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Wu A, Wang X, Zhang F, Yang X, Quan Y, Dong J, Lai Y, Yang D, Sun J, Wang M. YTHDF1 enhances stemness and chemoresistance in triple-negative breast cancer cells by upregulating SIAH2. Mol Carcinog 2024; 63:417-429. [PMID: 37983722 DOI: 10.1002/mc.23661] [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: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most lethal and aggressive subtype of breast cancer, and chemoresistance is the major determinant of TNBC treatment failure. This study explores the molecular mechanism of TNBC chemoresistance. The Cancer Genome Atlas, breast cancer integrative platform, and GEPIA databases were used to analyze the expression and correlation of YTHDF1 and seven in absentia homology 2 (SIAH2) in breast cancer. Knockdown of YTHDF1 and SIAH2, or overexpression of SIAH2 in vitro and in vivo, was conducted to evaluate the impact of changes in YTHDF1 and SIAH2 expression on TNBC cell proliferation, apoptosis, stemness, drug resistance, and Hippo pathway gene expression. YTHDF1 and SIAH2 were highly expressed in breast cancer patients and TNBC cells. Knockdown of YTHDF1 and SIAH2 significantly inhibited proliferation and stemness and promoted apoptosis and chemosensitivity of TNBC cells. Mechanistically, the knockdown of YTHDF1 inhibited the expression of SIAH2, thereby downregulating the Hippo pathway, which inhibited proliferation and stemness and promoted apoptosis and chemosensitivity of TNBC cells. The current findings revealed the regulatory mechanism of YTHDF1 in TNBC and clarified the role of the YTHDF1/SIAH2 axis in TNBC drug resistance and stemness. This could provide new insights into the vital role of targeting YTHDF1/SIAH2 to suppress drug resistance and stemness in TNBC cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anhao Wu
- Department of Mammary Surgery I, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University (Yunnan Cancer Hospital, Yunnan Cancer Center), Kunming, China
| | - Xi Wang
- Department of Mammary Surgery I, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University (Yunnan Cancer Hospital, Yunnan Cancer Center), Kunming, China
| | - Fang Zhang
- Department of Tumor 2 Families, Central Hospital of Enshi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Enshi, China
| | - Xin Yang
- Department of Blood Transfusion, The First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, The Affiliated Hospital of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Yuhang Quan
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University (Yunnan Cancer Hospital, Yunnan Cancer Center), Kunming, China
| | - Junyu Dong
- Department of Mammary Surgery I, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University (Yunnan Cancer Hospital, Yunnan Cancer Center), Kunming, China
| | - Yafang Lai
- Department of Kunming Maternal and Child Health Service Centre, Kunming City Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Kunming, China
| | - Dechun Yang
- Department of Mammary Surgery I, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University (Yunnan Cancer Hospital, Yunnan Cancer Center), Kunming, China
| | - Jian Sun
- Department of Mammary Surgery I, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University (Yunnan Cancer Hospital, Yunnan Cancer Center), Kunming, China
| | - Maohua Wang
- Department of Mammary Surgery I, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University (Yunnan Cancer Hospital, Yunnan Cancer Center), Kunming, China
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2
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de Castro LR, de Oliveira LD, Milan TM, Eskenazi APE, Bighetti-Trevisan RL, de Almeida OGG, Amorim MLM, Squarize CH, Castilho RM, de Almeida LO. Up-regulation of TNF-alpha/NFkB/SIRT1 axis drives aggressiveness and cancer stem cells accumulation in chemoresistant oral squamous cell carcinoma. J Cell Physiol 2024; 239:e31164. [PMID: 38149816 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.31164] [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: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023]
Abstract
Tumor resistance remains an obstacle to successfully treating oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Cisplatin is widely used as a cytotoxic drug to treat solid tumors, including advanced OSCC, but with low efficacy due to chemoresistance. Therefore, identifying the pathways that contribute to chemoresistance may show new possibilities for improving the treatment. This work explored the role of the tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha)/NFkB signaling in driving the cisplatin resistance of OSCC and its potential as a pharmacological target to overcome chemoresistance. Differential accessibility analysis demonstrated the enrichment of opened chromatin regions in members of the TNF-alpha/NFkB signaling pathway, and RNA-Seq confirmed the upregulation of TNF-alpha/NFkB signaling in cisplatin-resistant cell lines. NFkB was accumulated in cisplatin-resistant cell lines and in cancer stem cells (CSC), and the administration of TNF-alpha increased the CSC, suggesting that TNF-alpha/NFkB signaling is involved in the accumulation of CSC. TNF-alpha stimulation also increased the histone deacetylases HDAC1 and SIRT1. Cisplatin-resistant cell lines were sensitive to the pharmacological inhibition of NFkB, and low doses of the NFkB inhibitors, CBL0137, and emetine, efficiently reduced the CSC and the levels of SIRT1, increasing histone acetylation. The NFkB inhibitors decreased stemness potential, clonogenicity, migration, and invasion of cisplatin-resistant cell lines. The administration of the emetine significantly reduced the tumor growth of cisplatin-resistant xenograft models, decreasing NFkB and SIRT1, increasing histone acetylation, and decreasing CSC. TNF-alpha/NFkB/SIRT1 signaling regulates the epigenetic machinery by modulating histone acetylation, CSC, and aggressiveness of cisplatin-resistant OSCC and the NFkB inhibition is a potential strategy to treat chemoresistant OSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Letícia Rodrigues de Castro
- Department of Basic and Oral Biology, School of Dentistry of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Lucas Dias de Oliveira
- Department of Basic and Oral Biology, School of Dentistry of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Thaís Moré Milan
- Department of Basic and Oral Biology, School of Dentistry of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Clinical Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, Toxicology and Food Science, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ana Patrícia Espaladori Eskenazi
- Department of Basic and Oral Biology, School of Dentistry of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rayana Longo Bighetti-Trevisan
- Department of Basic and Oral Biology, School of Dentistry of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Otávio Guilherme Gonçalves de Almeida
- Department of Clinical Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, Toxicology and Food Science, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marcio Luis Munhoz Amorim
- Department of Electrical Engineering, School of Engineering of São Carlos, University of São Paulo, São Carlos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Cristiane Helena Squarize
- Laboratory of Epithelial Biology, Department of Periodontics and Oral Medicine, School of Dentistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Rogerio Moraes Castilho
- Laboratory of Epithelial Biology, Department of Periodontics and Oral Medicine, School of Dentistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Luciana Oliveira de Almeida
- Department of Basic and Oral Biology, School of Dentistry of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
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3
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Mazzoccoli C, Crispo F, Laurenzana I, Pietrafesa M, Sisinni L, Lerose R, Telesca D, Milella MR, Liu T, Della Sala G, Sebastiani J, Silvestri R, La Regina G. Biological evaluation of [4-(4-aminophenyl)-1-(4-fluorophenyl)-1H-pyrrol-3-yl](3,4,5-trimethoxyphenyl)methanone as potential antineoplastic agent in 2D and 3D breast cancer models. Arch Pharm (Weinheim) 2023; 356:e2300354. [PMID: 37603378 DOI: 10.1002/ardp.202300354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
Targeting tubulin polymerization and depolymerization represents a promising approach to treat solid tumors. In this study, we investigated the molecular mechanisms underlying the anticancer effects of a structurally novel tubulin inhibitor, [4-(4-aminophenyl)-1-(4-fluorophenyl)-1H-pyrrol-3-yl](3,4,5-trimethoxyphenyl)methanone (ARDAP), in two- and three-dimensional MCF-7 breast cancer models. At sub-cytotoxic concentrations, ARDAP showed a marked decrease in cell proliferation, colony formation, and ATP intracellular content in MCF-7 cells, by acting through a cytostatic mechanism. Additionally, drug exposure caused blockage of the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). In 3D cell culture, ARDAP negatively affected tumor spheroid growth, with inhibition of spheroid formation and reduction of ATP concentration levels. Notably, ARDAP exposure promoted the differentiation of MCF-7 cells by inducing: (i) expression decrease of Oct4 and Sox2 stemness markers, both in 2D and 3D models, and (ii) downregulation of the stem cell surface marker CD133 in 2D cell cultures. Interestingly, treated MCF7 cells displayed a major sensitivity to cytotoxic effects of the conventional chemotherapeutic drug doxorubicin. In addition, although exhibiting growth inhibitory effects against breast cancer cells, ARDAP showed insignificant harm to MCF10A healthy cells. Collectively, our results highlight the potential of ARDAP to emerge as a new chemotherapeutic agent or adjuvant compound in chemotherapeutic treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmela Mazzoccoli
- Laboratory of Preclinical and Translational Research, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico della Basilicata (IRCCS-CROB), Rionero in Vulture, Italy
| | - Fabiana Crispo
- Laboratory of Preclinical and Translational Research, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico della Basilicata (IRCCS-CROB), Rionero in Vulture, Italy
| | - Ilaria Laurenzana
- Laboratory of Preclinical and Translational Research, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico della Basilicata (IRCCS-CROB), Rionero in Vulture, Italy
| | | | - Lorenza Sisinni
- Clinical Pathology Unit, Azienda Sanitaria Locale, Potenza, Italy
| | - Rosa Lerose
- Hospital Pharmacy, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico della Basilicata (IRCCS-CROB), Rionero in Vulture, Italy
| | - Donatella Telesca
- Hospital Pharmacy, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico della Basilicata (IRCCS-CROB), Rionero in Vulture, Italy
| | - Maria R Milella
- Hospital Pharmacy, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico della Basilicata (IRCCS-CROB), Rionero in Vulture, Italy
| | - Te Liu
- Shanghai Geriatric Institute of Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Gerardo Della Sala
- Department of Eco-Sustainable Marine Biotechnology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Naples, Italy
| | - Jessica Sebastiani
- Laboratory Affiliated with the Institute Pasteur Italy - Cenci Bolognetti Foundation, Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Romano Silvestri
- Laboratory Affiliated with the Institute Pasteur Italy - Cenci Bolognetti Foundation, Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe La Regina
- Laboratory Affiliated with the Institute Pasteur Italy - Cenci Bolognetti Foundation, Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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4
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Pang Y, Shi R, Chan L, Lu Y, Zhu D, Liu T, Yan M, Wang Y, Wang W. The combination of the HDAC1 inhibitor SAHA and doxorubicin has synergic efficacy in triple negative breast cancer in vivo. Pharmacol Res 2023; 196:106926. [PMID: 37716547 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2023.106926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/18/2023]
Abstract
Vorinostat (SAHA) is a histone deacetylase inhibitor that exerts its effects through epigenetic regulation. Specifically, SAHA can inhibit the proliferation of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells alone or in combination with other chemotherapeutic agents. Doxorubicin (DOX), a traditional chemotherapeutic drug, exhibits a potent cytotoxic effect on cancer cells while also inducing strong toxic effects. In this study, we investigated the synergistic potential of these two drugs in combination against TNBC. Our results suggested that the combination of these two drugs could enhance the inhibitory effect on cancer cell proliferation, resulting in alterations in cell mitotic phase, and suppression of cancer cell stemness. Moreover, our in vivo study unveiled that when SAHA was combined with DOX, it not only exhibited an inhibitory effect on tumor metastasis but also played a role in regulating the immune microenvironment within tumors. Overall, the combination of DOX and SAHA presents a promising avenue for innovative combination chemotherapy in the context of TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuheng Pang
- Department of Breast Surgery, Tumor Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, PR China; NHC Key Laboratory of Cell Transplantation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, PR China
| | - Runze Shi
- Department of Breast Surgery, Tumor Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, PR China
| | - Liujia Chan
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, PR China
| | - Yu Lu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, PR China
| | - Di Zhu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, PR China
| | - Tong Liu
- Department of Breast Surgery, Tumor Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, PR China; NHC Key Laboratory of Cell Transplantation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, PR China
| | - Meisi Yan
- Pathology Teaching and Research Section, Basic Medical College of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, PR China; NHC Key Laboratory of Cell Transplantation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, PR China.
| | - Yuji Wang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, PR China.
| | - Wenjing Wang
- Beijing Institute of Hepatology, Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, PR China.
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5
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Wilczyński JR, Wilczyński M, Paradowska E. "DEPHENCE" system-a novel regimen of therapy that is urgently needed in the high-grade serous ovarian cancer-a focus on anti-cancer stem cell and anti-tumor microenvironment targeted therapies. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1201497. [PMID: 37448521 PMCID: PMC10338102 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1201497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer, especially high-grade serous type, is the most lethal gynecological malignancy. The lack of screening programs and the scarcity of symptomatology result in the late diagnosis in about 75% of affected women. Despite very demanding and aggressive surgical treatment, multiple-line chemotherapy regimens and both approved and clinically tested targeted therapies, the overall survival of patients is still unsatisfactory and disappointing. Research studies have recently brought some more understanding of the molecular diversity of the ovarian cancer, its unique intraperitoneal biology, the role of cancer stem cells, and the complexity of tumor microenvironment. There is a growing body of evidence that individualization of the treatment adjusted to the molecular and biochemical signature of the tumor as well as to the medical status of the patient should replace or supplement the foregoing therapy. In this review, we have proposed the principles of the novel regimen of the therapy that we called the "DEPHENCE" system, and we have extensively discussed the results of the studies focused on the ovarian cancer stem cells, other components of cancer metastatic niche, and, finally, clinical trials targeting these two environments. Through this, we have tried to present the evolving landscape of treatment options and put flesh on the experimental approach to attack the high-grade serous ovarian cancer multidirectionally, corresponding to the "DEPHENCE" system postulates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacek R Wilczyński
- Department of Gynecological Surgery and Gynecological Oncology, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
| | - Miłosz Wilczyński
- Department of Gynecological, Endoscopic and Oncological Surgery, Polish Mother's Health Center-Research Institute, Lodz, Poland
- Department of Surgical and Endoscopic Gynecology, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
| | - Edyta Paradowska
- Laboratory of Virology, Institute of Medical Biology of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Lodz, Poland
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6
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Liu Y, Wei Y, Wang X, Ma L, Li X, Sun Y, Wu Y, Zhang L, Wang J, Li M, Zhang K, Wei M, Yang G, Yang C. Discovery of novel and bioavailable histone deacetylases and cyclin-dependent kinases dual inhibitor to impair the stemness of leukemia cells. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 249:115140. [PMID: 36736154 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115140] [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: 10/19/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) has been confirmed as one of the most lethal heterogeneous clonal diseases. In addition to being essential for the development and progression of leukemia, leukemic stem cells (LSCs), a subpopulation of leukemia cells with stem cell characteristics, are also primarily responsible for the development of leukemia relapse and drug resistance. Elimination of stemness and induction of AML cell differentiation would become a promising and effective therapeutic strategy. In the present study, a novel class of HDACs/CDKs dual inhibitors was prepared and optimized. An active compound 33a has been identified, which exhibited potent and selective inhibition of CDK9, CDK12, CDK13, HDAC1, HDAC2 and HDAC3 at low nanomolar concentrations and significantly induced differentiation of leukemic stem-like cells and inhibited AML proliferation. Furthermore, the lead compound has relatively adequate oral bioavailability, suggesting that it might be used as a novel strategy to reduce the burden of LSCs and improve the prognosis for AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yulin Liu
- The State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, PR China
| | - Yujiao Wei
- The State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, PR China
| | - Xuan Wang
- The State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, PR China
| | - Lan Ma
- The State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, PR China
| | - Xuechun Li
- The State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, PR China
| | - Yue Sun
- The State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, PR China
| | - Yanjie Wu
- The State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, PR China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, International Cancer Center, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Hematological Malignancies, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen University Clinical Medical Academy, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518000, PR China
| | - Jiefu Wang
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin, 300060, PR China.
| | - Ming Li
- Cangzhou Institutes for Food and Drug Control, Cangzhou, 061000, PR China.
| | - Kun Zhang
- The State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, PR China.
| | - Mingming Wei
- The State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, PR China.
| | - Guang Yang
- The State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, PR China.
| | - Cheng Yang
- The State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, PR China.
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7
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Biao L, Liu J, Hu X, Xiang W, Hou W, Li C, Wang J, Yao K, Tang J, Long Z, Long W, Liu J. Recent advances in aptamer-based therapeutic strategies for targeting cancer stem cells. Mater Today Bio 2023; 19:100605. [PMID: 36969696 PMCID: PMC10034522 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2023.100605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are believed to be the main cause of chemotherapy resistance and tumor relapse. Various therapeutic strategies to eliminate CSCs have been developed recently. Aptamers, also called "chemical antibodies", can specifically bind with their molecular targets through special tertiary structures. The advantages of aptamers, such as lower immunogenicity and smaller size, make them superior to conventional antibodies. Therefore, aptamers have been used widely as targeting ligands for CSC-targeted therapeutic strategies in different tumor types. To date, various therapeutic cargoes have been conjugated to aptamers to kill CSCs, such as chemotherapy drugs, small interfering RNAs, and microRNAs. Aptamer-based targeted therapies for CSCs have made great progress in recent years, especially the development of multifunctional aptamer-based therapeutic strategies. Besides, cell-systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment has been applied to screen new aptamers that might have a higher binding ability for CSCs. In this review, we focus on recent advances and introduce some new modalities of aptamer-drug conjugates against CSCs. Some considerations of the advantages and limitations of different aptamer-based targeted therapies for CSCs are also discussed.
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8
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Ye J, Wu J, Liu B. Therapeutic strategies of dual-target small molecules to overcome drug resistance in cancer therapy. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2023; 1878:188866. [PMID: 36842765 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2023.188866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/28/2023]
Abstract
Despite some advances in targeted therapeutics of human cancers, curative cancer treatment still remains a tremendous challenge due to the occurrence of drug resistance. A variety of underlying resistance mechanisms to targeted cancer drugs have recently revealed that the dual-target therapeutic strategy would be an attractive avenue. Compared to drug combination strategies, one agent simultaneously modulating two druggable targets generally shows fewer adverse reactions and lower toxicity. As a consequence, the dual-target small molecule has been extensively explored to overcome drug resistance in cancer therapy. Thus, in this review, we focus on summarizing drug resistance mechanisms of cancer cells, such as enhanced drug efflux, deregulated cell death, DNA damage repair, and epigenetic alterations. Based upon the resistance mechanisms, we further discuss the current therapeutic strategies of dual-target small molecules to overcome drug resistance, which will shed new light on exploiting more intricate mechanisms and relevant dual-target drugs for future cancer therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center and Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Junhao Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center and Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Bo Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center and Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
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9
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Polyphenols as Potent Epigenetics Agents for Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231911712. [PMID: 36233012 PMCID: PMC9570183 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231911712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 09/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Human diseases such as cancer can be caused by aberrant epigenetic regulation. Polyphenols play a major role in mammalian epigenome regulation through mechanisms and proteins that remodel chromatin. In fruits, seeds, and vegetables, as well as food supplements, polyphenols are found. Compounds such as these ones are powerful anticancer agents and antioxidants. Gallic acid, kaempferol, curcumin, quercetin, and resveratrol, among others, have potent anti-tumor effects by helping reverse epigenetic changes associated with oncogene activation and tumor suppressor gene inactivation. The role dietary polyphenols plays in restoring epigenetic alterations in cancer cells with a particular focus on DNA methylation and histone modifications was summarized. We also discussed how these natural compounds modulate gene expression at the epigenetic level and described their molecular targets in cancer. It highlights the potential of polyphenols as an alternative therapeutic approach in cancer since they modulate epigenetic activity.
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10
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Sanati M, Binabaj MM, Ahmadi SS, Aminyavari S, Javid H, Mollazadeh H, Bibak B, Mohtashami E, Jamialahmadi T, Afshari AR, Sahebkar A. Recent advances in glioblastoma multiforme therapy: A focus on autophagy regulation. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 155:113740. [PMID: 36166963 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite conventional treatment options including chemoradiation, patients with the most aggressive primary brain tumor, glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), experience an average survival time of less than 15 months. Regarding the malignant nature of GBM, extensive research and discovery of novel treatments are urgently required to improve the patients' prognosis. Autophagy, a crucial physiological pathway for the degradation and recycling of cell components, is one of the exciting targets of GBM studies. Interventions aimed at autophagy activation or inhibition have been explored as potential GBM therapeutics. This review, which delves into therapeutic techniques to block or activate autophagy in preclinical and clinical research, aims to expand our understanding of available therapies battling GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehdi Sanati
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran; Experimental and Animal Study Center, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Maryam Moradi Binabaj
- Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Sabzevar University of Medical Sciences, Sabzevar, Iran
| | - Seyed Sajad Ahmadi
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences, Bojnurd, Iran
| | - Samaneh Aminyavari
- Department of Neuroscience and Addiction Studies, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Javid
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Varastegan Institute for Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hamid Mollazadeh
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences, Bojnurd, Iran
| | - Bahram Bibak
- Natural Products and Medicinal Plants Research Center, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences, Bojnurd, Iran
| | - Elmira Mohtashami
- Natural Products and Medicinal Plants Research Center, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences, Bojnurd, Iran
| | - Tannaz Jamialahmadi
- Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Surgical Oncology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Amir R Afshari
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences, Bojnurd, Iran; Natural Products and Medicinal Plants Research Center, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences, Bojnurd, Iran.
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Department of Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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11
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Singh T, Kaur P, Singh P, Singh S, Munshi A. Differential molecular mechanistic behavior of HDACs in cancer progression. MEDICAL ONCOLOGY (NORTHWOOD, LONDON, ENGLAND) 2022; 39:171. [PMID: 35972597 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-022-01770-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Genetic aberration including mutation in oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes transforms normal cells into tumor cells. Epigenetic modifications work concertedly with genetic factors in controlling cancer development. Histone acetyltransferases (HATs), histone deacetylases (HDACs), DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) and chromatin structure modifier are prospective epigenetic regulators. Specifically, HDACs are histone modifiers regulating the expression of genes implicated in cell survival, growth, apoptosis, and metabolism. The majority of HDACs are highly upregulated in cancer, whereas some have a varied function and expression in cancer progression. Distinct HDACs have a positive and negative role in controlling cancer progression. HDACs are also significantly involved in tumor cells acquiring metastatic and angiogenic potential in order to withstand the anti-tumor microenvironment. HDACs' role in modulating metabolic genes has also been associated with tumor development and survival. This review highlights and discusses the molecular mechanisms of HDACs by which they regulate cell survival, apoptosis, metastasis, invasion, stemness potential, angiogenesis, and epithelial to mesenchymal transitions (EMT) in tumor cells. HDACs are the potential target for anti-cancer drug development and various inhibitors have been developed and FDA approved for a variety of cancers. The primary HDAC inhibitors with proven anti-cancer efficacy have also been highlighted in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tashvinder Singh
- Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, 151401, India
| | - Prabhsimran Kaur
- Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, 151401, India
| | | | - Sandeep Singh
- Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, 151401, India.
| | - Anjana Munshi
- Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, 151401, India.
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12
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Milan TM, Eskenazi APE, Bighetti-Trevisan RL, de Almeida LO. Epigenetic modifications control loss of adhesion and aggressiveness of cancer stem cells derived from head and neck squamous cell carcinoma with intrinsic resistance to cisplatin. Arch Oral Biol 2022; 141:105468. [DOI: 10.1016/j.archoralbio.2022.105468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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13
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Di Fiore R, Suleiman S, Drago-Ferrante R, Subbannayya Y, Pentimalli F, Giordano A, Calleja-Agius J. Cancer Stem Cells and Their Possible Implications in Cervical Cancer: A Short Review. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23095167. [PMID: 35563557 PMCID: PMC9106065 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23095167] [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: 04/06/2022] [Revised: 05/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Cervical cancer (CC) is the fourth most common type of gynecological malignancy affecting females worldwide. Most CC cases are linked to infection with high-risk human papillomaviruses (HPV). There has been a significant decrease in the incidence and death rate of CC due to effective cervical Pap smear screening and administration of vaccines. However, this is not equally available throughout different societies. The prognosis of patients with advanced or recurrent CC is particularly poor, with a one-year relative survival rate of a maximum of 20%. Increasing evidence suggests that cancer stem cells (CSCs) may play an important role in CC tumorigenesis, metastasis, relapse, and chemo/radio-resistance, thus representing potential targets for a better therapeutic outcome. CSCs are a small subpopulation of tumor cells with self-renewing ability, which can differentiate into heterogeneous tumor cell types, thus creating a progeny of cells constituting the bulk of tumors. Since cervical CSCs (CCSC) are difficult to identify, this has led to the search for different markers (e.g., ABCG2, ITGA6 (CD49f), PROM1 (CD133), KRT17 (CK17), MSI1, POU5F1 (OCT4), and SOX2). Promising therapeutic strategies targeting CSC-signaling pathways and the CSC niche are currently under development. Here, we provide an overview of CC and CCSCs, describing the phenotypes of CCSCs and the potential of targeting CCSCs in the management of CC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Di Fiore
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Malta, MSD 2080 Msida, Malta;
- Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Center for Biotechnology, College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA;
- Correspondence: (R.D.F.); (J.C.-A.)
| | - Sherif Suleiman
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Malta, MSD 2080 Msida, Malta;
| | | | - Yashwanth Subbannayya
- Centre of Molecular Inflammation Research (CEMIR), Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine (IKOM), Norwegian University of Science and Technology, 7491 Trondheim, Norway;
| | - Francesca Pentimalli
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, LUM University “Giuseppe DeGennaro”, 70010 Casamassima, Italy;
| | - Antonio Giordano
- Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Center for Biotechnology, College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA;
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Jean Calleja-Agius
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Malta, MSD 2080 Msida, Malta;
- Correspondence: (R.D.F.); (J.C.-A.)
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14
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Kumar VE, Nambiar R, De Souza C, Nguyen A, Chien J, Lam KS. Targeting Epigenetic Modifiers of Tumor Plasticity and Cancer Stem Cell Behavior. Cells 2022; 11:cells11091403. [PMID: 35563709 PMCID: PMC9102449 DOI: 10.3390/cells11091403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor heterogeneity poses one of the greatest challenges to a successful treatment of cancer. Tumor cell populations consist of different subpopulations that have distinct phenotypic and genotypic profiles. Such variability poses a challenge in successfully targeting all tumor subpopulations at the same time. Relapse after treatment has been previously explained using the cancer stem cell model and the clonal evolution model. Cancer stem cells are an important subpopulation of tumor cells that regulate tumor plasticity and determine therapeutic resistance. Tumor plasticity is controlled by genetic and epigenetic changes of crucial genes involved in cancer cell survival, growth and metastasis. Targeting epigenetic modulators associated with cancer stem cell survival can unlock a promising therapeutic approach in completely eradicating cancer. Here, we review various factors governing epigenetic dysregulation of cancer stem cells ranging from the role of epigenetic mediators such as histone and DNA methyltransferases, histone deacetylases, histone methyltransferases to various signaling pathways associated with cancer stem cell regulation. We also discuss current treatment regimens targeting these factors and other promising inhibitors in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vigneshwari Easwar Kumar
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA; (V.E.K.); (R.N.); (C.D.S.); (A.N.); (K.S.L.)
| | - Roshni Nambiar
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA; (V.E.K.); (R.N.); (C.D.S.); (A.N.); (K.S.L.)
| | - Cristabelle De Souza
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA; (V.E.K.); (R.N.); (C.D.S.); (A.N.); (K.S.L.)
- Department of Stem Cell Research and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Audrey Nguyen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA; (V.E.K.); (R.N.); (C.D.S.); (A.N.); (K.S.L.)
| | - Jeremy Chien
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA; (V.E.K.); (R.N.); (C.D.S.); (A.N.); (K.S.L.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, UC Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
- Correspondence:
| | - Kit S. Lam
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA; (V.E.K.); (R.N.); (C.D.S.); (A.N.); (K.S.L.)
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15
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Roca MS, Moccia T, Iannelli F, Testa C, Vitagliano C, Minopoli M, Camerlingo R, De Riso G, De Cecio R, Bruzzese F, Conte M, Altucci L, Di Gennaro E, Avallone A, Leone A, Budillon A. HDAC class I inhibitor domatinostat sensitizes pancreatic cancer to chemotherapy by targeting cancer stem cell compartment via FOXM1 modulation. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2022; 41:83. [PMID: 35241126 PMCID: PMC8892808 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-022-02295-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) represents an unmet clinical need due to the very poor prognosis and the lack of effective therapy. Here we investigated the potential of domatinostat (4SC-202), a new class I histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor, currently in clinical development, to sensitize PDAC to first line standard gemcitabine (G)/taxol (T) doublet chemotherapy treatment. METHODS Synergistic anti-tumor effect of the combined treatment was assessed in PANC1, ASPC1 and PANC28 PDAC cell lines in vitro as well as on tumor spheroids and microtissues, by evaluating combination index (CI), apoptosis, clonogenic capability. The data were confirmed in vivo xenograft models of PANC28 and PANC1 cells in athymic mice. Cancer stem cells (CSC) targeting was studied by mRNA and protein expression of CSC markers, by limiting dilution assay, and by flow cytometric and immunofluorescent evaluation of CSC mitochondrial and cellular oxidative stress. Mechanistic role of forkhead box M1 (FOXM1) and downstream targets was evaluated in FOXM1-overexpressing PDAC cells. RESULTS We showed that domatinostat sensitized in vitro and in vivo models of PDAC to chemotherapeutics commonly used in PDAC patients management and particularly to GT doublet, by targeting CSC compartment through the induction of mitochondrial and cellular oxidative stress. Mechanistically, we showed that domatinostat hampers the expression and function of FOXM1, a transcription factor playing a crucial role in stemness, oxidative stress modulation and DNA repair. Domatinostat reduced FOXM1 protein levels by downregulating mRNA expression and inducing proteasome-mediated protein degradation thus preventing nuclear translocation correlated with a reduction of FOXM1 target genes. Furthermore, by overexpressing FOXM1 in PDAC cells we significantly reduced domatinostat-inducing oxidative mitochondrial and cellular stress and abolished GT sensitization, both in adherent and spheroid cells, confirming FOXM1 crucial role in the mechanisms described. Finally, we found a correlation of FOXM1 expression with poor progression free survival in PDAC chemotherapy-treated patients. CONCLUSIONS Overall, we suggest a novel therapeutic strategy based on domatinostat to improve efficacy and to overcome resistance of commonly used chemotherapeutics in PDAC that warrant further clinical evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Serena Roca
- Experimental Pharmacology Unit-Laboratory of Naples and Mercogliano (AV), Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale" - IRCCS, Naples, Italy
| | - Tania Moccia
- Experimental Pharmacology Unit-Laboratory of Naples and Mercogliano (AV), Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale" - IRCCS, Naples, Italy
| | - Federica Iannelli
- Experimental Pharmacology Unit-Laboratory of Naples and Mercogliano (AV), Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale" - IRCCS, Naples, Italy
| | - Cristina Testa
- Experimental Pharmacology Unit-Laboratory of Naples and Mercogliano (AV), Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale" - IRCCS, Naples, Italy
| | - Carlo Vitagliano
- Experimental Pharmacology Unit-Laboratory of Naples and Mercogliano (AV), Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale" - IRCCS, Naples, Italy
| | - Michele Minopoli
- Neoplastic Progression Unit, Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale" - IRCCS, Naples, Italy
| | - Rosa Camerlingo
- Cell Biology and Biotherapy Unit, Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale" - IRCCS, Naples, Italy
| | - Giulia De Riso
- Department of molecular medicine and medical biotechnology, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Rossella De Cecio
- Pathology Unit, Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale" - IRCCS, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesca Bruzzese
- Animal Facility, Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale" - IRCCS, Naples, Italy
| | - Mariarosaria Conte
- Department of Precision Medicine, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Lucia Altucci
- Department of Precision Medicine, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy.,BIOGEM, (AV), Naples, Italy
| | - Elena Di Gennaro
- Experimental Pharmacology Unit-Laboratory of Naples and Mercogliano (AV), Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale" - IRCCS, Naples, Italy
| | - Antonio Avallone
- Experimental Clinical Abdominal Oncology; Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale" - IRCCS, Naples, Italy
| | - Alessandra Leone
- Experimental Pharmacology Unit-Laboratory of Naples and Mercogliano (AV), Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale" - IRCCS, Naples, Italy
| | - Alfredo Budillon
- Experimental Pharmacology Unit-Laboratory of Naples and Mercogliano (AV), Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale" - IRCCS, Naples, Italy.
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16
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Wilczyński JR, Wilczyński M, Paradowska E. Cancer Stem Cells in Ovarian Cancer-A Source of Tumor Success and a Challenging Target for Novel Therapies. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23052496. [PMID: 35269636 PMCID: PMC8910575 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23052496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2022] [Revised: 02/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer is the most lethal neoplasm of the female genital organs. Despite indisputable progress in the treatment of ovarian cancer, the problems of chemo-resistance and recurrent disease are the main obstacles for successful therapy. One of the main reasons for this is the presence of a specific cell population of cancer stem cells. The aim of this review is to show the most contemporary knowledge concerning the biology of ovarian cancer stem cells (OCSCs) and their impact on chemo-resistance and prognosis in ovarian cancer patients, as well as to present the treatment options targeted exclusively on the OCSCs. The review presents data concerning the role of cancer stem cells in general and then concentrates on OCSCs. The surface and intracellular OCSCs markers and their meaning both for cancer biology and clinical prognosis, signaling pathways specifically activated in OCSCs, the genetic and epigenetic regulation of OCSCs function including the recent studies on the non-coding RNA regulation, cooperation between OCSCs and the tumor microenvironment (ovarian cancer niche) including very specific environment such as ascites fluid, the role of shear stress, autophagy and metabolic changes for the function of OCSCs, and finally mechanisms of OCSCs escape from immune surveillance, are described and discussed extensively. The possibilities of anti-OCSCs therapy both in experimental settings and in clinical trials are presented, including the recent II phase clinical trials and immunotherapy. OCSCs are a unique population of cancer cells showing a great plasticity, self-renewal potential and resistance against anti-cancer treatment. They are responsible for the progression and recurrence of the tumor. Several completed and ongoing clinical trials have tested different anti-OCSCs drugs which, however, have shown unsatisfactory efficacy in most cases. We propose a novel approach to ovarian cancer diagnosis and therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacek R Wilczyński
- Department of Gynecological Surgery and Gynecological Oncology, Medical University of Lodz, 4 Kosciuszki Str., 90-419 Lodz, Poland
- Correspondence:
| | - Miłosz Wilczyński
- Department of Gynecological, Endoscopic and Oncological Surgery, Polish Mother’s Health Center—Research Institute, 281/289 Rzgowska Str., 93-338 Lodz, Poland;
- Department of Surgical and Endoscopic Gynecology, Medical University of Lodz, 4 Kosciuszki Str., 90-419 Lodz, Poland
| | - Edyta Paradowska
- Laboratory of Virology, Institute of Medical Biology of the Polish Academy of Sciences, 106 Lodowa Str., 93-232 Lodz, Poland;
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17
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Grumetti L, Lombardi R, Iannelli F, Pucci B, Avallone A, Di Gennaro E, Budillon A. Epigenetic Approaches to Overcome Fluoropyrimidines Resistance in Solid Tumors. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14030695. [PMID: 35158962 PMCID: PMC8833539 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14030695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Fluoropyrimidines represent the backbone of many combination chemotherapy regimens for the treatment of solid cancers but are still associated with toxicity and mechanisms of resistance. In this review, we focused on the epigenetic modifiers histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACis) and on their ability to regulate specific genes and proteins involved in the fluoropyrimidine metabolism and resistance mechanisms. We presented emerging preclinical and clinical studies, highlighting the mechanisms by which HDACis can prevent/overcome the resistance and/or enhance the therapeutic efficacy of fluoropyrimidines, potentially reducing their toxicity, and ultimately improving the overall survival of cancer patients. Abstract Although fluoropyrimidines were introduced as anticancer agents over 60 years ago, they are still the backbone of many combination chemotherapy regimens for the treatment of solid cancers. Like other chemotherapeutic agents, the therapeutic efficacy of fluoropyrimidines can be affected by drug resistance and severe toxicities; thus, novel therapeutic approaches are required to potentiate their efficacy and overcome drug resistance. In the last 20 years, the deregulation of epigenetic mechanisms has been shown to contribute to cancer hallmarks. Histone modifications play an important role in directing the transcriptional machinery and therefore represent interesting druggable targets. In this review, we focused on histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACis) that can increase antitumor efficacy and overcome resistance to fluoropyrimidines by targeting specific genes or proteins. Our preclinical data showed a strong synergistic interaction between HDACi and fluoropyrimidines in different cancer models, but the clinical studies did not seem to confirm these observations. Most likely, the introduction of increasingly complex preclinical models, both in vitro and in vivo, cannot recapitulate human complexity; however, our analysis of clinical studies revealed that most of them were designed without a mechanistic approach and, importantly, without careful patient selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Grumetti
- Experimetnal Pharmacology Unit-Laboratory of Naples and Mercogliano (AV), Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS “Fondazione G. Pascale”, 80131 Naples, Italy; (L.G.); (R.L.); (F.I.); (B.P.)
| | - Rita Lombardi
- Experimetnal Pharmacology Unit-Laboratory of Naples and Mercogliano (AV), Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS “Fondazione G. Pascale”, 80131 Naples, Italy; (L.G.); (R.L.); (F.I.); (B.P.)
| | - Federica Iannelli
- Experimetnal Pharmacology Unit-Laboratory of Naples and Mercogliano (AV), Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS “Fondazione G. Pascale”, 80131 Naples, Italy; (L.G.); (R.L.); (F.I.); (B.P.)
| | - Biagio Pucci
- Experimetnal Pharmacology Unit-Laboratory of Naples and Mercogliano (AV), Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS “Fondazione G. Pascale”, 80131 Naples, Italy; (L.G.); (R.L.); (F.I.); (B.P.)
| | - Antonio Avallone
- Experimental Clinical Abdominal Oncology Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori di Napoli IRCCS “Fondazione Pascale”, 80131 Naples, Italy;
| | - Elena Di Gennaro
- Experimetnal Pharmacology Unit-Laboratory of Naples and Mercogliano (AV), Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS “Fondazione G. Pascale”, 80131 Naples, Italy; (L.G.); (R.L.); (F.I.); (B.P.)
- Correspondence: (E.D.G.); (A.B.); Tel.: +39-081-590-3342 (E.D.G.); +39-081-590-3292 (A.B.)
| | - Alfredo Budillon
- Experimetnal Pharmacology Unit-Laboratory of Naples and Mercogliano (AV), Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS “Fondazione G. Pascale”, 80131 Naples, Italy; (L.G.); (R.L.); (F.I.); (B.P.)
- Correspondence: (E.D.G.); (A.B.); Tel.: +39-081-590-3342 (E.D.G.); +39-081-590-3292 (A.B.)
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18
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Wilczyński JR. Cancer Stem Cells: An Ever-Hiding Foe. EXPERIENTIA SUPPLEMENTUM (2012) 2022; 113:219-251. [PMID: 35165866 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-91311-3_8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells are a population of cells enable to reproduce the original phenotype of the tumor and capable to self-renewal, which is crucial for tumor proliferation, differentiation, recurrence, and metastasis, as well as chemoresistance. Therefore, the cancer stem cells (CSCs) have become one of the main targets for anticancer therapy and many ongoing clinical trials test anti-CSCs efficacy of plenty of drugs. This chapter describes CSCs starting from general description of this cell population, through CSCs markers, signaling pathways, genetic and epigenetic regulation, role of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) transition and autophagy, cooperation with microenvironment (CSCs niche), and finally role of CSCs in escaping host immunosurveillance against cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacek R Wilczyński
- Department of Gynecologic Surgery and Gynecologic Oncology, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland.
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19
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Xiang XS, Li PC, Wang WQ, Liu L. Histone deacetylases: A novel class of therapeutic targets for pancreatic cancer. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2022; 1877:188676. [PMID: 35016922 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2022.188676] [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] [Received: 11/14/2021] [Revised: 12/31/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is the seventh leading cause of cancer death worldwide, with a low 5-year survival rate. Novel agents are urgently necessary to treat the main pathological type, known as pancreatic ductal carcinoma (PDAC). The dysregulation of histone deacetylases (HDACs) has been identified in association with PDAC, which can be more easily targeted by small molecular inhibitors than gene mutations and may represent a therapeutic breakthrough for PDAC. However, the contributions of HDACs to PDAC remain controversial, and pharmacokinetic challenges have limited the application of HDAC inhibitors (HDACis) in PDAC. This review summarizes the mechanisms associated with success and failure of HDACis in PDAC and discusses the recent progress made in HDACi development and application, such as combination therapies designed to enhance efficacy. More precise strategies involving HDACis might eventually improve the outcomes of PDAC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue-Song Xiang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Peng-Cheng Li
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wen-Quan Wang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Liang Liu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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20
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MicroRNA-375: potential cancer suppressor and therapeutic drug. Biosci Rep 2021; 41:229736. [PMID: 34494089 PMCID: PMC8458691 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20211494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
MiR-375 is a conserved noncoding RNA that is known to be involved in tumor cell proliferation, migration, and drug resistance. Previous studies have shown that miR-375 affects the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of human tumor cells via some key transcription factors, such as Yes-associated protein 1 (YAP1), Specificity protein 1 (SP1) and signaling pathways (Wnt signaling pathway, nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) pathway and transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) signaling pathway) and is vital for the development of cancer. Additionally, recent studies have identified microRNA (miRNA) delivery system carriers for improved in vivo transportation of miR-375 to specific sites. Here, we discussed the role of miR-375 in different types of cancers, as well as molecular mechanisms, and analyzed the potential of miR-375 as a molecular biomarker and therapeutic target to improve the efficiency of clinical diagnosis of cancer.
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21
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Fan Q, Li L, Wang TL, Emerson RE, Xu Y. A Novel ZIP4-HDAC4-VEGFA Axis in High-Grade Serous Ovarian Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13153821. [PMID: 34359722 PMCID: PMC8345154 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13153821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Despite tremendous research efforts, epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) remains one of the most difficult cancers to detect early and treat successfully for >5-year survival. We have recently shown that ZIP4, a zinc transporter, is a novel cancer stem cell (CSC) marker and a therapeutic target for EOC. The current work focuses on developing new strategies to target ZIP4 and inhibit its CSC activities in EOC. We found that cells expressing high levels of ZIP4 were supersensitive to a group of inhibitors called HDACis. One of the major targets of these inhibitors is a protein called HDAC4. We revealed the new molecular bases for the ZIP4-HDAC4 axis and tested the efficacies of targeting this axis in the lab and in mouse models. Our study provides a new mechanistic-based targeting strategy for EOC. Abstract We have recently identified ZIP4 as a novel cancer stem cell (CSC) marker in high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC). While it converts drug-resistance to cisplatin (CDDP), we unexpectedly found that ZIP4 induced sensitization of HGSOC cells to histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACis). Mechanistically, ZIP4 selectively upregulated HDAC IIa HDACs, with little or no effect on HDACs in other classes. HDAC4 knockdown (KD) and LMK-235 inhibited spheroid formation in vitro and tumorigenesis in vivo, with hypoxia inducible factor-1 alpha (HIF1α) and endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) as functional downstream mediators of HDAC4. Moreover, we found that ZIP4, HDAC4, and HIF1α were involved in regulating secreted VEGFA in HGSOC cells. Furthermore, we tested our hypothesis that co-targeting CSC via the ZIP4-HDAC4 axis and non-CSC using CDDP is necessary and highly effective by comparing the effects of ZIP4-knockout/KD, HDAC4-KD, and HDACis, in the presence or absence of CDDP on tumorigenesis in mouse models. Our results showed that the co-targeting strategy was highly effective. Finally, data from human HGSOC tissues showed that ZIP4 and HDAC4 were upregulated in a subset of recurrent tumors, justifying the clinical relevance of the study. In summary, our study provides a new mechanistic-based targeting strategy for HGSOC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qipeng Fan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Indiana University School of Medicine, 950 W. Walnut St. R2-E380, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA;
| | - Lihong Li
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, 600 North Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD 21287, USA;
| | - Tian-Li Wang
- Department of Gynecology, Oncology, and Pathology, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, 1550 Orleans Street, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA;
| | - Robert E. Emerson
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indiana University Health Pathology Laboratory, 350 W. 11th Street, Room 4010, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA;
| | - Yan Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Indiana University School of Medicine, 950 W. Walnut St. R2-E380, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-(317)-274-3972
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22
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In Vivo Evaluation of the Combined Anticancer Effects of Cisplatin and SAHA in Nonsmall Cell Lung Carcinoma Using [ 18F]FAHA and [ 18F]FDG PET/CT Imaging. Mol Imaging 2021; 2021:6660358. [PMID: 33867871 PMCID: PMC8032518 DOI: 10.1155/2021/6660358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Combining standard drugs with low doses of histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACIs) is a promising strategy to increase the efficacy of chemotherapy. The ability of well-tolerated doses of HDACIs that act as chemosensitizers for platinum-based chemotherapeutics has recently been proven in many types and stages of cancer in vitro and in vivo. Detection of changes in HDAC activity/expression may provide important prognostic and predictive information and influence treatment decision-making. Use of [18F] FAHA, a HDAC IIa-specific radionuclide, for molecular imaging may enable longitudinal, noninvasive assessment of HDAC activity/expression in metastatic cancer. We evaluated the synergistic anticancer effects of cisplatin and the histone deacetylase inhibitor suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid (SAHA) in xenograft models of nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC) using [18F] FAHA and [18F] FDG PET/CT imaging. Cisplatin alone significantly increased [18F] FAHA accumulation and reduced [18F] FDG accumulation in H441 and PC14 xenografts; coadministration of cisplatin and SAHA resulted in the opposite effects. Immunochemical staining for acetyl-histone H3 confirmed the PET/CT imaging findings. Moreover, SAHA had a more significant effect on the acetylome in PC14 (EGFR exon 19 deletion mutation) xenografts than H441 (wild-type EGFR and KRAS codon 12 mutant) xenografts. In conclusion, [18F] FAHA enables quantitative visualization of HDAC activity/expression in vivo, thus, may represent a clinically useful, noninvasive tool for the management of patients who may benefit from synergistic anticancer therapy.
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23
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Salemme V, Centonze G, Cavallo F, Defilippi P, Conti L. The Crosstalk Between Tumor Cells and the Immune Microenvironment in Breast Cancer: Implications for Immunotherapy. Front Oncol 2021; 11:610303. [PMID: 33777750 PMCID: PMC7991834 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.610303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer progression is a complex process controlled by genetic and epigenetic factors that coordinate the crosstalk between tumor cells and the components of tumor microenvironment (TME). Among those, the immune cells play a dual role during cancer onset and progression, as they can protect from tumor progression by killing immunogenic neoplastic cells, but in the meanwhile can also shape tumor immunogenicity, contributing to tumor escape. The complex interplay between cancer and the immune TME influences the outcome of immunotherapy and of many other anti-cancer therapies. Herein, we present an updated view of the pro- and anti-tumor activities of the main immune cell populations present in breast TME, such as T and NK cells, myeloid cells, innate lymphoid cells, mast cells and eosinophils, and of the underlying cytokine-, cell–cell contact- and microvesicle-based mechanisms. Moreover, current and novel therapeutic options that can revert the immunosuppressive activity of breast TME will be discussed. To this end, clinical trials assessing the efficacy of CAR-T and CAR-NK cells, cancer vaccination, immunogenic cell death-inducing chemotherapy, DNA methyl transferase and histone deacetylase inhibitors, cytokines or their inhibitors and other immunotherapies in breast cancer patients will be reviewed. The knowledge of the complex interplay that elapses between tumor and immune cells, and of the experimental therapies targeting it, would help to develop new combination treatments able to overcome tumor immune evasion mechanisms and optimize clinical benefit of current immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Salemme
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Giorgia Centonze
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Federica Cavallo
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Paola Defilippi
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Laura Conti
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
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24
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HDAC1 regulates the chemosensitivity of laryngeal carcinoma cells via modulation of interleukin-8 expression. Eur J Pharmacol 2021; 896:173923. [PMID: 33539818 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2021.173923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Revised: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Chemotherapies such as 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and cisplatin (CDDP) have been widely used to treat laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC), the second most common head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. However, chemoresistance seriously impairs chemotherapeutic efficacy. Our present study reveals that 5-FU and CDDP treatment increase the expression of histone deacetylase 1 (HDAC1) in LSCC cells. Consistently, increased levels of HDAC1 are observed in chemoresistant cells. Knockdown of HDAC1 significantly restores the sensitivity of LSCC cells, as HDAC1 increases the expression of interleukin-8 (IL-8), which is essential for LSCC chemoresistance. Mechanistically, HDAC1 directly initiates the transcription of IL-8 though binding to its promoter. Simultaneously, si-HDAC1 increases the levels of miR-93, which binds to the 3'UTR of IL-8 mRNA to trigger its degradation. In summary, the HDAC1/IL-8 axis can confer chemotherapeutic resistance to LSCC cells.
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25
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Iannelli F, Roca MS, Lombardi R, Ciardiello C, Grumetti L, De Rienzo S, Moccia T, Vitagliano C, Sorice A, Costantini S, Milone MR, Pucci B, Leone A, Di Gennaro E, Mancini R, Ciliberto G, Bruzzese F, Budillon A. Synergistic antitumor interaction of valproic acid and simvastatin sensitizes prostate cancer to docetaxel by targeting CSCs compartment via YAP inhibition. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2020; 39:213. [PMID: 33032653 PMCID: PMC7545949 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-020-01723-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the introduction of several novel therapeutic approaches that improved survival, metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) remains an incurable disease. Herein we report the synergistic antitumor interaction between two well-known drugs used for years in clinical practice, the antiepileptic agent with histone deacetylase inhibitory activity valproic acid and the cholesterol lowering agent simvastatin, in mCRPC models. METHODS Synergistic anti-tumor effect was assessed on PC3, 22Rv1, DU145, DU145R80, LNCaP prostate cancer cell lines and EPN normal prostate epithelial cells, by calculating combination index (CI), caspase 3/7 activation and colony formation assays as well as on tumor spheroids and microtissues scored with luminescence 3D-cell viability assay. Cancer stem cells (CSC) compartment was studied evaluating specific markers by RT-PCR, western blotting and flow cytometry as well as by limiting dilution assay. Cholesterol content was evaluated by 1H-NMR. Overexpression of wild-type YAP and constitutively active YAP5SA were obtained by lipofectamine-based transfection and evaluated by immunofluorescence, western blotting and RT-PCR. 22Rv1 R_39 docetaxel resistant cells were selected by stepwise exposure to increasing drug concentrations. In vivo experiments were performed on xenograft models of DU145R80, 22Rv1 parental and docetaxel resistant cells, in athymic mice. RESULTS We demonstrated the capacity of the combined approach to target CSC compartment by a novel molecular mechanism based on the inhibition of YAP oncogene via concurrent modulation of mevalonate pathway and AMPK. Because both CSCs and YAP activation have been associated with chemo-resistance, we tested if the combined approach can potentiate docetaxel, a standard of care in mCRCP treatment. Indeed, we demonstrated, both in vitro and in vivo models, the ability of valproic acid/simvastatin combination to sensitize mCRPC cells to docetaxel and to revert docetaxel-resistance, by mevalonate pathway/YAP axis modulation. CONCLUSION Overall, mCRPC progression and therapeutic resistance driven by CSCs via YAP, can be tackled by the combined repurposing of two generic and safe drugs, an approach that warrants further clinical development in this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Iannelli
- Experimental Pharmacology Unit-Laboratory of Naples and Mercogliano (AV), Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale" - IRCCS, Via M. Semmola, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Serena Roca
- Experimental Pharmacology Unit-Laboratory of Naples and Mercogliano (AV), Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale" - IRCCS, Via M. Semmola, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Rita Lombardi
- Experimental Pharmacology Unit-Laboratory of Naples and Mercogliano (AV), Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale" - IRCCS, Via M. Semmola, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Chiara Ciardiello
- Experimental Pharmacology Unit-Laboratory of Naples and Mercogliano (AV), Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale" - IRCCS, Via M. Semmola, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Laura Grumetti
- Experimental Pharmacology Unit-Laboratory of Naples and Mercogliano (AV), Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale" - IRCCS, Via M. Semmola, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Simona De Rienzo
- Experimental Pharmacology Unit-Laboratory of Naples and Mercogliano (AV), Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale" - IRCCS, Via M. Semmola, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Tania Moccia
- Experimental Pharmacology Unit-Laboratory of Naples and Mercogliano (AV), Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale" - IRCCS, Via M. Semmola, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Carlo Vitagliano
- Experimental Pharmacology Unit-Laboratory of Naples and Mercogliano (AV), Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale" - IRCCS, Via M. Semmola, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Angela Sorice
- Experimental Pharmacology Unit-Laboratory of Naples and Mercogliano (AV), Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale" - IRCCS, Via M. Semmola, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Susan Costantini
- Experimental Pharmacology Unit-Laboratory of Naples and Mercogliano (AV), Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale" - IRCCS, Via M. Semmola, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Rita Milone
- Experimental Pharmacology Unit-Laboratory of Naples and Mercogliano (AV), Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale" - IRCCS, Via M. Semmola, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Biagio Pucci
- Experimental Pharmacology Unit-Laboratory of Naples and Mercogliano (AV), Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale" - IRCCS, Via M. Semmola, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Alessandra Leone
- Experimental Pharmacology Unit-Laboratory of Naples and Mercogliano (AV), Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale" - IRCCS, Via M. Semmola, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Elena Di Gennaro
- Experimental Pharmacology Unit-Laboratory of Naples and Mercogliano (AV), Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale" - IRCCS, Via M. Semmola, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Rita Mancini
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Francesca Bruzzese
- Experimental Pharmacology Unit-Laboratory of Naples and Mercogliano (AV), Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale" - IRCCS, Via M. Semmola, 80131, Naples, Italy. .,Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale" - IRCCS, Via Ammiraglio Bianco, 83013, Mercogliano, AV, Italy.
| | - Alfredo Budillon
- Experimental Pharmacology Unit-Laboratory of Naples and Mercogliano (AV), Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale" - IRCCS, Via M. Semmola, 80131, Naples, Italy.
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26
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Quaglino E, Cavallo F, Conti L. Cancer stem cell antigens as targets for new combined anti-cancer therapies. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2020; 129:105861. [PMID: 33031926 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2020.105861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Revised: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 09/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The introduction of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) has ushered in a new, golden age for cancer immunotherapy. However, their clinical success remains limited in several solid cancer types because of the low intrinsic immunogenicity of tumors and the development of immune escape mechanisms. Cancer stem cells (CSC), a small population of cancer cells that are responsible for tumor onset, metastatic spread and relapse after treatment, play a pivotal role in resistance to ICIs. The development of novel therapies that can target CSCs would thus improve the outcomes of current immunotherapy regimens. In this light, vaccines that target CSCs are a promising strategy. This paper briefly describes the immunologic properties of CSCs and their antigenic profile, and reviews current preclinical and clinical approaches that combine CSC-targeting vaccines with different synergistic therapies for the development of more effective antineoplastic treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Quaglino
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Federica Cavallo
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Laura Conti
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy.
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27
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Iannelli F, Zotti AI, Roca MS, Grumetti L, Lombardi R, Moccia T, Vitagliano C, Milone MR, Ciardiello C, Bruzzese F, Leone A, Cavalcanti E, De Cecio R, Iachetta G, Valiante S, Ionna F, Caponigro F, Di Gennaro E, Budillon A. Valproic Acid Synergizes With Cisplatin and Cetuximab in vitro and in vivo in Head and Neck Cancer by Targeting the Mechanisms of Resistance. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:732. [PMID: 33015030 PMCID: PMC7461984 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.00732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Recurrent/metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (R/M HNSCC) is a devastating malignancy with a poor prognosis. The combination of cisplatin (CDDP) plus cetuximab (CX) is one of the standard first-line treatments in this disease. However, this therapeutic regimen is often associated with high toxicity and resistance, suggesting that new combinatorial strategies are needed to improve its therapeutic index. In our study, we evaluated the antitumor effects of valproic acid (VPA), a well-known antiepileptic agent with histone deacetylase inhibitory activity, in combination with CDDP/CX doublet in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) models. We demonstrated, in HNSCC cell lines, but not in normal human fibroblasts, that simultaneous exposure to equitoxic doses of VPA plus CDDP/CX resulted in a clear synergistic antiproliferative and pro-apoptotic effects. The synergistic antitumor effect was confirmed in four different 3D-self-assembled spheroid models, suggesting the ability of the combined approach to affect also the cancer stem cells compartment. Mechanistically, VPA enhanced DNA damage in combination treatment by reducing the mRNA expression of ERCC Excision Repair 1, a critical player in DNA repair, and by increasing CDDP intracellular concentration via upregulation at transcriptional level of CDDP influx channel copper transporter 1 and downregulation of the ATPAse ATP7B involved in CDDP-export. Valproic acid also induced a dose-dependent downregulation of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) expression and of MAPK and AKT downstream signaling pathways and prevent CDDP- and/or CX-induced EGFR nuclear translocation, a well-known mechanism of resistance to chemotherapy. Indeed, VPA impaired the transcription of genes induced by non-canonical activity of nuclear EGFR, such as cyclin D1 and thymidylate synthase. Finally, we confirmed the synergistic antitumor effect also in vivo in both heterotopic and orthotopic models, demonstrating that the combined treatment completely blocked HNSCC xenograft tumors growth in nude mice. Overall, the introduction of a safe and generic drug such as VPA into the conventional treatment for R/M HNSCC represents an innovative and feasible antitumor strategy that warrants further clinical evaluation. A phase II clinical trial exploring the combination of VPA and CDDP/CX in R/M HNSCC patients is currently ongoing in our institute.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Iannelli
- Experimental Pharmacology Unit-Laboratory of Naples and Mercogliano (AV), Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS "Fondazione G. Pascale", Naples, Italy
| | - Andrea Ilaria Zotti
- Experimental Pharmacology Unit-Laboratory of Naples and Mercogliano (AV), Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS "Fondazione G. Pascale", Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Serena Roca
- Experimental Pharmacology Unit-Laboratory of Naples and Mercogliano (AV), Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS "Fondazione G. Pascale", Naples, Italy
| | - Laura Grumetti
- Experimental Pharmacology Unit-Laboratory of Naples and Mercogliano (AV), Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS "Fondazione G. Pascale", Naples, Italy
| | - Rita Lombardi
- Experimental Pharmacology Unit-Laboratory of Naples and Mercogliano (AV), Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS "Fondazione G. Pascale", Naples, Italy
| | - Tania Moccia
- Experimental Pharmacology Unit-Laboratory of Naples and Mercogliano (AV), Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS "Fondazione G. Pascale", Naples, Italy
| | - Carlo Vitagliano
- Experimental Pharmacology Unit-Laboratory of Naples and Mercogliano (AV), Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS "Fondazione G. Pascale", Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Rita Milone
- Experimental Pharmacology Unit-Laboratory of Naples and Mercogliano (AV), Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS "Fondazione G. Pascale", Naples, Italy
| | - Chiara Ciardiello
- Experimental Pharmacology Unit-Laboratory of Naples and Mercogliano (AV), Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS "Fondazione G. Pascale", Naples, Italy
| | - Francesca Bruzzese
- Experimental Pharmacology Unit-Laboratory of Naples and Mercogliano (AV), Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS "Fondazione G. Pascale", Naples, Italy
| | - Alessandra Leone
- Experimental Pharmacology Unit-Laboratory of Naples and Mercogliano (AV), Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS "Fondazione G. Pascale", Naples, Italy
| | - Ernesta Cavalcanti
- Laboratory Medicine Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS "Fondazione G. Pascale", Naples, Italy
| | - Rossella De Cecio
- Pathology Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS "Fondazione G. Pascale", Naples, Italy
| | | | | | - Franco Ionna
- Maxillo-facial & ENT Surgery Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS "Fondazione G. Pascale", Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Caponigro
- Head and Neck Medical Oncology Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS "Fondazione G. Pascale", Naples, Italy
| | - Elena Di Gennaro
- Experimental Pharmacology Unit-Laboratory of Naples and Mercogliano (AV), Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS "Fondazione G. Pascale", Naples, Italy
| | - Alfredo Budillon
- Experimental Pharmacology Unit-Laboratory of Naples and Mercogliano (AV), Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS "Fondazione G. Pascale", Naples, Italy
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28
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Zhao Q, Liu Y, Wang T, Yang Y, Ni H, Liu H, Guo Q, Xi T, Zheng L. MiR-375 inhibits the stemness of breast cancer cells by blocking the JAK2/STAT3 signaling. Eur J Pharmacol 2020; 884:173359. [PMID: 32738343 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2020.173359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2020] [Revised: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The relapse of breast cancer could be due to the existence of breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs). Other and our researches have indicated the suppressive roles of miR-375 in various tumors, however, its roles in breast cancer stemness remain confusing. Here, we constructed breast cancer cells with miR-375 stable overexpression via lentivirus infection. Flow cytometry, Western blot, mammosphere formation, cell colony formation and CCK8 as well as in vivo assays were performed to identify the role of miR-375 in the stemness of breast cancer cells. Luciferase reporter, RNA-Fluorescence in situ hybridization (RNA-FISH) and RNA-binding protein immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays were utilized to elucidate the mechanism whereby miR-375 exerts its effects. It was found that miR-375 not only reduced the stemness, but also decreased adriamycin resistance of breast cancer cells. These results were characterized by the decrease of BCSC rate, mammosphere-forming and tumor-initiating ability, and IC50 value of adriamycin, and weakened by JAK2 re-expression. This work indicates that miR-375 suppresses the stemness of breast cancer cells through targeting JAK2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiong Zhao
- School of Life Science and Technology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, China Pharmaceutical University, Longmian Road 639, Nanjing, 211198, PR China
| | - Yichen Liu
- School of Life Science and Technology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, China Pharmaceutical University, Longmian Road 639, Nanjing, 211198, PR China
| | - Ting Wang
- School of Life Science and Technology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, China Pharmaceutical University, Longmian Road 639, Nanjing, 211198, PR China
| | - Yue Yang
- School of Life Science and Technology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, China Pharmaceutical University, Longmian Road 639, Nanjing, 211198, PR China
| | - Haiwei Ni
- School of Life Science and Technology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, China Pharmaceutical University, Longmian Road 639, Nanjing, 211198, PR China
| | - Hai Liu
- School of Life Science and Technology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, China Pharmaceutical University, Longmian Road 639, Nanjing, 211198, PR China
| | - Qianqian Guo
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan Cancer Hospital, 127 Dongming Road, Zhengzhou, 450003, PR China
| | - Tao Xi
- School of Life Science and Technology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, China Pharmaceutical University, Longmian Road 639, Nanjing, 211198, PR China.
| | - Lufeng Zheng
- School of Life Science and Technology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, China Pharmaceutical University, Longmian Road 639, Nanjing, 211198, PR China.
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29
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Rutz J, Janicova A, Woidacki K, Chun FKH, Blaheta RA, Relja B. Curcumin-A Viable Agent for Better Bladder Cancer Treatment. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21113761. [PMID: 32466578 PMCID: PMC7312715 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21113761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Revised: 05/12/2020] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Although the therapeutic armamentarium for bladder cancer has considerably widened in the last few years, severe side effects and the development of resistance hamper long-term treatment success. Thus, patients turn to natural plant products as alternative or complementary therapeutic options. One of these is curcumin, the principal component of Curcuma longa that has shown chemopreventive effects in experimental cancer models. Clinical and preclinical studies point to its role as a chemosensitizer, and it has been shown to protect organs from toxicity induced by chemotherapy. These properties indicate that curcumin could hold promise as a candidate for additive cancer treatment. This review evaluates the relevance of curcumin as an integral part of therapy for bladder cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jochen Rutz
- Department of Urology, Goethe-University, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; (J.R.); (F.K.-H.C.)
| | - Andrea Janicova
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Experimental Radiology, Otto-von-Guericke University, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany; (A.J.); (K.W.); (B.R.)
| | - Katja Woidacki
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Experimental Radiology, Otto-von-Guericke University, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany; (A.J.); (K.W.); (B.R.)
| | - Felix K.-H. Chun
- Department of Urology, Goethe-University, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; (J.R.); (F.K.-H.C.)
| | - Roman A. Blaheta
- Department of Urology, Goethe-University, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; (J.R.); (F.K.-H.C.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Borna Relja
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Experimental Radiology, Otto-von-Guericke University, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany; (A.J.); (K.W.); (B.R.)
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30
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Blondel A, Benberghout A, Pedeux R, Ricordel C. Exploiting ING2 Epigenetic Modulation as a Therapeutic Opportunity for Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11101601. [PMID: 31640185 PMCID: PMC6827349 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11101601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2019] [Accepted: 10/11/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) has been the leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide, over the last few decades. Survival remains extremely poor in the metastatic setting and, consequently, innovative therapeutic strategies are urgently needed. Inhibitor of Growth Gene 2 (ING2) is a core component of the mSin3A/Histone deacetylases complex (HDAC), which controls the chromatin acetylation status and modulates gene transcription. This gene has been characterized as a tumor suppressor gene and its status in cancer has been scarcely explored. In this review, we focused on ING2 and other mSin3A/HDAC member statuses in NSCLC. Taking advantage of existing public databases and known pharmacological properties of HDAC inhibitors, finally, we proposed a therapeutic model based on an ING2 biomarker-guided strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Blondel
- INSERM U1242, Chemistry Oncogenesis Stress and Signaling, CLCC Eugène Marquis, 35033 Rennes, France.
| | - Amine Benberghout
- INSERM U1242, Chemistry Oncogenesis Stress and Signaling, CLCC Eugène Marquis, 35033 Rennes, France.
| | - Rémy Pedeux
- INSERM U1242, Chemistry Oncogenesis Stress and Signaling, CLCC Eugène Marquis, 35033 Rennes, France.
| | - Charles Ricordel
- INSERM U1242, Chemistry Oncogenesis Stress and Signaling, CLCC Eugène Marquis, 35033 Rennes, France.
- CHU Rennes, Service de Pneumologie, Université de Rennes 1, 35033 Rennes, France.
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