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Aoki T, Nishida N, Kurebayashi Y, Sakai K, Morita M, Chishina H, Takita M, Hagiwara S, Ida H, Ueshima K, Minami Y, Tsurusaki M, Nakai T, Sakamoto M, Nishio K, Kudo M. Two Distinct Characteristics of Immune Microenvironment in Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma with Wnt/β-Catenin Mutations. Liver Cancer 2024; 13:285-305. [PMID: 38894812 PMCID: PMC11185857 DOI: 10.1159/000533818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Immunotherapy is becoming a promising approach for unresectable-hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC); the anti-tumor response is affected by the tumor microenvironment (TME). Although Wnt/β-catenin mutations are reported to cause non-inflamed phenotype, their role on TME remains controversial. We aimed to clarify the heterogeneity of immunophenotype in HCC with Wnt/β-catenin mutations. Methods This study includes 152 resected HCCs; mutations in the catenin beta-1, adenomatous polyposis coli, or AXIN1, or AXIN2 genes were defined as Wnt/β-catenin mutations. With hierarchical cluster analyses, TME was classified into inflamed or non-inflamed classes based on the gene expressions associated with T-cell activation. Expression profiles of molecules related to cell differentiation and biliary-stem cell markers were compared between the TME classes to investigate whether differences in tumor traits were associated with TME. Results Forty of 152 (26.3%) HCCs carried the Wnt/β-catenin mutations. Of these, 33 were classified as non-inflamed (33/40, 82.5%) and 7 as inflamed (7/40, 17.5%). Non-inflamed class was characterized by low number of CD3+, CD4+, and CD8+ cells on immunostaining, and high mRNA expressions of AXIN2 and GLUL, which are involved in the canonical Wnt/β-catenin signaling and hepatocyte differentiation, respectively. Non-inflamed tumors showed higher enhancement on the hepatobiliary-phase of gadolinium-ethoxybenzyl-diethylenetriamine (Gd-EOB-DTPA)-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) compared to inflamed tumors. HCCs classified as inflamed class are revealed to have high numbers of CD3+, CD4+, and CD8+ tumor infiltrating lymphocytes on immunostaining. This class is associated with increased expression of anti-epithelial cell adhesion molecule and FOXM1 accompanied by upregulation of genes related to interferon-gamma signaling, dendritic cell migration, regulatory T cells, and myeloid-derived suppressor cell activation and recognized as low enhancement nodule on Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced MRI. Conclusion Heterogeneity of tumor traits and TME was observed in HCC with Wnt/β-catenin mutation. The potential was indicated that tumor traits and TME are determined not only by the activation of the HNF4A but also by FOXM1, both of which are downstream transcription factor of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomoko Aoki
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, Osakasayama, Japan
| | - Naoshi Nishida
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, Osakasayama, Japan
| | - Yutaka Kurebayashi
- Department of Pathology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kazuko Sakai
- Department of Genome Biology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Masahiro Morita
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, Osakasayama, Japan
| | - Hirokazu Chishina
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, Osakasayama, Japan
| | - Masahiro Takita
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, Osakasayama, Japan
| | - Satoru Hagiwara
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, Osakasayama, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Ida
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, Osakasayama, Japan
| | - Kazuomi Ueshima
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, Osakasayama, Japan
| | - Yasunori Minami
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, Osakasayama, Japan
| | - Masakatsu Tsurusaki
- Department of Radiology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, Osakasayama, Japan
| | - Takuya Nakai
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Kindai University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Michiie Sakamoto
- Department of Pathology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kazuto Nishio
- Department of Genome Biology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Masatoshi Kudo
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, Osakasayama, Japan
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El Menshawe SF, Shalaby K, Elkomy MH, Aboud HM, Ahmed YM, Abdelmeged AA, Elkarmalawy M, Abou Alazayem MA, El Sisi AM. Repurposing celecoxib for colorectal cancer targeting via pH-triggered ultra-elastic nanovesicles: Pronounced efficacy through up-regulation of Wnt/β-catenin pathway in DMH-induced tumorigenesis. Int J Pharm X 2024; 7:100225. [PMID: 38230407 PMCID: PMC10788539 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpx.2023.100225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Celecoxib (CLX), a selective inhibitor for cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2), has manifested potential activity against diverse types of cancer. However, low bioavailability and cardiovascular side effects remain the major challenges that limit its exploitation. In this work, we developed ultra-elastic nanovesicles (UENVs) with pH-triggered surface charge reversal traits that could efficiently deliver CLX to colorectal segments for snowballed tumor targeting. CLX-UENVs were fabricated via a thin-film hydration approach. The impact of formulation factors (Span 80, Tween 80, and sonication time) on the nanovesicular features was evaluated using Box-Behnken design, and the optimal formulation was computed. The optimum formulation was positively coated with polyethyleneimine (CLX-PEI-UENVs) and then coated with Eudragit S100 (CLX-ES-PEI-UENVs). The activity of the optimized nano-cargo was explored in 1,2-dimethylhydrazine-induced colorectal cancer in Wistar rats. Levels of COX-2, Wnt-2 and β-catenin were assessed in rats' colon. The diameter of the optimized CLX-ES-PEI-UENVs formulation was 253.62 nm, with a zeta potential of -23.24 mV, 85.64% entrapment, and 87.20% cumulative release (24 h). ES coating hindered the rapid release of CLX under acidic milieu (stomach and early small intestine) and showed extended release in the colon section. In colonic environments, the ES coating layer was removed due to high pH, and the charge on the nanovesicular corona was shifted from negative to positive. Besides, a pharmacokinetics study revealed that CLX-ES-PEI-UENVs had superior oral bioavailability by 2.13-fold compared with CLX suspension. Collectively, these findings implied that CLX-ES-PEI-UENVs could be a promising colorectal-targeted nanoplatform for effective tumor management through up-regulation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahira F. El Menshawe
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
| | - Khaled Shalaby
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed H. Elkomy
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka, Saudi Arabia
| | - Heba M. Aboud
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
| | - Yasmin M. Ahmed
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Nahda University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
| | | | - Marwa Elkarmalawy
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Drug Manufacturing, Faculty of Pharmacy, Modern University for Technology and Information, Cairo, Egypt
| | | | - Amani M. El Sisi
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
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Wang M, Yan X, Dong Y, Li X, Gao B. Machine learning and multi-omics data reveal driver gene-based molecular subtypes in hepatocellular carcinoma for precision treatment. PLoS Comput Biol 2024; 20:e1012113. [PMID: 38728362 PMCID: PMC11230636 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1012113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 07/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The heterogeneity of Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) poses a barrier to effective treatment. Stratifying highly heterogeneous HCC into molecular subtypes with similar features is crucial for personalized anti-tumor therapies. Although driver genes play pivotal roles in cancer progression, their potential in HCC subtyping has been largely overlooked. This study aims to utilize driver genes to construct HCC subtype models and unravel their molecular mechanisms. Utilizing a novel computational framework, we expanded the initially identified 96 driver genes to 1192 based on mutational aspects and an additional 233 considering driver dysregulation. These genes were subsequently employed as stratification markers for further analyses. A novel multi-omics subtype classification algorithm was developed, leveraging mutation and expression data of the identified stratification genes. This algorithm successfully categorized HCC into two distinct subtypes, CLASS A and CLASS B, demonstrating significant differences in survival outcomes. Integrating multi-omics and single-cell data unveiled substantial distinctions between these subtypes regarding transcriptomics, mutations, copy number variations, and epigenomics. Moreover, our prognostic model exhibited excellent predictive performance in training and external validation cohorts. Finally, a 10-gene classification model for these subtypes identified TTK as a promising therapeutic target with robust classification capabilities. This comprehensive study provides a novel perspective on HCC stratification, offering crucial insights for a deeper understanding of its pathogenesis and the development of promising treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Wang
- Faculty of Environment and Life of Beijing University of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Xinyue Yan
- Faculty of Environment and Life of Beijing University of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Yanan Dong
- Faculty of Environment and Life of Beijing University of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoqin Li
- Faculty of Environment and Life of Beijing University of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Bin Gao
- Faculty of Environment and Life of Beijing University of Technology, Beijing, China
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Leng G, Gong H, Liu G, Kong Y, Guo L, Zhang Y. Alpha-fetoprotein upregulates hepatocellular carcinoma cell-intrinsic PD-1 expression through the LATS2/YAP/TEAD1 pathway. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2024; 1868:130592. [PMID: 38395204 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2024.130592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 02/11/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cell-intrinsic programmed death 1 (PD-1) promotes tumor progression. However, the mechanisms that regulate its expression are unclear. This study investigated the impact of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) on HCC cell-intrinsic PD-1 expression. METHODS The expression of PD-1 and AFP at the gene and protein levels was detected using real-time fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and western blotting (WB). Proteins interacting with AFP were examined by co-immunoprecipitation (CO-IP). Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) and dual luciferase reporter assays were used to identify transcription-enhanced association domain 1 (TEAD1) binding to the promoter of PD-1. RESULTS The expression of HCC cell-intrinsic PD-1 was positively correlated with AFP. Mechanistically, AFP inhibited the phosphorylation of large tumor suppressor 2 (LATS2) and yes-associated protein (YAP). As a result, YAP is transferred to the nucleus and forms a transcriptional complex with TEAD1, promoting PD-1 transcription by binding to its promoter. CONCLUSION AFP is an upstream regulator of the HCC cell-intrinsic PD-1 and increases PD-1 expression via the LATS2/YAP/TEAD1 axis. GENERAL Our findings provide insight into the mechanisms of HCC development and offer new ideas for further in-depth studies of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guangxian Leng
- Department of General Surgery, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou 730030, Gansu Province, China
| | - Hongxia Gong
- Provincial-Level Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine of Major Diseases and Study on Prevention and Treatment of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Gansu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou 730000, Gansu Province, China
| | - Guiyuan Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou 730030, Gansu Province, China; People's Hospital affiliated with Chongqing Three Gorges Medical Higher Specialized School, Chongqing 404100, China
| | - Yin Kong
- Department of General Surgery, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou 730030, Gansu Province, China; Department of Hepatology, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou 730030, Gansu Province, China
| | - Liuqing Guo
- Department of General Surgery, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou 730030, Gansu Province, China
| | - Youcheng Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou 730030, Gansu Province, China.
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Minamiguchi K, Irizato M, Uchiyama T, Taiji R, Nishiofuku H, Marugami N, Tanaka T. Hepatobiliary-phase gadolinium ethoxybenzyl-diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid MRI for pretreatment prediction of efficacy-to-standard-therapies based on Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer algorithm: an up-to-date review. Eur Radiol 2023; 33:8764-8775. [PMID: 37470828 DOI: 10.1007/s00330-023-09950-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
Recent advances in systemic therapy have had major impacts on treatment strategies for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The 2022 Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) guidelines incorporate a new section on clinical decision-making for personalized medicine, although the first treatment suggested by the BCLC guidelines is based on solid scientific evidence. More than ever before, the appropriate treatment strategy must be selected prior to the initiation of therapy for HCC. Gadolinium ethoxybenzyl-diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid magnetic resonance imaging (Gd-EOB-DTPA-MRI) is essential for liver imaging and the hepatobiliary phase (HBP) of EOB-MRI reflects the expression of organic anion transporting polypeptide (OATP) transporters. Molecules associated with OATP expression are relevant in the molecular classification of HCC subclasses, and EOB-MRI is becoming increasingly important with advances in the molecular and genetic understanding of HCC. In this review, we describe imaging findings for the pretreatment prediction of response to standard therapies for HCC based on the BCLC algorithm using the HBP of EOB-MRI, with specific attention to the molecular background of OATPs. A more complete understanding of these findings will help radiologists suggest appropriate treatments and clinical follow-ups and could lead to the development of more personalized treatment strategies in the future. CLINICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT: In the coming era of personalized medicine, HBP of EOB-MRI reflecting molecular and pathological factors could play a predictive role in the therapeutic efficacy of HCC and contribute to treatment selection. KEY POINTS: • Imaging features of hepatobiliary phase predict treatment efficacy prior to therapy and contribute to treatment choice. • Wnt/β-catenin activation associated with organic anion transporting polypeptide expression is involved in the tumor immune microenvironment and chemo-responsiveness. • Peritumoral hypointensity of hepatobiliary phase reflecting microvascular invasion affects the therapeutic efficacy of locoregional to systemic therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiyoyuki Minamiguchi
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Nara Medical University, Shijyocho 840, Kashihara, Nara, 634-8522, Japan.
| | - Mariko Irizato
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Nara Medical University, Shijyocho 840, Kashihara, Nara, 634-8522, Japan
| | - Tomoko Uchiyama
- Department of Diagnostic Pathology, Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Nara, Japan
| | - Ryosuke Taiji
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Nara Medical University, Shijyocho 840, Kashihara, Nara, 634-8522, Japan
| | - Hideyuki Nishiofuku
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Nara Medical University, Shijyocho 840, Kashihara, Nara, 634-8522, Japan
| | - Nagaaki Marugami
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Nara Medical University, Shijyocho 840, Kashihara, Nara, 634-8522, Japan
| | - Toshihiro Tanaka
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Nara Medical University, Shijyocho 840, Kashihara, Nara, 634-8522, Japan
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Lu G, Lin J, Song G, Chen M. Prognostic significance of CTNNB1 mutation in hepatocellular carcinoma: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Aging (Albany NY) 2023; 15:9759-9778. [PMID: 37733676 PMCID: PMC10564414 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205047] [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: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUNDS Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignant cancers in humans and has a high fatality rate. In recent years, researchers have verified that the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway affects the clinicopathological features and prognosis of patients with HCC. Although many studies have investigated the relationship between Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway and HCC, the prognostic value of β-catenin in HCC remains inconclusive. CTNNB1 (Catenin Beta-1) is an important factor in the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. However, no consensus has been reached on the clinical and prognostic significance of CTNNB1 mutations in HCCs. METHODS Eligible studies and relevant data were obtained from PubMed, Web of Science, Elsevier, Cochrane Library, Ovid, and Embase databases. The correlation between CTNNB1 mutations and clinical/prognosis of patients were evaluated. A fixed- or random-effects model was used to calculate pooled odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). RESULTS Seventeen studies matched the selection criteria, and 1828 patients were included. This meta-analysis demonstrated that patients with HCC with CTNNB1 mutations had favorable clinicopathological features and survival. The combined ORs of 1-, 3- and 5-year overall survival were0.52 (n = 6 studies, 95% CI: 0.34-0.81, Z = 2.89, P =0.004, 0.28 (n =6 studies, 95% CI: 0.18-0.42, Z = 6.03, P<0.00001), -0.22 (n = 6 studies, 95% CI: 0.37-0.06, Z = 2.78, P = 0.005), respectively. Additionally, CTNNB1 mutation might be significantly associated with differentiation (OR = 0.54, 95% CI:0.36-0.81, Z = 2.98, P = 0.003), TMN stages (Tumor, Node, Metastasis staging classification) (OR = -0.25, 95% CI:-0.33--0.18, Z = 6.60, P<0.00001), liver cirrhosis (OR = 0.21, 95% CI:0.11-0.39, Z = 4.94, P< = 0.00001), and HBV (Hepatitis B Virus) infection (OR = 0.44, 95% CI:0.31-0.64, Z = 4.37, P<0.0001), but not with tumor size, metastasis, vascular invasion, and HCV infection. CONCLUSIONS CTNNB1 mutation can serve as an indicator of favorable prognosis as well as a novel target for treatment in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Genlin Lu
- Department of General Surgery, Longyou People’s Hospital Affiliated with Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Quzhou 324400, China
| | - Jian Lin
- Department of General Surgery, Longyou People’s Hospital Affiliated with Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Quzhou 324400, China
| | - Guoqiang Song
- Department of Pulmonary, Department of Cancer Center, Changxing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Huzhou 313100, China
| | - Min Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Longyou People’s Hospital Affiliated with Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Quzhou 324400, China
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Liu X, Tan SBM, Awiwi MO, Jang HJ, Chernyak V, Fowler KJ, Shaaban AM, Sirlin CB, Furlan A, Marks RM, Elsayes KM. Imaging Findings in Cirrhotic Liver: Pearls and Pitfalls for Diagnosis of Focal Benign and Malignant Lesions. Radiographics 2023; 43:e230043. [PMID: 37651277 DOI: 10.1148/rg.230043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
Cirrhosis is the end stage of chronic liver disease and causes architectural distortion and perfusional anomalies. It is a major risk factor for developing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Common disease entities in noncirrhotic livers, such as hemangiomas, can be rare in cirrhotic livers, and benign entities such as confluent hepatic fibrosis and focal nodular hyperplasia-like lesions may mimic the appearance of malignancies,. HCC usually has typical imaging characteristics, such as the major features established by the Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System. However, HCC can also have a spectrum of atypical or uncommon appearances, such as cystic HCC, hypovascular HCC, or macroscopic fat-containing HCC. HCCs with certain genetic mutations such as CTNNB-1-mutated HCC can harbor unique imaging features not seen in other types of HCC. In addition, malignancies that are less common than HCC, such as cholangiocarcinoma and metastases, which can be difficult to differentiate, can still occur in cirrhotic livers. Atypical imaging features of benign and malignant lesions can be challenging to accurately diagnose. Therefore, familiarity with these features and an understanding of the prevalence of disease entities in cirrhotic livers are key in the daily practice of radiologists for evaluation of cirrhotic livers. The authors illustrate the typical and atypical features of benign and malignant lesions in cirrhosis and discuss the technical pitfalls and unique advantages associated with various imaging modalities in assessing cirrhotic livers, including noncontrast and contrast-enhanced US, CT, and MRI. Work of the U.S. Government published under an exclusive license with the RSNA. Quiz questions for this article are available in the supplemental material.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyang Liu
- From the Department of Medical Imaging, University of Toronto, University Health Network, 263 McCaul St, 4th Fl, Toronto, ON, Canada M5T 1W7, and Joint Department of Medical Imaging, University Medical Imaging Toronto, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (X.L., S.B.M.T., H.J.J.); Department of Radiology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Tex (M.O.A.); Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY (V.C.); Department of Radiology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, Calif (K.J.F., C.B.S.); Department of Radiology. University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, Utah (A.M.S.); Division of Abdominal Imaging, Department of Radiology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pa (A.F.); Department of Radiology, Naval Medical Center San Diego, San Diego, Calif (R.M.M.); and Department of Diagnostic Radiology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Tex (K.M.E.)
| | - Stephanie B M Tan
- From the Department of Medical Imaging, University of Toronto, University Health Network, 263 McCaul St, 4th Fl, Toronto, ON, Canada M5T 1W7, and Joint Department of Medical Imaging, University Medical Imaging Toronto, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (X.L., S.B.M.T., H.J.J.); Department of Radiology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Tex (M.O.A.); Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY (V.C.); Department of Radiology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, Calif (K.J.F., C.B.S.); Department of Radiology. University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, Utah (A.M.S.); Division of Abdominal Imaging, Department of Radiology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pa (A.F.); Department of Radiology, Naval Medical Center San Diego, San Diego, Calif (R.M.M.); and Department of Diagnostic Radiology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Tex (K.M.E.)
| | - Muhammad O Awiwi
- From the Department of Medical Imaging, University of Toronto, University Health Network, 263 McCaul St, 4th Fl, Toronto, ON, Canada M5T 1W7, and Joint Department of Medical Imaging, University Medical Imaging Toronto, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (X.L., S.B.M.T., H.J.J.); Department of Radiology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Tex (M.O.A.); Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY (V.C.); Department of Radiology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, Calif (K.J.F., C.B.S.); Department of Radiology. University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, Utah (A.M.S.); Division of Abdominal Imaging, Department of Radiology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pa (A.F.); Department of Radiology, Naval Medical Center San Diego, San Diego, Calif (R.M.M.); and Department of Diagnostic Radiology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Tex (K.M.E.)
| | - Hyun-Jung Jang
- From the Department of Medical Imaging, University of Toronto, University Health Network, 263 McCaul St, 4th Fl, Toronto, ON, Canada M5T 1W7, and Joint Department of Medical Imaging, University Medical Imaging Toronto, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (X.L., S.B.M.T., H.J.J.); Department of Radiology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Tex (M.O.A.); Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY (V.C.); Department of Radiology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, Calif (K.J.F., C.B.S.); Department of Radiology. University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, Utah (A.M.S.); Division of Abdominal Imaging, Department of Radiology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pa (A.F.); Department of Radiology, Naval Medical Center San Diego, San Diego, Calif (R.M.M.); and Department of Diagnostic Radiology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Tex (K.M.E.)
| | - Victoria Chernyak
- From the Department of Medical Imaging, University of Toronto, University Health Network, 263 McCaul St, 4th Fl, Toronto, ON, Canada M5T 1W7, and Joint Department of Medical Imaging, University Medical Imaging Toronto, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (X.L., S.B.M.T., H.J.J.); Department of Radiology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Tex (M.O.A.); Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY (V.C.); Department of Radiology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, Calif (K.J.F., C.B.S.); Department of Radiology. University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, Utah (A.M.S.); Division of Abdominal Imaging, Department of Radiology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pa (A.F.); Department of Radiology, Naval Medical Center San Diego, San Diego, Calif (R.M.M.); and Department of Diagnostic Radiology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Tex (K.M.E.)
| | - Kathryn J Fowler
- From the Department of Medical Imaging, University of Toronto, University Health Network, 263 McCaul St, 4th Fl, Toronto, ON, Canada M5T 1W7, and Joint Department of Medical Imaging, University Medical Imaging Toronto, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (X.L., S.B.M.T., H.J.J.); Department of Radiology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Tex (M.O.A.); Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY (V.C.); Department of Radiology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, Calif (K.J.F., C.B.S.); Department of Radiology. University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, Utah (A.M.S.); Division of Abdominal Imaging, Department of Radiology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pa (A.F.); Department of Radiology, Naval Medical Center San Diego, San Diego, Calif (R.M.M.); and Department of Diagnostic Radiology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Tex (K.M.E.)
| | - Akram M Shaaban
- From the Department of Medical Imaging, University of Toronto, University Health Network, 263 McCaul St, 4th Fl, Toronto, ON, Canada M5T 1W7, and Joint Department of Medical Imaging, University Medical Imaging Toronto, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (X.L., S.B.M.T., H.J.J.); Department of Radiology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Tex (M.O.A.); Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY (V.C.); Department of Radiology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, Calif (K.J.F., C.B.S.); Department of Radiology. University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, Utah (A.M.S.); Division of Abdominal Imaging, Department of Radiology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pa (A.F.); Department of Radiology, Naval Medical Center San Diego, San Diego, Calif (R.M.M.); and Department of Diagnostic Radiology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Tex (K.M.E.)
| | - Claude B Sirlin
- From the Department of Medical Imaging, University of Toronto, University Health Network, 263 McCaul St, 4th Fl, Toronto, ON, Canada M5T 1W7, and Joint Department of Medical Imaging, University Medical Imaging Toronto, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (X.L., S.B.M.T., H.J.J.); Department of Radiology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Tex (M.O.A.); Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY (V.C.); Department of Radiology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, Calif (K.J.F., C.B.S.); Department of Radiology. University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, Utah (A.M.S.); Division of Abdominal Imaging, Department of Radiology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pa (A.F.); Department of Radiology, Naval Medical Center San Diego, San Diego, Calif (R.M.M.); and Department of Diagnostic Radiology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Tex (K.M.E.)
| | - Alessandro Furlan
- From the Department of Medical Imaging, University of Toronto, University Health Network, 263 McCaul St, 4th Fl, Toronto, ON, Canada M5T 1W7, and Joint Department of Medical Imaging, University Medical Imaging Toronto, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (X.L., S.B.M.T., H.J.J.); Department of Radiology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Tex (M.O.A.); Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY (V.C.); Department of Radiology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, Calif (K.J.F., C.B.S.); Department of Radiology. University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, Utah (A.M.S.); Division of Abdominal Imaging, Department of Radiology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pa (A.F.); Department of Radiology, Naval Medical Center San Diego, San Diego, Calif (R.M.M.); and Department of Diagnostic Radiology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Tex (K.M.E.)
| | - Robert M Marks
- From the Department of Medical Imaging, University of Toronto, University Health Network, 263 McCaul St, 4th Fl, Toronto, ON, Canada M5T 1W7, and Joint Department of Medical Imaging, University Medical Imaging Toronto, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (X.L., S.B.M.T., H.J.J.); Department of Radiology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Tex (M.O.A.); Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY (V.C.); Department of Radiology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, Calif (K.J.F., C.B.S.); Department of Radiology. University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, Utah (A.M.S.); Division of Abdominal Imaging, Department of Radiology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pa (A.F.); Department of Radiology, Naval Medical Center San Diego, San Diego, Calif (R.M.M.); and Department of Diagnostic Radiology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Tex (K.M.E.)
| | - Khaled M Elsayes
- From the Department of Medical Imaging, University of Toronto, University Health Network, 263 McCaul St, 4th Fl, Toronto, ON, Canada M5T 1W7, and Joint Department of Medical Imaging, University Medical Imaging Toronto, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (X.L., S.B.M.T., H.J.J.); Department of Radiology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Tex (M.O.A.); Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY (V.C.); Department of Radiology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, Calif (K.J.F., C.B.S.); Department of Radiology. University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, Utah (A.M.S.); Division of Abdominal Imaging, Department of Radiology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pa (A.F.); Department of Radiology, Naval Medical Center San Diego, San Diego, Calif (R.M.M.); and Department of Diagnostic Radiology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Tex (K.M.E.)
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8
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Kang E, Kim HK, Lee HB, Han W. Never in mitosis gene A-related kinase-8 promotes proliferation, migration, invasion, and stemness of breast cancer cells via β-catenin signalling activation. Sci Rep 2023; 13:6829. [PMID: 37100815 PMCID: PMC10133229 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-32631-3] [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: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Never in mitosis gene A (NIMA)-related kinase-8 (NEK8) is involved in cell cycle progression, cytoskeleton development, and DNA damage repair. However, its role in breast cancer has not yet been explored. To investigate this, NEK8 was knocked down in MDA-MB-231, BT549, and HCC38 breast cancer cell lines. We observed a decrease in cell proliferation and colony formation owing to regulation of the G1/S and G2/M transitions. Furthermore, the expression of several cell cycle regulatory proteins was altered, including that of cyclin D1, cyclin B1, CDK4, CDK2, and surviving. NEK8 knockdown impaired cell migration and invasion as well as reduced the expression of epithelial-mesenchymal transition markers. Regarding stem-cell characteristics, NEK8 knockdown decreased the tumour sphere formation, aldehyde dehydrogenase activity, and stem-cell marker expression, including that of CD44, Sox2, Oct4a, and Nanog. Further analysis revealed that NEK8 interacts with β-catenin. Also, NEK8 knockdown promoted β-catenin degradation. NEK8-silenced MDA-MB-231 cells inhibited xenograft tumour growth, metastasis, and tumour initiation in vivo. Using the Oncomine and TNMplot public databases, we found a significant correlation between NEK8 overexpression and poor clinical outcomes in breast cancer patients. Thus, NEK8 may be a crucial regulator of breast cancer progression and a potential therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eunji Kang
- Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hong-Kyu Kim
- Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Surgery, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Han-Byoel Lee
- Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Surgery, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Wonshik Han
- Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
- Department of Surgery, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
- Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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9
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Okazaki Y, Hino K. Iron and Cancer: A Special Issue. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15072097. [PMID: 37046758 PMCID: PMC10093076 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15072097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Iron is an essential element for all organisms, and iron-containing proteins play critical roles in cellular functions [...]
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10
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Hagiwara S, Nishida N, Kudo M. Advances in Immunotherapy for Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15072070. [PMID: 37046727 PMCID: PMC10093619 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15072070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2023] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) aim to induce immune responses against tumors and are less likely to develop drug resistance than molecularly targeted drugs. In addition, they are characterized by a long-lasting antitumor effect. However, since its effectiveness depends on the tumor’s immune environment, it is essential to understand the immune environment of hepatocellular carcinoma to select ICI therapeutic indications and develop biomarkers. A network of diverse cellular and humoral factors establishes cancer immunity. By analyzing individual cases and classifying them from the viewpoint of tumor immunity, attempts have been made to select the optimal therapeutic drug for immunotherapy, including ICIs. ICI treatment is discussed from the viewpoints of immune subclass of HCC, Wnt/β-catenin mutation, immunotherapy in NASH-related HCC, the mechanism of HPD onset, and HBV reactivation.
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11
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Immune checkpoint inhibitor resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma. Cancer Lett 2023; 555:216038. [PMID: 36529238 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2022.216038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The application of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has markedly enhanced the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and HCC patients who respond to ICIs have shown prolonged survival. However, only a subset of HCC patients benefit from ICIs, and those who initially respond to ICIs may develop resistance. ICI resistance is likely related to various factors, including the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME), the absence of antigen expression and impaired antigen presentation, tumor heterogeneity, and gut microbiota. Therefore, exploring the possible mechanisms of ICI resistance is crucial to improve the clinical benefit of ICIs further. Various combination therapies for HCC immunotherapy have prevented and reversed ICI resistance to a certain extent. In addition, many new combination therapies that can overcome resistance are being explored. This review seeks to characterize the complex TME in HCC, explore the possible mechanisms of immune resistance to ICIs in different resistance categories, and review the combination therapies currently being applied and those under investigation for immunotherapy.
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12
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Zhang Z, Shi S, Li J, Costa M. Long Non-Coding RNA MEG3 in Metal Carcinogenesis. TOXICS 2023; 11:toxics11020157. [PMID: 36851033 PMCID: PMC9962265 DOI: 10.3390/toxics11020157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Most transcripts from human genomes are non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) that are not translated into proteins. ncRNAs are divided into long (lncRNAs) and small non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs). LncRNAs regulate their target genes both transcriptionally and post-transcriptionally through interactions with proteins, RNAs, and DNAs. Maternally expressed gene 3 (MEG3), a lncRNA, functions as a tumor suppressor. MEG3 regulates cell proliferation, cell cycle, apoptosis, hypoxia, autophagy, and many other processes involved in tumor development. MEG3 is downregulated in various cancer cell lines and primary human cancers. Heavy metals, such as hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)), arsenic, nickel, and cadmium, are confirmed human carcinogens. The exposure of cells to these metals causes a variety of cancers. Among them, lung cancer is the one that can be induced by exposure to all of these metals. In vitro studies have demonstrated that the chronic exposure of normal human bronchial epithelial cells (BEAS-2B) to these metals can cause malignant cell transformation. Metal-transformed cells have the capability to cause an increase in cell proliferation, resistance to apoptosis, elevated migration and invasion, and properties of cancer stem-like cells. Studies have revealed that MEG is downregulated in Cr(VI)-transformed cells, nickel-transformed cells, and cadmium (Cd)-transformed cells. The forced expression of MEG3 reduces the migration and invasion of Cr(VI)-transformed cells through the downregulation of the neuronal precursor of developmentally downregulated protein 9 (NEDD9). MEG3 suppresses the malignant cell transformation of nickel-transformed cells. The overexpression of MEG3 decreases Bcl-xL, causing reduced apoptosis resistance in Cd-transformed cells. This paper reviews the current knowledge of lncRNA MEG3 in metal carcinogenesis.
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13
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Liu S, He Y, Li S, Gao X, Yang F. Kinesin family member 3A induces related diseases via wingless-related integration site/β-catenin signaling pathway. Sci Prog 2023; 106:368504221148340. [PMID: 36594221 PMCID: PMC10358705 DOI: 10.1177/00368504221148340] [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] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Kinesin family member 3A is an important motor protein that participates in various physiological and pathological processes, including normal tissue development, homeostasis maintenance, tumor infiltration, and migration. The wingless-related integration site/β-catenin signaling pathway is essential for critical molecular mechanisms such as embryonic development, organogenesis, tissue regeneration, and carcinogenesis. Recent studies have examined the molecular mechanisms of kinesin family member 3A, among which the wingless-related integration site/β-catenin signaling pathway has gained attention. The interaction between kinesin family member 3A and the wingless-related integration site/β-catenin signaling pathway is compact and complex but is fascinating and worthy of further study. The upregulation and downregulation of kinesin family member 3A influence many diseases and patient survival through the wingless-related integration site/β-catenin signaling pathway. Therefore, this review mainly focuses on describing the kinesin family member 3A and wingless-related integration site/β-catenin signaling pathways and their associated diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shupeng Liu
- Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei Province, China
| | - Yang He
- Clinical Medicine College, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei province, China
| | - Shifeng Li
- Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei Province, China
| | - Xuemin Gao
- NHC Key Laboratory of Pneumoconiosis, Taiyuan, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Fang Yang
- Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei Province, China
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14
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Lu M, Qu Q, Xu L, Zhang J, Liu M, Jiang J, Shen W, Zhang T, Zhang X. Prediction for Aggressiveness and Postoperative Recurrence of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Using Gadoxetic Acid-Enhanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging. Acad Radiol 2022; 30:841-852. [PMID: 36577606 DOI: 10.1016/j.acra.2022.12.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVES To investigate the predictive value of gadoxetic acid-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features on the pathologic grade, microvascular invasion (MVI), and cytokeratin-19 (CK19) expression in hepatocellular carcinomas (HCC), and to evaluate their association with postoperative recurrence of HCC. MATERIALS AND METHODS This retrospective study included 147 patients with surgically confirmed HCCs who underwent gadoxetic-enhanced MRI. The lesions were evaluated quantitatively in terms of the relative enhancement ratio (RER), and qualitatively based on imaging features and clinical parameters. Logistic regression analyses were performed to investigate the value of these parameters in predicting the pathologic grade, MVI, and CK19 in HCC. Predictive factors for postoperative recurrence were determined using a Cox proportional hazards model. RESULTS Peritumoral enhancement (odds ratio [OR], 3.396; p = 0.025) was an independent predictor of high pathologic grades. Serum protein induced by vitamin K absence or antagonist (PIVKA) level > 40 mAU/mL (OR, 3.763; p = 0.018) and peritumoral hypointensity (OR, 4.343; p = 0.003) were independent predictors of MVI. Predictors of CK19 included serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) level > 400 ng/mL (OR, 4.576; p = 0.005), rim enhancement (OR, 5.493; p = 0.024), and lower RER (OR, 0.013; p = 0.011). Peritumoral hypointensity (hazard ratio [HR], 1.957; p = 0.027) and poor pathologic grades (HR, 2.339; p = 0.043) were independent predictors of recurrence. CONCLUSION We demonstrated the value of preoperative gadoxetic-enhanced MRI in predicting aggressive pathological features of HCC. Poor pathologic grades and peritumoral hypointensity may independently predict the recurrence of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengtian Lu
- Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China; Department of Radiology, Affiliated Nantong Hospital 3 of Nantong University, Nantong Third People's Hospital, NO. 60 Youth Middle Road, Chongchuan District, Nantong, 226006, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Qi Qu
- Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China; Department of Radiology, Affiliated Nantong Hospital 3 of Nantong University, Nantong Third People's Hospital, NO. 60 Youth Middle Road, Chongchuan District, Nantong, 226006, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Lei Xu
- Department of Radiology, Affiliated Nantong Hospital 3 of Nantong University, Nantong Third People's Hospital, NO. 60 Youth Middle Road, Chongchuan District, Nantong, 226006, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Jiyun Zhang
- Department of Radiology, Affiliated Nantong Hospital 3 of Nantong University, Nantong Third People's Hospital, NO. 60 Youth Middle Road, Chongchuan District, Nantong, 226006, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Maotong Liu
- Department of Radiology, Affiliated Nantong Hospital 3 of Nantong University, Nantong Third People's Hospital, NO. 60 Youth Middle Road, Chongchuan District, Nantong, 226006, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Jifeng Jiang
- Department of Radiology, Affiliated Nantong Hospital 3 of Nantong University, Nantong Third People's Hospital, NO. 60 Youth Middle Road, Chongchuan District, Nantong, 226006, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Wei Shen
- Philips Healthcare Shanghai, Shanghai, China.
| | - Tao Zhang
- Department of Radiology, Affiliated Nantong Hospital 3 of Nantong University, Nantong Third People's Hospital, NO. 60 Youth Middle Road, Chongchuan District, Nantong, 226006, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Xueqin Zhang
- Department of Radiology, Affiliated Nantong Hospital 3 of Nantong University, Nantong Third People's Hospital, NO. 60 Youth Middle Road, Chongchuan District, Nantong, 226006, Jiangsu, China.
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15
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Resistance to Antiangiogenic Therapy in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: From Molecular Mechanisms to Clinical Impact. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14246245. [PMID: 36551730 PMCID: PMC9776845 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14246245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Antiangiogenic drugs were the only mainstay of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) treatment from 2007 to 2017. However, primary or secondary resistance hampered their efficacy. Primary resistance could be due to different molecular and/or genetic characteristics of HCC and their knowledge would clarify the optimal treatment approach in each patient. Several molecular mechanisms responsible for secondary resistance have been discovered over the last few years; they represent potential targets for new specific drugs. In this light, the advent of checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has been a new opportunity; however, their use has highlighted other issues: the vascular normalization compared to a vessel pruning to promote the delivery of an active cancer immunotherapy and the development of resistance to immunotherapy which leads to a better selection of patients as candidates for ICIs. Nevertheless, the combination of antiangiogenic therapy plus ICIs represents an intriguing approach with high potential to improve the survival of these patients. Waiting for results from ongoing clinical trials, this review depicts the current knowledge about the resistance to antiangiogenic drugs in HCC. It could also provide updated information to clinicians focusing on the most effective combinations or sequential approaches in this regard, based on molecular mechanisms.
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16
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Fahmy D, Alksas A, Elnakib A, Mahmoud A, Kandil H, Khalil A, Ghazal M, van Bogaert E, Contractor S, El-Baz A. The Role of Radiomics and AI Technologies in the Segmentation, Detection, and Management of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14246123. [PMID: 36551606 PMCID: PMC9777232 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14246123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary hepatic neoplasm. Thanks to recent advances in computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), there is potential to improve detection, segmentation, discrimination from HCC mimics, and monitoring of therapeutic response. Radiomics, artificial intelligence (AI), and derived tools have already been applied in other areas of diagnostic imaging with promising results. In this review, we briefly discuss the current clinical applications of radiomics and AI in the detection, segmentation, and management of HCC. Moreover, we investigate their potential to reach a more accurate diagnosis of HCC and to guide proper treatment planning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dalia Fahmy
- Diagnostic Radiology Department, Mansoura University Hospital, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Alksas
- Bioengineering Department, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40292, USA
| | - Ahmed Elnakib
- Bioengineering Department, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40292, USA
| | - Ali Mahmoud
- Bioengineering Department, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40292, USA
| | - Heba Kandil
- Bioengineering Department, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40292, USA
- Faculty of Computer Sciences and Information, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
| | - Ashraf Khalil
- College of Technological Innovation, Zayed University, Abu Dhabi 4783, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mohammed Ghazal
- Electrical, Computer, and Biomedical Engineering Department, Abu Dhabi University, Abu Dhabi 59911, United Arab Emirates
| | - Eric van Bogaert
- Department of Radiology, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
| | - Sohail Contractor
- Department of Radiology, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
| | - Ayman El-Baz
- Bioengineering Department, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40292, USA
- Correspondence:
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17
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Xu W, Wang M, Bai Y, Chen Y, Ma X, Yang Z, Zhao L, Li Y. The role of microfibrillar‐associated protein 2 in cancer. Front Oncol 2022; 12:1002036. [DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1002036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Microfibrillar-associated protein 2 (MFAP2), a component of the extracellular matrix, is important in controlling growth factor signal transduction. Recent studies have shown that MFAP2, an effective prognostic molecule for various tumors, is associated with tumor occurrence and development and may be involved in remodeling the extracellular matrix and regulating proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, tumor cell metastasis, and tumor angiogenesis. However, MFAP2’s specific mechanism in these tumor processes remains unclear. This article reviewed the possible mechanism of MFAP2 in tumorigenesis and progression and provided a reference for the clinical prognosis of patients with cancer and new therapeutic target discovery.
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18
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Ke RS, Huang KZ, Bao DS, Yang JR, Wang HX, Lv LZ, Jiang Y, Liu ZH, Zhang FX. miR-517b-3p promotes the progression of portal vein tumor thrombus via activating Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in hepatocellular carcinoma. Mol Biol Rep 2022; 49:7793-7805. [PMID: 35666423 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-022-07605-9] [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: 03/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
AIMS This study was aimed to investigate the expression patterns and prognostic value of microRNA-517b-3p (miR-517b-3p) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients with portal vein tumor thrombus (PVTT). METHODS The expression of miR-517b-3p in PVTT tissues and cells was estimated using qRT-PCR. Through Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, Cox regression assay and ROC analysis, the significance of miR-517b-3p was explored. In addition, cell experiments were performed to examine the functional role of miR-517b-3p during progression of PVTT. Moreover, the biological process and biological pathway analysis analyses were conducted through GSEA and FunRich. Besides, the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network of the DEGs was established through cBioPortal website. RESULTS Compared with the controls, the miR-517b-3p was upregulated in both PVTT tissues and cells. The upregulated miR-517b-3p, which served as a potential diagnostic biomarker to distinguish PVTT from PT and controls, was associated with poor overall survival and acted as an independent prognostic factor. The cell proliferation, migration and invasion were proved to be enhanced by overexpression of miR-517b-3p. Furthermore, Wnt/β-catenin signaling was suppressed by miR-517b-3p knockdown and might be involved in the progression of PVTT. CONCLUSION miR-517b-3p may promote PVTT cell proliferation, migration and invasion via activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Meanwhile, miR-517b-3p has overexpression in PVTT samples, and serves as a candidate diagnostic and prognostic biomarker in HCC patients with PVTT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui-Sheng Ke
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, No. 55, Zhenhai Road, Siming District, Xiamen, 361003, Fujian, China.
| | - Kun-Zhai Huang
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, No. 55, Zhenhai Road, Siming District, Xiamen, 361003, Fujian, China
| | - De-Sheng Bao
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, No. 55, Zhenhai Road, Siming District, Xiamen, 361003, Fujian, China
| | - Jing-Rui Yang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361003, Fujian, China
| | - Hua-Xiang Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Fuzong Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University (900 Hospital of the Joint Logistics Team), Fuzhou, 350025, Fujian, China
| | - Li-Zhi Lv
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Fuzong Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University (900 Hospital of the Joint Logistics Team), Fuzhou, 350025, Fujian, China
| | - Yi Jiang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Fuzong Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University (900 Hospital of the Joint Logistics Team), Fuzhou, 350025, Fujian, China
| | - Zhao-Hui Liu
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, No. 55, Zhenhai Road, Siming District, Xiamen, 361003, Fujian, China.
| | - Fu-Xing Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, No. 55, Zhenhai Road, Siming District, Xiamen, 361003, Fujian, China.
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19
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Kuwano A, Yada M, Narutomi F, Nagasawa S, Tanaka K, Kurosaka K, Ohishi Y, Masumoto A, Motomura K. Therapeutic efficacy of atezolizumab plus bevacizumab for hepatocellular carcinoma with WNT/β‑catenin signal activation. Oncol Lett 2022; 24:216. [PMID: 35720502 PMCID: PMC9178725 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2022.13337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Akifumi Kuwano
- Department of Hepatology, Iizuka Hospital, Iizuka, Fukuoka 820‑8505, Japan
| | - Masayoshi Yada
- Department of Hepatology, Iizuka Hospital, Iizuka, Fukuoka 820‑8505, Japan
| | - Fumiya Narutomi
- Department of Diagnostic Pathology, Iizuka Hospital, Iizuka, Fukuoka 820‑8505, Japan
| | - Shigehiro Nagasawa
- Department of Hepatology, Iizuka Hospital, Iizuka, Fukuoka 820‑8505, Japan
| | - Kosuke Tanaka
- Department of Hepatology, Iizuka Hospital, Iizuka, Fukuoka 820‑8505, Japan
| | - Kazuki Kurosaka
- Department of Hepatology, Iizuka Hospital, Iizuka, Fukuoka 820‑8505, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Ohishi
- Department of Diagnostic Pathology, Iizuka Hospital, Iizuka, Fukuoka 820‑8505, Japan
| | - Akihide Masumoto
- Department of Hepatology, Iizuka Hospital, Iizuka, Fukuoka 820‑8505, Japan
| | - Kenta Motomura
- Department of Hepatology, Iizuka Hospital, Iizuka, Fukuoka 820‑8505, Japan
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Kudo M. Combination Immunotherapy with Anti-PD-1/PD-L1 Antibody plus Anti-VEGF Antibody May Promote Cytotoxic T Lymphocyte Infiltration in Hepatocellular Carcinoma, Including in the Noninflamed Subclass. Liver Cancer 2022; 11:185-191. [PMID: 35949296 PMCID: PMC9218634 DOI: 10.1159/000524977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
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Selvaggi F, Catalano T, Cotellese R, Aceto GM. Targeting Wnt/β-Catenin Pathways in Primary Liver Tumours: From Microenvironment Signaling to Therapeutic Agents. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14081912. [PMID: 35454818 PMCID: PMC9024538 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14081912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Revised: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary liver cancers (PLCs) are steadily increasing in incidence and mortality in the world. They have a poor prognosis due to their silent nature, late discovery and resistance to common chemotherapy. At present, there are limited treatment alternatives, and the understanding of PLC molecular aspects is essential to develop more efficient drugs and therapeutic surgical and loco-regional strategies. A clear causal link with liver damage, inflammation, and regeneration has been found in the occurrence of PLC over the last few decades. Physiologically, Wingless/It (Wnt)-β-catenin signaling plays a key role in liver development, metabolic zonation and regeneration. Loss of functional homeostasis of this pathway appears to be a major driver of carcinogenesis in the liver parenchyma. In the hepatic microenvironment, molecular deregulations that exceed the Wnt signaling biological capacity can induce tumor initiation and progression. Indeed, somatic mutations are identified in key components of canonical and non-canonical Wnt signaling and in PLCs and precancerous lesions. In this review, the altered functions of Wnt/β-catenin signaling are considered in human PLCs, with emphasis on hepatocellular carcinomas (HCC), cholangiocarcinomas (CCA) and hepatoblastomas (HB). Based on recent literature, we also focused on liver cancerogenesis through Wnt deregulation. An overview of preclinical and clinical studies on approved and experimental drugs, targeting the Wnt/β-catenin cascade in PLCs, is proposed. In addition, the clinical implication of molecule inhibitors that have been shown to possess activity against the Wnt pathway in association with conventional surgical and loco-regional therapies are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federico Selvaggi
- Unit of General Surgery, Ospedale Floraspe Renzetti, 66034 Lanciano, Chieti, Italy;
| | - Teresa Catalano
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria, 98125 Messina, Italy;
| | - Roberto Cotellese
- Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences, University “G. d’Annunzio” Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti, Italy;
- Villa Serena Foundation for Research, 65013 Città Sant’Angelo, Pescara, Italy
| | - Gitana Maria Aceto
- Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences, University “G. d’Annunzio” Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti, Italy;
- Correspondence:
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