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Vasarri M, Barletta E, Stio M, Bergonzi MC, Galli A, Degl’Innocenti D. Ameliorative Effect of Posidonia oceanica on High Glucose-Related Stress in Human Hepatoma HepG2 Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065203. [PMID: 36982278 PMCID: PMC10048879 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Metabolic disorders characterized by elevated blood glucose levels are a recognized risk factor for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Lipid dysregulation is critically involved in the HCC progression, regulating energy storage, metabolism, and cell signaling. There is a clear link between de novo lipogenesis in the liver and activation of the NF-κB pathway, which is involved in cancer metastasis via regulation of metalloproteinases MMP-2/9. As conventional therapies for HCC reach their limits, new effective and safe drugs need to be found for the prevention and/or adjuvant therapy of HCC. The marine plant Posidonia oceanica (L.) Delile is endemic to the Mediterranean and has traditionally been used to treat diabetes and other health disorders. The phenol-rich leaf extract of Posidonia oceanica (POE) is known to have cell-safe bioactivities. Here, high glucose (HG) conditions were used to study lipid accumulation and fatty acid synthase (FASN) expression in human HepG2 hepatoma cells using Oil Red O and Western blot assays. Under HG conditions, the activation status of MAPKs/NF-κB axis and MMP-2/9 activity were determined by Western blot and gelatin zymography assays. The potential ameliorative role of POE against HG-related stress in HepG2 cells was then investigated. POE reduced lipid accumulation and FASN expression with an impact on de novo lipogenesis. Moreover, POE inhibited the MAPKs/NF-κB axis and, consequently, MMP-2/9 activity. Overall, these results suggest that P. oceanica may be a potential weapon in the HCC additional treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marzia Vasarri
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale Morgagni 50, 50134 Florence, Italy
- Department of Chemistry “Ugo Schiff”, University of Florence, Via Ugo Schiff 6, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Florence, Italy
| | - Emanuela Barletta
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale Morgagni 50, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Maria Stio
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale Morgagni 50, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Maria Camilla Bergonzi
- Department of Chemistry “Ugo Schiff”, University of Florence, Via Ugo Schiff 6, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Florence, Italy
| | - Andrea Galli
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale Morgagni 50, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Donatella Degl’Innocenti
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale Morgagni 50, 50134 Florence, Italy
- Interuniversity Center of Marine Biology and Applied Ecology “G. Bacci” (CIBM), Viale N. Sauro 4, 57128 Livorno, Italy
- Correspondence:
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2
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Leroy K, Silva Costa CJ, Pieters A, dos Santos Rodrigues B, Van Campenhout R, Cooreman A, Tabernilla A, Cogliati B, Vinken M. Expression and Functionality of Connexin-Based Channels in Human Liver Cancer Cell Lines. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:12187. [PMID: 34830068 PMCID: PMC8623148 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222212187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer cell lines are frequently used in vitro tools to test candidate anti-cancer agents as well as to elucidate mechanisms of liver carcinogenesis. Among such mechanisms is cellular communication mediated by connexin-based gap junctions. The present study investigated changes in connexin expression and gap junction functionality in liver cancer in vitro. For this purpose, seven human liver cancer cell lines, as well as primary human hepatocytes, were subjected to connexin and gap junction analysis at the transcriptional, translational and activity level. Real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction analysis showed enhanced expression of connexin43 in the majority of liver cancer cell lines at the expense of connexin32 and connexin26. Some of these changes were paralleled at the protein level, as evidenced by immunoblot analysis and in situ immunocytochemistry. Gap junctional intercellular communication, assessed by the scrape loading/dye transfer assay, was generally low in all liver cancer cell lines. Collectively, these results provide a full scenario of modifications in hepatocyte connexin production and gap junction activity in cultured liver cancer cell lines. The findings may be valuable for the selection of neoplastic hepatocytes for future mechanistic investigation and testing of anti-cancer drugs that target connexins and their channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaat Leroy
- Entity of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (K.L.); (A.P.); (B.d.S.R.); (R.V.C.); (A.C.); (A.T.)
| | - Cícero Júlio Silva Costa
- Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Av. Prof. Dr. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, Cidade Universitária, São Paulo 05508-270, Brazil; (C.J.S.C.); (B.C.)
| | - Alanah Pieters
- Entity of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (K.L.); (A.P.); (B.d.S.R.); (R.V.C.); (A.C.); (A.T.)
| | - Bruna dos Santos Rodrigues
- Entity of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (K.L.); (A.P.); (B.d.S.R.); (R.V.C.); (A.C.); (A.T.)
| | - Raf Van Campenhout
- Entity of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (K.L.); (A.P.); (B.d.S.R.); (R.V.C.); (A.C.); (A.T.)
| | - Axelle Cooreman
- Entity of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (K.L.); (A.P.); (B.d.S.R.); (R.V.C.); (A.C.); (A.T.)
| | - Andrés Tabernilla
- Entity of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (K.L.); (A.P.); (B.d.S.R.); (R.V.C.); (A.C.); (A.T.)
| | - Bruno Cogliati
- Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Av. Prof. Dr. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, Cidade Universitária, São Paulo 05508-270, Brazil; (C.J.S.C.); (B.C.)
| | - Mathieu Vinken
- Entity of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (K.L.); (A.P.); (B.d.S.R.); (R.V.C.); (A.C.); (A.T.)
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3
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Kong D, Jiang T, Liu J, Jiang X, Liu B, Lou C, Zhao B, Carroll SL, Feng G. Chemoembolizing hepatocellular carcinoma with microsphere cored with arsenic trioxide microcrystal. Drug Deliv 2021; 27:1729-1740. [PMID: 33307843 PMCID: PMC7738295 DOI: 10.1080/10717544.2020.1856219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Chemoembolization for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is often suboptimal due to multiple involved signaling and lack of effective drugs. Arsenic trioxide (ATO) is a potent chemotherapeutic agent, which can target multiple signaling and have substantial efficacy on HCC. However, its usage is limited due to systemic toxicity. Using ATO-eluting beads/microspheres for chemoembolization can have locoregional drug delivery and avoid systemic exposure but will require high drug load, which has not been achieved due to low solubility of ATO. Through an innovative approach, we generated the transiently formed ATO microcrystals via micronization and stabilized these microcrystals by solvent exchange. By encapsulating ATO microcrystals, but not individual molecules, with poly(lactide-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA), we developed microspheres cored with extremely high dense ATO. The molar ratio between ATO and PLGA was 157.4:1 and drug load was 40.1%, which is 4–20 fold higher than that of reported ATO nano/microparticles. These microspheres sustainably induced reactive oxygen species, apoptosis, and cytotoxicity on HCC cells and reduced tumor growth by 80% via locoregional delivery. Chemoembolization on mice model showed that ATO-microcrystal loaded microspheres, but not ATO, inhibited HCC growth by 60–75%, which indicates ATO within these microspheres gains the chemoembolizing function via our innovative approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Degang Kong
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China.,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Tao Jiang
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA.,Department of General Surgery, Dongzhimen Hospital of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Jian Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Xinyi Jiang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Bei Liu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Cheng Lou
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Third Central Hospital of Tianjin, Tianjin, China
| | - Baobing Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Steven L Carroll
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Gong Feng
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA.,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Residency Program, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
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Assar DH, Mokhbatly AAA, Ghazy EW, Ragab AE, Abou Asa S, Abdo W, Elbialy ZI, Mohamed NE, El-Far AH. Ameliorative Effects of Aspergillus awamori against the Initiation of Hepatocarcinogenesis Induced by Diethylnitrosamine in a Rat Model: Regulation of Cyp19 and p53 Gene Expression. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:922. [PMID: 34200190 PMCID: PMC8228954 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10060922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Revised: 05/22/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common cancer in humans. Despite advances in its treatment, liver cancer remains one of the most difficult cancers to treat. This study aimed to investigate the ameliorative action and potential mechanism of Aspergillus awamori (ASP) administration against the initiation process of liver carcinogenesis induced by diethylnitrosamine (DEN) in male Wistar rats. Seventy-two male rats were divided equally into eight groups as follows, Group 1: untreated control; Group 2: DEN (200 mg/kg bw) intra-peritoneally for the initiation of HCC; Groups 3-5: DEN + ASP at a dose of 1, 0.5, and 0.25 mg/kg bw and groups 6-8: ASP at a dose of 1, 0.5, and 0.25 mg/kg bw. Supplementation of A. awamori significantly lightened the adverse impacts induced by DEN via restoring the leukogram to normal, lowering the elevated serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), and γ-glutamyl transferase (GGT), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP). Furthermore, it enhanced the hepatic antioxidant capacity through increasing the reduced glutathione (GSH) level and catalase (CAT) activity with a marked reduction in malondialdehyde (MDA) level. In addition, it decreased the positive GST-P foci. Likewise, a significant alteration of DEN-associated hepatocarcinogenesis occurred through inhibiting cytochrome P450 (Cyp19) and activating p53 gene expression. In conclusion, supplementation of A. awamori counteracts the negative effects of DEN, inhibits the early development of GST-P-positive foci and could be used as a new alternative strategy for its chemo-preventive effect in liver cancer. To the best of our knowledge, the present study is the first to report the hepato-protective effect of A. awamori in induced hepatocarcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doaa H. Assar
- Clinical Pathology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafrelsheikh 33516, Egypt; (A.-A.A.M.); (E.W.G.); (N.E.M.)
| | - Abd-Allah A. Mokhbatly
- Clinical Pathology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafrelsheikh 33516, Egypt; (A.-A.A.M.); (E.W.G.); (N.E.M.)
| | - Emad W. Ghazy
- Clinical Pathology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafrelsheikh 33516, Egypt; (A.-A.A.M.); (E.W.G.); (N.E.M.)
| | - Amany E. Ragab
- Pharmacognosy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tanta University, Tanta 32527, Egypt;
| | - Samah Abou Asa
- Pathology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafrelsheikh 33516, Egypt; (S.A.A.); (W.A.)
| | - Walied Abdo
- Pathology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafrelsheikh 33516, Egypt; (S.A.A.); (W.A.)
| | - Zizy I. Elbialy
- Department of Fish Processing and Biotechnology, Faculty of Aquatic and Fisheries Sciences, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafrelsheikh 33516, Egypt
| | - Nora Elbialy Mohamed
- Clinical Pathology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafrelsheikh 33516, Egypt; (A.-A.A.M.); (E.W.G.); (N.E.M.)
| | - Ali H. El-Far
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Damanhour University, Damanhour 22511, Egypt
- Scientific Chair of Yousef Abdullatif Jameel of Prophetic Medicine Application, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
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5
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Hage C, Hoves S, Ashoff M, Schandl V, Hört S, Rieder N, Heichinger C, Berrera M, Ries CH, Kiessling F, Pöschinger T. Characterizing responsive and refractory orthotopic mouse models of hepatocellular carcinoma in cancer immunotherapy. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0219517. [PMID: 31291357 PMCID: PMC6619768 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0219517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2019] [Accepted: 06/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common cancers worldwide and has a high mortality rate due to limited treatment options. Hence, the response of HCC to different cancer immunotherapies is being intensively investigated in clinical trials. Immune checkpoint blockers (ICB) show promising results, albeit for a minority of HCC patients. Mouse models are commonly used to evaluate new therapeutic agents or regimens. However, to make clinical translation more successful, better characterized preclinical models are required. We therefore extensively investigated two immune-competent orthotopic HCC mouse models, namely transplanted Hep-55.1c and transgenic iAST, with respect to morphological, immunological and genetic traits and evaluated both models' responsiveness to immunotherapies. Hep-55.1c tumors were characterized by rich fibrous stroma, high mutational load and pronounced immune cell infiltrates, all of which are features of immune-responsive tumors. These characteristics were less distinct in iAST tumors, though these were highly vascularized. Cell depletion revealed that CD8+ T cells from iAST mice do not affect tumor growth and are tumor tolerant. This corresponds to the failure of single and combined ICB targeting PD-1 and CTLA-4. In contrast, combining anti-PD-1 and anti-CTLA-4 showed significant antitumor efficacy in the Hep-55.1c mouse model. Collectively, our data comprehensively characterize two immune-competent HCC mouse models representing ICB responsive and refractory characteristics. Our characterization confirms these models to be suitable for preclinical investigation of novel cancer immunotherapy approaches that aim to either deepen preexisting immune responses or generate de novo immunity against the tumor.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Antigens, Polyomavirus Transforming/genetics
- Antineoplastic Agents, Immunological/pharmacology
- Antineoplastic Agents, Immunological/therapeutic use
- Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols/pharmacology
- Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols/therapeutic use
- CD8-Positive T-Lymphocytes/immunology
- CTLA-4 Antigen/antagonists & inhibitors
- CTLA-4 Antigen/immunology
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/drug therapy
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/genetics
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/immunology
- Cell Line, Tumor/transplantation
- Disease Models, Animal
- Drug Resistance, Neoplasm
- Drug Screening Assays, Antitumor/methods
- Female
- Humans
- Liver Neoplasms/drug therapy
- Liver Neoplasms/genetics
- Liver Neoplasms/immunology
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Mice, Transgenic
- Programmed Cell Death 1 Receptor/antagonists & inhibitors
- Programmed Cell Death 1 Receptor/immunology
- Treatment Outcome
- Tumor Microenvironment/drug effects
- Tumor Microenvironment/immunology
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Affiliation(s)
- Carina Hage
- Roche Innovation Center Munich, Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, Penzberg, Germany
- Institute for Experimental Molecular Imaging, University Clinic and Helmholtz Institute for Biomedical Engineering, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Sabine Hoves
- Roche Innovation Center Munich, Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, Penzberg, Germany
| | - Mailin Ashoff
- Roche Innovation Center Munich, Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, Penzberg, Germany
| | - Veronika Schandl
- Roche Innovation Center Munich, Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, Penzberg, Germany
| | - Stefan Hört
- Roche Innovation Center Munich, Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, Penzberg, Germany
| | - Natascha Rieder
- Roche Innovation Center Munich, Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, Penzberg, Germany
| | - Christian Heichinger
- Roche Innovation Center Basel, Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Marco Berrera
- Roche Innovation Center Basel, Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Carola H. Ries
- Roche Innovation Center Munich, Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, Penzberg, Germany
| | - Fabian Kiessling
- Institute for Experimental Molecular Imaging, University Clinic and Helmholtz Institute for Biomedical Engineering, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Thomas Pöschinger
- Roche Innovation Center Munich, Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, Penzberg, Germany
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Wang J, Xia C, Pu M, Dai B, Yang X, Shang R, Yang Z, Zhang R, Tao K, Dou K. Silencing of CDCA5 inhibits cancer progression and serves as a prognostic biomarker for hepatocellular carcinoma. Oncol Rep 2018; 40:1875-1884. [PMID: 30015982 PMCID: PMC6111608 DOI: 10.3892/or.2018.6579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2018] [Accepted: 07/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell division cycle associated 5 (CDCA5) has been associated with the progression of several types of cancers. However, its possible role and mechanism in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remain unknown. In the present study, immunohistochemical staining and real-time PCR were used to assess CDCA5 protein and mRNA levels in clinical samples. Statistical analysis was performed to explore the clinical correlation between CDCA5 protein expression and clinicopathological features and overall survival in HCC patients. Cell counting and colony formation assays were employed to analyse the effect of CDCA5 on cell proliferation, and flow cytometry was used to study the role of CDCA5 in cell cycle progression and apoptosis. Moreover, subcutaneous xenograft tumour models were implemented to predict the efficacy of targeting CDCA5 in HCC in vivo. We found that CDCA5 expression was significantly higher in HCC tumour tissues, was associated with clinicopathological characteristics, and predicted poor overall survival in HCC patients. Silencing of CDCA5 with small interfering RNA (siRNA) inhibited cell proliferation and induced G2/M cell cycle arrest in vitro. The xenograft growth assay revealed that CDCA5 downregulation impeded HCC growth in vivo. Further study indicated that CDCA5 depletion decreased the levels of ERK1/2 and AKT phosphorylation in vitro and in vivo. Taken together, these results indicate that CDCA5 may act as a novel prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianlin Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710032, P.R. China
| | - Congcong Xia
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710032, P.R. China
| | - Meng Pu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Air Force General Hospital of the People's Liberation Army, Beijing 100142, P.R. China
| | - Bin Dai
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710032, P.R. China
| | - Xisheng Yang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710032, P.R. China
| | - Runze Shang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710032, P.R. China
| | - Zhen Yang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710032, P.R. China
| | - Ruohan Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710032, P.R. China
| | - Kaishan Tao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710032, P.R. China
| | - Kefeng Dou
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710032, P.R. China
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7
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Daecher A, Stanczak M, Liu JB, Zhang J, Du S, Forsberg F, Leeper DB, Eisenbrey JR. Localized microbubble cavitation-based antivascular therapy for improving HCC treatment response to radiotherapy. Cancer Lett 2017; 411:100-105. [PMID: 28969964 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2017.09.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2017] [Revised: 09/21/2017] [Accepted: 09/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third leading cause of cancer mortality worldwide and the fastest growing malignancy in the United States. With a 5-year survival rate below 12%, effective therapies for HCC are needed. Current treatments for HCC include microwave and radiofrequency ablation, high intensity focused ultrasound, liver transplant, surgical resection, and localized embolizations. However, each of these approaches has some limitation, making it imperative to develop improved methods for sensitizing tumors prior to therapy. We hypothesized that the use of ultrasound-triggered microbubble destruction (UTMD), which sensitizes tumors to radiotherapy by inducing vascular endothelial cell apoptosis, will selectively sensitize malignant tissue to radiotherapy and improve outcomes. To test this, 18 nude rats were inoculated in the right liver lobe with Hu7.5 HCC cells and after tumor formation, received 5 Gy radiotherapy, UTMD, or UTMD prior to radiotherapy. Compared to radiotherapy alone, there was a 170% reduction in tumor growth 7 days post treatment and a 3.2X improvement in median survival time when radiotherapy was combined with UTMD. These results indicate that UTMD is an effective adjunct when combined with radiotherapy to treat HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annemarie Daecher
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA; Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Maria Stanczak
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Ji-Bin Liu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Jie Zhang
- Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Heping District, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - Shisuo Du
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Flemming Forsberg
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Dennis B Leeper
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - John R Eisenbrey
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA.
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8
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Khan F, Khan TJ, Kalamegam G, Pushparaj PN, Chaudhary A, Abuzenadah A, Kumosani T, Barbour E, Al-Qahtani M. Anti-cancer effects of Ajwa dates (Phoenix dactylifera L.) in diethylnitrosamine induced hepatocellular carcinoma in Wistar rats. BMC COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2017; 17:418. [PMID: 28830415 PMCID: PMC5567468 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-017-1926-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2017] [Accepted: 08/14/2017] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) accounts for major cancer-related deaths despite current advanced therapies. Treatment and prognosis of HCC is better in patients with preserved liver function. Many natural products including ajwa dates (Phoenix dactylifera L.), are claimed to have hepatoprotective and HCC inhibitory effects, but most lack scientific validation. To prove our hypothesis, we attempted to evaluate the HCC inhibitory effects, and other beneficial properties of the aqueous extract of ajwa dates (ADE) in a rat model of diethylnitrosamine (DEN) induced liver cancer. METHODS Thirty-two male rats were divided into four groups of eight each as follows, Group A: untreated control; Group B: DEN control (180 mg/kg bw), Group C: DEN + ADE 0.5 g/kg bw; and Group D: DEN +1.0 g/kg bw. Rats from all groups were assessed for liver cancer progression or inhibition by evaluating histological, biochemical, antioxidant enzyme status, cytokines and gene expression profiles. RESULTS DEN treatment Groups (B, C, D) showed histological features of HCC and in rats treated with ADE (Groups C, D) partial to complete reversal of normal liver architecture was observed. Antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione reductase (GR), glutatione peroxidase (GPx) and catalase (CAT) were increased, while the liver enzymes alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels and lipid peroxidation were significantly decreased in Group C and Group D compared to Group B. Pro-inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin (IL)-1α, IL-1β,, GM-CSF) were increased in the serum of rats in Group B while the anti-tumor cytokines (IL-2, IL-12) were increased in ADE treated Groups (C, D). In addition, Alpha-Feto Protein (AFP) and IL-6 gene expression levels were upregulated in Group B, while they were significantly downregulated in ADE treated Groups (C, D). CONCLUSIONS ADE helped in the reversal of DEN damaged liver towards normal. Restoration of anti-oxidant enzymes, liver enzymes, cytokines balance and gene expression to normal levels following ADE treatment indicates that ADE improves liver function and inhibits HCC. ADE can, therefore, be used together with conventional therapeutics for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fazal Khan
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Center of Excellence in Genomic Medicine Research (CEGMR), King Abdulaziz University (KAU), PO BOX 80216, Jeddah, 21589 Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Tariq Jamal Khan
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Gauthaman Kalamegam
- Center of Excellence in Genomic Medicine Research (CEGMR), King Abdulaziz University (KAU), PO BOX 80216, Jeddah, 21589 Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Peter Natesan Pushparaj
- Center of Excellence in Genomic Medicine Research (CEGMR), King Abdulaziz University (KAU), PO BOX 80216, Jeddah, 21589 Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Adeel Chaudhary
- Center of Innovation in Personalized Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Adel Abuzenadah
- Center of Innovation in Personalized Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Taha Kumosani
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Elie Barbour
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Agriculture, Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences, American University of Beirut (AUB), Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Mohammed Al-Qahtani
- Center of Excellence in Genomic Medicine Research (CEGMR), King Abdulaziz University (KAU), PO BOX 80216, Jeddah, 21589 Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
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9
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Xu LC, Chen QN, Liu XQ, Wang XM, Chang QM, Pan Q, Wang L, Wang YL. Up-regulation of LINC00161 correlates with tumor migration and invasion and poor prognosis of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. Oncotarget 2017; 8:56168-56173. [PMID: 28915581 PMCID: PMC5593552 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.17040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2017] [Accepted: 04/03/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Accumulating evidence suggested that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play essential roles in various biological processes, including tumorigenesis. Aberrant expression of LINC00161 has been reported in some cancer types, however, the association of LINC00161 and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has not been evaluated. Here, we measured the expression of LINC00161 in HCC tissues and corresponding normal liver tissues using real-time PCR. The result showed that the expression level of LINC00161 was significantly higher in HCC tissues. Further analysis indicated that HCC patients with higher LINC00161 expression have shorter survival. Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that LINC00161 expression was an independent prognostic factor for the overall survival. Furthermore, our result indicated that knock-down of LINC00161 can significantly inhibit liver cancer cell migration and invasion. The present work indicated that LINC00161 might serve as an oncogenic gene and play a pivotal role in promoting tumor migration and invasion in HCC. Our work implicates the promising effect of LINC00161 on the prognosis of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Chao Xu
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Quan-Ning Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Hangzhou, 310014, China
| | - Xi-Qiang Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Yi Ji-shan Hospital, Wan Nan Medical College, Wuhu, 241000, China
| | - Xiao-Ming Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Yi Ji-shan Hospital, Wan Nan Medical College, Wuhu, 241000, China
| | - Qi-Meng Chang
- Department of General Surgery, Minhang Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 201199, China
| | - Qi Pan
- Department of Hepatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Lu Wang
- Department of Hepatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Yi-Lin Wang
- Department of Hepatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
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Santos NP, Colaço AA, Oliveira PA. Animal models as a tool in hepatocellular carcinoma research: A Review. Tumour Biol 2017; 39:1010428317695923. [PMID: 28347231 DOI: 10.1177/1010428317695923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is the first cause of death in developed countries and the second in developing countries. Concerning the most frequent worldwide-diagnosed cancer, primary liver cancer represents approximately 4% of all new cancer cases diagnosed globally. However, among primary liver cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma is by far the most common histological subtype. Notwithstanding the health promotion and disease prevention campaigns, more than half a million new hepatocellular carcinoma cases are reported yearly, being estimated to growth continuously until 2020. Taking this scenario under consideration and the fact that some aspects concerning hepatocellular carcinoma evolution and metastasize process are still unknown, animal models assume a crucial role to understand this disease. The animal models have also provided the opportunity to screen new therapeutic strategies. The present review was supported on research and review papers aiming the complexity and often neglected chemically induced animal models in hepatocarcinogenesis research. Despite the ongoing debate, chemically induced animal models, namely, mice and rat, can provide unique valuable information on the biotransformation mechanisms against xenobiotics and apprehend the deleterious effects on DNA and cell proteins leading to carcinogenic development. In addition, taking under consideration that no model achieves all hepatocellular carcinoma research purposes, criteria to define the " ideal" animal model, depending on the researchers' approach, are also discussed in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuno Paula Santos
- 1 Department of Veterinary Sciences, Veterinary and Animal Science Research Center (CECAV), University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), Vila Real, Portugal.,2 Center for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences (CITAB), University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Aura Antunes Colaço
- 1 Department of Veterinary Sciences, Veterinary and Animal Science Research Center (CECAV), University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Paula Alexandra Oliveira
- 1 Department of Veterinary Sciences, Veterinary and Animal Science Research Center (CECAV), University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), Vila Real, Portugal.,2 Center for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences (CITAB), University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), Vila Real, Portugal
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11
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Witzigmann D, Quagliata L, Schenk SH, Quintavalle C, Terracciano LM, Huwyler J. Variable asialoglycoprotein receptor 1 expression in liver disease: Implications for therapeutic intervention. Hepatol Res 2016; 46:686-96. [PMID: 26422581 DOI: 10.1111/hepr.12599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2015] [Revised: 09/07/2015] [Accepted: 09/19/2015] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
AIM One of the most promising strategies for the treatment of liver diseases is targeted drug delivery via the asialoglycoprotein receptor (ASGPR). The success of this approach heavily depends on the ASGPR expression level on parenchymal liver cells. In this study, we assessed the mRNA and protein expression levels of the major receptor subunit, ASGR1, in hepatocytes both in vitro and in vivo. METHODS In vitro, various liver cancer-derived cell lines were evaluated. In vivo, we screened the ASGR1 mRNA on 59 hepatocellular carcinoma and matched non-neoplastic tissue using RNA microarray. In addition, 350 human liver specimens of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma or non-neoplastic liver diseases were screened for ASGR1 protein level using tissue microarray analysis. RESULTS Our data reveal that the ASGR1 mRNA expression directly correlates with the protein level. We demonstrate that the ASGR1 expression is upregulated in cirrhotic specimens and is significantly decreased with increasing hepatocellular carcinoma grade. CONCLUSION Because the ASGR1 expression levels are variable between patients, our findings suggest that ASGPR-based targeting strategies should be combined with ASGPR-companion diagnostics to maximize clinical benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominik Witzigmann
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Luca Quagliata
- Institute of Pathology, Molecular Pathology Division, University Hospital of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Susanne H Schenk
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Cristina Quintavalle
- Institute of Pathology, Molecular Pathology Division, University Hospital of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Luigi M Terracciano
- Institute of Pathology, Molecular Pathology Division, University Hospital of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jörg Huwyler
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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12
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Harris J, Kajdacsy-Balla A, Chiu B. Creation of a murine orthotopic hepatoma model with intra-abdominal metastasis. GASTROENTEROLOGY AND HEPATOLOGY FROM BED TO BENCH 2016; 9:174-9. [PMID: 27458509 PMCID: PMC4947131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
AIM To create an orthotopic hepatoma model with local metastasis monitored with ultrasound could be created as a platform for testing new treatments. BACKGROUND Hepatoma accounts for 25% of liver tumors in children with poor overall survival. Intraabdominal metastasis are present in 35% of patients at time of diagnosis. We hypothesized that an orthotopic tumor model with local metastasis could be created as a platform for testing treatment modalities and could be monitored with ultrasound. PATIENTS AND METHODS One million human hepatoma cells (Hep3B) were injected into the left lobe of the liver of immunocompromised mice. Tumor volume was monitored with high frequency-ultrasound until it reached 1,000mm(3). At that time animals were sacrificed and examined for gross metastatic disease. Tumor sections were analyzed with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining. RESULTS Tumor formed in 8/15 mice. The tumor was detected as small as 19.59mm(3) on ultrasound. Of the forming tumors, tumor size was 145±177.93mm(3) at 60 days post-injection, 665±650.39mm(3) at 67 days, and reached >1000mm(3) by 76.6±9.9 days. At necropsy, four mice (50%) had tumor only within the liver, four (50%) had additional tumors in omentum, pelvis and peritoneum. H&E showed tumor within the normal liver parenchyma, with multiple mitotic figures, small areas of necrosis, and hemorrhage within the tumor. CONCLUSION We have successfully established an orthotopic hepatoma murine model, with a local metastatic rate of 50%. Non-invasive tumor monitoring is feasible via ultrasound.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie Harris
- Division of General Surgery, Rush University Medical Center. 1653 W. Congress Parkway Jelke Suite 792, Chicago, USA
| | - Andre Kajdacsy-Balla
- Division of Pathology, University of Illinois Chicago, 840 S. Wood St. Suite 130 CSN, Department of Pathology, Chicago, USA
| | - Bill Chiu
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, University of Illinois Chicago, 840 S. Wood Street, Department of Surgery (MC 958) Room 416, Clinical Sciences Building, Chicago, USA
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Chen B, Sirota M, Fan-Minogue H, Hadley D, Butte AJ. Relating hepatocellular carcinoma tumor samples and cell lines using gene expression data in translational research. BMC Med Genomics 2015; 8 Suppl 2:S5. [PMID: 26043652 PMCID: PMC4460709 DOI: 10.1186/1755-8794-8-s2-s5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer cell lines are used extensively to study cancer biology and to test hypotheses in translational research. The relevance of cell lines is dependent on how closely they resemble the tumors being studied. Relating tumors and cell lines, and recognizing their similarities and differences are thus very important for translational research. Rapid advances in genomics have led to the generation of large volumes of genomic and transcriptomic data for a diverse set of primary cancer samples, normal tissue samples and cancer cell lines. Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common tumors worldwide, with high occurrence in Asia and sub-Saharan regions. The current effective treatments of HCC remain limited. In this work, we compared the gene expression measurements of 200 HCC tumor samples from The Cancer Genome Atlas and over 1000 cancer cell lines including 25 HCC cancer cell lines from Cancer Cell Line Encyclopedia. We showed that the HCC tumor samples correlate closely with HCC cell lines in comparison to cell lines derived from other tumor types. We further demonstrated that the most commonly used HCC cell lines resemble HCC tumors, while we identified nearly half of the cell lines that do not resemble primary tumors. Interestingly, a substantial number of genes that are critical for disease development or drug response are either expressed at low levels or absent among highly correlated cell lines; additional attention should be paid to these genes in translational research. Our study will be used to guide the selection of HCC cell lines and pinpoint the specific genes that are differentially expressed in either tumors or cell lines.
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Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the sixth most common cancer worldwide, and the third leading cause of cancer mortality. The great majority of patients are not eligible for curative therapies, and therapeutic approaches for advanced disease show only limited efficacy. Difficulties to treat HCC are due to the heterogenous genetic alterations of HCC, profound alterations in the hepatic microenvironment, and incomplete understanding of HCC biology. Mouse models of HCC will be helpful to improve our understanding of HCC biology, the contributions of the specific pathways and genetic alterations to carcinogenesis. In addition, mouse models of HCC may contribute to elucidate the role of the tumor microenvironment, and serve as models for preclinical studies. As no single mouse model is appropriate to study all of the above, we discuss key features and limitations of commonly used models. Furthermore, we provide detailed protocols for select models, in which HCC is induced genetically, chemically or by transplantation of tumor cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Matias Caviglia
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University, Russ Berrie Pavilion, Room 415, 1150 St. Nicholas Ave, New York, NY, 10032, USA
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15
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Menzel MI, Farrell EV, Janich MA, Khegai O, Wiesinger F, Nekolla S, Otto AM, Haase A, Schulte RF, Schwaiger M. Multimodal assessment of in vivo metabolism with hyperpolarized [1-13C]MR spectroscopy and 18F-FDG PET imaging in hepatocellular carcinoma tumor-bearing rats. J Nucl Med 2013; 54:1113-9. [PMID: 23596002 DOI: 10.2967/jnumed.112.110825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED Abnormalities of tumor metabolism can be exploited for molecular imaging. PET imaging of (18)F-FDG is a well-established method using the avid glucose uptake of tumor cells. (13)C MR spectroscopic imaging (MRSI) of hyperpolarized [1-(13)C]pyruvate and its metabolites, meanwhile, represents a new method to study energy metabolism by visualizing, for example, the augmented lactate dehydrogenase activity in tumor cells. Because of rapid signal loss, this method underlies strict temporal limitations, and the acquisition of data-encoding spatial, temporal, and spectral information within this time frame-is challenging. The object of our study was to compare spectroscopic images with (18)F-FDG PET images for visualizing tumor metabolism in a rat model. METHODS (13)C MRSI with IDEAL (Iterative Decomposition of water and fat with Echo Asymmetry and Least-squares estimation) chemical shift imaging in combination with single-shot spiral acquisition was used to obtain dynamic data from 23 rats bearing a subcutaneous hepatocellular carcinoma and from reference regions of the same animals. Static and dynamic analysis of (18)F-FDG PET images of the same animals was performed. The data were analyzed qualitatively (visual assessment) and quantitatively (magnitude and dynamics of (18)F-FDG uptake, (13)C MRSI dynamics, and physiologic parameters). RESULTS In most animals increased [1-(13)C]lactate signals in the tumor could be detected by simple display of integrated [1-(13)C]lactate images with corresponding enhanced (18)F-FDG uptake. Low [1-(13)C]pyruvate or [1-(13)C]lactate signals did not correlate with histologic or physiologic parameters. Significantly less pyruvate reached the tumors than the gastrointestinal tract, but in tumors a significantly higher amount of pyruvate was converted to lactate and alanine within seconds after intravenous administration. CONCLUSION This study reveals that PET and (13)C MRSI can be used to visualize increased glycolytic flux in malignant tissue. The combination of signals will allow the quantitative dissection of substrate metabolism, with respect to uptake and downstream metabolic pathways. Although hyperpolarized [1-(13)C]pyruvate increases the sensitivity of MR imaging, signal-to-noise ratio constraints still apply for spatially and temporally resolved (13)C MRSI, emphasizing the need for further MR methodologic development. These first imaging data suggest the feasibility of (13)C MRSI for future clinical use.
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Sirsi S, Flexman M, Vlachos F, Huang J, Hernandez SL, Kim HK, Johung TJ, Gander J, Reichstein A, Lampl BS, Wang A, Hielscher AH, Kandel JJ, Yamashiro DJ, Borden M. Contrast ultrasound imaging for identification of early responder tumor models to anti-angiogenic therapy. ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE & BIOLOGY 2012; 38:1019-29. [PMID: 22425376 PMCID: PMC3348332 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultrasmedbio.2012.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2011] [Revised: 12/22/2011] [Accepted: 01/19/2012] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Agents targeting vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) have been validated as cancer therapeutics, yet efficacy can differ widely between tumor types and individual patients. In addition, such agents are costly and can have significant toxicities. Rapid noninvasive determination of response could provide significant benefits. We tested if response to the anti-VEGF antibody bevacizumab (BV) could be detected using contrast-enhanced ultrasound imaging (CEUS). We used two xenograft model systems with previously well-characterized responses to VEGF inhibition, a responder (SK-NEP-1) and a non-responder (NGP), and examined perfusion-related parameters. CEUS demonstrated that BV treatment arrested the increase in blood volume in the SK-NEP-1 tumor group only. Molecular imaging of α(V)β(3) with targeted microbubbles was a more sensitive prognostic indicator of BV efficacy. CEUS using RGD-labeled microbubbles showed a robust decrease in α(V)β(3) vasculature following BV treatment in SK-NEP-1 tumors. Paralleling these findings, lectin perfusion assays detected a disproportionate pruning of smaller, branch vessels. Therefore, we conclude that the response to BV can be identified soon after initiation of treatment, often within 3 days, by use of CEUS molecular imaging techniques. The use of a noninvasive ultrasound approach may allow for earlier and more effective determination of efficacy of antiangiogenic therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shashank Sirsi
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80309
| | - Molly Flexman
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027
| | - Fotis Vlachos
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027
| | - Jianzhong Huang
- Department of Surgery, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032
| | - Sonia L. Hernandez
- Department of Pediatrics and Pathology, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032
| | - Hyun Keol Kim
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027
| | - Tessa J. Johung
- Department of Surgery, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032
| | - Jeffrey Gander
- Department of Surgery, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032
| | - Ari Reichstein
- Department of Surgery, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032
| | - Brooke S. Lampl
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032
| | - Antai Wang
- Department of Biostatistics, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032
| | - Andreas H. Hielscher
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027
| | - Jessica J. Kandel
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027
| | - Darrell J. Yamashiro
- Department of Surgery, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032
- Department of Pediatrics and Pathology, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032
| | - Mark Borden
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80309
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Antitumor effect of vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitor sunitinib in preclinical models of hepatocellular carcinoma. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2012; 24:563-74. [PMID: 22314934 DOI: 10.1097/meg.0b013e328350916f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Tumor recurrence and metastasis is the most common cause of mortality in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients. Despite positive results with vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitors in preclinical studies using HCC xenograft models, the clinical outcome in HCC patients has been disappointing. So far, only the multitargeted tyrosine kinase inhibitor sorafenib has been shown to significantly improve survival in HCC patients, suggesting that this class of agents could be effective against HCC. Recently, another VEGF inhibitor, sunitinib, showed survival benefits in HCC hepatitis B-positive patients, but failed to improve survival in HCC hepatitis C-positive patients. Obviously, concomitant liver disease, liver function in general, and the local liver environment have a huge impact on treatment outcomes. In this study, we aimed to examine the antiproliferative effect of sunitinib in different HCC cell lines in vitro, and then in xenograft and orthotopic models of HCC in order to assess the effect of the local liver vasculature on drug efficacy. METHODS Human cancer cell lines Huh7.5, Hep3B, and SK-Hep-1 were used for in-vitro studies. In in-vivo studies, each mouse carried Huh7.5 cells in both the subcutaneous and the intrahepatic compartment; therefore, drug exposure and treatment regimen were identical in both tumors. RESULTS Sunitinib has the potential to moderately inhibit proliferation in the Huh7.5 cell line, induce p53 in the p53-wild-type cell line SK-hep-1, and to increase the S-phase and the sub-G1 component of the cell cycle in the Hep3B cell line. Diverse responses to sunitinib in HCC cell lines emphasize the heterogeneity of HCC tumors and may further explain the discrepancy between preclinical and clinical results. The in-vivo results show that sunitinib treatment was far less effective against intrahepatic tumors compared with xenografts. Histological data indicate that large solid intrahepatic tumors are severely affected by sunitinib as shown by large areas of necrosis and diminished number of viable tumor cells. CONCLUSION The real problem when treating intrahepatic tumors with sunitanib and/or other VEGF inhibitors seems to arise from unopposed local growth of the small tumors and perhaps the development of distant micrometastases. Even though both xenograft and orthotopic models have limitations, these models add value to our understanding of tumor biology and help to better design treatment paradigms for patients with HCC. In comparison with xenograft models, the orthotopic HCC model allows for a more realistic assessment of drug efficacy in patients, in particular by enhancing our knowledge of the role that organ vasculature plays in the development of local metastasis and tumor resistance to antiangiogenic treatments.
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Abreu RMV, Ferreira ICFR, Calhelha RC, Lima RT, Vasconcelos MH, Adega F, Chaves R, Queiroz MJRP. Anti-hepatocellular carcinoma activity using human HepG2 cells and hepatotoxicity of 6-substituted methyl 3-aminothieno[3,2-b]pyridine-2-carboxylate derivatives: in vitro evaluation, cell cycle analysis and QSAR studies. Eur J Med Chem 2011; 46:5800-6. [PMID: 22014996 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2011.09.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 131] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2011] [Revised: 09/17/2011] [Accepted: 09/20/2011] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a highly complex cancer, resistant to commonly used treatments and new therapeutic agents are urgently needed. A total of thirty-two thieno[3,2-b]pyridine derivatives of two series: methyl 3-amino-6-(hetero)arylthieno[3,2-b]pyridine-2-carboxylates (1a-1t) and methyl 3-amino-6-[(hetero)arylethynyl]thieno[3,2-b]pyridine-2-carboxylates (2a-2n), previously prepared by some of us, were evaluated as new potential anti-HCC agents by studying their in vitro cell growth inhibition on human HepG2 cells and hepatotoxicity using a porcine liver primary cell culture (PLP1). The presence of amino groups linked to a benzene moiety emerges as the key element for the anti-HCC activity. The methyl 3-amino-6-[(3-aminophenyl)ethynyl]thieno[3,2-b]pyridine-2-carboxylate (2f) is the most potent compound presenting GI(50) values on HepG2 cells of 1.2 μM compared to 2.9 μM of the positive control ellipticine, with no observed hepatotoxicity (PLP1 GI(50) > 125 μM against 3.3 μM of ellipticine). Moreover this compound changes the cell cycle profile of the HepG2 cells, causing a decrease in the % of cells in the S phase and a cell cycle arrest in the G2/M phase. QSAR studies were also performed and the correlations obtained using molecular and 1D descriptors revealed the importance of the presence of amino groups and hydrogen bond donors for anti-HCC activity, and hydrogen bond acceptors for hepatotoxicity. The best correlations were obtained with 3D descriptors belonging to different subcategories for anti-HCC activity and hepatotoxicity, respectively. These results point to different molecular mechanisms of action of the compounds in anti-HCC activity and hepatotoxicity. This work presents some promising thieno[3,2-b]pyridine derivatives for potential use in the therapy of HCC. These compounds can also be used as scaffolds for further synthesis of more potent analogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui M V Abreu
- CIMO-ESA, Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Campus de Sta Apolónia, Apartado 1172, 5301-855 Bragança, Portugal
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