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Sesarman A, Luput L, Rauca VF, Patras L, Licarete E, Meszaros MS, Dume BR, Negrea G, Toma VA, Muntean D, Porfire A, Banciu M. Targeting of M2 macrophages with IL-13-functionalized liposomal prednisolone inhibits melanoma angiogenesis in vivo. J Liposome Res 2024:1-12. [PMID: 38379249 DOI: 10.1080/08982104.2024.2315452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
The intricate cooperation between cancer cells and nontumor stromal cells within melanoma microenvironment (MME) enables tumor progression and metastasis. We previously demonstrated that the interplay between tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) and melanoma cells can be disrupted by using long-circulating liposomes (LCLs) encapsulating prednisolone phosphate (PLP) (LCL-PLP) that inhibited tumor angiogenesis coordinated by TAMs. In this study, our goal was to improve LCL specificity for protumor macrophages (M2-like (i.e., TAMs) macrophages) and to induce a more precise accumulation at tumor site by loading PLP into IL-13-conjugated liposomes (IL-13-LCL-PLP), since IL-13 receptor is overexpressed in this type of macrophages. The IL-13-LCL-PLP liposomal formulation was obtained by covalent attachment of thiolated IL-13 to maleimide-functionalized LCL-PLP. C57BL/6 mice bearing B16.F10 s.c melanoma tumors were used to investigate the antitumor action of LCL-PLP and IL-13-LCL-PLP. Our results showed that IL-13-LCL-PLP formulation remained stable in biological fluids after 24h and it was preferentially taken up by M2 polarized macrophages. IL-13-LCL-PLP induced strong tumor growth inhibition compared to nonfunctionalized LCL-PLP at the same dose, by altering TAMs-mediated angiogenesis and oxidative stress, limiting resistance to apoptosis and invasive features in MME. These findings suggest IL-13-LCL-PLP might become a promising delivery platform for chemotherapeutic agents in melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alina Sesarman
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, and Center of Systems Biology, Biodiversity and Bioresources, Faculty of Biology and Geology, Babes-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Lavinia Luput
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, and Center of Systems Biology, Biodiversity and Bioresources, Faculty of Biology and Geology, Babes-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Valentin-Florian Rauca
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, and Center of Systems Biology, Biodiversity and Bioresources, Faculty of Biology and Geology, Babes-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Laura Patras
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, and Center of Systems Biology, Biodiversity and Bioresources, Faculty of Biology and Geology, Babes-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Emilia Licarete
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, and Center of Systems Biology, Biodiversity and Bioresources, Faculty of Biology and Geology, Babes-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Molecular Biology Centre, Institute for Interdisciplinary Research in Bio-Nano-Sciences of Babes-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Marta-Szilvia Meszaros
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, and Center of Systems Biology, Biodiversity and Bioresources, Faculty of Biology and Geology, Babes-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Bogdan Razvan Dume
- Doctoral School in Integrative Biology, Faculty of Biology and Geology, "Babes-Bolyai" University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Giorgiana Negrea
- Doctoral School in Integrative Biology, Faculty of Biology and Geology, "Babes-Bolyai" University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Vlad-Alexandru Toma
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, and Center of Systems Biology, Biodiversity and Bioresources, Faculty of Biology and Geology, Babes-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Department of Experimental Biology and Biochemistry, nstitute of Biological Research, branch of NIRDBS Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Dana Muntean
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Iuliu Hatieganu", Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Alina Porfire
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Iuliu Hatieganu", Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Manuela Banciu
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, and Center of Systems Biology, Biodiversity and Bioresources, Faculty of Biology and Geology, Babes-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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Negrea G, Rauca VF, Meszaros MS, Patras L, Luput L, Licarete E, Toma VA, Porfire A, Muntean D, Sesarman A, Banciu M. Active Tumor-Targeting Nano-formulations Containing Simvastatin and Doxorubicin Inhibit Melanoma Growth and Angiogenesis. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:870347. [PMID: 35450036 PMCID: PMC9016200 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.870347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary melanoma aggressiveness is determined by rapid selection and growth of cellular clones resistant to conventional treatments, resulting in metastasis and recurrence. In addition, a reprogrammed tumor-immune microenvironment supports melanoma progression and response to therapy. There is an urgent need to develop selective and specific drug delivery strategies for modulating the interaction between cancer cells and immune cells within the tumor microenvironment. This study proposes a novel combination therapy consisting of sequential administration of simvastatin incorporated in IL-13-functionalized long-circulating liposomes (IL-13-LCL-SIM) and doxorubicin encapsulated into PEG-coated extracellular vesicles (PEG-EV-DOX) to selectively target both tumor-associated macrophages and melanoma cells. To this end, IL-13 was conjugated to LCL-SIM which was obtained via the lipid film hydration method. EVs enriched from melanoma cells were passively loaded with doxorubicin. The cellular uptake of rhodamine-tagged nano-particles and the antiproliferative potential of the treatments by using the ELISA BrdU-colorimetric immunoassay were investigated in vitro. Subsequently, the therapeutic agents were administered i.v in B16.F10 melanoma-bearing mice, and tumor size was monitored during treatment. The molecular mechanisms of antitumor activity were investigated using angiogenic and inflammatory protein arrays and western blot analysis of invasion (HIF-1) and apoptosis markers (Bcl-xL and Bax). Quantification of oxidative stress marker malondialdehyde (MDA) was determined by HPLC. Immunohistochemical staining of angiogenic markers CD31 and VEGF and of pan-macrophage marker F4/80 was performed to validate our findings. The in vitro data showed that IL-13-functionalized LCL were preferentially taken up by tumor-associated macrophages and indicated that sequential administration of IL-13-LCL-SIM and PEG-EV-DOX had the strongest antiproliferative effect on tumor cells co-cultured with tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs). Accordingly, strong inhibition of tumor growth in the group treated with the sequential combination therapy was reported in vivo. Our data suggested that the antitumor action of the combined treatment was exerted through strong inhibition of several pro-angiogenic factors (VEGF, bFGF, and CD31) and oxidative stress-induced upregulation of pro-apoptotic protein Bax. This novel drug delivery strategy based on combined active targeting of both cancer cells and immune cells was able to induce a potent antitumor effect by disruption of the reciprocal interactions between TAMs and melanoma cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgiana Negrea
- Doctoral School in Integrative Biology, Faculty of Biology and Geology, "Babes-Bolyai" University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Valentin-Florian Rauca
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Center of Systems Biology, Biodiversity and Bioresources, Faculty of Biology and Geology, "Babes-Bolyai" University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.,Department of Dermatology and Allergology, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Marta Szilvia Meszaros
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Center of Systems Biology, Biodiversity and Bioresources, Faculty of Biology and Geology, "Babes-Bolyai" University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Laura Patras
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Center of Systems Biology, Biodiversity and Bioresources, Faculty of Biology and Geology, "Babes-Bolyai" University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Lavinia Luput
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Center of Systems Biology, Biodiversity and Bioresources, Faculty of Biology and Geology, "Babes-Bolyai" University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Emilia Licarete
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Center of Systems Biology, Biodiversity and Bioresources, Faculty of Biology and Geology, "Babes-Bolyai" University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.,Molecular Biology Centre, Institute for Interdisciplinary Research in Bio-Nano-Sciences, Babes-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Vlad-Alexandru Toma
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Center of Systems Biology, Biodiversity and Bioresources, Faculty of Biology and Geology, "Babes-Bolyai" University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.,Department of Experimental Biology and Biochemistry, Institute of Biological Research, Branch of NIRDBS Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Alina Porfire
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Iuliu Hatieganu", Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Dana Muntean
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Iuliu Hatieganu", Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Alina Sesarman
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Center of Systems Biology, Biodiversity and Bioresources, Faculty of Biology and Geology, "Babes-Bolyai" University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Manuela Banciu
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Center of Systems Biology, Biodiversity and Bioresources, Faculty of Biology and Geology, "Babes-Bolyai" University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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3
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Ray SK, Mukherjee S. Directing hypoxic tumor microenvironment and HIF to illuminate cancer immunotherapy's existing prospects and challenges in drug targets. Curr Drug Targets 2022; 23:471-485. [PMID: 35021970 DOI: 10.2174/1389450123666220111114649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Revised: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Cancer is now also reflected as a disease of the tumor microenvironment, primarily supposed to be a decontrolled genetic and cellular expression disease. Over the past two decades, significant and rapid progress has been made in recognizing the dynamics of the tumor's microenvironment and its contribution to influencing the response to various anti-cancer therapies and drugs. Modulations in the tumor microenvironment and immune checkpoint blockade are interesting in cancer immunotherapy and drug targets. Simultaneously, the immunotherapeutic strategy can be done by modulating the immune regulatory pathway; however, the tumor microenvironment plays an essential role in suppressing the antitumor's immunity by its substantial heterogeneity. Hypoxia inducible factor (HIF) is a significant contributor to solid tumor heterogeneity and a key stressor in the tumor microenvironment to drive adaptations to prevent immune surveillance. Checkpoint inhibitors here halt the ability of cancer cells to stop the immune system from activating, and in turn, amplify your body's immune system to help destroy cancer cells. Common checkpoints that these inhibitors affect are the PD-1/PD-L1 and CTLA-4 pathways and important drugs involved are Ipilimumab and Nivolumab, mainly along with other drugs in this group. Targeting the hypoxic tumor microenvironment may provide a novel immunotherapy strategy, break down traditional cancer therapy resistance, and build the framework for personalized precision medicine and cancer drug targets. We hope that this knowledge can provide insight into the therapeutic potential of targeting Hypoxia and help to develop novel combination approaches of cancer drugs to increase the effectiveness of existing cancer therapies, including immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sukhes Mukherjee
- Department of Biochemistry. All India Institute of Medical Sciences. Bhopal, Madhya pradesh-462020. India
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Zhu PF, Wang MX, Chen ZL, Yang L. Targeting the Tumor Microenvironment: A Literature Review of the Novel Anti-Tumor Mechanism of Statins. Front Oncol 2021; 11:761107. [PMID: 34858839 PMCID: PMC8632059 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.761107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Statins is widely used in clinical practice as lipid-lowering drugs and has been proven to be effective in the treatment of cardiovascular, endocrine, metabolic syndrome and other diseases. The latest preclinical evidence shows that statins have anti-proliferation, pro-apoptotic, anti-invasion and radiotherapy sensitization effects on tumor cells, suggesting that statins may become a new type of anti-tumor drugs. For a long time, mevalonate pathway has been proved to play a supporting role in the development of tumor cells. As an effective inhibitor of mevalonate pathway, statins have been proved to have a direct auxiliary anti-tumor effect in a large number of studies. In addition, anti-tumor effects of statins through ferroptosis, pyroptosis, autophagy and tumor microenvironment (TME) have also been gradually discovered. However, the specific mechanism of the antitumor effect of statins in the tumor microenvironment has not been clearly elucidated. Herein, we reviewed the antitumor effects of statins in tumor microenvironment, focusing on hypoxia microenvironment, immune microenvironment, metabolic microenvironment, acid microenvironment and mechanical microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng-Fei Zhu
- Cancer Center, Department of Medical Oncology, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, People’s Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
- Graduate School of Clinical Medicine, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, China
| | - Ming-Xing Wang
- Cancer Center, Department of Medical Oncology, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, People’s Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
- Graduate School of Clinical Medicine, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, China
| | - Zhe-Ling Chen
- Cancer Center, Department of Medical Oncology, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, People’s Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Liu Yang
- Cancer Center, Department of Medical Oncology, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, People’s Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
- Graduate School of Clinical Medicine, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, China
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5
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Rauca VF, Patras L, Luput L, Licarete E, Toma VA, Porfire A, Mot AC, Rakosy-Tican E, Sesarman A, Banciu M. Remodeling tumor microenvironment by liposomal codelivery of DMXAA and simvastatin inhibits malignant melanoma progression. Sci Rep 2021; 11:22102. [PMID: 34764332 PMCID: PMC8585864 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-01284-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Anti-angiogenic therapies for melanoma have not yet been translated into meaningful clinical benefit for patients, due to the development of drug-induced resistance in cancer cells, mainly caused by hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α) overexpression and enhanced oxidative stress mediated by tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs). Our previous study demonstrated synergistic antitumor actions of simvastatin (SIM) and 5,6-dimethylxanthenone-4-acetic acid (DMXAA) on an in vitro melanoma model via suppression of the aggressive phenotype of melanoma cells and inhibition of TAMs-mediated angiogenesis. Therefore, we took the advantage of long circulating liposomes (LCL) superior tumor targeting capacity to efficiently deliver SIM and DMXAA to B16.F10 melanoma in vivo, with the final aim of improving the outcome of the anti-angiogenic therapy. Thus, we assessed the effects of this novel combined tumor-targeted treatment on s.c. B16.F10 murine melanoma growth and on the production of critical markers involved in tumor development and progression. Our results showed that the combined liposomal therapy almost totally inhibited (> 90%) the growth of melanoma tumors, due to the enhancement of anti-angiogenic effects of LCL-DMXAA by LCL-SIM and simultaneous induction of a pro-apoptotic state of tumor cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME). These effects were accompanied by the partial re-education of TAMs towards an M1 phenotype and augmented by combined therapy-induced suppression of major invasion and metastasis promoters (HIF-1α, pAP-1 c-Jun, and MMPs). Thus, this novel therapy holds the potential to remodel the TME, by suppressing its most important malignant biological capabilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentin-Florian Rauca
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, and Center of Systems Biology, Biodiversity and Bioresources, Faculty of Biology and Geology, Babes-Bolyai University, 5-7 Clinicilor Street, 400006, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, 29 Biedersteiner Street, 80802, Munich, Germany
| | - Laura Patras
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, and Center of Systems Biology, Biodiversity and Bioresources, Faculty of Biology and Geology, Babes-Bolyai University, 5-7 Clinicilor Street, 400006, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Lavinia Luput
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, and Center of Systems Biology, Biodiversity and Bioresources, Faculty of Biology and Geology, Babes-Bolyai University, 5-7 Clinicilor Street, 400006, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Emilia Licarete
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, and Center of Systems Biology, Biodiversity and Bioresources, Faculty of Biology and Geology, Babes-Bolyai University, 5-7 Clinicilor Street, 400006, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Molecular Biology Centre, Institute for Interdisciplinary Research in Bio-Nano-Sciences of Babes-Bolyai University, 42 Treboniu Laurian Street, 400271, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Vlad-Alexandru Toma
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, and Center of Systems Biology, Biodiversity and Bioresources, Faculty of Biology and Geology, Babes-Bolyai University, 5-7 Clinicilor Street, 400006, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Department of Experimental Biology and Biochemistry, Institute of Biological Research, Branch of NIRDBS Bucharest, 48 Republicii Street, 400015, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Department of Molecular and Biomolecular Physics, National Institute of Research and Development for Isotopic and Molecular Technologies, 67-103 Donath Street, 400293, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Alina Porfire
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Iuliu Hatieganu", 8 Babeş Street, 400012, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Augustin Catalin Mot
- Research Center for Advanced Chemical Analysis, Instrumentation and Chemometrics, Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Babes-Bolyai University, 11 Arany Janos Street, 400028, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Elena Rakosy-Tican
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, and Center of Systems Biology, Biodiversity and Bioresources, Faculty of Biology and Geology, Babes-Bolyai University, 5-7 Clinicilor Street, 400006, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Alina Sesarman
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, and Center of Systems Biology, Biodiversity and Bioresources, Faculty of Biology and Geology, Babes-Bolyai University, 5-7 Clinicilor Street, 400006, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
| | - Manuela Banciu
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, and Center of Systems Biology, Biodiversity and Bioresources, Faculty of Biology and Geology, Babes-Bolyai University, 5-7 Clinicilor Street, 400006, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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The role of Hypoxia-Inducible Factor-1alpha and its signaling in melanoma. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 141:111873. [PMID: 34225012 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.111873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Revised: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Adaptation to the loss of O2 is regulated via the activity of hypoxia-inducible factors such as Hypoxia-Inducible Factor-1 (HIF-1). HIF-1 acts as a main transcriptional mediator in the tissue hypoxia response that regulates over 1000 genes related to low oxygen tension. The role of HIF-1α in oncogenic processes includes angiogenesis, tumor metabolism, cell proliferation, and metastasis, which has been examined in various malignancies, such as melanoma. Melanoma is accompanied by a high death rate and a cancer type whose incidence has risen over the last decades. The linkage between O2 loss and melanogenesis had extensively studied over decades. Recent studies revealed that HIF-1α contributes to melanoma progression via different signaling pathways such as PI3K/Akt/mTOR, RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK, JAK/STAT, Wnt/β-catenin, Notch, and NF-κB. Also, various microRNAs (miRs) are known to mediate the HIF-1α role in melanoma. Therefore, HIF-1α offers a diagnostic/prognostic biomarker and a candidate for targeted therapy in melanoma.
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Shomali T, Ashrafi M. Statins, cancer, and oxidative stress. Cancer 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-819547-5.00023-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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8
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Licarete E, Rauca VF, Luput L, Drotar D, Stejerean I, Patras L, Dume B, Toma VA, Porfire A, Gherman C, Sesarman A, Banciu M. Overcoming Intrinsic Doxorubicin Resistance in Melanoma by Anti-Angiogenic and Anti-Metastatic Effects of Liposomal Prednisolone Phosphate on Tumor Microenvironment. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21082968. [PMID: 32340166 PMCID: PMC7215436 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21082968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2020] [Revised: 04/13/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Regardless of recent progress, melanoma is very difficult to treat, mainly due to the drug resistance modulated by tumor cells as well as by the tumor microenvironment (TME). Among the immune cells recruited at the tumor site, tumor associated macrophages (TAMs) are the most abundant, promoting important tumorigenic processes: angiogenesis, inflammation and invasiveness. Furthermore, it has been shown that TAMs are involved in mediating the drug resistance of melanoma cells. Thus, in the present study, we used liposomal formulation of prednisolone disodium phosphate (LCL-PLP) to inhibit the protumor function of TAMs with the aim to sensitize the melanoma cells to the cytotoxic drug doxorubicin (DOX) to which human melanoma has intrinsic resistance. Consequently, we evaluated the in vivo effects of the concomitant administration of LCL-PLP and liposomal formulation of DOX (LCL-DOX) on B16.F10 melanoma growth and on the production of key molecular markers for tumor development. Our results demonstrated that the concomitant administration of LCL-PLP and LCL-DOX induced a strong inhibition of tumor growth, primarily by inhibiting TAMs-mediated angiogenesis as well as the tumor production of MMP-2 and AP-1. Moreover, our data suggested that the combined therapy also affected TME as the number of infiltrated macrophages in melanoma microenvironment was reduced significantly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilia Licarete
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology and Geology, Babes-Bolyai University, 400006 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (E.L.); (V.F.R.); (L.L.); (D.D.); (I.S.); (L.P.); (B.D.); (V.A.T.); (M.B.)
- Molecular Biology Centre, Institute for Interdisciplinary Research in Bio-Nano-Sciences, Babes-Bolyai University, 400271 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Valentin Florian Rauca
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology and Geology, Babes-Bolyai University, 400006 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (E.L.); (V.F.R.); (L.L.); (D.D.); (I.S.); (L.P.); (B.D.); (V.A.T.); (M.B.)
- Centre of Systems Biology, Biodiversity and Bioresources, Faculty of Biology and Geology, Babes-Bolyai University, 400006 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Lavinia Luput
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology and Geology, Babes-Bolyai University, 400006 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (E.L.); (V.F.R.); (L.L.); (D.D.); (I.S.); (L.P.); (B.D.); (V.A.T.); (M.B.)
- Centre of Systems Biology, Biodiversity and Bioresources, Faculty of Biology and Geology, Babes-Bolyai University, 400006 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Denise Drotar
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology and Geology, Babes-Bolyai University, 400006 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (E.L.); (V.F.R.); (L.L.); (D.D.); (I.S.); (L.P.); (B.D.); (V.A.T.); (M.B.)
| | - Ioana Stejerean
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology and Geology, Babes-Bolyai University, 400006 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (E.L.); (V.F.R.); (L.L.); (D.D.); (I.S.); (L.P.); (B.D.); (V.A.T.); (M.B.)
| | - Laura Patras
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology and Geology, Babes-Bolyai University, 400006 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (E.L.); (V.F.R.); (L.L.); (D.D.); (I.S.); (L.P.); (B.D.); (V.A.T.); (M.B.)
- Centre of Systems Biology, Biodiversity and Bioresources, Faculty of Biology and Geology, Babes-Bolyai University, 400006 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Bogdan Dume
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology and Geology, Babes-Bolyai University, 400006 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (E.L.); (V.F.R.); (L.L.); (D.D.); (I.S.); (L.P.); (B.D.); (V.A.T.); (M.B.)
| | - Vlad Alexandru Toma
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology and Geology, Babes-Bolyai University, 400006 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (E.L.); (V.F.R.); (L.L.); (D.D.); (I.S.); (L.P.); (B.D.); (V.A.T.); (M.B.)
- Institute of Biological Research, 400015 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- National Institute for Research and Development of Isotopic and Molecular Technologies, 400293 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Alina Porfire
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - Claudia Gherman
- Department of Functional Genomics and Experimental Pathology, The Oncology Institute “Prof. Dr. Ion Chiricuta”, 400015 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - Alina Sesarman
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology and Geology, Babes-Bolyai University, 400006 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (E.L.); (V.F.R.); (L.L.); (D.D.); (I.S.); (L.P.); (B.D.); (V.A.T.); (M.B.)
- Centre of Systems Biology, Biodiversity and Bioresources, Faculty of Biology and Geology, Babes-Bolyai University, 400006 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +40-264-431-691; Fax: +40-264-431-858
| | - Manuela Banciu
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology and Geology, Babes-Bolyai University, 400006 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (E.L.); (V.F.R.); (L.L.); (D.D.); (I.S.); (L.P.); (B.D.); (V.A.T.); (M.B.)
- Centre of Systems Biology, Biodiversity and Bioresources, Faculty of Biology and Geology, Babes-Bolyai University, 400006 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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Fatehi Hassanabad A. Current perspectives on statins as potential anti-cancer therapeutics: clinical outcomes and underlying molecular mechanisms. Transl Lung Cancer Res 2019; 8:692-699. [PMID: 31737505 DOI: 10.21037/tlcr.2019.09.08] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Statins have been shown to inhibit cell proliferation in vitro and tumor growth in animal models. Various studies have also shown a decreased cancer-specific mortality rate in patients who were prescribed these medications. Statins inhibit 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA reductase (HMGCR), the rate-limiting enzyme of the mevalonate pathway. Statins induce tumour-specific apoptosis through mitochondrial apoptotic signaling pathways, which are activated by the suppression of mevalonate or geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate (GGPP) biosynthesis. However, there is no consensus on the molecular targets of statins for their anti-cancer effects. Several studies have been conducted to further assess the association between statin use and mortality in different types of cancer. In this review, current perspectives on clinical significance of statins in prevention and treatment of various types of cancers and proposed mechanisms are discussed.
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Sherbet GV. Statins: A Conceivable Remedial Role for the Regulation of Cancer Progression. CURRENT CANCER THERAPY REVIEWS 2019. [DOI: 10.2174/1573394714666180611113834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The mevalonate pathway (also known as the cholesterol biosynthesis pathway) plays a crucial metabolic role in normal cell function as well as in the pathological environment. It leads to the synthesis of sterol and non-sterol isoprenoid biomolecules which subserve a variety of cellular functions. It is known to be deregulated in many disease processes. Statins and bisphosphonates are prominent inhibitors of the mevalonate pathway. They inhibit cell proliferation and activate apoptotic signalling and suppress tumour growth. Statins subdue metastatic spread of tumours by virtue of their ability to suppress invasion and angiogenesis. The induction of autophagy is another feature of statin effects that could contribute to the suppression of metastasis. Herein highlighted are the major signalling systems that statins engage to generate these biological effects. Statins can constrain tumour growth by influencing the expression and function of growth factor and receptor systems. They may suppress epithelial mesenchymal transition with resultant inhibition of cell survival signalling, together with the inhibition of cancer stem cell generation, and their maintenance and expansion. They can suppress ER (oestrogen receptor)-α in breast cancer cells. Statins have been implicated in the activation of the serine/threonine protein kinase AMPK (5' adenosine monophosphate-activated protein) leading to the suppression of cell proliferation. Both statins and bisphosphonates can suppress angiogenic signalling by HIF (hypoxia- inducible factor)-1/eNOS (endothelial nitric oxide synthase) and VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor)/VEGFR (VEGF receptor). Statins have been linked with improvements in disease prognosis. Also attributed to them is the ability of cancer prevention and reduction of risk of some forms of cancer. The wide spectrum of cancer associated events which these mevalonate inhibitors appear to influence would suggest a conceivable role for them in cancer management. However, much deliberation is warranted in the design and planning of clinical trials, their scope and definition of endpoints, modes risk assessment and the accrual of benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gajanan V. Sherbet
- School of Engineering, University of Newcastle Upon Tyne, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE2 4HH, United Kingdom
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Rauca VF, Vlase L, Casian T, Sesarman A, Gheldiu AM, Mocan A, Banciu M, Toiu A. Biologically Active Ajuga Species Extracts Modulate Supportive Processes for Cancer Cell Development. Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:334. [PMID: 31024305 PMCID: PMC6460044 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.00334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2018] [Accepted: 03/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Backround:Ajuga species have been used in traditional medicine for their diuretic, anti-inflammatory, wound-healing, and hepatoprotective properties. Purpose: The phytochemical profile and anticancer potential of three Ajuga sp. (A. genevensis, A. chamaepitys, and A. laxmannii) from Romania was investigated. Materials and Methods: The phytochemicals were extracted from the aerial parts of Ajuga sp. by using different solvents and methods. The hydroalcoholic extracts were examined for total phenolic, flavonoid and iridoid contents, and HPLC/MS was used to analyze the polyphenolic compounds and iridoids. The phytochemical profile was also evaluated by principal component analysis in connection with antitumor efficacy of extracts. The antiproliferative potential was evaluated using the ELISA BrdU-colorimetric immunoassay. Western Blot with regard to inflammatory protein NF-κB (nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells) p65 subunit expression in cell lysates was performed. Quantification of oxidative stress marker malondialdehyde (MDA) was determined by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant capability was assessed by measuring catalase activity and by evaluating the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) of treated cells. Results:Ajuga laxmannii ethanol extract showed the highest total phenolic and flavonoid content, while A. genevensis ethanol extract was more abundant in iridoids. The overall cytostatic effect of the investigated plant extracts was exerted through strong inhibitory actions on NF-κB, the key molecule involved in the inflammatory response and via oxidative stress modulatory effects in both murine colon carcinoma and melanoma cell lines. Conclusion:Ajuga laxmannii showed the most significant antitumor activity and represents an important source of bioactive compounds, possibly an additional form of treatment alongside conventional anticancer drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentin-Florian Rauca
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology and Geology, Babes-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.,Molecular Biology Centre, Institute for Interdisciplinary Research in Bio-Nano-Sciences, Babes-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Laurian Vlase
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy, "Iuliu Haţieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Tibor Casian
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy, "Iuliu Haţieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Alina Sesarman
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology and Geology, Babes-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.,Molecular Biology Centre, Institute for Interdisciplinary Research in Bio-Nano-Sciences, Babes-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Ana-Maria Gheldiu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Botany, "Iuliu Haţieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Andrei Mocan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Botany, "Iuliu Haţieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Manuela Banciu
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology and Geology, Babes-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.,Molecular Biology Centre, Institute for Interdisciplinary Research in Bio-Nano-Sciences, Babes-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Anca Toiu
- Department of Pharmacognosy, "Iuliu Haţieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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Du J, Zhu Y, Meng X, Xie H, Wang J, Zhou Z, Wang R. Atorvastatin attenuates paraquat poisoning-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition via downregulating hypoxia-inducible factor-1 alpha. Life Sci 2018; 213:126-133. [PMID: 30336147 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2018.10.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2018] [Revised: 10/11/2018] [Accepted: 10/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
AIM This study investigated the effects of atorvastatin (ATS) on the paraquat (PQ)-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and the potential mechanism through hypoxia-inducible factor-1 alpha (HIF-1α). MAIN METHODS Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into a control group (n = 5), PQ group (n = 20), PQ + ATS L group (n = 20, ATS 20 mg/kg daily) and PQ + ATS H group (n = 20, ATS 40 mg/kg daily). All treated rats were given a 20% PQ solution (50 mg/kg) once by gavage and then sacrificed 12, 24, 72 and 168 h after PQ exposure. The A549 and RLE-6TN cell lines were treated with ATS, PQ or both for 24 h. Mesenchymal (α-SMA and vimentin) and epithelial (E-cadherin and ZO-1) cell marker expression was tested both in vivo and in vitro. The effects of ATS on HIF-1α and β‑catenin expression were also evaluated. KEY FINDINGS ATS alleviated PQ poisoning-induced lung injury and pulmonary fibrosis in vivo. This effect was dose-dependent. ATS treatment attenuated the EMT by increasing the levels of the epithelial markers E-cadherin and ZO-1 and by decreasing the expression of the mesenchymal markers α-SMA and vimentin in both lung tissues and in vitro cell culture. In addition, ATS treatment may decrease the HIF-1α and β‑catenin levels both in vivo and in vitro. SIGNIFICANCE In conclusion, ATS can attenuate PQ-induced pulmonary fibrosis. The mechanism may involve the downregulation of the HIF-1α/β‑catenin pathway and the inhibition of the PQ-induced EMT by ATS. ATS may be considered as a therapeutic agent for PQ poisoning-induced pulmonary fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiang Du
- Department of Emergency, Shanghai General Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Yong Zhu
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Meng
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Hui Xie
- Department of Emergency, Shanghai General Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Jinfeng Wang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Zhigang Zhou
- Department of Emergency, Shanghai General Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Ruilan Wang
- Department of Emergency, Shanghai General Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Shanghai 201620, China.
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Combination therapy of simvastatin and 5, 6-dimethylxanthenone-4-acetic acid synergistically suppresses the aggressiveness of B16.F10 melanoma cells. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0202827. [PMID: 30138430 PMCID: PMC6107259 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0202827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2017] [Accepted: 08/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The major drawback of current anti-angiogenic therapies is drug resistance, mainly caused by overexpression of the transcription factor, hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α) as a result of treatment-induced hypoxia, which stimulates cancer cells to develop aggressive and immunosuppressive phenotypes. Moreover, the cancer cell resistance to anti-angiogenic therapies is deeply mediated by the communication between tumor cells and tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs)-the most important microenvironmental cells for the coordination of all supportive processes in tumor development. Thus, simultaneous targeting of TAMs and cancer cells could improve the outcome of the anti-angiogenic therapies. Since our previous studies proved that simvastatin (SIM) exerts strong antiproliferative actions on B16.F10 murine melanoma cells via reduction of TAMs-mediated oxidative stress and inhibition of intratumor production of HIF-1α, we investigated whether the antitumor efficacy of the anti-angiogenic agent-5,6-dimethylxanthenone-4-acetic acid (DMXAA) could be improved by its co-administration with the lipophilic statin. Our results provide confirmatory evidence for the ability of the combined treatment to suppress the aggressive phenotype of the B16.F10 melanoma cells co-cultured with TAMs under hypoxia-mimicking conditions in vitro. Thus, proliferation and migration capacity of the melanoma cells were strongly decelerated after the co-administration of SIM and DMXAA. Moreover, our data suggested that the anti-oxidant action of the combined treatment, as a result of melanogenesis stimulation, might be the principal cause for the simultaneous suppression of key molecules involved in melanoma cell aggressiveness, present in melanoma cells (HIF-1α) as well as in TAMs (arginase-1). Finally, the concomitant suppression of these proteins might have contributed to a very strong inhibition of the angiogenic capacity of the cell co-culture microenvironment.
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Wang JC, Li XX, Sun X, Li GY, Sun JL, Ye YP, Cong LL, Li WM, Lu SY, Feng J, Liu PJ. Activation of AMPK by simvastatin inhibited breast tumor angiogenesis via impeding HIF-1α-induced pro-angiogenic factor. Cancer Sci 2018. [PMID: 29532562 PMCID: PMC5980150 DOI: 10.1111/cas.13570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Substantial data from preclinical studies have revealed the biphasic effects of statins on cardiovascular angiogenesis. Although some have reported the anti‐angiogenic potential of statins in malignant tumors, the underlying mechanism remains poorly understood. The aim of this study is to elucidate the mechanism by which simvastatin, a member of the statin family, inhibits tumor angiogenesis. Simvastatin significantly suppressed tumor cell‐conditioned medium‐induced angiogenic promotion in vitro, and resulted in dose‐dependent anti‐angiogenesis in vivo. Further genetic silencing of hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α (HIF‐1α) reduced vascular endothelial growth factor and fibroblast growth factor‐2 expressions in 4T1 cells and correspondingly ameliorated HUVEC proliferation facilitated by tumor cell‐conditioned medium. Additionally, simvastatin induced angiogenic inhibition through a mechanism of post‐transcriptional downregulation of HIF‐1α by increasing the phosphorylation level of AMP kinase. These results were further validated by the fact that 5‐aminoimidazole‐4‐carboxamide ribonucleotide reduced HIF‐1α protein levels and ameliorated the angiogenic ability of endothelial cells in vitro and in vivo. Critically, inhibition of AMPK phosphorylation by compound C almost completely abrogated simvastatin‐induced anti‐angiogenesis, which was accompanied by the reduction of protein levels of HIF‐1α and its downstream pro‐angiogenic factors. These findings reveal the mechanism by which simvastatin induces tumor anti‐angiogenesis, and therefore identifies the target that explains the beneficial effects of statins on malignant tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Chang Wang
- Department of Vascular Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Center for Translational Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xiong-Xiong Li
- Department of Breast Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xin Sun
- Department of Thoracic Surgery and Oncology, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Guang-Yue Li
- Department of Science and Technology, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jing-Lan Sun
- Department of Vascular Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yuan-Peng Ye
- Department of Vascular Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Long-Long Cong
- Department of Vascular Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Wei-Ming Li
- Department of Vascular Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Shao-Ying Lu
- Department of Vascular Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jun Feng
- Department of Vascular Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Pei-Jun Liu
- Center for Translational Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Key Laboratory for Tumor Precision Medicine of Shaanxi Province, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
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