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Samarelli AV, Tonelli R, Raineri G, Bruzzi G, Andrisani D, Gozzi F, Marchioni A, Costantini M, Fabbiani L, Genovese F, Pinetti D, Manicardi L, Castaniere I, Masciale V, Aramini B, Tabbì L, Rizzato S, Bettelli S, Manfredini S, Dominici M, Clini E, Cerri S. Proteomic profiling of formalin-fixed paraffine-embedded tissue reveals key proteins related to lung dysfunction in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Front Oncol 2024; 13:1275346. [PMID: 38322285 PMCID: PMC10844556 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1275346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) severely affects the lung leading to aberrant deposition of extracellular matrix and parenchymal stiffness with progressive functional derangement. The limited availability of fresh tissues represents one of the major limitations to study the molecular profiling of IPF lung tissue. The primary aim of this study was to explore the proteomic profiling yield of archived formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) specimens of IPF lung tissues. Methods We further determined the protein expression according to respiratory functional decline at the time of biopsy. The total proteins isolated from 11 FFPE samples of IPF patients compared to 3 FFPE samples from a non-fibrotic lung defined as controls, were subjected to label-free quantitative proteomic analysis by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and resulted in the detection of about 400 proteins. Results After the pairwise comparison between controls and IPF, functional enrichment analysis identified differentially expressed proteins that were involved in extracellular matrix signaling pathways, focal adhesion and transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) signaling pathways strongly associated with IPF onset and progression. Five proteins were significantly over- expressed in the lung of IPF patients with either advanced disease stage (Stage II) or impaired pulmonary function (FVC<75, DLCO<55) compared to controls; these were lymphocyte cytosolic protein 1 (LCP1), peroxiredoxin-2 (PRDX2), transgelin 2 (TAGLN2), lumican (LUM) and mimecan (OGN) that might play a key role in the fibrogenic processes. Discussion Our work showed that the analysis of FFPE samples was able to identify key proteins that might be crucial for the IPF pathogenesis. These proteins are correlated with lung carcinogenesis or involved in the immune landscape of lung cancer, thus making possible common mechanisms between lung carcinogenesis and fibrosis progression, two pathological conditions at risk for each other in the real life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Valeria Samarelli
- Laboratory of Cell Therapies and Respiratory Medicine, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University Hospital of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Roberto Tonelli
- Laboratory of Cell Therapies and Respiratory Medicine, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University Hospital of Modena, Modena, Italy
- Respiratory Disease Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, University Hospital of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Giulia Raineri
- Laboratory of Cell Therapies and Respiratory Medicine, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University Hospital of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Giulia Bruzzi
- Laboratory of Cell Therapies and Respiratory Medicine, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University Hospital of Modena, Modena, Italy
- Respiratory Disease Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, University Hospital of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Dario Andrisani
- Laboratory of Cell Therapies and Respiratory Medicine, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University Hospital of Modena, Modena, Italy
- Respiratory Disease Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, University Hospital of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Filippo Gozzi
- Laboratory of Cell Therapies and Respiratory Medicine, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University Hospital of Modena, Modena, Italy
- Respiratory Disease Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, University Hospital of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Alessandro Marchioni
- Laboratory of Cell Therapies and Respiratory Medicine, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University Hospital of Modena, Modena, Italy
- Respiratory Disease Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, University Hospital of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Matteo Costantini
- Pathology Institute, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, University Hospital of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Luca Fabbiani
- Pathology Institute, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, University Hospital of Modena, Modena, Italy
- Immunohistochemistry Lab, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, University Hospital of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Filippo Genovese
- Centro Interdipartimentale Grandi Strumenti (C.I.G.S.), University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Diego Pinetti
- Centro Interdipartimentale Grandi Strumenti (C.I.G.S.), University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Linda Manicardi
- Respiratory Disease Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, University Hospital of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Ivana Castaniere
- Laboratory of Cell Therapies and Respiratory Medicine, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University Hospital of Modena, Modena, Italy
- Respiratory Disease Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, University Hospital of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Valentina Masciale
- Laboratory of Cellular Therapy, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Oncology Unit, University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Beatrice Aramini
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences-Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMEC) of the Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna G.B. Morgagni-L. Pierantoni Hospital, Forlì, Italy
| | - Luca Tabbì
- Respiratory Disease Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, University Hospital of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Simone Rizzato
- Respiratory Disease Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, University Hospital of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Stefania Bettelli
- Molecular Pathology and Predictive Medicine Unit, Modena Cancer Center, University Hospital of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Samantha Manfredini
- Molecular Pathology and Predictive Medicine Unit, Modena Cancer Center, University Hospital of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Massimo Dominici
- Laboratory of Cellular Therapy, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Oncology Unit, University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Enrico Clini
- Laboratory of Cell Therapies and Respiratory Medicine, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University Hospital of Modena, Modena, Italy
- Respiratory Disease Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, University Hospital of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Stefania Cerri
- Laboratory of Cell Therapies and Respiratory Medicine, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University Hospital of Modena, Modena, Italy
- Respiratory Disease Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, University Hospital of Modena, Modena, Italy
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Aramini B, Masciale V, van Vugt JLA. Editorial: Innovations in surgical oncology. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1257762. [PMID: 37621685 PMCID: PMC10446962 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1257762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Beatrice Aramini
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC) of the Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Giovanni Battista Morgagni—Luigi Pierantoni Hospital, Forlì, Italy
| | - Valentina Masciale
- Division of Oncology, Laboratory of Cellular Therapy, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University-Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Jeroen L. A. van Vugt
- Department of Surgery, Erasmus Medical Center (MC) University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
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Mastrolia I, Catani V, Oltrecolli M, Pipitone S, Vitale MG, Masciale V, Chiavelli C, Bortolotti CA, Nasso C, Grisendi G, Sabbatini R, Dominici M. Chasing the Role of miRNAs in RCC: From Free-Circulating to Extracellular-Vesicle-Derived Biomarkers. Biology (Basel) 2023; 12:877. [PMID: 37372161 DOI: 10.3390/biology12060877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is the second most common cancer of the urinary system. The current therapeutic strategies are based on partial or total nephrectomy and/or targeted therapies based on immune checkpoint inhibitors to which patients are often refractory. Preventive and screening strategies do not exist and the few available biomarkers for RCC are characterized by a lack of sensitivity, outlining the need for novel noninvasive and sensitive biomarkers for early diagnosis and better disease monitoring. Blood liquid biopsy (LB) is a non- or minimally invasive procedure for a more representative view of tumor heterogeneity than a tissue biopsy, potentially allowing the real-time monitoring of cancer evolution. Growing interest is focused on the extracellular vesicles (EVs) secreted by either healthy or tumoral cells and recovered in a variety of biological matrices, blood included. EVs are involved in cell-to-cell crosstalk transferring their mRNAs, microRNAs (miRNAs), and protein content. In particular, transferred miRNAs may regulate tumorigenesis and proliferation also impacting resistance to apoptosis, thus representing potential useful biomarkers. Here, we present the latest efforts in the identification of circulating miRNAs in blood samples, focusing on the potential use of EV-derived miRNAs as RCC diagnostic and prognostic markers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilenia Mastrolia
- Laboratory of Cellular Therapy, Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy
| | - Virginia Catani
- Laboratory of Cellular Therapy, Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy
| | - Marco Oltrecolli
- Division of Oncology, Department of Oncology and Hematology, University Hospital of Modena, 41124 Modena, Italy
| | - Stefania Pipitone
- Division of Oncology, Department of Oncology and Hematology, University Hospital of Modena, 41124 Modena, Italy
| | - Maria Giuseppa Vitale
- Division of Oncology, Department of Oncology and Hematology, University Hospital of Modena, 41124 Modena, Italy
| | - Valentina Masciale
- Laboratory of Cellular Therapy, Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy
| | - Chiara Chiavelli
- Laboratory of Cellular Therapy, Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy
| | | | - Cecilia Nasso
- Division of Oncology, Department of Oncology and Hematology, University Hospital of Modena, 41124 Modena, Italy
- Division of Oncology, S. Corona Hospital, 17027 Pietra Ligure, Italy
| | - Giulia Grisendi
- Laboratory of Cellular Therapy, Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy
| | - Roberto Sabbatini
- Division of Oncology, Department of Oncology and Hematology, University Hospital of Modena, 41124 Modena, Italy
| | - Massimo Dominici
- Laboratory of Cellular Therapy, Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy
- Division of Oncology, Department of Oncology and Hematology, University Hospital of Modena, 41124 Modena, Italy
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Casari G, Dall'Ora M, Melandri A, Masciale V, Chiavelli C, Prapa M, Neri G, Spano MC, Murgia A, D'Esposito A, Baschieri MC, Ceccherelli GB, Dominici M, Grisendi G. Impact of soluble tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand released by engineered adipose mesenchymal stromal cells on white blood cells. Cytotherapy 2023; 25:605-614. [PMID: 37012089 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2023.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AIMS The proapoptotic protein tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) is physiologically expressed by immune cells and performs regulatory functions in infections, autoimmune diseases and cancer, where it acts as a tumor suppressor. Adipose-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (AD-MSCs) also may play immunomodulatory roles in both primary and acquired immune responses. We have previously demonstrated the efficacy of an anticancer gene therapy based on AD-MSC engineered to secrete a soluble TRAIL variant (sTRAIL) against pancreatic cancer. However, the impact of AD-MSC sTRAIL on leukocyte subsets has been not yet considered also to predict a possible immunotoxicity profile in the clinical translation of this cell-based anticancer strategy. METHODS Monocytes, polymorphonuclear cells and T lymphocytes were freshly isolated from the peripheral blood of healthy donors. Immunophenotype and functional (DR4 and DR5) and decoy (DcR1 and DcR2) TRAIL receptors were tested by flow cytometry. The viability of white blood cells treated with sTRAIL released by gene-modified AD-MSC or co-cultured with AD-MSC sTRAIL was then evaluated by both metabolic assays and flow cytometry. In addition, cytokine profile in co-cultures was analyzed by multiplex enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS Monocytes and polymorphonuclear cells showed high positivity for DR5 and DcR2, respectively, whereas T cells revealed negligible expression of all TRAIL receptors. Irrespective of TRAIL receptors' presence on the cell membrane, white blood cells were refractory to the proapoptotic effect displayed by sTRAIL secreted by gene-modified AD-MSC, and direct cell-to-cell contact with AD-MSC sTRAIL had negligible impact on T-cell and monocyte viability. Cytokine crosstalk involving interleukin 10, tumor necrosis factor alpha, and interferon gamma secreted by T lymphocytes and vascular endothelial growth factor A and interleukin 6 released by AD-MSC was highlighted in T-cell and AD-MSC sTRAIL co-cultures. CONCLUSIONS In summary, this study demonstrates the immunological safety and thus the clinical feasibility of an anticancer approach based on AD-MSC expressing the proapoptotic molecule sTRAIL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Casari
- Division of Oncology, Laboratory of Cellular Therapy, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University-Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; Department of Clinical Sciences, Section of Biochemistry, Biology and Physics, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | | | - Aurora Melandri
- Division of Oncology, Laboratory of Cellular Therapy, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University-Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Valentina Masciale
- Division of Oncology, Laboratory of Cellular Therapy, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University-Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Chiara Chiavelli
- Division of Oncology, Laboratory of Cellular Therapy, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University-Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Malvina Prapa
- Division of Oncology, Laboratory of Cellular Therapy, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University-Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; Department of Medical Technical Sciences, Universiteti Barleti, Tirana, Albania
| | - Giovanni Neri
- Division of Oncology, Laboratory of Cellular Therapy, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University-Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; Clinical and Experimental Medicine PhD Program, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | | | - Alba Murgia
- Technopole of Mirandola TPM, Mirandola, Modena, Italy
| | - Angela D'Esposito
- Division of Oncology, Laboratory of Cellular Therapy, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University-Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Baschieri
- Division of Oncology, Laboratory of Cellular Therapy, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University-Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | | | - Massimo Dominici
- Division of Oncology, Laboratory of Cellular Therapy, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University-Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; EVOTEC (Modena) Srl, Medolla, Modena, Italy.
| | - Giulia Grisendi
- Division of Oncology, Laboratory of Cellular Therapy, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University-Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.
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Aramini B, Masciale V. Editorial: Aldehyde dehydrogenase in clinical settings: Potential biomarker and therapeutic target in solid tumors. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 9:1116908. [PMID: 36687443 PMCID: PMC9846756 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.1116908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Beatrice Aramini
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine—DIMES of the Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, G.B. Morgagni—L. Pierantoni Hospital, Forlí, Italy,*Correspondence: Beatrice Aramini ✉
| | - Valentina Masciale
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
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Aramini B, Masciale V, Radaelli LFZ, Sgarzani R, Dominici M, Stella F. The sternum reconstruction: Present and future perspectives. Front Oncol 2022; 12:975603. [PMID: 36387077 PMCID: PMC9649912 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.975603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Sternectomy is a procedure mainly used for removing tumor masses infiltrating the sternum or treating infections. Moreover, the removal of the sternum involves the additional challenge of performing a functional reconstruction. Fortunately, various approaches have been proposed for improving the operation and outcome of reconstruction, including allograft transplantation, using novel materials, and developing innovative surgical approaches, which promise to enhance the quality of life for the patient. This review will highlight the surgical approaches to sternum reconstruction and the new perspectives in the current literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrice Aramini
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine—DIMES of the Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, G.B. Morgagni—L. Pierantoni Hospital, Forlì, Italy
- *Correspondence: Beatrice Aramini,
| | - Valentina Masciale
- Cell Therapy Laboratory, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Federico Zini Radaelli
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine—DIMES of the Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, G.B. Morgagni—L. Pierantoni Hospital, Forlì, Italy
| | - Rossella Sgarzani
- Center of Major Burns, Plastic Surgery Unit, Maurizio Bufalini Hospital, Cesena, Italy
| | - Massimo Dominici
- Cell Therapy Laboratory, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Franco Stella
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine—DIMES of the Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, G.B. Morgagni—L. Pierantoni Hospital, Forlì, Italy
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Aramini B, Masciale V, Samarelli AV, Tonelli R, Cerri S, Clini E, Stella F, Dominici M. Biological effects of COVID-19 on lung cancer: Can we drive our decisions. Front Oncol 2022; 12:1029830. [PMID: 36300087 PMCID: PMC9589049 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1029830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 infection caused by SARS-CoV-2 is considered catastrophic because it affects multiple organs, particularly those of the respiratory tract. Although the consequences of this infection are not fully clear, it causes damage to the lungs, the cardiovascular and nervous systems, and other organs, subsequently inducing organ failure. In particular, the effects of SARS-CoV-2-induced inflammation on cancer cells and the tumor microenvironment need to be investigated. COVID-19 may alter the tumor microenvironment, promoting cancer cell proliferation and dormant cancer cell (DCC) reawakening. DCCs reawakened upon infection with SARS-CoV-2 can populate the premetastatic niche in the lungs and other organs, leading to tumor dissemination. DCC reawakening and consequent neutrophil and monocyte/macrophage activation with an uncontrolled cascade of pro-inflammatory cytokines are the most severe clinical effects of COVID-19. Moreover, neutrophil extracellular traps have been demonstrated to activate the dissemination of premetastatic cells into the lungs. Further studies are warranted to better define the roles of COVID-19 in inflammation as well as in tumor development and tumor cell metastasis; the results of these studies will aid in the development of further targeted therapies, both for cancer prevention and the treatment of patients with COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrice Aramini
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine—DIMES of the Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, G.B. Morgagni—L. Pierantoni Hospital, Forlì, Italy
- *Correspondence: Beatrice Aramini,
| | - Valentina Masciale
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Laboratory of Cell Therapy, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University Hospital of Modena, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Anna Valeria Samarelli
- Laboratory of Cell Therapy, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University Hospital of Modena, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Respiratory Disease Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University Hospital of Modena, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Roberto Tonelli
- Respiratory Disease Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University Hospital of Modena, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Stefania Cerri
- Respiratory Disease Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University Hospital of Modena, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Enrico Clini
- Respiratory Disease Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University Hospital of Modena, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Franco Stella
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine—DIMES of the Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, G.B. Morgagni—L. Pierantoni Hospital, Forlì, Italy
| | - Massimo Dominici
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Laboratory of Cell Therapy, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University Hospital of Modena, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
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Aramini B, Masciale V, Samarelli AV, Dubini A, Gaudio M, Stella F, Morandi U, Dominici M, De Biasi S, Gibellini L, Cossarizza A. Phenotypic, functional, and metabolic heterogeneity of immune cells infiltrating non–small cell lung cancer. Front Immunol 2022; 13:959114. [PMID: 36032082 PMCID: PMC9399732 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.959114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer is the leading cancer in the world, accounting for 1.2 million of new cases annually, being responsible for 17.8% of all cancer deaths. In particular, non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is involved in approximately 85% of all lung cancers with a high lethality probably due to the asymptomatic evolution, leading patients to be diagnosed when the tumor has already spread to other organs. Despite the introduction of new therapies, which have improved the long-term survival of these patients, this disease is still not well cured and under controlled. Over the past two decades, single-cell technologies allowed to deeply profile both the phenotypic and metabolic aspects of the immune cells infiltrating the TME, thus fostering the identification of predictive biomarkers of prognosis and supporting the development of new therapeutic strategies. In this review, we discuss phenotypic and functional characteristics of the main subsets of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) and tumor-infiltrating myeloid cells (TIMs) that contribute to promote or suppress NSCLC development and progression. We also address two emerging aspects of TIL and TIM biology, i.e., their metabolism, which affects their effector functions, proliferation, and differentiation, and their capacity to interact with cancer stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrice Aramini
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine—DIMES of the Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, G.B. Morgagni—L. Pierantoni Hospital, Forlì, Italy
| | - Valentina Masciale
- Division of Oncology and Laboratory of Cellular Therapies, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Anna Valeria Samarelli
- Division of Oncology and Laboratory of Cellular Therapies, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Alessandra Dubini
- Division of Pathology, G.B. Morgagni—L. Pierantoni Hospital, Forlì, Italy
| | - Michele Gaudio
- Division of Pathology, G.B. Morgagni—L. Pierantoni Hospital, Forlì, Italy
| | - Franco Stella
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine—DIMES of the Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, G.B. Morgagni—L. Pierantoni Hospital, Forlì, Italy
| | - Uliano Morandi
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Massimo Dominici
- Division of Oncology and Laboratory of Cellular Therapies, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Sara De Biasi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children and Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Lara Gibellini
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children and Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Andrea Cossarizza
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children and Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- National Institute for Cardiovascular Research, Bologna, Italy
- *Correspondence: Andrea Cossarizza,
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Masciale V, Banchelli F, Grisendi G, D’Amico R, Maiorana A, Stefani A, Morandi U, Stella F, Dominici M, Aramini B. Cancer Stem Cells and Cell Cycle Genes as Independent Predictors of Relapse in Non-small Cell Lung Cancer: Secondary Analysis of a Prospective Study. Stem Cells Transl Med 2022; 11:797-804. [PMID: 35674389 PMCID: PMC9397651 DOI: 10.1093/stcltm/szac040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are described as resistant to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. It has been shown that CSCs influence disease-free survival in patients undergoing surgery for lung cancer (NCT04634630). We recently described an overexpression of CSCs recurrence-related genes (RG) in lung cancer. This study aims to investigate CSC frequency and RG expression as predictors of disease-free survival in lung cancer. Experimental Design This secondary analysis of a prospective cohort study involved 22 surgical tumor specimens from 22 patients harboring early (I-II) and locally advanced (IIIA) stages ACL and SCCL. Cell population frequency analysis of ALDHhigh (CSCs) and ALDHlow (cancer cells) was performed on each tumor specimen. In addition, RG expression was assessed for 31 target genes separately in ALDHhigh and ALDHlow populations. CSCs frequency and RG expression were assessed as predictors of disease-free survival by Cox analysis. Results CSCs frequency and RG expression were independent predictors of disease-free survival. CSC frequency was not related to disease-free survival in early-stage patients (HR = 0.84, 95%CI = 0.53-1.33, P = .454), whereas it was a risk factor for locally advanced-stage patients (HR = 1.22, 95%CI = 1.09-1.35, P = .000). RG expression—if measured in CSCs—was related to a higher risk of recurrence (HR = 1.19, 95%CI = 1.03-1.39, P = .021). The effect of RG expression measured in cancer cells on disease-free survival was lower and was not statistically significant (HR = 1.12, 95%CI = 0.94-1.33, P = .196). Conclusions CSCs frequency and RG expression are independent predictors of relapse in lung cancer. Considering these results, CSCs and RG may be considered for both target therapy and prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Roberto D’Amico
- Center of Medical Statistics, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Antonino Maiorana
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Alessandro Stefani
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Uliano Morandi
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Franco Stella
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine—DIMES of the Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, G.B. Morgagni—L. Pierantoni Hospital, Forlì, Italy
| | | | - Beatrice Aramini
- Corresponding author: Beatrice Aramini, MD, PhD, Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine—DIMES of the Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, G.B. Morgagni—L. Pierantoni Hospital, 34 Carlo Forlanini Street, 47121 Forlì, Italy.
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Aramini B, Masciale V, Arienti C, Dominici M, Stella F, Martinelli G, Fabbri F. Cancer Stem Cells (CSCs), Circulating Tumor Cells (CTCs) and Their Interplay with Cancer Associated Fibroblasts (CAFs): A New World of Targets and Treatments. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14102408. [PMID: 35626011 PMCID: PMC9139858 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14102408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The world of small molecules in solid tumors as cancer stem cells (CSCs), circulating tumor cells (CTCs) and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) continues to be under-debated, but not of minor interest in recent decades. One of the main problems in regard to cancer is the development of tumor recurrence, even in the early stages, in addition to drug resistance and, consequently, ineffective or an incomplete response against the tumor. The findings behind this resistance are probably justified by the presence of small molecules such as CSCs, CTCs and CAFs connected with the tumor microenvironment, which may influence the aggressiveness and the metastatic process. The mechanisms, connections, and molecular pathways behind them are still unknown. Our review would like to represent an important step forward to highlight the roles of these molecules and the possible connections among them. Abstract The importance of defining new molecules to fight cancer is of significant interest to the scientific community. In particular, it has been shown that cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a small subpopulation of cells within tumors with capabilities of self-renewal, differentiation, and tumorigenicity; on the other side, circulating tumor cells (CTCs) seem to split away from the primary tumor and appear in the circulatory system as singular units or clusters. It is becoming more and more important to discover new biomarkers related to these populations of cells in combination to define the network among them and the tumor microenvironment. In particular, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are a key component of the tumor microenvironment with different functions, including matrix deposition and remodeling, extensive reciprocal signaling interactions with cancer cells and crosstalk with immunity. The settings of new markers and the definition of the molecular connections may present new avenues, not only for fighting cancer but also for the definition of more tailored therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrice Aramini
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine—DIMES of the Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, G.B. Morgagni—L. Pierantoni Hospital, 47121 Forlì, Italy;
- Correspondence:
| | - Valentina Masciale
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41122 Modena, Italy; (V.M.); (M.D.)
| | - Chiara Arienti
- Biosciences Laboratory, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) “Dino Amadori”, 47014 Meldola, Italy; (C.A.); (G.M.); (F.F.)
| | - Massimo Dominici
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41122 Modena, Italy; (V.M.); (M.D.)
| | - Franco Stella
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine—DIMES of the Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, G.B. Morgagni—L. Pierantoni Hospital, 47121 Forlì, Italy;
| | - Giovanni Martinelli
- Biosciences Laboratory, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) “Dino Amadori”, 47014 Meldola, Italy; (C.A.); (G.M.); (F.F.)
| | - Francesco Fabbri
- Biosciences Laboratory, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) “Dino Amadori”, 47014 Meldola, Italy; (C.A.); (G.M.); (F.F.)
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Aramini B, Masciale V, Grisendi G, Bertolini F, Maur M, Guaitoli G, Chrystel I, Morandi U, Stella F, Dominici M, Haider KH. Dissecting Tumor Growth: The Role of Cancer Stem Cells in Drug Resistance and Recurrence. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14040976. [PMID: 35205721 PMCID: PMC8869911 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14040976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2022] [Accepted: 02/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Cancer is one of the most debated problems all over the world. Cancer stem cells are considered responsible of tumor initiation, metastasis, drug resistance, and recurrence. This subpopulation of cells has been found into the tumor bulk and showed the capacity to self-renew, differentiate, up to generate a new tumor. In the last decades, several studies have been set on the molecular mechanisms behind their specific characteristics as the Wnt/β-catenin signaling, Notch signaling, Hedgehog signaling, transcription factors, etc. The most powerful part of CSCs is represented by the niches as “promoter” of their self-renewal and “protector” from the common oncological treatment as chemotherapy and radiotherapy. In our review article we highlighted the primary mechanisms involved in CSC tumorigenesis for the setting of further targets to control the metastatic process. Abstract Emerging evidence suggests that a small subpopulation of cancer stem cells (CSCs) is responsible for initiation, progression, and metastasis cascade in tumors. CSCs share characteristics with normal stem cells, i.e., self-renewal and differentiation potential, suggesting that they can drive cancer progression. Consequently, targeting CSCs to prevent tumor growth or regrowth might offer a chance to lead the fight against cancer. CSCs create their niche, a specific area within tissue with a unique microenvironment that sustains their vital functions. Interactions between CSCs and their niches play a critical role in regulating CSCs’ self-renewal and tumorigenesis. Differences observed in the frequency of CSCs, due to the phenotypic plasticity of many cancer cells, remain a challenge in cancer therapeutics, since CSCs can modulate their transcriptional activities into a more stem-like state to protect themselves from destruction. This plasticity represents an essential step for future therapeutic approaches. Regarding self-renewal, CSCs are modulated by the same molecular pathways found in normal stem cells, such as Wnt/β-catenin signaling, Notch signaling, and Hedgehog signaling. Another key characteristic of CSCs is their resistance to standard chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatments, due to their capacity to rest in a quiescent state. This review will analyze the primary mechanisms involved in CSC tumorigenesis, with particular attention to the roles of CSCs in tumor progression in benign and malignant diseases; and will examine future perspectives on the identification of new markers to better control tumorigenesis, as well as dissecting the metastasis process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrice Aramini
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Experimental Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine–DIMES of the Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, G.B. Morgagni-L. Pierantoni Hospital, 47121 Forlì, Italy;
- Thoracic Surgery Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy; (V.M.); (U.M.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Valentina Masciale
- Thoracic Surgery Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy; (V.M.); (U.M.)
| | - Giulia Grisendi
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy; (G.G.); (F.B.); (M.M.); (G.G.); (I.C.); (M.D.)
| | - Federica Bertolini
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy; (G.G.); (F.B.); (M.M.); (G.G.); (I.C.); (M.D.)
| | - Michela Maur
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy; (G.G.); (F.B.); (M.M.); (G.G.); (I.C.); (M.D.)
| | - Giorgia Guaitoli
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy; (G.G.); (F.B.); (M.M.); (G.G.); (I.C.); (M.D.)
| | - Isca Chrystel
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy; (G.G.); (F.B.); (M.M.); (G.G.); (I.C.); (M.D.)
| | - Uliano Morandi
- Thoracic Surgery Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy; (V.M.); (U.M.)
| | - Franco Stella
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Experimental Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine–DIMES of the Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, G.B. Morgagni-L. Pierantoni Hospital, 47121 Forlì, Italy;
| | - Massimo Dominici
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy; (G.G.); (F.B.); (M.M.); (G.G.); (I.C.); (M.D.)
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Masciale V, Banchelli F, Grisendi G, D’Amico R, Maiorana A, Stefani A, Morandi U, Stella F, Dominici M, Aramini B. OUP accepted manuscript. Stem Cells Transl Med 2022; 11:239-247. [PMID: 35356974 PMCID: PMC8968653 DOI: 10.1093/stcltm/szab029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Lung cancer relapse may be associated with the presence of a small population of cancer stem cells (CSCs) with unlimited proliferative potential. Our study assessed the relationship between CSCs and the relapse rate in patients harboring adenocarcinoma (ADL) and squamous cell carcinoma of the lung (SCCL). Experimental design This is an observational prospective cohort study (NCT04634630) assessing the influence of CSC frequency on relapse rate after major lung resection in 35 patients harboring early (I-II) (n = 21) and locally advanced (IIIA) (n = 14) ADL and SCCL. There was a 2-year enrollment period followed by a 1-year follow-up period. Surgical tumor specimens were processed, and CSCs were quantified by cytofluorimetric analysis. Results Cancer stem cells were expressed in all patients with a median of 3.1% of the primary cell culture. Primary analysis showed no influence of CSC frequency on the risk of relapse (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.05, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.85-1.30). At secondary analysis, patients with locally advanced disease with higher CSC frequency had an increased risk of relapse (HR = 1.26, 95% CI = 1.14-1.39), whereas this was not observed in early-stage patients (HR = 0.90, 95% CI = 0.65-1.25). Conclusion No association was found between CSC and relapse rates after major lung resection in patients harboring ACL and SCCL. However, in locally advanced-stage patients, a positive correlation was observed between CSC frequency and risk of relapse. These results indicate a need for further molecular investigations into the prognostic role of CSCs at different lung cancer stages. Clinical Trial Registration NCT04634630.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Masciale
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Federico Banchelli
- Center of Medical Statistic, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Giulia Grisendi
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Roberto D’Amico
- Center of Medical Statistic, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Antonino Maiorana
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Alessandro Stefani
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Uliano Morandi
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Franco Stella
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine—DIMES of the Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, G.B. Morgagni—L. Pierantoni Hospital, Forlì, Italy
| | - Massimo Dominici
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Beatrice Aramini
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine—DIMES of the Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, G.B. Morgagni—L. Pierantoni Hospital, Forlì, Italy
- Corresponding author: Beatrice Aramini, Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine - DIMES of the Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, G.B. Morgagni - L. Pierantoni Hospital, 34 Carlo Forlanini Street, 47121 Forlì, Italy Forlì, Italy.
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Guaitoli G, Bertolini F, Bettelli S, Manfredini S, Maur M, Trudu L, Aramini B, Masciale V, Grisendi G, Dominici M, Barbieri F. Deepening the Knowledge of ROS1 Rearrangements in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: Diagnosis, Treatment, Resistance and Concomitant Alterations. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:12867. [PMID: 34884672 PMCID: PMC8657497 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222312867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2021] [Revised: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
ROS proto-oncogene 1 (ROS1) rearrangements are reported in about 1-2% of non-squamous non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). After efficacy of crizotinib was demonstrated, identification of ROS1 translocations in advanced disease became fundamental to give patients the chance of specific and effective treatment. Different methods are available for detection of rearrangements, and probably the real prevalence of ROS1 rearrangements is higher than that reported in literature, as our capacity to detect gene rearrangements is improving. In particular, with next generation sequencing (NGS) techniques, we are currently able to assess multiple genes simultaneously with increasing sensitivity. This is leading to overcome the "single oncogenic driver" paradigm, and in the very near future, the co-existence of multiple drivers will probably emerge more frequently and represent a therapeutic issue. Since recently, crizotinib has been the only available therapy, but today, many other tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) are emerging and seem promising both in first and subsequent lines of treatment. Indeed, novel inhibitors are also able to overcome resistance mutations to crizotinib, hypothesizing a possible sequential strategy also in ROS1-rearranged disease. In this review, we will focus on ROS1 rearrangements, dealing with diagnostic aspects, new therapeutic options, resistance issues and the coexistence of ROS1 translocations with other molecular alterations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgia Guaitoli
- Ph.D. Program Clinical and Experimental Medicine (CEM), Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
- Oncology and Hematology, Modena University Hospital, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (L.T.); (M.D.)
| | - Federica Bertolini
- Oncology and Hematology, Modena University Hospital, 41125 Modena, Italy; (F.B.); (M.M.); (F.B.)
| | - Stefania Bettelli
- Molecular Pathology, Modena University Hospital, 41125 Modena, Italy; (S.B.); (S.M.)
| | - Samantha Manfredini
- Molecular Pathology, Modena University Hospital, 41125 Modena, Italy; (S.B.); (S.M.)
| | - Michela Maur
- Oncology and Hematology, Modena University Hospital, 41125 Modena, Italy; (F.B.); (M.M.); (F.B.)
| | - Lucia Trudu
- Oncology and Hematology, Modena University Hospital, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (L.T.); (M.D.)
| | - Beatrice Aramini
- Thoracic Surgery Unit, Department of Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine—DIMES of the Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, G.B. Morgagni—L. Pierantoni Hospital, 47121 Forlì, Italy;
| | - Valentina Masciale
- Laboratory of Cellular Therapy, Program of Cell Therapy and Immuno-Oncology, Division of Oncology, University-Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, 41125 Modena, Italy; (V.M.); (G.G.)
| | - Giulia Grisendi
- Laboratory of Cellular Therapy, Program of Cell Therapy and Immuno-Oncology, Division of Oncology, University-Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, 41125 Modena, Italy; (V.M.); (G.G.)
| | - Massimo Dominici
- Oncology and Hematology, Modena University Hospital, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (L.T.); (M.D.)
- Laboratory of Cellular Therapy, Program of Cell Therapy and Immuno-Oncology, Division of Oncology, University-Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, 41125 Modena, Italy; (V.M.); (G.G.)
| | - Fausto Barbieri
- Molecular Pathology, Modena University Hospital, 41125 Modena, Italy; (S.B.); (S.M.)
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Isca C, Piacentini F, Mastrolia I, Masciale V, Caggia F, Toss A, Piombino C, Moscetti L, Barbolini M, Maur M, Dominici M, Omarini C. Circulating and Intracellular miRNAs as Prognostic and Predictive Factors in HER2-Positive Early Breast Cancer Treated with Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy: A Review of the Literature. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13194894. [PMID: 34638377 PMCID: PMC8508299 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13194894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Revised: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNA) are small noncoding RNAs that can act as both oncogene and tumor suppressors. Deregulated miRNA expression has been detected in human cancers, including breast cancer (BC). Considering their important roles in tumorigenesis, miRNAs have been investigated as potential prognostic and diagnostic biomarkers. Neoadjuvant setting is an optimal model to investigate in vivo the mechanism of treatment resistance. In the management of human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER2)-positive early BC, the anti-HER2-targeted therapies have drastically changed the survival outcomes. Despite this, growing drug resistance due to the pressure of therapy is relatively frequent. In the present review, we focused on the main miRNAs involved in HER2-positive BC tumorigenesis and discussed the recent evidence on their predictive and prognostic value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chrystel Isca
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University Hospital of Modena, 41124 Modena, Italy; (C.I.); (F.P.); (F.C.); (A.T.); (C.P.); (M.B.); (M.D.)
| | - Federico Piacentini
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University Hospital of Modena, 41124 Modena, Italy; (C.I.); (F.P.); (F.C.); (A.T.); (C.P.); (M.B.); (M.D.)
| | - Ilenia Mastrolia
- Laboratory of Cellular Therapy, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy; (I.M.); (V.M.)
| | - Valentina Masciale
- Laboratory of Cellular Therapy, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy; (I.M.); (V.M.)
| | - Federica Caggia
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University Hospital of Modena, 41124 Modena, Italy; (C.I.); (F.P.); (F.C.); (A.T.); (C.P.); (M.B.); (M.D.)
| | - Angela Toss
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University Hospital of Modena, 41124 Modena, Italy; (C.I.); (F.P.); (F.C.); (A.T.); (C.P.); (M.B.); (M.D.)
| | - Claudia Piombino
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University Hospital of Modena, 41124 Modena, Italy; (C.I.); (F.P.); (F.C.); (A.T.); (C.P.); (M.B.); (M.D.)
| | - Luca Moscetti
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Oncology-Hematology, University Hospital of Modena, 41124 Modena, Italy; (L.M.); (M.M.)
| | - Monica Barbolini
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University Hospital of Modena, 41124 Modena, Italy; (C.I.); (F.P.); (F.C.); (A.T.); (C.P.); (M.B.); (M.D.)
| | - Michela Maur
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Oncology-Hematology, University Hospital of Modena, 41124 Modena, Italy; (L.M.); (M.M.)
| | - Massimo Dominici
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University Hospital of Modena, 41124 Modena, Italy; (C.I.); (F.P.); (F.C.); (A.T.); (C.P.); (M.B.); (M.D.)
- Laboratory of Cellular Therapy, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy; (I.M.); (V.M.)
| | - Claudia Omarini
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Oncology-Hematology, University Hospital of Modena, 41124 Modena, Italy; (L.M.); (M.M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-059-4222845
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Tormen F, Banchelli F, Masciale V, Maiorana A, Morandi U, Aramini B. The importance of medical treatment before surgery in pleomorphic carcinoma of the lung: A case series study. Int J Surg Case Rep 2021; 86:106275. [PMID: 34392016 PMCID: PMC8365429 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijscr.2021.106275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction and importance Pleomorphic carcinoma of the lung is a rare malignant epithelial tumor. Due to its rarity, its clinicopathological characteristics are not clear, and there is no defined therapeutic path for this type of tumor. Case presentation We retrospectively analyzed the medical and pathological reports of 8 patients who underwent surgical resection for pleomorphic carcinoma between 2007 and 2010. Clinical discussion Eight patients were analyzed (7 males and 1 female, mean age 60). All patients underwent CT scans, and the average diameter of the nodules was 56 mm. Four patients were also investigated with FDG-PET with hypermetabolic activity in all four cases. In four patients, the carcinomatous component was adenocarcinoma (all with sarcomatoid component of spindle cell and giant cell carcinoma), although in two patients, it was squamous cell carcinoma (one with spindle cell and one with giant cell). In the two remaining patients, one showed a non-small cell carcinoma with giant cell carcinoma, and the other was a non-small cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma with spindle and giant cell carcinoma. All cases were treated with surgical resection. Only two patients underwent neoadjuvant chemotherapy. At the time of data analysis, only one patient treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy was alive. Conclusion The prognosis for these patients with a diagnosis of pleomorphic carcinoma undergoing surgery is generally better than those not treated with surgical resection, however the survival remains poor. Although with low number of patients, our research would suggest to consider neoadjuvant chemotherapy an appropriate approach for improving the outcomes before surgery. Pleomorphic carcinoma of the lung Rare malignant epithelial tumor Clinicopathological characteristics unclear Not defined therapeutic path Neoadiuvant chemotherapy improves the prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Tormen
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Federico Banchelli
- Center of Statistic, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Valentina Masciale
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.
| | - Antonino Maiorana
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Italy.
| | - Uliano Morandi
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.
| | - Beatrice Aramini
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.
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Masciale V, Banchelli F, Grisendi G, D’Amico R, Maiorana A, Stefani A, Morandi U, Dominici M, Aramini B. New Perspectives in Different Gene Expression Profiles for Early and Locally Advanced Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Stem Cells. Front Oncol 2021; 11:613198. [PMID: 33868998 PMCID: PMC8047623 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.613198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Lung cancer is one of the most common cancers in the world, causing over 1.7 million deaths in 2018. Thus far, no effective treatments against lung cancer for advanced stages have been found. For early stages, although surgery is considered the gold standard treatment, 30-55% of patients develop recurrence within the first 5 years of surgery. Our aim is to assess whether cancer stem cells (CSC) display overexpression of a pool of genes that were previously identified for adenocarcinoma recurrence in patients with early and locally advanced stages of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). METHODS This cross-sectional study was carried out by harvesting surgical tumor specimens obtained from patients harboring early (I-II) and locally advanced (IIIA) stages of NSCLC. For each patient, cell sorting was performed to identify and isolate the ALDHhigh (CSC) and ALDHlow (cancer cells) populations. The mRNA expressions of 31 recurrence-related genes (target genes) in both ALDHhigh and ALDHlow populations were then assessed and compared. RESULTS Surgical specimens were obtained from 22 patients harboring NSCLC. Sixteen (51.6%) out of 31 recurrence-related genes were significantly overexpressed in ALDHhigh cells in the early stages and 9 (29.0%) were overexpressed in the locally advanced stages of NSCLC. Overall, the relative mRNA expressions for these recurrence-related genes were higher in early-stage patients. The average fold change, considering all 31 recurrence-related genes together, was 4.5 (95% CI = 3.1-6.3) in early-stage patients and 1.6 (95% CI = 1.2-2.2) in locally advanced-stage patients. CONCLUSIONS Our study represents the first attempt toward identifying genes associated with recurrence that are overexpressed in cancer stem cells in patients with early and locally advanced stages of NSCLC. This finding may contribute to the identification of new target therapies tailored for NSCLC stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Masciale
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Federico Banchelli
- Center of Statistic, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Giulia Grisendi
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Roberto D’Amico
- Center of Statistic, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Antonino Maiorana
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Institute of Pathology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Alessandro Stefani
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Uliano Morandi
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Massimo Dominici
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Beatrice Aramini
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
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Aramini B, Masciale V, Grisendi G, Banchelli F, D'Amico R, Maiorana A, Morandi U, Dominici M, Haider KH. Cancer stem cells and macrophages: molecular connections and future perspectives against cancer. Oncotarget 2021; 12:230-250. [PMID: 33613850 PMCID: PMC7869576 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.27870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) have been considered the key drivers of cancer initiation and progression due to their unlimited self-renewal capacity and their ability to induce tumor formation. Macrophages, particularly tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), establish a tumor microenvironment to protect and induce CSCs development and dissemination. Many studies in the past decade have been performed to understand the molecular mediators of CSCs and TAMs, and several studies have elucidated the complex crosstalk that occurs between these two cell types. The aim of this review is to define the complex crosstalk between these two cell types and to highlight potential future anti-cancer strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrice Aramini
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Valentina Masciale
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Giulia Grisendi
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Federico Banchelli
- Center of Statistic, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Roberto D'Amico
- Center of Statistic, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Antonino Maiorana
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Uliano Morandi
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Massimo Dominici
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
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Lovati E, Ruggiero C, Masciale V, Stefani A, Morandi U, Aramini B. Use of Octreotide in association with talc poudrage for the management of a severe chylothorax: A case report. Int J Surg Case Rep 2021; 79:156-159. [PMID: 33477074 PMCID: PMC7815981 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijscr.2021.01.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2020] [Revised: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE Chylothorax is an uncommon form of pleural effusion characterized by the presence of chylomicrons, triglycerides and cholesterol in the physical and chemical examination of the pleural fluid. It may have poor prognosis if not properly treated. Currently, conservative measures are the first line of treatment for managing chylothorax. The aim of our study is to show and suggest the use of octreotide in association with talc poudrage as good option to manage post-operative a severe chylothorax. CASE PRESENTATION A 59-year-old male patient who underwent a replacement of the ascending aorta, aortic hemiarch and surgery of the aortic valve for aortic dissection showed a severe pleural effusion three months after surgery. Because the physical and chemical examination of the pleural fluid revealed high levels of triglycerides and cholesterol, a conservative treatment with pleural drainage, TPN and nihil per os was attempted, with the introduction of 0.3 mg/die of octreotide on day thirty-four. With the application of talc poudrage, the chylothorax completely resolved. CLINICAL DISCUSSION Octreotide has been shown to significantly decrease chylous effusion in many studies, but the dose and duration of therapy have not yet been defined. Our patient responded partially to octreotide after two days of treatment, with the drainage leak reduced to less than 100 mL/day. CONCLUSION After octreotide treatment associated with talc poudrage, the drainage leak was drastically reduced, suggesting that this could be a useful approach in the management of severe chylous leaks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora Lovati
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.
| | - Ciro Ruggiero
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.
| | - Valentina Masciale
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.
| | - Alessandro Stefani
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.
| | - Uliano Morandi
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.
| | - Beatrice Aramini
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.
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Aramini B, Masciale V, Bianchi D, Manfredini B, Banchelli F, D'Amico R, Bertolini F, Dominici M, Morandi U, Maiorana A. ALDH Expression in Angiosarcoma of the Lung: A Potential Marker of Aggressiveness? Front Med (Lausanne) 2020; 7:544158. [PMID: 33195295 PMCID: PMC7662079 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2020.544158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Primary angiosarcoma of the lung is a very aggressive rare malignant disease resulting in a severe prognosis (1). This type of cancer represents about 2% of all soft tissue sarcomas and has a high rate of metastasis through the hematogenous route. For the rarity of this malignant vascular tumor it is still challenging to set a diagnosis (1). The diagnostic features that have thus far been considered include primarily clinical and radiological findings. In some cases, immunohistochemical characteristics based on the most common markers used in pathology have been described. The aim of this report is to present two cases of angiosarcoma of the lung in which the aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) marker was analyzed by immunohistochemistry. Methods: We report two cases of angiosarcoma of the lung in patients underwent lung surgery at our Unit. In addition to the standard histopathological analysis for this disease, immunohistochemistry using an ALDH1A1 antibody was performed in both of the cases. For ALDH quantification, a semi-quantitative method based on the positivity of the tumor cells was used: 0 (<5%), 1 (5–25%), 2 (>25–50%), 3 (>50–75%), 4 (>75%). Results: One patient with recurrent lung disease survived, achieving complete remission after chemo- and radiotherapy. The second patient died of recurrent disease within 5 years of diagnosis. ALDH1A1 was evaluated in both of these cases using an immunohistochemistry scoring system based on the positivity for this marker. The scores were consistent with the patients' clinical outcomes, as the lower (score 1) was observed in the patient with the better clinical outcome, while the higher (score 3) was seen in the patient with the worse outcome. Conclusion: Our data suggest that ALDH may be an important clinical marker in angiosarcoma of the lung. Although further studies need to be performed in a larger cohort of patients, we believe that, if the results will be confirmed, ALDH1A1 may be used to stratify patients in terms of prognosis and for targeted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrice Aramini
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Valentina Masciale
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Daniel Bianchi
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Beatrice Manfredini
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Federico Banchelli
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Center of Statistic, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Roberto D'Amico
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Center of Statistic, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Federica Bertolini
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Massimo Dominici
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Uliano Morandi
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Antonino Maiorana
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Institute of Pathology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
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Golinelli G, Mastrolia I, Aramini B, Masciale V, Pinelli M, Pacchioni L, Casari G, Dall'Ora M, Soares MBP, Damasceno PKF, Silva DN, Dominici M, Grisendi G. Arming Mesenchymal Stromal/Stem Cells Against Cancer: Has the Time Come? Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:529921. [PMID: 33117154 PMCID: PMC7553050 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.529921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Since mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSCs) were discovered, researchers have been drawn to study their peculiar biological features, including their immune privileged status and their capacity to selectively migrate into inflammatory areas, including tumors. These properties make MSCs promising cellular vehicles for the delivery of therapeutic molecules in the clinical setting. In recent decades, the engineering of MSCs into biological vehicles carrying anticancer compounds has been achieved in different ways, including the loading of MSCs with chemotherapeutics or drug functionalized nanoparticles (NPs), genetic modifications to force the production of anticancer proteins, and the use of oncolytic viruses. Recently, it has been demonstrated that wild-type and engineered MSCs can release extracellular vesicles (EVs) that contain therapeutic agents. Despite the enthusiasm for MSCs as cyto-pharmaceutical agents, many challenges, including controlling the fate of MSCs after administration, must still be considered. Preclinical results demonstrated that MSCs accumulate in lung, liver, and spleen, which could prevent their engraftment into tumor sites. For this reason, physical, physiological, and biological methods have been implemented to increase MSC concentration in the target tumors. Currently, there are more than 900 registered clinical trials using MSCs. Only a small fraction of these are investigating MSC-based therapies for cancer, but the number of these clinical trials is expected to increase as technology and our understanding of MSCs improve. This review will summarize MSC-based antitumor therapies to generate an increasing awareness of their potential and limits to accelerate their clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Golinelli
- Laboratory of Cellular Therapy, Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University-Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Ilenia Mastrolia
- Laboratory of Cellular Therapy, Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University-Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Beatrice Aramini
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University-Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Valentina Masciale
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University-Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Massimo Pinelli
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University-Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Lucrezia Pacchioni
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University-Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Giulia Casari
- Laboratory of Cellular Therapy, Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University-Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Dall'Ora
- Laboratory of Cellular Therapy, Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University-Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Milena Botelho Pereira Soares
- Gonçalo Moniz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), Salvador, Brazil.,Health Institute of Technology, SENAI-CIMATEC, Salvador, Brazil
| | - Patrícia Kauanna Fonseca Damasceno
- Gonçalo Moniz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), Salvador, Brazil.,Health Institute of Technology, SENAI-CIMATEC, Salvador, Brazil
| | - Daniela Nascimento Silva
- Gonçalo Moniz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), Salvador, Brazil.,Health Institute of Technology, SENAI-CIMATEC, Salvador, Brazil
| | - Massimo Dominici
- Laboratory of Cellular Therapy, Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University-Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.,Rigenerand srl, Modena, Italy
| | - Giulia Grisendi
- Laboratory of Cellular Therapy, Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University-Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.,Rigenerand srl, Modena, Italy
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Aramini B, Masciale V, Manfredini B, Bianchi D, Banchelli F, D'Amico R, Bertolini F, Dominici M, Morandi U, Maiorana A. Expression of ALDH and SOX-2 in Pulmonary Sclerosing Pnemocytoma (PSP) of the Lung: Is There a Meaning Behind? Front Med (Lausanne) 2020; 7:497. [PMID: 32984377 PMCID: PMC7492541 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2020.00497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Pulmonary sclerosing pneumocytoma (PSP) is a rare benign pulmonary tumor that derives from primitive respiratory epithelium of the pulmonary alveolus. The etiology and pathogenesis are still unclear. Histopathological diagnosis focuses on cells that are positive for TTF1, EMA, cytokeratin-7, and CAM 5.2. The aim of our study is to highlight the elevated expression of ALDH and the presence of SOX-2 in pulmonary sclerosing pneumocytoma. Methods: We report five cases of pulmonary sclerosing pneumocytoma undergone surgery at our Division of Thoracic Surgery, during a period between 1994 and 2011. ALDH and SOX-2 markers were also tested for positivity in all the patients. Results: Patients showed elevated expression of ALDH during immunohistochemistry and mild expression of SOX-2, although in two cases in which SOX-2 was highly expressed. Among these two patients, one presented with lymph node recurrence while the other had no recurrence with a PET-positive nodule. In particular, the patient who had developed recurrence had an ALDH score of 4 and a SOX-2 score of 3, whereas the patient with the PET-positive nodule showed an ALDH score of 4 with a mild SOX-2 expression of score 1. Conclusions: This is the first attempt demonstrating the elevated expression of ALDH in this disease. SOX-2 expression was noted in both the patient who developed recurrence and the patient with a PET-positive nodule. We believe that further investigation may be highly useful to better characterize these two markers as well as understand their function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrice Aramini
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Valentina Masciale
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Beatrice Manfredini
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Daniel Bianchi
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Federico Banchelli
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Center of Statistic, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Roberto D'Amico
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Center of Statistic, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Federica Bertolini
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Massimo Dominici
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Uliano Morandi
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Antonino Maiorana
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Institute of Pathology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
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Aramini B, Masciale V, Haider KH. Defining lung cancer stem cells exosomal payload of miRNAs in clinical perspective. World J Stem Cells 2020; 12:406-421. [PMID: 32742559 PMCID: PMC7360993 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v12.i6.406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2020] [Revised: 04/29/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Since the first publication regarding the existence of stem cells in cancer [cancer stem cells (CSCs)] in 1994, many studies have been published providing in-depth information about their biology and function. This research has paved the way in terms of appreciating the role of CSCs in tumour aggressiveness, progression, recurrence and resistance to cancer therapy. Targeting CSCs for cancer therapy has still not progressed to a sufficient degree, particularly in terms of exploring the mechanism of dynamic interconversion between CSCs and non-CSCs. Besides the CSC scenario, the problem of cancer dissemination has been analyzed in-depth with the identification and isolation of microRNAs (miRs), which are now considered to be compelling molecular markers in the diagnosis and prognosis of tumours in general and specifically in patients with non-small cell lung cancer. Paracrine release of miRs via “exosomes” (small membrane vesicles (30-100 nm), the derivation of which lies in the luminal membranes of multi-vesicular bodies) released by fusion with the cell membrane is gaining popularity. Whether exosomes play a significant role in maintaining a dynamic equilibrium state between CSCs and non-CSCs and their mechanism of activity is as yet unknown. Future studies on CSC-related exosomes will provide new perspectives for precision-targeted treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrice Aramini
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena 41124, Italy
| | - Valentina Masciale
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena 41124, Italy
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Masciale V, Grisendi G, Banchelli F, D'Amico R, Maiorana A, Sighinolfi P, Brugioni L, Stefani A, Morandi U, Dominici M, Aramini B. Cancer Stem-Like Cells in a Case of an Inflammatory Myofibroblastic Tumor of the Lung. Front Oncol 2020; 10:673. [PMID: 32500024 PMCID: PMC7243805 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.00673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2019] [Accepted: 04/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Inflammatory myofibroblast tumor (IMT) is a rare tumor with obscure etiopathogenesis in which different inflammatory cells and myofibroblastic spindle cells are seen histologically. Although the majority of these neoplasms have a benign clinical course, the malignant form has also been reported. The gold standard is surgical treatment for complete removal. Our report describes a 50-year-old woman who underwent surgery for IMT of the lung. The aim is to determine whether cancer stem cells may be present in IMT of the lung. Methods: In April 2018, the patient underwent surgery for tumor mass asportation through lateral thoracotomy. The histology of the tumor was consistent with IMT of the lung. The ALDEFLUOR assay, after tissue digestion, was used to identify and sort human lung cancer cells expressing high and low aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) activity. SOX2, NANOG, OCT-4, and c-MYC positivity were additionally determined by immunohistochemistry. Results: The specimen contained 1.10% ALDHhigh cells among all viable lung cancer cells, which indicates the population of cancer stem cells is not negligible. Immunohistochemically assessed cell positivity for ALDH1A1, SOX2, NANOG, OCT-4, and c-MYC, which are considered as lung cancer stem-like cells markers. Conclusion: For the first time, we demonstrated the presence of cancer stem cells in a case of IMT of the lung. This finding may provide a base for considering new pathological and molecular aspects of this tumor. This perspective suggests further studies to understand the possibility of developing recurrence depending on the presence of cancer stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Masciale
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Giulia Grisendi
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Federico Banchelli
- Center of Statistic, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Roberto D'Amico
- Center of Statistic, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Antonino Maiorana
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Institute of Pathology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Pamela Sighinolfi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Institute of Pathology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Lucio Brugioni
- Internal Medicine and Critical Care Unit, Department of Integrated Medicine, Emergency Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Alessandro Stefani
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Uliano Morandi
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Massimo Dominici
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Beatrice Aramini
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
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Masciale V, Grisendi G, Banchelli F, D'Amico R, Maiorana A, Sighinolfi P, Stefani A, Morandi U, Dominici M, Aramini B. CD44+/EPCAM+ cells detect a subpopulation of ALDH high cells in human non-small cell lung cancer: A chance for targeting cancer stem cells? Oncotarget 2020; 11:1545-1555. [PMID: 32391123 PMCID: PMC7197447 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.27568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2020] [Accepted: 04/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Several studies demonstrated that aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) and CD44 are the most considered cancer stem cells (CSC) markers. However, a comparison between ALDH high cells and CD44+ cells have been previously described with no significant correlation. Indeed, the aim of the present research is to identify a superficial marker able to match with ALDH high cells population in freshly isolated human lung cancer cells. MATERIALS AND METHODS This cross-sectional study analyzed the expression of ALDHhigh/low cells and the positivity for CD44 and epithelium cell adhesion molecule (EPCAM) antigens in surgical lung cancer tissues. The main approach was a cytofluorimetric analysis of ALDH expression and positivity for CD44/EPCAM on primary cell population obtained from 23 patients harboring NSCLC. RESULTS There was a highly positive correlation between the expressions of ALDHhigh and CD44+/EPCAM+ cells, with a Pearson's correlation coefficient equal to 0.69 (95% CI 0.39-0.86; P = 0.0002), and Spearman's correlation coefficient equal to 0.52 (P = 0.0124). The average paired difference between the expression of ALDHhigh and CD44+/EPCAM+ cells was very close to 0, being 0.1% (SD 2.5%); there was no difference between these subpopulations in terms of means (95% CI = -1.0; 1.2%, P = 0.8464). These results highlight a strong similarity between ALDHhigh and CD44+/EPCAM+ cells. CONCLUSIONS Our study is the first attempt which identifies a high correlation between the ALDHhigh and the CD44+/EPCAM+ cells, thus suggesting the possibility to use this superficial marker for future target treatments against lung cancer stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Masciale
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.,Co-first/last authors
| | - Giulia Grisendi
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.,Co-first/last authors
| | - Federico Banchelli
- Center of Statistic, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.,Co-first/last authors
| | - Roberto D'Amico
- Center of Statistic, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Antonino Maiorana
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Pamela Sighinolfi
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Alessandro Stefani
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Uliano Morandi
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Massimo Dominici
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.,Co-first/last authors
| | - Beatrice Aramini
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.,Co-first/last authors
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Masciale
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children and Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Giulia Grisendi
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children and Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Federico Banchelli
- Center of Statistics, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children and Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Roberto D’Amico
- Center of Statistics, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children and Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Uliano Morandi
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children and Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Massimo Dominici
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children and Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | | | - Beatrice Aramini
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children and Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
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Aramini B, Banchelli F, Bettelli S, Manfredini S, D'Amico R, Masciale V, Pinelli M, Moretti M, Stefani A, Bertolini F, Dominici M, Morandi U, Maiorana A. Overall survival in patients with lung adenocarcinoma harboring "niche" mutations: an observational study. Oncotarget 2020; 11:550-559. [PMID: 32082488 PMCID: PMC7007296 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.27472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2019] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: In addition to the most common somatic lung cancer mutations (i. e., KRAS and EGFR mutations), other genes may harbor mutations that could be relevant for lung cancer. We defined BRAF, c-MET, DDR2, HER2, MAP2K1, NRAS, PIK3CA, and RET mutations as “niche” mutations and analyzed. The aim of this retrospective cohort study was to assess the differences in the overall survival (OS) of patients with lung adenocarcinoma harboring niche somatic mutations.
Results: Data were gathered for 252 patients. Mutations were observed in all genes studied, except c-MET, DDR2, MAP2K1, and RET. The multivariable analysis showed that 1) niche mutations had a higher mortality than EGFR mutations (HR = 2.3; 95% CI = 1.2–4.4; p = 0.009); 2) KRAS mutations had a higher mortality than EGFR mutations (HR = 2.5; 95% CI = 1.4–4.5; p = 0.003); 3) niche mutations presented a similar mortality to KRAS mutations (HR = 0.9; 95% CI = 0.6–1.5; p = 0.797).
Methods: Three cohorts of mutations were selected from patients with lung adenocarcinoma and their OS was compared. Mutations that were searched for, were 1) BRAF, c-MET, DDR2, HER2, MAP2K1, NRAS, PIK3CA, and RET; 2) K-RAS; and 3) EGFR. Differences in OS between these three cohorts were assessed by means of a multivariable Cox model that adjusted for age, sex, smoking habits, clinical stages, and treatments.
Conclusions: Niche mutations exhibited an increased risk of death when compared with EGFR mutations and a similar risk of death when compared with KRAS mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrice Aramini
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Federico Banchelli
- Center of Statistics, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Stefania Bettelli
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Samantha Manfredini
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Roberto D'Amico
- Center of Statistics, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Valentina Masciale
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Massimo Pinelli
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Margherita Moretti
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Alessandro Stefani
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Federica Bertolini
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Massimo Dominici
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Uliano Morandi
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Antonino Maiorana
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
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Candini O, Grisendi G, Foppiani EM, Brogli M, Aramini B, Masciale V, Spano C, Petrachi T, Veronesi E, Conte P, Mari G, Dominici M. Author Correction: A Novel 3D In Vitro Platform for Pre-Clinical Investigations in Drug Testing, Gene Therapy, and Immuno-oncology. Sci Rep 2020; 10:1845. [PMID: 32001744 PMCID: PMC6992750 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-57846-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Beatrice Aramini
- Division of Chest Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University-Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Valentina Masciale
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University-Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Pierfranco Conte
- Medical Oncology 2, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Padova, Italy.,Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | | | - Massimo Dominici
- Rigenerand srl, Medolla, Modena, Italy. .,Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University-Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.
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Masciale V, Grisendi G, Banchelli F, D'Amico R, Maiorana A, Sighinolfi P, Stefani A, Morandi U, Dominici M, Aramini B. Isolation and Identification of Cancer Stem-Like Cells in Adenocarcinoma and Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Lung: A Pilot Study. Front Oncol 2019; 9:1394. [PMID: 31921651 PMCID: PMC6930193 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2019.01394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Lung cancer stem cells (CSCs) share many characteristics with normal stem cells, such as self-renewal and multipotentiality. High expression of aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) has been detected in many tumors, particularly in the CSC compartment, and it plays an important role in tumor proliferation, metastasis, and drug resistance. CD44 is commonly used as a cell surface marker of cancer stem-like cells in epithelial tumors. The aim of this study was to isolate and analyze cancer stem-like cells from surgically removed specimens to compare lung adenocarcinoma (ADENO) and squamous (SQUAMO) cell carcinoma. Methods: The ALDEFLUOR assay was used to identify and sort ALDHhigh and ALDHlow human lung cancer cells following tissue digestion. Fluorescence-activated cell sorting analysis for CD44 was performed with tumor cells. Quantitative real-time PCR was performed to assess the expression of SOX2 and NANOG as stemness markers. ALDH1A1 expression was additionally determined by immunohistochemistry. Anchorage-independent ALDHhigh cell growth was also evaluated. ALDHhigh ADENO and SQUAMO cells were cultured to analyze spheroid formation. Results: All specimens contained 0.5-12.5% ALDHhigh cells with 3.8-18.9% CD44-positive cells. SOX2 and NANOG relative expression in ALDHhigh compared to ALDHlow cells in ADENO and SQUAMO was analyzed and compared between the histotypes. Immunohistochemistry confirmed the presence of ALDH1A1 in the sections. SOX2 and NANOG were expressed at higher levels in the ALDHhigh subpopulation than in the ALDHlow subpopulation only in ADENO cells, and the opposite result was seen in SQUAMO cells. In vitro functional assays demonstrated that ALDHhigh cells exhibited migration capacity with distinct behaviors between ALDHhigh spheres in ADENO vs. SQUAMO samples. Conclusions: Our results highlight the importance of a better characterization of cancer stem-like cells in ADENO and SQUAMO histotypes. This may suggest new differential approaches for prognostic and therapeutic purposes in patients with non-small-cell lung cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Masciale
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Giulia Grisendi
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.,Rigenerand SRL, Modena, Italy
| | - Federico Banchelli
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, Center of Medical Statistic, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Roberto D'Amico
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, Center of Medical Statistic, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Antonino Maiorana
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, Institute of Pathology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Pamela Sighinolfi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, Institute of Pathology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Alessandro Stefani
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Uliano Morandi
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Massimo Dominici
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Beatrice Aramini
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
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Masciale V, Grisendi G, Banchelli F, D'Amico R, Maiorana A, Morandi U, Dominici M, Aramini B. Cancer stem-neuroendocrine cells in an atypical carcinoid case report. Transl Lung Cancer Res 2019; 8:1157-1162. [PMID: 32010593 PMCID: PMC6976366 DOI: 10.21037/tlcr.2019.12.07] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Lung neuroendocrine cells tumor (NET) classification and diagnosis, particularly for typical and atypical carcinoids, are complicated by a variable natural history and nonspecific symptoms. Mechanisms for the development and progression of well-differentiated lung NETs are still unclear. An accurate and timely diagnosis can ensure the implementation of appropriate treatment and impact on prognosis. One of the main unclear point is the definition of these cells' composition. In fact, it is known that carcinoids are mainly constituted by neuroendocrine cells. Aim of our report is to show for the first time the presence of a high percentage of cancer stem cells (CSCs) in an atypical carcinoid. The ALDEFLUOR assay was used to identify and sort ALDHhigh and ALDHlow human lung cancer cells following tissue digestion. SOX2 was additionally determined by immunohistochemistry. All specimens contained the 53.10% of ALDHhigh cells among all viable lung cancer cells, which indicates that more than half of the entire tumor cell population was composed by CSCs. As expected also in immunohistochemistry, about a half of the nuclei of the cells were positive for SOX2. We strongly support the hypothesis of the presence of cancer stem-neuroendocrine cells (CSCs-NETs) as subpopulation in these types of tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Masciale
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Giulia Grisendi
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Federico Banchelli
- Center of Statistic, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Roberto D'Amico
- Center of Statistic, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Antonino Maiorana
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Uliano Morandi
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Massimo Dominici
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Beatrice Aramini
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
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Masciale V, Grisendi G, Banchelli F, D'Amico R, Maiorana A, Sighinolfi P, Pinelli M, Lovati E, Stefani A, Morandi U, Dominici M, Aramini B. Correlating tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes and lung cancer stem cells: a cross-sectional study. Ann Transl Med 2019; 7:619. [PMID: 31930020 DOI: 10.21037/atm.2019.11.27] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Background Lung cancer stem cells (LCSCs) are endowed with high aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) expression and play roles in tumor proliferation, metastasis, and drug resistance. Their elusive nature may allow them to escape the immune response by tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), which can positively affect the outcome in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. Despite independent investigations on both LCSCs and TILs, the relationship between the two has been very marginally considered. We analyzed whether these two cell types may be related as a prerequisite for novel diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. Methods In this cross-sectional study, NSCLC human surgical specimens from 12 patients were tested by ALDEFLUOR assay to identify ALDHhigh cells. Fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) analyses for CD3+, CD4+, and CD8+ TILs were performed in combination with immunohistochemistry evaluation. Results Statistically positive correlations were found between ALDH+ and CD8+, and between ALDH+ and CD3+ cells populations; no correlation was found between ALDH+ and CD4+ cells. The expression of CD3+ and CD8+ by cells accounted for 40.1% and 58.7%, respectively, of the variability of ALDH+ cell expression by an R-squared index, which highlights the strong correlation between TILs and LCSCs. Immunohistochemistry revealed 6-25% positive cells. Conclusions We report a correlation between cytotoxic TILs and LCSCs, which may contribute to the future development of targeted therapies focusing on the different roles of lymphocytes against lung cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Masciale
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Giulia Grisendi
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Federico Banchelli
- Center of Statistic, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Roberto D'Amico
- Center of Statistic, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Antonino Maiorana
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Pamela Sighinolfi
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Massimo Pinelli
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Eleonora Lovati
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Alessandro Stefani
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Uliano Morandi
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Massimo Dominici
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Beatrice Aramini
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
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Lo Giudice A, Michaud L, Mangano S, Caruso C, Masciale V, Papaleo M, Bruni V, Fani R. Antimicrobial potential of marine psychrotrophic bacteria isolated from Antarctic sponges. J Cyst Fibros 2008. [DOI: 10.1016/s1569-1993(08)60196-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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