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Porreca V, Barbagallo C, Corbella E, Peres M, Stella M, Mignogna G, Maras B, Ragusa M, Mancone C. Unveil Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma Heterogeneity through the Lens of Omics and Multi-Omics Approaches. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:2889. [PMID: 39199659 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16162889] [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: 07/24/2024] [Revised: 08/12/2024] [Accepted: 08/16/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA) is recognized worldwide as the second leading cause of morbidity and mortality among primary liver cancers, showing a continuously increasing incidence rate in recent years. iCCA aggressiveness is revealed through its rapid and silent intrahepatic expansion and spread through the lymphatic system leading to late diagnosis and poor prognoses. Multi-omics studies have aggregated information derived from single-omics data, providing a more comprehensive understanding of the phenomena being studied. These approaches are gradually becoming powerful tools for investigating the intricate pathobiology of iCCA, facilitating the correlation between molecular signature and phenotypic manifestation. Consequently, preliminary stratifications of iCCA patients have been proposed according to their "omics" features opening the possibility of identifying potential biomarkers for early diagnosis and developing new therapies based on personalized medicine (PM). The focus of this review is to provide new and advanced insight into the molecular pathobiology of the iCCA, starting from single- to the latest multi-omics approaches, paving the way for translating new basic research into therapeutic practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Porreca
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Cristina Barbagallo
- Section of Biology and Genetics, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Eleonora Corbella
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Peres
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Michele Stella
- Section of Biology and Genetics, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Mignogna
- Department of Biochemistry Science, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Bruno Maras
- Department of Biochemistry Science, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Ragusa
- Section of Biology and Genetics, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Carmine Mancone
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
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2
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Affὸ S, Sererols-Viñas L, Garcia-Vicién G, Cadamuro M, Chakraborty S, Sirica AE. Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts in Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma: Insights into Origins, Heterogeneity, Lymphangiogenesis, and Peritoneal Metastasis. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2024:S0002-9440(24)00279-7. [PMID: 39117110 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2024.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2024] [Revised: 07/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA) denotes a rare, highly malignant, and heterogeneous class of primary liver adenocarcinomas exhibiting phenotypic characteristics of cholangiocyte differentiation. Among the distinctive pathological features of iCCA, one that differentiates the most common macroscopic subtype (eg, mass-forming type) of this hepatic tumor from conventional hepatocellular carcinoma, is a prominent desmoplastic reaction manifested as a dense fibro-collagenous-enriched tumor stroma. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) represent the most abundant mesenchymal cell type in the desmoplastic reaction. Although the protumor effects of CAFs in iCCA have been increasingly recognized, more recent cell lineage tracing studies, advanced single-cell RNA sequencing, and expanded biomarker analyses have provided new awareness into their ontogeny, as well as underscored their biological complexity as reflected by the presence of multiple subtypes. In addition, evidence has been described to support CAFs' potential to display cancer-restrictive roles, including immunosuppression. However, CAFs also play important roles in facilitating metastasis, as exemplified by lymph node metastasis and peritoneal carcinomatosis, which are common in iCCA. Herein, the authors provide a timely appraisal of the origins and phenotypic and functional complexity of CAFs in iCCA, together with providing mechanistic insights into lymphangiogenesis and peritoneal metastasis relevant to this lethal human cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Affὸ
- Tumor Microenvironment Plasticity and Heterogeneity Research Group, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Laura Sererols-Viñas
- Tumor Microenvironment Plasticity and Heterogeneity Research Group, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gemma Garcia-Vicién
- Tumor Microenvironment Plasticity and Heterogeneity Research Group, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Sanjukta Chakraborty
- Department of Medical Physiology, School of Medicine, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Bryan, Texas
| | - Alphonse E Sirica
- Department of Pathology, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, Virginia.
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3
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Lee HK, Na YJ, Seong SM, Ahn D, Choi KC. Cordycepin Enhanced Therapeutic Potential of Gemcitabine against Cholangiocarcinoma via Downregulating Cancer Stem-Like Properties. Biomol Ther (Seoul) 2024; 32:369-378. [PMID: 38589021 PMCID: PMC11063483 DOI: 10.4062/biomolther.2023.198] [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: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Cordycepin, a valuable bioactive component isolated from Cordyceps militaris, has been reported to possess anti-cancer potential and the property to enhance the effects of chemotherapeutic agents in various types of cancers. However, the ability of cordycepin to chemosensitize cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) cells to gemcitabine has not yet been evaluated. The current study was performed to evaluate the above, and the mechanisms associated with it. The study analyzed the effects of cordycepin in combination with gemcitabine on the cancer stem-like properties of the CCA SNU478 cell line, including its anti-apoptotic, migratory, and antioxidant effects. In addition, the combination of cordycepin and gemcitabine was evaluated in the CCA xenograft model. The cordycepin treatment significantly decreased SNU478 cell viability and, in combination with gemcitabine, additively reduced cell viability. The cordycepin and gemcitabine co-treatment significantly increased the Annexin V+ population and downregulated B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) expression, suggesting that the decreased cell viability in the cordycepin+gemcitabine group may result from an increase in apoptotic death. In addition, the cordycepin and gemcitabine co-treatment significantly reduced the migratory ability of SNU478 cells in the wound healing and trans-well migration assays. It was observed that the cordycepin and gemcitabine cotreatment reduced the CD44highCD133high population in SNU478 cells and the expression level of sex determining region Y-box 2 (Sox-2), indicating the downregulation of the cancer stem-like population. Cordycepin also enhanced oxidative damage mediated by gemcitabine in MitoSOX staining associated with the upregulated Kelch like ECH Associated Protein 1 (Keap1)/nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) expression ratio. In the SNU478 xenograft model, co-administration of cordycepin and gemcitabine additively delayed tumor growth. These results indicate that cordycepin potentiates the chemotherapeutic property of gemcitabine against CCA, which results from the downregulation of its cancer-stem-like properties. Hence, the combination therapy of cordycepin and gemcitabine may be a promising therapeutic strategy in the treatment of CCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Kyu Lee
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Republic of Korea
| | - Yun-Jung Na
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Republic of Korea
| | - Su-Min Seong
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Republic of Korea
| | - Dohee Ahn
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung-Chul Choi
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Republic of Korea
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Cantallops Vilà P, Ravichandra A, Agirre Lizaso A, Perugorria MJ, Affò S. Heterogeneity, crosstalk, and targeting of cancer-associated fibroblasts in cholangiocarcinoma. Hepatology 2024; 79:941-958. [PMID: 37018128 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 04/06/2023]
Abstract
Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) comprises diverse tumors of the biliary tree and is characterized by late diagnosis, short-term survival, and chemoresistance. CCAs are mainly classified according to their anatomical location and include diverse molecular subclasses harboring inter-tumoral and intratumoral heterogeneity. Besides the tumor cell component, CCA is also characterized by a complex and dynamic tumor microenvironment where tumor cells and stromal cells crosstalk in an intricate network of interactions. Cancer-associated fibroblasts, one of the most abundant cell types in the tumor stroma of CCA, are actively involved in cholangiocarcinogenesis by participating in multiple aspects of the disease including extracellular matrix remodeling, immunomodulation, neo-angiogenesis, and metastasis. Despite their overall tumor-promoting role, recent evidence indicates the presence of transcriptional and functional heterogeneous CAF subtypes with tumor-promoting and tumor-restricting properties. To elucidate the complexity and potentials of cancer-associated fibroblasts as therapeutic targets in CCA, this review will discuss the origin of cancer-associated fibroblasts, their heterogeneity, crosstalk, and role during tumorigenesis, providing an overall picture of the present and future perspectives toward cancer-associated fibroblasts targeting CCA.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Aashreya Ravichandra
- Medical Clinic and Polyclinic II, Klinikum Rechts Der Isar, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Aloña Agirre Lizaso
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Research Institute, Donostia University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV-EHU), Donostia-San Sebastian, Spain
| | - Maria J Perugorria
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Research Institute, Donostia University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV-EHU), Donostia-San Sebastian, Spain
- CIBERehd, Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country, UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain
| | - Silvia Affò
- August Pi i Sunyer Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
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Thongchot S, Ferraresi A, Vidoni C, Salwa A, Vallino L, Kittirat Y, Loilome W, Namwat N, Isidoro C. Preclinical evidence for preventive and curative effects of resveratrol on xenograft cholangiocarcinogenesis. Cancer Lett 2024; 582:216589. [PMID: 38097133 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2023.216589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), the malignant tumor of bile duct epithelial cells, is a relatively rare yet highly lethal cancer. In this work, we tested the ability of Resveratrol (RV) to prevent and cure CCA xenograft in nude mice and investigated molecular mechanisms underpinning such anticancer effect. Human CCA cells were xenografted in mice that were or not treated prior to or after to transplantation with RV. Tumor growth was monitored and analyzed for the markers of cell proliferation, apoptosis, and autophagy. TCGA was interrogated for the molecules possibly targeted by RV. RV could inhibit the growth of human CCA xenograft when administered after implantation and could reduce the growth or even impair the implantation of the tumors when administered prior the transplantation. RV inhibited CCA cell proliferation, induced apoptosis with autophagy, and strongly reduced the presence of CAFs and production of IL-6. Interrogation of CCA dataset in TCGA database revealed that the expression of IL-6 Receptor (IL-6R) inversely correlated with that of MAP-LC3 and BECLIN-1, and that low expression of IL-6R and of MIK67, two pathways downregulated by RV, associated with better survival of CCA patients. Our data demonstrate that RV elicits a strong preventive and curative anticancer effect in CCA by limiting the formation of CAFs and their release of IL-6, and this results in up-regulation of autophagy and apoptosis in the cancer cells. These findings support the clinical use of RV as a primary line of prevention in patients exposed at risk and as an adjuvant therapeutics in CCA patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suyanee Thongchot
- Department of Systems Biosciences and Computational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, 123 Mitraparp Highway, Khon Kaen, 40002, Thailand; Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Health Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale "A. Avogadro", Via Solaroli 17, 28100, Novara, Italy; Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand; Siriraj Center of Research Excellence for Cancer Immunotherapy (SiCORE-CIT), Research Department, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand
| | - Alessandra Ferraresi
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Health Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale "A. Avogadro", Via Solaroli 17, 28100, Novara, Italy
| | - Chiara Vidoni
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Health Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale "A. Avogadro", Via Solaroli 17, 28100, Novara, Italy
| | - Amreen Salwa
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Health Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale "A. Avogadro", Via Solaroli 17, 28100, Novara, Italy
| | - Letizia Vallino
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Health Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale "A. Avogadro", Via Solaroli 17, 28100, Novara, Italy
| | - Yingpinyapat Kittirat
- Cholangiocarcinoma Research Institute, Khon Kaen University, 123 Mitraparp Highway, Khon Kaen, 40002, Thailand; Department of Medical Sciences, Regional Medical Sciences Center 2 Phitsanulok, Ministry of Public Health, Phitsanulok, Thailand
| | - Watcharin Loilome
- Department of Systems Biosciences and Computational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, 123 Mitraparp Highway, Khon Kaen, 40002, Thailand; Cholangiocarcinoma Research Institute, Khon Kaen University, 123 Mitraparp Highway, Khon Kaen, 40002, Thailand
| | - Nisana Namwat
- Department of Systems Biosciences and Computational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, 123 Mitraparp Highway, Khon Kaen, 40002, Thailand; Cholangiocarcinoma Research Institute, Khon Kaen University, 123 Mitraparp Highway, Khon Kaen, 40002, Thailand.
| | - Ciro Isidoro
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Health Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale "A. Avogadro", Via Solaroli 17, 28100, Novara, Italy.
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6
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Yan J, Xiao G, Yang C, Liu Q, Lv C, Yu X, Zhou Z, Lin S, Bai Z, Lin H, Zhang R, Liu C. Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts Promote Lymphatic Metastasis in Cholangiocarcinoma via the PDGF-BB/PDGFR-β Mediated Paracrine Signaling Network. Aging Dis 2024; 15:369-389. [PMID: 37307823 PMCID: PMC10796099 DOI: 10.14336/ad.2023.0420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients with cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) with lymph node metastasis (LNM) have the worst prognosis, even after complete resection; however, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Here, we established CAF-derived PDGF-BB as a regulator of LMN in CCA. Proteomics analysis revealed upregulation of PDGF-BB in CAFs derived from patients with CCA with LMN (LN+CAFs). Clinically, the expression of CAF-PDGF-BB correlated with poor prognosis and increased LMN in patients with CCA, while CAF-secreted PDGF-BB enhanced lymphatic endothelial cell (LEC)-mediated lymphangiogenesis and promoted the trans-LEC migration ability of tumor cells. Co-injection of LN+CAFs and cancer cells increased tumor growth and LMN in vivo. Mechanistically, CAF-derived PDGF-BB activated its receptor PDGFR-β and its downstream ERK1/2-JNK signaling pathways in LECs to promote lymphoangiogenesis, while it also upregulated the PDGFR-β-GSK-P65-mediated tumor cell migration. Finally, targeting PDGF-BB/PDGFR-β or the GSK-P65 signaling axis prohibited CAF-mediated popliteal lymphatic metastasis (PLM) in vivo. Overall, our findings revealed that CAFs promote tumor growth and LMN via a paracrine network, identifying a promising therapeutic target for patients with advanced CCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Yan
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Gang Xiao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China.
- Center for Medical Research on Innovation and Translation, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Caini Yang
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Qinqin Liu
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Cui Lv
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA medicine, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
- Medical Research Center, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xianhuan Yu
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Ziyu Zhou
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Shusheng Lin
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Zhenhua Bai
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Haoming Lin
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Rui Zhang
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Chao Liu
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
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Corbella E, Fara C, Covarelli F, Porreca V, Palmisano B, Mignogna G, Corsi A, Riminucci M, Maras B, Mancone C. THBS1 and THBS2 Enhance the In Vitro Proliferation, Adhesion, Migration and Invasion of Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1782. [PMID: 38339060 PMCID: PMC10855656 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
In intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA), thrombospondin 1 (THBS1) and 2 (THBS2) are soluble mediators released in the tumor microenvironment (TME) that contribute to the metastatic spreading of iCCA cells via a lymphatic network by the trans-differentiation of vascular endothelial cells to a lymphatic-like phenotype. To study the direct role of THBS1 and THBS2 on the iCCA cells, well-established epithelial (HuCCT-1) and mesenchymal (CCLP1) iCCA cell lines were subjected to recombinant human THBS1 and THBS2 (rhTHBS1, rhTHBS2) for cellular function assays. Cell growth, cell adhesion, migration, and invasion were all enhanced in both CCLP1 and HuCCT-1 cells by the treatment with either rhTHBS1 or rhTHBS2, although they showed some variability in their intensity of speeding up cellular processes. rhTHBS2 was more intense in inducing invasiveness and in committing the HuCCT-1 cells to a mesenchymal-like phenotype and was therefore a stronger enhancer of the malignant behavior of iCCA cells compared to rhTHBS1. Our data extend the role of THBS1 and THBS2, which are not only able to hinder the vascular network and promote tumor-associated lymphangiogenesis but also exacerbate the malignant behavior of the iCCA cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora Corbella
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy; (E.C.); (C.F.); (F.C.); (V.P.); (A.C.); (M.R.)
| | - Claudia Fara
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy; (E.C.); (C.F.); (F.C.); (V.P.); (A.C.); (M.R.)
| | - Francesca Covarelli
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy; (E.C.); (C.F.); (F.C.); (V.P.); (A.C.); (M.R.)
| | - Veronica Porreca
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy; (E.C.); (C.F.); (F.C.); (V.P.); (A.C.); (M.R.)
| | - Biagio Palmisano
- Department of Radiology, Oncology and Pathology, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy;
| | - Giuseppina Mignogna
- Department of Biochemistry Science, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 332, 00185 Rome, Italy; (G.M.); (B.M.)
| | - Alessandro Corsi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy; (E.C.); (C.F.); (F.C.); (V.P.); (A.C.); (M.R.)
| | - Mara Riminucci
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy; (E.C.); (C.F.); (F.C.); (V.P.); (A.C.); (M.R.)
| | - Bruno Maras
- Department of Biochemistry Science, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 332, 00185 Rome, Italy; (G.M.); (B.M.)
| | - Carmine Mancone
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy; (E.C.); (C.F.); (F.C.); (V.P.); (A.C.); (M.R.)
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Polidoro MA, Ferrari E, Soldani C, Franceschini B, Saladino G, Rosina A, Mainardi A, D’Autilia F, Pugliese N, Costa G, Donadon M, Torzilli G, Marzorati S, Rasponi M, Lleo A. Cholangiocarcinoma-on-a-chip: A human 3D platform for personalised medicine. JHEP Rep 2024; 6:100910. [PMID: 38074504 PMCID: PMC10698278 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2023.100910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 12/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a primary liver tumour characterised by a poor prognosis and limited therapeutic options. Available 3D human CCA models fail to faithfully recapitulate the tumour niche. We aimed to develop an innovative patient-specific CCA-on-chip platform. METHODS A CCA tumour microenvironment was recapitulated on a microfluidic three-channel chip using primary CCA cells, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), endothelial cells, and T cells isolated from CCA specimens (n = 6). CAF and CCA cells were co-cultured in the central channel, flanked by endothelial cells in one lateral channel, recreating a tubular structure. An extensive characterisation of this platform was carried out to investigate its diffusion ability, hydrogel properties, and changes in matrix composition. Cell phenotype and functional properties were assessed. RESULTS Primary cells seeded on the microfluidic device were shown to reproduce the architectural structure and maintain the original phenotype and functional properties. The tumour niche underwent a deep remodelling in the 3D device, with an increase in hydrogel stiffness and extracellular matrix deposition, mimicking in vivo CCA characteristics. T cells were incorporated into the device to assess its reliability for immune cell interaction studies. Higher T cell migration was observed using cells from patients with highly infiltrated tumours. Finally, the drug trial showed the ability of the device to recapitulate different drug responses based on patient characteristics. CONCLUSIONS We presented a 3D CCA platform that integrates the major non-immune components of the tumour microenvironment and the T cell infiltrate, reflecting the CCA niche. This CCA-on-chip represents a reliable patient-specific 3D platform that will be of help to further elucidate the biological mechanisms involved in CCA and provide an efficient tool for personalised drug testing. IMPACT AND IMPLICATIONS An innovative patient-specific cholangiocarcinoma (CCA)-on-chip platform was successfully developed, integrating the major components of the tumour microenvironment (tumour cells, cancer-associated fibroblasts, endothelial cells, and immune infiltrate) and faithfully mimicking the CCA niche. This CCA-on-chip represents a powerful tool for unravelling disease-associated cellular mechanisms in CCA and provides an efficient tool for personalised drug testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michela Anna Polidoro
- Hepatobiliary Immunopathology Laboratory, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Erika Ferrari
- Department of Electronics, Information and Bioengineering, Politecnico di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Cristiana Soldani
- Hepatobiliary Immunopathology Laboratory, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Barbara Franceschini
- Hepatobiliary Immunopathology Laboratory, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Saladino
- Department of Electronics, Information and Bioengineering, Politecnico di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Arianna Rosina
- Department of Electronics, Information and Bioengineering, Politecnico di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Mainardi
- Department of Electronics, Information and Bioengineering, Politecnico di Milano, Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedicine, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Francesca D’Autilia
- Unit of Advanced Optical Microscopy, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Nicola Pugliese
- Department of Biomedical Science, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy
- Division of Internal Medicine and Hepatology, Department of Gastroenterology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Guido Costa
- Division of Hepatobiliary and General Surgery, Department of Surgery, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Matteo Donadon
- Department of Health Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
- Department of General Surgery, University Maggiore Hospital, Novara, Italy
| | - Guido Torzilli
- Department of Biomedical Science, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy
- Division of Hepatobiliary and General Surgery, Department of Surgery, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Simona Marzorati
- Hepatobiliary Immunopathology Laboratory, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Rasponi
- Department of Electronics, Information and Bioengineering, Politecnico di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Ana Lleo
- Department of Biomedical Science, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy
- Division of Internal Medicine and Hepatology, Department of Gastroenterology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
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9
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Ilyas SI, Affo S, Goyal L, Lamarca A, Sapisochin G, Yang JD, Gores GJ. Cholangiocarcinoma - novel biological insights and therapeutic strategies. Nat Rev Clin Oncol 2023; 20:470-486. [PMID: 37188899 PMCID: PMC10601496 DOI: 10.1038/s41571-023-00770-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
In the past 5 years, important advances have been made in the scientific understanding and clinical management of cholangiocarcinoma (CCA). The cellular immune landscape of CCA has been characterized and tumour subsets with distinct immune microenvironments have been defined using molecular approaches. Among these subsets, the identification of 'immune-desert' tumours that are relatively devoid of immune cells emphasizes the need to consider the tumour immune microenvironment in the development of immunotherapy approaches. Progress has also made in identifying the complex heterogeneity and diverse functions of cancer-associated fibroblasts in this desmoplastic cancer. Assays measuring circulating cell-free DNA and cell-free tumour DNA are emerging as clinical tools for detection and monitoring of the disease. Molecularly targeted therapy for CCA has now become a reality, with three drugs targeting oncogenic fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 (FGFR2) fusions and one targeting neomorphic, gain-of-function variants of isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 (IDH1) obtaining regulatory approval. By contrast, immunotherapy using immune-checkpoint inhibitors has produced disappointing results in patients with CCA, underscoring the requirement for novel immune-based treatment strategies. Finally, liver transplantation for early stage intrahepatic CCA under research protocols is emerging as a viable therapeutic option in selected patients. This Review highlights and provides in-depth information on these advances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumera I Ilyas
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Department of Immunology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Silvia Affo
- Liver, Digestive System and Metabolism Research, Institut d'Investigacions Biomediques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Lipika Goyal
- Department of Medicine, Mass General Cancer Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Angela Lamarca
- Department of Oncology, OncoHealth Institute, Fundación Jiménez Díaz University Hospital, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Christie NHS Foundation, Manchester, UK
- Division of Cancer Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Gonzalo Sapisochin
- Ajmera Transplant Program and HPB Surgical Oncology, Toronto General Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Ju Dong Yang
- Karsh Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Gregory J Gores
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA.
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10
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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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11
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Vita F, Olaizola I, Amato F, Rae C, Marco S, Banales JM, Braconi C. Heterogeneity of Cholangiocarcinoma Immune Biology. Cells 2023; 12:cells12060846. [PMID: 36980187 PMCID: PMC10047186 DOI: 10.3390/cells12060846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Cholangiocarcinomas (CCAs) are aggressive tumors arising along the biliary tract epithelium, whose incidence and mortality are increasing. CCAs are highly desmoplastic cancers characterized by a dense tumor microenvironment (TME), in which each single component plays a fundamental role in shaping CCA initiation, progression and resistance to therapies. The crosstalk between cancer cells and TME can affect the recruitment, infiltration and differentiation of immune cells. According to the stage of the disease and to intra- and inter-patient heterogeneity, TME may contribute to either protumoral or antitumoral activities. Therefore, a better understanding of the effect of each immune cell subtype may open the path to new personalized immune therapeutic strategies for the management of CCA. In this review, we describe the role of immune cells in CCA initiation and progression, and their crosstalk with both cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and the cancer-stem-cell-like (CSC) niche.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Vita
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK; (F.V.); (F.A.); (C.R.); (S.M.)
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, 10043 Turin, Italy
| | - Irene Olaizola
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Health Research Institute–Donostia University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 20014 San Sebastian, Spain; (I.O.); (J.M.B.)
| | - Francesco Amato
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK; (F.V.); (F.A.); (C.R.); (S.M.)
| | - Colin Rae
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK; (F.V.); (F.A.); (C.R.); (S.M.)
| | - Sergi Marco
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK; (F.V.); (F.A.); (C.R.); (S.M.)
| | - Jesus M. Banales
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Health Research Institute–Donostia University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 20014 San Sebastian, Spain; (I.O.); (J.M.B.)
- IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, 48009 Bilbao, Spain
- National Institute for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd, “Instituto de Salud Carlos III”), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, School of Sciences, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Chiara Braconi
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK; (F.V.); (F.A.); (C.R.); (S.M.)
- Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre, Glasgow G12 0YN, UK
- Correspondence:
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12
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Jarman EJ, Horcas‐Lopez M, Waddell SH, MacMaster S, Gournopanos K, Soong DYH, Musialik K, Tsokkou P, Ng M, Cambridge WA, Wilson DH, Kagey MH, Newman W, Pollard JW, Boulter L. DKK1 drives immune suppressive phenotypes in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma and can be targeted with anti-DKK1 therapeutic DKN-01. Liver Int 2023; 43:208-220. [PMID: 35924447 PMCID: PMC10087034 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Dickkopf-1 (DKK1) is associated with poor prognosis in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA), but the mechanisms behind this are unclear. Here, we show that DKK1 plays an immune regulatory role in vivo and inhibition reduces tumour growth. METHODS Various in vivo GEMM mouse models and patient samples were utilized to assess the effects of tumour specific DKK1 overexpression in iCCA. DKK1-driven changes to the tumour immune microenvironment were characterized by immunostaining and gene expression analysis. DKK1 overexpressing and damage-induced models of iCCA were used to demonstrate the therapeutic efficacy of DKK1 inhibition in these contexts using the anti-DKK1 therapeutic, DKN-01. RESULTS DKK1 overexpression in mouse models of iCCA drives an increase in chemokine and cytokine signalling, the recruitment of regulatory macrophages, and promotes the formation of a tolerogenic niche with higher numbers of regulatory T cells. We show a similar association of DKK1 with FOXP3 and regulatory T cells in patient tissue and gene expression data, demonstrating these effects are relevant to human iCCA. Finally, we demonstrate that inhibition of DKK1 with the monoclonal antibody mDKN-01 is effective at reducing tumour burden in two distinct mouse models of the disease. CONCLUSION DKK1 promotes tumour immune evasion in iCCA through the recruitment of immune suppressive macrophages. Targeting DKK1 with a neutralizing antibody is effective at reducing tumour growth in vivo. As such, DKK1 targeted and immune modulatory therapies may be an effective strategy in iCCA patients with high DKK1 tumour expression or tolerogenic immune phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward J. Jarman
- MRC Human Genetics UnitInstitute of Genetics and Cancer, University of EdinburghEdinburghUK
| | - Marta Horcas‐Lopez
- MRC Centre for Reproductive HealthQueen's Medical Research Institute, The University of EdinburghEdinburghUK
| | - Scott H. Waddell
- MRC Human Genetics UnitInstitute of Genetics and Cancer, University of EdinburghEdinburghUK
| | - Stephanie MacMaster
- MRC Human Genetics UnitInstitute of Genetics and Cancer, University of EdinburghEdinburghUK
| | | | - Daniel Y. H. Soong
- MRC Centre for Reproductive HealthQueen's Medical Research Institute, The University of EdinburghEdinburghUK
| | - Kamila I. Musialik
- MRC Human Genetics UnitInstitute of Genetics and Cancer, University of EdinburghEdinburghUK
| | - Panagiota Tsokkou
- MRC Human Genetics UnitInstitute of Genetics and Cancer, University of EdinburghEdinburghUK
| | - Minn‐E Ng
- MRC Human Genetics UnitInstitute of Genetics and Cancer, University of EdinburghEdinburghUK
| | - William A. Cambridge
- MRC Human Genetics UnitInstitute of Genetics and Cancer, University of EdinburghEdinburghUK
- Department of Clinical SurgeryUniversity of Edinburgh, Little France CrescentEdinburghUK
| | - David H. Wilson
- MRC Human Genetics UnitInstitute of Genetics and Cancer, University of EdinburghEdinburghUK
| | | | | | - Jeffrey W. Pollard
- MRC Centre for Reproductive HealthQueen's Medical Research Institute, The University of EdinburghEdinburghUK
| | - Luke Boulter
- MRC Human Genetics UnitInstitute of Genetics and Cancer, University of EdinburghEdinburghUK
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13
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Elevated ITGA2 expression promotes collagen type I-induced clonogenic growth of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. Sci Rep 2022; 12:22429. [PMID: 36575207 PMCID: PMC9794692 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-26747-1] [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: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA) arises along the peripheral bile ducts and is often accompanied by a tumor microenvironment (TME) high in extracellular matrices (ECMs). In this study, we aimed to evaluate whether an ECM-rich TME favors iCCA progression. We identified ITGA2, which encodes collagen-binding integrin α2, to be differentially-expressed in iCCA tumors compared with adjacent normal tissues. Elevated ITGA2 is also positively-correlated with its ligand, collagen type I. Increased ITGA2 expression and its role in collagen type I binding was validated in vitro using four iCCA cell lines, compared with a non-cancerous, cholangiocyte cell line. Robust interaction of iCCA cells with collagen type I was abolished by either ITGA2 depletion or integrin α2β1-selective inhibitor treatment. In a phenotypic study, collagen type I significantly enhances clonogenic growth of HuCCA-1 and HuCCT-1 cells by three and sixfold, respectively. Inhibition of integrin α2 expression or its activity significantly blocks collagen type I-induced colony growth in both cell lines. Taken together, our data provide mechanistic evidence that collagen type I promotes growth of iCCA colonies through integrin α2 suggesting that the collagen type I-integrin α2 axis could be a promising target for cancer prevention and a therapeutic opportunity for this cancer.
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14
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The Emerging Role of Tumor Microenvironmental Stimuli in Regulating Metabolic Rewiring of Liver Cancer Stem Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 15:cancers15010005. [PMID: 36612000 PMCID: PMC9817521 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15010005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary liver cancer (PLC) is one of the most devastating cancers worldwide. Extensive phenotypical and functional heterogeneity is a cardinal hallmark of cancer, including PLC, and is related to the cancer stem cell (CSC) concept. CSCs are responsible for tumor growth, progression, relapse and resistance to conventional therapies. Metabolic reprogramming represents an emerging hallmark of cancer. Cancer cells, including CSCs, are very plastic and possess the dynamic ability to constantly shift between different metabolic states depending on various intrinsic and extrinsic stimuli, therefore amplifying the complexity of understanding tumor heterogeneity. Besides the well-known Warburg effect, several other metabolic pathways including lipids and iron metabolism are altered in PLC. An increasing number of studies supports the role of the surrounding tumor microenvironment (TME) in the metabolic control of liver CSCs. In this review, we discuss the complex metabolic rewiring affecting liver cancer cells and, in particular, liver CSCs. Moreover, we highlight the role of TME cellular and noncellular components in regulating liver CSC metabolic plasticity. Deciphering the specific mechanisms regulating liver CSC-TME metabolic interplay could be very helpful with respect to the development of more effective and innovative combinatorial therapies for PLC treatment.
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15
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Zhao C, Liu S, Gao F, Zou Y, Ren Z, Yu Z. The role of tumor microenvironment reprogramming in primary liver cancer chemotherapy resistance. Front Oncol 2022; 12:1008902. [PMID: 36505831 PMCID: PMC9731808 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1008902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary liver cancer (PLC), including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC), and other rare tumours, is the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality. It has been a major contributor to the cancer burden worldwide. Of all primary liver cancer, HCC is the most common type. Over the past few decades, chemotherapy, immunotherapy and other therapies have been identified as applicable to the treatment of HCC. However, evidence suggests that chemotherapy resistance is associated with higher mortality rates in liver cancer. The tumour microenvironment (TME), which includes molecular, cellular, extracellular matrix(ECM), and vascular signalling pathways, is a complex ecosystem. It is now increasingly recognized that the tumour microenvironment plays a pivotal role in PLC prognosis, progression and treatment response. Cancer cells reprogram the tumour microenvironment to develop resistance to chemotherapy drugs distinct from normal differentiated tissues. Chemotherapy resistance mechanisms are reshaped during TME reprogramming. For this reason, TME reprogramming can provide a powerful tool to understand better both cancer-fate processes and regenerative, with the potential to develop a new treatment. This review discusses the recent progress of tumour drug resistance, particularly tumour microenvironment reprogramming in tumour chemotherapy resistance, and focuses on its potential application prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunyu Zhao
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China,Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong Laboratory, Jinan, Shandong, China,Gene Hospital of Henan Province; Precision Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Shanshuo Liu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China,Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong Laboratory, Jinan, Shandong, China,Gene Hospital of Henan Province; Precision Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Feng Gao
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China,Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong Laboratory, Jinan, Shandong, China,Gene Hospital of Henan Province; Precision Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yawen Zou
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China,Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong Laboratory, Jinan, Shandong, China,Gene Hospital of Henan Province; Precision Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zhigang Ren
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China,Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong Laboratory, Jinan, Shandong, China,Gene Hospital of Henan Province; Precision Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China,*Correspondence: Zhigang Ren, ; Zujiang Yu,
| | - Zujiang Yu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China,Gene Hospital of Henan Province; Precision Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China,*Correspondence: Zhigang Ren, ; Zujiang Yu,
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16
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Montori M, Scorzoni C, Argenziano ME, Balducci D, De Blasio F, Martini F, Buono T, Benedetti A, Marzioni M, Maroni L. Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts in Cholangiocarcinoma: Current Knowledge and Possible Implications for Therapy. J Clin Med 2022; 11:6498. [PMID: 36362726 PMCID: PMC9654416 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11216498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is an aggressive neoplasia with an increasing incidence and mortality. It is characterized by a strong desmoplastic stroma surrounding cancer cells. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are the main cell type of CCA stroma and they have an important role in modulating cancer microenvironments. CAFs originate from multiple lines of cells and mainly consist of fibroblasts and alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) positive myofibroblast-like cells. The continuous cross-talking between CCA cells and desmoplastic stroma is permitted by CAF biochemical signals, which modulate a number of pathways. Stromal cell-derived factor-1 expression increases CAF recruitment to the tumor reactive stroma and influences apoptotic pathways. The Bcl-2 family protein enhances susceptibility to CAF apoptosis and PDGFRβ induces fibroblast migration and stimulates tumor lymphangiogenesis. Many factors related to CAFs may influence CCA prognosis. For instance, a better prognosis is associated with IL-33 expression and low stromal IL-6 (whose secretion is stimulated by microRNA). In contrast, a worst prognosis is given by the expression of PDGF-D, podoplanin, SDF-1, α-SMA high expression, and periostin. The maturity phenotype has a prognostic relevance too. New therapeutic strategies involving CAFs are currently under study. Promising results are obtained with anti-PlGF therapy, nintedanib (BIBF1120), navitoclax, IPI-926, resveratrol, and controlled hyperthermia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Montori
- Clinic of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Emergency Digestive Endoscopy, Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60126 Ancona, Italy
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17
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Ruggieri AN, Yarchoan M, Goyal S, Liu Y, Sharon E, Chen HX, Olson BM, Paulos CM, El-Rayes BF, Maithel SK, Azad NS, Lesinski GB. Combined MEK/PD-L1 Inhibition Alters Peripheral Cytokines and Lymphocyte Populations Correlating with Improved Clinical Outcomes in Advanced Biliary Tract Cancer. Clin Cancer Res 2022; 28:4336-4345. [PMID: 35833954 PMCID: PMC9529897 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-22-1123] [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: 04/07/2022] [Revised: 06/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Biliary tract cancers (BTC) are aggressive malignancies refractory to chemotherapy and immunotherapy. MEK inhibition (MEKi)-based regimens may have utility in this disease when combined with PD-L1 blockade. We hypothesize that dual MEK/PD-L1 inhibition alters circulating soluble and cellular immune mediators to improve clinical outcomes in patients with advanced BTC. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN We examined immune features in peripheral blood from 77 patients with advanced BTC enrolled in a phase II clinical trial investigating atezolizumab with or without cobimetinib. Plasma and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) were isolated from whole blood to evaluate soluble factors and immune cell populations. Baseline blood samples were additionally compared with healthy donors to identify immune signatures unique to BTC. RESULTS At baseline, the soluble factors platelet-derived growth factor B (PDGF)-BB, placental growth factor (PlGF)-1, IL5, and IL17A were elevated in patients with BTC compared with healthy adult donors, and higher baseline frequencies of CD8+BTLA+ T cells correlated with better overall survival (OS) in this trial. There were also significant treatment-related alterations in several factors, including decreased PDGF-BB following combination treatment, that correlated with improved OS and progression-free survival (PFS). Higher baseline levels of IL23 and RANTES corresponded to improved clinical outcomes following combination treatment. Dual MEK/PD-L1 inhibition increased populations of CD4+TIM3+ and decreased CD8+VISTA+ T cells, correlating with worse OS and better PFS, respectively. CONCLUSIONS This work represents a comprehensive analysis of peripheral immune features in patients with BTC and systemic responses to dual MEK/PD-L1 inhibition. These data support further investigation to understand how MEKi combines with immunotherapeutic approaches to improve clinical outcomes for patients with advanced BTC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda N. Ruggieri
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Mark Yarchoan
- Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Subir Goyal
- Biostatistics Shared Resource, Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Yuan Liu
- Biostatistics Shared Resource, Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Elad Sharon
- National Cancer Institute (NCI) Cancer Therapy Evaluation Program (CTEP), Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Helen X. Chen
- National Cancer Institute (NCI) Cancer Therapy Evaluation Program (CTEP), Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Brian M. Olson
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Chrystal M. Paulos
- Department of Surgery, Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, Atlanta, GA
| | - Bassel F. El-Rayes
- O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center of the University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Shishir K. Maithel
- Department of Surgery, Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, Atlanta, GA
| | - Nilofer S. Azad
- Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baltimore, MD, USA,To whom correspondence should be addressed: Nilofer S. Azad, Johns Hopkins University Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, 1650 Orleans Street, Room 4M10, Baltimore, MD 20815, Tel: 410-955-8893; , Gregory B. Lesinski, Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, 1365 Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA. Tel: (404)-778-3072;
| | - Gregory B. Lesinski
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA,To whom correspondence should be addressed: Nilofer S. Azad, Johns Hopkins University Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, 1650 Orleans Street, Room 4M10, Baltimore, MD 20815, Tel: 410-955-8893; , Gregory B. Lesinski, Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, 1365 Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA. Tel: (404)-778-3072;
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18
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Loosen SH, Ulmer TF, Labuhn S, Bednarsch J, Lang SA, Alizai PH, Schneider AT, Vucur M, Neumann UP, Luedde T, Roderburg C. Serum Levels of CXCL13 Are an Independent Predictor of Survival Following Resection of Biliary Tract Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14174073. [PMID: 36077611 PMCID: PMC9454558 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14174073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Biliary tract cancer (BTC) is a primary liver malignancy with poor outcome. The identification of the ideal surgical candidates is often challenging and stratification algorithms comprising the parameters of individual tumor biology are missing. Here, we investigated a potential role of circulating CXCL1, CXCL10 and CXCL13 in patients with resectable BTC as novel biomarkers and could show that elevated levels of CXCL13 both before and after tumor resection identified a subgroup of patients with significantly impaired outcomes following tumor resection. Thus, the present study supports a fundamental role of the CXC chemokine family in BTC and identifies circulating levels of CXCL13 as a previously unrecognized marker for predicting outcomes following the resection of BTC. Abstract Background: The prognosis of biliary tract cancer (BTC) has remained very poor. Although tumor resection represents a potentially curative therapy for selected patients, tumor recurrence is common, and 5-year survival rates have remained below 50%. As stratification algorithms comprising the parameters of individual tumor biology are missing, the identification of ideal patients for extensive tumor surgery is often challenging. The CXC chemokine family exerts decisive functions in cell–cell interactions and has only recently been associated with cancer, but little is known about their function in BTC. Here, we aim to evaluate a potential role of circulating CXCL1, CXCL10 and CXCL13 in patients with resectable BTC. Methods: Serum levels of CXCL1, CXCL10 and CXCL13 were measured by multiplex immunoassay in a cohort of 119 BTC patients undergoing tumor resection and 50 control samples. Results: Circulating levels of CXCL1, CXCL10 and CXCL13 were all significantly elevated in BTC patients compared to healthy controls and increased the diagnostic power of established tumor markers such as CA19-9 when used in combination. Importantly, elevated levels of CXCL13 both before and after tumor resection identified a subgroup of patients with significantly impaired outcomes following tumor resection. As such, BTC patients with initial CXCL13 levels above the ideal prognostic cut-off value (25.01 pg/mL) had a median overall survival (OS) of 290 days compared to 969 days for patients with low initial CXCL13 levels. The prognostic value of circulating CXCL13 was further confirmed by uni- and multivariate Cox regression analyses. Finally, the individual kinetics of CXCL13 before and after tumor resection were also indicative of patient outcomes. Conclusion: Our data support a fundamental role of the CXC chemokine family in BTC and identified circulating levels of CXCL13 as a previously unrecognized marker for predicting outcomes following the resection of BTC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sven H. Loosen
- Clinic for Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Correspondence: (S.H.L.); (T.L.); Tel.: +49-211-81-16630 (S.H.L. & T.L.); Fax: +49-211-81-04489 (S.H.L. & T.L.)
| | - Tom F. Ulmer
- Department of Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Pauwelsstrasse 30, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Simon Labuhn
- Clinic for Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Jan Bednarsch
- Department of Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Pauwelsstrasse 30, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Sven A. Lang
- Department of Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Pauwelsstrasse 30, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Patrick H. Alizai
- Department of Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Pauwelsstrasse 30, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Anne T. Schneider
- Clinic for Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Mihael Vucur
- Clinic for Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Ulf P. Neumann
- Department of Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Pauwelsstrasse 30, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Tom Luedde
- Clinic for Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Correspondence: (S.H.L.); (T.L.); Tel.: +49-211-81-16630 (S.H.L. & T.L.); Fax: +49-211-81-04489 (S.H.L. & T.L.)
| | - Christoph Roderburg
- Clinic for Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
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19
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Ruffolo LI, Jackson KM, Kuhlers PC, Dale BS, Figueroa Guilliani NM, Ullman NA, Burchard PR, Qin SS, Juviler PG, Keilson JM, Morrison AB, Georger M, Jewell R, Calvi LM, Nywening TM, O'Dell MR, Hezel AF, De Las Casas L, Lesinski GB, Yeh JJ, Hernandez-Alejandro R, Belt BA, Linehan DC. GM-CSF drives myelopoiesis, recruitment and polarisation of tumour-associated macrophages in cholangiocarcinoma and systemic blockade facilitates antitumour immunity. Gut 2022; 71:1386-1398. [PMID: 34413131 PMCID: PMC8857285 DOI: 10.1136/gutjnl-2021-324109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA) is rising in incidence, and at present, there are limited effective systemic therapies. iCCA tumours are infiltrated by stromal cells, with high prevalence of suppressive myeloid populations including tumour-associated macrophages (TAMs) and myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs). Here, we show that tumour-derived granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) and the host bone marrow is central for monopoiesis and potentiation of TAMs, and abrogation of this signalling axis facilitates antitumour immunity in a novel model of iCCA. METHODS Blood and tumours were analysed from iCCA patients and controls. Treatment and correlative studies were performed in mice with autochthonous and established orthotopic iCCA tumours treated with anti-GM-CSF monoclonal antibody. RESULTS Systemic elevation in circulating myeloid cells correlates with poor prognosis in patients with iCCA, and patients who undergo resection have a worse overall survival if tumours are more infiltrated with CD68+ TAMs. Mice with spontaneous iCCA demonstrate significant elevation of monocytic myeloid cells in the tumour microenvironment and immune compartments, and tumours overexpress GM-CSF. Blockade of GM-CSF with a monoclonal antibody decreased tumour growth and spread. Mice bearing orthotopic tumours treated with anti-GM-CSF demonstrate repolarisation of immunosuppressive TAMs and MDSCs, facilitating T cell response and tumour regression. GM-CSF blockade dampened inflammatory gene networks in tumours and TAMs. Human tumours with decreased GM-CSF expression exhibit improved overall survival after resection. CONCLUSIONS iCCA uses the GM-CSF-bone marrow axis to establish an immunosuppressive tumour microenvironment. Blockade of the GM-CSF axis promotes antitumour T cell immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis I Ruffolo
- Department of Surgery, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Katherine M Jackson
- Department of Surgery, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Peyton C Kuhlers
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Benjamin S Dale
- Department of Surgery, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York, USA
| | | | - Nicholas A Ullman
- Department of Surgery, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Paul R Burchard
- Department of Surgery, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Shuyang S Qin
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Peter G Juviler
- Department of Surgery, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Jessica Millian Keilson
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Ashley B Morrison
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina System, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Mary Georger
- Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Rachel Jewell
- Department of Surgery, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Laura M Calvi
- Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Timothy M Nywening
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Michael R O'Dell
- Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Aram F Hezel
- Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Luis De Las Casas
- Department of Pathology, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Gregory B Lesinski
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Jen Jen Yeh
- Departments of Surgery and Pharmacology, Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina System, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | | | - Brian A Belt
- Department of Surgery, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - David C Linehan
- Department of Surgery, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York, USA
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20
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Jiao CY, Zhang H, Ji GW, Xu Q, Lu M, Zhang B, Yang Y, Wang XH, Li XC. CT-based clinico-radiological nomograms for prognosis prediction in patients with intrahepatic mass-forming cholangiocarcinoma: a multi-institutional study. Eur Radiol 2022; 32:8326-8338. [PMID: 35708837 DOI: 10.1007/s00330-022-08914-0] [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: 01/07/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To establish prognostic nomograms based on CT imaging features for predicting the prognosis in patients with intrahepatic mass-forming cholangiocarcinoma (IMCC) before and after surgery. METHODS Two models were established for overall survival (OS) prediction in a training set (179 IMCC patients underwent surgery at institution 1 from 2009 to 2019): imaging-based nomogram included imaging features and clinical characteristics acquired before surgery; postoperative nomogram included imaging-based score, equal to the linear predictor of the imaging-based nomogram, and pathological parameters. Both prognostic nomograms were validated in an independent external dataset (103 IMCC patients received surgical treatment at two independent institutions from 2009 to 2019). Predictive performance and discrimination were evaluated and compared with the common prognostic models. RESULTS The imaging-based nomogram was developed according to preoperative serum carbohydrate antigen 19-9 and four imaging features including multiple nodules, arterial enhancement pattern, CT-reported lymph node (LN) metastasis, and capsular retraction; the postoperative nomogram was built based on the imaging-based score and three pathological parameters including tumor differentiation grade, capsular invasion, and LN status. Both nomograms presented improved prognostic performance and discrimination (concordance index, 0.770-0.812; integrated Brier score, 0.120-0.138) compared with the common prognostic models in the training and external validation datasets. Besides, the nomograms stratified IMCC patients into two risk strata for OS. CONCLUSIONS Nomograms based on CT imaging features can provide accurate individual survival prediction for IMCC patients before and after surgery, which may help to improve personalized treatment. KEY POINTS • Imaging features including multiple nodules, arterial enhancement pattern, CT-reported LN metastasis, and capsular retraction were poor independent prognostic factors for IMCC patients. • The imaging-based nomograms presented improved prognostic performance and discrimination compared with the common prognostic models. • The nomograms can provide accurate individual survival prediction for IMCC patients before and after surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Yu Jiao
- Hepatobiliary Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu Province, People's Republic of China.,Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Hui Zhang
- Hepatobiliary Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu Province, People's Republic of China.,Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Gu Wei Ji
- Hepatobiliary Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu Province, People's Republic of China. .,Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, People's Republic of China.
| | - Qing Xu
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, People's Republic of China.
| | - Ming Lu
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Biao Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Yancheng First Hospital, Yancheng, Jiangsu Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Yue Yang
- Department of General Surgery, Changzhou First Hospital, Changzhou, Jiangsu Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Xue Hao Wang
- Hepatobiliary Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu Province, People's Republic of China.,Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiang Cheng Li
- Hepatobiliary Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu Province, People's Republic of China. .,Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, People's Republic of China.
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21
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Cadamuro M, Strazzabosco M. Inflammatory pathways and cholangiocarcinoma risk mechanisms and prevention. Adv Cancer Res 2022; 156:39-73. [PMID: 35961707 PMCID: PMC10916841 DOI: 10.1016/bs.acr.2022.02.001] [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: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), a neoplasm burdened by a poor prognosis and currently lacking adequate therapeutic treatments, can originate at different levels of the biliary tree, in the intrahepatic, hilar, or extrahepatic area. The main risk factors for the development of CCA are the presence of chronic cholangiopathies of various etiology. To date, the most studied prodromal diseases of CCA are primary sclerosing cholangitis, Caroli's disease and fluke infestations, but other conditions, such as metabolic syndrome, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and obesity, are emerging as associated with an increased risk of CCA development. In this review, we focused on the analysis of the pro-inflammatory mechanisms that induce the development of CCA and on the role of cells of the immune response in cholangiocarcinogenesis. In very recent times, these cellular mechanisms have been the subject of emerging studies aimed at verifying how the modulation of the inflammatory and immunological responses can have a therapeutic significance and how these can be used as therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mario Strazzabosco
- Liver Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States.
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22
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Ali R, Huwaizi S, Alhallaj A, Al Subait A, Barhoumi T, Al Zahrani H, Al Anazi A, Latif Khan A, Boudjelal M. New Born Calf Serum Can Induce Spheroid Formation in Breast Cancer KAIMRC1 Cell Line. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 8:769030. [PMID: 35004846 PMCID: PMC8740237 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.769030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Three-dimensional (3D) cell culture systems have become very popular in the field of drug screening and discovery. There is an immense demand for highly efficient and easy methods to produce 3D spheroids in any cell format. We have developed a novel and easy method to produce spheroids from the newly isolated KAIMRC1 cell line in vitro. It can be used as a 3D model to study proliferation, differentiation, cell death, and drug response of cancer cells. Our procedure requires growth media supplemented with 10% new born calf serum (NBCS) and regular cell culture plates to generate KAIMRC1 spheroids without the need for any specialized 3D cell culture system. This procedure generates multiple spheroids within a 12–24-h culture. KAIMRC1 spheroids are compact, homogeneous in size and morphology with a mean size of 55.8 µm (±3.5). High content imaging (HCI) of KAIMRC1 spheroids treated with a panel of 240 compounds resulted in the identification of several highly specific compounds towards spheroids. Immunophenotyping of KAIMRC1 spheroids revealed phosphorylation of FAK, cJUN, and E-cadherin, which suggests the involvement of JNK/JUN pathway in the KAIMRC1 spheroids formation. Gene expression analysis showed upregulation of cell junction genes, GJB3, DSC1, CLDN5, CLDN8, and PLAU. Furthermore, co-culture of KAIMRC1 cells with primary cancer-associated-fibroblasts (CAFs) showcased the potential of these cells in drug discovery application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rizwan Ali
- Medical Research Core Facility and Platforms, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center (KAIMRC), King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences (KSAU-HS), MNGHA, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sarah Huwaizi
- Medical Research Core Facility and Platforms, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center (KAIMRC), King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences (KSAU-HS), MNGHA, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Alshaimaa Alhallaj
- Medical Research Core Facility and Platforms, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center (KAIMRC), King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences (KSAU-HS), MNGHA, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Arwa Al Subait
- Medical Research Core Facility and Platforms, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center (KAIMRC), King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences (KSAU-HS), MNGHA, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Tlili Barhoumi
- Medical Research Core Facility and Platforms, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center (KAIMRC), King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences (KSAU-HS), MNGHA, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hajar Al Zahrani
- Medical Research Core Facility and Platforms, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center (KAIMRC), King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences (KSAU-HS), MNGHA, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah Al Anazi
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, King Abdulaziz Medical City (KAMC), MNGHA, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdul Latif Khan
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, King Abdulaziz Medical City (KAMC), MNGHA, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamed Boudjelal
- Medical Research Core Facility and Platforms, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center (KAIMRC), King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences (KSAU-HS), MNGHA, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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23
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Matricellular proteins in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. Adv Cancer Res 2022; 156:249-281. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.acr.2022.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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24
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Ravichandra A, Bhattacharjee S, Affò S. Cancer-associated fibroblasts in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma progression and therapeutic resistance. Adv Cancer Res 2022; 156:201-226. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.acr.2022.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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25
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Aoki S, Inoue K, Klein S, Halvorsen S, Chen J, Matsui A, Nikmaneshi MR, Kitahara S, Hato T, Chen X, Kawakubo K, Nia HT, Chen I, Schanne DH, Mamessier E, Shigeta K, Kikuchi H, Ramjiawan RR, Schmidt TCE, Iwasaki M, Yau T, Hong TS, Quaas A, Plum PS, Dima S, Popescu I, Bardeesy N, Munn LL, Borad MJ, Sassi S, Jain RK, Zhu AX, Duda DG. Placental growth factor promotes tumour desmoplasia and treatment resistance in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. Gut 2022; 71:185-193. [PMID: 33431577 PMCID: PMC8666816 DOI: 10.1136/gutjnl-2020-322493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Revised: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 12/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC)-a rare liver malignancy with limited therapeutic options-is characterised by aggressive progression, desmoplasia and vascular abnormalities. The aim of this study was to determine the role of placental growth factor (PlGF) in ICC progression. DESIGN We evaluated the expression of PlGF in specimens from ICC patients and assessed the therapeutic effect of genetic or pharmacologic inhibition of PlGF in orthotopically grafted ICC mouse models. We evaluated the impact of PlGF stimulation or blockade in ICC cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) using in vitro 3-D coculture systems. RESULTS PlGF levels were elevated in human ICC stromal cells and circulating blood plasma and were associated with disease progression. Single-cell RNA sequencing showed that the major impact of PlGF blockade in mice was enrichment of quiescent CAFs, characterised by high gene transcription levels related to the Akt pathway, glycolysis and hypoxia signalling. PlGF blockade suppressed Akt phosphorylation and myofibroblast activation in ICC-derived CAFs. PlGF blockade also reduced desmoplasia and tissue stiffness, which resulted in reopening of collapsed tumour vessels and improved blood perfusion, while reducing ICC cell invasion. Moreover, PlGF blockade enhanced the efficacy of standard chemotherapy in mice-bearing ICC. Conclusion PlGF blockade leads to a reduction in intratumorous hypoxia and metastatic dissemination, enhanced chemotherapy sensitivity and increased survival in mice-bearing aggressive ICC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuichi Aoki
- Radiation Oncology/Steele Laboratories for Tumor Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA,Surgery, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Koetsu Inoue
- Radiation Oncology/Steele Laboratories for Tumor Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA,Surgery, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Sebastian Klein
- Radiation Oncology/Steele Laboratories for Tumor Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA,Pathology, University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany
| | - Stefan Halvorsen
- Center for Computational and Integrative Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jiang Chen
- Radiation Oncology/Steele Laboratories for Tumor Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA,General Surgery, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Aya Matsui
- Radiation Oncology/Steele Laboratories for Tumor Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Mohammad R Nikmaneshi
- Radiation Oncology/Steele Laboratories for Tumor Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Shuji Kitahara
- Radiation Oncology/Steele Laboratories for Tumor Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA,Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Tokyo Women's Medical University, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tai Hato
- Radiation Oncology/Steele Laboratories for Tumor Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA,Thoracic Surgery, Saitama Medical University, Iruma-gun, Saitama, Japan
| | - Xianfeng Chen
- Oncology, Mayo Clinic Arizona, Scottsdale, Arizona, USA
| | - Kazumichi Kawakubo
- Radiation Oncology/Steele Laboratories for Tumor Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Hadi T Nia
- Radiation Oncology/Steele Laboratories for Tumor Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA,Bioengineering, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ivy Chen
- Radiation Oncology/Steele Laboratories for Tumor Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA,Research, STIMIT Corporation, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Daniel H Schanne
- Radiation Oncology/Steele Laboratories for Tumor Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Emilie Mamessier
- Radiation Oncology/Steele Laboratories for Tumor Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA,Molecular Oncology, Cancer Research Center, Marseille, France
| | - Kohei Shigeta
- Radiation Oncology/Steele Laboratories for Tumor Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA,Surgery, Keio University Hospital, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroto Kikuchi
- Radiation Oncology/Steele Laboratories for Tumor Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA,Surgery, Keio University Hospital, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Rakesh R Ramjiawan
- Radiation Oncology/Steele Laboratories for Tumor Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Tyge CE Schmidt
- Radiation Oncology/Steele Laboratories for Tumor Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Masaaki Iwasaki
- Radiation Oncology/Steele Laboratories for Tumor Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Thomas Yau
- Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Theodore S Hong
- Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Alexander Quaas
- Pathology, University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany
| | - Patrick S Plum
- Department of General, Visceral and Cancer Surgery, University of Cologne, Koln, Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany
| | - Simona Dima
- Center of Digestive Diseases and Liver Transplantation, Clinical Institute Fundeni, Bucuresti, Romania
| | - Irinel Popescu
- Center of Digestive Diseases and Liver Transplantation, Clinical Institute Fundeni, Bucuresti, Romania
| | - Nabeel Bardeesy
- Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Lance L Munn
- Radiation Oncology/Steele Laboratories for Tumor Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Slim Sassi
- Center for Computational and Integrative Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA,Orthopedics, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Rakesh K. Jain
- Radiation Oncology/Steele Laboratories for Tumor Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Andrew X Zhu
- Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA,Jiahui International Cancer Center, Jiahui Health, Shanghai, China
| | - Dan G Duda
- Radiation Oncology/Steele Laboratories for Tumor Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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26
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Carpino G, Cardinale V, Di Giamberardino A, Overi D, Donsante S, Colasanti T, Amato G, Mennini G, Franchitto M, Conti F, Rossi M, Riminucci M, Gaudio E, Alvaro D, Mancone C. Thrombospondin 1 and 2 along with PEDF inhibit angiogenesis and promote lymphangiogenesis in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. J Hepatol 2021; 75:1377-1386. [PMID: 34329660 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2021.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS The microenvironment of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA) is hypovascularized, with an extensive lymphatic network. This leads to rapid cancer spread into regional lymph nodes and the liver parenchyma, precluding curative treatments. Herein, we investigated which factors released in the iCCA stroma drive the inhibition of angiogenesis and promote lymphangiogenesis. METHODS Quantitative proteomics was performed on extracellular fluid (ECF) proteins extracted both from cancerous and non-cancerous tissues (NCT) of patients with iCCA. Computational biology was applied on a proteomic dataset to identify proteins involved in the regulation of vessel formation. Endothelial cells incubated with ECF from either iCCA or NCT specimens were used to assess the role of candidate proteins in 3D vascular assembly, cell migration, proliferation and viability. Angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis were further investigated in vivo by a heterotopic transplantation of bone marrow stromal cells, along with endothelial cells in SCID/beige mice. RESULTS Functional analysis of upregulated proteins in iCCA unveils a soluble angio-inhibitory milieu made up of thrombospondin (THBS)1, THBS2 and pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF). iCCA ECF was able to inhibit in vitro vessel morphogenesis and viability. Antibodies blocking THBS1, THBS2 and PEDF restored tube formation and endothelial cell viability to levels observed in NCT ECF. Moreover, in transplanted mice, the inhibition of blood vessel formation, the de novo generation of the lymphatic network and the dissemination of iCCA cells in lymph nodes were shown to depend on THBS1, THBS2 and PEDF expression. CONCLUSIONS THBS1, THBS2 and PEDF reduce blood vessel formation and promote tumor-associated lymphangiogenesis in iCCA. Our results identify new potential targets for interventions to counteract the dissemination process in iCCA. LAY SUMMARY Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma is a highly aggressive cancer arising from epithelial cells lining the biliary tree, characterized by dissemination into the liver parenchyma via lymphatic vessels. Herein, we show that the proteins THBS1, THBS2 and PEDF, once released in the tumor microenvironment, inhibit vascular growth, while promoting cancer-associated lymphangiogenesis. Therefore, targeting THBS1, THBS2 and PEDF may be a promising strategy to reduce cancer-associated lymphangiogenesis and counteract the invasiveness of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guido Carpino
- Division of Health Sciences, Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome "Foro Italico", Rome, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Cardinale
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Polo Pontino, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Diletta Overi
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Samantha Donsante
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Tania Colasanti
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Clinical Internal, Anesthetic and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Gaia Amato
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Gianluca Mennini
- General Surgery and Organ Transplantation Unit, Department of General Surgery and Surgical Specialties P. Stefanini, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Matteo Franchitto
- Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Translation Medicine, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Conti
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Clinical Internal, Anesthetic and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Massimo Rossi
- General Surgery and Organ Transplantation Unit, Department of General Surgery and Surgical Specialties P. Stefanini, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Mara Riminucci
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Eugenio Gaudio
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Domenico Alvaro
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Carmine Mancone
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
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Brindley PJ, Bachini M, Ilyas SI, Khan SA, Loukas A, Sirica AE, Teh BT, Wongkham S, Gores GJ. Cholangiocarcinoma. Nat Rev Dis Primers 2021; 7:65. [PMID: 34504109 PMCID: PMC9246479 DOI: 10.1038/s41572-021-00300-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 295] [Impact Index Per Article: 98.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a highly lethal adenocarcinoma of the hepatobiliary system, which can be classified as intrahepatic, perihilar and distal. Each anatomic subtype has distinct genetic aberrations, clinical presentations and therapeutic approaches. In endemic regions, liver fluke infection is associated with CCA, owing to the oncogenic effect of the associated chronic biliary tract inflammation. In other regions, CCA can be associated with chronic biliary tract inflammation owing to choledocholithiasis, cholelithiasis, or primary sclerosing cholangitis, but most CCAs have no identifiable cause. Administration of the anthelmintic drug praziquantel decreases the risk of CCA from liver flukes, but reinfection is common and future vaccination strategies may be more effective. Some patients with CCA are eligible for potentially curative surgical options, such as resection or liver transplantation. Genetic studies have provided new insights into the pathogenesis of CCA, and two aberrations that drive the pathogenesis of non-fluke-associated intrahepatic CCA, fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 fusions and isocitrate dehydrogenase gain-of-function mutations, can be therapeutically targeted. CCA is a highly desmoplastic cancer and targeting the tumour immune microenvironment might be a promising therapeutic approach. CCA remains a highly lethal disease and further scientific and clinical insights are needed to improve patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul J. Brindley
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Tropical Medicine, and Research Center for Neglected Diseases of Poverty, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | - Sumera I. Ilyas
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Shahid A. Khan
- Liver Unit, Division of Digestive Diseases, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Alex Loukas
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
| | - Alphonse E. Sirica
- Department of Pathology, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Bin Tean Teh
- Laboratory of Cancer Epigenome, Division of Medical Sciences, National Cancer Centre, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Sopit Wongkham
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Gregory J. Gores
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA,
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Rompianesi G, Di Martino M, Gordon-Weeks A, Montalti R, Troisi R. Liquid biopsy in cholangiocarcinoma: Current status and future perspectives. World J Gastrointest Oncol 2021; 13:332-350. [PMID: 34040697 PMCID: PMC8131901 DOI: 10.4251/wjgo.v13.i5.332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) are a heterogeneous group of tumors in terms of aetiology, natural history, morphological subtypes, molecular alterations and management, but all sharing complex diagnosis, management, and poor prognosis. Several mutated genes and epigenetic changes have been detected in CCA, with the potential to identify diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Accessing tumoral components and genetic material is therefore crucial for the diagnosis, management and selection of targeted therapies; but sampling tumor tissue, when possible, is often risky and difficult to be repeated at different time points. Liquid biopsy (LB) represents a way to overcome these issues and comprises a diverse group of methodologies centering around detection of tumor biomarkers from fluid samples. Compared to the traditional tissue sampling methods LB is less invasive and can be serially repeated, allowing a real-time monitoring of the tumor genetic profile or the response to therapy. In this review, we analysis the current evidence on the possible roles of LB (circulating DNA, circulating RNA, exosomes, cytokines) in the diagnosis and management of patients affected by CCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianluca Rompianesi
- Hepato-Bilio-Pancreatic, Minimally Invasive and Robotic Surgery Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Federico II University Hospital, Napoli 80131, Italy
| | - Marcello Di Martino
- Hepato-Bilio-Pancreatic Surgery Unit, Department of General and Digestive Surgery, Hospital Universitario La Princesa, Madrid 28006, Spain
| | - Alex Gordon-Weeks
- Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, United Kingdom
| | - Roberto Montalti
- Hepato-Bilio-Pancreatic, Minimally Invasive and Robotic Surgery Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Federico II University Hospital, Napoli 80131, Italy
| | - Roberto Troisi
- Hepato-Bilio-Pancreatic, Minimally Invasive and Robotic Surgery Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Federico II University Hospital, Napoli 80131, Italy
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Zhou M, Wang C, Lu S, Xu Y, Li Z, Jiang H, Ma Y. Tumor-associated macrophages in cholangiocarcinoma: complex interplay and potential therapeutic target. EBioMedicine 2021; 67:103375. [PMID: 33993051 PMCID: PMC8134032 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2021.103375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Revised: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is an aggressive and multifactorial malignancy of the biliary tract. The carcinogenesis of CCA is associated with genomic and epigenetic abnormalities, as well as environmental effects. However, early clinical diagnosis and reliable treatment strategies of CCA remain unsatisfactory. Multiple compartments of the tumor microenvironment significantly affect the progression of CCA. Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are a type of plastic immune cells that are recruited and activated in the CCA microenvironment, especially at the tumor invasive front and perivascular sites. TAMs create a favorable environment that benefits CCA growth by closely interacting with CCA cells and other stromal cells via releasing multiple protumor factors. In addition, TAMs exert immunosuppressive and antichemotherapeutic effects, thus intensifying the malignancy. Targeting TAMs may provide an improved understanding of, and novel therapeutic approaches for, CCA. This review focuses on revealing the interplay between TAMs and CCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Menghua Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Hepatosplenic Surgery, Ministry of Education, Department of Hepatic Minimal Invasive Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150001, China
| | - Chaoqun Wang
- Key Laboratory of Hepatosplenic Surgery, Ministry of Education, Department of Hepatic Minimal Invasive Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150001, China
| | - Shounan Lu
- Key Laboratory of Hepatosplenic Surgery, Ministry of Education, Department of Hepatic Minimal Invasive Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150001, China
| | - Yanan Xu
- Key Laboratory of Hepatosplenic Surgery, Ministry of Education, Department of Hepatic Minimal Invasive Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150001, China
| | - Zihao Li
- Key Laboratory of Hepatosplenic Surgery, Ministry of Education, Department of Hepatic Minimal Invasive Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150001, China
| | - Hongchi Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Hepatosplenic Surgery, Ministry of Education, Department of Hepatic Minimal Invasive Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150001, China.
| | - Yong Ma
- Key Laboratory of Hepatosplenic Surgery, Ministry of Education, Department of Hepatic Minimal Invasive Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150001, China.
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The Emerging Role of Immunotherapy in Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:vaccines9050422. [PMID: 33922362 PMCID: PMC8146949 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9050422] [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: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 04/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Biliary tract cancer, and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCC) in particular, represents a rather uncommon, highly aggressive malignancy with unfavorable prognosis. Therapeutic options remain scarce, with platinum-based chemotherapy is being considered as the gold standard for the management of advanced disease. Comprehensive molecular profiling of tumor tissue biopsies, utilizing multi-omics approaches, enabled the identification of iCC’s intratumor heterogeneity and paved the way for the introduction of novel targeted therapies under the scope of precision medicine. Yet, the unmet need for optimal care of patients with chemo-refractory disease or without targetable mutations still exists. Immunotherapy has provided a paradigm shift in cancer care over the past decade. Currently, immunotherapeutic strategies for the management of iCC are under intense research. Intrinsic factors of the tumor, including programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression and mismatch repair (MMR) status, are simply the tip of the proverbial iceberg with regard to resistance to immunotherapy. Acknowledging the significance of the tumor microenvironment (TME) in both cancer growth and drug response, we broadly discuss about its diverse immune components. We further review the emerging role of immunotherapy in this rare disease, summarizing the results of completed and ongoing phase I–III clinical trials, expounding current challenges and future directions.
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31
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Kulma I, Panrit L, Plengsuriyakarn T, Chaijaroenkul W, Warathumpitak S, Na-Bangchang K. A randomized placebo-controlled phase I clinical trial to evaluate the immunomodulatory activities of Atractylodes lancea (Thunb) DC. in healthy Thai subjects. BMC Complement Med Ther 2021; 21:61. [PMID: 33579265 PMCID: PMC7879636 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-020-03199-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Atractylodes lancea (Thunb) DC. (AL) and bioactive compounds β-eudesmol and atractylodin have been demonstrated in the in vitro and in vivo studies for their potential clinical use in cholangiocarcinoma. The study was a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled phase I clinical trial to evaluate the immunomodulatory effect of AL in human subjects. Methods The modulatory effects of AL and β-eudesmol and atractylodin on TNFα and IL6 expression in PBMCs were measured using real-time PCR. Blood samples were collected from forty-eight healthy subjects following oral administration of a single or multiple dosing of capsule formulation of the standardized AL extract or placebo. Serum cytokine profiles, lymphocyte subpopulations (B lymphocytes, CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes, CD4+ T-helper lymphocytes, and NK cells), and cytotoxic activity of PBMCs against the cholangiocarcinoma cell line CL-6 were evaluated using cytometric bead array (CBA) with flow cytometry analysis. Results AL extract at almost all concentrations significantly inhibited both TNFα and IL6 expression in Con A-mediated inflammation in PBMCs. β-Eudesmol at all concentrations significantly inhibited only IL6 expression. Atractylodin at the lowest concentration significantly inhibited the expression of both cytokines, while the highest concentration significantly inhibited only IL6 expression. The administration of AL at a single oral dose of 1000 mg appeared to decrease IFNγ and IL10 and increase B cell, while significantly increase NK and CD4+ and CD8+ cells. A trend of increasing (compared with placebo) in the cytotoxic activity of PBMCs at 24 h of dosing was observed. AL at multiple dosing of 1000 mg for 21 days tended to decrease the production of all cytokines, while significantly inhibited IL17A production at 24 h of dosing. In addition, a significant increase in CD4+ and CD8+ cells was observed. A trend of increase in the cytotoxic activity of PBMCs was observed at 24 h but terminated at 48 h of dosing. Conclusions The results confirm the immunomodulatory activity of AL in humans. This activity, in complementary with the direct action of AL on inducing cholangiocarcinoma cell apoptosis, suggests its potential role for CCA control. Trial registration Retrospectively registered on 17 October 2020 [Thai Clinical Trials Registry (TCTR: www.clinicaltrials.in.th) Number TCTR20201020001#]. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12906-020-03199-6.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inthuon Kulma
- Graduate Program in Bioclinical Sciences, Chulabhorn International College of Medicine, Thammasat University (Rangsit Campus), Pathumthani, 12121, Thailand.,Center of Excellence in Pharmacology and Molecular Biology of Malaria and Cholangiocarcinoma, Thammasat University (Rangsit Campus), Pathumthani, 12121, Thailand
| | - Luxsana Panrit
- Drug Discovery and Development Center, Office of Advanced Science and Technology, Thammasat University (Rangsit Campus), Pathumthani, 12121, Thailand
| | - Tullayakorn Plengsuriyakarn
- Graduate Program in Bioclinical Sciences, Chulabhorn International College of Medicine, Thammasat University (Rangsit Campus), Pathumthani, 12121, Thailand.,Center of Excellence in Pharmacology and Molecular Biology of Malaria and Cholangiocarcinoma, Thammasat University (Rangsit Campus), Pathumthani, 12121, Thailand
| | - Wanna Chaijaroenkul
- Graduate Program in Bioclinical Sciences, Chulabhorn International College of Medicine, Thammasat University (Rangsit Campus), Pathumthani, 12121, Thailand.,Center of Excellence in Pharmacology and Molecular Biology of Malaria and Cholangiocarcinoma, Thammasat University (Rangsit Campus), Pathumthani, 12121, Thailand
| | - Siriprapa Warathumpitak
- Graduate Program in Bioclinical Sciences, Chulabhorn International College of Medicine, Thammasat University (Rangsit Campus), Pathumthani, 12121, Thailand.,Center of Excellence in Pharmacology and Molecular Biology of Malaria and Cholangiocarcinoma, Thammasat University (Rangsit Campus), Pathumthani, 12121, Thailand
| | - Kesara Na-Bangchang
- Graduate Program in Bioclinical Sciences, Chulabhorn International College of Medicine, Thammasat University (Rangsit Campus), Pathumthani, 12121, Thailand. .,Center of Excellence in Pharmacology and Molecular Biology of Malaria and Cholangiocarcinoma, Thammasat University (Rangsit Campus), Pathumthani, 12121, Thailand. .,Drug Discovery and Development Center, Office of Advanced Science and Technology, Thammasat University (Rangsit Campus), Pathumthani, 12121, Thailand.
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Sirica AE, Strazzabosco M, Cadamuro M. Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma: Morpho-molecular pathology, tumor reactive microenvironment, and malignant progression. Adv Cancer Res 2020; 149:321-387. [PMID: 33579427 PMCID: PMC8800451 DOI: 10.1016/bs.acr.2020.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA) is a relatively rare, but highly lethal and biologically complex primary biliary epithelial cancer arising within liver. After hepatocellular carcinoma, iCCA is the second most common primary liver cancer, accounting for approximately 10-20% of all primary hepatic malignancies. Over the last 10-20 years, iCCA has become the focus of increasing concern largely due to its rising incidence and high mortality rates in various parts of the world, including the United States. The challenges posed by iCCA are daunting and despite recent progress in the standard of care and management options for iCCA, the prognosis for this cancer continues to be dismal. In an effort to provide a framework for advancing our understanding of iCCA malignant aggressiveness and therapy resistance, this review will highlight key etiological, biological, molecular, and microenvironmental factors hindering more effective management of this hepatobiliary cancer. Particular focus will be on critically reviewing the cell origins and morpho-molecular heterogeneity of iCCAs, providing mechanistic insights into high risk fibroinflammatory cholangiopathies associated with iCCA development, and notably discussing the deleterious role played by the tumor reactive desmoplastic stroma in regulating iCCA malignant progression, lymphangiogenesis, and tumor immunobiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alphonse E Sirica
- Department of Pathology, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States.
| | - Mario Strazzabosco
- Liver Center and Section of Digestive Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Digestive Diseases, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
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Chatchawal P, Wongwattanakul M, Tippayawat P, Jearanaikoon N, Jumniansong A, Boonmars T, Jearanaikoon P, Wood BR. Monitoring the Progression of Liver Fluke-Induced Cholangiocarcinoma in a Hamster Model Using Synchrotron FTIR Microspectroscopy and Focal Plane Array Infrared Imaging. Anal Chem 2020; 92:15361-15369. [PMID: 33170647 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.0c02656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a bile duct cancer that originates in the bile duct epithelium. Northeastern Thailand has the highest incidence of CCA, and there is a direct correlation with liver fluke (Opisthorchis viverrini) infection. The high mortality rate of CCA is a consequence of delayed diagnosis. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy is a powerful technique that detects the absorbance of molecular vibrations and is perfectly suited for the interrogation of biological samples. In this study, we applied synchrotron radiation-FTIR (SR-FTIR) microspectroscopy and focal plane array (FPA-FTIR) microspectroscopy to characterize periductal fibrosis and bile duct cells progressing to CCA induced by inoculating O. viverrini metacercariae into hamsters. SR-FTIR and FPA-FTIR measurements were performed in liver sections harvested from 1-, 2-, 3-, and 6-month post-infected hamsters compared to uninfected liver tissues. Principal component analysis (PCA) of the tissue samples showed a clear discrimination among uninfected and early-stage (1 and 2 months) and cancerous-stage (3 and 6 months) tissues. The discrimination is based on intensity changes in the phosphodiester band (1081 cm-1), amino acid residue (∼1396 cm-1), and C═O stretching carboxylic esters (1745 cm-1). Infected tissues also show definitive bands at ∼1280, 1234, and 1201 cm-1 characteristic of the collagen triplet and indicative of fibrosis. Hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) was performed on the FPA data and showed a classification into specific cell types. Hepatocyte, fibrotic lesion, and bile duct (cancer) were classified and HCA mapping showed similar cellular distribution pattern compared to Sirius red staining. This study was also extended to less invasive sample analysis using attenuated total reflectance-FTIR (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy. Sera from O. viverrini-infected and uninfected hamsters were analyzed using multivariate analysis, including principal component analysis (PCA), and partial least squares-discriminant analysis (PLS-DA). PCA was able to classify spectra of normal, early-stage CCA, and CCA, while the PLS-DA gave 100% accuracy for the validation. The model was established from 17 samples (11 normal, 6 cancer) in the calibration set and 9 samples in the validation set (4 normal, 2 cancer, 3 precancerous). These results indicate that FTIR-based technology is a potential tool to detect the progression of CCA, especially in the early stages of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patutong Chatchawal
- Biomedical Sciences, Graduate School, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand.,Center for Research and Development of Medical Diagnosis Laboratories, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand.,Cholangiocarcinoma Research Institute, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen40002, Thailand
| | - Molin Wongwattanakul
- Center for Research and Development of Medical Diagnosis Laboratories, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand.,Cholangiocarcinoma Research Institute, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen40002, Thailand
| | - Patcharaporn Tippayawat
- Center for Research and Development of Medical Diagnosis Laboratories, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand
| | | | - Amonrat Jumniansong
- Center for Research and Development of Medical Diagnosis Laboratories, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand
| | - Thidarat Boonmars
- Cholangiocarcinoma Research Institute, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen40002, Thailand.,Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand
| | - Patcharee Jearanaikoon
- Center for Research and Development of Medical Diagnosis Laboratories, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand.,Cholangiocarcinoma Research Institute, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen40002, Thailand
| | - Bayden R Wood
- Center for Biospectroscopy, School of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Monash University, Victoria 3800, Australia
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Polidoro MA, Mikulak J, Cazzetta V, Lleo A, Mavilio D, Torzilli G, Donadon M. Tumor microenvironment in primary liver tumors: A challenging role of natural killer cells. World J Gastroenterol 2020; 26:4900-4918. [PMID: 32952338 PMCID: PMC7476172 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v26.i33.4900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Revised: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In the last years, several studies have been focused on elucidate the role of tumor microenvironment (TME) in cancer development and progression. Within TME, cells from adaptive and innate immune system are one of the main abundant components. The dynamic interactions between immune and cancer cells lead to the activation of complex molecular mechanisms that sustain tumor growth. This important cross-talk has been elucidate for several kind of tumors and occurs also in patients with liver cancer, such as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA). Liver is well-known to be an important immunological organ with unique microenvironment. Here, in normal conditions, the rich immune-infiltrating cells cooperate with non-parenchymal cells, such as liver sinusoidal endothelial cells and Kupffer cells, favoring self-tolerance against gut antigens. The presence of underling liver immunosuppressive microenvironment highlights the importance to dissect the interaction between HCC and iCCA cells with immune infiltrating cells, in order to understand how this cross-talk promotes tumor growth. Deeper attention is, in fact, focused on immune-based therapy for these tumors, as promising approach to counteract the intrinsic anti-tumor activity of this microenvironment. In this review, we will examine the key pathways underlying TME cell-cell communications, with deeper focus on the role of natural killer cells in primary liver tumors, such as HCC and iCCA, as new opportunities for immune-based therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michela Anna Polidoro
- Hepatobiliary Immunopathology Laboratory, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center – IRCCS, Rozzano 20089, Milan, Italy
| | - Joanna Mikulak
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano 20089, Milan, Italy
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies and Translational Medicine (BioMeTra), University of Milan, Rozzano 20089, Milan, Italy
| | - Valentina Cazzetta
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano 20089, Milan, Italy
| | - Ana Lleo
- Hepatobiliary Immunopathology Laboratory, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center – IRCCS, Rozzano 20089, Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Science, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele 20090, Milan, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center – IRCCS, Rozzano 20089, Milan, Italy
| | - Domenico Mavilio
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano 20089, Milan, Italy
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies and Translational Medicine (BioMeTra), University of Milan, Rozzano 20089, Milan, Italy
| | - Guido Torzilli
- Department of Biomedical Science, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele 20090, Milan, Italy
- Department of Hepatobiliary and General Surgery, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano 20089, Milan, Italy
| | - Matteo Donadon
- Department of Biomedical Science, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele 20090, Milan, Italy
- Department of Hepatobiliary and General Surgery, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano 20089, Milan, Italy
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Banales JM, Marin JJG, Lamarca A, Rodrigues PM, Khan SA, Roberts LR, Cardinale V, Carpino G, Andersen JB, Braconi C, Calvisi DF, Perugorria MJ, Fabris L, Boulter L, Macias RIR, Gaudio E, Alvaro D, Gradilone SA, Strazzabosco M, Marzioni M, Coulouarn C, Fouassier L, Raggi C, Invernizzi P, Mertens JC, Moncsek A, Ilyas SI, Heimbach J, Koerkamp BG, Bruix J, Forner A, Bridgewater J, Valle JW, Gores GJ. Cholangiocarcinoma 2020: the next horizon in mechanisms and management. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2020; 17:557-588. [PMID: 32606456 PMCID: PMC7447603 DOI: 10.1038/s41575-020-0310-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1154] [Impact Index Per Article: 288.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) includes a cluster of highly heterogeneous biliary malignant tumours that can arise at any point of the biliary tree. Their incidence is increasing globally, currently accounting for ~15% of all primary liver cancers and ~3% of gastrointestinal malignancies. The silent presentation of these tumours combined with their highly aggressive nature and refractoriness to chemotherapy contribute to their alarming mortality, representing ~2% of all cancer-related deaths worldwide yearly. The current diagnosis of CCA by non-invasive approaches is not accurate enough, and histological confirmation is necessary. Furthermore, the high heterogeneity of CCAs at the genomic, epigenetic and molecular levels severely compromises the efficacy of the available therapies. In the past decade, increasing efforts have been made to understand the complexity of these tumours and to develop new diagnostic tools and therapies that might help to improve patient outcomes. In this expert Consensus Statement, which is endorsed by the European Network for the Study of Cholangiocarcinoma, we aim to summarize and critically discuss the latest advances in CCA, mostly focusing on classification, cells of origin, genetic and epigenetic abnormalities, molecular alterations, biomarker discovery and treatments. Furthermore, the horizon of CCA for the next decade from 2020 onwards is highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesus M Banales
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Health Research Institute - Donostia University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), San Sebastian, Spain.
- National Institute for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd, "Instituto de Salud Carlos III"), San Sebastian, Spain.
- Ikerbasque, Basque Foundation for Science, Bilbao, Spain.
| | - Jose J G Marin
- National Institute for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd, "Instituto de Salud Carlos III"), San Sebastian, Spain
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEFARM), IBSAL, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Angela Lamarca
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
- Division of Cancer Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Pedro M Rodrigues
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Health Research Institute - Donostia University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), San Sebastian, Spain
| | - Shahid A Khan
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
| | - Lewis R Roberts
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Vincenzo Cardinale
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Guido Carpino
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, Division of Health Sciences, University of Rome "Foro Italico", Rome, Italy
| | - Jesper B Andersen
- Biotech Research and Innovation Centre (BRIC), Department of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Chiara Braconi
- Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Diego F Calvisi
- Institute of Pathology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Maria J Perugorria
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Health Research Institute - Donostia University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), San Sebastian, Spain
- National Institute for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd, "Instituto de Salud Carlos III"), San Sebastian, Spain
| | - Luca Fabris
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua School of Medicine, Padua, Italy
- Digestive Disease Section, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Luke Boulter
- MRC-Human Genetics Unit, Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Rocio I R Macias
- National Institute for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd, "Instituto de Salud Carlos III"), San Sebastian, Spain
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEFARM), IBSAL, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Eugenio Gaudio
- Division of Human Anatomy, Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedics Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Domenico Alvaro
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialties, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Mario Strazzabosco
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua School of Medicine, Padua, Italy
- Digestive Disease Section, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Marco Marzioni
- Clinic of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Universita Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | | | - Laura Fouassier
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Centre de Recherche Saint-Antoine (CRSA), Paris, France
| | - Chiara Raggi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Pietro Invernizzi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Center of Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine and Surgery, San Gerardo Hospital, University of Milano, Bicocca, Italy
| | - Joachim C Mertens
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Zurich and University of Zurich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Anja Moncsek
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Zurich and University of Zurich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Sumera I. Ilyas
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, MN, USA
| | | | | | - Jordi Bruix
- National Institute for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd, "Instituto de Salud Carlos III"), San Sebastian, Spain
- Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) group, Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic of Barcelona, Fundació Clínic per a la Recerca Biomédica (FCRB), IDIBAPS, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Alejandro Forner
- National Institute for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd, "Instituto de Salud Carlos III"), San Sebastian, Spain
- Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) group, Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic of Barcelona, Fundació Clínic per a la Recerca Biomédica (FCRB), IDIBAPS, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - John Bridgewater
- Department of Medical Oncology, UCL Cancer Institute, London, UK
| | - Juan W Valle
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
- Division of Cancer Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Gregory J Gores
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, MN, USA
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Chang TT, Ho CH. Plasma proteome atlas for differentiating tumor stage and post-surgical prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma and cholangiocarcinoma. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0238251. [PMID: 32845921 PMCID: PMC7449477 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0238251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2020] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Although mass spectrometry-based plasma proteomics enables sensitive and large-scale discovery and validation of biomarkers for various diseases, its integrative application to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is not well investigated. Therefore, we analyzed albumin- and immunoglobulin G-depleted plasma samples from 148 and 60 patients with HCC and CCA, respectively, using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. The algorithm used to measure the content of each protein was the percentage of exponentially modified protein abundance index. From 5320 proteins assayed in plasma, 53 and 25 biomarker candidates were identified for HCC and CCA, respectively. The abundance of six and two HCC markers particularly protruded in stage II and III, respectively, whereas plasma serine protease inhibitor was the sole marker the level of which steadily decreased with CCA progression. From a prognostic facet, we showed candidate markers and their cutoff levels for evaluating probability of tumor recurrence and patient survival period. Combination Kaplan-Meier models showed that HCC stage III or IV and both the content of alpha-2-HS-glycoprotein and apolipoprotein CIII <0.2% exhibited the poorest post-surgical recurrence-free and overall survivals. Furthermore, the content of afamin ≥0.2% played a significant role on the poor prognosis in patients with CCA. Our findings, taken together, characterized novel plasma biomarker signatures in dissecting tumor stages and post-surgical outcomes of HCC and CCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting-Tsung Chang
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Hsun Ho
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Medicine, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
- * E-mail:
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Caligiuri A, Pastore M, Lori G, Raggi C, Di Maira G, Marra F, Gentilini A. Role of Chemokines in the Biology of Cholangiocarcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12082215. [PMID: 32784743 PMCID: PMC7463556 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12082215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), a heterogeneous tumor with poor prognosis, can arise at any level in the biliary tree. It may derive from epithelial cells in the biliary tracts and peribiliary glands and possibly from progenitor cells or even hepatocytes. Several risk factors are responsible for CCA onset, however an inflammatory milieu nearby the biliary tree represents the most common condition favoring CCA development. Chemokines play a key role in driving the immunological response upon liver injury and may sustain tumor initiation and development. Chemokine receptor-dependent pathways influence the interplay among various cellular components, resulting in remodeling of the hepatic microenvironment towards a pro-inflammatory, pro-fibrogenic, pro-angiogenic and pre-neoplastic setting. Moreover, once tumor develops, chemokine signaling may influence its progression. Here we review the role of chemokines in the regulation of CCA development and progression, and the modulation of angiogenesis, metastasis and immune control. The potential role of chemokines and their receptors as possible biomarkers and/or therapeutic targets for hepatobiliary cancer is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Fabio Marra
- Correspondence: (F.M.); (A.G.); Tel.: +39-055-2758095 or +39-055-2758498 or +39-055-2758499 (F.M.); +39-055-2751801 (A.G.)
| | - Alessandra Gentilini
- Correspondence: (F.M.); (A.G.); Tel.: +39-055-2758095 or +39-055-2758498 or +39-055-2758499 (F.M.); +39-055-2751801 (A.G.)
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Malenica I, Donadon M, Lleo A. Molecular and Immunological Characterization of Biliary Tract Cancers: A Paradigm Shift Towards a Personalized Medicine. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:E2190. [PMID: 32781527 PMCID: PMC7464597 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12082190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 08/02/2020] [Accepted: 08/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Biliary tract cancers (BTCs) are a group of rare cancers that account for up to 3-5% of cancer patients worldwide. BTCs include cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), gallbladder cancer (GBC), and ampulla of Vater cancer (AVC). They are frequently diagnosed at an advanced stage when the disease is often found disseminated. A late diagnosis highly compromises surgery, the only potentially curative option. Current treatment regimens include a combination of chemotherapeutic drugs gemcitabine with cisplatin that have a limited efficiency since more than 50% of patients relapse in the first year. More recently, an inhibitor of fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 (FGFR2) was approved as a second-line treatment, based on the promising results from the NCT02924376 clinical trial. However, novel secondary treatment options are urgently needed. Recent molecular characterization of CCA and GBC highlighted the molecular heterogeneity, etiology, and epidemiology in BTC development and lead to the classification of the extrahepatic CCA into four types: metabolic, proliferating, mesenchymal, and immune type. Differences in the immune infiltration and tumor microenvironment (TME) have been described as well, showing that only a small subset of BTCs could be classified as an immune "hot" and targeted with the immunotherapeutic drugs. This recent evidence has opened a way to new clinical trials for BTCs, and new drug approvals are highly expected by the medical community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ines Malenica
- Hepatobiliary Immunopathology Unit, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center-IRCCS, 20090 Pieve Emanuele, Italy;
| | - Matteo Donadon
- Department of Hepatobiliary and General Surgery, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center-IRCCS, 20089 Rozzano, Italy;
- Department of Biomedical Science, Humanitas University, 20089 Rozzano, Italy
| | - Ana Lleo
- Department of Biomedical Science, Humanitas University, 20089 Rozzano, Italy
- Internal Medicine and Hepatology Unit, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center-IRCCS, 20089 Rozzano, Italy
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Fabris L, Cadamuro M, Cagnin S, Strazzabosco M, Gores GJ. Liver Matrix in Benign and Malignant Biliary Tract Disease. Semin Liver Dis 2020; 40:282-297. [PMID: 32162285 DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1705109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
The extracellular matrix is a highly reactive scaffold formed by a wide array of multifunctional molecules, encompassing collagens and noncollagenous glycoproteins, proteoglycans, glycosaminoglycans, and polysaccharides. Besides outlining the tissue borders, the extracellular matrix profoundly regulates the behavior of resident cells by transducing mechanical signals, and by integrating multiple cues derived from the microenvironment. Evidence is mounting that changes in the biostructure of the extracellular matrix are instrumental for biliary repair. Following biliary damage and eventually, malignant transformation, the extracellular matrix undergoes several quantitative and qualitative modifications, which direct interactions among hepatic progenitor cells, reactive ductular cells, activated myofibroblasts and macrophages, to generate the ductular reaction. Herein, we will give an overview of the main molecular factors contributing to extracellular matrix remodeling in cholangiopathies. Then, we will discuss the structural alterations in terms of biochemical composition and physical stiffness featuring the "desmoplastic matrix" of cholangiocarcinoma along with their pro-oncogenic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Fabris
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua, Padua, Italy.,Liver Center, Department of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut
| | | | - Silvia Cagnin
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Mario Strazzabosco
- Liver Center, Department of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Gregory J Gores
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology and the Mayo Clinic Center for Cell Signaling in Gastroenterology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Michigan
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Byrling J, Sasor A, Nilsson J, Said Hilmersson K, Andersson R, Andersson B. Expression of peritumoral SPARC during distal cholangiocarcinoma progression and correlation with outcome. Scand J Gastroenterol 2020; 55:725-731. [PMID: 32543919 DOI: 10.1080/00365521.2020.1774923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Objectives: Distal cholangiocarcinoma (dCCA) is a malignancy with a dismal prognosis. One of the hallmarks is the presence of a rich desmoplastic stroma believed to contribute to tumor progression and treatment resistance. Secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC) is a matricellular glycoprotein implicated in tumor-stroma interaction with prognostic correlation across several malignancies. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the expression pattern and prognostic significance of SPARC in resected dCCA and paired lymph node metastasis.Materials and methods: SPARC expression was evaluated in 59 resected dCCA samples and 25 paired lymph node metastases as well as 10 benign bile duct samples using immunohistochemistry. Stromal SPARC expression was scored semi quantitatively. Survival was estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method with associated log-rank test.Results: SPARC expression was absent in normal bile ducts. In dCCA, peritumoral stromal SPARC was detectable in 47/59 (80%) of samples with 40/59 (68%) classified as high stromal SPARC expression. There was a significantly lower proportion of SPARC positive stroma in paired lymph node metastasis 17/25 (68%) than the corresponding primary tumors 24/25 (96%) (p = .016). Stromal SPARC expression was associated with the presence of lymph node metastasis; high SPARC expression 31/40 (78%) versus low SPARC expression 9/19 (47%) (p = .013). In the present material there was no significant association between stromal SPARC expression and survival.Conclusions: Stromal SPARC expression occurs frequently in dCCA. Although significantly lower than in primary tumors stromal SPARC is frequently retained in paired lymph node metastasis suggesting a possible role in the metastatic process of dCCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Byrling
- Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Surgery, Lund University and Skåne University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
| | - Agata Sasor
- Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Pathology, Lund University and Skåne University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
| | - Johan Nilsson
- Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Cardiothoracic Surgery, Lund University and Skåne University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
| | - Katarzyna Said Hilmersson
- Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Surgery, Lund University and Skåne University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
| | - Roland Andersson
- Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Surgery, Lund University and Skåne University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
| | - Bodil Andersson
- Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Surgery, Lund University and Skåne University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
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Marini M, Tani A, Manetti M, Sgambati E. Characterization and distribution of sialic acids in human testicular seminoma. Acta Histochem 2020; 122:151532. [PMID: 32143917 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2020.151532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2020] [Revised: 02/21/2020] [Accepted: 02/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Aberrant content of sialic acids (Sias) has been observed in various human cancer types in different organs. Sias have been implicated in cancerous transformation, invasiveness and metastasis, and in the escaping of cancer cells from immune surveillance. Indeed, Sias are commonly regarded as important biomarkers to distinguish cancer cells from their healthy counterparts. However, scarce and not exhaustive investigations have been performed on Sia content in testicular cancers and, in particular, in seminoma, one of the most common malignant testicular tumors. Hence, the aim of this study was to investigate the content and distribution of Sias with different glycosidic linkage, namely α2,3 and α2,6 galactose- or N-acetyl-galactosamine-linked Sias and polymeric Sia (polySia), in the germinal and stromal components of human testes affected by seminoma compared to normal testicular tissue. Structural changes in seminoma tissue were examined using hematoxylin-eosin staining. α2,3 and α2,6 linked Sias were evaluated by lectin histochemistry (Maackia amurensis agglutinin (MAA) and Sambucus nigra agglutinin (SNA)), while confocal immunofluorescence was used for polySia detection. Histopathological findings in seminoma tissue included loss of seminiferous tubules replaced by clusters of uniform polygonal cells with a clear cytoplasm, bundles of fibrotic tissue, numerous microvessels and some atrophic tubules. The content of α2,3 and α2,6 linked Sias was lost in almost all seminoma components respect to normal tissue, with the exception of microvessels in which it was higher. On the contrary, polySia level was increased in all the seminoma components compared to normal testicular tissue. Our findings suggest that an aberrant content of different Sias might have important and differential roles in seminoma development and progression. In particular, polySia might be implicated in seminoma progression by promoting cancer invasiveness and regulating the cross-talk between cancer cells, reactive stroma and vessels. Thus, the possibility that polySia might represent an important biomarker for seminoma deserves further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirca Marini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Anatomy and Histology, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134, Florence, Italy.
| | - Alessia Tani
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Anatomy and Histology, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134, Florence, Italy.
| | - Mirko Manetti
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Anatomy and Histology, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134, Florence, Italy.
| | - Eleonora Sgambati
- Department of Biosciences and Territory, University of Molise, Contrada Fonte Lappone, 86090 Pesche (Isernia), Italy.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To give a state-of-art knowledge regarding cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) in cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) based both on direct evidence and studies on other desmoplastic cancers. High contingency of CAF characterizes CCA, a tumor with a biliary epithelial phenotype that can emerge anywhere in the biliary tree. Current treatments are very limited, the surgical resection being the only effective treatment but restricted to a minority of patients, whereas the remaining patients undergo palliative chemotherapy regimens. In cancer, CAF shape the tumor microenvironment, drive cancer growth and progression, and contribute to drug resistance. All these functions are accomplished through an interplay network between CAF and surrounding cells including tumor and other stromal cells, i.e. immune and endothelial cells. RECENT FINDINGS Several studies have pointed out the existence of CAF sub-populations carrying out several and opposite functions, cancer-promoting or cancer-restraining as shown in pancreatic cancer, another prototypic desmoplastic tumor in which heterogeneity of CAF is well demonstrated. SUMMARY New CAF functions are now emerging in pancreatic and breast cancers like the modulation of immune responses or tumor metabolism, opening new area for treatments.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Considering the failure of standard treatments (i.e. surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy) in treating cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), introduction of alternative interventions is urgently needed. During the past 2 decades, discoveries of the mechanisms of cancer immunosurveillance and tumor immune evasion have precipitated the emergence and clinical approval of immunotherapies in multiple malignant indications. Interest in their introduction for the care of CCA is recent and several immunotherapeutic approaches are undergoing a clinical evaluation. Undoubtedly, their efficient application, as monotherapy or in combination regimens, will rely on a deeper understanding of CCA immune contexture. RECENT FINDINGS CCA cells appeared very potent in recruiting protumorigenic cells and shaping an immunosuppressive microenvironment. Elevated densities of several immune cells with immunoinhibitory activities within the malignant bed have been associated with poor prognosis in patients. Particularly, macrophages and neutrophils (especially in their alternatively activated phenotype) were pointed out for their role in cancer progression. Dendritic cells were described as ineffective in priming CCA-specific T-cell responses. SUMMARY Quantitative and qualitative assessment of the innate and adaptive immune compartments of the CCA immune contexture, as well as their prognostic value, will benefit to the development of improved immunotherapeutic strategies.
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Byrling J, Sasor A, Nilsson J, Said Hilmersson K, Andersson R, Andersson B. Expression of fibroblast activation protein and the clinicopathological relevance in distal cholangiocarcinoma. Scand J Gastroenterol 2020; 55:82-89. [PMID: 31917931 DOI: 10.1080/00365521.2019.1708449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Objectives: The current survival of patients with distal cholangiocarcinoma (dCCA) is poor. There is a need to develop new prognostic and predictive biomarkers to improve the survival of patients. Fibroblast activation protein (FAP) expression has been associated with survival in several solid malignancies. The goal of this study was to evaluate the expression pattern and prognostic significance of FAP in dCCA.Materials and methods: FAP expression was examined in 57 resected dCCA specimens and 28 paired lymph node metastasis specimens, as well as 10 benign bile ducts using immunohistochemistry. FAP expression was scored in the epithelial and stromal component of the dCCA specimens. The association between FAP expression and prognosis was evaluated using univariable and multivariable statistical modeling.Results: FAP expression was absent in the benign controls. FAP expression was evident in the epithelial 43 (75%) and stromal compartment 34 (60%) of dCCA. There was no association between epithelial or stromal FAP expression and clinicopathological factors. Epithelial FAP expression (HR 0.4 95% CI 0.20-0.78; p=.007) but not stromal FAP expression was significantly associated with better survival in univariable and multivariable analysis.Conclusions: FAP overexpression is evident in dCCA. There was a positive association between epithelial FAP expression and better survival which merits further evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Byrling
- Department of Surgery, Lund University and Skane University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
| | - Agata Sasor
- Department of Pathology, Lund University and Skane University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
| | - Johan Nilsson
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Lund University and Skane University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
| | | | - Roland Andersson
- Department of Surgery, Lund University and Skane University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
| | - Bodil Andersson
- Department of Surgery, Lund University and Skane University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
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Roy S, Glaser S, Chakraborty S. Inflammation and Progression of Cholangiocarcinoma: Role of Angiogenic and Lymphangiogenic Mechanisms. Front Med (Lausanne) 2019; 6:293. [PMID: 31921870 PMCID: PMC6930194 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2019.00293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2019] [Accepted: 11/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), or cancer of the biliary epithelium is a relatively rare but aggressive form of biliary duct cancer which has a 5-year survival rate post metastasis of 2%. Although a number of risk factors are established for CCA growth and progression, a careful evaluation of the existing literature on CCA reveals that an inflammatory environment near the biliary tree is the most common causal link between the risk factors and the development of CCA. The fact that inflammation predisposes affected individuals to CCA is further bolstered by multiple observations where the presence and maintenance of an inflammatory microenvironment at the site of the primary tumor plays a significant role in the development and metastasis of CCA. In addition, mechanisms activating the tumor vasculature and enhancing angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis significantly contribute to CCA aggressiveness and metastasis. This review aims to address the role of an inflammatory microenvironment-CCA crosstalk and will present the basic concepts, observations, and current perspectives from recent research studies in the field of tumor stroma of CCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sukanya Roy
- Department of Medical Physiology, Texas A&M Health Science Center College of Medicine, Bryan, TX, United States
| | - Shannon Glaser
- Department of Medical Physiology, Texas A&M Health Science Center College of Medicine, Bryan, TX, United States
| | - Sanjukta Chakraborty
- Department of Medical Physiology, Texas A&M Health Science Center College of Medicine, Bryan, TX, United States
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Deregulated Lysophosphatidic Acid Metabolism and Signaling in Liver Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11111626. [PMID: 31652837 PMCID: PMC6893780 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11111626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2019] [Revised: 10/18/2019] [Accepted: 10/20/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide due to late diagnosis and scarcity of treatment options. The major risk factor for liver cancer is cirrhosis with the underlying causes of cirrhosis being viral infection (hepatitis B or C), metabolic deregulation (Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in the presence of obesity and diabetes), alcohol or cholestatic disorders. Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) is a bioactive phospholipid with numerous effects, most of them compatible with the hallmarks of cancer (proliferation, migration, invasion, survival, evasion of apoptosis, deregulated metabolism, neoangiogenesis, etc.). Autotaxin (ATX) is the enzyme responsible for the bulk of extracellular LPA production, and together with LPA signaling is involved in chronic inflammatory diseases, fibrosis and cancer. This review discusses the most important findings and the mechanisms related to ATX/LPA/LPAR involvement on metabolic, viral and cholestatic liver disorders and their progression to liver cancer in the context of human patients and mouse models. It focuses on the role of ATX/LPA in NAFLD development and its progression to liver cancer as NAFLD has an increasing incidence which is associated with the increasing incidence of liver cancer. Bearing in mind that adipose tissue accounts for the largest amount of LPA production, many studies have implicated LPA in adipose tissue metabolism and inflammation, liver steatosis, insulin resistance, glucose intolerance and lipogenesis. At the same time, LPA and ATX play crucial roles in fibrotic diseases. Given that hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is usually developed on the background of liver fibrosis, therapies that both delay the progression of fibrosis and prevent its development to malignancy would be very promising. Therefore, ATX/LPA signaling appears as an attractive therapeutic target as evidenced by the fact that it is involved in both liver fibrosis progression and liver cancer development.
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Wu HJ, Chu PY. Role of Cancer Stem Cells in Cholangiocarcinoma and Therapeutic Implications. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20174154. [PMID: 31450710 PMCID: PMC6747544 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20174154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2019] [Revised: 08/12/2019] [Accepted: 08/23/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is the second most common type of liver cancer, and is highly aggressive with very poor prognosis. CCA is classified into intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA) and extra-hepatic cholangiocarcinoma (eCCA), which is further stratified into perihilar (pCCA) and distal (dCCA). Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a subpopulation of cancer cells capable of tumor initiation and malignant growth, and are also responsible for chemoresistance. Thus, CSCs play an important role in CCA carcinogenesis. Surface markers such as CD133, CD24, CD44, EpCAM, Sox2, CD49f, and CD117 are important for identifying and isolating CCA CSCs. CSCs are present in the tumor microenvironment (TME), termed ‘CSC niche’, where cellular components and soluble factors interact to promote tumor initiation. Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is another important mechanism underlying carcinogenesis, involved in the invasiveness, metastasis and chemoresistance of cancer. It has been demonstrated that EMT plays a critical role in generating CSCs. Therapies targeting the surface markers and signaling pathways of CCA CSCs, proteins involved in TME, and immune checkpoint proteins are currently under investigation. Therefore, this review focuses on recent studies on the roles of CSCs in CCA; the possible therapeutic strategies targeting CSCs of CCA are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsing-Ju Wu
- Research Assistant Center, Show Chwan Memorial Hospital, Changhua 500, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research, Chang Bing Show Chwan Memorial Hospital, Lukang Town, Changhua County 505, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Yi Chu
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Engineering, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 402, Taiwan.
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Fu Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City 231, Taiwan.
- Department of Pathology, Show Chwan Memorial Hospital, Changhua 500, Taiwan.
- Department of Health Food, Chung Chou University of Science and Technology, Changhua 510, Taiwan.
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Duan HX, Li BW, Zhuang X, Wang LT, Cao Q, Tan LH, Qu GF, Xiao S. TCF21 inhibits tumor-associated angiogenesis and suppresses the growth of cholangiocarcinoma by targeting PI3K/Akt and ERK signaling. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2019; 316:G763-G773. [PMID: 30920845 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00264.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Tumor-associated angiogenesis plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of cholangiocarcinoma (CCA). In this study, we examined the biological effects and molecular mechanisms of transcription factor 21 (TCF21) on CCA-associated angiogenesis. TCF21 expression was compared between 15 pairs of peritumor normal tissues and CCA tissues and also between normal bile duct epithelial cells and two CCA cell lines (QBC-939 and TFK-1) using real-time PCR and Western blot. With the use of both CCA cell lines as the model system, we stably expressed TCF21 by lentiviral transduction (Lv-TCF21). In vivo, we monitored xenograft growth from different CCA cells, measured tumor-associated angiogenesis by histological analysis, and determined the expressions and circulatory levels of VEGFA and PDGF-BB by immunohistochemistry and ELISA, respectively. In vitro, we assessed the effects of conditioned medium collected from different CCA cells on the viability, migration, and tube formation of endothelial cells and explored the significance of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/Akt), as well as ERK1/2 signaling in this process. TCF21 was significantly downregulated in CCA tissues or cell lines. Ectopic expression of TCF21 in CCA cells inhibited xenograft growth or tumor-associated angiogenesis in vivo and targeted the expression and secretion of proangiogenic factors, VEGFA and PDGF-BB. In vitro, the conditioned medium collected from Lv-TCF21 CCA cells significantly reduced the viability, migration, and tube formation of endothelial cells. On the molecular level, the targeting of PI3K/Akt and ERK1/2 signaling mediated the anti-angiogenic activity of TCF21. TCF21 presents growth-inhibitory and anti-angiogenic activities, and thus the elevation of TCF21 expression may provide therapeutic benefits for CCA. NEW & NOTEWORTHY Transcription factor 21 (TCF21) is downregulated in cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) tissues or cells. TCF21 inhibits the growth of xenografts derived from CCA cells. TCF21 suppresses in vivo tumor-associated angiogenesis. TCF21 targets expression and production of proangiogenic factors from CCA cells. The targeting of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B and ERK1/2 signaling mediates the anti-angiogenesis of TCF21.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua-Xin Duan
- Department of Oncology, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital and the First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University , Changsha , People's Republic of China; and Key Laboratory of Study and Discovery of Small Targeted Molecules of Hunan Province, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Bo-Wen Li
- Department of Oncology, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital and the First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University , Changsha , People's Republic of China; and Key Laboratory of Study and Discovery of Small Targeted Molecules of Hunan Province, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin Zhuang
- Department of Oncology, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital and the First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University , Changsha , People's Republic of China; and Key Laboratory of Study and Discovery of Small Targeted Molecules of Hunan Province, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Lu-Ting Wang
- Department of Oncology, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital and the First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University , Changsha , People's Republic of China; and Key Laboratory of Study and Discovery of Small Targeted Molecules of Hunan Province, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Qian Cao
- Department of Oncology, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital and the First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University , Changsha , People's Republic of China; and Key Laboratory of Study and Discovery of Small Targeted Molecules of Hunan Province, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Ling-Hua Tan
- Department of Oncology, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital and the First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University , Changsha , People's Republic of China; and Key Laboratory of Study and Discovery of Small Targeted Molecules of Hunan Province, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Gui-Fang Qu
- Department of Oncology, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital and the First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University , Changsha , People's Republic of China; and Key Laboratory of Study and Discovery of Small Targeted Molecules of Hunan Province, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuang Xiao
- Department of Oncology, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital and the First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University , Changsha , People's Republic of China; and Key Laboratory of Study and Discovery of Small Targeted Molecules of Hunan Province, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China
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Won J, Cho Y, Lee D, Jeon BY, Ju JW, Chung S, Pak JH. Clonorchis sinensis excretory-secretory products increase malignant characteristics of cholangiocarcinoma cells in three-dimensional co-culture with biliary ductal plates. PLoS Pathog 2019; 15:e1007818. [PMID: 31121000 PMCID: PMC6550432 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1007818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2018] [Revised: 06/05/2019] [Accepted: 05/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Clonorchis sinensis is a carcinogenic human liver fluke, prolonged infection which provokes chronic inflammation, epithelial hyperplasia, periductal fibrosis, and even cholangiocarcinoma (CCA). These effects are driven by direct physical damage caused by the worms, as well as chemical irritation from their excretory-secretory products (ESPs) in the bile duct and surrounding liver tissues. We investigated the C. sinensis ESP-mediated malignant features of CCA cells (HuCCT1) in a three-dimensional microfluidic culture model that mimics an in vitro tumor microenvironment. This system consisted of a type I collagen extracellular matrix, applied ESPs, GFP-labeled HuCCT1 cells and quiescent biliary ductal plates formed by normal cholangiocytes (H69 cells). HuCCT1 cells were attracted by a gradient of ESPs in a concentration-dependent manner and migrated in the direction of the ESPs. Meanwhile, single cell invasion by HuCCT1 cells increased independently of the direction of the ESP gradient. ESP treatment resulted in elevated secretion of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-β1) by H69 cells and a cadherin switch (decrease in E-cadherin/increase in N-cadherin expression) in HuCCT1 cells, indicating an increase in epithelial-mesenchymal transition-like changes by HuCCT1 cells. Our findings suggest that C. sinensis ESPs promote the progression of CCA in a tumor microenvironment via the interaction between normal cholangiocytes and CCA cells. These observations broaden our understanding of the progression of CCA caused by liver fluke infection and suggest a new approach for the development of chemotherapeutic for this infectious cancer. The oriental liver fluke, Clonorchis sinensis, is a biological carcinogen of humans and is the cause of death of infectious cancer patients in China and Korea. Its chronic infection promotes cholangiocarcinogenesis due to direct contact of host tissues with the worms and their excretory-secretory products (ESPs); however, the specific mechanisms underlying this pathology remain unclear. To assess its contribution to the progression of cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), we developed a 3-dimensional (3D) in vitro culture model that consists of CCA cells (HuCCT1) in direct contact with normal cholangiocytes (H69), which are subsequently exposed to C. sinensis ESPs; therefore, this model represents a C. sinensis-associated CCA microenvironment. Co-cultured HuCCT1 cells exhibited increased motility in response to C. sinensis ESPs, suggesting that this model may recapitulate some aspects of tumor microenvironment complexity. Proinflammatory cytokines such as IL-6 and TGF-β1 secreted by H69 cells exhibited a crosstalk effect regarding the epithelial-mesenchymal transition of HuCCT1 cells, thus, promoting an increase in the metastatic characteristics of CCA cells. Our findings enable an understanding of the mechanisms underlying the etiology of C. sinensis-associated CCA, and, therefore, this approach will contribute to the development of new strategies for the reduction of its high mortality rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jihee Won
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Youngkyu Cho
- Department of IT Convergence, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Dahyun Lee
- Department of Convergence Medicine, University of Ulsan College of Medicine and Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Bo Young Jeon
- Department of Convergence Medicine, University of Ulsan College of Medicine and Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung-Won Ju
- Division of Vectors & Parasitic Diseases, Korean Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Osong, Republic of Korea
| | - Seok Chung
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of IT Convergence, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- KU-KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- * E-mail: (SC); (JHP)
| | - Jhang Ho Pak
- Department of Convergence Medicine, University of Ulsan College of Medicine and Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- * E-mail: (SC); (JHP)
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Fabris L, Perugorria MJ, Mertens J, Björkström NK, Cramer T, Lleo A, Solinas A, Sänger H, Lukacs-Kornek V, Moncsek A, Siebenhüner A, Strazzabosco M. The tumour microenvironment and immune milieu of cholangiocarcinoma. Liver Int 2019; 39 Suppl 1:63-78. [PMID: 30907492 PMCID: PMC10878127 DOI: 10.1111/liv.14098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2019] [Revised: 02/25/2019] [Accepted: 02/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Tumour microenvironment is a complex, multicellular functional compartment that, particularly when assembled as an abundant desmoplastic reaction, may profoundly affect the proliferative and invasive abilities of epithelial cancer cells. Tumour microenvironment comprises not only stromal cells, mainly cancer-associated fibroblasts, but also immune cells of both the innate and adaptive system (tumour-associated macrophages, neutrophils, natural killer cells, and T and B lymphocytes), and endothelial cells. This results in an intricate web of mutual communications regulated by an extensively remodelled extracellular matrix, where the tumour cells are centrally engaged. In this regard, cholangiocarcinoma, in particular the intrahepatic variant, has become the focus of mounting interest in the last years, largely because of the lack of effective therapies despite its rising incidence and high mortality rates worldwide. On the other hand, recent studies in pancreatic cancer, which similarly to cholangiocarcinoma, is highly desmoplastic, have argued against a tumour-promoting function of the tumour microenvironment. In this review, we will discuss recent developments concerning the role of each cellular population and their multifaceted interplay with the malignant biliary epithelial counterpart. We ultimately hope to provide the working knowledge on how their manipulation may lead to a therapeutic gain in cholangiocarcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Fabris
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua, Padova, Italy
- Liver Center and Section of Digestive Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - María Jesús Perugorria
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Health Research Institute – Donostia University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), San Sebastián, Spain
- National Institute for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III), Spain
- IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, Bilbao, Spain
| | - Joachim Mertens
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Niklas K. Björkström
- Center for Infectious Medicine, Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Thorsten Cramer
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
- Department of Surgery, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- ESCAM – European Surgery Center Aachen Maastricht, Germany and The Netherlands
- NUTRIM School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Ana Lleo
- Division of Internal Medicine and Hepatology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center IRCCS, Rozzano (MI), Italy. Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele (MI), Italy
| | - Antonio Solinas
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Hanna Sänger
- Department of Visceral, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, University Hospital, Fakultät Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Veronika Lukacs-Kornek
- Institute of Experimental Immunology, University Hospital, Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universität Bonn, Germany
| | - Anja Moncsek
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Alexander Siebenhüner
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, University Hospital Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Mario Strazzabosco
- Liver Center and Section of Digestive Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
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