1
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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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2
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Yan J, Xiao G, Yang C, Liu Q, Lv C, Yu X, Zhou Z, Lin S, Bai Z, Lin H, Zhang R, Liu C. Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts Promote Lymphatic Metastasis in Cholangiocarcinoma via the PDGF-BB/PDGFR-β Mediated Paracrine Signaling Network. Aging Dis 2024; 15:369-389. [PMID: 37307823 PMCID: PMC10796099 DOI: 10.14336/ad.2023.0420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients with cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) with lymph node metastasis (LNM) have the worst prognosis, even after complete resection; however, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Here, we established CAF-derived PDGF-BB as a regulator of LMN in CCA. Proteomics analysis revealed upregulation of PDGF-BB in CAFs derived from patients with CCA with LMN (LN+CAFs). Clinically, the expression of CAF-PDGF-BB correlated with poor prognosis and increased LMN in patients with CCA, while CAF-secreted PDGF-BB enhanced lymphatic endothelial cell (LEC)-mediated lymphangiogenesis and promoted the trans-LEC migration ability of tumor cells. Co-injection of LN+CAFs and cancer cells increased tumor growth and LMN in vivo. Mechanistically, CAF-derived PDGF-BB activated its receptor PDGFR-β and its downstream ERK1/2-JNK signaling pathways in LECs to promote lymphoangiogenesis, while it also upregulated the PDGFR-β-GSK-P65-mediated tumor cell migration. Finally, targeting PDGF-BB/PDGFR-β or the GSK-P65 signaling axis prohibited CAF-mediated popliteal lymphatic metastasis (PLM) in vivo. Overall, our findings revealed that CAFs promote tumor growth and LMN via a paracrine network, identifying a promising therapeutic target for patients with advanced CCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Yan
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Gang Xiao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China.
- Center for Medical Research on Innovation and Translation, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Caini Yang
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Qinqin Liu
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Cui Lv
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA medicine, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
- Medical Research Center, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xianhuan Yu
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Ziyu Zhou
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Shusheng Lin
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Zhenhua Bai
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Haoming Lin
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Rui Zhang
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Chao Liu
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
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3
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Inomata Y, Kuroha M, Shimoyama Y, Naito T, Moroi R, Shiga H, Kakuta Y, Karasawa H, Onuma S, Kinouchi Y, Masamune A. Dickkopf 1 is expressed in normal fibroblasts during early stages of colorectal tumorigenesis. Cancer Med 2024; 13:e6992. [PMID: 38334454 PMCID: PMC10854454 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.6992] [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: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Colorectal cancer progression from adenoma to cancer is a time-intensive process; however, the interaction between normal fibroblasts (NFs) with early colorectal tumors, such as adenomas, remains unclear. Here, we analyzed the response of the microenvironment during early tumorigenesis using co-cultures of organoids and NFs. MATERIALS AND METHODS Colon normal epithelium, adenoma, cancer organoid, and NFs were established and co-cultured using Transwell inserts. Microarray analysis of NFs was performed to identify factors expressed early in tumor growth. Immunostaining of clinical specimens was performed to localize the identified factor. Functional analysis was performed using HCT116 cells. Serum DKK1 levels were measured in patients with colorectal cancer and adenoma. RESULTS Colorectal organoid-NF co-culture resulted in increased organoid diameter and cell viability in normal epithelial and adenomatous organoids but not in cancer organoids. Microarray analysis of NFs revealed 18 genes with increased expression when co-cultured with adenoma and cancer organoids. Immunohistochemical staining revealed DKK1 expression in the tumor stroma from early tumor growth. DKK1 stimulation reduced HCT116 cell proliferation, while DKK1 silencing by siRNA transfection increased cell proliferation. Serum DKK1 level was significantly higher in patients with advanced cancer and adenoma than in controls. Serum DKK1 level revealed area-under-the-curve values of 0.78 and 0.64 for cancer and adenoma, respectively. CONCLUSION These findings contribute valuable insights into the early stages of colorectal tumorigenesis and suggest DKK1 as a tumor suppressor. Additionally, serum DKK1 levels could serve as a biomarker to identify both cancer and adenoma, offering diagnostic possibilities for early-stage colon tumors. The present study has a few limitations. We considered using DKK1 as a candidate gene for gene transfer to organoids and NFs; however, it was difficult due to technical problems and the slow growth rate of NFs. Therefore, we used cancer cell lines instead. In addition, immunostaining and ELISA were based on the short-term collection at a single institution, and further accumulation of such data is desirable. As described above, most previous reports were related to advanced cancers, but in this study, new findings were obtained by conducting experiments on endoscopically curable early-stage tumors, such as adenomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yushi Inomata
- Division of GastroenterologyTohoku University Graduate School of MedicineSendaiJapan
| | - Masatake Kuroha
- Division of GastroenterologyTohoku University Graduate School of MedicineSendaiJapan
| | - Yusuke Shimoyama
- Division of GastroenterologyTohoku University Graduate School of MedicineSendaiJapan
| | - Takeo Naito
- Division of GastroenterologyTohoku University Graduate School of MedicineSendaiJapan
| | - Rintaro Moroi
- Division of GastroenterologyTohoku University Graduate School of MedicineSendaiJapan
| | - Hisashi Shiga
- Division of GastroenterologyTohoku University Graduate School of MedicineSendaiJapan
| | - Yoichi Kakuta
- Division of GastroenterologyTohoku University Graduate School of MedicineSendaiJapan
| | - Hideaki Karasawa
- Department of SurgeryTohoku University Graduate School of MedicineSendaiJapan
| | - Shinobu Onuma
- Department of SurgeryTohoku University Graduate School of MedicineSendaiJapan
| | - Yoshitaka Kinouchi
- Student Healthcare Center, Institute for Excellence in Higher EducationTohoku UniversitySendaiJapan
| | - Atsushi Masamune
- Division of GastroenterologyTohoku University Graduate School of MedicineSendaiJapan
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4
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Yue M, Chen MM, Zhang B, Wang Y, Li P, Zhao Y. The functional roles of chemokines and chemokine receptors in colorectal cancer progression. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 170:116040. [PMID: 38113624 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.116040] [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: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer is a common malignancy with significant rates of morbidity and mortality. A number of factors, including the tumor microenvironment, chemokines, the inflammatory response, have an impact on the development of colorectal cancer. A critical component of the tumor microenvironment is chemokines. Various cell subsets are attracted to the tumor microenvironment through interactions with chemokine receptors. These cells have varying effects on the development of the tumor and the effectiveness of treatment. Additionally, chemokines can participate in inflammatory processes and have effects that are either pro- or anti-tumor. Chemokines can be exploited as targets for medication resistance and treatment in colorectal cancer. In this review, we discuss the expression of chemokines and chemokine receptors, and their relationship with immune cells in the tumor microenvironment. At the same time, we also collect and discuss the significance of chemokines and chemokine receptors in colorectal cancer progression, and their potential as molecular targets for CRC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingli Yue
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266021, China
| | - Meng-Meng Chen
- Key Laboratory of Cancer and Immune Cells of Qingdao, Qingdao 266021, China; Qingdao Restore Biotechnology Co., Ltd., Qingdao, Shandong 266111, PR China
| | - Bingqiang Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Cancer and Immune Cells of Qingdao, Qingdao 266021, China
| | - Yin Wang
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266021, China
| | - Peifeng Li
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266021, China
| | - Yi Zhao
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266021, China; Key Laboratory of Birth Regulation and Control Technology of National Health Commission of China, Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital of Shandong Province affiliated to Qingdao University, Shandong Province, China.
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5
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Liao K, Zhang X, Liu J, Teng F, He Y, Cheng J, Yang Q, Zhang W, Xie Y, Guo D, Cao G, Xu Y, Huang B, Wang X. The role of platelets in the regulation of tumor growth and metastasis: the mechanisms and targeted therapy. MedComm (Beijing) 2023; 4:e350. [PMID: 37719444 PMCID: PMC10501337 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Platelets are a class of pluripotent cells that, in addition to hemostasis and maintaining vascular endothelial integrity, are also involved in tumor growth and distant metastasis. The tumor microenvironment is a complex and comprehensive system composed of tumor cells and their surrounding immune and inflammatory cells, tumor-related fibroblasts, nearby interstitial tissues, microvessels, and various cytokines and chemokines. As an important member of the tumor microenvironment, platelets can promote tumor invasion and metastasis through various mechanisms. Understanding the role of platelets in tumor metastasis is important for diagnosing the risk of metastasis and prolonging survival. In this study, we more fully elucidate the underlying mechanisms by which platelets promote tumor growth and metastasis by modulating processes, such as immune escape, angiogenesis, tumor cell homing, and tumor cell exudation, and further summarize the effects of platelet-tumor cell interactions in the tumor microenvironment and possible tumor treatment strategies based on platelet studies. Our summary will more comprehensively and clearly demonstrate the role of platelets in tumor metastasis, so as to help clinical judgment of the potential risk of metastasis in cancer patients, with a view to improving the prognosis of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaili Liao
- Jiangxi Province Key Laboratory of Laboratory MedicineJiangxi Provincial Clinical Research Center for Laboratory MedicineDepartment of Clinical LaboratoryThe Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang UniversityNanchangChina
| | - Xue Zhang
- Queen Mary College of Nanchang UniversityNanchangChina
| | - Jie Liu
- School of Public HealthNanchang UniversityNanchangChina
| | - Feifei Teng
- School of Public HealthNanchang UniversityNanchangChina
| | - Yingcheng He
- Queen Mary College of Nanchang UniversityNanchangChina
| | - Jinting Cheng
- School of Public HealthNanchang UniversityNanchangChina
| | - Qijun Yang
- Queen Mary College of Nanchang UniversityNanchangChina
| | - Wenyige Zhang
- Queen Mary College of Nanchang UniversityNanchangChina
| | - Yuxuan Xie
- The Second Clinical Medical CollegeNanchang UniversityNanchangChina
| | - Daixin Guo
- School of Public HealthNanchang UniversityNanchangChina
| | - Gaoquan Cao
- The Fourth Clinical Medical CollegeNanchang UniversityNanchangChina
| | - Yanmei Xu
- Jiangxi Province Key Laboratory of Laboratory MedicineJiangxi Provincial Clinical Research Center for Laboratory MedicineDepartment of Clinical LaboratoryThe Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang UniversityNanchangChina
| | - Bo Huang
- Jiangxi Province Key Laboratory of Laboratory MedicineJiangxi Provincial Clinical Research Center for Laboratory MedicineDepartment of Clinical LaboratoryThe Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang UniversityNanchangChina
| | - Xiaozhong Wang
- Jiangxi Province Key Laboratory of Laboratory MedicineJiangxi Provincial Clinical Research Center for Laboratory MedicineDepartment of Clinical LaboratoryThe Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang UniversityNanchangChina
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6
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Wieder R. Fibroblasts as Turned Agents in Cancer Progression. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15072014. [PMID: 37046676 PMCID: PMC10093070 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15072014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 03/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Differentiated epithelial cells reside in the homeostatic microenvironment of the native organ stroma. The stroma supports their normal function, their G0 differentiated state, and their expansion/contraction through the various stages of the life cycle and physiologic functions of the host. When malignant transformation begins, the microenvironment tries to suppress and eliminate the transformed cells, while cancer cells, in turn, try to resist these suppressive efforts. The tumor microenvironment encompasses a large variety of cell types recruited by the tumor to perform different functions, among which fibroblasts are the most abundant. The dynamics of the mutual relationship change as the sides undertake an epic battle for control of the other. In the process, the cancer “wounds” the microenvironment through a variety of mechanisms and attracts distant mesenchymal stem cells to change their function from one attempting to suppress the cancer, to one that supports its growth, survival, and metastasis. Analogous reciprocal interactions occur as well between disseminated cancer cells and the metastatic microenvironment, where the microenvironment attempts to eliminate cancer cells or suppress their proliferation. However, the altered microenvironmental cells acquire novel characteristics that support malignant progression. Investigations have attempted to use these traits as targets of novel therapeutic approaches.
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7
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FAPI PET/CT in Diagnostic and Treatment Management of Colorectal Cancer: Review of Current Research Status. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12020577. [PMID: 36675506 PMCID: PMC9865114 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12020577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
FAPI PET/CT is a novel imaging tool targeting fibroblast activation protein (FAP), with high tumor uptake rate and low background noise. Therefore, the appearance of FAPI PET/CT provides a good tumor-to-background ratio between tumor and non-tumor tissues, which is beneficial to staging, tumor description and detection. Colorectal cancer has the biological characteristics of high expression of FAP, which provides the foundation for targeted FAP imaging. FAPI PET/CT may have a potential role in changing the staging and re-staging of colorectal cancer, monitoring recurrence and treatment management, and improving the prognosis of patients. This review will summarize the application status of FAPI PET/CT in colorectal cancer and provide directions for further application research.
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8
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Fotsitzoudis C, Koulouridi A, Messaritakis I, Konstantinidis T, Gouvas N, Tsiaoussis J, Souglakos J. Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts: The Origin, Biological Characteristics and Role in Cancer-A Glance on Colorectal Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14184394. [PMID: 36139552 PMCID: PMC9497276 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14184394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Tumor microenvironment is a major contributor to tumor growth, metastasis and resistance to therapy. It consists of many cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), which derive from different types of cells. CAFs detected in different tumor types are linked to poor prognosis, as in the case of colorectal cancer. Although their functions differ according to their subtype, their detection is not easy, and there are no established markers for such detection. They are possible targets for therapeutic treatment. Many trials are ongoing for their use as a prognostic factor and as a treatment target. More research remains to be carried out to establish their role in prognosis and treatment. Abstract The therapeutic approaches to cancer remain a considerable target for all scientists around the world. Although new cancer treatments are an everyday phenomenon, cancer still remains one of the leading mortality causes. Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains in this category, although patients with CRC may have better survival compared with other malignancies. Not only the tumor but also its environment, what we call the tumor microenvironment (TME), seem to contribute to cancer progression and resistance to therapy. TME consists of different molecules and cells. Cancer-associated fibroblasts are a major component. They arise from normal fibroblasts and other normal cells through various pathways. Their role seems to contribute to cancer promotion, participating in tumorigenesis, proliferation, growth, invasion, metastasis and resistance to treatment. Different markers, such as a-SMA, FAP, PDGFR-β, periostin, have been used for the detection of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). Their detection is important for two main reasons; research has shown that their existence is correlated with prognosis, and they are already under evaluation as a possible target for treatment. However, extensive research is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charalampos Fotsitzoudis
- Laboratory of Translational Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 70013 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Asimina Koulouridi
- Laboratory of Translational Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 70013 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Ippokratis Messaritakis
- Laboratory of Translational Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 70013 Heraklion, Greece
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +30-2810-394926
| | | | | | - John Tsiaoussis
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 70013 Heraklion, Greece
| | - John Souglakos
- Laboratory of Translational Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 70013 Heraklion, Greece
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Hospital of Heraklion, 71110 Heraklion, Greece
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9
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Bhat AA, Nisar S, Singh M, Ashraf B, Masoodi T, Prasad CP, Sharma A, Maacha S, Karedath T, Hashem S, Yasin SB, Bagga P, Reddy R, Frennaux MP, Uddin S, Dhawan P, Haris M, Macha MA. Cytokine- and chemokine-induced inflammatory colorectal tumor microenvironment: Emerging avenue for targeted therapy. Cancer Commun (Lond) 2022; 42:689-715. [PMID: 35791509 PMCID: PMC9395317 DOI: 10.1002/cac2.12295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a predominant life-threatening cancer, with liver and peritoneal metastases as the primary causes of death. Intestinal inflammation, a known CRC risk factor, nurtures a local inflammatory environment enriched with tumor cells, endothelial cells, immune cells, cancer-associated fibroblasts, immunosuppressive cells, and secretory growth factors. The complex interactions of aberrantly expressed cytokines, chemokines, growth factors, and matrix-remodeling enzymes promote CRC pathogenesis and evoke systemic responses that affect disease outcomes. Mounting evidence suggests that these cytokines and chemokines play a role in the progression of CRC through immunosuppression and modulation of the tumor microenvironment, which is partly achieved by the recruitment of immunosuppressive cells. These cells impart features such as cancer stem cell-like properties, drug resistance, invasion, and formation of the premetastatic niche in distant organs, promoting metastasis and aggressive CRC growth. A deeper understanding of the cytokine- and chemokine-mediated signaling networks that link tumor progression and metastasis will provide insights into the mechanistic details of disease aggressiveness and facilitate the development of novel therapeutics for CRC. Here, we summarized the current knowledge of cytokine- and chemokine-mediated crosstalk in the inflammatory tumor microenvironment, which drives immunosuppression, resistance to therapeutics, and metastasis during CRC progression. We also outlined the potential of this crosstalk as a novel therapeutic target for CRC. The major cytokine/chemokine pathways involved in cancer immunotherapy are also discussed in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ajaz A. Bhat
- Laboratory of Molecular and Metabolic ImagingCancer Research DepartmentSidra MedicineDoha26999Qatar
| | - Sabah Nisar
- Laboratory of Molecular and Metabolic ImagingCancer Research DepartmentSidra MedicineDoha26999Qatar
| | - Mayank Singh
- Department of Medical OncologyDr. B. R. Ambedkar Institute Rotary Cancer HospitalAll India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS)New Delhi110029India
| | - Bazella Ashraf
- Department of BiotechnologySchool of Life SciencesCentral University of KashmirGanderbalJammu & Kashmir191201India
| | - Tariq Masoodi
- Laboratory of Molecular and Metabolic ImagingCancer Research DepartmentSidra MedicineDoha26999Qatar
| | - Chandra P. Prasad
- Department of Medical OncologyDr. B. R. Ambedkar Institute Rotary Cancer HospitalAll India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS)New Delhi110029India
| | - Atul Sharma
- Department of Medical OncologyDr. B. R. Ambedkar Institute Rotary Cancer HospitalAll India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS)New Delhi110029India
| | - Selma Maacha
- Division of Translational MedicineResearch BranchSidra MedicineDoha26999Qatar
| | | | - Sheema Hashem
- Laboratory of Molecular and Metabolic ImagingCancer Research DepartmentSidra MedicineDoha26999Qatar
| | - Syed Besina Yasin
- Department of PathologySher‐I‐Kashmir Institute of Medical SciencesSrinagarJammu & Kashmir190011India
| | - Puneet Bagga
- Department of Diagnostic ImagingSt. Jude Children's Research HospitalMemphisTN38105USA
| | - Ravinder Reddy
- Center for Advanced Metabolic Imaging in Precision MedicineDepartment of RadiologyPerelman School of Medicine at the University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPA19104USA
| | | | - Shahab Uddin
- Translational Research InstituteHamad Medical CorporationDoha3050Qatar
| | - Punita Dhawan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyUniversity of Nebraska Medical CenterOmahaNE68198USA
| | - Mohammad Haris
- Laboratory of Molecular and Metabolic ImagingCancer Research DepartmentSidra MedicineDoha26999Qatar
- Laboratory Animal Research CenterQatar UniversityDoha2713Qatar
| | - Muzafar A. Macha
- Watson‐Crick Centre for Molecular MedicineIslamic University of Science and TechnologyAwantiporaJammu & Kashmir192122India
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10
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Vokurka M, Lacina L, Brábek J, Kolář M, Ng YZ, Smetana K. Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts Influence the Biological Properties of Malignant Tumours via Paracrine Secretion and Exosome Production. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:964. [PMID: 35055153 PMCID: PMC8778626 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23020964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are an essential component of the tumour microenvironment. They represent a heterogeneous group of cells that are under the control of cancer cells and can reversely influence the cancer cell population. They affect the cancer cell differentiation status, and the migration and formation of metastases. This is achieved through the production of the extracellular matrix and numerous bioactive factors. IL-6 seems to play the central role in the communication of noncancerous and cancer cells in the tumour. This review outlines the role of exosomes in cancer cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts. Available data on the exosomal cargo, which can significantly intensify interactions in the tumour, are summarised. The role of exosomes as mediators of the dialogue between cancer cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts is discussed together with their therapeutic relevance. The functional unity of the paracrine- and exosome-mediated communication of cancer cells with the tumour microenvironment represented by CAFs is worthy of attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Vokurka
- Institute of Pathological Physiology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, 120 00 Prague 2, Czech Republic;
| | - Lukáš Lacina
- Institute of Anatomy, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, 120 00 Prague 2, Czech Republic
- BIOCEV, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, 252 50 Vestec, Czech Republic
- Department of Dermatovenereology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital, 120 00 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Brábek
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, 120 00 Prague 2, Czech Republic;
- BIOCEV, Faculty of Science, Charles University, 252 50 Vestec, Czech Republic
| | - Michal Kolář
- Institute of Molecular Genetics, Czech Academy of Sciences, 142 20 Prague 4, Czech Republic;
| | - Yi Zhen Ng
- A*STAR Skin Research Labs (A*SRL)—Biopolis, Skin Research Institute of Singapore, 8A Biomedical Grove #06-06 Immunos Singapore, Singapore 138665, Singapore;
| | - Karel Smetana
- Institute of Anatomy, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, 120 00 Prague 2, Czech Republic
- BIOCEV, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, 252 50 Vestec, Czech Republic
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11
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Interferon-induced transmembrane protein 2 promotes epithelial-mesenchymal transition by activating transforming growth factor-β1/small mother against decapentaplegic 2 signaling in gastric cancer. Mol Biol Rep 2021; 49:997-1006. [PMID: 34855108 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-021-06919-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most prevalent malignancy around the world. Primary tumor cells are enabled to invade and migrate into adjacent normal tissues to form secondary tumors. Epithelial-mesenchymal transitions (EMT) plays a pivotal role in facilitating tumor progression. Abundant evidence suggested that the transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) triggered the process of EMT. Nonetheless, the precise molecular mechanisms underlying EMT requires further elucidation, and there still lacks effective specific therapeutic target. In our recent research, we demonstrated that the interferon (IFN)-induced transmembrane protein 2 (IFITM2) promoted the growth and metastasis of GC. However, it remains unclear whether IFITM2 involves in TGF-β1 mediated EMT in GC. METHODS AND RESULTS In the present research, we investigated the functional role of IFITM2 in EMT process and TGF-β1 signaling pathway in two GC cell lines. We noticed that silencing IFITM2 can effectively inhibit TGF-β1 signaling mediated EMT by regulating down stream small mother against decapentaplegic (SMAD) 2/3 and transcription factors.This finding was further determined in both tumor tissues from GC patients and normal tissues adjacent to cancer. Our data demonstrated the key role of IFITM2 in TGF-β1 signaling and EMT in GC. CONCLUSION The findings enriched our understanding of the underlying mechanism in EMT during the progression of GC. In addition, IFITM2 would be a potential target for treating GC and other malignant tumors.
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