1
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Wang B, Yang L, Yuan X, Zhang Y. Roles and therapeutic targeting of dendritic cells in liver fibrosis. J Drug Target 2024; 32:647-654. [PMID: 38682473 DOI: 10.1080/1061186x.2024.2347365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a common pathological condition marked by excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix proteins, resulting in irreversible cirrhosis and cancer. Dendritic cells (DCs) act as the crucial component of hepatic immunity and are believed to affect fibrosis by regulating the proliferation and differentiation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), a key mediator of fibrogenesis, and by interplaying with immune cells in the liver. This review concisely describes the process of fibrogenesis, and the phenotypic and functional characteristics of DCs in the liver. Besides, it focuses on the interaction between DCs and HSCs, T cells, and natural killer (NK) cells, as well as the dual roles of DCs in liver fibrosis, for the sake of exploring the potential of targeting DCs as a therapeutic strategy for the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingyu Wang
- Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, P.R. China
- Department of Gastroenterology, Heilongjiang Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Harbin, P.R. China
| | - Liuxin Yang
- Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, P.R. China
| | - Xingxing Yuan
- Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, P.R. China
- Department of Gastroenterology, Heilongjiang Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Harbin, P.R. China
| | - Yang Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, P.R. China
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2
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Werner W, Kuzminskaya M, Lurje I, Tacke F, Hammerich L. Overcoming Resistance to Immune Checkpoint Blockade in Liver Cancer with Combination Therapy: Stronger Together? Semin Liver Dis 2024. [PMID: 38806159 DOI: 10.1055/a-2334-8311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
Primary liver cancer, represented mainly by hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), is one of the most common and deadliest tumors worldwide. While surgical resection or liver transplantation are the best option in early disease stages, these tumors often present in advanced stages and systemic treatment is required to improve survival time. The emergence of immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy has had a positive impact especially on the treatment of advanced cancers, thereby establishing immunotherapy as part of first-line treatment in HCC and CCA. Nevertheless, low response rates reflect on the usually cold or immunosuppressed tumor microenvironment of primary liver cancer. In this review, we aim to summarize mechanisms of resistance leading to tumor immune escape with a special focus on the composition of tumor microenvironment in both HCC and CCA, also reflecting on recent important developments in ICI combination therapy. Furthermore, we discuss how combination of ICIs with established primary liver cancer treatments (e.g. multikinase inhibitors and chemotherapy) as well as more complex combinations with state-of-the-art therapeutic concepts may reshape the tumor microenvironment, leading to higher response rates and long-lasting antitumor immunity for primary liver cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wiebke Werner
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Charité Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Maria Kuzminskaya
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Charité Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Isabella Lurje
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Charité Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Frank Tacke
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Charité Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Linda Hammerich
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Charité Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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3
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Koelsch N, Mirshahi F, Aqbi HF, Saneshaw M, Idowu MO, Olex AL, Sanyal AJ, Manjili MH. Effective anti-tumor immune response against HCC is orchestrated by immune cell partnership network that functions through hepatic homeostatic pathways, not direct cytotoxicity. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.06.12.598563. [PMID: 38903113 PMCID: PMC11188117 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.12.598563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
The liver harbors a diverse array of immune cells during both health and disease. The specific roles of these cells in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remain unclear. Using a systems immunology approach, we demonstrate that reciprocal cell-cell communications function through dominant-subdominant pattern of ligand-receptor homeostatic pathways. In the healthy control, hepatocyte-dominated homeostatic pathways induce local immune responses to maintain liver homeostasis. Chronic intake of a Western diet (WD) alters hepatocytes and induces hepatic stellate cell (HSC), cancer cell and NKT cell-dominated interactions during NAFLD. During HCC, monocytes, hepatocytes, and myofibroblasts join the dominant cellular interactions network to restore liver homeostasis. Dietary correction during NAFLD results in nonlinear outcomes with various cellular rearrangements. When cancer cells and stromal cells dominate hepatic interactions network without inducing homeostatic immune responses, HCC progression occurs. Conversely, myofibroblast and fibroblast-dominated network orchestrates monocyte-dominated HCC-preventive immune responses. Tumor immune surveillance by 75% of immune cells successfully promoting liver homeostasis can create a tumor-inhibitory microenvironment, while only 5% of immune cells manifest apoptosis-inducing functions, primarily for facilitating homeostatic liver cell turnover rather than direct tumor killing. These data suggest that an effective immunotherapy should promote liver homeostasis rather than direct tumor killing.
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4
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Galasso L, Cerrito L, Maccauro V, Termite F, Ainora ME, Gasbarrini A, Zocco MA. Hepatocellular Carcinoma and the Multifaceted Relationship with Its Microenvironment: Attacking the Hepatocellular Carcinoma Defensive Fortress. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1837. [PMID: 38791916 PMCID: PMC11119751 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16101837] [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: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma is a malignant tumor that originates from hepatocytes in an inflammatory substrate due to different degrees of liver fibrosis up to cirrhosis. In recent years, there has been growing interest in the role played by the complex interrelationship between hepatocellular carcinoma and its microenvironment, capable of influencing tumourigenesis, neoplastic growth, and its progression or even inhibition. The microenvironment is made up of an intricate network of mesenchymal cells, immune system cells, extracellular matrix, and growth factors, as well as proinflammatory cytokines and translocated bacterial products coming from the intestinal microenvironment via the enterohepatic circulation. The aim of this paper is to review the role of the HCC microenvironment and describe the possible implications in the choice of the most appropriate therapeutic scheme in the prediction of tumor response or resistance to currently applied treatments and in the possible development of future therapeutic perspectives, in order to circumvent resistance and break down the tumor's defensive fort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Galasso
- Department of Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy (L.C.); (V.M.); (A.G.)
| | - Lucia Cerrito
- Department of Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy (L.C.); (V.M.); (A.G.)
- CEMAD Digestive Disease Center, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Valeria Maccauro
- Department of Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy (L.C.); (V.M.); (A.G.)
| | - Fabrizio Termite
- Department of Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy (L.C.); (V.M.); (A.G.)
| | - Maria Elena Ainora
- Department of Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy (L.C.); (V.M.); (A.G.)
- CEMAD Digestive Disease Center, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Gasbarrini
- Department of Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy (L.C.); (V.M.); (A.G.)
- CEMAD Digestive Disease Center, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Assunta Zocco
- Department of Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy (L.C.); (V.M.); (A.G.)
- CEMAD Digestive Disease Center, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy
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5
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Hato L, Vizcay A, Eguren I, Pérez-Gracia JL, Rodríguez J, Gállego Pérez-Larraya J, Sarobe P, Inogés S, Díaz de Cerio AL, Santisteban M. Dendritic Cells in Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:981. [PMID: 38473341 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16050981] [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: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy modulates the immune system, overcomes immune escape and stimulates immune defenses against tumors. Dendritic cells (DCs) are professional promoters of immune responses against tumor antigens with the outstanding ability to coordinate the innate and adaptive immune systems. Evidence suggests that there is a decrease in both the number and function of DCs in cancer patients. Therefore, they represent a strong scaffold for therapeutic interventions. DC vaccination (DCV) is safe, and the antitumoral responses induced are well established in solid tumors. Although the addition of checkpoint inhibitors (CPIs) to chemotherapy has provided new options in the treatment of cancer, they have shown no clinical benefit in immune desert tumors or in those tumors with dysfunctional or exhausted T-cells. In this way, DC-based therapy has demonstrated the ability to modify the tumor microenvironment for immune enriched tumors and to potentiate systemic host immune responses as an active approach to treating cancer patients. Application of DCV in cancer seeks to obtain long-term antitumor responses through an improved T-cell priming by enhancing previous or generating de novo immune responses. To date, DCV has induced immune responses in the peripheral blood of patients without a significant clinical impact on outcome. Thus, improvements in vaccines formulations, selection of patients based on biomarkers and combinations with other antitumoral therapies are needed to enhance patient survival. In this work, we review the role of DCV in different solid tumors with their strengths and weaknesses, and we finally mention new trends to improve the efficacy of this immune strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Hato
- Immunology, Riberalab, 03203 Alicante, Spain
| | - Angel Vizcay
- Medical Oncology, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- IdiSNA, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Iñaki Eguren
- Medical Oncology, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | | | - Javier Rodríguez
- Medical Oncology, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- IdiSNA, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | | | - Pablo Sarobe
- IdiSNA, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- Program of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada (CIMA), Universidad de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- CIBEREHD, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Susana Inogés
- IdiSNA, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- Cell Therapy Unit, Program of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Ascensión López Díaz de Cerio
- IdiSNA, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- Cell Therapy Unit, Program of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Marta Santisteban
- Medical Oncology, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- IdiSNA, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
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Zhou T, Cao J, Tang Q, Jin J, Liang Y, Feng B. Exploring the role of NAA40 in immune infiltrates and prognostic prediction in hepatocellular carcinoma. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF CLINICAL AND EXPERIMENTAL IMMUNOLOGY 2024; 13:26-34. [PMID: 38496356 PMCID: PMC10944357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
NAA40 belongs to the N-terminal acetyltransferase (NATs) family, responsible for protein N-terminal modification, and it exerts crucial roles across various cancers. However, its impact on patient prognosis and immune infiltration in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains elusive. To address this, our study delved into the comprehensive analysis of NAA40 in the context of cancer. Our pan-cancer analysis unveiled elevated NAA40 expression in multiple tumor types, including BLCA, BRCA, CHOL, COAD, ESCA, HNSC, LIHC, LUAD, LUSC, STAD, and THCA. Additionally, through a comprehensive examination across various cancer types within TCGA, we discovered that high NAA40 gene expression correlated with poor prognosis in HCC, pointing toward its role in promoting oncogenesis. Further investigation illuminated the association of increased NAA40 expression with T stage, pathologic stage, tumor status, and histologic grade. Interestingly, we noted a significant inverse correlation between NAA40 expression and the infiltration levels of immune cells, such as DC cells, neutrophils, NK cells, and T cells, in liver cancer. This observation underpins the hypothesis that NAA40 influences HCC development by modulating immune cell infiltration. Functional enrichment analysis provided valuable insights into the pathways influenced by NAA40. Enriched pathways encompassed oxidative phosphorylation, xenobiotic metabolism, bile acid metabolism, fatty acid metabolism, G2M checkpoint, and E2F targets. These findings collectively position NAA40 as a potential biomarker for prognostic prediction and monitoring the effects of immunotherapy in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong Zhou
- Center for Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhou, Jiangsu, China
- Medical College of Soochow UniversitySuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jun Cao
- Center for Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qingqin Tang
- Center for Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jieyu Jin
- Center for Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yuting Liang
- Center for Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Bin Feng
- Center for Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhou, Jiangsu, China
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7
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Yu X, Zhang H, Li J, Gu L, Cao L, Gong J, Xie P, Xu J. Construction of a prognostic prediction model in liver cancer based on genes involved in integrin cell surface interactions pathway by multi-omics screening. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1237445. [PMID: 38374893 PMCID: PMC10875080 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1237445] [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: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Liver cancer is a common malignant tumor with an increasing incidence in recent years. We aimed to develop a model by integrating clinical information and multi-omics profiles of genes to predict survival of patients with liver cancer. Methods: The multi-omics data were integrated to identify liver cancer survival-associated signal pathways. Then, a prognostic risk score model was established based on key genes in a specific pathway, followed by the analysis of the relationship between the risk score and clinical features as well as molecular and immunologic characterization of the key genes included in the prediction model. The function experiments were performed to further elucidate the undergoing molecular mechanism. Results: Totally, 4 pathways associated with liver cancer patients' survival were identified. In the pathway of integrin cell surface interactions, low expression of COMP and SPP1, and low CNVs level of COL4A2 and ITGAV were significantly related to prognosis. Based on above 4 genes, the risk score model for prognosis was established. Risk score, ITGAV and SPP1 were the most significantly positively related to activated dendritic cell. COL4A2 and COMP were the most significantly positively associated with Type 1 T helper cell and regulatory T cell, respectively. The nomogram (involved T stage and risk score) may better predict short-term survival. The cell assay showed that overexpression of ITGAV promoted tumorigenesis. Conclusion: The risk score model constructed with four genes (COMP, SPP1, COL4A2, and ITGAV) may be used to predict survival in liver cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Yu
- Department of Radiology, Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
- Department of Radiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences Sichuan Translational Medicine Research Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Hao Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Chinese Academy of Sciences Sichuan Translational Medicine Research Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Jinze Li
- Department of Radiology, Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
- Department of Radiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences Sichuan Translational Medicine Research Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Lu Gu
- Department of Radiology, Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
- Department of Radiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences Sichuan Translational Medicine Research Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Lei Cao
- Department of Radiology, Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
- Department of Radiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences Sichuan Translational Medicine Research Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Jun Gong
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Chinese Academy of Sciences Sichuan Translational Medicine Research Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Ping Xie
- Department of Radiology, Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
- Department of Radiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences Sichuan Translational Medicine Research Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Jian Xu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Chinese Academy of Sciences Sichuan Translational Medicine Research Hospital, Chengdu, China
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8
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Dong R, Wang Z, Cao D, Li Y, Fei Y, Gao P, Zhu M, Chen Z, Cai J, Zuo X. The 'Other' subfamily of HECT E3 ubiquitin ligases evaluate the tumour immune microenvironment and prognosis in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. IET Syst Biol 2024; 18:23-39. [PMID: 38318939 PMCID: PMC10860721 DOI: 10.1049/syb2.12086] [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: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 01/28/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Primary liver cancer is the sixth most common cancer and the third leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. The role of the 'Other' subfamily of HECT E3 ligases (E3s) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains unknown. The expression of the 'Other' HECT E3s was performed using The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) data, and the authors found that the 'Other' HECT E3s were differentially expressed in HCC. Prognostic values were assessed using the Kaplan-Meier method and indicated that the high expressions of HECTD2, HECTD3, and HACE1 were associated with a worse clinical prognosis of HCC patients. The expression of HECTD2 was significantly correlated with the infiltration of CD4+ T cells and neutrophils. The levels of HECTD3 and HACE1 were notably related to the dendritic cells and memory B cells infiltrated in HCC. In addition, the three previously mentioned genes have shown to be associated with immune checkpoint genes, such as FOXP3, CCR8, STAT5B, TGFB1 and TIM-3. Moreover, HECTD2 could promote the proliferative activity, cell migration and invasive ability of HCC cells. Collectively, the authors' study demonstrated that HECTD2 was a novel immune-related prognostic biomarker for HCC, providing new insight into the treatment and prognosis of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Runyu Dong
- Department of Gastrointestinal SurgeryThe First Affiliated HospitalYijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical CollegeWuhuChina
| | - Zhixiong Wang
- Department of Gastrointestinal SurgeryThe First Affiliated HospitalYijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical CollegeWuhuChina
| | - Danping Cao
- Department of Gastrointestinal SurgeryThe First Affiliated HospitalYijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical CollegeWuhuChina
| | - Yanna Li
- Department of Gastrointestinal SurgeryThe First Affiliated HospitalYijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical CollegeWuhuChina
| | - Yao Fei
- Department of Gastrointestinal SurgeryThe First Affiliated HospitalYijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical CollegeWuhuChina
| | - Peng Gao
- Department of Gastrointestinal SurgeryThe First Affiliated HospitalYijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical CollegeWuhuChina
| | - Menglin Zhu
- Department of Gastrointestinal SurgeryThe First Affiliated HospitalYijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical CollegeWuhuChina
| | - Zhiqiang Chen
- Hepatobiliary CenterThe First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical UniversityKey Laboratory of Liver TransplantationChinese Academy of Medical SciencesNHC Key Laboratory of Liver TransplantationNanjingChina
| | - Juan Cai
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Non‐coding RNA Basic and Clinical TransformationWannan Medical CollegeWuhuChina
- Department of OncologyThe First Affiliated HospitalYijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical CollegeWuhuChina
| | - Xueliang Zuo
- Department of Gastrointestinal SurgeryThe First Affiliated HospitalYijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical CollegeWuhuChina
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Non‐coding RNA Basic and Clinical TransformationWannan Medical CollegeWuhuChina
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9
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Lurje I, Hammerich L. The suppressive tumor microenvironment of AFP-positive hepatocellular carcinoma and its therapeutic implications. Transl Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 9:1. [PMID: 38317743 PMCID: PMC10838608 DOI: 10.21037/tgh-23-81] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Isabella Lurje
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Campus Charité Mitte and Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Linda Hammerich
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Campus Charité Mitte and Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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10
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Chen G, Hu X, Huang Y, Xiang X, Pan S, Chen R, Xu X. Role of the immune system in liver transplantation and its implications for therapeutic interventions. MedComm (Beijing) 2023; 4:e444. [PMID: 38098611 PMCID: PMC10719430 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver transplantation (LT) stands as the gold standard for treating end-stage liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma, yet postoperative complications continue to impact survival rates. The liver's unique immune system, governed by a microenvironment of diverse immune cells, is disrupted during processes like ischemia-reperfusion injury posttransplantation, leading to immune imbalance, inflammation, and subsequent complications. In the posttransplantation period, immune cells within the liver collaboratively foster a tolerant environment, crucial for immune tolerance and liver regeneration. While clinical trials exploring cell therapy for LT complications exist, a comprehensive summary is lacking. This review provides an insight into the intricacies of the liver's immune microenvironment, with a specific focus on macrophages and T cells as primary immune players. Delving into the immunological dynamics at different stages of LT, we explore the disruptions after LT and subsequent immune responses. Focusing on immune cell targeting for treating liver transplant complications, we provide a comprehensive summary of ongoing clinical trials in this domain, especially cell therapies. Furthermore, we offer innovative treatment strategies that leverage the opportunities and prospects identified in the therapeutic landscape. This review seeks to advance our understanding of LT immunology and steer the development of precise therapies for postoperative complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guanrong Chen
- The Fourth School of Clinical MedicineZhejiang Chinese Medical UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Xin Hu
- Zhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang ProvinceHangzhouChina
| | - Yingchen Huang
- The Fourth School of Clinical MedicineZhejiang Chinese Medical UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Xiaonan Xiang
- Zhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang ProvinceHangzhouChina
| | - Sheng Pan
- Zhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang ProvinceHangzhouChina
| | - Ronggao Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic SurgeryThe First Affiliated HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
| | - Xiao Xu
- Zhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang ProvinceHangzhouChina
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical UniversityHangzhouChina
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11
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Wang S, Zhang G, Cui Q, Yang Y, Wang D, Liu A, Xia Y, Li W, Liu Y, Yu J. The DC-T cell axis is an effective target for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer. Immun Inflamm Dis 2023; 11:e1099. [PMID: 38018578 PMCID: PMC10681037 DOI: 10.1002/iid3.1099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The dendritic cell (DC)-T cell axis is a bridge that connects innate and adaptive immunities. The initial immune response against tumors is mainly induced by mature antigen-presenting DCs. Enhancing the crosstalk between DCs and T cells may be an effective approach to improve the immune response to non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). In this article, a review was made of the interaction between DCs and T cells in the treatment of NSCLC and how this interaction affects the treatment outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuangcui Wang
- Department of OncologyFirst Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese MedicineTianjinChina
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and MoxibustionTianjinChina
- Graduate SchoolTianjin University of Traditional Chinese MedicineTianjinChina
| | - Guan Zhang
- Department of OncologyFirst Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese MedicineTianjinChina
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and MoxibustionTianjinChina
- Graduate SchoolTianjin University of Traditional Chinese MedicineTianjinChina
| | - Qian Cui
- Department of OncologyFirst Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese MedicineTianjinChina
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and MoxibustionTianjinChina
- Graduate SchoolTianjin University of Traditional Chinese MedicineTianjinChina
| | - Yanjie Yang
- Department of OncologyFirst Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese MedicineTianjinChina
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and MoxibustionTianjinChina
- Graduate SchoolTianjin University of Traditional Chinese MedicineTianjinChina
| | - Dong Wang
- Department of OncologyFirst Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese MedicineTianjinChina
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and MoxibustionTianjinChina
- Graduate SchoolTianjin University of Traditional Chinese MedicineTianjinChina
| | - Aqing Liu
- Department of OncologyFirst Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese MedicineTianjinChina
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and MoxibustionTianjinChina
- Graduate SchoolTianjin University of Traditional Chinese MedicineTianjinChina
| | - Ying Xia
- Department of OncologyFirst Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese MedicineTianjinChina
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and MoxibustionTianjinChina
- Graduate SchoolTianjin University of Traditional Chinese MedicineTianjinChina
| | - Wentao Li
- Department of OncologyFirst Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese MedicineTianjinChina
| | - Yunhe Liu
- Department of OncologyFirst Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese MedicineTianjinChina
| | - Jianchun Yu
- Department of OncologyFirst Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese MedicineTianjinChina
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Chen Y, Chen S, Xu C, Yu L, Chu S, Bao J, Wang J, Wang J. Identification of Diagnostic Biomarkers for Compensatory Liver Cirrhosis Based on Gut Microbiota and Urine Metabolomics Analyses. Mol Biotechnol 2023:10.1007/s12033-023-00922-9. [PMID: 37875653 DOI: 10.1007/s12033-023-00922-9] [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: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023]
Abstract
Liver cirrhosis is one of the most prevalent chronic liver disorders with high mortality. We aimed to explore changed gut microbiome and urine metabolome in compensatory liver cirrhosis (CLC) patients, thus providing novel diagnostic biomarkers for CLC. Forty fecal samples from healthy volunteers (control: 19) and CLC patients (patient: 21) were undertaken 16S rDNA sequencing. Chromatography-mass spectrometry was performed on 40 urine samples (20 controls and 20 patients). Microbiome and metabolome data were separately analyzed using corresponding bioinformatics approaches. The diagnostic model was constructed using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression. The optimal diagnostic model was determined by five-fold cross-validation. Pearson correlation analysis was applied to clarify the relations among the diagnostic markers. 16S rDNA sequencing analyses showed changed overall alpha diversity and beta diversity in patient samples compared with those of controls. Similarly, we identified 841 changed metabolites. Pathway analysis revealed that the differential metabolites were mainly associated with pathways, such as tryptophan metabolism, purine metabolism, and steroid hormone biosynthesis. A 9-maker diagnostic model for CLC was determined, including 7 microorganisms and 2 metabolites. In this model, there were multiple correlations between microorganisms and metabolites. Subdoligranulum, Agathobacter, norank_f_Eubacterium_coprostanoligenes_group, Butyricicoccus, Lachnospiraceae_UCG_004, and L-2,3-Dihydrodipicolinate were elevated in CLC patients, whereas Blautia, Monoglobus, and 5-Acetamidovalerate were reduced. A novel diagnostic model for CLC was constructed and verified to be reliable, which provides new strategies for the diagnosis and treatment of CLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingjun Chen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Tiantai People's Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Taizhou, 317200, People's Republic of China
| | - Shaoxian Chen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Tiantai People's Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Taizhou, 317200, People's Republic of China
| | - Chandi Xu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Tiantai People's Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Taizhou, 317200, People's Republic of China
| | - Li Yu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Tiantai People's Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Taizhou, 317200, People's Republic of China
| | - Shanshan Chu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Tiantai People's Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Taizhou, 317200, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianzhi Bao
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Tiantai People's Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Taizhou, 317200, People's Republic of China
| | - Jinwei Wang
- Department of General Medicine, Tiantai People's Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Taizhou, 317200, People's Republic of China
| | - Junwei Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Tiantai People's Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Taizhou, 317200, People's Republic of China.
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13
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Yao Y, Lv J, Wang G, Hong X. Multi-omics analysis and validation of the tumor microenvironment of hepatocellular carcinoma under RNA modification patterns. MATHEMATICAL BIOSCIENCES AND ENGINEERING : MBE 2023; 20:18318-18344. [PMID: 38052560 DOI: 10.3934/mbe.2023814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multiple types of RNA modifications are associated with the prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients. However, the overall mediating effect of RNA modifications on the tumor microenvironment (TME) and the prognosis of patients with HCC is unclear. METHODS Thoroughly analyze the TME, biological processes, immune infiltration and patient prognosis based on RNA modification patterns and gene patterns. Construct a prognostic model (RNA modification score, RNAM-S) to predict the overall survival (OS) in HCC patients. Analyze the immune status, cancer stem cell (CSC), mutations and drug sensitivity of HCC patients in both the high and low RNAM-S groups. Verify the expression levels of the four characteristic genes of the prognostic RNAM-S using in vitro cell experiments. RESULTS Two modification patterns and two gene patterns were identified in this study. Both the high-expression modification pattern and the gene pattern exhibited worse OS. A prognostic RNAM-S model was constructed based on four featured genes (KIF20A, NR1I2, NR2F1 and PLOD2). Cellular experiments suggested significant dysregulation of the expression levels of these four genes. In addition, validation of the RNAM-S model using each data set showed good predictive performance of the model. The two groups of HCC patients (high and low RNAM-S groups) exhibited significant differences in immune status, CSC, mutation and drug sensitivity. CONCLUSION The findings of the study demonstrate the clinical value of RNA modifications, which provide new insights into the individualized treatment for patients with HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanqian Yao
- Guangxi University of Chinese medicine, NanNing 530000, China
| | - Jianlin Lv
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning 530000, China
| | - Guangyao Wang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning 530000, China
| | - Xiaohua Hong
- Guangxi University of Chinese medicine, NanNing 530000, China
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14
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Lurje I, Uluk D, Pavicevic S, Phan MD, Eurich D, Fehrenbach U, Geisel D, Auer TA, Pelzer U, Modest DP, Raschzok N, Sauer IM, Schöning W, Tacke F, Pratschke J, Lurje G. Body composition is associated with disease aetiology and prognosis in patients undergoing resection of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. Cancer Med 2023; 12:17569-17580. [PMID: 37496321 PMCID: PMC10524050 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.6374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Body composition alterations are frequent in patients with cancer or chronic liver disease, but their prognostic value remains unclear in many cancer entities. OBJECTIVE We investigated the impact of disease aetiology and body composition after surgery for intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA), a rare and understudied cancer entity in European and North American cohorts. METHODS Computer tomography-based assessment of body composition at the level of the third lumbar vertebra was performed in 173 patients undergoing curative-intent liver resection for iCCA at the Department of Surgery, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin. Muscle mass and -composition as well as subcutaneous and visceral adipose tissue quantity were determined semi-automatically. (Secondary) sarcopenia, sarcopenic obesity, myosteatosis, visceral and subcutaneous obesity were correlated to clinicopathological data. RESULTS Sarcopenia was associated with post-operative morbidity (intraoperative transfusions [p = 0.027], Clavien-Dindo ≥ IIIb complications [p = 0.030], post-operative comprehensive complication index, CCI [p < 0.001]). Inferior overall survival was noted in patients with myosteatosis (33 vs. 23 months, p = 0.020). Fifty-eight patients (34%) had metabolic (dysfunction)-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) and had a significantly higher incidence of sarcopenic (p = 0.006), visceral (p < 0.001) and subcutaneous obesity (p < 0.001). Patients with MAFLD had longer time-to-recurrence (median: 38 vs. 12 months, p = 0.025, log-rank test). Multivariable cox regression analysis confirmed only clinical, and not body, composition parameters (age > 65, fresh frozen plasma transfusions) as independently prognostic for overall survival. CONCLUSION This study evidenced a high prevalence of MAFLD in iCCA, suggesting its potential contribution to disease aetiology. Alterations of muscle mass and adipose tissue were more frequent in patients with MAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella Lurje
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Campus Charité Mitte | Campus Virchow‐KlinikumCharité – Universitätsmedizin BerlinBerlinGermany
| | - Deniz Uluk
- Department of Surgery, Campus Charité Mitte | Campus Virchow‐KlinikumCharité – Universitätsmedizin BerlinBerlinGermany
| | - Sandra Pavicevic
- Department of Surgery, Campus Charité Mitte | Campus Virchow‐KlinikumCharité – Universitätsmedizin BerlinBerlinGermany
| | - Minh Duc Phan
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Campus Charité Mitte | Campus Virchow‐KlinikumCharité – Universitätsmedizin BerlinBerlinGermany
| | - Dennis Eurich
- Department of Surgery, Campus Charité Mitte | Campus Virchow‐KlinikumCharité – Universitätsmedizin BerlinBerlinGermany
| | - Uli Fehrenbach
- Department of RadiologyCharité – Universitätsmedizin BerlinBerlinGermany
| | - Dominik Geisel
- Department of RadiologyCharité – Universitätsmedizin BerlinBerlinGermany
| | | | - Uwe Pelzer
- Department of Hematology, Oncology, and Tumor ImmunologyCharité – Universitätsmedizin BerlinBerlinGermany
| | - Dominik Paul Modest
- Department of Hematology, Oncology, and Tumor ImmunologyCharité – Universitätsmedizin BerlinBerlinGermany
| | - Nathanael Raschzok
- Department of Surgery, Campus Charité Mitte | Campus Virchow‐KlinikumCharité – Universitätsmedizin BerlinBerlinGermany
| | - Igor Maximilian Sauer
- Department of Surgery, Campus Charité Mitte | Campus Virchow‐KlinikumCharité – Universitätsmedizin BerlinBerlinGermany
| | - Wenzel Schöning
- Department of Surgery, Campus Charité Mitte | Campus Virchow‐KlinikumCharité – Universitätsmedizin BerlinBerlinGermany
| | - Frank Tacke
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Campus Charité Mitte | Campus Virchow‐KlinikumCharité – Universitätsmedizin BerlinBerlinGermany
| | - Johann Pratschke
- Department of Surgery, Campus Charité Mitte | Campus Virchow‐KlinikumCharité – Universitätsmedizin BerlinBerlinGermany
| | - Georg Lurje
- Department of Surgery, Campus Charité Mitte | Campus Virchow‐KlinikumCharité – Universitätsmedizin BerlinBerlinGermany
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15
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Muscolino P, Granata B, Omero F, De Pasquale C, Campana S, Calabrò A, D’Anna F, Drommi F, Pezzino G, Cavaliere R, Ferlazzo G, Silvestris N, Speranza D. Potential predictive role of gut microbiota to immunotherapy in HCC patients: a brief review. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1247614. [PMID: 37692859 PMCID: PMC10486017 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1247614] [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: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The recent evolution of immunotherapy has revolutionised the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and has led to new therapeutic standards. The advances in immunotherapy have been accompanied by the recognition of the role of the gut-liver axis in the progression of HCC but also of the clinical relevance of the gut microbiota, which influences host homeostasis but also cancer development and the response to treatment. Dysbiosis, by altering the tumour microenvironment, favours the activation of intracellular signalling pathways and promotes carcinogenesis. The gut microbiota, through their composition and immunomodulatory role, are thus strong predictors of the response to immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) treatment as well as an available target to improve ICI efficacy and reduce drug toxicities. In this review we examine the novel role of the gut microbiota as biomarkers in both the diagnosis of HCC and the clinical response to immunotherapy as well as its potential impact on clinical practice in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Muscolino
- Medical Oncology Unit, Department of Human Pathology “G.Barresi”, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Barbara Granata
- Medical Oncology Unit, Department of Human Pathology “G.Barresi”, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Fausto Omero
- Medical Oncology Unit, Department of Human Pathology “G.Barresi”, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Claudia De Pasquale
- Laboratory of Immunology and Biotherapy, Department of Human Pathology “G.Barresi”, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Stefania Campana
- Laboratory of Immunology and Biotherapy, Department of Human Pathology “G.Barresi”, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Alessia Calabrò
- Laboratory of Immunology and Biotherapy, Department of Human Pathology “G.Barresi”, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Federica D’Anna
- Medical Oncology Unit, Department of Human Pathology “G.Barresi”, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Fabiana Drommi
- Laboratory of Immunology and Biotherapy, Department of Human Pathology “G.Barresi”, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Gaetana Pezzino
- Laboratory of Immunology and Biotherapy, Department of Human Pathology “G.Barresi”, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Riccardo Cavaliere
- Laboratory of Immunology and Biotherapy, Department of Human Pathology “G.Barresi”, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
- Division of Clinical Pathology, University Hospital Policlinico G.Martino, Messina, Italy
| | - Guido Ferlazzo
- Department of Experimental Medicine (DIMES), University of Genoa, Genova, Italy
- Unit of Experimental Pathology and Immunology, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Nicola Silvestris
- Medical Oncology Unit, Department of Human Pathology “G.Barresi”, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Desirèe Speranza
- Medical Oncology Unit, Department of Human Pathology “G.Barresi”, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
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Lurje I, Gaisa NT, Weiskirchen R, Tacke F. Mechanisms of organ fibrosis: Emerging concepts and implications for novel treatment strategies. Mol Aspects Med 2023; 92:101191. [PMID: 37236017 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2023.101191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Fibrosis, or tissue scarring, develops as a pathological deviation from the physiological wound healing response and can occur in various organs such as the heart, lung, liver, kidney, skin, and bone marrow. Organ fibrosis significantly contributes to global morbidity and mortality. A broad spectrum of etiologies can cause fibrosis, including acute and chronic ischemia, hypertension, chronic viral infection (e.g., viral hepatitis), environmental exposure (e.g., pneumoconiosis, alcohol, nutrition, smoking) and genetic diseases (e.g., cystic fibrosis, alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency). Common mechanisms across organs and disease etiologies involve a sustained injury to parenchymal cells that triggers a wound healing response, which becomes deregulated in the disease process. A transformation of resting fibroblasts into myofibroblasts with excessive extracellular matrix production constitutes the hallmark of disease, however, multiple other cell types such as immune cells, predominantly monocytes/macrophages, endothelial cells, and parenchymal cells form a complex network of profibrotic cellular crosstalk. Across organs, leading mediators include growth factors like transforming growth factor-β and platelet-derived growth factor, cytokines like interleukin-10, interleukin-13, interleukin-17, and danger-associated molecular patterns. More recently, insights into fibrosis regression and resolution of chronic conditions have deepened our understanding of beneficial, protective effects of immune cells, soluble mediators and intracellular signaling. Further in-depth insights into the mechanisms of fibrogenesis can provide the rationale for therapeutic interventions and the development of targeted antifibrotic agents. This review gives insight into shared responses and cellular mechanisms across organs and etiologies, aiming to paint a comprehensive picture of fibrotic diseases in both experimental settings and in human pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella Lurje
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Campus Charité Mitte and Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Nadine T Gaisa
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Ralf Weiskirchen
- Institute of Molecular Pathobiochemistry, Experimental Gene Therapy and Clinical Chemistry (IFMPEGKC), RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
| | - Frank Tacke
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Campus Charité Mitte and Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
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17
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Lurje I, Gaisa NT, Dahl E, Knüchel R, Strnad P, Trautwein C, Tacke F, Neumann UP, Czigany Z, Lurje G. Genetic polymorphisms in interleukin-1β (rs1143634) and interleukin-8 (rs4073) are associated with survival after resection of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. Sci Rep 2023; 13:12283. [PMID: 37507547 PMCID: PMC10382511 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-39487-7] [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: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA) is a rare, understudied primary hepatic malignancy with dismal outcomes. Aiming to identify prognostically relevant single-nucleotide polymorphisms, we analyzed 11 genetic variants with a role in tumor-promoting inflammation (VEGF, EGF, EGFR, IL-1B, IL-6, CXCL8 (IL-8), IL-10, CXCR1, HIF1A and PTGS2 (COX-2) genes) and their association with disease-free (DFS) and overall survival (OS) in patients undergoing curative-intent surgery for iCCA. Genomic DNA was isolated from 112 patients (64 female, 48 male) with iCCA. Germline polymorphisms were analyzed with polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism protocols. The IL-1B +3954 C/C (73/112, hazard ratio (HR) = 1.735, p = 0.012) and the IL-8 -251 T/A or A/A (53/112 and 16/112, HR = 2.001 and 1.1777, p = 0.026) genotypes were associated with shorter OS in univariable and multivariable analysis. The IL-1B +3954 polymorphism was also associated with shorter DFS (HR = 1.983, p = 0.012), but this effect was not sustained in the multivariable model. A genetic risk model of 0, 1 and 2 unfavorable alleles was established and confirmed in multivariable analysis. This study supports the prognostic role of the IL-1B C+3954T and the IL-8 T-251A variant as outcome markers in iCCA patients, identifying patient subgroups at higher risk for dismal clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella Lurje
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Campus Charité Mitte | Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Surgery and Transplantation, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | | | - Edgar Dahl
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Ruth Knüchel
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Pavel Strnad
- Department of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Christian Trautwein
- Department of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Frank Tacke
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Campus Charité Mitte | Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Ulf Peter Neumann
- Department of Surgery and Transplantation, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Zoltan Czigany
- Department of Surgery and Transplantation, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
- Department of Surgery, Campus Charité Mitte | Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353, Berlin, Germany
| | - Georg Lurje
- Department of Surgery and Transplantation, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany.
- Department of Surgery, Campus Charité Mitte | Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353, Berlin, Germany.
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18
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Kotsari M, Dimopoulou V, Koskinas J, Armakolas A. Immune System and Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC): New Insights into HCC Progression. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11471. [PMID: 37511228 PMCID: PMC10380581 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
According to the WHO's recently released worldwide cancer data for 2020, liver cancer ranks sixth in morbidity and third in mortality among all malignancies. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most common kind of liver cancer, accounts approximately for 80% of all primary liver malignancies and is one of the leading causes of death globally. The intractable tumor microenvironment plays an important role in the development and progression of HCC and is one of three major unresolved issues in clinical practice (cancer recurrence, fatal metastasis, and the refractory tumor microenvironment). Despite significant advances, improved molecular and cellular characterization of the tumor microenvironment is still required since it plays an important role in the genesis and progression of HCC. The purpose of this review is to present an overview of the HCC immune microenvironment, distinct cellular constituents, current therapies, and potential immunotherapy methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Kotsari
- Physiology Laboratory, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Vassiliki Dimopoulou
- Physiology Laboratory, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - John Koskinas
- B' Department of Medicine, Hippokration Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Athanasios Armakolas
- Physiology Laboratory, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
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Zhang D, Liu BW, Liang XQ, Liu FQ. Immunological factors in cirrhosis diseases from a bibliometric point of view. World J Gastroenterol 2023; 29:3899-3921. [PMID: 37426317 PMCID: PMC10324529 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v29.i24.3899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2023] [Revised: 05/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cirrhosis results from persistent liver injury that leads to liver fibrosis. Immunological factors play important regulatory roles in the development and progression of cirrhosis. Bibliometrics is one of the most commonly used methods for systematic evaluation of a field of study. To date, there are no bibliometric studies on the role of immunological factors in cirrhosis.
AIM To provide a comprehensive overview of the knowledge structure and research hotspots of immunological factors in cirrhosis.
METHODS We retrieved publications related to immunological factors in cirrhosis between 2003 to 2022 from the Web of Science Core Collection database on December 7, 2022. The search strategy was TS = ((Liver Cirrhosis OR hepatic cirrhosis OR liver fibrosis) AND (Immunologic* Factor* OR Immune Factor* OR Immunomodulator* OR Biological Response Modifier* OR Biomodulator*)). Only original articles and reviews were included. A total of 2873 publications were analyzed using indicators of publication and citation metrics, countries, institutes, authors, journals, references, and keywords by CiteSpace and VOSviewer.
RESULTS A total of 5104 authors from 1173 institutions across 51 countries published 2873 papers on cirrhosis and immunological factors in 281 journals. In the past 20 years, the increasing number of related annual publications and citations indicates that research on immunological factors in cirrhosis has become the focus of attention and has entered a period of accelerated development. The United States (781/27.18%), China (538/18.73%), and Germany (300/10.44%) were the leading countries in this field. Most of the top 10 authors were from the United States (4) and Germany (3), with Gershwin ME contributing the most related articles (42). World Journal of Gastroenterology was the most productive journal, whereas Hepatology was the most co-cited journal. Current research hotspots regarding immunological factors in cirrhosis include fibrosis, cirrhosis, inflammation, liver fibrosis, expression, hepatocellular carcinoma, activation, primary biliary cirrhosis, disease, and hepatic stellate cells. Burst keywords (e.g., epidemiology, gut microbiota, and pathways) represent research frontiers that have attracted the interest of researchers in recent years.
CONCLUSION This bibliometric study comprehensively summarizes the research developments and directions of immunological factors in cirrhosis, providing new ideas for promoting scientific research and clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Zhang
- Department of Interventional Therapy, Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100038, China
| | - Bo-Wen Liu
- Department of Interventional Therapy, Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100038, China
| | - Xiao-Qing Liang
- Department of Oncology, Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100038, China
| | - Fu-Quan Liu
- Department of Interventional Therapy, Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100038, China
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20
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Yan C, Huang H, Zheng Z, Ma X, Zhao G, Zhang T, Chen X, Cao F, Wei H, Dong J, Tang P, Jiang H, Wang M, Wang P, Pang Q, Zhang W. Spatial distribution of tumor-infiltrating T cells indicated immune response status under chemoradiotherapy plus PD-1 blockade in esophageal cancer. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1138054. [PMID: 37275884 PMCID: PMC10235618 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1138054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The spatial distribution of tumor-infiltrating T cells and its dynamics during chemoradiotherapy combined with PD-1 blockade is little known in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). Methods We applied the multiplex immunofluorescence method to identify T cells (CD4+, CD8+ T cells, and their PD-1- or PD-1+ subsets) and myeloid-derived cells (CD11c+ dendritic cells, CD68+ macrophages, and their PD-L1+ subpopulations) in paired tumor biopsies (n = 36) collected at baseline and during combination (40 Gy of radiation) from a phase Ib trial (NCT03671265) of ESCC patients treated with first-line chemoradiotherapy plus anti-PD-1 antibody camrelizumab. We used the FoundationOne CDx assay to evaluate tumor mutational burden (TMB) in baseline tumor biopsies (n = 14). We dynamically assessed the nearest distance and proximity of T-cell subsets to tumor cells under combination and estimated the association between T-cell spatial distribution and combination outcome, myeloid-derived subsets, TMB, and patient baseline characteristics. Findings We found that the tumor compartment had lower T-cell subsets than the stromal compartment but maintained a comparable level under combination. Both before and under combination, PD-1- T cells were located closer than PD-1+ T cells to tumor cells; T cells, dendritic cells, and macrophages showed the highest accumulation in the 5-10-μm distance. Higher CD4+ T cells in the tumor compartment and a shorter nearest distance of T-cell subsets at baseline predicted poor OS. Higher baseline CD4+ T cells, dendritic cells, and macrophages were associated with worse OS in less than 10-μm distance to tumor cells, but related with better OS in the farther distance. Higher on-treatment PD-1-positive-expressed CD4+ and CD8+ T cells within the 100-μm distance to tumor cells predicted longer OS. T cells, dendritic cells, and macrophages showed a positive spatial correlation. Both high TMB and smoking history were associated with a closer location of T cells to tumor cells at baseline. Conclusions We firstly illustrated the T-cell spatial distribution in ESCC. Combining chemoradiotherapy with PD-1 blockade could improve the antitumor immune microenvironment, which benefits the treatment outcome. Further understanding the precision spatiality of tumor-infiltrating T cells would provide new evidence for the tumor immune microenvironment and for the combination treatment with immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cihui Yan
- Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Hui Huang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhunhao Zheng
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiaoxue Ma
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Gang Zhao
- Department of Pathology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Tian Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Xi Chen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Fuliang Cao
- Department of Endoscopy Diagnosis and Therapy, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Hui Wei
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Jie Dong
- Department of Nutrition Therapy, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Peng Tang
- Department of Esophageal Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Hongjing Jiang
- Department of Esophageal Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Meng Wang
- Department of Lung Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Ping Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Qingsong Pang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Wencheng Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
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21
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Zhao M, Huang H, He F, Fu X. Current insights into the hepatic microenvironment and advances in immunotherapy for hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1188277. [PMID: 37275909 PMCID: PMC10233045 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1188277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of primary liver cancer and shows high global incidence and mortality rates. The liver is an immune-tolerated organ with a specific immune microenvironment that causes traditional therapeutic approaches to HCC, such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and molecular targeted therapy, to have limited efficacy. The dramatic advances in immuno-oncology in the past few decades have modified the paradigm of cancer therapy, ushering in the era of immunotherapy. Currently, despite the rapid integration of cancer immunotherapy into clinical practice, some patients still show no response to treatment. Therefore, a rational approach is to target the tumor microenvironment when developing the next generation of immunotherapy. This review aims to provide insights into the hepatic immune microenvironment in HCC and summarize the mechanisms of action and clinical usage of immunotherapeutic options for HCC, including immune checkpoint blockade, adoptive therapy, cytokine therapy, vaccine therapy, and oncolytic virus-based therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Feng He
- *Correspondence: Feng He, ; Xiangsheng Fu,
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22
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Charles J, Vrionis A, Mansur A, Mathias T, Shaikh J, Ciner A, Jiang Y, Nezami N. Potential Immunotherapy Targets for Liver-Directed Therapies, and the Current Scope of Immunotherapeutics for Liver-Related Malignancies. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15092624. [PMID: 37174089 PMCID: PMC10177356 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15092624] [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: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer, including hepatocellular carcinoma and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma, is increasing in incidence and mortality across the globe. An improved understanding of the complex tumor microenvironment has opened many therapeutic doors and led to the development of novel pharmaceuticals targeting cellular signaling pathways or immune checkpoints. These interventions have significantly improved tumor control rates and patient outcomes, both in clinical trials and in real-world practice. Interventional radiologists play an important role in the multidisciplinary team given their expertise in minimally invasive locoregional therapy, as the bulk of these tumors are usually in the liver. The aim of this review is to highlight the immunological therapeutic targets for primary liver cancers, the available immune-based approaches, and the contributions that interventional radiology can provide in the care of these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Charles
- Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, 560 Channelside Drive, Tampa, FL 33602, USA
| | - Andrea Vrionis
- Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, 560 Channelside Drive, Tampa, FL 33602, USA
| | - Arian Mansur
- Harvard Medical School, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Trevor Mathias
- School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Jamil Shaikh
- Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, 560 Channelside Drive, Tampa, FL 33602, USA
- Department of Radiology, Tampa General Hospital, University of South Florida Health, Tampa General Cir, Tampa, FL 33606, USA
| | - Aaron Ciner
- Department of Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Yixing Jiang
- Department of Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Nariman Nezami
- Division of Vascular and Interventional Radiology, Department of Diagnostic Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
- Experimental Therapeutics Program, University of Maryland Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
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23
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Donne R, Lujambio A. The liver cancer immune microenvironment: Therapeutic implications for hepatocellular carcinoma. Hepatology 2023; 77:1773-1796. [PMID: 35989535 PMCID: PMC9941399 DOI: 10.1002/hep.32740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 119.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The liver is the sixth most common site of primary cancer in humans and the fourth leading cause of cancer-related death in the world. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) accounts for 90% of liver cancers. HCC is a prevalent disease with a progression that is modulated by the immune system. Half of the patients with HCC receive systemic therapies, traditionally sorafenib or lenvatinib, as a first-line therapy. In the last few years, immune-checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have revolutionized cancer therapy and have gained an increased interest in the treatment of HCC. In 2020, the combination of atezolizumab (anti-programmed death-ligand 1) and bevacizumab (anti-vascular endothelial growth factor) improved overall survival over sorafenib, resulting in Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval as a first-line treatment for patients with advanced HCC. Despite these major advances, a better molecular and cellular characterization of the tumor microenvironment is still needed because it has a crucial role in the development and progression of HCC. Inflamed (hot) and noninflamed (cold) HCC tumors and genomic signatures have been associated with response to ICIs. However, there are no additional biomarkers to guide clinical decision-making. Other immune-targeting strategies, such as adoptive T-cell transfer, vaccination, and virotherapy, are currently under development. This review provides an overview on the HCC immune microenvironment, different cellular players, current available immunotherapies, and potential immunotherapy modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romain Donne
- Department of Oncological Sciences , Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai , New York , New York , USA
- Liver Cancer Program, Division of Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai , Tisch Cancer Institute , New York , New York , USA
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai , The Precision Immunology Institute , New York , New York , USA
| | - Amaia Lujambio
- Department of Oncological Sciences , Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai , New York , New York , USA
- Liver Cancer Program, Division of Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai , Tisch Cancer Institute , New York , New York , USA
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai , The Precision Immunology Institute , New York , New York , USA
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences , Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai , New York , New York , USA
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24
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Ying L, Pan Z, Lin-Yi Z, Wan-Er H, De-He W, Zhen-Jie Z, Xi C, Yi-Qun W, Tian-Bai S, Wei Z. Treatment of Liver Fibrosis after Hepatitis B with TCM Combined with NAs Evaluated by Noninvasive Diagnostic Methods: A Retrospective Study. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2023; 2023:5711151. [PMID: 37143511 PMCID: PMC10154089 DOI: 10.1155/2023/5711151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Objective. Chronic hepatitis B liver fibrosis is an important intermediate link in the development of liver cirrhosis. A retrospective cohort study was conducted in Longhua Hospital affiliated to the Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine in order to prove whether integrated traditional Chinese and Western medicine could improve the incidence of CHB complications and clinical prognosis. There are 130 patients with hepatitis B liver fibrosis (being treated from 2011-2021) included in the study, and the patients were divided into 64 TCM users (NAs combined with TCM) and 66 TCM nonusers (NAs antiviral therapy). The serum noninvasive diagnostic model (APRI, FIB-4) and LSM value were used to classify the stages of fibrosis. The results showed that the LSM value was decreased significantly in TCM users compared with TCM nonusers (40.63% versus 28.79%). Indicators of FIB-4 and APRI of TCM users have improved significantly compared with that of TCM nonusers (32.81% versus 10.61% and 35.94% versus 24.24%). The AST, TBIL, and HBsAg levels in TCM users were lower than those in TCM nonusers, and the HBsAg level was inversely correlated with the CD3+, CD4+, and CD8+ in TCM users. The PLT and spleen thickness of TCM users also were improved considerably. The incidence rate of end-point events (decompensated cirrhosis/liver cancer) in TCM nonusers was higher than that of TCM users (16.67% versus 1.56%). The long course of the disease and a family history of hepatitis B were the risk factors for disease progression, and long-term oral administration of TCM was the protective factor. As a result, the serum noninvasive fibrosis index and imaging parameters in TCM users were lower than those of TCM nonusers. Patients in the treatment of NAs combined with TCM had better prognoses such as a lower HBsAg level, a more stable lymphocyte function, and a lower incidence of end-point events. The present findings suggest the effect of TCM combined with NAs in the treatment of chronic hepatitis B liver fibrosis is better than that of single drug treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Ying
- Department of Hepatology, Longhua Hospital, Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhou Pan
- Department of Hepatology, Longhua Hospital, Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhu Lin-Yi
- Changhai Community Health Service Center, Yangpu District of Shanghai, Shanghai, China
| | - Hong Wan-Er
- Department of Hepatology, Longhua Hospital, Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wang De-He
- Department of Hepatology, Longhua Hospital, Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhang Zhen-Jie
- Department of Hepatology, Longhua Hospital, Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Chu Xi
- Department of Hepatology, Longhua Hospital, Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wang Yi-Qun
- Department of Hepatology, Longhua Hospital, Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shen Tian-Bai
- Department of Hepatology, Longhua Hospital, Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhang Wei
- Department of Hepatology, Longhua Hospital, Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
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25
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Revamping the innate or innate-like immune cell-based therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma: new mechanistic insights and advanced opportunities. MEDICAL ONCOLOGY (NORTHWOOD, LONDON, ENGLAND) 2023; 40:84. [PMID: 36680649 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-023-01948-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
A cancerous tumour termed hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is characterized by inflammation and subsequently followed by end-stage liver disease and necrosis of the liver. The liver's continuous exposure to microorganisms and toxic molecules affects the immune response because normal tissue requires some immune tolerance to be safeguarded from damage. Several innate immune cells are involved in this process of immune system activation which includes dendritic cells, macrophages, and natural killer cells. The liver is an immunologic organ with vast quantities of innate and innate-like immune cells subjected to several antigens (bacteria, fungal or viral) through the gut-liver axis. Tumour-induced immune system engagement may be encouraged or suppressed through innate immunological systems, which are recognized promoters of liver disease development in pre-HCC conditions such as fibrosis or cirrhosis, ultimately resulting in HCC. Immune-based treatments containing several classes of drugs have transformed the treatment of several types of cancers in recent times. The effectiveness of such immunotherapies relies on intricate interactions between lymphocytes, tumour cells, and neighbouring cells. Even though immunotherapy therapy has already reported to possess potential effect to treat HCC, a clear understanding of the crosstalk between innate and adaptive immune cell pathways still need to be clearly understood for better exploitation of the same. The identification of predictive biomarkers, understanding the progression of the disease, and the invention of more efficient combinational treatments are the major challenges in HCC immunotherapy. The functions and therapeutic significance of innate immune cells, which have been widely implicated in HCC, in addition to the interplay between innate and adaptive immune responses during the pathogenesis, have been explored in the current review.
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26
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Li J, Chen J, Tao Q, Zheng J, Zhou Z. Machine learning integrations for development of a T-cell-tolerance derived signature to improve the clinical outcomes and precision treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma. Am J Cancer Res 2023; 13:66-85. [PMID: 36777501 PMCID: PMC9906086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is characterized by high rates of recurrence and metastasis and poor prognosis. A recently discovered concept of T cell tolerance (TCT) has become an entirely new target of cancer immunotherapy. Unfortunately, the effect of TCT on the outcomes of HCC has not been explored. In this study, 7 public datasets and one external clinical cohort, including 1716 HCC patients were explored. Through WGCNA analysis and differential analysis, we explored the key TCT-related modulates. A total of 95 machine learning integrations across all validation cohorts were compared and the optimal method with the highest average C-index value was selected to construct the TCT derived signature (TCTS). In all independent clinical cohorts, TCTS showed accurate prediction of the prognosis, and was significantly correlated with clinical indicators and molecular features. Compared with 77 published gene signatures, the TCTS exhibited superior predictive performance. In the external clinical cohort, a novel nomogram (comprising TNM stage, Hepatitis B, Vascular invasion, Perineural invasion, AFP and TCTS) was constructed to test the clinical performance of TCTS. The results showed that the high TCTS scoring group showed dismal prognosis, improved sensitivity to oxaliplatin and good response to anti-PD-1/PD-L1 immunotherapy. Moreover, the low TCTS score group had few genomic alterations, low immune activation and low PD-1/PD-L1 expression levels. In conclusion, TCTS is an ideal biomarker for predicting the clinical outcomes and improving precision treatment of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junjian Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhou 325000, Zhejiang, P. R. China
| | - Ji Chen
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Hepato-Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhou 325000, Zhejiang, P. R. China
| | - Qiqi Tao
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Hepato-Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhou 325000, Zhejiang, P. R. China
| | - Jianjian Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnosis and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhou 325000, Zhejiang, P. R. China
| | - Zhenxu Zhou
- Department of Hernia and Abdominal Wall Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhou 325000, Zhejiang, P. R. China
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27
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Zulaziz N, Chai SJ, Lim KP. The origins, roles and therapies of cancer associated fibroblast in liver cancer. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1151373. [PMID: 37035187 PMCID: PMC10076538 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1151373] [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: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common form of liver cancer. It is often preceded by chronic inflammation such as liver fibrosis and cirrhosis. Different cell types are believed to give rise to liver-specific cancer associated fibroblast (CAF), these include resident fibroblast, hepatic stellate cell, liver cancer cell, hepatic sinusoidal endothelial cell and mesenchymal stromal cell. The abundance of fibroblasts has contributed to the cancer progression, immune modulation and treatment resistance in HCC. In this review, we discussed the origins, subtypes and roles of cancer associated fibroblasts in HCC. Their specific roles in shaping the tumor microenvironment, facilitating cancer growth, and modulating different immune cell types to confer a permissive environment for cancer growth. CAF is now an attractive therapeutic target for cancer treatment, however specific therapeutic development in HCC is still lacking. Hence, we have included preclinical and clinical development of CAF-specific interventions for other cancer types in this review. However, most CAF-specific therapies have resulted in disappointing clinical outcomes, likely due to the difficulties in differentiating CAF from normal fibroblast. A thorough understanding of the characteristics and functionalities of CAF is warranted to further improve the therapeutic efficacy of anti-CAF therapies.
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28
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Zhao X, Xue X, Cui Z, Kwame Amevor F, Wan Y, Fu K, Wang C, Peng C, Li Y. microRNAs-based diagnostic and therapeutic applications in liver fibrosis. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. RNA 2022:e1773. [PMID: 36585388 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a process of over-extracellular matrix (ECM) aggregation and angiogenesis, which develops into cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). With the increasing pressure of liver fibrosis, new therapeutics to cure this disease requires much attention. Exosome-cargoed microRNAs (miRNAs) are emerging approaches in the precision of the liver fibrotic paradigm. In this review, we outlined the different types of hepatic cells derived miRNAs that drive intra-/extra-cellular interactive communication in liver fibrosis with different physiological and pathological processes. Specifically, we highlighted the possible mechanism of liver fibrosis pathogenesis associated with immune response and angiogenesis. In addition, potential clinical biomarkers and different stem cell transplant-derived miRNAs-based therapeutic strategies in liver fibrosis were summarized in this review. miRNAs-based approaches might help researchers devise new candidates for the cell-free treatment of liver fibrosis. This article is categorized under: RNA in Disease and Development > RNA in Disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingtao Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Ministry of Education, Chengdu, China.,School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Xinyan Xue
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Ministry of Education, Chengdu, China.,School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Zhifu Cui
- College Science and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Felix Kwame Amevor
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yan Wan
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Ministry of Education, Chengdu, China.,School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Ke Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Ministry of Education, Chengdu, China.,School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Cheng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Ministry of Education, Chengdu, China.,School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Cheng Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Ministry of Education, Chengdu, China.,School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Yunxia Li
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Ministry of Education, Chengdu, China.,School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
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29
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Zhang S, Bacon W, Peppelenbosch MP, van Kemenade F, Stubbs AP. Deciphering Tumour Microenvironment of Liver Cancer through Deconvolution of Bulk RNA-Seq Data with Single-Cell Atlas. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 15:153. [PMID: 36612149 PMCID: PMC9818189 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15010153] [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: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver cancers give rise to a heavy burden on healthcare worldwide. Understanding the tumour microenvironment (TME) underpins the development of precision therapy. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) technology has generated high-quality cell atlases of the TME, but its wider application faces enormous costs for various clinical circumstances. Fortunately, a variety of deconvolution algorithms can instead repurpose bulk RNA-seq data, alleviating the need for generating scRNA-seq datasets. In this study, we reviewed major public omics databases for relevance in this study and utilised eight RNA-seqs and one microarray dataset from clinical studies. To decipher the TME of liver cancer, we estimated the fractions of liver cell components by deconvoluting the samples with Cibersortx using three reference scRNA-seq atlases. We also confirmed that Cibersortx can accurately deconvolute cell types/subtypes of interest. Compared with non-tumorous liver, liver cancers showed multiple decreased cell types forming normal liver microarchitecture, as well as elevated cell types involved in fibrogenesis, abnormal angiogenesis, and disturbed immune responses. Survival analysis shows that the fractions of five cell types/subtypes significantly correlated with patient outcomes, indicating potential therapeutic targets. Therefore, deconvolution of bulk RNA-seq data with scRNA-seq atlas references can be a useful tool to help understand the TME.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaoshi Zhang
- Department of Pathology and Clinical Bioinformatics, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Wytemaweg 80, 3015 CN Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Wytemaweg 80, 3015 CN Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Wendi Bacon
- School of Life, Health & Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics, The Open University, Milton Keynes MK7 6AA, UK
| | - Maikel P. Peppelenbosch
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Wytemaweg 80, 3015 CN Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Folkert van Kemenade
- School of Life, Health & Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics, The Open University, Milton Keynes MK7 6AA, UK
| | - Andrew Peter Stubbs
- Department of Pathology and Clinical Bioinformatics, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Wytemaweg 80, 3015 CN Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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30
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Jiayu F, Jiang Y, Zhou X, Zhou M, Pan J, Ke Y, Zhen J, Huang D, Jiang W. Comprehensive analysis of prognostic value, relationship to cell cycle, immune infiltration and m6A modification of ZSCAN20 in hepatocellular carcinoma. Aging (Albany NY) 2022; 14:9550-9578. [PMID: 36462500 PMCID: PMC9792207 DOI: 10.18632/aging.204312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common tumor across the globe with a high mortality rate. ZSCAN20 is a ZNF transcription factor, a key determinant of gene expression. Nonetheless, the mechanism of ZSCAN20 as a potential clinical biomarker and therapeutic target for HCC is not understood. Here, TIMER, TCGA, ICGC databases and immunohistochemical (IHC) and Western Blot found ZSCAN20 mRNA and protein levels were upregulated. Additionally, Kaplan-Meier Plotter, GEPIA and TCGA databases showed high ZSCAN20 expression was related to the short survival time of HCC patients. Multivariate Cox analysis exposed that ZSCAN20 can act as an independent prognostic factor. We observed methylation level of ZSCAN20 was associated with the clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis of HCC patients through UALCAN. Furthermore, enrichment examination exposed functional association between ZSCAN20 and cell cycle, immune infiltration. Functional experiments showed that interference with ZSCAN20 significantly reduced the invasion, migration and proliferation abilities of HCC cells. An immune infiltration analysis showed that ZSCAN20 was associated with immune cells, particularly T cells. The expression of ZSCAN20 was correlated with poor prognosis in the Regulatory T-cell. And Real-Time RT-PCR analysis found interference with ZSCAN20 significantly reduced the expression of some chemokines. Finally, the TCGA and ICGC data analysis suggested that the ZSCAN20 expression was greatly related to m6A modifier related genes. In conclusion, ZSCAN20 can serve as a prognostic biomarker for HCC and provide clues about cell cycle, immune infiltration, and m6A modification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Jiayu
- Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- Second College of Clinical Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Yike Jiang
- Second College of Clinical Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Xuanrui Zhou
- Second College of Clinical Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Minqin Zhou
- Second College of Clinical Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Jingying Pan
- Second College of Clinical Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Yun Ke
- Second College of Clinical Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Jing Zhen
- Second College of Clinical Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Da Huang
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Weifan Jiang
- Department of Urology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
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31
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Tang Y, Zhang H, Chen L, Zhang T, Xu N, Huang Z. Identification of Hypoxia-Related Prognostic Signature and Competing Endogenous RNA Regulatory Axes in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:13590. [PMID: 36362375 PMCID: PMC9658439 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232113590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common type of liver cancer and one of the highly lethal diseases worldwide. Hypoxia plays an important role in the development and prognosis of HCC. This study aimed to construct a new hypoxia-related prognosis signature and investigate its potential ceRNA axes in HCC. RNA profiles and hypoxia genes were downloaded, respectively, from the Cancer Genome Atlas hepatocellular carcinoma database and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis website. Cox regression analyses were performed to select the prognostic genes and construct the risk model. The ENCORI database was applied to build the lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA prognosis-related network. The TIMER and CellMiner databases were employed to analyze the association of gene expression in ceRNA with immune infiltration and drug sensitivity, respectively. Finally, the co-expression analysis was carried out to construct the potential lncRNA/miRNA/mRNA regulatory axes. We obtained a prognostic signature including eight hypoxia genes (ENO2, KDELR3, PFKP, SLC2A1, PGF, PPFIA4, SAP30, and TKTL1) and further established a hypoxia-related prognostic ceRNA network including 17 lncRNAs, six miRNAs, and seven mRNAs for hepatocellular carcinoma. Then, the analysis of immune infiltration and drug sensitivity showed that gene expression in the ceRNA network was significantly correlated with the infiltration abundance of multiple immune cells, the expression level of immune checkpoints, and drug sensitivity. Finally, we identified three ceRNA regulatory axes (SNHG1/miR-101-3p/PPFIA4, SNHG1/miR-101-3p/SAP30, and SNHG1/miR-101-3p/TKTL1) associated with the progression of HCC under hypoxia. Here, we constructed a prognosis gene signature and a ceRNA network related to hypoxia for hepatocellular carcinoma. Among the ceRNA network, six highly expressed lncRNAs (AC005540.1, AC012146.1, AC073529.1, AC090772.3, AC138150.2, AL390728.6) and one highly expressed mRNA (PPFIA4) were the potential biomarkers of hepatocellular carcinoma which we firstly reported. The three predicted hypoxia-related regulatory axes may play a vital role in the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yulai Tang
- The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523710, China
- The First Clinical Medical College, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
| | - Hua Zhang
- The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523710, China
- Key Laboratory of Big Data Mining and Precision Drug Design of Guangdong Medical University, Key Laboratory of Computer-Aided Drug Design of Dongguan City, Key Laboratory for Research and Development of Natural Drugs of Guangdong Province, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
| | - Lingli Chen
- The First Clinical Medical College, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
| | - Taomin Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Big Data Mining and Precision Drug Design of Guangdong Medical University, Key Laboratory of Computer-Aided Drug Design of Dongguan City, Key Laboratory for Research and Development of Natural Drugs of Guangdong Province, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
| | - Na Xu
- Key Laboratory of Big Data Mining and Precision Drug Design of Guangdong Medical University, Key Laboratory of Computer-Aided Drug Design of Dongguan City, Key Laboratory for Research and Development of Natural Drugs of Guangdong Province, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
| | - Zunnan Huang
- The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523710, China
- Key Laboratory of Big Data Mining and Precision Drug Design of Guangdong Medical University, Key Laboratory of Computer-Aided Drug Design of Dongguan City, Key Laboratory for Research and Development of Natural Drugs of Guangdong Province, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
- Marine Medical Research Institute of Guangdong Zhanjiang, Zhanjiang 524023, China
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Harkus U, Wankell M, Palamuthusingam P, McFarlane C, Hebbard L. Immune checkpoint inhibitors in HCC: Cellular, molecular and systemic data. Semin Cancer Biol 2022; 86:799-815. [PMID: 35065242 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2022.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the leading causes of cancer related deaths in the world, and for patients with advanced disease there are few therapeutic options available. The complex immunological microenvironment of HCC and the success of immunotherapy in several types of tumours, has raised the prospect of potential benefit for immune based therapies, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), in HCC. This has led to significant breakthrough research, numerous clinical trials and the rapid approval of multiple systemic drugs for HCC by regulatory bodies worldwide. Although some patients responded well to ICIs, many have failed to achieve significant benefit, while others showed unexpected and paradoxical deterioration. The aim of this review is to discuss the pathophysiology of HCC, the tumour microenvironment, key clinical trials evaluating ICIs in HCC, various resistance mechanisms to ICIs, and possible ways to overcome these impediments to improve patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uasim Harkus
- Townsville University Hospital, Townsville, Queensland 4811, Australia
| | - Miriam Wankell
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, Australian Institute of Tropical Medicine and Health, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland 4811, Australia
| | - Pranavan Palamuthusingam
- College of Medicine and Dentistry, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland 4811, Australia; Townsville University Hospital, Townsville, Queensland 4811, Australia; Mater Hospital, Townsville, Queensland 4811, Australia
| | - Craig McFarlane
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, Australian Institute of Tropical Medicine and Health, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland 4811, Australia
| | - Lionel Hebbard
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, Australian Institute of Tropical Medicine and Health, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland 4811, Australia; Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead Hospital and University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2145, Australia.
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Liu R, Cao X, Liang Y, Li X, Jin Q, Li Y, Du H, Zao X, Ye Y. Downregulation of ST6GAL1 Promotes Liver Inflammation and Predicts Adverse Prognosis in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. J Inflamm Res 2022; 15:5801-5814. [PMID: 36238765 PMCID: PMC9553312 DOI: 10.2147/jir.s385491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most malignant tumors worldwide. The ST6 β-galactoside α-2, 6-sialyltransferase 1 (ST6GAL1) has been found aberrantly expressed in a variety of cancers including HCC, but its function and mechanism in regulating liver inflammation remain to be investigated. This study aimed to explore the role of ST6GAL1 in HCC. The data of ST6GAL1 expression, prognosis, and clinical parameters were collected and further analyzed from the public databases including The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), Human Protein Atlas (HPA), and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). The HCC rat model was constructed by intraperitoneal injection of diethylnitrosamine. The mRNA and protein expression levels of ST6GAL1 in rat liver tissues were detected by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction, capillary electrophoresis, and Western blot. Results The ST6GAL1 mRNA and protein expression levels were both lower in HCC tissues compared with normal liver tissues in the public databases and HCC rat model. The survival analysis showed that upregulation of ST6GAL1 was an independent prognostic factor for good prognosis in HCC patients. The ST6GAL1 mRNA expression showed a negative correlation with ST6GAL1 methylation levels. Enrichment analysis showed that ST6GAL1 expression was most associated with metabolic, cancer, estrogen, axon guidance, cAMP, and PI3K-AKT signaling pathways. The ST6GAL1 mRNA expression negatively correlated with liver inflammation status and proportion of NK CD56bright, NK CD56dim, pDC, and CD8+ T cells in liver. Conclusion Compared with normal tissues, ST6GAL1 was lower expressed in HCC tumor tissues, and the downregulation of ST6GAL1 was associated with a poor prognosis in HCC patients. ST6GAL1 could further affect the infiltration of immune cells to exert anti-inflammation function in liver. Our study indicated that ST6GAL1 could be a potential biomarker and therapeutic target to assess the prognosis and regulate the immune cells infiltration level of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruijia Liu
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China,Institute of Liver Diseases, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xu Cao
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China,Institute of Liver Diseases, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yijun Liang
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China,Institute of Liver Diseases, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaobin Li
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qian Jin
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ying Li
- Third Affiliated Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hongbo Du
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China,Institute of Liver Diseases, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaobin Zao
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China,Key Laboratory of Chinese Internal Medicine of Ministry of Education and Beijing, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yong’an Ye
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China,Institute of Liver Diseases, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China,Correspondence: Yong’an Ye; Xiaobin Zao, Email ;
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Wu G, Yang Y, Ye R, Yue H, Zhang H, Huang T, Liu M, Zheng Y, Wang Y, Zhou Y, Guo Q. Development and validation of an ECM-related prognostic signature to predict the immune landscape of human hepatocellular carcinoma. BMC Cancer 2022; 22:1036. [PMID: 36195857 PMCID: PMC9531523 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-022-10049-w] [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: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The global burden of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is increasing, negatively impacting social health and economies. The discovery of novel and valuable biomarkers for the early diagnosis and therapeutic guidance of HCC is urgently needed. Methods Extracellular matrix (ECM)-related gene sets, transcriptome data and mutation profiles were downloaded from the Matrisome Project and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA)-LIHC datasets. Coexpression analysis was initially performed with the aim of identifying ECM-related lncRNAs (r > 0.4, p < 0.001). The screened lncRNAs were subjected to univariate analysis to obtain a series of prognosis-related lncRNA sets, which were incorporated into least absolute selection and shrinkage operator (LASSO) regression for signature establishment. Following the grouping of LIHC samples according to risk score, the correlations between the signature and clinicopathological, tumour immune infiltration, and mutational characteristics as well as therapeutic response were also analysed. lncRNA expression levels used for modelling were finally examined at the cellular and tissue levels by real-time PCR. All analyses were based on R software. Results AL031985.3 and MKLN1-AS were ultimately identified as signature-related lncRNAs, and both were significantly upregulated in HCC tissue samples and cell lines. The prognostic value of the signature reflected by the AUC value was superior to that of age, sex, grade and stage. Correlation analysis results demonstrated that high-risk groups exhibited significant enrichment of immune cells (DCs, macrophages and Tregs) and increased expression levels of all immune checkpoint genes. Prominent differences in clinicopathological profiles, immune functions, tumour mutation burden (TMB) and drug sensitivity were noted between the two risk groups. Conclusions Our signature represents a valuable predictive tool in the prognostic management of HCC patients. Further validation of the mechanisms involved is needed. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12885-022-10049-w.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guozhi Wu
- The First Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China.,Department of Gastroenterology, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, No.1 West Donggang Road, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China.,Gansu Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China
| | - Yuan Yang
- The First Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China.,Department of Gastroenterology, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, No.1 West Donggang Road, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China.,Gansu Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China
| | - Rong Ye
- Department of Radiology, the First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China
| | - Hanxun Yue
- The First Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China.,Department of Gastroenterology, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, No.1 West Donggang Road, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China.,Gansu Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China
| | - Huiyun Zhang
- The First Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China.,Department of Gastroenterology, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, No.1 West Donggang Road, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China.,Gansu Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China
| | - Taobi Huang
- The First Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China.,Department of Gastroenterology, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, No.1 West Donggang Road, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China.,Gansu Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China
| | - Min Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, No.1 West Donggang Road, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China.,Gansu Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China
| | - Ya Zheng
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, No.1 West Donggang Road, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China.,Gansu Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China
| | - Yuping Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, No.1 West Donggang Road, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China.,Gansu Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China
| | - Yongning Zhou
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, No.1 West Donggang Road, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China. .,Gansu Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China.
| | - Qinghong Guo
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, No.1 West Donggang Road, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China. .,Gansu Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China.
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Integrated Bioinformatics and Experimental Analysis Identified TRIM28 a Potential Prognostic Biomarker and Correlated with Immune Infiltrates in Liver Hepatocellular Carcinoma. COMPUTATIONAL AND MATHEMATICAL METHODS IN MEDICINE 2022; 2022:6267851. [PMID: 36238495 PMCID: PMC9553339 DOI: 10.1155/2022/6267851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Background Since the 1970s, liver hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC) has experienced a constant rise in incidence and mortality rates, making the identification of LIHC biomarkers very important. Tripartite Motif-Containing 28 (TRIM28) is a protein-coding gene which encodes the tripartite motif-containing proteins (TRIMs) family and is associated with specific chromatin regions. TRIM28 expression and its prognostic value and impact on the immune system in LIHC patients are being investigated for the first time. Methods The TRIM28 expression data from TCGA database was used to analyze TRIM28 expression, clinicopathological information, gene enrichment, and immune infiltration and conduct additional bioinformatics analysis. R language was used for statistical analysis. TIMER, CIBERSORT, and ssGSEA were used to assess immune responses of TRIM28 in LIHC. Next, the results were validated using GEPIA, ROC analysis, and immunohistochemical staining pictures from the THPA. GSE14520, GSE63898, and GSE87630 datasets were analyzed using ROC analysis to further evaluate TRIM28's diagnostic value. To ultimately determine TRIM28 expression, we performed qRT-PCR (quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction). Results High TRIM28 expression level was associated with T classification, pathologic stage, histologic grade, and serum AFP levels. In patients with LIHC, TRIM28 was an independent risk factor for a poor prognosis. The pathways ligand-receptor interaction, which is critical in LIHC patients, were closely associated with TRIM28 expression, and the function of DC could be suppressed by overexpression of TRIM28. As a final step, our results were validated by GEO data and qRT-PCR. Conclusions TRIM28 will shed new light on LIHC mechanisms. As an effective diagnostic and intervention tool, this gene will be able to diagnose and treat LIHC at an early stage.
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Immune mechanisms linking metabolic injury to inflammation and fibrosis in fatty liver disease - novel insights into cellular communication circuits. J Hepatol 2022; 77:1136-1160. [PMID: 35750137 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2022.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 141] [Impact Index Per Article: 70.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2022] [Revised: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most prevalent chronic liver disease and is emerging as the leading cause of cirrhosis, liver transplantation and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). NAFLD is a metabolic disease that is considered the hepatic manifestation of the metabolic syndrome; however, during the evolution of NAFLD from steatosis to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), to more advanced stages of NASH with liver fibrosis, the immune system plays an integral role. Triggers for inflammation are rooted in hepatic (lipid overload, lipotoxicity, oxidative stress) and extrahepatic (gut-liver axis, adipose tissue, skeletal muscle) systems, resulting in unique immune-mediated pathomechanisms in NAFLD. In recent years, the implementation of single-cell RNA-sequencing and high dimensional multi-omics (proteogenomics, lipidomics) and spatial transcriptomics have tremendously advanced our understanding of the complex heterogeneity of various liver immune cell subsets in health and disease. In NAFLD, several emerging inflammatory mechanisms have been uncovered, including profound macrophage heterogeneity, auto-aggressive T cells, the role of unconventional T cells and platelet-immune cell interactions, potentially yielding novel therapeutics. In this review, we will highlight the recent discoveries related to inflammation in NAFLD, discuss the role of immune cell subsets during the different stages of the disease (including disease regression) and integrate the multiple systems driving inflammation. We propose a refined concept by which the immune system contributes to all stages of NAFLD and discuss open scientific questions arising from this paradigm shift that need to be unravelled in the coming years. Finally, we discuss novel therapeutic approaches to target the multiple triggers of inflammation, including combination therapy via nuclear receptors (FXR agonists, PPAR agonists).
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Wang PW, Lin TY, Yang PM, Yeh CT, Pan TL. Hepatic Stellate Cell Modulates the Immune Microenvironment in the Progression of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231810777. [PMID: 36142683 PMCID: PMC9503407 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231810777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major cause of increases in the mortality rate due to cancer that usually develops in patients with liver fibrosis and impaired hepatic immunity. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) may directly or indirectly crosstalk with various hepatic cells and subsequently modulate extracellular remodeling, cell invasion, macrophage conversion, and cancer deterioration. In this regard, the tumor microenvironment created by activated HSC plays a critical role in mediating pathogenesis and immune escape during HCC progression. Herein, intermediately differentiated human liver cancer cell line (J5) cells were co-cultured with HSC-conditioned medium (HSC-CM); changes in cell phenotype and cytokine profiles were analyzed to assess the impact of HSCs on the development of hepatoma. The stage of liver fibrosis correlated significantly with tumor grade, and the administration of conditioned medium secreted by activated HSC (aHSC-CM) could induce the expression of N-cadherin, cell migration, and invasive potential, as well as the activity of matrix metalloproteinases in J5 cells, implying that aHSC-CM could trigger the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Next, the HSC-CM was further investigated and network analysis indicated that specific cytokines and soluble proteins, such as activin A, released from activated HSCs could remarkably affect the tumor-associated immune microenvironment involved in macrophage polarization, which would, in turn, diminish a host’s immune surveillance and drive hepatoma cells into a more malignant phenotype. Together, our findings provide a novel insight into the integral roles of HSCs to enhance hepatocarcinogenesis through their immune-modulatory properties and suggest that HSC may serve as a potent target for the treatment of advanced HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei-Wen Wang
- Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, China Medical University, Taichung 40447, Taiwan
| | - Tung-Yi Lin
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Keelung, Keelung 20401, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Ming Yang
- TMU Research Center of Cancer Translational Medicine, Taipei 11042, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Cancer Biology and Drug Discovery, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11042, Taiwan
| | - Chau-Ting Yeh
- Liver Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 33375, Taiwan
| | - Tai-Long Pan
- Liver Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 33375, Taiwan
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
- Department of Cosmetic Science, Research Center for Food and Cosmetic Safety, and Research Center for Chinese Herbal Medicine, College of Human Ecology, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Taoyuan 33303, Taiwan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +886-3-211-8800 (ext. 5105); Fax: +886-3-211-8700
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Song D, Zhou Z, Wu J, Wei T, Zhao G, Ren H, Zhang B. DNA methylation regulators-related molecular patterns and tumor immune landscape in hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Oncol 2022; 12:877817. [PMID: 36091162 PMCID: PMC9459088 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.877817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Increasing evidence showed that the dysregulation of DNA methylation regulators is a decisive feature of almost all cancer types and affects tumor progressions. However, few studies focused on the underlying influences of DNA methylation regulators-related genes (DMRegs) in immune cell-infiltration characteristics, tumor microenvironment (TME) and immunotherapy in HCC patients. In our study, the alterations of DNA methylation regulators modification patterns (DMRPs) were clustered from hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) samples based on the expression of DNA methylation regulators as well as genetic and transcriptional features. In addition, based on molecular identification of three distinct molecular subtypes, we found that different DMRPs alterations were related to different clinicopathological characteristics, prognosis, and immune cells infiltration features. Moreover, we constructed and validated a DNA methylation regulators-related genes score (DMRegs_score) to predict the survival of HCC patients. A high DMRegs _score, which was characterized by more TP53 wild mutation, high expression of PD-1, CTLA-4, and remarkable immunity activation, was indicative of poor prognosis. Furthermore, we validated the expression of eight genes which were used for the prognostic signature in this risk score by RT-qPCR using tissues from our center. More importantly, DMRegs_score was highly correlated with targeted drug sensitivity. Additionally, we developed a highly accurate scoring system that could be used to improve the clinical applicability of DMRegs _score. In conclusion, these findings may contribute to a better understanding of DNA methylation regulators and provide new strategies for evaluating prognosis and developing more effective combination therapy for HCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dingli Song
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Zhenyu Zhou
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jie Wu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Tao Wei
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, School of Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Guang Zhao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Hong Ren
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
- *Correspondence: Hong Ren, ; Boxiang Zhang,
| | - Boxiang Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
- *Correspondence: Hong Ren, ; Boxiang Zhang,
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Zhu H, Xiao H, Lu G, Fang S. Effect of Transdermal Fentanyl Patch Combined with Enhanced Recovery after Surgery on the Curative Effect and Analgesic Effect of Liver Cancer. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 2022:9722458. [PMID: 35924273 PMCID: PMC9343188 DOI: 10.1155/2022/9722458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Its goal was to see how a transdermal fentanyl patch combined with accelerated recovery after surgery (ERAS) affected the treatment efficacy and analgesic effect of liver cancer, as well as to help patients with liver cancer choose the right analgesic treatment and nursing mode. 150 patients with liver cancer were divided into group A (transdermal fentanyl patch), group B (ERAS), and group C (transdermal fentanyl patch combined with ERAS). Patients in the three groups were compared in terms of pain, survival, psychological status, adverse responses, postoperative recovery, and patient satisfaction. The results showed that under different treatment and nursing methods, the number of patients with mild cancer pain in the three groups was increased, especially the number of patients with mild cancer pain in group C (P < 0.05). Besides, the quality of life score of patients in each group was decreased. Patients who received the combination analgesia had a significantly higher quality of life than those who received simply a transdermal fentanyl patch or ERAS (P < 0.05). The scores of both the Hamilton anxiety scale (HAMA) and Hamilton depression rating scale (HAMD) of patients with the combined analgesia were decreased signally (P < 0.05). There were few patients with combined analgesia who had adverse reactions (P < 0.05). After surgery, the time of the first anal exhaust, first defecation, and first ambulation in group C were shorter than those in the other two groups (P < 0.05). To summarize, combining the two techniques aided in the recovery of gastrointestinal function as well as the physical recovery of patients following surgery. Furthermore, combining the two approaches produced a clear analgesic impact, which could improve patients' quality of life while also having a favorable clinical adoption effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hengmei Zhu
- Special Needs Diagnosis and Treatment Department, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200438 Shanghai, China
| | - Hongmei Xiao
- Operating Room of Department of Anesthesiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200438 Shanghai, China
| | - Guihua Lu
- Hematology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of PLA Navy Medical University, Shanghai, 200438 Shanghai, China
| | - Shuheng Fang
- Operating Room of Department of Anesthesiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200438 Shanghai, China
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A Prognosis Marker Dynein Cytoplasmic 1 Heavy Chain 1 Correlates with EMT and Immune Signature in Liver Hepatocellular Carcinoma by Bioinformatics and Experimental Analysis. DISEASE MARKERS 2022; 2022:6304859. [PMID: 35601740 PMCID: PMC9117040 DOI: 10.1155/2022/6304859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 04/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Background Liver hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC) has had a continuous increase in incidence and mortality rates over the last 40 years. Dynein Cytoplasmic 1 Heavy Chain 1 (DYNC1H1) is a protein coding gene which encodes the cytoplasmic dynein heavy chain family. This is the first investigation into the expression of DYNC1H1 and its mechanisms of action in LIHC patients. Methods Based on the DYNC1H1 expression data from the TCGA database, we performed the DYNC1H1 expression, clinicopathological data, gene enrichment, and immune infiltration analysis. TIMER and CIBERSORT were used to assess immune responses of DYNC1H1 in LIHC. GEPIA, K-M survival analysis, and immunohistochemical staining pictures from the THPA were used to validate the results. In order to evaluate the diagnostic value of DYNC1H1, GEO datasets were analyzed by using ROC analysis. And quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction was also carried out to evaluate the expression of DYNC1H1. Results DYNC1H1 expression levels were associated with T classification, pathologic stage, histologic grade, and serum AFP levels. DYNC1H1 is an independent factor for a poor prognosis in patients with LIHC. Further study showed that high expression of DYNC1H1 was enriched in epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) and the TGF β signaling pathway by GSEA analysis enrichment, indicating that DYNC1H1 might play a key role in the progression of CRC through EMT and immune response, which also had been validated by the experimental assays. Conclusions DYNC1H1 will provide a novel and important perspective for the mechanisms of LIHC by regulating EMT. This gene will be able to act as an efficacious tool for the early diagnosis and effective intervention of LIHC.
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Chronic Fibrosis and Its Progression to Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23073924. [PMID: 35409286 PMCID: PMC8999153 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
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Overexpression of CISD1 Predicts Worse Survival in Hepatocarcinoma Patients. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 2022:7823191. [PMID: 35313629 PMCID: PMC8933656 DOI: 10.1155/2022/7823191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Background Ferroptosis plays a vital role in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). CISD1 is known to regulate ferroptosis negatively. However, the correlations of CISD1 to prognosis in HCC and its potential mechanism remain unclear. Aim To investigate the expression level and prognostic value of CISD1 in HCC. Methods Gene expression and clinical data for 33 cancer types in TCGA were downloaded from the UCSC Xena platform. Pan-cancer analysis was performed to determine the expression profile and prognostic value of CISD1 in human cancers. GEO datasets and Human Protein Atlas (HPA) were used to verify the mRNA and protein expression levels. The influence of CISD1 on clinical prognosis in HCC was evaluated using a Kaplan-Meier plotter. The PPI network was constructed using the STRING database and Cytoscape. GO and KEGG pathways were constructed using the “clusterProfiler” R package with the FDR cutoff of 0.05. The methylation at the CISD1 promoter was detected using UALCAN and GEO datasets. The correlations between CISD1 and HCC immune infiltrates were investigated via TIMER. Results Pan-cancer analysis of TCGA data showed that CISD1 is differentially expressed in multiple tumors. Data of gene expression microarrays reveal that the mRNA expression of CISD1 is higher in HCC than that in normal tissue. The protein level of CISD1, validated by the Human Protein Atlas (HPA) database, was upregulated consistently with mRNA levels in HCC samples. High CISD1 expression was associated with better overall survival (OS), disease-free survival (DFS), disease-specific survival (DSS), and progression-free survival (PFS) in LGG, but with poorer OS, DFS, DSS, and PFS in LIHC. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) analysis and GO/KEGG analysis showed that the PPI network and GO term of CISD1 were mainly associated with energy and iron metabolism. Promoter hypomethylation correlated with overexpression of CISD1. CISD1 expression was positively correlated with infiltrating levels of CD8+ T cells, macrophages, neutrophils, and dendritic cells (DCs) in HCC. Conclusions These findings suggest that hypomethylation of the CISD1 promoter increases its expression in HCC. CISD1 is associated with prognosis and immune infiltrating levels of CD8+ T cells, macrophages, neutrophils, and DCs in HCC patients. These findings suggest that CISD1 can be used as a prognostic biomarker for determining prognosis in HCC.
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Lurje I, Czigany Z, Bednarsch J, Gaisa NT, Dahl E, Knüchel R, Miller H, Ulmer TF, Strnad P, Trautwein C, Tacke F, Neumann UP, Lurje G. Genetic Variant of CXCR1 (rs2234671) Associates with Clinical Outcome in Perihilar Cholangiocarcinoma. Liver Cancer 2022; 11:162-173. [PMID: 35634429 PMCID: PMC9109077 DOI: 10.1159/000521613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Perihilar cholangiocarcinoma (pCCA) is a rare primary liver malignancy. Even in patients amenable to surgery, outcomes are often dismal. Here, we aimed to identify prognostic markers for patient outcomes by analyzing functionally relevant single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in genes with a role in tumor inflammation and angiogenesis. We analyzed 11 polymorphisms in the inflammation-angiogenesis axis (VEGF, EGF, EGFR, IL-1b, IL-6, CXCL8 (IL-8), IL-10, CXCR1, HIF1A, and COX2 genes) for their prediction of tumor recurrence and survival in pCCA patients undergoing surgery in a curative intent. METHODS Samples were obtained from 111 patients with pCCA undergoing liver resection in curative intent. DNA was extracted and analyzed using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism protocols and correlated with patients' outcomes. RESULTS Out of the assessed variants, only the CXCR1 (also: interleukin-8-receptor alpha - IL-8RA) +860C>G heterozygous polymorphism (rs2234671) was associated with decreased disease-free survival (DFS), cancer-specific survival (CSS), and overall survival (OS) (18/111 (16.2%), median DFS 14 months, log-rank p = 0.007; median CSS 31 months, log-rank p = 0.007; and median OS 6 months, log-rank p = 0.002), compared to the GG genotype (92/111 (82.9%), median DFS 55 months, median CSS 63 months, and median OS 33 months). In the multivariate analysis, +860C>G remained an independent prognostic factor for DFS (adjusted p = 0.008), CSS (adjusted p = 0.001), and OS (adjusted p = 0.001). CONCLUSION Genetic variant of CXCR1 +860C>G may serve as a molecular marker for DFS, CSS, and OS in patients undergoing curative-intent surgery for pCCA, indicating that the analysis of SNPs in genes involved in immune-mediated angiogenesis may help to identify patient subgroups at high risk for dismal oncological and overall outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella Lurje
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Campus Charité Mitte, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany,Department of Surgery and Transplantation, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Zoltan Czigany
- Department of Surgery and Transplantation, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Jan Bednarsch
- Department of Surgery and Transplantation, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | | | - Edgar Dahl
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Ruth Knüchel
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Hannah Miller
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Campus Charité Mitte, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany,Department of Surgery, Campus Charité Mitte, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Tom Florian Ulmer
- Department of Surgery and Transplantation, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Pavel Strnad
- Department of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Christian Trautwein
- Department of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Frank Tacke
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Campus Charité Mitte, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany,Department of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Ulf Peter Neumann
- Department of Surgery and Transplantation, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany,Department of Surgery, Maastricht University Medical Centre (MUMC), Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Georg Lurje
- Department of Surgery and Transplantation, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany,Department of Surgery, Campus Charité Mitte, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany,*Georg Lurje,
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Dos Santos IP, de Assunção MT, Mauch RM, Sandy NS, Nolasco da Silva MT, Bellomo-Brandão MA, Riccetto AGL. Patients with treated autoimmune hepatitis and persistent suppression of plasmacytoid dendritic cells: A different point of view. Int J Immunopathol Pharmacol 2022; 36:20587384211068667. [PMID: 35404689 PMCID: PMC9006358 DOI: 10.1177/20587384211068667] [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] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: Plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) have been shown to have a role in autoimmune diseases, but their role in Autoimmune Hepatitis (AIH) is not completely clear. In the present study, we assessed the frequency of pDCs in peripheral blood of AIH patients under long-term standard immunosuppressive therapy. Methods: This cross-sectional analysis enrolled 27 AIH patients and 27 healthy controls. We analyzed and compared their proportion of pDCs, CD4+, CD8+, γδ T cells, CD25+ regulatory T (Treg) cells, FoxP3+, Foxp3+CD39+ Treg cells, total B (CD19+) cells, and plasma cells (CD38+) in peripheral blood using flow cytometry immunophenotyping. Results: AIH patients had a lower percentage of pDCs (median frequencies of 0.2% vs. 0.4%; p = .002) and higher expression of CD8 T cells (32.5% vs 28.6%; p = 0.008) in peripheral blood, when compared to healthy controls. We did not find statistically significant differences between the groups regarding the other cell subtypes.Conclusion: Our data suggest a persistent suppression of pDCs in AIH patients, along with increased CD8 T cell activity, years after AIH diagnosis and despite of good clinical response to treatment, thus pointing to a role of pDCs in the AIH pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene P Dos Santos
- Center for Hematology and Hemotherapy, 28132University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Mayra T de Assunção
- Pediatric Gastroenterology Clinic, Hospital de Clínicas (University of Campinas Teaching Hospital), 28132University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Renan M Mauch
- Center for Investigation in Pediatrics, School of Medical Sciences, 28132University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Natascha Silva Sandy
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Department of Pediatrics, 7979Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Marcos Tadeu Nolasco da Silva
- Center for Investigation in Pediatrics, School of Medical Sciences, 28132University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil.,Department of Pediatrics, School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Maria Angela Bellomo-Brandão
- Pediatric Gastroenterology Clinic, Hospital de Clínicas (University of Campinas Teaching Hospital), 28132University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil.,Department of Pediatrics, School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Adriana Gut Lopes Riccetto
- Center for Investigation in Pediatrics, School of Medical Sciences, 28132University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil.,Department of Pediatrics, School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
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Immunotherapy for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: New Prospects for the Cancer Therapy. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:life11121355. [PMID: 34947886 PMCID: PMC8704694 DOI: 10.3390/life11121355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. HCC patients may benefit from liver transplantation, hepatic resection, radiofrequency ablation, transcatheter arterial chemoembolization, and targeted therapies. The increased infiltration of immunosuppressive immune cells and the elevated expression of immunosuppressive factors in the HCC microenvironment are the main culprits of the immunosuppressive nature of the HCC milieu. The immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment can substantially attenuate antitumoral immune responses and facilitate the immune evasion of tumoral cells. Immunotherapy is an innovative treatment method that has been promising in treating HCC. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), adoptive cell transfer (ACT), and cell-based (primarily dendritic cells) and non-cell-based vaccines are the most common immunotherapeutic approaches for HCC treatment. However, these therapeutic approaches have not generally induced robust antitumoral responses in clinical settings. To answer to this, growing evidence has characterized immune cell populations and delineated intercellular cross-talk using single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) technologies. This review aims to discuss the various types of tumor-infiltrating immune cells and highlight their roles in HCC development. Besides, we discuss the recent advances in immunotherapeutic approaches for treating HCC, e.g., ICIs, dendritic cell (DC)-based vaccines, non-cell-based vaccines, oncolytic viruses (OVs), and ACT. Finally, we discuss the potentiality of scRNA-seq to improve the response rate of HCC patients to immunotherapeutic approaches.
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Qiu Y, Li H, Xie J, Qiao X, Wu J. Identification of ABCC5 Among ATP-Binding Cassette Transporter Family as a New Biomarker for Hepatocellular Carcinoma Based on Bioinformatics Analysis. Int J Gen Med 2021; 14:7235-7246. [PMID: 34737618 PMCID: PMC8560065 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s333904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Liver cancer is the fifth most common type of cancer worldwide, and the ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporter family has been widely accepted as a cause of multidrug resistance. This study was conducted to explore the potential value and mechanisms of the ABC transporter gene family in the liver hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC). Materials and Methods Data were collected from different public databases. UALCAN, ONCOMINE, and GEPIA were used to retrieve a selection of differently expressed and pathological stage-related genes among the ABC family. Principal component analysis (PCA) was utilized for grouping, and its prognostic value was evaluated by univariate and multivariate Cox analyses. The co-expression pattern was constructed with UALCAN, and the functional analyses were carried out with DAVID. The correlation between the biomarker and immune infiltration, genetic alteration frequency, and drug sensitivity were explored with TIMER, cBioPortal, GDSC and CTRP, respectively. Finally, tSNE algorithm was used to explore the distribution of ABCC5 expressed cells. Results Among the ABC transporter family members, ABCC5 was differently expressed and strongly related to the pathological stage of LIHC. PCA divided patients of LIHC into two groups, and Cox analyses demonstrated that ABCC5 was an independent risk factor of LIHC. Functional analyses indicated that the genes were enriched in the pathways of transmembrane transporter, ATPase activity, and bile secretion. ABCC5 is also associated with immune infiltration of cells like macrophages, neutrophils, and dendritic cells. The genetic alteration frequency of ABCC5 confirmed its potential value in LIHC. In addition, several drugs were explored and found to be relevant to LIHC. The t-SNE showed that expression of ABCC5 was most concentrated in macrophages, followed by hepatocytes. Conclusion ABCC5 may facilitate LIHC progression through different mechanisms and be a potential biomarker and target for diagnosis, prognosis, and therapy of LIHC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuting Qiu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Centre for Digestive Diseases, Beijing, 100050, People's Republic of China
| | - Haobo Li
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, China-Japan Friendship Hospital; Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100029, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiaheng Xie
- Department of Burn and Plastic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210029, People's Republic of China
| | - Xinwei Qiao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Centre for Digestive Diseases, Beijing, 100050, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Wu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Centre for Digestive Diseases, Beijing, 100050, People's Republic of China
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Zheng X, Jin W, Wang S, Ding H. Progression on the Roles and Mechanisms of Tumor-Infiltrating T Lymphocytes in Patients With Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Front Immunol 2021; 12:729705. [PMID: 34566989 PMCID: PMC8462294 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.729705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary liver cancer (PLC) is one of the most common malignancies in China, where it ranks second in mortality and fifth in morbidity. Currently, liver transplantation, hepatic tumor resection, radiofrequency ablation, and molecular-targeted agents are the major treatments for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Overall, HCC has a poor survival rate and a high recurrence rate. Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) have been discovered to play essential roles in the development, prognosis, and immunotherapy treatment of HCC. As the major component cells of TILs, T cells are also proved to show antitumor and protumor effects in HCC. Foxp3+, CD8+, CD3+, and CD4+ T lymphocytes are the broadly studied subgroups of TILs. This article reviews the roles and mechanisms of different tumor-infiltrating T lymphocyte subtypes in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqin Zheng
- Department of Gastrointestinal and Hepatology, Beijing You'An Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Wenjie Jin
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine, Università della Svizzera italiana, Bellinzona, Switzerland.,Institute of Microbiology, Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule (ETH) Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Shanshan Wang
- Beijing Institute of Hepatology, Beijing You'An Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Huiguo Ding
- Department of Gastrointestinal and Hepatology, Beijing You'An Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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Zhu H, Liu X. Advances of Tumorigenesis, Diagnosis at Early Stage, and Cellular Immunotherapy in Gastrointestinal Malignancies. Front Oncol 2021; 11:666340. [PMID: 34434889 PMCID: PMC8381364 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.666340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Globally, in 2018, 4.8 million new patients have a diagnosis of gastrointestinal (GI) cancers, while 3.4 million people died of such disorders. GI malignancies are tightly relevant to 26% of the world-wide cancer incidence and occupies 35% of all cancer-associated deaths. In this article, we principally investigated molecular and cellular mechanisms of tumorigenesis in five major GI cancers occurring at esophagus, stomach, liver, pancreas, and colorectal region that illustrate high morbidity in Eastern and Western countries. Moreover, through this investigation, we not only emphasize importance of the tumor microenvironment in development and treatment of malignant tumors but also identify significance of M2PK, miRNAs, ctDNAs, circRNAs, and CTCs in early detection of GI cancers, as well as systematically evaluate contribution of personalized precision medicine including cellular immunotherapy, new antigen and vaccine therapy, and oncolytic virotherapy in treatment of GI cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haipeng Zhu
- Precision and Personalized Cancer Treatment Center, Division of Cancer Diagnosis & Therapy, Ciming Boao International Hospital, Boao Lecheng International Medical Tourism Pilot Zone, Qionghai, China.,Stem Cell and Biotherapy Technology Research Center, Xinxiang Medical College, Xinxiang, China
| | - Xiaojun Liu
- Division of Cellular & Biomedical Science, Ciming Boao International Hospital, Boao Lecheng International Medical Tourism Pilot Zone, Qionghai, China
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von Bülow V, Lichtenberger J, Grevelding CG, Falcone FH, Roeb E, Roderfeld M. Does Schistosoma Mansoni Facilitate Carcinogenesis? Cells 2021; 10:1982. [PMID: 34440754 PMCID: PMC8393187 DOI: 10.3390/cells10081982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Revised: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is one of the most prominent parasite-induced infectious diseases, causing tremendous medical and socioeconomic problems. Current studies have reported on the spread of endemic regions and the fear of development of resistance against praziquantel, the only effective drug available. Among the Schistosoma species, only S. haematobium is classified as a Group 1 carcinogen (definitely cancerogenic to humans), causing squamous cell carcinoma of the bladder, whereas infection with S. mansoni is included in Group 3 of carcinogenic hazards to humans by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), indicating insufficient evidence to determine its carcinogenicity. Nevertheless, although S. mansoni has not been discussed as an organic carcinogen, the multiplicity of case reports, together with recent data from animal models and cell culture experiments, suggests that this parasite can predispose patients to or promote hepatic and colorectal cancer. In this review, we discuss the current data, with a focus on new developments regarding the association of S. mansoni infection with human cancer and the recently discovered biomolecular mechanisms by which S. mansoni may predispose patients to cancer development and carcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verena von Bülow
- Department of Gastroenterology, Justus Liebig University, 35392 Giessen, Germany; (V.v.B.); (J.L.); (E.R.)
| | - Jakob Lichtenberger
- Department of Gastroenterology, Justus Liebig University, 35392 Giessen, Germany; (V.v.B.); (J.L.); (E.R.)
| | - Christoph G. Grevelding
- Institute of Parasitology, BFS, Justus Liebig University, 35392 Giessen, Germany; (C.G.G.); (F.H.F.)
| | - Franco H. Falcone
- Institute of Parasitology, BFS, Justus Liebig University, 35392 Giessen, Germany; (C.G.G.); (F.H.F.)
| | - Elke Roeb
- Department of Gastroenterology, Justus Liebig University, 35392 Giessen, Germany; (V.v.B.); (J.L.); (E.R.)
| | - Martin Roderfeld
- Department of Gastroenterology, Justus Liebig University, 35392 Giessen, Germany; (V.v.B.); (J.L.); (E.R.)
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莫 婵, 谢 淑, 高 磊, 吕 志. [ Baoganning formula alleviates liver fibrosis in mice by inhibiting hepatic IDO1 expression and promoting phenotypic maturation of dendritic cells]. NAN FANG YI KE DA XUE XUE BAO = JOURNAL OF SOUTHERN MEDICAL UNIVERSITY 2021; 41:1002-1011. [PMID: 34308849 PMCID: PMC8329669 DOI: 10.12122/j.issn.1673-4254.2021.07.06] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the protective effect of Bao Gan Ning (BGN), a traditional Chinese medicinal formula, against CCl4-induced liver fibrosis in mice and explore the mechanism. METHODS C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into control group, liver fibrosis model group, positive control group and the low-, middle-, and high-dose BGN groups (n=10). In all but the control group, the mice were subjected to daily intraperitoneal injection of 25% CCl4 (in olive oil) to induce liver fibrosis and intragastric gavage of corresponding drugs. After 8 weeks, serum levels of ALT and AST were detected. Pathological examination of the liver was performed using HE and Sirius Red staining and α-SMA immunohistochemistry. The expression level of indoleamine 2, 3-dioxygenase 1 (IDO1) and phenotypic changes of hepatic DCs in the liver were measured. Another 18 mice were randomly divided into AAV9-NC, AAV9-IDO1 and high-dose BGN + AAV-IDO1 groups (n=6) for corresponding treatment, and 4 weeks later the deposit of hepatic IDO1 and phenotypic changes of the hepatic DCs were analyzed. RESULTS Compared with those in the model group, serum AST and ALT levels decreased significantly in BGN group (P < 0.01). Obvious liver fibrosis was observed in the model group, while the mice treated with BGN showed obviously reduced cell necrosis and collagen proliferation in the liver with significantly lowered the expression levels of hepatic α-SMA and IDO1 (P < 0.05). The percentages of CD11C + DCs, CD11C +CD80 + DCs, CD11C +CD86 + DCs, CD11C +CD40 + DCs, CD11C +MHCII + DCs, CD3 + T cells, and CD3 +CD4 + T cells all increased significantly in BGN group as compared with the model group (P < 0.05). In mice with adenovirus-mediated IDO1 overexpression in the liver, BGN treatment significantly lowered the expression level of IDO1 (P=0.000) and increased the percentages of hepatic CD11C +CD40 + DCs, CD11C +MHCII + DCs and CD3 +CD4 + T cells (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION BGN can effectively inhibit liver fibrosis in mice possibly by lowering the expression level of IDO1 in the liver, thus improving the function of hepatic DCs and subsequently promoting proliferation of T cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- 婵 莫
- />南方医科大学中医药学院,广东 广州 510515School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - 淑雯 谢
- />南方医科大学中医药学院,广东 广州 510515School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - 磊 高
- />南方医科大学中医药学院,广东 广州 510515School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - 志平 吕
- />南方医科大学中医药学院,广东 广州 510515School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
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