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Attia Y, Hakeem A, Samir R, Mohammed A, Elsayed A, Khallaf A, Essam E, Amin H, Abdullah S, Hikmat S, Hossam T, Mohamed Z, Aboelmagd Z, Hammam O. Harnessing adrenergic blockade in stress-promoted TNBC in vitro and solid tumor in vivo: disrupting HIF-1α and GSK-3β/β-catenin driven resistance to doxorubicin. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1362675. [PMID: 38962320 PMCID: PMC11220203 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1362675] [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: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Sympathetic activation triggered by chronic stress afflicting cancer survivors is an emerging modulator of tumorigenesis. Adrenergic blockade was previously associated with improving response to doxorubicin (DOX) in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), yet the precise underlying mechanisms remain obscure. The resilience of cancer stem cells (CSCs) during chemotherapy fosters resistance and relapse. Hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) and β-catenin are intertwined transcriptional factors that enrich CSCs and evidence suggests that their expression could be modulated by systemic adrenergic signals. Herein, we aimed to explore the impact of adrenoreceptor blockade using carvedilol (CAR) on DOX and its potential to modulate CSCs overcoming chemoresistance. To achieve this aim, in vitro studies were conducted using adrenaline-preincubated MDA-MB-231 cells and in vivo studies using a chronic restraint stress-promoted solid tumor mouse model. Results revealed that adrenaline increased TNBC proliferation and induced a phenotypic switch reminiscent of CSCs, as evidenced by enhanced mammosphere formation. These results paralleled an increase in aldehyde dehydrogenase-1 (ALDH-1) and Nanog expression levels as well as HIF-1α and β-catenin upsurge. In vivo, larger tumor volumes were observed in mice under chronic stress compared to their unstressed counterparts. Adrenergic blockade using CAR, however, enhanced the impact DOX had on halting TNBC cell proliferation and tumor growth via enhanced apoptosis. CAR also curbed HIF-1α and β-catenin tumor levels subsequently suppressing ALDH-1 and SOX2. Our study unveils a central role for HIF-1α linking stress-induced sympathetic activation fueling CSC enrichment via the β-catenin pathway. It also highlights novel insights into CAR's capacity in reversing DOX chemoresistance in TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasmeen Attia
- Pharmacology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, The British University in Egypt, El-Sherouk City, Egypt
- Health Research Center of Excellence, Drug Research and Development Group, Faculty of Pharmacy, The British University in Egypt, El-Sherouk City, Egypt
| | - Andrew Hakeem
- Pharmacology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, The British University in Egypt, El-Sherouk City, Egypt
- Health Research Center of Excellence, Drug Research and Development Group, Faculty of Pharmacy, The British University in Egypt, El-Sherouk City, Egypt
| | - Rawda Samir
- Health Research Center of Excellence, Drug Research and Development Group, Faculty of Pharmacy, The British University in Egypt, El-Sherouk City, Egypt
| | - Aya Mohammed
- Pharmacology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, The British University in Egypt, El-Sherouk City, Egypt
| | | | - Alaa Khallaf
- Faculty of Pharmacy, The British University in Egypt, El-Sherouk City, Egypt
| | - Eman Essam
- Faculty of Pharmacy, The British University in Egypt, El-Sherouk City, Egypt
| | - Hossameldeen Amin
- Faculty of Pharmacy, The British University in Egypt, El-Sherouk City, Egypt
| | - Sarah Abdullah
- Faculty of Pharmacy, The British University in Egypt, El-Sherouk City, Egypt
| | - Salwan Hikmat
- Faculty of Pharmacy, The British University in Egypt, El-Sherouk City, Egypt
| | - Tarek Hossam
- Faculty of Pharmacy, The British University in Egypt, El-Sherouk City, Egypt
| | - Ziad Mohamed
- Faculty of Pharmacy, The British University in Egypt, El-Sherouk City, Egypt
| | - Ziad Aboelmagd
- Faculty of Pharmacy, The British University in Egypt, El-Sherouk City, Egypt
| | - Olfat Hammam
- Pathology Department, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Giza, Egypt
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Fuentes-Rodriguez A, Mitchell A, Guérin SL, Landreville S. Recent Advances in Molecular and Genetic Research on Uveal Melanoma. Cells 2024; 13:1023. [PMID: 38920653 PMCID: PMC11201764 DOI: 10.3390/cells13121023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2024] [Revised: 06/08/2024] [Accepted: 06/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Uveal melanoma (UM), a distinct subtype of melanoma, presents unique challenges in its clinical management due to its complex molecular landscape and tendency for liver metastasis. This review highlights recent advancements in understanding the molecular pathogenesis, genetic alterations, and immune microenvironment of UM, with a focus on pivotal genes, such as GNAQ/11, BAP1, and CYSLTR2, and delves into the distinctive genetic and chromosomal classifications of UM, emphasizing the role of mutations and chromosomal rearrangements in disease progression and metastatic risk. Novel diagnostic biomarkers, including circulating tumor cells, DNA and extracellular vesicles, are discussed, offering potential non-invasive approaches for early detection and monitoring. It also explores emerging prognostic markers and their implications for patient stratification and personalized treatment strategies. Therapeutic approaches, including histone deacetylase inhibitors, MAPK pathway inhibitors, and emerging trends and concepts like CAR T-cell therapy, are evaluated for their efficacy in UM treatment. This review identifies challenges in UM research, such as the limited treatment options for metastatic UM and the need for improved prognostic tools, and suggests future directions, including the discovery of novel therapeutic targets, immunotherapeutic strategies, and advanced drug delivery systems. The review concludes by emphasizing the importance of continued research and innovation in addressing the unique challenges of UM to improve patient outcomes and develop more effective treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurélie Fuentes-Rodriguez
- Department of Ophthalmology and Otorhinolaryngology-Cervico-Facial Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC G1V 0A6, Canada; (A.F.-R.); (A.M.); (S.L.G.)
- Hôpital du Saint-Sacrement, Regenerative Medicine Division, CHU de Québec-Université Laval Research Centre, Quebec City, QC G1S 4L8, Canada
- Centre de Recherche en Organogénèse Expérimentale de l‘Université Laval/LOEX, Quebec City, QC G1J 1Z4, Canada
- Université Laval Cancer Research Center, Quebec City, QC G1R 3S3, Canada
| | - Andrew Mitchell
- Department of Ophthalmology and Otorhinolaryngology-Cervico-Facial Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC G1V 0A6, Canada; (A.F.-R.); (A.M.); (S.L.G.)
- Hôpital du Saint-Sacrement, Regenerative Medicine Division, CHU de Québec-Université Laval Research Centre, Quebec City, QC G1S 4L8, Canada
- Centre de Recherche en Organogénèse Expérimentale de l‘Université Laval/LOEX, Quebec City, QC G1J 1Z4, Canada
- Université Laval Cancer Research Center, Quebec City, QC G1R 3S3, Canada
| | - Sylvain L. Guérin
- Department of Ophthalmology and Otorhinolaryngology-Cervico-Facial Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC G1V 0A6, Canada; (A.F.-R.); (A.M.); (S.L.G.)
- Hôpital du Saint-Sacrement, Regenerative Medicine Division, CHU de Québec-Université Laval Research Centre, Quebec City, QC G1S 4L8, Canada
- Centre de Recherche en Organogénèse Expérimentale de l‘Université Laval/LOEX, Quebec City, QC G1J 1Z4, Canada
| | - Solange Landreville
- Department of Ophthalmology and Otorhinolaryngology-Cervico-Facial Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC G1V 0A6, Canada; (A.F.-R.); (A.M.); (S.L.G.)
- Hôpital du Saint-Sacrement, Regenerative Medicine Division, CHU de Québec-Université Laval Research Centre, Quebec City, QC G1S 4L8, Canada
- Centre de Recherche en Organogénèse Expérimentale de l‘Université Laval/LOEX, Quebec City, QC G1J 1Z4, Canada
- Université Laval Cancer Research Center, Quebec City, QC G1R 3S3, Canada
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Viegas J, Sarmento B. Bridging the gap between testing and clinics exploring alternative pre-clinical models in melanoma research. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2024; 208:115295. [PMID: 38527625 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2024.115295] [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: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
Melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, poses a significant clinical challenge for the development of effective treatments. Conventional in vivo animal studies have shown limited translational relevance to humans, raising strength to pre-clinical models for melanoma research. This review provides an in-depth analysis of alternative pre-clinical models including in vitro and ex vivo platforms such as reconstructed skin, spheroids, organoids, organotypic models, skin-on-a-chip, and bioprinting. Through a comprehensive analysis, the specific attributes, advantages, and limitations of each model are elucidated. It discusses the points related to the uniqueness advantages, from capturing complex interactions between melanoma cells and their microenvironment to enabling high-throughput drug screening and personalized medicine approaches. This review is structured covering firstly the roadmap to identify the co-occurrence of discovering new melanoma treatments and the development of its models, secondly it covers a comparative between the most used models followed by a section discussing each of them: the in vitro and ex vivo models. It intends to serve as an asset for researchers of melanoma field and clinicians involved in melanoma therapy, offering insights into the diverse preclinical models available for optimizing their integration into the translational pipeline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Viegas
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen 208, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Bruno Sarmento
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen 208, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen 208, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; IUCS-CESPU - Instituto Universitário de Ciências da Saúde, Rua Central de Gandra 1317, 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal.
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Sayour NV, Paál ÁM, Ameri P, Meijers WC, Minotti G, Andreadou I, Lombardo A, Camilli M, Drexel H, Grove EL, Dan GA, Ivanescu A, Semb AG, Savarese G, Dobrev D, Crea F, Kaski JC, de Boer RA, Ferdinandy P, Varga ZV. Heart failure pharmacotherapy and cancer: pathways and pre-clinical/clinical evidence. Eur Heart J 2024; 45:1224-1240. [PMID: 38441940 PMCID: PMC11023004 DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehae105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Heart failure (HF) patients have a significantly higher risk of new-onset cancer and cancer-associated mortality, compared to subjects free of HF. While both the prevention and treatment of new-onset HF in patients with cancer have been investigated extensively, less is known about the prevention and treatment of new-onset cancer in patients with HF, and whether and how guideline-directed medical therapy (GDMT) for HF should be modified when cancer is diagnosed in HF patients. The purpose of this review is to elaborate and discuss the effects of pillar HF pharmacotherapies, as well as digoxin and diuretics on cancer, and to identify areas for further research and novel therapeutic strategies. To this end, in this review, (i) proposed effects and mechanisms of action of guideline-directed HF drugs on cancer derived from pre-clinical data will be described, (ii) the evidence from both observational studies and randomized controlled trials on the effects of guideline-directed medical therapy on cancer incidence and cancer-related outcomes, as synthetized by meta-analyses will be reviewed, and (iii) considerations for future pre-clinical and clinical investigations will be provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nabil V Sayour
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Semmelweis University, H-1085 Budapest, Üllői út 26, Hungary
- HCEMM-SU Cardiometabolic Immunology Research Group, H-1089 Budapest, Nagyvárad tér 4, Hungary
- MTA-SE Momentum Cardio-Oncology and Cardioimmunology Research Group, H-1089 Budapest, Nagyvárad tér 4, Hungary
| | - Ágnes M Paál
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Semmelweis University, H-1085 Budapest, Üllői út 26, Hungary
| | - Pietro Ameri
- Cardiovascular Disease Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Italian IRCCS Cardiology Network, Genova, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Wouter C Meijers
- Department of Cardiology, Thorax Center, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Giorgio Minotti
- University Campus Bio-Medico, Via Álvaro del Portillo, 21, 00128 Rome, Italy
| | - Ioanna Andreadou
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Antonella Lombardo
- Department of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Sciences, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Camilli
- Department of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Sciences, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Heinz Drexel
- Vorarlberg Institute for Vascular Investigation & Treatment (VIVIT), Carinagasse 47, A-6800 Feldkirch, Austria
| | - Erik Lerkevang Grove
- Department of Cardiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Gheorghe Andrei Dan
- Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Colentina University Hospital, Bucharest, Romania
- Cardiology Department, Colentina Clinical Hospital, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Andreea Ivanescu
- Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Colentina University Hospital, Bucharest, Romania
- Cardiology Department, Colentina Clinical Hospital, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Anne Grete Semb
- Division of Research and Innovation, REMEDY-Centre for Treatment of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Diseases, Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Gianluigi Savarese
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Heart and Vascular and Neuro Theme, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Dobromir Dobrev
- Institute of Pharmacology, West German Heart and Vascular Center, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- Department of Medicine and Research Center, Montreal Heart Institute and Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Department of Integrative Physiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Filippo Crea
- Department of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Sciences, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Juan-Carlos Kaski
- Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St. George’s University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Rudolf A de Boer
- Department of Cardiology, Thorax Center, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Péter Ferdinandy
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Semmelweis University, H-1085 Budapest, Üllői út 26, Hungary
- Pharmahungary Group, Szeged, Hungary
- MTA-SE System Pharmacology Research Group, Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Zoltán V Varga
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Semmelweis University, H-1085 Budapest, Üllői út 26, Hungary
- HCEMM-SU Cardiometabolic Immunology Research Group, H-1089 Budapest, Nagyvárad tér 4, Hungary
- MTA-SE Momentum Cardio-Oncology and Cardioimmunology Research Group, H-1089 Budapest, Nagyvárad tér 4, Hungary
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Switzer B, Puzanov I, Gandhi S, Repasky EA. Targeting beta-adrenergic receptor pathways in melanoma: how stress modulates oncogenic immunity. Melanoma Res 2024; 34:89-95. [PMID: 38051781 PMCID: PMC10906201 DOI: 10.1097/cmr.0000000000000943] [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: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
The intricate pathways of the sympathetic nervous system hold an inherently protective role in the setting of acute stress. This is achieved through dynamic immunomodulatory and neurobiological networks. However, excessive and chronic exposure to these stress-induced stimuli appears to cause physiologic dysfunction through several mechanisms that may impair psychosocial, neurologic, and immunologic health. Numerous preclinical observations have identified the beta-2 adrenergic receptor (β2-AR) subtype to possess the strongest impact on immune dysfunction in the setting of chronic stressful stimuli. This prolonged expression of β2-ARs appears to suppress immune surveillance and promote tumorigenesis within multiple cancer types. This occurs through several pathways, including (1) decreasing the frequency and function of CD8 + T-cells infiltrating the tumor microenvironment (TME) via inhibition of metabolic reprogramming during T cell activation, and (2) establishing an immunosuppressive profile within the TME including promotion of an exhausted T cell phenotype while simultaneously enhancing local and paracrine metastatic potential. The use of nonselective β-AR antagonists appears to reverse many chronic stress-induced tumorigenic pathways and may also provide an additive therapeutic benefit for various immune checkpoint modulating agents including commonly utilized immune checkpoint inhibitors. Here we review the translational and clinical observations highlighting the foundational hypotheses that chronic stress-induced β-AR signaling promotes a pro-tumoral immunophenotype and that blockade of these pathways may augment the therapeutic response of immune checkpoint inhibition within the scope of melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Switzer
- Department of Medicine, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center
| | - Igor Puzanov
- Department of Medicine, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center
| | - Shipra Gandhi
- Department of Medicine, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center
| | - Elizabeth A. Repasky
- Department of Immunology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York, USA
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Carnet Le Provost K, Kepp O, Kroemer G, Bezu L. Trial watch: beta-blockers in cancer therapy. Oncoimmunology 2023; 12:2284486. [PMID: 38126031 PMCID: PMC10732641 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2023.2284486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Compelling evidence supports the hypothesis that stress negatively impacts cancer development and prognosis. Irrespective of its physical, biological or psychological source, stress triggers a physiological response that is mediated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and the sympathetic adrenal medullary axis. The resulting release of glucocorticoids and catecholamines into the systemic circulation leads to neuroendocrine and metabolic adaptations that can affect immune homeostasis and immunosurveillance, thus impairing the detection and eradication of malignant cells. Moreover, catecholamines directly act on β-adrenoreceptors present on tumor cells, thereby stimulating survival, proliferation, and migration of nascent neoplasms. Numerous preclinical studies have shown that blocking adrenergic receptors slows tumor growth, suggesting potential clinical benefits of using β-blockers in cancer therapy. Much of these positive effects of β-blockade are mediated by improved immunosurveillance. The present trial watch summarizes current knowledge from preclinical and clinical studies investigating the anticancer effects of β-blockers either as standalone agents or in combination with conventional antineoplastic treatments or immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Killian Carnet Le Provost
- Equipe Labellisée Par La Ligue Contre Le Cancer, Université de Paris, Sorbonne Université, INSERM UMR1138, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Institut Universitaire de France, Paris, France
- Metabolomics and Cell Biology Platforms, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Université Paris Saclay, Villejuif, France
| | - Oliver Kepp
- Equipe Labellisée Par La Ligue Contre Le Cancer, Université de Paris, Sorbonne Université, INSERM UMR1138, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Institut Universitaire de France, Paris, France
- Metabolomics and Cell Biology Platforms, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Université Paris Saclay, Villejuif, France
| | - Guido Kroemer
- Equipe Labellisée Par La Ligue Contre Le Cancer, Université de Paris, Sorbonne Université, INSERM UMR1138, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Institut Universitaire de France, Paris, France
- Metabolomics and Cell Biology Platforms, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Université Paris Saclay, Villejuif, France
- Pôle de Biologie, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Lucillia Bezu
- Equipe Labellisée Par La Ligue Contre Le Cancer, Université de Paris, Sorbonne Université, INSERM UMR1138, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Institut Universitaire de France, Paris, France
- Metabolomics and Cell Biology Platforms, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Université Paris Saclay, Villejuif, France
- Gustave Roussy, Département d’anesthésie, Chirurgie et Interventionnel, Villejuif, France
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Miebach L, Melo‐Zainzinger G, Freund E, Clemen R, Cecchini AL, Bekeschus S. Medical Gas Plasma Technology Combines with Antimelanoma Therapies and Promotes Immune-Checkpoint Therapy Responses. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2303183. [PMID: 37541287 PMCID: PMC10558686 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202303183] [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: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/06/2023]
Abstract
Strategies to improve activity and selectivity are major goals in oncological drug development. Medical gas plasma therapy has been subject to intense research in dermatooncology recently. Based on partial gas ionization, this approach is exceptional in generating a variety of reactive oxygen species simultaneously that can be applied locally at the tumor side. It is hypothesized that combined gas plasma treatment can potentiate drug responses in the treatment of melanoma. Using a plasma jet approved as medical device in Europe, a systematic screening of 46 mitochondria-targeted drugs identifies five agents synergizing in vitro and in vivo. Increased intratumoral leucocyte infiltration points to immunomodulatory aspects of the treatment, motivating to investigate responses to immune checkpoint blockade in combination with plasma. Tumor growth is monitored based on bioluminescent imaging, and single-cell suspensions are retrieved from each tumor to characterize tumor-infiltrating leucocytes using multicolor flow cytometry. Gene expression profiling is done using a validated NanoString panel targeting 770 genes specifically designed for immuno-oncological research. Cell type abundancies are characterized from bulk RNA samples using the CIBERSORT computational framework. Collectively, the results indicate that local application of medical gas plasma technology synergizes with mitochondria-targeted drugs and anti-PD1 checkpoint therapy in treating melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lea Miebach
- Department of General, Thoracic, Vascular, and Visceral SurgeryGreifswald University Medical Center17475GreifswaldGermany
- ZIK plasmatisLeibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology (INP)17489GreifswaldGermany
| | - Gabriella Melo‐Zainzinger
- ZIK plasmatisLeibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology (INP)17489GreifswaldGermany
- Cancer Research UnitBoehringer IngelheimVienna1121Austria
| | - Eric Freund
- Department of General, Thoracic, Vascular, and Visceral SurgeryGreifswald University Medical Center17475GreifswaldGermany
- ZIK plasmatisLeibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology (INP)17489GreifswaldGermany
- Department of NeurosurgeryWien University Medical CenterVienna1090Austria
| | - Ramona Clemen
- ZIK plasmatisLeibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology (INP)17489GreifswaldGermany
| | | | - Sander Bekeschus
- ZIK plasmatisLeibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology (INP)17489GreifswaldGermany
- Clinic for Dermatology and VenerologyRostock University Medical Center18057RostockGermany
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Wang MM, Coupland SE, Aittokallio T, Figueiredo CR. Resistance to immune checkpoint therapies by tumour-induced T-cell desertification and exclusion: key mechanisms, prognostication and new therapeutic opportunities. Br J Cancer 2023; 129:1212-1224. [PMID: 37454231 PMCID: PMC10575907 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-023-02361-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint therapies (ICT) can reinvigorate the effector functions of anti-tumour T cells, improving cancer patient outcomes. Anti-tumour T cells are initially formed during their first contact (priming) with tumour antigens by antigen-presenting cells (APCs). Unfortunately, many patients are refractory to ICT because their tumours are considered to be 'cold' tumours-i.e., they do not allow the generation of T cells (so-called 'desert' tumours) or the infiltration of existing anti-tumour T cells (T-cell-excluded tumours). Desert tumours disturb antigen processing and priming of T cells by targeting APCs with suppressive tumour factors derived from their genetic instabilities. In contrast, T-cell-excluded tumours are characterised by blocking effective anti-tumour T lymphocytes infiltrating cancer masses by obstacles, such as fibrosis and tumour-cell-induced immunosuppression. This review delves into critical mechanisms by which cancer cells induce T-cell 'desertification' and 'exclusion' in ICT refractory tumours. Filling the gaps in our knowledge regarding these pro-tumoral mechanisms will aid researchers in developing novel class immunotherapies that aim at restoring T-cell generation with more efficient priming by APCs and leukocyte tumour trafficking. Such developments are expected to unleash the clinical benefit of ICT in refractory patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona Meng Wang
- Medical Immune Oncology Research Group (MIORG), Institute of Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- Singapore National Eye Centre and Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Sarah E Coupland
- InFLAMES Research Flagship Center, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- Liverpool Ocular Oncology Research Group (LOORG), Institute of Systems Molecular and Integrative Biology, Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Tero Aittokallio
- InFLAMES Research Flagship Center, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland (FIMM), HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Institute for Cancer Research, Department of Cancer Genetics, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Oslo Centre for Biostatistics and Epidemiology (OCBE), Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Carlos R Figueiredo
- Medical Immune Oncology Research Group (MIORG), Institute of Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.
- InFLAMES Research Flagship Center, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.
- Turku Bioscience Centre, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.
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Wawszczyk J, Wolan R, Smolik S, Kapral M. In vitro and in silico study on the effect of carvedilol and sorafenib alone and in combination on the growth and inflammatory response of melanoma cells. Saudi Pharm J 2023; 31:1306-1316. [PMID: 37323921 PMCID: PMC10265481 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsps.2023.05.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is an aggressive skin cancer. Increasing evidence has shown the role of β-adrenergic receptors in the pathogenesis of melanoma. Carvedilol is a widely used non-selective β-AR antagonist with potential anticancer activity. The purpose of the study was to estimate the influence of carvedilol and sorafenib alone and in combination on the growth and inflammatory response of C32 and A2058 melanoma cells. Furthermore, this study also aimed to predict the probable interaction of carvedilol and sorafenib when administered together. Predictive study of the interaction of carvedilol and sorafenib was performed using the ChemDIS-Mixture system. Carvedilol and sorafenib alone and in combination showed a growth inhibitory effect on cells. The greatest synergistic antiproliferative effect on both cell lines was observed at Car 5 μM combined with Sor 5 μM. Analysis in silico identified diseases, proteins, and metabolic pathways that can be affected by the interaction of carvedilol and sorafenib. The results obtained demonstrated that carvedilol and sorafenib modulated the secretion of IL-8 by IL-1β-stimulated by melanoma cell lines but the use of a combination of both drugs did not intensify the effect. In summary, the results presented indicate that the combination of carvedilol and sorafenib may have a promising anticancer effect on melanoma cells.
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Farhoumand LS, Liu H, Tsimpaki T, Hendgen-Cotta UB, Rassaf T, Bechrakis NE, Fiorentzis M, Berchner-Pfannschmidt U. Blockade of ß-Adrenergic Receptors by Nebivolol Enables Tumor Control Potential for Uveal Melanoma in 3D Tumor Spheroids and 2D Cultures. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065894. [PMID: 36982966 PMCID: PMC10054088 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Uveal melanoma (UM) is the most common primary cancer of the eye in adults. A new systemic therapy is needed to reduce the high metastasis and mortality rate. As β-blockers are known to have anti-tumor effects on various cancer entities, this study focuses on investigating the effect of β1-selective blockers atenolol, celiprolol, bisoprolol, metoprolol, esmolol, betaxolol, and in particular, nebivolol on UM. The study was performed on 3D tumor spheroids as well as 2D cell cultures, testing tumor viability, morphological changes, long-term survival, and apoptosis. Flow cytometry revealed the presence of all three β-adrenoceptors with a dominance of β2-receptors on cell surfaces. Among the blockers tested, solely nebivolol concentration-dependently decreased viability and altered 3D tumor spheroid structure. Nebivolol blocked the repopulation of cells spreading from 3D tumor spheroids, indicating a tumor control potential at a concentration of ≥20 µM. Mechanistically, nebivolol induced ATP depletion and caspase-3/7 activity, indicating that mitochondria-dependent signaling is involved. D-nebivolol or nebivolol combined with the β2-antagonist ICI 118.551 displayed the highest anti-tumor effects, suggesting a contribution of both β1- and β2-receptors. Thus, the present study reveals the tumor control potential of nebivolol in UM, which may offer a perspective for co-adjuvant therapy to reduce recurrence or metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lina S Farhoumand
- Eye Research Lab, Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Hongtao Liu
- Eye Research Lab, Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Theodora Tsimpaki
- Eye Research Lab, Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Ulrike B Hendgen-Cotta
- CardioScience Labs, Department of Cardiology and Vascular Medicine, West German Heart and Vascular Center, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Tienush Rassaf
- CardioScience Labs, Department of Cardiology and Vascular Medicine, West German Heart and Vascular Center, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Nikolaos E Bechrakis
- Eye Research Lab, Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Miltiadis Fiorentzis
- Eye Research Lab, Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Utta Berchner-Pfannschmidt
- Eye Research Lab, Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany
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Hu Y, Cai J, Ye M, Mou Q, Zhao B, Sun Q, Lou X, Zhang H, Zhao Y. Development and validation of immunogenic cell death-related signature for predicting the prognosis and immune landscape of uveal melanoma. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1037128. [PMID: 36466923 PMCID: PMC9709208 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1037128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Uveal melanoma (UM) is the most common primary intraocular malignant tumor in adults, and the main treatment for UM is currently surgery and plaque brachytherapy. UM is highly susceptible to metastasis, which eventually occurs in nearly half of all patients; once metastasis occurs, patients have a poor prognosis and the condition is difficult to treat. Therefore, the identification of new and effective UM biomarkers is vital for the application of therapeutic strategies. Immunogenic cell death (ICD) is a type of regulatory cell death that activates adaptive immune responses and generates long-term immunological memory. ICD can promote antitumor immunity, which may be a potential immunotherapeutic strategy for UM. METHODS The data of UM from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) was used as a training set and the data from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) was used as a validation set. To determine the expression pattern of ICD-related genes in UM, survival analysis and difference analysis was conducted. The ICD-related risk signature was constructed by employing the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) Cox regression. Subsequently, immune profile and somatic mutation analysis were performed. In addition, cell experiments were performed to verify the role of immunogenic cell death-related genes in UM. RESULTS In this study, we analyzed the relationship between ICD-related gene expression and UM patient prognosis, somatic mutations, and the tumor immune microenvironment. Importantly, we constructed a 5-gene ICD-related risk signature and confirmed it as a novel prognostic biomarker in UM patients. We found that the high-risk group had more immune cell infiltration and a worse prognosis than the low-risk group. In cellular experiments, we confirmed the high expression of FOXP3 inMUM2B andOCM-1A cell lines and that knockdown of FOXP3 markedly inhibited the proliferation of UM tumor cells. DISCUSSION ICD-related genes play a critical role in the tumor immune microenvironment. Our results may contribute to the development of effective immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyuan Hu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiayang Cai
- Department of Neurosurgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Meng Ye
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Qianxue Mou
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Bowen Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Qian Sun
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaotong Lou
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Hong Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yin Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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