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Cruceriu D, Balacescu L, Baldasici O, Gaal OI, Balacescu O, Russom A, Irimia D, Tudoran O. Gene expression-phenotype association study reveals the dual role of TNF-α/TNFR1 signaling axis in confined breast cancer cell migration. Life Sci 2024; 354:122982. [PMID: 39151886 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2024.122982] [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: 04/29/2024] [Revised: 08/06/2024] [Accepted: 08/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024]
Abstract
AIMS While enhanced tumor cell migration is a key process in the tumor dissemination, mechanistic insights into causal relationships between tumor cells and mechanical confinement are still limited. Here we combine the use of microfluidic platforms to characterize confined cell migration with genomic tools to systematically unravel the global signaling landscape associated with the migratory phenotype of breast cancer (BC) cells. METERIALS AND METHODS The spontaneous migration capacity of seven BC cell lines was evaluated in 3D microfluidic devices and their migration capacity was correlated with publicly available molecular signatures. The role of identified signaling pathways on regulating BC migration capacity was determined by receptor stimulation through ligand binding or inhibition through siRNA silencing. Downstream effects on cell migration were evaluated in microfluidic devices, while the molecular changes were monitored by RT-qPCR. KEY FINDINGS Expression of 715 genes was correlated with BC cells migratory phenotype, revealing TNF-α as one of the top upstream regulators. Signal transduction experiments revealed that TNF-α stimulates the confined migration of triple negative, mesenchymal-like BC cells that are also characterized by high TNFR1 expression, but inhibits the migration of epithelial-like cells with low TNFR1 expression. TNFR1 was strongly associated with the migration capacity and triple-negative, mesenchymal phenotype. Downstream of TNF/TNFR1 signaling, transcriptional regulation of NFKB seems to be important in driving cell migration in confined spaces. SIGNIFICANCE TNF-α/TNFR1 signaling axis reveals as a key player in driving BC cells confined migration, emerging as a promising therapeutic strategy in targeting dissemination and metastasis of triple negative, mesenchymal BC cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Cruceriu
- The Oncology Institute "Prof. Dr. Ion Chiricuta", Department of Genetics, Genomics and Experimental Pathology, 34-36 Republicii Street, Cluj-Napoca, Romania; "Babes-Bolyai" University, Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, 1 Mihail Kogalniceanu Street, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
| | - Loredana Balacescu
- The Oncology Institute "Prof. Dr. Ion Chiricuta", Department of Genetics, Genomics and Experimental Pathology, 34-36 Republicii Street, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
| | - Oana Baldasici
- The Oncology Institute "Prof. Dr. Ion Chiricuta", Department of Genetics, Genomics and Experimental Pathology, 34-36 Republicii Street, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
| | - Orsolya Ildiko Gaal
- The Oncology Institute "Prof. Dr. Ion Chiricuta", Department of Genetics, Genomics and Experimental Pathology, 34-36 Republicii Street, Cluj-Napoca, Romania; Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Department of Medical Genetics, 8 Victor Babes Street, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
| | - Ovidiu Balacescu
- The Oncology Institute "Prof. Dr. Ion Chiricuta", Department of Genetics, Genomics and Experimental Pathology, 34-36 Republicii Street, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
| | - Aman Russom
- KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Division of Nanobiotechnology, Department of Protein Science, Science for Life Laboratory, Tomtebodavägen 23a 171 65, Solna, Sweden.
| | - Daniel Irimia
- Harvard Medical School, Center for Engineering in Medicine and Surgery, Department of Surgery, 51 Blossom Street, Boston, MA, United States of America.
| | - Oana Tudoran
- The Oncology Institute "Prof. Dr. Ion Chiricuta", Department of Genetics, Genomics and Experimental Pathology, 34-36 Republicii Street, Cluj-Napoca, Romania; KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Division of Nanobiotechnology, Department of Protein Science, Science for Life Laboratory, Tomtebodavägen 23a 171 65, Solna, Sweden.
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Shi X, Wang X, Yao W, Shi D, Shao X, Lu Z, Chai Y, Song J, Tang W, Wang X. Mechanism insights and therapeutic intervention of tumor metastasis: latest developments and perspectives. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:192. [PMID: 39090094 PMCID: PMC11294630 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01885-2] [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: 07/29/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Metastasis remains a pivotal characteristic of cancer and is the primary contributor to cancer-associated mortality. Despite its significance, the mechanisms governing metastasis are not fully elucidated. Contemporary findings in the domain of cancer biology have shed light on the molecular aspects of this intricate process. Tumor cells undergoing invasion engage with other cellular entities and proteins en route to their destination. Insights into these engagements have enhanced our comprehension of the principles directing the movement and adaptability of metastatic cells. The tumor microenvironment plays a pivotal role in facilitating the invasion and proliferation of cancer cells by enabling tumor cells to navigate through stromal barriers. Such attributes are influenced by genetic and epigenetic changes occurring in the tumor cells and their surrounding milieu. A profound understanding of the metastatic process's biological mechanisms is indispensable for devising efficacious therapeutic strategies. This review delves into recent developments concerning metastasis-associated genes, important signaling pathways, tumor microenvironment, metabolic processes, peripheral immunity, and mechanical forces and cancer metastasis. In addition, we combine recent advances with a particular emphasis on the prospect of developing effective interventions including the most popular cancer immunotherapies and nanotechnology to combat metastasis. We have also identified the limitations of current research on tumor metastasis, encompassing drug resistance, restricted animal models, inadequate biomarkers and early detection methods, as well as heterogeneity among others. It is anticipated that this comprehensive review will significantly contribute to the advancement of cancer metastasis research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoli Shi
- Hepatobiliary Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences; NHC Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary Cancers, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xinyi Wang
- The First Clinical Medical College, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wentao Yao
- Department of Urology, Suzhou TCM Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Dongmin Shi
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shanghai Changzheng Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Xihuan Shao
- The Fourth Clinical Medical College, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhengqing Lu
- Hepatobiliary Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences; NHC Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary Cancers, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yue Chai
- Hepatobiliary Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences; NHC Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary Cancers, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jinhua Song
- Hepatobiliary Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences; NHC Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary Cancers, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Weiwei Tang
- Hepatobiliary Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences; NHC Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary Cancers, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Xuehao Wang
- Hepatobiliary Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences; NHC Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary Cancers, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
- School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
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Zaltron E, Vianello F, Ruzza A, Palazzo A, Brillo V, Celotti I, Scavezzon M, Rossin F, Leanza L, Severin F. The Role of Transglutaminase 2 in Cancer: An Update. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2797. [PMID: 38474044 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052797] [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: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 02/25/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Transglutaminase type 2 (TG2) is the most ubiquitously expressed and well characterized member of the transglutaminase family. It is a ubiquitous multifunctional enzyme implicated in the regulation of several cellular pathways that support the survival, death, and general homeostasis of eukaryotic cells. Due to its multiple localizations both inside and outside the cell, TG2 participates in the regulation of many crucial intracellular signaling cascades in a tissue- and cell-specific manner, making this enzyme an important player in disease development and progression. Moreover, TG2 is capable of modulating the tumor microenvironment, a process of dynamic tissue remodeling and biomechanical events, resulting in changes which influence tumor initiation, growth, and metastasis. Even if generally related to the Ca2+-dependent post-translational modification of proteins, a number of different biological functions have been ascribed to TG2, like those of a peptide isomerase, protein kinase, guanine nucleotide binder, and cytosolic-nuclear translocator. With respect to cancer, TG2's role is controversial and highly debated; it has been described both as an anti- and pro-apoptotic factor and is linked to all the processes of tumorigenesis. However, numerous pieces of evidence support a tissue-specific role of TG2 so that it can assume both oncogenic and tumor-suppressive roles.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Alessia Ruzza
- Department of Biology, University of Padua, 35131 Padua, Italy
| | - Alberta Palazzo
- Department of Biology, University of Padua, 35131 Padua, Italy
| | | | - Ilaria Celotti
- Department of Biology, University of Padua, 35131 Padua, Italy
| | | | - Federica Rossin
- Department of Biology, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Luigi Leanza
- Department of Biology, University of Padua, 35131 Padua, Italy
| | - Filippo Severin
- Department of Biology, University of Padua, 35131 Padua, Italy
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Schmidtmann M, D’Souza-Schorey C. Extracellular Vesicles: Biological Packages That Modulate Tumor Cell Invasion. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:5617. [PMID: 38067320 PMCID: PMC10705367 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15235617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Tumor progression, from early-stage invasion to the formation of distal metastases, relies on the capacity of tumor cells to modify the extracellular matrix (ECM) and communicate with the surrounding stroma. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) provide an important means to regulate cell invasion due to the selective inclusion of cargoes such as proteases and matrix proteins into EVs that can degrade or modify the ECM. EVs have also been shown to facilitate intercellular communication in the tumor microenvironment through paracrine signaling, which can impact ECM invasion by cancer cells. Here, we describe the current knowledge of EVs as facilitators of tumor invasion by virtue of their effects on proteolytic degradation and modification of the ECM, their ability to educate the stromal cells in the tumor microenvironment, and their role as mediators of long-range communication aiding in cell invasion and matrix remodeling at secondary sites.
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Si H, Esquivel M, Mendoza Mendoza E, Roarty K. The covert symphony: cellular and molecular accomplices in breast cancer metastasis. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1221784. [PMID: 37440925 PMCID: PMC10333702 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1221784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer has emerged as the most commonly diagnosed cancer and primary cause of cancer-related deaths among women worldwide. Although significant progress has been made in targeting the primary tumor, the effectiveness of systemic treatments to prevent metastasis remains limited. Metastatic disease continues to be the predominant factor leading to fatality in the majority of breast cancer patients. The existence of a prolonged latency period between initial treatment and eventual recurrence in certain patients indicates that tumors can both adapt to and interact with the systemic environment of the host, facilitating and sustaining the progression of the disease. In order to identify potential therapeutic interventions for metastasis, it will be crucial to gain a comprehensive framework surrounding the mechanisms driving the growth, survival, and spread of tumor cells, as well as their interaction with supporting cells of the microenvironment. This review aims to consolidate recent discoveries concerning critical aspects of breast cancer metastasis, encompassing the intricate network of cells, molecules, and physical factors that contribute to metastasis, as well as the molecular mechanisms governing cancer dormancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongjiang Si
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Madelyn Esquivel
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Erika Mendoza Mendoza
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Kevin Roarty
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
- Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, United States
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Atobatele AG, Tonoli E, Vadakekolathu J, Savoca MP, Barr M, Kataria Y, Rossanese M, Burhan I, McArdle S, Caccamo D, Verderio EAM. Canonical and truncated transglutaminase-2 regulate mucin-1 expression and androgen independency in prostate cancer cell lines. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:317. [PMID: 37160910 PMCID: PMC10170068 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-05818-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Androgen independency is associated with poor prostate cancer (PCa) survival. Here we report that silencing of transglutaminase-2 (TG2) expression by CRISPR-Cas9 is associated with upregulation of androgen receptor (AR) transcription in PCa cell lines. Knockout of TG2 reversed the migratory potential and anchorage independency of PC3 and DU145 cells and revealed a reduced level of mucin-1 (MUC1) RNA transcript through unbiased multi-omics profiling, which was restored by selective add-back of the truncated TG2 isoform (TGM2_v2). Silencing of AR resulted into increased MUC1 in TG2KO PC3 cells showing that TG2 affects transcriptional regulation of MUC1 via repressing AR expression. Treatment of PC3 WT cell line with TG2 inhibitor ZDON led to a significant increase in AR expression and decrease in MUC1. ZDON also blocked the formation of MUC1-multimers labelled with TG amine-donor substrates in reducing conditions, revealing for the first time a role for TG2, which we show to be externalised via extracellular vesicles, in MUC1 stabilisation via calcium-dependent transamidation. A specific antibody towards TGM2_v2 revealed its restricted nuclear location compared to the canonical long form of TG2 (TGM2_v1), which is predominantly cytosolic, suggesting that this form contributes to the previously suggested TG2-mediated NF-κB activation and AR transcriptional repression. As TGM2_v2 transcription was increased in biopsies of early-stage prostate adenocarcinoma (PRAD) patients compared to subjects presenting inflammatory prostatitis, and total TG2 protein expression significantly increased in PRAD versus normal tissue, the role of TG2 and its truncated form as a prostate malignancy marker is suggested. In conclusion, this investigation has provided the first unbiased discovery of a novel pathway mediated by TG2 via MUC1, which is shown to contribute to androgen insensitivity and malignancy of PCa cells and be upregulated in PCa biopsies, with potential relevance to cancer immune evasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adeola Grace Atobatele
- School of Science and Technology, Centre for Health, Ageing and Understanding of Disease, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, NG11 8NS, UK
- Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Science Centre, School of Health, Science and Wellbeing, Staffordshire University, Leek Road, Stoke-on-Trent, ST4 2DF, UK
| | - Elisa Tonoli
- School of Science and Technology, Centre for Health, Ageing and Understanding of Disease, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, NG11 8NS, UK
| | - Jayakumar Vadakekolathu
- John van Geest Cancer Research Centre, Nottingham Trent University, Clifton Lane, Nottingham, NG11 8NS, UK
| | - Maria Pia Savoca
- School of Science and Technology, Centre for Health, Ageing and Understanding of Disease, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, NG11 8NS, UK
| | - Melissa Barr
- School of Science and Technology, Centre for Health, Ageing and Understanding of Disease, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, NG11 8NS, UK
| | - Yukti Kataria
- School of Science and Technology, Centre for Health, Ageing and Understanding of Disease, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, NG11 8NS, UK
| | - Marta Rossanese
- Department of Human and Paediatric Pathology, Polyclinic Hospital University, Via C. Valeria 1, 98125, Messina, Italy
| | - Izhar Burhan
- School of Science and Technology, Centre for Health, Ageing and Understanding of Disease, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, NG11 8NS, UK
| | - Stephanie McArdle
- John van Geest Cancer Research Centre, Nottingham Trent University, Clifton Lane, Nottingham, NG11 8NS, UK
| | - Daniela Caccamo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Dental Sciences & Morpho-Functional Imaging, Polyclinic Hospital University, Via C. Valeria 1, 98125, Messina, Italy
| | - Elisabetta A M Verderio
- School of Science and Technology, Centre for Health, Ageing and Understanding of Disease, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, NG11 8NS, UK.
- Biological Sciences Department (BiGeA), University of Bologna, Bologna, 40126, Italy.
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