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Li W, Guo Z, Zhou Z, Zhou Z, He H, Sun J, Zhou X, Chin YR, Zhang L, Yang M. Distinguishing high-metastasis-potential circulating tumor cells through fluidic shear stress in a bloodstream-like microfluidic circulatory system. Oncogene 2024:10.1038/s41388-024-03075-4. [PMID: 38858591 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-024-03075-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) play a critical role as initiators in tumor metastasis, which unlocks an irreversible process of cancer progression. Regarding the fluid environment of intravascular CTCs, a comprehensive understanding of the impact of hemodynamic shear stress on CTCs is of profound significance but remains vague. Here, we report a microfluidic circulatory system that can emulate the CTC microenvironment to research the responses of typical liver cancer cells to varying levels of fluid shear stress (FSS). We observe that HepG2 cells surviving FSS exhibit a marked overexpression of TLR4 and TPPP3, which are shown to be associated with the colony formation, migration, and anti-apoptosis abilities of HepG2. Furthermore, overexpression of these two genes in another liver cancer cell line with normally low TLR4 and TPPP3 expression, SK-Hep-1 cells, by lentivirus-mediated transfection also confirms the critical role of TLR4 and TPPP3 in improving colony formation, migration, and survival capability under a fluid environment. Interestingly, in vivo experiments show SK-Hep-1 cells, overexpressed with these genes, have enhanced metastatic potential to the liver and lungs in mouse models via tail vein injection. Mechanistically, TLR4 and TPPP3 upregulated by FSS may increase FSS-mediated cell survival and metastasis through the p53-Bax signaling pathway. Moreover, elevated levels of these genes correlate with poorer overall survival in liver cancer patients, suggesting that our findings could offer new therapeutic strategies for early cancer diagnosis and targeted treatment development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenxiu Li
- Department of Precision Diagnostic and Therapeutic Technology, City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Futian Research Institute, Shenzhen, 518057, China
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, and Tung Biomedical Sciences Centre, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Zhengjun Guo
- Department of Precision Diagnostic and Therapeutic Technology, City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Futian Research Institute, Shenzhen, 518057, China
- Department of Cancer Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400010, China
| | - Zhihang Zhou
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400010, China
| | - Zhengdong Zhou
- Department of Precision Diagnostic and Therapeutic Technology, City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Futian Research Institute, Shenzhen, 518057, China
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, and Tung Biomedical Sciences Centre, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Huimin He
- Department of Precision Diagnostic and Therapeutic Technology, City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Futian Research Institute, Shenzhen, 518057, China
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, and Tung Biomedical Sciences Centre, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Jiayu Sun
- Department of Precision Diagnostic and Therapeutic Technology, City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Futian Research Institute, Shenzhen, 518057, China
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, and Tung Biomedical Sciences Centre, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Xiaoyu Zhou
- Department of Precision Diagnostic and Therapeutic Technology, City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Futian Research Institute, Shenzhen, 518057, China
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, and Tung Biomedical Sciences Centre, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Y Rebecca Chin
- Department of Precision Diagnostic and Therapeutic Technology, City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Futian Research Institute, Shenzhen, 518057, China
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, and Tung Biomedical Sciences Centre, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Liang Zhang
- Department of Precision Diagnostic and Therapeutic Technology, City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Futian Research Institute, Shenzhen, 518057, China
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, and Tung Biomedical Sciences Centre, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Mengsu Yang
- Department of Precision Diagnostic and Therapeutic Technology, City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Futian Research Institute, Shenzhen, 518057, China.
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, and Tung Biomedical Sciences Centre, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China.
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2
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Akinpelu A, Akinsipe T, Avila LA, Arnold RD, Mistriotis P. The impact of tumor microenvironment: unraveling the role of physical cues in breast cancer progression. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2024; 43:823-844. [PMID: 38238542 PMCID: PMC11156564 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-024-10166-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
Metastasis accounts for the vast majority of breast cancer-related fatalities. Although the contribution of genetic and epigenetic modifications to breast cancer progression has been widely acknowledged, emerging evidence underscores the pivotal role of physical stimuli in driving breast cancer metastasis. In this review, we summarize the changes in the mechanics of the breast cancer microenvironment and describe the various forces that impact migrating and circulating tumor cells throughout the metastatic process. We also discuss the mechanosensing and mechanotransducing molecules responsible for promoting the malignant phenotype in breast cancer cells. Gaining a comprehensive understanding of the mechanobiology of breast cancer carries substantial potential to propel progress in prognosis, diagnosis, and patient treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayuba Akinpelu
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Samuel Ginn College of Engineering, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA
| | - Tosin Akinsipe
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science and Mathematics, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA
| | - L Adriana Avila
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science and Mathematics, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA
| | - Robert D Arnold
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Harrison College of Pharmacy, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA
| | - Panagiotis Mistriotis
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Samuel Ginn College of Engineering, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA.
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3
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Sun Z, Guo Y, Xu X, Zhou C, Luo X, Shen Z, Shen B, Wang J, Lu J, Zhang Q, Shen F, Yu L, Ye Y, Zhang L, Luo Y, Qu Y, Cai X, Dong H, Lu L. Hydronidone induces apoptosis in activated hepatic stellate cells through endoplasmic reticulum stress-associated mitochondrial apoptotic pathway. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2024. [PMID: 38804845 DOI: 10.1111/jgh.16635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Revised: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Hydronidone (HDD) is a novel pirfenidone derivative developed initially to reduce hepatotoxicity. Our previous studies in animals and humans have demonstrated that HDD treatment effectively attenuates liver fibrosis, yet the underlying mechanism remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate whether HDD exerts its anti-fibrotic effect by inducing apoptosis in activated hepatic stellate cells (aHSCs) through the endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS)-associated mitochondrial apoptotic pathway. METHODS The carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)- and 3,5-diethoxycarbonyl-1,4-dihydrocollidine (DDC)-induced liver fibrosis models were used for in vivo studies. In vitro studies were conducted using the human hepatic stellate cell line LX-2. The apoptotic effect of HDD on aHSCs was examined using TUNEL and flow cytometry assays. The small interfering RNA (siRNA) technique was employed to downregulate the expression of interest genes. RESULTS HDD treatment significantly promoted apoptosis in aHSCs in both the CCl4- and DDC-induced liver fibrosis in mice and LX-2 cells. Mechanistic studies revealed that HDD triggered ERS and subsequently activated the IRE1α-ASK1-JNK pathway. Furthermore, the influx of cytochrome c from the mitochondria into the cytoplasm was increased, leading to mitochondrial dysfunction and ultimately triggering apoptosis in aHSCs. Notably, inhibition of IRE1α or ASK1 by siRNA partially abrogated the pro-apoptotic effect of HDD in aHSCs. CONCLUSIONS The findings of both in vivo and in vitro studies suggest that HDD induces apoptosis in aHSCs via the ERS-associated mitochondrial apoptotic pathway, potentially contributing to the amelioration of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongshang Sun
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Huaian No.1 People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Huai'an, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Diseases, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuecheng Guo
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Diseases, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xianjun Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Diseases, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Cui Zhou
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Diseases, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Luo
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Diseases, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhenyang Shen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Diseases, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Bo Shen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Diseases, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Junjun Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Diseases, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jingyi Lu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Diseases, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qingqing Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Diseases, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Feifei Shen
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Lou Yu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanping Ye
- Continent Pharmaceuticals Co., Ltd, Beijing, China
| | - Ling Zhang
- Continent Pharmaceuticals Co., Ltd, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Luo
- Continent Pharmaceuticals Co., Ltd, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Qu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Diseases, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaobo Cai
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Diseases, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hui Dong
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Diseases, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Lungen Lu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Diseases, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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4
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Xin Y, Hu B, Li K, Hu G, Zhang C, Chen X, Tang K, Du P, Tan Y. Circulating tumor cells with metastasis-initiating competence survive fluid shear stress during hematogenous dissemination through CXCR4-PI3K/AKT signaling. Cancer Lett 2024; 590:216870. [PMID: 38614386 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024]
Abstract
To seed lethal secondary lesions, circulating tumor cells (CTCs) must survive all rate-limiting factors during hematogenous dissemination, including fluid shear stress (FSS) that poses a grand challenge to their survival. We thus hypothesized that CTCs with the ability to survive FSS in vasculature might hold metastasis-initiating competence. This study reported that FSS of physiologic magnitude selected a small subpopulation of suspended tumor cells in vitro with the traits of metastasis-initiating cells, including stemness, migration/invasion potential, cellular plasticity, and biophysical properties. These shear-selected cells generated local and metastatic tumors at the primary and distal sites efficiently, implicating their metastasis competence. Mechanistically, FSS activated the mechanosensitive protein CXCR4 and the downstream PI3K/AKT signaling, which were essential in shear-mediated selection of metastasis-competent CTCs. In summary, these findings conclude that CTCs with metastasis-initiating competence survive FSS during hematogenous dissemination through CXCR4-PI3K/AKT signaling, which may provide new therapeutic targets for the early prevention of tumor metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Xin
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, 518000, China; Research Institute of Smart Ageing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, 999077, China; Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Bing Hu
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, 518000, China; Research Institute of Smart Ageing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, 999077, China; Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Keming Li
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, 518000, China; Research Institute of Smart Ageing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Guanshuo Hu
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, 518000, China; Research Institute of Smart Ageing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, 999077, China; Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Cunyu Zhang
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, 518000, China; Research Institute of Smart Ageing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, 999077, China; Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Xi Chen
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, 518000, China; Research Institute of Smart Ageing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Kai Tang
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, 518000, China; Research Institute of Smart Ageing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Pengyu Du
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, 518000, China; Research Institute of Smart Ageing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Youhua Tan
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, 518000, China; Research Institute of Smart Ageing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, 999077, China; Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, 999077, China.
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5
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Kulus M, Farzaneh M, Bryja A, Zehtabi M, Azizidoost S, Abouali Gale Dari M, Golcar-Narenji A, Ziemak H, Chwarzyński M, Piotrowska-Kempisty H, Dzięgiel P, Zabel M, Mozdziak P, Bukowska D, Kempisty B, Antosik P. Phenotypic Transitions the Processes Involved in Regulation of Growth and Proangiogenic Properties of Stem Cells, Cancer Stem Cells and Circulating Tumor Cells. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2024; 20:967-979. [PMID: 38372877 PMCID: PMC11087301 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-024-10691-w] [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] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a crucial process with significance in the metastasis of malignant tumors. It is through the acquisition of plasticity that cancer cells become more mobile and gain the ability to metastasize to other tissues. The mesenchymal-epithelial transition (MET) is the return to an epithelial state, which allows for the formation of secondary tumors. Both processes, EMT and MET, are regulated by different pathways and different mediators, which affects the sophistication of the overall tumorigenesis process. Not insignificant are also cancer stem cells and their participation in the angiogenesis, which occur very intensively within tumors. Difficulties in effectively treating cancer are primarily dependent on the potential of cancer cells to rapidly expand and occupy secondarily vital organs. Due to the ability of these cells to spread, the concept of the circulating tumor cell (CTC) has emerged. Interestingly, CTCs exhibit molecular diversity and stem-like and mesenchymal features, even when derived from primary tumor tissue from a single patient. While EMT is necessary for metastasis, MET is required for CTCs to establish a secondary site. A thorough understanding of the processes that govern the balance between EMT and MET in malignancy is crucial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Kulus
- Department of Veterinary Surgery, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Torun, Poland
| | - Maryam Farzaneh
- Fertility, Infertility and Perinatology Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Artur Bryja
- Division of Anatomy, Department of Human Morphology and Embryology, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Mojtaba Zehtabi
- Hematology and Oncology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Shirin Azizidoost
- Atherosclerosis Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Mahrokh Abouali Gale Dari
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Afsaneh Golcar-Narenji
- Prestage Department of Poultry Science, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Hanna Ziemak
- Veterinary Clinic of the Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Torun, Poland
| | - Mikołaj Chwarzyński
- Veterinary Clinic of the Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Torun, Poland
| | - Hanna Piotrowska-Kempisty
- Department of Toxicology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
- Department of Basic and Preclinical Sciences, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Torun, Poland
| | - Piotr Dzięgiel
- Division of Histology and Embryology, Department of Human Morphology and Embryology, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
- Department of Physiotherapy, Wroclaw University School of Physical Education, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Maciej Zabel
- Division of Histology and Embryology, Department of Human Morphology and Embryology, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
- Division of Anatomy and Histology, University of Zielona Góra, Zielona Góra, Poland
| | - Paul Mozdziak
- Prestage Department of Poultry Science, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
- Physiology Graduate Faculty, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Dorota Bukowska
- Department of Diagnostics and Clinical Sciences, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Torun, Poland
| | - Bartosz Kempisty
- Department of Veterinary Surgery, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Torun, Poland.
- Division of Anatomy, Department of Human Morphology and Embryology, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland.
- Physiology Graduate Faculty, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital and Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic.
| | - Paweł Antosik
- Department of Veterinary Surgery, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Torun, Poland
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6
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Kou Z, Liu C, Zhang W, Sun C, Liu L, Zhang Q. Heterogeneity of primary and metastatic CAFs: From differential treatment outcomes to treatment opportunities (Review). Int J Oncol 2024; 64:54. [PMID: 38577950 PMCID: PMC11015919 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2024.5642] [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: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Compared with primary tumor sites, metastatic sites appear more resistant to treatments and respond differently to the treatment regimen. It may be due to the heterogeneity in the microenvironment between metastatic sites and primary tumors. Cancer‑associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are widely present in the tumor stroma as key components of the tumor microenvironment. Primary tumor CAFs (pCAFs) and metastatic CAFs (mCAFs) are heterogeneous in terms of source, activation mode, markers and functional phenotypes. They can shape the tumor microenvironment according to organ, showing heterogeneity between primary tumors and metastases, which may affect the sensitivity of these sites to treatment. It was hypothesized that understanding the heterogeneity between pCAFs and mCAFs can provide a glimpse into the difference in treatment outcomes, providing new ideas for improving the rate of metastasis control in various cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zixing Kou
- College of First Clinical Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong 250355, P.R. China
| | - Cun Liu
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang, Shandong 261053, P.R. China
| | - Wenfeng Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine and Faculty of Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa Island 999078, Macau SAR, P.R. China
| | - Changgang Sun
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang, Shandong 261053, P.R. China
- Department of Oncology, Weifang Traditional Chinese Hospital, Weifang, Shandong 621000, P.R. China
| | - Lijuan Liu
- Department of Oncology, Weifang Traditional Chinese Hospital, Weifang, Shandong 621000, P.R. China
| | - Qiming Zhang
- College of First Clinical Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong 250355, P.R. China
- Department of Experimental Research Center, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100007, P.R. China
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7
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Wang J, Zhang B, Chen X, Xin Y, Li K, Zhang C, Tang K, Tan Y. Cell mechanics regulate the migration and invasion of hepatocellular carcinoma cells via JNK signaling. Acta Biomater 2024; 176:321-333. [PMID: 38272199 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2024.01.024] [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: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells, especially those with metastatic competence, show reduced stiffness compared to the non-malignant counterparts. However, it is still unclear whether and how the mechanics of HCC cells influence their migration and invasion. This study reports that HCC cells with enhanced motility show reduced mechanical stiffness and cytoskeleton, suggesting the inverse correlation between cellular stiffness and motility. Through pharmacologic and genetic approaches, inhibiting actomyosin activity reduces HCC cellular stiffness but promotes their migration and invasion, while activating it increases cell stiffness but impairs cell motility. Actomyosin regulates cell motility through the influence on cellular stiffness. Mechanistically, weakening/strengthening cells inhibits/promotes c-Jun N terminal kinase (JNK) phosphorylation, activation/inhibition of which rescues the effects of cell mechanics on their migration and invasion. Further, HCC cancer stem cells (CSCs) exhibit higher motility but lower stiffness than control cells. Increasing CSC stiffness weakens migration and invasion through the activation of JNK signaling. In conclusion, our findings unveil a new regulatory role of actomyosin-mediated cellular mechanics in tumor cell motility and present new evidence to support that tumor cell softening may be one driving force for HCC metastasis. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Tumor cells progressively become softened during metastasis and low cell stiffness is associated with high metastatic potential. However, it remains unclear whether tumor cell softening is a by-product of or a driving force for tumor progression. This work reports that the stiffness of hepatocellular carcinoma cells is linked to their migration and invasion. Importantly, tumor cell softening promotes migration and invasion, while cell stiffening impairs the mobility. Weakening/strengthening cells inhibits/promotes JNK phosphorylation, activation/inhibition of which rescues the effects of cell mechanics on their migration and invasion ability. Further, stiffening liver cancer stem cells attenuates their motility through activating JNK signaling. In summary, our study uncovers a previously unappreciated role of tumor cell mechanics in migration and invasion and implicates the therapeutic potential of cell mechanics in the mechanotargeting of metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junfan Wang
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518000, China; Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Bai Zhang
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518000, China; Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Xi Chen
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518000, China; Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Ying Xin
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518000, China; Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Keming Li
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518000, China; Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Cunyu Zhang
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518000, China; Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Kai Tang
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518000, China; Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Youhua Tan
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518000, China; Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong 999077, China.
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8
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Clevenger AJ, McFarlin MK, Gorley JPM, Solberg SC, Madyastha AK, Raghavan SA. Advances in cancer mechanobiology: Metastasis, mechanics, and materials. APL Bioeng 2024; 8:011502. [PMID: 38449522 PMCID: PMC10917464 DOI: 10.1063/5.0186042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Within the tumor microenvironment (TME), tumor cells are exposed to numerous mechanical forces, both internally and externally, which contribute to the metastatic cascade. From the initial growth of the tumor to traveling through the vasculature and to the eventual colonization of distant organs, tumor cells are continuously interacting with their surroundings through physical contact and mechanical force application. The mechanical forces found in the TME can be simplified into three main categories: (i) shear stress, (ii) tension and strain, and (iii) solid stress and compression. Each force type can independently impact tumor growth and progression. Here, we review recent bioengineering strategies, which have been employed to establish the connection between mechanical forces and tumor progression. While many cancers are explored in this review, we place great emphasis on cancers that are understudied in their response to mechanical forces, such as ovarian and colorectal cancers. We discuss the major steps of metastatic transformation and present novel, recent advances in model systems used to study how mechanical forces impact the study of the metastatic cascade. We end by summarizing systems that incorporate multiple forces to expand the complexity of our understanding of how tumor cells sense and respond to mechanical forces in their environment. Future studies would also benefit from the inclusion of time or the aspect of mechanical memory to further enhance this field. While the knowledge of mechanical forces and tumor metastasis grows, developing novel materials and in vitro systems are essential to providing new insight into predicting, treating, and preventing cancer progression and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maygan K. McFarlin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843, USA
| | - John Paul M. Gorley
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843, USA
| | - Spencer C. Solberg
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843, USA
| | - Anirudh K. Madyastha
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843, USA
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9
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Mierke CT. Phenotypic Heterogeneity, Bidirectionality, Universal Cues, Plasticity, Mechanics, and the Tumor Microenvironment Drive Cancer Metastasis. Biomolecules 2024; 14:184. [PMID: 38397421 PMCID: PMC10887446 DOI: 10.3390/biom14020184] [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: 12/25/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Tumor diseases become a huge problem when they embark on a path that advances to malignancy, such as the process of metastasis. Cancer metastasis has been thoroughly investigated from a biological perspective in the past, whereas it has still been less explored from a physical perspective. Until now, the intraluminal pathway of cancer metastasis has received the most attention, while the interaction of cancer cells with macrophages has received little attention. Apart from the biochemical characteristics, tumor treatments also rely on the tumor microenvironment, which is recognized to be immunosuppressive and, as has recently been found, mechanically stimulates cancer cells and thus alters their functions. The review article highlights the interaction of cancer cells with other cells in the vascular metastatic route and discusses the impact of this intercellular interplay on the mechanical characteristics and subsequently on the functionality of cancer cells. For instance, macrophages can guide cancer cells on their intravascular route of cancer metastasis, whereby they can help to circumvent the adverse conditions within blood or lymphatic vessels. Macrophages induce microchannel tunneling that can possibly avoid mechanical forces during extra- and intravasation and reduce the forces within the vascular lumen due to vascular flow. The review article highlights the vascular route of cancer metastasis and discusses the key players in this traditional route. Moreover, the effects of flows during the process of metastasis are presented, and the effects of the microenvironment, such as mechanical influences, are characterized. Finally, the increased knowledge of cancer metastasis opens up new perspectives for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Tanja Mierke
- Faculty of Physics and Earth System Science, Peter Debye Institute of Soft Matter Physics, Biological Physics Division, Leipzig University, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
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10
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冯 唐, 杨 欣, 王 琦, 刘 肖. [Hepatocellular Carcinoma-Derived Exosomes: Key Players in Intercellular Communication Within the Tumor Microenvironment]. SICHUAN DA XUE XUE BAO. YI XUE BAN = JOURNAL OF SICHUAN UNIVERSITY. MEDICAL SCIENCE EDITION 2024; 55:6-12. [PMID: 38322525 PMCID: PMC10839483 DOI: 10.12182/20240160203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in the world. Due to the insidious onset and rapid progression and a lack of effective treatments, the prognosis of patients with HCC is extremely poor, with the average 5-year survival rate being less than 10%. The tumor microenvironment (TME), the internal environment in which HCC develops, can regulate the oncogenesis, development, invasion, and metastasis of HCC. During the process of cancer progression, HCC cells can regulate the biological behaviors of tumor cells, cancer-associated fibroblasts, cancer-associated immune cells, and other cells in the TME by releasing exosomes containing specific signals, thereby promoting cancer progression. However, the exact molecular mechanisms and the roles of exosomes in the specific cellular regulation of these processes are not fully understood. Herein, we summarized the TME components of HCC, the sources and the biological traits of exosomes in the TME, and the impact of mechanical factors on exosomes. In addition, special attention was given to the discussion of the effects of HCC-exosomes on different types of cells in the microenvironment. There are still many difficulties to be overcome before exosomes can be applied as carriers in clinical cancer treatment. First of all, the homogeneity of exosomes is difficult to ensure. Secondly, exosomes are mainly administered through subcutaneous injection. Although this method is simple and easy to implement, the absorption efficiency is not ideal. Thirdly, exosome extraction methods are limited in number and inefficient, making it difficult to prepare exosomes in large quantities. It is important to ensure that exosomes are used in sufficient quantities to trigger an effective tumor immune response, especially for exosome-mediated tumor immunotherapy. With the improvement in identification, isolation, and purification technology, exosomes are expected to be successfully used in the clinical diagnosis of early-stage HCC and the clinical treatment of liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- 唐 冯
- 四川大学华西基础医学与法医学院 生物医学工程研究室 (成都 610041)Institute of Biomedical Engineering, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - 欣蕊 杨
- 四川大学华西基础医学与法医学院 生物医学工程研究室 (成都 610041)Institute of Biomedical Engineering, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - 琦为 王
- 四川大学华西基础医学与法医学院 生物医学工程研究室 (成都 610041)Institute of Biomedical Engineering, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - 肖珩 刘
- 四川大学华西基础医学与法医学院 生物医学工程研究室 (成都 610041)Institute of Biomedical Engineering, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
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11
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Brooks A, Zhang Y, Chen J, Zhao CX. Cancer Metastasis-on-a-Chip for Modeling Metastatic Cascade and Drug Screening. Adv Healthc Mater 2024:e2302436. [PMID: 38224141 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202302436] [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: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 01/06/2024] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
Microfluidic chips are valuable tools for studying intricate cellular and cell-microenvironment interactions. Traditional in vitro cancer models lack accuracy in mimicking the complexities of in vivo tumor microenvironment. However, cancer-metastasis-on-a-chip (CMoC) models combine the advantages of 3D cultures and microfluidic technology, serving as powerful platforms for exploring cancer mechanisms and facilitating drug screening. These chips are able to compartmentalize the metastatic cascade, deepening the understanding of its underlying mechanisms. This article provides an overview of current CMoC models, focusing on distinctive models that simulate invasion, intravasation, circulation, extravasation, and colonization, and their applications in drug screening. Furthermore, challenges faced by CMoC and microfluidic technologies are discussed, while exploring promising future directions in cancer research. The ongoing development and integration of these models into cancer studies are expected to drive transformative advancements in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia Brooks
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, 5005, Australia
| | - Yali Zhang
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, 5005, Australia
| | - Jiezhong Chen
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, 5005, Australia
| | - Chun-Xia Zhao
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, 5005, Australia
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12
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Horta CA, Doan K, Yang J. Mechanotransduction pathways in regulating epithelial-mesenchymal plasticity. Curr Opin Cell Biol 2023; 85:102245. [PMID: 37804773 PMCID: PMC10796216 DOI: 10.1016/j.ceb.2023.102245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/09/2023]
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) provides structural support for cells and mediates cell-stromal communications. In addition to ECM proteins, mechanical force exerted from the ECM serves as a critical regulator of many biological processes. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a cellular process by which epithelial cells loosen their cellular junctions and migrate and invade in a more mesenchymal fashion. Recent studies show that increasing ECM stiffness can impinge on cellular signaling pathways through mechanotransduction to promote carcinoma cells to undergo EMT, suggesting that mechanical force exerted by the ECM plays a critical role in tumor invasion and metastasis. Here, we highlight recent work utilizing innovative approaches to study mechanotransduction and summarize newly discovered mechanisms by which mechanosensors and responders regulate EMT during tumor progression and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Calista A Horta
- Department of Pharmacology, Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Khoa Doan
- Department of Pharmacology, Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Jing Yang
- Department of Pharmacology, Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego, School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA.
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13
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Hu B, Xin Y, Hu G, Li K, Tan Y. Fluid shear stress enhances natural killer cell's cytotoxicity toward circulating tumor cells through NKG2D-mediated mechanosensing. APL Bioeng 2023; 7:036108. [PMID: 37575881 PMCID: PMC10423075 DOI: 10.1063/5.0156628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor cells metastasize to distant organs mainly via hematogenous dissemination, in which circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are relatively vulnerable, and eliminating these cells has great potential to prevent metastasis. In vasculature, natural killer (NK) cells are the major effector lymphocytes for efficient killing of CTCs under fluid shear stress (FSS), which is an important mechanical cue in tumor metastasis. However, the influence of FSS on the cytotoxicity of NK cells against CTCs remains elusive. We report that the death rate of CTCs under both NK cells and FSS is much higher than the combined death induced by either NK cells or FSS, suggesting that FSS may enhance NK cell's cytotoxicity. This death increment is elicited by shear-induced NK activation and granzyme B entry into target cells rather than the death ligand TRAIL or secreted cytokines TNF-α and IFN-γ. When NK cells form conjugates with CTCs or adhere to MICA-coated substrates, NK cell activating receptor NKG2D can directly sense FSS to induce NK activation and degranulation. These findings reveal the promotive effect of FSS on NK cell's cytotoxicity toward CTCs, thus providing new insight into immune surveillance of CTCs within circulation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Youhua Tan
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed:
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14
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Huang M, Wang H, Mackey C, Chung MC, Guan J, Zheng G, Roy A, Xie M, Vulpe C, Tang X. YAP at the Crossroads of Biomechanics and Drug Resistance in Human Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12491. [PMID: 37569866 PMCID: PMC10419175 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241512491] [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: 07/15/2023] [Revised: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Biomechanical forces are of fundamental importance in biology, diseases, and medicine. Mechanobiology is an emerging interdisciplinary field that studies how biological mechanisms are regulated by biomechanical forces and how physical principles can be leveraged to innovate new therapeutic strategies. This article reviews state-of-the-art mechanobiology knowledge about the yes-associated protein (YAP), a key mechanosensitive protein, and its roles in the development of drug resistance in human cancer. Specifically, the article discusses three topics: how YAP is mechanically regulated in living cells; the molecular mechanobiology mechanisms by which YAP, along with other functional pathways, influences drug resistance of cancer cells (particularly lung cancer cells); and finally, how the mechanical regulation of YAP can influence drug resistance and vice versa. By integrating these topics, we present a unified framework that has the potential to bring theoretical insights into the design of novel mechanomedicines and advance next-generation cancer therapies to suppress tumor progression and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miao Huang
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
- UF Health Cancer Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Heyang Wang
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
- UF Health Cancer Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Cole Mackey
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32603, USA
| | - Michael C. Chung
- Department of Physics, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Juan Guan
- UF Health Cancer Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
- Department of Physics, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Guangrong Zheng
- UF Health Cancer Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32603, USA
| | - Arkaprava Roy
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32603, USA
| | - Mingyi Xie
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32603, USA
| | - Christopher Vulpe
- Department of Physiological Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32603, USA
| | - Xin Tang
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
- UF Health Cancer Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
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15
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Zhang B, Li X, Tang K, Xin Y, Hu G, Zheng Y, Li K, Zhang C, Tan Y. Adhesion to the Brain Endothelium Selects Breast Cancer Cells with Brain Metastasis Potential. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24087087. [PMID: 37108248 PMCID: PMC10138870 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor cells metastasize from a primary lesion to distant organs mainly through hematogenous dissemination, in which tumor cell re-adhesion to the endothelium is essential before extravasating into the target site. We thus hypothesize that tumor cells with the ability to adhere to the endothelium of a specific organ exhibit enhanced metastatic tropism to this target organ. This study tested this hypothesis and developed an in vitro model to mimic the adhesion between tumor cells and brain endothelium under fluid shear stress, which selected a subpopulation of tumor cells with enhanced adhesion strength. The selected cells up-regulated the genes related to brain metastasis and exhibited an enhanced ability to transmigrate through the blood-brain barrier. In the soft microenvironments that mimicked brain tissue, these cells had elevated adhesion and survival ability. Further, tumor cells selected by brain endothelium adhesion expressed higher levels of MUC1, VCAM1, and VLA-4, which were relevant to breast cancer brain metastasis. In summary, this study provides the first piece of evidence to support that the adhesion of circulating tumor cells to the brain endothelium selects the cells with enhanced brain metastasis potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bai Zhang
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518000, China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Xueyi Li
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518000, China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Kai Tang
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518000, China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Ying Xin
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518000, China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Guanshuo Hu
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518000, China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Yufan Zheng
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518000, China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Keming Li
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518000, China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Cunyu Zhang
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518000, China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Youhua Tan
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518000, China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong 999077, China
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16
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Castaneda M, den Hollander P, Kuburich NA, Rosen JM, Mani SA. Mechanisms of cancer metastasis. Semin Cancer Biol 2022; 87:17-31. [PMID: 36354098 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2022.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Revised: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Metastatic cancer is almost always terminal, and more than 90% of cancer deaths result from metastatic disease. Combating cancer metastasis and post-therapeutic recurrence successfully requires understanding each step of metastatic progression. This review describes the current state of knowledge of the etiology and mechanism of cancer progression from primary tumor growth to the formation of new tumors in other parts of the body. Open questions, avenues for future research, and therapeutic approaches with the potential to prevent or inhibit metastasis through personalization to each patient's mutation and/or immune profile are also highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Castaneda
- Translational Molecular Pathology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Petra den Hollander
- Translational Molecular Pathology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Department of Pathology and Lab Medicine, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA; Legoretta Cancer Center, Brown University, Providence, RI 021912, USA
| | - Nick A Kuburich
- Translational Molecular Pathology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Department of Pathology and Lab Medicine, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA; Legoretta Cancer Center, Brown University, Providence, RI 021912, USA
| | - Jeffrey M Rosen
- Molecular & Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
| | - Sendurai A Mani
- Translational Molecular Pathology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Department of Pathology and Lab Medicine, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA; Legoretta Cancer Center, Brown University, Providence, RI 021912, USA.
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17
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Do Tumor Mechanical Stresses Promote Cancer Immune Escape? Cells 2022; 11:cells11233840. [PMID: 36497097 PMCID: PMC9740277 DOI: 10.3390/cells11233840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Revised: 11/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune evasion-a well-established cancer hallmark-is a major barrier to immunotherapy efficacy. While the molecular mechanisms and biological consequences underpinning immune evasion are largely known, the role of tissue mechanical stresses in these processes warrants further investigation. The tumor microenvironment (TME) features physical abnormalities (notably, increased fluid and solid pressures applied both inside and outside the TME) that drive cancer mechanopathologies. Strikingly, in response to these mechanical stresses, cancer cells upregulate canonical immune evasion mechanisms, including epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and autophagy. Consideration and characterization of the origins and consequences of tumor mechanical stresses in the TME may yield novel strategies to combat immunotherapy resistance. In this Perspective, we posit that tumor mechanical stresses-namely fluid shear and solid stresses-induce immune evasion by upregulating EMT and autophagy. In addition to exploring the basis for our hypothesis, we also identify explicit gaps in the field that need to be addressed in order to directly demonstrate the existence and importance of this biophysical relationship. Finally, we propose that reducing or neutralizing fluid shear stress and solid stress-induced cancer immune escape may improve immunotherapy outcomes.
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18
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Niu D, Zhang Y, Chen J, Li D, He C, Liu H. Mechanobiology Platform Realized Using Photomechanical Mxene Nanocomposites: Bilayer Photoactuator Design and In Vitro Mechanical Forces Stimulation. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 15:6869. [PMID: 36234210 PMCID: PMC9570783 DOI: 10.3390/ma15196869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Mechanotransduction is the process by which cells convert external forces and physical constraints into biochemical signals that control several aspects of cellular behavior. A number of approaches have been proposed to investigate the mechanisms of mechanotransduction; however, it remains a great challenge to develop a platform for dynamic multivariate mechanical stimulation of single cells and small colonies of cells. In this study, we combined polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and PDMS/Mxene nanoplatelets (MNPs) to construct a soft bilayer nanocomposite for extracellular mechanical stimulation. Fast backlash actuation of the bilayer as a result of near-infrared irradiation caused mechanical force stimulation of cells in a controllable manner. The excellent controllability of the light intensity and frequency allowed backlash bending acceleration and frequency to be manipulated. As gastric gland carcinoma cell line MKN-45 was the research subject, mechanical force loading conditions could trigger apoptosis of the cells in a stimulation duration time-dependent manner. Cell apoptotic rates were positively related to the duration time. In the case of 6 min mechanical force loading, apoptotic cell percentage rose to 34.46% from 5.5% of the control. This approach helps apply extracellular mechanical forces, even with predesigned loading cycles, and provides a solution to study cell mechanotransduction in complex force conditions. It is also a promising therapeutic technique for combining physical therapy and biomechanics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Niu
- State Key Laboratory for Manufacturing Systems Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710049, China
| | - Yanli Zhang
- Key Laboratory for Molecular Genetic Mechanisms and Intervention Research on High Altitude Disease of Tibet Autonomous Region, Medical College, Xizang Minzu University, Xianyang 712082, China
| | - Jinlan Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Manufacturing Systems Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710049, China
| | - Dachao Li
- State Key Laboratory for Manufacturing Systems Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710049, China
| | - Chunmeng He
- State Key Laboratory for Manufacturing Systems Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710049, China
| | - Hongzhong Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Manufacturing Systems Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710049, China
- The Joint Key Laboratory of Graphene, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710049, China
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19
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Lv Y, Wei C, Zhao B. Study on the mechanism of low shear stress restoring the viability of damaged breast tumor cells. Tissue Cell 2022; 79:101947. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2022.101947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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20
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Greenlee JD, Liu K, Lopez-Cavestany M, King MR. Piezo1 Mechano-Activation Is Augmented by Resveratrol and Differs between Colorectal Cancer Cells of Primary and Metastatic Origin. Molecules 2022; 27:5430. [PMID: 36080197 PMCID: PMC9458129 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27175430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Revised: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer cells must survive aberrant fluid shear stress (FSS) in the circulation to metastasize. Herein, we investigate the role that FSS has on colorectal cancer cell apoptosis, proliferation, membrane damage, calcium influx, and therapeutic sensitization. We tested this using SW480 (primary tumor) and SW620 cells (lymph node metastasis) derived from the same patient. The cells were exposed to either shear pulses, modeling millisecond intervals of high FSS seen in regions of turbulent flow, or sustained shear to model average magnitudes experienced by circulating tumor cells. SW480 cells were significantly more sensitive to FSS-induced death than their metastatic counterparts. Shear pulses caused significant cell membrane damage, while constant shear decreased cell proliferation and increased the expression of CD133. To investigate the role of mechanosensitive ion channels, we treated cells with the Piezo1 agonist Yoda1, which increased intracellular calcium. Pretreatment with resveratrol further increased the calcium influx via the lipid-raft colocalization of Piezo1. However, minimal changes in apoptosis were observed due to calcium saturation, as predicted via a computational model of apoptosis. Furthermore, SW480 cells had increased levels of Piezo1, calcium influx, and TRAIL-mediated apoptosis compared to SW620 cells, highlighting differences in the mechano-activation of metastatic cells, which may be a necessary element for successful dissemination in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Michael R. King
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, PMB 351631, 2301 Vanderbilt Place, Nashville, TN 37235-1631, USA
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21
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Guo X, Wu C, Pan Y, Zhu X, Peng K, Ma X, Xue L. Mechanistic insights and implications of FOXO-SNAI interplay. Bioessays 2022; 44:e2200070. [PMID: 35832016 DOI: 10.1002/bies.202200070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Autophagy promotes both health and disease, depending on tissue types and genetic contexts, yet the regulatory mechanism remain incompletely understood. Our recent publication has uncovered a coherent FOXO-SNAI feed-forward loop in autophagy, which is evolutionarily conserved from Drosophila to human. In addition, it's revealed that DNA binding plays a critical role in intracellular localization of nucleocytoplasmic shuttling proteins. Based on these findings, herein we further integrate mechanistic insights of FOXO-SNAI regulatory interplay in autophagy and unravel the potential link of FOXO-induced autophagy with SNAI in diseases. Besides, the generality of DNA-retention mechanism on transcription factor nuclear localization is illustrated with wide-ranging discussion, and more functions potentially regulated by FOXO-SNAI feedforward loop are provided. Elucidation of these unsolved paradigms will expand the understanding of FOXO-SNAI interplay and facilitate the development of new therapeutics targeting FOXO-SNAI axis in diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaowei Guo
- School of Medicine, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,Institute of Intervention Vessel, Shanghai 10th People's Hospital, School of Life Science and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chenxi Wu
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, China
| | - Yu Pan
- Institute of Intervention Vessel, Shanghai 10th People's Hospital, School of Life Science and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaojie Zhu
- Institute of Intervention Vessel, Shanghai 10th People's Hospital, School of Life Science and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Kai Peng
- Institute of Intervention Vessel, Shanghai 10th People's Hospital, School of Life Science and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xianjue Ma
- School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Lei Xue
- Institute of Intervention Vessel, Shanghai 10th People's Hospital, School of Life Science and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, China.,Zhuhai Precision Medical Center, Zhuhai People's Hospital, Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University, Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
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22
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Xu Z, Li K, Xin Y, Tan K, Yang M, Wang G, Tan Y. Fluid shear stress regulates the survival of circulating tumor cells via nuclear expansion. J Cell Sci 2022; 135:275517. [PMID: 35510498 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.259586] [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: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Distant metastasis mainly occurs through hematogenous dissemination, where suspended circulating tumor cells (CTCs) experience a considerable level of fluid shear stress. We recently reported that shear flow induced substantial apoptosis of CTCs, although a small subpopulation could still persist. However, how suspended tumor cells survive in shear flow remains poorly understood. This study finds that fluid shear stress eliminates the majority of suspended CTCs and increases nuclear size, whereas it has no effect on the viability of adherent tumor cells and decreases their nuclear size. Shear flow promotes histone acetylation in suspended tumor cells, the inhibition of which using one drug suppresses shear-induced nuclear expansion, suggesting that shear stress might increase nuclear size through histone acetylation. Suppressing histone acetylation-mediated nuclear expansion enhances shear-induced apoptosis of CTCs. These findings suggest that suspended tumor cells respond to shear stress through histone acetylation-mediated nuclear expansion, which protects CTCs from shear-induced destruction. Our study elucidates a unique mechanism underlying the mechanotransduction of suspended CTCs to shear flow, which might hold therapeutic promise for CTC eradication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zichen Xu
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518000, China.,Research Institute for Smart Ageing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong 999077, China.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong 999077, China.,Key Laboratory for Biorheological Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, State and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Vascular Implants, Bioengineering College of Chongqing University, Chongqing 400030, China
| | - Keming Li
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518000, China.,Research Institute for Smart Ageing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong 999077, China.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Ying Xin
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518000, China.,Research Institute for Smart Ageing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong 999077, China.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Kai Tan
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518000, China.,Research Institute for Smart Ageing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong 999077, China.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Mo Yang
- Research Institute for Smart Ageing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Guixue Wang
- Key Laboratory for Biorheological Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, State and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Vascular Implants, Bioengineering College of Chongqing University, Chongqing 400030, China
| | - Youhua Tan
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518000, China.,Research Institute for Smart Ageing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong 999077, China.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong 999077, China
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23
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Zhou H, Wang M, Zhang Y, Su Q, Xie Z, Chen X, Yan R, Li P, Li T, Qin X, Yang H, Wu C, You F, Li S, Liu Y. Functions and clinical significance of mechanical tumor microenvironment: cancer cell sensing, mechanobiology and metastasis. Cancer Commun (Lond) 2022; 42:374-400. [PMID: 35470988 PMCID: PMC9118059 DOI: 10.1002/cac2.12294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Dynamic and heterogeneous interaction between tumor cells and the surrounding microenvironment fuels the occurrence, progression, invasion, and metastasis of solid tumors. In this process, the tumor microenvironment (TME) fractures cellular and matrix architecture normality through biochemical and mechanical means, abetting tumorigenesis and treatment resistance. Tumor cells sense and respond to the strength, direction, and duration of mechanical cues in the TME by various mechanotransduction pathways. However, far less understood is the comprehensive perspective of the functions and mechanisms of mechanotransduction. Due to the great therapeutic difficulties brought by the mechanical changes in the TME, emerging studies have focused on targeting the adverse mechanical factors in the TME to attenuate disease rather than conventionally targeting tumor cells themselves, which has been proven to be a potential therapeutic approach. In this review, we discussed the origins and roles of mechanical factors in the TME, cell sensing, mechano‐biological coupling and signal transduction, in vitro construction of the tumor mechanical microenvironment, applications and clinical significance in the TME.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanying Zhou
- Department of Biophysics, School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610054, P. R. China
| | - Meng Wang
- Department of Biophysics, School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610054, P. R. China
| | - Yixi Zhang
- Department of Biophysics, School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610054, P. R. China
| | - Qingqing Su
- Department of Biophysics, School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610054, P. R. China
| | - Zhengxin Xie
- Department of Biophysics, School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610054, P. R. China
| | - Xiangyan Chen
- Department of Biophysics, School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610054, P. R. China
| | - Ran Yan
- Department of Biophysics, School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610054, P. R. China.,Traditional Chinese Medicine Regulating Metabolic Diseases Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610072, P. R. China
| | - Ping Li
- Department of Biophysics, School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610054, P. R. China
| | - Tingting Li
- Department of Biophysics, School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610054, P. R. China
| | - Xiang Qin
- Department of Biophysics, School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610054, P. R. China
| | - Hong Yang
- Department of Biophysics, School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610054, P. R. China
| | - Chunhui Wu
- Department of Biophysics, School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610054, P. R. China
| | - Fengming You
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Regulating Metabolic Diseases Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610072, P. R. China
| | - Shun Li
- Department of Biophysics, School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610054, P. R. China
| | - Yiyao Liu
- Department of Biophysics, School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610054, P. R. China.,Traditional Chinese Medicine Regulating Metabolic Diseases Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610072, P. R. China
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24
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Abstract
Much of the current research into immune escape from cancer is focused on molecular and cellular biology, an area of biophysics that is easily overlooked. A large number of immune drugs entering the clinic are not effective for all patients. Apart from the molecular heterogeneity of tumors, the biggest reason for this may be that knowledge of biophysics has not been considered, and therefore an exploration of biophysics may help to address this challenge. To help researchers better investigate the relationship between tumor immune escape and biophysics, this paper provides a brief overview on recent advances and challenges of the biophysical factors and strategies by which tumors acquire immune escape and a comprehensive analysis of the relevant forces acting on tumor cells during immune escape. These include tumor and stromal stiffness, fluid interstitial pressure, shear stress, and viscoelasticity. In addition, advances in biophysics cannot be made without the development of detection tools, and this paper also provides a comprehensive summary of the important detection tools available at this stage in the field of biophysics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maonan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics (Chien-Shiung Wu Lab), School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China
| | - Hui Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics (Chien-Shiung Wu Lab), School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China
| | - Xiaohui Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics (Chien-Shiung Wu Lab), School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China
| | - Xuemei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics (Chien-Shiung Wu Lab), School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China
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25
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Umachandran S, Mohamed W, Jayaraman M, Hyde G, Brazill D, Baskar R. A PKC that controls polyphosphate levels, pinocytosis and exocytosis, regulates stationary phase onset in Dictyostelium. J Cell Sci 2022; 135:274945. [PMID: 35362518 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.259289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Many cells can pause their growth cycle, a topic much enriched by studies of the stationary phase (SP) of model microorganisms. While several kinases are implicated in SP onset, a possible role for protein kinase C remains unknown. We show that Dictyostelium discoideum cells lacking pkcA entered SP at a reduced cell density, but only in shaking conditions. Precocious SP entry occurs because extracellular polyphosphate (polyP) levels reach a threshold at the lower cell density; adding exopolyphosphatase to pkcA- cells reverses the effect and mimics wild type growth. PkcA's regulation of polyP depended on inositol hexakisphosphate kinase and phospholipase D. PkcA- mutants also had higher actin levels, higher rates of exocytosis and lower pinocytosis rates. Postlysosomes were smaller and present in fewer pkcA- cells, compared to the wildtype. Overall, the results suggest that a reduced PkcA level triggers SP primarily because cells do not acquire or retain nutrients as efficiently, thus mimicking, or amplifying, the conditions of actual starvation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shalini Umachandran
- Bhupat and Jyoti Mehta School of Biosciences, Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology-Madras, Chennai-600036, India
| | - Wasima Mohamed
- Bhupat and Jyoti Mehta School of Biosciences, Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology-Madras, Chennai-600036, India
| | - Meenakshi Jayaraman
- Bhupat and Jyoti Mehta School of Biosciences, Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology-Madras, Chennai-600036, India
| | - Geoff Hyde
- Independent Researcher, Randwick, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Derrick Brazill
- Department of Biological Sciences, Hunter College, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Ramamurthy Baskar
- Bhupat and Jyoti Mehta School of Biosciences, Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology-Madras, Chennai-600036, India
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26
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Abstract
During cancer progression, metastatic dissemination accounts for ∼90% of death in patients. Metastasis occurs upon dissemination of circulating tumor cells (CTC) through body fluids, in particular the bloodstream, and several key steps remain elusive. Although the majority of CTCs travel as single cells, they can form clusters either with themselves (homoclusters) or with other circulating cells (heteroclusters) and thereby increase their metastatic potential. In addition, cancer cell mechanics and mechanical cues from the microenvironment are important factors during metastatic progression. Recent progress in intravital imaging technologies, biophysical methods, and microfluidic-based isolation of CTCs allow now to probe mechanics at single cell resolution while shedding light on key steps of the hematogenous metastatic cascade. In this review, we discuss the importance of CTC mechanics and their correlation with metastatic success and how such development could lead to the identification of therapeutically relevant targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Peralta
- INSERM UMR_S1109, Tumor Biomechanics, Strasbourg 67000, France.,Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg 67000, France.,Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg (FMTS), Strasbourg 67000, France.,Equipe Labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer
| | - Naël Osmani
- INSERM UMR_S1109, Tumor Biomechanics, Strasbourg 67000, France.,Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg 67000, France.,Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg (FMTS), Strasbourg 67000, France.,Equipe Labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer
| | - Jacky G Goetz
- INSERM UMR_S1109, Tumor Biomechanics, Strasbourg 67000, France.,Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg 67000, France.,Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg (FMTS), Strasbourg 67000, France.,Equipe Labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer
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27
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Chen X, Zhang X, Jiang Y, Zhang X, Liu M, Wang S, Liu S, Liang H, Liu C. YAP1 activation promotes epithelial-mesenchymal transition and cell survival of renal cell carcinoma cells under shear stress. Carcinogenesis 2022; 43:301-310. [PMID: 35147702 DOI: 10.1093/carcin/bgac014] [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: 11/10/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is characterized by substantial vasculatures and increased fluid movement in tumor microenvironment, and the fluid shear stress modulates malignance, extravasation and metastatic seeding of tumor cells. However, the precise mechanism remains largely unclear. In this study, we found that low shear stress induced the Yes-associated protein (YAP1) activation and nuclear localization in RCC cells, as well as the downregulation of phosphorylated YAP1 at Ser127. Moreover, inhibition of ROCK or RhoA partially abolished YAP1 accumulation in the nucleus, and targeting YAP1 activation by small molecular inhibitor or genetic manipulation decreased the low shear stress-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of RCC cells, and led to a decreased expression of N-cadherin as accompanied by downregulation of Snail1 and Twist, accompanied by high shear stress-induced cell apoptosis. Salvianolic acid B, an aqueous component of danshen (Salvia miltiorrhiza), inhibited YAP1 and Hippo signaling activation, and abrogated low shear stress-induced EMT as a consequence. Taken together, our study suggests YAP1 is a fluid mechanosensor that transforms mechanical stimuli to cell signals, thereby facilitates anoikis resistance and tumor metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaopeng Chen
- Department of Urology, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710038, China
| | - Xiaowei Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Taian, Shandong, 271000, China
| | - Yitong Jiang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Taian, Shandong, 271000, China
| | - Xuemei Zhang
- Functional laboratory, Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Min Liu
- Functional laboratory, Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Shanna Wang
- Functional laboratory, Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Shaoqiong Liu
- Functional laboratory, Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Haiyan Liang
- Functional laboratory, Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Chunhua Liu
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
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28
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Liang C, Huang M, Li T, Li L, Sussman H, Dai Y, Siemann DW, Xie M, Tang X. Towards an integrative understanding of cancer mechanobiology: calcium, YAP, and microRNA under biophysical forces. SOFT MATTER 2022; 18:1112-1148. [PMID: 35089300 DOI: 10.1039/d1sm01618k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
An increasing number of studies have demonstrated the significant roles of the interplay between microenvironmental mechanics in tissues and biochemical-genetic activities in resident tumor cells at different stages of tumor progression. Mediated by molecular mechano-sensors or -transducers, biomechanical cues in tissue microenvironments are transmitted into the tumor cells and regulate biochemical responses and gene expression through mechanotransduction processes. However, the molecular interplay between the mechanotransduction processes and intracellular biochemical signaling pathways remains elusive. This paper reviews the recent advances in understanding the crosstalk between biomechanical cues and three critical biochemical effectors during tumor progression: calcium ions (Ca2+), yes-associated protein (YAP), and microRNAs (miRNAs). We address the molecular mechanisms underpinning the interplay between the mechanotransduction pathways and each of the three effectors. Furthermore, we discuss the functional interactions among the three effectors in the context of soft matter and mechanobiology. We conclude by proposing future directions on studying the tumor mechanobiology that can employ Ca2+, YAP, and miRNAs as novel strategies for cancer mechanotheraputics. This framework has the potential to bring insights into the development of novel next-generation cancer therapies to suppress and treat tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenyu Liang
- Department of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering, Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering (HWCOE), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA.
- UF Health Cancer Center (UFHCC), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - Miao Huang
- Department of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering, Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering (HWCOE), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA.
- UF Health Cancer Center (UFHCC), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - Tianqi Li
- UF Health Cancer Center (UFHCC), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine (COM), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA.
| | - Lu Li
- UF Health Cancer Center (UFHCC), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine (COM), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA.
| | - Hayley Sussman
- Department of Radiation Oncology, COM, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - Yao Dai
- UF Health Cancer Center (UFHCC), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
- UF Genetics Institute (UFGI), University of Florida (UF), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - Dietmar W Siemann
- UF Health Cancer Center (UFHCC), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
- UF Genetics Institute (UFGI), University of Florida (UF), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - Mingyi Xie
- UF Health Cancer Center (UFHCC), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine (COM), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering (COE), University of Delaware (UD), Newark, DE, 19716, USA
| | - Xin Tang
- Department of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering, Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering (HWCOE), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA.
- UF Health Cancer Center (UFHCC), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
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29
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Zhang X, Karim M, Hasan MM, Hooper J, Wahab R, Roy S, Al-Hilal TA. Cancer-on-a-Chip: Models for Studying Metastasis. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14030648. [PMID: 35158914 PMCID: PMC8833392 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14030648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 01/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Microfluidic-based cancer-on-a-chip models are powerful tools to study the tumor microenvironment (TME). Two-dimensional cell culture cannot recapitulate TME. In vivo animal models can better represent the TME, but their physiology is vastly different from that of humans. Although three-dimensional tumor models can bridge the gap between in vitro and in vivo examination, they are still unable to test many crucial cues from the TME, such as mechanical cues, cell–cell, and cell–extracellular interactions. Cancer-on-a-chip platforms enable studying the metastatic process in a step-wise manner with precise control. We present an overview of the recent advances in cancer-on-a-chip models on metastasis including models that mimic mechanical cues. This review article will provide knowledge of the latest progress made on cancer-on-a-chip models. Abstract The microfluidic-based cancer-on-a-chip models work as a powerful tool to study the tumor microenvironment and its role in metastasis. The models recapitulate and systematically simplify the in vitro tumor microenvironment. This enables the study of a metastatic process in unprecedented detail. This review examines the development of cancer-on-a-chip microfluidic platforms at the invasion/intravasation, extravasation, and angiogenesis steps over the last three years. The on-chip modeling of mechanical cues involved in the metastasis cascade are also discussed. Finally, the popular design of microfluidic chip models for each step are discussed along with the challenges and perspectives of cancer-on-a-chip models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojun Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, USA; (X.Z.); (M.K.); (M.M.H.); (R.W.)
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, USA; (J.H.); (S.R.)
| | - Mazharul Karim
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, USA; (X.Z.); (M.K.); (M.M.H.); (R.W.)
- Department of Environmental Science & Engineering, College of Science, University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, USA
| | - Md Mahedi Hasan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, USA; (X.Z.); (M.K.); (M.M.H.); (R.W.)
- Department of Environmental Science & Engineering, College of Science, University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, USA
| | - Jacob Hooper
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, USA; (J.H.); (S.R.)
| | - Riajul Wahab
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, USA; (X.Z.); (M.K.); (M.M.H.); (R.W.)
| | - Sourav Roy
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, USA; (J.H.); (S.R.)
- Border Biomedical Research Center, University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, USA
| | - Taslim A. Al-Hilal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, USA; (X.Z.); (M.K.); (M.M.H.); (R.W.)
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, USA; (J.H.); (S.R.)
- Department of Environmental Science & Engineering, College of Science, University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-915-747-8390
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30
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Lin D, Shen L, Luo M, Zhang K, Li J, Yang Q, Zhu F, Zhou D, Zheng S, Chen Y, Zhou J. Circulating tumor cells: biology and clinical significance. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2021; 6:404. [PMID: 34803167 PMCID: PMC8606574 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-021-00817-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 286] [Impact Index Per Article: 95.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Revised: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are tumor cells that have sloughed off the primary tumor and extravasate into and circulate in the blood. Understanding of the metastatic cascade of CTCs has tremendous potential for the identification of targets against cancer metastasis. Detecting these very rare CTCs among the massive blood cells is challenging. However, emerging technologies for CTCs detection have profoundly contributed to deepening investigation into the biology of CTCs and have facilitated their clinical application. Current technologies for the detection of CTCs are summarized herein, together with their advantages and disadvantages. The detection of CTCs is usually dependent on molecular markers, with the epithelial cell adhesion molecule being the most widely used, although molecular markers vary between different types of cancer. Properties associated with epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and stemness have been identified in CTCs, indicating their increased metastatic capacity. Only a small proportion of CTCs can survive and eventually initiate metastases, suggesting that an interaction and modulation between CTCs and the hostile blood microenvironment is essential for CTC metastasis. Single-cell sequencing of CTCs has been extensively investigated, and has enabled researchers to reveal the genome and transcriptome of CTCs. Herein, we also review the clinical applications of CTCs, especially for monitoring response to cancer treatment and in evaluating prognosis. Hence, CTCs have and will continue to contribute to providing significant insights into metastatic processes and will open new avenues for useful clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danfeng Lin
- Department of Breast Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Cancer Institute (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, China National Ministry of Education), the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Department of Breast Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Lesang Shen
- Department of Breast Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Meng Luo
- Department of Breast Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Cancer Institute (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, China National Ministry of Education), the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Kun Zhang
- Department of Breast Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jinfan Li
- Department of Pathology, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qi Yang
- Department of Pathology, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Fangfang Zhu
- Department of Breast Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Dan Zhou
- Department of Surgery, Traditional Chinese Medical Hospital of Zhuji, Shaoxing, China
| | - Shu Zheng
- Department of Breast Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Cancer Institute (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, China National Ministry of Education), the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yiding Chen
- Department of Breast Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.
- Cancer Institute (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, China National Ministry of Education), the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Jiaojiao Zhou
- Department of Breast Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.
- Cancer Institute (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, China National Ministry of Education), the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.
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31
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Yu H, He J, Su G, Wang Y, Fang F, Yang W, Gu K, Fu N, Wang Y, Shen Y, Liu X. Fluid shear stress activates YAP to promote epithelial-mesenchymal transition in hepatocellular carcinoma. Mol Oncol 2021; 15:3164-3183. [PMID: 34260811 PMCID: PMC8564657 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.13061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) mediated by fluid shear stress (FSS) in the tumor microenvironment plays an important role in driving metastasis of the malignant tumor. As a mechanotransducer, Yes-associated protein (YAP) is known to translocate into the nucleus to initiate transcription of genes involved in cell proliferation upon extracellular biophysical stimuli. Here, we showed that FSS facilitated cytoskeleton rearrangement in hepatocellular carcinoma cells, which led to the release of YAP from its binding partner, integrin β subunit, in the cytomembrane. Moreover, we found that upregulation of guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF)-H1, a microtubule-associated Rho GEF, is a critical step in the FSS-induced translocation of YAP. Nuclear YAP activated the expression of the EMT-regulating transcription factor SNAI1, but suppressed the expression of N6-methyladenosine (m6 A) modulators; together, this promoted the expression of EMT-related genes. We also observed that FSS-treated HepG2 cells showed markedly increased tumorigenesis and metastasis in vivo. Collectively, our findings unravel the underlying molecular processes by which FSS induces translocation of YAP from the cytomembrane to the nucleus, contributes to EMT and enhances metastasis in hepatocellular carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongchi Yu
- Institute of Biomedical EngineeringWest China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic MedicineSichuan UniversityChengduChina
- National Engineering Research Center for BiomaterialsChengduChina
| | - Jia He
- Institute of Biomedical EngineeringWest China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic MedicineSichuan UniversityChengduChina
| | - Guanyue Su
- Institute of Biomedical EngineeringWest China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic MedicineSichuan UniversityChengduChina
| | - Yuelong Wang
- West China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduChina
| | - Fei Fang
- Institute of Biomedical EngineeringWest China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic MedicineSichuan UniversityChengduChina
| | - Wenxing Yang
- Department of PhysiologyWest China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic MedicineSichuan UniversityChengduChina
| | - Kaiyun Gu
- National Clinical Research Center for Child HealthZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Naiyang Fu
- Cancer and Stem Cell Biology ProgramDuke‐NUS Medical SchoolSingapore
| | - Yunbing Wang
- National Engineering Research Center for BiomaterialsChengduChina
| | - Yang Shen
- Institute of Biomedical EngineeringWest China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic MedicineSichuan UniversityChengduChina
| | - Xiaoheng Liu
- Institute of Biomedical EngineeringWest China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic MedicineSichuan UniversityChengduChina
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32
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Li K, Wu R, Zhou M, Tong H, Luo KQ. Desmosomal proteins of DSC2 and PKP1 promote cancer cells survival and metastasis by increasing cluster formation in circulatory system. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2021; 7:eabg7265. [PMID: 34586853 PMCID: PMC8480931 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abg7265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
To study how cancer cells can withstand fluid shear stress (SS), we isolated SS-resistant breast and lung cancer cells using a microfluidic circulatory system. These SS-resistant cells showed higher abilities to form clusters, survive in circulation, and metastasize in mice. These SS-resistant cells expressed 4.2- to 5.3-fold more desmocollin-2 (DSC2) and plakophilin-1 (PKP1) proteins. The high expression of DSC2 and PKP1 facilitated cancer cells to form clusters in circulation, and also activated PI3K/AKT/Bcl-2–mediated pathway to increase cell survival. The high levels of DSC2 and PKP1 are also important for maintaining high expression of vimentin, which stimulates fibronectin/integrin β1/FAK/Src/MEK/ERK/ZEB1–mediated metastasis. Moreover, higher levels of DSC2 and PKP1 were detected in tumor samples from patients with breast and lung cancer, and their high expression was correlated with lower overall survival and worse disease progression. DSC2 and PKP1 may serve as new biomarkers for detecting and targeting metastatic circulating tumor cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koukou Li
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao SAR, China
| | - Renfei Wu
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao SAR, China
| | - Muya Zhou
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao SAR, China
| | - Haibo Tong
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao SAR, China
| | - Kathy Q. Luo
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao SAR, China
- Ministry of Education Frontiers Science Center for Precision Oncology, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao SAR, China
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Su G, Feng T, Pei T, Yang F, Sun D, Yu H, Wang X, Gao W, He J, Shen Y, Liu X. Autophagy modulates FSS-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition in hepatocellular carcinoma cells. Mol Carcinog 2021; 60:607-619. [PMID: 34107107 DOI: 10.1002/mc.23327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Revised: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma is a highly fatal disease and threatens human health seriously. Fluid shear stress (FSS), which is caused by the leakage of plasma from abnormally permeable tumor blood vessels and insufficient lymphatic drainage, has been identified as contributing pathologically to cancer metastasis. Autophagy and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) are both reported to be involved in cancer cell migration and invasion, but little has been revealed about the interaction between autophagy and EMT under a tumor mechanical microenvironment. Here, we identified that exposure to 1.4 dyne/cm2 FSS could promote the formation of autophagosomes and significantly increase the expressions of autophagy-related markers of beclin1 and ATG7, and the ratio of LC3Ⅱ/Ⅰ in both of HepG2 and QGY-7703 cells. The FSS loading also elevated the levels of mesenchymal markers N-cadherin, Vimentin, Twist, Snail, and β-catenin, while the epithelial markers E-cadherin showed a decrease. Once the autophagy was blocked by 3-methyladenine (3-MA) or knocking ATG5 down, the occurrence of FSS-induced EMT was inhibited dramatically according to the expression and translocation of E-cadherin, N-cadherin, and β-catenin. Given the effect of EMT on cell migration, we observed that inhibition of autophagy could impede FSS-induced cell migration. Collectively, this study demonstrated that autophagy played a crucial role in FSS-induced EMT and cell migration in hepatocellular carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guanyue Su
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Tang Feng
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Tong Pei
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Fan Yang
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Denglian Sun
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Hongchi Yu
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaoli Wang
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wenbo Gao
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jia He
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yang Shen
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Geriatric Health Care and Medical Research Center, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaoheng Liu
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Geriatric Health Care and Medical Research Center, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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Carmona-Ule N, González-Conde M, Abuín C, Cueva JF, Palacios P, López-López R, Costa C, Dávila-Ibáñez AB. Short-Term Ex Vivo Culture of CTCs from Advance Breast Cancer Patients: Clinical Implications. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13112668. [PMID: 34071445 PMCID: PMC8198105 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13112668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are responsible for metastasis, they represent tumor biology and have also predictive value for therapy monitoring and prognosis of metastatic breast cancer patients. In the blood, CTCs are found in low frequency and a small percentage of them survive. Therefore, achieving their expansion in vitro will allow performing characterization and functional analysis. In this work, we used growth factors and Nanoemulsions to support CTCs culture. We have seen that the CTCs subpopulation capable of ex vivo expanding presented mesenchymal and stem characteristics and loss of epithelial markers. Besides, CTC culture predicted progression-free survival. Abstract Background: Circulating tumor cells (CTC) have relevance as prognostic markers in breast cancer. However, the functional properties of CTCs or their molecular characterization have not been well-studied. Experimental models indicate that only a few cells can survive in the circulation and eventually metastasize. Thus, it is essential to identify these surviving cells capable of forming such metastases. Methods: We isolated viable CTCs from 50 peripheral blood samples obtained from 35 patients with advanced metastatic breast cancer using RosetteSepTM for ex vivo culture. The CTCs were seeded and monitored on plates under low adherence conditions and with media supplemented with growth factors and Nanoemulsions. Phenotypic analysis was performed by immunofluorescence and gene expression analysis using RT-PCR and CTCs counting by the Cellsearch® system. Results: We found that in 75% of samples the CTC cultures lasted more than 23 days, predicting a shorter Progression-Free Survival in these patients, independently of having ≥5 CTC by Cellsearch®. We also observed that CTCs before and after culture showed a different gene expression profile. Conclusions: the cultivability of CTCs is a predictive factor. Furthermore, the subset of cells capable of growing ex vivo show stem or mesenchymal features and may represent the CTC population with metastatic potential in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuria Carmona-Ule
- Roche-Chus Joint Unit, Translational Medical Oncology Group, Oncomet, Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Travesía da Choupana s/n, 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain; (N.C.-U.); (M.G.-C.); (C.A.); (R.L.-L.)
| | - Miriam González-Conde
- Roche-Chus Joint Unit, Translational Medical Oncology Group, Oncomet, Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Travesía da Choupana s/n, 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain; (N.C.-U.); (M.G.-C.); (C.A.); (R.L.-L.)
- CIBERONC, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Cáncer, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (J.F.C.); (P.P.)
| | - Carmen Abuín
- Roche-Chus Joint Unit, Translational Medical Oncology Group, Oncomet, Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Travesía da Choupana s/n, 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain; (N.C.-U.); (M.G.-C.); (C.A.); (R.L.-L.)
| | - Juan F. Cueva
- CIBERONC, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Cáncer, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (J.F.C.); (P.P.)
- Translational Medical Oncology Group (Oncomet), Medical Oncology Department, University Clinical Hospital of Santiago de Compostela, 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Patricia Palacios
- CIBERONC, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Cáncer, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (J.F.C.); (P.P.)
- Translational Medical Oncology Group (Oncomet), Medical Oncology Department, University Clinical Hospital of Santiago de Compostela, 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Rafael López-López
- Roche-Chus Joint Unit, Translational Medical Oncology Group, Oncomet, Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Travesía da Choupana s/n, 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain; (N.C.-U.); (M.G.-C.); (C.A.); (R.L.-L.)
- CIBERONC, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Cáncer, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (J.F.C.); (P.P.)
- Translational Medical Oncology Group (Oncomet), Medical Oncology Department, University Clinical Hospital of Santiago de Compostela, 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Clotilde Costa
- Roche-Chus Joint Unit, Translational Medical Oncology Group, Oncomet, Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Travesía da Choupana s/n, 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain; (N.C.-U.); (M.G.-C.); (C.A.); (R.L.-L.)
- CIBERONC, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Cáncer, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (J.F.C.); (P.P.)
- Correspondence: (C.C.); (A.B.D.-I.); Tel.: +34-981-955-602 (C.C.)
| | - Ana Belén Dávila-Ibáñez
- Roche-Chus Joint Unit, Translational Medical Oncology Group, Oncomet, Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Travesía da Choupana s/n, 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain; (N.C.-U.); (M.G.-C.); (C.A.); (R.L.-L.)
- Correspondence: (C.C.); (A.B.D.-I.); Tel.: +34-981-955-602 (C.C.)
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Abstract
The physical microenvironment of cells plays a fundamental role in regulating cellular behavior and cell fate, especially in the context of cancer metastasis. For example, capillary deformation can destroy arrested circulating tumor cells while the dense extracellular matrix can form a physical barrier for invading cancer cells. Understanding how metastatic cancer cells overcome the challenges brought forth by physical confinement can help in developing better therapeutics that can put a stop to this migratory stage of the metastatic cascade. Numerous in vivo and in vitro assays have been developed to recapitulate the metastatic processes and study cancer cell migration in a confining microenvironment. In this review, we summarize some of the representative techniques and the exciting new findings. We critically review the advantages, as well as challenges associated with these tools and methodologies, and provide a guide on the applications that they are most suited for. We hope future efforts that push forward our current understanding on metastasis under confinement can lead to novel and more effective diagnostic and therapeutic strategies against this dreaded disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuan Jiang
- Mechanobiology Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Lanfeng Liang
- Mechanobiology Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Chwee Teck Lim
- Mechanobiology Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Institute for Health Innovation and Technology (iHealthtech), National University of Singapore, Singapore
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