Tumor-Associated Macrophage-Derived Exosomal LINC01232 Induces the Immune Escape in Glioma by Decreasing Surface MHC-I Expression

Tumor Small Extracellular Vesicle-Transmitted LncRNA CATED Promotes Platinum-Resistance in High-Grade Serous Ovarian Cancer

High-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC) is the most lethal type of gynecological cancer, and platinum-resistance is a serious challenge in its treatment. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play critical regulatory roles in the occurrence and development of cancers. Here, using RNA sequencing of tumor small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) from HGSOC patients, the lncRNA CATED is identified as significantly upregulated in both tumors and tumor-derived sEVs in platinum-resistant HGSOC, and low CATED levels correlate with good prognosis. Functionally, CATED enhances cisplatin resistance by promoting cell proliferation and inhibiting apoptosis in vitro and in vivo. These effects could be transferred via CATED-overexpressing sEVs from donor cells and HGSOC tumor sEVs. Mechanistically, CATED binds to and upregulates DHX36 via PIAS1-mediated SUMOylation at the K105 site, and elevated DHX36 levels increase downstream RAP1A protein levels by enhancing RAP1A mRNA translation, consequently activating the MAPK pathway to promote platinum-resistance in HGSOC. Antisense oligonucleotide mediated knockdown of CATED reverse platinum-resistance in sEV-transmitted mouse models via the DHX36-RAP1A-MAPK pathway. This study newly identifies a sEV-transmitted lncRNA CATED in driving HGSOC platinum-resistance and elucidates the mechanism it regulates the interacting protein through SUMOylation. These findings also provide a novel strategy for improving chemotherapy in HGSOC by targeting CATED.

Diagnostic and therapeutic potential of oral cavity-derived exosomes in oral and maxillofacial tissue engineering: current advances and future perspectives

Oral and maxillofacial (OMF) tissue engineering has always been the subject of longstanding professional and academic debates. Despite rapidly evolving therapeutic approaches including reconstructive surgeries, tissue grafts, platelet-rich therapies, and mesenchymal stem cell-based treatments, there are remaining concerns regarding the therapeutic efficacy, safety profile, immunological compatibility, target-specificity, and ethical issues of such therapies. In addition to the multifactorial nature of OMF diseases, complex maxillofacial anatomy and neurovasculature further pinpoint the urgent need for breakthroughs in the era of OMF treatments. In recent years, exosomes have garnered immense popularity as the frontiers of regenerative medicine. Exosomes, natural nanovesicles secreted by a wide range of cells, act as nano messengers that harbor the rich molecular cargo received by their original cells and demonstrate important roles for diverse physiological and pathological intercellular communications. Among the different sources of exosomes, the oral cavity hosts a wide variety of mesenchymal stem cell-derived and salivary exosomes. Owing to the neural crest origin and multipotent differentiation, oral stem cell-derived exosomes hold great promise for OMF tissue engineering. Moreover, exosomes derived from pathological oral cavity cells and saliva samples provide diagnostic and prognostic signatures for different OMF diseases. This review highlights the cutting-edge diagnostic and therapeutic applications of oral cavity-derived exosomes in the field of OMF regeneration. Furthermore, we emphasize the existing challenges and constraints in exosome-based diagnostics and therapy, thus offering important perspectives for the future clinical application of exosomes derived from the oral cavity.

Preclinical application of a CD155 targeting chimeric antigen receptor T cell therapy for digestive system cancers

Despite intensive multimodal therapy, the prognosis for patients with digestive system cancers remains poor. Cancer cell heterogeneity and immunosuppressive microenvironments are the main barriers to the effective CAR-T cell therapy with solid malignancies. In parallel, tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are essential for tumor immunosuppressive microenvironment formation. The limited efficacy of CAR-T cell therapy with solid malignancies prompted us to test whether new therapeutic target could enhance the antitumor activity of CAR-T cells with several digestive system cancer types. We determined CD155 expression in multiple human digestive system cancers, including gastric cancer, esophagus cancer, pancreatic cancer, and colon cancer, normal tissue samples and patient-derived M2-like tumor-associated macrophages. We developed a CD155-based CAR comprising the extracellular domain of human TIGIT, 4-1BB, and CD3z signaling domains (BBz). Furthermore, we validated the killing efficacy and safety of CD155-BBz CAR-T cells in vitro and in vivo using in-house established preclinical tumor models. CD155 was strongly and homogenously expressed in digestive system cancers but mildly in normal tissues, indicating it could be an ideal target for CAR-T cell therapy, moreover, TAMs that express CD155 possess an immunosuppressive M2-like profile. We found that CD155-BBz CAR-T cells can mediate significant antitumor activity in vivo, which induces complete tumor regression and long-lasting immunologic memory of established solid tumors in xenograft models. Our study indicates that CD155 is a promising target for digestive system cancer therapy, and CD155-targeting CAR-T cells perform a detecting power in digestive system cancer clinical trials.

Mechanical signal modulates prostate cancer immune escape by USP8-mediated ubiquitination-dependent degradation of PD-L1 and MHC-1

The tumor environment of prostate cancer (PCa) tissues of high Gleason score has been proved to be more immune suppressive and has higher extracellular matrix (ECM) stiffness, but whether ECM mechanical stiffness is the cause of higher ability of invasiveness and immune escape of PCa with high Gleason score remains uncertain. In this study, we showed that higher polyacrylamide hydrogels (PAAG) stiffness resulted in the progression and immune escape of PCa via integrin β1/FAK/YAP axis. The translocation of YAP into cell nucleus to bind to TEAD2 promoted the transcriptional activation of USP8. NBR1 could be ubiquitinated, and then degraded, via interacting with P62/SQSTM1 and through autophagy-lysosome pathway. Increased expression of USP8 promoted the abundance of NBR1 via K63-linked de-ubiquitination and PD-L1 via K48-linked de-ubiquitination in response to high PAAG stiffness. NBR1-mediated selective autophagy accelerated the degradation of MHC-1 of PCa. The USP8 inhibitor presented a potential application value in sensitizing immunotherapy of PCa. Taken together, we identified a USP8-mediated de-ubiquitination mechanism that involves in the process of high PAAG stiffness-mediated high expression of PD-L1 and low expression of MHC-1 of PCa cells, which provided a rationale of immunotherapy sensitization of PCa via USP8 inhibition.

Integrating multi-omics data to identify the role of Aggrephagy-related genes in tumor microenvironment and key tumorigenesis factors of GB from the perspective of single-cell sequencing

This study presents a pioneering exploration into the role of aggrephagy-related genes (ARGs) in glioblastoma (GB), a kind of malignant tumor which is highly invasive and resistant to a series of therapy. Utilizing single-cell sequencing to dissect their influence on the tumor microenvironment (TME) and tumorigenesis. By applying non-negative matrix factorization for dimensionality reduction and clustering of single-cell data, distinct cellular subtypes within the TME influenced by ARGs were identified, uncovering their functions and interactions. The investigation extends to validating the prognostic significance of ARGs and their potential in predicting immunotherapy outcomes. Molecular docking analysis of key ARGs further highlights TUBA1C and UBB as promising therapeutic targets, offering novel insights into GB's complex biology and suggesting a targeted approach for therapy, which is characterized by some crucial pathways in our analysis, including PI3k-akt and TGF-beta pathways. This comprehensive single-cell level examination not only advances our understanding of aggrephagy's role in GB but also proposes new avenues for prognosis and treatment strategies, emphasizing the critical impact of ARGs on the TME and GB progression.

ARHGDIB as a prognostic biomarker and modulator of the immunosuppressive microenvironment in glioma

BACKGROUND

Glioma, a prevalent malignant intracranial tumor, exhibits limited therapeutic efficacy due to its immunosuppressive microenvironment, leading to a poor prognosis for patients. ARHGDIB is implicated in the remodeling of the tumor microenvironment and plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of various tumors. However, its regulatory effect within the immune microenvironment of glioma remains unclear.

METHODS

The mRNA expression pattern of ARHGDIB was analyzed using public databases, and its expression was further validated in our collected cohort through quantitative PCR (qPCR) and immunohistochemistry (IHC). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and LASSO-Cox regression were employed to ascertain the clinical significance of ARHGDIB in glioma. Subsequently, we systematically evaluated the association between ARHGDIB expression and immune characteristics within the glioma microenvironment, as well as its potential to predict treatment response in glioma. Additionally, in vitro experiments were conducted to elucidate the role of ARHGDIB in remodeling the glioma microenvironment and promoting tumor malignancy progression.

RESULTS

Combined with bioinformatics analysis of public databases and validation with qPCR and IHC on our cohort, our findings indicate that ARHGDIB is markedly overexpressed in glioma and correlates with poor patient prognosis, thereby serving as a potential biomarker for adverse outcomes in glioma. Functional enrichment and immune infiltration analyses reveal that ARHGDIB is implicated in the recruitment of immunosuppressive cells, such as M2 macrophages and neutrophils, contributing to the alteration of the glioma immunosuppressive microenvironment and hindering the immune response. Further investigations through single-cell sequencing, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, and in vitro experiments demonstrate that ARHGDIB exhibits an expression pattern akin to CD163, with its overexpression inducing M2 macrophage polarization and facilitating glioma cell proliferation and migration.

CONCLUSIONS

ARHGDIB emerges as a novel marker for tumor-associated macrophages, playing a crucial role in shaping the immunosuppressive microenvironment and representing a promising prognostic biomarker for glioma.

Role of exosomes in castration-resistant prostate cancer

Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the most common urological malignancies in older male patients. Castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) is an aggressive and refractory stage of PCa and is the leading cause of PCa-related deaths. Exosomes are small spherical vesicles with a lipid bilayer membrane structure, secreted by cells, which carry large amounts of nucleic acids, proteins, lipids, and various important reactive small molecules. Numerous studies have demonstrated that exosomes are involved in the development of CRPC by delivering various biomolecules that regulate biological processes in recipient cells. Despite the advancement in treatments, CRPC remains poorly managed, underscoring the urgent need for novel treatment strategies.As research into exosomes continues, they have shown significant potential in the diagnosis and treatment of CRPC.Unlike previous reviews,this review not only provides an overview of exosomes but also comprehensively explores their role in the CRPC tumor microenvironment, angiogenesis, immune escape, metastasis, and drug resistance, with a focus on the potential value of exosomes in the diagnosis and treatment of CRPC.The literature review includes studies published up to June 2024, and the search strategy involved exosomes, CRPC, diagnosis,and treatment using Pubmed.

Immune cell-derived exosomal non-coding RNAs in tumor microenvironment: Biological functions and potential clinical applications

The intricate interactions between immune cells and tumors exert a profound influence on cancer progression and therapeutic efficacy. Within the tumor microenvironment, exosomes have emerged as pivotal mediators of intercellular communication, with their cargo of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) serving as key regulatory elements. This review examines the multifaceted roles of immune cell-derived exosomal ncRNAs in tumor biology. The involvement of various immune cells, including T cells, B cells, natural killer cells, macrophages, neutrophils, and myeloid-derived suppressor cells, in utilizing exosomal ncRNAs to regulate tumor initiation and progression is explored. Additionally, the biogenesis and delivery mechanisms of these immune cell-derived exosomal ncRNAs are discussed, alongside their potential clinical applications in cancer.

Macrophage-derived exosomes in cancer: a double-edged sword with therapeutic potential

Solid cancer contains a complicated communication network between cancer cells and components in the tumor microenvironment (TME), significantly influencing the progression of cancer. Exosomes function as key carriers of signaling molecules in these communications, including the intricate signalings of tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) on cancer cells and the TME. With their natural lipid bilayer structures and biological activity that relates to their original cell, exosomes have emerged as efficient carriers in studies on cancer therapy. Intrigued by the heterogeneity and plasticity of both macrophages and exosomes, we regard macrophage-derived exosomes in cancer as a double-edged sword. For instance, TAM-derived exosomes, educated by the TME, can promote resistance to cancer therapies, while macrophage-derived exosomes generated in vitro have shown favorable potential in cancer therapy. Here, we depict the reasons for the heterogeneity of TAM-derived exosomes, as well as the manifold roles of TAM-derived exosomes in cancer progression, metastasis, and resistance to cancer therapy. In particular, we emphasize the recent advancements of modified macrophage-derived exosomes in diverse cancer therapies, arguing that these modified exosomes are endowed with unique advantages by their macrophage origin. We outline the challenges in translating these scientific discoveries into clinical cancer therapy, aiming to provide patients with safe and effective treatments.

PD-L1-Targeting Autophagy Modulator to Upregulate MHC-I and Activate Photo-Immunotherapy for Metastatic Tumor Eradication

Breast cancer cells are characterized by heightened autophagy, which impairs tumor-associated antigen presentation and represents a significant barrier to the antitumor immunity. In this study, a PD-L1-targeting autophagy modulator (PFC@CQ) is fabricated to activate the photoimmunotherapy against breast cancer. Specifically, the hydrophobic photosensitizer protoporphyrin IX (PpIX) is covalently linked to the hydrophobic peptide FFVLK and a PD-L1-targeting peptide sequence CLQKTPKQC, resulting in the formation of an amphiphilic photosensitizer-peptide conjugate (PpIX-FFVLK-CLQKTPKQC, called PFC), which is capable of encapsulating the autophagy inhibitor chloroquine (CQ). PFC@CQ can not only facilitate the targeted drug codelivery to PD-L1-overexpressing breast cancer cells, but also effectively disrupt their immune evasion by blocking PD-1/PD-L1 pathway. Upon light irradiation, the photodynamic therapy (PDT) of PFC@CQ induces tumor cell destruction and immunogenic cell death (ICD), causing the release of damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs). Simultaneously, PFC@CQ can inhibit autophagy pathway to mediate the upregulation of MHC-I, thereby enhancing antigen presentation. This cascade immunomodulation promotes the dendritic cell maturation and CD8+ T cell activation, leading to a synergistic suppression of both primary and metastatic tumors. This work introduces an innovative autophagy modulation strategy with potent immunomodulatory capability, demonstrating a potential to trigger systemic antitumor immune responses through local treatment.

Targeting ARPC1B Overcomes Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Resistance in Glioblastoma by Reversing Protumorigenic Macrophage Polarization

Immunotherapy has elicited significant improvements in outcomes for patients with several tumor types. However, the immunosuppressive microenvironment in glioblastoma (GBM) restricts the therapeutic efficacy of immune checkpoint blockade (ICB). In this study, we investigated the components of the immune microenvironment that contribute to ICB failure in GBM to elucidate the underlying causes of immunotherapeutic resistance. Macrophages were identified as a main contributor to ICB resistance. Expression of actin-related protein 2/3 complex subunit 1B (ARPC1B), a regulatory subunit of the Arp2/3 complex, was elevated in GBM and correlated with macrophage enrichment and prognosis. ARPC1B in tumor cells increased STAT1 expression and subsequent IL10 production, which induced a protumorigenic macrophage state. Mechanistically, ARPC1B inhibited the ubiquitination and degradation of STAT1 by preventing the E3 ubiquitin ligase NEDD4L from binding to STAT1 and by supporting the interaction between STAT1 and the deubiquitinase USP7. Inhibiting ARPC1B reshaped the immunosuppressive microenvironment and increased the efficacy of ICB in GBM models. This study highlights the important role of ARPC1B in macrophage-mediated immunosuppression and proposes a combination treatment regimen for GBM immunotherapy. Significance: ARPC1B induces macrophage-mediated immunosuppression by activating a STAT1/IL10 axis and can be targeted to improve the efficacy of immune checkpoint blockade in glioblastoma.

PD-L1 siRNA incorporation into a cationic liposomal tumor mRNA vaccine enhances cytotoxic T cell activation and prevents immune evasion

Engaging antigen-presenting cells and T lymphocytes is essential for invigorating the immune system's response to cancer. Nonetheless, challenges such as the low immunogenicity of tumor antigens, the genetic heterogeneity of tumor cells, and the elevated expression of immune checkpoint molecules frequently result in resistance to immunotherapy or enable immune evasion by tumors. To overcome this resistance, we developed a therapeutic tumor vaccine employing cationic liposomes to encapsulate MC38 total RNA alongside PD-L1 siRNA (siPD-L1). The encapsulated total RNA, enriched with tumor mRNA, effectively transduces dendritic cells (DCs), thereby enhancing antigen presentation. The incorporation of siPD-L1 specifically targets and diminishes PD-L1 expression on both DCs and tumor cells, synergistically amplifying the cytotoxic capabilities of CD8+ T cells. Furthermore, cationic liposomes play dual roles as carriers crucial for preserving the integrity of nucleic acids for antigen translation and as inhibitors of autophagy-a process essential for both promoting antigen cross-presentation and revitalizing MHC-I expression on tumor cells, thereby increasing their immunogenicity. This cationic liposomal vaccine represents a promising strategy in cancer immunotherapy, launching a multidimensional offensive against tumor cells that enhances cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) activation and prevents tumor immune evasion.

Engineered Bacterial Outer Membrane Vesicles-Based Doxorubicin and CD47-siRNA Co-Delivery Nanoplatform Overcomes Immune Resistance to Potentiate the Immunotherapy of Glioblastoma

Apart from the blood-brain barrier (BBB), the efficacy of immunotherapy for glioblastoma (GBM) is limited by the presence of intrinsic and adaptive immune resistance, implying that co-delivery of various immunotherapeutic agents or simultaneous regulation of different cells is urgently needed. Bacterial outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) offer a unique advantage in the treatment of GBM, owing to their multifunctional properties as carriers and immune adjuvants and their ability to cross the BBB. However, traditional OMVs can lead to toxic side effects and disruption of tight junctions in the BBB. Therefore, to enhance the in vivo safety and targeting capability of OMVs, we introduced engineered OMVs to reduce toxicity and further constructed a modularly assembled nanoplatform by performing simple peptide modifications. This nanoplatform demonstrates satisfactory biosafety and is able to continuously cross the BBB and target GBM with the assistance of Angiopep-2. Subsequently, immunogenic substances on OMVs, along with carried small-interfering RNA (siRNA) and doxorubicin, can promote and enhance the reprogramming and phagocytic abilities of macrophages and microglia, respectively, and increase the immunogenicity of GBM, ultimately overcoming GBM immune resistance to enhance the efficacy of immunotherapy. This OMVs-based nanoplatform provides a new paradigm and insights into the development of immunotherapy for GBM.

M2-polarized tumor-associated macrophage-secreted exosomal lncRNA NEAT1 upregulates galectin-3 by recruiting KLF5 and promotes HCC immune escape

HCC cell immune escape is a critical element in the evolution of HCC malignancy. Herein, the regulatory mechanism of lncRNA NEAT1 in regulating HCC immune escape was investigated. Exosomes were isolated from M2 TAMs using ExoQuick-TC. Then, HCC cells were incubated with M2 TAMs-derived exosomes (M2-exos). The activation of perforin+CD8+ T cells was measured using flow cytometry. The secretion of IFN-γ was assessed using ELISA. Cell viability and migration were detected using CCK8 and Transwell assays, respectively. RIP and RNA pull-down assays were used to investigate the link between NEAT1 and KLF5. ChIP and dual-luciferase reporter assays were used to investigate the interaction between KLF5 and the LGALS3 promoter. Our results showed that NEAT1, KLF5 and galectin-3 were overexpressed in HCC tissues. M2-exos treatment promoted HCC proliferation, migration, and immune escape. It was found that NEAT1 was enriched in M2-TAMs and M2-exos. M2-exos facilitated HCC immune escape, whereas NEAT1 silencing reversed this effect. NEAT1 upregulated galectin-3 in HCC cells by recruiting KLF5. Mechanically, M2-TAM-derived exosomal NEAT1 induced HCC immune escape by upregulating KLF5/galectin-3 axis. M2-TAM-derived exosomal NEAT1 upregulated galectin-3 in HCC cells by recruiting KLF5 to promote perforin+CD8+ T cell depletion and further accelerate HCC immune escape.

TAM-derived exosomal miR-589-3p accelerates ovarian cancer progression through BCL2L13

BACKGROUND

Tumor-associated macrophages (TAM) are critical elements of intercellular communication in tumor microenvironment (TME), and exosomes are key mediators between tumor cells and the TME. According to previous reports, miRNAs exert a pivotal role in ovarian cancer (OC) development. The purpose of this work was to explore the function of TAM-derived exosomal miR-589-3p in OC development and elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms.

METHODS

First, peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) were treated with IL-4 and IL-13 to polarize them into M2-type macrophages. Exosomes were separated from M2-type macrophages, and the physical properties of exosomes were evaluated using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA). Next, quantitative reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was applied to examine the expression of relevant genes. Subsequently, Targetscan and miRDB were utilized to predict miR-589-3p target genes, and then the interaction between miR-589-3p and BCL2L13 was verified by dual luciferase assay and RNA Binding Protein Immunoprecipitation (RIP) assay. Finally, Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) and flow cytometry experiments were employed to explore the changes in the proliferative and apoptotic abilities of OC cells.

RESULTS

In this research, we demonstrated that TAM-derived exosomes facilitated OC cell proliferation and suppressed OC cell apoptosis. Then, qRT-PCR results indicated that miR-589-3p were markedly elevated after co-culture of TAM-derived exosomes with OC cells. In addition, we discovered that miR-589-3p was bound to BCL-2-like protein 13 (BCL2L13), which was confirmed through luciferase assay and RIP assay. Furthermore, functional analysis displayed that TAM-derived exosomes treated with miR-589-3p inhibitor attenuated the promotion of OC cell progression by exosomes.

CONCLUSION

TAM-derived exosomal miR-589-3p enhanced OC progression through BCL2L13, which offers a novel for OC therapy.

UBE2T/CDC42/CD276 signaling axis mediates brain metastasis of triple-negative breast cancer via lysosomal autophagy

BACKGROUND

Advanced triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is prone to brain metastasis (BrM). The precise molecular mechanism responsible for this phenomenon has not yet been completely established, so it is vital to comprehend the molecular mechanism behind it.

METHODS

The protein chip analysis was conducted to identify any abnormal UBE2T protein expression in TNBC, especially BrM. Here, we used public databases and bioinformatics analysis as well as clinical samples from different cohorts to investigate the interrelationship between UBE2T/CDC42/CD276. This predicted relationship was then repeatedly validated using different in vivo and in vitro experimental methods. Additionally, multiple experimental approaches were implemented, encompassing western blotting, Co-IP, GST pull-down, flow cytometry, mass spectrometry, immunofluorescence, immunohistochemistry, and qRT-PCR to reveal the molecular mechanism of UBE2T-mediated immune escape and BrM.

RESULTS

Our results indicate that expressed at elevated levels in breast cancer, UBE2T is negatively linked to patient prognosis, especially in BrM of TNBC. Data from clinical samples from our different cohorts and TCGA indicate a significant correlation between UBE2T and immunosuppression. Mechanistically, UBE2T directly interacts with CDC42, promoting its K48-linked polyubiquitination and proteasomal degradation, thereby inhibiting CDC42 from degrading CD276 via the autophagy-lysosomal pathway, indirectly upregulating CD276 and thereby impairing the CD8+ T cells function, ultimately mediating tumor immune escape and BrM. Finally, animal experimental results also showed that inhibition of UBE2T elevated the TNBC sensitivity to immune checkpoint CD276 blockade and inhibited BrM of TNBC.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, our results indicate a new mechanism whereby UBE2T-mediated ubiquitination positively controls the UBE2T/CDC42/CD276 axis to upregulate tumor cell expression of CD276 and thereby impair CD8+ T cells function, ultimately leading to tumor cell immune escape and BrM.

Brain-targeting drug delivery systems: The state of the art in treatment of glioblastoma

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most prevalent primary malignant brain tumor, characterized by a high mortality rate and a poor prognosis. The blood-brain barrier (BBB) and the blood-tumor barrier (BTB) present significant obstacles to the efficacy of tumor-targeted pharmacotherapy, thereby impeding the therapeutic potential of numerous candidate drugs. Targeting delivery of adequate doses of drug across the BBB to treat GBM has become a prominent research area in recent years. This emphasis has driven the exploration and evaluation of diverse technologies for GBM pharmacotherapy, with some already undergoing clinical trials. This review provides a thorough overview of recent advancements and challenges in targeted drug delivery for GBM treatment. It specifically emphasizes systemic drug administration strategies to assess their potential and limitations in GBM treatment. Furthermore, this review highlights promising future research directions in the development of intelligent drug delivery systems aimed at overcoming current challenges and enhancing therapeutic efficacy against GBM. These advancements not only support foundational research on targeted drug delivery systems for GBM but also offer methodological approaches for future clinical applications.

Exosomes in the Chemoresistance of Glioma: Key Point in Chemoresistance

Gliomas are the most ordinary primary virulent brain tumours and commonly used clinical treatments include tumour resection, radiation therapy and chemotherapy. Although significant progress has been made in recent years in progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) for patients with high-grade gliomas, the prognosis for patients remains poor. Chemoresistance refers to the phenomenon of decreased sensitivity of tumour cells to drugs, resulting in reduced or ineffective drug efficacy, and is an important cause of failure of tumour chemotherapy. Exosomes, a type of extracellular vesicle, are secreted by cancer cells and various stromal cells in the tumour microenvironment (TME) and transfer their inclusions to cancer cells, increasing chemoresistance. Furthermore, depletion of exosomes reverses certain detrimental effects on tumour metabolism and restores sensitivity to chemotherapeutic agents. Here, we summarised the correlation between exosomes and resistance to chemotherapeutic agents in glioma patients, the mechanisms of action of exosomes involved in resistance and their clinical value. We aimed to afford new thoughts for research, clinical diagnosis and intervention in the mechanisms of chemoresistance in glioma patients.

RIT1 Promotes the Proliferation of Gliomas Through the Regulation of the PI3K/AKT/c-Myc Signalling Pathway

Recently, RIT1 has been implicated in a range of neurological disorders; however, its precise function in glioma pathogenesis is not yet well-defined. This study employed quantitative reverse transcription PCR (qRT-PCR), Western blotting (WB), immunohistochemistry (IHC) and additional methodologies to assess RIT1 expression levels in glioma tissues. Furthermore, the study investigated its influence on glioma progression through a series of functional experiments. Animal models were also utilised to elucidate the mechanistic role of RIT1, with a particular focus on its effects on the PI3K/AKT signalling pathway. Research findings showcased that RIT1 is significantly overexpressed in gliomas and exhibits a strong correlation with tumour grade and unfavourable clinical outcomes. Furthermore, RIT1 serves as an independent prognostic marker of poor prognosis. Functional assays demonstrate that RIT1 facilitates the aggressiveness of glioma cells by activating the PI3K/AKT signalling. Additionally, it promotes tumour proliferation by inhibiting apoptosis and accelerating cell cycle progression. This study demonstrates that RIT1 significantly contributes to the aggressive phenotype and unfavourable prognosis of glioma, indicating its ability as a therapeutic target for glioma treatment.

Innovative Nanomedicine Delivery: Targeting Tumor Microenvironment to Defeat Drug Resistance

Nanodrug delivery systems have revolutionized tumor therapy like never before. By overcoming the complexity of the tumor microenvironment (TME) and bypassing drug resistance mechanisms, nanotechnology has shown great potential to improve drug efficacy and reduce toxic side effects. This review examines the impact of the TME on drug resistance and recent advances in nanomedicine delivery systems to overcome this challenge. Characteristics of the TME such as hypoxia, acidity, and high interstitial pressure significantly reduce the effectiveness of chemotherapy and radiotherapy, leading to increased drug resistance in tumor cells. Then, this review summarizes innovative nanocarrier designs for these microenvironmental features, including hypoxia-sensitive nanoparticles, pH-responsive carriers, and multifunctional nanosystems that enable targeted drug release and improved drug penetration and accumulation in tumors. By combining nanotechnology with therapeutic strategies, this review offers a novel perspective by focusing on the innovative design of nanocarriers that interact with the TME, a dimension often overlooked in similar reviews. We highlight the dual role of these nanocarriers in therapeutic delivery and TME modulation, emphasize their potential to overcome drug resistance, and look at future research directions.

Extracellular vesicles in cancers: mechanisms, biomarkers, and therapeutic strategies

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) composed of various biologically active constituents, such as proteins, nucleic acids, lipids, and metabolites, have emerged as a noteworthy mode of intercellular communication. There are several categories of EVs, including exosomes, microvesicles, and apoptotic bodies, which largely differ in their mechanisms of formation and secretion. The amount of evidence indicated that changes in the EV quantity and composition play a role in multiple aspects of cancer development, such as the transfer of oncogenic signals, angiogenesis, metabolism remodeling, and immunosuppressive effects. As EV isolation technology and characteristics recognition improve, EVs are becoming more commonly used in the early diagnosis and evaluation of treatment effectiveness for cancers. Actually, EVs have sparked clinical interest in their potential use as delivery vehicles or vaccines for innovative antitumor techniques. This review will focus on the function of biological molecules contained in EVs linked to cancer progression and their participation in the intricate interrelationship within the tumor microenvironment. Furthermore, the potential efficacy of an EV-based liquid biopsy and delivery cargo for treatment will be explored. Finally, we explicitly delineate the limitations of EV-based anticancer therapies and provide an overview of the clinical trials aimed at improving EV development.

TYROBP promotes the spread of pancreatic cancer by causing M2 TAM polarization

BACKGROUND AND AIM

M2-polarized tumor-associated macrophages (M2 TAMs) are known to promote cancer progression, and exosomes are crucial mediators of communication within the tumor microenvironment (TME). However, the specific role of exosomes derived from M2 TAMs in pancreatic cancer (PC) progression remains poorly understood. Tyrosine kinase binding protein (TYROBP, also known as DAP12 for DNAX activating protein-12) is a transmembrane signal transduction polypeptide that interacts with immune cell receptors, influencing cellular functions via signal transduction pathways. TYROBP is prominently found in M2 TAMs exosomes, facilitating its transfer to PC cells and suggesting a potential role in PC pathogenesis.

METHODS

This study initially confirmed the presence of TYROBP in M2 TAMs exosomes and its transfer to PC cells via exosomes. The impact of TYROBP on PC proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and invasion was investigated. Special attention was given to TYROBP's influence on PC metastasis and its underlying mechanisms, focusing particularly on the CD44/AKT/ERK signaling pathway.

RESULTS

TYROBP expression in PC cells did not significantly affect tumor cell proliferation or apoptosis but demonstrated a notable inhibitory effect on migration and invasion, which was mediated through the CD44/AKT/ERK pathway. Both in vivo and in vitro experiments consistently showed that TYROBP enhanced PC metastasis.

CONCLUSIONS

This study elucidates that TYROBP plays a direct role in promoting PC metastasis through its association with M2 TAMs polarization. Therefore, TYROBP represents a potential novel therapeutic target for interventions aimed at combatting PC progression.

Recent advances in biomimetic strategies for the immunotherapy of glioblastoma

Immunotherapy is regarded as one of the most promising approaches for treating tumors, with a multitude of immunotherapeutic thoughts currently under consideration for the lethal glioblastoma (GBM). However, issues with immunotherapeutic agents, such as limited in vivo stability, poor blood-brain barrier (BBB) penetration, insufficient GBM targeting, and represented monotherapy, have hindered the success of immunotherapeutic interventions. Moreover, even with the aid of conventional drug delivery systems, outcomes remain suboptimal. Biomimetic strategies seek to overcome these formidable drug delivery challenges by emulating nature's intelligent structures and functions. Leveraging the variety of biological structures and functions, biomimetic drug delivery systems afford a versatile platform with enhanced biocompatibility for the co-delivery of diverse immunotherapeutic agents. Moreover, their inherent capacity to traverse the BBB and home in on GBM holds promise for augmenting the efficacy of GBM immunotherapy. Thus, this review begins by revisiting the various thoughts and agents on immunotherapy for GBM. Then, the barriers to successful GBM immunotherapy are analyzed, and the corresponding biomimetic strategies are explored from the perspective of function and structure. Finally, the clinical translation's current state and prospects of biomimetic strategy are addressed. This review aspires to provide fresh perspectives on the advancement of immunotherapy for GBM.

Stanniocalcin-1 in tumor immunity: acts via macrophages

Tumor immune escape has become a research hotspot in the field of cancer immunotherapy. Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are the key component of tumor microenvironment, which play a pivotal role in tumor immune escape by regulating the immunity checkpoints, inhibiting the activity of T lymphocytes and natural killer (NK) cells, and modulating proportion of different T cells. Stanniocalcin-1(STC1)is ubiquitously expressed in human body, which is proven to involve with tumor progression and clinical prognosis. Recently, STC1 is implicated in tumor microenvironment as a phagocytosis checkpoint, as well as regulates the immunity via macrophages. In the review, we discussed the role of STC1 and TAMs in tumor immunity and their crosstalk, hoping to provide references for the research of STC1 in tumor immunotherapy.

Exosome-derived circ-001422 promotes tumor-associated macrophage M2 polarization to accelerate the progression of glioma

Cytokines, tumor cells, and tumor-associated macrophages play crucial roles in the composition of glioma tissue. Studies have demonstrated that certain cytokines can induce M2 polarization of tumor-associated macrophages and contribute to the progression of glioma. Nonetheless, the intricate molecular interactions among cytokines, glioma cells, and tumor-associated macrophages remain largely unexplored. To investigate this cross-talk, a combination of RNA-sequencing, chromatin immunoprecipitation, immunoprecipitation, exosome isolation, and biological experiments were employed. Treatment with IL-6 significantly increased circ-001422 expression in glioma cells. A poorer prognosis was associated with elevated levels of circ-001422 in glioma tissues. Circ-001422 was transcribed directly by STAT3 through binding to its promoter. Circ-001422 exerted cancer-promoting functions when co-cultured with M2 macrophages. Furthermore, glioma cells were found to transfer circ-001422 to macrophages via an exosomal pathway, promoting M2 polarization. Mechanically, circ-001422 interacted with p300, resulting in STAT3 acetylation, thus promoting nuclear localization and transcriptional activity of STAT3/NF-κB and M2 macrophage polarization. In conclusion, glioma cells released exosomes enriched with circ-001422, which in turn induce M2 macrophage polarization by activating the STAT3/NF-κB pathway, thereby enhancing the aggressive characteristics of glioma cells. Targeting circ-001422 may represent a potential therapeutic approach for glioma.

Tumor Microenvironment-Derived Exosomes: A Double-Edged Sword for Advanced T Cell-Based Immunotherapy

The tumor microenvironment (TME) plays a crucial role in cancer progression and immune evasion, partially mediated by the activity of the TME-derived exosomes. These extracellular vesicles are pivotal in shaping immune responses through the transfer of proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids between cells, facilitating a complex interplay that promotes tumor growth and metastasis. This review delves into the dual roles of exosomes in the TME, highlighting both their immunosuppressive functions and their emerging therapeutic potential. Exosomes can inhibit T cell function and promote tumor immune escape by carrying immune-modulatory molecules, such as PD-L1, yet they also hold promise for cancer therapy as vehicles for delivering tumor antigens and costimulatory signals. Additionally, the review discusses the intricate crosstalk mediated by exosomes among various cell types within the TME, influencing both cancer progression and responses to immunotherapies. Moreover, this highlights current challenges and future directions. Collectively, elucidating the detailed mechanisms by which TME-derived exosomes mediate T cell function offers a promising avenue for revolutionizing cancer treatment. Understanding these interactions allows for the development of targeted therapies that manipulate exosomal pathways to enhance the immune system's response to tumors.

Hypoxia-driven M2-polarized macrophages facilitate the epithelial-mesenchymal transition of glioblastoma via extracellular vesicles

Rationale: M2-like tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) promote the malignant progression of glioblastomas. However, the mechanisms responsible for this phenomenon remain unclear. Methods: RT-PCR, Western blot and flow cytometry were used to evaluate the polarization status of macrophages. RT-PCR, western blot or/and immunohistochemistry was used to determine the expression of circ_0003137, PTBP1, PLOD3 and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers. Transwell assay was used to assess migration and invasion ability of tumor cells. RNA sequencing, bioinformatic analysis and Pearson correlation coefficient was performed to explore the relation between PTBP1 and circ_003137/PLOD3. In vivo experiment was used to determine the role of sh-circ_0003137-loaded nanoplatform. Results: Hypoxia promoted the polarization of macrophages towards M2-like TAMs in an HIF1α dependent manner. Then, M2-like TAMs could transport circ_0003137 enriched extracellular vesicles (EVs) to glioblastoma cells, upregulating circ_0003137 in glioblastoma cells. The circ_0003137 overexpression promoted the EMT of glioblastoma cells in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, circ_0003137 physically binds to polypyrimidine tract binding protein 1 (PTBP1), enhancing the stability of procollagen-lysine, 2-oxoglutarate 5-dioxygenase 3 (PLOD3) and promoting the EMT of glioblastoma cells. Moreover, a liposome-based nanoplatform that delivers shRNAs was established and used to encapsulate sh-circ_0003137. The fluorescence microscope tracer and cell co-culture assays demonstrated that the nanoplatform encapsulated with sh-circ_0003137 was stable and could penetrate the blood-brain barrier (BBB), finally reaching the central nervous system (CNS). The intracranial in situ tumor model showed that injecting the sh-circ_0003137-loaded nanoplatform via the tail vein significantly inhibited glioblastoma progression and improved the nude mice's survival. Conclusions: Hypoxia can drive macrophage polarization towards M2-like TAMs. Polarized M2-like TAMs can transport circ_0003137 to glioblastoma cells through EVs. Then, circ_0003137 promotes the EMT of glioblastomas by targeting the PTBP1/PLOD3 axis. Hence, targeting circ_0003137 might be a novel therapeutic strategy against glioblastoma.

Inhibition of Autophagy by Berbamine Hydrochloride Mitigates Tumor Immune Escape by Elevating MHC-I in Melanoma Cells

Impaired tumor cell antigen presentation contributes significantly to immune evasion. This study identifies Berbamine hydrochloride (Ber), a compound derived from traditional Chinese medicine, as an effective inhibitor of autophagy that enhances antigen presentation in tumor cells. Ber increases MHC-I-mediated antigen presentation in melanoma cells, improving recognition and elimination by CD8+ T cells. Mutation of Atg4b, which blocks autophagy, also raises MHC-I levels on the cell surface, and further treatment with Ber under these conditions does not increase MHC-I, indicating Ber's role in blocking autophagy to enhance MHC-I expression. Additionally, Ber treatment leads to the accumulation of autophagosomes, with elevated levels of LC3-II and p62, suggesting a disrupted autophagic flux. Fluorescence staining and co-localization analyses reveal that Ber likely inhibits lysosomal acidification without hindering autophagosome-lysosome fusion. Importantly, Ber treatment suppresses melanoma growth in mice and enhances CD8+ T cell infiltration, supporting its therapeutic potential. Our findings demonstrate that Ber disturbs late-stage autophagic flux through abnormal lysosomal acidification, enhancing MHC-I-mediated antigen presentation and curtailing tumor immune escape.

RNF122 promotes glioblastoma growth via the JAK2/STAT3/c-Myc signaling Axis

OBJECTIVE

The E3 ubiquitin ligase is well recognized as a significant contributor to glioblastoma (GBM) progression and has promise as a prospective therapeutic target. This study explores the contribution of E3 ubiquitin ligase RNF122 in the GBM progression and the related molecular mechanisms.

METHODS

RNF122 expression levels were evaluated using qRT-PCR, WB, and IHC, while functional assays besides animal experiments were used to assess RNF122's effect on GBM progression. We also tested the RNF122 impact on JAK2/STAT3/c-Myc signaling using WB.

RESULTS

RNF122 was upregulated in GBM and correlated to the advanced stage and poor clinical outcomes, representing an independent prognostic factor. Based on functional assays, RNF122 promotes GBM growth and cell cycle, which was validated further in subsequent analyses by JAK2/STAT3/c-Myc pathway activation. Moreover, JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway inhibitor WP1066 can weaken the effect of overexpression RNF122 on promoting GBM progression.

CONCLUSION

Our results revealed that RNF122 caused an aggressive phenotype to GBM and was a poor prognosticator; thus, targeting RNF122 may be effectual in GBM treatment.

Ubiquitin modification in the regulation of tumor immunotherapy resistance mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets

Although immune checkpoint-based cancer immunotherapy has shown significant efficacy in various cancers, resistance still limits its therapeutic effects. Ubiquitination modification is a mechanism that adds different types of ubiquitin chains to proteins, mediating protein degradation or altering their function, thereby affecting cellular signal transduction. Increasing evidence suggests that ubiquitination modification plays a crucial role in regulating the mechanisms of resistance to cancer immunotherapy. Drugs targeting ubiquitination modification pathways have been shown to inhibit tumor progression or enhance the efficacy of cancer immunotherapy. This review elaborates on the mechanisms by which tumor cells, immune cells, and the tumor microenvironment mediate resistance to cancer immunotherapy and the details of how ubiquitination modification regulates these mechanisms, providing a foundation for enhancing the efficacy of cancer immunotherapy by intervening in ubiquitination modification.

Reprogramming Tumor-Associated Macrophages with a Se-Based Core-Satellite Nanoassembly to Enhance Cancer Immunotherapy

Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), as the most prevalent immune cells in the tumor microenvironment, play a pivotal role in promoting tumor development through various signaling pathways. Herein, we have engineered a Se@ZIF-8 core-satellite nanoassembly to reprogram TAMs, thereby enhancing immunotherapy outcomes. When the nanoassembly reaches the tumor tissue, selenium nanoparticles and Zn2+ are released in response to the acidic tumor microenvironment, resulting in a collaborative effort to promote the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The generated ROS, in turn, activate the nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) signaling pathway, driving the repolarization of TAMs from M2-type to M1-type, effectively eliminating cancer cells. Moreover, the nanoassembly can induce the immunogenic death of cancer cells through excess ROS to expose calreticulin and boost macrophage phagocytosis. The Se@ZIF-8 core-satellite nanoassembly provides a potential paradigm for cancer immunotherapy by reversing the immunosuppressive microenvironment.

Advances in immunotherapy of M2 macrophages and gastrointestinal stromal tumor

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) are the most common mesenchymal-derived tumors of the GI tract. They can occur throughout the GI tract, and the survival time of some patients can be improved by first-line targeted therapy with imatinib. However, there are some limitations with imatinib treatment. Immunotherapy for GIST has attracted much attention in recent years, and as one of the most abundant cells in the GIST microenvironment, M2 macrophages play an important role in disease progression. They have unique anti-inflammatory and pro-tumorigenic effects and are one target for immunotherapy. This review summarizes the connection between different factors and the programmed death receptor-1/programmed death ligand-1 pathway and M2 macrophages to reactivate or enhance anti-tumor immunity and improve imatinib efficacy, and to provide new ideas for GIST immunotherapy.

M2 Tumor-Associated Macrophages-Derived Exosomal MALAT1 Promotes Glycolysis and Gastric Cancer Progression

M2-polarized tumor-associated macrophages (M2 TAMs) promote cancer progression. Exosomes mediate cellular communication in the tumor microenvironment (TME). However, the roles of exosomes from M2 TAMs in gastric cancer progression are unclear. Herein, it is reported that M2 TAMs-derived exosomes induced aerobic glycolysis in gastric cancer cells and enhanced their proliferation, metastasis, and chemoresistance in a glycolysis-dependent manner. It is identified that MALAT1 (metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1) is enriched in M2 TAM exosomes and confirmed that MALAT1 transfer from M2 TAMs to gastric cancer cells via exosomes mediates this effect. Mechanistically, MALAT1 interacted with the δ-catenin protein and suppressed its ubiquitination and degradation by β-TRCP. In addition, MALAT1 upregulated HIF-1α expression by acting as a sponge for miR-217-5p. The activation of β-catenin and HIF-1α signaling pathways by M2 TAM exosomes collectively led to enhanced aerobic glycolysis in gastric cancer cells. Finally, a dual-targeted inhibition of MALAT1 in both gastric cancer cells and macrophages by exosome-mediated delivery of siRNA remarkably suppressed gastric cancer growth and improved chemosensitivity in mouse tumor models. Taken together, these results suggest that M2 TAMs-derived exosomes promote gastric cancer progression via MALAT1-mediated regulation of glycolysis. The findings offer a potential target for gastric cancer therapy.

LncRNAs in Immune and Stromal Cells Remodel Phenotype of Cancer Cell and Tumor Microenvironment

Emerging studies suggest that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) participate in the mutual regulation of cells in tumor microenvironment, thereby affecting the anti-tumor immune activity of immune cells. Additionally, the intracellular pathways mediated by lncRNAs can affect the expression of immune checkpoints or change the cell functions, including cytokines secretion, of immune and stromal cells in tumor microenvironment, which further influences cancer patients' prognosis and treatment response. With the in-depth research, lncRNAs have shown great potency as a new immunotherapy target and predict immunotherapy response. The research on lncRNAs provides us with a new insight into developing new immunotherapy drugs and predicting the outcome of immunotherapy. With development of RNA sequencing technology, amounts of lncRNAs were found to be dysregulated in immune and stromal cells rather than tumor cells. These lncRNAs function through ceRNA network or regulating transcript factor activity, thus leading abnormal differentiation and activation of immune and stromal cells. Here, we review the function of lncRNAs in the immune microenvironment and focus on the alteration of lncRNAs in immune and stromal cells, and discuss how these alterations affect tumor growth, metastasis and treatment response.

Intracranial aneurysm circulating exosome-derived LncRNA ATP1A1-AS1 promotes smooth muscle cells phenotype switching and apoptosis

Exosomal long non-coding RNAs (LncRNAs) play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of cerebrovascular diseases. However, the expression profiles and functional significance of exosomal LncRNAs in intracranial aneurysms (IAs) remain poorly understood. Through high-throughput sequencing, we identified 1303 differentially expressed LncRNAs in the plasma exosomes of patients with IAs and healthy controls. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) verification confirmed the differential expression of LncRNAs, the majority of which aligned with the sequencing results. ATP1A1-AS1 showed the most significant upregulation in the disease group. Importantly, subsequent in vitro experiments validated that ATP1A1-AS1 overexpression induced a phenotype switching in vascular smooth muscle cells, along with promoting apoptosis and upregulating MMP-9 expression, potentially contributing to IAs formation. Furthermore, expanded-sample validation affirmed the high diagnostic value of ATP1A1-AS1. These findings suggest that ATP1A1-AS1 is a potential therapeutic target for inhibiting IAs progression and serves as a valuable clinical diagnostic marker.

The roles of long non-coding RNAs in ovarian cancer: from functions to therapeutic implications

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are multifunctional and participate in a variety of biological processes and gene regulatory networks. The deregulation of lncRNAs has been extensively implicated in diverse human diseases, especially in cancers. Overwhelming evidence demonstrates that lncRNAs are essential to the pathophysiological processes of ovarian cancer (OC), acting as regulators involved in metastasis, cell death, chemoresistance, and tumor immunity. In this review, we illustrate the expanded functions of lncRNAs in the initiation and progression of OC and elaborate on the signaling pathways in which they pitch. Additionally, the potential clinical applications of lncRNAs as biomarkers in the diagnosis and treatment of OC were emphasized, cementing the bridge of communication between clinical practice and basic research.

OMA1 competitively binds to HSPA9 to promote mitophagy and activate the cGAS-STING pathway to mediate GBM immune escape

BACKGROUND

Immunotherapy with checkpoint inhibitors, especially those targeting programmed death receptor 1 (PD-1)/PD-1 ligand (PD-L1), is increasingly recognized as a highly promising therapeutic modality for malignancies. Nevertheless, the efficiency of immune checkpoint blockade therapy in treating glioblastoma (GBM) is constrained. Hence, it is imperative to expand our comprehension of the molecular mechanisms behind GBM immune escape (IE).

METHODS

Protein chip analysis was performed to screen aberrantly expressed OMA1 protein in PD-1 inhibitor sensitive or resistant GBM. Herein, public databases and bioinformatics analysis were employed to investigate the OMA1 and PD-L1 relation. Then, this predicted relation was verified in primary GBM cell lines through distinct experimental methods. To investigate the molecular mechanism behind OMA1 in immunosuppression, a series of experimental methods were employed, including Western blotting, co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP), mass spectrometry (MS), immunofluorescence, immunohistochemistry, and qRT-PCR.

RESULTS

Our findings revealed that OMA1 competitively binds to HSPA9 to induce mitophagy and mediates the IE of GBM. Data from TCGA indicated a significant correlation between OMA1 and immunosuppression. OMA1 promoted PD-L1 levels in primary cells from patients with GBM. Next, the results of Co-IP and MS conducted on GBM primary cells revealed that OMA1 interacts with HSPA9 and induces mitophagy. OMA1 promoted not only cGAS-STING activity by increasing mitochondrial DNA release but also PD-L1 transcription by activating cGAS-STING. Eventually, OMA1 has been found to induce immune evasion in GBM through its regulation of PD-1 binding and PD-L1 mediated T cell cytotoxicity.

CONCLUSIONS

The OMA1/HSPA9/cGAS/PD-L1 axis is elucidated in our study as a newly identified immune therapeutic target in GBM.

KIAA0040 enhances glioma growth by controlling the JAK2/STAT3 signalling pathway

The role of KIAA0040 role in glioma development is not yet understood despite its connection to nervous system diseases. In this study, KIAA0040 expression levels were evaluated using qRT-PCR, WB and IHC, and functional assays were conducted to assess its impact on glioma progression, along with animal experiments. Moreover, WB was used to examine the impact of KIAA0040 on the JAK2/STAT3 signalling pathway. Our study found that KIAA0040 was increased in glioma and linked to tumour grade and poor clinical outcomes, serving as an independent prognostic factor. Functional assays showed that KIAA0040 enhances glioma growth, migration and invasion by activating the JAK2/STAT3 pathway. Of course, KIAA0040 enhances glioma growth by preventing tumour cell death and promoting cell cycle advancement. Our findings suggest that targeting KIAA0040 could be an effective treatment for glioma due to its role in promoting aggressive tumour behaviour and poor prognosis.

Exosome-transmitted podoplanin promotes tumor-associated macrophage-mediated immune tolerance in glioblastoma

AIMS

Glioblastoma is the most frequent and aggressive primary brain tumor, characterized by rapid disease course and poor treatment responsiveness. The abundance of immunosuppressive macrophages in glioblastoma challenges the efficacy of novel immunotherapy.

METHODS

Bulk RNA-seq and single-cell RNA-seq of glioma patients from public databases were comprehensively analyzed to illustrate macrophage infiltration patterns and molecular characteristics of podoplanin (PDPN). Multiplexed fluorescence immunohistochemistry staining of PDPN, GFAP, CD68, and CD163 were performed in glioma tissue microarray. The impact of PDPN on macrophage immunosuppressive polarization was investigated using a co-culture system. Bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) and OT-II T cells isolated from BALB/c and OT-II mice respectively were co-cultured to determine T-cell adherence. Pathway alterations were probed through RNA sequencing and western blot analyses.

RESULTS

Our findings demonstrated that PDPN is notably correlated with the expression of CD68 and CD163 in glioma tissues. Additionally, macrophages phagocytosing PDPN-containing EVs (EVsPDPN ) from GBM cells presented increased CD163 expression and augmented secretion of immunoregulatory cytokine (IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α, and TGF-β1). PDPN within EVs was also associated with enhanced phagocytic activity and reduced MHC II expression in macrophages, compromising CD4+ T-cell activation.

CONCLUSIONS

This investigation underscores that EVsPDPN derived from glioblastoma cells contributes to M2 macrophage-mediated immunosuppression and is a potential prognostic marker and therapeutic target in glioblastoma.

TBX15 facilitates malignant progression of glioma by transcriptional activation of TXDNC5

T-box transcription factor 15 (TBX15) plays important role in various cancers; however, its expression and role in glioma is still unclear. In this study, our findings indicated that TBX15 was increased in gliomas compared to normal brain tissues, and high levels of TBX15 were related to poor survival. Furthermore, TBX15 silencing in glioma cells not only inhibited their proliferation, migration, and invasion in vitro, but also weakened their ability to recruit macrophages and polarize the latter to the M2 subtype. Mechanism study indicated that thioredoxin domain containing 5 (TXNDC5) lies downstream of TBX15. Furthermore, rescue assays verified that the role of TBX15 in glioma cells is dependent on TXNDC5. Moreover, sh-TBX15 loaded into DNA origami nanocarrier suppressed the malignant phenotype of glioma in vitro and in vivo. Taken together, the TBX15/TXNDC5 axis is involved in the genesis and progression of glioma, and is a potential therapeutic target.

Tumor-associated macrophage-derived exosomes LINC01592 induce the immune escape of esophageal cancer by decreasing MHC-I surface expression

BACKGROUND

TAMs (tumor-associated macrophages) infiltration promotes the progression of esophageal cancer (EC). However, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear.

METHODS

Abnormal expression of LINC01592 from EC microarrays of the TCGA database was analyzed. LINC01592 expression level was validated in both EC cell lines and tissues. Stable LINC01592 knockdown and overexpression of EC cell lines were established. In vitro and in vivo trials were conducted to test the impact of LINC01592 knockdown and overexpression on EC cells. RNA binding protein immunoprecipitation (RIP), RNA pulldown assays, and Immunofluorescence (IF) were used to verify the combination of E2F6 and LINC01592. The combination of E2F6 and NBR1 was verified through the utilization of ChIP and dual luciferase reporter assays.

RESULTS

LINC01592 is carried and transferred by exosomes secreted by M2-TAMs to tumor cells. The molecular mechanism underlying the promotion of NBR1 transcription involves the direct binding of LINC01592 to E2F6, which facilitates the nuclear entry of E2F6. The collaborative action of LINC01592 and E2F6 results in improved NBR1 transcription. The elevation of NBR1 binding to the ubiquitinated protein MHC-I via the ubiquitin domain caused a higher degradation of MHC-I in autophagolysosomes and a reduction in MHC-I expression on the exterior of cancerous cell. Consequently, this caused cancerous cells to escape from CD8+ CTL immune attack. The tumor-promoting impacts of LINC01592, as well as the growth of M2-type macrophage-driven tumors, were significantly suppressed by the interruption of E2F6/NBR1/MHC-I signaling through the effect of siRNA or the corresponding antibody blockade. Significantly, the suppression of LINC01592 resulted in an upregulation of MHC-I expression on the tumor cell membrane, thereby enhancing the efficacy of CD8+ T cell reinfusion therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

The investigation conducted has revealed a significant molecular interaction between TAMs and EC via the LINC01592/E2F6/NBR1/MHC-I axis, which facilitates the progression of malignant tumors. This suggests that a therapeutic intervention targeting this axis may hold promise for the treatment of the disease.