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Shuang T, Wu S, Zhao Y, Yang Y, Pei M. The up-regulation of PAK2 indicates unfavorable prognosis in patients with serous epithelial ovarian cancer and contributes to paclitaxel resistance in ovarian cancer cells. BMC Cancer 2024; 24:1213. [PMID: 39350056 PMCID: PMC11440729 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-024-12969-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2024] [Indexed: 10/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The main challenge in treating ovarian cancer is chemotherapy resistance. Previous studies have shown that PAK2 is highly expressed in various cancers. This research investigates whether increased PAK2 expression contributes to chemo-resistance and poor prognosis in ovarian cancer. METHODS Initially, bioinformatics analysis was used to assess the importance of PAK2 mRNA up-regulation in ovarian cancer. This was then validated using tissue microarray to confirm PAK2 protein expression and localization in clinical samples. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were carried out to identify potential risk factors for chemo-resistance in serous epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC), while multivariate Cox regression and Kaplan-Meier analysis were conducted to ascertain prognostic factors for overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) in patients with serous EOC. In vitro experiments were conducted to verify if inhibiting PAK2 expression could increase A2780/Taxol cells' sensitivity to paclitaxel, as shown by evaluating cell proliferation, apoptosis, transwell, and clone formation. Additionally, the interaction between PAK2, lnc-SNHG1, and miR-216b-5p was verified using RIP and luciferase reporter assays. Rescue experiments were undertaken to examine the influence of the lnc-SNHG1/miR-216b-5p/PAK2 axis on the development of paclitaxel resistance in A2780/Taxol cells. RESULTS The bioinformatics analysis indicated a notable increase in PAK2 expression in ovarian malignant tumors compared to adjacent tissues, particularly in patients with stage III-IV disease compared to those with stage I-II disease (P = 0.0056). Elevated levels of PAK2 were linked to reduced OS in ovarian cancer patients, although no significant association was observed with DFS. Immunohistochemistry findings further supported these results, showing positive PAK2 protein expression in chemo-resistant serous EOC tissues, predominantly localized in the cytoplasm, which correlated with poorer OS and DFS outcomes. In vitro experiments demonstrated that the downregulation of PAK2 in A2780/Taxol cells led to a reduction in colony formation, an increase in apoptosis, and a diminished capacity for cell invasion. Subsequent analysis confirmed that lnc-SNHG1 functions as a competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) by interacting with miR-216b-5p and regulating PAK2 expression. Rescue experiments demonstrated that lnc-SNHG1 induces resistance to paclitaxel in A2780/Taxol cells by modulating the miR-216b-5p/PAK2 axis. CONCLUSIONS PAK2 shows promise as a predictor of chemotherapy resistance and poor outcomes in ovarian cancer, indicating its potential use as a treatment target to overcome this resistance.
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MESH Headings
- Humans
- p21-Activated Kinases/metabolism
- p21-Activated Kinases/genetics
- Female
- Drug Resistance, Neoplasm/genetics
- Paclitaxel/pharmacology
- Paclitaxel/therapeutic use
- Ovarian Neoplasms/drug therapy
- Ovarian Neoplasms/metabolism
- Ovarian Neoplasms/genetics
- Ovarian Neoplasms/pathology
- Ovarian Neoplasms/mortality
- Prognosis
- Carcinoma, Ovarian Epithelial/drug therapy
- Carcinoma, Ovarian Epithelial/genetics
- Carcinoma, Ovarian Epithelial/metabolism
- Carcinoma, Ovarian Epithelial/pathology
- Carcinoma, Ovarian Epithelial/mortality
- MicroRNAs/genetics
- MicroRNAs/metabolism
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic
- Middle Aged
- Cell Proliferation
- RNA, Long Noncoding/genetics
- RNA, Long Noncoding/metabolism
- Apoptosis/drug effects
- Up-Regulation
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Shuang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 277 West Yanta Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, P.R. China.
| | - Shiyun Wu
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 277 West Yanta Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, P.R. China
| | - Yifei Zhao
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 277 West Yanta Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, P.R. China
| | - Yanqi Yang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 277 West Yanta Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, P.R. China
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, 76 West Yanta Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, P.R. China
| | - Meili Pei
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 277 West Yanta Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, P.R. China.
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Yang H, Li Z, Zhu S, Wang W, Zhang J, Zhao D, Zhang M, Zhu W, Xu W, Xu C. Molecular mechanisms of pancreatic cancer liver metastasis: the role of PAK2. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1347683. [PMID: 38343537 PMCID: PMC10853442 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1347683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Pancreatic cancer remains an extremely malignant digestive tract tumor, posing a significant global public health burden. Patients with pancreatic cancer, once metastasis occurs, lose all hope of cure, and prognosis is extremely poor. It is important to investigate liver metastasis of Pancreatic cancer in depth, not just because it is the most common form of metastasis in pancreatic cancer, but also because it is crucial for treatment planning and prognosis assessment. This study aims to delve into the mechanisms of pancreatic cancer liver metastasis, with the goal of providing crucial scientific groundwork for the development of future treatment methods and drugs. Methods We explored the mechanisms of pancreatic cancer liver metastasis using single-cell sequencing data (GSE155698 and GSE154778) and bulk data (GSE71729, GSE19279, TCGA-PAAD). Initially, Seurat package was employed for single-cell data processing to obtain expression matrices for primary pancreatic cancer lesions and liver metastatic lesions. Subsequently, high-dimensional weighted gene co-expression network analysis (hdWGCNA) was used to identify genes associated with liver metastasis. Machine learning algorithms and COX regression models were employed to further screen genes related to patient prognosis. Informed by both biological understanding and the outcomes of algorithms, we meticulously identified the ultimate set of liver metastasis-related gene (LRG). In the study of LRG genes, various databases were utilized to validate their association with pancreatic cancer liver metastasis. In order to analyze the effects of these agents on tumor microenvironment, we conducted an in-depth analysis, including changes in signaling pathways (GSVA), cell differentiation (pseudo-temporal analysis), cell communication networks (cell communication analysis), and downstream transcription factors (transcription factor activity prediction). Additionally, drug sensitivity analysis and metabolic analysis were performed to reveal the effects of LRG on gemcitabine resistance and metabolic pathways. Finally, functional experiments were conducted by silencing the expression of LRG in PANC-1 and Bx-PC-3 cells to validate its influence to proliferation and invasiveness on PANC-1 and Bx-PC-3 cells. Results Through a series of algorithmic filters, we identified PAK2 as a key gene promoting pancreatic cancer liver metastasis. GSVA analysis elucidated the activation of the TGF-beta signaling pathway by PAK2 to promote the occurrence of liver metastasis. Pseudo-temporal analysis revealed a significant correlation between PAK2 expression and the lower differentiation status of pancreatic cancer cells. Cell communication analysis revealed that overexpression of PAK2 promotes communication between cancer cells and the tumor microenvironment. Transcription factor activity prediction displayed the transcription factor network regulated by PAK2. Drug sensitivity analysis and metabolic analysis revealed the impact of PAK2 on gemcitabine resistance and metabolic pathways. CCK8 experiments showed that silencing PAK2 led to a decrease in the proliferative capacity of pancreatic cancer cells and scratch experiments demonstrated that low expression of PAK2 decreased invasion capability in pancreatic cancer cells. Flow cytometry reveals that PAK2 significantly inhibited apoptosis in pancreatic cancer cell lines. Molecules related to the TGF-beta pathway decreased with the inhibition of PAK2, and there were corresponding significant changes in molecules associated with EMT. Conclusion PAK2 facilitated the angiogenic potential of cancer cells and promotes the epithelial-mesenchymal transition process by activating the TGF-beta signaling pathway. Simultaneously, it decreased the differentiation level of cancer cells, consequently enhancing their malignancy. Additionally, PAK2 fostered communication between cancer cells and the tumor microenvironment, augments cancer cell chemoresistance, and modulates energy metabolism pathways. In summary, PAK2 emerged as a pivotal gene orchestrating pancreatic cancer liver metastasis. Intervening in the expression of PAK2 may offer a promising therapeutic strategy for preventing liver metastasis of pancreatic cancer and improving its prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhongyi Li
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplant Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Shiqi Zhu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wenxia Wang
- Department of General Medicine, Zhongshan Hospital Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Division of Basic Biomedical Sciences, The University of South Dakota Sanford School of Medicine, Vermillion, SD, United States
| | - Dongxu Zhao
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The Affiliated Changshu Hospital of Nantong University, Changshu No. 2 People‘s Hospital, Changshu, Jiangsu, China
| | - Man Zhang
- Department of Emergency Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wenxin Zhu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Kunshan Third People’s Hospital, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wei Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chunfang Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
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Hamidi AA, Taghehchian N, Zangouei AS, Akhlaghipour I, Maharati A, Basirat Z, Moghbeli M. Molecular mechanisms of microRNA-216a during tumor progression. Cancer Cell Int 2023; 23:19. [PMID: 36740668 PMCID: PMC9899407 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-023-02865-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) as the members of non-coding RNAs family are involved in post-transcriptional regulation by translational inhibiting or mRNA degradation. They have a critical role in regulation of cell proliferation and migration. MiRNAs aberrations have been reported in various cancers. Considering the importance of these factors in regulation of cellular processes and their high stability in body fluids, these factors can be suggested as suitable non-invasive markers for the cancer diagnosis. MiR-216a deregulation has been frequently reported in different cancers. Therefore, in the present review we discussed the molecular mechanisms of the miR-216a during tumor progression. It has been reported that miR-216a mainly functioned as a tumor suppressor through the regulation of signaling pathways and transcription factors. This review paves the way to suggest the miR-216a as a probable therapeutic and diagnostic target in cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Abbas Hamidi
- grid.411583.a0000 0001 2198 6209Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Negin Taghehchian
- grid.411583.a0000 0001 2198 6209Medical Genetics Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Amir Sadra Zangouei
- grid.411583.a0000 0001 2198 6209Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Iman Akhlaghipour
- grid.411583.a0000 0001 2198 6209Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Amirhosein Maharati
- grid.411583.a0000 0001 2198 6209Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Zahra Basirat
- grid.411583.a0000 0001 2198 6209Medical Genetics Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Meysam Moghbeli
- grid.411583.a0000 0001 2198 6209Medical Genetics Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran ,grid.411583.a0000 0001 2198 6209Department of Medical Genetics and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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Ritch SJ, Noman ASM, Goyeneche AA, Telleria CM. The metastatic capacity of high-grade serous ovarian cancer cells changes along disease progression: inhibition by mifepristone. Cancer Cell Int 2022; 22:397. [PMID: 36494669 PMCID: PMC9733158 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-022-02822-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Simplistic two-dimensional (2D) in vitro assays have long been the standard for studying the metastatic abilities of cancer cells. However, tri-dimensional (3D) organotypic models provide a more complex environment, closer to that seen in patients, and thereby provide a more accurate representation of their true capabilities. Our laboratory has previously shown that the antiprogestin and antiglucocorticoid mifepristone can reduce the growth, adhesion, migration, and invasion of various aggressive cancer cells assessed using 2D assays. In this study, we characterize the metastatic capabilities of high-grade serous ovarian cancer cells generated along disease progression, in both 2D and 3D assays, and the ability of cytostatic doses of mifepristone to inhibit them. METHODS High-grade serous ovarian cancer cells collected from two separate patients at different stages of their disease were used throughout the study. The 2D wound healing and Boyden chamber assays were used to study migration, while a layer of extracellular matrix was added to the Boyden chamber to study invasion. A 3D organotypic model, composed of fibroblasts embedded in collagen I and topped with a monolayer of mesothelial cells was used to further study cancer cell adhesion and mesothelial displacement. All assays were studied in cells, which were originally harvested from two patients at different stages of disease progression, in the absence or presence of cytostatic doses of mifepristone. RESULTS 2D in vitro assays demonstrated that the migration and invasive rates of the cells isolated from both patients decreased along disease progression. Conversely, in both patients, cells representing late-stage disease demonstrated a higher adhesion capacity to the 3D organotypic model than those representing an early-stage disease. This adhesive behavior is associated with the in vivo tumor capacity of the cells. Regardless of these differences in adhesive, migratory, and invasive behavior among the experimental protocols used, cytostatic doses of mifepristone were able to inhibit the adhesion, migration, and invasion rates of all cells studied, regardless of their basal capabilities over simplistic or organotypic metastatic in vitro model systems. Finally, we demonstrate that when cells acquire the capacity to grow spontaneously as spheroids, they do attach to a 3D organotypic model system when pre-incubated with conditioned media. Of relevance, mifepristone was able to cause dissociation of these multicellular structures. CONCLUSION Differences in cellular behaviours were observed between 2 and 3D assays when studying the metastatic capabilities of high-grade serous ovarian cancer cells representing disease progression. Mifepristone inhibited these metastatic capabilities in all assays studied.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina J. Ritch
- grid.14709.3b0000 0004 1936 8649Experimental Pathology Unit, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, QC Canada
| | - Abu Shadat M. Noman
- grid.413089.70000 0000 9744 3393Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Chittagong University, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Alicia A. Goyeneche
- grid.14709.3b0000 0004 1936 8649Experimental Pathology Unit, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, QC Canada ,grid.63984.300000 0000 9064 4811Cancer Research Program, Research Institute, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC Canada
| | - Carlos M. Telleria
- grid.14709.3b0000 0004 1936 8649Experimental Pathology Unit, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, QC Canada ,grid.63984.300000 0000 9064 4811Cancer Research Program, Research Institute, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC Canada
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A Novel and Validated 8-Pyroptosis-Related Genes Based Risk Prediction Model for Diffuse Large B Cell Lymphoma. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12121835. [PMID: 36551263 PMCID: PMC9775483 DOI: 10.3390/biom12121835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), the most common type of Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma (NHL), has a lethal nature. Thus, the establishment of a novel model to predict the prognosis of DLBCL and guide its therapy is an urgency. Meanwhile, pyroptosis is engaged in the progression of DLBCL with further investigations required to reveal the underlying mechanism. METHODS LASSO regression was conducted to establish a risk model based on those PRGs. External datasets, RT-qPCR and IHC images from The Human Protein Alta (HPA) database were utilized to validate the model. ssGSEA was utilized to estimate the score of immune components in DLBCL. RESULTS A model based on 8 PRGs was established to generate a risk score. Validation of the model confirmed its robust performance. The risk score was associated with advanced clinical stages and shorter overall survivals. Two novel second-line chemotherapies were found to be potential treatments for high-risk patients. The risk score was also found to be correlated with immune components in DLBCL. CONCLUSION This novel model can be utilized in clinical practices to predict the prognosis of DLBCL and guide the treatment of patients at high risk, providing an overview of immune regulatory program via pyroptosis in DLBCL.
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Darooneh AH, Kohandel M. Network Analysis Identifies Phase Transitions for Tumor With Interacting Cells. Front Physiol 2022; 13:865561. [PMID: 35845999 PMCID: PMC9283708 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.865561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Metastasis is the process by which cancer cells acquire the capability to leave the primary tumor and travel to distant sites. Recent experiments have suggested that the epithelial–mesenchymal transition can regulate invasion and metastasis. Another possible scenario is the collective motion of cells. Recent studies have also proposed a jamming–unjamming transition for epithelial cells based on physical forces. Here, we assume that there exists a short-range chemical attraction between cancer cells and employ the Brownian dynamics to simulate tumor growth. Applying the network analysis, we suggest three possible phases for a given tumor and study the transition between these phases by adjusting the attraction strength.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Hossein Darooneh
- Department of Applied Mathematics, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
- Department of Physics, University of Zanjan, Zanjan, Iran
- *Correspondence: Amir Hossein Darooneh ,
| | - Mohammad Kohandel
- Department of Applied Mathematics, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
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Horst EN, Novak CM, Burkhard K, Snyder CS, Verma R, Crochran DE, Geza IA, Fermanich W, Mehta P, Schlautman DC, Tran LA, Brezenger ME, Mehta G. Injectable three-dimensional tumor microenvironments to study mechanobiology in ovarian cancer. Acta Biomater 2022; 146:222-234. [PMID: 35487424 PMCID: PMC10538942 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2022.04.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Epithelial ovarian cancers are among the most aggressive forms of gynecological malignancies. Despite the advent of poly adenosine diphosphate-ribose polymerase (PARP) and checkpoint inhibitors, improvement to patient survival has been modest. Limited in part by clinical translation, beneficial therapeutic strategies remain elusive in ovarian cancers. Although elevated levels of extracellular proteins, including collagens, proteoglycans, and glycoproteins, have been linked to chemoresistance, they are often missing from the processes of drug- development and screening. Biophysical and biochemical signaling from the extracellular matrix (ECM) determine cellular phenotype and affect both tumor progression and therapeutic response. However, many state-of-the-art tumor models fail to mimic the complexities of the tumor microenvironment (TME) and omit key signaling components. In this article, two interpenetrating network (IPN) hydrogel scaffold platforms, comprising of alginate-collagen or agarose-collagen, have been characterized for use as 3D in vitro models of epithelial ovarian cancer ECM. These highly tunable, injection mold compatible, and inexpensive IPNs replicate the critical governing physical and chemical signaling present within the ovarian TME. Additionally, an effective and cell-friendly live-cell retrieval method has been established to recover cells post-encapsulation. Lastly, functional mechanotransduction in ovarian cancers was demonstrated by increasing scaffold stiffness within the 3D in vitro ECM models. With these features, the agarose-collagen and alginate-collagen hydrogels provide a robust TME for the study of mechanobiology in epithelial cancers. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Ovarian cancer is the most lethal gynecologic cancer afflicting women today. Here we present the development, characterization, and validation of 3D interpenetrating platforms to shift the paradigm in standard in vitro modeling. These models help elucidate the roles of biophysical and biochemical cues in ovarian cancer progression. The agarose-collagen and alginate-collagen interpenetrating network (IPN) hydrogels are simple to fabricate, inexpensive, and can be modified to create custom mechanical stiffnesses and concentrations of bio-adhesive motifs. Given that investigations into the roles of biophysical characteristics in ovarian cancers have provided incongruent results, we believe that the IPN platforms will be critically important to uncovering molecular drivers. We also expect these platforms to be broadly applicable to studies involving mechanobiology in solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric N Horst
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
| | - Caymen M Novak
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, The Ohio State University Wexner College of Medicine, Columbus, OH 43210, United States
| | - Kathleen Burkhard
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
| | - Catherine S Snyder
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
| | - Rhea Verma
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
| | - Darel E Crochran
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
| | - Izabella A Geza
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
| | - Wesley Fermanich
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
| | - Pooja Mehta
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
| | - Denise C Schlautman
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
| | - Linh A Tran
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
| | - Michael E Brezenger
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
| | - Geeta Mehta
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States; Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States; Macromolecular Science and Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States; Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States; Precision Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States.
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Horst EN, Bregenzer ME, Mehta P, Snyder CS, Repetto T, Yang-Hartwich Y, Mehta G. Personalized models of heterogeneous 3D epithelial tumor microenvironments: Ovarian cancer as a model. Acta Biomater 2021; 132:401-420. [PMID: 33940195 PMCID: PMC8969826 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2021.04.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Revised: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Intractable human diseases such as cancers, are context dependent, unique to both the individual patient and to the specific tumor microenvironment. However, conventional cancer treatments are often nonspecific, targeting global similarities rather than unique drivers. This limits treatment efficacy across heterogeneous patient populations and even at different tumor locations within the same patient. Ultimately, this poor efficacy can lead to adverse clinical outcomes and the development of treatment-resistant relapse. To prevent this and improve outcomes, it is necessary to be selective when choosing a patient's optimal adjuvant treatment. In this review, we posit the use of personalized, tumor-specific models (TSM) as tools to achieve this remarkable feat. First, using ovarian cancer as a model disease, we outline the heterogeneity and complexity of both the cellular and extracellular components in the tumor microenvironment. Then we examine the advantages and disadvantages of contemporary cancer models and the rationale for personalized TSM. We discuss how to generate precision 3D models through careful and detailed analysis of patient biopsies. Finally, we provide clinically relevant applications of these versatile personalized cancer models to highlight their potential impact. These models are ideal for a myriad of fundamental cancer biology and translational studies. Importantly, these approaches can be extended to other carcinomas, facilitating the discovery of new therapeutics that more effectively target the unique aspects of each individual patient's TME. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: In this article, we have presented the case for the application of biomaterials in developing personalized models of complex diseases such as cancers. TSM could bring about breakthroughs in the promise of precision medicine. The critical components of the diverse tumor microenvironments, that lead to treatment failures, include cellular- and extracellular matrix- heterogeneity, and biophysical signals to the cells. Therefore, we have described these dynamic components of the tumor microenvironments, and have highlighted how contemporary biomaterials can be utilized to create personalized in vitro models of cancers. We have also described the application of the TSM to predict the dynamic patterns of disease progression, and predict effective therapies that can produce durable responses, limit relapses, and treat any minimal residual disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric N Horst
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
| | - Michael E Bregenzer
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
| | - Pooja Mehta
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
| | - Catherine S Snyder
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
| | - Taylor Repetto
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
| | - Yang Yang-Hartwich
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06510, United States
| | - Geeta Mehta
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States; Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States; Macromolecular Science and Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States; Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States; Precision Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States.
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9
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Valmiki S, Aid MA, Chaitou AR, Zahid M, Valmiki M, Fawzy P, Khan S. Extracellular Matrix: A Treasure Trove in Ovarian Cancer Dissemination and Chemotherapeutic Resistance. Cureus 2021; 13:e13864. [PMID: 33859913 PMCID: PMC8038904 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.13864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Late presentation and resistance to chemotherapeutic agents make a deadly combination for ovarian cancer patients. The treatment of these patients is thus challenging. This study explores the possible molecular mechanisms by which tumor cells interact with the extracellular matrix (ECM) constituents, forming metastatic implants and enhancing patients' sensitivity to drugs. For the literature review, PubMed was used as a database. The standard search was done using keywords "collagen, ovarian cancer, extracellular matrix, drug resistance" in different combinations, which finally yielded 32 studies meeting the inclusion/exclusion criteria. The studies included were published in the English language in the past seven years. After analyzing, we found all of them to be histopathological studies. Nine studies also used murine cell lines besides human cell lines and tissue samples from ovarian cancer patients. One study has a retrospective analysis done. Eight studies demonstrate the role of hypoxia and matrix remodeling enzymes in ovarian cancer dissemination. Genetics playing a crucial role in cancer metastasis is demonstrated in eight studies. Ten studies included shows receptors, enzymes, and spheroid organization in disease progression. Six studies address chemotherapeutic resistance. Intraperitoneal dissemination of ovarian cancer and the development of chemotherapeutic resistance depends on certain molecular interactions, and they can be targeted to improve patients' overall survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Surbhi Valmiki
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Mohamed A Aid
- Intensive Care Unit, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA.,Intensive Care Unit, King Fahad Military Medical Complex, Jeddah, SAU
| | - Ali R Chaitou
- Internal Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA.,Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Lebanese University, Beirut, LBN
| | - Maria Zahid
- Internal Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Mrinaal Valmiki
- Psychiatry, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Peter Fawzy
- Neurological Surgery, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Safeera Khan
- Internal Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
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10
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miR-206 as a prognostic and sensitivity biomarker for platinum chemotherapy in epithelial ovarian cancer. Cancer Cell Int 2020; 20:534. [PMID: 33292230 PMCID: PMC7641844 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-020-01623-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Drug resistance is a major obstacle to successful chemotherapy for epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC). We found a subset of miRNAs associated with the response to first-line platinum-based chemotherapy in EOC by microarray, and miR-206 was one of the most significant miRNAs. The purposes of this study were to evaluate the prognostic and platinum-resistance predictive value of miR-206 in EOC patients and to investigate the functional roles of miR-206 in regulating the platinum resistance of EOC and the underlying mechanism. Methods MiRNA expression profiling in EOC specimens was performed using a TaqMan miRNA array. miR-206 expression was confirmed by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) analysis. Overexpression of miR-206 in EOC cell lines was achieved by the stable transfection of a recombinant plasmid. In vitro assays of cisplatin cytotoxicity, cell cycle distribution, apoptosis, transwell invasion and cell scratching were employed. Connexin 43 (Cx43) expression was detected by Western blotting. Murine xenograft models were used to determine the effects of miR-206 on platinum resistance in vivo. Results miR-206 expression was increased in primary platinum-resistant EOC. High miR-206 expression was related to poor prognosis in EOC patients who received platinum-based chemotherapy and predicted chemoresistance to platinum treatment. Overexpression of miR-206 in cisplatin-sensitive EOC cell lines significantly increased cell viability, migration and invasion in the presence of cisplatin and decreased cisplatin-induced apoptosis. Cx43, a target gene of miR-206, was negatively regulated by miR-206 in EOC cell lines and significantly related to better prognosis in patients who received platinum-based chemotherapy (KmPlot). miR-206 had high expression and Cx43 had low expression in platinum-sensitive EOC cell lines compared with resistant ones. In vivo murine xenograft models showed that miR-206 profoundly promoted the chemoresistance of EOC to cisplatin treatment. Conclusion miR-206 was highly expressed in primary platinum-resistant EOCs and functionally promoted platinum resistance in part by downregulating Cx43 expression, thereby providing a useful biomarker for prognostic and platinum-resistance prediction.
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11
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Zhang M, Xiang Z, Wang F, Shan R, Li L, Chen J, Liu BA, Huang J, Sun LQ, Zhou WB. STARD4 promotes breast cancer cell malignancy. Oncol Rep 2020; 44:2487-2502. [PMID: 33125124 PMCID: PMC7610339 DOI: 10.3892/or.2020.7802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BRCA) is one of the most common malignancies encountered in women worldwide. Lipid metabolism has been found to be involved in cancer progression. Steroidogenic acute regulatory protein-related lipid transfer 4 (STARD4) is an important cholesterol transporter involved in the regulatory mechanism of intracellular cholesterol homeostasis. However, to the best of our knowledge, the molecular functions of STARD4 in BRCA are unclear. Immunohistochemical staining and public dataset analysis were performed to investigate the expression levels of STARD4 in BRCA. In the present study, high expression of STARD4 was identified in BRCA samples and higher STARD4 expression was significantly associated with shorter distant metastasis-free survival time in patients with BRCA, which indicated that STARD4 may be associated with BRCA progression. Cell cytometry system Celigo® analysis, Cell Counting K-8 assays, flow cytometry, wound healing assays and transwell assays were used to investigate the effects of STARD4 knockdown on proliferation, cell cycle, apoptosis and migration in BRCA cells. Loss-of-function assays demonstrated that STARD4 acted as an oncogene to promote proliferation and cell cycle progression, while suppressing apoptosis in BRCA cells in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, knockdown of STARD4 significantly suppressed BRCA metastasis. To assess the mechanism of action of STARD4, microarray analysis was performed following STARD4 knockdown in MDA-MB-231 cells. The data were analyzed in detail using bioinformatics, and a series of genes, including E74 like ETS transcription factor 1, cAMP responsive element binding protein 1 and p21 (RAC1) activated kinase 2, which have been previously reported to be crucial genes implicated in the malignant phenotype of cancer cells, were identified to be regulated by STARD4. Loss-of function assays demonstrated that knockdown of STARD4 suppressed BRCA proliferation and migration. These findings suggested that STARD4 had an oncogenic effect in human BRCA progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, P.R. China
| | - Zhen Xiang
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, P.R. China
| | - Feng Wang
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, P.R. China
| | - Rong Shan
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, P.R. China
| | - Ling Li
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, P.R. China
| | - Juan Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, P.R. China
| | - Bao-An Liu
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, P.R. China
| | - Juan Huang
- Hunan Province Clinic Meditech Research Center for Breast Cancer, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, P.R. China
| | - Lun-Quan Sun
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, P.R. China
| | - Wei-Bing Zhou
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, P.R. China
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12
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Crestani A, Benoit L, Touboul C, Pasquier J. Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC): Should we look closer at the microenvironment? Gynecol Oncol 2020; 159:285-294. [PMID: 32732012 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2020.07.017] [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: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/11/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The age of cancer as an isolated single-cell concept is now behind us. It is now established that epithelial ovarian cancer, like other cancers, interacts with the healthy bystander cells to influence them and takes advantage of their nutritional, immunological, disseminating and other capacities. This interaction has become a therapeutic target, as shown by the numerous studies on this subject. Intraperitoneal chemo-hyperthermia has been part of the therapeutic armamentarium for some time yet its efficiency in ovarian cancer has only been recently proven in a randomized controlled trial. However, its therapeutic performance is not revolutionary and epithelial ovarian cancer maintains a high mortality. In this review, we studied the impact of HIPEC on the microenvironment and vice versa to determine whether it could be the key to this lukewarm efficacy. We began by exploring the modalities of HIPEC and establishing the reasons that make this treatment topical. Then, we examined its impact on each element of the tumor environment to obtain a global view of the resistance mechanisms at work in HIPEC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrien Crestani
- INSERM UMRS 938, Centre de recherche Saint Antoine, Team Cancer Biology and Therapeutics, Institut Universitaire de Cancérologie, Sorbonne Université, F-75012 Paris, France; Service de chirurgie gynécologique, hôpital Tenon, 4, rue de la Chine, 75012 Paris, France.
| | - Louise Benoit
- INSERM UMRS 938, Centre de recherche Saint Antoine, Team Cancer Biology and Therapeutics, Institut Universitaire de Cancérologie, Sorbonne Université, F-75012 Paris, France; Service de chirurgie gynécologique, hôpital Tenon, 4, rue de la Chine, 75012 Paris, France
| | - Cyril Touboul
- INSERM UMRS 938, Centre de recherche Saint Antoine, Team Cancer Biology and Therapeutics, Institut Universitaire de Cancérologie, Sorbonne Université, F-75012 Paris, France; Service de chirurgie gynécologique, hôpital Tenon, 4, rue de la Chine, 75012 Paris, France
| | - Jennifer Pasquier
- INSERM UMRS 938, Centre de recherche Saint Antoine, Team Cancer Biology and Therapeutics, Institut Universitaire de Cancérologie, Sorbonne Université, F-75012 Paris, France; Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, Qatar
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13
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14
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Alkmin S, Brodziski R, Simon H, Hinton D, Goldsmith RH, Patankar M, Campagnola P. Migration dynamics of ovarian epithelial cells on micro-fabricated image-based models of normal and malignant stroma. Acta Biomater 2019; 100:92-104. [PMID: 31568876 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2019.09.037] [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: 05/30/2019] [Revised: 09/25/2019] [Accepted: 09/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
A profound remodeling of the collagen in the extracellular matrix (ECM) occurs in human ovarian cancer but it is unknown how this affects migration dynamics and ultimately tumor growth. Here, we investigate the influence of collagen morphology on ovarian cell migration through the use of second harmonic generation (SHG) image-based models of ovarian tumors. The scaffolds are fabricated by multiphoton excited (MPE) polymerization, where the process is akin to 3D printing except it achieves much greater resolution (∼0.5 µm) and utilizes collagen and collagen analogs. We used this technique to create scaffolds with complex 3D submicron features representing the collagen fiber morphology in normal stroma, high risk stroma, benign tumors, and high grade ovarian tumors. We found the highly aligned malignant stromal structure promoted enhanced motility and also increased cell and f-Actin alignment relative to the other tissues. However, using models based on fiber crimping characteristics, we found cells seeded on linear fibers based on normal stromal models yielded the highest degree of alignment but least motility. These results show that both the fiber properties themselves and as well as their overall alignment govern the resulting migration dynamics. These models cannot be synthesized by other conventional fabrication methods and we suggest the MPE image-based fabrication method will enable a variety of studies in cancer biology. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: The extracellular matrix collagen in ovarian cancer is highly remodeled but the consequences on cell function remain unknown. It is important to understand the operative cell matrix interactions, as this could lead to better prognostics and better prediction of therapeutic efficacy. We probe migration dynamics using high resolution (∼0.5 µm) multiphoton excited fabrication to synthesize scaffolds whose designs are derived directly from Second Harmonic Generation microscope images of the collagen in normal ovarian tissues as well as benign and malignant tumors. Collectively our results show the importance of the matrix morphology (fiber shape and alignment) on driving cell motility, cell shape and f-Actin alignment. These collagen-based models have complex fiber morphology and cannot be created by conventional fabrication technologies.
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15
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Demirbakan B, Sezgintürk MK. A novel electrochemical immunosensor based on disposable ITO-PET electrodes for sensitive detection of PAK 2 antigen. J Electroanal Chem (Lausanne) 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jelechem.2019.113304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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16
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Yao GW, Bai JR, Zhang DP. P21 activated kinase 2 promotes pancreatic cancer growth and metastasis. Oncol Lett 2019; 17:3709-3718. [PMID: 30930982 PMCID: PMC6425405 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2019.10040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2018] [Accepted: 01/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer has an overall 5-year survival rate of only 9%, due to its rapid metastasis and poor prognosis. To combat this disease, novel therapeutic targets and biomarkers are required. In this study, immunohistochemistry was used to detect the expression of P21 activated kinase 2 (PAK2) protein in the tissues of cancer and the paired adjacent normal tissues. The association between PAK2 and the clinicopathologic features of patients with pancreatic cancer was subsequently analyzed. The results indicated that PAK2 was overexpressed in the cancer tissues, which indicated high pTNM stage, poor tumor grade, lymph node metastasis and vascular invasion. In addition, the results demonstrated evidence of a close association between PAK2 expression and poor prognosis of patients with pancreatic cancer. The results also suggested that PAK2 may promote pancreatic cancer cell proliferation and migration in vitro through clone formation, MTT, wound healing and Transwell assays. The present study further identified that PAK2 could stimulate pancreatic cancer growth and metastasis in mice. Decreased expression of proliferation marker protein Ki-67 and proliferating cell nuclear antigen in response to PAK2 knockdown further verified the role of PAK2 in promoting cell proliferation by western blot analysis. In addition, the expression levels of matrix metallopeptidase (MMP) 2 and MMP9 were decreased in PANC1 and BxPC3 cell lines transfected with PAK2-short hairpin RNA as indicated in western blot analysis, suggesting a function of PAK2 in promoting cell invasion. Collectively, these findings revealed a critical role for PAK2 in the development of pancreatic cancer and may have important implications for the management of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guo-Wang Yao
- Department of the 1st Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Tianjin Nankai Hospital, Tianjin 300100, P.R. China
| | - Jing-Rui Bai
- Department of the 1st Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Tianjin Nankai Hospital, Tianjin 300100, P.R. China
| | - Da-Peng Zhang
- Department of the 1st Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Tianjin Nankai Hospital, Tianjin 300100, P.R. China
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17
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Zhang C, Wang X, Anaya Y, Parodi L, Cheng L, Anderson ML, Hawkins SM. Distinct molecular pathways in ovarian endometrioid adenocarcinoma with concurrent endometriosis. Int J Cancer 2018; 143:2505-2515. [PMID: 30152524 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.31768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2018] [Revised: 05/19/2018] [Accepted: 07/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Women with endometriosis, a benign growth of endometrial tissue outside the uterine cavity, are at increased risk of specific histotypes of epithelial ovarian cancer, such as ovarian endometrioid adenocarcinoma (OEA). Women with OEA who have endometriosis at time of surgical staging demonstrate improved clinical prognosis compared to women with OEA without evidence of endometriosis. However, the molecular contributions of the endometriotic tumor microenvironment to these ovarian cancers remain poorly understood. As a starting point, we used a platform for genome-wide transcriptomic profiling to compare specimens of OEA from women with and without concurrent endometriosis and benign reproductive tract tissues, including proliferative endometrium and typical and atypical endometrioma samples (n = 20). Principle component analysis revealed distinct clustering between benign and malignant samples as well as malignant samples with and without concurrent endometriosis. Examination of gene signatures revealed that OEA with concurrent endometriosis contained a unique molecular signature compared to OEA without concurrent endometriosis, distinguished by 682 unique genes differentially expressed (fold change < or >1.5, p < 0.01). Bioinformatic analysis of these differentially expressed gene products using ingenuity pathway analysis revealed activation of NFkB signaling, an inflammatory signaling pathway constitutively active in endometriosis. DAVID functional annotation clustering further revealed enrichment in RAS signaling as both cytoskeleton organization and GTPase regulator activity relied heavily on RAS protein signal transduction. Gene set enrichment analysis highlighted immune and inflammatory nodes involved in OEA with concurrent endometriosis. These observations provide novel resources for understanding molecular subtleties potentially involved in OEA within the context of the endometriotic tumor microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chi Zhang
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
- Center for Computational Biology and Bioinformatics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Xiyin Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Yanett Anaya
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
| | - Luca Parodi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Istituto Clinico Sant' Anna, Brescia, Italy
| | - Lijun Cheng
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
- Center for Computational Biology and Bioinformatics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH
| | - Matthew L Anderson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
| | - Shannon M Hawkins
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
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18
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Regulating Cdc42 and Its Signaling Pathways in Cancer: Small Molecules and MicroRNA as New Treatment Candidates. Molecules 2018; 23:molecules23040787. [PMID: 29596304 PMCID: PMC6017947 DOI: 10.3390/molecules23040787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2018] [Revised: 03/19/2018] [Accepted: 03/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite great improvements in the diagnosis and treatment of neoplasms, metastatic disease is still the leading cause of death in cancer patients, with mortality rates still rising. Given this background, new ways to treat cancer will be important for development of improved cancer control strategies. Cdc42 is a member of the Rho GTPase family and plays an important role in cell-to-cell adhesion, formation of cytoskeletal structures, and cell cycle regulation. It thus influences cellular proliferation, transformation, and homeostasis, as well as the cellular migration and invasion processes underlying tumor formation. Cdc42 acts as a collection point for signal transduction and regulates multiple signaling pathways. Moreover, recent studies show that in most human cancers Cdc42 is abnormally expressed and promoting neoplastic growth and metastasis. Regarding possible new treatments for cancer, miRNA and small molecules targeting Cdc42 and related pathways have been recently found to be effective on cancer. In this review, we analyze the newly recognized regulation mechanisms for Cdc42 and Cdc42-related signal pathways, and particularly new treatments using small molecules and miRNAs to inhibit the abnormal overexpression of Cdc42 that may slow down the metastasis process, improve cancer therapy and lead to novel strategies for development of antineoplastic drugs.
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19
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Nerve growth factor modulates the tumor cells migration in ovarian cancer through the WNT/β-catenin pathway. Oncotarget 2018; 7:81026-81048. [PMID: 27835587 PMCID: PMC5348374 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.13186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2016] [Accepted: 10/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Nerve growth factor (NGF)/nerve growth factor receptors (NGFRs) axis and canonical WNT/β-catenin pathway have shown to play crucial roles in tumor initiation, progression and prognosis. But little did we know the relationship between them in modulation of tumor progress. In this report, we found that NGF/NGFRs and β-catenin were coexpression in ovarian cancer cell lines, and NGF can decrease the expression level of β-catenin and affect its activities, which may be related to the NGF-induced down-regulation of B-cell CLL/lymphoma 9-like (BCL9L, BCL9-2). Furthermore, NGF can also increase or decrease the downstream target gene expression levels of WNT/β-catenin depending on the cell types. Especially, we created a novel in vitro cell growth model based on a microfluidic device to intuitively observe the effects of NGF/NGFRs on the motility behaviors of ovarian cancer cells. The results showed that the migration area and maximum distance into three dimensional (3D) matrigel were decreased in CAOV3 and OVCAR3 cells, but increased in SKOV3 cells following the stimulation with NGF. In addition, we found that the cell colony area was down-regulated in CAOV3 cells, however, it was augmented in OVCAR3 cells after treatment with NGF. The inhibitors of NGF/NGFRs, such as Ro 08-2750, K252a and LM11A-31,can all block NGF-stimulated changes of gene expression or migratory behavior on ovarian cancer cells. The different results among ovarian cancer cells illustrated the heterogeneity and complexity of ovarian cancer. Collectively, our results suggested for the first time that NGF is functionally linked to β-catenin in the migration of human ovarian cancer cells, which may be a novel therapeutic perspective to prevent the spread of ovarian carcinomas by studying the interaction between NGF/NGFRs and canonical WNT/β-catenin signaling.
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20
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Edlinger L, Berger-Becvar A, Menzl I, Hoermann G, Greiner G, Grundschober E, Bago-Horvath Z, Al-Zoughbi W, Hoefler G, Brostjan C, Gille L, Moriggl R, Spittler A, Sexl V, Hoelbl-Kovacic A. Expansion of BCR/ABL1 + cells requires PAK2 but not PAK1. Br J Haematol 2017; 179:229-241. [PMID: 28707321 PMCID: PMC5655792 DOI: 10.1111/bjh.14833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2017] [Accepted: 05/30/2017] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
The p21‐activated kinases (PAKs) are key nodes in oncogenic signalling pathways controlling growth, survival, and motility of cancer cells. Their activity is increased in many human cancers and is associated with poor prognosis. To date, PAK deregulation has mainly been studied in solid tumours, where PAK1 and PAK4 are the main isoforms deregulated. We show that PAK1 and PAK2 are the critical isoforms in a BCR/ABL1+ haematopoietic malignancy. In suspension, leukaemic cells deficient for PAK1 and PAK2 undergo apoptosis, while the loss of either protein is well tolerated. Transfer of medium conditioned by shPAK2‐ but not shPAK1‐expressing leukaemic cells interferes with endothelial cell growth. We found that leukaemic cells produce exosomes containing PAK2. Transfer of isolated exosomes supports endothelial cell proliferation. In parallel, we found that leukaemic cells explicitly require PAK2 to grow towards an extracellular matrix. PAK2‐deficient cells fail to form colonies in methylcellulose and to induce lymphomas in vivo. PAK2 might therefore be the critical isoform in leukaemic cells by controlling tumour growth in a dual manner: vascularization via exosome‐mediated transfer to endothelial cells and remodelling of the extracellular matrix. This finding suggests that the PAK2 isoform represents a promising target for the treatment of haematological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leo Edlinger
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Angelika Berger-Becvar
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria.,Department of Chemical and Physical Sciences, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, ON, Canada
| | - Ingeborg Menzl
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Gregor Hoermann
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Georg Greiner
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Eva Grundschober
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Zsuzsanna Bago-Horvath
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria.,Clinical Institute of Pathology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Wael Al-Zoughbi
- Institute of Pathology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Gerald Hoefler
- Institute of Pathology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Christine Brostjan
- Department of Surgery, Research Laboratories, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna General Hospital, Vienna, Austria
| | - Lars Gille
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Richard Moriggl
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Cancer Research (LBI-CR), Vienna, Austria.,Institute of Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Andreas Spittler
- Core Facility Flow Cytometry & Department of Surgery, Research Laboratories, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Veronika Sexl
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Andrea Hoelbl-Kovacic
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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21
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Deng WW, Wu L, Bu LL, Liu JF, Li YC, Ma SR, Yu GT, Mao L, Zhang WF, Sun ZJ. PAK2 promotes migration and proliferation of salivary gland adenoid cystic carcinoma. Am J Transl Res 2016; 8:3387-3397. [PMID: 27648129 PMCID: PMC5009391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2016] [Accepted: 07/08/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
P21 activated kinase 2 (PAK2) is a member of Group I PAKs family and highly expressed in various cancers. Current studies have demonstrated that PAK2 played a pivotal role in tumor progression. However, the role of PAK2 in salivary adenoid cystic carcinoma is still unclear. This study aims to explore the expression and the function of PAK2 in AdCC. Human salivary gland tissue microarray, including 18 normal salivary glands (NSG), 12 pleomorphic adenoma (PMA) and 72 AdCC, and immunohistochemistry were used to evaluate the expression of PAK2. The result showed that PAK2 was significantly increased in AdCC compared with NSG and PMA. Then the Pearson correlation analysis using serial tissue sections showed a close correlation of PAK2 with Cyclin D1, Phospho-STAT3 at Tyrosine 705 (p-STAT3) and Ki-67. Further in vitro study utilizing PAK2 knockdown via siRNA transfection revealed significantly reduced migration and proliferation of AdCC cell lines compared with control group. Knockdown of PAK2 decreased the expression of Cyclin D1 in AdCC cell lines. In addition, the inhibition of STAT3 reduced the expression of PAK2 in AdCC cell lines. These findings suggested that PAK2 promotes AdCC cell migration and proliferation and may be a potential therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Wei Deng
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Wuhan UniversityWuhan, China
| | - Lei Wu
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Wuhan UniversityWuhan, China
| | - Lin-Lin Bu
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Wuhan UniversityWuhan, China
| | - Jian-Feng Liu
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Wuhan UniversityWuhan, China
| | - Yi-Cun Li
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Wuhan UniversityWuhan, China
| | - Si-Rui Ma
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Wuhan UniversityWuhan, China
| | - Guang-Tao Yu
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Wuhan UniversityWuhan, China
| | - Liang Mao
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Wuhan UniversityWuhan, China
| | - Wen-Feng Zhang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan UniversityWuhan 430079, China
| | - Zhi-Jun Sun
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Wuhan UniversityWuhan, China
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan UniversityWuhan 430079, China
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22
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Cho A, Howell VM, Colvin EK. The Extracellular Matrix in Epithelial Ovarian Cancer - A Piece of a Puzzle. Front Oncol 2015; 5:245. [PMID: 26579497 PMCID: PMC4629462 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2015.00245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2015] [Accepted: 10/15/2015] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Epithelial ovarian cancer is the fifth leading cause of cancer-related deaths in women and the most lethal gynecological malignancy. Extracellular matrix (ECM) is an integral component of both the normal and tumor microenvironment. ECM composition varies between tissues and is crucial for maintaining normal function and homeostasis. Dysregulation and aberrant deposition or loss of ECM components is implicated in ovarian cancer progression. The mechanisms by which tumor cells induce ECM remodeling to promote a malignant phenotype are yet to be elucidated. A thorough understanding of the role of the ECM in ovarian cancer is needed for the development of effective biomarkers and new therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Cho
- School of Medical and Molecular Biosciences, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Bill Walsh Translational Cancer Research Laboratory, Kolling Institute, Northern Sydney Local Health District, St. Leonards, NSW, Australia
| | - Viive M. Howell
- Bill Walsh Translational Cancer Research Laboratory, Kolling Institute, Northern Sydney Local Health District, St. Leonards, NSW, Australia
- Sydney Medical School Northern, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Emily K. Colvin
- Bill Walsh Translational Cancer Research Laboratory, Kolling Institute, Northern Sydney Local Health District, St. Leonards, NSW, Australia
- Sydney Medical School Northern, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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