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Ma Y, Xie D, Chen Z, Shen X, Wu X, Ding F, Ding S, Pan Y, Li F, Lu A, Zhang G. Advancing targeted combination chemotherapy in triple negative breast cancer: nucleolin aptamer-mediated controlled drug release. J Transl Med 2024; 22:604. [PMID: 38951906 PMCID: PMC11218354 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-05429-8] [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: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a recurrent, heterogeneous, and invasive form of breast cancer. The treatment of TNBC patients with paclitaxel and fluorouracil in a sequential manner has shown promising outcomes. However, it is challenging to deliver these chemotherapeutic agents sequentially to TNBC tumors. We aim to explore a precision therapy strategy for TNBC through the sequential delivery of paclitaxel and fluorouracil. METHODS We developed a dual chemo-loaded aptamer with redox-sensitive caged paclitaxel for rapid release and non-cleavable caged fluorouracil for slow release. The binding affinity to the target protein was validated using Enzyme-linked oligonucleotide assays and Surface plasmon resonance assays. The targeting and internalization abilities into tumors were confirmed using Flow cytometry assays and Confocal microscopy assays. The inhibitory effects on TNBC progression were evaluated by pharmacological studies in vitro and in vivo. RESULTS Various redox-responsive aptamer-paclitaxel conjugates were synthesized. Among them, AS1411-paclitaxel conjugate with a thioether linker (ASP) exhibited high anti-proliferation ability against TNBC cells, and its targeting ability was further improved through fluorouracil modification. The fluorouracil modified AS1411-paclitaxel conjugate with a thioether linker (FASP) exhibited effective targeting of TNBC cells and significantly improved the inhibitory effects on TNBC progression in vitro and in vivo. CONCLUSIONS This study successfully developed fluorouracil-modified AS1411-paclitaxel conjugates with a thioether linker for targeted combination chemotherapy in TNBC. These conjugates demonstrated efficient recognition of TNBC cells, enabling targeted delivery and controlled release of paclitaxel and fluorouracil. This approach resulted in synergistic antitumor effects and reduced toxicity in vivo. However, challenges related to stability, immunogenicity, and scalability need to be further investigated for future translational applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Ma
- Law Sau Fai Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone and Joint Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tsai, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China.
- Increasepharm & Hong Kong Baptist University Joint Centre for Nucleic Acid Drug Discovery, Hong Kong Science Park, New Territoreis, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China.
| | - Duoli Xie
- Law Sau Fai Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone and Joint Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tsai, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Zefeng Chen
- Law Sau Fai Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone and Joint Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tsai, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
- Increasepharm & Hong Kong Baptist University Joint Centre for Nucleic Acid Drug Discovery, Hong Kong Science Park, New Territoreis, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Xinyang Shen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, China
| | - Xiaoqiu Wu
- Law Sau Fai Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone and Joint Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tsai, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Feng Ding
- Law Sau Fai Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone and Joint Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tsai, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Shijian Ding
- Law Sau Fai Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone and Joint Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tsai, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Yufei Pan
- Law Sau Fai Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone and Joint Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tsai, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Fangfei Li
- Law Sau Fai Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone and Joint Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tsai, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
- Increasepharm & Hong Kong Baptist University Joint Centre for Nucleic Acid Drug Discovery, Hong Kong Science Park, New Territoreis, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Aiping Lu
- Law Sau Fai Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone and Joint Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tsai, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China.
| | - Ge Zhang
- Law Sau Fai Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone and Joint Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tsai, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China.
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Wang R, Huang X, Chen X, Zhang Y. Nanoparticle-Mediated Immunotherapy in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2024; 10:3568-3598. [PMID: 38815129 PMCID: PMC11167598 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.4c00108] [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: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 05/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive subtype with the worst prognosis and highest recurrence rates. The treatment choices are limited due to the scarcity of endocrine and HER2 targets, except for chemotherapy. However, the side effects of chemotherapy restrict its long-term usage. Immunotherapy shows potential as a promising therapeutic strategy, such as inducing immunogenic cell death, immune checkpoint therapy, and immune adjuvant therapy. Nanotechnology offers unique advantages in the field of immunotherapy, such as improved delivery and targeted release of immunotherapeutic agents and enhanced bioavailability of immunomodulators. As well as the potential for combination therapy synergistically enhanced by nanocarriers. Nanoparticles-based combined application of multiple immunotherapies is designed to take the tactics of enhancing immunogenicity and reversing immunosuppression. Moreover, the increasing abundance of biomedical materials holds more promise for the development of this field. This review summarizes the advances in the field of nanoparticle-mediated immunotherapy in terms of both immune strategies for treatment and the development of biomaterials and presents challenges and hopes for the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruoyi Wang
- Department of Breast
Surgery, The Second Norman Bethune Hospital
of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, P.R.C
| | - Xu Huang
- Department of Breast
Surgery, The Second Norman Bethune Hospital
of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, P.R.C
| | - Xiaoxi Chen
- Department of Breast
Surgery, The Second Norman Bethune Hospital
of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, P.R.C
| | - Yingchao Zhang
- Department of Breast
Surgery, The Second Norman Bethune Hospital
of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, P.R.C
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Agnello L, d’Argenio A, Caliendo A, Nilo R, Zannetti A, Fedele M, Camorani S, Cerchia L. Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinases-1 Overexpression Mediates Chemoresistance in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cells. Cells 2023; 12:1809. [PMID: 37443843 PMCID: PMC10340747 DOI: 10.3390/cells12131809] [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: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is among the most aggressive breast cancer subtypes. Despite being initially responsive to chemotherapy, patients develop drug-resistant and metastatic tumors. Tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-1 (TIMP-1) is a secreted protein with a tumor suppressor function due to its anti-proteolytic activity. Nevertheless, evidence indicates that TIMP-1 binds to the CD63 receptor and activates noncanonical oncogenic signaling in several cancers, but its role in mediating TNBC chemoresistance is still largely unexplored. Here, we show that mesenchymal-like TNBC cells express TIMP-1, whose levels are further increased in cells generated to be resistant to cisplatin (Cis-Pt-R) and doxorubicin (Dox-R). Moreover, public dataset analyses indicate that high TIMP-1 levels are associated with a worse prognosis in TNBC subjected to chemotherapy. Knock-down of TIMP-1 in both Cis-Pt-R and Dox-R cells reverses their resistance by inhibiting AKT activation. Consistently, TNBC cells exposed to recombinant TIMP-1 or TIMP-1-enriched media from chemoresistant cells, acquire resistance to both cisplatin and doxorubicin. Importantly, released TIMP-1 reassociates with plasma membrane by binding to CD63 and, in the absence of CD63 expression, TIMP-1-mediated chemoresistance is blocked. Thus, our results identify TIMP-1 as a new biomarker of TNBC chemoresistance and lay the groundwork for evaluating whether blockade of TIMP-1 signal is a viable treatment strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Agnello
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology “G. Salvatore”, National Research Council (CNR), 80131 Naples, Italy; (L.A.); (A.d.); (A.C.); (R.N.); (M.F.); (S.C.)
| | - Annachiara d’Argenio
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology “G. Salvatore”, National Research Council (CNR), 80131 Naples, Italy; (L.A.); (A.d.); (A.C.); (R.N.); (M.F.); (S.C.)
| | - Alessandra Caliendo
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology “G. Salvatore”, National Research Council (CNR), 80131 Naples, Italy; (L.A.); (A.d.); (A.C.); (R.N.); (M.F.); (S.C.)
| | - Roberto Nilo
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology “G. Salvatore”, National Research Council (CNR), 80131 Naples, Italy; (L.A.); (A.d.); (A.C.); (R.N.); (M.F.); (S.C.)
| | - Antonella Zannetti
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging, National Research Council (CNR), 80145 Naples, Italy;
| | - Monica Fedele
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology “G. Salvatore”, National Research Council (CNR), 80131 Naples, Italy; (L.A.); (A.d.); (A.C.); (R.N.); (M.F.); (S.C.)
| | - Simona Camorani
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology “G. Salvatore”, National Research Council (CNR), 80131 Naples, Italy; (L.A.); (A.d.); (A.C.); (R.N.); (M.F.); (S.C.)
| | - Laura Cerchia
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology “G. Salvatore”, National Research Council (CNR), 80131 Naples, Italy; (L.A.); (A.d.); (A.C.); (R.N.); (M.F.); (S.C.)
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Agnello L, d’Argenio A, Nilo R, Fedele M, Camorani S, Cerchia L. Aptamer-Based Strategies to Boost Immunotherapy in TNBC. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15072010. [PMID: 37046670 PMCID: PMC10093095 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15072010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The immune system (IS) may play a crucial role in preventing tumor development and progression, leading, over the last years, to the development of effective cancer immunotherapies. Nevertheless, immune evasion, the capability of tumors to circumvent destructive host immunity, remains one of the main obstacles to overcome for maximizing treatment success. In this context, promising strategies aimed at reshaping the tumor immune microenvironment and promoting antitumor immunity are rapidly emerging. Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), an aggressive breast cancer subtype with poor outcomes, is highly immunogenic, suggesting immunotherapy is a viable strategy. As evidence of this, already, two immunotherapies have recently become the standard of care for patients with PD-L1 expressing tumors, which, however, represent a low percentage of patients, making more active immunotherapeutic approaches necessary. Aptamers are short, highly structured, single-stranded oligonucleotides that bind to their protein targets at high affinity and specificity. They are used for therapeutic purposes in the same way as monoclonal antibodies; thus, various aptamer-based strategies are being actively explored to stimulate the IS’s response against cancer cells. The aim of this review is to discuss the potential of the recently reported aptamer-based approaches to boost the IS to fight TNBC.
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Tumor Microenvironment Responsive Nanomicelle with Folic Acid Modification Co-Delivery of Doxorubicin/Shikonin for Triple Negative Breast Cancer Treatment. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:ph16030374. [PMID: 36986473 PMCID: PMC10055947 DOI: 10.3390/ph16030374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC), which has poor prognosis, easily develops drug resistance and metastasizes. In general, those TNBC characteristics are related to a high activation of the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) pathway, which is inhibited by shikonin (SKN). Therefore, the synergistic therapy of SKN and doxorubicin (DOX) will increase anti-tumor efficacy and reduce metastasis. In this study, we prepared the folic acid-linked PEG nanomicelle (NM) grafted with the DOX (denoted as FPD) to load the SKN. We prepared the SKN@FPD NM according to the effective ratio of dual drugs, where the drug loadings of DOX and SKN were 8.86 ± 0.21% and 9.43 ± 0.13%, with 121.8 ± 1.1 nm of its hydrodynamic dimension and 6.33 ± 0.16 mV of zeta potential, respectively. The nanomaterials significantly slowed down the release of DOX and SKN over 48 h, leading to the release of pH-responsive drugs. Meanwhile, the prepared NM inhibited the activity of MBA-MD-231 cells in vitro. Further in vitro study revealed that the SKN@FPD NM increased the DOX uptake and significantly reduced the metastasis of MBA-MD-231 cells. Overall, these active-targeting NMs improved the tumor-targeting of small molecular drugs and effectively treated TNBC.
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Sarnella A, Ferrara Y, Albanese S, Omodei D, Cerchia L, De Simone G, Supuran CT, Zannetti A. Inhibition of Bone Marrow-Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Induced Carbonic Anhydrase IX Potentiates Chemotherapy Efficacy in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cells. Cells 2023; 12:cells12020298. [PMID: 36672233 PMCID: PMC9857137 DOI: 10.3390/cells12020298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Conventional chemotherapy represents the main systemic treatment used for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) patients, although many of them develop drug resistance. The hypoxic TME is the crucial driver in the onset of insensitivity to chemotherapy. In this research, we elucidated the role played by bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) in reducing cisplatin effects in TNBC. BT-549 and MDA-MB-231 cells, grown under hypoxic conditions in the presence of conditioned medium obtained from BM-MSCs (CM-MSCs), showed a strong cisplatin insensitivity and increased expression levels of carbonic anhydrase IX (CA IX). Therefore, we inhibited CM-MSC-induced CA IX by SLC-0111 to potentiate chemotherapy efficacy in TNBC cells. Our results showed that CM-MSCs under hypoxic conditions caused an increase in the ability of TNBC cells to form vascular structures, migrate and invade Matrigel. Cell treatment with cisplatin plus SLC-0111 was able to block these mechanisms, as well as the signaling pathways underlying them, such as p-AKT, p-ERK, CD44, MMP-2, vimentin, β-catenin, and N-cadherin, more effectively than treatment with single agents. In addition, a significant enhancement of apoptosis assessed by annexin V, caspase-3 expression and activity was also shown. Taken together, our results demonstrated the possibility, through CA IX inhibition, of returning TNBC cells to a more chemosensitive state.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ylenia Ferrara
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging, CNR, 80145 Naples, Italy
| | - Sandra Albanese
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging, CNR, 80145 Naples, Italy
| | - Daniela Omodei
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging, CNR, 80145 Naples, Italy
| | - Laura Cerchia
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology “G. Salvatore”, CNR, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | | | | | - Antonella Zannetti
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging, CNR, 80145 Naples, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-081-220-3431
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7
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Silencing TRAIP suppresses cell proliferation and migration/invasion of triple negative breast cancer via RB-E2F signaling and EMT. Cancer Gene Ther 2023; 30:74-84. [PMID: 36064576 PMCID: PMC9842503 DOI: 10.1038/s41417-022-00517-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Revised: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
TRAIP, as a 53 kDa E3 ubiquitin protein ligase, is involved in various cellular processes and closely related to the occurrence and development of tumors. At present, few studies on the relationship between TRAIP and triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) were reported. Bioinformatic analysis and Western blot, immunohistochemistry (IHC), CCK-8, colony formation, flow cytometry, wound healing, Transwell, and dual-luciferase reporter assays were performed, and xenograft mouse models were established to explore the role of TRAIP in TNBC. This study showed that the expression of TRAIP protein was upregulated in TNBC tissues and cell lines. Silencing of TRAIP significantly inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion of TNBC cells, whereas opposite results were observed in the TRAIP overexpression. In addition, TRAIP regulated cell proliferation, migration, and invasion through RB-E2F signaling and epithelial mesenchymal transformation (EMT). MiR-590-3p directly targeted the TRAIP 3'-UTR, and its expression were lower in TNBC tissues. Its mimic significantly downregulated the expression of TRAIP and subsequently suppressed cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Rescue experiments indicated that TRAIP silencing reversed the promotion of miR-590-3p inhibitor on cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. TRAIP overexpression could also reverse the inhibition of miR-590-3p mimic on tumorigenesis. Finally, TRAIP knockdown significantly inhibited tumor growth and metastasis in animal experiments. In conclusion, TRAIP is an oncogene that influences the proliferation, migration, and invasion of TNBC cells through RB-E2F signaling and EMT. Therefore, TRAIP may be a potential therapeutic target for TNBC.
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8
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Aptamer-Functionalized Nanoparticles Mediate PD-L1 siRNA Delivery for Effective Gene Silencing in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cells. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14102225. [PMID: 36297659 PMCID: PMC9609037 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14102225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Small interfering RNA (siRNA) therapies require effective delivery vehicles capable of carrying the siRNA cargo into target cells. To achieve tumor-targeting, a drug delivery system would have to incorporate ligands that specifically bind to receptors expressed on cancer cells to function as portals via receptor-mediated endocytosis. Cell-targeting and internalizing aptamers are the most suitable ligands for functionalization of drug-loaded nanocarriers. Here, we designed a novel aptamer-based platform for the active delivery of siRNA targeting programmed cell death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) to triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells. The generated nanovectors consist of PLGA-based polymeric nanoparticles, which were loaded with PD-L1 siRNA and conjugated on their surface with a new RNA aptamer, specific for TNBC and resistant to nucleases. In vitro results demonstrated that these aptamer-conjugated nanoparticles promote siRNA uptake specifically into TNBC MDA-MB-231 and BT-549 target cells, along with its endosomal release, without recognizing non-TNBC BT-474 breast cancer cells. Their efficiency resulted in an almost complete suppression of PD-L1 expression as early as 90 min of cell treatment. This research provides a rational strategy for optimizing siRNA delivery systems for TNBC treatments.
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Zhang H, Shi X, Ge Z, Wang Z, Gao Y, Gao G, Xu W, Qu X. PBX3-activated DLG1-AS1 can promote the proliferation, invasion, and migration of TNBC cells by sponging miR-16-5p. Mol Ther Oncolytics 2022; 25:201-210. [PMID: 35592389 PMCID: PMC9092379 DOI: 10.1016/j.omto.2021.12.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2021] [Accepted: 12/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
DLG1-AS1 and PBX3 have been identified as acting as an oncogene in cervical cancer. However, they have not been well explored in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). As TNBC is one of the malignancies causing increasing death throughout the world, this study aimed to probe into the regulatory relationship between DLG1-AS1 and PBX3 in TNBC cells. In this study, real-time quantitative PCR (qRT-PCR) and western blot experiments were conducted to investigate the RNA and protein levels of genes of interest in TNBC cells. Functional experiments were implemented, such as 5-ethynyl-2′-deoxyuridine (EdU), transwell, and wound healing assays, to assess the changes in TNBC cell phenotype. Chromatin immunoprecipitation, luciferase reporter, RNA binding protein immunoprecipitation, and RNA pull-down assays were conducted to investigate the binding relationships among subject genes. The results show that DLG1-AS1 and PBX3 displayed high expression in TNBC cells, and PBX3 worked as the transcriptional activator of DLG1-AS1. Also, DLG1-AS1 served as an oncogene in TNBC cells and as a sponge for miR-16-5p to up-regulate JARID2. Meanwhile, JARID2 and PBX3 exerted oncogenic effects on TNBC cell growth. In conclusion, PBX3-activated DLG1-AS1 can promote the proliferation, invasion, and migration of TNBC cells by sponging miR-16-5p and elevating JARID2 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiming Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Xianquan Shi
- Ultrasonography Department, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Zhicheng Ge
- Department of General Surgery, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Zihan Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Yinguang Gao
- Department of General Surgery, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Guoxuan Gao
- Department of General Surgery, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Wei Xu
- Department of General Surgery, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Xiang Qu
- Department of General Surgery, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, China
- Corresponding author Xiang Qu, Department of General Surgery, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, No. 95 Yong’an Road, Xicheng District, Beijing 100050, China.
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Seliem IA, Panda SS, Girgis AS, Tran QL, Said MF, Bekheit MS, Abdelnaser A, Nasr S, Fayad W, Soliman AAF, Sakhuja R, Ibrahim TS, Abdel-Samii Z, Al-Mahmoudy AMM. Development of isatin-based Schiff bases targeting VEGFR2 inhibition: Synthesis, characterization, antiproliferative properties, and QSAR studies. ChemMedChem 2022; 17:e202200164. [PMID: 35511203 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.202200164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Three sets of isatin-based Schiff bases were synthesized utilizing the molecular hybridization approach. Some of the synthesized Schiff bases show significant to moderate antiproliferative properties against MCF7 (breast), HCT116 (colon), and PaCa2 (pancreatic) cancer cell line with potency compared to reference drugs 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and sunitinib. Among all, compound 17f (3-((1,5-dimethyl-3-oxo-2-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-pyrazol-4-yl)imino)-1-((1-(2-methoxyphenyl)-1H-1,2,3-triazol-4-yl)methyl)-5-methylindolin-2-one) exhibits promising antiproliferative properties against the MCF7 cancer cell line with 2.1-fold more potency than sunitinib. However, among all the synthesized compounds three (5-methylisatin derivatives) were the most effective against HCT116 in comparison to 5-FU. Compound 17f exhibited the highest anti-angiogenic effect on the vasculature as it significantly reduced BV from 43 mm to 2 mm in comparison to 5.7 mm for Sunitinib and flow cytometry supports the arrest of the cell cycle at G1/S phases. In addition, compound 17f also showed high VEGFR-2 inhibition properties against breast cancer cell lines. Robust 2D-QSAR studies supported the biological data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Israa A Seliem
- Zagazig University Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Organic Chemistry, EGYPT
| | - Siva S Panda
- Augusta University, Chemistry & Physics, 1120 15th Street, 30912, Augusta, UNITED STATES
| | - Adel S Girgis
- National Dental Centre, Department of Pesticide Chemistry, EGYPT
| | - Queen L Tran
- Augusta University, Department of Chemistry and Physics, UNITED STATES
| | - Mona F Said
- Cairo University Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, EGYPT
| | | | - Anwar Abdelnaser
- The American University in Cairo, Institute of Global Health and Human Ecology, EGYPT
| | - Soad Nasr
- The American University in Cairo, Institute of Global Health and Human Ecology, EGYPT
| | - Walid Fayad
- National Research Centre, Pharmacognosy Department, EGYPT
| | | | - Rajeev Sakhuja
- BITS: Birla Institute of Technology & Science Pilani, Department of Chemistry, INDIA
| | - Tarek S Ibrahim
- King Abdulaziz University Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, SAUDI ARABIA
| | - Zakaria Abdel-Samii
- Zagazig University Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Organic Chemistry, EGYPT
| | - Amany M M Al-Mahmoudy
- Zagazig University Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Organic Chemistry, EGYPT
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11
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Camorani S, d’Argenio A, Agnello L, Nilo R, Zannetti A, Ibarra LE, Fedele M, Cerchia L. Optimization of Short RNA Aptamers for TNBC Cell Targeting. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:3511. [PMID: 35408872 PMCID: PMC8998535 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive cancer with limited targeted therapies. RNA aptamers, suitably chemically modified, work for therapeutic purposes in the same way as antibodies. We recently generated 2'Fluoro-pyrimidines RNA-aptamers that act as effective recognition elements for functional surface signatures of TNBC cells. Here, we optimized three of them by shortening and proved the truncated aptamers as optimal candidates to enable active targeting to TNBC. By using prediction of secondary structure to guide truncation, we identified structural regions that account for the binding motifs of the full-length aptamers. Their chemical synthesis led to short aptamers with superb nuclease resistance, which specifically bind to TNBC target cells and rapidly internalize into acidic compartments. They interfere with the growth of TNBC cells as mammospheres, thus confirming their potential as anti-tumor agents. We propose sTN145, sTN58 and sTN29 aptamers as valuable tools for selective TNBC targeting and promising candidates for effective treatments, including therapeutic agents and targeted delivery nanovectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Camorani
- National Research Council (CNR), Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology “Gaetano Salvatore” (IEOS), 80131 Naples, Italy; (A.d.); (L.A.); (R.N.); (M.F.)
| | - Annachiara d’Argenio
- National Research Council (CNR), Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology “Gaetano Salvatore” (IEOS), 80131 Naples, Italy; (A.d.); (L.A.); (R.N.); (M.F.)
| | - Lisa Agnello
- National Research Council (CNR), Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology “Gaetano Salvatore” (IEOS), 80131 Naples, Italy; (A.d.); (L.A.); (R.N.); (M.F.)
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Roberto Nilo
- National Research Council (CNR), Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology “Gaetano Salvatore” (IEOS), 80131 Naples, Italy; (A.d.); (L.A.); (R.N.); (M.F.)
| | - Antonella Zannetti
- National Research Council (CNR), Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging (IBB), 80145 Naples, Italy;
| | - Luis Exequiel Ibarra
- Institute of Environmental Biotechnology and Health (INBIAS), National University of Rio Cuarto (UNRC), National Council for Scientific and Technological Research (CONICET), Río Cuarto X5800BIA, Argentina;
| | - Monica Fedele
- National Research Council (CNR), Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology “Gaetano Salvatore” (IEOS), 80131 Naples, Italy; (A.d.); (L.A.); (R.N.); (M.F.)
| | - Laura Cerchia
- National Research Council (CNR), Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology “Gaetano Salvatore” (IEOS), 80131 Naples, Italy; (A.d.); (L.A.); (R.N.); (M.F.)
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12
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Cao J, Sun S, Min R, Li R, Fan X, Han Y, Feng Z, Li N. Prognostic Significance of CCNB2 Expression in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. Cancer Manag Res 2022; 13:9477-9487. [PMID: 35002325 PMCID: PMC8728388 DOI: 10.2147/cmar.s339105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The aim of this study was to explore potential gene therapy targets for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Patients and Methods Three gene expression profiles (GSE64790, GSE62931, and GSE38959) from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database were analyzed. The GEO2R analysis tool was used to screen for differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between TNBC and normal tissues, followed by Gene Ontology functional annotation and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment analysis of the DEGs. The protein–protein interaction network of DEGs was visualized using Metascape to identify the core genes. Subsequently, transcriptional data for the core genes in patients with breast cancer were investigated in the ONCOMINE database. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis was used to evaluate the prognostic value of core gene expression levels in patients with TNBC. Finally, the clinicopathological and long-term follow-up data of 39 patients with TNBC were retrospectively analyzed at the First Affiliated Hospital of the Bengbu Medical College between January 2014 and July 2020. Immunohistochemistry was used to evaluate the expression and subcellular localization of CCNB2 in TNBC tissues. Results A total of 66 DEGs were identified between TNBC and normal tissues, including 33 upregulated and 33 downregulated genes in TNBC. Furthermore, a potential protein complex was identified for five core genes. The high expression of these core genes, especially the overexpression of CCNB2, was correlated with a poor prognosis of patients with TNBC. The CCNB2 protein was expressed in the cytoplasm, and its expression was significantly higher in TNBC tissues than that in the adjacent nontumor tissues. Overall survival of patients was significantly correlated with the expression of CCNB2 (p < 0.05). Conclusion CCNB2 may play a crucial role in the development of TNBC and has the potential to be used as a prognostic biomarker for TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jintao Cao
- Department of Pathology, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui Province, 233000, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuai Sun
- Department of Pathology, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui Province, 233000, People's Republic of China
| | - Rui Min
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui Province, 233003, People's Republic of China
| | - Ran Li
- Department of Pathology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui Province, 230601, People's Republic of China
| | - Xingyu Fan
- School of Clinical Medicine, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuexin Han
- School of Clinical Medicine, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhenzhong Feng
- Department of Pathology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui Province, 230601, People's Republic of China
| | - Nan Li
- Department of Pathology, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui Province, 233000, People's Republic of China.,Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui Province, 233003, People's Republic of China
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13
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Spanu C, Camorani S, Tortorella S, Agnello L, Maturi M, Comes Franchini M, Cerchia L, Locatelli E. Synthesis and functionalization of casein nanoparticles with aptamers for triple-negative breast cancer targeting. NEW J CHEM 2022. [DOI: 10.1039/d2nj03367d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
This work shows the synthesis of a drug delivery system made of casein nanoparticles able to host hydrophobic molecules and be functionalized with aptamers targeting the epidermal growth factor receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Spanu
- Department of Industrial Chemistry “Toso Montanari”, University of Bologna, Viale Risorgimento 4, 40136, Bologna, Italy
| | - Simona Camorani
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology “Gaetano Salvatore”, CNR, Via S. Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Silvia Tortorella
- Department of Industrial Chemistry “Toso Montanari”, University of Bologna, Viale Risorgimento 4, 40136, Bologna, Italy
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology “Gaetano Salvatore”, CNR, Via S. Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Lisa Agnello
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology “Gaetano Salvatore”, CNR, Via S. Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Mirko Maturi
- Department of Industrial Chemistry “Toso Montanari”, University of Bologna, Viale Risorgimento 4, 40136, Bologna, Italy
| | - Mauro Comes Franchini
- Department of Industrial Chemistry “Toso Montanari”, University of Bologna, Viale Risorgimento 4, 40136, Bologna, Italy
| | - Laura Cerchia
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology “Gaetano Salvatore”, CNR, Via S. Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Erica Locatelli
- Department of Industrial Chemistry “Toso Montanari”, University of Bologna, Viale Risorgimento 4, 40136, Bologna, Italy
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14
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Shigdar S, Agnello L, Fedele M, Camorani S, Cerchia L. Profiling Cancer Cells by Cell-SELEX: Use of Aptamers for Discovery of Actionable Biomarkers and Therapeutic Applications Thereof. Pharmaceutics 2021; 14:28. [PMID: 35056924 PMCID: PMC8781458 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14010028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The identification of tumor cell-specific surface markers is a key step towards personalized cancer medicine, allowing early assessment and accurate diagnosis, and development of efficacious targeted therapies. Despite significant efforts, currently the spectrum of cell membrane targets associated with approved treatments is still limited, causing an inability to treat a large number of cancers. What mainly limits the number of ideal clinical biomarkers is the high complexity and heterogeneity of several human cancers and still-limited methods for molecular profiling of specific cancer types. Thanks to the simplicity, versatility and effectiveness of its application, cell-SELEX (Systematic Evolution of Ligands by Exponential Enrichment) technology is a valid complement to the present strategies for biomarkers' discovery. We and other researchers worldwide are attempting to apply cell-SELEX to the generation of oligonucleotide aptamers as tools for both identifying new cancer biomarkers and targeting them by innovative therapeutic strategies. In this review, we discuss the potential of cell-SELEX for increasing the currently limited repertoire of actionable cancer cell-surface biomarkers and focus on the use of the selected aptamers as components of innovative conjugates and nano-formulations for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Shigdar
- School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong 3220, Australia;
- Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong 3220, Australia
| | - Lisa Agnello
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology “Gaetano Salvatore”, CNR, Via S. Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy; (L.A.); (M.F.); (S.C.)
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, S. Andrea Delle Dame-Via L. De Crecchio 7, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Monica Fedele
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology “Gaetano Salvatore”, CNR, Via S. Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy; (L.A.); (M.F.); (S.C.)
| | - Simona Camorani
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology “Gaetano Salvatore”, CNR, Via S. Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy; (L.A.); (M.F.); (S.C.)
| | - Laura Cerchia
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology “Gaetano Salvatore”, CNR, Via S. Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy; (L.A.); (M.F.); (S.C.)
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15
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DİLMAÇ S, ERTOSUN MG, AÇIKGÖZ E, TANRIÖVER G. Kök hücreler kanser hücrelerinin mikroçevresindeki sitokin yanıtlarını etkiler: Meme kanseri ve dental pulpa kök hücreleri arasındaki etkileşim. EGE TIP DERGISI 2021. [DOI: 10.19161/etd.1036959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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16
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Nakhjavani M, Shigdar S. Future of PD-1/PD-L1 axis modulation for the treatment of triple-negative breast cancer. Pharmacol Res 2021; 175:106019. [PMID: 34861397 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2021.106019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) has the worst prognosis among the subtypes of breast cancer, with no targeted therapy available. Immunotherapy targeting programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1) and its ligand (PD-L1) has resulted in some promising outcomes in cancer patients. The common treatments are monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). Despite novel methodologies in developing mAbs, there are several drawbacks with these medications. Immunological reactions, expensive and time-consuming production and requiring refrigeration are some of the challenging characteristics of mAbs that are addressed with using aptamers. Aptamers are nucleotide-based structures with high selectivity and specificity for target. Their small size helps aptamers penetrate the tissue better. In this review, we have discussed the nature of PD-1/PD-L1 interaction and summarised the available mAbs and aptamers specific for these two targets. This review highlights the role of aptamers as a future pathway for PD-1/PD-L1 modulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Nakhjavani
- School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia; Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia.
| | - Sarah Shigdar
- School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia; Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia
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17
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Feng Y, Ci H, Wu Q. Expression of mammalian sterile 20-like kinase 1 and 2 and Yes-associated protein 1 proteins in triple-negative breast cancer and the clinicopathological significance. Medicine (Baltimore) 2021; 100:e27032. [PMID: 34449481 PMCID: PMC8389968 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000027032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Mammalian sterile 20-like kinase 1 and 2 (MST1/2) and Yes-associated protein 1 (YAP1) are the core molecules of the Hippo signaling pathway, which have been found to be unbalanced in the occurrence of tumors and promote the development of the lesions. The present study aimed to investigate the expression of MST1/2 and YAP1 proteins in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) and their clinicopathological significance. METHODS Immunohistochemistry was used to detect the expression level of protein in tissues. According to the percentage of positive cells and staining intensity, the expression intensity of MST1/2 and YAP1 proteins in the tissue samples was scored, and the correlation between MST1/2 and the clinicopathological features of TNBC were discussed. RESULTS The expression of MST1/2 and YAP1 was associated with histological grade, metastasis, lymph node metastasis stage, and tumor node metastasis stage. The overexpression of YAP1 predicted a poor prognosis in terms of overall survival and disease-free survival time. The MST1/2 expression was associated with improved overall survival and disease free survival of the patients. CONCLUSION MST1/2 and YAP1 may be used as prognostic indicators to evaluate the recurrence of TNBC and might become one of the new targets for breast cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Feng
- Department of Pathology, Suzhou Hospital of Anhui Medical University (Suzhou Municipal Hospital of Anhui Province), Suzhou, Anhui, China
- Department of Pathology, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui, China
| | - Hongfei Ci
- Department of Pathology, Suzhou Hospital of Anhui Medical University (Suzhou Municipal Hospital of Anhui Province), Suzhou, Anhui, China
- Department of Pathology, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui, China
| | - Qiong Wu
- Department of Pathology, Suzhou Hospital of Anhui Medical University (Suzhou Municipal Hospital of Anhui Province), Suzhou, Anhui, China
- Department of Pathology, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui, China
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18
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Agnello L, Tortorella S, d'Argenio A, Carbone C, Camorani S, Locatelli E, Auletta L, Sorrentino D, Fedele M, Zannetti A, Franchini MC, Cerchia L. Optimizing cisplatin delivery to triple-negative breast cancer through novel EGFR aptamer-conjugated polymeric nanovectors. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2021; 40:239. [PMID: 34294133 PMCID: PMC8299618 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-021-02039-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Management of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is still challenging because of its aggressive clinical behavior and limited targeted treatment options. Cisplatin represents a promising chemotherapeutic compound in neoadjuvant approaches and in the metastatic setting, but its use is limited by scarce bioavailability, severe systemic side effects and drug resistance. Novel site-directed aptamer-based nanotherapeutics have the potential to overcome obstacles of chemotherapy. In this study we investigated the tumor targeting and the anti-tumorigenic effectiveness of novel cisplatin-loaded and aptamer-decorated nanosystems in TNBC. METHODS Nanotechnological procedures were applied to entrap cisplatin at high efficacy into polymeric nanoparticles (PNPs) that were conjugated on their surface with the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) selective and cell-internalizing CL4 aptamer to improve targeted therapy. Internalization into TNBC MDA-MB-231 and BT-549 cells of aptamer-decorated PNPs, loaded with BODIPY505-515, was monitored by confocal microscopy using EGFR-depleted cells as negative control. Tumor targeting and biodistribution was evaluated by fluorescence reflectance imaging upon intravenously injection of Cyanine7-labeled nanovectors in nude mice bearing subcutaneous MDA-MB-231 tumors. Cytotoxicity of cisplatin-loaded PNPs toward TNBC cells was evaluated by MTT assay and the antitumor effect was assessed by tumor growth experiments in vivo and ex vivo analyses. RESULTS We demonstrate specific, high and rapid uptake into EGFR-positive TNBC cells of CL4-conjugated fluorescent PNPs which, when loaded with cisplatin, resulted considerably more cytotoxic than the free drug and nanovectors either unconjugated or conjugated with a scrambled aptamer. Importantly, animal studies showed that the CL4-equipped PNPs achieve significantly higher tumor targeting efficiency and enhanced therapeutic effects, without any signs of systemic toxicity, compared with free cisplatin and untargeted PNPs. CONCLUSIONS Our study proposes novel and safe drug-loaded targeted nanosystems for EGFR-positive TNBC with excellent potential for the application in cancer diagnosis and therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Agnello
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology "Gaetano Salvatore", CNR, Via S. Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
- University of Campania "L.Vanvitelli" Department of Precision Medicine, S. Andrea delle Dame - Via L. De Crecchio, 7 - 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - Silvia Tortorella
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology "Gaetano Salvatore", CNR, Via S. Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
- Department of Industrial Chemistry Toso Montanari, University of Bologna, Viale Risorgimento 4, 40136, Bologna, Italy
| | - Annachiara d'Argenio
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology "Gaetano Salvatore", CNR, Via S. Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Clarissa Carbone
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology "Gaetano Salvatore", CNR, Via S. Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Simona Camorani
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology "Gaetano Salvatore", CNR, Via S. Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Erica Locatelli
- Department of Industrial Chemistry Toso Montanari, University of Bologna, Viale Risorgimento 4, 40136, Bologna, Italy
| | - Luigi Auletta
- Institute of Biostructure and Bioimaging, CNR, Via T. De Amicis 95, 80145, Naples, Italy
| | - Domenico Sorrentino
- Ceinge-Biotecnologie Avanzate s.c.a.r.l, via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80145, Naples, Italy
| | - Monica Fedele
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology "Gaetano Salvatore", CNR, Via S. Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Antonella Zannetti
- Institute of Biostructure and Bioimaging, CNR, Via T. De Amicis 95, 80145, Naples, Italy
| | - Mauro Comes Franchini
- Department of Industrial Chemistry Toso Montanari, University of Bologna, Viale Risorgimento 4, 40136, Bologna, Italy
| | - Laura Cerchia
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology "Gaetano Salvatore", CNR, Via S. Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy.
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Hu Y, Wu D, Feng X, Shi Z. Research on the effect of interfering with miRNA-155 on triple-negative breast cancer cells. Genes Genomics 2021; 44:1117-1124. [PMID: 33909229 DOI: 10.1007/s13258-021-01106-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a poor prognosis breast cancer with the highest mutation rate and limited treatment options. MiR-155 is highly expressed in TNBC, but its role and potential mechanism in TNBC remain to be elucidated. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study is to examine the effect of interfering with miRNA-155 on the inflammatory pathway of NLRP 3 in TNBC (MDA-MB-231). METHODS MiRNA-155-specific interference (Si-miR-155) on MDA-MB-231 cell was manifested by transfection of miRNA-155 inhibitor. Meanwhile, blank control (Blank) and negative control (NC) were set. Cell growth and proliferation rate were detected by MTT; apoptosis rate were detected by flow cytometry; colony forming test was used to detected cell viability; cell migration ability was detected by Wound healing assay; TNF-α, IL-18, IL-6 and IL-1β levels were detected by ELISA. The mRNA of miRNA-155, NLRP3, ASC, caspase-1 and Ki67 were detected by qRT-PCR. The expression levels of NLRP3, caspase-1, ASC and Ki67 were detected by Western blotting. RESULTS The proliferation rate of Si-miRNA-155 group decreased, while the apoptosis rate increased significantly. After interfering with miRNA-155, the number of cancer cell colonies and the migration ability was decreased, and the secretion levels of IL-18, TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β were also inhibited. Moreover the mRNA and protein expression of NLRP3, caspase-1, ASC and Ki67 were significantly suppressed. CONCLUSIONS Interference with miRNA-155 can inhibit the NLRP3 pathway of MDA-MB-231 cells, as well as the proliferation, migration and inflammatory factor secretion of MDA-MB-231 cell, and can accelerate its apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangying Hu
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Diagnosis and Treatment Center, Shulan (Hangzhou) Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Shuren University Shulan International Medical College, Hangzhou, 310000, China
| | - Deqi Wu
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Diagnosis and Treatment Center, Shulan (Hangzhou) Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Shuren University Shulan International Medical College, Hangzhou, 310000, China
| | - Xiangjun Feng
- Department of Geriatrics General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, 650032, China
| | - Zhijie Shi
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Diagnosis and Treatment Center, Shulan (Hangzhou) Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Shuren University Shulan International Medical College, Hangzhou, 310000, China.
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Improving Breast Cancer Treatment Specificity Using Aptamers Obtained by 3D Cell-SELEX. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14040349. [PMID: 33918832 PMCID: PMC8068899 DOI: 10.3390/ph14040349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Revised: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Three-dimensional spheroids of non-malignant MCF10A and malignant SKBR3 breast cells were used for subsequent 3D Cell-SELEX to generate aptamers for specific binding and treatment of breast cancer cells. Using 3D Cell-SELEX combined with Next-Generation Sequencing and bioinformatics, ten abundant aptamer families with specific structures were identified that selectively bind to SKBR3, and not to MCF10A cells. Multivalent aptamer polymers were synthesized by co-polymerization and analyzed for binding performance as well as therapeutic efficacy. Binding performance was determined by confocal fluorescence imaging and revealed specific binding and efficient internalization of aptamer polymers into SKBR3 spheroids. For therapeutic purposes, DNA sequences that intercalate the cytotoxic drug doxorubicin were co-polymerized into the aptamer polymers. Viability tests show that the drug-loaded polymers are specific and effective in killing SKBR3 breast cancer cells. Thus, the 3D-selected aptamers enhanced the specificity of doxorubicin against malignant over non-malignant breast cells. The innovative modular DNA aptamer platform based on 3D Cell SELEX and polymer multivalency holds great promise for diagnostics and treatment of breast cancer.
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21
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Yao M, Wang S, Chen L, Wei B, Fu P. Research on correlations of miR-585 expression with progression and prognosis of triple-negative breast cancer. Clin Exp Med 2021; 22:201-207. [PMID: 33826023 DOI: 10.1007/s10238-021-00704-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer is a special type of breast cancer, characterized by younger onset age, shorter survival period, higher malignant degree, higher mortality, recurrence and metastasis. Triple-negative breast cancer is more harmful to women's life and health, compared with other types of breast cancer. This paper mainly studied the role of miR-585 in triple-negative breast cancer. Real-time quantitative PCR was used to detect the expression of miR-585 in triple-negative breast cancer cell lines and tissues. Kaplan-Meier curve and Cox proportional hazards model analysis were used to investigate the prognostic value of miR-585 in triple-negative breast cancer. CCK-8 and Transwell assays were used to detect cell proliferation, invasion and migration. miR-585 was significantly down-regulated in triple-negative breast cancer cells and tissues. The low expression of miR-585 has been shown to be significantly associated with poor prognosis in triple-negative breast cancer patients. Abnormally low expression of miR-585 can promote cell proliferation, migration and invasion. Overall, abnormally low expression of miR-585 is associated with prognosis and progression of triple-negative breast cancer. miR-585 may serve as a prognostic biomarker for patients with triple-negative breast cancer and it is expected to be a new method and strategy for the treatment of triple-negative breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minya Yao
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 79 Qinchun Road, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang Province, P.R. China
| | - Shuqian Wang
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 79 Qinchun Road, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang Province, P.R. China
| | - Luyan Chen
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 79 Qinchun Road, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang Province, P.R. China
| | - Bajin Wei
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 79 Qinchun Road, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang Province, P.R. China
| | - Peifen Fu
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 79 Qinchun Road, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang Province, P.R. China.
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22
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Emrani S, Lamar M, Price CC, Baliga S, Wasserman V, Matusz E, Swenson R, Baliga G, Libon DJ. Assessing the capacity for mental manipulation in patients with statically-determined mild cognitive impairment using digital technology. EXPLORATION OF MEDICINE 2021. [DOI: 10.37349/emed.2021.00034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims: Prior research employing a standard backward digit span test has been successful in operationally defining neurocognitive constructs associated with the Fuster’s model of executive attention. The current research sought to test if similar behavior could be obtained using a cross-modal mental manipulation test.
Methods: Memory clinic patients were studied. Using Jak-Bondi criteria, 24 patients were classified with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and 33 memory clinic patients did not meet criteria for MCI (i.e. non-MCI). All patients were assessed with the digital version of the WRAML-2 Symbolic Working Memory Test-Part 1, a cross-modal mental manipulation task where patients hear digits, but respond by touching digits from lowest to highest on an answer key. Only 4 and 5-span trials were analyzed. Using an iPad, all test stimuli were played; and, all responses were obtained with a touch key. Only correct trials were analyzed. Average time to complete trials and latency for each digit was recorded.
Results: Groups did not differ when average time to complete 4-span trials was calculated. MCI patients displayed slower latency, or required more time to re-order the 1st and 3rd digits. Regression analyses, primarily involving initial and latter response latencies, were associated with better, but different underlying neuropsychological abilities. Almost no 5-span analyses were significant.
Conclusions: This cross-modal test paradigm found no difference for total average time. MCI patients generated slower 1st and 3rd response latency, suggesting differences in time allocation to achieve correct serial order recall. Moreover, different neuropsychological abilities were associated with different time-based test components. These data extend prior findings using a standard backward digit span test. Differences in time epochs are consistent with constructs underlying the model of executive attention and help explain mental manipulation deficits in MCI. These latency measures could constitute neurocognitive biomarkers that track emergent disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheina Emrani
- Department of Psychology, Rowan University, Glassboro, NJ 08028, USA
| | - Melissa Lamar
- Department of Behavioral Sciences and the Rush Alzheimer’s Disease Center, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Catherine C. Price
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Satya Baliga
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
| | - Victor Wasserman
- Department of Psychology, Rowan University, Glassboro, NJ 08028, USA
| | - Emily Matusz
- 5New Jersey Institute for Successful Aging, School of Osteopathic Medicine, Rowan University, Stratford, NJ 08084, USA
| | - Rod Swenson
- Department Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Grand Fork, Fargo, ND 58103, USA
| | - Ganesh Baliga
- Department of Computer Science, Rowan University, Glassboro, NJ 08028, USA
| | - David J. Libon
- Department of Psychology, Rowan University, Glassboro, NJ 08028, USA 5New Jersey Institute for Successful Aging, School of Osteopathic Medicine, Rowan University, Stratford, NJ 08084, USA
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Agnello L, Camorani S, Fedele M, Cerchia L. Aptamers and antibodies: rivals or allies in cancer targeted therapy? EXPLORATION OF TARGETED ANTI-TUMOR THERAPY 2021; 2:107-121. [PMID: 36046085 PMCID: PMC9400792 DOI: 10.37349/etat.2021.00035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The goal of an efficacious cancer therapy is to specifically target diseased cells at high accuracy while sparing normal, healthy cells. Over the past three decades, immunotherapy, based on the use of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) directed against tumor-associated antigens, to inhibit their oncogenic function, or against immune checkpoints, to modulate specific T cell responses against cancer, has proven to be an important strategy for cancer therapy. Nevertheless, the number of mAbs approved for clinical use is still limited because of significant drawbacks to their applicability. Oligonucleotide aptamers, similarly to antibodies, form high-affinity bonds with their specific protein targets, thus representing an effective tool for active cancer targeting. Compared to antibodies, aptamers’ use as therapeutic agents benefits from their low size, low/no immunogenicity, simple synthesis and design flexibility for improving efficacy and stability. This review intends to highlight recently emerged applications of aptamers as recognition elements, from biomarker discovery to targeted drug delivery and targeted treatment, showing aptamers’ potential to work in conjunction with antibodies for attacking cancer from multiple flanks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Agnello
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology “Gaetano Salvatore”, National Research Council (CNR), Via S. Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Simona Camorani
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology “Gaetano Salvatore”, National Research Council (CNR), Via S. Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Monica Fedele
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology “Gaetano Salvatore”, National Research Council (CNR), Via S. Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Laura Cerchia
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology “Gaetano Salvatore”, National Research Council (CNR), Via S. Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy
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Li M, Yu X, Zheng Q, Zhang Q, He Y, Guo W. Promising role of long non-coding RNA PCAT6 in malignancies. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 137:111402. [PMID: 33761616 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.111402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Revised: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), a newly identified class of non-coding RNA (ncRNA), are defined as RNA molecules at least 200 nucleotides in length that are not translated into proteins. LncRNAs contribute to a wide range of biological processes and are master regulators of disease occurrence, development, and response to therapy in human malignancies. The lncRNA prostate cancer‑associated transcript 6 (PCAT6) is upregulated in various human malignancies, including lung cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, cervical cancer, osteosarcoma, glioblastoma, colorectal cancer, breast cancer, gastric cancer, gastrointestinal stromal tumors, and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. High expression of PCAT6 is closely correlated with aggressive clinicopathological characteristics and poor prognosis in cancer patients, suggesting it is an oncogenic lncRNA. PCAT6 overexpression also facilitates cell proliferation, invasion, and migration while attenuating apoptosis, indicating that it might serve as a new prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target for malignancies. Here, we discuss the molecular mechanisms, regulatory functions, and potential clinical applications of PCAT6 in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingxing Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China; Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation of Henan Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China; Open and Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation at Henan Universities, Zhengzhou 450052, China; Henan Key Laboratory of Digestive Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou 450052, China
| | - Xiao Yu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China; Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation of Henan Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China; Open and Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation at Henan Universities, Zhengzhou 450052, China; Henan Key Laboratory of Digestive Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou 450052, China
| | - Qingyuan Zheng
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China; Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation of Henan Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China; Open and Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation at Henan Universities, Zhengzhou 450052, China; Henan Key Laboratory of Digestive Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou 450052, China
| | - Qiyao Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China; Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation of Henan Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China; Open and Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation at Henan Universities, Zhengzhou 450052, China; Henan Key Laboratory of Digestive Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou 450052, China
| | - Yuting He
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China; Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation of Henan Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China; Open and Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation at Henan Universities, Zhengzhou 450052, China; Henan Key Laboratory of Digestive Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou 450052, China.
| | - Wenzhi Guo
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China; Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation of Henan Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China; Open and Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation at Henan Universities, Zhengzhou 450052, China; Henan Key Laboratory of Digestive Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou 450052, China.
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25
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Ni H, Guo M, Zhang X, Jiang L, Tan S, Yuan J, Cui H, Min Y, Zhang J, Schlisio S, Ma C, Liao W, Nister M, Chen C, Li S, Li N. VEGFR2 inhibition hampers breast cancer cell proliferation via enhanced mitochondrial biogenesis. Cancer Biol Med 2021; 18:139-154. [PMID: 33628590 PMCID: PMC7877175 DOI: 10.20892/j.issn.2095-3941.2020.0151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2020] [Accepted: 08/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), apart from its predominant roles in angiogenesis, can enhance cancer cell proliferation, but its mechanisms remain elusive. The purpose of the present study was therefore to identify how VEGF regulates cancer cell proliferation. Methods: VEGF effects on cancer cell proliferation were investigated with the VEGF receptor 2 inhibitor, Ki8751, and the breast cancer cell lines, MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231, using flow cytometry, mass spectrometry, immunoblotting, and confocal microscopy. Data were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance followed by Tukey’s multiple comparison test. Results: VEGF blockade by Ki8751 significantly reduced cancer cell proliferation, and enhanced breast cancer cell apoptosis. Mass spectrometric analyses revealed that Ki8751 treatment significantly upregulated the expression of mitochondrial proteins, suggesting the involvement of mitochondrial biogenesis. Confocal microscopy and flow cytometric analyses showed that Ki8751 treatment robustly increased the mitochondrial masses of both cancer cells, induced endomitosis, and arrested cancer cells in the high aneuploid phase. VEGFR2 knockdown by shRNAs showed similar effects to those of Ki8751, confirming the specificity of Ki8751 treatment. Enhanced mitochondrial biogenesis increased mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation and stimulated reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, which induced cancer cell apoptosis. Furthermore, Ki8751 treatment downregulated the phosphorylation of Akt and PGC1α, and translocated PGC1α into the nucleus. The PGC1α alterations increased mitochondrial transcription factor A (TFAM) expression and subsequently increased mitochondrial biogenesis. Conclusions: VEGF enhances cancer cell proliferation by decreasing Akt-PGC1α-TFAM signaling-mediated mitochondrial biogenesis, ROS production, and cell apoptosis. These findings suggested the anticancer potential of Ki8751 via increased mitochondrial biogenesis and ROS production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Ni
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China.,Karolinska Institutet, Department of Medicine-Solna, Clinical Pharmacology Group, Karolinska University Hospital-Solna, Stockholm 17176, Sweden
| | - Min Guo
- Karolinska Institutet, Department of Oncology-Pathology, BioClinicum, Solna 17164, Sweden
| | - Xuepei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioorganic and Natural Products Chemistry, Center for Excellence in Molecular Synthesis, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Lei Jiang
- Karolinska Institutet, Department of Medicine-Solna, Clinical Pharmacology Group, Karolinska University Hospital-Solna, Stockholm 17176, Sweden.,Department of Pathology, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathophysiology, Ningbo University School of Medicine, Ningbo 315211, China
| | - Shuai Tan
- Karolinska Institutet, Department of Medicine-Solna, Clinical Pharmacology Group, Karolinska University Hospital-Solna, Stockholm 17176, Sweden
| | - Juan Yuan
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Stockholm 17177, Sweden
| | - HuanhuanL Cui
- Karolinska Institutet, Department of Oncology-Pathology, BioClinicum, Solna 17164, Sweden
| | - Yanan Min
- Karolinska Institutet, Department of Medicine-Solna, Clinical Pharmacology Group, Karolinska University Hospital-Solna, Stockholm 17176, Sweden.,Department of Hematology, Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University, Jining 272000, China
| | - Junhao Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Susanne Schlisio
- Karolinska Institutet, Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Stockholm 17177, Sweden
| | - Chunhong Ma
- Shandong University Cheeloo Medical College, School of Basic Medicine, Department of Immunology, Jinan 250000, China
| | - Wangjun Liao
- Department of Oncology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Monica Nister
- Karolinska Institutet, Department of Oncology-Pathology, BioClinicum, Solna 17164, Sweden
| | - Chunlin Chen
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Shuijie Li
- Karolinska Institutet, Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Stockholm 17177, Sweden
| | - Nailin Li
- Karolinska Institutet, Department of Medicine-Solna, Clinical Pharmacology Group, Karolinska University Hospital-Solna, Stockholm 17176, Sweden
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Pegoraro S, Ros G, Sgubin M, Petrosino S, Zambelli A, Sgarra R, Manfioletti G. Targeting the intrinsically disordered architectural High Mobility Group A (HMGA) oncoproteins in breast cancer: learning from the past to design future strategies. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2020; 24:953-969. [PMID: 32970506 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2020.1814738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most difficult breast cancer subtype to treat because of its heterogeneity and lack of specific therapeutic targets. High Mobility Group A (HMGA) proteins are chromatin architectural factors that have multiple oncogenic functions in breast cancer, and they represent promising molecular therapeutic targets for this disease. AREAS COVERED We offer an overview of the strategies that have been exploited to counteract HMGA oncoprotein activities at the transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels. We also present the possibility of targeting cancer-associated factors that lie downstream of HMGA proteins and discuss the contribution of HMGA proteins to chemoresistance. EXPERT OPINION Different strategies have been exploited to counteract HMGA protein activities; these involve interfering with their nucleic acid binding properties and the blocking of HMGA expression. Some approaches have provided promising results. However, some unique characteristics of the HMGA proteins have not been exploited; these include their extensive protein-protein interaction network and their intrinsically disordered status that present the possibility that HMGA proteins could be involved in the formation of proteinaceous membrane-less organelles (PMLO) by liquid-liquid phase separation. These unexplored characteristics could open new pharmacological avenues to counteract the oncogenic contributions of HMGA proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Pegoraro
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste , Trieste, Italy
| | - Gloria Ros
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste , Trieste, Italy
| | - Michela Sgubin
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste , Trieste, Italy
| | - Sara Petrosino
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste , Trieste, Italy
| | | | - Riccardo Sgarra
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste , Trieste, Italy
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Camorani S, Passariello M, Agnello L, Esposito S, Collina F, Cantile M, Di Bonito M, Ulasov IV, Fedele M, Zannetti A, De Lorenzo C, Cerchia L. Aptamer targeted therapy potentiates immune checkpoint blockade in triple-negative breast cancer. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2020; 39:180. [PMID: 32892748 PMCID: PMC7487859 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-020-01694-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a uniquely aggressive cancer with high rates of relapse due to resistance to chemotherapy. TNBC expresses higher levels of programmed cell death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) compared to other breast cancers, providing the rationale for the recently approved immunotherapy with anti-PD-L1 monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). A huge effort is dedicated to identify actionable biomarkers allowing for combination therapies with immune-checkpoint blockade. Platelet-derived growth factor receptor β (PDGFRβ) is highly expressed in invasive TNBC, both on tumor cells and tumor microenvironment. We recently proved that tumor growth and lung metastases are impaired in mouse models of human TNBC by a high efficacious PDGFRβ aptamer. Hence, we aimed at investigating the effectiveness of a novel combination treatment with the PDGFRβ aptamer and anti-PD-L1 mAbs in TNBC. METHODS The targeting ability of the anti-human PDGFRβ aptamer toward the murine receptor was verified by streptavidin-biotin assays and confocal microscopy, and its inhibitory function by transwell migration assays. The anti-proliferative effects of the PDGFRβ aptamer/anti-PD-L1 mAbs combination was assessed in human MDA-MB-231 and murine 4 T1 TNBC cells, both grown as monolayer or co-cultured with lymphocytes. Tumor cell lysis and cytokines secretion by lymphocytes were analyzed by LDH quantification and ELISA, respectively. Orthotopic 4 T1 xenografts in syngeneic mice were used for dissecting the effect of aptamer/mAb combination on tumor growth, metastasis and lymphocytes infiltration. Ex vivo analyses through immunohistochemistry, RT-qPCR and immunoblotting were performed. RESULTS We show that the PDGFRβ aptamer potentiates the anti-proliferative activity of anti-PD-L1 mAbs on both human and murine TNBC cells, according to its human/mouse cross-reactivity. Further, by binding to activated human and mouse lymphocytes, the aptamer enhances the anti-PD-L1 mAb-induced cytotoxicity of lymphocytes against tumor cells. Importantly, the aptamer heightens the antibody efficacy in inhibiting tumor growth and lung metastases in mice. It acts on both tumor cells, inhibiting Akt and ERK1/2 signaling pathways, and immune populations, increasing intratumoral CD8 + T cells and reducing FOXP3 + Treg cells. CONCLUSION Co-treatment of PDGFRβ aptamer with anti-PD-L1 mAbs is a viable strategy, thus providing for the first time an evidence of the efficacy of PDGFRβ/PD-L1 co-targeting combination therapy in TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Camorani
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology "Gaetano Salvatore", CNR, Via S. Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Margherita Passariello
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
- Ceinge-Biotecnologie Avanzate s.c.a.r.l., via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80145, Naples, Italy
| | - Lisa Agnello
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology "Gaetano Salvatore", CNR, Via S. Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Silvia Esposito
- Ceinge-Biotecnologie Avanzate s.c.a.r.l., via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80145, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesca Collina
- Pathology Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori-IRCCS-Fondazione G. Pascale, Naples, Italy
| | - Monica Cantile
- Pathology Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori-IRCCS-Fondazione G. Pascale, Naples, Italy
| | - Maurizio Di Bonito
- Pathology Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori-IRCCS-Fondazione G. Pascale, Naples, Italy
| | - Ilya V Ulasov
- Group of Experimental Biotherapy and Diagnostic, Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, 119991, Russia
| | - Monica Fedele
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology "Gaetano Salvatore", CNR, Via S. Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Antonella Zannetti
- Institute of Biostructure and Bioimaging, CNR, Via T. De Amicis 95, 80145, Naples, Italy
| | - Claudia De Lorenzo
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy.
- Ceinge-Biotecnologie Avanzate s.c.a.r.l., via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80145, Naples, Italy.
| | - Laura Cerchia
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology "Gaetano Salvatore", CNR, Via S. Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy.
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Hong HC, Chuang CH, Huang WC, Weng SL, Chen CH, Chang KH, Liao KW, Huang HD. A panel of eight microRNAs is a good predictive parameter for triple-negative breast cancer relapse. Theranostics 2020; 10:8771-8789. [PMID: 32754277 PMCID: PMC7392022 DOI: 10.7150/thno.46142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Rationale: Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), which has the highest recurrence rate and shortest survival time of all breast cancers, is in urgent need of a risk assessment method to determine an accurate treatment course. Recently, miRNA expression patterns have been identified as potential biomarkers for diagnosis, prognosis, and personalized therapy. Here, we investigate a combination of candidate miRNAs as a clinically applicable signature that can precisely predict relapse in TNBC patients after surgery. Methods: Four total cohorts of training (TCGA_TNBC and GEOD-40525) and validation (GSE40049 and GSE19783) datasets were analyzed with logistic regression and Gaussian mixture analyses. We established a miRNA signature risk model and identified an 8-miRNA signature for the prediction of TNBC relapse. Results: The miRNA signature risk model identified ten candidate miRNAs in the training set. By combining 8 of the 10 miRNAs (miR-139-5p, miR-10b-5p, miR-486-5p, miR-455-3p, miR-107, miR-146b-5p, miR-324-5p and miR-20a-5p), an accurate predictive model of relapse in TNBC patients was established and was highly correlated with prognosis (AUC of 0.80). Subsequently, this 8-miRNA signature prognosticated relapse in the two validation sets with AUCs of 0.89 and 0.90. Conclusion: The 8-miRNA signature predictive model may help clinicians provide a prognosis for TNBC patients with a high risk of recurrence after surgery and provide further personalized treatment to decrease the chance of relapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsiao-Chin Hong
- Warshel Institute for Computational Biology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province 518172, China
- School of Life and Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province 518172, China
| | - Cheng-Hsun Chuang
- Institute of Molecular Medicine and Bioengineering, National Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu City 30068, Taiwan, ROC
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, National Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu City 30068, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Wei-Chih Huang
- Institute of Bioinformatics and Systems Biology, National Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu City 30068, Taiwan, ROC
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, National Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu City 30068, Taiwan, ROC
- Come True Biomedical Inc., Taichung 408, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Shun-Long Weng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hsinchu MacKay Memorial Hospital, Hsinchu City 300, Taiwan, ROC
- Department of Medicine, MacKay Medical College, New Taipei City 252, Taiwan, ROC
- MacKay Junior College of Medicine, Nursing and Management College, Taipei City 112, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Chia-Hung Chen
- Department of Medical Research, Hsinchu Mackay Memorial Hospital, Hsinchu City 30071, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Kuang-Hsin Chang
- Institute of Bioinformatics and Systems Biology, National Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu City 30068, Taiwan, ROC
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, National Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu City 30068, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Kuang-Wen Liao
- Institute of Molecular Medicine and Bioengineering, National Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu City 30068, Taiwan, ROC
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, National Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu City 30068, Taiwan, ROC
- Center for Intelligent Drug Systems and Smart Bio-Devices, National Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu City 30068, Taiwan, ROC
- Graduate Institute of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Hsien-Da Huang
- Warshel Institute for Computational Biology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province 518172, China
- School of Life and Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province 518172, China
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, National Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu City 30068, Taiwan, ROC
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Fu Z, Xiang J. Aptamers, the Nucleic Acid Antibodies, in Cancer Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21082793. [PMID: 32316469 PMCID: PMC7215806 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21082793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2019] [Revised: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The arrival of the monoclonal antibody (mAb) technology in the 1970s brought with it the hope of conquering cancers to the medical community. However, mAbs, on the whole, did not achieve the expected wonder in cancer therapy although they do have demonstrated successfulness in the treatment of a few types of cancers. In 1990, another technology of making biomolecules capable of specific binding appeared. This technique, systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment (SELEX), can make aptamers, single-stranded DNAs or RNAs that bind targets with high specificity and affinity. Aptamers have some advantages over mAbs in therapeutic uses particularly because they have little or no immunogenicity, which means the feasibility of repeated use and fewer side effects. In this review, the general properties of the aptamer, the advantages and limitations of aptamers, the principle and procedure of aptamer production with SELEX, particularly the undergoing studies in aptamers for cancer therapy, and selected anticancer aptamers that have entered clinical trials or are under active investigations are summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaoying Fu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, Yanan University, Yanan 716000, China
- Correspondence: (Z.F.); (J.X.)
| | - Jim Xiang
- Division of Oncology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SA S7N 4H4, Canada
- Correspondence: (Z.F.); (J.X.)
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Novel Aptamers Selected on Living Cells for Specific Recognition of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. iScience 2020; 23:100979. [PMID: 32222697 PMCID: PMC7103779 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2020.100979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2020] [Revised: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a high heterogeneous group of tumors with a distinctly aggressive nature and high rates of relapse. So far, the lack of any known targetable proteins has not allowed a specific anti-tumor treatment. Therefore, the identification of novel agents for specific TNBC targeting and treatment is desperately needed. Here, by integrating cell-SELEX (Systematic Evolution of Ligands by EXponential enrichment) for the specific recognition of TNBC cells with high-throughput sequencing technology, we identified a panel of 2′-fluoropyrimidine-RNA aptamers binding to TNBC cells and their cisplatin- and doxorubicin-resistant derivatives at low nanomolar affinity. These aptamers distinguish TNBC cells from both non-malignant and non-TNBC breast cancer cells and are able to differentiate TNBC histological specimens. Importantly, they inhibit TNBC cell capacity of growing in vitro as mammospheres, indicating they could also act as anti-tumor agents. Therefore, our newly identified aptamers are a valuable tool for selectively dealing with TNBC. Six 2′FPy-RNA aptamers were obtained by TNBC Cell-SELEX/NGS They distinguish TNBC cells from non-malignant and non-TNBC breast cancer cells They differentiate TNBC histological specimens by aptamer-based staining They inhibit TNBC cell lines capacity of growing in vitro as mammospheres
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Shen X, Lei J, Du L. miR-31-5p may enhance the efficacy of chemotherapy with Taxol and cisplatin in TNBC. Exp Ther Med 2019; 19:375-383. [PMID: 31853314 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2019.8191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2018] [Accepted: 07/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The limited efficacy of chemotherapy with Taxol (TAX) and cisplatin (DDP) in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) has prompted the investigation of combined therapies. Previous studies demonstrated that microRNA (miR)-31-5p is involved in various biological processes. In the present study, it was hypothesized that the overexpression of miR-31-5p may enhance the efficacy of chemotherapy. The expression levels of miR-31-5p in the TNBC cell lines MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468 were measured using reverse transcription-quantitative PCR following transfection with miR-31-5p mimic or inhibitor. A Cell Counting Kit-8 and flow cytometry assays suggested that the overexpression of miR-31-5p inhibited cell proliferation and promoted apoptosis, and these effects were reversed by transfecting a miR-31-5p inhibitor into MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468 cells. Furthermore, the overexpression of miR-31-5p increased the sensitivity of cells to chemotherapy, which exhibited an increase in apoptosis and in the expression level of Bax, and a decrease in the expression level of Bcl-2. Chemotherapy resistance induced by miR-31-5p inhibitor could be reversed by inhibiting the AKT signaling pathway in MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468 cells. In conclusion, the present preclinical results indicated that targeting miR-31-5p may enhance the efficacy of TAX- and DDP-mediated chemotherapy in TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaowei Shen
- Department of General Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital Qingpu Branch, Fudan University, Shanghai 200092, P.R. China
| | - Jiaqi Lei
- Department of General Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital Qingpu Branch, Fudan University, Shanghai 200092, P.R. China
| | - Lei Du
- Department of General Surgery, Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, P.R. China
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Recent Advances in Nuclear Imaging of Receptor Expression to Guide Targeted Therapies in Breast Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11101614. [PMID: 31652624 PMCID: PMC6826563 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11101614] [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: 10/15/2019] [Accepted: 10/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer remains the most frequent cancer in women with different patterns of disease progression and response to treatments. The identification of specific biomarkers for different breast cancer subtypes has allowed the development of novel targeting agents for imaging and therapy. To date, patient management depends on immunohistochemistry analysis of receptor status on bioptic samples. This approach is too invasive, and in some cases, not entirely representative of the disease. Nuclear imaging using receptor tracers may provide whole-body information and detect any changes of receptor expression during disease progression. Therefore, imaging is useful to guide clinicians to select the best treatments for each patient and to evaluate early response thus reducing unnecessary therapies. In this review, we focused on the development of novel tracers that are ongoing in preclinical and/or clinical studies as promising tools to lead treatment decisions for breast cancer management.
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Zeng Y, Wang CL, Xian J, Ye Q, Qin X, Tan YW, Cao YD. Positive correlation between programmed death ligand-1 and p53 in triple-negative breast cancer. Onco Targets Ther 2019; 12:7193-7201. [PMID: 31564903 PMCID: PMC6731959 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s209484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2019] [Accepted: 08/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Tumors with high mutation load tend to have a stronger immune response in some tumors. The correlation between expression of programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1), a biomarker of immune response in tumors, and p53, accepted as the most frequently mutated gene in many cancers, in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) has not been fully investigated in cancer patients. Materials and methods 132 cases of TNBC and 32 cases of non-TNBC paraffin-embedded tissue sections were selected to detect the expression of PD-L1 and p53 by immunohistochemistry, and results were correlated with clinical data and survival outcomes. The staining of PD-L1 in tumor cells (TCs) and tumor-associated immune cells (TAICs) was assessed separately. Results Strong positive correlations were observed between expression of p53 and PD-L1 both in TCs (r=0.338, P=0.000) and TAICs (r=0.186, P=0.033). The same positive correlation was found in the expression of PD-L1 in TCs and TAICs (r=0.764, P=0.000). Like p53 (P=0.024), positive rate of PD-L1 in TCs was significantly higher in TNBC than in non-TNBC (P=0.02). PD-L1 and p53 in TCs staining were significantly associated with histological grade, tumor size and Ki67 index (P<0.05). PD-L1 in TCs staining was also associated with lymphatic metastasis status (P=0.000). However, PD-L1 in TAICs was only related to histological grade in statistically (P=0.012). Kaplan–Meier survival analysis showed that positive groups of p53, PD-L1 in TCs and TAICs had a worse overall survival and a worse progression-free survival as compared with the negative groups, but marginal significance was found only in overall survival of PD-L1 in TCs and TAICs, and progression-free survival of PD-L1 in TAICs (P=0.074, 0.097, 0.068, respectively). Conclusion Our findings suggest that positive correlation between p53 and PD-L1 in TNBC and the higher expression rates are closely correlated with some key prognostic factors and worse survival outcomes. These findings would lay the foundation for further study on the relationship of p53 and PD-L1 and the combination of mutated p53 inhibitors and PD-1/PD-L1 antibodies in TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zeng
- Department of Pathology, College of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Cheng-Long Wang
- Department of Pathology, Chongqing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jie Xian
- Department of Pathology, College of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Qian Ye
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases (Ministry of Education), Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Xue Qin
- Department of Pathology, College of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi-Wen Tan
- Department of Pathology, College of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - You-De Cao
- Department of Pathology, College of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
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Therapeutic Potential of a Novel α vβ₃ Antagonist to Hamper the Aggressiveness of Mesenchymal Triple Negative Breast Cancer Sub-Type. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11020139. [PMID: 30682838 PMCID: PMC6406933 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11020139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2019] [Revised: 01/17/2019] [Accepted: 01/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The mesenchymal sub-type of triple negative breast cancer (MES-TNBC) has a highly aggressive behavior and worse prognosis, due to its invasive and stem-like features, that correlate with metastatic dissemination and resistance to therapies. Furthermore, MES-TNBC is characterized by the expression of molecular markers related to the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) program and cancer stem cells (CSCs). The altered expression of αvβ3 integrin has been well established as a driver of cancer progression, stemness, and metastasis. Here, we showed that the high levels of αvβ3 are associated with MES-TNBC and therefore exploited the possibility to target this integrin to reduce the aggressiveness of this carcinoma. To this aim, MES-TNBC cells were treated with a novel peptide, named ψRGDechi, that we recently developed and characterized for its ability to selectively bind and inhibit αvβ3 integrin. Notably, ψRGDechi was able to hamper adhesion, migration, and invasion of MES-TNBC cells, as well as the capability of these cells to form vascular-like structures and mammospheres. In addition, this peptide reversed EMT program inhibits mesenchymal markers. These findings show that targeting αvβ3 integrin by ψRGDechi, it is possible to inhibit some of the malignant properties of MES-TNBC phenotype.
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Aptamer-Based Diagnostics and Therapeutics. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2019; 12:ph12010006. [PMID: 30609700 PMCID: PMC6469152 DOI: 10.3390/ph12010006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2018] [Accepted: 12/28/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
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Li K, Qi L, Gao L, Shi M, Li J, Liu Z, Zhao L. Selection and preliminary application of a single stranded DNA aptamer targeting colorectal cancer serum. RSC Adv 2019; 9:38867-38876. [PMID: 35540214 PMCID: PMC9075956 DOI: 10.1039/c9ra04777h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2019] [Accepted: 10/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer is one of the common causes of malignant tumors in recent years, thus the discovery of potential compounds that detect the occurrence of colorectal cancer by efficient approaches is necessary. In this study, the method of systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment (SELEX) was used for recognizing serum from colorectal cancer patients by a single-stranded DNA library of aptamers assisted by single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) to remove single-stranded DNA with low affinity. Ten rounds of selection were applied using colorectal cancer serum as a target with the serum of healthy individuals as a control. As the result, we have successfully identified four candidate aptamers after high-throughput genome sequencing analysis, comparison analysis and secondary structure prediction. Among them, aptamer Seq-2 exhibited the highest affinity and the strongest selectivity with an equilibrium dissociation constant (Kd) of 11.31 ± 3.25 nM and a Ct difference value of 4.25 ± 0.38 between the colorectal cancer group and the healthy group. Moreover, with fifty negative control serum samples, the positive detection rate of fifty positive serum samples tested by aptamer Seq-2 was over 90%. In particular, aptamer Seq-2 can strongly bind the colorectal cancer serum, less strongly bind the non-colon cancer serum and hardly bind the healthy serum. Therefore, aptamer Seq-2 presents enormous potential for exploring as a tumor diagnostic kit and detecting unknown tumor markers in serum to reflect colorectal cancer. Aptamer Seq-2 with high affinity and selectivity was screened against colorectal cancer serum directly for clinical application.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Li
- College of Environmental & Chemical Engineering
- Yanshan University
- Qinhuangdao
- China
- Applied Chemistry Key Laboratory of Hebei Province
| | - Liqing Qi
- College of Environmental & Chemical Engineering
- Yanshan University
- Qinhuangdao
- China
- Applied Chemistry Key Laboratory of Hebei Province
| | - LiMing Gao
- The First Hospital of Qinhuangdao City
- Qinhuangdao
- China
| | - Ming Shi
- College of Environmental & Chemical Engineering
- Yanshan University
- Qinhuangdao
- China
- Applied Chemistry Key Laboratory of Hebei Province
| | - Jian Li
- College of Environmental & Chemical Engineering
- Yanshan University
- Qinhuangdao
- China
- Applied Chemistry Key Laboratory of Hebei Province
| | - ZhiWei Liu
- College of Environmental & Chemical Engineering
- Yanshan University
- Qinhuangdao
- China
- Applied Chemistry Key Laboratory of Hebei Province
| | - Lu Zhao
- College of Environmental & Chemical Engineering
- Yanshan University
- Qinhuangdao
- China
- Applied Chemistry Key Laboratory of Hebei Province
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