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Rincon-Torroella J, Dal Molin M, Mog B, Han G, Watson E, Wyhs N, Ishiyama S, Ahmedna T, Minn I, Azad NS, Bettegowda C, Papadopoulos N, Kinzler KW, Zhou S, Vogelstein B, Gabrielson K, Sur S. ME3BP-7 is a targeted cytotoxic agent that rapidly kills pancreatic cancer cells expressing high levels of monocarboxylate transporter MCT1. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.07.23.550207. [PMID: 37546808 PMCID: PMC10401962 DOI: 10.1101/2023.07.23.550207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
Nearly 30% of Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC)s exhibit a marked overexpression of Monocarboxylate Transporter 1 (MCT1) offering a unique opportunity for therapy. However, biochemical inhibitors of MCT1 have proven unsuccessful in clinical trials. In this study we present an alternative approach using 3-Bromopyruvate (3BP) to target MCT1 overexpressing PDACs. 3BP is a cytotoxic agent that is known to be transported into cells via MCT1, but its clinical usefulness has been hampered by difficulties in delivering the drug systemically. We describe here a novel microencapsulated formulation of 3BP (ME3BP-7), that is effective against a variety of PDAC cells in vitro and remains stable in serum. Furthermore, systemically administered ME3BP-7 significantly reduces pancreatic cancer growth and metastatic spread in multiple orthotopic models of pancreatic cancer with manageable toxicity. ME3BP-7 is, therefore, a prototype of a promising new drug, in which the targeting moiety and the cytotoxic moiety are both contained within the same single small molecule. One Sentence Summary ME3BP-7 is a novel formulation of 3BP that resists serum degradation and rapidly kills pancreatic cancer cells expressing high levels of MCT1 with tolerable toxicity in mice.
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Kubelt C, Gilles L, Hellmold D, Blumenbecker T, Peschke E, Will O, Ahmeti H, Hövener JB, Jansen O, Lucius R, Synowitz M, Held-Feindt J. Temporal and regional expression changes and co-staining patterns of metabolic and stemness-related markers during glioblastoma progression. Eur J Neurosci 2024; 60:3572-3596. [PMID: 38708527 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.16357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
Glioblastomas (GBMs) are characterized by high heterogeneity, involving diverse cell types, including those with stem-like features contributing to GBM's malignancy. Moreover, metabolic alterations promote growth and therapeutic resistance of GBM. Depending on the metabolic state, antimetabolic treatments could be an effective strategy. Against this background, we investigated temporal and regional expression changes and co-staining patterns of selected metabolic markers [pyruvate kinase muscle isozyme 1/2 (PKM1/2), glucose transporter 1 (GLUT1), monocarboxylate transporter 1/4 (MCT1/4)] in a rodent model and patient-derived samples of GBM. To understand the cellular sources of marker expression, we also examined the connection of metabolic markers to markers related to stemness [Nestin, Krüppel-like factor 4 (KLF4)] in a regional and temporal context. Rat tumour biopsies revealed a temporally increasing expression of GLUT1, higher expression of MCT1/4, Nestin and KLF4, and lower expression of PKM1 compared to the contralateral hemisphere. Patient-derived tumours showed a higher expression of PKM2 and Nestin in the tumour centre vs. edge. Whereas rare co-staining of GLUT1/Nestin was found in tumour biopsies, PKM1/2 and MCT1/4 showed a more distinct co-staining with Nestin in rats and humans. KLF4 was mainly co-stained with GLUT1, MCT1 and PKM1/2 in rat and human tumours. All metabolic markers yielded individual co-staining patterns among themselves. Co-staining mainly occurred later in tumour progression and was more pronounced in tumour centres. Also, positive correlations were found amongst markers that showed co-staining. Our results highlight a link between metabolic alterations and stemness in GBM progression, with complex distinctions depending on studied markers, time points and regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolin Kubelt
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany
| | - Lea Gilles
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany
| | - Dana Hellmold
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany
| | - Tjorven Blumenbecker
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany
| | - Eva Peschke
- Section Biomedical Imaging, Molecular Imaging North Competence Center (MOIN CC), Department of Radiology and Neuroradiology, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Olga Will
- Section Biomedical Imaging, Molecular Imaging North Competence Center (MOIN CC), Department of Radiology and Neuroradiology, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Hajrullah Ahmeti
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany
| | - Jan-Bernd Hövener
- Section Biomedical Imaging, Molecular Imaging North Competence Center (MOIN CC), Department of Radiology and Neuroradiology, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Olav Jansen
- Department of Radiology and Neuroradiology, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany
| | - Ralph Lucius
- Institute of Anatomy, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Michael Synowitz
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany
| | - Janka Held-Feindt
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany
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Tang J, Liu Y, Wang Y, Zhang Z, Nie J, Wang X, Ai S, Li J, Gao Y, Li C, Cheng C, Su S, Chen S, Zhang P, Lu R. Deciphering metabolic heterogeneity in retinoblastoma unravels the role of monocarboxylate transporter 1 in tumor progression. Biomark Res 2024; 12:48. [PMID: 38730450 PMCID: PMC11088057 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-024-00596-8] [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: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tumors exhibit metabolic heterogeneity, influencing cancer progression. However, understanding metabolic diversity in retinoblastoma (RB), the primary intraocular malignancy in children, remains limited. METHODS The metabolic landscape of RB was constructed based on single-cell transcriptomic sequencing from 11 RB and 5 retina samples. Various analyses were conducted, including assessing overall metabolic activity, metabolic heterogeneity, and the correlation between hypoxia and metabolic pathways. Additionally, the expression pattern of the monocarboxylate transporter (MCT) family in different cell clusters was examined. Validation assays of MCT1 expression and function in RB cell lines were performed. The therapeutic potential of targeting MCT1 was evaluated using an orthotopic xenograft model. A cohort of 47 RB patients was analyzed to evaluate the relationship between MCT1 expression and tumor invasion. RESULTS Distinct metabolic patterns in RB cells, notably increased glycolysis, were identified. This metabolic heterogeneity correlated closely with hypoxia. MCT1 emerged as the primary monocarboxylate transporter in RB cells. Disrupting MCT1 altered cell viability and energy metabolism. In vivo studies using the MCT1 inhibitor AZD3965 effectively suppressed RB tumor growth. Additionally, a correlation between MCT1 expression and optic nerve invasion in RB samples suggested prognostic implications. CONCLUSIONS This study enhances our understanding of RB metabolic characteristics at the single-cell level, highlighting the significance of MCT1 in RB pathogenesis. Targeting MCT1 holds promise as a therapeutic strategy for combating RB, with potential prognostic implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junjie Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Yaoming Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Yinghao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Zhihui Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Jiahe Nie
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Xinyue Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Siming Ai
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Jinmiao Li
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Yang Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Cheng Li
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Chao Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Shicai Su
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Shuxia Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Ping Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Rong Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China.
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Zhao J, Ma X, Gao P, Han X, Zhao P, Xie F, Liu M. Advancing glioblastoma treatment by targeting metabolism. Neoplasia 2024; 51:100985. [PMID: 38479191 PMCID: PMC10950892 DOI: 10.1016/j.neo.2024.100985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/24/2024]
Abstract
Alterations in cellular metabolism are important hallmarks of glioblastoma(GBM). Metabolic reprogramming is a critical feature as it meets the higher nutritional demand of tumor cells, including proliferation, growth, and survival. Many genes, proteins, and metabolites associated with GBM metabolism reprogramming have been found to be aberrantly expressed, which may provide potential targets for cancer treatment. Therefore, it is becoming increasingly important to explore the role of internal and external factors in metabolic regulation in order to identify more precise therapeutic targets and diagnostic markers for GBM. In this review, we define the metabolic characteristics of GBM, investigate metabolic specificities such as targetable vulnerabilities and therapeutic resistance, as well as present current efforts to target GBM metabolism to improve the standard of care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinyi Zhao
- College of Chemistry and Life Science, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing, China; Beijing Molecular Hydrogen Research Center, Beijing, China
| | - Xuemei Ma
- College of Chemistry and Life Science, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing, China; Beijing Molecular Hydrogen Research Center, Beijing, China
| | - Peixian Gao
- College of Chemistry and Life Science, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing, China; Beijing Molecular Hydrogen Research Center, Beijing, China
| | - Xueqi Han
- College of Chemistry and Life Science, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing, China; Beijing Molecular Hydrogen Research Center, Beijing, China
| | - Pengxiang Zhao
- College of Chemistry and Life Science, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing, China; Beijing Molecular Hydrogen Research Center, Beijing, China
| | - Fei Xie
- College of Chemistry and Life Science, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing, China; Beijing Molecular Hydrogen Research Center, Beijing, China
| | - Mengyu Liu
- College of Chemistry and Life Science, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing, China; Beijing Molecular Hydrogen Research Center, Beijing, China.
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Trejo-Solis C, Silva-Adaya D, Serrano-García N, Magaña-Maldonado R, Jimenez-Farfan D, Ferreira-Guerrero E, Cruz-Salgado A, Castillo-Rodriguez RA. Role of Glycolytic and Glutamine Metabolism Reprogramming on the Proliferation, Invasion, and Apoptosis Resistance through Modulation of Signaling Pathways in Glioblastoma. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:17633. [PMID: 38139462 PMCID: PMC10744281 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242417633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioma cells exhibit genetic and metabolic alterations that affect the deregulation of several cellular signal transduction pathways, including those related to glucose metabolism. Moreover, oncogenic signaling pathways induce the expression of metabolic genes, increasing the metabolic enzyme activities and thus the critical biosynthetic pathways to generate nucleotides, amino acids, and fatty acids, which provide energy and metabolic intermediates that are essential to accomplish the biosynthetic needs of glioma cells. In this review, we aim to explore how dysregulated metabolic enzymes and their metabolites from primary metabolism pathways in glioblastoma (GBM) such as glycolysis and glutaminolysis modulate anabolic and catabolic metabolic pathways as well as pro-oncogenic signaling and contribute to the formation, survival, growth, and malignancy of glioma cells. Also, we discuss promising therapeutic strategies by targeting the key players in metabolic regulation. Therefore, the knowledge of metabolic reprogramming is necessary to fully understand the biology of malignant gliomas to improve patient survival significantly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Trejo-Solis
- Laboratorio Experimental de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas, Laboratorio de Reprogramación Celular, Departamento de Neurofisiología, Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía, Ciudad de Mexico 14269, Mexico; (D.S.-A.); (N.S.-G.); (R.M.-M.)
| | - Daniela Silva-Adaya
- Laboratorio Experimental de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas, Laboratorio de Reprogramación Celular, Departamento de Neurofisiología, Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía, Ciudad de Mexico 14269, Mexico; (D.S.-A.); (N.S.-G.); (R.M.-M.)
| | - Norma Serrano-García
- Laboratorio Experimental de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas, Laboratorio de Reprogramación Celular, Departamento de Neurofisiología, Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía, Ciudad de Mexico 14269, Mexico; (D.S.-A.); (N.S.-G.); (R.M.-M.)
| | - Roxana Magaña-Maldonado
- Laboratorio Experimental de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas, Laboratorio de Reprogramación Celular, Departamento de Neurofisiología, Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía, Ciudad de Mexico 14269, Mexico; (D.S.-A.); (N.S.-G.); (R.M.-M.)
| | - Dolores Jimenez-Farfan
- Laboratorio de Inmunología, División de Estudios de Posgrado e Investigación, Facultad de Odontología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de Mexico 04510, Mexico;
| | - Elizabeth Ferreira-Guerrero
- Centro de Investigación Sobre Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública, Cuernavaca 62100, Mexico; (E.F.-G.); (A.C.-S.)
| | - Arturo Cruz-Salgado
- Centro de Investigación Sobre Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública, Cuernavaca 62100, Mexico; (E.F.-G.); (A.C.-S.)
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Cunha A, Silva PMA, Sarmento B, Queirós O. Targeting Glucose Metabolism in Cancer Cells as an Approach to Overcoming Drug Resistance. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2610. [PMID: 38004589 PMCID: PMC10675572 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15112610] [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: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The "Warburg effect" consists of a metabolic shift in energy production from oxidative phosphorylation to glycolysis. The continuous activation of glycolysis in cancer cells causes rapid energy production and an increase in lactate, leading to the acidification of the tumour microenvironment, chemo- and radioresistance, as well as poor patient survival. Nevertheless, the mitochondrial metabolism can be also involved in aggressive cancer characteristics. The metabolic differences between cancer and normal tissues can be considered the Achilles heel of cancer, offering a strategy for new therapies. One of the main causes of treatment resistance consists of the increased expression of efflux pumps, and multidrug resistance (MDR) proteins, which are able to export chemotherapeutics out of the cell. Cells expressing MDR proteins require ATP to mediate the efflux of their drug substrates. Thus, inhibition of the main energy-producing pathways in cancer cells, not only induces cancer cell death per se, but also overcomes multidrug resistance. Given that most anticancer drugs do not have the ability to distinguish normal cells from cancer cells, a number of drug delivery systems have been developed. These nanodrug delivery systems provide flexible and effective methods to overcome MDR by facilitating cellular uptake, increasing drug accumulation, reducing drug efflux, improving targeted drug delivery, co-administering synergistic agents, and increasing the half-life of drugs in circulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Cunha
- UNIPRO—Oral Pathology and Rehabilitation Research Unit, University Institute of Health Sciences—CESPU (IUCS—CESPU), 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal; (A.C.); (P.M.A.S.); (B.S.)
| | - Patrícia M. A. Silva
- UNIPRO—Oral Pathology and Rehabilitation Research Unit, University Institute of Health Sciences—CESPU (IUCS—CESPU), 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal; (A.C.); (P.M.A.S.); (B.S.)
- 1H—TOXRUN—One Health Toxicology Research Unit, University Institute of Health Sciences—CESPU (IUCS—CESPU), 3810-193 Gandra, Portugal
| | - Bruno Sarmento
- UNIPRO—Oral Pathology and Rehabilitation Research Unit, University Institute of Health Sciences—CESPU (IUCS—CESPU), 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal; (A.C.); (P.M.A.S.); (B.S.)
- i3S—Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- INEB—Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Odília Queirós
- UNIPRO—Oral Pathology and Rehabilitation Research Unit, University Institute of Health Sciences—CESPU (IUCS—CESPU), 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal; (A.C.); (P.M.A.S.); (B.S.)
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7
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Zhang R, Wang C, Zheng X, Li S, Zhang W, Kang Z, Yin S, Chen J, Chen F, Li W. Warburg effect-related risk scoring model to assess clinical significance and immunity characteristics of glioblastoma. Cancer Med 2023; 12:20639-20654. [PMID: 37864422 PMCID: PMC10660605 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.6627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Glioblastoma (GBM), the most common primary malignant brain tumor, has a poor prognosis, with a median survival of only 14.6 months. The Warburg effect is an abnormal energy metabolism, which is the main cause of the acidic tumor microenvironment. This study explored the role of the Warburg effect in the prognosis and immune microenvironment of GBM. METHODS A prognostic risk score model of Warburg effect-related genes (Warburg effect signature) was constructed using GBM cohort data from The Cancer Genome Atlas. Cox analysis was performed to identify independent prognostic factors. Next, the nomogram was built to predict the prognosis for GBM patients. Finally, the drug sensitivity analysis was utilized to find the drugs that specifically target Warburg effect-related genes. RESULTS Age, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and WRGs score were confirmed as independent prognostic factors for GBM by Cox analyses. The C-index (0.633 for the training set and 0.696 for the validation set) and area under curve (>0.7) indicated that the nomogram exhibited excellent performance. The calibration curve also indicates excellent consistency of the nomogram between predictions and actual observations. In addition, immune microenvironment analysis revealed that patients with high WRGs scores had high immunosuppressive scores, a high abundance of immunosuppressive cells, and a low response to immunotherapy. The Cell Counting Kit-8 assays showed that the drugs targeting Warburg effect-related genes could inhibit the GBM cells growth in vitro. CONCLUSION Our research showed that the Warburg effect is connected with the prognosis and immune microenvironment of GBM. Therefore, targeting Warburg effect-related genes may provide novel therapeutic options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Zhang
- Department of Neuro‐Oncology, Cancer Center, Beijing Tiantan HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Can Wang
- Department of Neuro‐Oncology, Cancer Center, Beijing Tiantan HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Xiaohong Zheng
- Department of Neuro‐Oncology, Cancer Center, Beijing Tiantan HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Shenglan Li
- Department of Neuro‐Oncology, Cancer Center, Beijing Tiantan HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Weichunbai Zhang
- Department of Neuro‐Oncology, Cancer Center, Beijing Tiantan HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Zhuang Kang
- Department of Neuro‐Oncology, Cancer Center, Beijing Tiantan HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Shuo Yin
- Department of Neuro‐Oncology, Cancer Center, Beijing Tiantan HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Jinyi Chen
- Department of Neuro‐Oncology, Cancer Center, Beijing Tiantan HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Feng Chen
- Department of Neuro‐Oncology, Cancer Center, Beijing Tiantan HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Wenbin Li
- Department of Neuro‐Oncology, Cancer Center, Beijing Tiantan HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
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Singh M, Afonso J, Sharma D, Gupta R, Kumar V, Rani R, Baltazar F, Kumar V. Targeting monocarboxylate transporters (MCTs) in cancer: How close are we to the clinics? Semin Cancer Biol 2023; 90:1-14. [PMID: 36706846 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2023.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2022] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
As a result of metabolic reprogramming, cancer cells display high rates of glycolysis, causing an excess production of lactate along with an increase in extracellular acidity. Proton-linked monocarboxylate transporters (MCTs) are crucial in the maintenance of this metabolic phenotype, by mediating the proton-coupled lactate flux across cell membranes, also contributing to cancer cell pH regulation. Among the proteins codified by the SLC16 gene family, MCT1 and MCT4 isoforms are the most explored in cancers, being overexpressed in many cancer types, from solid tumours to haematological malignancies. Similarly to what occurs in particular physiological settings, MCT1 and MCT4 are able to mediate lactate shuttles among cancer cells, and also between cancer and stromal cells in the tumour microenvironment. This form of metabolic cooperation is responsible for important cancer aggressiveness features, such as cell proliferation, survival, angiogenesis, migration, invasion, metastasis, immune tolerance and therapy resistance. The growing understanding of MCT functions and regulation is offering a new path to the design of novel inhibitors that can be foreseen in clinical practices. This review provides an overview of the role of MCT isoforms in cancer and summarizes the recent advances in their pharmacological targeting, highlighting the potential of new potent and selective MCT1 and/or MCT4 inhibitors in cancer therapeutics, and anticipating its inclusion in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mamta Singh
- Amity Institute of Molecular Medicine and Stem Cell Research Amity, University UP, Sector-125, Noida 201313, India
| | - Julieta Afonso
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal; ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Dolly Sharma
- Amity Institute of Molecular Medicine and Stem Cell Research Amity, University UP, Sector-125, Noida 201313, India; Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University UP, Sector-125, Noida, India-201313
| | - Rajat Gupta
- Amity Institute of Molecular Medicine and Stem Cell Research Amity, University UP, Sector-125, Noida 201313, India
| | - Vivek Kumar
- Department of Chemistry, DBG College, Sector-18, Panipat, Haryana, India
| | - Reshma Rani
- Drug Discovery, Jubilant Biosys, Greater Noida 201306, UP, India.
| | - Fátima Baltazar
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal; ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, Guimarães, Portugal.
| | - Vinit Kumar
- Amity Institute of Molecular Medicine and Stem Cell Research Amity, University UP, Sector-125, Noida 201313, India.
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Silva A, Cerqueira MC, Rosa B, Sobral C, Pinto-Ribeiro F, Costa MF, Baltazar F, Afonso J. Prognostic Value of Monocarboxylate Transporter 1 Overexpression in Cancer: A Systematic Review. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065141. [PMID: 36982217 PMCID: PMC10049181 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Energy production by cancer is driven by accelerated glycolysis, independently of oxygen levels, which results in increased lactate production. Lactate is shuttled to and from cancer cells via monocarboxylate transporters (MCTs). MCT1 works both as an importer and an extruder of lactate, being widely studied in recent years and generally associated with a cancer aggressiveness phenotype. The aim of this systematic review was to assess the prognostic value of MCT1 immunoexpression in different malignancies. Study collection was performed by searching nine different databases (PubMed, EMBASE, ScienceDirect, Scopus, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, OVID, TRIP and PsycINFO), using the keywords "cancer", "Monocarboxylate transporter 1", "SLC16A1" and "prognosis". Results showed that MCT1 is an indicator of poor prognosis and decreased survival for cancer patients in sixteen types of malignancies; associations between the transporter's overexpression and larger tumour sizes, higher disease stage/grade and metastasis occurrence were also frequently observed. Yet, MCT1 overexpression correlated with better outcomes in colorectal cancer, pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma and non-small cell lung cancer patients. These results support the applicability of MCT1 as a biomarker of prognosis, although larger cohorts would be necessary to validate the overall role of MCT1 as an outcome predictor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Silva
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus of Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - Mónica Costa Cerqueira
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus of Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - Beatriz Rosa
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus of Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - Catarina Sobral
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus of Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - Filipa Pinto-Ribeiro
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus of Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - Marta Freitas Costa
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus of Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - Fátima Baltazar
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus of Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - Julieta Afonso
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus of Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
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10
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Huang Y. Targeting glycolysis for cancer therapy using drug delivery systems. J Control Release 2023; 353:650-662. [PMID: 36493949 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2022.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
There is close crosstalk between cancer metabolism and immunity. Cancer metabolism regulation is a promising therapeutic target for cancer immunotherapy. Warburg effect is characterized by abnormal glucose metabolism that includes common features of increased glucose uptake and lactate production. The aerobic glycolysis can reprogram the cancer cells and promote the formation of a suppressive immune microenvironment. As a case in point, lactate plays an essential role in tumorigenesis, which is the end product of glycolysis as well as serves as a fuel supporting cancer cell survival. Meanwhile, it is also an important immune regulator that drives immunosuppression in tumors. Immunometabolic therapy is to intervene tumor metabolism and regulate the related metabolites that participate in the innate and acquired immunity, thereby reinstalling the immune balance and eliciting anticancer immune responses. In this contribution to the Orations - New Horizons of the Journal of controlled Release I will provide an overview of glucose metabolism in tumors and its effects on drug resistance and tumor metastasis, and present the advance of glycolysis-targeting therapy strategies with drug delivery techniques, as well as discuss the challenges in glycolysis-targeting immunometabolic therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongzhuo Huang
- Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, SIMM, CAS, China; Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica Chinese Academy of Science, China.
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11
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Targeting hypoxia-related metabolism molecules: How to improve tumour immune and clinical treatment? Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 156:113917. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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12
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Wang Z, Zhang S, Li J, Yuan Y, Chen S, Zuo M, Li W, Feng W, Chen M, Liu Y. Prognostic value of lactate metabolism-related gene expression signature in adult primary gliomas and its impact on the tumor immune microenvironment. Front Oncol 2022; 12:1008219. [PMID: 36203434 PMCID: PMC9530666 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1008219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioma is one of the most malignant intracerebral tumors, whose treatment means was limited, and prognosis was unsatisfactory. Lactate metabolism patterns have been shown to be highly heterogenous among different tumors and produce diverse impact on the tumor microenvironment. To understand the characteristics and implications of lactate metabolism gene expression, we developed a lactate metabolism-related gene expression signature of gliomas based on RNA-sequencing data of a total of 965 patient samples from TCGA, CGGA, and our own glioma cohort. Sixty-three lactate metabolism-related genes (LMGs) were differentially expressed between glioma and normal brain tissue, and consensus clustering analysis identified two clusters distinct LMG expression patterns. The consensus clusters differed in prognosis, molecular characteristics and estimated immune microenvironment landscape involving immune checkpoint proteins, T cell dysfunction and exclusion, as well as tumor purity. Univariate Cox regression and Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) Cox hazard regression was applied in determining of prognosis-related lactate metabolism genes (PRLMGs), on which prognostic lactate metabolism risk score (PLMRS) was constructed. The high PLMRS group was associated with significantly poorer patient outcome. A nomogram containing PLMRS and other independent prognostic variables was established with remarkable predictive performance on patient survival. Exploration on the somatic mutations and copy number variations of the high- and low-PLMRS groups demonstrated their distinct genetic background. Together, our results indicated that the expression signature of LMG was associated with the prognosis of glioma patients and influenced the activity of immune cells in the tumor microenvironment, which may serve as a potential biomarker for predicting response of gliomas to immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhihao Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Shuxin Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Sichuan Cancer Hospital and Institute, Sichuan Cancer Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Junhong Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yunbo Yuan
- Department of Neurosurgery, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Siliang Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Mingrong Zuo
- Department of Neurosurgery, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wenhao Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wentao Feng
- Department of Neurosurgery, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Mina Chen
- Neuroscience & Metabolism Research, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Yanhui Liu, ; Mina Chen,
| | - Yanhui Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Neuroscience & Metabolism Research, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Yanhui Liu, ; Mina Chen,
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13
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Longhitano L, Vicario N, Tibullo D, Giallongo C, Broggi G, Caltabiano R, Barbagallo GMV, Altieri R, Baghini M, Di Rosa M, Parenti R, Giordano A, Mione MC, Li Volti G. Lactate Induces the Expressions of MCT1 and HCAR1 to Promote Tumor Growth and Progression in Glioblastoma. Front Oncol 2022; 12:871798. [PMID: 35574309 PMCID: PMC9097945 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.871798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) plays a pivotal role in establishing malignancy, and it is associated with high glycolytic metabolism and lactate release through monocarboxylate transporters (MCTs). Several lines of evidence suggest that lactate also serves as a signaling molecule through its receptor hydroxycarboxylic acid receptor 1 (HCAR1/GPR81), thus functioning as a paracrine and autocrine signaling molecule. The aim of the present study was to investigate the role of lactate in glioblastoma (GBM) progression and metabolic reprogramming in an in vitro and in vivo model. The cell proliferation, migration, and clonogenicity were tested in vitro in three different human GBM cell lines. The expressions of MCT1, MCT4, and HCAR1 were evaluated both in vitro and in a zebrafish GBM model. The results were further validated in patient-derived GBM biopsies. Our results showed that lactate significantly increased the cell proliferation, migration, and colony formation capacity of GBM cells, both in vitro and in vivo. We also showed that lactate increased the expressions of MCT1 and HCAR1. Moreover, lactate modulated the epithelial-mesenchymal transition protein markers E-cadherin and β-catenin. Interestingly, lactate induced mitochondrial mass and the OXPHOS gene, suggesting improved mitochondrial fitness. Similar effects were observed after treatment with 3,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid, a known agonist of HCAR1. Consistently, the GBM zebrafish model exhibited an altered metabolism and increased expressions of MCT1 and HCAR1, leading to high levels of extracellular lactate and, thus, supporting tumor cell proliferation. Our data from human GBM biopsies also showed that, in high proliferative GBM biopsies, Ki67-positive cells expressed significantly higher levels of MCT1 compared to low proliferative GBM cells. In conclusion, our data suggest that lactate and its transporter and receptor play a major role in GBM proliferation and migration, thus representing a potential target for new therapeutic strategies to counteract tumor progression and recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Longhitano
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Nunzio Vicario
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Daniele Tibullo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Cesarina Giallongo
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies “G.F. Ingrassia”, Catania, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Broggi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies “G.F. Ingrassia”, Catania, Italy
| | - Rosario Caltabiano
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies “G.F. Ingrassia”, Catania, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Maria Vincenzo Barbagallo
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies “G.F. Ingrassia” Neurological Surgery, Policlinico “G. Rodolico-San Marco” University Hospital, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- Interdisciplinary Research Center on Brain Tumors Diagnosis and Treatment, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Roberto Altieri
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies “G.F. Ingrassia” Neurological Surgery, Policlinico “G. Rodolico-San Marco” University Hospital, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- Interdisciplinary Research Center on Brain Tumors Diagnosis and Treatment, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Marta Baghini
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology (CIBIO), University of Trento, Trento, Italy
| | - Michelino Di Rosa
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Rosalba Parenti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Antonio Giordano
- Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine and Center of Biotechnology, College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Maria Caterina Mione
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology (CIBIO), University of Trento, Trento, Italy
| | - Giovanni Li Volti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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14
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Silva A, Antunes B, Batista A, Pinto-Ribeiro F, Baltazar F, Afonso J. In Vivo Anticancer Activity of AZD3965: A Systematic Review. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 27:molecules27010181. [PMID: 35011413 PMCID: PMC8746498 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27010181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Proliferating cancer cells have high energy demands, which is mainly obtained through glycolysis. The transmembrane trafficking of lactate, a major metabolite produced by glycolytic cancer cells, relies on monocarboxylate transporters (MCTs). MCT1 optimally imports lactate, although it can work bidirectionally, and its activity has been linked to cancer aggressiveness and poor outcomes. AZD3965, a specific MCT1 inhibitor, was tested both in vitro and in vivo, with encouraging results; a phase I clinical trial has already been undertaken. Thus, analysis of the experimental evidence using AZD3965 in different cancer types could give valuable information for its clinical use. This systematic review aimed to assess the in vivo anticancer activity of AZD3965 either alone (monotherapy) or with other interventions (combination therapy). Study search was performed in nine different databases using the keywords “AZD3965 in vivo” as search terms. The results show that AZD3965 successfully decreased tumor growth and promoted intracellular lactate accumulation, which confirmed its effectiveness, especially in combined therapy. These results support the setup of clinical trials, but other important findings, namely AZD3965 enhanced activity when given in combination with other therapies, or MCT4-induced treatment resistance, should be further considered in the clinical trial design to improve therapy response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Silva
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; (A.S.); (B.A.); (A.B.); (F.P.-R.)
- ICVS/3Bs-PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4805-017 Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Beatriz Antunes
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; (A.S.); (B.A.); (A.B.); (F.P.-R.)
- ICVS/3Bs-PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4805-017 Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Alberta Batista
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; (A.S.); (B.A.); (A.B.); (F.P.-R.)
- ICVS/3Bs-PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4805-017 Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Filipa Pinto-Ribeiro
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; (A.S.); (B.A.); (A.B.); (F.P.-R.)
- ICVS/3Bs-PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4805-017 Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Fátima Baltazar
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; (A.S.); (B.A.); (A.B.); (F.P.-R.)
- ICVS/3Bs-PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4805-017 Guimarães, Portugal
- Correspondence: (F.B.); (J.A.)
| | - Julieta Afonso
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; (A.S.); (B.A.); (A.B.); (F.P.-R.)
- ICVS/3Bs-PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4805-017 Guimarães, Portugal
- Correspondence: (F.B.); (J.A.)
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15
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Blaszczak W, Swietach P. What do cellular responses to acidity tell us about cancer? Cancer Metastasis Rev 2021; 40:1159-1176. [PMID: 34850320 PMCID: PMC8825410 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-021-10005-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The notion that invasive cancer is a product of somatic evolution is a well-established theory that can be modelled mathematically and demonstrated empirically from therapeutic responses. Somatic evolution is by no means deterministic, and ample opportunities exist to steer its trajectory towards cancer cell extinction. One such strategy is to alter the chemical microenvironment shared between host and cancer cells in a way that no longer favours the latter. Ever since the first description of the Warburg effect, acidosis has been recognised as a key chemical signature of the tumour microenvironment. Recent findings have suggested that responses to acidosis, arising through a process of selection and adaptation, give cancer cells a competitive advantage over the host. A surge of research efforts has attempted to understand the basis of this advantage and seek ways of exploiting it therapeutically. Here, we review key findings and place these in the context of a mathematical framework. Looking ahead, we highlight areas relating to cellular adaptation, selection, and heterogeneity that merit more research efforts in order to close in on the goal of exploiting tumour acidity in future therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wiktoria Blaszczak
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy & Genetics, Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3PT, England
| | - Pawel Swietach
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy & Genetics, Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3PT, England.
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