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Noonan HR, Thornock AM, Barbano J, Xifaras ME, Baron CS, Yang S, Koczirka K, McConnell AM, Zon LI. A chronic signaling TGFb zebrafish reporter identifies immune response in melanoma. eLife 2024; 13:e83527. [PMID: 38874379 PMCID: PMC11178360 DOI: 10.7554/elife.83527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Developmental signaling pathways associated with growth factors such as TGFb are commonly dysregulated in melanoma. Here we identified a human TGFb enhancer specifically activated in melanoma cells treated with TGFB1 ligand. We generated stable transgenic zebrafish with this TGFb Induced Enhancer driving green fluorescent protein (TIE:EGFP). TIE:EGFP was not expressed in normal melanocytes or early melanomas but was expressed in spatially distinct regions of advanced melanomas. Single-cell RNA-sequencing revealed that TIE:EGFP+ melanoma cells down-regulated interferon response while up-regulating a novel set of chronic TGFb target genes. ChIP-sequencing demonstrated that AP-1 factor binding is required for activation of chronic TGFb response. Overexpression of SATB2, a chromatin remodeler associated with tumor spreading, showed activation of TGFb signaling in early melanomas. Confocal imaging and flow cytometric analysis showed that macrophages localize to TIE:EGFP+ regions and preferentially phagocytose TIE:EGFP+ melanoma cells compared to TIE:EGFP- melanoma cells. This work identifies a TGFb induced immune response and demonstrates the need for the development of chronic TGFb biomarkers to predict patient response to TGFb inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haley R Noonan
- Stem Cell Program and Division of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children’s Hospital and Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Howard Hughes Medical InstituteBostonUnited States
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology Department, Harvard UniversityCambridgeUnited States
- Harvard Medical SchoolBostonUnited States
- Biological and Biomedical Sciences Program, Harvard Medical SchoolBostonUnited States
| | - Alexandra M Thornock
- Stem Cell Program and Division of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children’s Hospital and Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Howard Hughes Medical InstituteBostonUnited States
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology Department, Harvard UniversityCambridgeUnited States
- Harvard Medical SchoolBostonUnited States
- Biological and Biomedical Sciences Program, Harvard Medical SchoolBostonUnited States
| | - Julia Barbano
- Stem Cell Program and Division of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children’s Hospital and Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Howard Hughes Medical InstituteBostonUnited States
| | - Michael E Xifaras
- Stem Cell Program and Division of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children’s Hospital and Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Howard Hughes Medical InstituteBostonUnited States
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology Department, Harvard UniversityCambridgeUnited States
- Harvard Medical SchoolBostonUnited States
- Immunology Program, Harvard Medical SchoolBostonUnited States
| | - Chloe S Baron
- Stem Cell Program and Division of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children’s Hospital and Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Howard Hughes Medical InstituteBostonUnited States
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology Department, Harvard UniversityCambridgeUnited States
- Harvard Medical SchoolBostonUnited States
| | - Song Yang
- Stem Cell Program and Division of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children’s Hospital and Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Howard Hughes Medical InstituteBostonUnited States
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology Department, Harvard UniversityCambridgeUnited States
- Harvard Medical SchoolBostonUnited States
| | - Katherine Koczirka
- Stem Cell Program and Division of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children’s Hospital and Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Howard Hughes Medical InstituteBostonUnited States
| | - Alicia M McConnell
- Stem Cell Program and Division of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children’s Hospital and Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Howard Hughes Medical InstituteBostonUnited States
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology Department, Harvard UniversityCambridgeUnited States
- Harvard Medical SchoolBostonUnited States
| | - Leonard I Zon
- Stem Cell Program and Division of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children’s Hospital and Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Howard Hughes Medical InstituteBostonUnited States
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology Department, Harvard UniversityCambridgeUnited States
- Harvard Medical SchoolBostonUnited States
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2
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Singvogel K, Schittek B. Dormancy of cutaneous melanoma. Cancer Cell Int 2024; 24:88. [PMID: 38419052 PMCID: PMC10903048 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-024-03278-5] [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: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Many cancer-related deaths including melanoma result from metastases that develop months or years after the initial cancer therapy. Even the most effective drugs and immune therapies rarely eradicate all tumor cells. Instead, they strongly reduce cancer burden, permitting dormant cancer cells to persist in niches, where they establish a cellular homeostasis with their host without causing clinical symptoms. Dormant cancers respond poorly to most drugs and therapies since they do not proliferate and hide in niches. It therefore remains a major challenge to develop novel therapies for dormant cancers. In this review we focus on the mechanisms regulating the initiation of cutaneous melanoma dormancy as well as those which are involved in reawakening of dormant cutaneous melanoma cells. In recent years the role of neutrophils and niche components in reawakening of melanoma cells came into focus and indicate possible future therapeutic applications. Sophisticated in vitro and in vivo melanoma dormancy models are needed to make progress in this field and are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathrin Singvogel
- Division of Dermatooncology, Department of Dermatology, University of Tübingen, Liebermeisterstr. 25, D -72076 , Tübingen, Germany
| | - Birgit Schittek
- Division of Dermatooncology, Department of Dermatology, University of Tübingen, Liebermeisterstr. 25, D -72076 , Tübingen, Germany.
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) "Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies", University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.
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3
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Shirley CA, Chhabra G, Amiri D, Chang H, Ahmad N. Immune escape and metastasis mechanisms in melanoma: breaking down the dichotomy. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1336023. [PMID: 38426087 PMCID: PMC10902921 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1336023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is one of the most lethal neoplasms of the skin. Despite the revolutionary introduction of immune checkpoint inhibitors, metastatic spread, and recurrence remain critical problems in resistant cases. Melanoma employs a multitude of mechanisms to subvert the immune system and successfully metastasize to distant organs. Concerningly, recent research also shows that tumor cells can disseminate early during melanoma progression and enter dormant states, eventually leading to metastases at a future time. Immune escape and metastasis have previously been viewed as separate phenomena; however, accumulating evidence is breaking down this dichotomy. Recent research into the progressive mechanisms of melanoma provides evidence that dedifferentiation similar to classical epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), genes involved in neural crest stem cell maintenance, and hypoxia/acidosis, are important factors simultaneously involved in immune escape and metastasis. The likeness between EMT and early dissemination, and differences, also become apparent in these contexts. Detailed knowledge of the mechanisms behind "dual drivers" simultaneously promoting metastatically inclined and immunosuppressive environments can yield novel strategies effective in disabling multiple facets of melanoma progression. Furthermore, understanding progression through these drivers may provide insight towards novel treatments capable of preventing recurrence arising from dormant dissemination or improving immunotherapy outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carl A Shirley
- Department of Dermatology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Gagan Chhabra
- Department of Dermatology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Deeba Amiri
- Department of Dermatology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Hao Chang
- Department of Dermatology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, United States
- William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Nihal Ahmad
- Department of Dermatology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, United States
- William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital, Madison, WI, United States
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4
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van Golen KL. Inflammatory breast cancer biomarkers and biology. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2024; 384:63-76. [PMID: 38637100 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ircmb.2023.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) is a unique breast cancer with a highly virulent course and low 5- and 10-year survival rates. Even though it only accounts for 1-5% of breast cancers it is estimated to account for 10% of breast cancer deaths annually in the United States. The accuracy of diagnosis and classification of this unique cancer is a major concern within the medical community. Early molecular and biological studies incidentally included IBC samples with other conventional breast cancers and were not informative as to the unique nature of the disease. Subsequent molecular studies that focused specifically on IBC demonstrated that IBC has a unique biology different from other forms of breast cancer. Additionally, a handful of unique signature genes that are hallmarks of IBC have also been suggested. Further understanding of IBC biology can help with diagnosis and treatment of the disease. The current article reviews the history and highlights of IBC studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth L van Golen
- Department of Biological Sciences, The University of Delaware, Newark, DE, United States; The Center for Translational Cancer Research, Newark, DE, United States.
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5
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Gupta R, Priya A, Chowdhary M, Batra VV, Jyotsna, Nagarajan P, Gokhale RS, Singh A. Pigmented skin exhibits accelerated wound healing compared to the nonpigmented skin in Guinea pig model. iScience 2023; 26:108159. [PMID: 37927554 PMCID: PMC10622689 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.108159] [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: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
This study investigated and compared the wound healing kinetics of pigmented (PG) and non-pigmented (NP) skin in guinea pigs, focusing on histological and transcriptional changes. Full-thickness wounds created on PG and NP skin were evaluated at various time points post-injury. Fontana-Masson staining and ultrastructural analysis suggested the presence of melanin and melanosomes in PG skin, which coincided with an upregulation of melanogenic genes cKIT, TYR, and DCT. On day 9 post-wound, PG skin exhibited a rapid transition from the inflammatory to proliferative phase, which correlated with the reappearance of epidermal pigmentation whereas the NP skin exhibited a delayed neo-epidermis formation. Furthermore, the study revealed that melanocyte-derived growth factors (conditioned media) positively regulated keratinocyte migration while inhibiting fibroblast differentiation. These effects were more prominent in tyrosine-treated (hyperpigmented) melanocyte-CM as was TGF- β expression. These findings provide valuable insights into the mechanisms underlying skin repair and pigmentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohit Gupta
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology, New Delhi 110025, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research, Ghaziabad 201002, India
| | - Anshu Priya
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology, New Delhi 110025, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research, Ghaziabad 201002, India
| | - Manish Chowdhary
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology, New Delhi 110025, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research, Ghaziabad 201002, India
| | | | - Jyotsna
- National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi 110067, India
| | | | | | - Archana Singh
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology, New Delhi 110025, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research, Ghaziabad 201002, India
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Giraulo C, Turiello R, Orlando L, Leonardelli S, Landsberg J, Belvedere R, Rolshoven G, Müller CE, Hölzel M, Morello S. The CD73 is induced by TGF-β1 triggered by nutrient deprivation and highly expressed in dedifferentiated human melanoma. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 165:115225. [PMID: 37517292 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115225] [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: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
CD73 is the key enzyme in the generation of extracellular adenosine, a mediator involved in tumor progression, tumor immune escape and resistance to anti-cancer therapeutics. Microenvironmental conditions influence the expression of CD73 in tumor cells. However how CD73 expression and activity is regulated in a stress condition of lower nutrient availability are largely unknown. Our results indicate that serum starvation leads to a marked up-regulation of CD73 expression on A375 melanoma cells in a time-dependent manner. The cell-surface expression of CD73 is associated with an increased release of TGF-β1 by starved cells. Blockade of TGF-β1 receptors or TGFβ/SMAD3 signaling pathway significantly reduce the expression of CD73 induced by starvation. Treatment of cells with rTGF-β1 up-regulates the expression of CD73 in a concentration-dependent manner, confirming the role of this pathway in regulating CD73 in melanoma A375 cells. The increased expression of CD73 is associated with enhanced AMPase activity, which is selectively reduced by inhibitors of CD73 activity, APCP and PSB-12489. Pharmacological blockade of CD73 significantly inhibits invasion of melanoma cells in a transwell system. Furthermore, using multiplex immunofluorescence imaging we found that, within human melanoma metastases, tumor cells at the dedifferentiated stage show the highest CD73 protein expression. In summary, our data provide new insights into the mechanism regulating the expression/activity of CD73 in melanoma cells in a condition of lower availability of nutrients, which is a common feature of the tumor microenvironment. Within human metastatic melanoma tissues elevated protein expression of CD73 is associated with an invasive-like phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caterina Giraulo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Fisciano, SA, Italy
| | - Roberta Turiello
- Institute of Experimental Oncology, University Hospital Bonn (UKB), University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Lavinia Orlando
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Fisciano, SA, Italy; PhD Program in Drug Discovery and Development, University of Salerno, Fisciano, Italy
| | - Sonia Leonardelli
- Institute of Experimental Oncology, University Hospital Bonn (UKB), University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Jennifer Landsberg
- Laboratory of Experimental Dermatology, Department of Dermatology and Allergy, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | | | - Georg Rolshoven
- PharmaCenter Bonn, Pharmaceutical Institute, Pharmaceutical & Medicinal Chemistry, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Christa E Müller
- PharmaCenter Bonn, Pharmaceutical Institute, Pharmaceutical & Medicinal Chemistry, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Michael Hölzel
- Institute of Experimental Oncology, University Hospital Bonn (UKB), University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Silvana Morello
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Fisciano, SA, Italy.
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Lee YJ, Heo JY, Kim DS, Choi YS, Kim S, Nam HS, Lee SH, Cho MK. Curcumin Enhances the Anticancer Effects of Binimetinib on Melanoma Cells by Inducing Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Cell Apoptosis with Necroptosis. Ann Dermatol 2023; 35:217-228. [PMID: 37290955 DOI: 10.5021/ad.22.200] [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: 11/27/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent studies suggest that MEK1/2 inhibitors, including binimetinib, significantly improve malignant melanoma (MM) patient survival. Growing evidence suggests that phytochemicals, especially curcumin, can overcome drug resistance in cancer cells through a variety of mechanisms. OBJECTIVE This study aims to examine curcumin's efficacy in vitro combined with binimetinib in human MM cells. METHODS We used 2D monolayer and 3D spheroid human epidermal melanocyte culture models, HEMn-MP (human epidermal melanocytes, neonatal, moderately pigmented), and two human MM cell lines, G361 and SK-MEL-2, to evaluate cell viability, proliferation, migration, death, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production following single therapy treatment, with either curcumin or binimetinib, or a combination of both. RESULTS Compared to MM cells treated with single therapy, those with combination therapy showed significantly decreased cell viability and increased ROS production. We observed apoptosis following both single and combination therapies. However only those who had had combination therapy had necroptosis. CONCLUSION Collectively, our data demonstrates that curcumin exerts significant synergistic anticancer effects on MM cells by inducing ROS and necroptosis when combined with binimetinib. Therefore, a strategy of adding curcumin to conventional anticancer agents holds promise for treating MM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoon Jin Lee
- Department of Biochemistry, Soonchunhyang University College of Medicine, Cheonan, Korea
- Division of Molecular Cancer Research, Soonchunhyang Medical Research Institute, Soonchunhyang University, Cheonan, Korea
| | - Jae Young Heo
- Department of Dermatology, Soonchunhyang University Seoul Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Dong Sung Kim
- Department of Dermatology, Soonchunhyang University Seoul Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yu Sung Choi
- Department of Dermatology, Soonchunhyang University Seoul Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sooyoung Kim
- Department of Dermatology, Soonchunhyang University Seoul Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hae Seon Nam
- Division of Molecular Cancer Research, Soonchunhyang Medical Research Institute, Soonchunhyang University, Cheonan, Korea
| | - Sang Han Lee
- Department of Biochemistry, Soonchunhyang University College of Medicine, Cheonan, Korea
| | - Moon Kyun Cho
- Department of Dermatology, Soonchunhyang University Seoul Hospital, Seoul, Korea.
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8
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Siewe N, Friedman A. Cancer therapy with immune checkpoint inhibitor and CSF-1 blockade: A mathematical model. J Theor Biol 2023; 556:111297. [PMID: 36228716 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtbi.2022.111297] [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: 06/08/2022] [Revised: 09/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) introduced in recent years have revolutionized the treatment of many metastatic cancers. However, data suggest that treatment has benefits only in a limited percentage of patients, and that this is due to immune suppression of the tumor microenvironment (TME). Anti-tumor inflammatory macrophages (M1), which are attracted to the TME, are converted by tumor secreted cytokines, such as CSF-1, to pro-tumor anti-inflammatory macrophages (M2), or tumor associated macrophages (TAMs), which block the anti-tumor T cells. In the present paper we develop a mathematical model that represents the interactions among the immune cells and cancer in terms of differential equations. The model can be used to assess treatments of combination therapy of anti-PD-1 with anti-CSF-1. Examples are given in comparing the efficacy among different strategies for anti-CSF-1 dosing in a setup of clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nourridine Siewe
- School of Mathematical Sciences, College of Science, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY, USA.
| | - Avner Friedman
- Department of Mathematics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
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9
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Zarin B, Nedaeinia R, Laher I, Manian M, Javanmard SH. The effects of ALK5 inhibition and simultaneous inhibition or activation of HIF-1α in melanoma tumor growth and angiogenesis. Tumour Biol 2023; 45:111-126. [PMID: 37927290 DOI: 10.3233/tub-220020] [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] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hypoxia is the most common signature of the tumor microenvironment that drives tumorigenesis through the complex crosstalk of a family of transcription factors called hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs), with other intercellular signaling networks. Hypoxia increases transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) expression. TGF-β and HIF-1α play critical roles in several malignancies and their interactions in melanoma progression remain unknown. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the impact of inhibiting activin receptor-like kinase-5 (ALK5), a TGF-β receptor, on the response to HIF-1α activation or inhibition in melanoma tumor progression. MATERIALS AND METHODS Tumors were induced in C57BL/6J mice by subcutaneous inoculation with B16F10 melanoma cells. Mice were divided into HIF-1α inhibitor, ALK5 inhibitor (1 mg/kg) and HIF-1α inhibitor (100 mg/kg), ALK5 inhibitor, HIF-1α activator (1000 mg/kg), HIF-1α activator and ALK5 inhibitor, and control groups to receive inhibitors and activators through intraperitoneal injection. The expression of E-cadherin was evaluated by RT-qPCR. Vessel density and platelet-derived growth factor receptor beta (PDGFR)-β+ cells around the vessels were investigated using immunohistochemistry. RESULTS The groups receiving HIF-1α inhibitor and activator showed lower and higher tumor growth compared to the control group, respectively. E-cadherin expression decreased in all groups compared to the control group, illustrating the dual function of E-cadherin in the tumor microenvironment. Vascular density was reduced in the groups given HIF-1α inhibitor, ALK5 inhibitor, and ALK5 and HIF-1α inhibitor simultaneously. The percentage of PDGFR-β+ cells was reduced in the presence of HIF-1α inhibitor, ALK5 inhibitor, HIF-1α and ALK5 inhibitors, and upon simultaneous treatment with HIF-1α activator and ALK5 inhibitor. CONCLUSION Despite increased expression and interaction between TGF-β and HIF-1α pathways in some cancers, in melanoma, inhibition of either pathway alone may have a stronger effect on tumor inhibition than simultaneous inhibition of both pathways. The synergistic effects may be context-dependent and should be further evaluated in different cancer types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bahareh Zarin
- Applied Physiology Research Center, Cardiovascular Research Institute, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Reza Nedaeinia
- Pediatric Inherited Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Primordial Prevention of Non-Communicable Disease, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Ismail Laher
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Mostafa Manian
- Isfahan Neurosciences Research Center, Alzahra Research Institute, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Shaghayegh Haghjooy Javanmard
- Applied Physiology Research Center, Cardiovascular Research Institute, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
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10
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Siewe N, Friedman A. Optimal timing of steroid initiation in response to CTLA-4 antibody in metastatic cancer: A mathematical model. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0277248. [PMID: 36355837 PMCID: PMC9648769 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0277248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors, introduced in recent years, have revolutionized the treatment of many cancers. However, the toxicity associated with this therapy may cause severe adverse events. In the case of advanced lung cancer or metastatic melanoma, a significant number (10%) of patients treated with CTLA-4 inhibitor incur damage to the pituitary gland. In order to reduce the risk of hypophysitis and other severe adverse events, steroids may be combined with CTLA-4 inhibitor; they reduce toxicity, but they also diminish the anti-cancer effect of the immunotherapy. This trade-off between tumor reduction and the risk of severe adverse events poses the following question: What is the optimal time to initiate treatment with steroid. We address this question with a mathematical model from which we can also evaluate the comparative benefits of each schedule of steroid administration. In particular, we conclude that treatment with steroid should not begin too early, but also not very late, after immunotherapy began; more precisely, it should start as soon as tumor volume, under the effect of CTLA-4 inhibitor alone, begins to decrease. We can also compare the benefits of short term treatment of steroid at high doses to a longer term treatment with lower doses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nourridine Siewe
- School of Mathematical Sciences, College of Science, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, New York, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Avner Friedman
- Department of Mathematics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States of America
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11
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Guendisch U, Loos B, Cheng PF, Dummer R, Levesque MP, Varum S, Sommer L. Loss of YY1, a Regulator of Metabolism in Melanoma, Drives Melanoma Cell Invasiveness and Metastasis Formation. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:916033. [PMID: 35693944 PMCID: PMC9178194 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.916033] [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: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Deregulation of cellular metabolism through metabolic rewiring and translational reprogramming are considered hallmark traits of tumor development and malignant progression. The transcription factor YY1 is a master regulator of metabolism that we have previously shown to orchestrate a metabolic program required for melanoma formation. In this study, we demonstrate that YY1, while being essential for primary melanoma formation, suppresses metastatic spreading. Its downregulation or loss resulted in the induction of an invasiveness gene program and sensitized melanoma cells for pro-invasive signaling molecules, such as TGF-β. In addition, NGFR, a key effector in melanoma invasion and phenotype switching, was among the most upregulated genes after YY1 knockdown. High levels of NGFR were also associated with other metabolic stress inducers, further indicating that YY1 knockdown mimics a metabolic stress program associated with an increased invasion potential in melanoma. Accordingly, while counteracting tumor growth, loss of YY1 strongly promoted melanoma cell invasiveness in vitro and metastasis formation in melanoma mouse models in vivo. Thus, our findings show that the metabolic regulator YY1 controls phenotype switching in melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulf Guendisch
- Institute of Anatomy, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Benjamin Loos
- Institute of Anatomy, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Phil F. Cheng
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Reinhard Dummer
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | - Sandra Varum
- Institute of Anatomy, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Lukas Sommer
- Institute of Anatomy, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- *Correspondence: Lukas Sommer,
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12
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Janowska A, Iannone M, Fidanzi C, Romanelli M, Filippi L, Del Re M, Martins M, Dini V. The Genetic Basis of Dormancy and Awakening in Cutaneous Metastatic Melanoma. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:2104. [PMID: 35565234 PMCID: PMC9102235 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14092104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Revised: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune dysregulation, in combination with genetic and epigenetic alterations, induces an excessive proliferation of uncontrolled melanoma cells followed by dissemination of the tumor cells to distant sites, invading organs and creating metastasis. Although immunotherapy, checkpoint inhibitors and molecular targeted therapies have been developed as treatment options for advanced melanoma, there are specific mechanisms by which cancer cells can escape treatment. One of the main factors associated with reduced response to therapy is the ability of residual tumor cells to persist in a dormant state, without proliferation. This comprehensive review aimed at understanding the genetic basis of dormancy/awakening phenomenon in metastatic melanoma will help identify the possible therapeutical strategies that might eliminate melanoma circulating tumor cells (CTCs) or keep them in the dormant state forever, thereby repressing tumor relapse and metastatic spread.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agata Janowska
- Unit of Dermatology, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (M.I.); (C.F.); (M.R.); (M.M.); (V.D.)
| | - Michela Iannone
- Unit of Dermatology, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (M.I.); (C.F.); (M.R.); (M.M.); (V.D.)
| | - Cristian Fidanzi
- Unit of Dermatology, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (M.I.); (C.F.); (M.R.); (M.M.); (V.D.)
| | - Marco Romanelli
- Unit of Dermatology, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (M.I.); (C.F.); (M.R.); (M.M.); (V.D.)
| | - Luca Filippi
- Unit of Neonatology, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Marzia Del Re
- Unit of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacogenetics, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Manuella Martins
- Unit of Dermatology, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (M.I.); (C.F.); (M.R.); (M.M.); (V.D.)
| | - Valentina Dini
- Unit of Dermatology, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (M.I.); (C.F.); (M.R.); (M.M.); (V.D.)
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13
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Lüönd F, Pirkl M, Hisano M, Prestigiacomo V, Kalathur RK, Beerenwinkel N, Christofori G. Hierarchy of TGFβ/SMAD, Hippo/YAP/TAZ, and Wnt/β-catenin signaling in melanoma phenotype switching. Life Sci Alliance 2021; 5:5/2/e202101010. [PMID: 34819356 PMCID: PMC8616544 DOI: 10.26508/lsa.202101010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Revised: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
TGFβ, YAP/TAZ, and canonical Wnt/β-catenin signaling functionally interact in a hierarchical manner to induce the switching of melanoma cells from proliferative-to-invasive cell phenotype. In melanoma, a switch from a proliferative melanocytic to an invasive mesenchymal phenotype is based on dramatic transcriptional reprogramming which involves complex interactions between a variety of signaling pathways and their downstream transcriptional regulators. TGFβ/SMAD, Hippo/YAP/TAZ, and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathways are major inducers of transcriptional reprogramming and converge at several levels. Here, we report that TGFβ/SMAD, YAP/TAZ, and β-catenin are all required for a proliferative-to-invasive phenotype switch. Loss and gain of function experimentation, global gene expression analysis, and computational nested effects models revealed the hierarchy between these signaling pathways and identified shared target genes. SMAD-mediated transcription at the top of the hierarchy leads to the activation of YAP/TAZ and of β-catenin, with YAP/TAZ governing an essential subprogram of TGFβ-induced phenotype switching. Wnt/β-catenin signaling is situated further downstream and exerts a dual role: it promotes the proliferative, differentiated melanoma cell phenotype and it is essential but not sufficient for SMAD or YAP/TAZ–induced phenotype switching. The results identify epistatic interactions among the signaling pathways underlying melanoma phenotype switching and highlight the priorities in targets for melanoma therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabiana Lüönd
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Martin Pirkl
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel, Switzerland.,SIB Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Mizue Hisano
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Ravi Kr Kalathur
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Niko Beerenwinkel
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel, Switzerland.,SIB Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Basel, Switzerland
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14
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Gupta A, Budhu S, Fitzgerald K, Giese R, Michel AO, Holland A, Campesato LF, van Snick J, Uyttenhove C, Ritter G, Wolchok JD, Merghoub T. Isoform specific anti-TGFβ therapy enhances antitumor efficacy in mouse models of cancer. Commun Biol 2021; 4:1296. [PMID: 34789823 PMCID: PMC8599839 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-021-02773-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
TGFβ is a potential target in cancer treatment due to its dual role in tumorigenesis and homeostasis. However, the expression of TGFβ and its inhibition within the tumor microenvironment has mainly been investigated in stroma-heavy tumors. Using B16 mouse melanoma and CT26 colon carcinoma as models of stroma-poor tumors, we demonstrate that myeloid/dendritic cells are the main sources of TGFβ1 and TGFβ3. Depending on local expression of TGFβ isoforms, isoform specific inhibition of either TGFβ1 or TGFβ3 may be effective. The TGFβ signature of CT26 colon carcinoma is defined by TGFβ1 and TGFβ1 inhibition results in tumor delay; B16 melanoma has equal expression of both isoforms and inhibition of either TGFβ1 or TGFβ3 controls tumor growth. Using T cell functional assays, we show that the mechanism of tumor delay is through and dependent on enhanced CD8+ T cell function. To overcome the local immunosuppressive environment, we found that combining TGFβ inhibition with immune checkpoint blockade results in improved tumor control. Our data suggest that TGFβ inhibition in stroma poor tumors shifts the local immune environment to favor tumor suppression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aditi Gupta
- Swim Across America and Ludwig Collaborative Laboratory, Immunology Program, Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, 10065, USA
- Human Oncology & Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Sadna Budhu
- Swim Across America and Ludwig Collaborative Laboratory, Immunology Program, Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, 10065, USA
- Human Oncology & Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Kelly Fitzgerald
- Swim Across America and Ludwig Collaborative Laboratory, Immunology Program, Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, 10065, USA
- Human Oncology & Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Rachel Giese
- Swim Across America and Ludwig Collaborative Laboratory, Immunology Program, Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, 10065, USA
- Human Oncology & Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Adam O Michel
- Laboratory of Comparative Pathology, Center of Comparative Medicine and Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Aliya Holland
- Swim Across America and Ludwig Collaborative Laboratory, Immunology Program, Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, 10065, USA
- Human Oncology & Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Luis Felipe Campesato
- Swim Across America and Ludwig Collaborative Laboratory, Immunology Program, Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, 10065, USA
- Human Oncology & Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | | | | | - Gerd Ritter
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research Ltd, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jedd D Wolchok
- Swim Across America and Ludwig Collaborative Laboratory, Immunology Program, Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, 10065, USA.
- Human Oncology & Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, 10065, USA.
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
- Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, 10065, USA.
| | - Taha Merghoub
- Swim Across America and Ludwig Collaborative Laboratory, Immunology Program, Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, 10065, USA.
- Human Oncology & Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, 10065, USA.
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
- Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, 10065, USA.
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15
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Abstract
Despite the ability of immune-based interventions to dramatically increase the survival of patients with melanoma, a significant subset fail to benefit from this treatment, underscoring the need for accurate means to identify the patient population likely to respond to immunotherapy. Understanding how melanoma evades natural or manipulated immune responses could provide the information needed to identify such resistant individuals. Efforts to address this challenge are hampered by the vast immune diversity characterizing tumor microenvironments that remain largely understudied. It is thus important to more clearly elucidate the complex interactions that take place between the tumor microenvironment and host immune system.
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16
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Cesaro E, Pastore A, Polverino A, Manna L, Divisato G, Quintavalle C, Di Sanzo M, Faniello MC, Grosso M, Costanzo P. ZNF224 is a mediator of TGF-β pro-oncogenic function in melanoma. Hum Mol Genet 2021; 30:2100-2109. [PMID: 34181020 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddab173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Revised: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The zinc finger protein ZNF224 plays a dual role in cancer, operating as both tumor suppressor and oncogenic factor depending on cellular and molecular partners. In this research we investigated the role of ZNF224 in melanoma, a highly invasive and metastatic cancer, and provided evidence for the involvement of ZNF224 in the TGF-β signaling as a mediator of the TGF-β pro-oncogenic function. Our results showed that ZNF224, whose expression increased in melanoma cell lines after TGF-β stimulation, potentiated the activation induced by TGF-β on its target genes involved in epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Accordingly, overexpression of ZNF224 enhanced the tumourigenic properties of melanoma cells, promoting cell proliferation and invasiveness, while ZNF224 knockdown had the opposite effect. Moreover, ZNF224 positively modulates the expression of TGF-β itself and its type 1 and 2 receptors (TβR1 and TβR2), thus highlighting a possible mechanism by which ZNF224 could enhance the endogenous TGFβ/Smad signalling. Our findings unveil a positive regulatory loop between TGF-β and ZNF224 to promote EMT, consequently increasing the tumour metastatic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Cesaro
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Arianna Pastore
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Alessia Polverino
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Manna
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Divisato
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Cristina Quintavalle
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology (IEOS) G. Salvatore, CNR, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Maddalena Di Sanzo
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine University of Catanzaro "Magna Graecia", 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Maria Concetta Faniello
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine University of Catanzaro "Magna Graecia", 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Michela Grosso
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Paola Costanzo
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
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17
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Siewe N, Friedman A. TGF-β inhibition can overcome cancer primary resistance to PD-1 blockade: A mathematical model. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0252620. [PMID: 34061898 PMCID: PMC8168900 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0252620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors have demonstrated, over the recent years, impressive clinical response in cancer patients, but some patients do not respond at all to checkpoint blockade, exhibiting primary resistance. Primary resistance to PD-1 blockade is reported to occur under conditions of immunosuppressive tumor environment, a condition caused by myeloid derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), and by T cells exclusion, due to increased level of T regulatory cells (Tregs). Since TGF-β activates Tregs, TGF-β inhibitor may overcome primary resistance to anti-PD-1. Indeed, recent mice experiments show that combining anti-PD-1 with anti-TGF-β yields significant therapeutic improvements compared to anti-TGF-β alone. The present paper introduces two cancer-specific parameters and, correspondingly, develops a mathematical model which explains how primary resistance to PD-1 blockade occurs, in terms of the two cancer-specific parameters, and how, in combination with anti-TGF-β, anti-PD-1 provides significant benefits. The model is represented by a system of partial differential equations and the simulations are in agreement with the recent mice experiments. In some cancer patients, treatment with anti-PD-1 results in rapid progression of the disease, known as hyperprogression disease (HPD). The mathematical model can also explain how this situation arises, and it predicts that HPD may be reversed by combining anti-TGF-β to anti-PD-1. The model is used to demonstrate how the two cancer-specific parameters may serve as biomarkers in predicting the efficacy of combination therapy with PD-1 and TGF-β inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nourridine Siewe
- School of Mathematical Sciences, College of Science, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, New York, United States of America
| | - Avner Friedman
- Department of Mathematics, Mathematical Biosciences Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States of America
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18
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Hasegawa T, Iino S, Kitakaze K, Kato T, Kabata D, Oyama N, Hasegawa M. Repigmentation of aging gray hair associated with unrecognized development and progression of amelanotic melanoma of the scalp: A physiological alert underlying hair rejuvenation. J Dermatol 2021; 48:e281-e283. [PMID: 33852755 DOI: 10.1111/1346-8138.15881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2020] [Revised: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Takumi Hasegawa
- Division of Medicine, Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Fukui, Fukui, Japan
| | - Shiro Iino
- Division of Medicine, Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Fukui, Fukui, Japan
| | - Kohei Kitakaze
- Division of Medicine, Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Fukui, Fukui, Japan
| | - Takuhiro Kato
- Division of Medicine, Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Fukui, Fukui, Japan
| | | | - Noritaka Oyama
- Division of Medicine, Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Fukui, Fukui, Japan
| | - Minoru Hasegawa
- Division of Medicine, Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Fukui, Fukui, Japan
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19
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Khunger A, Piazza E, Warren S, Smith TH, Ren X, White A, Elliott N, Cesano A, Beechem JM, Kirkwood JM, Tarhini AA. CTLA-4 blockade and interferon-α induce proinflammatory transcriptional changes in the tumor immune landscape that correlate with pathologic response in melanoma. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0245287. [PMID: 33428680 PMCID: PMC7799833 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0245287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Patients with locally/regionally advanced melanoma were treated with neoadjuvant combination immunotherapy with high-dose interferon α-2b (HDI) and ipilimumab in a phase I clinical trial. Tumor specimens were obtained prior to the initiation of neoadjuvant therapy, at the time of surgery and progression if available. In this study, gene expression profiles of tumor specimens (N = 27) were investigated using the NanoString nCounter® platform to evaluate associations with clinical outcomes (pathologic response, radiologic response, relapse-free survival (RFS), and overall survival (OS)) and define biomarkers associated with tumor response. The Tumor Inflammation Signature (TIS), an 18-gene signature that enriches for response to Programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) checkpoint blockade, was also evaluated for association with clinical response and survival. It was observed that neoadjuvant ipilimumab-HDI therapy demonstrated an upregulation of immune-related genes, chemokines, and transcription regulator genes involved in immune cell activation, function, or cell proliferation. Importantly, increased expression of baseline pro-inflammatory genes CCL19, CD3D, CD8A, CD22, LY9, IL12RB1, C1S, C7, AMICA1, TIAM1, TIGIT, THY1 was associated with longer OS (p < 0.05). In addition, multiple genes that encode a component or a regulator of the extracellular matrix such as MMP2 and COL1A2 were identified post-treatment as being associated with longer RFS and OS. In all baseline tissues, high TIS scores were associated with longer OS (p = 0.0166). Also, downregulated expression of cell proliferation-related genes such as CUL1, CCND1 and AAMP at baseline was associated with pathological and radiological response (unadjusted p < 0.01). In conclusion, we identified numerous genes that play roles in multiple biological pathways involved in immune activation, immune suppression and cell proliferation correlating with pathological/radiological responses following neoadjuvant immunotherapy highlighting the complexity of immune responses modulated by immunotherapy. Our observations suggest that TIS may be a useful biomarker for predicting survival outcomes with combination immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arjun Khunger
- Department of Internal Medicine, Memorial Hospital West, Pembroke Pines, Florida, United States of America
| | - Erin Piazza
- NanoString® Technologies, Inc., Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Sarah Warren
- NanoString® Technologies, Inc., Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Thomas H. Smith
- NanoString® Technologies, Inc., Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Xing Ren
- NanoString® Technologies, Inc., Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Andrew White
- NanoString® Technologies, Inc., Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Nathan Elliott
- NanoString® Technologies, Inc., Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Alessandra Cesano
- ESSA Pharma, South San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Joseph M. Beechem
- NanoString® Technologies, Inc., Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - John M. Kirkwood
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Ahmad A. Tarhini
- Department of Cutaneous Oncology and Immunology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida, United States of America
- University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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20
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Cheng R, Gao S, Hu W, Liu Y, Cao Y. Nuclear factor I/B mediates epithelial-mesenchymal transition in human melanoma cells through ZEB1. Oncol Lett 2020; 21:81. [PMID: 33363618 PMCID: PMC7723069 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2020.12342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2019] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The relationship between nuclear factor I/B (NFIB) and cancer attracts growing research interest. NFIB has diverse and specific roles in tumor progression and invasion. However, the potential effects and functions of this transcription factor in melanoma remain unclear. The present study sought to determine the distinguishing properties of NFIB in melanoma cells. Immunohistochemical examination of the tissues of 15 patients with melanoma indicated that the expression of NFIB was high in melanoma specimens, compared with the benign nevus and normal skin specimens. In addition, the relationship between high NFIB expression and low overall survival rate was assessed. Functional studies demonstrated that NFIB enhanced the malignancy of melanoma, including proliferation, migration and invasion. In addition, NFIB silencing in A375 and A875 cell lines inhibited the process of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), upregulated E-cadherin and zona occludens-1, but suppressed N-cadherin and vimentin expression. These findings may suggest a new function of NFIB in promoting the migration and invasion of melanoma cells. Therefore, the present study further evaluated the association between NFIB and zinc finger protein E-box binding homeobox-1 (ZEB1) in melanoma. Mechanistic experiments revealed that NFIB exerted its roles during EMT by regulating ZEB1. Overall, the present data indicates that NFIB promotes the malignancy of melanoma, particularly EMT, by modulating the ZEB1 axis, such as ZEB2, ATM and CHK1, which may represent a potential molecular therapeutic target in melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruimin Cheng
- Department of Dermatology, Tongji Hospital, The Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, P.R. China
| | - Sheng Gao
- Department of Dermatology, Tongji Hospital, The Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, P.R. China
| | - Wei Hu
- Department of Dermatology, Tongji Hospital, The Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, P.R. China
| | - Yamei Liu
- Department of Dermatology, Tongji Hospital, The Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, P.R. China
| | - Yuchun Cao
- Department of Dermatology, Tongji Hospital, The Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, P.R. China
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21
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Tu L, Sun X, Yang L, Zhang T, Zhang X, Li X, Dong B, Liu Y, Yang M, Wang L, Yu Y. TGF-β2 interfering oligonucleotides used as adjuvants for microbial vaccines. J Leukoc Biol 2020; 108:1673-1692. [PMID: 32794350 DOI: 10.1002/jlb.5a0420-491r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2019] [Revised: 04/28/2020] [Accepted: 06/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The success of using immune checkpoint inhibitors to treat cancers implies that inhibiting an immunosuppressive cytokine, such as TGF-β2, could be a strategy to develop novel adjuvants for microbial vaccines. To develop nucleic acid based TGF-β2 inhibitors, we designed three antisense oligonucleotides, designated as TIO1, TIO2, and TIO3, targeting the conserve regions identical in human and mouse TGF-β2 mRNA 3'-untranslated region. In cultured immune cells, TIO3 and TIO1 significantly reduced the TGF-β2 mRNA expression and protein production. In mice, the TIO3 and TIO1, when formulated in various microbial vaccines, significantly enhanced the antibody response to the vaccines, and the TIO3-adjuvanted influenza virus vaccine induced effective protection against the influenza virus challenge. In the immunized mice, TIO3 formulated in microbial vaccines dramatically reduced surface-bound TGF-β2 expression on CD4+ T cells and CD19+ B cells in the lymph node (LN) cells and spleen cells; up-regulated the expression of CD40, CD80, CD86, and MHC II molecules on CD19+ B cells and CD11c+ dendritic cells; and promoted IFN-γ production in CD4+ T cells and CD8+ T cells in the LN cells. Overall, TIO3 or TIO1 could be used as a novel type of adjuvant for facilitating the microbial vaccines to elicit more vigorous and persistent antibody response by interfering with TGF-β2 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liqun Tu
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Norman Bethune Health Science Center, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Xiaomeng Sun
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Norman Bethune Health Science Center, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Lei Yang
- Department of Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Norman Bethune Health Science Center, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Tiefeng Zhang
- Department of Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Norman Bethune Health Science Center, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Xian Zhang
- Department of Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Norman Bethune Health Science Center, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Xin Li
- Department of Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Norman Bethune Health Science Center, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Boqi Dong
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Norman Bethune Health Science Center, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Ye Liu
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Norman Bethune Health Science Center, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Ming Yang
- Department of Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Norman Bethune Health Science Center, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Liying Wang
- Department of Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Norman Bethune Health Science Center, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Yongli Yu
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Norman Bethune Health Science Center, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
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22
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Kummer D, Steinbacher T, Schwietzer MF, Thölmann S, Ebnet K. Tetraspanins: integrating cell surface receptors to functional microdomains in homeostasis and disease. Med Microbiol Immunol 2020; 209:397-405. [PMID: 32274581 PMCID: PMC7395057 DOI: 10.1007/s00430-020-00673-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Accepted: 03/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Tetraspanins comprise a family of proteins embedded in the membrane through four transmembrane domains. One of the most distinctive features of tetraspanins is their ability to interact with other proteins in the membrane using their extracellular, transmembrane and cytoplasmic domains, allowing them to incorporate several proteins into clusters called tetraspanin-enriched microdomains. The spatial proximity of signaling proteins and their regulators enables a rapid functional cross-talk between these proteins, which is required for a rapid translation of extracellular signals into intracellular signaling cascades. In this article, we highlight a few examples that illustrate how tetraspanin-mediated interactions between cell surface proteins allow their functional cross-talk to regulate intracellular signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Kummer
- Institute-Associated Research Group: Cell Adhesion and Cell Polarity, Institute of Medical Biochemistry, ZMBE, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
- Interdisciplinary Clinical Research Center (IZKF), University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Tim Steinbacher
- Institute-Associated Research Group: Cell Adhesion and Cell Polarity, Institute of Medical Biochemistry, ZMBE, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
- Cells-In-Motion Cluster of Excellence (EXC1003-CiM), University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Mariel Flavia Schwietzer
- Institute-Associated Research Group: Cell Adhesion and Cell Polarity, Institute of Medical Biochemistry, ZMBE, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Sonja Thölmann
- Institute-Associated Research Group: Cell Adhesion and Cell Polarity, Institute of Medical Biochemistry, ZMBE, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Klaus Ebnet
- Institute-Associated Research Group: Cell Adhesion and Cell Polarity, Institute of Medical Biochemistry, ZMBE, University of Münster, Münster, Germany.
- Interdisciplinary Clinical Research Center (IZKF), University of Münster, Münster, Germany.
- Cells-In-Motion Cluster of Excellence (EXC1003-CiM), University of Münster, Münster, Germany.
- Institute of Medical Biochemistry, ZMBE, Von-Esmarch-Str. 56, 48149, Münster, Germany.
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23
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Friedman A, Siewe N. Overcoming Drug Resistance to BRAF Inhibitor. Bull Math Biol 2020; 82:8. [PMID: 31933021 DOI: 10.1007/s11538-019-00691-0] [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: 07/29/2019] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
One of the most frequently found mutations in human melanomas is in the B-raf gene, making its protein BRAF a key target for therapy. However, in patients treated with BRAF inhibitor (BRAFi), although the response is very good at first, relapse occurs within 6 months, on the average. In order to overcome this drug resistance to BRAFi, various combinations of BRAFi with other drugs have been explored, and some are being applied clinically, such as a combination of BRAF and MEK inhibitors. Experimental data for melanoma in mice show that under continuous treatment with BRAFi, the pro-cancer MDSCs and chemokine CCL2 initially decrease but eventually increase to above their original level, while the anticancer T cells continuously decrease. In this paper, we develop a mathematical model that explains these experimental results. The model is used to explore the efficacy of combinations of BRAFi with anti-CCL2, anti-PD-1 and anti-CTLA-4, with the aim of eliminating or reducing drug resistance to BRAFi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avner Friedman
- Mathematical Biosciences Institute & Department of Mathematics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Nourridine Siewe
- Department of Mathematics, The University of British Columbia Okanagan, Kelowna, BC, Canada.
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24
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Janssen SM, Moscona R, Elchebly M, Papadakis AI, Redpath M, Wang H, Rubin E, van Kempen LC, Spatz A. BORIS/CTCFL promotes a switch from a proliferative towards an invasive phenotype in melanoma cells. Cell Death Discov 2020; 6:1. [PMID: 32123577 PMCID: PMC7026120 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-019-0235-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2019] [Revised: 11/27/2019] [Accepted: 12/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is among the most aggressive cancers due to its tendency to metastasize early. Phenotype switching between a proliferative and an invasive state has been suggested as a critical process for metastasis, though the mechanisms that regulate state transitions are complex and remain poorly understood. Brother of Regulator of Imprinted Sites (BORIS), also known as CCCTC binding factor-Like (CTCFL), is a transcriptional modulator that becomes aberrantly expressed in melanoma. Yet, the role of BORIS in melanoma remains elusive. Here, we show that BORIS is involved in melanoma phenotype switching. Genetic modification of BORIS expression in melanoma cells combined with whole-transcriptome analysis indicated that BORIS expression contributes to an invasion-associated transcriptome. In line with these findings, inducible BORIS overexpression in melanoma cells reduced proliferation and increased migration and invasion, demonstrating that the transcriptional switch is accompanied by a phenotypic switch. Mechanistically, we reveal that BORIS binds near the promoter of transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TFGB1), a well-recognized factor involved in the transition towards an invasive state, which coincided with increased expression of TGFB1. Overall, our study indicates a pro-invasive role for BORIS in melanoma via transcriptional reprogramming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanne Marlijn Janssen
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Montréal, QC Canada
- Department of Pathology, McGill University, Montréal, QC Canada
| | - Roy Moscona
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Genetics, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Mounib Elchebly
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Montréal, QC Canada
| | | | - Margaret Redpath
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Montréal, QC Canada
- Department of Pathology, McGill University, Montréal, QC Canada
- Division of Pathology, Department of Laboratory medicine, McGill University Health Center, Montreal, QC Canada
| | - Hangjun Wang
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Montréal, QC Canada
- Department of Pathology, McGill University, Montréal, QC Canada
- Division of Pathology, Department of Laboratory medicine, McGill University Health Center, Montreal, QC Canada
| | - Eitan Rubin
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Genetics, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Léon Cornelis van Kempen
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Montréal, QC Canada
- Department of Pathology, McGill University, Montréal, QC Canada
- Department of Pathology, Laboratory for Molecular Pathology, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Alan Spatz
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Montréal, QC Canada
- Department of Pathology, McGill University, Montréal, QC Canada
- Division of Pathology, Department of Laboratory medicine, McGill University Health Center, Montreal, QC Canada
- Department of Oncology, McGill University, Montréal, QC Canada
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25
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Xu Y, Mu Y, Wang L, Zhang X. Detailed Analysis of Molecular Mechanisms in Primary and Metastatic Melanoma. J Comput Biol 2020; 27:9-19. [PMID: 31424282 DOI: 10.1089/cmb.2019.0197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Yangchun Xu
- Department of Dermatology and Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yan Mu
- Department of Dermatology and Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Ling Wang
- Department of Gynecology, Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xuan Zhang
- Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
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26
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Cho WC, Jour G, Aung PP. Role of angiogenesis in melanoma progression: Update on key angiogenic mechanisms and other associated components. Semin Cancer Biol 2019; 59:175-186. [PMID: 31255774 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2019.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2019] [Revised: 06/05/2019] [Accepted: 06/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels from existing blood vessels, is a complex and highly regulated process that plays a role in a wide variety of physiological and pathological processes. In malignancy, angiogenesis is essential for neoplastic cells to acquire the nutrients and oxygen critical for their continued proliferation. Angiogenesis requires a sequence of well-coordinated events mediated by a number of tightly regulated interactions between pro-angiogenic factors and their corresponding receptors expressed on various vascular components (e.g., endothelial cells and pericytes) and stromal components forming the extracellular matrix. In this review, we discuss the functional roles of key growth factors and cytokines known to promote angiogenesis in cutaneous melanoma and key factors implicated in the extracellular matrix remodeling that acts synergistically with angiogenesis to promote tumor progression in melanoma, incorporating some of the most up-to-date basic science knowledge from recently published in vivo and in vitro experimental studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Woo Cheal Cho
- Department of Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - George Jour
- Department of Pathology and Dermatology, NYU Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Phyu P Aung
- Department of Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
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27
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Kaczorowski M, Biecek P, Donizy P, Pieniazek M, Matkowski R, Halon A. Low RhoA expression is associated with adverse outcome in melanoma patients: a clinicopathological analysis. Am J Transl Res 2019; 11:4524-4532. [PMID: 31396356 PMCID: PMC6684925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2019] [Accepted: 06/11/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
RhoA GTPase is physiologically involved in the formation of stress fibers, cellular contractility and polarity, maintenance of cell cycle and transcriptional control. During tumorigenesis, it plays roles in cancer cell proliferation, apoptosis, adhesion, invasion and metastasis. While RhoA seems to act as a tumor promotor in most malignancies, data regarding its function in skin melanoma are fragmentary and conflicting. We aimed to clarify the clinical significance of RhoA expression in melanoma by immunohistochemical evaluation of 134 primary tumors and subsequent statistical analysis with clinicopathological profiles of patients. Increased RhoA expression was associated with thinner tumors, higher grade of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes and lack of disease recurrence. Moreover, we observed a trend towards higher RhoA expression in cases without concurrent metastases. Recurrence-free survival and melanoma-specific survival of patients with high RhoA-expressing tumors were significantly prolonged. Multivariable regression model adjusting for melanoma thickness and status of regional lymph nodes confirmed independent prognostic value of RhoA immunoreactivity. In summary, we found associations between RhoA expression and histopathological phenotype of primary tumors as well as patient survival which suggest a suppressive role of RhoA in skin melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maciej Kaczorowski
- Department of Pathomorphology and Oncological Cytology, Wroclaw Medical UniversityBorowska 213, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Przemyslaw Biecek
- Faculty of Mathematics and Information Science, Warsaw University of TechnologyKoszykowa 75, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Piotr Donizy
- Department of Pathomorphology and Oncological Cytology, Wroclaw Medical UniversityBorowska 213, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Malgorzata Pieniazek
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Tadeusz Koszarowski Regional Oncology CentreKatowicka 66a, Opole, Poland
| | - Rafal Matkowski
- Department of Oncology and Division of Surgical Oncology, Wroclaw Medical UniversityHirszfelda 12, Wroclaw, Poland
- Lower Silesian Oncology CentreHirszfelda 12, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Halon
- Department of Pathomorphology and Oncological Cytology, Wroclaw Medical UniversityBorowska 213, Wroclaw, Poland
- Lower Silesian Oncology CentreHirszfelda 12, Wroclaw, Poland
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28
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Joshi P, Seki T, Kitamura S, Bergano A, Lee B, Perera RJ. Transcriptome stability profiling using 5'-bromouridine IP chase (BRIC-seq) identifies novel and functional microRNA targets in human melanoma cells. RNA Biol 2019; 16:1355-1363. [PMID: 31179855 DOI: 10.1080/15476286.2019.1629769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA half-life is closely related to its cellular physiological function, so stability determinants may have regulatory functions. Micro(mi)RNAs have primarily been studied with respect to post-transcriptional mRNA regulation and target degradation. Here we study the impact of the tumour suppressive melanoma miRNA miR-211 on transcriptome stability and phenotype in the non-pigmented melanoma cell line, A375. Using 5'-bromouridine IP chase (BRIC)-seq, transcriptome-wide RNA stability profiles revealed highly regulated genes and pathways important in this melanoma cell line. By combining BRIC-seq, RNA-seq and in silico predictions, we identified both existing and novel direct miR-211 targets. We validated DUSP3 as one such novel miR-211 target, which itself sustains colony formation and invasion in A375 cells via MAPK/PI3K signalling. miRNAs have the capacity to control RNA turnover as a gene expression mechanism, and RNA stability profiling is an excellent tool for interrogating functionally relevant gene regulatory pathways and miRNA targets when combined with other high-throughput and in silico approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piyush Joshi
- Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine , Baltimore , MD , USA.,Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute , Orlando , FL , USA
| | - Tatsuya Seki
- Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute , Orlando , FL , USA.,Medical and Biological Laboratories , Nagoya , Japan
| | | | - Andrea Bergano
- Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute , Orlando , FL , USA
| | - Bongyong Lee
- Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute , Orlando , FL , USA.,Cancer and Blood Disorders Institute, Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital , St. Petersburg , FL , USA
| | - Ranjan J Perera
- Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute , Orlando , FL , USA.,Cancer and Blood Disorders Institute, Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital , St. Petersburg , FL , USA.,The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine , Baltimore , MD , USA
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29
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Liu EM, Martinez-Fundichely A, Diaz BJ, Aronson B, Cuykendall T, MacKay M, Dhingra P, Wong EWP, Chi P, Apostolou E, Sanjana NE, Khurana E. Identification of Cancer Drivers at CTCF Insulators in 1,962 Whole Genomes. Cell Syst 2019; 8:446-455.e8. [PMID: 31078526 PMCID: PMC6917527 DOI: 10.1016/j.cels.2019.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2017] [Revised: 11/20/2018] [Accepted: 04/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Recent studies have shown that mutations at non-coding elements, such as promoters and enhancers, can act as cancer drivers. However, an important class of non-coding elements, namely CTCF insulators, has been overlooked in the previous driver analyses. We used insulator annotations from CTCF and cohesin ChIA-PET and analyzed somatic mutations in 1,962 whole genomes from 21 cancer types. Using the heterogeneous patterns of transcription-factor-motif disruption, functional impact, and recurrence of mutations, we developed a computational method that revealed 21 insulators showing signals of positive selection. In particular, mutations in an insulator in multiple cancer types, including 16% of melanoma samples, are associated with TGFB1 up-regulation. Using CRISPR-Cas9, we find that alterations at two of the most frequently mutated regions in this insulator increase cell growth by 40%-50%, supporting the role of this boundary element as a cancer driver. Thus, our study reveals several CTCF insulators as putative cancer drivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Minwei Liu
- Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA; Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA; Institute for Computational Biomedicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Alexander Martinez-Fundichely
- Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA; Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA; Institute for Computational Biomedicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Bianca Jay Diaz
- New York Genome Center, New York, NY 10013, USA; Department of Biology, New York University, New York, NY 10003, USA
| | - Boaz Aronson
- Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA; Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Tawny Cuykendall
- Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA; Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA; Institute for Computational Biomedicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Matthew MacKay
- Institute for Computational Biomedicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Priyanka Dhingra
- Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA; Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA; Institute for Computational Biomedicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Elissa W P Wong
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Ping Chi
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10021, USA; Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA; Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Effie Apostolou
- Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA; Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Neville E Sanjana
- New York Genome Center, New York, NY 10013, USA; Department of Biology, New York University, New York, NY 10003, USA
| | - Ekta Khurana
- Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA; Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA; Institute for Computational Biomedicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10021, USA; Caryl and Israel Englander Institute for Precision Medicine, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA.
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30
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Tuncer E, Calçada RR, Zingg D, Varum S, Cheng P, Freiberger SN, Deng CX, Kleiter I, Levesque MP, Dummer R, Sommer L. SMAD signaling promotes melanoma metastasis independently of phenotype switching. J Clin Invest 2019; 129:2702-2716. [PMID: 31039140 DOI: 10.1172/jci94295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of metastatic melanoma is thought to require the dynamic shifting of neoplastic cells between proliferative and invasive phenotypes. Contrary to this conventional "phenotype switching" model, we now show that disease progression can involve malignant melanoma cells simultaneously displaying proliferative and invasive properties. Using a genetic mouse model of melanoma in combination with in vitro analyses of melanoma cell lines, we found that conditional deletion of the downstream signaling molecule Smad4, which abrogates all canonical TGF-β signaling, indeed inhibits both tumor growth and metastasis. Conditional deletion of the inhibitory signaling factor Smad7, however, generated cells that are both highly invasive and proliferative, indicating that invasiveness is compatible with a high proliferation rate. In fact, conditional Smad7 deletion led to sustained melanoma growth and at the same time promoted massive metastasis formation, a result consistent with data indicating that low SMAD7 levels in patient tumors are associated with a poor survival. Our findings reveal that modulation of SMAD7 levels can overcome the need for phenotype switching during tumor progression and may thus represent a novel therapeutic target in metastatic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eylul Tuncer
- Stem Cell Biology, Institute of Anatomy, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Raquel R Calçada
- Stem Cell Biology, Institute of Anatomy, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Daniel Zingg
- Stem Cell Biology, Institute of Anatomy, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Sandra Varum
- Stem Cell Biology, Institute of Anatomy, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Phil Cheng
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | - Chu-Xia Deng
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau SAR, China
| | - Ingo Kleiter
- Department of Neurology, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany and Marianne-Strauß-Klinik, Behandlungszentrum Kempfenhausen für Multiple Sklerose Kranke gGmbH, Berg, Germany
| | | | - Reinhard Dummer
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Lukas Sommer
- Stem Cell Biology, Institute of Anatomy, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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31
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Lai X, Friedman A. How to schedule VEGF and PD-1 inhibitors in combination cancer therapy? BMC SYSTEMS BIOLOGY 2019; 13:30. [PMID: 30894166 PMCID: PMC6427900 DOI: 10.1186/s12918-019-0706-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2018] [Accepted: 02/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Background One of the questions in the design of cancer clinical trials with combination of two drugs is in which order to administer the drugs. This is an important question, especially in the case where one agent may interfere with the effectiveness of the other agent. Results In the present paper we develop a mathematical model to address this scheduling question in a specific case where one of the drugs is anti-VEGF, which is known to affect the perfusion of other drugs. As a second drug we take anti-PD-1. Both drugs are known to increase the activation of anticancer T cells. Our simulations show that in the case where anti-VEGF reduces the perfusion, a non-overlapping schedule is significantly more effective than a simultaneous injection of the two drugs, and it is somewhat more beneficial to inject anti-PD-1 first. Conclusion The method and results of the paper can be extended to other combinations, and they could play an important role in the design of clinical trials with combination therapy, where scheduling strategies may significantly affect the outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiulan Lai
- Institute for Mathematical Sciences, Renmin University of China, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Avner Friedman
- Mathematical Bioscience Institute & Department of Mathematics, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.
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32
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TGF-β inducible epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition in renal cell carcinoma. Oncotarget 2019; 10:1507-1524. [PMID: 30863498 PMCID: PMC6407676 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.26682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2018] [Accepted: 02/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a crucial step in cancer progression and the number one reason for poor prognosis and worse overall survival of patients. Although this essential process has been widely studied in many solid tumors as e.g. melanoma and breast cancer, more detailed research in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is required, especially for the major EMT-inducer transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β). Here, we provide a study of six different RCC cell lines of two different RCC subtypes and their response to recombinant TGF-β1 treatment. We established a model system shifting the cells to a mesenchymal cell type without losing their mesenchymal character even in the absence of the external stimulus. This model system forms a solid basis for future studies of the EMT process in RCCs to better understand the molecular basis of this process responsible for cancer progression.
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33
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Bridge JA, Lee JC, Daud A, Wells JW, Bluestone JA. Cytokines, Chemokines, and Other Biomarkers of Response for Checkpoint Inhibitor Therapy in Skin Cancer. Front Med (Lausanne) 2018; 5:351. [PMID: 30631766 PMCID: PMC6315146 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2018.00351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2018] [Accepted: 11/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy for skin malignancies has ushered in a new era for cancer treatments by demonstrating unprecedented durable responses in the setting of metastatic Melanoma. Consequently, checkpoint inhibitors are now the first-line treatment of metastatic melanoma and widely used as adjuvant therapy for stage III disease. With the observation that higher tumor mutational burden correlates with a better response, checkpoint inhibitors are tested in other skin cancer types of known high tumor mutational burden with promising results and recently became the first-ever FDA-approved treatment for metastatic Merkel cell carcinoma. The emerging new standards-of-care will necessitate more precise biomarkers and predictors for treatment response and immune-related adverse events. Measurable immune-related mediators are currently under investigation as factors that promote or block the response to cancer immunotherapy and may provide insights into the underlying immune response to the tumor. Cytokines and chemokines are such mediators and are crucial for facilitating the recruitment and activation of specific subsets of leukocytes within the microenvironment of skin cancers. The exact mechanisms of how these meditators, both immunological and non-immunological, operate in the tumor microenvironment is an area of active research, so to reliable biomarkers of responses to cancer immunotherapy. Here, we will review and summarize the expanding body of literature for immune-related biomarkers pertaining to Melanoma, Basal cell carcinoma, Squamous cell carcinoma, and Merkel cell carcinoma, highlighting clinically relevant checkpoint inhibitor therapy biomarker advancements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer A Bridge
- Diabetes Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - James C Lee
- Diabetes Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Adil Daud
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - James W Wells
- The Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, The University of Queensland, Translational Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Jeffrey A Bluestone
- Sean N. Parker Autoimmune Research Laboratory, Diabetes Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
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Hou L, Liu Q, Shen L, Liu Y, Zhang X, Chen F, Huang L. Nano-delivery of fraxinellone remodels tumor microenvironment and facilitates therapeutic vaccination in desmoplastic melanoma. Theranostics 2018; 8:3781-3796. [PMID: 30083259 PMCID: PMC6071534 DOI: 10.7150/thno.24821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2018] [Accepted: 03/16/2018] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Rationale: Tumor-associated fibroblasts (TAFs) play a critical role in the suppressive immune tumor microenvironment (TME), compromising the efficacy of immunotherapy. To overcome this therapeutic hurdle, we developed a nanoemulsion (NE) formulation to deliver fraxinellone (Frax), an anti-fibrotic medicine, to TAFs, as an approach to reverse immunosuppressive TME of desmoplastic melanoma. Methods: Frax NE was prepared by an ultrasonic emulsification method. The tumor inhibition effect was evaluated by immunofluorescence staining, masson trichrome staining and western blot analysis. Immune cell populations in tumor and LNs were detected by flow cytometry. Results: This Frax NE, with a particle size of around 145 nm, can efficiently accumulate in the tumor site after systemic administration and was taken up by TAFs and tumor cells. A significant decrease in TAFs and stroma deposition was observed after intravenous administration of Frax NE, and Frax NE treatment also remolded the tumor immune microenvironment, as was reflected by an increase of natural-killer cells, cytotoxic T cells (CTLs) as well as a decrease of regulatory B cells, and myeloid-derived suppressor cells in the TME. In addition, after treatment by Frax NEs, T helper 1 (Th1) cytokines of interferon gamma (IFN-γ), which effectively elicit anti-tumor immunity, were enhanced. Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 2 (CCL2) and interleukin 6 (IL6), which inhibit the development of anti-tumor immunity, were reduced. Although Frax NE demonstrated an inhibitory effect on tumor growth, this mono-therapy could only achieve partial antitumor efficacy, and the tumor growth effect was not maintained long-term after dosing stopped. Therefore, a tumor-specific peptide vaccine was combined with Frax NEs. The combination led to enhanced tumor-specific T-cell infiltration, activated death receptors on the tumor cell surface, and induced increased apoptotic tumor cell death. Conclusion: Collectively, Frax NE combined with tumor-specific peptide vaccine might be an effective and safe strategy to remodel fibrotic TME, thereby enhancing immune response activation, resulting in a prolonged efficiency for advanced desmoplastic melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Hou
- Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics and Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, 100 Kexue Avenue, Zhengzhou 450001, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of New Drug Research and Safety Evaluation, Henan Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Targeting and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases, Henan Province, China
| | - Qi Liu
- Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics and Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Limei Shen
- Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics and Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Yun Liu
- Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics and Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Xueqiong Zhang
- Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics and Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Fengqian Chen
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, The Institute of Environmental and Human Health (TIEHH) and the Center for Biotechnology & Genomics, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79416, USA
| | - Leaf Huang
- Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics and Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
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35
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Lai X, Stiff A, Duggan M, Wesolowski R, Carson WE, Friedman A. Modeling combination therapy for breast cancer with BET and immune checkpoint inhibitors. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2018; 115:5534-5539. [PMID: 29735668 PMCID: PMC6003484 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1721559115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
CTLA-4 is an immune checkpoint expressed on active anticancer T cells. When it combines with its ligand B7 on dendritic cells, it inhibits the activity of the T cells. The Bromo- and Extra-Terminal (BET) protein family includes proteins that regulate the expression of key oncogenes and antiapoptotic proteins. BET inhibitor (BETi) has been shown to reduce the expression of MYC by suppressing its transcription factors and to down-regulate the hypoxic transcriptome response to VEGF-A. This paper develops a mathematical model of the treatment of cancer by combination therapy of BETi and CTLA-4 inhibitor. The model shows that the two drugs are positively correlated in the sense that the tumor volume decreases as the dose of each of the drugs is increased. The model also considers the effect of the combined therapy on levels of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) and the overexpression of TNF-α, which may predict gastrointestinal side effects of the combination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiulan Lai
- Institute for Mathematical Sciences, Renmin University of China, 100872 Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Andrew Stiff
- Medical Scientist Training Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210
- Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210
| | - Megan Duggan
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210
| | - Robert Wesolowski
- Stefanie Spielman Comprehensive Breast Center, Wexner Medical Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43212
| | - William E Carson
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210
| | - Avner Friedman
- Mathematical Bioscience Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210;
- Department of Mathematics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210
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Skarmoutsou E, Bevelacqua V, D' Amico F, Russo A, Spandidos DA, Scalisi A, Malaponte G, Guarneri C. FOXP3 expression is modulated by TGF‑β1/NOTCH1 pathway in human melanoma. Int J Mol Med 2018; 42:392-404. [PMID: 29620159 PMCID: PMC5979787 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2018.3618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2018] [Accepted: 04/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Forkhead box protein 3 (FOXP3) transcription factor is expressed by immune cells and several human cancers and is associated with tumor aggressiveness and unfavorable clinical outcomes. NOTCH and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) protumorigenic effects are mediated by FOXP3 expression in several cancer models; however, their interaction and role in melanoma is unknown. We investigated TGF-β-induced FOXP3 gene expression during NOTCH1 signaling inactivation. Primary (WM35) and metastatic melanoma (A375 and A2058) cell lines and normal melanocytes (NHEM) were used. FOXP3 subcellular distribution was evaluated by immuno cytochemical analysis. Gene expression levels were assessed by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Protein levels were assessed by western blot analysis. The γ-secretase inhibitor (GSI) was used for NOTCH1 inhibition and recombinant human (rh)TGF-β was used for melanoma cell stimulation. Cell proliferation and viability were respectively assessed by MTT and Trypan blue dye assays. FOXP3 mRNA and protein levels were progressively higher in WM35, A375 and A2058 cell lines compared to NHEM and their levels were further increased after stimulation with rh-TGF-β. TGF-β-mediated FOXP3 expression was mediated by NOTCH1 signaling. Inhibition of NOTCH1 with concomitant rh-TGF-β stimulation determined the reduction in gene expression and protein level of FOXP3. Finally, melanoma cell line proliferation and viability were reduced by NOTCH1 inhibition. The results show that nn increase in FOXP3 expression in metastatic melanoma cell lines is a potential marker of tumor aggressiveness and metastasis. NOTCH1 is a central mediator of TGF-β-mediated FOXP3 expression and NOTCH1 inhibition produces a significant reduction of melanoma cell proliferation and viability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Skarmoutsou
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Science, University of Catania, 95124 Catania, Italy
| | - Valentina Bevelacqua
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Science, University of Catania, 95124 Catania, Italy
| | - Fabio D' Amico
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Science, University of Catania, 95124 Catania, Italy
| | - Angela Russo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Science, University of Catania, 95124 Catania, Italy
| | - Demetrios A Spandidos
- Laboratory of Clinical Virology, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Aurora Scalisi
- Unit of Oncologic Diseases, ASP‑Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy
| | - Grazia Malaponte
- Research Unit of the Catania Section of the Italian League Against Cancer, 95122 Catania, Italy
| | - Claudio Guarneri
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Dermatology, University of Messina, 98122 Messina, Italy
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Angiogenin Attenuates Scar Formation in Burn Patients by Reducing Fibroblast Proliferation and Transforming Growth Factor β1 Secretion. Ann Plast Surg 2018; 80:S79-S83. [DOI: 10.1097/sap.0000000000001306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
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low neurotrophin receptor CD271 regulates phenotype switching in melanoma. Nat Commun 2017; 8:1988. [PMID: 29215016 PMCID: PMC5719420 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-017-01573-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2016] [Accepted: 09/29/2017] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Cutaneous melanoma represents the most fatal skin cancer due to its high metastatic capacity. According to the “phenotype switching” model, the aggressive nature of melanoma cells results from their intrinsic potential to dynamically switch from a high-proliferative/low-invasive to a low-proliferative/high-invasive state. Here we identify the low affinity neurotrophin receptor CD271 as a key effector of phenotype switching in melanoma. CD271 plays a dual role in this process by decreasing proliferation, while simultaneously promoting invasiveness. Dynamic modification of CD271 expression allows tumor cells to grow at low levels of CD271, to reduce growth and invade when CD271 expression is high, and to re-expand at a distant site upon decrease of CD271 expression. Mechanistically, the cleaved intracellular domain of CD271 controls proliferation, while the interaction of CD271 with the neurotrophin receptor Trk-A modulates cell adhesiveness through dynamic regulation of a set of cholesterol synthesis genes relevant for patient survival. The aggressive nature of melanoma cells relies on their ability to switch from a high-proliferative/low-invasive to a low-proliferative/high-invasive state; however, the mechanisms governing this switch are unclear. Here, using in vivo models of human melanoma, the authors show that CD271 is a key regulator of phenotype switching and metastasis formation.
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Donovan P, Dubey OA, Kallioinen S, Rogers KW, Muehlethaler K, Müller P, Rimoldi D, Constam DB. Paracrine Activin-A Signaling Promotes Melanoma Growth and Metastasis through Immune Evasion. J Invest Dermatol 2017; 137:2578-2587. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2017.07.845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2017] [Revised: 06/26/2017] [Accepted: 07/25/2017] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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Wang X, Hassan W, Jabeen Q, Khan GJ, Iqbal F. Interdependent and independent multidimensional role of tumor microenvironment on hepatocellular carcinoma. Cytokine 2017; 103:150-159. [PMID: 29029799 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2017.09.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2017] [Revised: 09/03/2017] [Accepted: 09/22/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The novelty of an effective therapeutic targeting for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is based on improved understanding of each component of tumor microenvironment (TME) and its correspondent interactions at biological and molecular levels. In this context, new expansions for the treatment against TME and its communication with HCC are under exploration. Despite of the fact that blockage of growth factor receptors has become a treatment of choice in late phases of HCC in clinical practice, still a precise targeted treatment should address all the components of TME. Targeting one specific element out of cellular (cancer associated fibroblasts, endothelial cells, hepatic stellate cells, Kupffer cells and lymphocytes) or non-cellular (extracellular matrix, growth factors, inflammatory cytokines, proteolytic enzymes) parts of TME may not be a successful remedy for the disease because of well-designed hindrances of each component and their functional alternativeness. Meanwhile there are some elements of TME like epithelial-mesenchymal transition and CAF, which are considerably important and need thorough investigations. Ascertaining the potential role of these elements, and a single or combinational drug therapy targeting these elements of TME simultaneously, may provide the appreciable considerations to eventually improve in clinical practices and may also minimize the chances of reoccurrence of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Wang
- Jiangnan University, Wuxi Medical School, Wuxi 214122, China; China Pharmaceutical University, Department of Pharmacology, Nanjing 210009, China.
| | - Waseem Hassan
- Department of Pharmacy, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, Pakistan; Department of Pharmacy, The University of Lahore, Pakistan.
| | - Qaiser Jabeen
- Department of Pharmacy, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, Pakistan.
| | - Ghulam Jilany Khan
- China Pharmaceutical University, Department of Pharmacology, Nanjing 210009, China.
| | - Furqan Iqbal
- Department of Pharmacy, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan.
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Monti P, Ghiorzo P, Menichini P, Foggetti G, Queirolo P, Izzotti A, Fronza G. TP63 mutations are frequent in cutaneous melanoma, support UV etiology, but their role in melanomagenesis is unclear. Oncol Rep 2017; 38:1985-1994. [PMID: 28849221 PMCID: PMC5652947 DOI: 10.3892/or.2017.5903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2017] [Accepted: 07/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
In contrast to TP53, cancer development is rarely associated with mutations in the TP63 and TP73 genes. Recently, next generation sequencing analysis revealed that TP63 mutations are frequent, specifically in cutaneous melanomas. Cutaneous melanoma represents 4% of skin cancers but it is responsible for 80% of skin cancer related deaths. In the present study, we first determined whether all three members of the P53 family of transcription factors were found mutated in cutaneous melanomas by retrieving all TP53, TP63 and TP73 mutations from cBioPortal (http://www.cbioportal.org/). TP53 and TP63 were frequently mutated [15.0% (91/605) and 14.7% (89/605), respectively], while TP73 [1.5% (9/605)] was more rarely mutated (p<0.0001). A UV-mutation fingerprint was recognized for TP63 and TP73 genes. Then, we tried to evaluate the potential role of TP63 mutations as drivers or passengers in the tumorigenic process. In the former case, the amino acid substitutions should cause significant functional consequences on the main biochemical activity of the P63 protein, namely transactivation. The predicted effects of specific amino acid substitutions by two bioinformatics tools were rather different. Using a yeast-based functional assay, the observed hotspot mutant R379CP63 protein exhibited a substantial residual activity compared to the wild-type (>70%). This result does not support a major role of the mutant P63 protein in melanomagenesis while it is still consistent with the TP63 gene being a recorder of UV exposure. The TP63 mutation spectrum from cutaneous melanomas, when compared with that observed at the germinal level in patients affected by P63-associated diseases [ectodermal dysplasia syndromes, (EDs)], revealed significant differences. The TP63 mutations were more frequent at CpGs sites (p<0.0001) in EDs and at PyPy sites (p<0.0001) in cutaneous melanomas. The two spectra differed significantly (p<0.0001). We conclude that TP63 mutations are frequent in cutaneous melanoma, support UV etiology, but their role in melanomagenesis is unclear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Monti
- UOC Mutagenesis, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, I-16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Paola Ghiorzo
- Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Genova, I-16132 Genova, Italy
- Genetics of Rare Cancers Unit, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, I-16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Paola Menichini
- UOC Mutagenesis, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, I-16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Giorgia Foggetti
- UOC Mutagenesis, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, I-16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Paola Queirolo
- Medical Oncology Unit, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, I-16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Alberto Izzotti
- UOC Mutagenesis, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, I-16132 Genova, Italy
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genova, I-16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Gilberto Fronza
- UOC Mutagenesis, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, I-16132 Genova, Italy
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Pan G, Cheng L, Feng X, Zhu X, Wu G. Ethanol Extract of Stellera chamaejasme L. Inhibits Hepatoma Cell Proliferation Through Down-regulation of Smad4-mediated TGF-β Signaling Pathway. INT J PHARMACOL 2017. [DOI: 10.3923/ijp.2017.628.635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Lai X, Friedman A. Combination therapy for melanoma with BRAF/MEK inhibitor and immune checkpoint inhibitor: a mathematical model. BMC SYSTEMS BIOLOGY 2017; 11:70. [PMID: 28724377 PMCID: PMC5517842 DOI: 10.1186/s12918-017-0446-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2017] [Accepted: 07/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The B-raf gene is mutated in up to 66% of human malignant melanomas, and its protein product, BRAF kinase, is a key part of RAS-RAF-MEK-ERK (MAPK) pathway of cancer cell proliferation. BRAF-targeted therapy induces significant responses in the majority of patients, and the combination BRAF/MEK inhibitor enhances clinical efficacy, but the response to BRAF inhibitor and to BRAF/MEK inhibitor is short lived. On the other hand, treatment of melanoma with an immune checkpoint inhibitor, such as anti-PD-1, has lower response rate but the response is much more durable, lasting for years. For this reason, it was suggested that combination of BRAF/MEK and PD-1 inhibitors will significantly improve overall survival time. RESULTS This paper develops a mathematical model to address the question of the correlation between BRAF/MEK inhibitor and PD-1 inhibitor in melanoma therapy. The model includes dendritic and cancer cells, CD 4+ and CD 8+ T cells, MDSC cells, interleukins IL-12, IL-2, IL-6, IL-10 and TGF- β, PD-1 and PD-L1, and the two drugs: BRAF/MEK inhibitor (with concentration γ B ) and PD-1 inhibitor (with concentration γ A ). The model is represented by a system of partial differential equations, and is used to develop an efficacy map for the combined concentrations (γ B ,γ A ). It is shown that the two drugs are positively correlated if γ B and γ A are at low doses, that is, the growth of the tumor volume decreases if either γ B or γ A is increased. On the other hand, the two drugs are antagonistic at some high doses, that is, there are zones of (γ B ,γ A ) where an increase in one of the two drugs will increase the tumor volume growth, rather than decrease it. CONCLUSIONS It will be important to identify, by animal experiments or by early clinical trials, the zones of (γ B ,γ A ) where antagonism occurs, in order to avoid these zones in more advanced clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiulan Lai
- Institute for Mathematical Sciences, Renmin University of China, Beijing, 100872 People’s Republic of China
| | - Avner Friedman
- Mathematical Bioscience Institute & Department of Mathematics, Ohio State University, Columbus, 43210 OH USA
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Izraely S, Ben-Menachem S, Sagi-Assif O, Meshel T, Marzese DM, Ohe S, Zubrilov I, Pasmanik-Chor M, Hoon DSB, Witz IP. ANGPTL4 promotes the progression of cutaneous melanoma to brain metastasis. Oncotarget 2017; 8:75778-75796. [PMID: 29100268 PMCID: PMC5652662 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.19018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2017] [Accepted: 06/10/2017] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
In an ongoing effort to identify molecular determinants regulating melanoma brain metastasis, we previously identified Angiopoietin-like 4 (ANGPTL4) as a component of the molecular signature of such metastases. The aim of this study was to determine the functional significance of ANGPTL4 in the shaping of melanoma malignancy phenotype, especially in the establishment of brain metastasis. We confirmed that ANGPTL4 expression is significantly higher in cells metastasizing to the brain than in cells from the cutaneous (local) tumor from the same melanoma in a nude mouse xenograft model, and also in paired clinical specimens of melanoma metastases than in primary melanomas from the same patients. In vitro experiments indicated that brain-derived soluble factors and transforming growth factor β1 (TGFβ1) up-regulated ANGPTL4 expression by melanoma cells. Forced over-expression of ANGPTL4 in cutaneous melanoma cells promoted their ability to adhere and transmigrate brain endothelial cells. Over-expressing ANGPTL4 in cells derived from brain metastases resulted in the opposite effects. In vivo data indicated that forced overexpression of ANGPTL4 promoted the tumorigenicity of cutaneous melanoma cells but did not increase their ability to form brain metastasis. This finding can be explained by inhibitory activities of brain-derived soluble factors. Taken together these findings indicate that ANGPTL4 promotes the malignancy phenotype of primary melanomas of risk to metastasize to the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sivan Izraely
- Department of Cell Research and Immunology, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Shlomit Ben-Menachem
- Department of Cell Research and Immunology, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Orit Sagi-Assif
- Department of Cell Research and Immunology, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Tsipi Meshel
- Department of Cell Research and Immunology, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Diego M Marzese
- Department of Translational Molecular Medicine, John Wayne Cancer Institute at Providence Saint John's Health Center, Santa Monica, CA, USA
| | - Shuichi Ohe
- Department of Translational Molecular Medicine, John Wayne Cancer Institute at Providence Saint John's Health Center, Santa Monica, CA, USA
| | - Inna Zubrilov
- Department of Cell Research and Immunology, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Metsada Pasmanik-Chor
- Bioinformatics Unit, The George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Dave S B Hoon
- Department of Translational Molecular Medicine, John Wayne Cancer Institute at Providence Saint John's Health Center, Santa Monica, CA, USA
| | - Isaac P Witz
- Department of Cell Research and Immunology, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
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Komina A, Palkina N, Aksenenko M, Tsyrenzhapova S, Ruksha T. Antiproliferative and Pro-Apoptotic Effects of MiR-4286 Inhibition in Melanoma Cells. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0168229. [PMID: 28005927 PMCID: PMC5179095 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0168229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2016] [Accepted: 11/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION MicroRNAs are essential regulators of gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. Their expression is altered in cancer tissues, and evaluation of these alterations is considered a promising tool used to diagnose and identify prognostic markers. MATERIALS AND METHODS The microRNA expression profiles of formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded melanoma and melanocytic nevi samples were estimated with a microarray and subsequently validated by real-time PCR. Melanoma cells were transfected with miR-4286 inhibitor to evaluate the influence of this microRNA on the viability, proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and invasion of melanoma cells. RESULTS The microarray revealed that the expression of 1,171 microRNAs was altered in melanoma samples compared to melanocytic nevi. Real-time PCR validation experiments found the microRNA expression levels to correspond to the melanoma/melanocytic nevi microarray results. The pathway analysis identified 52 modulated pathways in melanoma. Moreover, the application of miR-4286 inhibitor to BRO melanoma cells resulted in a 2.6-fold increase in the apoptosis rate and a 1.7-fold decrease in the cell proliferation/viability but did not affect the invasiveness and migration of these cells. Furthermore, the use of miR-4286 inhibitor altered the mRNA expression of several miR-4286 gene targets: folylpolyglutamate synthase, RNA polymerase I-specific transcription initiation factor, apelin, G-protein-coupled receptor 55, and high-mobility group A1 protein, which have been implicated in cell proliferation/apoptosis regulation. Lastly, the transiently transfected SK-MEL-1 cells with miR-4286 inhibitor decreased proliferation rate and modulated folylpolyglutamate synthase rates of these cells. CONCLUSION Our results demonstrate that miR-4286 mediates proliferation and apoptosis in melanoma cells, these findings may represent a novel mechanism underlying these processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Komina
- Department of Pathophysiology, Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, Krasnoyarsk, Russian Federation
| | - Nadezhda Palkina
- Department of Pathophysiology, Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, Krasnoyarsk, Russian Federation
| | - Mariya Aksenenko
- Department of Pathophysiology, Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, Krasnoyarsk, Russian Federation
| | - Seseg Tsyrenzhapova
- Department of Pathophysiology, Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, Krasnoyarsk, Russian Federation
| | - Tatiana Ruksha
- Department of Pathophysiology, Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, Krasnoyarsk, Russian Federation
- * E-mail:
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Liu B, Shi Y, Peng W, Zhang Q, Liu J, Chen N, Zhu R. Diosmetin induces apoptosis by upregulating p53 via the TGF-β signal pathway in HepG2 hepatoma cells. Mol Med Rep 2016; 14:159-64. [PMID: 27176768 PMCID: PMC4918616 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2016.5258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2015] [Accepted: 04/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Diosmetin (Dio) is a major active component of flavonoid compounds. A previous study demonstrated that Dio exhibited anticancer activity and induced apoptosis in HepG2 human hepatoma cells via cytochrome P450, family 1-catalyzed metabolism. The present study observed that cell proliferation of HepG2 cells was inhibited by Dio treatment and tumor protein p53 was significantly increased following Dio treatment. Following addition of recombinant transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) protein to Dio-treated HepG2 cells, cell growth inhibition and cell apoptosis was partially reversed. These findings suggest a novel function for the TGF-β/TGF-β receptor signaling pathway and that it may be a key target of Dio-induced cell apoptosis in HepG2 cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Liu
- Laboratory of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Guangdong Medical University; Zhanjiang Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong 524001, P.R. China
| | - Yufeng Shi
- Laboratory of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Guangdong Medical University; Zhanjiang Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong 524001, P.R. China
| | - Wending Peng
- Laboratory of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Guangdong Medical University; Zhanjiang Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong 524001, P.R. China
| | - Qingyu Zhang
- Laboratory of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Guangdong Medical University; Zhanjiang Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong 524001, P.R. China
| | - Jie Liu
- Laboratory of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Guangdong Medical University; Zhanjiang Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong 524001, P.R. China
| | - Nianping Chen
- Laboratory of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Guangdong Medical University; Zhanjiang Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong 524001, P.R. China
| | - Runzhi Zhu
- Laboratory of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Guangdong Medical University; Zhanjiang Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong 524001, P.R. China
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Correlation of TGF-β1 and oxidative stress in the blood of patients with melanoma: a clue to understanding melanoma progression? Tumour Biol 2016; 37:10753-61. [PMID: 26873487 DOI: 10.1007/s13277-016-4967-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2015] [Accepted: 02/02/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
TGF-β1 and oxidative stress are involved in cancer progression, but in melanoma, their role is still controversial. Our aim was to correlate plasma TGF-β1 levels and systemic oxidative stress biomarkers in patients with melanoma, with or without disease metastasis, to understand their participation in melanoma progression. Thirty patients were recruited for melanoma surveillance, together with 30 healthy volunteers. Patients were divided into two groups: Non-metastasis, comprising patients with tumor removal and no metastatic episode for 3 years; and Metastasis, comprising patients with a metastatic episode. The plasmatic cytokines TGF-β1, IL-1 β, and TNF-α were analyzed by ELISA. For oxidative stress, the following assays were performed: malondialdehyde (MDA), advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP) levels, total radical-trapping antioxidant parameter (TRAP) and thiol in plasma, and lipid peroxidation, SOD and catalase activity and GSH in erythrocytes. Patients with a metastatic episode had less circulating TGF-β1 and increased TRAP, thiol, AOPP and lipid peroxidation levels. MDA was increased in both melanoma groups, while catalase, GSH, and IL-1β was decreased in Non-metastasis patients. Significant negative correlations were observed between TGF-β1 levels and systemic MDA, and TGF-β1 levels and systemic AOPP, while a positive correlation was observed between TGF-β1 levels and erythrocyte GSH. Lower levels of TGF-β1 were related to increased oxidative stress in Metastasis patients, reinforcing new evidence that in melanoma TGF-β1 acts as a tumor suppressor, inhibiting tumor relapse. These findings provide new knowledge concerning this cancer pathophysiology, extending the possibilities of investigating new therapies based on this evidence.
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Detection of Exosomal miRNAs in the Plasma of Melanoma Patients. J Clin Med 2015; 4:2012-27. [PMID: 26694476 PMCID: PMC4693157 DOI: 10.3390/jcm4121957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2015] [Revised: 12/01/2015] [Accepted: 12/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of 22–25 nucleotide RNAs that control gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. MiRNAs have potential as cancer biomarkers. Melanoma is a highly aggressive form of skin cancer accounting for almost 4% of cancers among men and women, and ~80% of skin cancer-related deaths in the US. In the present study we analyzed plasma-derived exosomal miRNAs from clinically affected and unaffected familial melanoma patients (CDKN2A/p16 gene carriers) and compared them with affected (nonfamilial melanoma) and unaffected control subjects in order to identify novel risk biomarkers for melanoma. Intact miRNAs can be isolated from the circulation because of their presence in exosomes. A number of differentially regulated miRNAs identified by NanoString human V2 miRNA array were validated by quantitative PCR. Significantly, miR-17, miR-19a, miR-21, miR-126, and miR-149 were expressed at higher levels in patients with metastatic sporadic melanoma as compared with familial melanoma patients or unaffected control subjects. Surprisingly, no substantial differences in miRNA expression were detected between familial melanoma patients (all inclusive) and unaffected control subjects. The miRNAs differentially expressed in the different patient cohorts, especially in patients with metastatic melanoma, may play important roles in tumor progression and metastasis, and may be used as predictive biomarkers to monitor remission as well as relapse following therapeutic intervention.
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Senft D, Ronai ZA. Immunogenic, cellular, and angiogenic drivers of tumor dormancy--a melanoma view. Pigment Cell Melanoma Res 2015; 29:27-42. [PMID: 26514653 DOI: 10.1111/pcmr.12432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2015] [Accepted: 10/27/2015] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
In tumor cells, the ability to maintain viability over long time periods without proliferation is referred to as a state of dormancy. Maintenance of dormancy is controlled by numerous cellular and environmental factors, from immune surveillance and tumor-stroma interaction to intracellular signaling. Interference of dormancy (to an 'awaken' state) is associated with reduced response to therapy, resulting in relapse or in metastatic burst. Thus, maintaining a dormant state should prolong therapeutic responses and delay metastasis. Technical obstacles in studying tumor dormancy have limited our understanding of underlying mechanisms and hampered our ability to target dormant cells. In this review, we summarize the progress of research in the field of immunogenic, angiogenic, and cellular dormancy in diverse malignancies with particular attention to our current understanding in melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Senft
- Cancer Center, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Ze'ev A Ronai
- Cancer Center, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
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Qiu T, Wang H, Wang Y, Zhang Y, Hui Q, Tao K. Identification of genes associated with melanoma metastasis. Kaohsiung J Med Sci 2015; 31:553-61. [PMID: 26678934 DOI: 10.1016/j.kjms.2015.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2015] [Revised: 09/02/2015] [Accepted: 09/14/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The aims of the study were to identify the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between primary melanomas and metastasis melanomas (MMs), and to investigate the mechanisms of MMs. The microarray data GSE8401 including 31 primary melanomas and 52 MMs were downloaded from Gene Expression Omnibus. DEGs were identified using the Linear Models for Microarray Data package. The functional and pathway enrichment analyses were performed for DEGs. Identification of transcription factors, tumor-associated genes (TAGs), and tumor suppressor genes (TSGs) were performed with the TRANSFAC, TAG, and TSGene databases, respectively. A protein-protein interaction network was constructed using Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes. The modules construction and analysis was performed using Molecular Complex Detection and Gene Cluster with Literature Profiles, respectively. In total, 1004 upregulated and 1008 downregulated DEGs were identified. The upregulated DEGs, such as CDK1, BRCA1, MAD2L1, and PCNA, were significantly enriched in cell cycles, DNA replication, and mismatch repair. The downregulated DEGs, such as COLIAL, COL4A5, COL18A1, and LAMC2, were enriched in cell adhesion and extracellular matrix-receptor interaction. BRCA1 was identified as a transcription factor and TSG, and COL18A1 and LAMC2 were identified as a TSG and TAG, respectively. The upregulated DEGs had higher degrees in the protein-protein interaction network and module, such as PCNA, CDK1, and MAD2L1, and the heat map showed they were clustered in the functions of cell cycle and division. These results may demonstrate the potential roles of DEGs such as CDK1, BRCA1, COL18A1, and LAMC2 in the mechanism of MM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Qiu
- Department of Plastic Surgery, General Hospital of Shenyang Military Area Command, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Hongyi Wang
- Department of Plastic Surgery, General Hospital of Shenyang Military Area Command, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Yang Wang
- Department of Plastic Surgery, General Hospital of Shenyang Military Area Command, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Department of Plastic Surgery, General Hospital of Shenyang Military Area Command, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Qiang Hui
- Department of Plastic Surgery, General Hospital of Shenyang Military Area Command, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Kai Tao
- Department of Plastic Surgery, General Hospital of Shenyang Military Area Command, Shenyang, Liaoning, China.
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