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Kraj L, Chmiel P, Śliwczyński A, Szymański Ł, Woźniak K, Słodkowski M, Stokłosa T, Wyrwicz L. Synergistic effects of calcium channel blockers and renin-angiotensin inhibitors with gemcitabine-based chemotherapy on the survival of patients with pancreatic cancer. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2024; 150:434. [PMID: 39340700 PMCID: PMC11438632 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-024-05962-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2024] [Accepted: 09/19/2024] [Indexed: 09/30/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Pancreatic cancer remains a significant public health challenge, with poor long-term outcomes due to the lack of effective treatment options. Repurposing commonly used clinical drugs, such as ACE inhibitors, ARBs, CCBs, and metformin, may enhance the efficacy of chemotherapy and offer a promising therapeutic strategy for improving patient outcomes. METHODS A retrospective analysis of concomitant treatment with ACE-Is, ARBs, CCBs, and metformin alongside gemcitabine chemotherapy in patients with pancreatic cancer was conducted. Treatment responses were evaluated, with overall survival (OS) estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method. Additionally, the Cox proportional hazards model was employed to assess the impact of these specific agents on patient survival. RESULTS 4628 patients with various stages of pancreatic cancer were identified in the database between 2007 and 2016. The estimated overall survival (OS) in the analyzed group was 6.9 months (95% CI 6.4-7). The use of any of the analyzed drugs was associated with a significant improvement in mOS of 7.5 months (95% CI 6.8-7.8) vs. 6.7 months (95% CI 6.4-7.0) for patients who did not have additional treatment (p < 0.0001). ARBs, ACE-Is, CCBs, and metformin varied in their effectiveness in prolonging mOS among patients. The longest mOS of 8.9 months (95% CI 7.7-11.6) was observed in patients receiving additional therapy with ARBs, while the shortest mOS of 7.7 months (95% CI 6.5-8.9) was achieved by patients receiving metformin. In the adjusted Cox analysis, metformin was associated with a significantly weaker effect on mOS (p = 0.029). A particularly interesting trend in prolonging 5-year survival was demonstrated by ARBs and CCBs with 14.1% (95% CI 9-22%) and 14.8% (95% CI 11.1-19.6%), respectively, compared to patients not taking these drugs, who achieved a 5-year OS of 3.8% (95% CI 3.2-4.4%). CONCLUSION Our results demonstrate a significant positive impact of ARBs, ACE inhibitors, and CCBs on survival in patients with pancreatic cancer treated with gemcitabine. The addition of these inexpensive and relatively safe drugs in patients with additional comorbidities may represent a potential therapeutic option in this indication. However, prospective clinical trials to evaluate the optimal patient population and further studies to determine the potential impact of these agents on chemotherapy are necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leszek Kraj
- Department of Oncology, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091, Warsaw, Poland.
- Department of Molecular Biology, Institute of Genetics and Animal Biotechnology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 05-552, Garbatka, Poland.
| | - Paulina Chmiel
- Department of Molecular Biology, Institute of Genetics and Animal Biotechnology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 05-552, Garbatka, Poland
| | - Andrzej Śliwczyński
- National Medical Institute of the Ministry of Interior and Administration, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Łukasz Szymański
- Department of Molecular Biology, Institute of Genetics and Animal Biotechnology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 05-552, Garbatka, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Woźniak
- Department of Oncology, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Maciej Słodkowski
- Department of General, Gastroenterological and Oncological Surgery, Medical University of Warsaw, 02097, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Tomasz Stokłosa
- Department of Tumor Biology, Genetics Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Lucjan Wyrwicz
- Department of Oncology, Radiotherapy Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Cancer Research Institute, Warsaw, Poland
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Buruiană A, Gheban BA, Gheban-Roșca IA, Georgiu C, Crișan D, Crișan M. The Tumor Stroma of Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Complex Environment That Fuels Cancer Progression. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1727. [PMID: 38730679 PMCID: PMC11083853 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16091727] [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: 04/08/2024] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME), a complex assembly of cellular and extracellular matrix (ECM) components, plays a crucial role in driving tumor progression, shaping treatment responses, and influencing metastasis. This narrative review focuses on the cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) tumor stroma, highlighting its key constituents and their dynamic contributions. We examine how significant changes within the cSCC ECM-specifically, alterations in fibronectin, hyaluronic acid, laminins, proteoglycans, and collagens-promote cancer progression, metastasis, and drug resistance. The cellular composition of the cSCC TME is also explored, detailing the intricate interplay of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), endothelial cells, pericytes, adipocytes, and various immune cell populations. These diverse players modulate tumor development, angiogenesis, and immune responses. Finally, we emphasize the TME's potential as a therapeutic target. Emerging strategies discussed in this review include harnessing the immune system (adoptive cell transfer, checkpoint blockade), hindering tumor angiogenesis, disrupting CAF activity, and manipulating ECM components. These approaches underscore the vital role that deciphering TME interactions plays in advancing cSCC therapy. Further research illuminating these complex relationships will uncover new avenues for developing more effective treatments for cSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Buruiană
- Department of Pathology, Iuliu Haţieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (A.B.); (C.G.); (D.C.)
| | - Bogdan-Alexandru Gheban
- Department of Histology, Iuliu Haţieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
- Emergency Clinical County Hospital, 400347 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Ioana-Andreea Gheban-Roșca
- Department of Medical Informatics and Biostatistics, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400129 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - Carmen Georgiu
- Department of Pathology, Iuliu Haţieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (A.B.); (C.G.); (D.C.)
| | - Doința Crișan
- Department of Pathology, Iuliu Haţieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (A.B.); (C.G.); (D.C.)
| | - Maria Crișan
- Department of Histology, Iuliu Haţieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
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Feigin K, Bell C. Desmoplastic histological subtype of ameloblastoma in 16 dogs. Front Vet Sci 2024; 11:1362237. [PMID: 38638641 PMCID: PMC11024383 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2024.1362237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Ameloblastoma in dogs most often has a highly conserved acanthomatous cell morphology and is recognized as canine acanthomatous ameloblastoma (CAA) while conventional ameloblastoma (CA) makes up a smaller yet morphologically diverse group of epithelial odontogenic tumors. In humans, a rare desmoplastic histological subtype has distinctive clinical, radiological, and microscopic features. Desmoplastic ameloblastoma (DA) has not previously been described in dogs, although it has been rarely referenced in the veterinary literature. This is the first thorough description of a case series of DA in dogs and describes clinical presentation, diagnostic imaging findings, histopathological features for diagnosis, and treatment outcome. Clinically, DA most often presents as a mass or swelling in the rostral mandible or maxilla of middle age to older dogs. On diagnostic imaging, the lesion has a radiolucent or mixed pattern with well-defined borders and variable loculation. As a solid, fibrous tumor with obscured odontogenic epithelium, DA is challenging to diagnose histologically and can mimic several other oral tumors, both benign and malignant. As an ameloblastoma, the biological behavior of DA is locally destructive yet benign and prognosis is favorable following surgical excision.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Cynthia Bell
- Specialty Oral Pathology for Animals, Geneseo, IL, United States
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Bhuyan G, Hazarika P, Rabha AM. Evaluation of the significance of tumor stromal patterns and peri-tumoral inflammation in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma with special reference to the Yamamoto-Kohama classification. INDIAN J PATHOL MICR 2024; 67:340-348. [PMID: 38427768 DOI: 10.4103/ijpm.ijpm_426_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is the sixth most common cancer worldwide with 878,348 new cases. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are the predominant cell type in tumor stroma and are important promoters of tumor progression. OBJECTIVE The aim of the study was to evaluate the pattern of desmoplastic stromal reaction and peri-tumoral inflammatory infiltrate with the histological grade and clinical data. MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of 60 cases of HNSCC were included in the study. The hematoxylin and eosin (H and E)-stained sections from all cases were examined by two experienced pathologists for the grade, nature of stomal reaction (SR), peri-tumoral inflammatory infiltration, Yamamoto-Kohama classification grade, worst pattern of invasion (WPOI), depth of invasion (DOI), and other histopathological parameters. Correlation analysis was conducted using the Chi-square test. P- value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS Immature SR was not observed in any of the well-differentiated squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) cases. However, one (3.7%) case of moderately differentiated SCC and two (28.6%) cases of poorly differentiated SCC showed signs of immature SR. In the case of the higher grades of the YK classification, specifically grades 4C and 4D, a more profound depth of tumor cell invasion, equal to or exceeding 10 mm, was evident in six (66.67%) and two (28.57%) cases, respectively. Additionally, among the seven (11.7%) cases classified as poorly differentiated carcinoma, three (42.85%) displayed a WPOI score of 5. CONCLUSION SR and the tumor invasive pattern in HNSCC are related to prognosis and may indicate tumor aggressiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geet Bhuyan
- Department of Pathology, Jorhat Medical College and Hospital, Jorhat, Assam, India
| | - Prabir Hazarika
- Department of Pathology, Tezpur Medical College and Hospital, Jorhat, Assam, India
| | - Anju M Rabha
- Department of Pathology, Tezpur Medical College and Hospital, Jorhat, Assam, India
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Arebro J, Lee CM, Bennewith KL, Garnis C. Cancer-Associated Fibroblast Heterogeneity in Malignancy with Focus on Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1300. [PMID: 38279300 PMCID: PMC10816981 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25021300] [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: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) remains an understudied and significant global cancer killer and dismal survival rates have not changed in decades. A better understanding of the molecular basis of OSCC progression and metastasis is needed to develop new approaches for treating this disease. The supportive network surrounding cancer tumor cells known as the tumor microenvironment (TME) has gained increasing interest lately since it performs essential protumorigenic functions. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are one of the main cell types in the TME and are known to play a key role in influencing the biological behavior of tumors. CAFs present a heterogeneity both in phenotype as well as functions, leading to the suggestion of different CAF subtypes in several cancer forms. The task to subtype CAFs in OSCC has, however, just begun, and there is today no united way of subtyping CAFs in this disease. This review aims to define the features of CAFs and to summarize CAF subtype research in malignancy with focus on OSCC including aspects as disease prognosis and therapeutic opportunities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Arebro
- Department of Interdisciplinary Oncology, British Columbia Cancer Research Centre, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1L3, Canada; (C.-M.L.); (K.L.B.); (C.G.)
- Division of ENT Diseases, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, 14186 Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of ENT Diseases, Karolinska University Hospital, 14186 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Che-Min Lee
- Department of Interdisciplinary Oncology, British Columbia Cancer Research Centre, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1L3, Canada; (C.-M.L.); (K.L.B.); (C.G.)
- Interdisciplinary Oncology Program, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1L3, Canada
| | - Kevin L. Bennewith
- Department of Interdisciplinary Oncology, British Columbia Cancer Research Centre, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1L3, Canada; (C.-M.L.); (K.L.B.); (C.G.)
- Interdisciplinary Oncology Program, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1L3, Canada
- Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z7, Canada
| | - Cathie Garnis
- Department of Interdisciplinary Oncology, British Columbia Cancer Research Centre, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1L3, Canada; (C.-M.L.); (K.L.B.); (C.G.)
- Interdisciplinary Oncology Program, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1L3, Canada
- Division of Otolaryngology, Department of Surgery, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9, Canada
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Stylianou A, Mpekris F, Voutouri C, Papoui A, Constantinidou A, Kitiris E, Kailides M, Stylianopoulos T. Nanomechanical properties of solid tumors as treatment monitoring biomarkers. Acta Biomater 2022; 154:324-334. [PMID: 36244596 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2022.10.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Revised: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Many tumors, such as types of sarcoma and breast cancer, stiffen as they grow in a host healthy tissue, while individual cancer cells are becoming softer. Tumor stiffening poses major pathophysiological barriers to the effective delivery of drugs and compromises treatment efficacy. It has been established that normalization of the mechanical properties of a tumor by targeting components of the tumor microenvironment (TME) enhances the delivery of anti-cancer agents and consequently the therapeutic outcome. Consequently, there is an urgent need for the development of biomarkers, which characterize the mechanical state of a particular tumor for the development of personalized treatments or for monitoring therapeutic strategies that target the TME. In this work, Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) was used to assess human and murine nanomechanical properties from tumor biopsies. In the case of murine tumor models, the nanomechanical properties during tumor progression were measured and a TME normalization drug (tranilast) along with chemotherapy doxorubicin were employed in order to investigate whether AFM has the ability to capture changes in the nanomechanical properties of a tumor during treatment. The nanomechanical data were further correlated with ex vivo characterization of structural components of the TME. The results highlighted that nanomechanical properties alter during cancer progression and AFM measurements are sensitive enough to capture even small alterations during different types of treatments, namely normalization and chemotherapy. The identification of unique AFM-based nanomechanical properties can lead to the development of biomarkers for treatment prediction and monitoring. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Cancer progression is associated with vast remodeling of the tumor microenvironment resulting in changes in the mechanical properties of the tissue. Indeed, many tumors stiffen as they grow and this stiffening compromises treatment efficacy. As a result, a number of treatments target tumor microenvironment in order to normalize its mechanical properties. Consequently, there is an urgent need for the development of innovative tools that can assess the mechanical properties of a particular tumor and monitor tumor progression and treatment outcomes. This work highlights the use of atomic force microscopy (AFM) for assessing the elasticity spectrum of solid tumors at different stages and during treatment. This knowledge is essential for the development of AFM-based nanomechanical biomarkers for treatment prediction and monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Stylianou
- Cancer Mechanobiology and Applied Biophysics Group, Basic and Translational Cancer Research Center, School of Sciences, European University Cyprus, Cyprus; European University Research Centre Ltd, Nicosia, Cyprus; Cancer Biophysics Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Cyprus, Cyprus.
| | - Fotios Mpekris
- Cancer Biophysics Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Cyprus, Cyprus
| | - Chrysovalantis Voutouri
- Cancer Biophysics Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Cyprus, Cyprus
| | - Antonia Papoui
- Cancer Biophysics Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Cyprus, Cyprus
| | - Anastasia Constantinidou
- Medical School, University of Cyprus, Cyprus; Bank of Cyprus Oncology Center, Cyprus; Cyprus Cancer Research Institute, Cyprus
| | | | | | - Triantafyllos Stylianopoulos
- Cancer Biophysics Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Cyprus, Cyprus.
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Necula L, Matei L, Dragu D, Pitica I, Neagu A, Bleotu C, Diaconu CC, Chivu-Economescu M. Collagen Family as Promising Biomarkers and Therapeutic Targets in Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232012415. [PMID: 36293285 PMCID: PMC9604126 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232012415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Revised: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite advances in cancer detection and therapy, it has been estimated that the incidence of cancers will increase, while the mortality rate will continue to remain high, a fact explained by the large number of patients diagnosed in advanced stages when therapy is often useless. Therefore, it is necessary to invest knowledge and resources in the development of new non-invasive biomarkers for the early detection of cancer and new therapeutic targets for better health management. In this review, we provided an overview on the collagen family as promising biomarkers and on how they may be exploited as therapeutic targets in cancer. The collagen family tridimensional structure, organization, and functions are very complex, being in a tight relationship with the extracellular matrix, tumor, and immune microenvironment. Moreover, accumulating evidence underlines the role of collagens in promoting tumor growth and creating a permissive tumor microenvironment for metastatic dissemination. Knowledge of the molecular basis of these interactions may help in cancer diagnosis and prognosis, in overcoming chemoresistance, and in providing new targets for cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Necula
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pathology, Stefan S. Nicolau Institute of Virology, 030304 Bucharest, Romania
- Faculty of Medicine, Titu Maiorescu University, 040441 Bucharest, Romania
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +40-21-324-2592
| | - Lilia Matei
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pathology, Stefan S. Nicolau Institute of Virology, 030304 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Denisa Dragu
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pathology, Stefan S. Nicolau Institute of Virology, 030304 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ioana Pitica
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pathology, Stefan S. Nicolau Institute of Virology, 030304 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ana Neagu
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pathology, Stefan S. Nicolau Institute of Virology, 030304 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Coralia Bleotu
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pathology, Stefan S. Nicolau Institute of Virology, 030304 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Carmen C. Diaconu
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pathology, Stefan S. Nicolau Institute of Virology, 030304 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mihaela Chivu-Economescu
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pathology, Stefan S. Nicolau Institute of Virology, 030304 Bucharest, Romania
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Ablahad AA, Mousa HD, Jalal JA. Novel Correlations among the Histopathological Components of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Open Access Maced J Med Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.3889/oamjms.2022.10781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is an aggressive tumor with high mortality and morbidity rates.
Aims:In this study, we aimed to probe whether there is association between stromal histopathological parameters with patient data, as well as, the correlation of these parameters with each other.
MaterialsandMethods:This study was performed at University of Duhok, College of Dentistry, the practical section was carried out between February 2022 and June 2022 as follow:A group of 86 formalin fixed paraffin embedded (FFPE) samples of OSCC and 20 FFPE samplesof healthy gingiva were stained with Hematoxylin and eosin(H&E) and Mason’s trichrome (MT)stains. Tumor/ stroma ratio(TSR), stromal tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes(sTIL), budding activity (BA), cell nest size (CNS), orientation and packing of collagen fibers and collagen fibercontent(CFC) were evaluated. These histomorphological parameters were correlated with clinicopathological characteristics and with each other.
Statistical Analysis Used: Chi square test, fisher exacts test and spearman’s rank correlation coefficient were used for analyzing our study data.
Results: Tumor/ stroma ratio, BA, CNS, orientation and packing of collagen fibers, and CFC were significantly associated with pT stage of the tumor. Moreover, significant correlations were observed among TSR, BA, CNS and CFC. In addition, orientation and packing of collagen fibers were significantly correlated with each other.
Conclusions: Novel correlations were found between collagen fiber features with TSR, BA, and CNS in an easy and cost- effective methods.
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Hwang BO, Park SY, Cho ES, Zhang X, Lee SK, Ahn HJ, Chun KS, Chung WY, Song NY. Platelet CLEC2-Podoplanin Axis as a Promising Target for Oral Cancer Treatment. Front Immunol 2022; 12:807600. [PMID: 34987523 PMCID: PMC8721674 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.807600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer tissues are not just simple masses of malignant cells, but rather complex and heterogeneous collections of cellular and even non-cellular components, such as endothelial cells, stromal cells, immune cells, and collagens, referred to as tumor microenvironment (TME). These multiple players in the TME develop dynamic interactions with each other, which determines the characteristics of the tumor. Platelets are the smallest cells in the bloodstream and primarily regulate blood coagulation and hemostasis. Notably, cancer patients often show thrombocytosis, a status of an increased platelet number in the bloodstream, as well as the platelet infiltration into the tumor stroma, which contributes to cancer promotion and progression. Thus, platelets function as one of the important stromal components in the TME, emerging as a promising chemotherapeutic target. However, the use of traditional antiplatelet agents, such as aspirin, has limitations mainly due to increased bleeding complications. This requires to implement new strategies to target platelets for anti-cancer effects. In oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) patients, both high platelet counts and low tumor-stromal ratio (high stroma) are strongly correlated with increased metastasis and poor prognosis. OSCC tends to invade adjacent tissues and bones and spread to the lymph nodes for distant metastasis, which is a huge hurdle for OSCC treatment in spite of relatively easy access for visual examination of precancerous lesions in the oral cavity. Therefore, locoregional control of the primary tumor is crucial for OSCC treatment. Similar to thrombocytosis, higher expression of podoplanin (PDPN) has been suggested as a predictive marker for higher frequency of lymph node metastasis of OSCC. Cumulative evidence supports that platelets can directly interact with PDPN-expressing cancer cells via C-type lectin-like receptor 2 (CLEC2), contributing to cancer cell invasion and metastasis. Thus, the platelet CLEC2-PDPN axis could be a pinpoint target to inhibit interaction between platelets and OSCC, avoiding undesirable side effects. Here, we will review the role of platelets in cancer, particularly focusing on CLEC2-PDPN interaction, and will assess their potentials as therapeutic targets for OSCC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Byeong-Oh Hwang
- Department of Applied Life Science, The Graduate School, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea.,BK21 Four Project, Yonsei University College of Dentistry, Seoul, South Korea.,Department of Oral Biology, Yonsei University College of Dentistry, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Se-Young Park
- Department of Applied Life Science, The Graduate School, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea.,BK21 Four Project, Yonsei University College of Dentistry, Seoul, South Korea.,Department of Oral Biology, Yonsei University College of Dentistry, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Eunae Sandra Cho
- BK21 Four Project, Yonsei University College of Dentistry, Seoul, South Korea.,Department of Oral Pathology, Yonsei University College of Dentistry, Seoul, South Korea.,Oral Cancer Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Dentistry, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Xianglan Zhang
- Oral Cancer Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Dentistry, Seoul, South Korea.,Department of Pathology, Yanbian University Hospital, Yanji City, China
| | - Sun Kyoung Lee
- Department of Oral Biology, Yonsei University College of Dentistry, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hyung-Joon Ahn
- Department of Orofacial Pain and Oral Medicine, Dental Hospital, Yonsei University College of Dentistry, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Kyung-Soo Chun
- College of Pharmacy, Keimyung University, Daegu, South Korea
| | - Won-Yoon Chung
- Department of Applied Life Science, The Graduate School, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea.,BK21 Four Project, Yonsei University College of Dentistry, Seoul, South Korea.,Department of Oral Biology, Yonsei University College of Dentistry, Seoul, South Korea.,Oral Cancer Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Dentistry, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Na-Young Song
- Department of Applied Life Science, The Graduate School, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea.,BK21 Four Project, Yonsei University College of Dentistry, Seoul, South Korea.,Department of Oral Biology, Yonsei University College of Dentistry, Seoul, South Korea
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Kasperska A, Borowczak J, Szczerbowski K, Stec E, Ahmadi N, Szylber Ł. Current challenges in targeting tumor desmoplasia to improve the efficacy of immunotherapy. Curr Cancer Drug Targets 2021; 21:919-931. [PMID: 34525931 DOI: 10.2174/1568009621666210825101456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Desmoplasia is crucial for the development, progression and treatment of immune-resistant malignancies. and treatment of immune-resistant malignancies. Targeting desmoplasia-related metabolic pathways appears to be an interesting approach to expand our stock of disposable anti-tumor agents.CXCL12/CXCR4 axis inhibition reduces fibrosis, alleviates immunosuppression and significantly enhances the efficacy of PD-1 immunotherapy. CD40L substitute therapy may increase the activity of T-cells, downregulate CD40+, prolong patients' survival and prevent cancer progression. Although FAPα antagonists used in preclinical models did not lead to permanent cure, an alleviation of immune-resistance, modification of desmoplasia and a decrease in angiogenesis were observed. Targeting DDR2 may enhance the effect of anti-PD-1 treatment in multiple neoplasm cell lines and has the ability to overcome the adaptation to BRAF-targeted therapy in melanoma. Reprogramming desmoplasia could potentially cooperate not only with present treatment, but also other potential therapeutic targets. We present the most promising metabolic pathways related to desmoplasia and discuss the emerging strategies to improve the efficacy of immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Kasperska
- Department of Clinical Pathomorphology, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun. Poland
| | - Jędrzej Borowczak
- Department of Clinical Pathomorphology, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun. Poland
| | - Krzysztof Szczerbowski
- Department of Clinical Pathomorphology, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun. Poland
| | - Ewa Stec
- Department of Clinical Pathomorphology, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun. Poland
| | - Navid Ahmadi
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Royal Papworth Hospital, Cambridge. United Kingdom
| | - Łukasz Szylber
- Department of Clinical Pathomorphology, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun. Poland
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Dieterle MP, Husari A, Steinberg T, Wang X, Ramminger I, Tomakidi P. From the Matrix to the Nucleus and Back: Mechanobiology in the Light of Health, Pathologies, and Regeneration of Oral Periodontal Tissues. Biomolecules 2021; 11:824. [PMID: 34073044 PMCID: PMC8228498 DOI: 10.3390/biom11060824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Among oral tissues, the periodontium is permanently subjected to mechanical forces resulting from chewing, mastication, or orthodontic appliances. Molecularly, these movements induce a series of subsequent signaling processes, which are embedded in the biological concept of cellular mechanotransduction (MT). Cell and tissue structures, ranging from the extracellular matrix (ECM) to the plasma membrane, the cytosol and the nucleus, are involved in MT. Dysregulation of the diverse, fine-tuned interaction of molecular players responsible for transmitting biophysical environmental information into the cell's inner milieu can lead to and promote serious diseases, such as periodontitis or oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Therefore, periodontal integrity and regeneration is highly dependent on the proper integration and regulation of mechanobiological signals in the context of cell behavior. Recent experimental findings have increased the understanding of classical cellular mechanosensing mechanisms by both integrating exogenic factors such as bacterial gingipain proteases and newly discovered cell-inherent functions of mechanoresponsive co-transcriptional regulators such as the Yes-associated protein 1 (YAP1) or the nuclear cytoskeleton. Regarding periodontal MT research, this review offers insights into the current trends and open aspects. Concerning oral regenerative medicine or weakening of periodontal tissue diseases, perspectives on future applications of mechanobiological principles are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Philipp Dieterle
- Center for Dental Medicine, Division of Oral Biotechnology, Medical Center—University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Hugstetterstr. 55, 79106 Freiburg, Germany; (M.P.D.); (X.W.); (I.R.); (P.T.)
| | - Ayman Husari
- Center for Dental Medicine, Department of Orthodontics, Medical Center—University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Hugstetterstr. 55, 79106 Freiburg, Germany;
- Faculty of Engineering, University of Freiburg, Georges-Köhler-Allee 101, 79110 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Thorsten Steinberg
- Center for Dental Medicine, Division of Oral Biotechnology, Medical Center—University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Hugstetterstr. 55, 79106 Freiburg, Germany; (M.P.D.); (X.W.); (I.R.); (P.T.)
| | - Xiaoling Wang
- Center for Dental Medicine, Division of Oral Biotechnology, Medical Center—University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Hugstetterstr. 55, 79106 Freiburg, Germany; (M.P.D.); (X.W.); (I.R.); (P.T.)
| | - Imke Ramminger
- Center for Dental Medicine, Division of Oral Biotechnology, Medical Center—University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Hugstetterstr. 55, 79106 Freiburg, Germany; (M.P.D.); (X.W.); (I.R.); (P.T.)
| | - Pascal Tomakidi
- Center for Dental Medicine, Division of Oral Biotechnology, Medical Center—University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Hugstetterstr. 55, 79106 Freiburg, Germany; (M.P.D.); (X.W.); (I.R.); (P.T.)
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Augustine D, Rao RS, Patil S. Hyalinization as a histomorphological risk predictor in oral pathological lesions. J Oral Biol Craniofac Res 2021; 11:415-422. [PMID: 34094841 DOI: 10.1016/j.jobcr.2021.05.002] [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: 01/17/2021] [Revised: 04/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/02/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Hyalinization is a process of conversion of stromal connective tissue into a homogeneous, acellular translucent material. Nevertheless, hyalinization could provide insights into the biologic behaviour and prognosis of pathological lesions. Few studies with limited sample size have intended to assess the correlation of hyalinization and biologic behaviour in oral lesions. Aim The current review aims to comprehensively appraise the mechanism of hyalinization in pathological oral hyalinizing lesions (OHL) and its clinical implications with emphasis on differential stains employed. Methods An electronic search was performed in the PubMed database (from year 2000-2020) using the keywords "special stains in oral hyalinizing lesions", "significance of hyalinization in oral lesions" and "hyalinization and biologic behaviour". Original research articles analyzing the effect of hyalinization on biologic characteristics of the lesion were evaluated in this review. Narrative review articles that provided insights into the mechanism of hyalinization and maturity of collagen fibers were also considered for analysis. Conclusion The presence of hyalinization does seem to have a significant effect on the biologic behaviour of pathological lesions. There is substantial scope to further investigate the process of hyalinization on larger samples and its correlation with the aggressive behaviour of OHLs. Special stains and advanced investigations such as immunohistochemistry for stromal markers would define the nature of hyalinized material and validate the correlation. Clinical significance The prediction of the biologic behaviour of a lesion established through assessment of hyalinization would prevent unwanted over or under treatment leading to a better prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominic Augustine
- Department of Oral Pathology and Microbiology, Faculty of Dental Sciences, MS Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences, MSR Nagar, Bengaluru, 560054, Karnataka, India
| | - Roopa S Rao
- Department of Oral Pathology and Microbiology, Faculty of Dental Sciences, MS Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences, MSR Nagar, Bengaluru, 560054, Karnataka, India
| | - Shankargouda Patil
- Department of Maxillofacial Surgery and Diagnostic Sciences, Division of Oral Pathology, College of Dentistry, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
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