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Wang J, Hou Q, Qu J, Huo X, Li H, Feng Y, Wang Q, Chang L, Xu C. Polyhedral magnetic nanoparticles induce apoptosis in gastric cancer stem cells and suppressing tumor growth through magnetic force generation. J Control Release 2024; 373:370-384. [PMID: 39032573 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.07.041] [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: 03/04/2024] [Revised: 07/15/2024] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
Gastric cancer is a prevalent malignant tumor worldwide, posing challenges due to its poor prognosis and limited treatment options. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) were demonstrated as a subset of cancer cells responsible for tumor initiation and progression, and their inherent resistance to conventional chemotherapy and radiotherapy critically contributes to tumor recurrence and metastasis. Promoting the eradication of cancer stem cells is crucial for enhancing the efficacy of cancer treatments. This study introduces a novel therapeutic strategy utilizing polyhedral magnetic nanoparticles (PMNPs) functionalized with CD44 antibodies and cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) to improve uptake by gastric cancer stem cells (MCSCs). PMNPs, synthesized via thermal decomposition, exhibited a diameter of 90 nm ± 9 nm and a saturation magnetization of 79.9 emu/g. Functionalization enhanced their uptake capabilities. Under a rotating magnetic field (RMF) of 15 Hz, PMNPs disrupted cellular structure, leading to apoptosis and ferroptosis in MCSCs. The in vitro studies showed significant reduction in MCSCs viability, while in vivo studies demonstrated tumor growth suppression with minimal side effects and high biocompatibility. This work presents a novel strategy for designing magnetic nanoparticles to mechanically destroy cancer stem cells, offering a more efficient and safety treatment option for gastric cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianhua Wang
- Shaanxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Infection and Immune Diseases, Shaanxi Provincial People's Hospital, 710068 Xi'an, China; Second Department of General Surgery, Shaanxi Provincial People's Hospital, 710068 Xi'an, China
| | - Qiang Hou
- Department of Graduate School, Yan'an University, 716000 Yan'an, China
| | - Jie Qu
- Department of Graduate School, Yan'an University, 716000 Yan'an, China
| | - Xueping Huo
- Shaanxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Infection and Immune Diseases, Shaanxi Provincial People's Hospital, 710068 Xi'an, China; Shaanxi Engineering Research Center of Cell Immunology, Shaanxi Provincial People's Hospital, 710068 Xi'an, China
| | - Huiting Li
- Shaanxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Infection and Immune Diseases, Shaanxi Provincial People's Hospital, 710068 Xi'an, China; Shaanxi Engineering Research Center of Cell Immunology, Shaanxi Provincial People's Hospital, 710068 Xi'an, China
| | - Yangmeng Feng
- Shaanxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Infection and Immune Diseases, Shaanxi Provincial People's Hospital, 710068 Xi'an, China; Shaanxi Engineering Research Center of Cell Immunology, Shaanxi Provincial People's Hospital, 710068 Xi'an, China
| | - Qiyu Wang
- Department of Graduate School, Yan'an University, 716000 Yan'an, China
| | - Le Chang
- Shaanxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Infection and Immune Diseases, Shaanxi Provincial People's Hospital, 710068 Xi'an, China; Shaanxi Engineering Research Center of Cell Immunology, Shaanxi Provincial People's Hospital, 710068 Xi'an, China; Bioinspired Engineering and Biomechanics Center (BEBC), Xi'an Jiaotong University, 710049 Xi'an, China.
| | - Cuixiang Xu
- Shaanxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Infection and Immune Diseases, Shaanxi Provincial People's Hospital, 710068 Xi'an, China; Shaanxi Engineering Research Center of Cell Immunology, Shaanxi Provincial People's Hospital, 710068 Xi'an, China.
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Zhou X, Gao F, Gao W, Wang Q, Li X, Li X, Li W, Liu J, Zhou H, Luo A, Chen C, Liu Z. Bismuth Sulfide Nanoflowers Facilitated miR339 Delivery to Overcome Stemness and Radioresistance through Ubiquitin-Specific Peptidase 8 in Esophageal Cancer. ACS NANO 2024; 18:19232-19246. [PMID: 38996055 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.4c05100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/14/2024]
Abstract
Despite the superior efficacy of radiotherapy in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC), radioresistance by cancer stem cells (CSCs) leads to recurrence, metastasis, and treatment failure. Therefore, it is necessary to develop CSC-based therapies to enhance radiotherapy. miR-339-5p (miR339) is involved in stem cell division and DNA damage checkpoint signaling pathways based on ESCC cohort. miR339 inhibited ESCC cell stemness and enhanced radiation-induced DNA damage by targeting USP8, suggesting that it acts as a potential CSC regulator and radiosensitizer. Considering the limited circulating periods and poor tumor-targeting ability of miRNA, a multifunctional nanoplatform based on bismuth sulfide nanoflower (Bi@PP) is developed to efficiently deliver miR339 and improve radioresistance. Intriguingly, Bi@PP encapsulates more miR339 owing to their flower-shaped structure, delivering more than 1000-fold miR339 into cells, superior to free miR339 alone. Besides being used as a carrier, Bi@PP is advantageous for dynamically monitoring the distribution of delivered miR339 in vivo while simultaneously inhibiting tumor growth. Additionally, Bi@PP/miR339 can significantly enhance radiotherapy efficacy in patient-derived xenograft models. This multifunctional platform, incorporating higher miRNA loading capacity, pH responsiveness, hypoxia relief, and CT imaging, provides another method to promote radiosensitivity and optimize ESCC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuantong Zhou
- State Key Lab of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Thoracic Surgery II, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing 100142, China
| | - Fene Gao
- New Cornerstone Science Laboratory, CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety & CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology of China, Beijing 100190, China
| | - Wenyan Gao
- State Key Lab of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Qingzhen Wang
- New Cornerstone Science Laboratory, CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety & CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology of China, Beijing 100190, China
| | - Xin Li
- State Key Lab of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Xinyue Li
- State Key Lab of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Wenxin Li
- State Key Lab of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Jing Liu
- New Cornerstone Science Laboratory, CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety & CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology of China, Beijing 100190, China
| | - Huige Zhou
- New Cornerstone Science Laboratory, CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety & CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology of China, Beijing 100190, China
- Research Unit of Nanoscience and Technology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Aiping Luo
- State Key Lab of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Chunying Chen
- New Cornerstone Science Laboratory, CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety & CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology of China, Beijing 100190, China
- Research Unit of Nanoscience and Technology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Zhihua Liu
- State Key Lab of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
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Fang J, Gerschel P, Singh K, Apfel UP, Suntharalingam K. Cobalt(III)-Macrocyclic Scaffolds with Anti-Cancer Stem Cell Activity. Molecules 2024; 29:2743. [PMID: 38930809 PMCID: PMC11206342 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29122743] [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: 04/27/2024] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Cobalt(III) compounds with tetradentate ligands have been widely employed to deliver cytotoxic and imaging agents into cells. A large body of work has focused on using cobalt(III)-cyclam scaffolds for this purpose. Here, we investigate the cytotoxic properties of cobalt(III) complexes containing 14-membered macrocycles related to cyclam. A breast cancer stem cell (CSC) in vitro model was used to gauge efficacy. Specifically, [Co(1,4,7,11-tetraazacyclotetradecane)Cl2]+ (1) and [Co(1-oxa-4,8,12-triazacyclotetradecane)Cl2]+ (2) were synthesised and characterised, and their breast CSC activity was determined. The cobalt(III) complexes 1 and 2 displayed micromolar potency towards bulk breast cancer cells and breast CSCs grown in monolayers. Notably, 1 and 2 displayed selective potency towards breast CSCs over bulk breast cancer cells (up to 4.5-fold), which was similar to salinomycin (an established breast CSC-selective agent). The cobalt(III) complexes 1 and 2 were also able to inhibit mammosphere formation at low micromolar doses (with respect to size and number). The mammopshere inhibitory effect of 2 was similar to that of salinomycin. Our studies show that cobalt(III) complexes with 1,4,7,11-tetraazacyclotetradecane and 1-oxa-4,8,12-triazacyclotetradecane macrocycles could be useful starting points for the development of new cobalt-based delivery systems that can transport cytotoxic and imaging agents into breast CSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaxin Fang
- School of Chemistry, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK; (J.F.); (K.S.)
| | - Philipp Gerschel
- Inorganic Chemistry I, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Universitätsstr. 150, 44801 Bochum, Germany;
| | - Kuldip Singh
- School of Chemistry, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK; (J.F.); (K.S.)
| | - Ulf-Peter Apfel
- Inorganic Chemistry I, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Universitätsstr. 150, 44801 Bochum, Germany;
- Fraunhofer UMSICHT, Osterfelder Str. 3, 46047 Oberhausen, Germany
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Gach-Janczak K, Drogosz-Stachowicz J, Janecka A, Wtorek K, Mirowski M. Historical Perspective and Current Trends in Anticancer Drug Development. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1878. [PMID: 38791957 PMCID: PMC11120596 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16101878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer is considered one of the leading causes of death in the 21st century. The intensive search for new anticancer drugs has been actively pursued by chemists and pharmacologists for decades, focusing either on the isolation of compounds with cytotoxic properties from plants or on screening thousands of synthetic molecules. Compounds that could potentially become candidates for new anticancer drugs must have the ability to inhibit proliferation and/or induce apoptosis in cancer cells without causing too much damage to normal cells. Some anticancer compounds were discovered by accident, others as a result of long-term research. In this review, we have presented a brief history of the development of the most important groups of anticancer drugs, pointing to the fact that they all have many side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Gach-Janczak
- Department of Biomolecular Chemistry, Medical University of Lodz, Mazowiecka 6/8, 92-215 Lodz, Poland; (K.G.-J.); (A.J.); (K.W.)
| | | | - Anna Janecka
- Department of Biomolecular Chemistry, Medical University of Lodz, Mazowiecka 6/8, 92-215 Lodz, Poland; (K.G.-J.); (A.J.); (K.W.)
| | - Karol Wtorek
- Department of Biomolecular Chemistry, Medical University of Lodz, Mazowiecka 6/8, 92-215 Lodz, Poland; (K.G.-J.); (A.J.); (K.W.)
| | - Marek Mirowski
- Laboratory of Molecular Diagnostics and Pharmacogenomics, Department of Pharmaceutical Biochemistry and Molecular Diagnostics, Medical University of Lodz, Muszynskiego 1, 90-151 Lodz, Poland
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Li Y, Fang J, Singh K, Ortu F, Suntharalingam K. An immunogenic anti-cancer stem cell bi-nuclear copper(II)-flufenamic acid complex. Dalton Trans 2024; 53:6410-6415. [PMID: 38501501 DOI: 10.1039/d4dt00384e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
An asymmetric bi-nuclear copper(II) complex with both cytotoxic and immunogenic activity towards breast cancer stem cells (CSCs) is reported. The bi-nuclear copper(II) complex comprises of two copper(II) centres bound to flufenamic acid and 3,4,7,8-tetramethyl-1,10-phenanthroline. The bi-nuclear copper(II) complex exhibits sub-micromolar potency towards breast CSCs grown in monolayers and three-dimensional cultures. Remarkably, the bi-nuclear copper(II) complex is up to 25-fold more potent toward breast CSC mammospheres than salinomycin (a gold standard anti-breast CSC agent) and cisplatin (a clinically administered metallodrug). Mechanistic studies showed that the bi-nuclear copper(II) complex readily enters breast CSCs, elevates intracellular reactive oxygen species levels, induces apoptosis, and promotes damage-associated molecular pattern release. The latter triggers phagocytosis of breast CSCs by macrophages. As far as we are aware, this is the first report of a bi-nuclear copper(II) complex to induce engulfment of breast CSCs by immune cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Li
- School of Chemistry, University of Leicester, Leicester, LE1 7RH, UK.
| | - Jiaxin Fang
- School of Chemistry, University of Leicester, Leicester, LE1 7RH, UK.
| | - Kuldip Singh
- School of Chemistry, University of Leicester, Leicester, LE1 7RH, UK.
| | - Fabrizio Ortu
- School of Chemistry, University of Leicester, Leicester, LE1 7RH, UK.
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Lin TY, Jia JS, Luo WR, Lin XL, Xiao SJ, Yang J, Xia JW, Zhou C, Zhou ZH, Lin SJ, Li QW, Yang ZZ, Lei Y, Yang WQ, Shen HF, Huang SH, Wang SC, Chen LB, Yang YL, Xue SW, Li YL, Dai GQ, Zhou Y, Li YC, Wei F, Rong XX, Luo XJ, Zhao BX, Huang WH, Xiao D, Sun Y. ThermomiR-377-3p-induced suppression of Cirbp expression is required for effective elimination of cancer cells and cancer stem-like cells by hyperthermia. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2024; 43:62. [PMID: 38419081 PMCID: PMC10903011 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-024-02983-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In recent years, the development of adjunctive therapeutic hyperthermia for cancer therapy has received considerable attention. However, the mechanisms underlying hyperthermia resistance are still poorly understood. In this study, we investigated the roles of cold‑inducible RNA binding protein (Cirbp) in regulating hyperthermia resistance and underlying mechanisms in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). METHODS CCK-8 assay, colony formation assay, tumor sphere formation assay, qRT-PCR, Western blot were employed to examine the effects of hyperthermia (HT), HT + oridonin(Ori) or HT + radiotherapy (RT) on the proliferation and stemness of NPC cells. RNA sequencing was applied to gain differentially expressed genes upon hyperthermia. Gain-of-function and loss-of-function experiments were used to evaluate the effects of RNAi-mediated Cirbp silencing or Cirbp overexpression on the sensitivity or resistance of NPC cells and cancer stem-like cells to hyperthermia by CCK-8 assay, colony formation assay, tumorsphere formation assay and apoptosis assay, and in subcutaneous xenograft animal model. miRNA transient transfection and luciferase reporter assay were used to demonstrate that Cirbp is a direct target of miR-377-3p. The phosphorylation levels of key members in ATM-Chk2 and ATR-Chk1 pathways were detected by Western blot. RESULTS Our results firstly revealed that hyperthermia significantly attenuated the stemness of NPC cells, while combination treatment of hyperthermia and oridonin dramatically increased the killing effect on NPC cells and cancer stem cell (CSC)‑like population. Moreover, hyperthermia substantially improved the sensitivity of radiation‑resistant NPC cells and CSC‑like cells to radiotherapy. Hyperthermia noticeably suppressed Cirbp expression in NPC cells and xenograft tumor tissues. Furthermore, Cirbp inhibition remarkably boosted anti‑tumor‑killing activity of hyperthermia against NPC cells and CSC‑like cells, whereas ectopic expression of Cirbp compromised tumor‑killing effect of hyperthermia on these cells, indicating that Cirbp overexpression induces hyperthermia resistance. ThermomiR-377-3p improved the sensitivity of NPC cells and CSC‑like cells to hyperthermia in vitro by directly suppressing Cirbp expression. More importantly, our results displayed the significantly boosted sensitization of tumor xenografts to hyperthermia by Cirbp silencing in vivo, but ectopic expression of Cirbp almost completely counteracted hyperthermia-mediated tumor cell-killing effect against tumor xenografts in vivo. Mechanistically, Cirbp silencing-induced inhibition of DNA damage repair by inactivating ATM-Chk2 and ATR-Chk1 pathways, decrease in stemness and increase in cell death contributed to hyperthermic sensitization; conversely, Cirbp overexpression-induced promotion of DNA damage repair, increase in stemness and decrease in cell apoptosis contributed to hyperthermia resistance. CONCLUSION Taken together, these findings reveal a previously unrecognized role for Cirbp in positively regulating hyperthermia resistance and suggest that thermomiR-377-3p and its target gene Cirbp represent promising targets for therapeutic hyperthermia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao-Yan Lin
- Laboratory Animal Management Center, Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
- Department of Pharmacy, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Jun-Shuang Jia
- Laboratory Animal Management Center, Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
- Medical Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Wei-Ren Luo
- Cancer Research Institute, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen Third People's Hospital, Shenzhen, 518112, China
| | - Xiao-Lin Lin
- Laboratory Animal Management Center, Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
- Cancer Center, Integrated Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510315, China
| | - Sheng-Jun Xiao
- Department of Pathology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, 541199, China
| | - Jie Yang
- Laboratory Animal Management Center, Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
- Department of Imaging, Central Hospital of Shaoyang, Shaoyang, 422000, China
| | - Jia-Wei Xia
- The Third People's Hospital of Kunming (The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Dali University), Kunming, 650041, China
| | - Chen Zhou
- Department of Pathology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, 541199, China
| | - Zhi-Hao Zhou
- Laboratory Animal Management Center, Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Shu-Jun Lin
- Laboratory Animal Management Center, Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Qi-Wen Li
- Laboratory Animal Management Center, Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Zhi-Zhi Yang
- Laboratory Animal Management Center, Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Ye Lei
- Laboratory Animal Management Center, Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Wen-Qing Yang
- School of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Hong-Fen Shen
- Laboratory Animal Management Center, Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Shi-Hao Huang
- Laboratory Animal Management Center, Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Sheng-Chun Wang
- Laboratory Animal Management Center, Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medicine, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523808, China
| | - Lin-Bei Chen
- School of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Yu-Lin Yang
- School of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Shu-Wen Xue
- Laboratory Animal Management Center, Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Yong-Long Li
- Laboratory Animal Management Center, Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Guan-Qi Dai
- Laboratory Animal Management Center, Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Ying Zhou
- Laboratory Animal Management Center, Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Ying-Chun Li
- Laboratory Animal Management Center, Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Fang Wei
- Laboratory Animal Management Center, Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Xiao-Xiang Rong
- Department of Oncology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guang‑zhou, 510515, China
| | - Xiao-Jun Luo
- Cancer Center, Integrated Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510315, China
| | - Bing-Xia Zhao
- Laboratory Animal Management Center, Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China.
| | - Wen-Hua Huang
- Guangdong Engineering Research Center for Translation of Medical 3D Printing Application, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Biomechanics, National Key Discipline of Human Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China.
- Guangdong Medical Innovation Platform for Translation of 3D Printing Application, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510000, China.
- Orthopaedic Center, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, 524001, China.
| | - Dong Xiao
- Laboratory Animal Management Center, Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China.
- Medical Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510080, China.
- Guangzhou Southern Medical Laboratory Animal Sci.&Tech. Co.,Ltd, Guangzhou, 510515, China.
- National Demonstration Center for Experimental Education of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China.
- Department of Stomatology, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510080, China.
| | - Yan Sun
- Laboratory Animal Management Center, Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China.
- Medical Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510080, China.
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Fang J, Orobator ON, Olelewe C, Passeri G, Singh K, Awuah SG, Suntharalingam K. A Breast Cancer Stem Active Cobalt(III)-Cyclam Complex Containing Flufenamic Acid with Immunogenic Potential. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024; 63:e202317940. [PMID: 38063406 PMCID: PMC10952489 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202317940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/31/2023]
Abstract
The cytotoxic and immunogenic-activating properties of a cobalt(III)-cyclam complex bearing the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, flufenamic acid is reported within the context of anti-cancer stem cell (CSC) drug discovery. The cobalt(III)-cyclam complex 1 displays sub-micromolar potency towards breast CSCs grown in monolayers, 24-fold and 31-fold greater than salinomycin (an established anti-breast CSC agent) and cisplatin (an anticancer metallopharmaceutical), respectively. Strikingly, the cobalt(III)-cyclam complex 1 is 69-fold and 50-fold more potent than salinomycin and cisplatin towards three-dimensionally cultured breast CSC mammospheres. Mechanistic studies reveal that 1 induces DNA damage, inhibits cyclooxygenase-2 expression, and prompts caspase-dependent apoptosis. Breast CSCs treated with 1 exhibit damage-associated molecular patterns characteristic of immunogenic cell death and are phagocytosed by macrophages. As far as we are aware, 1 is the first cobalt complex of any oxidation state or geometry to display both cytotoxic and immunogenic-activating effects on breast CSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaxin Fang
- School of ChemistryUniversity of LeicesterLeicesterUK
| | | | | | | | - Kuldip Singh
- School of ChemistryUniversity of LeicesterLeicesterUK
| | - Samuel G. Awuah
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of KentuckyLexingtonKYUSA
- Department of Pharmaceutical SciencesUniversity of KentuckyLexingtonKYUSA
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Feng K, Li X, Bai Y, Zhang D, Tian L. Mechanisms of cancer cell death induction by triptolide: A comprehensive overview. Heliyon 2024; 10:e24335. [PMID: 38293343 PMCID: PMC10826740 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e24335] [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: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 01/06/2024] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
The need for naturally occurring constituents is driven by the rise in the cancer prevalence and the unpleasant side effects associated with chemotherapeutics. Triptolide, the primary active component of "Tripterygium Wilfordii", has exploited for biological mechanisms and therapeutic potential against various tumors. Based on the recent pre-clinical investigations, triptolide is linked to the induction of death of cancerous cells by triggering cellular apoptosis via inhibiting heat shock protein expression (HSP70), and cyclin dependent kinase (CDKs) by up regulating expression of P21. MKP1, histone methyl transferases and RNA polymerases have all recently identified as potential targets of triptolide in cells. Autophagy, AKT signaling pathway and various pathways involving targeted proteins such as A-disintegrin & metalloprotease-10 (ADAM10), Polycystin-2 (PC-2), dCTP pyro-phosphatase 1 (DCTP1), peroxiredoxin-I (Prx-I), TAK1 binding protein (TAB1), kinase subunit (DNA-PKcs) and the xeroderma-pigmentosum B (XPB or ERCC3) have been exploited. Besides that, triptolide is responsible for enhancing the effectiveness of various chemotherapeutics. In addition, several triptolide moieties, including minnelide and LLDT8, have progressed in investigations on humans for the treatment of cancer. Targeted strategies, such as triptolide conjugation with ligands or triptolide loaded nano-carriers, are efficient techniques to confront toxicities associated with triptolide. We expect and anticipate that advances in near future, regarding combination therapies of triptolide, might be beneficial against cancerous cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Feng
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Changchun University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changchun, 130000, China
| | - Xiaojiang Li
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Changchun University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changchun, 130000, China
| | - Yuzhuo Bai
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery Affiliated Hospital of Changchun University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changchun, 130000, China
| | - Dawei Zhang
- Department of General Surgery Baishan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Baishan, 134300, China
| | - Lin Tian
- Department of Lung Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Changchun University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changchun, 130000, China
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9
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Ajmeera D, Ajumeera R. Drug repurposing: A novel strategy to target cancer stem cells and therapeutic resistance. Genes Dis 2024; 11:148-175. [PMID: 37588226 PMCID: PMC10425757 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2022.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapy is an effortless and frequently used approach in cancer therapy. However, in most cases, it can only prolong life expectancy and does not guarantee a complete cure. Furthermore, chemotherapy is associated with severe adverse effects, one of the major complications of effective cancer therapy. In addition, newly published research outputs show that cancer stem cells are involved in cancer disease progression, drug resistance, metastasis, and recurrence and that they are functional in the trans-differentiation capacity of cancer stem cells to cancer cells in response to treatments. Novel strategies are therefore required for better management of cancer therapy. The prime approach would be to synthesize and develop novel drugs that need extensive resources, time, and endurance to be brought into therapeutic use. The subsequent approach would be to screen the anti-cancer activity of available non-cancerous drugs. This concept of repurposing non-cancer drugs as an alternative to current cancer therapy has become popular in recent years because using existing anticancer drugs has several adverse effects. Micronutrients have also been investigated for cancer therapy due to their significant anti-cancer effects with negligible or no side effects and availability in food sources. In this paper, we discuss an ideal hypothesis for screening available non-cancerous drugs with anticancer activity, with a focus on cancer stem cells and their clinical application for cancer treatment. Further, drug repurposing and the combination of micronutrients that can target both cancers and cancer stem cells may result in a better therapeutic approach leading to maximum tumor growth control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Divya Ajmeera
- Cell Biology Department, ICMR-National Institute of Nutrition (NIN), Hyderabad, Telangana 500007, India
| | - Rajanna Ajumeera
- Cell Biology Department, ICMR-National Institute of Nutrition (NIN), Hyderabad, Telangana 500007, India
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10
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Johnson A, Feng X, Singh K, Ortu F, Suntharalingam K. The Anti-Breast Cancer Stem Cell Potency of Copper(I)-Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug Complexes. Molecules 2023; 28:6401. [PMID: 37687229 PMCID: PMC10489748 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28176401] [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: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are thought to be partly responsible for metastasis and cancer relapse. Currently, there are no effective therapeutic options that can remove CSCs at clinically safe doses. Here, we report the synthesis, characterisation, and anti-breast CSC properties of a series of copper(I) complexes, comprising of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and triphenylphosphine ligands (1-3). The copper(I) complexes are able to reduce the viability of breast CSCs grown in two- and three-dimensional cultures at micromolar concentrations. The potency of the copper(I) complexes towards breast CSCs was similar to salinomycin (an established anti-breast CSC agent) and cisplatin (a clinically used metallopharmaceutical). Cell-based studies showed that the copper(I) complexes are readily, and similarly, internalised by breast CSCs. The copper(I) complexes significantly increase the intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in breast CSCs, and their ROS generation profile with respect to time is dependent on the NSAID component present. The generation of intracellular ROS by the copper(I) complexes could be part of the underlying mechanism by which they evoke breast CSC death. As far as we are aware, this is the first study to explore the anti-breast CSC properties of copper(I) complexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Johnson
- School of Chemistry, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK; (A.J.); (X.F.); (K.S.)
- Biomolecular Sciences Research Centre, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield S1 1WB, UK
| | - Xiao Feng
- School of Chemistry, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK; (A.J.); (X.F.); (K.S.)
| | - Kuldip Singh
- School of Chemistry, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK; (A.J.); (X.F.); (K.S.)
| | - Fabrizio Ortu
- School of Chemistry, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK; (A.J.); (X.F.); (K.S.)
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11
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Lozano E, Sanchon-Sanchez P, Morente-Carrasco A, Chinchilla-Tábora LM, Mauriz JL, Fernández-Palanca P, Marin JJG, Macias RIR. Impact of Aberrant β-Catenin Pathway on Cholangiocarcinoma Heterogeneity. Cells 2023; 12:cells12081141. [PMID: 37190050 DOI: 10.3390/cells12081141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 04/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The poor prognosis of most cases of advanced cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) constitutes a severe problem in modern oncology, which is aggravated by the fact that the incidence of this liver cancer is increasing worldwide and is often diagnosed late, when surgical removal is not feasible. The difficulty of dealing with this deadly tumor is augmented by the heterogeneity of CCA subtypes and the complexity of mechanisms involved in enhanced proliferation, apoptosis avoidance, chemoresistance, invasiveness, and metastasis that characterize CCA. Among the regulatory processes implicated in developing these malignant traits, the Wnt/β-catenin pathway plays a pivotal role. Alteration of β-catenin expression and subcellular localization has been associated with worse outcomes in some CCA subtypes. This heterogeneity, which also affects cellular and in vivo models commonly used to study CCA biology and anticancer drug development, must be taken into account for CCA investigation to more accurately extrapolate basic laboratory research to the clinical situation. A better understanding of the altered Wnt/β-catenin pathway in relationship with the heterogeneous forms of CCA is mandatory for developing novel diagnostic tools and therapeutic strategies for patients suffering from this lethal disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Lozano
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEPHARM) Group, Biomedical Research Institute of Salamanca (IBSAL), University of Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
- Center for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Paula Sanchon-Sanchez
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEPHARM) Group, Biomedical Research Institute of Salamanca (IBSAL), University of Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
- Center for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Morente-Carrasco
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEPHARM) Group, Biomedical Research Institute of Salamanca (IBSAL), University of Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
- Area of Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University Rey Juan Carlos, 28032 Alcorcón, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - José L Mauriz
- Center for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Institute of Biomedicine (IBIOMED), Universidad de León, 24071 León, Spain
| | - Paula Fernández-Palanca
- Center for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Institute of Biomedicine (IBIOMED), Universidad de León, 24071 León, Spain
| | - Jose J G Marin
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEPHARM) Group, Biomedical Research Institute of Salamanca (IBSAL), University of Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
- Center for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Rocio I R Macias
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEPHARM) Group, Biomedical Research Institute of Salamanca (IBSAL), University of Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
- Center for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, 28029 Madrid, Spain
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12
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Samanta P, Bhowmik A, Biswas S, Sarkar R, Ghosh R, Pakhira S, Mondal M, Sen S, Saha P, Hajra S. Therapeutic Effectiveness of Anticancer Agents Targeting Different Signaling Molecules Involved in Asymmetric Division of Cancer Stem Cell. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2023:10.1007/s12015-023-10523-3. [PMID: 36952080 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-023-10523-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/25/2023] [Indexed: 03/24/2023]
Abstract
Intra-tumoral heterogeneity is maintained by cancer stem cells (CSCs) with dysregulated self-renewal and asymmetric cell division (ACD). According to the cancer stem cell theory, by ACD a CSC can generate two daughter progenies with different fates such as one cancer stem cell and one differentiated cell. Therefore, this type of mitotic division supports vital process of the maintenance of CSC population. But this CSC pool reservation by ACD complicates the treatment of cancer patients, as CSCs give rise to aggressive clones which are prone to metastasis and drug-insensitivity. Hence, identification of therapeutic modalities which can target ACD of cancer stem cell is an intriguing part of cancer research. In this review, other than the discussion about the extrinsic inducers of ACD role of different proteins, miRNAs and lncRNAs in this type of cell division is also mentioned. Other than these, mode of action of the proven and potential drugs targeting ACD of CSC is also discussed here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priya Samanta
- Department of Cancer Chemoprevention, Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute (CNCI), 37, Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Rd, Bakul Bagan, Bhowanipore, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700026, India
| | - Arijit Bhowmik
- Department of Cancer Chemoprevention, Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute (CNCI), 37, Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Rd, Bakul Bagan, Bhowanipore, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700026, India.
| | - Souradeep Biswas
- Department of Cancer Chemoprevention, Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute (CNCI), 37, Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Rd, Bakul Bagan, Bhowanipore, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700026, India
| | - Rupali Sarkar
- Department of Cancer Chemoprevention, Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute (CNCI), 37, Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Rd, Bakul Bagan, Bhowanipore, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700026, India
| | - Rituparna Ghosh
- Department of Cancer Chemoprevention, Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute (CNCI), 37, Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Rd, Bakul Bagan, Bhowanipore, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700026, India
| | - Shampa Pakhira
- Department of Cancer Chemoprevention, Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute (CNCI), 37, Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Rd, Bakul Bagan, Bhowanipore, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700026, India
| | - Mrinmoyee Mondal
- Department of Cancer Chemoprevention, Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute (CNCI), 37, Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Rd, Bakul Bagan, Bhowanipore, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700026, India
| | - Soummadeep Sen
- Department of Cancer Chemoprevention, Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute (CNCI), 37, Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Rd, Bakul Bagan, Bhowanipore, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700026, India
| | - Prosenjit Saha
- Department of Cancer Chemoprevention, Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute (CNCI), 37, Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Rd, Bakul Bagan, Bhowanipore, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700026, India
| | - Subhadip Hajra
- Department of Cancer Chemoprevention, Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute (CNCI), 37, Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Rd, Bakul Bagan, Bhowanipore, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700026, India.
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13
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Passeri G, Northcote-Smith J, Suntharalingam K. Payload Release Profile and Anti-Cancer Stem Cell Properties of Compositionally Different Polymeric Nanoparticles Containing a Copper(II) Complex. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28062506. [PMID: 36985478 PMCID: PMC10051418 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28062506] [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: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are linked to tumour relapse and metastasis, the main reason for cancer-related deaths. The application of polymeric nanoparticles as drug delivery systems to target CSCs is relatively unexplored. Here, we report the encapsulation of a CSC-potent copper(II) complex 1 by two compositionally different methoxy poly(ethylene glycol)-b-poly(D,L-lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PEG–PLGA) copolymers. Specifically, we used PEG–PLGA (5000:10,000 Da, 1:1 LA:GA) and PEG–PLGA (5000:10,000 Da, 4:1 LA:GA) polymers to prepare spherical nanoparticle formulations 1:1 NP15 and 4:1 NP15, respectively, both with a 15% feed of 1. The two formulations show distinct biophysical and in vitro properties. For example, (i) 4:1 NP15 displays a slower payload release profile than 1:1 NP15 in physiologically relevant solutions, (ii) 4:1 NP15 exhibits statistically greater potency towards breast CSCs than bulk breast cancer cells grown in monolayers, whereas 1:1 NP15 is equally potent towards breast CSCs and bulk breast cancer cells, and (iii) 4:1 NP15 shows significantly greater potency towards three-dimensionally cultured mammospheres than 1:1 NP15. This study shows that the release profile and anti-breast CSC properties of PEG–PLGA nanoparticle formulations (containing 1) can be perturbed (and possibly controlled) by modifying the proportion of glycolic acid within the PLGA component.
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14
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Verma P, Shukla N, Kumari S, Ansari M, Gautam NK, Patel GK. Cancer stem cell in prostate cancer progression, metastasis and therapy resistance. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2023; 1878:188887. [PMID: 36997008 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2023.188887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Revised: 02/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023]
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PCa) is the most diagnosed malignancy in the men worldwide. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are the sub-population of cells present in the tumor which possess unique properties of self-renewal and multilineage differentiation thus thought to be major cause of therapy resistance, disease relapse, and mortality in several malignancies including PCa. CSCs have also been shown positive for the common stem cells markers such as ALDH EZH2, OCT4, SOX2, c-MYC, Nanog etc. Therefore, isolation and characterization of CSCs specific markers which may discriminate CSCs and normal stem cells are critical to selectively eliminate CSCs. Rapid advances in the field offers a theoretical explanation for many of the enduring uncertainties encompassing the etiology and an optimism for the identification of new stem-cell targets, development of reliable and efficient therapies in the future. The emerging reports have also provided unprecedented insights into CSCs plasticity, quiescence, renewal, and therapeutic response. In this review, we discuss the identification of PCa stem cells, their unique properties, stemness-driving pathways, new diagnostics, and therapeutic interventions.
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Northcote-Smith J, Suntharalingam K. Targeting chemotherapy-resistant tumour sub-populations using inorganic chemistry: Anti-cancer stem cell metal complexes. Curr Opin Chem Biol 2023; 72:102237. [PMID: 36542889 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2022.102237] [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: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSC) are a sub-population of tumours linked to metastasis and relapse. Current chemotherapeutic drug options are ineffective against CSCs at their administered doses. New families of cytotoxic agents, and new, highly specific ways of delivering them to CSCs, are needed to provide durable clinical outcomes. Inorganic compounds have recently emerged as a promising class of anti-CSC agents with clinically relevant potencies. In this short review, we present the very latest efforts (post-2020) on the development of anti-CSC metal complexes. The activities of the metal complexes in monolayer and three-dimensional CSC cultures and animal models is documented. The mechanism of action of the metal complexes with respect to their chemical structures is also highlighted.
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16
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Wu X, Wei Z, Feng H, Chen H, Xie J, Huang Y, Wang M, Yao C, Huang J. Targeting Effect of Betulinic Acid Liposome Modified by Hyaluronic Acid on Hepatoma Cells In Vitro. J Pharm Sci 2022; 111:3047-3053. [PMID: 35779664 DOI: 10.1016/j.xphs.2022.06.015] [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: 04/10/2022] [Revised: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Betulinic acid (BA) is a natural pentacyclic triterpenoid with broad-spectrum anticancer activity, which has great development potential as an anti-cancer drug. In this study, a novel hyaluronic acid (HA)-modified BA liposome (BA-L) was developed for use in targeted liver cancer therapy. The size, polymer dispersity index (PDI), zeta potential, and entrapment efficiency were measured. Cell viability, cell migration and clonogenicity, cellular uptake, immunohistochemistry of CD44, and protein expression of ROCK1/IP3/RAS were also investigated. BA, BA-L, and HA-BA-L had no inhibitory effect on the activity of LO2 normal hepatocytes, but they inhibited the proliferation of HepG2 and SMMC-7721 cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner, with HA-BA-L exhibiting the most prominent inhibitory effect. Compared with the BA-L group, the expression of CD44 in HepG2 cells in the HA-BA-L group was decreased. The results of WB showed that BA, BA-L, and HA-BA-L downregulated the expression of ROCK1, IP3, and RAS in HepG2 cells, and the expression level in the HA-BA-L group was significantly decreased. The easily prepared HA-BA-L was demonstrated to be an excellent CD44-mediated intracellular delivery system capable of targeting effects. Further mechanistic research revealed that the inhibition of HA-BA-L on HepG2 cells may be mediated by blocking the ROCK1/IP3/RAS signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaomei Wu
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Bioactive Molecules Research and Evaluation, Department of Pharmacology, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, Guangxi, PR China
| | - Zhumei Wei
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Bioactive Molecules Research and Evaluation, Department of Pharmacology, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, Guangxi, PR China
| | - Hui Feng
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Bioactive Molecules Research and Evaluation, Department of Pharmacology, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, Guangxi, PR China
| | - Hongli Chen
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Bioactive Molecules Research and Evaluation, Department of Pharmacology, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, Guangxi, PR China
| | - Jiaxiu Xie
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Bioactive Molecules Research and Evaluation, Department of Pharmacology, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, Guangxi, PR China
| | - Yupeng Huang
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Bioactive Molecules Research and Evaluation, Department of Pharmacology, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, Guangxi, PR China
| | - Mengyao Wang
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Bioactive Molecules Research and Evaluation, Department of Pharmacology, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, Guangxi, PR China
| | - Chanjuan Yao
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Bioactive Molecules Research and Evaluation, Department of Pharmacology, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, Guangxi, PR China
| | - Jianchun Huang
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Bioactive Molecules Research and Evaluation, Department of Pharmacology, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, Guangxi, PR China.
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17
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Liu H, Heller-Trulli D, Moore CL. Targeting the mRNA endonuclease CPSF73 inhibits breast cancer cell migration, invasion, and self-renewal. iScience 2022; 25:104804. [PMID: 35992060 PMCID: PMC9385686 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.104804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Cleavage by the endonuclease CPSF73 and polyadenylation of nascent RNA is an essential step in co-transcriptional mRNA maturation. Recent work has surprisingly identified CPSF73 as a promising drug target for inhibiting the growth of specific cancers, triggering further studies on understanding CPSF73 regulation and functions in cells. Here, we report that a HECT-like E3 ligase, UBE3D, participates in stabilizing CPFS73 protein by preventing its ubiquitin-mediated degradation by the proteasome. Depletion of UBE3D leads to CPSF73 downregulation, a pre-mRNA cleavage defect, and dysregulated gene expression in cells. UBE3D dysfunction or chemical inactivation of CPSF73 inhibited migration and invasion as well as stem cell renewal phenotypes in vitro in triple-negative breast cancer cells. In addition, genetic overexpression of CPSF73 promoted breast cancer stemness and knocking down CPSF73 inhibited stem cell renewal properties. Together, our findings indicate that targeting the pre-mRNA processing nuclease CPSF73 has potential for breast cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiyun Liu
- Department of Developmental, Molecular and Chemical Biology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA
| | - Daniel Heller-Trulli
- Department of Developmental, Molecular and Chemical Biology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA
| | - Claire L. Moore
- Department of Developmental, Molecular and Chemical Biology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA
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Stem Cells as Target for Prostate cancer Therapy: Opportunities and Challenges. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2022; 18:2833-2851. [PMID: 35951166 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-022-10437-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/24/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) and cells in a cancer stem cell-like (CSCL) state have proven to be responsible for tumor initiation, growth, and relapse in Prostate Cancer (PCa) and other cancers; therefore, new strategies are being developed to target such cellular populations. TLR3 activation-based immunotherapy using Polyinosinic:Polycytidylic acid (PIC) has been proposed to be used as a concomitant strategy to first-line treatment. This strategy is based on the induction of apoptosis and an inflammatory response in tumor cells. In combination with retinoids like 9cRA, this treatment can induce CSCs differentiation and apoptosis. A limitation in the use of this combination is the common decreased expression of TLR3 and its main positive regulator p53. observed in many patients suffering of different cancer types such as PCa. Importantly, human exposure to certain toxicants, such as iAs, not only has proven to enrich CSCs population in an in vitro model of human epithelial prostate cells, but additionally, it can also lead to a decreased p53, TLR3 and RA receptor (RARβ), expression/activation and thus hinder this treatment efficacy. Therefore, here we point out the relevance of evaluating the TLR3 and P53 status in PCa patients before starting an immunotherapy based on the use of PIC +9cRA to determine whether they will be responsive to treatment. Additionally, the use of strategies to overcome the lower TLR3, RARβ or p53 expression in PCa patients, like the inclusion of drugs that increase p53 expression, is encouraged, to potentiate the use of PIC+RA based immunotherapy in these patients.
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Activation of the Mitochondrial Unfolded Protein Response: A New Therapeutic Target? Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10071611. [PMID: 35884915 PMCID: PMC9313171 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10071611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Revised: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Mitochondrial dysfunction is a key hub that is common to many diseases. Mitochondria’s role in energy production, calcium homeostasis, and ROS balance makes them essential for cell survival and fitness. However, there are no effective treatments for most mitochondrial and related diseases to this day. Therefore, new therapeutic approaches, such as activation of the mitochondrial unfolded protein response (UPRmt), are being examined. UPRmt englobes several compensation processes related to proteostasis and antioxidant mechanisms. UPRmt activation, through an hormetic response, promotes cell homeostasis and improves lifespan and disease conditions in biological models of neurodegenerative diseases, cardiopathies, and mitochondrial diseases. Although UPRmt activation is a promising therapeutic option for many conditions, its overactivation could lead to non-desired side effects, such as increased heteroplasmy of mitochondrial DNA mutations or cancer progression in oncologic patients. In this review, we present the most recent UPRmt activation therapeutic strategies, UPRmt’s role in diseases, and its possible negative consequences in particular pathological conditions.
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Yao J, Liu Y, Yang J, Li M, Li S, Zhang B, Yang R, Zhang Y, Cui X, Feng C. Single-Cell Sequencing Reveals that DBI is the Key Gene and Potential Therapeutic Target in Quiescent Bladder Cancer Stem Cells. Front Genet 2022; 13:904536. [PMID: 35769986 PMCID: PMC9235029 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.904536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Drug resistance and recurrence often develop during the treatment of muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC). The existence of cancer stem cells (CSCs) in MIBC makes the formulation of effective treatment strategies extremely challenging. We aimed to use single-cell RNA sequencing approaches to identify CSCs and evaluate their molecular characteristics and to discover possible therapeutic measures. Methods: GEO data sets GSE130001 and GSE146137 were used to construct an expression matrix. After cells were identified by type, malignant epithelial cells inferred by InferCNV were extracted for stemness evaluation. The subset of cells with the highest stemness was subjected to weighted gene coexpression network analysis (WGCNA) and pseudotime analysis to identify key genes. In addition, we predicted drug sensitivity relationships for key genes in CTD and predicted the correlation between drugs and survival through siGDC. Results: We found that there were some CSCs in MIBC samples. The CSC population was heterogeneous during tumor development and was divided into quiescent and proliferating CSCs. We identified DBI as the key gene in quiescent CSCs. Analysis of a TCGA data set showed that higher DBI expression indicated higher histological grade. In addition, we predicted that acetaminophen can reduce DBI expression, thereby reducing the stemness of CSCs. Thus, we identified a potential new use of acetaminophen. Conclusion: We systematically explored CSCs in tumors and determined that DBI may be a key gene and potential therapeutic target in quiescent CSCs. In addition, we confirmed that acetaminophen may be a candidate drug targeting CSCs, improving our understanding of CSC-targeting therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaxi Yao
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yue Liu
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Jitao Yang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Mengling Li
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Center of Evidence-Based Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Simin Li
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Center of Evidence-Based Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Bo Zhang
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Center of Evidence-Based Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Rui Yang
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yuchong Zhang
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Xiaoyu Cui
- College of Medicine and Biological Information Engineering, Northeastern University, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of Data Analytics and Optimization for Smart Industry, Northeastern University, Shenyang, China
- *Correspondence: Xiaoyu Cui, ; ChunQing Feng,
| | - ChunQing Feng
- Department of Urology Surgery, The Central Hospital Affiliated to Shenyang Medical College, Shenyang, China
- *Correspondence: Xiaoyu Cui, ; ChunQing Feng,
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Saito S, Ku CC, Wuputra K, Pan JB, Lin CS, Lin YC, Wu DC, Yokoyama KK. Biomarkers of Cancer Stem Cells for Experimental Research and Clinical Application. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12050715. [PMID: 35629138 PMCID: PMC9147761 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12050715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of biomarkers in cancer diagnosis, therapy, and prognosis has been highly effective over several decades. Studies of biomarkers in cancer patients pre- and post-treatment and during cancer progression have helped identify cancer stem cells (CSCs) and their related microenvironments. These analyses are critical for the therapeutic application of drugs and the efficient targeting and prevention of cancer progression, as well as the investigation of the mechanism of the cancer development. Biomarkers that characterize CSCs have thus been identified and correlated to diagnosis, therapy, and prognosis. However, CSCs demonstrate elevated levels of plasticity, which alters their functional phenotype and appearance by interacting with their microenvironments, in response to chemotherapy and radiotherapeutics. In turn, these changes induce different metabolic adaptations of CSCs. This article provides a review of the most frequently used CSCs and stem cell markers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shigeo Saito
- Saito Laboratory of Cell Technology, Yaita 329-1571, Japan
- Horus Co., Ltd., Nakano, Tokyo 164-0001, Japan
- Correspondence: (S.S.); (D.-C.W.); (K.K.Y.); Tel.: +886-7312-1001 (ext. 2729) (K.K.Y.); Fax: +886-7313-3849 (K.K.Y.)
| | - Chia-Chen Ku
- Graduate Institute of Medicine, Department of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan; (C.-C.K.); (K.W.); (J.-B.P.); (C.-S.L.)
- Regenerative Medicine and Cell Therapy Research Center, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
- Cell Therapy and Research Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80756, Taiwan
| | - Kenly Wuputra
- Graduate Institute of Medicine, Department of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan; (C.-C.K.); (K.W.); (J.-B.P.); (C.-S.L.)
- Regenerative Medicine and Cell Therapy Research Center, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
- Cell Therapy and Research Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80756, Taiwan
| | - Jia-Bin Pan
- Graduate Institute of Medicine, Department of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan; (C.-C.K.); (K.W.); (J.-B.P.); (C.-S.L.)
- Regenerative Medicine and Cell Therapy Research Center, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
- Cell Therapy and Research Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80756, Taiwan
| | - Chang-Shen Lin
- Graduate Institute of Medicine, Department of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan; (C.-C.K.); (K.W.); (J.-B.P.); (C.-S.L.)
| | - Ying-Chu Lin
- School of Dentistry, Department of Dentistry, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan;
| | - Deng-Chyang Wu
- Regenerative Medicine and Cell Therapy Research Center, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
- Cell Therapy and Research Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80756, Taiwan
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80756, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (S.S.); (D.-C.W.); (K.K.Y.); Tel.: +886-7312-1001 (ext. 2729) (K.K.Y.); Fax: +886-7313-3849 (K.K.Y.)
| | - Kazunari K. Yokoyama
- Graduate Institute of Medicine, Department of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan; (C.-C.K.); (K.W.); (J.-B.P.); (C.-S.L.)
- Regenerative Medicine and Cell Therapy Research Center, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
- Cell Therapy and Research Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80756, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (S.S.); (D.-C.W.); (K.K.Y.); Tel.: +886-7312-1001 (ext. 2729) (K.K.Y.); Fax: +886-7313-3849 (K.K.Y.)
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22
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Kumar VE, Nambiar R, De Souza C, Nguyen A, Chien J, Lam KS. Targeting Epigenetic Modifiers of Tumor Plasticity and Cancer Stem Cell Behavior. Cells 2022; 11:cells11091403. [PMID: 35563709 PMCID: PMC9102449 DOI: 10.3390/cells11091403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor heterogeneity poses one of the greatest challenges to a successful treatment of cancer. Tumor cell populations consist of different subpopulations that have distinct phenotypic and genotypic profiles. Such variability poses a challenge in successfully targeting all tumor subpopulations at the same time. Relapse after treatment has been previously explained using the cancer stem cell model and the clonal evolution model. Cancer stem cells are an important subpopulation of tumor cells that regulate tumor plasticity and determine therapeutic resistance. Tumor plasticity is controlled by genetic and epigenetic changes of crucial genes involved in cancer cell survival, growth and metastasis. Targeting epigenetic modulators associated with cancer stem cell survival can unlock a promising therapeutic approach in completely eradicating cancer. Here, we review various factors governing epigenetic dysregulation of cancer stem cells ranging from the role of epigenetic mediators such as histone and DNA methyltransferases, histone deacetylases, histone methyltransferases to various signaling pathways associated with cancer stem cell regulation. We also discuss current treatment regimens targeting these factors and other promising inhibitors in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vigneshwari Easwar Kumar
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA; (V.E.K.); (R.N.); (C.D.S.); (A.N.); (K.S.L.)
| | - Roshni Nambiar
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA; (V.E.K.); (R.N.); (C.D.S.); (A.N.); (K.S.L.)
| | - Cristabelle De Souza
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA; (V.E.K.); (R.N.); (C.D.S.); (A.N.); (K.S.L.)
- Department of Stem Cell Research and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Audrey Nguyen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA; (V.E.K.); (R.N.); (C.D.S.); (A.N.); (K.S.L.)
| | - Jeremy Chien
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA; (V.E.K.); (R.N.); (C.D.S.); (A.N.); (K.S.L.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, UC Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
- Correspondence:
| | - Kit S. Lam
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA; (V.E.K.); (R.N.); (C.D.S.); (A.N.); (K.S.L.)
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23
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Arjmand B, Hamidpour SK, Alavi-Moghadam S, Yavari H, Shahbazbadr A, Tavirani MR, Gilany K, Larijani B. Molecular Docking as a Therapeutic Approach for Targeting Cancer Stem Cell Metabolic Processes. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:768556. [PMID: 35264950 PMCID: PMC8899123 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.768556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are subpopulation of cells which have been demonstrated in a variety of cancer models and involved in cancer initiation, progression, and development. Indeed, CSCs which seem to form a small percentage of tumor cells, display resembling characteristics to natural stem cells such as self-renewal, survival, differentiation, proliferation, and quiescence. Moreover, they have some characteristics that eventually can demonstrate the heterogeneity of cancer cells and tumor progression. On the other hand, another aspect of CSCs that has been recognized as a central concern facing cancer patients is resistance to mainstays of cancer treatment such as chemotherapy and radiation. Owing to these details and the stated stemness capabilities, these immature progenitors of cancerous cells can constantly persist after different therapies and cause tumor regrowth or metastasis. Further, in both normal development and malignancy, cellular metabolism and stemness are intricately linked and CSCs dominant metabolic phenotype changes across tumor entities, patients, and tumor subclones. Hence, CSCs can be determined as one of the factors that correlate to the failure of common therapeutic approaches in cancer treatment. In this context, researchers are searching out new alternative or complementary therapies such as targeted methods to fight against cancer. Molecular docking is one of the computational modeling methods that has a new promise in cancer cell targeting through drug designing and discovering programs. In a simple definition, molecular docking methods are used to determine the metabolic interaction between two molecules and find the best orientation of a ligand to its molecular target with minimal free energy in the formation of a stable complex. As a comprehensive approach, this computational drug design method can be thought more cost-effective and time-saving compare to other conventional methods in cancer treatment. In addition, increasing productivity and quality in pharmaceutical research can be another advantage of this molecular modeling method. Therefore, in recent years, it can be concluded that molecular docking can be considered as one of the novel strategies at the forefront of the cancer battle via targeting cancer stem cell metabolic processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Babak Arjmand
- Cell Therapy and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Molecular-Cellular Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- *Correspondence: Babak Arjmand, ; Bagher Larijani,
| | - Shayesteh Kokabi Hamidpour
- Cell Therapy and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Molecular-Cellular Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sepideh Alavi-Moghadam
- Cell Therapy and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Molecular-Cellular Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hanieh Yavari
- Cell Therapy and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Molecular-Cellular Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ainaz Shahbazbadr
- Cell Therapy and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Molecular-Cellular Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Kambiz Gilany
- Integrative Oncology Department, Breast Cancer Research Center, Motamed Cancer Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
- Reproductive Immunology Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Bagher Larijani
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinical Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- *Correspondence: Babak Arjmand, ; Bagher Larijani,
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24
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Johnson A, Iffland L, Northcote-Smith J, Singh K, Ortu F, Apfel UP, Suntharalingam K. A bioinspired redox-modulating copper(II)-macrocyclic complex bearing non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs with anti-cancer stem cell activity. Dalton Trans 2022; 51:5904-5912. [DOI: 10.1039/d2dt00788f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Copper(II) coordination compounds have been investigated for their anticancer properties for decades, however, none have reached advanced human clinical trials. The poor translation of copper(II) complexes from in vitro studies...
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25
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Singh M, Dahal A, Brastianos PK. Preclinical Solid Tumor Models to Study Novel Therapeutics in Brain Metastases. Curr Protoc 2021; 1:e284. [PMID: 34762346 PMCID: PMC8597918 DOI: 10.1002/cpz1.284] [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] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Metastases are the most common malignancy of the adult central nervous system and are becoming an increasingly troubling problem in oncology largely due to the lack of successful therapeutic options. The limited selection of treatments is a result of the currently poor understanding of the biological mechanisms of metastatic development, which in turn is difficult to achieve because of limited preclinical models that can accurately represent the clinical progression of metastasis. Described in this article are in vitro and in vivo model systems that are used to enhance the understanding of metastasis and to identify new therapies for the treatment of brain metastasis. © 2021 Wiley Periodicals LLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohini Singh
- Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Ashish Dahal
- Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
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26
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Gastric cancer stem cells survive in stress environments via their autophagy system. Sci Rep 2021; 11:20664. [PMID: 34667215 PMCID: PMC8526688 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-00155-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) play an important role in the progression of carcinoma and have a high potential for survival in stress environments. However, the mechanisms of survival potential of CSCs have been unclear. The aim of this study was to clarify the significance of autophagy systems of CSCs under stress environments. Four gastric cancer cell line were used. Side population (SP) cells were sorted from the parent cells, as CSC rich cells. The expression of stem cell markers was examined by RT-PCR. The viability of cancer cells under starvation and hypoxia was evaluated. The expression level of the autophagy molecule LC3B-II was examined by western blot. The numbers of autophagosomes and autolysosomes were counted by electron microscope. SP cells of OCUM-12 showed a higher expression of stem cell markers and higher viability in starvation and hypoxia. Western blot and electron microscope examinations indicated that the autophagy was more induced in SP cells than in parent cells. The autophagy inhibitor significantly decreased the viability under the stress environments. These findings suggested that Cancer stem cells of gastric cancer might maintain their viability via the autophagy system. Autophagy inhibitors might be a promising therapeutic agent for gastric cancer.
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27
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Radajewska A, Przybyszewski O, Emhemmed F, Muller CD, Barg E, Moreira H. Three dimensional in vitro culture systems in anticancer drug discovery targeted on cancer stem cells. Am J Cancer Res 2021; 11:4931-4946. [PMID: 34765301 PMCID: PMC8569359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Worldwide, tumors are one of the most common causes of death. Every year 3.7 million new cases occur in Europe and more than 1.9 million patients die (WHO data). Most of the fields of research are focused on developing new therapeutic strategies that will be effective in eliminating the tumor, preventing its remission, and avoiding or reducing the side effects of therapy. In the past, generally classical 2D cell cultures or immunodeficient animal models had been used to cultivate and test drugs on human cancer cell lines. Nowadays, there are increasing interests in three-dimensional (3D) cell cultures, a method with significant differences from flat cultured cells, both considering gene expressions and cell-cell interactions. Various evidence suggests that high tumorigenic properties might be dependent on the occurrence of a small cell population, pointed out to be responsible for metastasis and recurrence. This population is called cancer stem cells (CSCs), hinted to have a lot of similarities with normal stem cells. CSCs are the main reason for chemotherapy failure as well as multi-drug resistance (MDR). CSCs can also interact through the cytokine network, with other cells like the macrophages of the inflammatory system. The big advantage of a 3D culture is the possibility to isolate and investigate the CSCs population surrounded by its environment. This article aims to sum up known 3D cell cultures, especially in the field of CSCs research due to the importance of the tumor's environment on stem cell's markers expression and their development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Radajewska
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Wroclaw Medical UniversityWroclaw, Poland
- Department of Medical Laboratory Diagnostics, Division of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Hematology, Wroclaw Medical UniversityWroclaw, Poland
| | - Oskar Przybyszewski
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Wroclaw Medical UniversityWroclaw, Poland
| | - Fathi Emhemmed
- IPHC, UMR 7178, University of StrasbourgIllkirch, France
| | | | - Ewa Barg
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Wroclaw Medical UniversityWroclaw, Poland
| | - Helena Moreira
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Wroclaw Medical UniversityWroclaw, Poland
- IPHC, UMR 7178, University of StrasbourgIllkirch, France
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28
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Goswami VG, Patel BD. Recent updates on Wnt signaling modulators: a patent review (2014-2020). Expert Opin Ther Pat 2021; 31:1009-1043. [PMID: 34128760 DOI: 10.1080/13543776.2021.1940138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: Wnt signaling is a signal transduction pathway that plays a vital role in embryonic development and normal tissue preservation. Dysfunction of it gives rise to various diseases like cancer, Alzheimer's, metabolic and skeletal disorders, kidney and liver disease, etc. Thus, targeting Wnt pathway can be a potential approach to design and develop novel therapeutic classes.Areas covered: Authors provided an overview of Wnt modulators from 2014 to 2020. Different heterocyclic scaffolds and their pharmacology from a total of 104 PCT applications have been summarized.Expert opinion: The scientific community is working extensively to bring first in the class molecule to the market which targets Wnt pathway. Lorecivivint, Wnt inhibitor, for the treatment of knee Osteoarthritis and SM-04554, Wnt activator, for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia are currently under Phase III. Other molecules, LGK-974, RXC-004, ETC-159, CGX-1321, PRI-724, CWP-232291 and BC-2059 are also under different stages of clinical development for the treatment of cancer. Antibody based Wnt modulator, OTSA101-DTPA-90Y is currently under Phase I for the treatment of Relapsed or Refractory Synovial Sarcoma while OMP-18R5 is under Phase I for Metastatic Breast Cancer. Ongoing preclinical/clinical trials will define the role of the Wnt pathway in different therapeutic areas and open new opportunities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vishalgiri G Goswami
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Institute of Pharmacy, Nirma University, Ahmedabad, India
| | - Bhumika D Patel
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Institute of Pharmacy, Nirma University, Ahmedabad, India
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29
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Oliveira BSAD, de Assis ACC, Souza NM, Ferreira LFR, Soriano RN, Bilal M, Iqbal HMN. Nanotherapeutic approach to tackle chemotherapeutic resistance of cancer stem cells. Life Sci 2021; 279:119667. [PMID: 34087280 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.119667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2021] [Revised: 05/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Estimates indicate that cancer will become the leading cause of mortality worldwide in the future. Tumorigenesis is a complex process that involves self-sufficiency in signs of growth, insensitivity to anti-growth signals, prevention of apoptosis, unlimited replication, sustained angiogenesis, tissue invasion, and metastasis. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) have an important role in tumor development and resistance. Here we will approach phenotypic plasticity capacity, highly efficient DNA repair systems, anti-apoptotic machinery, sustained stemness features, interaction with the tumor microenvironment, and Notch, Wnt, and Hedgehog signaling pathways. The researches about CSCs as a target in cancer treatment has been growing. Many different options have pointed beneficial results, such as pathways and CSC-surface markers targeting. Besides its limitations, nanotherapeutics have emerged as a potential strategy in this context since they aim to improve pharmacokinetics, biodistribution, and reduce the side effects observed in traditional treatments. Nanoparticles have been studied in this field, mostly for drug delivery and a multitherapy approach. Another widely researched approaches in this area are related to heat therapy, such as photothermal therapy, photodynamic therapy and magnetic hyperthermia, besides molecular targeting. This review will contemplate the most relevant studies that have shown the effects of nanotherapeutics. In conclusion, although the studies analyzed are mostly preclinical, we believe that there is strong evidence that nanoparticles can increase the chances of a better prognosis to cancer in the future. It is also essential to transpose these findings to the clinic to confirm and better understand the role of nanotherapeutics in this context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruna Stefane Alves de Oliveira
- Undergradute student, Department of Medicine, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Governador Valadares, MG 35032-620, Brazil
| | - Ana Carolina Correa de Assis
- Undergradute student, Department of Medicine, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Governador Valadares, MG 35032-620, Brazil
| | - Natália Melo Souza
- Undergradute student, Department of Medicine, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Governador Valadares, MG 35032-620, Brazil
| | - Luiz Fernando Romanholo Ferreira
- Graduate Program in Process Engineering, Tiradentes University (UNIT), Av. Murilo Dantas, 300, Farolândia, 49032-490 Aracaju, Sergipe, Brazil; Institute of Technology and Research (ITP), Tiradentes University (UNIT), Av. Murilo Dantas, 300, Farolândia, 49032-490 Aracaju, Sergipe, Brazil
| | - Renato Nery Soriano
- Division of Physiology and Biophysics, Department of Basic Life Sciences, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Governador Valadares, MG 35010-177, Brazil
| | - Muhammad Bilal
- School of Life Science and Food Engineering, Huaiyin Institute of Technology, Huaian 223003, China.
| | - Hafiz M N Iqbal
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, School of Engineering and Sciences, Monterrey 64849, Mexico.
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30
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LncRNA as a multifunctional regulator in cancer multi-drug resistance. Mol Biol Rep 2021; 48:1-15. [PMID: 34333735 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-021-06603-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Malignant tumors have become the most dangerous disease in recent years. Chemotherapy is the most effective treatment for this disease; however, the problem of drug resistance has become even more common, which leads to the poor prognosis of patients suffering from cancers. Thus, necessary measures should be taken to address these problems at the earliest. Many studies have demonstrated that drug resistance is closely related to the abnormal expressions of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs). METHODS AND RESULTS This review aimed to summarize the molecular mechanisms underlying the association of lncRNAs and the development of drug resistance and to find potential strategies for the clinical diagnosis and treatment of cancer drug resistance. Studies showed that lncRNAs can regulate the expression of genes through chromatin remodeling, transcriptional regulation, and post-transcriptional processing. Furthermore, lncRNAs have been reported to be closely related to the occurrence of malignant tumors. In summary, lncRNAs have gained attention in related fields during recent years. According to previous studies, lncRNAs have a vital role in several different types of cancers owing to their multiple mechanisms of action. Different mechanisms have different functions that could result in different consequences in the same disease. CONCLUSIONS LncRNAs closely participated in cancer drug resistance by regulating miRNA, signaling pathways, proteins, cancer stem cells, pro- and ant-apoptosis, and autophagy. lncRNAs can be used as biomarkers of the possible treatment target in chemotherapy, which could provide solutions to the problem of drug resistance in chemotherapy in the future.
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31
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Gu LF, Chen JQ, Lin QY, Yang YZ. Roles of mitochondrial unfolded protein response in mammalian stem cells. World J Stem Cells 2021; 13:737-752. [PMID: 34367475 PMCID: PMC8316864 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v13.i7.737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The mitochondrial unfolded protein response (UPRmt) is an evolutionarily conserved adaptive mechanism for improving cell survival under mitochondrial stress. Under physiological and pathological conditions, the UPRmt is the key to maintaining intracellular homeostasis and proteostasis. Important roles of the UPRmt have been demonstrated in a variety of cell types and in cell development, metabolism, and immune processes. UPRmt dysfunction leads to a variety of pathologies, including cancer, inflammation, neurodegenerative disease, metabolic disease, and immune disease. Stem cells have a special ability to self-renew and differentiate into a variety of somatic cells and have been shown to exist in a variety of tissues. These cells are involved in development, tissue renewal, and some disease processes. Although the roles and regulatory mechanisms of the UPRmt in somatic cells have been widely reported, the roles of the UPRmt in stem cells are not fully understood. The roles and functions of the UPRmt depend on stem cell type. Therefore, this paper summarizes the potential significance of the UPRmt in embryonic stem cells, tissue stem cells, tumor stem cells, and induced pluripotent stem cells. The purpose of this review is to provide new insights into stem cell differentiation and tumor pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Fang Gu
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance, Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics in Ningxia, Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, China
| | - Jia-Qi Chen
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance, Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics in Ningxia, Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, China
| | - Qing-Yin Lin
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance, Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics in Ningxia, Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, China
| | - Yan-Zhou Yang
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance, Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics in Ningxia, Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750001, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, China,
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32
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Catara G, Spano D. Combinatorial Strategies to Target Molecular and Signaling Pathways to Disarm Cancer Stem Cells. Front Oncol 2021; 11:689131. [PMID: 34381714 PMCID: PMC8352560 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.689131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer is an urgent public health issue with a very huge number of cases all over the world expected to increase by 2040. Despite improved diagnosis and therapeutic protocols, it remains the main leading cause of death in the world. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) constitute a tumor subpopulation defined by ability to self-renewal and to generate the heterogeneous and differentiated cell lineages that form the tumor bulk. These cells represent a major concern in cancer treatment due to resistance to conventional protocols of radiotherapy, chemotherapy and molecular targeted therapy. In fact, although partial or complete tumor regression can be achieved in patients, these responses are often followed by cancer relapse due to the expansion of CSCs population. The aberrant activation of developmental and oncogenic signaling pathways plays a relevant role in promoting CSCs therapy resistance. Although several targeted approaches relying on monotherapy have been developed to affect these pathways, they have shown limited efficacy. Therefore, an urgent need to design alternative combinatorial strategies to replace conventional regimens exists. This review summarizes the preclinical studies which provide a proof of concept of therapeutic efficacy of combinatorial approaches targeting the CSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuliana Catara
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, National Research Council, Naples, Italy
| | - Daniela Spano
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, National Research Council, Naples, Italy
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Zou R, Wang Y, Ye F, Zhang X, Wang M, Cui S. Mechanisms of primary and acquired resistance to PD-1/PD-L1 blockade and the emerging role of gut microbiome. Clin Transl Oncol 2021; 23:2237-2252. [PMID: 34002348 DOI: 10.1007/s12094-021-02637-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
As a very promising immunotherapy, PD-1/PD-L1 blockade has revolutionized the treatment of a variety of tumor types, resulting in significant clinical efficacy and lasting responses. However, these therapies do not work for a large proportion of patients initially, which is called primary resistance. And more frustrating is that most patients eventually develop acquired resistance after an initial response to PD-1/PD-L1 blockade. The mechanisms that lead to primary and acquired resistance to PD-1/PD-L1 inhibition have remained largely unclear. Recently, the gut microbiome has emerged as a potential regulator for PD-1/PD-L1 blockade. This review elaborates on the current understanding of the mechanisms in terms of PD-1 related signaling pathways and necessary factors. Moreover, this review discusses new strategies to increase the efficacy of immunotherapy from the perspectives of immune markers and gut microbiome.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Zou
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu, China
| | - Y Wang
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu, China
| | - F Ye
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu, China
| | - X Zhang
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu, China
| | - M Wang
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu, China
| | - S Cui
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu, China.
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34
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Northcote‐Smith J, Kaur P, Suntharalingam K. A Cancer Stem Cell Potent Copper(II) Complex with a
S
,
N
,
S
‐Schiff base Ligand and Bathophenanthroline. Eur J Inorg Chem 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/ejic.202100125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Pooja Kaur
- Department of Immunology and Inflammation Imperial College London London UK
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35
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Kumar V, Vashishta M, Kong L, Wu X, Lu JJ, Guha C, Dwarakanath BS. The Role of Notch, Hedgehog, and Wnt Signaling Pathways in the Resistance of Tumors to Anticancer Therapies. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:650772. [PMID: 33968932 PMCID: PMC8100510 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.650772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Resistance to therapy is the major hurdle in the current cancer management. Cancer cells often rewire their cellular process to alternate mechanisms to resist the deleterious effect mounted by different therapeutic approaches. The major signaling pathways involved in the developmental process, such as Notch, Hedgehog, and Wnt, play a vital role in development, tumorigenesis, and also in the resistance to the various anticancer therapies. Understanding how cancer utilizes these developmental pathways in acquiring the resistance to the multi-therapeutic approach cancer can give rise to a new insight of the anti-therapy resistance mechanisms, which can be explored for the development of a novel therapeutic approach. We present a brief overview of Notch, Hedgehog, and Wnt signaling pathways in cancer and its role in providing resistance to various cancer treatment modalities such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, molecular targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. Understanding the importance of these molecular networks will provide a rational basis for novel and safer combined anticancer therapeutic approaches for the improvement of cancer treatment by overcoming drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivek Kumar
- R&D Dept, Shanghai Proton and Heavy Ion Center (SPHIC), Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology (20dz2261000), Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Proton and Heavy Ion Radiation Therapy, Shanghai, China
| | - Mohit Vashishta
- R&D Dept, Shanghai Proton and Heavy Ion Center (SPHIC), Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology (20dz2261000), Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Proton and Heavy Ion Radiation Therapy, Shanghai, China
| | - Lin Kong
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology (20dz2261000), Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Proton and Heavy Ion Radiation Therapy, Shanghai, China.,Department of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai Proton and Heavy Ion Center, Fudan University Cancer Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaodong Wu
- R&D Dept, Shanghai Proton and Heavy Ion Center (SPHIC), Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology (20dz2261000), Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Proton and Heavy Ion Radiation Therapy, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiade J Lu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology (20dz2261000), Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Proton and Heavy Ion Radiation Therapy, Shanghai, China.,Department of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai Proton and Heavy Ion Center, Fudan University Cancer Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Chandan Guha
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, The Bronx, NY, United States
| | - B S Dwarakanath
- R&D Dept, Shanghai Proton and Heavy Ion Center (SPHIC), Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology (20dz2261000), Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Proton and Heavy Ion Radiation Therapy, Shanghai, China
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36
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Song K, Farzaneh M. Signaling pathways governing breast cancer stem cells behavior. Stem Cell Res Ther 2021; 12:245. [PMID: 33863385 PMCID: PMC8052733 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-021-02321-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the second common cancer and the leading cause of malignancy among females overall. Breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) are a small population of breast cancer cells that play a critical role in the metastasis of breast cancer to other organs in the body. BCSCs have both self-renewal and differentiation capacities, which are thought to contribute to the aggressiveness of metastatic lesions. Therefore, targeting BCSCs can be a suitable approach for the treatment and metastasis of breast cancer. Growing evidence has indicated that the Wnt, NFκB, Notch, BMP2, STAT3, and hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathways govern epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) activation, growth, and tumorigenesis of BCSCs in the primary regions. miRNAs as the central regulatory molecules also play critical roles in BCSC self-renewal, metastasis, and drug resistance. Hence, targeting these pathways might be a novel therapeutic approach for breast cancer diagnosis and therapy. This review discusses known signaling mechanisms involved in the stimulation or prevention of BCSC self-renewal, metastasis, and tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Song
- Xuzhou Vocational College of Bioengineering, Xuzhou, 221006, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Maryam Farzaneh
- Fertility, Infertility and Perinatology Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.
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37
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Raghav PK, Mann Z. Cancer stem cells targets and combined therapies to prevent cancer recurrence. Life Sci 2021; 277:119465. [PMID: 33831426 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.119465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Revised: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) control the dynamics of tumorigenesis by self-renewal ability and differentiation potential. These properties contribute towards tumor malignancy, metastasis, cellular heterogeneity, and immune escape, which are regulated by multiple signaling pathways. The CSCs are chemoresistant and cause cancer recurrence, generally recognized as a small side-population that eventually leads to tumor relapse. Despite many treatment options available, none can be considered entirely efficient due to a lack of specificity and dose limitation. This review primarily highlights the processes involved in CSCs development and maintenance. Secondly, the current effective therapies based on stem cells, cell-free therapies that involve exosomes and miRNAs, and photodynamic therapy have been discussed. Also, the inhibitors that specifically target various signaling pathways, which can be used in combination to control CSCs kinetics have been highlighted. Conclusively, this comprehensive review is a detailed study of recently developed novel treatment strategies that will facilitate in coming up with better-targeted approaches against CSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zoya Mann
- Independent Researcher, New Delhi, India
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38
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Das PK, Islam F, Smith RA, Lam AK. Therapeutic Strategies Against Cancer Stem Cells in Esophageal Carcinomas. Front Oncol 2021; 10:598957. [PMID: 33665161 PMCID: PMC7921694 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.598957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) in esophageal cancer have a key role in tumor initiation, progression and therapy resistance. Novel therapeutic strategies to target CSCs are being tested, however, more in-depth research is necessary. Eradication of CSCs can result in successful therapeutic approaches against esophageal cancer. Recent evidence suggests that targeting signaling pathways, miRNA expression profiles and other properties of CSCs are important strategies for cancer therapy. Wnt/β-catenin, Notch, Hedgehog, Hippo and other pathways play crucial roles in proliferation, differentiation, and self-renewal of stem cells as well as of CSCs. All of these pathways have been implicated in the regulation of esophageal CSCs and are potential therapeutic targets. Interference with these pathways or their components using small molecules could have therapeutic benefits. Similarly, miRNAs are able to regulate gene expression in esophageal CSCs, so targeting self-renewal pathways with miRNA could be utilized to as a potential therapeutic option. Moreover, hypoxia plays critical roles in esophageal cancer metabolism, stem cell proliferation, maintaining aggressiveness and in regulating the metastatic potential of cancer cells, therefore, targeting hypoxia factors could also provide effective therapeutic modalities against esophageal CSCs. To conclude, additional study of CSCs in esophageal carcinoma could open promising therapeutic options in esophageal carcinomas by targeting hyper-activated signaling pathways, manipulating miRNA expression and hypoxia mechanisms in esophageal CSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Plabon Kumar Das
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Rajshahi, Rajshahi, Bangladesh
| | - Farhadul Islam
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Rajshahi, Rajshahi, Bangladesh.,Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Robert A Smith
- Centre for Genomics and Personalised Health, Genomics Research Centre, School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Kelvin Grove, QLD, Australia.,Cancer Molecular Pathology, School of Medicine, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Alfred K Lam
- Cancer Molecular Pathology, School of Medicine, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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39
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Tucker SJ, Zorn AJ. The role of Popeye domain-containing protein 1 (POPDC1) in the progression of the malignant phenotype. Br J Pharmacol 2021; 179:2829-2843. [PMID: 33533478 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2020] [Revised: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The Popeye domain-containing protein 1 (POPDC1), a tight junction-associated transmembrane protein with a unique binding site for cAMP, has been shown to act as a tumour suppressor in cancer cells. Through interaction with many downstream effectors and signalling pathways, POPDC1 promotes cell adhesion and inhibits uncontrolled cell proliferation, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and metastasis. However, POPDC1 expression is down-regulated in many types of cancer, thereby reducing its tumour-suppressive actions. This review discusses the role of POPDC1 in the progression of the malignant phenotype and highlights the broad range of benefits POPDC1 stabilisation may achieve therapeutically. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a key hallmark of malignancies and commonly promote treatment resistance. This article provides a comprehensive overview of CSC signalling mechanisms, many of which have been shown to be regulated by POPDC1 in other cell types, thus suggesting an additional therapeutic benefit for POPDC1-stabilising anti-cancer drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven J Tucker
- School of Medicine, Medical Science and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Alina J Zorn
- School of Medicine, Medical Science and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
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40
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Aramini B, Masciale V, Grisendi G, Banchelli F, D'Amico R, Maiorana A, Morandi U, Dominici M, Haider KH. Cancer stem cells and macrophages: molecular connections and future perspectives against cancer. Oncotarget 2021; 12:230-250. [PMID: 33613850 PMCID: PMC7869576 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.27870] [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: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) have been considered the key drivers of cancer initiation and progression due to their unlimited self-renewal capacity and their ability to induce tumor formation. Macrophages, particularly tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), establish a tumor microenvironment to protect and induce CSCs development and dissemination. Many studies in the past decade have been performed to understand the molecular mediators of CSCs and TAMs, and several studies have elucidated the complex crosstalk that occurs between these two cell types. The aim of this review is to define the complex crosstalk between these two cell types and to highlight potential future anti-cancer strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrice Aramini
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Valentina Masciale
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Giulia Grisendi
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Federico Banchelli
- Center of Statistic, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Roberto D'Amico
- Center of Statistic, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Antonino Maiorana
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Uliano Morandi
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Massimo Dominici
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
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41
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Gelardi ELM, Colombo G, Picarazzi F, Ferraris DM, Mangione A, Petrarolo G, Aronica E, Rizzi M, Mori M, La Motta C, Garavaglia S. A Selective Competitive Inhibitor of Aldehyde Dehydrogenase 1A3 Hinders Cancer Cell Growth, Invasiveness and Stemness In Vitro. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13020356. [PMID: 33478031 PMCID: PMC7835878 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13020356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The aldehyde dehydrogenases enzymes (ALDHs) are promising drug targets in cancer therapy. ALDHs are members of an enzymatic superfamily composed by 19 isoforms involved in the oxidation of aldehydes, with a scavenger role. Among them, the isoform ALDH1A3 is a cancer biomarker since it is highly expressed in cancer stem cells characterized by a marked drug resistance and the capacity to promote self-renewal, clonogenic growth and tumour-initiating capacity. In this paper, we present the first highly potent and selective ALDH1A3 inhibitor able to induce cytotoxic effects and to reduce cell migration and stemness of ALDH1A3-positive cancer cells. We propose the targeting of the ALDH1A3 enzyme as a promising approach for improving the treatments outcomes of patients affected by ALDH1A3-positive cancers. Abstract Aldehyde dehydrogenase 1A3 (ALDH1A3) belongs to an enzymatic superfamily composed by 19 different isoforms, with a scavenger role, involved in the oxidation of a plethora of aldehydes to the respective carboxylic acids, through a NAD+-dependent reaction. Previous clinical studies highlighted the high expression of ALDH1A3 in cancer stem cells (CSCs) correlated to a higher risk of cancer relapses, chemoresistance and a poor clinical outcome. We report on the structural, biochemical, and cellular characterization of NR6, a new selective ALDH1A3 inhibitor derived from an already published ALDH non-selective inhibitor with cytotoxic activity on glioblastoma and colorectal cancer cells. Crystal structure, through X-Ray analysis, showed that NR6 binds a non-conserved tyrosine residue of ALDH1A3 which drives the selectivity towards this isoform, as supported by computational binding simulations. Moreover, NR6 shows anti-metastatic activity in wound healing and invasion assays and induces the downregulation of cancer stem cell markers. Overall, our work confirms the role of ALDH1A3 as an important target in glioblastoma and colorectal cells and propose NR6 as a promising molecule for future preclinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edoardo L. M. Gelardi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale, A. Avogadro, 28100 Novara, Italy; (E.L.M.G.); (G.C.); (D.M.F.); (A.M.); (M.R.)
| | - Giorgia Colombo
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale, A. Avogadro, 28100 Novara, Italy; (E.L.M.G.); (G.C.); (D.M.F.); (A.M.); (M.R.)
| | - Francesca Picarazzi
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie, Chimica e Farmacia, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (F.P.); (M.M.)
| | - Davide M. Ferraris
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale, A. Avogadro, 28100 Novara, Italy; (E.L.M.G.); (G.C.); (D.M.F.); (A.M.); (M.R.)
| | - Andrea Mangione
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale, A. Avogadro, 28100 Novara, Italy; (E.L.M.G.); (G.C.); (D.M.F.); (A.M.); (M.R.)
| | - Giovanni Petrarolo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (G.P.); (C.L.M.)
| | - Eleonora Aronica
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, 1105 Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
- Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland (SEIN), 2103 Heemstede, The Netherlands
| | - Menico Rizzi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale, A. Avogadro, 28100 Novara, Italy; (E.L.M.G.); (G.C.); (D.M.F.); (A.M.); (M.R.)
| | - Mattia Mori
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie, Chimica e Farmacia, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (F.P.); (M.M.)
| | - Concettina La Motta
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (G.P.); (C.L.M.)
- CISUP—Centre for Instrumentation Sharing, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Silvia Garavaglia
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale, A. Avogadro, 28100 Novara, Italy; (E.L.M.G.); (G.C.); (D.M.F.); (A.M.); (M.R.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0321375714
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42
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Kharkar PS. Cancer Stem Cell (CSC) Inhibitors in Oncology-A Promise for a Better Therapeutic Outcome: State of the Art and Future Perspectives. J Med Chem 2020; 63:15279-15307. [PMID: 33325699 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.0c01336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs), a subpopulation of cancer cells endowed with self-renewal, tumorigenicity, pluripotency, chemoresistance, differentiation, invasive ability, and plasticity, reside in specialized tumor niches and are responsible for tumor maintenance, metastasis, therapy resistance, and tumor relapse. The new-age "hierarchical or CSC" model of tumor heterogeneity is based on the concept of eradicating CSCs to prevent tumor relapse and therapy resistance. Small-molecular entities and biologics acting on various stemness signaling pathways, surface markers, efflux transporters, or components of complex tumor microenvironment are under intense investigation as potential anti-CSC agents. In addition, smart nanotherapeutic tools have proved their utility in achieving CSC targeting. Several CSC inhibitors in clinical development have shown promise, either as mono- or combination therapy, in refractory and difficult-to-treat cancers. Clinical investigations with CSC marker follow-up as a measure of clinical efficacy are needed to turn the "hype" into the "hope" these new-age oncology therapeutics have to offer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prashant S Kharkar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Institute of Chemical Technology, Matunga, Mumbai 400 019, India
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43
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Gao X, Dong QZ. Advance in metabolism and target therapy in breast cancer stem cells. World J Stem Cells 2020; 12:1295-1306. [PMID: 33312399 PMCID: PMC7705469 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v12.i11.1295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Revised: 09/06/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer, like many other cancers, is believed to be driven by a population of cells that display stem cell properties. Recent studies suggest that cancer stem cells (CSCs) are essential for tumor progression, and tumor relapse is thought to be caused by the presence of these cells. CSC-targeted therapies have also been proposed to overcome therapeutic resistance in breast cancer after the traditional therapies. Additionally, the metabolic properties of cancer cells differ markedly from those of normal cells. The efficacy of metabolic targeted therapy has been shown to enhance anti-cancer treatment or overcome therapeutic resistance of breast cancer cells. Metabolic targeting of breast CSCs (BCSCs) may be a very effective strategy for anti-cancer treatment of breast cancer cells. Thus, in this review, we focus on discussing the studies involving metabolism and targeted therapy in BCSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu Gao
- Department of Breast Surgery, Yiwu Maternity and Children Hospital, Yiwu 322000, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Qiong-Zhu Dong
- Department of General Surgery, Cancer Metastasis Institute, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
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44
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HDAC6 promotes growth, migration/invasion, and self-renewal of rhabdomyosarcoma. Oncogene 2020; 40:578-591. [PMID: 33199827 PMCID: PMC7855743 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-020-01550-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2019] [Revised: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is a devastating pediatric sarcoma. The survival outcomes remain poor for patients with relapsed or metastatic disease. Effective targeted therapy is lacking due to our limited knowledge of the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms leading to disease progression. In this study, we used functional assays in vitro and in vivo (zebrafish and xenograft mouse models) to demonstrate the crucial role of HDAC6, a cytoplasmic histone deacetylase, in driving RMS tumor growth, self-renewal, and migration/invasion. Treatment with HDAC6-selective inhibitors recapitulates the HDAC6 loss-of-function phenotypes. HDAC6 regulates cytoskeletal dynamics to promote tumor cell migration and invasion. RAC1, a Rho family GTPase, is an essential mediator of HDAC6 function, and is necessary and sufficient for RMS cell migration and invasion. High expression of RAC1 correlates with poor clinical prognosis in RMS patients. Targeting the HDAC6-RAC1 axis represents a promising therapeutic option for improving survival outcomes of RMS patients.
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45
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Sharma M, Pruitt K. Wnt Pathway: An Integral Hub for Developmental and Oncogenic Signaling Networks. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E8018. [PMID: 33126517 PMCID: PMC7663720 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21218018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2020] [Revised: 10/25/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The Wnt pathway is an integral cell-to-cell signaling hub which regulates crucial development processes and maintenance of tissue homeostasis by coordinating cell proliferation, differentiation, cell polarity, cell movement, and stem cell renewal. When dysregulated, it is associated with various developmental diseases, fibrosis, and tumorigenesis. We now better appreciate the complexity and crosstalk of the Wnt pathway with other signaling cascades. Emerging roles of the Wnt signaling in the cancer stem cell niche and drug resistance have led to development of therapeutics specifically targeting various Wnt components, with some agents currently in clinical trials. This review highlights historical and recent findings on key mediators of Wnt signaling and how they impact antitumor immunity and maintenance of cancer stem cells. This review also examines current therapeutics being developed that modulate Wnt signaling in cancer and discusses potential shortcomings associated with available therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kevin Pruitt
- Department of Immunology and Molecular Microbiology, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA;
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46
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Surowiec RK, Ferris SF, Apfelbaum A, Espinoza C, Mehta RK, Monchamp K, Sirihorachai VR, Bedi K, Ljungman M, Galban S. Transcriptomic Analysis of Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG) Identifies a Targetable ALDH-Positive Subset of Highly Tumorigenic Cancer Stem-like Cells. Mol Cancer Res 2020; 19:223-239. [PMID: 33106374 DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-20-0464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Revised: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Understanding the cancer stem cell (CSC) landscape in diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) is desperately needed to address treatment resistance and identify novel therapeutic approaches. Patient-derived DIPG cells demonstrated heterogeneous expression of aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) and CD133 by flow cytometry. Transcriptome-level characterization identified elevated mRNA levels of MYC, E2F, DNA damage repair (DDR) genes, glycolytic metabolism, and mTOR signaling in ALDH+ compared with ALDH-, supporting a stem-like phenotype and indicating a druggable target. ALDH+ cells demonstrated increased proliferation, neurosphere formation, and initiated tumors that resulted in decreased survival when orthotopically implanted. Pharmacologic MAPK/PI3K/mTOR targeting downregulated MYC, E2F, and DDR mRNAs and reduced glycolytic metabolism. In vivo PI3K/mTOR targeting inhibited tumor growth in both flank and an ALDH+ orthotopic tumor model likely by reducing cancer stemness. In summary, we describe existence of ALDH+ DIPGs with proliferative properties due to increased metabolism, which may be regulated by the microenvironment and likely contributing to drug resistance and tumor recurrence. IMPLICATIONS: Characterization of ALDH+ DIPGs coupled with targeting MAPK/PI3K/mTOR signaling provides an impetus for molecularly targeted therapy aimed at addressing the CSC phenotype in DIPG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel K Surowiec
- Center for Molecular Imaging, The University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan.,Department of Radiology, The University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Sarah F Ferris
- Center for Molecular Imaging, The University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan.,Department of Radiology, The University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - April Apfelbaum
- Center for Molecular Imaging, The University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan.,Department of Radiology, The University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan.,Cancer Biology Graduate Program, The University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Carlos Espinoza
- Center for Molecular Imaging, The University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan.,Department of Radiology, The University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Ranjit K Mehta
- Center for Molecular Imaging, The University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan.,Department of Radiology, The University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Karamoja Monchamp
- Center for Molecular Imaging, The University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan.,Department of Radiology, The University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Veerin R Sirihorachai
- Cancer Biology Graduate Program, The University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan.,Rogel Cancer Center, The University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Karan Bedi
- Cancer Biology Graduate Program, The University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Mats Ljungman
- Rogel Cancer Center, The University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan.,Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan.,Department of Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan.,Center for RNA Biomedicine, The University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Stefanie Galban
- Center for Molecular Imaging, The University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan. .,Department of Radiology, The University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan.,Rogel Cancer Center, The University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan
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Qin S, Jiang J, Lu Y, Nice EC, Huang C, Zhang J, He W. Emerging role of tumor cell plasticity in modifying therapeutic response. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2020; 5:228. [PMID: 33028808 PMCID: PMC7541492 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-020-00313-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2020] [Revised: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 08/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Resistance to cancer therapy is a major barrier to cancer management. Conventional views have proposed that acquisition of resistance may result from genetic mutations. However, accumulating evidence implicates a key role of non-mutational resistance mechanisms underlying drug tolerance, the latter of which is the focus that will be discussed here. Such non-mutational processes are largely driven by tumor cell plasticity, which renders tumor cells insusceptible to the drug-targeted pathway, thereby facilitating the tumor cell survival and growth. The concept of tumor cell plasticity highlights the significance of re-activation of developmental programs that are closely correlated with epithelial-mesenchymal transition, acquisition properties of cancer stem cells, and trans-differentiation potential during drug exposure. From observations in various cancers, this concept provides an opportunity for investigating the nature of anticancer drug resistance. Over the years, our understanding of the emerging role of phenotype switching in modifying therapeutic response has considerably increased. This expanded knowledge of tumor cell plasticity contributes to developing novel therapeutic strategies or combination therapy regimens using available anticancer drugs, which are likely to improve patient outcomes in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyuan Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, 610041, Chengdu, People's Republic of China
| | - Jingwen Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, 610041, Chengdu, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi Lu
- School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology Shenzhen, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518055, People's Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Cell Microenvironment and Disease Research, Shenzhen, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Edouard C Nice
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Canhua Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, 610041, Chengdu, People's Republic of China.
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1166 Liutai Road, 611137, Chengdu, People's Republic of China.
| | - Jian Zhang
- School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology Shenzhen, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518055, People's Republic of China.
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Cell Microenvironment and Disease Research, Shenzhen, Guangdong, People's Republic of China.
| | - Weifeng He
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Institute of Burn Research, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, People's Republic of China.
- Chongqing Key Laboratory for Disease Proteomics, Chongqing, People's Republic of China.
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48
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The Role of Smoothened in Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21186863. [PMID: 32962123 PMCID: PMC7555769 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21186863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Revised: 09/13/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Smoothened (SMO) belongs to the Hedgehog (HH) signaling pathway, which regulates cell growth, migration, invasion and stem cells in cancer. The HH signaling pathway includes both canonical and noncanonical pathways. The canonical HH pathway functions through major HH molecules such as HH ligands, PTCH, SMO and GLI, whereas the noncanonical HH pathway involves the activation of SMO or GLI through other pathways. The role of SMO has been discussed in different types of cancer, including breast, liver, pancreatic and colon cancers. SMO expression correlates with tumor size, invasiveness, metastasis and recurrence. In addition, SMO inhibitors can suppress cancer formation, reduce the proliferation of cancer cells, trigger apoptosis and suppress cancer stem cell activity. A better understanding of the role of SMO in cancer could contribute to the development of novel therapeutic approaches.
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49
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Elgendy SM, Alyammahi SK, Alhamad DW, Abdin SM, Omar HA. Ferroptosis: An emerging approach for targeting cancer stem cells and drug resistance. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2020; 155:103095. [PMID: 32927333 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2020.103095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Revised: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Resistance to chemotherapeutic agents remains a major challenge in the fierce battle against cancer. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a small population of cells in tumors that possesses the ability to self-renew, initiate tumors, and cause resistance to conventional anticancer agents. Targeting this population of cells was proven as a promising approach to eliminate cancer recurrence and improve the clinical outcome. CSCs are less susceptible to death by classical anticancer agents inducing apoptosis. CSCs can be eradicated by ferroptosis, which is a non-apoptotic-regulated mechanism of cell death. The induction of ferroptosis is an attractive strategy to eliminate tumors due to its ability to selectively target aggressive CSCs. The current review critically explored the crosstalk and regulatory pathways controlling ferroptosis, which can selectively induce CSCs death. In addition, successful chemotherapeutic agents that achieve better therapeutic outcomes through the induction of ferroptosis in CSCs were discussed to highlight their promising clinical impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara M Elgendy
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, 27272, United Arab Emirates; College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Shatha K Alyammahi
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, 27272, United Arab Emirates; College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Dima W Alhamad
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, 27272, United Arab Emirates; College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Shifaa M Abdin
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, 27272, United Arab Emirates; College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Hany A Omar
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, 27272, United Arab Emirates; College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, 27272, United Arab Emirates.
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50
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Sun JY, Zhang D, Wu S, Xu M, Zhou X, Lu XJ, Ji J. Resistance to PD-1/PD-L1 blockade cancer immunotherapy: mechanisms, predictive factors, and future perspectives. Biomark Res 2020; 8:35. [PMID: 32864132 PMCID: PMC7450549 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-020-00212-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
PD-1/PD-L1 blockade therapy is a promising cancer treatment strategy, which has revolutionized the treatment landscape of malignancies. Over the last decade, PD-1/PD-L1 blockade therapy has been trialed in a broad range of malignancies and achieved clinical success. Despite the potentially cure-like survival benefit, only a minority of patients are estimated to experience a positive response to PD-1/PD-L1 blockade therapy, and the primary or acquired resistance might eventually lead to cancer progression in patients with clinical responses. Accordingly, the resistance to PD-1/PD-L1 blockade remains a significant challenge hindering its further application. To overcome the limitation in therapy resistance, substantial effort has been made to improve or develop novel anti-PD-1/PD-L1 based immunotherapy strategies with better clinical response and reduced immune-mediated toxicity. In this review, we provide an overview on the resistance to PD-1/PD-L1 blockade and briefly introduce the mechanisms underlying therapy resistance. Moreover, we summarize potential predictive factors for the resistance to PD-1/PD-L1 blockade. Furthermore, we give an insight into the possible solutions to improve efficacy and clinical response. In the following research, combined efforts of basic researchers and clinicians are required to address the limitation of therapy resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Yu Sun
- The First College of Clinical Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Dengke Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Imaging Diagnosis and Minimally Invasive Intervention Research, Lishui Hospital of Zhejiang University/ The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University/ Clinical Medicine of Center Hospital of Lishui College, Lishui, 323000 China
- College of Medicine, Lishui College, Lishui, 323000 China
| | - Songquan Wu
- Key Laboratory of Imaging Diagnosis and Minimally Invasive Intervention Research, Lishui Hospital of Zhejiang University/ The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University/ Clinical Medicine of Center Hospital of Lishui College, Lishui, 323000 China
- College of Medicine, Lishui College, Lishui, 323000 China
| | - Min Xu
- Key Laboratory of Imaging Diagnosis and Minimally Invasive Intervention Research, Lishui Hospital of Zhejiang University/ The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University/ Clinical Medicine of Center Hospital of Lishui College, Lishui, 323000 China
- College of Medicine, Lishui College, Lishui, 323000 China
| | - Xiao Zhou
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiao-Jie Lu
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jiansong Ji
- Key Laboratory of Imaging Diagnosis and Minimally Invasive Intervention Research, Lishui Hospital of Zhejiang University/ The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University/ Clinical Medicine of Center Hospital of Lishui College, Lishui, 323000 China
- College of Medicine, Lishui College, Lishui, 323000 China
- Department of radiology, Affiliated Lishui Hospital of Zhejiang University, Lishui, 323000 China
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