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Wang F, Li Z, Xu T, Zhang Q, Ma T, Li S, Wang X. A comprehensive multi-omics analysis identifies a robust scoring system for cancer-associated fibroblasts and intervention targets in colorectal cancer. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2024; 150:124. [PMID: 38478111 PMCID: PMC10937804 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-023-05548-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) play a critical role in promoting tumor growth, metastasis, and immune evasion. While numerous studies have investigated CAF, there remains a paucity of research on their clinical application in colorectal cancer (CRC). METHODS In this study, we collected differentially expressed genes between CAF and normal fibroblasts (NF) from previous CRC studies, and utilized machine learning analysis to differentiate two distinct subtypes of CAF in CRC. To enable practical application, a CAF-related genes (CAFGs) scoring system was developed based on multivariate Cox regression. We then conducted functional enrichment analysis, Kaplan-Meier plot, consensus molecular subtypes (CMS) classification, and Tumor Immune Dysfunction and Exclusion (TIDE) algorithm to investigate the relationship between the CAFGs scoring system and various biological mechanisms, prognostic value, tumor microenvironment, and response to immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapy. Moreover, single-cell transcriptomics and proteomics analyses have been employed to validate the significance of scoring system-related molecules in the identity and function of CAF. RESULTS We unveiled significant distinctions in tumor immune status and prognosis not only between the CAF clusters, but also across high and low CAFGs groups. Specifically, patients in CAF cluster 2 or with high CAFGs scores exhibited higher CAF markers and were enriched for CAF-related biological pathways such as epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and angiogenesis. In addition, CAFGs score was identified as a risk index and correlated with poor overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), disease-free survival (DFS), and recurrence-free survival (RFS). High CAFGs scores were observed in patients with advanced stages, CMS4, as well as lymphatic invasion. Furthermore, elevated CAFG scores in patients signified a suppressive tumor microenvironment characterized by the upregulation of programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1), T-cell dysfunction, exclusion, and TIDE score. And high CAFGs scores can differentiate patients with lower response rates and poor prognosis under ICB therapy. Notably, single-cell transcriptomics and proteomics analyses identified several molecules related to CAF identity and function, such as FSTL1, IGFBP7, and FBN1. CONCLUSION We constructed a robust CAFGs score system with clinical significance using multiple CRC cohorts. In addition, we identified several molecules related to CAF identity and function that could be potential intervention targets for CRC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Wang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.
| | - Zhenlin Li
- Department of Surgical Clinical, School of Heze Medical College, Heze, China
| | - Tianlei Xu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Tianyi Ma
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Sijia Li
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaohui Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
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Borzone FR, Giorello MB, Sanmartin MC, Yannarelli G, Martinez LM, Chasseing NA. Mesenchymal stem cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts as a therapeutic strategy for breast cancer. Br J Pharmacol 2024; 181:238-256. [PMID: 35485850 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer and the leading cause of death among women. Recent evidence suggests that mesenchymal stromal/stem cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) have an essential role in cancer progression, invasion and therapy resistance. Therefore, they are considered as highly promising future therapeutic targets against breast cancer. The intrinsic tumour tropism and immunomodulatory capacities of mesenchymal stromal/stem cells are of special relevance for developing mesenchymal stromal/stem cells-based anti-tumour therapies that suppress primary tumour growth and metastasis. In addition, the utilization of therapies that target the stromal components of the tumour microenvironment in combination with standard drugs is an innovative tool that could improve patients' response to therapies and their survival. In this review, we discuss the currently available information regarding the possible use of mesenchymal stromal/stem cells-derived anti-tumour therapies, as well as the utilization of therapies that target CAFs in breast cancer microenvironment. Finally, these data can serve as a guide map for future research in this field, ultimately aiding the effective transition of these results into the clinic. LINKED ARTICLES: This article is part of a themed issue on Cancer Microenvironment and Pharmacological Interventions. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v181.2/issuetoc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Raúl Borzone
- Laboratorio de Inmunohematología, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME) - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María Belén Giorello
- Laboratorio de Inmunohematología, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME) - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María Cecilia Sanmartin
- Laboratorio de Inmunohematología, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME) - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Laboratorio de Regulación Génica y Células Madre, Instituto de Medicina Traslacional, Trasplante y Bioingeniería (IMeTTyB), Universidad Favaloro-CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Gustavo Yannarelli
- Laboratorio de Regulación Génica y Células Madre, Instituto de Medicina Traslacional, Trasplante y Bioingeniería (IMeTTyB), Universidad Favaloro-CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Leandro Marcelo Martinez
- Hematology and Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, USA
| | - Norma Alejandra Chasseing
- Laboratorio de Inmunohematología, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME) - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Saiki H, Hayashi Y, Yoshii S, Kimura E, Nakagawa K, Kato M, Uema R, Inoue T, Sakatani A, Yoshihara T, Tsujii Y, Shinzaki S, Iijima H, Takehara T. The apelin‑apelin receptor signaling pathway in fibroblasts is involved in tumor growth via p53 expression of cancer cells. Int J Oncol 2023; 63:139. [PMID: 37921070 PMCID: PMC10631769 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2023.5587] [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: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer‑associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are pivotal in tumor progression. TP53‑deficiency in cancer cells is associated with robust stromal activation. The apelin‑apelin receptor (APJ) system has been implicated in suppressing fibroblast‑to‑myofibroblast transition in non‑neoplastic organ fibrosis. The present study aimed to elucidate the oncogenic role of the apelin‑APJ system in tumor fibroblasts. APJ expression and the effect of APJ suppression in fibroblasts were investigated for p53 status in cancer cells using human cell lines (TP53‑wild colon cancer, HCT116, and Caco‑2; TP53‑mutant colon cancer, SW480, and DLD‑1; and colon fibroblasts, CCD‑18Co), resected human tissue samples of colorectal cancers, and immune‑deficient nude mouse xenograft models. The role of exosomes collected by ultracentrifugation were also analyzed as mediators of p53 expression in cancer cells and APJ expression in fibroblasts. APJ expression in fibroblasts co‑cultured with p53‑suppressed colon cancer cells (HCT116sh p53 cells) was significantly lower than in control colon cancer cells (HCT116sh control cells). APJ‑suppressed fibroblasts treated with an antagonist or small interfering RNA showed myofibroblast‑like properties, including increased proliferation and migratory abilities, via accelerated phosphorylation of Sma‑ and Mad‑related protein 2/3 (Smad2/3). In addition, xenografts of HCT116 cells with APJ‑suppressed fibroblasts showed accelerated tumor growth. By contrast, apelin suppressed the upregulation of phosphorylated Smad2/3 in fibroblasts. MicroRNA 5703 enriched in exosomes derived from HCT116sh p53 cells inhibited APJ expression, and inhibition of miR‑5703 diminished APJ suppression in fibroblasts caused by cancer cells. APJ suppression from a specific microRNA in cancer cell‑derived exosomes induced CAF‑like properties in fibroblasts. Thus, the APJ system in fibroblasts in the tumor microenvironment may be a promising therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hirotsugu Saiki
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Osaka 543-0035, Japan
| | - Yoshito Hayashi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Osaka 543-0035, Japan
| | - Shunsuke Yoshii
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Osaka 543-0035, Japan
| | - Eiji Kimura
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Osaka 543-0035, Japan
| | - Kentaro Nakagawa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Osaka 543-0035, Japan
| | - Minoru Kato
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Osaka 543-0035, Japan
| | - Ryotaro Uema
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Osaka 543-0035, Japan
| | - Takanori Inoue
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Osaka 543-0035, Japan
| | - Akihiko Sakatani
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Osaka Police Hospital, Tennoji, Osaka 543-0035, Japan
| | - Takeo Yoshihara
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Osaka 543-0035, Japan
| | - Yoshiki Tsujii
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Osaka 543-0035, Japan
| | - Shinichiro Shinzaki
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Osaka 543-0035, Japan
| | - Hideki Iijima
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Osaka 543-0035, Japan
| | - Tetsuo Takehara
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Osaka 543-0035, Japan
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Zhao Z, Mak TK, Shi Y, Li K, Huo M, Zhang C. Integrative analysis of cancer-associated fibroblast signature in gastric cancer. Heliyon 2023; 9:e19217. [PMID: 37809716 PMCID: PMC10558323 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e19217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background CAFs regulate the signaling of GC cells by promoting their migration, invasion, and proliferation and the function of immune cells as well as their location and migration in the TME by remodeling the extracellular matrix (ECM). This study explored the understanding of the heterogeneity of CAFs in TME and laid the groundwork for GC biomarker and precision treatment development. Methods The scRNA-seq and bulk RNA-seq datasets were obtained from GEO and TCGA. The prognostic significance of various CAFs subtypes was investigated using ssGSEA combined with Kaplan-Meier analysis. POSTN expression in GC tissues and CAFs was detected using immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, and Western blotting. Differential expression analysis identified the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between normal and tumor samples in TCGA-STAD. Pearson correlation analysis identified DEGs associated with adverse prognosis CAF subtype, and univariate Cox regression analysis determined prognostic genes associated with CAFs. LASSO regression analysis and Multivariate Cox regression were used to build a prognosis model for CAFs. Results We identified five CAFs subtypes in GC, with the CAF_0 subtype associated with poor prognosis. The abundance of CAF_0 correlated with T stage, clinical stage, histological type, and immune cell infiltration levels. Periostin (POSTN) exhibited increased expression in both GC tissues and CAFs and was linked to poor prognosis in GC patients. Through LASSO and multivariate Cox regression analysis, three genes (CXCR4, MATN3, and KIF24) were selected to create the CAFs-score. We developed a nomogram to facilitate the clinical application of the CAFs-score. Notably, the CAFs signature showed significant correlations with immune cells, stromal components, and immunological scores, suggesting its pivotal role in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Furthermore, CAFs-score demonstrated prognostic value in assessing immunotherapy outcomes, highlighting its potential as a valuable biomarker to guide therapeutic decisions. Conclusion CAF_0 subtype in TME is the cause of poor prognosis in GC patients. Furthermore, CAFs-score constructed from the CAF_0 subtype can be used to determine the clinical prognosis, immune infiltration, clinicopathological characteristics, and assessment of personalized treatment of GC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zidan Zhao
- Digestive Diseases Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Tsz Kin Mak
- Digestive Diseases Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yuntao Shi
- Digestive Diseases Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Kuan Li
- Digestive Diseases Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Mingyu Huo
- Digestive Diseases Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Digestive Cancer Research, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Changhua Zhang
- Digestive Diseases Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Digestive Cancer Research, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
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Hu S, Xia C, Zou H, Ren W, Liu L, Wang L, Kang Q, He K, Wang T, Zhang X. HS6ST1 overexpressed in cancer-associated fibroblast and inhibited cholangiocarcinoma progression. Dig Liver Dis 2023; 55:1114-1125. [PMID: 36586771 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2022.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUD Fibroblasts turn into cancer associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in the tumor microenvironment, which play an important role in tumor progression. However, the mechanism is unclear. AIMS To investigate the role of CAFs with HS6ST1-overexpression in cell migration and invasion effects. METHODS Human primary CAFs were isolated and identified from intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. mRNA profiles differences between CAFs and NFs were examined by using transcriptome sequencing. Using Transwell® migration assays, ICCA cells (RBE and HUCCT1) with NF-CM, CAF-CM, CAFsNC-CM, and CAFsHS6ST1-CM were analyzed. Immunohistochemical staining were used to analyze the expression of HS6ST1 in CAF in 152 patients with ICCA. Overall survival (OS) was compared based on CAF HS6ST1 expression were analysed. The relationship between clinicopathological parameters and survival was also examined. RESULTS Successfully isolated CAFs is positive staining with αSMA, FSP-1, FAP, and PDGFR-β. Transcriptome sequencing showed that differently expressed genes were enriched in the function of the extracellular matrix and chemokine signaling pathway. HS6ST1 is differentially expressed between CAFs and NFs, and associated with the migration and invasion of ICCA cells. Moreover, HS6ST1 positive expression of CAFs predicted unfavorable prognosis in patients with intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma and showed correlation with the presence of lymph node metastasis. CONCLUSION HS6ST1 is new possibilities for targeting the CAFs to reduce cholangiocarcinoma growth and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng Hu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, 374# Dianmian Avenue, Kunming, Yunnan 650101, China
| | - Chuqi Xia
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Hao Zou
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, 374# Dianmian Avenue, Kunming, Yunnan 650101, China
| | - Wenjun Ren
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Lixin Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, 374# Dianmian Avenue, Kunming, Yunnan 650101, China
| | - Lianmin Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, 374# Dianmian Avenue, Kunming, Yunnan 650101, China
| | - Qiang Kang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, 374# Dianmian Avenue, Kunming, Yunnan 650101, China
| | - Kai He
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, 374# Dianmian Avenue, Kunming, Yunnan 650101, China
| | - Tao Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, 374# Dianmian Avenue, Kunming, Yunnan 650101, China.
| | - Xiaowen Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, 374# Dianmian Avenue, Kunming, Yunnan 650101, China.
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Shen K, Ke S, Chen B, Zhang T, Wang H, Lv J, Gao W. Identification and validation of biomarkers for epithelial-mesenchymal transition-related cells to estimate the prognosis and immune microenvironment in primary gastric cancer by the integrated analysis of single-cell and bulk RNA sequencing data. MATHEMATICAL BIOSCIENCES AND ENGINEERING : MBE 2023; 20:13798-13823. [PMID: 37679111 DOI: 10.3934/mbe.2023614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is associated with gastric cancer (GC) progression and immune microenvironment. To better understand the heterogeneity underlying EMT, we integrated single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) data and bulk sequencing data from GC patients to evaluate the prognostic utility of biomarkers for EMT-related cells (ERCs), namely, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and epithelial cells (ECs). METHODS scRNA-seq data from primary GC tumor samples were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database to identify ERC marker genes. Bulk GC datasets from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and GEO were used as training and validation sets, respectively. Differentially expressed markers were identified from the TCGA database. Univariate Cox, least-absolute shrinkage, and selection operator regression analyses were performed to identify EMT-related cell-prognostic genes (ERCPGs). Kaplan-Meier, Cox regression, and receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses were adopted to evaluate the prognostic utility of the ERCPG signature. An ERCPG-based nomogram was constructed by integrating independent prognostic factors. Finally, we evaluated the correlations between the ERCPG signature and immune-cell infiltration and verified the expression of ERCPG prognostic signature genes by in vitro cellular assays. RESULTS The ERCPG signature was comprised of seven genes (COL4A1, F2R, MMP11, CAV1, VCAN, FKBP10, and APOD). Patients were divided into high- and low-risk groups based on the ERCPG risk scores. Patients in the high-risk group showed a poor prognosis. ROC and calibration curves suggested that the ERCPG signature and nomogram had a good prognostic utility. An immune cell-infiltration analysis suggested that the abnormal expression of ERCPGs induced the formation of an unfavorable tumor immune microenvironment. In vitro cellular assays showed that ERCPGs were more abundantly expressed in GC cell lines compared to normal gastric tissue cell lines. CONCLUSIONS We constructed and validated an ERCPG signature using scRNA-seq and bulk sequencing data from ERCs of GC patients. Our findings support the estimation of patient prognosis and tumor treatment in future clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaiyu Shen
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Shuaiyi Ke
- Department of Internal Medicine, XianJu People's Hospital, XianJu 317399, China
| | - Binyu Chen
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Tiantian Zhang
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Hongtai Wang
- Department of General Surgery, XianJu People' Hospital, XianJu 317399, China
| | - Jianhui Lv
- Department of General Surgery, XianJu People' Hospital, XianJu 317399, China
| | - Wencang Gao
- Department of Oncology, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310005, China
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Guo L, Kong D, Liu J, Zhan L, Luo L, Zheng W, Zheng Q, Chen C, Sun S. Breast cancer heterogeneity and its implication in personalized precision therapy. Exp Hematol Oncol 2023; 12:3. [PMID: 36624542 PMCID: PMC9830930 DOI: 10.1186/s40164-022-00363-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 59.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer heterogeneity determines cancer progression, treatment effects, and prognosis. However, the precise mechanism for this heterogeneity remains unknown owing to its complexity. Here, we summarize the origins of breast cancer heterogeneity and its influence on disease progression, recurrence, and therapeutic resistance. We review the possible mechanisms of heterogeneity and the research methods used to analyze it. We also highlight the importance of cell interactions for the origins of breast cancer heterogeneity, which can be further categorized into cooperative and competitive interactions. Finally, we provide new insights into precise individual treatments based on heterogeneity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liantao Guo
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, No. 238 Jiefang Road, Wuchang District, Wuhan, 430060, Hubei, China
| | - Deguang Kong
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, No. 238 Jiefang Road, Wuchang District, Wuhan, 430060, Hubei, China
| | - Jianhua Liu
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, No. 238 Jiefang Road, Wuchang District, Wuhan, 430060, Hubei, China
| | - Ling Zhan
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, No. 238 Jiefang Road, Wuchang District, Wuhan, 430060, Hubei, China
| | - Lan Luo
- Department of Breast Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, No. 28 Guiyi Road, Yunyan District, Guiyang, 550001, Guizhou, China
| | - Weijie Zheng
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, No. 238 Jiefang Road, Wuchang District, Wuhan, 430060, Hubei, China
| | - Qingyuan Zheng
- Department of Urology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, No. 238 Jiefang Road, Wuchang District, Wuhan, 430060, Hubei, China
| | - Chuang Chen
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, No. 238 Jiefang Road, Wuchang District, Wuhan, 430060, Hubei, China.
| | - Shengrong Sun
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, No. 238 Jiefang Road, Wuchang District, Wuhan, 430060, Hubei, China.
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Cariello M, Squilla A, Piacente M, Venutolo G, Fasano A. Drug Resistance: The Role of Exosomal miRNA in the Microenvironment of Hematopoietic Tumors. Molecules 2022; 28:molecules28010116. [PMID: 36615316 PMCID: PMC9821808 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28010116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs), including exosomes, have an important role thanks to their ability to communicate and exchange information between tumor cells and the tumor microenvironment (TME), and have also been associated with communicating anti-cancer drug resistance (DR). The increase in proliferation of cancer cells alters oxygen levels, which causes hypoxia and results in a release of exosomes by the cancer cells. In this review, the results of studies examining the role of exosomal miRNA in DR, and their mechanism, are discussed in detail in hematological tumors: leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma. In conclusion, we underline the exosome's function as a possible drug delivery vehicle by understanding its cargo. Engineered exosomes can be used to be more specific for personalized therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariaconcetta Cariello
- European Biomedical Research Institute of Salerno (EBRIS), Via S. de Renzi, 84125 Salerno, Italy
| | - Angela Squilla
- European Biomedical Research Institute of Salerno (EBRIS), Via S. de Renzi, 84125 Salerno, Italy
| | - Martina Piacente
- European Biomedical Research Institute of Salerno (EBRIS), Via S. de Renzi, 84125 Salerno, Italy
| | - Giorgia Venutolo
- European Biomedical Research Institute of Salerno (EBRIS), Via S. de Renzi, 84125 Salerno, Italy
| | - Alessio Fasano
- European Biomedical Research Institute of Salerno (EBRIS), Via S. de Renzi, 84125 Salerno, Italy
- Mucosal Immunology and Biology Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Boston, MA 02114, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-617-724-4604
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Lin SC, Liao YC, Chen PM, Yang YY, Wang YH, Tung SL, Chuang CM, Sung YW, Jang TH, Chuang SE, Wang LH. Periostin promotes ovarian cancer metastasis by enhancing M2 macrophages and cancer-associated fibroblasts via integrin-mediated NF-κB and TGF-β2 signaling. J Biomed Sci 2022; 29:109. [PMID: 36550569 PMCID: PMC9784270 DOI: 10.1186/s12929-022-00888-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ovarian cancer has the highest mortality among gynecological cancers due to late diagnosis and lack of effective targeted therapy. Although the study of interplay between cancer cells with their microenvironment is emerging, how ovarian cancer triggers signaling that coordinates with immune cells to promote metastasis is still elusive. METHODS Microarray and bioinformatics analysis of low and highly invasive ovarian cancer cell lines were used to reveal periostin (POSTN), a matrix protein with multifunctions in cancer, with elevated expression in the highly invasive cells. Anchorage independent assay, Western blot, RNA interference, confocal analysis and neutralizing antibody treatment were performed to analyze the effects of POSTN on tumor promotion and to explore the underlying mechanism. Chemotaxis, flow cytometry and cytokine array analyses were undertaken to analyze the involvement of POSTN in cancer-associated fibroblast (CAF) and macrophage modulation. Correlations between POSTN expression levels and clinical characteristics were analyzed using the Oncomine, commercial ovarian cancer cDNA and China Medical University Hospital patient cohort. In vivo effect of POSTN on metastasis was studied using a mouse xenograft model. RESULTS Expression of POSTN was found to be elevated in highly invasive ovarian cancer cells. We observed that POSTN was co-localized with integrin β3 and integrin β5, which was important for POSTN-mediated activation of ERK and NF-κB. Ectopic expression of POSTN enhanced whereas knockdown of POSTN decreased cancer cell migration and invasion in vitro, as well as tumor growth and metastasis in vivo. POSTN enhanced integrin/ERK/NF-κB signaling through an autocrine effect on cancer cells to produce macrophage attracting and mobilizing cytokines including MIP-1β, MCP-1, TNFα and RANTES resulting in increased chemotaxis of THP-1 monocytes and their polarization to M2 macrophages in vitro. In agreement, tumors derived from POSTN-overexpressing SKOV3 harbored more tumor-associated macrophages than the control tumors. POSTN induced TGF-β2 expression from ovarian cancer cells to promote activation of adipose-derived stromal cells to become CAF-like cells expressing alpha smooth muscle actin and fibroblast activation protein alpha. Consistently, increased CAFs were observed in POSTN overexpressing SKOV3 cells-derived metastatic tumors. In clinical relevance, we found that expression of POSTN was positively correlated with advanced-stage diseases and poor overall survival of patients. CONCLUSIONS Our study revealed a POSTN-integrin-NF-κB-mediated signaling and its involvement in enhancing M2 macrophages and CAFs, which could potentially participate in promoting tumor growth. Our results suggest that POSTN could be a useful prognosis marker and potential therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng-Chieh Lin
- grid.254145.30000 0001 0083 6092Graduate Institute of Integrated Medicine and Chinese Medicine Research Center, China Medical University, No. 91, Hsueh-Shih Road, Taichung, 40402 Taiwan ,grid.254145.30000 0001 0083 6092Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Chu Liao
- grid.59784.370000000406229172Institute of Molecular and Genomic Medicine, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan
| | - Po-Ming Chen
- grid.254145.30000 0001 0083 6092Graduate Institute of Integrated Medicine and Chinese Medicine Research Center, China Medical University, No. 91, Hsueh-Shih Road, Taichung, 40402 Taiwan ,grid.452796.b0000 0004 0634 3637Research Assistant Center, Show Chwan Memorial Hospital, Changhua, Taiwan
| | - Ya-Yu Yang
- grid.59784.370000000406229172National Institute of Cancer Research, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Hsiang Wang
- grid.59784.370000000406229172Institute of Molecular and Genomic Medicine, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan ,grid.38348.340000 0004 0532 0580Institute of Molecular Medicine, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Shiao-Lin Tung
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Ton-Yen General Hospital, Hsinchu, Taiwan ,Department of Nursing, Hsin Sheng Junior College of Medical Care and Management, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Mu Chuang
- grid.278247.c0000 0004 0604 5314Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan ,grid.260539.b0000 0001 2059 7017School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Wen Sung
- grid.254145.30000 0001 0083 6092Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan ,grid.411508.90000 0004 0572 9415Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Te-Hsuan Jang
- grid.59784.370000000406229172National Institute of Cancer Research, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan ,grid.38348.340000 0004 0532 0580Institute of Molecular Medicine, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Shuang-En Chuang
- grid.59784.370000000406229172National Institute of Cancer Research, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan
| | - Lu-Hai Wang
- grid.254145.30000 0001 0083 6092Graduate Institute of Integrated Medicine and Chinese Medicine Research Center, China Medical University, No. 91, Hsueh-Shih Road, Taichung, 40402 Taiwan ,grid.59784.370000000406229172Institute of Molecular and Genomic Medicine, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan ,grid.38348.340000 0004 0532 0580Institute of Molecular Medicine, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
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10
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Mellone M, Piotrowska K, Venturi G, James L, Bzura A, Lopez MA, James S, Wang C, Ellis MJ, Hanley CJ, Buckingham JF, Cox KL, Hughes G, Valge-Archer V, King EV, Beers SA, Jaquet V, Jones GD, Savelyeva N, Sayan E, Parsons JL, Durant S, Thomas GJ. ATM Regulates Differentiation of Myofibroblastic Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts and Can Be Targeted to Overcome Immunotherapy Resistance. Cancer Res 2022; 82:4571-4585. [PMID: 36353752 PMCID: PMC9755965 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-22-0435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Myofibroblastic cancer-associated fibroblast (myoCAF)-rich tumors generally contain few T cells and respond poorly to immune-checkpoint blockade. Although myoCAFs are associated with poor outcome in most solid tumors, the molecular mechanisms regulating myoCAF accumulation remain unclear, limiting the potential for therapeutic intervention. Here, we identify ataxia-telangiectasia mutated (ATM) as a central regulator of the myoCAF phenotype. Differentiating myofibroblasts in vitro and myoCAFs cultured ex vivo display activated ATM signaling, and targeting ATM genetically or pharmacologically could suppress and reverse differentiation. ATM activation was regulated by the reactive oxygen species-producing enzyme NOX4, both through DNA damage and increased oxidative stress. Targeting fibroblast ATM in vivo suppressed myoCAF-rich tumor growth, promoted intratumoral CD8 T-cell infiltration, and potentiated the response to anti-PD-1 blockade and antitumor vaccination. This work identifies a novel pathway regulating myoCAF differentiation and provides a rationale for using ATM inhibitors to overcome CAF-mediated immunotherapy resistance. SIGNIFICANCE ATM signaling supports the differentiation of myoCAFs to suppress T-cell infiltration and antitumor immunity, supporting the potential clinical use of ATM inhibitors in combination with checkpoint inhibition in myoCAF-rich, immune-cold tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimiliano Mellone
- School of Cancer Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Klaudia Piotrowska
- School of Cancer Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Giulia Venturi
- School of Cancer Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Lija James
- School of Cancer Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Aleksandra Bzura
- Department of Genetics and Genome Biology, Cancer Research Centre, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Maria A. Lopez
- School of Cancer Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Sonya James
- School of Cancer Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Chuan Wang
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, Cancer Research Centre, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew J. Ellis
- School of Cancer Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Christopher J. Hanley
- School of Cancer Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Josephine F. Buckingham
- School of Cancer Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Kerry L. Cox
- School of Cancer Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Gareth Hughes
- Bioscience, Oncology Innovative Medicines and Early Development (IMED) Biotech Unit, AstraZeneca, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Viia Valge-Archer
- Bioscience, Oncology Innovative Medicines and Early Development (IMED) Biotech Unit, AstraZeneca, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Emma V. King
- School of Cancer Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Stephen A. Beers
- School of Cancer Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Vincent Jaquet
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Centre Médical Universitaire, Genève, Switzerland
| | - George D.D. Jones
- Department of Genetics and Genome Biology, Cancer Research Centre, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Natalia Savelyeva
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, Cancer Research Centre, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Emre Sayan
- School of Cancer Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Jason L. Parsons
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, Cancer Research Centre, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Stephen Durant
- Bioscience, Oncology Innovative Medicines and Early Development (IMED) Biotech Unit, AstraZeneca, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Gareth J. Thomas
- School of Cancer Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
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11
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Development of a Cancer-Associated Fibroblast-Related Prognostic Model in Breast Cancer via Bulk and Single-Cell RNA Sequencing. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 2022:2955359. [PMID: 36510567 PMCID: PMC9735320 DOI: 10.1155/2022/2955359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Revised: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Background The most numerous cells in the tumor microenvironment, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) play a crucial role in cancer development. Our objective was to develop a cancer-associated fibroblast breast cancer predictive model. Methods We acquire breast cancer (BC) scRNA-seq data from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), and "Seurat" was used for data processing, including quality control, filtering, principal component analysis, and t-SNE. Afterward, "singleR" software was used to annotate cells. Seurat's "FindAllMarkers" program is used to locate particular CAF markers. clusterProfiler was used to analyze Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment. The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database was utilized to provide univariate Cox regression, least absolute shrinkage operator (LASSO) analysis using bulk RNA-seq data. For model development, multivariate Cox regression studies are used. Utilizing pRRophetic and Tumor Immune Dysfunction and Exclusion (TIDE) algorithms, chemosensitivity and immunotherapy response were predicted. The "rms" software was used to facilitate and simplify modeling. Results Integrating the scRNA-seq (GSE176078) dataset yielded 28 cell clusters. In addition, well-known cell types helped identify 12 cell types. We found 193 marker genes that are elevated in CAFs. In addition, a five-gene predictive model associated to CAF was created in the training set. In the training set, the validation set, and the external validation set, greater risk scores were associated with a worse prognosis. And individuals with a higher risk score were more susceptible to immunotherapy and conventional chemotherapy medicines. Conclusion In conclusion, we establish a strong prognostic model comprised of 5 genes related with CAF that might serve as a potent prognostic indicator and aid clinicians in making more rational medication choices.
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12
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Zeltz C, Navab R, Heljasvaara R, Kusche-Gullberg M, Lu N, Tsao MS, Gullberg D. Integrin α11β1 in tumor fibrosis: more than just another cancer-associated fibroblast biomarker? J Cell Commun Signal 2022; 16:649-660. [PMID: 35378690 PMCID: PMC8978763 DOI: 10.1007/s12079-022-00673-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
There is currently an increased interest in understanding the role of the tumor microenvironment (TME) in tumor growth and progression. In this context the role of integrins in cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) will need to be carefully re-evaluated. Fibroblast-derived cells are not only in the focus in tumors, but also in tissue fibrosis as well as in inflammatory conditions. The recent transcriptional profiling of what has been called "the pan-fibroblast cell lineage" in mouse and human tissues has identified novel transcriptional biomarker mRNAs encoding the secreted ECM proteins dermatopontin and collagen XV as well as the phosphatidylinositol-anchored membrane protein Pi16. Some of the genes identified in these fibroblasts scRNA-seq datasets will be useful for rigorous comparative characterizations of fibroblast-derived cell subpopulations. At the same time, it will be a challenge in the coming years to validate these transcriptional mRNA datasets at the protein-(expression) and at tissue-(distribution) levels and to find useful protein biomarker reagents that will facilitate fibroblast profiling at the cell level. In the current review we will focus on the role of the collagen-binding integrin α11β1 in CAFs, summarizing our own work as well as published datasets with information on α11 mRNA expression in selected tumors. Our experimental data suggest that α11β1 is more than just another biomarker and that it as a functional collagen receptor in the TME is playing a central role in regulating collagen assembly and matrix remodeling, which in turn impact tumor growth and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cédric Zeltz
- Department of Biomedicine, Matrix Biology Group, Centre for Cancer Biomarkers, University of Bergen, Jonas Lies vei 91, 5009, Bergen, Norway
| | - Roya Navab
- Princess Margaret Cancer Center, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, M5G 1L7, Canada
| | - Ritva Heljasvaara
- Oulu Center for Cell-Matrix Research, Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Marion Kusche-Gullberg
- Department of Biomedicine, Matrix Biology Group, Centre for Cancer Biomarkers, University of Bergen, Jonas Lies vei 91, 5009, Bergen, Norway
| | - Ning Lu
- Department of Biomedicine, Matrix Biology Group, Centre for Cancer Biomarkers, University of Bergen, Jonas Lies vei 91, 5009, Bergen, Norway
| | - Ming-Sound Tsao
- Princess Margaret Cancer Center, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, M5G 1L7, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5G 1X8, Canada
| | - Donald Gullberg
- Department of Biomedicine, Matrix Biology Group, Centre for Cancer Biomarkers, University of Bergen, Jonas Lies vei 91, 5009, Bergen, Norway.
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13
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Adnani L, Spinelli C, Tawil N, Rak J. Role of extracellular vesicles in cancer-specific interactions between tumour cells and the vasculature. Semin Cancer Biol 2022; 87:196-213. [PMID: 36371024 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2022.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 09/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Cancer progression impacts and exploits the vascular system in several highly consequential ways. Among different types of vascular cells, blood cells and mediators that are engaged in these processes, endothelial cells are at the centre of the underlying circuitry, as crucial constituents of angiogenesis, angiocrine stimulation, non-angiogenic vascular growth, interactions with the coagulation system and other responses. Tumour-vascular interactions involve soluble factors, extracellular matrix molecules, cell-cell contacts, as well as extracellular vesicles (EVs) carrying assemblies of molecular effectors. Oncogenic mutations and transforming changes in the cancer cell genome, epigenome and signalling circuitry exert important and often cancer-specific influences upon pathways of tumour-vascular interactions, including the biogenesis, content, and biological activity of EVs and responses of cancer cells to them. Notably, EVs may carry and transfer bioactive, oncogenic macromolecules (oncoproteins, RNA, DNA) between tumour and vascular cells and thereby elicit unique functional changes and forms of vascular growth and remodeling. Cancer EVs influence the state of the vasculature both locally and systemically, as exemplified by cancer-associated thrombosis. EV-mediated communication pathways represent attractive targets for therapies aiming at modulation of the tumour-vascular interface (beyond angiogenesis) and could also be exploited for diagnostic purposes in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lata Adnani
- McGill University and Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Canada
| | - Cristiana Spinelli
- McGill University and Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Canada
| | - Nadim Tawil
- McGill University and Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Canada
| | - Janusz Rak
- McGill University and Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Canada; Department of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada.
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14
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Im SB, Cho JM, Kim HB, Shin DH, Kwon MS, Lee IY, Son GM. FSP-1 expression in cancer cells is relevant to long-term oncological outcomes in nonmetastatic colorectal cancer. KOREAN JOURNAL OF CLINICAL ONCOLOGY 2022; 18:66-77. [PMID: 36945241 PMCID: PMC9942758 DOI: 10.14216/kjco.22009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Purpose Recent studies have revealed that the expression of cancer-associated fibroblast (CAF) activation biomarkers in cancer cells is associated with clinical outcomes in patients with certain types of malignant tumors. However, whether the expression of CAF activation biomarkers affects the prognosis of colorectal cancer (CRC) has not been fully elucidated. This study aimed to evaluate the association between the expression of CAF activation biomarkers in cancer cells with cancer invasion and long-term oncological outcomes in patients with CRC. Methods Cancer specimens obtained from 135 patients with stage I-III CRC were examined using immunohistochemical staining to evaluate the expression of fibroblast specific protein-1 (FSP-1), fibroblast activation protein α (FAPα), α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), and vimentin in cancer cells. Results FSP-1 expression in cancer cells was significantly associated with lymphatic invasion, perineural invasion, tumor (T) status, and lymph node (N) status. FAPα expression in cancer cells was significantly associated with lymphatic invasion. On univariate and multivariate analyses, FSP-1 and α-SMA expression in cancer cells were associated with a short 10-year overall survival (OS) and high 10-year systemic recurrence (SR), respectively. Tumor budding was associated with a short 10-year OS. However, FAPα and vimentin did not contribute to the prognosis in this study. Conclusion In this study, we found that FSP-1 expression in cancer cells was related to cancer invasion. Additionally, FSP-1 and α-SMA expression in cancer cells was associated with 10-year OS and SR, respectively. Therefore, these markers may be used as predictors of long-term oncological outcomes in patients with CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sun Bin Im
- Department of Medicine, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Yangsan,
Korea
| | - Jae Min Cho
- Department of Medicine, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Yangsan,
Korea
| | - Han Byul Kim
- Department of Medicine, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Yangsan,
Korea
| | - Dong-Hoon Shin
- Department of Pathology, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Yangsan,
Korea
| | - Myeong Sook Kwon
- Department of Food and Nutrition, College of Medical and Life Science, Silla University, Busan,
Korea
| | - In Young Lee
- Research Institute for Convergence of Biomedical Science and Technology, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Yangsan,
Korea
- Medical Research Center, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Yangsan,
Korea
| | - Gyung Mo Son
- Research Institute for Convergence of Biomedical Science and Technology, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Yangsan,
Korea
- Medical Research Center, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Yangsan,
Korea
- Department of Surgery, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Yangsan,
Korea
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15
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Fotsitzoudis C, Koulouridi A, Messaritakis I, Konstantinidis T, Gouvas N, Tsiaoussis J, Souglakos J. Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts: The Origin, Biological Characteristics and Role in Cancer-A Glance on Colorectal Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14184394. [PMID: 36139552 PMCID: PMC9497276 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14184394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Tumor microenvironment is a major contributor to tumor growth, metastasis and resistance to therapy. It consists of many cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), which derive from different types of cells. CAFs detected in different tumor types are linked to poor prognosis, as in the case of colorectal cancer. Although their functions differ according to their subtype, their detection is not easy, and there are no established markers for such detection. They are possible targets for therapeutic treatment. Many trials are ongoing for their use as a prognostic factor and as a treatment target. More research remains to be carried out to establish their role in prognosis and treatment. Abstract The therapeutic approaches to cancer remain a considerable target for all scientists around the world. Although new cancer treatments are an everyday phenomenon, cancer still remains one of the leading mortality causes. Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains in this category, although patients with CRC may have better survival compared with other malignancies. Not only the tumor but also its environment, what we call the tumor microenvironment (TME), seem to contribute to cancer progression and resistance to therapy. TME consists of different molecules and cells. Cancer-associated fibroblasts are a major component. They arise from normal fibroblasts and other normal cells through various pathways. Their role seems to contribute to cancer promotion, participating in tumorigenesis, proliferation, growth, invasion, metastasis and resistance to treatment. Different markers, such as a-SMA, FAP, PDGFR-β, periostin, have been used for the detection of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). Their detection is important for two main reasons; research has shown that their existence is correlated with prognosis, and they are already under evaluation as a possible target for treatment. However, extensive research is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charalampos Fotsitzoudis
- Laboratory of Translational Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 70013 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Asimina Koulouridi
- Laboratory of Translational Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 70013 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Ippokratis Messaritakis
- Laboratory of Translational Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 70013 Heraklion, Greece
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +30-2810-394926
| | | | | | - John Tsiaoussis
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 70013 Heraklion, Greece
| | - John Souglakos
- Laboratory of Translational Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 70013 Heraklion, Greece
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Hospital of Heraklion, 71110 Heraklion, Greece
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16
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Glabman RA, Choyke PL, Sato N. Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts: Tumorigenicity and Targeting for Cancer Therapy. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14163906. [PMID: 36010899 PMCID: PMC9405783 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14163906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 44.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Revised: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are found in the tumor microenvironment and exhibit several protumorigenic functions. Preclinical studies suggest that CAFs can be reduced, eliminated, or reprogrammed; however, clinical translation has not yet occurred. A better understanding of these cells and their functions will undoubtedly improve cancer treatments. In this review, we summarize current research, highlight major challenges, and discuss future opportunities for improving our knowledge of CAF biology and targeting. Abstract Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are a heterogenous group of activated fibroblasts and a major component of the tumor stroma. CAFs may be derived from fibroblasts, epithelial cells, endothelial cells, cancer stem cells, adipocytes, pericytes, or stellate cells. These complex origins may underlie their functional diversity, which includes pro-tumorigenic roles in extracellular matrix remodeling, the suppression of anti-tumor immunity, and resistance to cancer therapy. Several methods for targeting CAFs to inhibit tumor progression and enhance anti-tumor immunity have recently been reported. While preclinical studies have shown promise, to date they have been unsuccessful in human clinical trials against melanoma, breast cancer, pancreas cancer, and colorectal cancers. This review summarizes recent and major advances in CAF-targeting therapies, including DNA-based vaccines, anti-CAF CAR-T cells, and modifying and reprogramming CAF functions. The challenges in developing effective anti-CAF treatment are highlighted, which include CAF heterogeneity and plasticity, the lack of specific target markers for CAFs, the limitations in animal models recapitulating the human cancer microenvironment, and the undesirable off-target and systemic side effects. Overcoming these challenges and expanding our understanding of the basic biology of CAFs is necessary for making progress towards safe and effective therapeutic strategies against cancers in human patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raisa A. Glabman
- Molecular Imaging Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
- Department of Comparative Medicine and Integrative Biology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Peter L. Choyke
- Molecular Imaging Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Noriko Sato
- Molecular Imaging Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-240-858-3079
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Dendl K, Finck R, Giesel FL, Kratochwil C, Lindner T, Mier W, Cardinale J, Kesch C, Röhrich M, Rathke H, Gampp H, Ristau J, Adeberg S, Jäger D, Debus J, Haberkorn U, Koerber SA. FAP imaging in rare cancer entities-first clinical experience in a broad spectrum of malignancies. Eur J Nucl Med Mol Imaging 2022; 49:721-731. [PMID: 34342669 PMCID: PMC8803688 DOI: 10.1007/s00259-021-05488-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE 68 Ga-FAPI (fibroblast activation protein inhibitor) is a rapidly evolving and highly promising radiotracer for PET/CT imaging, presenting excellent results in a variety of tumor entities, particularly in epithelial carcinomas. This retrospective analysis sought to evaluate the potential and impact of FAPI-PET/CT in rare cancer diseases with respect to improvement in staging and therapy, based on tracer uptake in normal organs and tumors. MATERIAL AND METHODS Fifty-five patients with rare tumor entities, defined by a prevalence of 1 person out of 2000 or less, received a 68 Ga-FAPI-PET/CT scan. Fourteen women and 41 men (median age 60) were included within the following subgroups: cancer of unknown primary (n = 10), head and neck cancer (n = 13), gastrointestinal and biliary-pancreatic cancer (n = 17), urinary tract cancer (n = 4), neuroendocrine cancer (n = 4), and others (n = 7). Tracer uptake was quantified by standardized uptake values SUVmax and SUVmean and the tumor-to-background ratio (TBR) was determined (SUVmax tumor/SUVmean organ). RESULTS In 20 out of 55 patients, the primary tumor was identified and 31 patients presented metastases (n = 88), characterized by a high mean SUVmax in primary (10.1) and metastatic lesions (7.6). The highest uptake was observed in liver metastases (n = 6) with a mean SUVmax of 9.8 and a high TBR of 8.7, closely followed by peritoneal carcinomatosis (n = 16) presenting a mean SUVmax of 9.8 and an excellent TBR of 29.6. In terms of the included subgroups, the highest uptake regarding mean SUVmax was determined in gastrointestinal and biliary-pancreatic cancer with 9.8 followed closely by urinary tract cancer with 9.5 and head and neck cancer (9.1). CONCLUSION Due to excellent tumor visualization and, thereby, sharp contrasts in terms of high TBRs in primary and metastatic lesions in different rare malignancies, 68 Ga-FAPI-PET/CT crystallizes as a powerful and valuable imaging tool, particularly with respect to epithelial carcinomas, and therefore an enhancement to standard diagnostics imaging methodologies. The realization of further and prospective studies is of large importance to confirm the potential of FAP imaging in oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Dendl
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - R Finck
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - F L Giesel
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Düsseldorf University Hospital, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - C Kratochwil
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - T Lindner
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - W Mier
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - J Cardinale
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - C Kesch
- Department of Urology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - M Röhrich
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - H Rathke
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - H Gampp
- Department of Cardiology, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - J Ristau
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg University Hospital, INF 400, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
- Heidelberg Institute of Radiation Oncology (HIRO), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - S Adeberg
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg University Hospital, INF 400, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
- Heidelberg Institute of Radiation Oncology (HIRO), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - D Jäger
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - J Debus
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg University Hospital, INF 400, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
- Heidelberg Institute of Radiation Oncology (HIRO), Heidelberg, Germany
- Heidelberg Ion-Beam Therapy Center (HIT), Department of Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), partner site Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Radiation Oncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - U Haberkorn
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Nuclear Medicine, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Translational Lung Research Center Heidelberg, Member of the German Center for Lung Research DZL, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - S A Koerber
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Heidelberg, Germany.
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg University Hospital, INF 400, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.
- Heidelberg Institute of Radiation Oncology (HIRO), Heidelberg, Germany.
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Aoki T, Nishida N, Kudo M. Current Perspectives on the Immunosuppressive Niche and Role of Fibrosis in Hepatocellular Carcinoma and the Development of Antitumor Immunity. J Histochem Cytochem 2022; 70:53-81. [PMID: 34751050 PMCID: PMC8721576 DOI: 10.1369/00221554211056853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors have become the mainstay of treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, they are ineffective in some cases. Previous studies have reported that genetic alterations in oncogenic pathways such as Wnt/β-catenin are the important triggers in HCC for primary refractoriness. T-cell exhaustion has been reported in various tumors and is likely to play a prominent role in the emergence of HCC due to chronic inflammation and cirrhosis-associated immune dysfunction. Immunosuppressive cells including regulatory T-cells and tumor-associated macrophages infiltrating the tumor are associated with hyperprogressive disease in the early stages of immune checkpoint inhibitor treatment. In addition, stellate cells and tumor-associated fibroblasts create an abundant desmoplastic environment by producing extracellular matrix. This strongly contributes to epithelial to mesenchymal transition via signaling activities including transforming growth factor beta, Wnt/β-catenin, and Hippo pathway. The abundant desmoplastic environment has been demonstrated in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma and cholangiocarcinoma to suppress cytotoxic T-cell infiltration, PD-L1 expression, and neoantigen expression, resulting in a highly immunosuppressive niche. It is possible that a similar immunosuppressive environment is created in HCC with advanced fibrosis in the background liver. Although sufficient understanding is required for the establishment of immune therapies of HCC, further investigations are still required in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomoko Aoki
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine, Kindai University, Osaka-Sayama, Japan
| | - Naoshi Nishida
- Naoshi Nishida, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine, Kindai University, 377-2 Ohno-higashi, Osaka-Sayama 589-8511, Japan. E-mail:
| | - Masatoshi Kudo
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine, Kindai University, Osaka-Sayama, Japan
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Watanabe K, Shiga K, Maeda A, Harata S, Yanagita T, Suzuki T, Ushigome H, Maeda Y, Hirokawa T, Ogawa R, Hara M, Takahashi H, Matsuo Y, Mitsui A, Kimura M, Takiguchi S. Chitinase 3-like 1 secreted from cancer-associated fibroblasts promotes tumor angiogenesis via interleukin-8 secretion in colorectal cancer. Int J Oncol 2021; 60:3. [PMID: 34913066 PMCID: PMC8698746 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2021.5293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The cancer-stromal interaction has been demonstrated to promote tumor progression, and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), which are the main components of stromal cells, have attracted attention as novel treatment targets. Chitinase 3-like 1 (CHI3L1) is a chitinase-like protein, which affects cell proliferation and angiogenesis. However, the mechanisms through which cells secrete CHI3L1 and through which CHI3L1 mediates tumor progression in the cancer microenvironment are still unclear. Accordingly, the present study assessed the secretion of CHI3L1 in the microenvironment of colorectal cancer and evaluated how CHI3L1 affects tumor angiogenesis. CAFs and normal fibroblasts (NFs) established from colorectal cancer tissue, and human colon cancer cell lines were evaluated using immunostaining, cytokine antibody array, RNA interference, reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR), ELISA, western blotting and angiogenesis assays. The expression and secretion of CHI3L1 in CAFs were stronger than those in NFs and colorectal cancer cell lines. In addition, interleukin-13 receptor α2 (IL-13Rα2), a receptor for CHI3L1, was not expressed in colorectal cancer cell lines, but was expressed in fibroblasts, particularly CAFs. Furthermore, the expression and secretion of IL-8 in CAFs was stronger than that in NFs and cancer cell lines, and recombinant CHI3L1 addition increased IL-8 expression in CAFs, whereas knockdown of CHI3L1 suppressed IL-8 expression. Furthermore, IL-13Rα2 knockdown suppressed the enhancement of IL-8 expression induced by CHI3L1 treatment in CAFs. For vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGFA), similar results to IL-8 were observed in an ELISA for comparison of secretion between CAFs and NFs and for changes in secretion after CHI3L1 treatment in CAFs; however, no significant differences were observed for changes in expression after CHI3L1 treatment or IL-13Rα2 knockdown in CAFs assessed using RT-qPCR assays. Angiogenesis assays revealed that tube formation in vascular endothelial cells was suppressed by conditioned medium from CAFs with the addition of human CHI3L1 neutralizing antibodies compared with control IgG, and also suppressed by conditioned medium from CAFs transfected with CHI3L1, IL-8 or VEGFA small interfering RNA compared with negative control small interfering RNA. Overall, the present findings indicated that CHI3L1 secreted from CAFs acted on CAFs to increase the secretion of IL-8, thereby affecting tumor angiogenesis in colorectal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaori Watanabe
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Aichi 467-8601, Japan
| | - Kazuyoshi Shiga
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Aichi 467-8601, Japan
| | - Anri Maeda
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Aichi 467-8601, Japan
| | - Shinnosuke Harata
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Aichi 467-8601, Japan
| | - Takeshi Yanagita
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Aichi 467-8601, Japan
| | - Takuya Suzuki
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Aichi 467-8601, Japan
| | - Hajime Ushigome
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Aichi 467-8601, Japan
| | - Yuzo Maeda
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Aichi 467-8601, Japan
| | - Takahisa Hirokawa
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Aichi 467-8601, Japan
| | - Ryo Ogawa
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Aichi 467-8601, Japan
| | - Masayasu Hara
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Aichi 467-8601, Japan
| | - Hiroki Takahashi
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Aichi 467-8601, Japan
| | - Yoichi Matsuo
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Aichi 467-8601, Japan
| | - Akira Mitsui
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Aichi 467-8601, Japan
| | - Masahiro Kimura
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Aichi 467-8601, Japan
| | - Shuji Takiguchi
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Aichi 467-8601, Japan
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Opitz FV, Haeberle L, Daum A, Esposito I. Tumor Microenvironment in Pancreatic Intraepithelial Neoplasia. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13246188. [PMID: 34944807 PMCID: PMC8699458 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13246188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a very aggressive neoplasm with a poor survival rate. This is mainly due to late detection, which substantially limits therapy options. A better understanding of the early phases of pancreatic carcinogenesis is fundamental for improving patient prognosis in the future. In this article, we focused on the tumor microenvironment (TME), which provides the biological niche for the development of PDAC from its most common precursor lesions, PanIN (pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasias). Abstract Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the most aggressive tumors with a poor prognosis. A characteristic of PDAC is the formation of an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) that facilitates bypassing of the immune surveillance. The TME consists of a desmoplastic stroma, largely composed of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), immunosuppressive immune cells, immunoregulatory soluble factors, neural network cells, and endothelial cells with complex interactions. PDAC develops from various precursor lesions such as pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PanIN), intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMN), mucinous cystic neoplasms (MCN), and possibly, atypical flat lesions (AFL). In this review, we focus on the composition of the TME in PanINs to reveal detailed insights into the complex restructuring of the TME at early time points in PDAC progression and to explore ways of modifying the TME to slow or even halt tumor progression.
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21
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[Spheroids to organoids: Solid cancer models for anticancer drug discovery]. Bull Cancer 2021; 109:49-57. [PMID: 34848046 DOI: 10.1016/j.bulcan.2021.09.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Revised: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Cell culture is an important and necessary technology in oncology research. Currently, two-dimensional (2D) cell culture models are the most widely used, but they cannot reproduce the complexity and pathophysiology of tumors in vivo. This may be a major cause of the high rate of attrition of anticancer drugs entering clinical trials, the rate of new anticancer drugs entering the market being less than 5 %. One way to improve the success of new cancer drugs in the clinic is based on the use of three-dimensional (3D) cell culture models, more able to represent the complex environment and architecture of tumors. These 3D culture systems are also a powerful research tool for modeling the evolution of cancer from early stages to metastasis. Spheroids and organoids, the most adaptable models among 3D culture systems, are beginning to be used in pharmaceutical research and personalized medicine. In this article, we review the use of spheroids and organoids by highlighting their differences, discussing their impact on drug development, and looking at future challenges.
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22
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Elwakeel E, Weigert A. Breast Cancer CAFs: Spectrum of Phenotypes and Promising Targeting Avenues. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:11636. [PMID: 34769066 PMCID: PMC8583860 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Activationof the tumor-associated stroma to support tumor growth is a common feature observed in different cancer entities. This principle is exemplified by cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), which are educated by the tumor to shape its development across all stages. CAFs can alter the extracellular matrix (ECM) and secrete a variety of different molecules. In that manner they have the capability to affect activation, survival, proliferation, and migration of other stromal cells and cancer cell themselves. Alteration of the ECM, desmoplasia, is a common feature of breast cancer, indicating a prominent role for CAFs in shaping tumor development in the mammary gland. In this review, we summarize the multiple roles CAFs play in mammary carcinoma. We discuss experimental and clinical strategies to interfere with CAFs function in breast cancer. Moreover, we highlight the issues arising from CAFs heterogeneity and the need for further research to identify CAFs subpopulation(s) that can be targeted to improve breast cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eiman Elwakeel
- Institute of Biochemistry I, Faculty of Medicine, Goethe-University Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt, Germany;
| | - Andreas Weigert
- Institute of Biochemistry I, Faculty of Medicine, Goethe-University Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt, Germany;
- Frankfurt Cancer Institute, Goethe-University Frankfurt, 60596 Frankfurt, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt, Germany
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23
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Zheng H, Liu H, Ge Y, Wang X. Integrated single-cell and bulk RNA sequencing analysis identifies a cancer associated fibroblast-related signature for predicting prognosis and therapeutic responses in colorectal cancer. Cancer Cell Int 2021; 21:552. [PMID: 34670584 PMCID: PMC8529760 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-021-02252-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) contribute notably to colorectal cancer (CRC) tumorigenesis, stiffness, angiogenesis, immunosuppression and metastasis, and could serve as a promising therapeutic target. Our purpose was to construct CAF-related prognostic signature for CRC. Methods We performed bioinformatics analysis on single-cell transcriptome data derived from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and identified 208 differentially expressed cell markers from fibroblasts cluster. Bulk gene expression data of CRC was obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and GEO databases. Univariate Cox regression and least absolute shrinkage operator (LASSO) analyses were performed on TCGA training cohort (n = 308) for model construction, and was validated in TCGA validation (n = 133), TCGA total (n = 441), GSE39582 (n = 470) and GSE17536 (n = 177) datasets. Microenvironment Cell Populations-counter (MCP-counter) and Estimate the Proportion of Immune and Cancer cells (EPIC) methods were applied to evaluated CAFs infiltrations from bulk gene expression data. Real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) was performed in tissue microarrays containing 80 colon cancer samples to further validate the prognostic value of the CAF model. pRRophetic and Tumor Immune Dysfunction and Exclusion (TIDE) algorithms were utilized to predict chemosensitivity and immunotherapy response. Human Protein Atlas (HPA) databases and immunohistochemistry were used to evaluate the protein expressions. Results A nine-gene prognostic CAF-related signature was established in training cohort. Kaplan–Meier survival analyses revealed patients with higher CAF risk scores were correlated with adverse prognosis in each cohort. MCP-counter and EPIC results consistently revealed CAFs infiltrations were significantly higher in high CAF risk group. Patients with higher CAF risk scores were more prone to not respond to immunotherapy, but were more sensitive to several conventional chemotherapeutics, suggesting a potential strategy of combining chemotherapy with anti-CAF therapy to improve the efficacy of current T-cell based immunotherapies. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses verified the CAF model was as an independent prognostic indicator in predicting overall survival, and a CAF-based nomogram was then built for clinical utility in predicting prognosis of CRC. Conclusion To conclude, the CAF-related signature could serve as a robust prognostic indicator in CRC, which provides novel genomics evidence for anti-CAF immunotherapeutic strategies. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12935-021-02252-9.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hang Zheng
- Department of General Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Heshu Liu
- Department of Oncology, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yang Ge
- Department of Oncology, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, People's Republic of China.
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24
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Mehraj U, Ganai RA, Macha MA, Hamid A, Zargar MA, Bhat AA, Nasser MW, Haris M, Batra SK, Alshehri B, Al-Baradie RS, Mir MA, Wani NA. The tumor microenvironment as driver of stemness and therapeutic resistance in breast cancer: New challenges and therapeutic opportunities. Cell Oncol (Dordr) 2021; 44:1209-1229. [PMID: 34528143 DOI: 10.1007/s13402-021-00634-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breast cancer (BC), the second most common cause of cancer-related deaths, remains a significant threat to the health and wellness of women worldwide. The tumor microenvironment (TME), comprising cellular components, such as cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), immune cells, endothelial cells and adipocytes, and noncellular components such as extracellular matrix (ECM), has been recognized as a critical contributor to the development and progression of BC. The interplay between TME components and cancer cells promotes phenotypic heterogeneity, cell plasticity and cancer cell stemness that impart tumor dormancy, enhanced invasion and metastasis, and the development of therapeutic resistance. While most previous studies have focused on targeting cancer cells with a dismal prognosis, novel therapies targeting stromal components are currently being evaluated in preclinical and clinical studies, and are already showing improved efficacies. As such, they may offer better means to eliminate the disease effectively. CONCLUSIONS In this review, we focus on the evolving concept of the TME as a key player regulating tumor growth, metastasis, stemness, and the development of therapeutic resistance. Despite significant advances over the last decade, several clinical trials focusing on the TME have failed to demonstrate promising effectiveness in cancer patients. To expedite clinical efficacy of TME-directed therapies, a deeper understanding of the TME is of utmost importance. Secondly, the efficacy of TME-directed therapies when used alone or in combination with chemo- or radiotherapy, and the tumor stage needs to be studied. Likewise, identifying molecular signatures and biomarkers indicating the type of TME will help in determining precise TME-directed therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Umar Mehraj
- Department of Bioresources, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir, India
| | - Rais A Ganai
- Watson-Crick Centre for Molecular Medicine, Islamic University of Science & Technology , Awantipora, Jammu & Kashmir, India
| | - Muzafar A Macha
- Watson-Crick Centre for Molecular Medicine, Islamic University of Science & Technology , Awantipora, Jammu & Kashmir, India
| | - Abid Hamid
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Kashmir, Ganderbal, J&K, India
| | - Mohammed A Zargar
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Kashmir, Ganderbal, J&K, India
| | - Ajaz A Bhat
- Translational Medicine, Research Branch, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar
| | - Mohd Wasim Nasser
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Mohammad Haris
- Translational Medicine, Research Branch, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar.,Laboratory of Animal Research, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Surinder K Batra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA.,Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE, USA.,Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Bader Alshehri
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Majmaah University, Almajmaah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Raid Saleem Al-Baradie
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Majmaah University, Almajmaah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Manzoor A Mir
- Department of Bioresources, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir, India.
| | - Nissar Ahmad Wani
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Kashmir, Ganderbal, J&K, India.
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Cao H, Cheng HS, Wang JK, Tan NS, Tay CY. A 3D physio-mimetic interpenetrating network-based platform to decode the pro and anti-tumorigenic properties of cancer-associated fibroblasts. Acta Biomater 2021; 132:448-460. [PMID: 33766799 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2021.03.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2020] [Revised: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Three-dimensional (3D) biomaterials with physiologically relevant and experimentally tractable biomechanical features are important platforms to advance our understanding of the influence of tissue mechanics in disease progression. Herein, an interpenetrating network (IPN) of collagen and alginate 3D culture system with tunable extracellular microstructure and mechanics is exploited as a tumor stroma proxy to study phenotypic plasticity of colorectal cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF). In combination with Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) data analysis, we demonstrated that tuning the storage modulus of the IPN hydrogel between 49 and 419 Pa can trigger a reversible switch between an inflammatory (i-state, α-SMAlowIL-6high) and myofibroblastic (m-state, α-SMAhighIL-6low) state in CAF that is dependent on the polymer network confinement effect and ROS-HIF1-α mechanotransduction signaling axis. Secretome from m-state CAF upregulated several epithelial-mesenchymal-transition (EMT) transcripts and induced robust scattering in DLD-1, HCT116, and SW480 human colorectal adenocarcinoma, while the EMT-inducing capacity is muted in i-state CAF, suggestive of an anti-tumorigenic role. Our findings were further validated through Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA), which showed that cytokines secreted at higher levels by i-state CAF are correlated (p < 0.05) with good overall colorectal cancer patient survival. Therefore, 3D network density and spatial cellular confinement are critical biophysical determinants that can profoundly influence CAF states, paracrine signaling, and EMT-inducing potential. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: The communication between cancer cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) contributes to tumor metastasis. CAF represent a diverse population of cellular subsets that can either promote or restrain tumor progression. However, the origin and cause of CAF heterogeneity remain elusive, limiting CAF-directed therapies for clinical use. We studied the dynamic phenotypes of CAF using a 3D physio-mimetic culture platform consisting of an interpenetrating collagen-alginate network. Combined with transcriptomic stratification and correlative analysis using cancer patient dataset, we showed phenotypic interconversion between inflammatory and myofibroblastic states, with anti- and pro-tumorigenic functions, in human colorectal CAF. This multidisciplinary study reveals the functional diversity of colorectal CAF caused by biophysical cues. The finding will influence the development of new CAF biomarkers and cancer therapies.
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Kang MJ, Lee S, Jung U, Mandal C, Park H, Stetler-Stevenson WG, Kim YS, Moon JW, Park SH, Oh J. Inhibition of Hepatic Stellate Cell Activation Suppresses Tumorigenicity of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Mice. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2021; 191:2219-2230. [PMID: 34428424 PMCID: PMC8747013 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2021.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Revised: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Transdifferentiation (or activation) of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) to myofibroblasts is a key event in liver fibrosis. Activated HSCs in the tumor microenvironment reportedly promote tumor progression. This study analyzed the effect of an inhibitor of HSC activation, retinol-binding protein–albumin domain III fusion protein (R-III), on protumorigenic functions of HSCs. Although conditioned medium collected from activated HSCs enhanced the migration, invasion, and proliferation of the hepatocellular carcinoma cell line Hepa-1c1c7, this effect was not observed in Hepa-1c1c7 cells treated with conditioned medium from R-III–exposed HSCs. In a subcutaneous tumor model, larger tumors with increased vascular density were formed in mice transplanted with Hepa-1c1c7+HSC than in mice transplanted with Hepa-1c1c7 cells alone. Intriguingly, when Hepa-1c1c7+HSC–transplanted mice were injected intravenously with R-III, a reduction in vascular density and extended tumor necrosis were observed. In an orthotopic tumor model, co-transplantation of HSCs enhanced tumor growth, angiogenesis, and regional metastasis accompanied by increased peritumoral lymphatic vessel density, which was abolished by R-III. In vitro study showed that R-III treatment affected the synthesis of pro-angiogenic and anti-angiogenic factors in activated HSCs, which might be the potential mechanism underlying the R-III effect. These findings suggest that the inhibition of HSC activation abrogates HSC-induced tumor angiogenesis and growth, which represents an attractive therapeutic strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min-Jung Kang
- Department of Biomedical Science, Korea University Graduate School, Seoul, Korea
| | - Soovin Lee
- Laboratory Animal Research Center, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Usuk Jung
- Department of Biomedical Science, Korea University Graduate School, Seoul, Korea
| | - Chanchal Mandal
- Department of Biomedical Science, Korea University Graduate School, Seoul, Korea
| | - Heekyung Park
- Department of Biomedical Science, Korea University Graduate School, Seoul, Korea
| | - William G Stetler-Stevenson
- Extracellular Matrix Pathology Section, Laboratory of Pathology, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Young-Sik Kim
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ji Wook Moon
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sun-Hwa Park
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Junseo Oh
- Department of Biomedical Science, Korea University Graduate School, Seoul, Korea; Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, Korea.
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27
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Iwai M, Tulafu M, Togo S, Kawaji H, Kadoya K, Namba Y, Jin J, Watanabe J, Okabe T, Hidayat M, Sumiyoshi I, Itoh M, Koyama Y, Ito Y, Orimo A, Takamochi K, Oh S, Suzuki K, Hayashizaki Y, Yoshida K, Takahashi K. Cancer-associated fibroblast migration in non-small cell lung cancers is modulated by increased integrin α11 expression. Mol Oncol 2021; 15:1507-1527. [PMID: 33682233 PMCID: PMC8096795 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.12937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer‐associated fibroblasts (CAFs) regulate cancer progression through the modulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) and cancer cell adhesion. While undergoing a series of phenotypic changes, CAFs control cancer–stroma interactions through integrin receptor signaling. Here, we isolated CAFs from patients with non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and examined their gene expression profiles. We identified collagen type XI α1 (COL11A1), integrin α11 (ITGA11), and the ITGA11 major ligand collagen type I α1 (COL1A1) among the 390 genes that were significantly enriched in NSCLC‐associated CAFs. Increased ITGA11 expression in cancer stroma was correlated with a poor clinical outcome in patients with NSCLC. Increased expression of fibronectin and collagen type I induced ITGA11 expression in CAFs. The cellular migration of CAFs toward collagen type I and fibronectin was promoted via ERK1/2 signaling, independently of the fibronectin receptor integrin α5β1. Additionally, ERK1/2 signaling induced ITGA11 and COL11A1 expression in cancer stroma. We, therefore, propose that targeting ITGA11 and COL11A1 expressing CAFs to block cancer–stroma interactions may serve as a novel, promising anti‐tumor strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moe Iwai
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine & Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Miniwan Tulafu
- Leading Center for the Development and Research of Cancer Medicine, Juntendo University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shinsaku Togo
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine & Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hideya Kawaji
- Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Setagaya-ku, Japan.,Preventive Medicine and Applied Genomics Unit, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama, Japan.,RIKEN Preventive Medicine and Diagnosis Innovation Program, Saitama, Japan
| | - Kotaro Kadoya
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine & Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yukiko Namba
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine & Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Jin Jin
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine & Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, National Center of Gerontology, Beijing Hospital, China
| | - Junko Watanabe
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine & Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takahiro Okabe
- Leading Center for the Development and Research of Cancer Medicine, Juntendo University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Moulid Hidayat
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine & Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Pulmonology and Respiratory Medicine, Universitas Indonesia Faculty of Medicine, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Issei Sumiyoshi
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine & Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masayoshi Itoh
- RIKEN Preventive Medicine and Diagnosis Innovation Program, Saitama, Japan
| | - Yu Koyama
- Departments of Molecular Pathogenesis, Graduate School of Medicine, Juntendo University, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Oral Pathobiological Science and Surgery, Tokyo Dental College, Japan
| | - Yasuhiko Ito
- Departments of Molecular Pathogenesis, Graduate School of Medicine, Juntendo University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Akira Orimo
- Departments of Molecular Pathogenesis, Graduate School of Medicine, Juntendo University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kazuya Takamochi
- Department of General Thoracic Surgery, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shiaki Oh
- Department of General Thoracic Surgery, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kenji Suzuki
- Department of General Thoracic Surgery, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Koji Yoshida
- Faculty of Biology-Oriented Science and Technology, Kindai University, Wakayama, Japan
| | - Kazuhisa Takahashi
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine & Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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28
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Joshi RS, Kanugula SS, Sudhir S, Pereira MP, Jain S, Aghi MK. The Role of Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts in Tumor Progression. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13061399. [PMID: 33808627 PMCID: PMC8003545 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13061399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
In the era of genomic medicine, cancer treatment has become more personalized as novel therapeutic targets and pathways are identified. Research over the past decade has shown the increasing importance of how the tumor microenvironment (TME) and the extracellular matrix (ECM), which is a major structural component of the TME, regulate oncogenic functions including tumor progression, metastasis, angiogenesis, therapy resistance, and immune cell modulation, amongst others. Within the TME, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) have been identified in several systemic cancers as critical regulators of the malignant cancer phenotype. This review of the literature comprehensively profiles the roles of CAFs implicated in gastrointestinal, endocrine, head and neck, skin, genitourinary, lung, and breast cancers. The ubiquitous presence of CAFs highlights their significance as modulators of cancer progression and has led to the subsequent characterization of potential therapeutic targets, which may help advance the cancer treatment paradigm to determine the next generation of cancer therapy. The aim of this review is to provide a detailed overview of the key roles that CAFs play in the scope of systemic disease, the mechanisms by which they enhance protumoral effects, and the primary CAF-related markers that may offer potential targets for novel therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rushikesh S. Joshi
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92092, USA;
| | | | - Sweta Sudhir
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA;
| | - Matheus P. Pereira
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA;
| | - Saket Jain
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA;
| | - Manish K. Aghi
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-415-514-9820
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29
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Ma S, McGuire MH, Mangala LS, Lee S, Stur E, Hu W, Bayraktar E, Villar-Prados A, Ivan C, Wu SY, Yokoi A, Dasari SK, Jennings NB, Liu J, Lopez-Berestein G, Ram P, Sood AK. Gain-of-function p53 protein transferred via small extracellular vesicles promotes conversion of fibroblasts to a cancer-associated phenotype. Cell Rep 2021; 34:108726. [PMID: 33567287 PMCID: PMC7957825 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2021.108726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2019] [Revised: 04/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor and stromal interactions consist of reciprocal signaling through cytokines, growth factors, direct cell-cell interactions, and extracellular vesicles (EVs). Small EVs (≤200 nm) have been considered critical messengers of cellular communication during tumor development. Here, we demonstrate that gain-of-function (GOF) p53 protein can be packaged into small EVs and transferred to fibroblasts. GOF p53 protein is selectively bound by heat shock protein 90 (HSP90), a chaperone protein, and packaged into small EVs. Inhibition of HSP90 activity blocks packaging of GOF, but not wild-type, p53 in small EVs. GOF p53-containing small EVs result in their conversion to cancer-associated fibroblasts. In vivo studies reveal that GOF p53-containing small EVs can enhance tumor growth and promote fibroblast transformation into a cancer-associated phenotype. These findings provide a better understanding of the complex interactions between cancer and stromal cells and may have therapeutic implications. Ma et al. report that gain-of-function (GOF) p53 protein can be packaged into small EVs and transferred to stromal fibroblasts. The packaging of GOF p53 into small EVs is regulated by HSP90. Small EVs with GOF p53 activate Nrf2-mediated pathways in fibroblasts and induce their conversion to a cancer-associated phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaolin Ma
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77054, USA
| | - Michael H McGuire
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77054, USA; Department of Cancer Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77054, USA
| | - Lingegowda S Mangala
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77054, USA; Center for RNA Interference and Non-Coding RNA, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77054, USA
| | - Sanghoon Lee
- Department of Systems Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77054, USA
| | - Elaine Stur
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77054, USA
| | - Wen Hu
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77054, USA
| | - Emine Bayraktar
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77054, USA
| | - Alejandro Villar-Prados
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77054, USA; Department of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Cristina Ivan
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77054, USA; Center for RNA Interference and Non-Coding RNA, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77054, USA
| | - Sherry Y Wu
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77054, USA
| | - Akira Yokoi
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77054, USA
| | - Santosh K Dasari
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77054, USA
| | - Nicholas B Jennings
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77054, USA
| | - Jinsong Liu
- Department of Pathology, Division of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77054, USA
| | - Gabriel Lopez-Berestein
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77054, USA; Center for RNA Interference and Non-Coding RNA, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77054, USA
| | - Prahlad Ram
- Department of Systems Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77054, USA
| | - Anil K Sood
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77054, USA; Department of Cancer Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77054, USA; Center for RNA Interference and Non-Coding RNA, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77054, USA.
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30
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Kuriyama N, Yoshioka Y, Kikuchi S, Azuma N, Ochiya T. Extracellular Vesicles Are Key Regulators of Tumor Neovasculature. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:611039. [PMID: 33363175 PMCID: PMC7755723 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.611039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumor progression involves a series of biologically important steps in which the crosstalk between cancer cells and the surrounding environment is an important issue. Angiogenesis is a key tumorigenic phenomenon for cancer progression. Tumor-related extracellular vesicles (EVs) modulate the tumor microenvironment (TME) through cell-to-cell communication. Tumor cells in a hypoxic TME release more EVs than cells in a normoxic environment due to uncontrollable tumor proliferation. Tumor-derived EVs in the TME influence endothelial cells (ECs), which then play multiple roles, contributing to tumor angiogenesis, loss of the endothelial vascular barrier by binding to ECs, and subsequent endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition. In contrast, they also indirectly induce tumor angiogenesis through the phenotype switching of various cells into cancer-associated fibroblasts, the activation of tumor-associated ECs and platelets, and remodeling of the extracellular matrix. Here, we review current knowledge regarding the involvement of EVs in tumor vascular-related cancer progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naoya Kuriyama
- Division of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Vascular Surgery, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa, Japan
| | - Yusuke Yoshioka
- Division of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shinsuke Kikuchi
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa, Japan
| | - Nobuyoshi Azuma
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa, Japan
| | - Takahiro Ochiya
- Division of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
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31
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Knops AM, South A, Rodeck U, Martinez-Outschoorn U, Harshyne LA, Johnson J, Luginbuhl AJ, Curry JM. Cancer-Associated Fibroblast Density, Prognostic Characteristics, and Recurrence in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Meta-Analysis. Front Oncol 2020; 10:565306. [PMID: 33330034 PMCID: PMC7729160 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.565306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction The progression and clinical course of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) relies on complex interactions between cancer and stromal cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Among the most abundant of these stromal cells are cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). While their contribution to tumor progression is widely acknowledged, and various CAF-targeted treatments are under development, the relationship between CAF density and the clinicopathologic course of HNSCC has not been clearly defined. Here we examine the published evidence investigating the relationship of cancer-associated fibroblasts to local recurrence and indicators of prognostic significance in HNSCC. Methods We conducted a meta-analysis of existing publications that compare the relationship between CAF density, local recurrence, and clinically significant pathologic criteria of disease development (T stage, nodal positivity, clinical stage, vascular invasion, perineural invasion, Ki67 expression, and differentiation). Thirteen studies met the selection criteria, providing a total study population of 926 patients. Forest plots and risk ratios were generated to illustrate overall relationships. Results Higher CAF density within the tumor microenvironment is associated with advanced T stage, nodal infiltration, clinical stage, vascular invasion, perineural invasion, Ki67 expression, and differentiation (p <0.05). High CAF density is also associated with increased rates of local recurrence (p <0.001). Conclusions Across multiple studies, increased CAF density is correlated with histopathological criteria of poor prognosis in HNSCC. These findings highlight that CAFs may play a pivotal role in HNSCC development and progression. Staining for CAFs may represent a valuable addition to current pathologic analysis and help to guide prognosis and treatment. Understanding the mechanisms by which CAFs reciprocally interact with cancer cells will be crucial for optimization of TME-focused treatment of HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander M Knops
- Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Andrew South
- Department of Dermatology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Ulrich Rodeck
- Department of Dermatology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | | | - Larry A Harshyne
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Jennifer Johnson
- Department of Medical Oncology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Adam J Luginbuhl
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Joseph M Curry
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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32
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Blavier L, Yang RM, DeClerck YA. The Tumor Microenvironment in Neuroblastoma: New Players, New Mechanisms of Interaction and New Perspectives. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12102912. [PMID: 33050533 PMCID: PMC7599920 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12102912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2020] [Revised: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The contribution of the tumor microenvironment (TME) to cancer progression has been well recognized in recent decades. As cancer therapeutic strategies are increasingly precise and include immunotherapies, knowledge of the nature and function of the TME in a tumor becomes essential. Our understanding of the TME in neuroblastoma (NB), the second most common solid tumor in children, has significantly progressed from an initial focus on its Schwannian component to a better awareness of its complex nature, which includes not only immune but also non-immune cells such as cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), the contribution of which to inflammation and interaction with tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) is now recognized. Recent studies on the TME landscape of NB tumors also suggest significant differences between MYCN-amplified (MYCN-A) and non-amplified (MYCN-NA) tumors, in their content in stromal and inflammatory cells and their immunosuppressive activity. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) released by cells in the TME and microRNAs (miRs) present in their cargo could play important roles in the communication between NB cells and the TME. This review article discusses these new aspects of the TME in NB and the impact that information on the TME landscape in NB will have in the design of precise, biomarker-integrated clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurence Blavier
- The Saban Research Institute, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90027, USA; (L.B.); (R.-M.Y.)
- Division of Hematology, Oncology and Blood and Bone Marrow Transplantation, Department of Pediatrics, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
| | - Ren-Ming Yang
- The Saban Research Institute, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90027, USA; (L.B.); (R.-M.Y.)
- Division of Hematology, Oncology and Blood and Bone Marrow Transplantation, Department of Pediatrics, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
| | - Yves A. DeClerck
- The Saban Research Institute, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90027, USA; (L.B.); (R.-M.Y.)
- Division of Hematology, Oncology and Blood and Bone Marrow Transplantation, Department of Pediatrics, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-323-382-5548 or +1-323-361-5648
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33
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Alzeeb G, Metges JP, Corcos L, Le Jossic-Corcos C. Three-Dimensional Culture Systems in Gastric Cancer Research. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:E2800. [PMID: 33003476 PMCID: PMC7601358 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12102800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Revised: 09/25/2020] [Accepted: 09/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer (GC), which includes cancer of the esophagus, the oesophagogastric junction, and the stomach fundus, is highly deadly with strong regional influence, Asia being the most affected. GC is often detected at late stages, with 30% of metastatic cases at diagnosis. Many authors have devised models to both unravel the mechanisms of GC development and to evaluate candidate therapeutics. Among these models, 2D-cell cultures are progressively replaced by 3D-cell cultures that recapitulate, much more comprehensively, tumor cellular and genetic heterogeneity, as well as responsiveness to environmental changes, such as exposure to drugs or irradiation. With respect to the specifics of GC, there are high hopes from such model systems, especially with the aim of identifying prognostic markers and novel drug targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Alzeeb
- Inserm, University Brest, EFS, UMR 1078, GGB, F-29200 Brest, France; (G.A.); (L.C.)
| | - Jean-Philippe Metges
- CHU de Brest, Inserm, University Brest, EFS, UMR 1078, GGB, F-29200 Brest, France;
| | - Laurent Corcos
- Inserm, University Brest, EFS, UMR 1078, GGB, F-29200 Brest, France; (G.A.); (L.C.)
- CHU de Brest, Inserm, University Brest, EFS, UMR 1078, GGB, F-29200 Brest, France;
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34
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Role of Exosomal miRNAs and the Tumor Microenvironment in Drug Resistance. Cells 2020; 9:cells9061450. [PMID: 32545155 PMCID: PMC7349227 DOI: 10.3390/cells9061450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Revised: 06/08/2020] [Accepted: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor microenvironment (TME) is composed of different cellular populations, such as stromal, immune, endothelial, and cancer stem cells. TME represents a key factor for tumor heterogeneity maintenance, tumor progression, and drug resistance. The transport of molecules via extracellular vesicles emerged as a key messenger in intercellular communication in the TME. Exosomes are small double-layered lipid extracellular vesicles that can carry a variety of molecules, including proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids. Exosomal miRNA released by cancer cells can mediate phenotypical changes in the cells of TME to promote tumor growth and therapy resistance, for example, fibroblast- and macrophages-induced differentiation. Cancer stem cells can transfer and enhance drug resistance in neighboring sensitive cancer cells by releasing exosomal miRNAs that target antiapoptotic and immune-suppressive pathways. Exosomes induce drug resistance by carrying ABC transporters, which export chemotherapeutic agents out of the recipient cells, thereby reducing the drug concentration to suboptimal levels. Exosome biogenesis inhibitors represent a promising adjunct therapeutic approach in cancer therapy to avoid the acquisition of a resistant phenotype. In conclusion, exosomal miRNAs play a crucial role in the TME to confer drug resistance and survivability to tumor cells, and we also highlight the need for further investigations in this promising field.
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35
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Tong Y, Yang L, Yu C, Zhu W, Zhou X, Xiong Y, Wang W, Ji F, He D, Cao X. Tumor-Secreted Exosomal lncRNA POU3F3 Promotes Cisplatin Resistance in ESCC by Inducing Fibroblast Differentiation into CAFs. MOLECULAR THERAPY-ONCOLYTICS 2020; 18:1-13. [PMID: 32637576 PMCID: PMC7321817 DOI: 10.1016/j.omto.2020.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), an activated subpopulation of fibroblasts, occupy a central position in the tumor microenvironment and have been shown to promote chemoresistance in multiple cancer types by secreting inflammatory cytokines. Herein, we report that tumor-secreted exosomal long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) can regulate cisplatin resistance in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) through transformation of normal fibroblasts (NFs) to CAFs. Primary CAFs and matched NFs were isolated from tumor tissues and matched normal esophageal epithelial tissues of ESCC patients. Fluorescence microscopy and qRT-PCR were used to investigate the transportation of exosomal lncRNAs from ESCC cells to NFs. To identify the specific lncRNAs involved, 14 ESCC-related lncRNAs were measured in NFs after incubation with exosomes from ESCC cells. We demonstrated that lncRNA POU3F3 can be transferred from ESCC cells to NFs via exosomes and that it mediated fibroblast activation. Activated fibroblasts further promoted proliferation and cisplatin resistance of ESCC cells through secreting interleukin 6 (IL-6). Moreover, our clinical data showed that high levels of plasma exosomal lncRNA POU3F3 correlated significantly with lack of complete response and poor survival in ESCC patients. Therefore, these data demonstrate that lncRNA POU3F3 is involved in cisplatin resistance in ESCC and that this effect is mediated through exosomal lncRNA POU3F3-induced transformation of NFs to CAFs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusuo Tong
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Affiliated Huaian No. 1 People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Huai'an, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lili Yang
- Department of Oncology Surgery, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Changhua Yu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Affiliated Huaian No. 1 People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Huai'an, Jiangsu, China
| | - Weiguo Zhu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Affiliated Huaian No. 1 People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Huai'an, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xilei Zhou
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Affiliated Huaian No. 1 People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Huai'an, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yaozu Xiong
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Affiliated Huaian No. 1 People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Huai'an, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wanwei Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Affiliated Huaian No. 1 People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Huai'an, Jiangsu, China
| | - Fuzhi Ji
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Affiliated Huaian No. 1 People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Huai'an, Jiangsu, China
| | - Dongcheng He
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Affiliated Huaian No. 1 People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Huai'an, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiufeng Cao
- Department of Oncology Surgery, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Department of Thoracic Surgery, Taikang Xianlin Drum Tower Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
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Zubair H, Khan MA, Anand S, Srivastava SK, Singh S, Singh AP. Modulation of the tumor microenvironment by natural agents: implications for cancer prevention and therapy. Semin Cancer Biol 2020; 80:237-255. [PMID: 32470379 PMCID: PMC7688484 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2020.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2019] [Revised: 05/10/2020] [Accepted: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The development of cancer is not just the growth and proliferation of a single transformed cell, but its surrounding environment also coevolves with it. Indeed, successful cancer progression depends on the ability of the tumor cells to develop a supportive tumor microenvironment consisting of various types of stromal cells. The interactions between the tumor and stromal cells are bidirectional and mediated through a variety of growth factors, cytokines, metabolites, and other biomolecules secreted by these cells. Tumor-stromal crosstalk creates optimal conditions for the tumor growth, metastasis, evasion of immune surveillance, and therapy resistance, and its targeting is being explored for clinical management of cancer. Natural agents from plants and marine life have been at the forefront of traditional medicine. Numerous epidemiological studies have reported the health benefits imparted on the consumption of certain fruits, vegetables, and their derived products. Indeed, a significant majority of anti-cancer drugs in clinical use are either naturally occurring compounds or their derivatives. In this review, we describe fundamental cellular and non-cellular components of the tumor microenvironment and discuss the significance of natural compounds in their targeting. Existing literature provides hope that novel prevention and therapeutic approaches will emerge from ongoing scientific efforts leading to the reduced tumor burden and improve clinical outcomes in cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haseeb Zubair
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA; Mitchell Cancer Institute, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA
| | - Mohammad Aslam Khan
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA; Mitchell Cancer Institute, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA
| | - Shashi Anand
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA; Mitchell Cancer Institute, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA
| | - Sanjeev Kumar Srivastava
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA; Mitchell Cancer Institute, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA
| | - Seema Singh
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA; Mitchell Cancer Institute, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA
| | - Ajay Pratap Singh
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA; Mitchell Cancer Institute, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA.
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37
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Al-Ansari MM, Al-Saif M, Arafah M, Eldali AM, Tulbah A, Al-Tweigeri T, Semlali A, Khabar KS, Aboussekhra A. Clinical and functional significance of tumor/stromal ATR expression in breast cancer patients. Breast Cancer Res 2020; 22:49. [PMID: 32414408 PMCID: PMC7229635 DOI: 10.1186/s13058-020-01289-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2019] [Accepted: 05/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Most breast cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are active and important cancer-promoting cells, with significant impact on patient prognosis. Therefore, we investigated here the role of the protein kinase ATR in breast stromal fibroblasts in the prognosis of locally advanced breast cancer patients. Methods We have used immunohistochemistry to assess the level of ATR in breast cancer tissues and their adjacent normal tissues. Immunoblotting as well as quantitative RT-PCR were utilized to show the role of breast cancer cells and IL-6 as well as AUF-1 in downregulating ATR in breast stromal fibroblasts. Engineered human breast tissue model was also used to show that ATR-deficient breast stromal fibroblasts enhance the growth of breast cancer cells. Results We have shown that the protein kinase ATR is downregulated in cancer cells and their neighboring CAFs in breast cancer tissues as compared to their respective adjacent normal tissues. The implication of cancer cells in ATR knockdown in CAFs has been proven in vitro by showing that breast cancer cells downregulate ATR in breast fibroblasts in an IL-6/STAT3-dependent manner and via AUF-1. In another cohort of 103 tumors from locally advanced breast cancer patients, we have shown that absence or reduced ATR expression in tumoral cells and their adjacent stromal fibroblasts is correlated with poor overall survival as well as disease-free survival. Furthermore, ATR expression in CAFs was inversely correlated with tumor recurrence and progression. Conclusion ATR downregulation in breast CAFs is frequent, procarcinogenic, and correlated with poor patient survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mysoon M Al-Ansari
- Department of Molecular Oncology, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, MBC#03, Riyadh, 11211, Saudi Arabia.,Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Medical Studies, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Maher Al-Saif
- Molecular BioMedicine Program, Research Centre, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, 11211, Saudi Arabia
| | - Maria Arafah
- Department of Pathology, King Saud University, PO BOX 2925, Riyadh, 11461, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdelmonneim M Eldali
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Scientific computing, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, 11211, Saudi Arabia
| | - Asma Tulbah
- Department of Pathology, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, 11211, Saudi Arabia
| | - Taher Al-Tweigeri
- Department of Oncology, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, 11211, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdelhabib Semlali
- Groupe de Recherche en Écologie Buccale, Faculté de Médecine Dentaire, Université Laval Québec, Local 1758, 2420 rue de la terrasse, Québec, G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Khalid S Khabar
- Molecular BioMedicine Program, Research Centre, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, 11211, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdelilah Aboussekhra
- Department of Molecular Oncology, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, MBC#03, Riyadh, 11211, Saudi Arabia.
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38
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Mattesen TB, Rasmussen MH, Sandoval J, Ongen H, Árnadóttir SS, Gladov J, Martinez-Cardus A, Castro de Moura M, Madsen AH, Laurberg S, Dermitzakis ET, Esteller M, Andersen CL, Bramsen JB. MethCORR modelling of methylomes from formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue enables characterization and prognostication of colorectal cancer. Nat Commun 2020; 11:2025. [PMID: 32332866 PMCID: PMC7181739 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-16000-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2019] [Accepted: 04/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Transcriptional characterization and classification has potential to resolve the inter-tumor heterogeneity of colorectal cancer and improve patient management. Yet, robust transcriptional profiling is difficult using formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) samples, which complicates testing in clinical and archival material. We present MethCORR, an approach that allows uniform molecular characterization and classification of fresh-frozen and FFPE samples. MethCORR identifies genome-wide correlations between RNA expression and DNA methylation in fresh-frozen samples. This information is used to infer gene expression information in FFPE samples from their methylation profiles. MethCORR is here applied to methylation profiles from 877 fresh-frozen/FFPE samples and comparative analysis identifies the same two subtypes in four independent cohorts. Furthermore, subtype-specific prognostic biomarkers that better predicts relapse-free survival (HR = 2.66, 95%CI [1.67-4.22], P value < 0.001 (log-rank test)) than UICC tumor, node, metastasis (TNM) staging and microsatellite instability status are identified and validated using DNA methylation-specific PCR. The MethCORR approach is general, and may be similarly successful for other cancer types.
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Grants
- R01 CA207467 NCI NIH HHS
- This research is supported by grants from the European Commission FP7 project SYSCOL (UE7-SYSCOL-258236), the Novo Nordisk Foundation (NNF16OC0023182), the Danish National Advanced Technology Foundation (056-2010-1), the John and Birthe Meyer Foundation, the Danish Council for Independent Research (Medical Sciences) (DFF - 0602-02128B, DFF – 4183-00619, DFF - 7016-00332B), the Danish Council for Strategic Research (1309-00006B), the Danish Cancer Society (R40-A1965_11_S2, R56-A3110-12-S2, R107-A7035, R133-A8520), the National Cancer Institute of the National Institutes of Health (R01 CA207467), the Aage and Johanne Louis-Hansen’s Foundation (17-2-0457), the Knud and Edith Eriksen’s Memorial Foundation, the Neye Foundation and the Manufacturer Einar Willumsen’s Memorial Foundation (6000073)
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Affiliation(s)
- Trine B Mattesen
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, 8200, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Mads H Rasmussen
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, 8200, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Juan Sandoval
- Epigenomic Unit, Health Research Institute La Fe (ISSLaFe), Valencia, Spain
- Biomarker and precision medicine Unit, Health Research Institute La Fe (ISSLaFe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Halit Ongen
- Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva Medical School-CMU, 1 Rue Michel-Servet, 1211, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Sigrid S Árnadóttir
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, 8200, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Josephine Gladov
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, 8200, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Anna Martinez-Cardus
- Badalona Applied Research Group in Oncology (B-ARGO), Germans Trias i Pujol Research Institute (IGTP), Badalona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
- Medical Oncology Service, Institute Catalan of Oncology (ICO), Badalona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Manuel Castro de Moura
- Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute (IJC), Badalona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Anders H Madsen
- Department of Surgery, Hospitalsenheden Vest, 7400, Herning, Denmark
| | - Søren Laurberg
- Colorectal Surgical Unit, Department of Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital, 8200, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Emmanouil T Dermitzakis
- Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva Medical School-CMU, 1 Rue Michel-Servet, 1211, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Manel Esteller
- Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute (IJC), Badalona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
- Centro de Investigacion Biomedica en Red Cancer (CIBERONC), Madrid, Spain
- Institucio Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
- Physiological Sciences Department, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona (UB), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Claus L Andersen
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, 8200, Aarhus, Denmark.
| | - Jesper B Bramsen
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, 8200, Aarhus, Denmark.
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Zu T, Wen J, Xu L, Li H, Mi J, Li H, Brakebusch C, Fisher DE, Wu X. Up-Regulation of Activating Transcription Factor 3 in Human Fibroblasts Inhibits Melanoma Cell Growth and Migration Through a Paracrine Pathway. Front Oncol 2020; 10:624. [PMID: 32373541 PMCID: PMC7187895 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.00624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2020] [Accepted: 04/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The treatment of melanoma has remained a difficult challenge. Targeting the tumor stroma has recently attracted attention for developing novel strategies for melanoma therapy. Activating transcription factor 3 (ATF3) plays a crucial role in regulating tumorigenesis and development, but whether the expression of ATF3 in human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs) can affect melanoma development hasn't been studied. Our results show that ATF3 expression is downregulated in stromal cells of human melanoma. HDFs expressing high levels of ATF3 suppressed the growth and migration of melanoma cells in association with downregulation of different cytokines including IL-6 in vitro. In vivo, HDFs with high ATF3 expression reduced tumor formation. Adding recombinant IL-6 to melanoma cells reversed those in vitro and in vivo effects, suggesting that ATF3 expression by HDFs regulates melanoma progression through the IL-6/STAT3 pathway. More importantly, HDFs pretreated with cyclosporine A or phenformin to induce ATF3 expression inhibited melanoma cell growth in vitro and in vivo. In summary, our study reveals that ATF3 suppresses human melanoma growth and that inducing the expression of ATF3 in HDFs can inhibit melanoma growth, a new potential melanoma therapeutic approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingjian Zu
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Regeneration, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Shandong Key Laboratory of Oral Tissue Regeneration and Shandong Engineering Laboratory for Dental Materials and Oral Tissue Regeneration, Jinan, China
| | - Jie Wen
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Regeneration, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Shandong Key Laboratory of Oral Tissue Regeneration and Shandong Engineering Laboratory for Dental Materials and Oral Tissue Regeneration, Jinan, China
| | - Lin Xu
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Regeneration, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Shandong Key Laboratory of Oral Tissue Regeneration and Shandong Engineering Laboratory for Dental Materials and Oral Tissue Regeneration, Jinan, China.,Department of Orthodontics, Liaocheng People's Hospital, Liaocheng, China
| | - Hui Li
- Department of Dermatology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Jun Mi
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Regeneration, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Shandong Key Laboratory of Oral Tissue Regeneration and Shandong Engineering Laboratory for Dental Materials and Oral Tissue Regeneration, Jinan, China
| | - Hui Li
- Department of Hematology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Cord Brakebusch
- Biotech Research and Innovation Centre (BRIC), University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - David E Fisher
- Cutaneous Biology Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Xunwei Wu
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Regeneration, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Shandong Key Laboratory of Oral Tissue Regeneration and Shandong Engineering Laboratory for Dental Materials and Oral Tissue Regeneration, Jinan, China.,Cutaneous Biology Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
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40
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Li X, Song Q, Guo X, Wang L, Zhang Q, Cao L, Ren Y, Wu X, Meng Z, Xu K. The Metastasis Potential Promoting Capacity of Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts Was Attenuated by Cisplatin via Modulating KRT8. Onco Targets Ther 2020; 13:2711-2723. [PMID: 32280245 PMCID: PMC7132007 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s246235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are an essential component of tumor microenvironment. They are attracting increasing attentions due to their crucial role in tumor growth, drug-resistance and metastasis. Cisplatin is a first-line chemotherapy drug applying in various types of cancer. There are intensive studies on cisplatin's effect on tumor cells, however, its effect on CAFs remains poorly understood. In the present study, we investigated the effect of cisplatin on CAFs. Methods Cell migration was detected by wound healing assay. Cell invasion was performed by the transwell assay. mRNA expression was detected by quantitative PCR, and protein expression was detected by Western blotting. Tumor growth was measured using BALB/c nude mice tumor models. Results Cisplatin attenuated the promoting capacity of CAFs on lung cancer cell migration and invasion, via suppressing CAFs' effect on metastasis-related genes including Twist1, vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR), MMP2, and AKT signaling pathway. Keratin 8 (KRT8) was identified as a target of cisplatin. KRT8 upregulation in CAFs is responsible for the inhibitory effect of cisplatin on lung cancer cells metastasis potential through AKT pathway suppression. The stimulation of AKT by AKT activator SC79 reversed KRT8's effect on cell migration. Importantly, in vivo study also showed that CAFs enhanced tumor growth significantly, and cisplatin effectively abrogated the promoting effect of CAFs on tumor growth. Conclusion Our results revealed a novel mechanism that cisplatin attenuated the metastasis promoting effect of CAFs via KRT8/AKT signaling pathway. This finding highlights KRT8 in CAFs as a potential therapeutic candidate for metastasis treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueqin Li
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Lung Cancer Metastasis and Tumor Microenvironment, Tianjin Lung Cancer Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, People's Republic of China
| | - Qianqian Song
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Lung Cancer Metastasis and Tumor Microenvironment, Tianjin Lung Cancer Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, People's Republic of China
| | - Xueru Guo
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Lung Cancer Metastasis and Tumor Microenvironment, Tianjin Lung Cancer Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, People's Republic of China
| | - Limin Wang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Lung Cancer Metastasis and Tumor Microenvironment, Tianjin Lung Cancer Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, People's Republic of China
| | - Qicheng Zhang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Lung Cancer Metastasis and Tumor Microenvironment, Tianjin Lung Cancer Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, People's Republic of China
| | - Limin Cao
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Lung Cancer Metastasis and Tumor Microenvironment, Tianjin Lung Cancer Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, People's Republic of China
| | - Yinghui Ren
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Lung Cancer Metastasis and Tumor Microenvironment, Tianjin Lung Cancer Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiang Wu
- Core Facility Center, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhaowei Meng
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, People's Republic of China
| | - Ke Xu
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Lung Cancer Metastasis and Tumor Microenvironment, Tianjin Lung Cancer Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, People's Republic of China
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41
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Liu Z, Chen M, Zhao R, Huang Y, Liu F, Li B, Qin Y. CAF-induced placental growth factor facilitates neoangiogenesis in hepatocellular carcinoma. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2020; 52:18-25. [PMID: 31828297 DOI: 10.1093/abbs/gmz134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2019] [Revised: 09/29/2019] [Accepted: 10/18/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
As a highly malignant tumor, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. In most HCC patients, the development of HCC begins with hepatitis, which is followed by fibrosis and cirrhosis before progressing to HCC. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), which are generally believed to be derived from activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), are highly involved in the development of HCC through the secretion of cytokines and angiogenic factors. The results of our study showed that a considerable number of CAFs highly expressed CD90 and were enriched in HCC tissues. Bioinformatics analysis of the transcriptome of HCC tissues revealed that placental growth factor (PlGF) is significantly correlated with CD90 expression. The isolated primary CAFs and activated HSCs overexpressed PlGF and CD90. In addition, the results of gene expression profiling interactive analysis based on The Cancer Genome Atlas showed that high levels of both PlGF and CD90 are correlated with tumor angiogenesis markers (CD31, CD34, and CD105) and predict poor HCC patient prognosis. In summary, our results suggest that CAFs can generate PlGF and may provide an effective target for CAFs-regulated neoangiogenesis in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongjian Liu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Mingmei Chen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Rongce Zhao
- Division of Liver Transplantation, Department of Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yuan Huang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Fei Liu
- Division of Liver Transplantation, Department of Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Bo Li
- Division of Liver Transplantation, Department of Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yang Qin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
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42
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Mondal A, Gebeyehu A, Miranda M, Bahadur D, Patel N, Ramakrishnan S, Rishi AK, Singh M. Characterization and printability of Sodium alginate -Gelatin hydrogel for bioprinting NSCLC co-culture. Sci Rep 2019; 9:19914. [PMID: 31882581 PMCID: PMC6934877 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-55034-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2019] [Accepted: 11/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
3D bioprinting improves orientation of in vitro tumor models by offering layer by layer positioning of cancer cells and cancer associated fibroblasts (CAFs) which can replicate tumor microenvironment. Aim of this study was to develop a sodium alginate -gelatin (SA-GL) hydrogel by optimizing rheological parameters to print non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patient derived xenograft (PDX) cells and lung CAFs co-cultures. SA-GL hydrogels were prepared, and rheological properties were evaluated. Both the cells were mixed with the hydrogel and printed using INKREDIBLE bioprinter. Hydrogels prepared with 3.25% and 3.5% (w/v) SA and 4% (w/v) GL showed higher printability and cell viability. A significant decline in viscosity with shear rate was observed in these hydrogels suggesting the shear thinning property of hydrogels. Spheroid size distribution after 15 days was in the diameter range of 50-1100 µm. Up-regulation of vimentin, α-SMA and loss of E-cadherin in co-culture spheroids confirmed cellular crosstalk. This study demonstrates that rheological optimization of SA-GL hydrogel enhances printability and viability of NSCLC PDX and CAF co-culture which allows 3D co-culture spheroid formation within the printed scaffold. Therefore, this model can be used for studying high throughput drug screening and other pre-clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arindam Mondal
- College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, Florida, 32307, USA
| | - Aragaw Gebeyehu
- College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, Florida, 32307, USA
| | - Mariza Miranda
- College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, Florida, 32307, USA
| | - Divya Bahadur
- Department of Chemical & Biomedical Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, 32310, USA
| | - Nilkumar Patel
- College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, Florida, 32307, USA
| | - Subhramanian Ramakrishnan
- Department of Chemical & Biomedical Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, 32310, USA
| | - Arun K Rishi
- John D. Dingell VA Medical Center, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
- Department of Oncology, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
| | - Mandip Singh
- College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, Florida, 32307, USA.
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43
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Waldeland JO, Polacheck WJ, Evje S. Collective tumor cell migration in the presence of fibroblasts. J Biomech 2019; 100:109568. [PMID: 31902609 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2019.109568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2019] [Revised: 12/11/2019] [Accepted: 12/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
In this work we investigate fibroblast-enhanced tumor cell migration in an idealized tumor setting through a computational model based on a multiphase approach consisting of three phases, namely tumor cells, fibroblasts and interstitial fluid. The interaction between fibroblasts and tumor cells has previously been investigated through this model (Urdal et al., 2019) to comply with reported in vitro experimental results (Shieh et al., 2011). Using the information gained from in vitro single-cell behavior, what will the effect of fibroblast-enhanced tumor cell migration be in a tumor setting? In particular, how will tumor cells migrate in a heterogeneous tumor environment compared to controlled in vitro microfluidic-based experiments? From what we know about the behavior of a tumor, is that collective invasion into adjacent tissue is frequently observed. Here, we want to elucidate how fibroblasts may guide tumor cells towards draining lymphatics to which tumor cells may subsequently intravasate and thus spread to other parts of the body. Fibroblasts can act as leader cells, where they create tracks within the extracellular matrix (ECM) by matrix remodeling and contraction. In addition, a heterotypic mechanical adhesion between fibroblasts and tumor cells also assist the fibroblasts to act as leader cells. Our simulation results show how the interaction between the two cell types yields collective migration of tumor cells outwards from the tumor where fibroblasts dictate the direction of migration. The model also describes how this well-orchestrated invasive behavior is the result of a proper combination of different interaction forces between cell-ECM, fibroblast-ECM, fluid-ECM and cell-fibroblast.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jahn O Waldeland
- University of Stavanger, Faculty of Science and Technology, 4068 Stavanger, Norway
| | - William J Polacheck
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Steinar Evje
- University of Stavanger, Faculty of Science and Technology, 4068 Stavanger, Norway.
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Targeting of the Cancer-Associated Fibroblast-T-Cell Axis in Solid Malignancies. J Clin Med 2019; 8:jcm8111989. [PMID: 31731701 PMCID: PMC6912330 DOI: 10.3390/jcm8111989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2019] [Revised: 10/31/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The introduction of a wide range of immunotherapies in clinical practice has revolutionized the treatment of cancer in the last decade. The majority of these therapeutic modalities are centered on reinvigorating a tumor-reactive cytotoxic T-cell response. While impressive clinical successes are obtained, the majority of cancer patients still fail to show a clinical response, despite the fact that their tumors express antigens that can be recognized by the immune system. This is due to a series of other cellular actors, present in or attracted towards the tumor microenvironment, including regulatory T-cells, myeloid-derived suppressor cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). As the main cellular constituent of the tumor-associated stroma, CAFs form a heterogeneous group of cells which can drive cancer cell invasion but can also impair the migration and activation of T-cells through direct and indirect mechanisms. This singles CAFs out as an important next target for further optimization of T-cell based immunotherapies. Here, we review the recent literature on the role of CAFs in orchestrating T-cell activation and migration within the tumor microenvironment and discuss potential avenues for targeting the interactions between fibroblasts and T-cells.
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Catalano S, Panza S, Augimeri G, Giordano C, Malivindi R, Gelsomino L, Marsico S, Giordano F, Győrffy B, Bonofiglio D, Andò S, Barone I. Phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) Is Highly Expressed in Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts and Enhances Breast Tumor Progression. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11111740. [PMID: 31698786 PMCID: PMC6895904 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11111740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2019] [Revised: 10/25/2019] [Accepted: 11/04/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The overexpression of phosphodiesterase (PDE) 5 is frequently found in various human cancers, such as those of the breast. However, PDE5’s role in the tumor microenvironment is still unknown. As PDE5 represents a high-value therapeutic target, we investigated whether the expression and function of PDE5 in breast cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) may be clinically relevant to malignant progression. PDE5 expression was increased in human breast cancer stroma compared with normal stroma and was correlated to a shorter overall survival. Treatment of CAFs, isolated from breast tumor biopsies, with selective PDE5 inhibitors inhibited their proliferation, motility, and invasiveness, and negatively controlled tumor–stroma interactions in both ‘in vitro’ and ‘in vivo’ models. PDE5 stable overexpression transformed immortalized mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) towards an activated fibroblast phenotype, impacting their intrinsic characteristics and paracrine effects on breast cancer cell growth and migration through an enhanced production of the C-X-C motif chemokine 16 (CXCL16). On the other hand, CAF exposure to PDE5 inhibitors was associated with reduced CXCL16 expression and secretion. Importantly, CXCL16 levels in breast cancer stroma showed a strong correlation with PDE5 levels and poor patient outcomes. In conclusion, PDE5 is overexpressed in breast cancer stroma, enhances the tumor-stimulatory activities of fibroblasts, and impacts clinical outcomes; thus, we propose this enzyme as an attractive candidate for prognosis and a potential target for treatments in breast cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Catalano
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende (CS), Italy; (S.C.); (S.P.); (G.A.); (C.G.); (R.M.); (L.G.); (S.M.); (F.G.); (D.B.)
| | - Salvatore Panza
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende (CS), Italy; (S.C.); (S.P.); (G.A.); (C.G.); (R.M.); (L.G.); (S.M.); (F.G.); (D.B.)
| | - Giuseppina Augimeri
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende (CS), Italy; (S.C.); (S.P.); (G.A.); (C.G.); (R.M.); (L.G.); (S.M.); (F.G.); (D.B.)
| | - Cinzia Giordano
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende (CS), Italy; (S.C.); (S.P.); (G.A.); (C.G.); (R.M.); (L.G.); (S.M.); (F.G.); (D.B.)
- Centro Sanitario, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende (CS), Italy
| | - Rocco Malivindi
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende (CS), Italy; (S.C.); (S.P.); (G.A.); (C.G.); (R.M.); (L.G.); (S.M.); (F.G.); (D.B.)
| | - Luca Gelsomino
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende (CS), Italy; (S.C.); (S.P.); (G.A.); (C.G.); (R.M.); (L.G.); (S.M.); (F.G.); (D.B.)
| | - Stefania Marsico
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende (CS), Italy; (S.C.); (S.P.); (G.A.); (C.G.); (R.M.); (L.G.); (S.M.); (F.G.); (D.B.)
| | - Francesca Giordano
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende (CS), Italy; (S.C.); (S.P.); (G.A.); (C.G.); (R.M.); (L.G.); (S.M.); (F.G.); (D.B.)
| | - Balázs Győrffy
- MTA TTK Lendület Cancer Biomarker Research Group, Semmelweis University 2nd Dept. of Pediatrics, 1094 Budapest, Hungary;
| | - Daniela Bonofiglio
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende (CS), Italy; (S.C.); (S.P.); (G.A.); (C.G.); (R.M.); (L.G.); (S.M.); (F.G.); (D.B.)
| | - Sebastiano Andò
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende (CS), Italy; (S.C.); (S.P.); (G.A.); (C.G.); (R.M.); (L.G.); (S.M.); (F.G.); (D.B.)
- Centro Sanitario, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende (CS), Italy
- Correspondence: (S.A.); (I.B.); Tel.: +39-0984-496201 (S.A.); +39-0984-496216 (I.B.); Fax: +39-0984-496203 (S.A. & I.B.)
| | - Ines Barone
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende (CS), Italy; (S.C.); (S.P.); (G.A.); (C.G.); (R.M.); (L.G.); (S.M.); (F.G.); (D.B.)
- Correspondence: (S.A.); (I.B.); Tel.: +39-0984-496201 (S.A.); +39-0984-496216 (I.B.); Fax: +39-0984-496203 (S.A. & I.B.)
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An Y, Liu F, Chen Y, Yang Q. Crosstalk between cancer-associated fibroblasts and immune cells in cancer. J Cell Mol Med 2019; 24:13-24. [PMID: 31642585 PMCID: PMC6933413 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.14745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2019] [Revised: 08/12/2019] [Accepted: 08/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple studies have shown that cancer‐associated fibroblasts (CAFs) play an important role in tumour progression, including carcinogenesis, invasion, metastasis and the chemoresistance of cancer cells. Immune cells, including macrophages, natural killer cells, dendritic cells and T cells, play a dual role in the tumour microenvironment. Although increasing research has focused on studying interactions between distinct cells in the tumour microenvironment, the complex relationships between CAFs and immune cells remain unclear and need further study. Here, we summarize our current understanding of crosstalk between CAFs and immune cells, which may help clarify their diagnostic and therapeutic value in tumour progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyuan An
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, P.R. China
| | - Fengtian Liu
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, P.R. China
| | - Ying Chen
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, P.R. China
| | - Qing Yang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, P.R. China
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47
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Xin X, Yang ST. A Dual Fluorescent 3-D Multicellular Coculture of Breast Cancer MCF-7 and Fibroblast NIH-3T3 Cells for High Throughput Cancer Drug Screening. Biochem Eng J 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bej.2019.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
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Inoue C, Tamatsuki D, Miki Y, Saito R, Okada Y, Sasano H. Prognostic significance of combining immunohistochemical markers for cancer-associated fibroblasts in lung adenocarcinoma tissue. Virchows Arch 2019; 475:181-189. [PMID: 31134329 DOI: 10.1007/s00428-019-02587-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2019] [Revised: 04/16/2019] [Accepted: 05/07/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), activated fibroblasts in a cancer microenvironment, exert various effects upon carcinoma cells including lung adenocarcinoma cells. Various markers identifying CAFs have been proposed, but the correlations among these markers proposed and their clinicopathological significance have remained largely unknown. Therefore, in this study, we immunohistochemically evaluated the expression of alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), podoplanin, and periostin among these proposed markers in 92 cases of lung adenocarcinoma. These three markers were weakly correlated, but the relative abundance of α-SMA was significantly associated with high Ki-67 labelling index (LI), lymph node metastasis, and low 5-year overall survival (OS) rate of the patients. That of podoplanin was significantly associated with high pT and Ki-67 LI, distant metastasis, and low 5-year OS rate and that of periostin with high pT and Ki-67 LI. We then tentatively subclassified these cases into four groups according to high or low status of each of paired markers: α-SMA/podoplanin, α-SMA/periostin, and periostin/podoplanin. The α-SMA high/podoplanin high group was associated with the lowest survival rate (53.3%) among the four groups with significance. However, there were no significant differences in overall survival when the patients were classified according to the combinations of α-SMA/periostin or periostin/podoplanin. Results of our study firstly revealed the heterogeneity of CAFs in human lung adenocarcinoma tissue, and the analysis employing multiple markers of CAFs is generally required to study the clinical significance of CAFs in clinical materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chihiro Inoue
- Department of Anatomic Pathology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagi, 980-8575, Japan.
| | | | - Yasuhiro Miki
- Department of Disaster Obstetrics and Gynecology, International Research Institute of Disaster Science, Tohoku University, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Ryoko Saito
- Department of Anatomic Pathology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagi, 980-8575, Japan
| | - Yoshinori Okada
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Institute of Development, Aging and Cancer, Tohoku University, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Hironobu Sasano
- Department of Anatomic Pathology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagi, 980-8575, Japan
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Yoshida GJ, Azuma A, Miura Y, Orimo A. Activated Fibroblast Program Orchestrates Tumor Initiation and Progression; Molecular Mechanisms and the Associated Therapeutic Strategies. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20092256. [PMID: 31067787 PMCID: PMC6539414 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20092256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2019] [Accepted: 05/03/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
: Neoplastic epithelial cells coexist in carcinomas with various non-neoplastic stromal cells, together creating the tumor microenvironment. There is a growing interest in the cross-talk between tumor cells and stromal fibroblasts referred to as carcinoma-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), which are frequently present in human carcinomas. CAF populations extracted from different human carcinomas have been shown to possess the ability to influence the hallmarks of cancer. Indeed, several mechanisms underlying CAF-promoted tumorigenesis are elucidated. Activated fibroblasts in CAFs are characterized as alpha-smooth muscle actin-positive myofibroblasts and actin-negative fibroblasts, both of which are competent to support tumor growth and progression. There are, however, heterogeneous CAF populations presumably due to the diverse sources of their progenitors in the tumor-associated stroma. Thus, molecular markers allowing identification of bona fide CAF populations with tumor-promoting traits remain under investigation. CAFs and myofibroblasts in wound healing and fibrosis share biological properties and support epithelial cell growth, not only by remodeling the extracellular matrix, but also by producing numerous growth factors and inflammatory cytokines. Notably, accumulating evidence strongly suggests that anti-fibrosis agents suppress tumor development and progression. In this review, we highlight important tumor-promoting roles of CAFs based on their analogies with wound-derived myofibroblasts and discuss the potential therapeutic strategy targeting CAFs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Go J Yoshida
- Department of Molecular Pathogenesis, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, 2-1-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8421, Japan.
| | - Arata Azuma
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine and Oncology, Graduate School of Medicine, Nippon Medical School, 1-1-5, Sendagi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 1138603, Japan.
| | - Yukiko Miura
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine and Oncology, Graduate School of Medicine, Nippon Medical School, 1-1-5, Sendagi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 1138603, Japan.
| | - Akira Orimo
- Department of Molecular Pathogenesis, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, 2-1-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8421, Japan.
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50
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Rehman M, Vodret S, Braga L, Guarnaccia C, Celsi F, Rossetti G, Martinelli V, Battini T, Long C, Vukusic K, Kocijan T, Collesi C, Ring N, Skoko N, Giacca M, Del Sal G, Confalonieri M, Raspa M, Marcello A, Myers MP, Crovella S, Carloni P, Zacchigna S. High-throughput screening discovers antifibrotic properties of haloperidol by hindering myofibroblast activation. JCI Insight 2019; 4:123987. [PMID: 30996132 PMCID: PMC6538355 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.123987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2018] [Accepted: 03/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis is a hallmark in the pathogenesis of various diseases, with very limited therapeutic solutions. A key event in the fibrotic process is the expression of contractile proteins, including α-smooth muscle actin (αSMA) by fibroblasts, which become myofibroblasts. Here, we report the results of a high-throughput screening of a library of approved drugs that led to the discovery of haloperidol, a common antipsychotic drug, as a potent inhibitor of myofibroblast activation. We show that haloperidol exerts its antifibrotic effect on primary murine and human fibroblasts by binding to sigma receptor 1, independent from the canonical transforming growth factor-β signaling pathway. Its mechanism of action involves the modulation of intracellular calcium, with moderate induction of endoplasmic reticulum stress response, which in turn abrogates Notch1 signaling and the consequent expression of its targets, including αSMA. Importantly, haloperidol also reduced the fibrotic burden in 3 different animal models of lung, cardiac, and tumor-associated fibrosis, thus supporting the repurposing of this drug for the treatment of fibrotic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Corrado Guarnaccia
- Biotechnology Development, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Padriciano, Trieste, Italy
| | - Fulvio Celsi
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS “Burlo Garofolo,” Trieste, Italy
| | - Giulia Rossetti
- Computational Biomedicine Section, Institute of Advanced Simulation IAS-5 and Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine INM-9, Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH, Jülich, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Chiara Collesi
- Molecular Medicine, and
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | | | - Natasa Skoko
- Biotechnology Development, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Padriciano, Trieste, Italy
| | - Mauro Giacca
- Molecular Medicine, and
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Giannino Del Sal
- National Laboratory CIB, Area Science Park Padriciano, Trieste, Italy
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Marco Confalonieri
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Marcello Raspa
- National Research Council, CNR-Campus International Development (EMMA-INFRAFRONTIER-IMPC), Monterotondo Scalo, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Michael P. Myers
- Protein Networks Laboratories, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Padriciano, Trieste, Italy
| | - Sergio Crovella
- Biotechnology Development, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Padriciano, Trieste, Italy
| | - Paolo Carloni
- Computational Biomedicine Section, Institute of Advanced Simulation IAS-5 and Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine INM-9, Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH, Jülich, Germany
| | - Serena Zacchigna
- Cardiovascular Biology
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
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