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Wang Y, Li Z, Chen W, Wang J, Huang Z, Yu XJ, Zhang YJ, Zheng L, Xu J. C/EBPα mediates the maturation and antitumor functions of macrophages in human hepatocellular carcinoma. Cancer Lett 2024; 585:216638. [PMID: 38266805 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 10/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
Recent studies have suggested that therapeutic upregulation of CCAAT/enhancer binding protein α (C/EBPα) prevents hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression. However, the mechanisms underlying this outcome are not fully understood. In this study, we investigated the expression and functional roles of C/EBPα in human HCC, with a focus on monocytes/macrophages (Mφs). Paraffin-embedded tissues were used to visualize C/EBPα expression and analyze the prognostic value of C/EBPα+ monocytes/Mφs in HCC patients. The underlying regulatory mechanisms were examined using human monocyte-derived Mφs. The results showed that the expression of C/EBPα on monocytes/Mφs was significantly decreased in intra-tumor tissues compared to the corresponding peri-tumor tissues. C/EBPα+ monocytes/Mφs displayed well-differentiation and antitumor capacities, and the accumulation of these cells in tissue was associated with antitumor immune responses and predicted longer overall survival (OS) of HCC patients. Mechanistic studies demonstrated that C/EBPα was required for Mφ maturation and HLA-DR, CD169 and CD86 expression, which initiates antitumor cytotoxic T-cell responses; however, these effects were inhibited by monocyte autocrine IL-6- and IL-1β-induced suppression of mTOR1 signaling. Reprogramming Mφs via the upregulation of C/EBPα may provide a novel strategy for cancer immunotherapy in patients with HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongchun Wang
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China; Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation of the Ministry of Education, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China
| | - Zhixiong Li
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Weibai Chen
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China; Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation of the Ministry of Education, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China
| | - Junfeng Wang
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Zhijie Huang
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Xing-Juan Yu
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Yao-Jun Zhang
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China; Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Limin Zheng
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China; Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation of the Ministry of Education, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China.
| | - Jing Xu
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China.
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Yuan Y, Wu D, Li J, Huang D, Zhao Y, Gao T, Zhuang Z, Cui Y, Zheng DY, Tang Y. Mechanisms of tumor-associated macrophages affecting the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1217400. [PMID: 37663266 PMCID: PMC10470150 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1217400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are essential components of the immune cell stroma of hepatocellular carcinoma. TAMs originate from monocytic myeloid-derived suppressor cells, peripheral blood monocytes, and kupffer cells. The recruitment of monocytes to the HCC tumor microenvironment is facilitated by various factors, leading to their differentiation into TAMs with unique phenotypes. TAMs can directly activate or inhibit the nuclear factor-κB, interleukin-6/signal transducer and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3, Wnt/β-catenin, transforming growth factor-β1/bone morphogenetic protein, and extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 signaling pathways in tumor cells and interact with other immune cells via producing cytokines and extracellular vesicles, thus affecting carcinoma cell proliferation, invasive and migratory, angiogenesis, liver fibrosis progression, and other processes to participate in different stages of tumor progression. In recent years, TAMs have received much attention as a prospective treatment target for HCC. This review describes the origin and characteristics of TAMs and their mechanism of action in the occurrence and development of HCC to offer a theoretical foundation for further clinical research of TAMs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Yuan
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Dailin Wu
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jing Li
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Dan Huang
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yan Zhao
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Tianqi Gao
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhenjie Zhuang
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Ying Cui
- Department of Psychiatry, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Da-Yong Zheng
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Department of Hepatology, TCM-Integrated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary, Cancer Center, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Ying Tang
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
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3
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Met/HGFR triggers detrimental reactive microglia in TBI. Cell Rep 2022; 41:111867. [PMID: 36577378 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.111867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Revised: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The complexity of signaling events and cellular responses unfolding in neuronal, glial, and immune cells upon traumatic brain injury (TBI) constitutes an obstacle in elucidating pathophysiological links and targets for intervention. We use array phosphoproteomics in a murine mild blunt TBI to reconstruct the temporal dynamics of tyrosine-kinase signaling in TBI and then scrutinize the large-scale effects of perturbation of Met/HGFR, VEGFR1, and Btk signaling by small molecules. We show Met/HGFR as a selective modifier of early microglial response and that Met/HGFR blockade prevents the induction of microglial inflammatory mediators, of reactive microglia morphology, and TBI-associated responses in neurons and vasculature. Both acute and prolonged Met/HGFR inhibition ameliorate neuronal survival and motor recovery. Early elevation of HGF itself in the cerebrospinal fluid of TBI patients suggests that this mechanism has translational value in human subjects. Our findings identify Met/HGFR as a modulator of early neuroinflammation in TBI with promising translational potential.
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Targeting HGF/c-Met Axis Decreases Circulating Regulatory T Cells Accumulation in Gastric Cancer Patients. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13215562. [PMID: 34771724 PMCID: PMC8583551 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13215562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Revised: 10/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Restoring an effective immune response is the key goal of immunotherapy. One of the major mechanisms of tumor-induced immunosuppression is regulatory T cells (Treg) accumulation. In this study, using in vitro and in vivo analysis, we assessed the impact of the HGF/c-Met pathway, involved notably in tumor angiogenesis, on Treg accumulation in patients with gastric cancer. First, we reported that c-Met is expressed on circulating monocytes of gastric cancer patients and this expression seems to be associated with the worst outcome. Secondly, during in vitro cultures, c-Met+ monocytes differentiate into dendritic cells with tolerogenic properties able to induce the proliferation of Treg. Finally, rilotumumab, an anti-HGF antibody, decreases the percentage of circulating Treg in gastric cancer patients. Using HGF/c-Met inhibitors to partially reverse immunosuppression could lead to the development of new treatment associations, for example with immune checkpoint blockers. Abstract Elucidating mechanisms involved in tumor-induced immunosuppression is of great interest since it could help to improve cancer immunotherapy efficacy. Here we show that Hepatocyte Growth Factor (HGF), a pro-tumoral and proangiogenic factor, and its receptor c-Met are involved in regulatory T cells (Treg) accumulation in the peripheral blood of gastric cancer (GC) patients. We observed that c-Met is expressed on circulating monocytes from GC patients. The elevated expression on monocytes is associated with clinical parameters linked to an aggressive disease phenotype and correlates with a worse prognosis. Monocyte-derived dendritic cells from GC patients differentiated in the presence of HGF adopt a regulatory phenotype with a lower expression of co-stimulatory molecules, impaired maturation capacities, and an increased ability to produce interleukin-10 and to induce Treg differentiation in vitro. In the MEGA-ACCORD20-PRODIGE17 trial, GC patients received an anti-HGF antibody treatment (rilotumumab), which had been described to have an anti-angiogenic activity by decreasing proliferation of endothelial cells and tube formation. Rilotumumab decreased circulating Treg in GC patients. Thus, we identified that HGF indirectly triggers Treg accumulation via c-Met-expressing monocytes in the peripheral blood of GC patients. Our study provides arguments for potential alternative use of HGF/c-Met targeted therapies based on their immunomodulatory properties which could lead to the development of new therapeutic associations in cancer patients, for example with immune checkpoint inhibitors.
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Guo N, Liang J, Gao X, Yang X, Fan X, Zhao Y. Overexpressed HGF promotes metastasis of squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck through the PI3K/Akt and JNK signaling pathways. Future Oncol 2021; 17:4527-4543. [PMID: 34435890 DOI: 10.2217/fon-2020-1207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The role of HGF in squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN) is not clear. Methods: Reverse transcription PCR, western blotting, gelatin zymography, immunohistochemistry, actin polymerization, chemotaxis and migration assays were used in the authors' study. Results: HGF expression level was upregulated in SCCHN cells, which was associated with clinical stage; tumor, node, metastasis classification; and lymphatic invasion. SCCHN cells with high Met expression were sensitive to cell invasion, which was blocked by inhibiting PI3K/Akt and JNK. HGF induced MMP9 expression and enhanced its activity. Akt induced the activation of JNK through the PI3K/Akt and JNK signaling pathways. Conclusion: HGF upregulates MMP9 through the activation of the PI3K/Akt and JNK signaling pathways in SCCHN cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Guo
- Department of Head & Neck Surgery, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning Cancer Hospital & Institute, Shenyang, 110042, Liaoning Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiwang Liang
- Department of Head & Neck Surgery, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning Cancer Hospital & Institute, Shenyang, 110042, Liaoning Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin Gao
- Department of Head & Neck Surgery, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning Cancer Hospital & Institute, Shenyang, 110042, Liaoning Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao Yang
- Department of Head & Neck Surgery, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning Cancer Hospital & Institute, Shenyang, 110042, Liaoning Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Xinlong Fan
- Department of Head & Neck Surgery, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning Cancer Hospital & Institute, Shenyang, 110042, Liaoning Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuejiao Zhao
- Department of Head & Neck Surgery, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning Cancer Hospital & Institute, Shenyang, 110042, Liaoning Province, People's Republic of China
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Malekghasemi S, Majidi J, Baghbanzadeh A, Abdolalizadeh J, Baradaran B, Aghebati-Maleki L. Tumor-Associated Macrophages: Protumoral Macrophages in Inflammatory Tumor Microenvironment. Adv Pharm Bull 2020; 10:556-565. [PMID: 33062602 PMCID: PMC7539304 DOI: 10.34172/apb.2020.066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2019] [Revised: 02/01/2020] [Accepted: 02/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumor microenvironment consists of malignant and non-malignant cells. The interaction of these dynamic and different cells is responsible for tumor progression at different levels. The non-malignant cells in TME contain cells such as tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), cancer associated fibroblasts, pericytes, adipocytes, T cells, B cells, myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), tumor-associated neutrophils (TANs), dendritic cells (DCs) and Vascular endothelial cells. TAMs are abundant in most human and murine cancers and their presence are associated with poor prognosis. The major event in tumor microenvironment is macrophage polarization into tumor-suppressive M1 or tumor-promoting M2 types. Although much evidence suggests that TAMS are primarily M2-like macrophages, the mechanism responsible for polarization into M1 and M2 macrophages remain unclear. TAM contributes cancer cell motility, invasion, metastases and angiogenesis. The relationship between TAM and tumor cells lead to used them as a diagnostic marker, therapeutic target and prognosis of cancer. This review presents the origin, polarization, role of TAMs in inflammation, metastasis, immune evasion and angiogenesis as well as they can be used as therapeutic target in variety of cancer cells. It is obvious that additional substantial and preclinical research is needed to support the effectiveness and applicability of this new and promising strategy for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Somaiyeh Malekghasemi
- Department of Basic Oncology, Oncology Institute, Hacettepe University, Sihhiye, Ankara, TR-06100, Turkey
| | - Jafar Majidi
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Amir Baghbanzadeh
- Department of Basic Oncology, Oncology Institute, Hacettepe University, Sihhiye, Ankara, TR-06100, Turkey
| | - Jalal Abdolalizadeh
- Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Behzad Baradaran
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Leili Aghebati-Maleki
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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7
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Wu C, Hua Q, Zheng L. Generation of Myeloid Cells in Cancer: The Spleen Matters. Front Immunol 2020; 11:1126. [PMID: 32582203 PMCID: PMC7291604 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.01126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Myeloid cells are key components of the tumor microenvironment and critical regulators of disease progression. These innate immune cells are usually short-lived and require constant replenishment. Emerging evidence indicates that tumors alter the host hematopoietic system and induce the biased differentiation of myeloid cells to tip the balance of the systemic immune activities toward tumor-promoting functions. Altered myelopoiesis is not restricted to the bone marrow and also occurs in extramedullary organs. In this review, we outline the recent advances in the field of cancer-associated myelopoiesis, with a focus on the spleen, the major site of extramedullary hematopoiesis in the cancer setting. We discuss the functional specialization, distinct mechanisms, and clinical relevance of cancer-associated myeloid cell generation from early progenitors in the spleen and its potential as a novel therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chong Wu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qiaomin Hua
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Limin Zheng
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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8
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Maehara J, Masugi Y, Abe T, Tsujikawa H, Kurebayashi Y, Ueno A, Ojima H, Okuda S, Jinzaki M, Shinoda M, Kitagawa Y, Oda Y, Honda H, Sakamoto M. Quantification of intratumoral collagen and elastin fibers within hepatocellular carcinoma tissues finds correlations with clinico-patho-radiological features. Hepatol Res 2020; 50:607-619. [PMID: 31886596 DOI: 10.1111/hepr.13484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2019] [Revised: 12/24/2019] [Accepted: 12/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
AIM Emerging evidence suggests a promising role for tumor stromal factors in characterizing patients with various types of malignancies, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We quantified the amount of collagen and elastin fibers in HCC samples with the aim of clarifying the clinico-patho-radiological significance of fiber deposition in HCC. METHODS We computed the amount of collagen and elastin fibers using digital image analysis of whole-slide images of Elastica van Gieson-stained tissues from 156 surgically resected HCCs. Furthermore, we assessed the correlations between the fiber content of HCC samples and clinical, pathological, and radiological features, including immunohistochemistry-based molecular subtypes and immunosubtypes. RESULTS The intratumoral area ratio of collagen in HCC tissues (median 3.4%, range 0.1-22.2%) was more than threefold that of elastin (median 0.9%, range 0.1-9.0%); there was a strong positive correlation between the amounts of collagen and elastin. Higher levels of combined collagen and elastin were significantly associated with the confluent multinodular macroscopic tumor type, the absence of a fibrous capsule, intratumoral steatosis, scirrhous tumor stroma, dense inflammatory-cell infiltrates, and the biliary/stem cell markers-positive HCC subtype. The associations of higher collagen levels with radiological findings, including heterogeneous enhancement and persistent enhancement on dynamic computed tomography, were significant. In contrast, the associations of radiological findings with elastin fibers were not significant. Intratumoral fibrous stroma in HCC comprised septum-like and perisinusoidal fibrosis; these two forms represented distinct distribution patterns of fibers and fibroblasts. CONCLUSION Quantitative analysis suggested that stromal fiber-rich HCCs likely represent a distinct clinico-patho-radiological entity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junki Maehara
- Department of Pathology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Anatomic Pathology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan.,Department of Clinical Radiology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Yohei Masugi
- Department of Pathology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tokiya Abe
- Department of Pathology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hanako Tsujikawa
- Department of Pathology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yutaka Kurebayashi
- Department of Pathology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Akihisa Ueno
- Department of Pathology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hidenori Ojima
- Department of Pathology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shigeo Okuda
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masahiro Jinzaki
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masahiro Shinoda
- Department of Surgery, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuko Kitagawa
- Department of Surgery, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshinao Oda
- Department of Anatomic Pathology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Honda
- Department of Clinical Radiology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Michiie Sakamoto
- Department of Pathology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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M2 macrophages mediate sorafenib resistance by secreting HGF in a feed-forward manner in hepatocellular carcinoma. Br J Cancer 2019; 121:22-33. [PMID: 31130723 PMCID: PMC6738111 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-019-0482-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2018] [Revised: 03/06/2019] [Accepted: 05/02/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Sorafenib is the only approved first line systemic therapy for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in the last decade. Tumour resistance to sorafenib has been of major obstacles to improve HCC patient survival. Methods We polarised THP-1 cells to M1 and M2 macrophages, performed various in vitro assays and developed sorafenib-resistant xenograft models to investigate the role of tumour-associated macrophages (TAM)-secreted molecules in HCC resistance to the targeted therapy. Results We demonstrated M2, but not M1, macrophages not only promote proliferation, colony formation and migration of hepatoma cells but also significantly confer tumour resistance to sorafenib via sustaining tumour growth and metastasis by secreting hepatocyte growth factor (HGF). HGF activates HGF/c-Met, ERK1/2/MAPK and PI3K/AKT pathways in tumour cells. Tumour-associated M2 macrophages were accumulated in sorafenib-resistance tumours more than in sorafenib-sensitive tumours in vivo and produced abundant HGF. HGF chemoattracts more macrophages migrated from surrounding area, regulates the distribution of M2 macrophages and increases hepatoma resistance to sorafenib in a feed-forward manner. Conclusions Our results provide new insights into the mechanisms of sorafenib resistance in HCC and rationale for developing new trials by combining sorafenib with a potent HGF inhibitor such as cabozantinib to improve the first line systemic therapeutic efficacy.
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10
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Li F, Li X, Qiao L, Liu W, Xu C, Wang X. MALAT1 regulates miR-34a expression in melanoma cells. Cell Death Dis 2019; 10:389. [PMID: 31101802 PMCID: PMC6525244 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-019-1620-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2019] [Revised: 04/16/2019] [Accepted: 04/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Melanoma is one of the most common skin malignancies. Both microRNAs and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have critical roles in the progression of cancers, including melanoma. However, the underlying molecular mechanism has not been fully characterized. We demonstrated that miR-34a is negatively correlated with MALAT1 in melanoma cells and tumor specimens. Interestingly, MALAT1, which contains functional sequence-specific miR-34a-binding sites, regulates miR-34a stability in melanoma cells and in vivo. Importantly, MALAT1 was significantly enriched in the Ago2 complex, but not when the MALAT1-binding site of miR-34a was mutated. Furthermore, MALAT1 could be shown to regulate c-Myc and Met expression by functioning as a miR-34a sponge. Our results reveal an unexpected mode of action for MALAT1 as an important regulator of miR-34a.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Li
- Department of Dermatology, Air Force Medical Center, PLA, Beijing, China.
| | - Xinji Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Air Force Medical Center, PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Li Qiao
- Department of Dermatology, Air Force Medical Center, PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Wen Liu
- Department of Dermatology, Air Force Medical Center, PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Chengshan Xu
- National Center for Clinical Laboratories, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaogang Wang
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Big Data-based Precision Medicine, Beihang University, Beijing, China.
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Inhibition of HGF/MET signaling decreases overall tumor burden and blocks malignant conversion in Tpl2-related skin cancer. Oncogenesis 2019; 8:1. [PMID: 30631034 PMCID: PMC6328619 DOI: 10.1038/s41389-018-0109-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2018] [Revised: 11/16/2018] [Accepted: 12/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumor progression locus 2 (Tpl2) is a member of the mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase kinase (MAP3K) family of serine/threonine kinases. Deletion of the Tpl2 gene is associated with a significantly higher number of papillomas and cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas (cSCCs). Overexpression of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and its receptor MET is abundant in cSCC and can lead to increased proliferation, migration, invasion or resistance to epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitors. The aim of this study was to address whether the increased tumor burden in Tpl2−/− mice is due to aberrant HGF/MET signaling. C57Bl/6 wild type (WT) and Tpl2−/− mice were subjected to a two-stage chemical carcinogenesis protocol for one year. At the time of promotion half of the mice received 44 mg/kg capmatinib (INC 280), a pharmacological inihibitor of MET, in their diet. Tpl2−/− mice had signficantly higher tumor incidence and overall tumor burden compared to WT mice. Further, carcinogen-intiated Tpl2−/− mice could bypass the need for promotion, as 89% of Tpl2−/− mice given only DMBA developed papillomas. v-rasHa -transduced keratinocytes and SCCs from Tpl2−/− mice revealed an upregulation in HGF and p-MET signaling compared to WT animals. Long-term capmatinib treatment had no adverse effects in mice and capmatinib-fed Tpl2−/− mice had a 60% reduction in overall tumor burden. Further, no tumors from Tpl2−/− mice fed capmatinib underwent malignant conversion. In summary targeting MET may be a potential new strategy to combat cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas that result from dysregulation in MAPK signaling.
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12
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García-Vilas JA, Medina MÁ. Updates on the hepatocyte growth factor/c-Met axis in hepatocellular carcinoma and its therapeutic implications. World J Gastroenterol 2018; 24:3695-3708. [PMID: 30197476 PMCID: PMC6127652 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v24.i33.3695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2018] [Revised: 06/28/2018] [Accepted: 07/16/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fifth most common cancer and is the second leading cause of cancer death. Since the diagnosis of HCC is difficult, in many cases patients with HCC are diagnosed advanced stage of development. Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)/c-mesenchymal-epithelial transition receptor (c-Met) axis is a key signaling pathway in HCC, either via canonical or non-canonical pathways. Available treatments against HCC based upon HGF/c-Met inhibition can increase patient lifespan, but do not reach the expected therapeutic benefits. In HCC, c-Met monomers can bind other receptor monomers, activating several noncanonical signaling pathways, leading to increased cell proliferation, invasion, motility, and drug resistance. All of these processes are enhanced by the tumor microenvironment, with stromal cells contributing to boost tumor progression through oxidative stress, angiogenesis, lymphangiogenesis, inflammation, and fibrosis. Novel treatments against HCC are being explored to modulate other targets such as microRNAs, methyltransferases, and acetyltransferases, which are all involved in the regulation of gene expression in cancer. This review compiles basic knowledge regarding signaling pathways in HCC, and compounds already used or showing potential to be used in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Miguel Ángel Medina
- Departamento de Biología Molecular y Bioquímica, Facultad de Ciencias, Andalucía Tech, Universidad de Málaga, Málaga 29071, Spain
- Unidad 741 de CIBER “de Enfermedades Raras” (CIBERER), Málaga 29071, Spain
- Institute of Biomedical Research in Málaga, Málaga 29071, Spain
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Barillari G, Monini P, Sgadari C, Ensoli B. The Impact of Human Papilloma Viruses, Matrix Metallo-Proteinases and HIV Protease Inhibitors on the Onset and Progression of Uterine Cervix Epithelial Tumors: A Review of Preclinical and Clinical Studies. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:E1418. [PMID: 29747434 PMCID: PMC5983696 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19051418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2018] [Revised: 05/03/2018] [Accepted: 05/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Infection of uterine cervix epithelial cells by the Human Papilloma Viruses (HPV) is associated with the development of dysplastic/hyperplastic lesions, termed cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN). CIN lesions may regress, persist or progress to invasive cervical carcinoma (CC), a leading cause of death worldwide. CIN is particularly frequent and aggressive in women infected by both HPV and the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), as compared to the general female population. In these individuals, however, therapeutic regimens employing HIV protease inhibitors (HIV-PI) have reduced CIN incidence and/or clinical progression, shedding light on the mechanism(s) of its development. This article reviews published work concerning: (i) the role of HPV proteins (including HPV-E5, E6 and E7) and of matrix-metalloproteinases (MMPs) in CIN evolution into invasive CC; and (ii) the effect of HIV-PI on events leading to CIN progression such as basement membrane and extracellular matrix invasion by HPV-positive CIN cells and the formation of new blood vessels. Results from the reviewed literature indicate that CIN clinical progression can be monitored by evaluating the expression of MMPs and HPV proteins and they suggest the use of HIV-PI or their derivatives for the block of CIN evolution into CC in both HIV-infected and uninfected women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Barillari
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 1 via Montpellier, 00133 Rome, Italy.
| | - Paolo Monini
- National HIV/AIDS Research Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 299 viale Regina Elena, 00161 Rome, Italy.
| | - Cecilia Sgadari
- National HIV/AIDS Research Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 299 viale Regina Elena, 00161 Rome, Italy.
| | - Barbara Ensoli
- National HIV/AIDS Research Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 299 viale Regina Elena, 00161 Rome, Italy.
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14
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Li J, Liao Y, Ding T, Wang B, Yu X, Chu Y, Xu J, Zheng L. Tumor-infiltrating macrophages express interleukin-25 and predict a favorable prognosis in patients with gastric cancer after radical resection. Oncotarget 2017; 7:11083-93. [PMID: 26840565 PMCID: PMC4905459 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.7095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2015] [Accepted: 01/17/2016] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Interleukin-25 (IL-25) is a recently identified member of the proinflammatory IL-17 cytokine family; however, its role in human tumors remains largely unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate the cellular source and clinical significance of IL-25 in gastric cancer (GC) in situ. The results demonstrated that macrophages (Mφs) were the primary IL-25-expressing cells (IL-25+) in GC in situ. Moreover, IL-25+ cells were highly enriched in the intra-tumoral (IT) region of GC tissues (p < 0.001). The production of IL-25 in Mφs exposed to culture supernatant from gastric cancer cell line SGC7901 in vitro was induced by transforming growth factor-β1, and their density in the IT region was positively associated with those of other effector immune cells, namely, CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells and CD103+T cells (p < 0.01). This suggested that macrophages might produce IL-25 to create an antitumor micromilieu in GC tissues. The level of IL-25+IT cells was positively associated with histological grade (p < 0.001) and found to be an independent predictor of favorable survival (p = 0.024) in patients with GC after radical resection. These findings suggest that IL-25+IT cells may be a novel therapeutic target in those patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinqing Li
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Yuan Liao
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, P.R. China.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Tong Ding
- Department of Cell Biology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, P.R. China
| | - Bo Wang
- Department of Urology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Xingjuan Yu
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Yifan Chu
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Jing Xu
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Limin Zheng
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, P.R. China.,Key Laboratory of Gene Engineering of The Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
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15
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Szturz P, Raymond E, Abitbol C, Albert S, de Gramont A, Faivre S. Understanding c-MET signalling in squamous cell carcinoma of the head & neck. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2017; 111:39-51. [DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2017.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2016] [Revised: 10/28/2016] [Accepted: 01/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
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16
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Elliott LA, Doherty GA, Sheahan K, Ryan EJ. Human Tumor-Infiltrating Myeloid Cells: Phenotypic and Functional Diversity. Front Immunol 2017; 8:86. [PMID: 28220123 PMCID: PMC5292650 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.00086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 142] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2016] [Accepted: 01/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Our current understanding of human tumor-resident myeloid cells is, for the most part, based on a large body of work in murine models or studies enumerating myeloid cells in patient tumor samples using immunohistochemistry (IHC). This has led to the establishment of the theory that, by and large, tumor-resident myeloid cells are either “protumor” M2 macrophages or myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC). This concept has accelerated our understanding of myeloid cells in tumor progression and enabled the elucidation of many key regulatory mechanisms involved in cell recruitment, polarization, and activation. On the other hand, this paradigm does not embrace the complexity of the tumor-resident myeloid cell phenotype (IHC can only measure 1 or 2 markers per sample) and their possible divergent function in the hostile tumor microenvironment. Here, we examine the criteria that define human tumor-infiltrating myeloid cell subsets and provide a comprehensive and critical review of human myeloid cell nomenclature in cancer. We also highlight new evidence characterizing their contribution to cancer pathogenesis based on evidence derived from clinical studies drawing comparisons with murine studies where necessary. We then review the mechanisms in which myeloid cells are regulated by tumors in humans and how these are being targeted therapeutically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise A Elliott
- Centre for Colorectal Disease, St. Vincent's University Hospital, School of Medicine, University College Dublin , Dublin , Ireland
| | - Glen A Doherty
- Centre for Colorectal Disease, St. Vincent's University Hospital, School of Medicine, University College Dublin , Dublin , Ireland
| | - Kieran Sheahan
- Centre for Colorectal Disease, St. Vincent's University Hospital, School of Medicine, University College Dublin , Dublin , Ireland
| | - Elizabeth J Ryan
- Centre for Colorectal Disease, St. Vincent's University Hospital, School of Medicine, University College Dublin , Dublin , Ireland
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17
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Diaz Orea MA, Muñoz Perez V, Gómez Conde E, Castellanos Sánchez VO, Gonzalez Lopez R, Flores Alonso JC, Cárdenas ME, Galicia AL, Mendoza A. Expression of Cytokines Interleukin-2, Interleukin-4, Interleukin-10 and Transforming Growth Factor β in Gastric Adenocarcinoma Biopsies Obtained from Mexican Patients. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev 2017; 18:577-582. [PMID: 28350427 PMCID: PMC5454761 DOI: 10.22034/apjcp.2017.18.2.577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective: In this study, expression of Interleukin-2, Interleukin-4, Interleukin-10 and transforming growth factor beta in diffuse and intestinal type gastric cancers from Mexican patients was assessed for use as markers of malignancy. Methods: A total of 30 biopsies from gastric adenocarcinomas, 60% diffuse, 20% intestinal and 20% mixed in type, were studied by immunohistochemistry. Results: Regarding expression of cytokines, 23% were positive for IL-2, 26.7% for IL-4, 16.6% for IL-10 and none for TGF-β. There were found Significant statistically stage differences were noted.For example, for stages I-II 100% were IL-2 positive (p = 0.009), 87.5% were IL-4 positive (p = 0.005) and 100.0% IL-10 positive (p = 0.009). Young women were more likely to suffer gastric adenocarcinoma. In biopsies of male patients with gastric cancer, there was an increased expression of IL-2 and in biopsies from female patients in IL4. There was significantly greater detection of IL-4 and IL-10 expression in stages I and II than in stages III and IV. It was also found that IL-4, IL-10 had a higher positive expression in patients biopsies with low-level differentiations than patients with well differentiated gastric cancer in which cases were undetected. Conclusions: These results suggest that positive expression of IL-4 and IL-10 may be useful as a molecular marker to distinguish stage I and II diffuse gastric cancers which can be more readily controlled.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Alicia Diaz Orea
- Inmunología Experimental, Facultad de Medicina, Benemerita Universidad Autonoma de Puebla, Puebla, Mexico.
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18
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Zhang Y, Li JQ, Jiang ZZ, Li L, Wu Y, Zheng L. CD169 identifies an anti-tumour macrophage subpopulation in human hepatocellular carcinoma. J Pathol 2016; 239:231-41. [DOI: 10.1002/path.4720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2016] [Revised: 02/21/2016] [Accepted: 03/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yi Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Gene Engineering of the Ministry of Education, School of Life Sciences; Sun Yat-sen University; Guangzhou PR China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China; Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Sun Yat-sen University; Guangzhou PR China
| | - Jin-Qing Li
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China; Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Sun Yat-sen University; Guangzhou PR China
| | - Ze-Zhou Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Gene Engineering of the Ministry of Education, School of Life Sciences; Sun Yat-sen University; Guangzhou PR China
| | - Lian Li
- Key Laboratory of Gene Engineering of the Ministry of Education, School of Life Sciences; Sun Yat-sen University; Guangzhou PR China
| | - Yan Wu
- Key Laboratory of Gene Engineering of the Ministry of Education, School of Life Sciences; Sun Yat-sen University; Guangzhou PR China
| | - Limin Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Gene Engineering of the Ministry of Education, School of Life Sciences; Sun Yat-sen University; Guangzhou PR China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China; Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Sun Yat-sen University; Guangzhou PR China
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19
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Finisguerra V, Prenen H, Mazzone M. Preclinical and clinical evaluation of MET functions in cancer cells and in the tumor stroma. Oncogene 2016; 35:5457-5467. [PMID: 26996670 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2016.36] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2015] [Revised: 01/09/2016] [Accepted: 01/09/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
A lot of attention has been dedicated to investigate the role of the tyrosine kinase receptor MET in tumors. The acquired notion that cancer cells from different histological origin strictly rely on the engagement of this specific oncogene for their growth and survival has certainly justified the development and the use of MET-targeted therapies in the clinic. However, the function and involvement of this pathway in the stroma (that often constitutes >50% of the global cellularity of the tumor) may offer the opportunity to conceive new patient stratification criteria, rational drug design and guided trials of new combination treatments. In this review, we will summarize and discuss the role of MET in cancer cells but especially in different stromal compartments, in light of the results showed by past and recent preclinical and clinical trials with anti-MET drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Finisguerra
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Brussels, Belgium.,de Duve Institute, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - H Prenen
- Digestive Oncology, University Hospitals Leuven and Department of Oncology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - M Mazzone
- Lab of Molecular Oncology and Angiogenesis, Vesalius Research Center, VIB, Leuven, Belgium.,Lab of Molecular Oncology and Angiogenesis, Vesalius Research Center, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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