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Schlieper-Scherf S, Hebach N, Hausmann D, Azorín DD, Hoffmann DC, Horschitz S, Maier E, Koch P, Karreman MA, Etminan N, Ratliff M. Disrupting glioblastoma networks with tumor treating fields (TTFields) in in vitro models. J Neurooncol 2024:10.1007/s11060-024-04786-0. [PMID: 39088157 DOI: 10.1007/s11060-024-04786-0] [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: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study investigates the biological effect of Tumor Treating Fields (TTFields) on key drivers of glioblastoma's malignancy-tumor microtube (TM) formation-and on the function and overall integrity of the tumor cell network. METHOD Using a two-dimensional monoculture GB cell network model (2DTM) of primary glioblastoma cell (GBC) cultures (S24, BG5 or T269), we evaluated the effects of TTFields on cell density, interconnectivity and structural integrity of the tumor network. We also analyzed calcium (Ca2+) transient dynamics and network morphology, validating findings in patient-derived tumoroids and brain tumor organoids. RESULTS In the 2DTM assay, TTFields reduced cell density by 85-88% and disrupted network interconnectivity, particularly in cells with multiple TMs. A "crooked TM" phenotype emerged in 5-6% of treated cells, rarely seen in controls. Ca2+ transients were significantly compromised, with global Ca2+ activity reduced by 51-83%, active and periodic cells by over 50%, and intercellular co-activity by 52% in S24, and almost completely in BG5 GBCs. The effects were more pronounced at 200 kHz compared to a 50 kHz TTFields. Similar reductions in Ca2+ activity were observed in patient-derived tumoroids. In brain tumor organoids, TTFields significantly reduced tumor cell proliferation and infiltration. CONCLUSION Our comprehensive study provides new insights into the multiple effects of Inovitro-modeled TTFields on glioma progression, morphology and network dynamics in vitro. Future in vivo studies to verify our in vitro findings may provide the basis for a deeper understanding and optimization of TTFields as a therapeutic modality in the treatment of GB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steffen Schlieper-Scherf
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Nils Hebach
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Neurooncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
- Neurology Clinic and National Center for Tumor Diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - David Hausmann
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Neurooncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
- Neurology Clinic and National Center for Tumor Diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Daniel D Azorín
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Neurooncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
- Neurology Clinic and National Center for Tumor Diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Dirk C Hoffmann
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Neurooncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
- Neurology Clinic and National Center for Tumor Diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Sandra Horschitz
- Central Institute of Mental Health, University of Heidelberg/Medical Faculty Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany
- Hector Institute for Translational Brain Research (HITBR gGmbH), Mannheim, Germany
| | - Elena Maier
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Phillip Koch
- Central Institute of Mental Health, University of Heidelberg/Medical Faculty Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany
- Hector Institute for Translational Brain Research (HITBR gGmbH), Mannheim, Germany
| | - Matthia A Karreman
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Neurooncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
- Neurology Clinic and National Center for Tumor Diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Nima Etminan
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Miriam Ratliff
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany.
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Neurooncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany.
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2
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Xiao T, Zheng H, Zu K, Yue Y, Wang Y. Tumor-treating fields in cancer therapy: advances of cellular and molecular mechanisms. Clin Transl Oncol 2024:10.1007/s12094-024-03551-z. [PMID: 38884919 DOI: 10.1007/s12094-024-03551-z] [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: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
Tumor-Treating Fields (TTFields) use intermediate-frequency and low-intensity electric fields to inhibit tumor cells. However, their mechanisms are still not well understood. This article reviews their key antitumor mechanisms at the cellular and molecular levels, including inhibition of proliferation, induction of death, disturbance of migration, and activation of the immune system. The multifaceted biological effects in combination with other cancer treatments are also summarized. The deep insight into their mechanism will help develop more potential antitumor treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong Xiao
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Hao Zheng
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Kaiyang Zu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Youjia Yue
- School of Biomedical Engineeringg, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Ying Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China.
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3
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Li X, Liu K, Fang H, Liu Z, Tang Y, Dai P. Electrodynamic interaction between tumor treating fields and microtubule electrophysiological activities. APL Bioeng 2024; 8:026118. [PMID: 38841689 PMCID: PMC11151432 DOI: 10.1063/5.0197900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Tumor treating fields (TTFields) are a type of sinusoidal alternating current electric field that has proven effective in inhibiting the reproduction of dividing tumor cells. Despite their recognized impact, the precise biophysical mechanisms underlying the unique effects of TTFields remain unknown. Many of the previous studies predominantly attribute the inhibitory effects of TTFields to mitotic disruption, with intracellular microtubules identified as crucial targets. However, this conceptual framework lacks substantiation at the mesoscopic level. This study addresses the existing gap by constructing force models for tubulin and other key subcellular structures involved in microtubule electrophysiological activities under TTFields exposure. The primary objective is to explore whether the electric force or torque exerted by TTFields significantly influences the normal structure and activities of microtubules. Initially, we examine the potential effect on the dynamic stability of microtubule structures by calculating the electric field torque on the tubulin dimer orientation. Furthermore, given the importance of electrostatics in microtubule-associated activities, such as chromosome segregation and substance transport of kinesin during mitosis, we investigate the interaction between TTFields and these electrostatic processes. Our data show that the electrodynamic effects of TTFields are most likely too weak to disrupt normal microtubule electrophysiological activities significantly. Consequently, we posit that the observed cytoskeleton destruction in mitosis is more likely attributable to non-mechanical mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing Li
- College of Automation Engineering, Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Nan Jing 210016, Jiang Su, China
| | - Kaida Liu
- College of Automation Engineering, Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Nan Jing 210016, Jiang Su, China
| | - Haohan Fang
- College of Automation Engineering, Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Nan Jing 210016, Jiang Su, China
| | - Zirong Liu
- College of Automation Engineering, Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Nan Jing 210016, Jiang Su, China
| | - Yuchen Tang
- College of Automation Engineering, Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Nan Jing 210016, Jiang Su, China
| | - Ping Dai
- Department of Radiotherapy, Shanghai Fourth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200434, China
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4
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Ravin R, Cai TX, Li A, Briceno N, Pursley RH, Garmendia-Cedillos M, Pohida T, Wang H, Zhuang Z, Cui J, Morgan NY, Williamson NH, Gilbert MR, Basser PJ. "Tumor Treating Fields" delivered via electromagnetic induction have varied effects across glioma cell lines and electric field amplitudes. Am J Cancer Res 2024; 14:562-584. [PMID: 38455403 PMCID: PMC10915321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Previous studies reported that alternating electric fields (EFs) in the intermediate frequency (100-300 kHz) and low intensity (1-3 V/cm) regime - termed "Tumor Treating Fields" (TTFields) - have a specific, anti-proliferative effect on glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) cells. However, the mechanism(s) of action remain(s) incompletely understood, hindering the clinical adoption of treatments based on TTFields. To advance the study of such treatment in vitro, we developed an inductive device to deliver EFs to cell cultures which improves thermal and osmolar regulation compared to prior devices. Using this inductive device, we applied continuous, 200 kHz electromagnetic fields (EMFs) with a radial EF amplitude profile spanning 0-6.5 V/cm to cultures of primary rat astrocytes and several human GBM cell lines - U87, U118, GSC827, and GSC923 - for a duration of 72 hours. Cell density was assessed via segmented pixel densities from GFP expression (U87, U118) or from staining (astrocytes, GSC827, GSC923). Further RNA-Seq analyses were performed on GSC827 and GSC923 cells. Treated cultures of all cell lines exhibited little to no change in proliferation at lower EF amplitudes (0-3 V/cm). At higher amplitudes (> 4 V/cm), different effects were observed. Apparent cell densities increased (U87), decreased (GSC827, GSC923), or showed little change (U118, astrocytes). RNA-Seq analyses on treated and untreated GSC827 and GSC923 cells revealed differentially expressed gene sets of interest, such as those related to cell cycle control. Up- and down-regulation, however, was not consistent across cell lines nor EF amplitudes. Our results indicate no consistent, anti-proliferative effect of 200 kHz EMFs across GBM cell lines and thus contradict previous in vitro findings. Rather, effects varied across different cell lines and EF amplitude regimes, highlighting the need to assess the effect(s) of TTFields and similar treatments on a per cell line basis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rea Ravin
- Section on Quantitative Imaging and Tissue Sciences, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, NIHBethesda, Maryland, USA
- Celoptics, Inc.Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | - Teddy X Cai
- Section on Quantitative Imaging and Tissue Sciences, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, NIHBethesda, Maryland, USA
- The Wellcome Centre for Integrative Neuroimaging, FMRIB, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Oxford UniversityOxfordshire, UK
| | - Aiguo Li
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIHBethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Nicole Briceno
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIHBethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Randall H Pursley
- Instrumentation Development and Engineering Applications Section, National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering, NIHBethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Marcial Garmendia-Cedillos
- Instrumentation Development and Engineering Applications Section, National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering, NIHBethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Tom Pohida
- Instrumentation Development and Engineering Applications Section, National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering, NIHBethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Herui Wang
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIHBethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Zhengping Zhuang
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIHBethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Jing Cui
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIHBethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Nicole Y Morgan
- Trans-NIH Shared Resources on Biomedical Engineering and Physical Sciences, National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering, NIHBethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Nathan H Williamson
- Section on Quantitative Imaging and Tissue Sciences, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, NIHBethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Mark R Gilbert
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIHBethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Peter J Basser
- Section on Quantitative Imaging and Tissue Sciences, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, NIHBethesda, Maryland, USA
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5
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Hu M, Li H, Zhu K, Guo L, Zhao M, Zhan H, Devreotes PN, Qing Q. Electric field modulation of ERK dynamics shows dependency on waveform and timing. Sci Rep 2024; 14:3167. [PMID: 38326365 PMCID: PMC10850077 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-53018-y] [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: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Different exogenous electric fields (EF) can guide cell migration, disrupt proliferation, and program cell development. Studies have shown that many of these processes were initiated at the cell membrane, but the mechanism has been unclear, especially for conventionally non-excitable cells. In this study, we focus on the electrostatic aspects of EF coupling with the cell membrane by eliminating Faradaic processes using dielectric-coated microelectrodes. Our data unveil a distinctive biphasic response of the ERK signaling pathway of epithelial cells (MCF10A) to alternate current (AC) EF. The ERK signal exhibits both inhibition and activation phases, with the former triggered by a lower threshold of AC EF, featuring a swifter peaking time and briefer refractory periods than the later-occurring activation phase, induced at a higher threshold. Interestingly, the biphasic ERK responses are sensitive to the waveform and timing of EF stimulation pulses, depicting the characteristics of electrostatic and dissipative interactions. Blocker tests and correlated changes of active Ras on the cell membrane with ERK signals indicated that both EGFR and Ras were involved in the rich ERK dynamics induced by EF. We propose that the frequency-dependent dielectric relaxation process could be an important mechanism to couple EF energy to the cell membrane region and modulate membrane protein-initiated signaling pathways, which can be further explored to precisely control cell behavior and fate with high temporal and spatial resolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minxi Hu
- School of Molecular Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, 85287, USA
| | - Houpu Li
- Department of Physics, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, 85287, USA
| | - Kan Zhu
- Department of Dermatology, University of California, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Liang Guo
- College of Intelligent Systems Science and Engineering, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Min Zhao
- Department of Dermatology, University of California, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Science, University of California, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Huiwang Zhan
- Department of Cell Biology and Center for Cell Dynamics, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Peter N Devreotes
- Department of Cell Biology and Center for Cell Dynamics, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Biological Chemistry, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Quan Qing
- Department of Physics, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, 85287, USA.
- Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, 85287, USA.
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6
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Mamaghaniyeh R, Zandieh A, Goliaei B, Nezamtaheri MS, Shariatpanahi SP. Effects of exposure to alternating low-intensity, intermediate-frequency electric fields on the differentiation of human leukemic cell line U937. Bioelectromagnetics 2024; 45:48-57. [PMID: 37870254 DOI: 10.1002/bem.22487] [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: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 08/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
Studying the bioeffects of electric fields have been the subject of ongoing research which led to promising therapeutic effect, particularly in cancer treatment. Here, we investigated the impact of low-intensity, intermediate-frequency alternating electric fields on the differentiation of human myeloid leukemia cell line U937. The results showed a near twofold increase in differentiation of U937 cells treated for 24 h by alternating 600 kHz, 150 V/m electric fields, in comparison to their control groups. This measure was evaluated by latex bead phagocytosis assay, nitro blue tetrazolium test, and cell cycle analysis which revealed a significant shift in the number of cells from G2 +M to G0 +G1 phases. The simulation result for the intracellular field intensity showed around 50% attenuation with respect to the applied external field for our setup which ruled out masking of the applied field by the internal electric noise of the cell. Based on previous studies we postulate a possible calcium-related effect for the observed differentiation, yet the exact underlying mechanism requires further investigation. Finally, our results may offer a potential therapeutic method for leukemia in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rayehe Mamaghaniyeh
- Laboratory of Biophysics and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amirali Zandieh
- Laboratory of Biophysics and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Bahram Goliaei
- Laboratory of Biophysics and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam S Nezamtaheri
- Laboratory of Biophysics and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed P Shariatpanahi
- Laboratory of Biophysics and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
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7
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Patel A, Patel D, Al-Bahou R, Thakkar R, Kioutchoukova I, Foreman M, Foster D, Lucke-Wold B. Updates on Neuronavigation: Emerging tools for tumor resection. GENERAL SURGERY (SINGAPORE) 2023; 7:10.18282/gs.v7i1.3352. [PMID: 38274640 PMCID: PMC10810325 DOI: 10.18282/gs.v7i1.3352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
Multiple studies have been conducted to properly elucidate the various tools available to help enhance the resection of tumor tissue, aneurysms, and arteriovenous malformations (AVM). Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) tractography is useful in providing a map of the tumor borders, allowing the optimal preservation of function and structure of specific regions of the brain. During neurosurgery, especially craniotomies, the possibility of the brain shifting due to swelling or gravity is high. Thus, tools for intraoperative imaging such as high-frequency linear array ultrasound transducers and doppler ultrasonography are utilized for high resolution images and detecting frequency shifts. 4D-digital subtraction angiography (DSA) is another technique used to create spatial resolutions and 3D maps for aneurysms. These similar techniques can also be utilized to assess the integrity of white matter in AVM. By implementing effective evaluation strategies, healthcare professionals can make informed decisions regarding treatment options, preventive measures, and long-term care plans tailored to individual patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anjali Patel
- College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Drashti Patel
- College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Raja Al-Bahou
- College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Rajvi Thakkar
- College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | | | - Marco Foreman
- College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Devon Foster
- College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA
| | - Brandon Lucke-Wold
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
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8
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Xiang XW, Liu HT, Tao XN, Zeng YL, Liu J, Wang C, Yu SX, Zhao H, Liu YJ, Liu KF. Glioblastoma behavior study under different frequency electromagnetic field. iScience 2023; 26:108575. [PMID: 38125027 PMCID: PMC10730381 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.108575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The tumor-treating fields (TTFields) technology has revolutionized the management of recurrent and newly diagnosed glioblastoma (GBM) cases. To ameliorate this treatment modality for GBM and other oncological conditions, it is necessary to understand the biophysical principles of TTFields better. In this study, we further analyzed the mechanism of the electromagnetic exposure with varying frequencies and electric field strengths on cells in mitosis, specifically in telophase. In reference to previous studies, an intuitive finite element model of the mitotic cell was built for electromagnetic simulations, predicting a local increase in the cleavage furrow region, which may help explain TTFields' anti-proliferative effects. Cell experiments confirmed that the reduction in proliferation and migration of glioma cell by TTFields was in a frequency- and field-strength-dependent manner. This work provides unique insights into the selection of frequencies in the anti-proliferative effect of TTFields on tumors, which could improve the application of TTFields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Wei Xiang
- Academy for engineering & technology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Hao-Tian Liu
- Academy for engineering & technology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Xiao-Nan Tao
- School of information science and technology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Yu-Lian Zeng
- Department of Anesthesiology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200020, China
| | - Jing Liu
- School of information science and technology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Chen Wang
- Shanghai Xuhui Central Hospital, Zhongshan-Xuhui Hospital, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, Shanghai Stomatological Hospital, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Sai-Xi Yu
- Shanghai Xuhui Central Hospital, Zhongshan-Xuhui Hospital, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, Shanghai Stomatological Hospital, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Hui Zhao
- School of information science and technology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Yan-Jun Liu
- Shanghai Xuhui Central Hospital, Zhongshan-Xuhui Hospital, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, Shanghai Stomatological Hospital, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Ke-Fu Liu
- School of information science and technology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
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9
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Colamaria A, Leone A, Fochi NP, Di Napoli V, Giordano G, Landriscina M, Patel K, Carbone F. Tumor treating fields for the treatment of glioblastoma: Current understanding and future perspectives. Surg Neurol Int 2023; 14:394. [PMID: 38053701 PMCID: PMC10695468 DOI: 10.25259/sni_674_2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background This review focuses on the recently published evidence on tumor treating fields (TTFields) administered alone or in combination with locoregional and systemic options for treating glioblastoma (GBM) in the past ten years. The aim is to critically summarize the novelty and results obtained with this innovative tool, which is becoming part of the armamentarium of neurosurgeons and neuro-oncologists. Methods A comprehensive search and analysis were conducted on pivotal studies published in the past ten years. Furthermore, all completed clinical trials, whose results were published on clinicaltrials.gov, were examined and included in the present review, encompassing both recurrent (r) and newly diagnosed (n) GBM. Finally, an additional examination of the ongoing clinical trials was also conducted. Results Recent trials have shown promising results both in patients with nGBM and rGBM/progressive (rGBM), leading to Food and Drug Administration approval in selected patients and the Congress of Neurological Surgeons to include TTFields into current guidelines on the management of GBM (P100034/S001-029). Recently, different randomized trials have demonstrated promising results of TTFields in combination with standard treatment of n- and rGBM, especially when considering progression-free and overall survival, maintaining a low rate of mild to moderate adverse events. Conclusion Optimal outcomes were obtained in nGBM and progressive disease. A possible future refinement of TTFields could significantly impact the treatment of rGBM and the actual standard of care for GBM, given the better safety profile and survival effects.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Augusto Leone
- Department of Neurosurgery, Städtisches Klinikum Karlsruhe, Karlsruhe, Germany
| | | | | | - Guido Giordano
- Unit of Medical Oncology and Biomolecular Therapy, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Matteo Landriscina
- Unit of Medical Oncology and Biomolecular Therapy, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Kashyap Patel
- Department of Neurosurgery, Baroda Medical College, Vadodara, Gujarat, India
| | - Francesco Carbone
- Department of Neurosurgery, Städtisches Klinikum Karlsruhe, Karlsruhe, Germany
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10
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Li X, Liu K, Xing L, Rubinsky B. A review of tumor treating fields (TTFields): advancements in clinical applications and mechanistic insights. Radiol Oncol 2023; 57:279-291. [PMID: 37665740 PMCID: PMC10476910 DOI: 10.2478/raon-2023-0044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tumor Treating Fields (TTFields) is a non-invasive modality for cancer treatment that utilizes a specific sinusoidal electric field ranging from 100 kHz to 300 kHz, with an intensity of 1 V/cm to 3 V/cm. Its purpose is to inhibit cancer cell proliferation and induce cell death. Despite promising outcomes from clinical trials, TTFields have received FDA approval for the treatment of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) and malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM). Nevertheless, global acceptance of TTFields remains limited. To enhance its clinical application in other types of cancer and gain a better understanding of its mechanisms of action, this review aims to summarize the current research status by examining existing literature on TTFields' clinical trials and mechanism studies. CONCLUSIONS Through this comprehensive review, we seek to stimulate novel ideas and provide physicians, patients, and researchers with a better comprehension of the development of TTFields and its potential applications in cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing Li
- College of Automation Engineering, Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Nan Jing, Jiang Su, China
| | - Kaida Liu
- College of Automation Engineering, Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Nan Jing, Jiang Su, China
| | - Lidong Xing
- College of Automation Engineering, Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Nan Jing, Jiang Su, China
| | - Boris Rubinsky
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of California Berkeley, BerkeleyCA, United States of America
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11
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Mekala JR, Adusumilli K, Chamarthy S, Angirekula HSR. Novel sights on therapeutic, prognostic, and diagnostics aspects of non-coding RNAs in glioblastoma multiforme. Metab Brain Dis 2023; 38:1801-1829. [PMID: 37249862 PMCID: PMC10227410 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-023-01234-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM) is the primary brain tumor and accounts for 200,000 deaths each year worldwide. The standard therapy includes surgical resection followed by temozolomide (TMZ)-based chemotherapy and radiotherapy. The survival period of GBM patients is only 12-15 months. Therefore, novel treatment modalities for GBM treatment are urgently needed. Mounting evidence reveals that non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) were involved in regulating gene expression, the pathophysiology of GBM, and enhancing therapeutic outcomes. The combinatory use of ncRNAs, chemotherapeutic drugs, and tumor suppressor gene expression induction might provide an innovative, alternative therapeutic approach for managing GBM. Studies have highlighted the role of Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and microRNAs (miRNAs) in prognosis and diagnosis. Dysregulation of ncRNAs is observed in virtually all tumor types, including GBMs. Studies have also indicated the blood-brain barrier (BBB) as a crucial factor that hinders chemotherapy. Although several nanoparticle-mediated drug deliveries were degrading effectively against GBM in vitro conditions. However, the potential to cross the BBB and optimum delivery of oligonucleotide RNA into GBM cells in the brain is currently under intense clinical trials. Despite several advances in molecular pathogenesis, GBM remains resistant to chemo and radiotherapy. Targeted therapies have less clinical benefit due to high genetic heterogeneity and activation of alternative pathways. Thus, identifying GBM-specific prognostic pathways, essential genes, and genomic aberrations provide several potential benefits as subtypes of GBM. Also, these approaches will provide insights into new strategies to overcome the heterogenous nature of GBM, which will eventually lead to successful therapeutic interventions toward precision medicine and precision oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janaki Ramaiah Mekala
- Department of Bio-Technology, Koneru Lakshmaiah Education Foundation (KLEF), Vaddeswaram, Guntur, 522302, Andhra Pradesh, India.
| | - Kowsalya Adusumilli
- Department of Bio-Technology, Koneru Lakshmaiah Education Foundation (KLEF), Vaddeswaram, Guntur, 522302, Andhra Pradesh, India
| | - Sahiti Chamarthy
- Department of Bio-Technology, Koneru Lakshmaiah Education Foundation (KLEF), Vaddeswaram, Guntur, 522302, Andhra Pradesh, India
| | - Hari Sai Ram Angirekula
- Department of Bio-Technology, Koneru Lakshmaiah Education Foundation (KLEF), Vaddeswaram, Guntur, 522302, Andhra Pradesh, India
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12
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Palicha KA, Loganathan P, Sudha V, Harinipriya S. Monte Carlo simulation and experimental validation of plant microtubules cathode in biodegradable battery. Sci Rep 2023; 13:10393. [PMID: 37369685 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-36902-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
For the first time, electrochemical methods are utilized to study the response of tubulin monomers (extracted from plant source such as Green Peas: Arachis Hypogea) towards charge perturbations in the form of conductivity, conformational changes via self-assembly and adsorption on Au surface. The obtained dimerization and surface adsorption energetics of the tubulins from Cyclic Voltammetry agree well with the literature value of 6.9 and 14.9 kCal/mol for lateral and longitudinal bond formation energy respectively. In addition to the effects of charge perturbations on change in structure, ionic and electronic conductivity of tubulin with increasing load are investigated and found to be 1.25 Sm-1 and 2.89 mSm-1 respectively. The electronic conductivity is 1.93 times higher than the literature value of 1.5 mSm-1, demonstrating the fact that the microtubules (dimer of tubulins, MTs) from plant source can be used as a semiconductor electrode material in energy conversion and storage applications. Thus, motivated by the Monte Carlo simulation and electrochemical results the MTs extracted from plant source are used as cathode material for energy storage device such as Bio-battery and the Galvanostatic Charge/Discharge studies are carried out in coin cell configuration. The configuration of the bio-battery cell is as follows: Al/CB//PP-1M KCl//MTs/SS; where SS and Al are used as current collectors for cathode and anode respectively, Polypropylene (PP) membrane soaked in 1M KCl as electrolyte and Carbon Black (CB) is the anode material. Another configuration of the cell would be replacement of CB by biopolymer such as ethyl cellulose anode (Al/EC/PP-1M KCl/MTs/SS).
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaushik A Palicha
- Research and Development Center, Ram Charan Co Pvt Ltd - Entity1, Chennai, Tamilnadu, 600 002, India
| | - Pavithra Loganathan
- Department of Physics and Nanotechnology, SRMIST, Kattankulathur, Chennai, Tamilnadu, 603203, India
| | - V Sudha
- Department of Chemistry, SRMIST, Kattankulathur, Chennai, Tamilnadu, 603203, India.
| | - S Harinipriya
- Research and Development Center, Ram Charan Co Pvt Ltd - Entity1, Chennai, Tamilnadu, 600 002, India.
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Smothers AR, Henderson JR, O'Connell JJ, Stenbeck JM, Dean D, Booth BW. Optimization of tumor-treating field therapy for triple-negative breast cancer cells in vitro via frequency modulation. Cancer Cell Int 2023; 23:110. [PMID: 37287008 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-023-02959-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Currently, tumor-treating field (TTField) therapy utilizes a single "optimal" frequency of electric fields to achieve maximal cell death in a targeted population of cells. However, because of differences in cell size, shape, and ploidy during mitosis, optimal electric field characteristics for universal maximal cell death may not exist. This study investigated the anti-mitotic effects of modulating electric field frequency as opposed to utilizing uniform electric fields. METHODS We developed and validated a custom device that delivers a wide variety of electric field and treatment parameters including frequency modulation. We investigated the efficacy of frequency modulating tumor-treating fields on triple-negative breast cancer cells compared to human breast epithelial cells. RESULTS We show that frequency-modulated (FM) TTFields are as selective at treating triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) as uniform TTFields while having a greater efficacy for combating TNBC cell growth. TTField treatment at a mean frequency of 150 kHz with a frequency range of ± 10 kHz induced apoptosis in a greater number of TNBC cells after 24 h as compared to unmodulated treatment which led to further decreased cell viability after 48 h. Furthermore, all TNBC cells died after 72 h of FM treatment while cells that received unmodulated treatment were able to recover to cell number equivalent to the control. CONCLUSION TTFields were highly efficacious against TNBC growth, FM TTFields showed minimal effects on epithelial cells similar to unmodulated treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Austin R Smothers
- Center for Innovative Medical Devices and Sensors (REDDI Lab), Clemson University, Clemson, SC, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, USA
| | | | - John J O'Connell
- Prisma Health Cancer Institute, Prisma Health, Greenville, SC, USA
- Clemson University School of Health Research, Clemson, SC, USA
- University of South Carolina School of Medicine-Greenville, Greenville, SC, USA
| | | | - Delphine Dean
- Center for Innovative Medical Devices and Sensors (REDDI Lab), Clemson University, Clemson, SC, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, USA
| | - Brian W Booth
- Department of Bioengineering, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, USA.
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Capareli F, Costa F, Tuszynski JA, Sousa MC, Setogute YDC, Lima PD, Carvalho L, Santos E, Gumz BP, Sabbaga J, de Castria TB, Jardim DL, Freitas D, Horvat N, Bezerra ROF, Testagrossa L, Costa T, Zanesco T, Iemma AF, Abou‐Alfa GK. Low-energy amplitude-modulated electromagnetic field exposure: Feasibility study in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. Cancer Med 2023; 12:12402-12412. [PMID: 37184216 PMCID: PMC10278519 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.5944] [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: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and poor liver function lack effective systemic therapies. Low-energy electromagnetic fields (EMFs) can influence cell biological processes via non-thermal effects and may represent a new treatment option. METHODS This single-site feasibility trial enrolled patients with advanced HCC, Child-Pugh A and B, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group 0-2. Patients underwent 90-min amplitude-modulated EMF exposure procedures every 2-4 weeks, using the AutEMdev (Autem Therapeutics). Patients could also receive standard care. The primary endpoints were safety and the identification of hemodynamic variability patterns. Exploratory endpoints included health-related quality of life (HRQoL), overall survival (OS). and objective response rate (ORR) using RECIST v1.1. RESULTS Sixty-six patients with advanced HCC received 539 AutEMdev procedures (median follow-up, 30 months). No serious adverse events occurred during procedures. Self-limiting grade 1 somnolence occurred in 78.7% of patients. Hemodynamic variability during EMF exposure was associated with specific amplitude-modulation frequencies. HRQoL was maintained or improved among patients remaining on treatment. Median OS was 11.3 months (95% confidence interval [CI]: 6.0, 16.6) overall (16.0 months [95% CI: 4.4, 27.6] and 12.0 months [6.4, 17.6] for combination therapy and monotherapy, respectively). ORR was 24.3% (32% and 17% for combination therapy and monotherapy, respectively). CONCLUSION AutEMdev EMF exposure has an excellent safety profile in patients with advanced HCC. Hemodynamic alterations at personalized frequencies may represent a surrogate of anti-tumor efficacy. NCT01686412.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Frederico Costa
- Oncology DepartmentHospital Sírio‐LibanêsSão PauloBrazil
- Autem Medical LLCHanoverNew HampshireUSA
| | - Jack A. Tuszynski
- Autem Medical LLCHanoverNew HampshireUSA
- Division of Experimental Oncology, Department of OncologyCross Cancer Institute, University of AlbertaEdmontonAlbertaCanada
| | | | | | - Pablo D. Lima
- Oncology DepartmentHospital Sírio‐LibanêsSão PauloBrazil
| | | | - Elizabeth Santos
- Oncology DepartmentHospital Sírio‐LibanêsSão PauloBrazil
- Oncology DepartmentA. C. Camargo Cancer CenterSão PauloBrazil
| | - Brenda P. Gumz
- Oncology DepartmentHospital Sírio‐LibanêsSão PauloBrazil
| | - Jorge Sabbaga
- Oncology DepartmentHospital Sírio‐LibanêsSão PauloBrazil
| | | | | | | | - Natally Horvat
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer CenterNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | | | | | - Tiago Costa
- Santa Casa de São Paulo School of Medical SciencesSão PauloBrazil
| | | | - Antonio F. Iemma
- Institute of Mathematics and Statistics, University of São PauloSão PauloBrazil
| | - Ghassan K. Abou‐Alfa
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer CenterNew YorkNew YorkUSA
- Weill Medical College at Cornell UniversityNew YorkNew YorkUSA
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15
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Smothers AR, Henderson JR, O'Connell JJ, Stenbeck JM, Dean D, Harvey TG, Booth BW. Efficacy and selectivity of tumor-treating field therapy for triple-negative breast cancer cells via in-house delivery device. Discov Oncol 2023; 14:34. [PMID: 36991198 PMCID: PMC10060613 DOI: 10.1007/s12672-023-00647-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Triple-negative breast cancer continues to be one of the leading causes of death in women, making up 7% of all cancer deaths. Tumor-treating electric fields are low-energy, low-frequency oscillating electric fields that induce an anti-proliferative effect on mitotic cells in glioblastoma multiforme, non-small cell lung cancer, and ovarian cancer. Little is known about effects of tumor-treating fields on triple-negative breast cancer and known research for tumor-treating fields only utilizes low (< 3 V/cm) electric field intensities. METHODS We have developed an in-house field delivery device capable of high levels of customization to explore a much wider variety of electric field and treatment parameters. Furthermore, we investigated the selectivity of tumor-treating field treatment between triple-negative breast cancer and human breast epithelial cells. RESULTS Tumor-treating fields show greatest efficacy against triple-negative breast cancer cell lines between 1 and 3 V/cm electric field intensities while having little effect on epithelial cells. CONCLUSION These results provide a clear therapeutic window for tumor-treating field delivery to triple-negative breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Austin R Smothers
- Center for Innovative Medical Devices and Sensors (REDDI Lab), Clemson University, Clemson, SC, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, USA
| | | | - John J O'Connell
- Prisma Health Cancer Institute, Prisma Health, Greenville, SC, USA
- Clemson University School of Health Research, Clemson, SC, USA
- University of South Carolina School of Medicine-Greenville, Greenville, SC, USA
| | | | - Delphine Dean
- Center for Innovative Medical Devices and Sensors (REDDI Lab), Clemson University, Clemson, SC, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, USA
| | - Tyler G Harvey
- Department of Bioengineering, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, USA
| | - Brian W Booth
- Department of Bioengineering, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, USA.
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16
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Current status of the preclinical evaluation of alternating electric fields as a form of cancer therapy. Bioelectrochemistry 2023; 149:108287. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bioelechem.2022.108287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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17
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Bond E. The contribution of coherence field theory to a model of consciousness: electric currents, EM fields, and EM radiation in the brain. Front Hum Neurosci 2023; 16:1020105. [PMID: 36760225 PMCID: PMC9903675 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2022.1020105] [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: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
A paradigm in neuroscience is developing which views resonance as the phenomenon responsible for consciousness. Much progress is being made in the investigation of how resonance as oscillating flows within the brain's electric field might result in production of mind from matter. But it's mostly unknown how vibrations among features of matter such as nanoscale atomic structures and photonic waves may participate in forming the basic substance of first-person consciousness, meaning percepts such as colors, textures, sounds, thoughts, feelings et cetera. Initial evidence at the leading edge of quantum biology suggests that light and atoms combine to form synchronously resonating structures of contiguous energy which I have termed coherence fields. My hypothesis is that coherence fields as atomic nodes within expanses of integrating photonic waves are the fundamental unit of first-person percepts insofar as they arise from electromagnetic matter. A concept of quantum coherence is formulated based on a new phenomenology of matter's nanoscale properties, and this is shown to tie what we have thus far discovered of neural anatomy into a comprehensive model of how electrical impulses travel through neurons as electron currents driven by coherence at the quantum scale. Transmembrane electric fields generated by ionic currents, synaptic phase regulation, and perhaps further mechanisms have been hypothesized as responsible for local field potentials (LFP) oscillations. Some insights into how emergent, macroscopic waves in the brain's electric field may reciprocally impact LFP propagation to control arousal, attention, and volition are briefly discussed. Activation of neural tissue is closely linked to temperature variation, and it is hypothesized that this is not merely a waste byproduct but constitutes a signature of coherence field modulation, with photonic waves of a primarily infrared spectral range functioning as an interstitial medium of the basic percept field. A variety of possible routes to coherence field modulation are outlined that derive from the mechanisms of electric currents, EM fields, EM radiation, and entanglement. If future experimental designs continue to validate coherence field theory, this could set science on course to resolve the mind/body problem.
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Ravin R, Cai TX, Li A, Briceno N, Pursley RH, Garmendia-Cedillos M, Pohida T, Wang H, Zhuang Z, Cui J, Morgan NY, Williamson NH, Gilbert MR, Basser PJ. "Tumor Treating Fields" delivered via electromagnetic induction have varied effects across glioma cell lines and electric field amplitudes. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.01.18.524504. [PMID: 36789415 PMCID: PMC9928061 DOI: 10.1101/2023.01.18.524504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Previous studies reported that alternating electric fields (EFs) in the intermediate frequency (100 - 300 kHz) and low intensity (1 - 3 V/cm) regime - termed "Tumor Treating Fields" (TTFields) - have a specific, anti-proliferative effect on glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) cells. However, the mechanism(s) of action remain(s) incompletely understood, hindering the clinical adoption of treatments based on TTFields. To advance the study of such treatment in vitro , we developed an inductive device to deliver EFs to cell cultures which improves thermal and osmolar regulation compared to prior devices. Using this inductive device, we applied continuous, 200 kHz electromagnetic fields (EMFs) with a radial EF amplitude profile spanning 0 - 6.5 V/cm to cultures of primary rat astrocytes and several human GBM cell lines - U87, U118, GSC827, and GSC923 - for a duration of 72 hours. Cell density was assessed via segmented pixel densities from GFP expression (U87, U118) or from staining (astrocytes, GSC827, GSC923). Further RNA-Seq analyses were performed on GSC827 and GSC923 cells. Treated cultures of all cell lines exhibited little to no change in proliferation at lower EF amplitudes (0 - 3 V/cm). At higher amplitudes (> 4 V/cm), different effects were observed. Apparent cell densities increased (U87), decreased (GSC827, GSC923), or showed little change (U118, astrocytes). RNA-Seq analyses on treated and untreated GSC827 and GSC923 cells revealed differentially expressed gene sets of interest, such as those related to cell cycle control. Up- and down-regulation, however, was not consistent across cell lines nor EF amplitudes. Our results indicate no consistent, anti-proliferative effect of 200 kHz EMFs across GBM cell lines and thus contradict previous in vitro findings. Rather, effects varied across different cell lines and EF amplitude regimes, highlighting the need to assess the effect(s) of TTFields and similar treatments on a per cell line basis.
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Di Gregorio E, Israel S, Staelens M, Tankel G, Shankar K, Tuszyński JA. The distinguishing electrical properties of cancer cells. Phys Life Rev 2022; 43:139-188. [PMID: 36265200 DOI: 10.1016/j.plrev.2022.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
In recent decades, medical research has been primarily focused on the inherited aspect of cancers, despite the reality that only 5-10% of tumours discovered are derived from genetic causes. Cancer is a broad term, and therefore it is inaccurate to address it as a purely genetic disease. Understanding cancer cells' behaviour is the first step in countering them. Behind the scenes, there is a complicated network of environmental factors, DNA errors, metabolic shifts, and electrostatic alterations that build over time and lead to the illness's development. This latter aspect has been analyzed in previous studies, but how the different electrical changes integrate and affect each other is rarely examined. Every cell in the human body possesses electrical properties that are essential for proper behaviour both within and outside of the cell itself. It is not yet clear whether these changes correlate with cell mutation in cancer cells, or only with their subsequent development. Either way, these aspects merit further investigation, especially with regards to their causes and consequences. Trying to block changes at various levels of occurrence or assisting in their prevention could be the key to stopping cells from becoming cancerous. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of the current knowledge regarding the electrical landscape of cells is much needed. We review four essential electrical characteristics of cells, providing a deep understanding of the electrostatic changes in cancer cells compared to their normal counterparts. In particular, we provide an overview of intracellular and extracellular pH modifications, differences in ionic concentrations in the cytoplasm, transmembrane potential variations, and changes within mitochondria. New therapies targeting or exploiting the electrical properties of cells are developed and tested every year, such as pH-dependent carriers and tumour-treating fields. A brief section regarding the state-of-the-art of these therapies can be found at the end of this review. Finally, we highlight how these alterations integrate and potentially yield indications of cells' malignancy or metastatic index.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Di Gregorio
- Dipartimento di Ingegneria Meccanica e Aerospaziale (DIMEAS), Politecnico di Torino, Corso Duca degli Abruzzi, 24, Torino, 10129, TO, Italy; Autem Therapeutics, 35 South Main Street, Hanover, 03755, NH, USA
| | - Simone Israel
- Dipartimento di Ingegneria Meccanica e Aerospaziale (DIMEAS), Politecnico di Torino, Corso Duca degli Abruzzi, 24, Torino, 10129, TO, Italy; Autem Therapeutics, 35 South Main Street, Hanover, 03755, NH, USA
| | - Michael Staelens
- Department of Physics, University of Alberta, 11335 Saskatchewan Drive NW, Edmonton, T6G 2E1, AB, Canada
| | - Gabriella Tankel
- Department of Mathematics & Statistics, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, L8S 4K1, ON, Canada
| | - Karthik Shankar
- Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering, University of Alberta, 9211 116 Street NW, Edmonton, T6G 1H9, AB, Canada
| | - Jack A Tuszyński
- Dipartimento di Ingegneria Meccanica e Aerospaziale (DIMEAS), Politecnico di Torino, Corso Duca degli Abruzzi, 24, Torino, 10129, TO, Italy; Department of Physics, University of Alberta, 11335 Saskatchewan Drive NW, Edmonton, T6G 2E1, AB, Canada; Department of Oncology, University of Alberta, 11560 University Avenue, Edmonton, T6G 1Z2, AB, Canada.
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Moser JC, Salvador E, Deniz K, Swanson K, Tuszynski J, Carlson KW, Karanam NK, Patel CB, Story M, Lou E, Hagemann C. The Mechanisms of Action of Tumor Treating Fields. Cancer Res 2022; 82:3650-3658. [PMID: 35839284 PMCID: PMC9574373 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-22-0887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Revised: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Tumor treating fields (TTFields), a new modality of cancer treatment, are electric fields transmitted transdermally to tumors. The FDA has approved TTFields for the treatment of glioblastoma multiforme and mesothelioma, and they are currently under study in many other cancer types. While antimitotic effects were the first recognized biological anticancer activity of TTFields, data have shown that tumor treating fields achieve their anticancer effects through multiple mechanisms of action. TTFields therefore have the ability to be useful for many cancer types in combination with many different treatment modalities. Here, we review the current understanding of TTFields and their mechanisms of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin C. Moser
- HonorHealth Research and Innovation Institute, Scottsdale, Arizona.,Department of Medicine, University of Arizona College of Medicine- Phoenix, Phoenix, Arizona.,Corresponding Author: Justin Moser, HonorHealth Research and Innovation Institute, 10510 N 92nd Street Ste 200, Scottsdale, AZ 85258. Phone: 480-323-4638, E-mail:
| | - Ellaine Salvador
- Section Experimental Neurosurgery, Department of Neurosurgery, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Karina Deniz
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology Oncology and Transplant, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Kenneth Swanson
- Cutaneous Biology Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, Massachusetts
| | - Jack Tuszynski
- Department of Physics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Kristen W. Carlson
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center/Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Narasimha Kumar Karanam
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Chirag B. Patel
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston Texas.,Neuroscience and Cancer Biology Graduate Programs, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences
| | - Michael Story
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Emil Lou
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology Oncology and Transplant, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Carsten Hagemann
- Section Experimental Neurosurgery, Department of Neurosurgery, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
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Tuszynski JA, Costa F. Low-energy amplitude-modulated radiofrequency electromagnetic fields as a systemic treatment for cancer: Review and proposed mechanisms of action. FRONTIERS IN MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY 2022; 4:869155. [PMID: 36157082 PMCID: PMC9498185 DOI: 10.3389/fmedt.2022.869155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Exposure to Low-Energy Amplitude-Modulated Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Fields (LEAMRFEMF) represents a new treatment option for patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (AHCC). We focus on two medical devices that modulate the amplitude of a 27.12 MHz carrier wave to generate envelope waves in the low Hz to kHz range. Each provides systemic exposure to LEAMRFEMF via an intrabuccal antenna. This technology differs from so-called Tumour Treating Fields because it uses different frequency ranges, uses electromagnetic rather than electric fields, and delivers energy systemically rather than locally. The AutemDev also deploys patient-specific frequencies. LEAMRFEMF devices use 100-fold less power than mobile phones and have no thermal effects on tissue. Tumour type-specific or patient-specific treatment frequencies can be derived by measuring haemodynamic changes induced by exposure to LEAMRFEMF. These specific frequencies inhibited growth of human cancer cell lines in vitro and in mouse xenograft models. In uncontrolled prospective clinical trials in patients with AHCC, minorities of patients experienced complete or partial tumour responses. Pooled comparisons showed enhanced overall survival in treated patients compared to historical controls. Mild transient somnolence was the only notable treatment-related adverse event. We hypothesize that intracellular oscillations of charged macromolecules and ion flows couple resonantly with LEAMRFEMF. This resonant coupling appears to disrupt cell division and subcellular trafficking of mitochondria. We provide an estimate of the contribution of the electromagnetic effects to the overall energy balance of an exposed cell by calculating the power delivered to the cell, and the energy dissipated through the cell due to EMF induction of ionic flows along microtubules. We then compare this with total cellular metabolic energy production and conclude that energy delivered by LEAMRFEMF may provide a beneficial shift in cancer cell metabolism away from aberrant glycolysis. Further clinical research may confirm that LEAMRFEMF has therapeutic value in AHCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack A. Tuszynski
- Division of Experimental Oncology, Department of Oncology, Cross Cancer Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Dipartimento di Ingegneria Meccanica e Aerospaziale, Politecnico di Torino, Turin, Italy
- Autem Therapeutics, Hanover, NH, United States
- Correspondence: Jack A. Tuszynski
| | - Frederico Costa
- Autem Therapeutics, Hanover, NH, United States
- Oncology Department, Hospital Sírio-Libanês, São Paulo, Brazil
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22
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Kuznetsov M, Clairambault J, Volpert V. Perspectives in cancer treatment. Phys Life Rev 2022; 42:15-18. [DOI: 10.1016/j.plrev.2022.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Iredale E, Voigt B, Rankin A, Kim KW, Chen JZ, Schmid S, Hebb MO, Peters TM, Wong E. Planning System for the Optimization of Electric Field Delivery using Implanted Electrodes for Brain Tumor Control. Med Phys 2022; 49:6055-6067. [PMID: 35754362 DOI: 10.1002/mp.15825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Revised: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of non-ionizing electric fields from low intensity voltage sources (<10 V) to control malignant tumor growth is showing increasing potential as a cancer treatment modality. A method of applying these low intensity electric fields using multiple implanted electrodes within or adjacent to tumor volumes has been termed as intratumoral modulation therapy (IMT). PURPOSE This study explores advancements in the previously established IMT optimization algorithm, and the development of a custom treatment planning system for patient specific IMT. The practicality of the treatment planning system is demonstrated by implementing the full optimization pipeline on a brain phantom with robotic electrode implantation, post-operative imaging, and treatment stimulation. METHODS The integrated planning pipeline in 3D Slicer begins with importing and segmenting patient magnetic resonance images (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) images. The segmentation process is manual, followed by a semi-automatic smoothing step that allows the segmented brain and tumor mesh volumes to be smoothed and simplified by applying selected filters. Electrode trajectories are planned manually on the patient MRI or CT by selecting insertion and tip coordinates for a chosen number of electrodes. The electrode tip positions, and stimulation parameters (phase shift and voltage) can then be optimized with the custom semi-automatic IMT optimization algorithm where users can select the prescription electric field, voltage amplitude limit, tissue electrical properties, nearby organs at risk, optimization parameters (electrode tip location, individual contact phase shift and voltage), desired field coverage percent, and field conformity optimization. Tables of optimization results are displayed, and the resulting electric field is visualized as a field-map superimposed on the MR or CT image, with 3D renderings of the brain, tumor, and electrodes. Optimized electrode coordinates are transferred to robotic electrode implantation software to enable planning and subsequent implantation of the electrodes at the desired trajectories. RESULTS An IMT treatment planning system was developed that incorporates patient specific MRI or CT, segmentation, volume smoothing, electrode trajectory planning, electrode tip location and stimulation parameter optimization, and results visualization. All previous manual pipeline steps operating on diverse software platforms were coalesced into a single semi-automated 3D Slicer based user interface. Brain phantom validation of the full system implementation was successful in pre-operative planning, robotic electrode implantation, and post-operative treatment planning to adjust stimulation parameters based on actual implant locations. Voltage measurements were obtained in the brain phantom to determine the electrical parameters of the phantom and validate the simulated electric field distribution. CONCLUSIONS A custom treatment planning and implantation system for IMT has been developed in this study, and validated on a phantom brain model, providing an essential step in advancing IMT technology towards future clinical safety and efficacy investigations. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin Iredale
- Department of Medical Biophysics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Brynn Voigt
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Adam Rankin
- Robarts Research Institute, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Kyungho W Kim
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Jeff Z Chen
- Department of Medical Biophysics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Susanne Schmid
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Matthew O Hebb
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada.,Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Terry M Peters
- Department of Medical Biophysics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada.,Robarts Research Institute, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Eugene Wong
- Department of Medical Biophysics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada.,Department of Physics and Astronomy, Western University, London, ON, Canada
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Lee WS, Kim EH. Combination therapy of Doxorubicin with TTFields and radiation: newer approaches to combat lung cancer. Am J Cancer Res 2022; 12:2673-2685. [PMID: 35812042 PMCID: PMC9251682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tumor-treating fields (TTFields) have been used singly or with chemoradiation for treating glioblastoma and mesothelioma but not yet for lung cancer. Survival rates in lung cancer remain abysmal despite advances in early diagnosis and targeted therapies. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES We aimed to investigate the effectiveness of TTFields in inhibiting lung cancer growth and metastasis, as well as the therapeutic effectiveness of TTFields alongside radiation and chemosensitivity-enhancing agents in an in vitro model. METHODS We generated TTFields yielding 0-800 V sine-wave signals, 0.9 V/cm applied electric field intensity, and 150 kHz frequency. The human lung cancer cell lines A549 and H460 were used in this study. Cell viability, colony formation, cell death detection, and cell invasion assays were performed to assess the therapeutic effectiveness of TTFields; sensitization of lung cancer cells to TTFields by doxorubicin (DOX); and the combined effect of TTFields, DOX, and irradiation (IR). RESULTS Lung cancer cells showed a nearly 20% decrease in cell viability at 1 V/cm and 150 kHz. In A549 and H460 cells, TTFields increased apoptosis through increased cleaved caspase3, hindered cell migration and invasion, and improved chemosensitivity to DOX. The combination of DOX and TTFields showed better antitumor results than those of each individually. However, the DOX/TTFields/IR combination was most effective in reducing the viability and migration of lung cancer cells. CONCLUSION TTFields as an adjuvant therapy offers probability for improving lung cancer patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Won Seok Lee
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Daegu Catholic University 33 17-gil, Duryugongwon-ro, Nam-gu, Daegu 427-724, Korea
| | - Eun Ho Kim
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Daegu Catholic University 33 17-gil, Duryugongwon-ro, Nam-gu, Daegu 427-724, Korea
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25
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Ye E, Lee JE, Lim YS, Yang SH, Park SM. Effect of duty cycles of tumor‑treating fields on glioblastoma cells and normal brain organoids. Int J Oncol 2022; 60:8. [PMID: 34970698 PMCID: PMC8727135 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2021.5298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumor‑treating fields (TTFields) are emerging cancer therapies based on alternating low‑intensity electric fields that interfere with dividing cells and induce cancer cell apoptosis. However, to date, there is limited knowledge of their effects on normal cells, as well as the effects of different duty cycles on outcomes. The present study evaluated the effects of TTFields with different duty cycles on glioma spheroid cells and normal brain organoids. A customized TTFields system was developed to perform in vitro experiments with varying duty cycles. Three duty cycles were applied to three types of glioma spheroid cells and brain organoids. The efficacy and safety of the TTFields were evaluated by analyzing the cell cycle of glioma cells, and markers of neural stem cells (NSCs) and astrocytes in brain organoids. The application of the TTFields at the 75 and 100% duty cycle markedly inhibited the proliferation of the U87 and U373 compared with the control. FACS analysis revealed that the higher the duty cycle of the applied fields, the greater the increase in apoptosis detected. Exposure to a higher duty cycle resulted in a greater decrease in NSC markers and a greater increase in glial fibrillary acidic protein expression in normal brain organoids. These results suggest that TTFields at the 75 and 100% duty cycle induced cancer cell death, and that the neurotoxicity of the TTFields at 75% was less prominent than that at 100%. Although clinical studies with endpoints related to safety and efficacy need to be performed before this strategy may be adopted clinically, the findings of the present study provide meaningful evidence for the further advancement of TTFields in the treatment of various types of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eunbi Ye
- Department of Convergence IT Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Pohang‑si, Gyeongsangbuk‑do 37673, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung Eun Lee
- Department of Neurosurgery, St. Vincent's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Suwon‑si, Gyeonggi‑do 16247, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Soo Lim
- Department of Convergence IT Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Pohang‑si, Gyeongsangbuk‑do 37673, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Ho Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, St. Vincent's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Suwon‑si, Gyeonggi‑do 16247, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Min Park
- Department of Convergence IT Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Pohang‑si, Gyeongsangbuk‑do 37673, Republic of Korea
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26
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Jones TH, Song JW, Abushahin L. Tumor treating fields: An emerging treatment modality for thoracic and abdominal cavity cancers. Transl Oncol 2022; 15:101296. [PMID: 34847422 PMCID: PMC8633677 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2021.101296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 11/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor treating fields (TTFields)-an intermediate-frequency, electric field therapy-has emerged as a promising alternative therapy for the treatment of solid cancers. Since the first publication describing the anticancer effects of TTFields in 2004 there have been numerous follow-up studies by other groups, either to confirm the efficacy of TTFields or to study the primary mechanism of interaction. The overwhelming conclusion from these in vitro studies is that TTFields reduce the viability of aggressively replicating cell lines. However, there is still speculation as to the primary mechanism for this effect; moreover, observations both in vitro and in vivo of inhibited migration and metastases have been made, which may be unrelated to the originally proposed hypothesis of replication stress. Adding to this, the in vivo environment is much more complex spatially, structurally, and involves intricate networks of cell signaling, all of which could change the efficacy of TTFields in the same way pharmaceutical interventions often struggle transitioning in vivo. Despite this, TTFields have shown promise in clinical practice on multiple cancer types, which begs the question: has the primary mechanism carried over from in vitro to in vivo or are there new mechanisms at play? The goal of this review is to highlight the current proposed mechanism of action of TTFields based primarily on in vitro experiments and animal models, provide a summary of the clinical efficacy of TTFields, and finally, propose future directions of research to identify all possible mechanisms in vivo utilizing novel tumor-on-a-chip platforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Travis H Jones
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, The Ohio State University, 201W. 19th Avenue, E406 Scott Laboratory, Columbus, OH 43210, United States; Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, The Ohio State University, 1800 Canon Drive, 1300G, Columbus, OH 43210, United States
| | - Jonathan W Song
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, The Ohio State University, 201W. 19th Avenue, E406 Scott Laboratory, Columbus, OH 43210, United States; Arthur G. James Comprehensive Cancer Center and Richard J. Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, United States.
| | - Laith Abushahin
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, The Ohio State University, 1800 Canon Drive, 1300G, Columbus, OH 43210, United States; Arthur G. James Comprehensive Cancer Center and Richard J. Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, United States.
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Tuszynski JA. On the significance of the electrostatic differences between cancer and normal cells: Comment on: "Improving cancer treatments via dynamical biophysical models" by Kuznetsov et al. Phys Life Rev 2021; 40:57-59. [PMID: 34857477 DOI: 10.1016/j.plrev.2021.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- J A Tuszynski
- Department of Oncology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 1Z2, Canada; Department of Physics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 2E1, Canada; DIMEAS, Politecnico di Torino, Turin, Italy.
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28
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Chen CH, Huang HP, Jang LS, Wang MH. An electrical model with microtubules, impedance measurements and COMSOL simulations for single MDA-MB-231 cells under extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields. Electrochim Acta 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.electacta.2021.139009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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Helekar SA, Hambarde S, Ijare OB, Pichumani K, Baskin DS, Sharpe MA. Selective induction of rapid cytotoxic effect in glioblastoma cells by oscillating magnetic fields. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2021; 147:3577-3589. [PMID: 34477946 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-021-03787-0] [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: 07/24/2021] [Accepted: 08/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The mechanisms underlying anticancer effects of electromagnetic fields are poorly understood. An alternating electric field-generating therapeutic device called Optune™ device has been approved for the treatment of glioblastoma (GBM). We have developed a new device that generates oscillating magnetic fields (OMF) by rapid rotation of strong permanent magnets in specially designed patterns of frequency and timing and have used it to treat an end-stage recurrent GBM patient under an expanded access/compassionate use treatment protocol. Here, we ask whether OMF causes selective cytotoxic effects in GBM and whether it is through generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). METHODS We stimulated patient derived GBM cells, lung cancer cells, normal human cortical neurons, astrocytes, and bronchial epithelial cells using OMF generators (oncoscillators) of our Oncomagnetic Device and compared the results to those obtained under unstimulated or sham-stimulated control conditions. Quantitative fluorescence microscopy was used to assess cell morphology, viability, and ROS production mechanisms. RESULTS We find that OMF induces highly selective cell death of patient derived GBM cells associated with activation of caspase 3, while leaving normal tissue cells undamaged. The cytotoxic effect of OMF is also seen in pulmonary cancer cells. The underlying mechanism is a marked increase in ROS in the mitochondria, possibly in part through perturbation of the electron flow in the respiratory chain. CONCLUSION Rotating magnetic fields produced by a new noninvasive device selectively kill cultured human glioblastoma and non-small cell lung cancer cells by raising intracellular reactive oxygen species, but not normal human tissue cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Santosh A Helekar
- Kenneth R. Peak Center for Brain and Pituitary Tumor Treatment and Research, Houston Methodist Hospital, 6445 Main St., Floor 24, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
- Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, USA.
- Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, USA.
- Department of Neurosurgery, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Shashank Hambarde
- Kenneth R. Peak Center for Brain and Pituitary Tumor Treatment and Research, Houston Methodist Hospital, 6445 Main St., Floor 24, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Omkar B Ijare
- Kenneth R. Peak Center for Brain and Pituitary Tumor Treatment and Research, Houston Methodist Hospital, 6445 Main St., Floor 24, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Kumar Pichumani
- Kenneth R. Peak Center for Brain and Pituitary Tumor Treatment and Research, Houston Methodist Hospital, 6445 Main St., Floor 24, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - David S Baskin
- Kenneth R. Peak Center for Brain and Pituitary Tumor Treatment and Research, Houston Methodist Hospital, 6445 Main St., Floor 24, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Martyn A Sharpe
- Kenneth R. Peak Center for Brain and Pituitary Tumor Treatment and Research, Houston Methodist Hospital, 6445 Main St., Floor 24, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, USA
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30
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Jenkins EPW, Finch A, Gerigk M, Triantis IF, Watts C, Malliaras GG. Electrotherapies for Glioblastoma. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2021; 8:e2100978. [PMID: 34292672 PMCID: PMC8456216 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202100978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Non-thermal, intermediate frequency (100-500 kHz) electrotherapies present a unique therapeutic strategy to treat malignant neoplasms. Here, pulsed electric fields (PEFs) which induce reversible or irreversible electroporation (IRE) and tumour-treating fields (TTFs) are reviewed highlighting the foundations, advances, and considerations of each method when applied to glioblastoma (GBM). Several biological aspects of GBM that contribute to treatment complexity (heterogeneity, recurrence, resistance, and blood-brain barrier(BBB)) and electrophysiological traits which are suggested to promote glioma progression are described. Particularly, the biological responses at the cellular and molecular level to specific parameters of the electrical stimuli are discussed offering ways to compare these parameters despite the lack of a universally adopted physical description. Reviewing the literature, a disconnect is found between electrotherapy techniques and how they target the biological complexities of GBM that make treatment difficult in the first place. An attempt is made to bridge the interdisciplinary gap by mapping biological characteristics to different methods of electrotherapy, suggesting important future research topics and directions in both understanding and treating GBM. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first paper that attempts an in-tandem assessment of the biological effects of different aspects of intermediate frequency electrotherapy methods, thus offering possible strategies toward GBM treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elise P. W. Jenkins
- Division of Electrical EngineeringDepartment of EngineeringUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeCB3 0FAUK
| | - Alina Finch
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic ScienceUniversity of BirminghamBirminghamB15 2TTUK
| | - Magda Gerigk
- Division of Electrical EngineeringDepartment of EngineeringUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeCB3 0FAUK
| | - Iasonas F. Triantis
- Department of Electrical and Electronic EngineeringCity, University of LondonLondonEC1V 0HBUK
| | - Colin Watts
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic ScienceUniversity of BirminghamBirminghamB15 2TTUK
| | - George G. Malliaras
- Division of Electrical EngineeringDepartment of EngineeringUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeCB3 0FAUK
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Teodorescu COD, Șandru F, Charkaoui A, Teodorescu A, Popa AR, Miron AI. The dynamic changes in the pattern of liver function tests in pregnant obese women. Exp Ther Med 2021; 22:986. [PMID: 34345268 PMCID: PMC8311227 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2021.10418] [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: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Obesity is an important problem in healthcare regarding gestating women. The objective of the present study was to highlight the impact that obesity has on the hepatic function in pregnant women by comparing the functional tests used in current practice. In addition, the aim was to identify possible predictors of liver damage by analyzing specific anthropometric data. The present study was descriptive, observational, retrospective, and based on the observation sheets found in the database of the Institute for the Health of the Mother and Child, the Obstetrics Gynecology Department of Polizu Hospital. Patients who presented for consultation in each trimester of pregnancy were included in the study. Demographic data taken into account included age, body mass index (BMI), provenance environment, anthropometric data: Abdominal circumference and the complete set of paraclinical data from which we extracted these specific liver tests: Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine transferase (ALT), direct bilirubin (BD), serum albumin and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT). The present study included 157 patients divided into two groups, distributed as follows: Group A: 66 obese pregnant women (BMI >25 kg/m2) and group B: 91 patients with normal weight (BMI <25 kg/m2). Measurement of serum ALT and AST were the most useful tests for routine diagnosis of liver disease. The effects of pregnancy on serum levels of ALT and AST are controversial. In some studies, there was a slight increase in ALT and AST during the second and third trimesters, a fact confirmed by our study, albeit the result was not statistically significant Most published studies claim that serum ALT and AST levels do not change during pregnancy. In conclusion, obesity during pregnancy does not drastically influence liver function. However, patients with greater abdominal circumference are prone to developing minor hepatic cytolysis syndrome during the gestation period. The liver functional tests described in the aforementioned groups agree with the results provided by the specialized studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Florica Șandru
- Department of Dermatology, ‘Carol Davila’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Dermatology, ‘Elias’ Emergency University Hospital, 011461 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Adham Charkaoui
- Department of Morphological and Functional Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, ‘Dunarea de Jos’ University, 800008 Galati, Romania
| | - Andrei Teodorescu
- Department of Morphology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 410028 Oradea, Romania
| | - Amorin Remus Popa
- Department of Diabetes, Nutrition, Metabolic and Internal Diseases, University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 410033 Oradea, Romania
| | - Andreea-Iuliana Miron
- Department of Dermatology, ‘Carol Davila’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Radiology, Oncology, Hematology, ‘Colțea’ Clinical Hospital, 927180 Bucharest, Romania
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Baskin DS, Sharpe MA, Nguyen L, Helekar SA. Case Report: End-Stage Recurrent Glioblastoma Treated With a New Noninvasive Non-Contact Oncomagnetic Device. Front Oncol 2021; 11:708017. [PMID: 34367992 PMCID: PMC8341943 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.708017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Alternating electric field therapy has been approved for glioblastoma (GBM). We have preclinical evidence for anticancer effects in GBM cell cultures and mouse xenografts with an oscillating magnetic field (OMF) generating device. Here we report OMF treatment of end-stage recurrent glioblastoma in a 53-year-old man who had undergone radical surgical excision and chemoradiotherapy, and experimental gene therapy for a left frontal tumor. He experienced tumor recurrence and progressive enlargement with leptomeningeal involvement. OMF for 5 weeks was well tolerated, with 31% reduction of contrast-enhanced tumor volume and reduction in abnormal T2-weighted Fluid-Attenuated Inversion Recovery volume. Tumor shrinkage appeared to correlate with treatment dose. These findings suggest a powerful new noninvasive therapy for glioblastoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- David S Baskin
- Kenneth R. Peak Brain and Pituitary Tumor Treatment Center, Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Neurological Institute, Houston, TX, United States.,Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, United States.,Department of Neurosurgery, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, United States
| | - Martyn A Sharpe
- Kenneth R. Peak Brain and Pituitary Tumor Treatment Center, Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Neurological Institute, Houston, TX, United States.,Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Lisa Nguyen
- Kenneth R. Peak Brain and Pituitary Tumor Treatment Center, Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Neurological Institute, Houston, TX, United States.,Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Santosh A Helekar
- Kenneth R. Peak Brain and Pituitary Tumor Treatment Center, Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Neurological Institute, Houston, TX, United States.,Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, United States.,Department of Neurosurgery, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, United States
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Therapy of pancreatic cancer with alternating electric fields: Limitations of the method. Bioelectrochemistry 2021; 141:107881. [PMID: 34245959 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioelechem.2021.107881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Revised: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a highly malignant tumor with a poor prognosis. More effective treatment options are urgently needed. The use of physical and weak alternating electric fields (TTFields) can inhibit cell division of PDAC carcinoma and is currently being investigated in clinical trials. Here, we analyzed this new physical treatment under non-ideal conditions such as may occur during patient treatment. Three established human PDAC cell lines BxPC-3, gemcitabine-resistant BxPC-3 (BxGem), AsPC-1, and a non-malignant primary pancreatic cell line CRL-4023 were treated with TTFields in vitro. MTT assays, electrical impedance measurement, cell staining with Annexin V/7AAD followed by FACS analysis, digital image analysis and immunohistochemistry were performed. Treatment with TTFields smaller than 0.7 V/cm and field lines in the direction of mitotic spindle orientation significantly inhibited proliferation of all PDAC cells at 150 kHz, but significantly increased viability of AsPC-1 cells at all frequencies between 100 kHz and 300 kHz and that of BxPC-3 and BxGem cells at 250 kHz. Apoptosis or necrosis were not induced. Non-malignant CRL-4023 cells were not affected at 150 kHz. TTFields damaged PDAC cell lines but even favored their viability at very weak field strength and unfavorable frequency or inadequate field direction.
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Aguilar AA, Ho MC, Chang E, Carlson KW, Natarajan A, Marciano T, Bomzon Z, Patel CB. Permeabilizing Cell Membranes with Electric Fields. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:2283. [PMID: 34068775 PMCID: PMC8126200 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13092283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Revised: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The biological impact of exogenous, alternating electric fields (AEFs) and direct-current electric fields has a long history of study, ranging from effects on embryonic development to influences on wound healing. In this article, we focus on the application of electric fields for the treatment of cancers. In particular, we outline the clinical impact of tumor treating fields (TTFields), a form of AEFs, on the treatment of cancers such as glioblastoma and mesothelioma. We provide an overview of the standard mechanism of action of TTFields, namely, the capability for AEFs (e.g., TTFields) to disrupt the formation and segregation of the mitotic spindle in actively dividing cells. Though this standard mechanism explains a large part of TTFields' action, it is by no means complete. The standard theory does not account for exogenously applied AEFs' influence directly upon DNA nor upon their capacity to alter the functionality and permeability of cancer cell membranes. This review summarizes the current literature to provide a more comprehensive understanding of AEFs' actions on cell membranes. It gives an overview of three mechanistic models that may explain the more recent observations into AEFs' effects: the voltage-gated ion channel, bioelectrorheological, and electroporation models. Inconsistencies were noted in both effective frequency range and field strength between TTFields versus all three proposed models. We addressed these discrepancies through theoretical investigations into the inhomogeneities of electric fields on cellular membranes as a function of disease state, external microenvironment, and tissue or cellular organization. Lastly, future experimental strategies to validate these findings are outlined. Clinical benefits are inevitably forthcoming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alondra A. Aguilar
- Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford, Department of Radiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; (A.A.A.); (M.C.H.); (E.C.); (A.N.)
| | - Michelle C. Ho
- Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford, Department of Radiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; (A.A.A.); (M.C.H.); (E.C.); (A.N.)
| | - Edwin Chang
- Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford, Department of Radiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; (A.A.A.); (M.C.H.); (E.C.); (A.N.)
| | - Kristen W. Carlson
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Department of Neurosurgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA;
| | - Arutselvan Natarajan
- Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford, Department of Radiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; (A.A.A.); (M.C.H.); (E.C.); (A.N.)
| | - Tal Marciano
- Novocure, Ltd., 31905 Haifa, Israel; (T.M.); (Z.B.)
| | - Ze’ev Bomzon
- Novocure, Ltd., 31905 Haifa, Israel; (T.M.); (Z.B.)
| | - Chirag B. Patel
- Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford, Department of Radiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; (A.A.A.); (M.C.H.); (E.C.); (A.N.)
- Department of Neurology & Neurological Sciences, Division of Neuro-Oncology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
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35
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The Biocompatibility of Wireless Power Charging System on Human Neural Cells. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/app11083611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The progress in technology and science leads to the invention and use of many electrical devices in the daily lives of humans. In addition to that, people have been easily exposed to increased newly generated artificial electromagnetic waves. Exponential use of modern electronic devices has automatically led to increase in electromagnetic wave exposure. Therefore, we constructed the prototype of wireless power charging system to study the biocompatibility of electromagnetic field (EMF) generated by this system on various human cell lines. There are many studies indicating the negative bio-effect of EMF on various types of cells, such as induction of apoptosis. From the other point of view, these effects could rather be beneficial in the way, that they could eliminate the progress of various diseases or disorders. For that reason, we compared the impact of EMF (87 kHz, 0.3–1.2 mT, 30 min) on human normal as well as cancer cell lines based on morphological and cellular level. Our results suggested that EMF generated by wireless power charging systems does not have any detrimental effect on cell morphology, viability and cytoskeletal structures of human neural cells.
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Shawki MM, Elabd S. Tumor treating fields (TTFs) using uninsulated electrodes induce cell death in human non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) cells. AIMS BIOPHYSICS 2021. [DOI: 10.3934/biophy.2021011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
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37
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Ravin R, Cai TX, Pursley RH, Garmendia-Cedillos M, Pohida T, Freidlin RZ, Wang H, Zhuang Z, Giles AJ, Williamson NH, Gilbert MR, Basser PJ. A Novel In Vitro Device to Deliver Induced Electromagnetic Fields to Cell and Tissue Cultures. Biophys J 2020; 119:2378-2390. [PMID: 33189686 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2020.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Revised: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
We have developed a novel, to our knowledge, in vitro instrument that can deliver intermediate-frequency (100-400 kHz), moderate-intensity (up to and exceeding 6.5 V/cm pk-pk) electric fields (EFs) to cell and tissue cultures generated using induced electromagnetic fields (EMFs) in an air-core solenoid coil. A major application of these EFs is as an emerging cancer treatment modality. In vitro studies by Novocure reported that intermediate-frequency (100-300 kHz), low-amplitude (1-3 V/cm) EFs, which they called "tumor-treating fields (TTFields)," had an antimitotic effect on glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) cells. The effect was found to increase with increasing EF amplitude. Despite continued theoretical, preclinical, and clinical study, the mechanism of action remains incompletely understood. All previous in vitro studies of "TTFields" have used attached, capacitively coupled electrodes to deliver alternating EFs to cell and tissue cultures. This contacting delivery method suffers from a poorly characterized EF profile and conductive heating that limits the duration and amplitude of the applied EFs. In contrast, our device delivers EFs with a well-characterized radial profile in a noncontacting manner, eliminating conductive heating and enabling thermally regulated EF delivery. To test and demonstrate our system, we generated continuous, 200-kHz EMF with an EF amplitude profile spanning 0-6.5 V/cm pk-pk and applied them to exemplar human thyroid cell cultures for 72 h. We observed moderate reduction in cell density (<10%) at low EF amplitudes (<4 V/cm) and a greater reduction in cell density of up to 25% at higher amplitudes (4-6.5 V/cm). Our device can be readily extended to other EF frequency and amplitude regimes. Future studies with this device should contribute to the ongoing debate about the efficacy and mechanism(s) of action of "TTFields" by better isolating the effects of EFs and providing access to previously inaccessible EF regimes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rea Ravin
- Celoptics, Inc., Rockville, Maryland; Section on Quantitative Imaging and Tissue Sciences Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institutes of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Teddy X Cai
- Section on Quantitative Imaging and Tissue Sciences Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institutes of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland; Wellcome Centre for Integrative Neuroimaging, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Randall H Pursley
- The Signal Processing and Instrumentation Section, Center for Information Technology, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Marcial Garmendia-Cedillos
- The Signal Processing and Instrumentation Section, Center for Information Technology, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Tom Pohida
- The Signal Processing and Instrumentation Section, Center for Information Technology, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Raisa Z Freidlin
- The Signal Processing and Instrumentation Section, Center for Information Technology, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Herui Wang
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Zhengping Zhuang
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Amber J Giles
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Nathan H Williamson
- Section on Quantitative Imaging and Tissue Sciences Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institutes of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland; National Institute of General Medical Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Mark R Gilbert
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Peter J Basser
- Section on Quantitative Imaging and Tissue Sciences Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institutes of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland.
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Carrieri FA, Smack C, Siddiqui I, Kleinberg LR, Tran PT. Tumor Treating Fields: At the Crossroads Between Physics and Biology for Cancer Treatment. Front Oncol 2020; 10:575992. [PMID: 33215030 PMCID: PMC7664989 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.575992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite extraordinary advances that have been achieved in the last few decades, cancer continues to represent a leading cause of mortality worldwide. Lethal cancer types ultimately become refractory to standard of care approaches; thus, novel effective treatment options are desperately needed. Tumor Treating Fields (TTFields) are an innovative non-invasive regional anti-mitotic treatment modality with minimal systemic toxicity. TTFields are low intensity (1-3 V/cm), intermediate frequency (100-300 kHz) alternating electric fields delivered to cancer cells. In patients, TTFields are applied using FDA-approved transducer arrays, orthogonally positioned on the area surrounding the tumor region, with side effects mostly limited to the skin. The precise molecular mechanism of the anti-tumor effects of TTFields is not well-understood, but preclinical research on TTFields suggests it may act during two phases of mitosis: at metaphase, by disrupting the formation of the mitotic spindle, and at cytokinesis, by dielectrophoretic dislocation of intracellular organelles leading to cell death. This review describes the mechanism of action of TTFields and provides an overview of the most important in vitro studies that investigate the disruptive effects of TTFields in different cancer cells, focusing mainly on anti-mitotic roles. Lastly, we summarize completed and ongoing TTFields clinical trials on a variety of solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca A. Carrieri
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Molecular Radiation Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Caleb Smack
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Molecular Radiation Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Ismaeel Siddiqui
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Molecular Radiation Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Lawrence R. Kleinberg
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Molecular Radiation Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Phuoc T. Tran
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Molecular Radiation Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Program in Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Department of Urology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Program in Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
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1.2 MV/cm pulsed electric fields promote transthyretin aggregate degradation. Sci Rep 2020; 10:12003. [PMID: 32686729 PMCID: PMC7371718 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-68681-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2020] [Accepted: 06/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Numerous theoretical studies have been conducted on the effects of high-voltage electric fields on proteins, but few have produced experimental evidence. To acquire experimental data for the amyloid disassemble theory, we exposed transthyretin aggregates to 1,000 ns 1.26 MV/cm pulsed electric fields (PEFs) to promote transthyretin degradation. The process produced no changes in pH, and the resulting temperature increases were < 1 °C. We conclude that the physical effects of PEFs, rather than thermal or chemical effects, facilitate aggregate degradation.
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40
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Zhang C, Du J, Xu W, Huang H, Gao L. The Value of Tumor Treating Fields in Glioblastoma. J Korean Neurosurg Soc 2020; 63:681-688. [PMID: 32380584 PMCID: PMC7671789 DOI: 10.3340/jkns.2019.0224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2019] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is one of the most common tumors of the central nervous system, which is the most lethal brain cancer. GBM treatment is based primarily on surgical resection, combined with radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Despite the positive treatment, progression free survival and overall survival were not significantly prolonged because GBM almost always recurs. We are always looking forward to some new and effective treatments. In recent years, a novel treatment method called tumor treating fields (TTFields) for cancer treatment has been proposed. TTFields devices were approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for adjuvant treatment of recurrent and newly diagnosed GBMs in 2011 and 2015, respectively. This became the first breakthrough treatment for GBM in the past 10 years after the FDA approved bevacizumab for patients with relapsed GBM in 2009. This paper summarized the research results of TTFields in recent years and elaborated the mechanism of action of TTFields on GBM, including cell and animal experimental research, clinical application and social benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaochao Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jianyang Du
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Weidong Xu
- Department of Neurosurgery, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Haiyan Huang
- Department of Neurosurgery, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Li Gao
- Department of Outpatient, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
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41
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Induction of apoptosis and ferroptosis by a tumor suppressing magnetic field through ROS-mediated DNA damage. Aging (Albany NY) 2020; 12:3662-3681. [PMID: 32074079 PMCID: PMC7066880 DOI: 10.18632/aging.102836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2019] [Accepted: 01/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Magnetic field (MF) is being used in antitumor treatment; however, the underlying biological mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, the potency and mechanism of a previously published tumor suppressing MF exposure protocol were further investigated. This protocol, characterized as a 50 Hz electromagnetic field modulated by static MF with time-average intensity of 5.1 mT, when applied for 2 h daily for over 3 consecutive days, selectively inhibited the growth of a broad spectrum of tumor cell lines including lung cancer, gastric cancer, pancreatic cancer and nephroblastoma. The level of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) increased shortly after field exposure and persisted. Subsequently, pronounced DNA damage and activation of DNA repair pathways were identified both in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, use of free radical scavenger alleviated DNA damage and partially reduced cell death. Finally, this field was found to inhibit cell proliferation, and simultaneously induced two types of programmed cell death, apoptosis and ferroptosis. In conclusion, this tumor suppressing MF could determine cell fate through ROS-induced DNA damage, inducing oxidative stress and activation of the DNA damage repair pathways, eventually lead to apoptosis and ferroptosis, as well as inhibition of tumor growth.
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42
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Investigation of the Electrical Properties of Microtubule Ensembles under Cell-Like Conditions. NANOMATERIALS 2020; 10:nano10020265. [PMID: 32033331 PMCID: PMC7075204 DOI: 10.3390/nano10020265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2019] [Revised: 01/28/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Microtubules are hollow cylindrical polymers composed of the highly negatively-charged (~23e), high dipole moment (1750 D) protein α, β- tubulin. While the roles of microtubules in chromosomal segregation, macromolecular transport, and cell migration are relatively well-understood, studies on the electrical properties of microtubules have only recently gained strong interest. Here, we show that while microtubules at physiological concentrations increase solution capacitance, free tubulin has no appreciable effect. Further, we observed a decrease in electrical resistance of solution, with charge transport peaking between 20-60 Hz in the presence of microtubules, consistent with recent findings that microtubules exhibit electric oscillations at such low frequencies. We were able to quantify the capacitance and resistance of the microtubules (MT) network at physiological tubulin concentrations to be 1.27 × 10-5 F and 9.74 × 104 Ω. Our results show that in addition to macromolecular transport, microtubules also act as charge storage devices through counterionic condensation across a broad frequency spectrum. We conclude with a hypothesis of an electrically tunable cytoskeleton where the dielectric properties of tubulin are polymerisation-state dependent.
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43
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Li X, Yang F, Rubinsky B. A Theoretical Study on the Biophysical Mechanisms by Which Tumor Treating Fields Affect Tumor Cells During Mitosis. IEEE Trans Biomed Eng 2020; 67:2594-2602. [PMID: 31940516 DOI: 10.1109/tbme.2020.2965883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE A theoretical study on the mechanisms through which Tumor Treating Fields (TTFields) affect dividing tumor cells. METHODS Numerical analysis was used to revisit two previously proposed mechanisms and introduce a third. We examine the previous hypotheses that: a) TTFields generate a moment that affects microtubule assembly during early mitosis, and b) dielectrophoretic (DEP) forces cause neutral particles to move toward the cleavage furrow during the telophase stage. We further introduce a new hypothesis that TTFields modify cell membrane potential in dividing tumor cells. RESULTS a) The Brownian energy is several orders of magnitude larger than the moment induced by TTFields on tubulin dimers. b) Adding Stokes drag forces to DEP forces shows that the motion of the particles in the cytoplasm is very slow, approximately 0.003 µm/s, and therefore, unless the duration of the telophase is long enough there will be no substantial effect from the DEP forces. c) The Schwan equation shows that electric fields at the frequencies of clinical TTFields can cause a 10%-17% change in tumor cell membrane potential. CONCLUSION Our studies find limited support for the previously suggested hypotheses and suggest that the TTFields affect ion channels by inducing cell membrane potential change could be a mechanism of tumor cell death. SIGNIFICANCE Previously suggested mechanisms of tumor cell death from TTFields are found lacking. The effect of TTFields on the tumor cell membrane potential warrants further research.
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45
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Mattsson MO, Simkó M. Emerging medical applications based on non-ionizing electromagnetic fields from 0 Hz to 10 THz. MEDICAL DEVICES-EVIDENCE AND RESEARCH 2019; 12:347-368. [PMID: 31565000 PMCID: PMC6746309 DOI: 10.2147/mder.s214152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2019] [Accepted: 08/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The potential for using non-ionizing electromagnetic fields (EMF; at frequencies from 0 Hz up to the THz range) for medical purposes has been of interest since many decades. A number of established and familiar methods are in use all over the world. This review, however, provides an overview of applications that already play some clinical role or are in earlier stages of development. The covered methods include modalities used for bone healing, cancer treatment, neurological conditions, and diathermy. In addition, certain other potential clinical areas are touched upon. Most of the reviewed technologies deal with therapy, whereas just a few diagnostic approaches are mentioned. None of the discussed methods are having such a strong impact in their field of use that they would be expected to replace conventional methods. Partly this is due to a knowledge base that lacks mechanistic explanations for EMF effects at low-intensity levels, which often are used in the applications. Thus, the possible optimal use of EMF approaches is restricted. Other reasons for the limited impact include a scarcity of well-performed randomized clinical trials that convincingly show the efficacy of the methods and that standardized user protocols are mostly lacking. Presently, it seems that some EMF-based methods can have a niche role in treatment and diagnostics of certain conditions, mostly as a complement to or in combination with other, more established, methods. Further development and a stronger impact of these technologies need a better understanding of the interaction mechanisms between EMF and biological systems at lower intensity levels. The importance of the different physical parameters of the EMF exposure needs also further investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mats-Olof Mattsson
- SciProof International AB, Östersund, Sweden
- Strömstad Akademi, Institute for Advanced Studies, Strömstad, Sweden
| | - Myrtill Simkó
- SciProof International AB, Östersund, Sweden
- Strömstad Akademi, Institute for Advanced Studies, Strömstad, Sweden
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46
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Facchin F, Canaider S, Tassinari R, Zannini C, Bianconi E, Taglioli V, Olivi E, Cavallini C, Tausel M, Ventura C. Physical energies to the rescue of damaged tissues. World J Stem Cells 2019; 11:297-321. [PMID: 31293714 PMCID: PMC6600852 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v11.i6.297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2019] [Revised: 04/24/2019] [Accepted: 05/29/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Rhythmic oscillatory patterns sustain cellular dynamics, driving the concerted action of regulatory molecules, microtubules, and molecular motors. We describe cellular microtubules as oscillators capable of synchronization and swarming, generating mechanical and electric patterns that impact biomolecular recognition. We consider the biological relevance of seeing the inside of cells populated by a network of molecules that behave as bioelectronic circuits and chromophores. We discuss the novel perspectives disclosed by mechanobiology, bioelectromagnetism, and photobiomodulation, both in term of fundamental basic science and in light of the biomedical implication of using physical energies to govern (stem) cell fate. We focus on the feasibility of exploiting atomic force microscopy and hyperspectral imaging to detect signatures of nanomotions and electromagnetic radiation (light), respectively, generated by the stem cells across the specification of their multilineage repertoire. The chance is reported of using these signatures and the diffusive features of physical waves to direct specifically the differentiation program of stem cells in situ, where they already are resident in all the tissues of the human body. We discuss how this strategy may pave the way to a regenerative and precision medicine without the needs for (stem) cell or tissue transplantation. We describe a novel paradigm based upon boosting our inherent ability for self-healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Facchin
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), School of Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna 40100, Italy
- National Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Stem Cell Engineering, National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems, CNR, Bologna 40100, Italy
| | - Silvia Canaider
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), School of Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna 40100, Italy
- National Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Stem Cell Engineering, National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems, CNR, Bologna 40100, Italy
| | - Riccardo Tassinari
- National Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Stem Cell Engineering, National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems, CNR, Bologna 40100, Italy
| | - Chiara Zannini
- National Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Stem Cell Engineering, National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems, CNR, Bologna 40100, Italy
| | - Eva Bianconi
- National Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Stem Cell Engineering, National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems, CNR, Bologna 40100, Italy
| | - Valentina Taglioli
- National Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Stem Cell Engineering, National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems, CNR, Bologna 40100, Italy
| | - Elena Olivi
- National Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Stem Cell Engineering, National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems, CNR, Bologna 40100, Italy
| | - Claudia Cavallini
- National Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Stem Cell Engineering, National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems, CNR, Bologna 40100, Italy
| | | | - Carlo Ventura
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), School of Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna 40100, Italy
- National Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Stem Cell Engineering, National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems, CNR, Bologna 40100, Italy
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47
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Guzman-Sepulveda JR, Wu R, Kalra AP, Aminpour M, Tuszynski JA, Dogariu A. Tubulin Polarizability in Aqueous Suspensions. ACS OMEGA 2019; 4:9144-9149. [PMID: 31460002 PMCID: PMC6648103 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.9b00137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2019] [Accepted: 05/13/2019] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
We report accurate optical measurements of tubulin polarizability in aqueous suspensions. We determined the dependence of polarizability on tubulin concentration and on the suspension's pH, providing benchmark numbers for quantifying the optical response of this protein in various artificial and cellular environments. We compare our measurement data with a few estimates found in the previous literature and also with our simplified model estimations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ruitao Wu
- CREOL,
The College of Optics and Photonics, University
of Central Florida, Orlando 32816, United States
| | - Aarat P. Kalra
- Department of Physics and Department of Oncology, University
of Alberta, Edmonton T6G 2R3, Canada
| | - Maral Aminpour
- Department of Physics and Department of Oncology, University
of Alberta, Edmonton T6G 2R3, Canada
| | - Jack A. Tuszynski
- Department of Physics and Department of Oncology, University
of Alberta, Edmonton T6G 2R3, Canada
- Department
of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Politecnico di Torino, Turin 10129, Italy
| | - Aristide Dogariu
- CREOL,
The College of Optics and Photonics, University
of Central Florida, Orlando 32816, United States
- E-mail:
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48
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Tumour-treating fields (TTFields): Investigations on the mechanism of action by electromagnetic exposure of cells in telophase/cytokinesis. Sci Rep 2019; 9:7362. [PMID: 31089145 PMCID: PMC6517379 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-43621-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2018] [Accepted: 04/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumour-treating fields (TTFields) use alternating electric fields which interfere with dividing cells, thereby reducing tumour growth. Previous reports suggest that electrical forces on cell structure proteins interfered with the chromosome separation during mitosis and induced apoptosis. In the present report we evaluate electromagnetic exposure of cells in telophase/cytokinesis in order to further analyse the mechanism of action on cells. We performed numerical electromagnetic simulations to analyse the field distribution in a cell during different mitotic phases. Based thereon, we developed an electric lumped element model of the mitotic cell. Both the electromagnetic simulation and the lumped element model predict a local increase of the specific absorption rate (SAR) as a measure of the electromagnetically induced power absorption density at the mitotic furrow which may help to explain the anti-proliferative effect. In accordance with other reports, cell culture experiments confirmed that TTFields reduce the proliferation of different glioma cell lines in a field strength- and frequency-dependent manner. Furthermore, we found an additional dependence on the commutation time of the electrical fields. The report gives new insights into TTFields’ anti-proliferative effect on tumours, which could help to improve future TTFields application systems.
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49
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Chang E, Patel CB, Pohling C, Young C, Song J, Flores TA, Zeng Y, Joubert LM, Arami H, Natarajan A, Sinclair R, Gambhir SS. Tumor treating fields increases membrane permeability in glioblastoma cells. Cell Death Discov 2018; 4:113. [PMID: 30534421 PMCID: PMC6281619 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-018-0130-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2018] [Revised: 11/08/2018] [Accepted: 11/12/2018] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma is the most common yet most lethal of primary brain cancers with a one-year post-diagnosis survival rate of 65% and a five-year survival rate of barely 5%. Recently the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved a novel fourth approach (in addition to surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy) to treating glioblastoma; namely, tumor treating fields (TTFields). TTFields involves the delivery of alternating electric fields to the tumor but its mechanisms of action are not fully understood. Current theories involve TTFields disrupting mitosis due to interference with proper mitotic spindle assembly. We show that TTFields also alters cellular membrane structure thus rendering it more permeant to chemotherapeutics. Increased membrane permeability through the imposition of TTFields was shown by several approaches. For example, increased permeability was indicated through increased bioluminescence with TTFields exposure or with the increased binding and ingress of membrane-associating reagents such as Dextran-FITC or ethidium D or with the demonstration by scanning electron microscopy of augmented number and sizes of holes on the cellular membrane. Further investigations showed that increases in bioluminescence and membrane hole production with TTFields exposure disappeared by 24 h after cessation of alternating electric fields thus demonstrating that this phenomenom is reversible. Preliminary investigations showed that TTFields did not induce membrane holes in normal human fibroblasts thus suggesting that the phenomenom was specific to cancer cells. With TTFields, we present evidence showing augmented membrane accessibility by compounds such as 5-aminolevulinic acid, a reagent used intraoperatively to delineate tumor from normal tissue in glioblastoma patients. In addition, this mechanism helps to explain previous reports of additive and synergistic effects between TTFields and other chemotherapies. These findings have implications for the design of combination therapies in glioblastoma and other cancers and may significantly alter standard of care strategies for these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edwin Chang
- Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford, Department of Radiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Room E150, 318 Campus Drive West, Stanford, CA 94305 USA
| | - Chirag B. Patel
- Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford, Department of Radiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Room E150, 318 Campus Drive West, Stanford, CA 94305 USA
- Division of Neuro-Oncology, Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305 USA
| | - Christoph Pohling
- Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford, Department of Radiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Room E150, 318 Campus Drive West, Stanford, CA 94305 USA
| | - Caroline Young
- Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford, Department of Radiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Room E150, 318 Campus Drive West, Stanford, CA 94305 USA
| | - Jonathan Song
- Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford, Department of Radiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Room E150, 318 Campus Drive West, Stanford, CA 94305 USA
| | - Thomas Anthony Flores
- Department of Applied Physics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305 USA
| | - Yitian Zeng
- Department of Materials Science & Engineering, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305 USA
| | - Lydia-Marie Joubert
- Electron Microscopy Unit, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Hamed Arami
- Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford, Department of Radiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Room E150, 318 Campus Drive West, Stanford, CA 94305 USA
| | - Arutselvan Natarajan
- Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford, Department of Radiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Room E150, 318 Campus Drive West, Stanford, CA 94305 USA
| | - Robert Sinclair
- Department of Materials Science & Engineering, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305 USA
| | - Sanjiv S. Gambhir
- Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford, Department of Radiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Room E150, 318 Campus Drive West, Stanford, CA 94305 USA
- Department of Materials Science & Engineering, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305 USA
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305 USA
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Branter J, Basu S, Smith S. Tumour treating fields in a combinational therapeutic approach. Oncotarget 2018; 9:36631-36644. [PMID: 30564303 PMCID: PMC6290966 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.26344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2017] [Accepted: 10/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The standard of care for patients with newly diagnosed Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) has remained unchanged since 2005, with patients undergoing maximal surgical resection, followed by radiotherapy plus concomitant and maintenance Temozolomide. More recently, Tumour treating fields (TTFields) therapy has become FDA approved for adult recurrent and adult newly-diagnosed GBM following the EF-11 and EF-14 trials, respectively. TTFields is a non-invasive anticancer treatment which utilizes medium frequency alternating electric fields to target actively dividing cancerous cells. TTFields selectively targets cells within mitosis through interacting with key mitotic proteins to cause mitotic arrest and cell death. TTFields therapy presents itself as a candidate for the combinational therapy route due to the lack of overlapping toxicities associated with electric fields. Here we review current literature pertaining to TTFields in combination with alkylating agents, radiation, anti-angiogenics, mitotic inhibitors, immunotherapies, and also with novel agents. This review highlights the observed synergistic and additive effects of combining TTFields with various other therapies, as well highlighting the strategies relating to combinations with electric fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Branter
- Children's Brain Tumour Research Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, UK
| | - Surajit Basu
- Queen's Medical Centre, Department of Neurosurgery, Nottingham, UK
| | - Stuart Smith
- Children's Brain Tumour Research Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, UK
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