1
|
Yu R, Maswikiti EP, Yu Y, Gao L, Ma C, Ma H, Deng X, Wang N, Wang B, Chen H. Advances in the Application of Preclinical Models in Photodynamic Therapy for Tumor: A Narrative Review. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15010197. [PMID: 36678826 PMCID: PMC9867105 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15010197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2022] [Revised: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a non-invasive laser light local treatment that has been utilized in the management of a wide variety of solid tumors. Moreover, the evaluation of efficacy, adverse reactions, the development of new photosensitizers and the latest therapeutic regimens are inseparable from the preliminary exploration in preclinical studies. Therefore, our aim was to better comprehend the characteristics and limitations of these models and to provide a reference for related research. METHODS We searched the databases, including PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus for the past 25 years of original research articles on the feasibility of PDT in tumor treatment based on preclinical experiments and animal models. We provided insights into inclusion and exclusion criteria and ultimately selected 40 articles for data synthesis. RESULTS After summarizing and comparing the methods and results of these studies, the experimental model selection map was drawn. There are 7 main preclinical models, which are used for different research objectives according to their characteristics. CONCLUSIONS Based on this narrative review, preclinical experimental models are crucial to the development and promotion of PDT for tumors. The traditional animal models have some limitations, and the emergence of organoids may be a promising new insight.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rong Yu
- The Second Clinical College of Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730030, China
| | | | - Yang Yu
- The Second Clinical College of Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730030, China
| | - Lei Gao
- The Second Clinical College of Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730030, China
| | - Chenhui Ma
- The Second Clinical College of Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730030, China
| | - Huanhuan Ma
- The Second Clinical College of Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730030, China
| | - Xiaobo Deng
- The Second Clinical College of Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730030, China
| | - Na Wang
- The Second Clinical College of Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730030, China
| | - Bofang Wang
- The Second Clinical College of Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730030, China
| | - Hao Chen
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730030, China
- Key Laboratory of Digestive System Tumor of Gansu Province, Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730030, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-0931-5190550
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Battaglia L, Scomparin A, Dianzani C, Milla P, Muntoni E, Arpicco S, Cavalli R. Nanotechnology Addressing Cutaneous Melanoma: The Italian Landscape. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:1617. [PMID: 34683910 PMCID: PMC8540596 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13101617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Cutaneous melanoma is one of the most aggressive solid tumors, with a low survival for the metastatic stage. Currently, clinical melanoma treatments include surgery, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy and radiotherapy. Of note, innovative therapeutic regimens concern the administration of multitarget drugs in tandem, in order to improve therapeutic efficacy. However, also, if this drug combination is clinically relevant, the patient's response is not yet optimal. In this scenario, nanotechnology-based delivery systems can play a crucial role in the clinical treatment of advanced melanoma. In fact, their nano-features enable targeted drug delivery at a cellular level by overcoming biological barriers. Various nanomedicines have been proposed for the treatment of cutaneous melanoma, and a relevant number of them are undergoing clinical trials. In Italy, researchers are focusing on the pharmaceutical development of nanoformulations for malignant melanoma therapy. The present review reports an overview of the main melanoma-addressed nanomedicines currently under study in Italy, alongside the state of the art of melanoma therapy. Moreover, the latest Italian advances concerning the pre-clinical evaluation of nanomedicines for melanoma are described.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Battaglia
- . Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Torino, 10125 Turin, Italy; (L.B.); (A.S.); (C.D.); (P.M.); (E.M.); (S.A.)
| | - Anna Scomparin
- . Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Torino, 10125 Turin, Italy; (L.B.); (A.S.); (C.D.); (P.M.); (E.M.); (S.A.)
- . Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Chiara Dianzani
- . Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Torino, 10125 Turin, Italy; (L.B.); (A.S.); (C.D.); (P.M.); (E.M.); (S.A.)
| | - Paola Milla
- . Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Torino, 10125 Turin, Italy; (L.B.); (A.S.); (C.D.); (P.M.); (E.M.); (S.A.)
| | - Elisabetta Muntoni
- . Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Torino, 10125 Turin, Italy; (L.B.); (A.S.); (C.D.); (P.M.); (E.M.); (S.A.)
| | - Silvia Arpicco
- . Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Torino, 10125 Turin, Italy; (L.B.); (A.S.); (C.D.); (P.M.); (E.M.); (S.A.)
| | - Roberta Cavalli
- . Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Torino, 10125 Turin, Italy; (L.B.); (A.S.); (C.D.); (P.M.); (E.M.); (S.A.)
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Klarquist JS, Janssen EM. Melanoma-infiltrating dendritic cells: Limitations and opportunities of mouse models. Oncoimmunology 2021; 1:1584-1593. [PMID: 23264904 PMCID: PMC3525613 DOI: 10.4161/onci.22660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The infiltration of melanoma lesions by dendritic cells (DCs) has been suggested to play a tumorigenic role due to the capacity of DCs to induce tumor tolerance and promote angiogenesis as well as metastasis. However, it has also been shown that tumor-infiltrating DCs (TIDCs) induce antitumor responses and hence may be targeted in cost-effective therapeutic approaches to obtain patient-specific DCs that present relevant tumor antigens, without the need for ex vivo DC expansion or tumor antigen identification. Unfortunately, little is known about the composition, nature and function of TIDCs found in human melanoma. The development of mouse melanoma models has greatly contributed to the molecular understanding of melanoma immunology in mice, but many questions on TIDCs remain unanswered. Here, we discuss current knowledge about melanoma TIDCs in various mouse models with regard to their translational potential and clinical relevance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jared S Klarquist
- Division of Cellular and Molecular Immunology; Cincinnati Children's Hospital Research Foundation; University of Cincinnati College of Medicine; Cincinnati, OH USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Di Martile M, Garzoli S, Ragno R, Del Bufalo D. Essential Oils and Their Main Chemical Components: The Past 20 Years of Preclinical Studies in Melanoma. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12092650. [PMID: 32948083 PMCID: PMC7565555 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12092650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary In the last years, targeted therapy and immunotherapy modified the landscape for metastatic melanoma treatment. These therapeutic approaches led to an impressive improvement in patients overall survival. Unfortunately, the emergence of drug resistance and side effects occurring during therapy strongly limit the long-term efficacy of such treatments. Several preclinical studies demonstrate the efficacy of essential oils as antitumoral agents, and clinical trials support their use to reduce side effects emerging during therapy. In this review we have summarized studies describing the molecular mechanism through which essential oils induce in vitro and in vivo cell death in melanoma models. We also pointed to clinical trials investigating the use of essential oils in reducing the side effects experienced by cancer patients or those undergoing anticancer therapy. From this review emerged that further studies are necessary to validate the effectiveness of essential oils for the management of melanoma. Abstract The last two decades have seen the development of effective therapies, which have saved the lives of a large number of melanoma patients. However, therapeutic options are still limited for patients without BRAF mutations or in relapse from current treatments, and severe side effects often occur during therapy. Thus, additional insights to improve treatment efficacy with the aim to decrease the likelihood of chemoresistance, as well as reducing side effects of current therapies, are required. Natural products offer great opportunities for the discovery of antineoplastic drugs, and still represent a useful source of novel molecules. Among them, essential oils, representing the volatile fraction of aromatic plants, are always being actively investigated by several research groups and show promising biological activities for their use as complementary or alternative medicine for several diseases, including cancer. In this review, we focused on studies reporting the mechanism through which essential oils exert antitumor action in preclinical wild type or mutant BRAF melanoma models. We also discussed the latest use of essential oils in improving cancer patients’ quality of life. As evidenced by the many studies listed in this review, through their effect on apoptosis and tumor progression-associated properties, essential oils can therefore be considered as potential natural pharmaceutical resources for cancer management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marta Di Martile
- Preclinical Models and New Therapeutic Agents Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: (M.D.M.); (D.D.B.); Tel.: +39-0652666891 (M.D.M.); +39-0652662575 (D.D.B.)
| | - Stefania Garzoli
- Department of Chemistry and Technologies of Drugs, Sapienza University, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (S.G.); (R.R.)
| | - Rino Ragno
- Department of Chemistry and Technologies of Drugs, Sapienza University, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (S.G.); (R.R.)
- Rome Center for Molecular Design, Department of Drug Chemistry and Technology, Sapienza University, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Donatella Del Bufalo
- Preclinical Models and New Therapeutic Agents Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: (M.D.M.); (D.D.B.); Tel.: +39-0652666891 (M.D.M.); +39-0652662575 (D.D.B.)
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
De Cicco P, Ercolano G, Rubino V, Terrazzano G, Ruggiero G, Cirino G, Ianaro A. Modulation of the functions of myeloid-derived suppressor cells : a new strategy of hydrogen sulfide anti-cancer effects. Br J Pharmacol 2019; 177:884-897. [PMID: 31392723 DOI: 10.1111/bph.14824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2018] [Revised: 05/21/2019] [Accepted: 06/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) represent a major obstacle to cancer treatment, as they negatively regulate anti-tumour immunity through the suppression of tumour-specific T lymphocytes. Thus, the efficacy of immunotherapies may be improved by targeting MDSCs. In this study, we assessed the ability of hydrogen sulfide (H2 S), a gasotransmitter whose anti-cancer effects are well known, to inhibit the accumulation and immunosuppressive functions of MDSCs in melanoma. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Effects of H2 S on the host immune response to cancer were evaluated using an in vivo syngeneic model of murine melanoma. B16F10-melanoma-bearing mice were treated with the H2 S donor, diallyl trisulfide (DATS) and analysed for content of MDSCs, dendritic cells (DCs) and T cells. Effects of H2 S on expression of immunosuppressive genes in MDSCs and on T cell proliferation were evaluated. KEY RESULTS In melanoma-bearing mice, DATS inhibited tumour growth, and this effect was associated with a reduction in the frequency of MDSCs in the spleen, in the blood as well as in the tumour micro-environment. In addition, we found that CD8+ T cells and DCs were increased. Furthermore, DATS reduced the immuno-suppressive activity of MDSCs, restoring T cell proliferation. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS The H2 S donor compound, DATS, inhibited the expansion and the suppressive functions of MDSCs, suggesting a novel role for H2 S as a modulator of MDSCs in cancer. Therefore, H2 S donors may provide a novel approach for enhancing the efficacy of melanoma immunotherapy. LINKED ARTICLES This article is part of a themed section on Hydrogen Sulfide in Biology & Medicine. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v177.4/issuetoc.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paola De Cicco
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Ercolano
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Valentina Rubino
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.,Department of Science, University of Basilicata, Potenza, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Terrazzano
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.,Department of Science, University of Basilicata, Potenza, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Ruggiero
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Cirino
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Angela Ianaro
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Horak V, Palanova A, Cizkova J, Miltrova V, Vodicka P, Kupcova Skalnikova H. Melanoma-Bearing Libechov Minipig (MeLiM): The Unique Swine Model of Hereditary Metastatic Melanoma. Genes (Basel) 2019; 10:E915. [PMID: 31717496 PMCID: PMC6895830 DOI: 10.3390/genes10110915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2019] [Revised: 10/31/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
National cancer databases document that melanoma is the most aggressive and deadly cutaneous malignancy with worldwide increasing incidence in the Caucasian population. Around 10% of melanomas occur in families. Several germline mutations were identified that might help to indicate individuals at risk for preventive interventions and early disease detection. More than 50% of sporadic melanomas carry mutations in Ras/Raf/mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK/MEK) pathway, which may represent aims of novel targeted therapies. Despite advances in targeted therapies and immunotherapies, the outcomes in metastatic tumor are still unsatisfactory. Here, we review animal models that help our understanding of melanoma development and treatment, including non-vertebrate, mouse, swine, and other mammal models, with an emphasis on those with spontaneously developing melanoma. Special attention is paid to the melanoma-bearing Libechov minipig (MeLiM). This original swine model of hereditary metastatic melanoma enables studying biological processes underlying melanoma progression, as well as spontaneous regression. Current histological, immunohistochemical, biochemical, genetic, hematological, immunological, and skin microbiome findings in the MeLiM model are summarized, together with development of new therapeutic approaches based on tumor devitalization. The ongoing study of molecular and immunological base of spontaneous regression in MeLiM model has potential to bring new knowledge of clinical importance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Helena Kupcova Skalnikova
- Czech Academy of Sciences, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Laboratory of Applied Proteome Analyses and Research Center PIGMOD, 277 21 Libechov, Czech Republic; (V.H.); (A.P.); (J.C.); (V.M.); (P.V.)
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Ercolano G, De Cicco P, Frecentese F, Saccone I, Corvino A, Giordano F, Magli E, Fiorino F, Severino B, Calderone V, Citi V, Cirino G, Ianaro A. Anti-metastatic Properties of Naproxen-HBTA in a Murine Model of Cutaneous Melanoma. Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:66. [PMID: 30800067 PMCID: PMC6376415 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.00066] [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: 11/08/2018] [Accepted: 01/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The beneficial effects of H2S-release and of COXs-inhibition have been exploited in the design of novel anti-inflammatory drugs, the H2S-releasing non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (H2S-NSAIDs), showing promising potential for chemoprevention in cancers. Here, we evaluated the efficacy of a new H2S-releasing derivative of naproxen, named naproxen-4-hydroxybenzodithioate (naproxen-HBTA), in reducing metastatic melanoma features, both in vitro and in vivo. The novel H2S donor has been prepared following a synthetic scheme that provided high yields and purity. In particular, we investigated the effect of naproxen-HBTA in vitro on several metastatic features of human melanoma cells such as proliferation, migration, invasion, and colonies formation and in vivo in a model of cutaneous melanoma. Cell culture studies demonstrated that naproxen-HBTA induced caspase 3-mediated apoptosis and inhibited motility, invasiveness, and focus formation. Finally, daily oral treatment with naproxen-HBTA significantly suppressed melanoma growth and progression in mice. In conclusion, by using this dual approach we propose that the COX-2 and H2S pathways could be regarded as novel therapeutic targets/tools to generate new treatment options based on "combination therapy" for melanoma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Ercolano
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Paola De Cicco
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Irene Saccone
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Angela Corvino
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Flavia Giordano
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Elisa Magli
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Beatrice Severino
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | | | | | - Giuseppe Cirino
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Angela Ianaro
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Abstract
Melanoma is an aggressive and highly metastatic skin cancer, carrying a poor prognosis with a median survival time of 5.3-10 months depending on the stage of disease. Research has advanced our understanding of the underlying pathology of melanoma and strategies to prevent and treat melanoma. Mouse models have been developed to elucidate the molecular, immunological, and cellular mechanisms contributing to proliferation and metastasis of melanoma. This review article aims to provide an overview of various types of murine melanoma models, including xenograft and syngeneic transplantation models, genetically modified models, ultraviolent radiation models, and chemically induced models, and discuss the advantages and limitations of each model.
Collapse
|
9
|
Cutaneous Melanoma-A Long Road from Experimental Models to Clinical Outcome: A Review. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19061566. [PMID: 29795011 PMCID: PMC6032347 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19061566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2018] [Revised: 05/21/2018] [Accepted: 05/22/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cutaneous melanoma is a complex disorder characterized by an elevated degree of heterogeneity, features that place it among the most aggressive types of cancer. Although significant progress was recorded in both the understanding of melanoma biology and genetics, and in therapeutic approaches, this malignancy still represents a major problem worldwide due to its high incidence and the lack of a curative treatment for advanced stages. This review offers a survey of the most recent information available regarding the melanoma epidemiology, etiology, and genetic profile. Also discussed was the topic of cutaneous melanoma murine models outlining the role of these models in understanding the molecular pathways involved in melanoma initiation, progression, and metastasis.
Collapse
|
10
|
Barutello G, Rolih V, Arigoni M, Tarone L, Conti L, Quaglino E, Buracco P, Cavallo F, Riccardo F. Strengths and Weaknesses of Pre-Clinical Models for Human Melanoma Treatment: Dawn of Dogs' Revolution for Immunotherapy. Int J Mol Sci 2018. [PMID: 29534457 PMCID: PMC5877660 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19030799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite several therapeutic advances, malignant melanoma still remains a fatal disease for which novel and long-term curative treatments are needed. The successful development of innovative therapies strongly depends on the availability of appropriate pre-clinical models. For this purpose, several mouse models holding the promise to provide insight into molecular biology and clinical behavior of melanoma have been generated. The most relevant ones and their contribution for the advancement of therapeutic approaches for the treatment of human melanoma patients will be here summarized. However, as models, mice do not recapitulate all the features of human melanoma, thus their strengths and weaknesses need to be carefully identified and considered for the translation of the results into the human clinics. In this panorama, the concept of comparative oncology acquires a priceless value. The revolutionary importance of spontaneous canine melanoma as a translational model for the pre-clinical investigation of melanoma progression and treatment will be here discussed, with a special consideration to the development of innovative immunotherapeutic approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppina Barutello
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, 10126 Torino, Italy.
| | - Valeria Rolih
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, 10126 Torino, Italy.
| | - Maddalena Arigoni
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, 10126 Torino, Italy.
| | - Lidia Tarone
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, 10126 Torino, Italy.
| | - Laura Conti
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, 10126 Torino, Italy.
| | - Elena Quaglino
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, 10126 Torino, Italy.
| | - Paolo Buracco
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Torino, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy.
| | - Federica Cavallo
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, 10126 Torino, Italy.
| | - Federica Riccardo
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, 10126 Torino, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Liu Q, Das M, Liu Y, Huang L. Targeted drug delivery to melanoma. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2018; 127:208-221. [PMID: 28939379 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2017.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2017] [Revised: 08/29/2017] [Accepted: 09/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Melanoma derived from melanocytes is the most aggressive genre of skin cancer. Although the considerable advancement in the study of human cancer biology and drug discovery, most advanced melanoma patients are inevitably unable to be cured. With the emergence of nanotechnology, the use of nano-carriers is widely expected to alter the landscape of melanoma treatment. In this review, we will discuss melanoma biology, current treatment options, mechanisms behind drug resistance, and nano-based solutions for effective anti-cancer therapy, followed by challenges and perspectives in both pre-clinical and clinical settings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qi Liu
- Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; UNC & NCSU Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Manisit Das
- Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics, 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, Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Leaf Huang
- Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; UNC & NCSU Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Robinson JP, Rebecca VW, Kircher DA, Silvis MR, Smalley I, Gibney GT, Lastwika KJ, Chen G, Davies MA, Grossman D, Smalley KS, Holmen SL, VanBrocklin MW. Resistance mechanisms to genetic suppression of mutant NRAS in melanoma. Melanoma Res 2017; 27:545-557. [PMID: 29076949 PMCID: PMC5683096 DOI: 10.1097/cmr.0000000000000403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Targeted therapies have revolutionized cancer care, but the development of resistance remains a challenge in the clinic. To identify rational targets for combination strategies, we used an established melanoma mouse model and selected for resistant tumors following genetic suppression of NRAS expression. Complete tumor regression was observed in all mice, but 40% of tumors recurred. Analysis of resistant tumors showed that the most common mechanism of resistance was overexpression and activation of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs). Interestingly, the most commonly overexpressed RTK was Met and inhibition of Met overcame NRAS resistance in this context. Analysis of NRAS mutant human melanoma cells showed enhanced efficacy of cytotoxicity with combined RTK and mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase inhibition. In this study, we establish the importance of adaptive RTK signaling in the escape of NRAS mutant melanoma from inhibition of RAS and provide the rationale for combined blockade of RAS and RTK signaling in this context.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Vito W. Rebecca
- Department of Medicine and Abramson Cancer Center; University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA USA
| | - David A. Kircher
- Department of Oncological Sciences, University of Utah Health Sciences Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Mark R. Silvis
- Department of Surgery, University of Utah Health Sciences Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Inna Smalley
- Tumor Biology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida, USA
- Cutaneous Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Geoffrey T. Gibney
- Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Washington DC, USA
| | - Kristin J. Lastwika
- Division of Public Health Sciences, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Guo Chen
- Department of Melanoma Medical Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Michael A. Davies
- Department of Melanoma Medical Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Douglas Grossman
- Department of Oncological Sciences, University of Utah Health Sciences Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah Health Sciences Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
- Department of Dermatology, University of Utah Health Sciences Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Keiran S.M. Smalley
- Tumor Biology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida, USA
- Cutaneous Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Sheri L. Holmen
- Department of Oncological Sciences, University of Utah Health Sciences Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
- Department of Surgery, University of Utah Health Sciences Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah Health Sciences Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Matthew W. VanBrocklin
- Department of Oncological Sciences, University of Utah Health Sciences Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
- Department of Surgery, University of Utah Health Sciences Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah Health Sciences Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Spontaneous regression of malignant melanoma - is it based on the interplay between host immune system and melanoma antigens? Anticancer Drugs 2017; 28:819-830. [DOI: 10.1097/cad.0000000000000526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
|
14
|
Pérez-Guijarro E, Day CP, Merlino G, Zaidi MR. Genetically engineered mouse models of melanoma. Cancer 2017; 123:2089-2103. [PMID: 28543694 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.30684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2017] [Revised: 02/24/2017] [Accepted: 02/25/2017] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Melanoma is a complex disease that exhibits highly heterogeneous etiological, histopathological, and genetic features, as well as therapeutic responses. Genetically engineered mouse (GEM) models provide powerful tools to unravel the molecular mechanisms critical for melanoma development and drug resistance. Here, we expound briefly the basis of the mouse modeling design, the available technology for genetic engineering, and the aspects influencing the use of GEMs to model melanoma. Furthermore, we describe in detail the currently available GEM models of melanoma. Cancer 2017;123:2089-103. © 2017 American Cancer Society.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eva Pérez-Guijarro
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Chi-Ping Day
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Glenn Merlino
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - M Raza Zaidi
- Fels Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Biology, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Immune microenvironment of gliomas. J Transl Med 2017; 97:498-518. [PMID: 28287634 DOI: 10.1038/labinvest.2017.19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 344] [Impact Index Per Article: 49.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2016] [Revised: 01/16/2017] [Accepted: 01/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
High-grade gliomas are rapidly progressing tumors of the central nervous system (CNS) with a very poor prognosis despite extensive resection combined with radiation and/or chemotherapy. Histopathological and flow cytometry analyses of human and rodent experimental gliomas revealed heterogeneity of a tumor and its niche, composed of reactive astrocytes, endothelial cells, and numerous immune cells. Infiltrating immune cells consist of CNS resident (microglia) and peripheral macrophages, granulocytes, myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), and T lymphocytes. Intratumoral density of glioma-associated microglia/macrophages (GAMs) and MDSCs is the highest in malignant gliomas and inversely correlates with patient survival. Although GAMs have a few innate immune functions intact, their ability to be stimulated via TLRs, secrete cytokines, and upregulate co-stimulatory molecules is not sufficient to initiate antitumor immune responses. Moreover, tumor-reprogrammed GAMs release immunosuppressive cytokines and chemokines shaping antitumor responses. Both GAMs and MDSCs have ability to attract T regulatory lymphocytes to the tumor, but MDSCs inhibit cytotoxic responses mediated by natural killer cells, and block the activation of tumor-reactive CD4+ T helper cells and cytotoxic CD8+ T cells. The presence of regulatory T cells may further contribute to the lack of effective immune activation against malignant gliomas. We review the immunological aspects of glioma microenvironment, in particular composition and various roles of the immune cells infiltrating malignant human gliomas and experimental rodent gliomas. We describe tumor-derived signals and mechanisms driving myeloid cell accumulation and reprogramming. Although, understanding the complexity of cell-cell interactions in glioma microenvironment is far from being achieved, recent studies demonstrated several glioma-derived factors that trigger migration, accumulation, and reprogramming of immune cells. Identification of these factors may facilitate development of immunotherapy for gliomas as immunomodulatory and immune evasion mechanisms employed by malignant gliomas pose an appalling challenge to brain tumor immunotherapy.
Collapse
|
16
|
Cohen JV, Tawbi H, Margolin KA, Amravadi R, Bosenberg M, Brastianos PK, Chiang VL, de Groot J, Glitza IC, Herlyn M, Holmen SL, Jilaveanu LB, Lassman A, Moschos S, Postow MA, Thomas R, Tsiouris JA, Wen P, White RM, Turnham T, Davies MA, Kluger HM. Melanoma central nervous system metastases: current approaches, challenges, and opportunities. Pigment Cell Melanoma Res 2016; 29:627-642. [PMID: 27615400 DOI: 10.1111/pcmr.12538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2016] [Accepted: 09/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Melanoma central nervous system metastases are increasing, and the challenges presented by this patient population remain complex. In December 2015, the Melanoma Research Foundation and the Wistar Institute hosted the First Summit on Melanoma Central Nervous System (CNS) Metastases in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Here, we provide a review of the current status of the field of melanoma brain metastasis research; identify key challenges and opportunities for improving the outcomes in patients with melanoma brain metastases; and set a framework to optimize future research in this critical area.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Justine V Cohen
- Yale Cancer Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Hussain Tawbi
- Department of Melanoma, Medical Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Kim A Margolin
- Department of Medical Oncology & Therapeutics Research, City of Hope Cancer Center, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Ravi Amravadi
- Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | | | | | - John de Groot
- Division of Neuro-Oncology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Isabella C Glitza
- Department of Melanoma, Medical Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Meenhard Herlyn
- Melanoma Research Center, The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Sheri L Holmen
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah Health Sciences Center, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | | | - Andrew Lassman
- Department of Neurology & Herbert Irving Comprehensive, Cancer Center, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Stergios Moschos
- UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Michael A Postow
- Department of Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Reena Thomas
- Division of Neuro-Oncology, Department of Neurology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - John A Tsiouris
- Department of Radiology, New York-Presbyterian Hospital - Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Patrick Wen
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Richard M White
- Department of Cancer Biology & Genetics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Michael A Davies
- Department of Melanoma, Medical Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Kuzu OF, Nguyen FD, Noory MA, Sharma A. Current State of Animal (Mouse) Modeling in Melanoma Research. CANCER GROWTH AND METASTASIS 2015; 8:81-94. [PMID: 26483610 PMCID: PMC4597587 DOI: 10.4137/cgm.s21214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2015] [Revised: 08/10/2015] [Accepted: 08/17/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Despite the considerable progress in understanding the biology of human cancer and technological advancement in drug discovery, treatment failure remains an inevitable outcome for most cancer patients with advanced diseases, including melanoma. Despite FDA-approved BRAF-targeted therapies for advanced stage melanoma showed a great deal of promise, development of rapid resistance limits the success. Hence, the overall success rate of melanoma therapy still remains to be one of the worst compared to other malignancies. Advancement of next-generation sequencing technology allowed better identification of alterations that trigger melanoma development. As development of successful therapies strongly depends on clinically relevant preclinical models, together with the new findings, more advanced melanoma models have been generated. In this article, besides traditional mouse models of melanoma, we will discuss recent ones, such as patient-derived tumor xenografts, topically inducible BRAF mouse model and RCAS/TVA-based model, and their advantages as well as limitations. Although mouse models of melanoma are often criticized as poor predictors of whether an experimental drug would be an effective treatment, development of new and more relevant models could circumvent this problem in the near future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Omer F Kuzu
- Department of Pharmacology, The Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Felix D Nguyen
- The University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Mohammad A Noory
- Department of Pharmacology, The Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Arati Sharma
- Department of Pharmacology, The Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Nasti TH, Cochran JB, Tsuruta Y, Yusuf N, McKay KM, Athar M, Timares L, Elmets CA. A murine model for the development of melanocytic nevi and their progression to melanoma. Mol Carcinog 2015; 55:646-58. [PMID: 25788145 PMCID: PMC4575238 DOI: 10.1002/mc.22310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2014] [Revised: 01/22/2015] [Accepted: 02/06/2015] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Acquired melanocytic nevi are commonly found in sun exposed and unexposed human skin, but the potential for their transformation into invasive melanoma is not clear. Therefore, a mouse model of nevus initiation and progression was developed in C3H/HeN mice using a modified chemical carcinogenesis protocol. Nevi develop due to DNA damage initiated by dimethylbenz(a) anthracene (DMBA) followed by chronic promotion with 12‐O‐tetradecanoyl‐phorbol‐13‐acetate (TPA). Dysplastic pigmented skin lesions appeared in 7–9 wk with 100% penetrance. Nests of melanocytic cells appeared in a subset of skin draining lymph nodes (dLN) by 25 wk, but not in age matched controls. Immunohistochemistry, real‐time PCR, and flow cytometric analyses confirmed their melanocytic origin. Transformed cells were present in a subset of nevi and dLNs, which exhibited anchorage‐independent growth, tumor development, and metastasis in nude mice. Approximately 50% of the cell lines contained H‐Ras mutations and lost tumor suppressor p16Ink4a expression. While most studies of melanoma focus on tumor progression in transgenic mouse models where the mutations are present from birth, our model permits investigation of acquired mutations at the earliest stages of nevus initiation and promotion of nevus cell transformation. This robust nevus/melanoma model may prove useful for identifying genetic loci associated with nevus formation, novel oncogenic pathways, tumor targets for immune‐prevention, screening therapeutics, and elucidating mechanisms of immune surveillance and immune evasion. © 2015 The Authors. Molecular Carcinogenesis, published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tahseen H Nasti
- The Department of Dermatology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - J Barry Cochran
- The Department of Dermatology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Yuko Tsuruta
- The Department of Dermatology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama.,The Skin Diseases Research Center, and The University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Nabiha Yusuf
- The Department of Dermatology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama.,The Skin Diseases Research Center, and The University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama.,The Birmingham VA Medical Center, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Kristopher M McKay
- The Department of Dermatology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Mohammad Athar
- The Department of Dermatology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama.,The Skin Diseases Research Center, and The University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Laura Timares
- The Department of Dermatology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama.,The Skin Diseases Research Center, and The University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama.,The Birmingham VA Medical Center, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Craig A Elmets
- The Department of Dermatology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama.,The Skin Diseases Research Center, and The University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama.,The Birmingham VA Medical Center, Birmingham, Alabama
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Beaumont KA, Mohana-Kumaran N, Haass NK. Modeling Melanoma In Vitro and In Vivo. Healthcare (Basel) 2013; 2:27-46. [PMID: 27429258 PMCID: PMC4934492 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare2010027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2013] [Revised: 12/07/2013] [Accepted: 12/10/2013] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The behavior of melanoma cells has traditionally been studied in vitro in two-dimensional cell culture with cells adhering to plastic dishes. However, in order to mimic the three-dimensional architecture of a melanoma, as well as its interactions with the tumor microenvironment, there has been the need for more physiologically relevant models. This has been achieved by designing 3D in vitro models of melanoma, such as melanoma spheroids embedded in extracellular matrix or organotypic skin reconstructs. In vivo melanoma models have typically relied on the growth of tumor xenografts in immunocompromised mice. Several genetically engineered mouse models have now been developed which allow the generation of spontaneous melanoma. Melanoma models have also been established in other species such as zebrafish, which are more conducive to imaging and high throughput studies. We will discuss these models as well as novel techniques that are relevant to the study of the molecular mechanisms underlying melanoma progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kimberley A. Beaumont
- The Centenary Institute, Newtown, New South Wales 2042, Australia; E-Mails: (K.A.B.); (N.M.-K.)
| | - Nethia Mohana-Kumaran
- The Centenary Institute, Newtown, New South Wales 2042, Australia; E-Mails: (K.A.B.); (N.M.-K.)
- School of Biological Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800 Georgetown, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Nikolas K. Haass
- The Centenary Institute, Newtown, New South Wales 2042, Australia; E-Mails: (K.A.B.); (N.M.-K.)
- Discipline of Dermatology, University of Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia
- The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, Translational Research Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4102, Australia
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed; E-Mail: ; Tel.: +61-7-3443-7087; Fax: +61-7-3443-6966
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Care and monitoring of a mouse model of melanoma. Lab Anim (NY) 2013; 42:92-8. [PMID: 23423298 DOI: 10.1038/laban.165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2012] [Accepted: 09/25/2012] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Melanoma is a devastating form of skin cancer in humans that is rising in incidence. Animal models of melanoma continue to be instrumental for understanding the disease and for developing and testing therapies. A novel line of melanoma-bearing mice developed at the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke is monitored and cared for by the Animal Health Care Section. Although these mice develop heavy tumor burdens, they show few signs of pain or distress and seem to have high levels of physiologic fitness. The author discusses the monitoring and care of these mice, advocating early flagging and frequent monitoring of melanoma-bearing mice. In the care of melanoma-bearing mice, an emphasis should be placed on evaluating the whole animal and considering new endpoints rather than relying on historically accepted guidelines for maximum tumor size and weight, which may be inappropriate for some mice.
Collapse
|
21
|
Umansky V, Sevko A. Ret transgenic mouse model of spontaneous skin melanoma: focus on regulatory T cells. Pigment Cell Melanoma Res 2013; 26:457-63. [PMID: 23560814 DOI: 10.1111/pcmr.12104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2012] [Accepted: 03/29/2013] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Ret transgenic mouse model of skin malignant melanoma is characterized by the overexpression of the human ret transgene in melanin-containing cells. Transgenic mice spontaneously develop skin tumors with metastases in lymph nodes, lungs, liver, brain, and the bone marrow. Tumor lesions show typical melanoma morphology and express melanoma-associated antigens. Although transgenic mice demonstrate an accumulation of melanoma antigen-specific memory and effector T cells, their anti-tumor effects could be blocked by highly immunosuppressive leukocytes enriched in the tumor microenvironment and in the periphery. Here, we discuss the role of one of the most potent immunosuppressive subset, regulatory T cells, in the melanoma progression in this model.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Viktor Umansky
- Skin Cancer Unit, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany.
| | | |
Collapse
|