1
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Abdelazeem KN, Nguyen D, Corbo S, Darragh LB, Matsumoto MW, Court BV, Neupert B, Yu J, Olimpo NA, Osborne DG, Gadwa J, Ross RB, Nguyen A, Bhatia S, Kapoor M, Friedman RS, Jacobelli J, Saviola AJ, Knitz MW, Pasquale EB, Karam SD. Manipulating the EphB4-ephrinB2 axis to reduce metastasis in HNSCC. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.07.21.604518. [PMID: 39091728 PMCID: PMC11291065 DOI: 10.1101/2024.07.21.604518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
The EphB4-ephrinB2 signaling axis has been heavily implicated in metastasis across numerous cancer types. Our emerging understanding of the dichotomous roles that EphB4 and ephrinB2 play in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) poses a significant challenge to rational drug design. We find that EphB4 knockdown in cancer cells enhances metastasis in preclinical HNSCC models by augmenting immunosuppressive cells like T regulatory cells (Tregs) within the tumor microenvironment. EphB4 inhibition in cancer cells also amplifies their ability to metastasize through increased expression of genes associated with epithelial mesenchymal transition and hallmark pathways of metastasis. In contrast, vascular ephrinB2 knockout coupled with radiation therapy (RT) enhances anti-tumor immunity, reduces Treg accumulation into the tumor, and decreases metastasis. Notably, targeting the EphB4-ephrinB2 signaling axis with the engineered EphB4 ligands EFNB2-Fc-His and Fc-TNYL-RAW-GS reduces local tumor growth and distant metastasis in a preclinical model of HNSCC. Our data suggest that targeted inhibition of vascular ephrinB2 while avoiding inhibition of EphB4 in cancer cells could be a promising strategy to mitigate HNSCC metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khalid N.M. Abdelazeem
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
- Radiation Biology Research Department, National Center for Radiation Research and Technology, Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Diemmy Nguyen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Sophia Corbo
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Laurel B. Darragh
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Mike W. Matsumoto
- Cancer Center, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Benjamin Van Court
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Brooke Neupert
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Justin Yu
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Nicholas A. Olimpo
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Douglas Grant Osborne
- Department of Dermatology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Jacob Gadwa
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Richard B. Ross
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Alexander Nguyen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Shilpa Bhatia
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Mohit Kapoor
- Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, and University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Rachel S. Friedman
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
- Barbara Davis Research Center, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Jordan Jacobelli
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
- Barbara Davis Research Center, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Anthony J. Saviola
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Center, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Michael W. Knitz
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Elena B. Pasquale
- Cancer Center, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Sana D. Karam
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
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2
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Kasai S, Tamai M, Sugihara E, Oishi N, Hinata K, Akahane K, Goi K, Hata Y, Kondo T, Mitsui T, Tanaka M, Inukai T. In utero tumor development and identification of CTNNB1 mutation in a newborn case of ossifying renal tumor of infancy. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2024; 71:e30868. [PMID: 38217079 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.30868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/14/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Shin Kasai
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, Japan
| | - Minori Tamai
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, Japan
| | - Eiji Sugihara
- Division of Gene Regulation, Cancer Center and Open Facility Center, Research Promotion Headquarters, Fujita Health University School of Medicine, Toyoake, Japan
| | - Naoki Oishi
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, Japan
| | - Kyoko Hinata
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, Japan
| | - Koshi Akahane
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, Japan
| | - Kumiko Goi
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, Japan
| | - Yuko Hata
- Division of Gene Regulation, Cancer Center and Open Facility Center, Research Promotion Headquarters, Fujita Health University School of Medicine, Toyoake, Japan
| | - Tetsuo Kondo
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, Japan
| | - Takahiko Mitsui
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, Japan
| | - Mio Tanaka
- Department of Pathology, Kanagawa Children's Medical Center, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Takeshi Inukai
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, Japan
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3
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Chatzikalil E, Stergiou IE, Papadakos SP, Konstantinidis I, Theocharis S. The Clinical Relevance of the EPH/Ephrin Signaling Pathway in Pediatric Solid and Hematologic Malignancies. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3834. [PMID: 38612645 PMCID: PMC11011407 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25073834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Pediatric neoplasms represent a complex group of malignancies that pose unique challenges in terms of diagnosis, treatment, and understanding of the underlying molecular pathogenetic mechanisms. Erythropoietin-producing hepatocellular receptors (EPHs), the largest family of receptor tyrosine kinases and their membrane-tethered ligands, ephrins, orchestrate short-distance cell-cell signaling and are intricately involved in cell-pattern morphogenesis and various developmental processes. Unraveling the role of the EPH/ephrin signaling pathway in the pathophysiology of pediatric neoplasms and its clinical implications can contribute to deciphering the intricate landscape of these malignancies. The bidirectional nature of the EPH/ephrin axis is underscored by emerging evidence revealing its capacity to drive tumorigenesis, fostering cell-cell communication within the tumor microenvironment. In the context of carcinogenesis, the EPH/ephrin signaling pathway prompts a reevaluation of treatment strategies, particularly in pediatric oncology, where the modest progress in survival rates and enduring treatment toxicity necessitate novel approaches. Molecularly targeted agents have emerged as promising alternatives, prompting a shift in focus. Through a nuanced understanding of the pathway's intricacies, we aim to lay the groundwork for personalized diagnostic and therapeutic strategies, ultimately contributing to improved outcomes for young patients grappling with neoplastic challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Chatzikalil
- Division of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, First Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece;
| | - Ioanna E. Stergiou
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece;
| | - Stavros P. Papadakos
- First Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece;
| | | | - Stamatios Theocharis
- First Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece;
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Yuki R, Kuwajima H, Ota R, Ikeda Y, Saito Y, Nakayama Y. Eph signal inhibition potentiates the growth-inhibitory effects of PLK1 inhibition toward cancer cells. Eur J Pharmacol 2024; 963:176229. [PMID: 38072041 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2023.176229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024]
Abstract
Anti-mitotic drugs are clinically used as anti-cancer treatments. Polo-like kinase 1 (PLK1) is a promising target against cancer cell division due to its importance in the whole process of mitosis, and thus PLK1-targeting agents have been developed in the last few decades. Clinical trial studies show that several PLK1 inhibitors are generally well-tolerated. However, the response rates are limited; therefore, it is needed to improve the efficacy of those drugs. Here, we show that NVP-BHG712, an erythropoietin-producing human hepatocellular (Eph) signaling inhibitor, potentiates the growth-inhibitory effects of the PLK1 inhibitors BI2536 and BI6727 in cancer cells. This combination treatment strongly suppresses cancer spheroid formation. Moreover, the combination drastically arrests cells at mitosis by continuous activation of the spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC), thereby inducing apoptosis. SAC activation caused by the combination of NVP-BHG712 and BI2536 is due to the inhibition of centrosome maturation and separation. Although the inactivation level of the PLK1 kinase is comparable between BI2536 treatment alone and combination treatment, the combination treatment strongly inactivates MAPK signaling in mitosis. Since inhibition of MAPK signaling potentiates the efficacy of BI2536 treatment, inactivation of PLK1 kinase and MAPK signaling contributes to the strong inhibition of centrosome separation. These results suggest that Eph signal inhibition potentiates the effect of PLK1 inhibition, leading to strong mitotic arrest via SAC activation and the subsequent reduction of cancer cell survival. The combination of PLK1 inhibition and Eph signal inhibition will provide a new effective strategy for targeting cancer cell division.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryuzaburo Yuki
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Kyoto Pharmaceutical University, Kyoto, 607-8414, Japan.
| | - Hiroki Kuwajima
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Kyoto Pharmaceutical University, Kyoto, 607-8414, Japan
| | - Ryoko Ota
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Kyoto Pharmaceutical University, Kyoto, 607-8414, Japan
| | - Yuki Ikeda
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Kyoto Pharmaceutical University, Kyoto, 607-8414, Japan
| | - Youhei Saito
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Kyoto Pharmaceutical University, Kyoto, 607-8414, Japan
| | - Yuji Nakayama
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Kyoto Pharmaceutical University, Kyoto, 607-8414, Japan
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Festuccia C, Corrado M, Rossetti A, Castelli R, Lodola A, Gravina GL, Tognolini M, Giorgio C. A Pharmacological Investigation of Eph-Ephrin Antagonism in Prostate Cancer: UniPR1331 Efficacy Evidence. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1452. [PMID: 37895923 PMCID: PMC10609876 DOI: 10.3390/ph16101452] [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: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The Eph kinases are the largest receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) family in humans. PC3 human prostate adenocarcinoma cells are a well-established model for studying Eph-ephrin pharmacology as they naturally express a high level of EphA2, a promising target for new cancer therapies. A pharmacological approach with agonists did not show significant efficacy on tumor growth in prostate orthotopic murine models, but reduced distal metastasis formation. In order to improve the comprehension of the pharmacological targeting of Eph receptors in prostate cancer, in the present work, we investigated the efficacy of Eph antagonism both in vitro and in vivo, using UniPR1331, a small orally bioavailable Eph-ephrin interaction inhibitor. UniPR1331 was able to inhibit PC3 cells' growth in vitro in a dose-dependent manner, affecting the cell cycle and inducing apoptosis. Moreover, UniPR1331 promoted the PC3 epithelial phenotype, downregulating epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers. As a consequence, UniPR1331 reduced in vitro PC3 migration, invasion, and vasculomimicry capabilities. The antitumor activity of UniPR1331 was confirmed in vivo when administered alone or in combination with cytotoxic drugs in PC3-xenograft mice. Our results demonstrated that Eph antagonism is a promising strategy for inhibiting prostate cancer growth, especially in combination with cytotoxic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Festuccia
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, Via Vetoio (Coppito), 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (A.R.); (G.L.G.)
| | - Miriam Corrado
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, 43124 Parma, Italy; (M.C.); (R.C.); (A.L.); (M.T.)
| | - Alessandra Rossetti
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, Via Vetoio (Coppito), 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (A.R.); (G.L.G.)
| | - Riccardo Castelli
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, 43124 Parma, Italy; (M.C.); (R.C.); (A.L.); (M.T.)
| | - Alessio Lodola
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, 43124 Parma, Italy; (M.C.); (R.C.); (A.L.); (M.T.)
| | - Giovanni Luca Gravina
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, Via Vetoio (Coppito), 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (A.R.); (G.L.G.)
| | - Massimiliano Tognolini
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, 43124 Parma, Italy; (M.C.); (R.C.); (A.L.); (M.T.)
| | - Carmine Giorgio
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, 43124 Parma, Italy; (M.C.); (R.C.); (A.L.); (M.T.)
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6
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Stergiou IE, Papadakos SP, Karyda A, Tsitsilonis OE, Dimopoulos MA, Theocharis S. EPH/Ephrin Signaling in Normal Hematopoiesis and Hematologic Malignancies: Deciphering Their Intricate Role and Unraveling Possible New Therapeutic Targets. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3963. [PMID: 37568780 PMCID: PMC10417178 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15153963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Erythropoietin-producing hepatocellular carcinoma receptors (EPHs) represent the largest family of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs). EPH interaction with ephrins, their membrane-bound ligands, holds a pivotal role in embryonic development, while, though less active, it is also implicated in various physiological functions during adult life. In normal hematopoiesis, different patterns of EPH/ephrin expression have been correlated with hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) maintenance and lineage-committed hematopoietic progenitor cell (HPC) differentiation, as well as with the functional properties of their mature offspring. Research in the field of hematologic malignancies has unveiled a rather complex involvement of the EPH/ephrinsignaling pathway in the pathophysiology of these neoplasms. Aberrations in genetic, epigenetic, and protein levels have been identified as possible players implicated both in tumor progression and suppression, while correlations have also been highlighted regarding prognosis and response to treatment. Initial efforts to therapeutically target the EPH/ephrin axis have been undertaken in the setting of hematologic neoplasia but are mainly confined to the preclinical level. To this end, deciphering the complexity of this signaling pathway both in normal and malignant hematopoiesis is necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioanna E. Stergiou
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece;
| | - Stavros P. Papadakos
- First Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.P.P.); (A.K.)
| | - Anna Karyda
- First Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.P.P.); (A.K.)
| | - Ourania E. Tsitsilonis
- Flow Cytometry Unit, Department of Biology, School of Science, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 15784 Athens, Greece;
| | - Meletios-Athanasios Dimopoulos
- Department of Clinical Therapeutics, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Alexandra Hospital, 11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Stamatios Theocharis
- First Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.P.P.); (A.K.)
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7
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Wang L, Li W, Pan Y. The Eph/Ephrin system in primary bone tumor and bone cancer pain. Aging (Albany NY) 2023; 15:7324-7332. [PMID: 37413995 PMCID: PMC10415561 DOI: 10.18632/aging.204852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
The family of Eph receptor tyrosine kinases and their Ephrin ligands system constitutes a bidirectional signaling pathway. Eph/Ephrin system coordinate a wide spectrum of pathologic processes during development, metastasis, prognosis, drug resistance and angiogenesis in carcinogenesis. Chemotherapy, surgery and radiotherapy are the most commonly used clinical treatments for primary bone tumors. Therefore, surgical resection is often unable to completely eliminate the tumor, and this is the main cause of metastasis and postoperative recurrence. A growing body of literature has been published lately revitalizing our scientific interest towards the role of Eph/Ephrins in pathogenesis and the treatment of bone tumor and bone cancer pain. This study mainly reviewed the roles of Eph/Ephrin system that has both tumor-suppressing and -promoting roles in primary bone tumors and bone cancer pain. Understanding the intracellular mechanisms of Eph/Ephrin system in tumorigenesis and metastasis of bone tumors might provide a foundation for the development of Eph/Ephrin targeted anti-cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lujuan Wang
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Tumor Models and Individualized Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha 410011, Hunan, China
| | - Wei Li
- Hunan Cancer Hospital and The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Yong Pan
- Hunan Cancer Hospital and The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha 410013, Hunan, China
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8
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Hanover G, Vizeacoumar FS, Banerjee SL, Nair R, Dahiya R, Osornio-Hernandez AI, Morales AM, Freywald T, Himanen JP, Toosi BM, Bisson N, Vizeacoumar FJ, Freywald A. Integration of cancer-related genetic landscape of Eph receptors and ephrins with proteomics identifies a crosstalk between EPHB6 and EGFR. Cell Rep 2023; 42:112670. [PMID: 37392382 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.112670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Eph receptors and their ephrin ligands are viewed as promising targets for cancer treatment; however, targeting them is hindered by their context-dependent functionalities. To circumvent this, we explore molecular landscapes underlying their pro- and anti-malignant activities. Using unbiased bioinformatics approaches, we construct a cancer-related network of genetic interactions (GIs) of all Ephs and ephrins to assist in their therapeutic manipulation. We also apply genetic screening and BioID proteomics and integrate them with machine learning approaches to select the most relevant GIs of one Eph receptor, EPHB6. This identifies a crosstalk between EPHB6 and EGFR, and further experiments confirm the ability of EPHB6 to modulate EGFR signaling, enhancing the proliferation of cancer cells and tumor development. Taken together, our observations show EPHB6 involvement in EGFR action, suggesting its targeting might be beneficial in EGFR-dependent tumors, and confirm that the Eph family genetic interactome presented here can be effectively exploited in developing cancer treatment approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Glinton Hanover
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Royal University Hospital, Room 2841, 103 Hospital Drive, Saskatoon, SK S7N 0W8, Canada; Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Saskatchewan, GA20 Health Sciences, 107 Wiggins Road, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - Frederick S Vizeacoumar
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Royal University Hospital, Room 2841, 103 Hospital Drive, Saskatoon, SK S7N 0W8, Canada
| | - Sara L Banerjee
- Department of Molecular Biology, Medical Biochemistry and Pathology, PROTEO and Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) de Quebec-Université Laval, Division Oncologie, 9 Rue McMahon, Québec, QC G1R 3S3, Canada
| | - Raveena Nair
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Royal University Hospital, Room 2841, 103 Hospital Drive, Saskatoon, SK S7N 0W8, Canada; Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Saskatchewan, GA20 Health Sciences, 107 Wiggins Road, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - Renuka Dahiya
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Royal University Hospital, Room 2841, 103 Hospital Drive, Saskatoon, SK S7N 0W8, Canada
| | - Ana I Osornio-Hernandez
- Department of Molecular Biology, Medical Biochemistry and Pathology, PROTEO and Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) de Quebec-Université Laval, Division Oncologie, 9 Rue McMahon, Québec, QC G1R 3S3, Canada
| | - Alain Morejon Morales
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Royal University Hospital, Room 2841, 103 Hospital Drive, Saskatoon, SK S7N 0W8, Canada; Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Saskatchewan, GA20 Health Sciences, 107 Wiggins Road, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - Tanya Freywald
- Cancer Research, Saskatchewan Cancer Agency and Division of Oncology, University of Saskatchewan, 4D30.2 Health Sciences Building, 107 Wiggins Road, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - Juha P Himanen
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Turku, 20500 Turku, Finland
| | - Behzad M Toosi
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, 52 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5B4, Canada
| | - Nicolas Bisson
- Department of Molecular Biology, Medical Biochemistry and Pathology, PROTEO and Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) de Quebec-Université Laval, Division Oncologie, 9 Rue McMahon, Québec, QC G1R 3S3, Canada.
| | - Franco J Vizeacoumar
- Cancer Research, Saskatchewan Cancer Agency and Division of Oncology, University of Saskatchewan, 4D30.2 Health Sciences Building, 107 Wiggins Road, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5E5, Canada.
| | - Andrew Freywald
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Royal University Hospital, Room 2841, 103 Hospital Drive, Saskatoon, SK S7N 0W8, Canada.
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9
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Papadakos SP, Stergiou IE, Gkolemi N, Arvanitakis K, Theocharis S. Unraveling the Significance of EPH/Ephrin Signaling in Liver Cancer: Insights into Tumor Progression and Therapeutic Implications. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3434. [PMID: 37444544 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15133434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer is a complex and challenging disease with limited treatment options and dismal prognosis. Understanding the underlying molecular mechanisms driving liver cancer progression and metastasis is crucial for developing effective therapeutic strategies. The EPH/ephrin system, which comprises a family of cell surface receptors and their corresponding ligands, has been implicated in the pathogenesis of HCC. This review paper aims to provide an overview of the current understanding of the role of the EPH/ephrin system in HCC. Specifically, we discuss the dysregulation of EPH/ephrin signaling in HCC and its impact on various cellular processes, including cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Overall, the EPH/ephrin signaling system emerges as a compelling and multifaceted player in liver cancer biology. Elucidating its precise mechanisms and understanding its implications in disease progression and therapeutic responses may pave the way for novel targeted therapies and personalized treatment approaches for liver cancer patients. Further research is warranted to unravel the full potential of the EPH/ephrin system in liver cancer and its clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stavros P Papadakos
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Ioanna E Stergiou
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Nikolina Gkolemi
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Arvanitakis
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, First Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, St. Kiriakidi 1, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Basic and Translational Research Unit, Special Unit for Biomedical Research and Education, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Stamatios Theocharis
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
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10
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Kiernan E, Surapaneni A, Zhou L, Schlosser P, Walker KA, Rhee EP, Ballantyne CM, Deo R, Dubin RF, Ganz P, Coresh J, Grams ME. Alterations in the Circulating Proteome Associated with Albuminuria. J Am Soc Nephrol 2023; 34:1078-1089. [PMID: 36890639 PMCID: PMC10278823 DOI: 10.1681/asn.0000000000000108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/05/2023] [Indexed: 03/10/2023] Open
Abstract
SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT We describe circulating proteins associated with albuminuria in a population of African American Study of Kidney Disease and Hypertension with CKD (AASK) using the largest proteomic platform to date: nearly 7000 circulating proteins, representing approximately 2000 new targets. Findings were replicated in a subset of a general population cohort with kidney disease (ARIC) and a population with CKD Chronic Renal Insufficiency Cohort (CRIC). In cross-sectional analysis, 104 proteins were significantly associated with albuminuria in the Black group, of which 67 of 77 available proteins were replicated in ARIC and 68 of 71 available proteins in CRIC. LMAN2, TNFSFR1B, and members of the ephrin superfamily had the strongest associations. Pathway analysis also demonstrated enrichment of ephrin family proteins. BACKGROUND Proteomic techniques have facilitated understanding of pathways that mediate decline in GFR. Albuminuria is a key component of CKD diagnosis, staging, and prognosis but has been less studied than GFR. We sought to investigate circulating proteins associated with higher albuminuria. METHODS We evaluated the cross-sectional associations of the blood proteome with albuminuria and longitudinally with doubling of albuminuria in the African American Study of Kidney Disease and Hypertension (AASK; 38% female; mean GFR 46; median urine protein-to-creatinine ratio 81 mg/g; n =703) and replicated in two external cohorts: a subset of the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study with CKD and the Chronic Renal Insufficiency Cohort (CRIC). RESULTS In cross-sectional analysis, 104 proteins were significantly associated with albuminuria in AASK, of which 67 of 77 available proteins were replicated in ARIC and 68 of 71 available proteins in CRIC. Proteins with the strongest associations included LMAN2, TNFSFR1B, and members of the ephrin superfamily. Pathway analysis also demonstrated enrichment of ephrin family proteins. Five proteins were significantly associated with worsening albuminuria in AASK, including LMAN2 and EFNA4, which were replicated in ARIC and CRIC. CONCLUSIONS Among individuals with CKD, large-scale proteomic analysis identified known and novel proteins associated with albuminuria and suggested a role for ephrin signaling in albuminuria progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Kiernan
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Aditya Surapaneni
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
- Division of Precision Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Linda Zhou
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Pascal Schlosser
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Keenan A. Walker
- Laboratory of Behavioral Neuroscience, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Aging, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Eugene P. Rhee
- Nephrology Division and Endocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | - Rajat Deo
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Ruth F. Dubin
- Division of Nephrology, University of Texas—Southwestern, Dallas, Texas
| | - Peter Ganz
- Division of Cardiology, Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital and Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Josef Coresh
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
- Department of Biostatistics, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Morgan E. Grams
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
- Division of Precision Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York
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11
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The EPH/Ephrin System in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma (PDAC): From Pathogenesis to Treatment. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24033015. [PMID: 36769332 PMCID: PMC9917762 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24033015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a major concern for health care systems worldwide, since its mortality remains unaltered despite the surge in cutting-edge science. The EPH/ephrin signaling system was first investigated in the 1980s. EPH/ephrins have been shown to exert bidirectional signaling and cell-to-cell communication, influencing cellular morphology, adhesion, migration and invasion. Recent studies have highlighted the critical role of the EPH/ephrin system in various physiologic processes, including cellular proliferation, survival, synaptic plasticity and angiogenesis. Thus, it has become evident that the EPH/ephrin signaling system may have compelling effects on cell homeostasis that contribute to carcinogenesis. In particular, the EPH/ephrins have an impact on pancreatic morphogenesis and development, whereas several EPHs and ephrins are altered in PDAC. Several clinical and preclinical studies have attempted to elucidate the effects of the EPH/ephrin pathway, with multilayered effects on PDAC development. These studies have highlighted its highly promising role in the diagnosis, prognosis and therapeutic management of PDAC. The aim of this review is to explore the obscure aspects of the EPH/ephrin system concerning the development, physiology and homeostasis of the pancreas.
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Yan S, Wang M. HCG11 inhibits salivary adenoid cystic carcinoma by upregulating EphA2 via binding to miR-1297. Oral Surg Oral Med Oral Pathol Oral Radiol 2023; 135:257-267. [PMID: 36396591 DOI: 10.1016/j.oooo.2022.08.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Ephrin receptor A2 (EphA2) was reported to be related to the tumorigenesis of salivary adenoid cystic carcinoma (SACC), which is a rare malignancy accounting for less than 1% of all oral and maxillofacial tumors. This research aimed to assess the molecular mechanisms of EphA2 in SACC. STUDY DESIGN The expression of long non-coding RNA human leukocyte antigen complex group 11 (HCG11), microRNA-1297 (miR-1297), and EphA2 in SACC cell lines compared with normal human salivary gland (HSG) cell line was measured by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction. EphA2 protein level was detected by western blot. 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU), colony formation, Transwell, and wounding healing experiments were applied to evaluate SACC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. The relationship among HCG11, miR-1297, and EphA2 was confirmed by luciferase reporter, RNA pulldown, and RNA immunoprecipitation experiments. RESULTS HCG11 and EphA2 were downregulated while miR-1297 was upregulated in SACC cells. EphA2 overexpression suppressed SACC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. HCG11 bound to miR-1297 to reduce the inhibition of miR-1297 on EphA2 expression. EphA2 knockdown reversed the suppression of HCG11 overexpression on SACC cell phenotypes. CONCLUSION This study identified the HCG11/miR-1297/EphA2 regulatory axis in SACC, which might provide novel therapeutic targets for SACC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shujuan Yan
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Changyi People's Hospital, Weifang 261300, Shandong, China
| | - Meng Wang
- Health Management Center, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Jinan 250014, Shandong, China.
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13
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Psilopatis I, Karniadakis I, Danos KS, Vrettou K, Michaelidou K, Mavridis K, Agelaki S, Theocharis S. May EPH/Ephrin Targeting Revolutionize Lung Cancer Treatment? Int J Mol Sci 2022; 24:ijms24010093. [PMID: 36613532 PMCID: PMC9820524 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Revised: 12/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer (LC) is the leading cause of cancer death in the United States. Erythropoietin-producing hepatocellular receptors (EPHs) comprise the largest receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) family in mammals. EPHs along with their ligands, EPH-family receptor-interacting proteins (ephrins), have been found to be either up- or downregulated in LC cells, hence exhibiting a defining role in LC carcinogenesis and tumor progression. In their capacity as membrane-bound molecules, EPHs/ephrins may represent feasible targets in the context of precision cancer treatment. In order to investigate available therapeutics targeting the EPH/ephrin system in LC, a literature review was conducted, using the MEDLINE, LIVIVO, and Google Scholar databases. EPHA2 is the most well-studied EPH/ephrin target in LC treatment. The targeting of EPHA2, EPHA3, EPHA5, EPHA7, EPHB4, EPHB6, ephrin-A1, ephrin-A2, ephrin-B2, and ephrin-B3 in LC cells or xenograft models not only directly correlates with a profound LC suppression but also enriches the effects of well-established therapeutic regimens. However, the sole clinical trial incorporating a NSCLC patient could not describe objective anti-cancer effects after anti-EPHA2 antibody administration. Collectively, EPHs/ephrins seem to represent promising treatment targets in LC. However, large clinical trials still need to be performed, with a view to examining the effects of EPH/ephrin targeting in the clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iason Psilopatis
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias Street, Bld 10, Goudi, 11527 Athens, Greece
- Department of Gynecology, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt—Universität zu Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Ioannis Karniadakis
- Second Department of Propaedeutic Surgery, “Laiko” General Hospital, 17 Agiou Thoma Street, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Stylianos Danos
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias Street, Bld 10, Goudi, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Kleio Vrettou
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias Street, Bld 10, Goudi, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Kleita Michaelidou
- Laboratory of Translational Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Vassilika Vouton, 71003 Herakleion, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Mavridis
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation of Research and Technology-Hellas, 70013 Herakleion, Greece
| | - Sofia Agelaki
- Laboratory of Translational Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Vassilika Vouton, 71003 Herakleion, Greece
- Department of Medical Oncology, University General Hospital of Herakleion, Vassilika Vouton, 71110 Herakleion, Greece
- Correspondence: (S.A.); (S.T.)
| | - Stamatios Theocharis
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias Street, Bld 10, Goudi, 11527 Athens, Greece
- Correspondence: (S.A.); (S.T.)
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14
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EPH/Ephrin-Targeting Treatment in Breast Cancer: A New Chapter in Breast Cancer Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232315275. [PMID: 36499598 PMCID: PMC9740341 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232315275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is the most common malignant tumor in women. Erythropoietin-producing hepatocellular receptors (EPHs), receptor tyrosine kinases binding the membrane-bound proteins ephrins, are differentially expressed in BC, and correlate with carcinogenesis and tumor progression. With a view to examining available therapeutics targeting the EPH/ephrin system in BC, a literature review was conducted, using the MEDLINE, LIVIVO, and Google Scholar databases. EPHA2 is the most studied EPH/ephrin target in BC treatment. The targeting of EPHA2, EPHA10, EPHB4, ephrin-A2, ephrin-A4, as well as ephrin-B2 in BC cells or xenograft models is associated with apoptosis induction, tumor regression, anticancer immune response activation, and impaired cell motility. In conclusion, EPHs/ephrins seem to represent promising future treatment targets in BC.
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15
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Wu Y, Clark KC, Nguyen EV, Niranjan B, Horvath LG, Taylor RA, Daly RJ. Proteomic characterisation of prostate cancer intercellular communication reveals cell type-selective signalling and TMSB4X-dependent fibroblast reprogramming. Cell Oncol (Dordr) 2022; 45:1311-1328. [PMID: 36169805 DOI: 10.1007/s13402-022-00719-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In prostate cancer, the tumour microenvironment (TME) represents an important regulator of disease progression and response to treatment. In the TME, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) play a key role in tumour progression, however the mechanisms underpinning fibroblast-cancer cell interactions are incompletely resolved. Here, we address this by applying cell type-specific labelling with amino acid precursors (CTAP) and mass spectrometry (MS)-based (phospho)proteomics to prostate cancer for the first time. METHODS Reciprocal interactions between PC3 prostate cancer cells co-cultured with WPMY-1 prostatic fibroblasts were characterised using CTAP-MS. Signalling network changes were determined using Metascape and Enrichr and visualised using Cytoscape. Thymosin β4 (TMSB4X) overexpression was achieved via retroviral transduction and assayed by ELISA. Cell motility was determined using Transwell and random cell migration assays and expression of CAF markers by indirect immunofluorescence. RESULTS WPMY-1 cells co-cultured with PC3s demonstrated a CAF-like phenotype, characterised by enhanced PDGFRB expression and alterations in signalling pathways regulating epithelial-mesenchymal transition, cytoskeletal organisation and cell polarisation. In contrast, co-cultured PC3 cells exhibited more modest network changes, with alterations in mTORC1 signalling and regulation of the actin cytoskeleton. The expression of the actin binding protein TMSB4X was significantly decreased in co-cultured WPMY-1 fibroblasts, and overexpression of TMSB4X in fibroblasts decreased migration of co-cultured PC3 cells, reduced fibroblast motility, and protected the fibroblasts from being educated to a CAF-like phenotype by prostate cancer cells. CONCLUSIONS This study highlights the potential of CTAP-MS to characterise intercellular communication within the prostate TME and identify regulators of cellular crosstalk such as TMSB4X.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunjian Wu
- Cancer Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Kimberley C Clark
- Cancer Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Elizabeth V Nguyen
- Cancer Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Birunthi Niranjan
- Cancer Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Lisa G Horvath
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Darlinghurst, NSW, 2010, Australia
- University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, 2006, Australia
- Chris O'Brien Lifehouse, Camperdown, NSW, 2050, Australia
| | - Renea A Taylor
- Cancer Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
- Department of Physiology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
- Cancer Research Division, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Roger J Daly
- Cancer Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia.
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia.
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16
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Kong HK, Chan Z, Yan SW, Lo PY, Wong WT, Wong KH, Lo CL. Revealing the species-specific genotype of the edible bird’s nest-producing swiftlet, Aerodramus fuciphagus and the proteome of edible bird’s nest. Food Res Int 2022; 160:111670. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2022.111670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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17
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Papadakos SP, Tsagkaris C, Papadakis M, Papazoglou AS, Moysidis DV, Zografos CG, Theocharis S. Angiogenesis in gastrointestinal stromal tumors: From bench to bedside. World J Gastrointest Oncol 2022; 14:1469-1477. [PMID: 36160752 PMCID: PMC9412926 DOI: 10.4251/wjgo.v14.i8.1469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2022] [Revised: 05/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are rare neoplasms with an estimated incidence from 0.78 to 1-1.5 patients per 100000. They most commonly occur in the elderly during the eighth decade of life affecting predominantly the stomach, but also the small intestine, the omentum, mesentery and rectosigmoid. The available treatments for GIST are associated with a significant rate of recurrent disease and adverse events. Thorough understanding of GIST’s pathophysiology and translation of this knowledge into novel regimens or drug repurposing is essential to counter this challenge. The present review summarizes the existing evidence about the role of angiogenesis in GIST’s development and progression and discusses its clinical underpinnings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stavros P Papadakos
- First Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens 10679, Greece
| | | | - Marios Papadakis
- University Hospital Witten-Herdecke, University of Witten-Herdecke, Wuppertal 42283, Germany
| | - Andreas S Papazoglou
- First Department of Cardiology, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki 54636, Greece
| | - Dimitrios V Moysidis
- First Department of Cardiology, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki 54636, Greece
| | - Constantinos G Zografos
- First Department of Surgery, Athens Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Laikon General Hospital, Athens 11527, Greece
| | - Stamatios Theocharis
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, University of Athens, Athens 11527, Greece
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18
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Jiao Z, Feng X, Cui Y, Wang L, Gan J, Zhao Y, Meng Q. Expression characteristic, immune signature, and prognosis value of EFNA family identified by multi-omics integrative analysis in pan-cancer. BMC Cancer 2022; 22:871. [PMID: 35945523 PMCID: PMC9364540 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-022-09951-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background EphrinA (EFNA) are Eph receptor ligands that regulate various disease processes. Nonetheless, the expression characteristics of EFNAs in pan-cancer, their relationship with tumor immune microenvironment, and prognostic value landscape remain unknown. Methods A comprehensive landscape of EFNAs was created using various statistical data extracted from 33 cancers. Subsequently, we identified differential expression, genetic variations, potential function enrichment, tumor immune-related analysis, and drug sensitivity. Further, we investigated the clinical features and diagnostic prognostic value of EFNAs. RT-qPCR, western blot and immunohistochemistry (IHC) were used to validate the expression level and significant clinical value of EFNA5 in lung adenocarcinoma cell lines and tissues. Results EFNAs were highly mutated in various cancers. Genomic and epigenetic alterations of EFNAs were observed in various tumors, where an oncogenic mutation in specific cancer types potentially affected EFNA expression. Moreover, tumor-derived EFNAs were significantly related to the tumor immune microenvironment, suggesting that they are promising therapeutic targets. The majority of EFNA family genes were significantly linked to patient prognosis. Eventually, EFNA5 was an independent prognostic factor in lung adenocarcinoma. Conclusion In summary, EFNAs are crucial in tumor immune regulation, and EFNA5 is a prognostic marker in lung adenocarcinoma. Our findings provide new insights into EFNAs from a bioinformatics standpoint and highlight the significance of EFNAs in cancer diagnosis and treatment. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12885-022-09951-0.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zonglin Jiao
- Department of Medical Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Xiao Feng
- Department of Medical Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China.,Department of Oncology, Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Yuqing Cui
- Department of Medical Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Junqing Gan
- Department of Medical Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Yanbin Zhao
- Department of Medical Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China.
| | - Qingwei Meng
- Department of Medical Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China.
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Hadjimichael AC, Pergaris A, Kaspiris A, Foukas AF, Kokkali S, Tsourouflis G, Theocharis S. The EPH/Ephrin System in Bone and Soft Tissue Sarcomas' Pathogenesis and Therapy: New Advancements and a Literature Review. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23095171. [PMID: 35563562 PMCID: PMC9100911 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23095171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Revised: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Musculoskeletal sarcomas represent rare heterogenous malignancies of mesenchymal origin that can be divided in two distinct subtypes, bone and soft tissue sarcomas. Current treatment options combine the surgical excision of local tumors and multidrug chemotherapy to prevent metastatic widespread disease. Due to the grim prognosis that usually accompanies such tumors, researchers have attempted to shed light on the molecular pathways implicated in their pathogenesis in order to develop novel, innovative, personalized therapeutic strategies. Erythropoietin-producing human hepatocellular receptors (EPHs) are tyrosine-kinase transmembrane receptors that, along with their ligands, ephrins, participate in both tumor-suppressive or tumor-promoting signaling pathways in bone and soft tissue sarcomas. The EPH/ephrin axis orchestrates cancerous processes such as cell–cell and cell–substrate adhesion and enhances the remodeling of the intracellular cytoskeleton to stimulate the motility and invasiveness of sarcoma cells. The purpose of our study was to review published PubMed literature to extract results from in vitro, in vivo and clinical trials indicative of the role of EPH/ephrin signaling in bone and soft tissue sarcomas. Based on these reports, significant interactions between the EPH/ephrin signaling pathway and a plethora of normal and abnormal cascades contribute to molecular mechanisms enhancing malignancy during sarcoma progression. In addition, EPHs and ephrins are prospective candidates for diagnostic, monitoring and therapeutic purposes in the clinical setting against bone and soft tissue sarcomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Argyris C. Hadjimichael
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias Street, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.C.H.); (A.P.); (S.K.); (G.T.)
- Department of Orthopaedics, St Mary’s Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, Praed Street, London W2 1NY, UK
| | - Alexandros Pergaris
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias Street, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.C.H.); (A.P.); (S.K.); (G.T.)
| | - Angelos Kaspiris
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece;
| | - Athanasios F. Foukas
- Third Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, “KAT” General Hospital of Athens, Nikis 2, 14561 Kifissia, Greece;
| | - Stefania Kokkali
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias Street, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.C.H.); (A.P.); (S.K.); (G.T.)
| | - Gerasimos Tsourouflis
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias Street, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.C.H.); (A.P.); (S.K.); (G.T.)
| | - Stamatios Theocharis
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias Street, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.C.H.); (A.P.); (S.K.); (G.T.)
- Correspondence:
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Pergaris A, Danas E, Gajdzis P, Levidou G, Gajdzis M, Cassoux N, Gardrat S, Donizy P, Korkolopoulou P, Kavantzas N, Klijanienko J, Theocharis S. EPHA2, EPHA4, and EPHA6 Expression in Uveal Melanomas: Searching for the Culprits of Neoplasia. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12051025. [PMID: 35626181 PMCID: PMC9139903 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12051025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Uveal melanomas (UMs) comprise the most common primary intraocular malignancies in adults, with the eye representing the second most common site for melanoma, following the skin. Prognosis remains poor, with approximately half of the cases presenting with metastatic disease at the time of diagnosis. Erythropoietin-producing human hepatocellular receptors (EPHs) comprise the largest known family of tyrosine receptors, in which, along with their ligands, ephrins, play an important role in a plethora of processes in human physiology, and are implicated in key steps of carcinogenesis. In the present study, EPHA2, EPHA4, and EPHA6 immunohistochemical expressions were investigated in UM tissues and further correlated to a multitude of clinicopathological parameters, including disease stage and patients’ overall survival (OS). High levels of EPHA2 expression were significantly associated with increased tumor vertical thickness (p = 0.03) and the presence of intrascleral involvement (p = 0.05), whereas high EPHA6 nuclear expression was associated with older age at diagnosis (p = 0.03) and absence of retinal detachment (p = 0.05). In a multivariate survival analysis, increased EPHA4 expression was associated with shortened OS along with the presence of metastasis (p < 0.001) and monosomy 3 (p = 0.02). In a separate model, the concurrent overexpression of at least two of the investigated EPHs (HR = 14.7, p = 0.03) also proved to be an independent poor prognostic factor. In conclusion, our results implicate these specific members of the EPHA group as potential biomarkers for disease prognosis as well as possible targets for the development of novel therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandros Pergaris
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias Street, Bld. 10, Goudi, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.P.); (E.D.); (G.L.); (P.K.); (N.K.)
| | - Eugene Danas
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias Street, Bld. 10, Goudi, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.P.); (E.D.); (G.L.); (P.K.); (N.K.)
| | - Pawel Gajdzis
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Pathology, Division of Clinical Pathology, Wroclaw Medical
University, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland; (P.G.); (P.D.)
| | - Georgia Levidou
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias Street, Bld. 10, Goudi, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.P.); (E.D.); (G.L.); (P.K.); (N.K.)
- Department of Pathology, Paracelsus Medical University, 90419 Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Malgorzata Gajdzis
- Department of Ophthalmology, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland;
| | - Nathalie Cassoux
- Department of Ophthalmology, Institut Curie, 75005 Paris, France;
| | - Sophie Gardrat
- Department of Biopathology, Institut Curie, PSL Research University, 75005 Paris, France;
| | - Piotr Donizy
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Pathology, Division of Clinical Pathology, Wroclaw Medical
University, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland; (P.G.); (P.D.)
| | - Penelope Korkolopoulou
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias Street, Bld. 10, Goudi, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.P.); (E.D.); (G.L.); (P.K.); (N.K.)
| | - Nikolaos Kavantzas
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias Street, Bld. 10, Goudi, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.P.); (E.D.); (G.L.); (P.K.); (N.K.)
| | | | - Stamatios Theocharis
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias Street, Bld. 10, Goudi, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.P.); (E.D.); (G.L.); (P.K.); (N.K.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +30-210-746-2116; Fax: +30-210-746-2157
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21
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Papadakos SP, Dedes N, Pergaris A, Gazouli M, Theocharis S. Exosomes in the Treatment of Pancreatic Cancer: A Moonshot to PDAC Treatment? Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:3620. [PMID: 35408980 PMCID: PMC8998433 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2022] [Revised: 03/19/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma (PDAC) constitutes a leading cause of cancer death globally. Its mortality remains unaltered despite the considerable scientific progress made in the fields of diagnostics and treatment. Exosomes comprise of small extracellular vesicles secreted by nearly all cells; their cargo contains a vast array of biomolecules, such as proteins and microRNAs. It is currently established that their role as messengers is central to a plethora of both physiologic and pathologic processes. Accumulating data have shed light on their contributions to carcinogenesis, metastasis, and immunological response. Meanwhile, the advancement of personalized targeted therapies into everyday clinical practice necessitates the development of cost-efficient treatment approaches. The role of exosomes is currently being extensively investigated towards this direction. This review aims to summarize the current pre-clinical and clinical evidence regarding the effects of exosomal applications in the timely diagnosis, prognosis, and therapeutic management of pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stavros P. Papadakos
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.P.P.); (N.D.); (A.P.)
| | - Nikolaos Dedes
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.P.P.); (N.D.); (A.P.)
| | - Alexandros Pergaris
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.P.P.); (N.D.); (A.P.)
| | - Maria Gazouli
- Laboratory of Biology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece;
| | - Stamatios Theocharis
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.P.P.); (N.D.); (A.P.)
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22
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Goutas D, Pergaris A, Goutas N, Theocharis S. Utilizing Exosomal-EPHs/Ephrins as Biomarkers and as a Potential Platform for Targeted Delivery of Therapeutic Exosomes. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23073551. [PMID: 35408909 PMCID: PMC8998366 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Exosomes are cell-secreted nanoparticles containing various molecules including small vesicles, microRNAs (miRNAs), messenger RNAs or bioactive proteins which are thought to be of paramount importance for intercellular communication. The unique effects of exosomes in terms of cell penetration capacity, decreased immunogenicity and inherent stability, along with their key role in mediating information exchange among tumor cells and their surrounding tumor microenvironment (TME), render them a promising platform for drug targeted delivery. Compared to synthetic drugs, exosomes boast a plethora of advantages, including higher biocompatibility, lower toxicity and increased ability of tissue infiltration. Nevertheless, the use of artificial exosomes can be limited in practice, partly due to their poor targeting ability and partly due to their limited efficacy. Therefore, efforts have been made to engineer stem cell-derived exosomes in order to increase selectiveness and effectivity, which can then become loaded with various active substances depending on the therapeutic approach followed. Erythropoietin-producing human hepatocellular receptors (EPHs), along with their ligands, the EPH family receptor interacting proteins (ephrins), have been extensively investigated for their key roles in both physiology and cancer pathogenesis. EPHs/ephrins exhibit both tumorigenic and tumor suppressing properties, with their targeting representing a promising, novel therapeutic approach in cancer patients’ management. In our review, the use of ephrin-loaded exosomes as a potential therapeutic targeted delivery system in cancer will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitrios Goutas
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias Street, Bld 10, Goudi, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.P.); (S.T.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Alexandros Pergaris
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias Street, Bld 10, Goudi, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.P.); (S.T.)
| | - Nikolaos Goutas
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias Street, Goudi, 11527 Athens, Greece;
| | - Stamatios Theocharis
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias Street, Bld 10, Goudi, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.P.); (S.T.)
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23
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The EPH/Ephrin System in Gynecological Cancers: Focusing on the Roots of Carcinogenesis for Better Patient Management. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23063249. [PMID: 35328669 PMCID: PMC8949008 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23063249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Revised: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Gynecological cancers represent some of the most common types of malignancy worldwide. Erythropoietin-producing hepatocellular receptors (EPHs) comprise the largest subfamily of receptor tyrosine kinases, binding membrane-bound proteins called ephrins. EPHs/ephrins exhibit widespread expression in different cell types, playing an important role in carcinogenesis. The aim of the current review was to examine the dysregulation of the EPH/ephrin system in gynecological cancer, clarifying its role in ovarian, endometrial, and cervical carcinogenesis. In order to identify relevant studies, a literature review was conducted using the MEDLINE and LIVIVO databases. The search terms ephrin, ephrin receptor, ovarian cancer, endometrial cancer, and cervical cancer were employed and we were able to identify 57 studies focused on gynecological cancer and published between 2001 and 2021. All researched ephrins seemed to be upregulated in gynecological cancer, whereas EPHs showed either significant overexpression or extensive loss of expression in gynecological tumors, depending on the particular receptor. EPHA2, the most extensively studied EPH in ovarian cancer, exhibited overexpression both in ovarian carcinoma cell lines and patient tissue samples, while EPHB4 was found to be upregulated in endometrial cancer in a series of studies. EPHs/ephrins were shown to exert their role in different stages of gynecological cancer and to influence various clinicopathological parameters. The analysis of patients’ gynecological cancer tissue samples, most importantly, revealed the significant role of the EPH/ephrin system in the development and progression of gynecological cancer, as well as overall patient survival. In conclusion, the EPH/ephrin system represents a large family of biomolecules with promising applications in the fields of diagnosis, prognosis, disease monitoring, and treatment of gynecological cancer, with an established important clinical impact.
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Papadakos SP, Petrogiannopoulos L, Pergaris A, Theocharis S. The EPH/Ephrin System in Colorectal Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23052761. [PMID: 35269901 PMCID: PMC8910949 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23052761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 02/26/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The EPH/ephrin system constitutes a bidirectional signaling pathway comprised of a family of tyrosine kinase receptors in tandem with their plasma membrane-bound ligand (ephrins). Its significance in a wide variety of physiologic and pathologic processes has been recognized during the past decades. In carcinogenesis, EPH/ephrins coordinate a wide spectrum of pathologic processes, such as angiogenesis, vessel infiltration, and metastasis. Despite the recent advances in colorectal cancer (CRC) diagnosis and treatment, it remains a leading cause of death globally, accounting for 9.2% of all cancer deaths. A growing body of literature has been published lately revitalizing our scientific interest towards the role of EPH/ephrins in pathogenesis and the treatment of CRC. The aim of the present review is to present the recent CRC data which might lead to clinical practice changes in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stavros P Papadakos
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 157 72 Athens, Greece
| | - Leonidas Petrogiannopoulos
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 157 72 Athens, Greece
| | - Alexandros Pergaris
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 157 72 Athens, Greece
| | - Stamatios Theocharis
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 157 72 Athens, Greece
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25
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Nikas I, Giaginis C, Petrouska K, Alexandrou P, Michail A, Sarantis P, Tsourouflis G, Danas E, Pergaris A, Politis PK, Nakopoulou L, Theocharis S. EPHA2, EPHA4, and EPHA7 Expression in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12020366. [PMID: 35204461 PMCID: PMC8871500 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12020366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2021] [Revised: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Ongoing research continues to elucidate the complex role of ephrin receptors (EPHs) and their ligands (ephrins) in breast cancer pathogenesis, with their varying expression patterns implied to have an important impact on patients’ outcome. The current study aims to investigate the clinical significance of EPHA2, EPHA4, and EPHA7 expression in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cases. EPHA2, EPHA4, and EPHA7 protein expression was assessed immunohistochemically on formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded (FFPE) TNBC tissue sections from 52 TNBC patients and correlated with key clinicopathologic parameters and patients’ survival data (overall survival (OS); disease-free survival (DFS)). EPHA2, EPHA4, and EPHA7 expression was further examined in TNBC cell lines. EPHA2 overexpression was observed in 26 (50%) of the TNBC cases, who exhibited a shorter OS and DFS than their low-expression counterparts, with EPHA2 representing an independent prognostic factor for OS and DFS (p = 0.0041 and p = 0.0232, respectively). EPHA4 overexpression was associated with lymph node metastasis in TNBC patients (p = 0.0546). Alterations in EPHA2, EPHA4, and EPHA7 expression levels were also noted in the examined TNBC cell lines. Our study stresses that EPHA2 expression constitutes a potential prognostic factor for TNBC patients. Given the limited treatment options and poorer outcome that accompany the TNBC subtype, EPHA2 could also pose as a target for novel, more personalized, and effective therapeutic approaches for those patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilias Nikas
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 115 27 Athens, Greece; (I.N.); (K.P.); (P.A.); (P.S.); (E.D.); (A.P.); (L.N.)
- School of Medicine, European University Cyprus, Nicosia 2404, Cyprus
| | - Constantinos Giaginis
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, School of Environment, University of Aegean, Myrina, 811 00 Lemnos, Greece;
| | - Kalliopi Petrouska
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 115 27 Athens, Greece; (I.N.); (K.P.); (P.A.); (P.S.); (E.D.); (A.P.); (L.N.)
| | - Paraskevi Alexandrou
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 115 27 Athens, Greece; (I.N.); (K.P.); (P.A.); (P.S.); (E.D.); (A.P.); (L.N.)
| | - Artemis Michail
- Center for Basic Research, Biomedical Research Foundation of the Academy of Athens, 4 Soranou Efesiou Str., 115 27 Athens, Greece; (A.M.); (P.K.P.)
| | - Panagiotis Sarantis
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 115 27 Athens, Greece; (I.N.); (K.P.); (P.A.); (P.S.); (E.D.); (A.P.); (L.N.)
| | - Gerasimos Tsourouflis
- Second Department of Propedeutic Surgery, Laikon Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 115 27 Athens, Greece;
| | - Eugene Danas
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 115 27 Athens, Greece; (I.N.); (K.P.); (P.A.); (P.S.); (E.D.); (A.P.); (L.N.)
| | - Alexandros Pergaris
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 115 27 Athens, Greece; (I.N.); (K.P.); (P.A.); (P.S.); (E.D.); (A.P.); (L.N.)
| | - Panagiotis K. Politis
- Center for Basic Research, Biomedical Research Foundation of the Academy of Athens, 4 Soranou Efesiou Str., 115 27 Athens, Greece; (A.M.); (P.K.P.)
| | - Lydia Nakopoulou
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 115 27 Athens, Greece; (I.N.); (K.P.); (P.A.); (P.S.); (E.D.); (A.P.); (L.N.)
| | - Stamatios Theocharis
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 115 27 Athens, Greece; (I.N.); (K.P.); (P.A.); (P.S.); (E.D.); (A.P.); (L.N.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: + 30-210-7462178; Fax: + 30-210-7456259
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EphrinB2-EphB4 Signaling in Neurooncological Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23031679. [PMID: 35163601 PMCID: PMC8836162 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
EphrinB2-EphB4 signaling is critical during embryogenesis for cardiovascular formation and neuronal guidance. Intriguingly, critical expression patterns have been discovered in cancer pathologies over the last two decades. Multiple connections to tumor migration, growth, angiogenesis, apoptosis, and metastasis have been identified in vitro and in vivo. However, the molecular signaling pathways are manifold and signaling of the EphB4 receptor or the ephrinB2 ligand is cancer type specific. Here we explore the impact of these signaling pathways in neurooncological disease, including glioma, brain metastasis, and spinal bone metastasis. We identify potential downstream pathways that mediate cancer suppression or progression and seek to understand it´s role in antiangiogenic therapy resistance in glioma. Despite the Janus-faced functions of ephrinB2-EphB4 signaling in cancer Eph signaling remains a promising clinical target.
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Prognostic Biomarkers in Uveal Melanoma: The Status Quo, Recent Advances and Future Directions. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 14:cancers14010096. [PMID: 35008260 PMCID: PMC8749988 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14010096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Although rare, uveal melanoma (UM) is the most common cancer that develops inside adult eyes. The prognosis is poor, since 50% of patients will develop lethal metastases in the first decade, especially to the liver. Once metastases are detected, life expectancy is limited, given that the available treatments are mostly unsuccessful. Thus, there is a need to find methods that can accurately predict UM prognosis and also effective therapeutic strategies to treat this cancer. In this manuscript, we initially compile the current knowledge on epidemiological, clinical, pathological and molecular features of UM. Then, we cover the most relevant prognostic factors currently used for the evaluation and follow-up of UM patients. Afterwards, we highlight emerging molecular markers in UM published over the last three years. Finally, we discuss the problems preventing meaningful advances in the treatment and prognostication of UM patients, as well as forecast new roadblocks and paths of UM-related research. Abstract Uveal melanoma (UM) is the most common malignant intraocular tumour in the adult population. It is a rare cancer with an incidence of nearly five cases per million inhabitants per year, which develops from the uncontrolled proliferation of melanocytes in the choroid (≈90%), ciliary body (≈6%) or iris (≈4%). Patients initially present either with symptoms like blurred vision or photopsia, or without symptoms, with the tumour being detected in routine eye exams. Over the course of the disease, metastases, which are initially dormant, develop in nearly 50% of patients, preferentially in the liver. Despite decades of intensive research, the only approach proven to mildly control disease spread are early treatments directed to ablate liver metastases, such as surgical excision or chemoembolization. However, most patients have a limited life expectancy once metastases are detected, since there are limited therapeutic approaches for the metastatic disease, including immunotherapy, which unlike in cutaneous melanoma, has been mostly ineffective for UM patients. Therefore, in order to offer the best care possible to these patients, there is an urgent need to find robust models that can accurately predict the prognosis of UM, as well as therapeutic strategies that effectively block and/or limit the spread of the metastatic disease. Here, we initially summarized the current knowledge about UM by compiling the most relevant epidemiological, clinical, pathological and molecular data. Then, we revisited the most important prognostic factors currently used for the evaluation and follow-up of primary UM cases. Afterwards, we addressed emerging prognostic biomarkers in UM, by comprehensively reviewing gene signatures, immunohistochemistry-based markers and proteomic markers resulting from research studies conducted over the past three years. Finally, we discussed the current hurdles in the field and anticipated the future challenges and novel avenues of research in UM.
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Ephrin Receptors (Ephs) Expression in Thymic Epithelial Tumors: Prognostic Implications and Future Therapeutic Approaches. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11122265. [PMID: 34943502 PMCID: PMC8700455 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11122265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Ephrin receptors (Ephs) are receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) implicated in tissue development and homeostasis, and they are aberrantly expressed in tumors. Here, immunohistochemical Eph type-A and -B expression in thymic epithelial tumors (TETs) was assessed and correlated with clinicopathological parameters. Tissue microarrays from 98 TETs were stained for EphA1, -A2, -A4 -A6, -B1, -B2, -B4 and -B6. The relationship between neoplastic and lymphoid cell immunoreactivity score (H-score), histopathological parameters (Pearson’s test) and survival of 35 patients (Mantel-Cox model) was explored. Epithelial-rich subtypes showed higher EphA6 cytoplasmic H-score (B2/B3, carcinoma) (p < 0.001) and stronger EphA4 H-score (B3, carcinoma) (p = 0.011). The immature T-cells, especially in subtypes AB/B1, had higher EphB6 H-score than carcinoma-associated mature lymphocytes (p < 0.001); carcinomas had higher lymphocytic EphB1 H-score (p = 0.026). Higher lymphocytic and lower epithelial EphB6 H-score correlated with Masaoka stage ≤II (p = 0.043, p = 0.010, respectively). All cases showed variable epithelial and lymphocytic EphA2 expression, but clinicopathological associations were not reached. Our study confirmed that Eph type-A and -B expression in TETs is associated with established prognostic parameters, i.e., tumor subtype and Masaoka stage, although correlation with patient survival was not reached. Such findings suggest involvement of these RTKs in thymic neoplasia, as well as their potential utility as treatment targets.
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