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Yang S, Li D. Role of microRNAs in triple‑negative breast cancer and new therapeutic concepts (Review). Oncol Lett 2024; 28:431. [PMID: 39049985 PMCID: PMC11268089 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2024.14565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer has surpassed lung cancer as the most prevalent malignancy affecting women worldwide. Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the type of breast cancer with the worst prognosis. As a heterogeneous disease, TNBC has a pathogenesis that involves multiple oncogenic pathways, including involvement of gene mutations and alterations in signaling pathways. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small endogenous, single-stranded non-coding RNAs that bind to the 3' untranslated region of target cell mRNAs to negatively regulate the gene expression of these specific mRNAs. Therefore, miRNAs are involved in cell growth, development, division and differentiation stages. miRNAs are also involved in gene targeting in tumorigenesis, tumor growth and the regulation of metastasis, including in breast cancer. Meanwhile, miRNAs also regulate components of signaling pathways. In this review, the role of miRNAs in the TNBC signaling pathway discovered in recent years is described in detail. The new concept of bi-targeted therapy for breast cancer using miRNA and artificial intelligence is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaofeng Yang
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region 010050, P.R. China
| | - Donghai Li
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region 010050, P.R. China
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2
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Kotsifaki A, Maroulaki S, Karalexis E, Stathaki M, Armakolas A. Decoding the Role of Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 and Its Isoforms in Breast Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:9302. [PMID: 39273251 PMCID: PMC11394947 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25179302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2024] [Revised: 08/25/2024] [Accepted: 08/25/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 (IGF-1) is a crucial mitogenic factor with important functions in the mammary gland, mainly through its interaction with the IGF-1 receptor (IGF-1R). This interaction activates a complex signaling network that promotes cell proliferation, epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) and inhibits apoptosis. Despite extensive research, the precise molecular pathways and intracellular mechanisms activated by IGF-1, in cancer, remain poorly understood. Recent evidence highlights the essential roles of IGF-1 and its isoforms in breast cancer (BC) development, progression, and metastasis. The peptides that define the IGF-1 isoforms-IGF-1Ea, IGF-1Eb, and IGF-1Ec-act as key points of convergence for various signaling pathways that influence the growth, metastasis and survival of BC cells. The aim of this review is to provide a detailed exami-nation of the role of the mature IGF-1 and its isoforms in BC biology and their potential use as possible therapeutical targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amalia Kotsifaki
- Physiology Laboratory, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Sousanna Maroulaki
- Physiology Laboratory, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Efthymios Karalexis
- Physiology Laboratory, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Martha Stathaki
- Surgical Clinic, "Elena Venizelou" General Hospital, 11521 Athens, Greece
| | - Athanasios Armakolas
- Physiology Laboratory, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
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3
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Chen X, Shao C, Liu J, Sun H, Yao B, Ma C, Xu H, Zhu W. ULK2 suppresses ovarian cancer cell migration and invasion by elevating IGFBP3. PeerJ 2024; 12:e17628. [PMID: 38952983 PMCID: PMC11216209 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.17628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Ovarian cancer is an aggressive malignancy with high mortality known for its considerable metastatic potential. This study aimed to explore the expression and functional role of Unc-51 like autophagy activating kinase 2 (ULK2) in the progression of ovarian cancer. Methods ULK2 expression patterns in ovarian cancer tissues as well as benign tumor control samples obtained from our institution were evaluated using immunohistochemistry. Cell counting kit 8 and Transwell assays were applied to assess the effects of ULK2 overexpression on cell proliferation, migration and invasion, respectively. RNA sequencing was performed to explore potential mechanisms of action of ULK2 beyond its classical autophagy modulation. Results Our experiments showed significant downregulation of ULK2 in ovarian cancer tissues. Importantly, low expression of ULK2 was markedly correlated with decreased overall survival. In vitro functional studies further demonstrated that overexpression of ULK2 significantly suppressed tumor cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. RNA sequencing analysis revealed a potential regulatory role of ULK2 in the insulin signaling pathway through upregulation of insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 (IGFBP3) in ovarian cancer cells. Conclusions In summary, the collective data indicated that ULK2 acted as a tumor suppressor in ovarian cancer by upregulating the expression of IGFBP3. Our study underscores the potential utility of ULK2 as a valuable prognostic marker for ovarian cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxi Chen
- Changning Maternity and Infant Health Hospital, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Soochow University, Soochow, Jiangsu, China
| | - Changxiang Shao
- Changning Maternity and Infant Health Hospital, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing Liu
- Changning Maternity and Infant Health Hospital, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Huizhen Sun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Bingyi Yao
- Changning Maternity and Infant Health Hospital, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chengbin Ma
- Changning Maternity and Infant Health Hospital, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Han Xu
- Department of General Surgery, Jing’an District Center Hospital of Shanghai, Shanghai, China
| | - Weipei Zhu
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Soochow University, Soochow, Jiangsu, China
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4
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Mancarella C, Morrione A, Scotlandi K. Extracellular Interactors of the IGF System: Impact on Cancer Hallmarks and Therapeutic Approaches. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5915. [PMID: 38892104 PMCID: PMC11172729 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25115915] [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: 05/09/2024] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Dysregulation of the insulin-like growth factor (IGF) system determines the onset of various pathological conditions, including cancer. Accordingly, therapeutic strategies have been developed to block this system in tumor cells, but the results of clinical trials have been disappointing. After decades of research in the field, it is safe to say that one of the major reasons underlying the poor efficacy of anti-IGF-targeting agents is derived from an underestimation of the molecular complexity of this axis. Genetic, transcriptional, post-transcriptional and functional interactors interfere with the activity of canonical components of this axis, supporting the need for combinatorial approaches to effectively block this system. In addition, cancer cells interface with a multiplicity of factors from the extracellular compartment, which strongly affect cell destiny. In this review, we will cover novel extracellular mechanisms contributing to IGF system dysregulation and the implications of such dangerous liaisons for cancer hallmarks and responses to known and new anti-IGF drugs. A deeper understanding of both the intracellular and extracellular microenvironments might provide new impetus to better decipher the complexity of the IGF axis in cancer and provide new clues for designing novel therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caterina Mancarella
- Laboratory of Experimental Oncology, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, 40136 Bologna, Italy
| | - Andrea Morrione
- Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine and Center for Biotechnology, Department of Biology, College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA;
| | - Katia Scotlandi
- Laboratory of Experimental Oncology, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, 40136 Bologna, Italy
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Gambelli A, Nespolo A, Rampioni Vinciguerra GL, Pivetta E, Pellarin I, Nicoloso MS, Scapin C, Stefenatti L, Segatto I, Favero A, D'Andrea S, Mucignat MT, Bartoletti M, Lucia E, Schiappacassi M, Spessotto P, Canzonieri V, Giorda G, Puglisi F, Vecchione A, Belletti B, Sonego M, Baldassarre G. Platinum-induced upregulation of ITGA6 promotes chemoresistance and spreading in ovarian cancer. EMBO Mol Med 2024; 16:1162-1192. [PMID: 38658801 PMCID: PMC11099142 DOI: 10.1038/s44321-024-00069-3] [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: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Platinum (PT)-resistant Epithelial Ovarian Cancer (EOC) grows as a metastatic disease, disseminating in the abdomen and pelvis. Very few options are available for PT-resistant EOC patients, and little is known about how the acquisition of PT-resistance mediates the increased spreading capabilities of EOC. Here, using isogenic PT-resistant cells, genetic and pharmacological approaches, and patient-derived models, we report that Integrin α6 (ITGA6) is overexpressed by PT-resistant cells and is necessary to sustain EOC metastatic ability and adhesion-dependent PT-resistance. Using in vitro approaches, we showed that PT induces a positive loop that, by stimulating ITGA6 transcription and secretion, contributes to the formation of a pre-metastatic niche enabling EOC cells to disseminate. At molecular level, ITGA6 engagement regulates the production and availability of insulin-like growth factors (IGFs), over-stimulating the IGF1R pathway and upregulating Snail expression. In vitro data were recapitulated using in vivo models in which the targeting of ITGA6 prevents PT-resistant EOC dissemination and improves PT-activity, supporting ITGA6 as a promising druggable target for EOC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Gambelli
- Molecular Oncology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO) IRCCS, National Cancer Institute, Aviano, PN, Italy
| | - Anna Nespolo
- Molecular Oncology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO) IRCCS, National Cancer Institute, Aviano, PN, Italy
| | - Gian Luca Rampioni Vinciguerra
- Molecular Oncology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO) IRCCS, National Cancer Institute, Aviano, PN, Italy
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sant'Andrea Hospital, University of Rome "Sapienza", Rome, Italy
| | - Eliana Pivetta
- Molecular Oncology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO) IRCCS, National Cancer Institute, Aviano, PN, Italy
| | - Ilenia Pellarin
- Molecular Oncology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO) IRCCS, National Cancer Institute, Aviano, PN, Italy
| | - Milena S Nicoloso
- Molecular Oncology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO) IRCCS, National Cancer Institute, Aviano, PN, Italy
| | - Chiara Scapin
- Molecular Oncology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO) IRCCS, National Cancer Institute, Aviano, PN, Italy
| | - Linda Stefenatti
- Molecular Oncology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO) IRCCS, National Cancer Institute, Aviano, PN, Italy
| | - Ilenia Segatto
- Molecular Oncology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO) IRCCS, National Cancer Institute, Aviano, PN, Italy
| | - Andrea Favero
- Molecular Oncology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO) IRCCS, National Cancer Institute, Aviano, PN, Italy
| | - Sara D'Andrea
- Molecular Oncology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO) IRCCS, National Cancer Institute, Aviano, PN, Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Mucignat
- Molecular Oncology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO) IRCCS, National Cancer Institute, Aviano, PN, Italy
| | - Michele Bartoletti
- Deparment of Medical Oncology, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO) IRCCS, National Cancer Institute, Aviano, PN, Italy
| | - Emilio Lucia
- Gynecological Surgery Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO) IRCCS, National Cancer Institute, Aviano, PN, Italy
| | - Monica Schiappacassi
- Molecular Oncology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO) IRCCS, National Cancer Institute, Aviano, PN, Italy
| | - Paola Spessotto
- Molecular Oncology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO) IRCCS, National Cancer Institute, Aviano, PN, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Canzonieri
- Pathology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO) IRCCS, National Cancer Institute, Aviano, PN, Italy
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, TS, Italy
| | - Giorgio Giorda
- Gynecological Surgery Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO) IRCCS, National Cancer Institute, Aviano, PN, Italy
| | - Fabio Puglisi
- Deparment of Medical Oncology, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO) IRCCS, National Cancer Institute, Aviano, PN, Italy
- Department of Medicine, University of Udine, Udine, UD, Italy
| | - Andrea Vecchione
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sant'Andrea Hospital, University of Rome "Sapienza", Rome, Italy
| | - Barbara Belletti
- Molecular Oncology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO) IRCCS, National Cancer Institute, Aviano, PN, Italy
| | - Maura Sonego
- Molecular Oncology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO) IRCCS, National Cancer Institute, Aviano, PN, Italy
| | - Gustavo Baldassarre
- Molecular Oncology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO) IRCCS, National Cancer Institute, Aviano, PN, Italy.
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Kalita B, Coumar MS. Deciphering Breast Cancer Metastasis Cascade: A Systems Biology Approach Integrating Transcriptome and Interactome Insights for Target Discovery. OMICS : A JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE BIOLOGY 2024; 28:148-161. [PMID: 38484298 DOI: 10.1089/omi.2023.0285] [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: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
Breast cancer is the lead cause of cancer-related deaths among women globally. Breast cancer metastasis is a complex and still inadequately understood process and a key dimension of mortality attendant to breast cancer. This study reports dysregulated genes across metastatic stages and tissues, shedding light on their molecular interplay in disease pathogenesis and new possibilities for drug discovery. Comprehensive analyses of gene expression data from primary breast tumor, circulating tumor cells, and distant metastatic sites in the brain, lung, liver, and bone were conducted. Genes dysregulated across multiple stages and tissues were identified as metastatic cascade genes, and are further classified based on functional associations with metastasis-related mechanisms. Their interactions with HUB genes in interactome networks were scrutinized, followed by pathway enrichment analysis. Validation for their potential as targets included assessments for survival, druggability, prognostic marker status, secretome annotation, protein expression, and cell type marker association. Results displayed critical genes in the metastatic cascade and those specific to metastatic sites, revealing the involvement of the collagen degradation and assembly of collagen fibrils and other multimeric structure pathways in driving metastasis. Notably, pivotal cascade genes FABP4, CXCL12, APOD, and IGF1 emerged with high metastatic potential, linked to significant druggability and survival scores, establishing them as potential molecular targets. The significance of this research lies in its potential to uncover novel biomarkers for early detection, therapeutic targets, and a deeper understanding of the molecular mechanisms underpinning the metastatic cascade in breast cancer, and with an eye to precision/personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bikashita Kalita
- Department of Bioinformatics, School of Life Sciences, Pondicherry University, Pondicherry, India
| | - Mohane Selvaraj Coumar
- Department of Bioinformatics, School of Life Sciences, Pondicherry University, Pondicherry, India
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Ahmed SA, Mendonca P, Messeha SS, Oriaku ET, Soliman KFA. The Anticancer Effects of Marine Carotenoid Fucoxanthin through Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase (PI3K)-AKT Signaling on Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cells. Molecules 2023; 29:61. [PMID: 38202644 PMCID: PMC10779870 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29010061] [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: 11/19/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive subtype of breast cancer that lacks specific targets such as estrogen, progesterone, and HER2 receptors. TNBC affects one in eight women in the United States, making up 15-20% of breast cancer cases. Patients with TNBC can develop resistance to chemotherapy over time, leading to treatment failure. Therefore, finding other options like natural products is necessary for treatment. The advantages of using natural products sourced from plants as anticancer agents are that they are less toxic, more affordable, and have fewer side effects. These products can modulate several cellular processes of the tumor microenvironment, such as proliferation, migration, angiogenesis, cell cycle arrest, and apoptosis. The phosphatidyl inositol 3-kinase (PI3K)-AKT signaling pathway is an important pathway that contributes to the survival and growth of the tumor microenvironment and is associated with these cellular processes. This current study examined the anticancer effects of fucoxanthin, a marine carotenoid isolated from brown seaweed, in the MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468 TNBC cell lines. The methods used in this study include a cytotoxic assay, PI3K-AKT signaling pathway PCR arrays, and Wes analysis. Fucoxanthin (6.25 µM) + TNF-α (50 ng/mL) and TNF-α (50 ng/mL) showed no significant effect on cell viability compared to the control in both MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468 cells after a 24 h treatment period. PI3K-AKT signaling pathway PCR array studies showed that in TNF-α-stimulated (50 ng/mL) MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468 cells, fucoxanthin (6.25 µM) modulated the mRNA expression of 12 genes, including FOXO1, RASA1, HRAS, MAPK3, PDK2, IRS1, EIF4EBP1, EIF4B, PTK2, TIRAP, RHOA, and ELK1. Additionally, fucoxanthin significantly downregulated the protein expression of IRS1, EIF4B, and ELK1 in MDA-MB-231 cells, and no change in the protein expression of EIF4B and ELK1 was shown in MDA-MB-468 cells. Fucoxanthin upregulated the protein expression of RHOA in both cell lines. The modulation of the expression of genes and proteins of the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway may elucidate fucoxanthin's effects in cell cycle progression, apoptotic processes, migration, and proliferation, which shows that PI3K-AKT may be the possible molecular mechanism for fucoxanthin's effects. In conclusion, the results obtained in this study elucidate fucoxanthin's molecular mechanisms and indicate that fucoxanthin may be considered a promising candidate for breast cancer-targeted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shade’ A. Ahmed
- Division of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Public Health, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL 32307, USA; (S.A.A.); (E.T.O.)
| | - Patricia Mendonca
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Technology, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL 32307, USA;
| | - Samia S. Messeha
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Technology, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL 32307, USA;
| | - Ebenezer T. Oriaku
- Division of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Public Health, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL 32307, USA; (S.A.A.); (E.T.O.)
| | - Karam F. A. Soliman
- Division of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Public Health, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL 32307, USA; (S.A.A.); (E.T.O.)
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8
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Perks CM. Role of the Insulin-like Growth Factor (IGF) Axis in Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16969. [PMID: 38069291 PMCID: PMC10706945 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242316969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The insulin-like growth factor axis is a multifaceted, complex system that comprises two ligands, IGF-I and IGF-II, receptors (IGF-1R, IGF-IIR, insulin receptor isoforms IR-A and B, and hybrid receptors) six high affinity IGF-binding proteins (IGFBPs 1-6), and IGFBP proteases [...].
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire M Perks
- Cancer Endocrinology Group, Bristol Medical School, Translational Health Sciences, Learning & Research Building, Southmead Hospital, Bristol BS105NB, UK
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9
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Ligorio F, Provenzano L, Vernieri C. Fasting-mimicking diet: a metabolic approach for the treatment of breast cancer. Curr Opin Oncol 2023; 35:491-499. [PMID: 37621169 DOI: 10.1097/cco.0000000000000986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Metabolic reprogramming is a new and potentially targetable hallmark of cancer. In recent years, fasting and fasting-mimicking diets (FMDs) have been tested as anticancer strategies both in preclinical experiments and in clinical trials. In this review, we aim at summarizing the available evidence about the antitumour activity of these approaches in preclinical breast cancer models, as well as results from clinical trials investigating fasting/FMD in breast cancer patients. RECENT FINDINGS Preclinical evidence demonstrated that nutrient deprivation boosts the antitumor activity of chemotherapy, immunotherapy or targeted therapies in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) and HR+/HER2 models through both cell-autonomous antitumour effects in cancer cells and favourable modifications in intratumor immune cells. Several clinical experiences demonstrated that fasting/FMD is feasible and well tolerated in combination with standard treatments in BC patients, and that it could reduce chemotherapy-related toxicities. Finally, despite the absence of randomized trials demonstrating the antitumor activity of fasting/FMD in breast cancer patients, preliminary clinical reports suggest that this experimental nutritional strategy may enhance chemotherapy activity. Randomized clinical trials are ongoing to validate these results at a larger scale. SUMMARY Fasting/FMD is a promising therapeutic approach in patients with breast cancer; ongoing and future trials will confirm their role in improving breast cancer care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Ligorio
- Medical Oncology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori
- Oncology and Hemato-Oncology Department, University of Milan
- IFOM ETS, the AIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology, Milan, Italy
| | - Leonardo Provenzano
- Medical Oncology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori
- Oncology and Hemato-Oncology Department, University of Milan
| | - Claudio Vernieri
- Medical Oncology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori
- IFOM ETS, the AIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology, Milan, Italy
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da Silva FC, Brandão DC, Ferreira EA, Siqueira RP, Ferreira HSV, Da Silva Filho AA, Araújo TG. Tailoring Potential Natural Compounds for the Treatment of Luminal Breast Cancer. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1466. [PMID: 37895937 PMCID: PMC10610388 DOI: 10.3390/ph16101466] [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: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is the most diagnosed cancer worldwide, mainly affecting the epithelial cells from the mammary glands. When it expresses the estrogen receptor (ER), the tumor is called luminal BC, which is eligible for endocrine therapy with hormone signaling blockade. Hormone therapy is essential for the survival of patients, but therapeutic resistance has been shown to be worrying, significantly compromising the prognosis. In this context, the need to explore new compounds emerges, especially compounds of plant origin, since they are biologically active and particularly promising. Natural products are being continuously screened for treating cancer due to their chemical diversity, reduced toxicity, lower side effects, and low price. This review summarizes natural compounds for the treatment of luminal BC, emphasizing the activities of these compounds in ER-positive cells. Moreover, their potential as an alternative to endocrine resistance is explored, opening new opportunities for the design of optimized therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda Cardoso da Silva
- Laboratory of Genetics and Biotechnology, Institute of Biotechnology, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Patos de Minas 38700-002, MG, Brazil; (F.C.d.S.); (D.C.B.); (R.P.S.); (H.S.V.F.)
| | - Douglas Cardoso Brandão
- Laboratory of Genetics and Biotechnology, Institute of Biotechnology, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Patos de Minas 38700-002, MG, Brazil; (F.C.d.S.); (D.C.B.); (R.P.S.); (H.S.V.F.)
| | - Everton Allan Ferreira
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora 36036-900, MG, Brazil; (E.A.F.); (A.A.D.S.F.)
| | - Raoni Pais Siqueira
- Laboratory of Genetics and Biotechnology, Institute of Biotechnology, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Patos de Minas 38700-002, MG, Brazil; (F.C.d.S.); (D.C.B.); (R.P.S.); (H.S.V.F.)
| | - Helen Soares Valença Ferreira
- Laboratory of Genetics and Biotechnology, Institute of Biotechnology, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Patos de Minas 38700-002, MG, Brazil; (F.C.d.S.); (D.C.B.); (R.P.S.); (H.S.V.F.)
| | - Ademar Alves Da Silva Filho
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora 36036-900, MG, Brazil; (E.A.F.); (A.A.D.S.F.)
| | - Thaise Gonçalves Araújo
- Laboratory of Genetics and Biotechnology, Institute of Biotechnology, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Patos de Minas 38700-002, MG, Brazil; (F.C.d.S.); (D.C.B.); (R.P.S.); (H.S.V.F.)
- Laboratory of Nanobiotechnology Prof. Dr. Luiz Ricardo Goulart Filho, Institute of Biotechnology, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Uberlandia 38405-302, MG, Brazil
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11
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Ciarambino T, Crispino P, Guarisco G, Giordano M. Gender Differences in Insulin Resistance: New Knowledge and Perspectives. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2023; 45:7845-7861. [PMID: 37886939 PMCID: PMC10605445 DOI: 10.3390/cimb45100496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Insulin resistance is the main mechanism in a whole series of pathological conditions, which are not only of metabolic interest but also of a systemic type. This phenomenon means that the body's cells become less sensitive to the hormone insulin, leading to higher levels of insulin in the blood. Insulin resistance is a phenomenon that can be found in both men and women and in particular, in the latter, it is found mainly after menopause. Premenopause, hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle, and the presence of estrogen can affect insulin sensitivity. Androgens, such as testosterone, are typically higher in men and can contribute to insulin resistance. In both sexes, different human body types affect the distribution and location of body fat, also influencing the development of diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Insulin resistance is also associated with some neurological and neurogenerative disorders, polycystic ovary syndrome, atherosclerosis, and some of the main neoplastic pathologies. A healthy lifestyle, including regular physical activity, a balanced diet, and self-maintenance, can help to prevent the onset of insulin resistance, regardless of gender, although the different habits between men and women greatly affect the implementation of preventative guidelines that help in fighting the manifestations of this metabolic disorder. This review may help to shed light on gender differences in metabolic diseases by placing a necessary focus on personalized medical management and by inspiring differentiated therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiziana Ciarambino
- Internal Medicine Department, Hospital of Marcianise, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Pietro Crispino
- Internal Medicine Department, Hospital of Latina, 04100 Latina, Italy;
| | - Gloria Guarisco
- Diabetology, University Sapienza of Rome, Hospital of Latina, 04100 Latina, Italy;
| | - Mauro Giordano
- Internal Medicine Department, University of Campania, L. Vanvitelli, 81100 Naples, Italy;
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12
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Tapia M, Hernando C, Martínez MT, Burgués O, Tebar-Sánchez C, Lameirinhas A, Ágreda-Roca A, Torres-Ruiz S, Garrido-Cano I, Lluch A, Bermejo B, Eroles P. Clinical Impact of New Treatment Strategies for HER2-Positive Metastatic Breast Cancer Patients with Resistance to Classical Anti-HER Therapies. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4522. [PMID: 37760491 PMCID: PMC10527351 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15184522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
HER2-positive breast cancer accounts for 15-20% of all breast cancer cases. This subtype is characterized by an aggressive behavior and poor prognosis. Anti-HER2 therapies have considerably improved the natural course of the disease. Despite this, relapse still occurs in around 20% of patients due to primary or acquired treatment resistance, and metastasis remains an incurable disease. This article reviews the main mechanisms underlying resistance to anti-HER2 treatments, focusing on newer HER2-targeted therapies. The progress in anti-HER2 drugs includes the development of novel antibody-drug conjugates with improvements in the conjugation process and novel linkers and payloads. Moreover, trastuzumab deruxtecan has enhanced the efficacy of trastuzumab emtansine, and the new drug trastuzumab duocarmazine is currently undergoing clinical trials to assess its effect. The combination of anti-HER2 agents with other drugs is also being evaluated. The addition of immunotherapy checkpoint inhibitors shows some benefit in a subset of patients, indicating the need for useful biomarkers to properly stratify patients. Besides, CDK4/6 and tyrosine kinase inhibitors are also included in the design of new treatment strategies. Lapitinib, neratinib and tucatinib have been approved for HER2-positive metastasis patients, however clinical trials are currently ongoing to optimize combined strategies, to reduce toxicity, and to better define the useful setting. Clinical research should be strengthened along with the discovery and validation of new biomarkers, as well as a deeper understanding of drug resistance and action mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Tapia
- Department of Clinical Oncology, University Clinical Hospital of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (M.T.); (C.H.); (M.T.M.); (C.T.-S.); (A.L.); (B.B.)
- Biomedical Research Institute INCLIVA, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (A.L.); (A.Á.-R.); (S.T.-R.); (I.G.-C.)
| | - Cristina Hernando
- Department of Clinical Oncology, University Clinical Hospital of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (M.T.); (C.H.); (M.T.M.); (C.T.-S.); (A.L.); (B.B.)
- Biomedical Research Institute INCLIVA, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (A.L.); (A.Á.-R.); (S.T.-R.); (I.G.-C.)
| | - María Teresa Martínez
- Department of Clinical Oncology, University Clinical Hospital of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (M.T.); (C.H.); (M.T.M.); (C.T.-S.); (A.L.); (B.B.)
- Biomedical Research Institute INCLIVA, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (A.L.); (A.Á.-R.); (S.T.-R.); (I.G.-C.)
| | - Octavio Burgués
- Department of Pathology, Hospital Clinic of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain;
- Biomedical Research Networking Center in Oncology (CIBERONC), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Cristina Tebar-Sánchez
- Department of Clinical Oncology, University Clinical Hospital of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (M.T.); (C.H.); (M.T.M.); (C.T.-S.); (A.L.); (B.B.)
- Biomedical Research Institute INCLIVA, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (A.L.); (A.Á.-R.); (S.T.-R.); (I.G.-C.)
| | - Ana Lameirinhas
- Biomedical Research Institute INCLIVA, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (A.L.); (A.Á.-R.); (S.T.-R.); (I.G.-C.)
| | - Anna Ágreda-Roca
- Biomedical Research Institute INCLIVA, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (A.L.); (A.Á.-R.); (S.T.-R.); (I.G.-C.)
| | - Sandra Torres-Ruiz
- Biomedical Research Institute INCLIVA, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (A.L.); (A.Á.-R.); (S.T.-R.); (I.G.-C.)
| | - Iris Garrido-Cano
- Biomedical Research Institute INCLIVA, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (A.L.); (A.Á.-R.); (S.T.-R.); (I.G.-C.)
- Interuniversity Research Institute for Molecular Recognition and Technological Development (IDM), Polytechnic University of Valencia, University of Valencia, 46022 Valencia, Spain
| | - Ana Lluch
- Department of Clinical Oncology, University Clinical Hospital of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (M.T.); (C.H.); (M.T.M.); (C.T.-S.); (A.L.); (B.B.)
- Biomedical Research Institute INCLIVA, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (A.L.); (A.Á.-R.); (S.T.-R.); (I.G.-C.)
- Biomedical Research Networking Center in Oncology (CIBERONC), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medicine, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - Begoña Bermejo
- Department of Clinical Oncology, University Clinical Hospital of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (M.T.); (C.H.); (M.T.M.); (C.T.-S.); (A.L.); (B.B.)
- Biomedical Research Institute INCLIVA, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (A.L.); (A.Á.-R.); (S.T.-R.); (I.G.-C.)
- Biomedical Research Networking Center in Oncology (CIBERONC), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medicine, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - Pilar Eroles
- Biomedical Research Institute INCLIVA, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (A.L.); (A.Á.-R.); (S.T.-R.); (I.G.-C.)
- Biomedical Research Networking Center in Oncology (CIBERONC), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Department of Physiology, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain
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13
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Proto MC, Fiore D, Bifulco M, Gazzerro P. Rimonabant and Cannabidiol Rewrite the Interactions between Breast Cancer Cells and Tumor Microenvironment. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13427. [PMID: 37686233 PMCID: PMC10487984 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The spread of breast cancer to distant sites is the major cause of death in breast cancer patients. Increasing evidence supports the role of the tumor microenvironment (TME) in breast cancers, and its pathologic assessment has become a diagnostic and therapeutic tool. In the TME, a bidirectional interplay between tumor and stromal cells occurs, both at the primary and metastatic site. Hundreds of molecules, including cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors, contribute to this fine interaction to promote tumor spreading. Here, we investigated the effects of Rimonabant and Cannabidiol, known for their antitumor activity, on reprogramming the breast TME. Both compounds directly affect the activity of several pathways involved in breast cancer progression. To mimic tumor-stroma interactions during breast-to-lung metastasis, we investigated the effect of the compounds on growth factor secretion from metastatic breast cancer cells and normal and activated lung fibroblasts. In this setting, we demonstrated the anti-metastatic potential of the two compounds, and the membrane array analyses highlighted their ability to alter the release of factors involved in the autocrine and paracrine regulation of tumor proliferation, angiogenesis, and immune reprogramming. The results enforce the antitumor potential of Rimonabant and Cannabidiol, providing a novel potential tool for breast cancer TME management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Chiara Proto
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, 84084 Fisciano, SA, Italy; (M.C.P.); (D.F.)
| | - Donatella Fiore
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, 84084 Fisciano, SA, Italy; (M.C.P.); (D.F.)
| | - Maurizio Bifulco
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80131 Naples, NA, Italy;
| | - Patrizia Gazzerro
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, 84084 Fisciano, SA, Italy; (M.C.P.); (D.F.)
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14
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Muoio MG, Pellegrino M, Rapicavoli V, Talia M, Scavo G, Sergi V, Vella V, Pettinato S, Galasso MG, Lappano R, Scordamaglia D, Cirillo F, Pulvirenti A, Rigiracciolo DC, Maggiolini M, Belfiore A, De Francesco EM. RAGE inhibition blunts insulin-induced oncogenic signals in breast cancer. Breast Cancer Res 2023; 25:84. [PMID: 37461077 PMCID: PMC10351154 DOI: 10.1186/s13058-023-01686-5] [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: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) is implicated in diabetes and obesity complications, as well as in breast cancer (BC). Herein, we evaluated whether RAGE contributes to the oncogenic actions of Insulin, which plays a key role in BC progression particularly in obese and diabetic patients. Analysis of the publicly available METABRIC study, which collects gene expression and clinical data from a large cohort (n = 1904) of BC patients, revealed that RAGE and the Insulin Receptor (IR) are co-expressed and associated with negative prognostic parameters. In MCF-7, ZR75 and 4T1 BC cells, as well as in patient-derived Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts, the pharmacological inhibition of RAGE as well as its genetic depletion interfered with Insulin-induced activation of the oncogenic pathway IR/IRS1/AKT/CD1. Mechanistically, IR and RAGE directly interacted upon Insulin stimulation, as shown by in situ proximity ligation assays and coimmunoprecipitation studies. Of note, RAGE inhibition halted the activation of both IR and insulin like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF-1R), as demonstrated in MCF-7 cells KO for the IR and the IGF-1R gene via CRISPR-cas9 technology. An unbiased label-free proteomic analysis uncovered proteins and predicted pathways affected by RAGE inhibition in Insulin-stimulated BC cells. Biologically, RAGE inhibition reduced cell proliferation, migration, and patient-derived mammosphere formation triggered by Insulin. In vivo, the pharmacological inhibition of RAGE halted Insulin-induced tumor growth, without affecting blood glucose homeostasis. Together, our findings suggest that targeting RAGE may represent an appealing opportunity to blunt Insulin-induced oncogenic signaling in BC.
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Affiliation(s)
- M G Muoio
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, University of Catania, 95122, Catania, Italy
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036, Rende, Italy
| | - M Pellegrino
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036, Rende, Italy
| | - V Rapicavoli
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, University of Catania, 95122, Catania, Italy
| | - M Talia
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036, Rende, Italy
| | - G Scavo
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, University of Catania, 95122, Catania, Italy
| | - V Sergi
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, University of Catania, 95122, Catania, Italy
| | - V Vella
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, University of Catania, 95122, Catania, Italy
| | - S Pettinato
- Breast Unit Breast Surgery, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, 95122, Catania, Italy
| | - M G Galasso
- Pathological Anatomy Unit, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, 95122, Catania, Italy
| | - R Lappano
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036, Rende, Italy
| | - D Scordamaglia
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036, Rende, Italy
| | - F Cirillo
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036, Rende, Italy
| | - A Pulvirenti
- Bioinformatics Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95131, Catania, Italy
| | - D C Rigiracciolo
- Department of Experimental Oncology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Via Adamello 16, 20139, Milan, Italy
| | - M Maggiolini
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036, Rende, Italy.
| | - A Belfiore
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, University of Catania, 95122, Catania, Italy
| | - E M De Francesco
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, University of Catania, 95122, Catania, Italy.
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15
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Caruso A, Gelsomino L, Panza S, Accattatis FM, Naimo GD, Barone I, Giordano C, Catalano S, Andò S. Leptin: A Heavyweight Player in Obesity-Related Cancers. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1084. [PMID: 37509120 PMCID: PMC10377641 DOI: 10.3390/biom13071084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Obesity, defined as the abnormal or excessive expansion of white adipose tissue, has reached pandemic proportions and is recognized as an important health concern since it is a common root for several comorbidities, including malignancies. Indeed, the current knowledge of the white adipose tissue, which shifts its role from an energy storage tissue to an important endocrine and metabolic organ, has opened up new avenues for the discovery of obesity's effects on tumor biology. In this review, we will report the epidemiological studies concerning the strong impact of obesity in several types of cancer and describe the mechanisms underlying the heterotypic signals between cancer cell lines and adipocytes, with particular emphasis on inflammation, the insulin/IGF-1 axis, and adipokines. Among the adipokines, we will further describe the in vitro, in vivo, and clinical data concerning the role of leptin, recognized as one of the most important mediators of obesity-associated cancers. In fact, leptin physiologically regulates energy metabolism, appetite, and reproduction, and several studies have also described the role of leptin in affecting cancer development and progression. Finally, we will summarize the newest pharmacological strategies aimed at mitigating the protumorigenic effects of leptin, underlining their mechanisms of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Caruso
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, Via P Bucci, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), 87036 Cosenza, Italy
| | - Luca Gelsomino
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, Via P Bucci, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), 87036 Cosenza, Italy
- Centro Sanitario, Via P. Bucci, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), 87036 Cosenza, Italy
| | - Salvatore Panza
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, Via P Bucci, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), 87036 Cosenza, Italy
| | - Felice Maria Accattatis
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, Via P Bucci, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), 87036 Cosenza, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Daniela Naimo
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, Via P Bucci, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), 87036 Cosenza, Italy
| | - Ines Barone
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, Via P Bucci, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), 87036 Cosenza, Italy
- Centro Sanitario, Via P. Bucci, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), 87036 Cosenza, Italy
| | - Cinzia Giordano
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, Via P Bucci, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), 87036 Cosenza, Italy
- Centro Sanitario, Via P. Bucci, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), 87036 Cosenza, Italy
| | - Stefania Catalano
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, Via P Bucci, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), 87036 Cosenza, Italy
- Centro Sanitario, Via P. Bucci, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), 87036 Cosenza, Italy
| | - Sebastiano Andò
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, Via P Bucci, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), 87036 Cosenza, Italy
- Centro Sanitario, Via P. Bucci, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), 87036 Cosenza, Italy
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16
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Rajoria B, Zhang X, Yee D. IGF-1 Stimulates Glycolytic ATP Production in MCF-7L Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10209. [PMID: 37373357 PMCID: PMC10299323 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241210209] [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: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The Insulin-like Growth Factor (IGF) system in breast cancer progression has been a matter of interest for decades, but targeting this system did not result in a successful clinical strategy. The system's complexity and homology of its two receptors-insulin receptor (IR) and type 1 insulin-like growth factor receptor (IGF-1R)-are possible causes. The IGF system maintains cell proliferation and also regulates metabolism, making it a pathway to explore. To understand the metabolic phenotype of breast cancer cells, we quantified their real-time ATP production rate upon acute stimulation with ligands-insulin-like growth factor 1 (1GF-1) and insulin. MCF-7L cells express both IGF-1R and IR, while tamoxifen-resistant MCF-7L (MCF-7L TamR) cells have downregulated IGF-1R with unchanged IR levels. Treating MCF-7L cells with 5 nM IGF-1 increased the glycolytic ATP production rate, while 10 nM insulin did not affect metabolism when compared with the control. Neither treatment altered ATP production in MCF-7L TamR cells. This study provides evidence of the relationship between metabolic dysfunction, cancer, and the IGF axis. In these cells, IGF-1R, and not IR, regulates ATP production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhumika Rajoria
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA;
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA;
| | - Xihong Zhang
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA;
| | - Douglas Yee
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA;
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA;
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
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17
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Schmid P, Cortes J, Joaquim A, Jañez NM, Morales S, Díaz-Redondo T, Blau S, Neven P, Lemieux J, García-Sáenz JÁ, Hart L, Biyukov T, Baktash N, Massey D, Burris HA, Rugo HS. XENERA-1: a randomised double-blind Phase II trial of xentuzumab in combination with everolimus and exemestane versus everolimus and exemestane in patients with hormone receptor-positive/HER2-negative metastatic breast cancer and non-visceral disease. Breast Cancer Res 2023; 25:67. [PMID: 37308971 DOI: 10.1186/s13058-023-01649-w] [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: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Xentuzumab is a humanised monoclonal antibody that binds to IGF-1 and IGF-2, neutralising their proliferative activity and restoring inhibition of AKT by everolimus. This study evaluated the addition of xentuzumab to everolimus and exemestane in patients with advanced breast cancer with non-visceral disease. METHODS This double-blind, randomised, Phase II study was undertaken in female patients with hormone-receptor (HR)-positive/human epidermal growth factor 2 (HER2)-negative advanced breast cancer with non-visceral disease who had received prior endocrine therapy with or without CDK4/6 inhibitors. Patients received a weekly intravenous infusion of xentuzumab (1000 mg) or placebo in combination with everolimus (10 mg/day orally) and exemestane (25 mg/day orally). The primary endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS) per independent review. RESULTS A total of 103 patients were randomised and 101 were treated (n = 50 in the xentuzumab arm and n = 51 in the placebo arm). The trial was unblinded early due to high rates of discordance between independent and investigator assessment of PFS. Per independent assessment, median PFS was 12.7 (95% CI 6.8-29.3) months with xentuzumab and 11.0 (7.7-19.5) months with placebo (hazard ratio 1.19; 95% CI 0.55-2.59; p = 0.6534). Per investigator assessment, median PFS was 7.4 (6.8-9.7) months with xentuzumab and 9.2 (5.6-14.4) months with placebo (hazard ratio 1.23; 95% CI 0.69-2.20; p = 0.4800). Tolerability was similar between the arms, with diarrhoea (33.3-56.0%), fatigue (33.3-44.0%) and headache (21.6-40.0%) being the most common treatment-emergent adverse events. The incidence of grade ≥ 3 hyperglycaemia was similar between the xentuzumab (2.0%) and placebo (5.9%) arms. CONCLUSIONS While this study demonstrated that xentuzumab could be safely combined with everolimus and exemestane in patients with HR-positive/HER2-negative advanced breast cancer with non-visceral disease, there was no PFS benefit with the addition of xentuzumab. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03659136. Prospectively registered, September 6, 2018.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Schmid
- Centre for Experimental Cancer Medicine, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK.
| | - Javier Cortes
- International Breast Cancer Center (IBCC), Pangaea Oncology, Quironsalud Group, Barcelona, Spain
- Faculty of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Department of Medicine, Universidad Europea de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Joaquim
- Centro Hospitalar de Vila Nova de Gaia/Espinho, Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal
| | | | | | - Tamara Díaz-Redondo
- Hospitales Universitarios Regional y Virgen de la Victoria de Málaga, Unidad de Gestión Clínica Intercentros de Oncología, Málaga, Spain
| | - Sibel Blau
- Northwest Medical Specialties, Tacoma, WA, USA
| | | | - Julie Lemieux
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec-Université Laval Research Centre, Quebec, Canada
| | | | - Lowell Hart
- Florida Cancer Specialists, Fort Myers, FL, USA
| | | | - Navid Baktash
- Boehringer Ingelheim (Canada) Ltd, Burlington, ON, Canada
| | - Dan Massey
- Elderbrook Solutions GmbH on behalf of Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach, Germany
| | | | - Hope S Rugo
- University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
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18
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Logsdon DM, Churchwell A, Schoolcraft WB, Krisher RL, Yuan Y. Estrogen signaling encourages blastocyst development and implantation potential. J Assist Reprod Genet 2023; 40:1003-1014. [PMID: 37017886 PMCID: PMC10239412 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02783-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/06/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Estrogen is well-known for preparing uterine receptivity. However, its roles in regulating embryo development and implantation are unclear. Our objective was to characterize estrogen receptor 1 (ESR1) in human and mouse embryos and determine the effect of estradiol (E2) supplementation on pre- and peri-implantation blastocyst development. METHODS Mouse embryos, 8-cell through hatched blastocyst stages, and human embryonic days 5-7 blastocysts were stained for ESR1 and imaged using confocal microscopy. We then treated 8-cell mouse embryos with 8 nM E2 during in vitro culture (IVC) and examined embryo morphokinetics, blastocyst development, and cell allocation into the inner cell mass (ICM) and trophectoderm (TE). Finally, we disrupted ESR1, using ICI 182,780, and evaluated peri-implantation development. RESULTS ESR1 exhibits nuclear localization in early blastocysts followed by aggregation, predominantly in the TE of hatching and hatched blastocysts, in human and mouse embryos. During IVC, most E2 was absorbed by the mineral oil, and no effect on embryo development was found. When IVC was performed without an oil overlay, embryos treated with E2 exhibited increased blastocyst development and ICM:TE ratio. Additionally, embryos treated with ICI 182,780 had significantly decreased trophoblast outgrowth during extended embryo culture. CONCLUSION Similar ESR1 localization in mouse and human blastocysts suggests a conserved role in blastocyst development. These mechanisms may be underappreciated due to the use of mineral oil during conventional IVC. This work provides important context for how estrogenic toxicants may impact reproductive health and offers an avenue to further optimize human-assisted reproductive technology (ART) to treat infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deirdre M. Logsdon
- Colorado Center for Reproductive Medicine, 10290 RidgeGate Circle, Lone Tree, CO 80124 USA
| | - Ashlyn Churchwell
- Colorado Center for Reproductive Medicine, 10290 RidgeGate Circle, Lone Tree, CO 80124 USA
| | - William B. Schoolcraft
- Colorado Center for Reproductive Medicine, 10290 RidgeGate Circle, Lone Tree, CO 80124 USA
| | | | - Ye Yuan
- Colorado Center for Reproductive Medicine, 10290 RidgeGate Circle, Lone Tree, CO 80124 USA
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Khadka VS, Nasu M, Deng Y, Jijiwa M. Circulating microRNA Biomarker for Detecting Breast Cancer in High-Risk Benign Breast Tumors. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:7553. [PMID: 37108716 PMCID: PMC10142546 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087553] [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: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
High-risk benign breast tumors are known to develop breast cancer at high rates. However, it is still controversial whether they should be removed during diagnosis or followed up until cancer development becomes evident. Therefore, this study sought to identify circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) that could serve as detection markers of cancers arising from high-risk benign tumors. Small RNA-seq was performed using plasma samples collected from patients with early-stage breast cancer (CA) and high-risk (HB), moderate-risk (MB), and no-risk (Be) benign breast tumors. Proteomic profiling of CA and HB plasma was performed to investigate the underlying functions of the identified miRNAs. Our findings revealed that four miRNAs, hsa-mir-128-3p, hsa-mir-421, hsa-mir-130b-5p, and hsa-mir-28-5p, were differentially expressed in CA vs. HB and had diagnostic power to discriminate CA from HB with AUC scores greater than 0.7. Enriched pathways based on the target genes of these miRNAs indicated their association with IGF-1. Furthermore, the Ingenuity Pathway Analysis performed on the proteomic data revealed that the IGF-1 signaling pathway was significantly enriched in CA vs. HB. In conclusion, these findings suggest that these miRNAs could potentially serve as biomarkers for detecting early-stage breast cancer from high-risk benign tumors by monitoring IGF signaling-induced malignant transformation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Youping Deng
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, 651 Ilalo Street, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA; (V.S.K.); (M.N.)
| | - Mayumi Jijiwa
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, 651 Ilalo Street, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA; (V.S.K.); (M.N.)
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Bashraheel SS, Kheraldine H, Khalaf S, Moustafa AEA. Metformin and HER2-positive breast cancer: Mechanisms and therapeutic implications. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 162:114676. [PMID: 37037091 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114676] [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: 02/16/2023] [Revised: 04/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Due to the strong association between diabetes and cancer incidents, several anti-diabetic drugs, including metformin, have been examined for their anticancer activity. Metformin is a biguanide antihyperglycemic agent used as a first-line drug for type II diabetes mellitus. It exhibits anticancer activity by impacting different molecular pathways, such as AMP-inducible protein kinase (AMPK)-dependent and AMPK-independent pathways. Additionally, Metformin indirectly inhibits IGF-1R signaling, which is highly activated in breast malignancy. On the other hand, breast cancer is one of the major causes of cancer-related morbidity and mortality worldwide, where the human epidermal growth factor receptor-positive (HER2-positive) subtype is one of the most aggressive ones with a high rate of lymph node metastasis. In this review, we summarize the association between diabetes and human cancer, listing recent evidence of metformin's anticancer activity. A special focus is dedicated to HER2-positive breast cancer with regards to the interaction between HER2 and IGF-1R. Then, we discuss combination therapy strategies of metformin and other anti-diabetic drugs in HER2-positive breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hadeel Kheraldine
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, P.O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Sarah Khalaf
- College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, P.O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ala-Eddin Al Moustafa
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, P.O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar; Biomedical Research Center, QU Health, Qatar University, PO. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar; Oncology Department, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 0G4, Canada.
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Percik R, Oedegaard Smith C, Leibovici A, Shai A. Treating Alpelisib-Induced Hyperinsulinemia in Patients with Advanced Breast Cancer - A Real-Life Experience. Biologics 2023; 17:61-67. [PMID: 37163178 PMCID: PMC10164376 DOI: 10.2147/btt.s395817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
PIK3CA activating mutations are found in 40% of advanced breast cancer and are associated with worse prognosis. PI3K blockage is associated with insulin resistance, leading to hyperglycemia and hyperinsulinemia. Alpelisib is the first PI3K inhibitor used in cancer treatment. Laboratory evidence indicated that alpelisib-induced hyperinsulinemia offsets the drug's efficacy, but insulin levels were not tested in the clinical trials that evaluated alpelisib for breast cancer. Hyperglycemia could also interfere with anti-tumor effects of PI3K inhibitors by inducing Immune tolerance and altered mitochondrial metabolism. We have monitored insulin levels in 4 breast cancer patients with concomitant metabolic syndrome treated with alpelisib, and pre-treated patients with baseline increased insulin levels with pioglitazone, a potent insulin sensitizer, to target both hyperinsulinemia and hyperglycemia, and we report the treatment course of these patients. All patients achieved glycemic control and were able to maintain alpelisib dose intensity. Duration of response to alpelisib was longer than anticipated in this treatment setting. Insulin dynamics confirmed the efficacy of pioglitazone as a specific on-target hypoglycemic and hypo-insulinemic agent in the unique setting of PI3K blockade. Our experience suggests that targeting hyperinsulinemia in patients with is safe and feasible and results in good metabolic and oncologic outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Percik
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Sheba Medical Center, Ramat Gan, Israel
- Endo-Oncology Clinic, Sheba Medical Center, Ramat Gan, Israel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Cecilie Oedegaard Smith
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
- Oncology Institute, Sheba Medical Center, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Anca Leibovici
- Oncology Department, Galilee Medical Center, Nahariya, Israel
- Azrielly Faculty of Medicine, Bar-Ilan University, Zafed, Israel
| | - Ayelet Shai
- Breast Cancer Unit, Division of Oncology, RAMBAM Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel
- Correspondence: Ayelet Shai, Oncology Department, Rambam Health Care Campus, Ha’alia Hashnia 8, Haifa, 3109601, Israel, Tel +972507887731, Email
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