Enfermedades Crónicas No Transmisibles, Departamento de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Católica del Norte, Larrondo 1281, Coquimbo 1781421, Chile
| | - Erwin de la Fuente-Ortega
- Laboratorio Estrés Celular y Enfermedades Crónicas No Transmisibles, Departamento de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Católica del Norte, Larrondo 1281, Coquimbo 1781421, Chile
- Centro de Investigación y Desarrollo Tecnológico en Algas y Otros Recursos Biológicos (CIDTA), Facultad de Ciencias del Mar, Universidad Católica del Norte, Coquimbo 1781421, Chile
- Núcleo de Investigación en Prevención y Tratamiento de Enfermedades Crónicas no Transmisibles (NiPTEC), Universidad Católica del Norte, Coquimbo 1781421, Chile
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3
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Yu R, Hang Y, Tsai HI, Wang D, Zhu H. Iron metabolism: backfire of cancer cell stemness and therapeutic modalities. Cancer Cell Int 2024; 24:157. [PMID: 38704599 PMCID: PMC11070091 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-024-03329-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs), with their ability of self-renewal, unlimited proliferation, and multi-directional differentiation, contribute to tumorigenesis, metastasis, recurrence, and resistance to conventional therapy and immunotherapy. Eliminating CSCs has long been thought to prevent tumorigenesis. Although known to negatively impact tumor prognosis, research revealed the unexpected role of iron metabolism as a key regulator of CSCs. This review explores recent advances in iron metabolism in CSCs, conventional cancer therapies targeting iron biochemistry, therapeutic resistance in these cells, and potential treatment options that could overcome them. These findings provide important insights into therapeutic modalities against intractable cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Yu
- Institute of Medical Imaging and Artificial Intelligence, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212001, China
| | - Yinhui Hang
- Department of Medical Imaging, The Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212001, China
| | - Hsiang-I Tsai
- Institute of Medical Imaging and Artificial Intelligence, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212001, China.
- Department of Medical Imaging, The Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212001, China.
| | - Dongqing Wang
- Institute of Medical Imaging and Artificial Intelligence, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212001, China.
- Department of Medical Imaging, The Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212001, China.
| | - Haitao Zhu
- Institute of Medical Imaging and Artificial Intelligence, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212001, China.
- Department of Medical Imaging, The Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212001, China.
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4
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Zhao YC, Wang TJ, Cui J, She LZ, Zhang RF, Zhang CH. The role of SLC39A4 in the prognosis, immune microenvironment, and contribution to malignant behavior in vivo and in vitro of cervical cancer. Transl Oncol 2024; 40:101839. [PMID: 38029507 PMCID: PMC10698533 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2023.101839] [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: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cervical squamous cell carcinoma and endocervical adenocarcinoma (CESC) are becoming more common in younger women. Solute carrier family 39 member 4 (SLC39A4) produces a zinc ion transporter involved in metastasis and invasion of tumors. METHODS The Cancer Genome Atlas RNA-seq data was used to investigate the expression of SLC39A4 and its prognostic potential. The assessment of the effect of SLC39A4 on cell growth and migration in CESC was conducted using MTT, colony formation, and Transwell assays. SLC39A4 was studied in vivo using a xenograft mouse model, and its functional involvement in oncogenesis was investigated by identifying the associated differentially expressed genes (DEGs). We evaluated the relationships among SLC39A4 levels, chemosensitivity, radiosensitivity and immune infiltration. RESULTS SLC39A4 was upregulated in CESC samples, and individuals with greater SLC39A4 mRNA expression had shorter overall survival. SLC39A4 has been identified to be a regulator of tumor cell metastasis and proliferation in vivo and in vitro, with an area under the curve of 0.874 for diagnosing CESC. In total, 948 DEGs were discovered to be enriched in key CESC progression-related signaling pathways. Additionally, intratumoral immune checkpoint and infiltration activity were associated with SLC39A4 expression. High SLC39A4 expression exhibited poor chemosensitivity and radiosensitivity profiles. CONCLUSION In conclusion, SLC39A4 is a key regulator of CESC development, prognosis, and the composition of the tumor immune microenvironment. SLC39A4 could be used as a prognostic or diagnostic screening tool and as a potential target for CESC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue-Chen Zhao
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130041, PR China
| | - Tie-Jun Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130041, PR China
| | - Jie Cui
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130041, PR China
| | - Li-Zhen She
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130041, PR China
| | - Rui-Feng Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130041, PR China; Department of Internal Medicin-1, Jilin Cancer Hospital, Changchun, Jilin 130103, PR China
| | - Chao-He Zhang
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130041, PR China.
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Kori M, Demirtas TY, Comertpay B, Arga KY, Sinha R, Gov E. A 19-Gene Signature of Serous Ovarian Cancer Identified by Machine Learning and Systems Biology: Prospects for Diagnostics and Personalized Medicine. OMICS : A JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE BIOLOGY 2024; 28:90-101. [PMID: 38320250 DOI: 10.1089/omi.2023.0273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Ovarian cancer is a major cause of cancer deaths among women. Early diagnosis and precision/personalized medicine are essential to reduce mortality and morbidity of ovarian cancer, as with new molecular targets to accelerate drug discovery. We report here an integrated systems biology and machine learning (ML) approach based on the differential coexpression analysis to identify candidate systems biomarkers (i.e., gene modules) for serous ovarian cancer. Accordingly, four independent transcriptome datasets were statistically analyzed independently and common differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified. Using these DEGs, coexpressed gene pairs were unraveled. Subsequently, differential coexpression networks between the coexpressed gene pairs were reconstructed so as to identify the differentially coexpressed gene modules. Based on the established criteria, "SOV-module" was identified as being significant, consisting of 19 genes. Using independent datasets, the diagnostic capacity of the SOV-module was evaluated using principal component analysis (PCA) and ML techniques. PCA showed a sensitivity and specificity of 96.7% and 100%, respectively, and ML analysis showed an accuracy of up to 100% in distinguishing phenotypes in the present study sample. The prognostic capacity of the SOV-module was evaluated using survival and ML analyses. We found that the SOV-module's performance for prognostics was significant (p-value = 1.36 × 10-4) with an accuracy of 63% in discriminating between survival and death using ML techniques. In summary, the reported genomic systems biomarker candidate offers promise for personalized medicine in diagnosis and prognosis of serous ovarian cancer and warrants further experimental and translational clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Medi Kori
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University, İstanbul, Türkiye
| | - Talip Yasir Demirtas
- Institute of Human Genetics, University of Bonn, School of Medicine and University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Betul Comertpay
- Department of Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering, Adana Alparslan Türkeş Science and Technology University, Adana, Türkiye
| | - Kazim Yalcin Arga
- Department of Bioengineering, Marmara University, İstanbul, Türkiye
- Genetic and Metabolic Diseases Research and Investigation Center, Marmara University, İstanbul, Türkiye
| | - Raghu Sinha
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Esra Gov
- Department of Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering, Adana Alparslan Türkeş Science and Technology University, Adana, Türkiye
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Chen B, Yu P, Chan WN, Xie F, Zhang Y, Liang L, Leung KT, Lo KW, Yu J, Tse GMK, Kang W, To KF. Cellular zinc metabolism and zinc signaling: from biological functions to diseases and therapeutic targets. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:6. [PMID: 38169461 PMCID: PMC10761908 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01679-y] [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: 05/27/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Zinc metabolism at the cellular level is critical for many biological processes in the body. A key observation is the disruption of cellular homeostasis, often coinciding with disease progression. As an essential factor in maintaining cellular equilibrium, cellular zinc has been increasingly spotlighted in the context of disease development. Extensive research suggests zinc's involvement in promoting malignancy and invasion in cancer cells, despite its low tissue concentration. This has led to a growing body of literature investigating zinc's cellular metabolism, particularly the functions of zinc transporters and storage mechanisms during cancer progression. Zinc transportation is under the control of two major transporter families: SLC30 (ZnT) for the excretion of zinc and SLC39 (ZIP) for the zinc intake. Additionally, the storage of this essential element is predominantly mediated by metallothioneins (MTs). This review consolidates knowledge on the critical functions of cellular zinc signaling and underscores potential molecular pathways linking zinc metabolism to disease progression, with a special focus on cancer. We also compile a summary of clinical trials involving zinc ions. Given the main localization of zinc transporters at the cell membrane, the potential for targeted therapies, including small molecules and monoclonal antibodies, offers promising avenues for future exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bonan Chen
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Institute of Digestive Disease, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- CUHK-Shenzhen Research Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China
| | - Peiyao Yu
- Department of Pathology, Nanfang Hospital and Basic Medical College, Southern Medical University, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Tumor Pathology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wai Nok Chan
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Institute of Digestive Disease, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- CUHK-Shenzhen Research Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China
| | - Fuda Xie
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Institute of Digestive Disease, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- CUHK-Shenzhen Research Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yigan Zhang
- Institute of Biomedical Research, Taihe Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China
| | - Li Liang
- Department of Pathology, Nanfang Hospital and Basic Medical College, Southern Medical University, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Tumor Pathology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kam Tong Leung
- Department of Pediatrics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Kwok Wai Lo
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jun Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Institute of Digestive Disease, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Gary M K Tse
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Wei Kang
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Institute of Digestive Disease, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
- CUHK-Shenzhen Research Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China.
| | - Ka Fai To
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Institute of Digestive Disease, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
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7
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Bendellaa M, Lelièvre P, Coll JL, Sancey L, Deniaud A, Busser B. Roles of zinc in cancers: From altered metabolism to therapeutic applications. Int J Cancer 2024; 154:7-20. [PMID: 37610131 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.34679] [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: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
Zinc (Zn) is a crucial trace element involved in various cellular processes, including oxidative stress, apoptosis and immune response, contributing to cellular homeostasis. Dysregulation of Zn homeostasis occurs in certain cancers. This review discusses the role of Zn in cancer and its associated components, such as Zn-related proteins, their potential as biomarkers and the use of Zn-based strategies for tumor treatment. ZIP and ZnT proteins regulate Zn metabolism under normal conditions, but their expression is aberrant in cancer. These Zn proteins can serve as prognostic or diagnostic biomarkers, aiding in early cancer detection and disease monitoring. Moreover, targeting Zn and its pathways offers potential therapeutic approaches for cancer treatment. Modulating Zn biodistribution within cells using metal-binding agents allows for the control of downstream signaling pathways. Direct utilization of zinc as a therapeutic agent, including Zn supplementation or Zn oxide nanoparticle administration, holds promise for improving the prognosis of cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Bendellaa
- Grenoble Alpes University, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR5309, Grenoble, France
| | - Pierre Lelièvre
- Grenoble Alpes University, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR5309, Grenoble, France
| | - Jean-Luc Coll
- Grenoble Alpes University, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR5309, Grenoble, France
| | - Lucie Sancey
- Grenoble Alpes University, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR5309, Grenoble, France
| | - Aurélien Deniaud
- Grenoble Alpes University, CNRS, CEA, IRIG, Laboratoire de Chimie et Biologie des Métaux, Grenoble, France
| | - Benoit Busser
- Grenoble Alpes University, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR5309, Grenoble, France
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Grenoble Alpes University Hospital, Grenoble, France
- Institut Universitaire de France (IUF), Paris, France
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8
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Wang WD, Guo YY, Yang ZL, Su GL, Sun ZJ. Sniping Cancer Stem Cells with Nanomaterials. ACS NANO 2023; 17:23262-23298. [PMID: 38010076 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c07828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) drive tumor initiation, progression, and therapeutic resistance due to their self-renewal and differentiation capabilities. Despite encouraging progress in cancer treatment, conventional approaches often fail to eliminate CSCs, necessitating the development of precise targeted strategies. Recent advances in materials science and nanotechnology have enabled promising CSC-targeted approaches, harnessing the power of tailoring nanomaterials in diverse therapeutic applications. This review provides an update on the current landscape of nanobased precision targeting approaches against CSCs. We elucidate the nuanced application of organic, inorganic, and bioinspired nanomaterials across a spectrum of therapeutic paradigms, encompassing targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and multimodal synergistic therapies. By examining the accomplishments and challenges in this potential field, we aim to inform future efforts to advance nanomaterial-based therapies toward more effective "sniping" of CSCs and tumor clearance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Da Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
| | - Yan-Yu Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
| | - Zhong-Lu Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
| | - Guang-Liang Su
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
| | - Zhi-Jun Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head Neck Oncology, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
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Lučić I, Kurtović M, Mlinarić M, Piteša N, Čipak Gašparović A, Sabol M, Milković L. Deciphering Common Traits of Breast and Ovarian Cancer Stem Cells and Possible Therapeutic Approaches. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10683. [PMID: 37445860 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241310683] [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: 05/06/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) and ovarian cancer (OC) are among the most common and deadly cancers affecting women worldwide. Both are complex diseases with marked heterogeneity. Despite the induction of screening programs that increase the frequency of earlier diagnosis of BC, at a stage when the cancer is more likely to respond to therapy, which does not exist for OC, more than 50% of both cancers are diagnosed at an advanced stage. Initial therapy can put the cancer into remission. However, recurrences occur frequently in both BC and OC, which are highly cancer-subtype dependent. Therapy resistance is mainly attributed to a rare subpopulation of cells, named cancer stem cells (CSC) or tumor-initiating cells, as they are capable of self-renewal, tumor initiation, and regrowth of tumor bulk. In this review, we will discuss the distinctive markers and signaling pathways that characterize CSC, their interactions with the tumor microenvironment, and the strategies they employ to evade immune surveillance. Our focus will be on identifying the common features of breast cancer stem cells (BCSC) and ovarian cancer stem cells (OCSC) and suggesting potential therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan Lučić
- Laboratory for Oxidative Stress, Division of Molecular Medicine, Ruđer Bošković Institute, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Matea Kurtović
- Laboratory for Hereditary Cancer, Division of Molecular Medicine, Ruđer Bošković Institute, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Monika Mlinarić
- Laboratory for Oxidative Stress, Division of Molecular Medicine, Ruđer Bošković Institute, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Nikolina Piteša
- Laboratory for Hereditary Cancer, Division of Molecular Medicine, Ruđer Bošković Institute, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ana Čipak Gašparović
- Laboratory for Oxidative Stress, Division of Molecular Medicine, Ruđer Bošković Institute, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Maja Sabol
- Laboratory for Hereditary Cancer, Division of Molecular Medicine, Ruđer Bošković Institute, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Lidija Milković
- Laboratory for Oxidative Stress, Division of Molecular Medicine, Ruđer Bošković Institute, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
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10
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Zhang T, Zhang Y, Sui D, Hu J. High-resolution structure of a mercury cross-linked ZIP metal transporter reveals delicate motions and metal relay for regulated zinc transport. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.04.20.537755. [PMID: 37131590 PMCID: PMC10153219 DOI: 10.1101/2023.04.20.537755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Zrt-/Irt-like protein (ZIP) divalent metal transporters play a central role in maintaining trace element homeostasis. The prototypical ZIP from Bordetella bronchiseptica (BbZIP) is an elevator-type transporter, but the dynamic motions and detailed transport mechanism remain to be elucidated. Here, we report a high-resolution crystal structure of a mercury-crosslinked BbZIP variant at 1.95 Å, revealing an upward rotation of the transport domain in the new inward-facing conformation and a water-filled metal release channel that is divided into two parallel pathways by the previously disordered cytoplasmic loop. Mutagenesis and transport assays indicated that the newly identified high-affinity metal binding site in the primary pathway acts as a "metal sink" to reduce the transport rate. The discovery of a hinge motion around an extracellular axis allowed us to propose a sequential hinge-elevator-hinge movement of the transport domain to achieve alternating access. These findings provide key insights into the transport mechanisms and activity regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuo Zhang
- College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100083, China
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Michigan State University, MI 48824
| | - Yao Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Michigan State University, MI 48824
| | - Dexin Sui
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Michigan State University, MI 48824
| | - Jian Hu
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Michigan State University, MI 48824
- Department of Chemistry, Michigan State University, MI 48824
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11
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Immunotherapeutic Approaches in Ovarian Cancer. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2023; 45:1233-1249. [PMID: 36826026 PMCID: PMC9955550 DOI: 10.3390/cimb45020081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer (OC) is gynecological cancer, and diagnosis and treatment are continuously advancing. Next-generation sequencing (NGS)-based diagnoses have emerged as novel methods for identifying molecules and pathways in cancer research. The NGS-based applications have expanded in OC research for early detection and identification of aberrant genes and dysregulation pathways, demonstrating comprehensive views of the entire transcriptome, such as fusion genes, genetic mutations, and gene expression profiling. Coinciding with advances in NGS-based diagnosis, treatment strategies for OC, such as molecular targeted therapy and immunotherapy, have also advanced. Immunotherapy is effective against many other cancers, and its efficacy against OC has also been demonstrated at the clinical phase. In this review, we describe several NGS-based applications for therapeutic targets of OC, and introduce current immunotherapeutic strategies, including vaccines, checkpoint inhibitors, and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell transplantation, for effective diagnosis and treatment of OC.
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Vogel-González M, Musa-Afaneh D, Rivera Gil P, Vicente R. Zinc Favors Triple-Negative Breast Cancer's Microenvironment Modulation and Cell Plasticity. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22179188. [PMID: 34502091 PMCID: PMC8431059 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22179188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Revised: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) tends to metastasize to the brain, a step that worsens the patient’s prognosis. The specific hallmarks that determine successful metastasis are motility and invasion, microenvironment modulation, plasticity, and colonization. Zinc, an essential trace element, has been shown to be involved in all of these processes. In this work, we focus our attention on the potential role of zinc during TNBC metastasis. We used MDA-MB-BrM2 (BrM2) cells, a brain metastasis model derived from the parental TNBC cell line MDA-MB-231. Our studies show that BrM2 cells had double the zinc content of MDA-MB-231 cells. Moreover, exploring different metastatic hallmarks, we found that the zinc concentration is especially important in the microenvironment modulation of brain metastatic cells, enhancing the expression of SerpinB2. Furthermore, we show that zinc promotes the tumorigenic capacity of breast cancer stem cells. In addition, by causing a disturbance in MDA-MB-231 zinc homeostasis by overexpressing the Zip4 transporter, we were able to increase tumorigenicity. Nevertheless, this strategy did not completely recapitulate the BrM2 metastatic phenotype. Altogether, our work suggests that zinc plays an important role in the transformative steps that tumoral cells take to acquire tumorigenic potential and niche specificity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Vogel-González
- Laboratory of Molecular Physiology, Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, 08003 Barcelona, Spain; (M.V.-G.); (D.M.-A.)
| | - Dunia Musa-Afaneh
- Laboratory of Molecular Physiology, Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, 08003 Barcelona, Spain; (M.V.-G.); (D.M.-A.)
| | - Pilar Rivera Gil
- Integrative Biomedical Materials and Nanomedicine Lab, Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Pompeu Fabra University, 08003 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - Rubén Vicente
- Laboratory of Molecular Physiology, Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, 08003 Barcelona, Spain; (M.V.-G.); (D.M.-A.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-933-160-854
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Fan Q, Li L, Wang TL, Emerson RE, Xu Y. A Novel ZIP4-HDAC4-VEGFA Axis in High-Grade Serous Ovarian Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13153821. [PMID: 34359722 PMCID: PMC8345154 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13153821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Despite tremendous research efforts, epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) remains one of the most difficult cancers to detect early and treat successfully for >5-year survival. We have recently shown that ZIP4, a zinc transporter, is a novel cancer stem cell (CSC) marker and a therapeutic target for EOC. The current work focuses on developing new strategies to target ZIP4 and inhibit its CSC activities in EOC. We found that cells expressing high levels of ZIP4 were supersensitive to a group of inhibitors called HDACis. One of the major targets of these inhibitors is a protein called HDAC4. We revealed the new molecular bases for the ZIP4-HDAC4 axis and tested the efficacies of targeting this axis in the lab and in mouse models. Our study provides a new mechanistic-based targeting strategy for EOC. Abstract We have recently identified ZIP4 as a novel cancer stem cell (CSC) marker in high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC). While it converts drug-resistance to cisplatin (CDDP), we unexpectedly found that ZIP4 induced sensitization of HGSOC cells to histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACis). Mechanistically, ZIP4 selectively upregulated HDAC IIa HDACs, with little or no effect on HDACs in other classes. HDAC4 knockdown (KD) and LMK-235 inhibited spheroid formation in vitro and tumorigenesis in vivo, with hypoxia inducible factor-1 alpha (HIF1α) and endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) as functional downstream mediators of HDAC4. Moreover, we found that ZIP4, HDAC4, and HIF1α were involved in regulating secreted VEGFA in HGSOC cells. Furthermore, we tested our hypothesis that co-targeting CSC via the ZIP4-HDAC4 axis and non-CSC using CDDP is necessary and highly effective by comparing the effects of ZIP4-knockout/KD, HDAC4-KD, and HDACis, in the presence or absence of CDDP on tumorigenesis in mouse models. Our results showed that the co-targeting strategy was highly effective. Finally, data from human HGSOC tissues showed that ZIP4 and HDAC4 were upregulated in a subset of recurrent tumors, justifying the clinical relevance of the study. In summary, our study provides a new mechanistic-based targeting strategy for HGSOC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qipeng Fan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Indiana University School of Medicine, 950 W. Walnut St. R2-E380, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA;
| | - Lihong Li
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, 600 North Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD 21287, USA;
| | - Tian-Li Wang
- Department of Gynecology, Oncology, and Pathology, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, 1550 Orleans Street, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA;
| | - Robert E. Emerson
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indiana University Health Pathology Laboratory, 350 W. 11th Street, Room 4010, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA;
| | - Yan Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Indiana University School of Medicine, 950 W. Walnut St. R2-E380, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-(317)-274-3972
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Cheng X, Wang J, Liu C, Jiang T, Yang N, Liu D, Zhao H, Xu Z. Zinc transporter SLC39A13/ZIP13 facilitates the metastasis of human ovarian cancer cells via activating Src/FAK signaling pathway. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2021; 40:199. [PMID: 34154618 PMCID: PMC8215834 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-021-01999-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Zinc transporters have been found to be associated with the pathogenesis of numerous human diseases including cancer. As the most lethal gynecologic malignancy, ovarian cancer is characterized by rapid progression and widespread metastases. However, the function and underlying mechanism of zinc transporters in ovarian cancer metastasis remain unclear. METHODS The relationship between zinc transporter gene expressions and clinical outcomes of ovarian cancer was assessed with the online database Kaplan-Meier plotter ( http://kmplot.com/analysis/ ). Immunohistochemistry was performed to investigate the prognostic importance of ZIP13. The expression of ZIP13 in ovarian cancer cell lines was depleted to explore its effect on proliferation, adhesion, migration, and invasion both in vitro and in vivo assays. RNA-Seq, quantitative RT-PCR, and western blot analysis were performed to explore ZIP13-regulated downstream target genes. RESULTS The expressions of several zinc transporters were highly associated the clinical outcomes of ovarian cancer patients. Among them, high ZIP13 expression was an independent prognostic factor for poor survival in patients with ovarian cancer. ZIP13 knockout suppressed the malignant phenotypes of ovarian cancer cells both in vitro and in vivo. Further investigation revealed that ZIP13 regulated intracellular zinc distribution and then affected the expressions of genes involved in extracellular matrix organization and cytokine-mediated signaling pathway. This led to the activation of Src/FAK pathway with increased expressions of pro-metastatic genes but decreased expressions of tumor suppressor genes. CONCLUSIONS ZIP13 is shown to be a novel driver of metastatic progression by modulating the Src/FAK signaling pathway, which may serve as a promising biomarker for prognostic evaluation and targeted therapy in ovarian cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinxin Cheng
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Tianjin Medical University, 300070, Tianjin, China
| | - Jie Wang
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Tianjin Medical University, 300070, Tianjin, China
| | - Chunling Liu
- Department of Pathology, North China University of Science and Technology Affiliated Tangshan People's Hospital, 063000, Tangshan, China
| | - Tianduo Jiang
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Tianjin Medical University, 300070, Tianjin, China
| | - Ningzhi Yang
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Tianjin Medical University, 300070, Tianjin, China
| | - Dan Liu
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Tianjin Medical University, 300070, Tianjin, China
| | - Huanhuan Zhao
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Tianjin Medical University, 300070, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhelong Xu
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Tianjin Medical University, 300070, Tianjin, China.
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Xiu M, Wang Y, Li B, Wang X, Xiao F, Chen S, Zhang L, Zhou B, Hua F. The Role of Notch3 Signaling in Cancer Stemness and Chemoresistance: Molecular Mechanisms and Targeting Strategies. Front Mol Biosci 2021; 8:694141. [PMID: 34195229 PMCID: PMC8237348 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.694141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Aberrant Notch signaling profoundly affects cancer progression. Especially the Notch3 receptor was found to be dysregulated in cancer, where its expression is correlated with worse clinicopathological features and poor prognosis. The activation of Notch3 signaling is closely related to the activation of cancer stem cells (CSCs), a small subpopulation in cancer that is responsible for cancer progression. In addition, Notch3 signaling also contributes to tumor chemoresistance against several drugs, including doxorubicin, platinum, taxane, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)–tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) and gemcitabine, through complex mechanisms. In this review, we mainly focus on discussing the molecular mechanisms by which Notch3 modulates cancer stemness and chemoresistance, as well as other cancer behaviors including metastasis and angiogenesis. What’s more, we propose potential treatment strategies to block Notch3 signaling, such as non-coding RNAs, antibodies and antibody-drug conjugates, providing a comprehensive reference for research on precise targeted cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengxi Xiu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China.,Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China
| | - Yongbo Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China.,Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China
| | - Baoli Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China.,Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China
| | - Xifeng Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Fan Xiao
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China.,Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China
| | - Shoulin Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China.,Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China
| | - Lieliang Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China.,Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China
| | - Bin Zhou
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China.,Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China
| | - Fuzhou Hua
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China.,Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China
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