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Żabińska M, Wiśniewska K, Węgrzyn G, Pierzynowska K. Exploring the physiological role of the G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) and its associations with human diseases. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2024; 166:107070. [PMID: 38733757 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2024.107070] [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: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
Estrogen is a group of hormones that collaborate with the nervous system to impact the overall well-being of all genders. It influences many processes, including those occurring in the central nervous system, affecting learning and memory, and playing roles in neurodegenerative diseases and mental disorders. The hormone's action is mediated by specific receptors. Significant roles of classical estrogen receptors, ERα and ERβ, in various diseases were known since many years, but after identifying a structurally and locationally distinct receptor, the G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER), its role in human physiology and pathophysiology was investigated. This review compiles GPER-related information, highlighting its impact on homeostasis and diseases, while putting special attention on functions and dysfunctions of this receptor in neurobiology and biobehavioral processes. Understanding the receptor modulation possibilities is essential for therapy, as disruptions in receptors can lead to diseases or disorders, irrespective of correct estrogen levels. We conclude that studies on the GPER receptor have the potential to develop therapies that regulate estrogen and positively impact human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Żabińska
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdansk, Wita Stwosza 59, Gdansk 80-308, Poland
| | - Karolina Wiśniewska
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdansk, Wita Stwosza 59, Gdansk 80-308, Poland
| | - Grzegorz Węgrzyn
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdansk, Wita Stwosza 59, Gdansk 80-308, Poland
| | - Karolina Pierzynowska
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdansk, Wita Stwosza 59, Gdansk 80-308, Poland.
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2
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Dong H, Zeng X, Xu J, He C, Sun Z, Liu L, Huang Y, Sun Z, Cao Y, Peng Z, Qiu YA, Yu T. Advances in immune regulation of the G protein-coupled estrogen receptor. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 136:112369. [PMID: 38824903 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2024] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
Estrogen and related receptors have been shown to have a significant impact on human development, reproduction, metabolism and immune regulation and to play a critical role in tumor development and treatment. Traditionally, the nuclear estrogen receptors (nERs) ERα and ERβ have been thought to be involved in mediating the estrogenic effects. However, our group and others have previously demonstrated that the G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) is the third independent ER, and estrogen signaling mediated by GPER is known to play an important role in normal physiology and a variety of abnormal diseases. Interestingly, recent studies have progressively revealed GPER involvement in the maintenance of the normal immune system, abnormal immune diseases, and inflammatory lesions, which may be of significant clinical value primarily in the immunotherapy of tumors. In this article, we review current advances in GPER-related immunomodulators and provide a theoretical basis and potential clinical targets to ameliorate immune-related diseases and immunotherapy for tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanzhi Dong
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330000, China
| | - Xiaoqiang Zeng
- Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330000, China
| | - Jiawei Xu
- Department of Breast Surgery, Jiangxi Cancer Hospital, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Nanchang 330029, China
| | - Chongwu He
- Department of Breast Surgery, Jiangxi Cancer Hospital, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Nanchang 330029, China
| | - Zhengkui Sun
- Department of Breast Surgery, Jiangxi Cancer Hospital, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Nanchang 330029, China
| | - Liyan Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, Jiangxi Cancer Hospital, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Nanchang 330029, China
| | - Yanxiao Huang
- Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330000, China
| | - Zhe Sun
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330000, China
| | - Yuan Cao
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330000, China
| | - Zhiqiang Peng
- Department of Lymphohematology, Jiangxi Cancer Hospital, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Nanchang 330029, China.
| | - Yu-An Qiu
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Jiangxi Cancer Hospital, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Nanchang 330029, China.
| | - Tenghua Yu
- Department of Breast Surgery, Jiangxi Cancer Hospital, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Nanchang 330029, China.
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Abbas MA, Al-Kabariti AY, Sutton C. Comprehensive understanding of the role of GPER in estrogen receptor-alpha negative breast cancer. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2024; 241:106523. [PMID: 38636681 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2024.106523] [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: 09/03/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) plays a prominent role in facilitating the rapid, non-genomic signaling of estrogens in breast cancer cells. Herein, a comprehensive overview of the role of GPER in ER-ɑ-negative breast cancer is provided. Activation of GPER affected proliferation, metastasis and epithelial mesenchymal transition in ER-ɑ negative breast cancer cells. Clinical studies have demonstrated that GPER positivity was strongly correlated with larger tumor size and advanced clinical stage, suggesting that GPER/ERK signaling may play a role in promoting tumor progression. Strong evidence existed that environmental contaminants like bisphenol A have a carcinogenic potential mediated by GPER activation. The complexity of the cross talk between GPER and other receptors including ER-β, ER-α36, Estrogen-related receptor α (ERRα) and androgen receptor has been discussed. The potential utility of small molecules and phytoestrogens targeting GPER, adds valuable insights into its therapeutic potential. This review holds promises in advancing our understanding of GPER role in ER-ɑ-negative breast cancer. Overall, the consequences of GPER activation are still an area of active research and the implication are not entirely clear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manal A Abbas
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Al-Ahliyya Amman University, Amman 19328, Jordan; Pharmacological and Diagnostic Research Centre, Al-Ahliyya Amman University, Amman 19328, Jordan
| | - Aya Y Al-Kabariti
- Department of Biopharmaceutics and Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Ahliyya Amman University, Amman 19328, Jordan; Pharmacological and Diagnostic Research Centre, Al-Ahliyya Amman University, Amman 19328, Jordan.
| | - Chris Sutton
- School of Chemistry and Biosciences, University of Bradford, Bradford BD7 1DP, UK
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Yan S, Ji J, Zhang Z, Imam M, Chen H, Zhang D, Wang J. Targeting the crosstalk between estrogen receptors and membrane growth factor receptors in breast cancer treatment: Advances and opportunities. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 175:116615. [PMID: 38663101 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Estrogens play a critical role in the initiation and progression of breast cancer. Estrogen receptor (ER)α, ERβ, and G protein-coupled estrogen receptor are the primary receptors for estrogen in breast cancer. These receptors are mainly activated by binding with estrogens. The crosstalk between ERs and membrane growth factor receptors creates additional pathways that amplify the effects of their ligands and promote tumor growth. This crosstalk may cause endocrine therapy resistance in ERα-positive breast cancer. Furthermore, this may explain the resistance to anti-human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER2) treatment in ERα-/HER2-positive breast cancer and chemotherapy resistance in triple-negative breast cancer. Accordingly, it is necessary to understand the complex crosstalk between ERs and growth factor receptors. In this review, we delineate the crosstalk between ERs and membrane growth factor receptors in breast cancer. Moreover, this review highlights the current progress in clinical treatment and discusses how pharmaceuticals target the crosstalk. Lastly, we discuss the current challenges and propose potential solutions regarding the implications of targeting crosstalk via pharmacological inhibition. Overall, the present review provides a landscape of the crosstalk between ERs and membrane growth factor receptors in breast cancer, along with valuable insights for future studies and clinical treatments using a chemotherapy-sparing regimen to improve patient quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shunchao Yan
- Department of Oncology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110022, China.
| | - Jiale Ji
- Department of Oncology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110022, China
| | - Zhijie Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110022, China
| | - Murshid Imam
- Department of Oncology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110022, China
| | - Hong Chen
- Department of Oncology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110022, China
| | - Duo Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110022, China
| | - Jinpeng Wang
- Department of Oncology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110022, China
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Aktürk Esen S, Karabulut S, Buyukaksoy M, Kurt Cevik G, Ceylan F, Civelek B, Şendur MAN, Erdogan F, Uncu D. Is fibroblast growth factor 11 (FGF11) a predictive marker for breast cancer? Medicine (Baltimore) 2024; 103:e37656. [PMID: 38552037 PMCID: PMC10977561 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000037656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
The prognostic role of fibroblast growth factor 11 (FGF11) has only been reported in cancers such as nasopharyngeal carcinoma and prostate cancer. The role of FGF11 in breast cancer is not fully known. It was aimed to compare FGF11 expression levels in de novo metastatic hormone receptor-positive, human epidermal reseptor-2-negative breast tumor tissue and healthy breast tissue and investigate the effect of the FGF11 expression on survival in breast cancer patients. To determine the FGF11 expression rate, breast tumor tissue of breast cancer patients diagnosed by breast biopsy and healthy breast tissue of healthy individuals who underwent breast biopsy due to benign lesions were used. The study population included 38 breast cancer patients and 24 healthy controls. The number of patients with a FGF11 expression level score of 1 (15.8% vs 12.5%), score of 2 (18.4% vs 12.5%), and score of 3 (31.6% vs 0%) was significantly higher in the patient group compared to the healthy control group. The median overall survival and progression-free survival were numerically better in the group with a FGF11 expression score of 0 to 1 than the group with a FGF11 expression score of 2 and 3, but this difference was not statistically significant. FGF11 may be a predictive marker for breast cancer formation. Additionally, with new FGF11-targeted treatment agents to be developed, endocrine resistance may be reduced, and better survival results may be achieved in hormone receptor-positive, human epidermal reseptor-2-negative breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selin Aktürk Esen
- Medical Oncology Clinic, Ankara Bilkent City Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Sefika Karabulut
- Medical Microbiology Department, Gulhane Health Sciences Institute, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Muge Buyukaksoy
- Internal Medicine Clinic, Ankara Bilkent City Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | | | - Furkan Ceylan
- Medical Oncology Clinic, Ankara Bilkent City Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Burak Civelek
- Medical Oncology Clinic, Ankara Bilkent City Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | | | - Fazli Erdogan
- Pathology Clinic, Ankara Bilkent City Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Doğan Uncu
- Medical Oncology Clinic, Ankara Bilkent City Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
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Zhang D, Chen H, Wang J, Ji J, Imam M, Zhang Z, Yan S. Current progress and prospects for G protein-coupled estrogen receptor in triple-negative breast cancer. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1338448. [PMID: 38476263 PMCID: PMC10928007 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1338448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a biologically and clinically heterogeneous disease. The G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) plays a crucial role in mediating the effect of estrogen and estrogen-like compounds in TNBC cells. Compared with other subtypes, GPER has a higher expression in TNBC. The GPER mechanisms have been thoroughly characterized and analyzed in estrogen receptor α (ERα) positive breast cancer, but not in TNBC. Our previous work revealed that a higher expression of GPER mRNA indicates a better prognosis for ERα-positive breast cancer; however, its effects in TNBC differ. Whether GPER could serve as a predictive prognostic marker or therapeutic target for TNBC remains unclear. In this review, we provide a detailed introduction to the subcellular localization of GPER, the different effects of various ligands, and the interactions between GPER and closely associated factors in TNBC. We focused on the internal molecular mechanisms specific to TNBC and thoroughly explored the role of GPER in promoting tumor development. We also discussed the interaction of GPER with specific cytokines and chemokines, and the relationship between GPER and immune evasion. Additionally, we discussed the feasibility of using GPER as a therapeutic target in the context of existing studies. This comprehensive review highlights the effects of GPER on TNBC, providing a framework and directions for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Shunchao Yan
- Department of Oncology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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Sulaiman R, Koirala N, Aske JC, Lin X, Rojas-Espaillat L, Starks D, Dale A, Gaster K, De P, Dey N. A landscape of patient-derived cancer-associated fibroblast signals in endometrial cancers. Am J Cancer Res 2024; 14:467-489. [PMID: 38455423 PMCID: PMC10915338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
In conversation with endometrial tumor cells, the endometrial cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are the "partners in crime" of uterine neoplasm's highly heterogeneous tumor microenvironment (TME). We designed a laboratory-friendly method to culture endometrial CAFs on a patient-to-patient basis for studying the CAF-TME and CAF-tumor cell interaction(s). Here, we present a comprehensive characterization of endometrial CAFs derived from patients' tumor tissues (T) and tumor-adjacent normal tissues (N). We used more than 80 T and N from 53 consecutive consented patients with endometrial cancers at the Avera Cancer Institute. We derived TCAF and NCAF in a non-enzymatic feeder-layer culture and characterized their expression of markers by qRT-PCR, flow cytometry, immunocytochemistry, immunofluorescence, and Western blot. Although similar in the expression pattern of EpCAM-/CK18-/vimentin+ as in ovarian CAFs, endometrial NCAFs, and TCAFs characteristically presented dual morphology in culture. Endometrial CAFs were EpCAM-/CK18-/CD45-/CD31-/SMA+/TE-7+/PDGFRA+/CXCL12+/Meflin+/CD155+/CD90+ with patient-specific positivity for S100A4/FAP/PD-L1/CD44. Endometrial CAFs expressed mRNAs for signaling proteins of several pathways and receptor-ligands, including (1) cell cycle pathway, (2) TGF pathway, (3) FGF pathway, (4) Wnt-beta-catenin pathway, (5) HER pathway, (6) tyrosine kinase receptor ligands, and (7) steroid receptors. We tested the hypoxic response of CAFs to show that endometrial CAFs upregulate MMP1 in a HIF-1a-independent manner. In trying to delineate the relationship between expressions of CAF markers and T-cells in the tumor tissue, we observed that FAP-positive CAFs that are derived from CD4/CD8 positive tumor tissue expressed CXCL12 mRNA. The data indicate the role of the CXCL12-CXCR4 pathway of the CAF-rich stroma in the lymphocytic infiltration of the tumor. We demonstrate that endometrial CAFs can be cultured in an enzymatic-digestion-independent manner, and their signaling landscape can be mapped toward understanding CAF-TME dialogue. Our data will help unearth the functional relevance of endometrial CAFs in the context of clinical outcomes and designing CAF-inclusive therapy in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raed Sulaiman
- Department of Pathology, Avera Cancer InstituteSioux Falls, SD 57108, USA
| | - Nischal Koirala
- Translational Oncology Laboratory, Avera Cancer InstituteSioux Falls, SD 57108, USA
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical CenterColumbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Jennifer C Aske
- Translational Oncology Laboratory, Avera Cancer InstituteSioux Falls, SD 57108, USA
| | - Xiaoqian Lin
- Translational Oncology Laboratory, Avera Cancer InstituteSioux Falls, SD 57108, USA
| | - Luis Rojas-Espaillat
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Avera Cancer InstituteSioux Falls, SD 57108, USA
| | - David Starks
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Avera Cancer InstituteSioux Falls, SD 57108, USA
| | - Adam Dale
- Translational Oncology Laboratory, Avera Cancer InstituteSioux Falls, SD 57108, USA
| | - Kris Gaster
- Assistant VP Outpatient Cancer Clinics, Avera Cancer InstituteSioux Falls, SD 57108, USA
| | - Pradip De
- Translational Oncology Laboratory, Avera Cancer InstituteSioux Falls, SD 57108, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of South Dakota SSOMSioux Falls, SD 57108, USA
- VieCureGreenwood Village, CO 80111, USA
| | - Nandini Dey
- Translational Oncology Laboratory, Avera Cancer InstituteSioux Falls, SD 57108, USA
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Shan KS, Dalal S, Thaw Dar NN, McLish O, Salzberg M, Pico BA. Molecular Targeting of the Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor Pathway across Various Cancers. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:849. [PMID: 38255923 PMCID: PMC10815772 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25020849] [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: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Fibroblast growth factor receptors (FGFRs) are a family of receptor tyrosine kinases that are involved in the regulation of cell proliferation, survival, and development. FGFR alterations including amplifications, fusions, rearrangements, and mutations can result in the downstream activation of tyrosine kinases, leading to tumor development. Targeting these FGFR alterations has shown to be effective in treating cholangiocarcinoma, urothelial carcinoma, and myeloid/lymphoid neoplasms, and there are currently four FGFR inhibitors approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). There have been developments in multiple agents targeting the FGFR pathway, including selective FGFR inhibitors, ligand traps, monoclonal antibodies, and antibody-drug conjugates. However, most of these agents have variable and low responses, with some intolerable toxicities and acquired resistances. This review will summarize previous clinical experiences and current developments in agents targeting the FGFR pathway, and will also discuss future directions for FGFR-targeting agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khine S. Shan
- Memorial Health Care, Division of Hematology and Oncology, Pembroke Pines, FL 33028, USA; (S.D.); (N.N.T.D.); (O.M.); (M.S.)
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Fang Y, Zhang Q, Chen Z, Guo C, Wu J. Clinical significance and immune characteristics analysis of miR-221-3p and its key target genes related to epithelial-mesenchymal transition in breast cancer. Aging (Albany NY) 2024; 16:322-347. [PMID: 38189813 PMCID: PMC10817385 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205370] [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: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND MicroRNA-221-3p (miR-221-3p) facilitates the advancement of breast cancer (BC) through the induction of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Our research aimed to utilize bioinformatics to discover possible EMT-related target genes (ETGs) of miR-221-3p and examine their roles in breast cancer. METHODS We employed bioinformatics techniques to identify ten key ETGs of miR-221-3p. Subsequently, we conducted an extensive analysis of both miR-221-3p and the ten ETGs, including clinical significance and immune characteristics. RESULTS The expression of miR-221-3p was notably higher in Basal-like BC compared to other subtypes and adjacent normal tissue. Our pathway analysis suggested that miR-221-3p might regulate EMT through the MAPK signaling pathway by targeting its ETGs. Among the ETGs, seven core genes (EGFR, IGF1, KDR, FGF2, KIT, FGFR1, and FGF1) exhibited downregulation in BC. Conversely, ERBB2, SDC1, and MMP14 showed upregulation in BC and displayed potential diagnostic value. The analysis of prognostication indicated that increased levels of SDC1 and MMP14 were correlated with an unfavorable prognosis, whereas elevated expression of KIT was associated with a more favorable prognosis. The infiltration of various immune cells and the expression of immune checkpoint genes (ICGs) exhibited positive correlations with most ETGs and miR-221-3p. SDC1 exhibited a greater tumor mutational burden (TMB) score, while ERBB2, KDR, FGF2, KIT, FGFR1, and FGF1 showed lower TMB scores. Furthermore, decreased ERBB2 and KDR expression levels were correlated with elevated microsatellite instability (MSI) scores. Elevated expression of ETGs was linked to decreased mRNA stemness indices (mRNAsi), whereas miR-221-3p displayed the opposite pattern. Most ETGs and miR-221-3p expression exhibited a negative correlation with IC50 values for drugs. Among the ETGs, amplification was the most significant genetic alteration, except for IGF1. CONCLUSION In conclusion, miR-221-3p acts as a unique indicator for Basal-like BC. The examination revealed ten essential ETGs of miR-221-3p, some of which show potential as diagnostic and prognostic markers. The in-depth examination of these ten ETGs and miR-221-3p indicates their participation in the development of BC, emphasizing their promise as innovative targets for therapy in BC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutong Fang
- The Breast Center, Cancer Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China
- Department of Central Laboratory, Cancer Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Qunchen Zhang
- Department of Breast, Jiangmen Central Hospital, Jiangmen 529000, Guangdong, China
| | - Zexiao Chen
- The Breast Center, Cancer Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China
- Department of Central Laboratory, Cancer Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Cuiping Guo
- The Breast Center, Cancer Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China
- Department of Central Laboratory, Cancer Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Jundong Wu
- The Breast Center, Cancer Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China
- Department of Central Laboratory, Cancer Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China
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Zhang W, Wang J, Liu C, Li Y, Sun C, Wu J, Wu Q. Crosstalk and plasticity driving between cancer-associated fibroblasts and tumor microenvironment: significance of breast cancer metastasis. J Transl Med 2023; 21:827. [PMID: 37978384 PMCID: PMC10657029 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04714-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are the most abundant stromal cell population in breast tumors. A functionally diverse population of CAFs increases the dynamic complexity of the tumor microenvironment (TME). The intertwined network of the TME facilitates the interaction between activated CAFs and breast cancer cells, which can lead to the proliferation and invasion of breast cells. Considering the special transmission function of CAFs, the aim of this review is to summarize and highlight the crosstalk between CAFs and breast cancer cells in the TME as well as the relationship between CAFs and extracellular matrix (ECM), soluble cytokines, and other stromal cells in the metastatic state. The crosstalk between cancer-associated fibroblasts and tumor microenvironment also provides a plastic therapeutic target for breast cancer metastasis. In the course of the study, the inhibitory effects of different natural compounds on targeting CAFs and the advantages of different drug combinations were summarized. CAFs are also widely used in the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer. The cumulative research on this phenomenon supports the establishment of a targeted immune microenvironment as a possible breakthrough in the prevention of invasive metastasis of breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenfeng Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, and Faculty of Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Avenida Wai Long, Taipa, 999078, Macau, China
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, 261000, China
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250355, China
| | - Jia Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, and Faculty of Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Avenida Wai Long, Taipa, 999078, Macau, China
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250355, China
| | - Cun Liu
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, 261000, China
| | - Ye Li
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, and Faculty of Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Avenida Wai Long, Taipa, 999078, Macau, China
| | - Changgang Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, and Faculty of Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Avenida Wai Long, Taipa, 999078, Macau, China.
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, 261000, China.
- Department of Oncology, Weifang Traditional Chinese Hospital, Weifang, 261000, China.
| | - Jibiao Wu
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250355, China.
| | - Qibiao Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, and Faculty of Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Avenida Wai Long, Taipa, 999078, Macau, China.
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Boichuk S, Dunaev P, Skripova V, Galembikova A, Bikinieva F, Shagimardanova E, Gazizova G, Deviatiiarov R, Valeeva E, Mikheeva E, Vasilyeva M, Kopnin P, Strelnikov V, Kiyamova R. Unraveling the Mechanisms of Sensitivity to Anti-FGF Therapies in Imatinib-Resistant Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors (GIST) Lacking Secondary KIT Mutations. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:5354. [PMID: 38001614 PMCID: PMC10670741 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15225354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
We showed previously that inhibition of KIT signaling in GISTs activates FGFR-signaling pathway rendering cancer cells resistant to receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor (RTKi) imatinib mesylate (IM) (Gleevec) despite of absence of secondary KIT mutations and thereby illustrating a rationale for the combined (e.g., KIT- and FGFR-targeted) therapies. We show here that long-term culture of IM-resistant GISTs (GIST-R1) with IM substantially down-regulates KIT expression and induces activation of the FGFR-signaling cascade, evidenced by increased expression of total and phosphorylated forms of FGFR1 and 2, FGF-2, and FRS-2, the well-known adaptor protein of the FGF-signaling cascade. This resulted in activation of both AKT- and MAPK-signaling pathways shown on mRNA and protein levels, and rendered cancer cells highly sensitive to pan-FGFR-inhibitors (BGJ 398, AZD 4547, and TAS-120). Indeed, we observed a significant decrease of IC50 values for BGJ 398 in the GIST subclone (GIST-R2) derived from GIST-R1 cells continuously treated with IM for up to 12 months. An increased sensitivity of GIST-R2 cells to FGFR inhibition was also revealed on the xenograft models, illustrating a substantial (>70%) decrease in tumor size in BGJ 398-treated animals when treated with this pan-FGFR inhibitor. Similarly, an increased intra-tumoral apoptosis as detected by immunohistochemical (IHC)-staining for cleaved caspase-3 on day 5 of the treatment was found. As expected, both BGJ 398 and IM used alone lacked the pro-apoptotic and growth-inhibitory activities on GIST-R1 xenografts, thereby revealing their resistance to these TKis when used alone. Important, the knockdown of FGFR2, and, in much less content, FGF-2, abrogated BGJ 398's activity against GIST-R2 cells both in vitro and in vivo, thereby illustrating the FGF-2/FGFR2-signaling axis in IM-resistant GISTs as a primary molecular target for this RTKi. Collectively, our data illustrates that continuous inhibition of KIT signaling in IM-resistant GISTs lacking secondary KIT mutations induced clonal heterogeneity of GISTs and resulted in accumulation of cancer cells with overexpressed FGF-2 and FGFR1/2, thereby leading to activation of FGFR-signaling. This in turn rendered these cells extremely sensitive to the pan-FGFR inhibitors used in combination with IM, or even alone, and suggests a rationale to re-evaluate the effectiveness of FGFR-inhibitors in order to improve the second-line therapeutic strategies for selected subgroups of GIST patients (e.g., IM-resistant GISTs lacking secondary KIT mutations and exhibiting the activation of the FGFR-signaling pathway).
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergei Boichuk
- Department of Pathology, Kazan State Medical University, Kazan 420012, Russia; (P.D.); (A.G.); (F.B.); (E.M.)
- Department of Radiotherapy and Radiology, Russian Medical Academy of Continuous Professional Education, Moscow 127051, Russia
- Central Research Laboratory, Kazan State Medical University, Kazan 420012, Russia;
- Biomarker Research Laboratory, Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan Federal University, Kazan 420008, Russia; (V.S.); (R.K.)
| | - Pavel Dunaev
- Department of Pathology, Kazan State Medical University, Kazan 420012, Russia; (P.D.); (A.G.); (F.B.); (E.M.)
| | - Vera Skripova
- Biomarker Research Laboratory, Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan Federal University, Kazan 420008, Russia; (V.S.); (R.K.)
| | - Aigul Galembikova
- Department of Pathology, Kazan State Medical University, Kazan 420012, Russia; (P.D.); (A.G.); (F.B.); (E.M.)
| | - Firyuza Bikinieva
- Department of Pathology, Kazan State Medical University, Kazan 420012, Russia; (P.D.); (A.G.); (F.B.); (E.M.)
| | - Elena Shagimardanova
- Regulatory Genomics Research Center, Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan Federal University, Kazan 420008, Russia; (E.S.); (G.G.); (R.D.)
- LIFT—Life Improvement by Future Technologies Institute, Moscow 121205, Russia
- Loginov Moscow Clinical Scientific Center, Moscow 111123, Russia
| | - Guzel Gazizova
- Regulatory Genomics Research Center, Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan Federal University, Kazan 420008, Russia; (E.S.); (G.G.); (R.D.)
| | - Ruslan Deviatiiarov
- Regulatory Genomics Research Center, Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan Federal University, Kazan 420008, Russia; (E.S.); (G.G.); (R.D.)
- LIFT—Life Improvement by Future Technologies Institute, Moscow 121205, Russia
| | - Elena Valeeva
- Central Research Laboratory, Kazan State Medical University, Kazan 420012, Russia;
| | - Ekaterina Mikheeva
- Department of Pathology, Kazan State Medical University, Kazan 420012, Russia; (P.D.); (A.G.); (F.B.); (E.M.)
| | - Maria Vasilyeva
- Cytogenetics Laboratory, Carcinogenesis Institute, N.N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology, Moscow 115478, Russia; (M.V.); (P.K.)
| | - Pavel Kopnin
- Cytogenetics Laboratory, Carcinogenesis Institute, N.N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology, Moscow 115478, Russia; (M.V.); (P.K.)
| | - Vladimir Strelnikov
- Epigenetics Laboratory, Research Centre for Medical Genetics, Moscow 115522, Russia;
| | - Ramziya Kiyamova
- Biomarker Research Laboratory, Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan Federal University, Kazan 420008, Russia; (V.S.); (R.K.)
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12
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Gao Y, Huang Q, Qin Y, Bao X, Pan Y, Mo J, Ning S. A prognostic model related to necrotizing apoptosis of breast cancer based on biorthogonal constrained depth semi-supervised nonnegative matrix decomposition and single-cell sequencing analysis. Am J Cancer Res 2023; 13:3875-3897. [PMID: 37818066 PMCID: PMC10560928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is one of the most common malignant tumours in women, and its prognosis is poor. The prognosis of BC patients can be improved by immunotherapy. However, due to the heterogeneity of BC, the identification of new biomarkers is urgently needed to improve the prognosis of BC patients. Necrotic apoptosis has been shown to play an essential role in many cancers. First, this study proposed a novel clustering algorithm called biorthogonal constrained depth semisupervised nonnegative matrix factorization (DO-DSNMF). The DO-DSNMF algorithm added multilayer nonlinear transformation to the coefficient matrix obtained after decomposition, which was used to mine the nonlinear relationship between samples. In addition, we also added orthogonal constraints on the basis matrix and coefficient matrix to reduce the influence of redundant features and samples on the results. We applied the DO-DSNMF algorithm and analysed the differences in survival and immunity between the subtypes. Then, we used prognosis analysis to construct the prognosis model. Finally, we analysed single cells using single-cell sequencing (scRNA-seq) data from the GSE75688 dataset in the GEO database. We identified two BC subtypes based on the BC transcriptome data in the TCGA database. Immune infiltration analysis showed that the necrotizing apoptosis-related genes of BC were related to various immune cells and immune functions. Necrotizing apoptosis was found to play a role in BC progression and immunity. The role of prognosis-related NRGs in BC was also verified by cell experiments. This study proposed a novel clustering algorithm to analyse BC subtypes and constructed an NRG prognostic model for BC. The prognosis and immune landscape of BC patients were evaluated by this model. The cell experiment supported its role in BC, which provides a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of BC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Gao
- Department of Head and Neck Radiotherapy, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital Harbin 150000, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Qinghua Huang
- Department of Breast Surgery, Wuzhou Red Cross Hospital Wuzhou 543000, Guangxi, China
| | - Yuling Qin
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital Nanning 530000, Guangxi, China
| | - Xianhui Bao
- Department of Neurology, Harbin The First Hospital Harbin 150000, Heilongjiang, China
| | - You Pan
- Department of Breast Surgery, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital Nanning 530000, Guangxi, China
| | - Jianlan Mo
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Nanning 530000, Guangxi, China
| | - Shipeng Ning
- Department of Breast Surgery, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital Nanning 530000, Guangxi, China
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13
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Gallo Cantafio ME, Torcasio R, Scionti F, Mesuraca M, Ronchetti D, Pistoni M, Bellizzi D, Passarino G, Morelli E, Neri A, Viglietto G, Amodio N. GPER1 Activation Exerts Anti-Tumor Activity in Multiple Myeloma. Cells 2023; 12:2226. [PMID: 37759449 PMCID: PMC10526814 DOI: 10.3390/cells12182226] [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: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
G protein-coupled estrogen receptor 1 (GPER1) activation is emerging as a promising therapeutic strategy against several cancer types. While GPER targeting has been widely studied in the context of solid tumors, its effect on hematological malignancies remains to be fully understood. Here, we show that GPER1 mRNA is down-regulated in plasma cells from overt multiple myeloma (MM) and plasma cell leukemia patients as compared to normal donors or pre-malignant conditions (monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance and smoldering MM); moreover, lower GPER1 expression associates with worse overall survival of MM patients. Using the clinically applicable GPER1-selective agonist G-1, we demonstrate that the pharmacological activation of GPER1 triggered in vitro anti-MM activity through apoptosis induction, also overcoming the protective effects exerted by bone marrow stromal cells. Noteworthy, G-1 treatment reduced in vivo MM growth in two distinct xenograft models, even bearing bortezomib-resistant MM cells. Mechanistically, G-1 upregulated the miR-29b oncosuppressive network, blunting an established miR-29b-Sp1 feedback loop operative in MM cells. Overall, this study highlights the druggability of GPER1 in MM, providing the first preclinical framework for further development of GPER1 agonists to treat this malignancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Eugenia Gallo Cantafio
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (M.E.G.C.); (R.T.); (M.M.); (G.V.)
| | - Roberta Torcasio
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (M.E.G.C.); (R.T.); (M.M.); (G.V.)
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Cardiovascular Pathophysiology, Department of Biology, Ecology and Earth Sciences (DiBEST), University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende, 87036 Cosenza, Italy
| | - Francesca Scionti
- Department of Medical and Surgical Science, University Magna Graecia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy;
| | - Maria Mesuraca
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (M.E.G.C.); (R.T.); (M.M.); (G.V.)
| | - Domenica Ronchetti
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, 20141 Milan, Italy;
| | - Mariaelena Pistoni
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy;
| | - Dina Bellizzi
- Department of Biology, Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy; (D.B.); (G.P.)
| | - Giuseppe Passarino
- Department of Biology, Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy; (D.B.); (G.P.)
| | - Eugenio Morelli
- Jerome Lipper Multiple Myeloma Center, Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA;
| | - Antonino Neri
- Scientific Directorate, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy;
| | - Giuseppe Viglietto
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (M.E.G.C.); (R.T.); (M.M.); (G.V.)
| | - Nicola Amodio
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (M.E.G.C.); (R.T.); (M.M.); (G.V.)
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14
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Zhao Y, Shen M, Wu L, Yang H, Yao Y, Yang Q, Du J, Liu L, Li Y, Bai Y. Stromal cells in the tumor microenvironment: accomplices of tumor progression? Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:587. [PMID: 37666813 PMCID: PMC10477351 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-06110-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2023] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) is made up of cells and extracellular matrix (non-cellular component), and cellular components include cancer cells and non-malignant cells such as immune cells and stromal cells. These three types of cells establish complex signals in the body and further influence tumor genesis, development, metastasis and participate in resistance to anti-tumor therapy. It has attracted scholars to study immune cells in TME due to the significant efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) and chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) in solid tumors and hematologic tumors. After more than 10 years of efforts, the role of immune cells in TME and the strategy of treating tumors based on immune cells have developed rapidly. Moreover, ICI have been recommended by guidelines as first- or second-line treatment strategies in a variety of tumors. At the same time, stromal cells is another major class of cellular components in TME, which also play a very important role in tumor metabolism, growth, metastasis, immune evasion and treatment resistance. Stromal cells can be recruited from neighboring non-cancerous host stromal cells and can also be formed by transdifferentiation from stromal cells to stromal cells or from tumor cells to stromal cells. Moreover, they participate in tumor genesis, development and drug resistance by secreting various factors and exosomes, participating in tumor angiogenesis and tumor metabolism, regulating the immune response in TME and extracellular matrix. However, with the deepening understanding of stromal cells, people found that stromal cells not only have the effect of promoting tumor but also can inhibit tumor in some cases. In this review, we will introduce the origin of stromal cells in TME as well as the role and specific mechanism of stromal cells in tumorigenesis and tumor development and strategies for treatment of tumors based on stromal cells. We will focus on tumor-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), tumor-associated adipocytes (CAAs), tumor endothelial cells (TECs) and pericytes (PCs) in stromal cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zhao
- Department of Oncology and Hematology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, 130033, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Meili Shen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, 130033, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Liangqiang Wu
- Key Laboratory of Special Engineering Plastics Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, 130012, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Haiqin Yang
- Key Laboratory of Special Engineering Plastics Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, 130012, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Yixuan Yao
- Key Laboratory of Special Engineering Plastics Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, 130012, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Qingbiao Yang
- Key Laboratory of Special Engineering Plastics Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, 130012, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Jianshi Du
- Key Laboratory of Lymphatic Surgery Jilin Province, Jilin Engineering Laboratory for Lymphatic Surgery Jilin Province, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, 130033, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Linlin Liu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, 130033, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Yapeng Li
- Key Laboratory of Special Engineering Plastics Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, 130012, Changchun, Jilin, China.
| | - Yuansong Bai
- Department of Oncology and Hematology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, 130033, Changchun, Jilin, China.
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15
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Whitfield HJ, Berthelet J, Mangiola S, Bell C, Anderson RL, Pal B, Yeo B, Papenfuss AT, Merino D, Davis MJ. Single-cell RNA sequencing captures patient-level heterogeneity and associated molecular phenotypes in breast cancer pleural effusions. Clin Transl Med 2023; 13:e1356. [PMID: 37691350 PMCID: PMC10493486 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.1356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Malignant pleural effusions (MPEs) are a common complication of advanced cancers, particularly those adjacent to the pleura, such as lung and breast cancer. The pathophysiology of MPE formation remains poorly understood, and although MPEs are routinely used for the diagnosis of breast cancer patients, their composition and biology are poorly understood. It is difficult to distinguish invading malignant cells from resident mesothelial cells and to identify the directionality of interactions between these populations in the pleura. There is a need to characterize the phenotypic diversity of breast cancer cell populations in the pleural microenvironment, and investigate how this varies across patients. METHODS Here, we used single-cell RNA-sequencing to study the heterogeneity of 10 MPEs from seven metastatic breast cancer patients, including three Miltenyi-enriched samples using a negative selection approach. This dataset of almost 65 000 cells was analysed using integrative approaches to compare heterogeneous cell populations and phenotypes. RESULTS We identified substantial inter-patient heterogeneity in the composition of cell types (including malignant, mesothelial and immune cell populations), in expression of subtype-specific gene signatures and in copy number aberration patterns, that captured variability across breast cancer cell populations. Within individual MPEs, we distinguished mesothelial cell populations from malignant cells using key markers, the presence of breast cancer subtype expression patterns and copy number aberration patterns. We also identified pleural mesothelial cells expressing a cancer-associated fibroblast-like transcriptomic program that may support cancer growth. CONCLUSIONS Our dataset presents the first unbiased assessment of breast cancer-associated MPEs at a single cell resolution, providing the community with a valuable resource for the study of MPEs. Our work highlights the molecular and cellular diversity captured in MPEs and motivates the potential use of these clinically relevant biopsies in the development of targeted therapeutics for patients with advanced breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Holly J. Whitfield
- Department of Medical Biology, The Faculty of MedicineDentistry and Health Science, The University of MelbourneCarltonVictoriaAustralia
- Bioinformatics DivisionThe Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical ResearchParkvilleVictoriaAustralia
| | - Jean Berthelet
- Olivia Newton‐John Cancer Research InstituteHeidelbergVictoriaAustralia
- School of Cancer MedicineLa Trobe UniversityBundooraVictoriaAustralia
| | - Stefano Mangiola
- Department of Medical Biology, The Faculty of MedicineDentistry and Health Science, The University of MelbourneCarltonVictoriaAustralia
- Bioinformatics DivisionThe Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical ResearchParkvilleVictoriaAustralia
| | - Caroline Bell
- Olivia Newton‐John Cancer Research InstituteHeidelbergVictoriaAustralia
- School of Cancer MedicineLa Trobe UniversityBundooraVictoriaAustralia
| | - Robin L. Anderson
- Olivia Newton‐John Cancer Research InstituteHeidelbergVictoriaAustralia
- School of Cancer MedicineLa Trobe UniversityBundooraVictoriaAustralia
- Peter MacCallum Cancer CentreParkvilleVictoriaAustralia
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of MedicineDentistry and Health Science, The University of MelbourneCarltonVictoriaAustralia
| | - Bhupinder Pal
- Olivia Newton‐John Cancer Research InstituteHeidelbergVictoriaAustralia
- School of Cancer MedicineLa Trobe UniversityBundooraVictoriaAustralia
| | - Belinda Yeo
- Olivia Newton‐John Cancer Research InstituteHeidelbergVictoriaAustralia
- School of Cancer MedicineLa Trobe UniversityBundooraVictoriaAustralia
- Austin HealthHeidelbergVictoriaAustralia
| | - Anthony T. Papenfuss
- Department of Medical Biology, The Faculty of MedicineDentistry and Health Science, The University of MelbourneCarltonVictoriaAustralia
- Bioinformatics DivisionThe Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical ResearchParkvilleVictoriaAustralia
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of MedicineDentistry and Health Science, The University of MelbourneCarltonVictoriaAustralia
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of OncologyThe University of MelbourneCarltonVictoriaAustralia
| | - Delphine Merino
- Department of Medical Biology, The Faculty of MedicineDentistry and Health Science, The University of MelbourneCarltonVictoriaAustralia
- Olivia Newton‐John Cancer Research InstituteHeidelbergVictoriaAustralia
- School of Cancer MedicineLa Trobe UniversityBundooraVictoriaAustralia
- Immunology DivisionThe Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical ResearchParkvilleVictoriaAustralia
| | - Melissa J. Davis
- Department of Medical Biology, The Faculty of MedicineDentistry and Health Science, The University of MelbourneCarltonVictoriaAustralia
- Bioinformatics DivisionThe Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical ResearchParkvilleVictoriaAustralia
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of MedicineDentistry and Health Science, The University of MelbourneCarltonVictoriaAustralia
- The University of Queensland Diamantina InstituteThe University of QueenslandBrisbaneQueenslandAustralia
- The South Australian Immunogenomics Cancer InstituteThe University of AdelaideAdelaideSouth AustraliaAustralia
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16
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Li Y, Wang C, Huang T, Yu X, Tian B. The role of cancer-associated fibroblasts in breast cancer metastasis. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1194835. [PMID: 37496657 PMCID: PMC10367093 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1194835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer deaths are primarily caused by metastasis. There are several treatment options that can be used to treat breast cancer. There are, however, a limited number of treatments that can either prevent or inhibit the spread of breast tumor metastases. Thus, novel therapeutic strategies are needed. Studies have increasingly focused on the importance of the tumor microenvironment (TME) in metastasis of breast cancer. As the most abundant cells in the TME, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) play important roles in cancer pathogenesis. They can remodel the structure of the extracellular matrix (ECM) and engage in crosstalk with cancer cells or other stroma cells by secreting growth factors, cytokines, and chemokines, as well as components of the ECM, which assist the tumor cells to invade through the TME and cause distant metastasis. Clinically, CAFs not only foster the initiation, growth, angiogenesis, invasion, and metastasis of breast cancer but also serve as biomarkers for diagnosis, therapy, and prediction of prognosis. In this review, we summarize the biological characteristics and subtypes of CAFs and their functions in breast cancer metastasis, focusing on their important roles in the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of breast cancer. Recent studies suggest that CAFs are vital partners of breast cancer cells that assist metastasis and may represent ideal targets for prevention and treatment of breast cancer metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Li
- Department of Breast Surgery, Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Changyuan Wang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Hepatobiliary Surgery Department II, Guizhou Provincial People’s Hospital, Guiyang, China
| | - Ting Huang
- Department of Breast Surgery, Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Xijie Yu
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Laboratory of Endocrinology and Metabolism, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Bole Tian
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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17
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Ye Q, Wang J, Ducatman B, Raese RA, Rogers JL, Wan YW, Dong C, Padden L, Pugacheva EN, Qian Y, Guo NL. Expression-Based Diagnosis, Treatment Selection, and Drug Development for Breast Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10561. [PMID: 37445737 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241310561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
There is currently no gene expression assay that can assess if premalignant lesions will develop into invasive breast cancer. This study sought to identify biomarkers for selecting patients with a high potential for developing invasive carcinoma in the breast with normal histology, benign lesions, or premalignant lesions. A set of 26-gene mRNA expression profiles were used to identify invasive ductal carcinomas from histologically normal tissue and benign lesions and to select those with a higher potential for future cancer development (ADHC) in the breast associated with atypical ductal hyperplasia (ADH). The expression-defined model achieved an overall accuracy of 94.05% (AUC = 0.96) in classifying invasive ductal carcinomas from histologically normal tissue and benign lesions (n = 185). This gene signature classified cancer development in ADH tissues with an overall accuracy of 100% (n = 8). The mRNA expression patterns of these 26 genes were validated using RT-PCR analyses of independent tissue samples (n = 77) and blood samples (n = 48). The protein expression of PBX2 and RAD52 assessed with immunohistochemistry were prognostic of breast cancer survival outcomes. This signature provided significant prognostic stratification in The Cancer Genome Atlas breast cancer patients (n = 1100), as well as basal-like and luminal A subtypes, and was associated with distinct immune infiltration and activities. The mRNA and protein expression of the 26 genes was associated with sensitivity or resistance to 18 NCCN-recommended drugs for treating breast cancer. Eleven genes had significant proliferative potential in CRISPR-Cas9/RNAi screening. Based on this gene expression signature, the VEGFR inhibitor ZM-306416 was discovered as a new drug for treating breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Ye
- West Virginia University Cancer Institute/Mary Babb Randolph Cancer Center, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26506, USA
| | - Jiajia Wang
- West Virginia University Cancer Institute/Mary Babb Randolph Cancer Center, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26506, USA
| | - Barbara Ducatman
- Department of Pathology, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26506, USA
| | - Rebecca A Raese
- West Virginia University Cancer Institute/Mary Babb Randolph Cancer Center, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26506, USA
| | - Jillian L Rogers
- West Virginia University Cancer Institute/Mary Babb Randolph Cancer Center, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26506, USA
| | - Ying-Wooi Wan
- West Virginia University Cancer Institute/Mary Babb Randolph Cancer Center, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26506, USA
| | - Chunlin Dong
- West Virginia University Cancer Institute/Mary Babb Randolph Cancer Center, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26506, USA
| | - Lindsay Padden
- West Virginia University Cancer Institute/Mary Babb Randolph Cancer Center, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26506, USA
| | - Elena N Pugacheva
- West Virginia University Cancer Institute/Mary Babb Randolph Cancer Center, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26506, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26506, USA
- Department of Radiation Oncology, School of Medicine, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26506, USA
| | - Yong Qian
- Pathology and Physiology Research Branch, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Morgantown, WV 26505, USA
| | - Nancy Lan Guo
- West Virginia University Cancer Institute/Mary Babb Randolph Cancer Center, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26506, USA
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26506, USA
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18
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Prossnitz ER, Barton M. The G protein-coupled oestrogen receptor GPER in health and disease: an update. Nat Rev Endocrinol 2023:10.1038/s41574-023-00822-7. [PMID: 37193881 DOI: 10.1038/s41574-023-00822-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Oestrogens and their receptors contribute broadly to physiology and diseases. In premenopausal women, endogenous oestrogens protect against cardiovascular, metabolic and neurological diseases and are involved in hormone-sensitive cancers such as breast cancer. Oestrogens and oestrogen mimetics mediate their effects via the cytosolic and nuclear receptors oestrogen receptor-α (ERα) and oestrogen receptor-β (ERβ) and membrane subpopulations as well as the 7-transmembrane G protein-coupled oestrogen receptor (GPER). GPER, which dates back more than 450 million years in evolution, mediates both rapid signalling and transcriptional regulation. Oestrogen mimetics (such as phytooestrogens and xenooestrogens including endocrine disruptors) and licensed drugs such as selective oestrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) and downregulators (SERDs) also modulate oestrogen receptor activity in both health and disease. Following up on our previous Review of 2011, we herein summarize the progress made in the field of GPER research over the past decade. We will review molecular, cellular and pharmacological aspects of GPER signalling and function, its contribution to physiology, health and disease, and the potential of GPER to serve as a therapeutic target and prognostic indicator of numerous diseases. We also discuss the first clinical trial evaluating a GPER-selective drug and the opportunity of repurposing licensed drugs for the targeting of GPER in clinical medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric R Prossnitz
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Molecular Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM, USA.
- Center of Biomedical Research Excellence in Autophagy, Inflammation and Metabolism, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM, USA.
- University of New Mexico Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM, USA.
| | - Matthias Barton
- Molecular Internal Medicine, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland.
- Andreas Grüntzig Foundation, Zürich, Switzerland.
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19
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Promising Perspectives of the Antiproliferative GPER Inverse Agonist ERα17p in Breast Cancer. Cells 2023; 12:cells12040653. [PMID: 36831322 PMCID: PMC9954065 DOI: 10.3390/cells12040653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The estrogen receptor α (ERα) corresponds to a large platform in charge of the recruitment of a panel of molecules, including steroids and related heterocyclic derivatives, oligonucleotides, peptides and proteins. Its 295-311 region is particularly targeted by post-translational modifications, suggesting that it could be crucial for the control of transcription. In addition to anionic phospholipids, the ERα 295-311 fragment interacts with Ca2+-calmodulin, the heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70), ERα and possibly importins. More recently, we have demonstrated that it is prone to interacting with the G-protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER). In light of these observations, the pharmacological profile of the corresponding peptide, namely ERα17p, has been explored in breast cancer cells. Remarkably, it exerts apoptosis through GPER and induces a significant decrease (more than 50%) of the size of triple-negative breast tumor xenografts in mice. Herein, we highlight not only the promising therapeutic perspectives in the use of the first peptidic GPER modulator ERα17p, but also the opportunity to modulate GPER for clinical purposes.
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20
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Arterburn JB, Prossnitz ER. G Protein-Coupled Estrogen Receptor GPER: Molecular Pharmacology and Therapeutic Applications. Annu Rev Pharmacol Toxicol 2023; 63:295-320. [PMID: 36662583 PMCID: PMC10153636 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-pharmtox-031122-121944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
The actions of estrogens and related estrogenic molecules are complex and multifaceted in both sexes. A wide array of natural, synthetic, and therapeutic molecules target pathways that produce and respond to estrogens. Multiple receptors promulgate these responses, including the classical estrogen receptors of the nuclear hormone receptor family (estrogen receptors α and β), which function largely as ligand-activated transcription factors, and the 7-transmembrane G protein-coupled estrogen receptor, GPER, which activates a diverse array of signaling pathways. The pharmacology and functional roles of GPER in physiology and disease reveal important roles in responses to both natural and synthetic estrogenic compounds in numerous physiological systems. These functions have implications in the treatment of myriad disease states, including cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and metabolic disorders. This review focuses on the complex pharmacology of GPER and summarizes major physiological functions of GPER and the therapeutic implications and ongoing applications of GPER-targeted compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey B Arterburn
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, New Mexico, USA
- University of New Mexico Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA;
| | - Eric R Prossnitz
- University of New Mexico Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA;
- Center of Biomedical Research Excellence in Autophagy, Inflammation and Metabolism, and Division of Molecular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
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21
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Fang Z, Meng Q, Xu J, Wang W, Zhang B, Liu J, Liang C, Hua J, Zhao Y, Yu X, Shi S. Signaling pathways in cancer-associated fibroblasts: recent advances and future perspectives. CANCER COMMUNICATIONS (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2022; 43:3-41. [PMID: 36424360 PMCID: PMC9859735 DOI: 10.1002/cac2.12392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
As a critical component of the tumor microenvironment (TME), cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) play important roles in cancer initiation and progression. Well-known signaling pathways, including the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), Hedgehog (Hh), Notch, Wnt, Hippo, nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB), Janus kinase (JAK)/signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT), mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), and phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT pathways, as well as transcription factors, including hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF), heat shock transcription factor 1 (HSF1), P53, Snail, and Twist, constitute complex regulatory networks in the TME to modulate the formation, activation, heterogeneity, metabolic characteristics and malignant phenotype of CAFs. Activated CAFs remodel the TME and influence the malignant biological processes of cancer cells by altering the transcriptional and secretory characteristics, and this modulation partially depends on the regulation of signaling cascades. The results of preclinical and clinical trials indicated that therapies targeting signaling pathways in CAFs demonstrated promising efficacy but were also accompanied by some failures (e.g., NCT01130142 and NCT01064622). Hence, a comprehensive understanding of the signaling cascades in CAFs might help us better understand the roles of CAFs and the TME in cancer progression and may facilitate the development of more efficient and safer stroma-targeted cancer therapies. Here, we review recent advances in studies of signaling pathways in CAFs and briefly discuss some future perspectives on CAF research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zengli Fang
- Department of Pancreatic SurgeryFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghai200032P. R. China,Department of OncologyShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer InstituteShanghai200032P. R. China,Pancreatic Cancer InstituteFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China
| | - Qingcai Meng
- Department of Pancreatic SurgeryFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghai200032P. R. China,Department of OncologyShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer InstituteShanghai200032P. R. China,Pancreatic Cancer InstituteFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China
| | - Jin Xu
- Department of Pancreatic SurgeryFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghai200032P. R. China,Department of OncologyShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer InstituteShanghai200032P. R. China,Pancreatic Cancer InstituteFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Pancreatic SurgeryFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghai200032P. R. China,Department of OncologyShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer InstituteShanghai200032P. R. China,Pancreatic Cancer InstituteFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China
| | - Bo Zhang
- Department of Pancreatic SurgeryFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghai200032P. R. China,Department of OncologyShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer InstituteShanghai200032P. R. China,Pancreatic Cancer InstituteFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China
| | - Jiang Liu
- Department of Pancreatic SurgeryFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghai200032P. R. China,Department of OncologyShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer InstituteShanghai200032P. R. China,Pancreatic Cancer InstituteFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China
| | - Chen Liang
- Department of Pancreatic SurgeryFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghai200032P. R. China,Department of OncologyShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer InstituteShanghai200032P. R. China,Pancreatic Cancer InstituteFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China
| | - Jie Hua
- Department of Pancreatic SurgeryFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghai200032P. R. China,Department of OncologyShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer InstituteShanghai200032P. R. China,Pancreatic Cancer InstituteFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China
| | - Yingjun Zhao
- Department of OncologyShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China,Institutes of Biomedical SciencesShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China
| | - Xianjun Yu
- Department of Pancreatic SurgeryFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghai200032P. R. China,Department of OncologyShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer InstituteShanghai200032P. R. China,Pancreatic Cancer InstituteFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China
| | - Si Shi
- Department of Pancreatic SurgeryFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghai200032P. R. China,Department of OncologyShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer InstituteShanghai200032P. R. China,Pancreatic Cancer InstituteFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China
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22
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Santolla MF, Talia M, Cirillo F, Scordamaglia D, De Rosis S, Spinelli A, Miglietta AM, Nardo B, Filippelli G, De Francesco EM, Belfiore A, Lappano R, Maggiolini M. The AGEs/RAGE Transduction Signaling Prompts IL-8/CXCR1/2-Mediated Interaction between Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts (CAFs) and Breast Cancer Cells. Cells 2022; 11:2402. [PMID: 35954247 PMCID: PMC9368521 DOI: 10.3390/cells11152402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and the cognate receptor, named RAGE, are involved in metabolic disorders characterized by hyperglycemia, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and obesity. Moreover, the AGEs/RAGE transduction pathway prompts a dysfunctional interaction between breast cancer cells and tumor stroma toward the acquisition of malignant features. However, the action of the AGEs/RAGE axis in the main players of the tumor microenvironment, named breast cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), remains to be fully explored. In the present study, by chemokine array, we first assessed that interleukin-8 (IL-8) is the most up-regulated pro-inflammatory chemokine upon AGEs/RAGE activation in primary CAFs, obtained from breast tumors. Thereafter, we ascertained that the AGEs/RAGE signaling promotes a network cascade in CAFs, leading to the c-Fos-dependent regulation of IL-8. Next, using a conditioned medium from AGEs-exposed CAFs, we determined that IL-8/CXCR1/2 paracrine activation induces the acquisition of migratory and invasive features in MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. Altogether, our data provide new insights on the involvement of IL-8 in the AGEs/RAGE transduction pathway among the intricate connections linking breast cancer cells to the surrounding stroma. Hence, our findings may pave the way for further investigations to define the role of IL-8 as useful target for the better management of breast cancer patients exhibiting metabolic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Francesca Santolla
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy
| | - Marianna Talia
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy
| | - Francesca Cirillo
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy
| | - Domenica Scordamaglia
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy
| | - Salvatore De Rosis
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy
| | - Asia Spinelli
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Miglietta
- Breast and General Surgery Unit, Regional Hospital Cosenza, 87100 Cosenza, Italy
| | - Bruno Nardo
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy
- Breast and General Surgery Unit, Regional Hospital Cosenza, 87100 Cosenza, Italy
| | | | - Ernestina Marianna De Francesco
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, 95122 Catania, Italy
| | - Antonino Belfiore
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, 95122 Catania, Italy
| | - Rosamaria Lappano
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy
| | - Marcello Maggiolini
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy
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23
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Atallah I, Cieza Rivera AM, Rivero Lezcano OM, Tascón-González L, González-Cortés C, Diez Tascón C, Fernández-Villa T, Martín V. Increased serum concentrations of estrogen-induced growth factors Midkine and FGF2 in NF1 patients with plexiform neurofibroma. Am J Transl Res 2022; 14:3180-3188. [PMID: 35702135 PMCID: PMC9185072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 12/04/2021] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) predisposes to the development of dermal and plexiform neurofibromas and serum of NF1 patients stimulates neurofibroma proliferation in vitro. This study aimed to determine whether, in NF1 patients, serum levels of midkine (MK) and fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) were associated with the number and/or type of neurofibromas. In addition, their concentrations were correlated with serum levels of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), a neurosteroid secreted by the peripheral nervous system. We performed a case control-study and measured, by ELISA assay, serum concentrations of MK, FGF2, and DHEAS in 20 NF1 patients and 30 controls. We found increased serum levels of MK and FGF2 in NF1 patients between 30 and 50 years old. Their concentrations were significantly higher in NF1 patients with plexiform neurofibromas than in controls (P=0.003 for MK and P=0.008 for FGF2). As an underlying hormonal regulation was suspected, DHEAS serum levels were measured but no difference was observed between patients and controls. We also observed a strong association between MK and FGF2 levels (P=0.0001) in NF1 patients and controls. In conclusion, we point out MK and FGF2 as biomarkers for plexiform neurofibroma in NF1 patients. As both growth factors are estrogen-responsive genes and neurofibromin is a co-repressor of estrogen receptor alpha activity, we suggest that the increased serum levels of MK and FGF2 observed in NF1 patients might be due to estradiol hypersensitivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isis Atallah
- Division of Genetic Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Area of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Universidad de LeónLeón 24071, Spain
| | - Ana M Cieza Rivera
- Research Group in Gen-Environmental and Health Interactions (GIIGAS)-Institute of Biomedicine (IBIOMED), Universidad de LeónLeón, Spain
| | - Octavio M Rivero Lezcano
- Research Group in Gen-Environmental and Health Interactions (GIIGAS)-Institute of Biomedicine (IBIOMED), Universidad de LeónLeón, Spain
- Unit of Investigation, Hospital of LeónLeón, Spain
- Institute of Biomedical Research of Salamanca (IBSAL)Spain
| | | | | | - Cristina Diez Tascón
- Research Group in Gen-Environmental and Health Interactions (GIIGAS)-Institute of Biomedicine (IBIOMED), Universidad de LeónLeón, Spain
| | - Tania Fernández-Villa
- Research Group in Gen-Environmental and Health Interactions (GIIGAS)-Institute of Biomedicine (IBIOMED), Universidad de LeónLeón, Spain
| | - Vicente Martín
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Area of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Universidad de LeónLeón 24071, Spain
- Research Group in Gen-Environmental and Health Interactions (GIIGAS)-Institute of Biomedicine (IBIOMED), Universidad de LeónLeón, Spain
- CIBER de Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP)Madrid, Spain
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24
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Boichuk S, Dunaev P, Mustafin I, Mani S, Syuzov K, Valeeva E, Bikinieva F, Galembikova A. Infigratinib (BGJ 398), a Pan-FGFR Inhibitor, Targets P-Glycoprotein and Increases Chemotherapeutic-Induced Mortality of Multidrug-Resistant Tumor Cells. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10030601. [PMID: 35327403 PMCID: PMC8945560 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10030601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Revised: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The microtubule-targeting agents (MTAs) are well-known chemotherapeutic agents commonly used for therapy of a broad spectrum of human malignancies, exhibiting epithelial origin, including breast, lung, and prostate cancer. Despite the impressive response rates shortly after initiation of MTA-based therapy, the vast majority of human malignancies develop resistance to MTAs due to the different mechanisms. Here, we report that infigratinib (BGJ 398), a potent FGFR1-4 inhibitor, restores sensitivity of a broad spectrum of ABCB1-overexpressing cancer cells to certain chemotherapeutic agents, including paclitaxel (PTX) and doxorubicin (Dox). This was evidenced for the triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), and gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) cell lines, as well. Indeed, when MDR-overexpressing cancer cells were treated with a combination of BGJ 398 and PTX (or Dox), we observed a significant increase of apoptosis which was evidenced by an increased expression of cleaved forms of PARP, caspase-3, and increased numbers of Annexin V-positive cells, as well. Moreover, BGJ 398 used in combination with PTX significantly decreased the viability and proliferation of the resistant cancer cells. As expected, no apoptosis was found in ABCB1-overexpressing cancer cells treated with PTX, Dox, or BGJ 398 alone. Inhibition of FGFR-signaling by BGJ 398 was evidenced by the decreased expression of phosphorylated (i.e., activated) forms of FGFR and FRS-2, a well-known adaptor protein of FGFR signaling, and downstream signaling molecules (e.g., STAT-1, -3, and S6). In contrast, expression of MDR-related ABC-transporters did not change after BGJ 398 treatment, thereby suggesting an impaired function of MDR-related ABC-transporters. By using the fluorescent-labeled chemotherapeutic agent PTX-Alexa488 (Flutax-2) and doxorubicin, exhibiting an intrinsic fluorescence, we found that BGJ 398 substantially impairs their efflux from MDR-overexpressing TNBC cells. Moreover, the efflux of Calcein AM, a well-known substrate for ABCB1, was also significantly impaired in BGJ 398-treated cancer cells, thereby suggesting the ABCB1 as a novel molecular target for BGJ 398. Of note, PD 173074, a potent FGFR1 and VEGFR2 inhibitor failed to retain chemotherapeutic agents inside ABCB1-overexpressing cells. This was consistent with the inability of PD 173074 to sensitize Tx-R cancer cells to PTX and Dox. Collectively, we show here for the first time that BGJ 398 reverses the sensitivity of MDR-overexpressing cancer cells to certain chemotherapeutic agents due to inhibition of their efflux from cancer cells via ABCB1-mediated mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergei Boichuk
- Department of Pathology, Kazan State Medical University, 420012 Kazan, Russia; (P.D.); (S.M.); (K.S.); (F.B.); (A.G.)
- Сentral Research Laboratory, Kazan State Medical University, 420012 Kazan, Russia;
- Department of Radiotherapy and Radiology, Faculty of Surgery, Russian Medical Academy of Continuous Professional Education, 125993 Moscow, Russia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +7-917-397-80-93; Fax: +7-843-236-06-52
| | - Pavel Dunaev
- Department of Pathology, Kazan State Medical University, 420012 Kazan, Russia; (P.D.); (S.M.); (K.S.); (F.B.); (A.G.)
| | - Ilshat Mustafin
- Department of Biochemistry, Kazan State Medical University, 420012 Kazan, Russia;
| | - Shinjit Mani
- Department of Pathology, Kazan State Medical University, 420012 Kazan, Russia; (P.D.); (S.M.); (K.S.); (F.B.); (A.G.)
| | - Kirill Syuzov
- Department of Pathology, Kazan State Medical University, 420012 Kazan, Russia; (P.D.); (S.M.); (K.S.); (F.B.); (A.G.)
| | - Elena Valeeva
- Сentral Research Laboratory, Kazan State Medical University, 420012 Kazan, Russia;
| | - Firuza Bikinieva
- Department of Pathology, Kazan State Medical University, 420012 Kazan, Russia; (P.D.); (S.M.); (K.S.); (F.B.); (A.G.)
| | - Aigul Galembikova
- Department of Pathology, Kazan State Medical University, 420012 Kazan, Russia; (P.D.); (S.M.); (K.S.); (F.B.); (A.G.)
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25
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Pérez Piñero C, Giulianelli S, Lamb CA, Lanari C. New Insights in the Interaction of FGF/FGFR and Steroid Receptor Signaling in Breast Cancer. Endocrinology 2022; 163:6491899. [PMID: 34977930 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqab265] [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: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Luminal breast cancer (BrCa) has a favorable prognosis compared with other tumor subtypes. However, with time, tumors may evolve and lead to disease progression; thus, there is a great interest in unraveling the mechanisms that drive tumor metastasis and endocrine resistance. In this review, we focus on one of the many pathways that have been involved in tumor progression, the fibroblast growth factor/fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) axis. We emphasize in data obtained from in vivo experimental models that we believe that in luminal BrCa, tumor growth relies in a crosstalk with the stromal tissue. We revisited the studies that illustrate the interaction between hormone receptors and FGFR. We also highlight the most frequent alterations found in BrCa cell lines and provide a short review on the trials that use FGFR inhibitors in combination with endocrine therapies. Analysis of these data suggests there are many players involved in this pathway that might be also targeted to decrease FGF signaling, in addition to specific FGFR inhibitors that may be exploited to increase their efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Pérez Piñero
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, IBYME CONICET, C1428ADN Ciudad de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Sebastián Giulianelli
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, IBYME CONICET, C1428ADN Ciudad de Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Instituto de Biología de Organismos Marinos, IBIOMAR-CCT CENPAT-CONICET, U9120ACD Puerto Madryn, Argentina
| | - Caroline A Lamb
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, IBYME CONICET, C1428ADN Ciudad de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Claudia Lanari
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, IBYME CONICET, C1428ADN Ciudad de Buenos Aires, Argentina
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26
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Lappano R, Todd LA, Stanic M, Cai Q, Maggiolini M, Marincola F, Pietrobon V. Multifaceted Interplay between Hormones, Growth Factors and Hypoxia in the Tumor Microenvironment. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:539. [PMID: 35158804 PMCID: PMC8833523 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14030539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Hormones and growth factors (GFs) are signaling molecules implicated in the regulation of a variety of cellular processes. They play important roles in both healthy and tumor cells, where they function by binding to specific receptors on target cells and activating downstream signaling cascades. The stages of tumor progression are influenced by hormones and GF signaling. Hypoxia, a hallmark of cancer progression, contributes to tumor plasticity and heterogeneity. Most solid tumors contain a hypoxic core due to rapid cellular proliferation that outgrows the blood supply. In these circumstances, hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs) play a central role in the adaptation of tumor cells to their new environment, dramatically reshaping their transcriptional profile. HIF signaling is modulated by a variety of factors including hormones and GFs, which activate signaling pathways that enhance tumor growth and metastatic potential and impair responses to therapy. In this review, we summarize the role of hormones and GFs during cancer onset and progression with a particular focus on hypoxia and the interplay with HIF proteins. We also discuss how hypoxia influences the efficacy of cancer immunotherapy, considering that a hypoxic environment may act as a determinant of the immune-excluded phenotype and a major hindrance to the success of adoptive cell therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosamaria Lappano
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy;
| | - Lauren A. Todd
- Department of Biology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada;
| | - Mia Stanic
- Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada;
| | - Qi Cai
- Kite Pharma Inc., Santa Monica, CA 90404, USA; (Q.C.); (F.M.)
| | - Marcello Maggiolini
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy;
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27
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Yang S, Yin Z, Zhu G. A review of the functions of G protein-coupled estrogen receptor 1 in vascular and neurological aging. Eur J Pharmacol 2021; 908:174363. [PMID: 34297966 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2021.174363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Revised: 07/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Aging-related diseases, especially vascular and neurological disorders cause huge economic burden. How to delay vascular and neurological aging is one of the insurmountable questions. G protein-coupled estrogen receptor 1 (GPER) has been extensively investigated in recent years due to its multiple biological responses. In this review, the function of GPER in aging-related diseases represented by vascular diseases, and neurological disorders were discussed. Apart from that, activation of GPER was also found to renovate the aging brain characterized by memory decline, but in a manner different from another two nuclear estrogen receptors estrogen receptor (ER)α and ERβ. This salutary effect would be better clarified from the aspects of synaptic inputs and transmission. Furthermore, we carefully described molecular mechanisms underpinning GPER-mediated effects. This review would update our understanding of GPER in the aging process. Targeting GPER may represent a promising strategy in the aging-related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaojie Yang
- Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, 230038, China
| | - Zhe Yin
- Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, 230038, China
| | - Guoqi Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, 230038, China.
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28
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Cancer-associated fibroblasts: overview, progress, challenges, and directions. Cancer Gene Ther 2021; 28:984-999. [PMID: 33712707 DOI: 10.1038/s41417-021-00318-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 149] [Impact Index Per Article: 49.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2021] [Revised: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Tumors are one of the main causes of death in humans. The development of safe and effective methods for early diagnosis and treatment of tumors is a difficult problem that needs to be solved urgently. It is well established that the occurrence of tumors involves complex biological mechanisms, and the tumor microenvironment (TME) plays an important role in regulating the biological behavior of tumors. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are a group of activated fibroblasts with significant heterogeneity and plasticity in the tumor microenvironment. They secrete a variety of active factors to regulate tumor occurrence, development, metastasis, and therapeutic resistance. Although most studies suggest that CAFs have significant tumor-promoting functions, some evidence indicates that they may have certain tumor-suppressive functions in the early stage of tumors. Current research on CAFs continues to face many challenges, and the heterogeneity of their origin, phenotype, and function is a major difficulty and hot spot. To provide new perspectives for the research on CAFs and tumor diagnosis and treatment, this review summarizes the definition, origin, biomarkers, generation mechanism, functions, heterogeneity, plasticity, subpopulations, pre-metastasis niches (PMN), immune microenvironment, and targeted therapy of CAFs, describes the research progress and challenges, and proposes possible future research directions based on existing reports.
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29
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Magesh P, Thankachan S, Venkatesh T, Suresh PS. Breast cancer fibroblasts and cross-talk. Clin Chim Acta 2021; 521:158-169. [PMID: 34270953 DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2021.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The breast tumor microenvironment is one of the crucial elements supporting breast cancer tumor progression and metastasis. The fibroblasts are the chief cellular component of the stromal microenvironment and are pathologically activated and differentiated into breast cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). The catabolic phenotype of breast CAFs arises due to metabolic reprogramming of these fibroblasts under pseudo-hypoxic conditions. The metabolic intermediates and ATP produced by the breast CAFs are exploited by the neighboring cancer cells for energy generation. The growth factors, cytokines, and chemokines secreted by the CAFs help fuel tumor growth, invasion, and dissemination. Moreover, the interplay between breast CAFs and cancer cells, mediated by the growth factors, ROS, metabolic intermediates, exosomes, and catabolite transporters, aids in building a favorable microenvironment that promotes cancer cell proliferation, tumor progression, and metastasis. Therefore, identifying effective means to target the reprogrammed metabolism of the breast CAFs and the cross-communication between CAFs and cancer cells serve as promising strategies to develop anti-cancer therapeutics. Henceforth, the scope of the present review ranges from discussing the underlying characteristics of breast CAFs, mechanisms of metabolic reprogramming in breast CAFs, and the nature of interactions between breast CAFs and cancer cells to studying the intricacies of reprogrammed metabolism targeted cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priyanila Magesh
- School of Biotechnology, National Institute of Technology, Calicut 673601, Kerala, India
| | - Sanu Thankachan
- School of Biotechnology, National Institute of Technology, Calicut 673601, Kerala, India
| | - Thejaswini Venkatesh
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Central University of Kerala, Kasaragod 671316, India
| | - Padmanaban S Suresh
- School of Biotechnology, National Institute of Technology, Calicut 673601, Kerala, India.
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30
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Wang T, Jin J, Qian C, Lou J, Lin J, Xu A, Xia K, Jin L, Liu B, Tao H, Yang Z, Yu W. Estrogen/ER in anti-tumor immunity regulation to tumor cell and tumor microenvironment. Cancer Cell Int 2021; 21:295. [PMID: 34098945 PMCID: PMC8182917 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-021-02003-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
As the essential sexual hormone, estrogen and its receptor has been proved to participate in the regulation of autoimmunity diseases and anti-tumor immunity. The adjustment of tumor immunity is related to the interaction between cancer cells, immune cells and tumor microenvironment, all of which is considered as the potential target in estrogen-induced immune system regulation. However, the specific mechanism of estrogen-induced immunity is poorly understood. Typically, estrogen causes the nuclear localization of estrogen/estrogen receptor complex and alternates the transcription pattern of target genes, leading to the reprogramming of tumor cells and differentiation of immune cells. However, the estrogen-induced non-canonical signal pathway activation is also crucial to the rapid function of estrogen, such as NF-κB, MAPK-ERK, and β-catenin pathway activation, which has not been totally illuminated. So, the investigation of estrogen modulatory mechanisms in these two manners is vital for the tumor immunity and can provide the potential for endocrine hormone targeted cancer immunotherapy. Here, this review summarized the estrogen-induced canonical and non-canonical signal transduction pathway and aimed to focus on the relationship among estrogen and cancer immunity as well as immune-related tumor microenvironment regulation. Results from these preclinical researches elucidated that the estrogen-target therapy has the application prospect of cancer immunotherapy, which requires the further translational research of these treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiecheng Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, Shengzhou People's Hospital, #666 Dangui Road, Shengzhou, 312400, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiakang Jin
- Department of Orthopedics, 2nd Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, #88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China.,Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, No. 88, Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, People's Republic of China
| | - Chao Qian
- Department of Orthopedics, 2nd Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, #88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China.,Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, No. 88, Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianan Lou
- Department of Orthopedics, 2nd Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, #88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China.,Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, No. 88, Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, People's Republic of China
| | - Jinti Lin
- Department of Orthopedics, 2nd Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, #88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China.,Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, No. 88, Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, People's Republic of China
| | - Ankai Xu
- Department of Orthopedics, 2nd Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, #88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China.,Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, No. 88, Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, People's Republic of China
| | - Kaishun Xia
- Department of Orthopedics, 2nd Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, #88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China.,Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, No. 88, Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, People's Republic of China
| | - Libin Jin
- Department of Orthopedics, 2nd Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, #88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Bing Liu
- Department of Orthopedics, 2nd Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, #88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Huimin Tao
- Department of Orthopedics, 2nd Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, #88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China.,Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, No. 88, Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhengming Yang
- Department of Orthopedics, 2nd Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, #88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China.
| | - Wei Yu
- Department of Orthopedics, 2nd Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, #88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China. .,Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, No. 88, Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, People's Republic of China.
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31
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Ferguson HR, Smith MP, Francavilla C. Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptors (FGFRs) and Noncanonical Partners in Cancer Signaling. Cells 2021; 10:1201. [PMID: 34068954 PMCID: PMC8156822 DOI: 10.3390/cells10051201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Increasing evidence indicates that success of targeted therapies in the treatment of cancer is context-dependent and is influenced by a complex crosstalk between signaling pathways and between cell types in the tumor. The Fibroblast Growth Factor (FGF)/FGF receptor (FGFR) signaling axis highlights the importance of such context-dependent signaling in cancer. Aberrant FGFR signaling has been characterized in almost all cancer types, most commonly non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), breast cancer, glioblastoma, prostate cancer and gastrointestinal cancer. This occurs primarily through amplification and over-expression of FGFR1 and FGFR2 resulting in ligand-independent activation. Mutations and translocations of FGFR1-4 are also identified in cancer. Canonical FGF-FGFR signaling is tightly regulated by ligand-receptor combinations as well as direct interactions with the FGFR coreceptors heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs) and Klotho. Noncanonical FGFR signaling partners have been implicated in differential regulation of FGFR signaling. FGFR directly interacts with cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) and extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins, contributing to invasive and migratory properties of cancer cells, whereas interactions with other receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) regulate angiogenic, resistance to therapy, and metastatic potential of cancer cells. The diversity in FGFR signaling partners supports a role for FGFR signaling in cancer, independent of genetic aberration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harriet R. Ferguson
- Division of Molecular and Cellular Function, School of Biological Science, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health (FBMH), The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PT, UK;
| | - Michael P. Smith
- Division of Molecular and Cellular Function, School of Biological Science, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health (FBMH), The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PT, UK;
| | - Chiara Francavilla
- Division of Molecular and Cellular Function, School of Biological Science, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health (FBMH), The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PT, UK;
- Manchester Breast Centre, Manchester Cancer Research Centre, The University of Manchester, Manchester M20 4GJ, UK
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32
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Chen W, He S, Xiang D. Hypoxia-induced retinal pigment epithelium cell-derived bFGF promotes the migration and angiogenesis of HUVECs through regulating TGF-β1/smad2/3 pathway. Gene 2021; 790:145695. [PMID: 33964379 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2021.145695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2020] [Revised: 04/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Hypoxia promotes the secretion of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) in retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), which plays an important part in retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). This study preliminarily explored the effect of hypoxia-induced RPE-derived bFGF on the biological functions of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). After cell culture in hypoxia conditions, the cell viability, apoptosis, and the expressions of bFGF and vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) in human RPEs were detected by 3-(4, 5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT), flow cytometry, western blot, RT-qPCR, or ELISA. The HUVECs were transfected with siRNA for bFGF (sibFGF) or transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) (siTGF-β1) and grown in the supernatant RPE under normoxia conditions or hypoxia conditions to further determine the cell viability, migration, angiogenesis, and the expressions of TGF-β1, p-smad2/3, and smad2/3 in the cells by performing MTT, transwell, tube formation, Western blot, or RT-qPCR. Hypoxia culture decreased the cell viability and promoted the apoptosis as well as the expressions of bFGF and VEGFA in RPEs. In both normoxia and hypoxia conditions, RPE-derived bFGF increased the cell viability, migration, angiogenesis, and the expressions of TGF-β1 and p-smad2/3 in the HUVECs, with hypoxia-induced RPE-derived bFGF showing a stronger effect than bFGF induced by normoxia. However, sibFGF reversed the effects caused by RPE-derived bFGF. Moreover, siTGF-β1 decreased the high cell viability, migration and angiogenesis of HUVECs, and downregulated the expressions of TGF-β1 and phosphorylated (p)-smad2/3 upregulated by hypoxia-induced RPE-derived bFGF. Hypoxia-induced RPE-derived bFGF could promote the migration and angiogenesis of HUVECs through regulating TGF-β1/smad2/3 pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wensi Chen
- Department of Pediatric Ophthalmology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, China
| | - Shiping He
- Department of Ophthalmology, Aier Eye Hospital, China
| | - Daoman Xiang
- Department of Pediatric Ophthalmology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, China.
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33
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Santolla MF, Talia M, Maggiolini M. S100A4 Is Involved in Stimulatory Effects Elicited by the FGF2/FGFR1 Signaling Pathway in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22094720. [PMID: 33946884 PMCID: PMC8124532 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22094720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Revised: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive breast tumor subtype characterized by poor clinical outcome. In recent years, numerous advancements have been made to better understand the biological landscape of TNBC, though appropriate targets still remain to be determined. In the present study, we have determined that the expression levels of FGF2 and S100A4 are higher in TNBC with respect to non-TNBC patients when analyzing “The Invasive Breast Cancer Cohort of The Cancer Genome Atlas” (TCGA) dataset. In addition, we have found that the gene expression of FGF2 is positively correlated with S100A4 in TNBC samples. Performing quantitative PCR, Western blot, CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing, promoter studies, immunofluorescence analysis, subcellular fractionation studies, and ChIP assays, we have also demonstrated that FGF2 induces in TNBC cells the upregulation and secretion of S100A4 via FGFR1, along with the ERK1/2–AKT–c-Rel transduction signaling. Using conditioned medium from TNBC cells stimulated with FGF2, we have also ascertained that the paracrine activation of the S100A4/RAGE pathway triggers angiogenic effects in vascular endothelial cells (HUVECs) and promotes the migration of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). Collectively, our data provide novel insights into the action of the FGF2/FGFR1 axis through S100A4 toward stimulatory effects elicited in TNBC cells.
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MESH Headings
- Antigens, Neoplasm/physiology
- Cell Movement/drug effects
- Culture Media, Conditioned/pharmacology
- Female
- Fibroblast Growth Factor 2/pharmacology
- Fibroblast Growth Factor 2/physiology
- Fibroblasts/pathology
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic/physiology
- Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells
- Humans
- Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases/physiology
- Neoplasm Proteins/physiology
- Neovascularization, Pathologic/physiopathology
- Paracrine Communication
- Protein Kinase Inhibitors/pharmacology
- Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-rel/physiology
- Receptor, Fibroblast Growth Factor, Type 1/antagonists & inhibitors
- Receptor, Fibroblast Growth Factor, Type 1/genetics
- Receptor, Fibroblast Growth Factor, Type 1/physiology
- S100 Calcium-Binding Protein A4/physiology
- Signal Transduction/drug effects
- Signal Transduction/physiology
- Triple Negative Breast Neoplasms/blood supply
- Triple Negative Breast Neoplasms/physiopathology
- Tumor Cells, Cultured
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34
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Pepermans RA, Sharma G, Prossnitz ER. G Protein-Coupled Estrogen Receptor in Cancer and Stromal Cells: Functions and Novel Therapeutic Perspectives. Cells 2021; 10:cells10030672. [PMID: 33802978 PMCID: PMC8002620 DOI: 10.3390/cells10030672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Revised: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Estrogen is involved in numerous physiological and pathophysiological systems. Its role in driving estrogen receptor-expressing breast cancers is well established, but it also has important roles in a number of other cancers, acting both on tumor cells directly as well as in the function of multiple cells of the tumor microenvironment, including fibroblasts, immune cells, and adipocytes, which can greatly impact carcinogenesis. One of its receptors, the G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER), has gained much interest over the last decade in both health and disease. Increasing evidence shows that GPER contributes to clinically observed endocrine therapy resistance in breast cancer while also playing a complex role in a number of other cancers. Recent discoveries regarding the targeting of GPER in combination with immune checkpoint inhibition, particularly in melanoma, have led to the initiation of the first Phase I clinical trial for the GPER-selective agonist G-1. Furthermore, its functions in metabolism and corresponding pathophysiological states, such as obesity and diabetes, are becoming more evident and suggest additional therapeutic value in targeting GPER for both cancer and other diseases. Here, we highlight the roles of GPER in several cancers, as well as in metabolism and immune regulation, and discuss the therapeutic value of targeting this estrogen receptor as a potential treatment for cancer as well as contributing metabolic and inflammatory diseases and conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard A. Pepermans
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA; (R.A.P.); (G.S.)
| | - Geetanjali Sharma
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA; (R.A.P.); (G.S.)
- Center of Biomedical Research Excellence in Autophagy, Inflammation and Metabolism, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA
| | - Eric R. Prossnitz
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA; (R.A.P.); (G.S.)
- Center of Biomedical Research Excellence in Autophagy, Inflammation and Metabolism, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA
- University of New Mexico Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-505-272-5647
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35
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Karta J, Bossicard Y, Kotzamanis K, Dolznig H, Letellier E. Mapping the Metabolic Networks of Tumor Cells and Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts. Cells 2021; 10:304. [PMID: 33540679 PMCID: PMC7912987 DOI: 10.3390/cells10020304] [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: 12/16/2020] [Revised: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Metabolism is considered to be the core of all cellular activity. Thus, extensive studies of metabolic processes are ongoing in various fields of biology, including cancer research. Cancer cells are known to adapt their metabolism to sustain high proliferation rates and survive in unfavorable environments with low oxygen and nutrient concentrations. Hence, targeting cancer cell metabolism is a promising therapeutic strategy in cancer research. However, cancers consist not only of genetically altered tumor cells but are interwoven with endothelial cells, immune cells and fibroblasts, which together with the extracellular matrix (ECM) constitute the tumor microenvironment (TME). Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), which are linked to poor prognosis in different cancer types, are one important component of the TME. CAFs play a significant role in reprogramming the metabolic landscape of tumor cells, but how, and in what manner, this interaction takes place remains rather unclear. This review aims to highlight the metabolic landscape of tumor cells and CAFs, including their recently identified subtypes, in different tumor types. In addition, we discuss various in vitro and in vivo metabolic techniques as well as different in silico computational tools that can be used to identify and characterize CAF-tumor cell interactions. Finally, we provide our view on how mapping the complex metabolic networks of stromal-tumor metabolism will help in finding novel metabolic targets for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Karta
- Molecular Disease Mechanisms Group, Department of Life Sciences and Medicine, Faculty of Science, Technology and Medicine, University of Luxembourg, 6 avenue du Swing, L-4367 Belval, Luxembourg; (J.K.); (Y.B.); (K.K.)
| | - Ysaline Bossicard
- Molecular Disease Mechanisms Group, Department of Life Sciences and Medicine, Faculty of Science, Technology and Medicine, University of Luxembourg, 6 avenue du Swing, L-4367 Belval, Luxembourg; (J.K.); (Y.B.); (K.K.)
| | - Konstantinos Kotzamanis
- Molecular Disease Mechanisms Group, Department of Life Sciences and Medicine, Faculty of Science, Technology and Medicine, University of Luxembourg, 6 avenue du Swing, L-4367 Belval, Luxembourg; (J.K.); (Y.B.); (K.K.)
| | - Helmut Dolznig
- Tumor Stroma Interaction Group, Institute of Medical Genetics, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Strasse 10, 1090 Vienna, Austria;
| | - Elisabeth Letellier
- Molecular Disease Mechanisms Group, Department of Life Sciences and Medicine, Faculty of Science, Technology and Medicine, University of Luxembourg, 6 avenue du Swing, L-4367 Belval, Luxembourg; (J.K.); (Y.B.); (K.K.)
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36
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Vella V, De Francesco EM, Lappano R, Muoio MG, Manzella L, Maggiolini M, Belfiore A. Microenvironmental Determinants of Breast Cancer Metastasis: Focus on the Crucial Interplay Between Estrogen and Insulin/Insulin-Like Growth Factor Signaling. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:608412. [PMID: 33364239 PMCID: PMC7753049 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.608412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The development and progression of the great majority of breast cancers (BCs) are mainly dependent on the biological action elicited by estrogens through the classical estrogen receptor (ER), as well as the alternate receptor named G-protein–coupled estrogen receptor (GPER). In addition to estrogens, other hormones and growth factors, including the insulin and insulin-like growth factor system (IIGFs), play a role in BC. IIGFs cooperates with estrogen signaling to generate a multilevel cross-communication that ultimately facilitates the transition toward aggressive and life-threatening BC phenotypes. In this regard, the majority of BC deaths are correlated with the formation of metastatic lesions at distant sites. A thorough scrutiny of the biological and biochemical events orchestrating metastasis formation and dissemination has shown that virtually all cell types within the tumor microenvironment work closely with BC cells to seed cancerous units at distant sites. By establishing an intricate scheme of paracrine interactions that lead to the expression of genes involved in metastasis initiation, progression, and virulence, the cross-talk between BC cells and the surrounding microenvironmental components does dictate tumor fate and patients’ prognosis. Following (i) a description of the main microenvironmental events prompting BC metastases and (ii) a concise overview of estrogen and the IIGFs signaling and their major regulatory functions in BC, here we provide a comprehensive analysis of the most recent findings on the role of these transduction pathways toward metastatic dissemination. In particular, we focused our attention on the main microenvironmental targets of the estrogen-IIGFs interplay, and we recapitulated relevant molecular nodes that orientate shared biological responses fostering the metastatic program. On the basis of available studies, we propose that a functional cross-talk between estrogens and IIGFs, by affecting the BC microenvironment, may contribute to the metastatic process and may be regarded as a novel target for combination therapies aimed at preventing the metastatic evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Vella
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, Catania, Italy
| | - Ernestina Marianna De Francesco
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, Catania, Italy
| | - Rosamaria Lappano
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Muoio
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, Catania, Italy.,Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, Italy
| | - Livia Manzella
- Center of Experimental Oncology and Hematology, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria (A.O.U.) Policlinico Vittorio Emanuele, Catania, Italy.,Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Marcello Maggiolini
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, Italy
| | - Antonino Belfiore
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, Catania, Italy
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37
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Ozkaya HM, Sayitoglu M, Comunoglu N, Sun E, Keskin FE, Ozata D, Hocaoglu RH, Khodzaev K, Firtina S, Tanriover N, Gazioglu N, Oz B, Kadioglu P. G-protein Coupled Estrogen Receptor Expression in Growth Hormone Secreting and Non-Functioning Adenomas. Exp Clin Endocrinol Diabetes 2020; 129:634-643. [PMID: 33091936 DOI: 10.1055/a-1274-1330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the expression of G-protein coupled estrogen receptor (GPER1), aromatase, estrogen receptor α (ERα), estrogen receptor β (ERβ), pituitary tumor transforming gene (PTTG), and fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) in GH-secreting and non-functioning adenomas (NFA). METHODS Thirty patients with acromegaly and 27 patients with NFA were included. Gene expression was determined via quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (QRT-PCR). Protein expression was determined via immunohistochemistry. RESULTS There was no difference, in terms of gene expression of aromatase, ERα, PTTG, and FGF2 between the two groups (p>0.05 for all). ERβ gene expression was higher and GPER1 gene expression was lower in GH-secreting adenomas than NFAs (p<0.05 for all). Aromatase and ERβ protein expression was higher in GH-secreting adenomas than NFAs (p=0.01). None of the tumors expressed ERα. GPER1 expression was detected in 62.2% of the GH-secreting adenomas and 45% of NFAs. There was no difference in terms of GPER1, PTTG, FGF2 H scores between the two groups (p>0.05 for all). GPER1 gene expression was positively correlated to ERα, ERβ, PTTG, and FGF2 gene expression (p<0.05 for all). There was a positive correlation between aromatase and GPER1 protein expression (r=0.31; p=0.04). CONCLUSIONS GPER1 is expressed at both gene and protein level in a substantial portion of GH-secreting adenomas and NFAs. The finding of a positive correlation between GPER1 and ERα, ERβ, PTTG, and FGF2 gene expression and aromatase and GPER1 protein expression suggests GPER1 along with aromatase and classical ERs might mediate the effects of estrogen through upregulation of PTTG and FGF2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hande Mefkure Ozkaya
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Cerrahpasa Medical School, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul
| | - Muge Sayitoglu
- Aziz Sancar Institute of Experimental Medicine, Istanbul University, Istanbul
| | - Nil Comunoglu
- Department of Pathology, Cerrahpasa Medical School, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul
| | - Eda Sun
- Aziz Sancar Institute of Experimental Medicine, Istanbul University, Istanbul
| | - Fatma Ela Keskin
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Demiroglu Bilim University, Istanbul
| | - Duygu Ozata
- Department of Internal Medicine, Cerrahpasa Medical School, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul
| | - Rabia Hacer Hocaoglu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Cerrahpasa Medical School, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul
| | - Khusan Khodzaev
- Aziz Sancar Institute of Experimental Medicine, Istanbul University, Istanbul
| | - Sinem Firtina
- Aziz Sancar Institute of Experimental Medicine, Istanbul University, Istanbul
| | - Necmettin Tanriover
- Department of Neurosurgery, Cerrahpasa Medical School, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul.,Pituitary Center, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul
| | - Nurperi Gazioglu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Demiroglu Bilim University, Istanbul
| | - Buge Oz
- Department of Pathology, Cerrahpasa Medical School, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul
| | - Pinar Kadioglu
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Cerrahpasa Medical School, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul.,Pituitary Center, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul
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Santolla MF, Maggiolini M. The FGF/FGFR System in Breast Cancer: Oncogenic Features and Therapeutic Perspectives. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:E3029. [PMID: 33081025 PMCID: PMC7603197 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12103029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Revised: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 10/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
One of the major challenges in the treatment of breast cancer is the heterogeneous nature of the disease. With multiple subtypes of breast cancer identified, there is an unmet clinical need for the development of therapies particularly for the less tractable subtypes. Several transduction mechanisms are involved in the progression of breast cancer, therefore making the assessment of the molecular landscape that characterizes each patient intricate. Over the last decade, numerous studies have focused on the development of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) to target the main pathways dysregulated in breast cancer, however their effectiveness is often limited either by resistance to treatments or the appearance of adverse effects. In this context, the fibroblast growth factor/fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGF/FGFR) system represents an emerging transduction pathway and therapeutic target to be fully investigated among the diverse anti-cancer settings in breast cancer. Here, we have recapitulated previous studies dealing with FGFR molecular aberrations, such as the gene amplification, point mutations, and chromosomal translocations that occur in breast cancer. Furthermore, alterations in the FGF/FGFR signaling across the different subtypes of breast cancer have been described. Next, we discussed the functional interplay between the FGF/FGFR axis and important components of the breast tumor microenvironment. Lastly, we pointed out the therapeutic usefulness of FGF/FGFR inhibitors, as revealed by preclinical and clinical models of breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marcello Maggiolini
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy;
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Boothby-Shoemaker W, Benham V, Paithankar S, Shankar R, Chen B, Bernard JJ. The Relationship between Leptin, the Leptin Receptor and FGFR1 in Primary Human Breast Tumors. Cells 2020; 9:E2224. [PMID: 33019728 PMCID: PMC7600295 DOI: 10.3390/cells9102224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2020] [Revised: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Obesity is associated with increased breast cancer risk and poorer cancer outcomes; however, the precise etiology of these observations has not been fully identified. Our previous research suggests that adipose tissue-derived fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF2) promotes the malignant transformation of epithelial cells through the activation of fibroblast growth factor receptor-1 (FGFR1). FGF2 is increased in the context of obesity, and increased sera levels have been associated with endocrine-resistant breast cancer. Leptin is a marker of obesity and promotes breast carcinogenesis through several mechanisms. In this study, we leverage public gene expression datasets to evaluate the associations between FGFR1, leptin, and the leptin receptor (LepR) in breast cancer. We show a positive association between FGFR1 and leptin protein copy number in primary breast tumors. These observations coincided with a positive association between Janus kinase 2 (Jak2) mRNA with both leptin receptor (LepR) mRNA and FGFR1 mRNA. Moreover, two separate Jak2 inhibitors attenuated both leptin+FGF2-stimulated and mouse adipose tissue-stimulated MCF-10A transformation. These results demonstrate how elevated sera FGF2 and leptin in obese patients may promote cancer progression in tumors that express elevated FGFR1 and LepR through Jak2 signaling. Therefore, Jak2 is a potential therapeutic target for FGFR1 amplified breast cancer, especially in the context of obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wyatt Boothby-Shoemaker
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA; (W.B.-S.); (V.B.); (B.C.)
| | - Vanessa Benham
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA; (W.B.-S.); (V.B.); (B.C.)
| | - Shreya Paithankar
- Department of Pediatrics and Human Development, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA; (S.P.); (R.S.)
| | - Rama Shankar
- Department of Pediatrics and Human Development, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA; (S.P.); (R.S.)
| | - Bin Chen
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA; (W.B.-S.); (V.B.); (B.C.)
- Department of Pediatrics and Human Development, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA; (S.P.); (R.S.)
| | - Jamie J. Bernard
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA; (W.B.-S.); (V.B.); (B.C.)
- Nicolas V. Perricone Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
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40
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Grande F, Occhiuzzi MA, Lappano R, Cirillo F, Guzzi R, Garofalo A, Jacquot Y, Maggiolini M, Rizzuti B. Computational Approaches for the Discovery of GPER Targeting Compounds. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2020; 11:517. [PMID: 32849301 PMCID: PMC7417359 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.00517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Estrogens exert a panel of biological activities mainly through the estrogen receptors α and β, which belong to the nuclear receptor superfamily. Diverse studies have shown that the G protein-coupled estrogen receptor 1 (GPER, previously known as GPR30) also mediates the multifaceted effects of estrogens in numerous pathophysiological events, including neurodegenerative, immune, metabolic, and cardiovascular disorders and the progression of different types of cancer. In particular, GPER is implicated in hormone-sensitive tumors, albeit diverse issues remain to be deeply investigated. As such, this receptor may represent an appealing target for therapeutics in different diseases. The yet unavailable complete GPER crystallographic structure, and its relatively low sequence similarity with the other members of the G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) family, hamper the possibility to discover compounds able to modulate GPER activity. Consequently, a reliable molecular model of this receptor is required for the design of suitable ligands. To date, convergent approaches involving structure-based drug design and virtual ligand screening have led to the identification of several GPER selective ligands, thus providing important information regarding its mode of action and function. In this survey, we summarize results obtained through computer-aided techniques devoted to the assessment of GPER ligands toward their usefulness in innovative treatments of different diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fedora Grande
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, Italy
| | - Maria A. Occhiuzzi
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, Italy
| | - Rosamaria Lappano
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, Italy
| | - Francesca Cirillo
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, Italy
- Department of Physics, University of Calabria, Rende, Italy
| | - Rita Guzzi
- Department of Physics, University of Calabria, Rende, Italy
- CNR-NANOTEC, Licryl-UOS Cosenza and CEMIF.Cal, Department of Physics, University of Calabria, Rende, Italy
| | - Antonio Garofalo
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, Italy
| | - Yves Jacquot
- Cibles Thérapeutiques et Conception de Médicaments (CiTCoM), CNRS UMR 8038, INSERM U1268, Faculté de Pharmacie de Paris, Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Marcello Maggiolini
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, Italy
| | - Bruno Rizzuti
- CNR-NANOTEC, Licryl-UOS Cosenza and CEMIF.Cal, Department of Physics, University of Calabria, Rende, Italy
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Inhibition of FGF2-Mediated Signaling in GIST-Promising Approach for Overcoming Resistance to Imatinib. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12061674. [PMID: 32599808 PMCID: PMC7352302 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12061674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2020] [Revised: 06/12/2020] [Accepted: 06/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Inhibition of KIT-signaling is a major molecular target for gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) therapy, and imatinib mesylate (IM) is known as the most effective first-line treatment option for patients with advanced, unresectable, and/or metastatic GISTs. We show here for the first time that the inhibition of KIT-signaling in GISTs induces profound changes in the cellular secretome, leading to the release of multiple chemokines, including FGF-2. IM increased migration, invasion, and colony formation of IM-resistant GISTs in an FGF2-dependent manner, whereas the use of blocking anti-FGF2 antibodies or BGJ398, a selective FGFR inhibitor, abolished these effects, thus suggesting that the activation of FGF2-mediated signaling could serve as a compensatory mechanism of KIT-signaling inhibited in GISTs. Conversely, FGF-2 rescued the growth of IM-naive GISTs treated by IM and protected them from IM-induced apoptosis, consistent with the possible involvement of FGF-2 in tumor response to IM-based therapy. Indeed, increased FGF-2 levels in serum and tumor specimens were found in IM-treated mice bearing IM-resistant GIST xenografts, whereas BGJ398 used in combination with IM effectively inhibited their growth. Similarly, increased FGF-2 expression in tumor specimens from IM-treated patients revealed the activation of FGF2-signaling in GISTs in vivo. Collectively, the continuation of IM-based therapy for IM-resistant GISTs might facilitate disease progression by promoting the malignant behavior of tumors in an FGF2-dependent manner. This provides a rationale to evaluate the effectiveness of the inhibitors of FGF-signaling for IM-resistant GISTs.
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Suh J, Kim DH, Lee YH, Jang JH, Surh YJ. Fibroblast growth factor-2, derived from cancer-associated fibroblasts, stimulates growth and progression of human breast cancer cells via FGFR1 signaling. Mol Carcinog 2020; 59:1028-1040. [PMID: 32557854 DOI: 10.1002/mc.23233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Revised: 05/22/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) constitute a major compartment of the tumor microenvironment. In the present study, we investigated the role for CAFs in breast cancer progression and underlying molecular mechanisms. Human breast cancer MDA-MB-231 cells treated with the CAF-conditioned media manifested a more proliferative phenotype, as evidenced by enhanced messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of Cyclin D1, c-Myc, and proliferating cell nuclear antigen. Analysis of data from The Cancer Genome Atlas revealed that fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF2) expression was well correlated with the presence of CAFs. We noticed that the mRNA level of FGF2 in CAFs was higher than that in normal fibroblasts. FGF2 exerts its biological effects through interaction with FGF receptor 1 (FGFR1). In the breast cancer tissue array, 42% estrogen receptor-negative patients coexpressed FGF2 and FGFR1, whereas only 19% estrogen receptor-positive patients exhibited coexpression. CAF-stimulated MDA-MB-231 cell migration and invasiveness were abolished when FGF2-neutralizing antibody was added to the conditioned media of CAFs. In a xenograft mouse model, coinjection of MDA-MB-231 cells with activated fibroblasts expressing FGF2 dramatically enhanced tumor growth, and this was abrogated by silencing of FGFR1 in cancer cells. In addition, treatment of MDA-MB-231 cells with FGF2 enhanced expression of Cyclin D1, a key molecule involved in cell cycle progression. FGF2-induced cell migration and upregulation of Cyclin D1 were abolished by siRNA-mediated FGFR1 silencing. Taken together, the above findings suggest that CAFs promote growth, migration and invasion of MDA-MB-231 cells via the paracrine FGF2-FGFR1 loop in the breast tumor microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinyoung Suh
- Tumor Microenvironment Global Core Research Center and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Do-Hee Kim
- Department of Chemistry, College of Convergence and Integrated Science, Kyonggi University, Suwon, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
| | - Yeon-Hwa Lee
- Tumor Microenvironment Global Core Research Center and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jeong-Hoon Jang
- Tumor Microenvironment Global Core Research Center and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Young-Joon Surh
- Tumor Microenvironment Global Core Research Center and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea.,Department of Molecular Medicine and Biopharmaceutical Sciences, Graduate School of Convergence Science and Technology, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea.,Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
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Lappano R, Rigiracciolo DC, Belfiore A, Maggiolini M, De Francesco EM. Cancer associated fibroblasts: role in breast cancer and potential as therapeutic targets. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2020; 24:559-572. [PMID: 32249708 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2020.1751819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Cancer associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are the largest population of stromal cells in breast tumors. Emerging evidence has suggested that CAFs are important players not only in fostering tumor growth and spread but also in altering the tumor response to therapeutic agents. On the basis of these observations, huge efforts have been made to exploit CAFs as potential targets for breast cancer therapy.Areas covered: The current understanding of the hallmarks and biology of CAFs, their multilayered interplay with various cell populations of breast tumor microenvironment toward cancer initiation, progression, metastasis and resistance to anticancer therapies are discussed. In addition, a comprehensive overview of the CAFs-based molecular druggable targets in breast tumors is provided. The most relevant literature, in particular the studies retrieved in Medline in the last 10 years, served for this purpose.Expert opinion: The interest on CAFs as a target to fight breast cancer has becoming a hot topic for drug discovery. Indeed, several CAFs-targeted approaches are emerging as appealing therapeutic strategies in breast cancer. At pre-clinical level, this research field is speedily advancing toward the assessment of successful tactics targeting CAFs in breast cancer. Therefore, anti-CAFs therapies may display an intriguing potential to be exploited in clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosamaria Lappano
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, Italy
| | | | - Antonino Belfiore
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Marcello Maggiolini
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, Italy
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44
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Talia M, De Francesco EM, Rigiracciolo DC, Muoio MG, Muglia L, Belfiore A, Maggiolini M, Sims AH, Lappano R. The G Protein-Coupled Estrogen Receptor (GPER) Expression Correlates with Pro-Metastatic Pathways in ER-Negative Breast Cancer: A Bioinformatics Analysis. Cells 2020; 9:cells9030622. [PMID: 32143514 PMCID: PMC7140398 DOI: 10.3390/cells9030622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Revised: 02/25/2020] [Accepted: 03/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER, formerly known as GPR30) is a seven-transmembrane receptor that mediates estrogen signals in both normal and malignant cells. In particular, GPER has been involved in the activation of diverse signaling pathways toward transcriptional and biological responses that characterize the progression of breast cancer (BC). In this context, a correlation between GPER expression and worse clinical-pathological features of BC has been suggested, although controversial data have also been reported. In order to better assess the biological significance of GPER in the aggressive estrogen receptor (ER)-negative BC, we performed a bioinformatics analysis using the information provided by The Invasive Breast Cancer Cohort of The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) project and Molecular Taxonomy of Breast Cancer International Consortium (METABRIC) datasets. Gene expression correlation and the statistical analysis were carried out with R studio base functions and the tidyverse package. Pathway enrichment analysis was evaluated with Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway on the Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery (DAVID) website, whereas gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) was performed with the R package phenoTest. The survival analysis was determined with the R package survivALL. Analyzing the expression data of more than 2500 primary BC, we ascertained that GPER levels are associated with pro-migratory and metastatic genes belonging to cell adhesion molecules (CAMs), extracellular matrix (ECM)-receptor interaction, and focal adhesion (FA) signaling pathways. Thereafter, evaluating the disease-free interval (DFI) in ER-negative BC patients, we found that the subjects expressing high GPER levels exhibited a shorter DFI in respect to those exhibiting low GPER levels. Overall, our results may pave the way to further dissect the network triggered by GPER in the breast malignancies lacking ER toward a better assessment of its prognostic significance and the action elicited in mediating the aggressive features of the aforementioned BC subtype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianna Talia
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy; (M.T.); (D.C.R.); (M.G.M.); (L.M.); (R.L.)
| | - Ernestina Marianna De Francesco
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, 95122 Catania, Italy; (E.M.D.F.); (A.B.)
| | - Damiano Cosimo Rigiracciolo
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy; (M.T.); (D.C.R.); (M.G.M.); (L.M.); (R.L.)
| | - Maria Grazia Muoio
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy; (M.T.); (D.C.R.); (M.G.M.); (L.M.); (R.L.)
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, 95122 Catania, Italy; (E.M.D.F.); (A.B.)
| | - Lucia Muglia
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy; (M.T.); (D.C.R.); (M.G.M.); (L.M.); (R.L.)
| | - Antonino Belfiore
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, 95122 Catania, Italy; (E.M.D.F.); (A.B.)
| | - Marcello Maggiolini
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy; (M.T.); (D.C.R.); (M.G.M.); (L.M.); (R.L.)
- Correspondence: (M.M.); (A.H.S.)
| | - Andrew H. Sims
- MRC Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH4 2XR, UK
- Correspondence: (M.M.); (A.H.S.)
| | - Rosamaria Lappano
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy; (M.T.); (D.C.R.); (M.G.M.); (L.M.); (R.L.)
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Yu Y, Chen Y, Zheng YJ, Weng QH, Zhu SP, Zhou DS. LncRNA TUG1 promoted osteogenic differentiation through promoting bFGF ubiquitination. In Vitro Cell Dev Biol Anim 2020; 56:42-48. [PMID: 31907757 DOI: 10.1007/s11626-019-00410-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2019] [Accepted: 10/14/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
LncRNA TUG1 has the potential to promote the osteogenic differentiation of several cells, but the role of lncRNA TUG1 in osteogenic differentiation of tendon stem/progenitor cells (TSPCs) is still unknown. This study aims to determine the role of lncRNA TUG1 in osteogenic differentiation of TSPCs. bFGF, RUNX2, and Osterix protein expressions were detected by western blot. LncRNA TUG1 and bFGF expression was detected by qRT-PCR. RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assay was used to confirm the interaction between TUG1 and bFGF2. Ubiquitination assay was used to determine the ubiquitination of bFGF protein. During osteogenic differentiation, the protein expression of bFGF was significantly downregulated in TSPCs, and the expression of TUG1 was significantly elevated in TSPCs. Interfering TUG1 or overexpressing bFGF suppressed osteogenic differentiation of TSPCs. In addition, lncRNA TUG1 interacted with bFGF, and lncRNA TUG1 promoted the ubiquitination of bFGF protein. We also determined that lncRNA TUG1 downregulated bFGF protein expression through promoting the ubiquitination of bFGF. LncRNA TUG1 promoted the osteogenic differentiation of TSPCs through promoting bFGF ubiquitination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Yu
- Department of Traumatic Orthopaedics, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, No.324, Jingwu Road, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, People's Republic of China.,Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Ying Chen
- Department of Emergency, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yi-Jing Zheng
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Qi-Hao Weng
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Si-Pin Zhu
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Dong-Sheng Zhou
- Department of Traumatic Orthopaedics, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, No.324, Jingwu Road, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, People's Republic of China.
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Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts in Undifferentiated Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma: A Putative Role for the EBV-Encoded Oncoprotein, LMP1. Pathogens 2019; 9:pathogens9010008. [PMID: 31861782 PMCID: PMC7168608 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens9010008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Revised: 12/17/2019] [Accepted: 12/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Undifferentiated nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is 100% associated with Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) infection, and biopsies display variable levels of expression of the viral oncoprotein, latent membrane protein 1 (LMP1). Emerging evidence suggests an important role for cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in the NPC tumour microenvironment, yet the interaction between the virus, its latent gene products and the recruitment and activation of CAFs in the NPC tumour stroma remains unclear. This short review will discuss the current evidence for the importance of CAFs in NPC pathogenesis and outline a putative role for the EBV-encoded oncoprotein, LMP1, in governing tumour–stromal interactions.
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Holzmann K, Marian B. Importance of Translational Research for Targeting Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor Signaling in Cancer. Cells 2019; 8:cells8101191. [PMID: 31581712 PMCID: PMC6830323 DOI: 10.3390/cells8101191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2019] [Accepted: 10/01/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Klaus Holzmann
- Medical University of Vienna, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Department of Medicine I, Division of Cancer Research, Borschkegasse 8a, 1090 Vienna, Austria.
| | - Brigitte Marian
- Medical University of Vienna, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Department of Medicine I, Division of Cancer Research, Borschkegasse 8a, 1090 Vienna, Austria.
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Vlacic G, Hoda MA, Klikovits T, Sinn K, Gschwandtner E, Mohorcic K, Schelch K, Pirker C, Peter-Vörösmarty B, Brankovic J, Dome B, Laszlo V, Cufer T, Rozman A, Klepetko W, Grasl-Kraupp B, Hegedus B, Berger W, Kern I, Grusch M. Expression of FGFR1-4 in Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma Tissue and Corresponding Cell Lines and its Relationship to Patient Survival and FGFR Inhibitor Sensitivity. Cells 2019; 8:E1091. [PMID: 31527449 PMCID: PMC6769772 DOI: 10.3390/cells8091091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Revised: 09/05/2019] [Accepted: 09/07/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is a devastating malignancy with limited therapeutic options. Fibroblast growth factor receptors (FGFR) and their ligands were shown to contribute to MPM aggressiveness and it was suggested that subgroups of MPM patients could benefit from FGFR-targeted inhibitors. In the current investigation, we determined the expression of all four FGFRs (FGFR1-FGFR4) by immunohistochemistry in tissue samples from 94 MPM patients. From 13 of these patients, we were able to establish stable cell lines, which were subjected to FGFR1-4 staining, transcript analysis by quantitative RT-PCR, and treatment with the FGFR inhibitor infigratinib. While FGFR1 and FGFR2 were widely expressed in MPM tissue and cell lines, FGFR3 and FGFR4 showed more restricted expression. FGFR1 and FGFR2 showed no correlation with clinicopathologic data or patient survival, but presence of FGFR3 in 42% and of FGFR4 in 7% of patients correlated with shorter overall survival. Immunostaining in cell lines was more homogenous than in the corresponding tissue samples. Neither transcript nor protein expression of FGFR1-4 correlated with response to infigratinib treatment in MPM cell lines. We conclude that FGFR3 and FGFR4, but not FGFR1 or FGFR2, have prognostic significance in MPM and that FGFR expression is not sufficient to predict FGFR inhibitor response in MPM cell lines.
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MESH Headings
- Acrylamides/pharmacology
- Antineoplastic Agents/pharmacology
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
- Female
- Gene Expression Profiling
- Humans
- Lung Neoplasms/diagnosis
- Lung Neoplasms/drug therapy
- Lung Neoplasms/pathology
- Male
- Mesothelioma/diagnosis
- Mesothelioma/drug therapy
- Mesothelioma/pathology
- Mesothelioma, Malignant
- Middle Aged
- Phenylurea Compounds/pharmacology
- Protein Kinase Inhibitors/pharmacology
- Pyrimidines/pharmacology
- Quinazolines/pharmacology
- Receptor, Fibroblast Growth Factor, Type 1/antagonists & inhibitors
- Receptor, Fibroblast Growth Factor, Type 1/genetics
- Receptor, Fibroblast Growth Factor, Type 1/metabolism
- Receptor, Fibroblast Growth Factor, Type 2/antagonists & inhibitors
- Receptor, Fibroblast Growth Factor, Type 2/metabolism
- Receptor, Fibroblast Growth Factor, Type 3/antagonists & inhibitors
- Receptor, Fibroblast Growth Factor, Type 3/metabolism
- Receptor, Fibroblast Growth Factor, Type 4/antagonists & inhibitors
- Receptor, Fibroblast Growth Factor, Type 4/metabolism
- Survival Analysis
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregor Vlacic
- University Clinic for Respiratory and Allergic Diseases Golnik, 4204 Golnik, Slovenia.
| | - Mir A Hoda
- Translational Thoracic Oncology Laboratory, Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria.
| | - Thomas Klikovits
- Translational Thoracic Oncology Laboratory, Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria.
| | - Katharina Sinn
- Translational Thoracic Oncology Laboratory, Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria.
| | - Elisabeth Gschwandtner
- Translational Thoracic Oncology Laboratory, Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria.
| | - Katja Mohorcic
- University Clinic for Respiratory and Allergic Diseases Golnik, 4204 Golnik, Slovenia.
| | - Karin Schelch
- Institute of Cancer Research, Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria.
| | - Christine Pirker
- Institute of Cancer Research, Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria.
| | - Barbara Peter-Vörösmarty
- Institute of Cancer Research, Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria.
| | - Jelena Brankovic
- Institute of Cancer Research, Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria.
| | - Balazs Dome
- Translational Thoracic Oncology Laboratory, Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria.
- Department of Tumor Biology, National Koranyi Institute of Pulmonology, 1085 Budapest, Hungary.
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Institute of Oncology-Semmelweis University, 1085 Budapest, Hungary.
| | - Viktoria Laszlo
- Translational Thoracic Oncology Laboratory, Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria.
- Department of Tumor Biology, National Koranyi Institute of Pulmonology, 1085 Budapest, Hungary.
| | - Tanja Cufer
- University Clinic for Respiratory and Allergic Diseases Golnik, 4204 Golnik, Slovenia.
| | - Ales Rozman
- University Clinic for Respiratory and Allergic Diseases Golnik, 4204 Golnik, Slovenia.
| | - Walter Klepetko
- Translational Thoracic Oncology Laboratory, Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria.
| | - Bettina Grasl-Kraupp
- Institute of Cancer Research, Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria.
| | - Balazs Hegedus
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, University Medicine Essen-Ruhrlandklinik, 45239 Essen, Germany.
| | - Walter Berger
- Institute of Cancer Research, Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria.
| | - Izidor Kern
- University Clinic for Respiratory and Allergic Diseases Golnik, 4204 Golnik, Slovenia.
| | - Michael Grusch
- Institute of Cancer Research, Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria.
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