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Han YM, Ahn HR, Lee DY, Song MY, Lee SW, Jang YK, Jeon BY, Kim EH. Therapeutic Potential of Hongjam in A Diethylnitrosamine and Thioacetamide-induced Hepatocellular Carcinoma Mouse Model. J Cancer Prev 2024; 29:165-174. [PMID: 39790225 PMCID: PMC11706731 DOI: 10.15430/jcp.24.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2024] [Revised: 12/23/2024] [Accepted: 12/25/2024] [Indexed: 01/12/2025] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common and lethal type of primary liver cancer, frequently arising from chronic liver injury and inflammation. Despite treatment advancements, HCC prognosis remains poor, emphasizing the need for effective preventive and therapeutic strategies. This study investigates the hepatoprotective and anti-tumor effects of Hongjam, a steamed freeze-dried silkworm powder, in a diethylnitrosamine (DEN) and thioacetamide (TAA)-induced HCC mouse model. Mice were administered DEN intraperitoneally for 8 weeks, followed by TAA in drinking water for 9 weeks, with Hongjam supplementation (0.01, 0.1, and 1 g/kg) provided daily through food. Hongjam markedly reduced the tumor incidence, the size, and the histological lesions compared to the DEN/TAA group. Serum biochemical analysis revealed reduction in liver damage markers, including alkaline phosphatase, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and total bilirubin, with a notable decrease in total bilirubin surpassing. Immunohistochemical and Western blot analyses demonstrated that Hongjam downregulated expression of proliferation markers, including Ki67, phosphorylation of protein kinase B, and proliferating cell nuclear antigen, while upregulating the pro-apoptotic protein Bcl-2-associated X protein, indicating its dual role in suppressing proliferation and promoting apoptosis. Furthermore, Hongjam inhibited angiogenesis by suppressing the expression of key markers, including interleukin 6, VEGF, hypoxia-inducible factor-1 subunit alpha, platelet-derived growth factor subunit beta, matrix metalloproteinase-2, and cluster of differentiation 31, thereby disrupting the tumor microenvironment. These findings suggest that Hongjam exerts multifaceted protective effects against HCC by targeting proliferation, apoptosis, and angiogenesis pathways, while also mitigating liver damage. This study highlights the potential of Hongjam as a functional food or a complementary therapeutic agent for HCC prevention and management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young-Min Han
- College of Pharmacy and Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, CHA University, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Hye-Rin Ahn
- College of Pharmacy and Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, CHA University, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Da-Young Lee
- College of Pharmacy and Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, CHA University, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Moon-Young Song
- College of Pharmacy and Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, CHA University, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Seung-Won Lee
- College of Pharmacy and Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, CHA University, Seongnam, Korea
| | | | | | - Eun-Hee Kim
- College of Pharmacy and Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, CHA University, Seongnam, Korea
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2
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Corrias G, Lai E, Ziranu P, Mariani S, Donisi C, Liscia N, Saba G, Pretta A, Persano M, Fanni D, Spanu D, Balconi F, Loi F, Deidda S, Restivo A, Pusceddu V, Puzzoni M, Solinas C, Massa E, Madeddu C, Gerosa C, Zorcolo L, Faa G, Saba L, Scartozzi M. Prediction of Response to Anti-Angiogenic Treatment for Advanced Colorectal Cancer Patients: From Biological Factors to Functional Imaging. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1364. [PMID: 38611042 PMCID: PMC11011199 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16071364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2024] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading tumor worldwide. In CRC, the angiogenic pathway plays a crucial role in cancer development and the process of metastasis. Thus, anti-angiogenic drugs represent a milestone for metastatic CRC (mCRC) treatment and lead to significant improvement of clinical outcomes. Nevertheless, not all patients respond to treatment and some develop resistance. Therefore, the identification of predictive factors able to predict response to angiogenesis pathway blockade is required in order to identify the best candidates to receive these agents. Unfortunately, no predictive biomarkers have been prospectively validated to date. Over the years, research has focused on biologic factors such as genetic polymorphisms, circulating biomarkers, circulating tumor cells (CTCs), circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA), and microRNA. Moreover, research efforts have evaluated the potential correlation of molecular biomarkers with imaging techniques used for tumor assessment as well as the application of imaging tools in clinical practice. In addition to functional imaging, radiomics, a relatively newer technique, shows real promise in the setting of correlating molecular medicine to radiological phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Corrias
- Department of Radiology, University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy;
| | - Eleonora Lai
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (E.L.); (P.Z.); (S.M.); (C.D.); (G.S.); (A.P.); (M.P.); (D.S.); (F.B.); (F.L.); (V.P.); (M.P.); (C.S.); (E.M.); (C.M.); (M.S.)
| | - Pina Ziranu
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (E.L.); (P.Z.); (S.M.); (C.D.); (G.S.); (A.P.); (M.P.); (D.S.); (F.B.); (F.L.); (V.P.); (M.P.); (C.S.); (E.M.); (C.M.); (M.S.)
| | - Stefano Mariani
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (E.L.); (P.Z.); (S.M.); (C.D.); (G.S.); (A.P.); (M.P.); (D.S.); (F.B.); (F.L.); (V.P.); (M.P.); (C.S.); (E.M.); (C.M.); (M.S.)
| | - Clelia Donisi
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (E.L.); (P.Z.); (S.M.); (C.D.); (G.S.); (A.P.); (M.P.); (D.S.); (F.B.); (F.L.); (V.P.); (M.P.); (C.S.); (E.M.); (C.M.); (M.S.)
| | - Nicole Liscia
- Department of Medical Oncology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132 Milan, Italy;
| | - Giorgio Saba
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (E.L.); (P.Z.); (S.M.); (C.D.); (G.S.); (A.P.); (M.P.); (D.S.); (F.B.); (F.L.); (V.P.); (M.P.); (C.S.); (E.M.); (C.M.); (M.S.)
| | - Andrea Pretta
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (E.L.); (P.Z.); (S.M.); (C.D.); (G.S.); (A.P.); (M.P.); (D.S.); (F.B.); (F.L.); (V.P.); (M.P.); (C.S.); (E.M.); (C.M.); (M.S.)
| | - Mara Persano
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (E.L.); (P.Z.); (S.M.); (C.D.); (G.S.); (A.P.); (M.P.); (D.S.); (F.B.); (F.L.); (V.P.); (M.P.); (C.S.); (E.M.); (C.M.); (M.S.)
| | - Daniela Fanni
- Division of Pathology, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, AOU Cagliari, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy; (D.F.); (C.G.); (G.F.)
| | - Dario Spanu
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (E.L.); (P.Z.); (S.M.); (C.D.); (G.S.); (A.P.); (M.P.); (D.S.); (F.B.); (F.L.); (V.P.); (M.P.); (C.S.); (E.M.); (C.M.); (M.S.)
| | - Francesca Balconi
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (E.L.); (P.Z.); (S.M.); (C.D.); (G.S.); (A.P.); (M.P.); (D.S.); (F.B.); (F.L.); (V.P.); (M.P.); (C.S.); (E.M.); (C.M.); (M.S.)
| | - Francesco Loi
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (E.L.); (P.Z.); (S.M.); (C.D.); (G.S.); (A.P.); (M.P.); (D.S.); (F.B.); (F.L.); (V.P.); (M.P.); (C.S.); (E.M.); (C.M.); (M.S.)
| | - Simona Deidda
- Colorectal Surgery Unit, A.O.U. Cagliari, Department of Surgical Science, University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (S.D.); (A.R.); (L.Z.)
| | - Angelo Restivo
- Colorectal Surgery Unit, A.O.U. Cagliari, Department of Surgical Science, University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (S.D.); (A.R.); (L.Z.)
| | - Valeria Pusceddu
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (E.L.); (P.Z.); (S.M.); (C.D.); (G.S.); (A.P.); (M.P.); (D.S.); (F.B.); (F.L.); (V.P.); (M.P.); (C.S.); (E.M.); (C.M.); (M.S.)
| | - Marco Puzzoni
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (E.L.); (P.Z.); (S.M.); (C.D.); (G.S.); (A.P.); (M.P.); (D.S.); (F.B.); (F.L.); (V.P.); (M.P.); (C.S.); (E.M.); (C.M.); (M.S.)
| | - Cinzia Solinas
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (E.L.); (P.Z.); (S.M.); (C.D.); (G.S.); (A.P.); (M.P.); (D.S.); (F.B.); (F.L.); (V.P.); (M.P.); (C.S.); (E.M.); (C.M.); (M.S.)
| | - Elena Massa
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (E.L.); (P.Z.); (S.M.); (C.D.); (G.S.); (A.P.); (M.P.); (D.S.); (F.B.); (F.L.); (V.P.); (M.P.); (C.S.); (E.M.); (C.M.); (M.S.)
| | - Clelia Madeddu
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (E.L.); (P.Z.); (S.M.); (C.D.); (G.S.); (A.P.); (M.P.); (D.S.); (F.B.); (F.L.); (V.P.); (M.P.); (C.S.); (E.M.); (C.M.); (M.S.)
| | - Clara Gerosa
- Division of Pathology, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, AOU Cagliari, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy; (D.F.); (C.G.); (G.F.)
| | - Luigi Zorcolo
- Colorectal Surgery Unit, A.O.U. Cagliari, Department of Surgical Science, University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (S.D.); (A.R.); (L.Z.)
| | - Gavino Faa
- Division of Pathology, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, AOU Cagliari, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy; (D.F.); (C.G.); (G.F.)
| | - Luca Saba
- Department of Radiology, University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy;
| | - Mario Scartozzi
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (E.L.); (P.Z.); (S.M.); (C.D.); (G.S.); (A.P.); (M.P.); (D.S.); (F.B.); (F.L.); (V.P.); (M.P.); (C.S.); (E.M.); (C.M.); (M.S.)
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Giannitrapani L, Di Gaudio F, Cervello M, Scionti F, Ciliberto D, Staropoli N, Agapito G, Cannataro M, Tassone P, Tagliaferri P, Seidita A, Soresi M, Affronti M, Bertino G, Russello M, Ciriminna R, Lino C, Spinnato F, Verderame F, Augello G, Arbitrio M. Genetic Biomarkers of Sorafenib Response in Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2197. [PMID: 38396873 PMCID: PMC10888718 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25042197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2024] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The identification of biomarkers for predicting inter-individual sorafenib response variability could allow hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patient stratification. SNPs in angiogenesis- and drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME)-related genes were evaluated to identify new potential predictive biomarkers of sorafenib response in HCC patients. Five known SNPs in angiogenesis-related genes, including VEGF-A, VEGF-C, HIF-1a, ANGPT2, and NOS3, were investigated in 34 HCC patients (9 sorafenib responders and 25 non-responders). A subgroup of 23 patients was genotyped for SNPs in ADME genes. A machine learning classifier method was used to discover classification rules for our dataset. We found that only the VEGF-A (rs2010963) C allele and CC genotype were significantly associated with sorafenib response. ADME-related gene analysis identified 10 polymorphic variants in ADH1A (rs6811453), ADH6 (rs10008281), SULT1A2/CCDC101 (rs11401), CYP26A1 (rs7905939), DPYD (rs2297595 and rs1801265), FMO2 (rs2020863), and SLC22A14 (rs149738, rs171248, and rs183574) significantly associated with sorafenib response. We have identified a genetic signature of predictive response that could permit non-responder/responder patient stratification. Angiogenesis- and ADME-related genes correlation was confirmed by cumulative genetic risk score and network and pathway enrichment analysis. Our findings provide a proof of concept that needs further validation in follow-up studies for HCC patient stratification for sorafenib prescription.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lydia Giannitrapani
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council (CNR), 90146 Palermo, Italy; (L.G.); (M.C.)
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (F.D.G.); (A.S.); (M.S.); (M.A.)
| | - Francesca Di Gaudio
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (F.D.G.); (A.S.); (M.S.); (M.A.)
| | - Melchiorre Cervello
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council (CNR), 90146 Palermo, Italy; (L.G.); (M.C.)
| | - Francesca Scionti
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (F.S.); (N.S.); (P.T.); (P.T.)
| | - Domenico Ciliberto
- Medical and Translational Oncology Unit, A.O.U. R. Dulbecco, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy;
| | - Nicoletta Staropoli
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (F.S.); (N.S.); (P.T.); (P.T.)
- Medical and Translational Oncology Unit, A.O.U. R. Dulbecco, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy;
| | - Giuseppe Agapito
- Department of Legal, Economic and Social Sciences, Magna Graecia University, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy;
| | - Mario Cannataro
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy;
| | - Pierfrancesco Tassone
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (F.S.); (N.S.); (P.T.); (P.T.)
- Medical and Translational Oncology Unit, A.O.U. R. Dulbecco, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy;
- College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA
| | - Pierosandro Tagliaferri
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (F.S.); (N.S.); (P.T.); (P.T.)
- Medical and Translational Oncology Unit, A.O.U. R. Dulbecco, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy;
| | - Aurelio Seidita
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (F.D.G.); (A.S.); (M.S.); (M.A.)
- Villa Sofia-Cervello Hospital, C.O.U. Medical Oncology, 90146 Palermo, Italy; (F.S.); (F.V.)
| | - Maurizio Soresi
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (F.D.G.); (A.S.); (M.S.); (M.A.)
| | - Marco Affronti
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (F.D.G.); (A.S.); (M.S.); (M.A.)
| | - Gaetano Bertino
- Hepatology Unit, A.O.U. Policlinico-San Marco, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy;
| | | | - Rosaria Ciriminna
- Institute of Nanostructured Materials, National Research Council (CNR), 90146 Palermo, Italy; (R.C.); (C.L.)
| | - Claudia Lino
- Institute of Nanostructured Materials, National Research Council (CNR), 90146 Palermo, Italy; (R.C.); (C.L.)
| | - Francesca Spinnato
- Villa Sofia-Cervello Hospital, C.O.U. Medical Oncology, 90146 Palermo, Italy; (F.S.); (F.V.)
| | - Francesco Verderame
- Villa Sofia-Cervello Hospital, C.O.U. Medical Oncology, 90146 Palermo, Italy; (F.S.); (F.V.)
| | - Giuseppa Augello
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council (CNR), 90146 Palermo, Italy; (L.G.); (M.C.)
| | - Mariamena Arbitrio
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council (CNR), 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
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Wang Y, Deng B. Hepatocellular carcinoma: molecular mechanism, targeted therapy, and biomarkers. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2023; 42:629-652. [PMID: 36729264 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-023-10084-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 145] [Impact Index Per Article: 72.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common malignancy and one of the leading causes of cancer-related death. The biological process of HCC is complex, with multiple factors leading to the broken of the balance of inactivation and activation of tumor suppressor genes and oncogenes, the abnormal activation of molecular signaling pathways, the differentiation of HCC cells, and the regulation of angiogenesis. Due to the insidious onset of HCC, at the time of first diagnosis, less than 30% of HCC patients are candidates for radical treatment. Systematic antitumor therapy is the hope for the treatment of patients with middle-advanced HCC. Despite the emergence of new systemic therapies, survival rates for advanced HCC patients remain low. The complex pathogenesis of HCC has inspired researchers to explore a variety of biomolecular targeted therapeutics targeting specific targets. Correct understanding of the molecular mechanism of HCC occurrence is key to seeking effective targeted therapy. Research on biomarkers for HCC treatment is also advancing. Here, we explore the molecular mechanism that are associated with HCC development, summarize targeted therapies for HCC, and discuss potential biomarkers that may drive therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Hospital of China Medical University, 155 Nanjing North Street, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Baocheng Deng
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Hospital of China Medical University, 155 Nanjing North Street, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning Province, China.
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Samavarchi Tehrani S, Esmaeili F, Shirzad M, Goodarzi G, Yousefi T, Maniati M, Taheri-Anganeh M, Anushiravani A. The critical role of circular RNAs in drug resistance in gastrointestinal cancers. Med Oncol 2023; 40:116. [PMID: 36917431 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-023-01980-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Abstract
Nowadays, drug resistance (DR) in gastrointestinal (GI) cancers, as the main reason for cancer-related mortality worldwide, has become a serious problem in the management of patients. Several mechanisms have been proposed for resistance to anticancer drugs, including altered transport and metabolism of drugs, mutation of drug targets, altered DNA repair system, inhibited apoptosis and autophagy, cancer stem cells, tumor heterogeneity, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Compelling evidence has revealed that genetic and epigenetic factors are strongly linked to DR. Non-coding RNA (ncRNA) interferences are the most crucial epigenetic alterations explored so far, and among these ncRNAs, circular RNAs (circRNAs) are the most emerging members known to have unique properties. Due to the absence of 5' and 3' ends in these novel RNAs, the two ends are covalently bonded together and are generated from pre-mRNA in a process known as back-splicing, which makes them more stable than other RNAs. As far as the unique structure and function of circRNAs is concerned, they are implicated in proliferation, migration, invasion, angiogenesis, metastasis, and DR. A clear understanding of the molecular mechanisms responsible for circRNAs-mediated DR in the GI cancers will open a new window to the management of GI cancers. Hence, in the present review, we will describe briefly the biogenesis, multiple features, and different biological functions of circRNAs. Then, we will summarize current mechanisms of DR, and finally, discuss molecular mechanisms through which circRNAs regulate DR development in esophageal cancer, pancreatic cancer, gastric cancer, colorectal cancer, and hepatocellular carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sadra Samavarchi Tehrani
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fataneh Esmaeili
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Moein Shirzad
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Golnaz Goodarzi
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Tooba Yousefi
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahmood Maniati
- Department of English, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Mortaza Taheri-Anganeh
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.
| | - Amir Anushiravani
- Digestive Disease Research Center, Digestive Disease Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Spanu D, Pretta A, Lai E, Persano M, Donisi C, Mariani S, Dubois M, Migliari M, Saba G, Ziranu P, Pusceddu V, Puzzoni M, Astara G, Scartozzi M. Hepatocellular carcinoma and microbiota: Implications for clinical management and treatment. World J Hepatol 2022; 14:1319-1332. [PMID: 36158925 PMCID: PMC9376771 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v14.i7.1319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Gut microbiota plays an essential role in host homeostasis. It is involved in several physiological processes such as nutrients digestion and absorption, maintenance of intestinal epithelial barrier integrity and immune system self-tolerance. Especially the gut microbiota is assumed to play a crucial role in many gastrointestinal, pancreatic and liver disorders. Its role in hepatic carcinogenesis is also gaining increasing interest, especially regarding the development of therapeutic strategies. Different studies are highlighting a link between some bacterial strains and liver disease, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Indeed, HCC represents an interesting field of research in this perspective, due to the gut-liver axis, to the implication of microbiota in the immune system and to the increasing number of immunotherapy agents investigated in this tumour. Thus, the assessment of the role of microbiota in influencing clinical outcome for patients treated with these drugs is becoming of increasing importance. Our review aims to give an overview on the relationship between microbiota and HCC development/progression and treatment. We focus on potential implications on the available treatment strategies and those under study in the various stages of disease. We highlight the pathogenic mechanisms and investigate the underlying molecular pathways involved. Moreover, we investigate the potential prognostic and/or predictive role of microbiota for target therapies, immune checkpoint inhibitors and loco-regional treatment. Finally, given the limitation of current treatments, we analyze the gut microbiota-mediated therapies and its potential options for HCC treatment focusing on fecal microbiota transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dario Spanu
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Monserrato 09042, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Andrea Pretta
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Monserrato 09042, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Eleonora Lai
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Monserrato 09042, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Mara Persano
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Monserrato 09042, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Clelia Donisi
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Monserrato 09042, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Stefano Mariani
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Monserrato 09042, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Marco Dubois
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Monserrato 09042, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Marco Migliari
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Monserrato 09042, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Giorgio Saba
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Monserrato 09042, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Pina Ziranu
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Monserrato 09042, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Valeria Pusceddu
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Monserrato 09042, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Marco Puzzoni
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Monserrato 09042, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Giorgio Astara
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Monserrato 09042, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Mario Scartozzi
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Monserrato 09042, Cagliari, Italy
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Marin JJG, Romero MR, Herraez E, Asensio M, Ortiz-Rivero S, Sanchez-Martin A, Fabris L, Briz O. Mechanisms of Pharmacoresistance in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: New Drugs but Old Problems. Semin Liver Dis 2022; 42:87-103. [PMID: 34544160 DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1735631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a malignancy with poor prognosis when diagnosed at advanced stages in which curative treatments are no longer applicable. A small group of these patients may still benefit from transarterial chemoembolization. The only therapeutic option for most patients with advanced HCC is systemic pharmacological treatments based on tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) and immunotherapy. Available drugs only slightly increase survival, as tumor cells possess additive and synergistic mechanisms of pharmacoresistance (MPRs) prior to or enhanced during treatment. Understanding the molecular basis of MPRs is crucial to elucidate the genetic signature underlying HCC resistome. This will permit the selection of biomarkers to predict drug treatment response and identify tumor weaknesses in a personalized and dynamic way. In this article, we have reviewed the role of MPRs in current first-line drugs and the combinations of immunotherapeutic agents with novel TKIs being tested in the treatment of advanced HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose J G Marin
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEPHARM), University of Salamanca, IBSAL, Salamanca, Spain.,Center for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta R Romero
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEPHARM), University of Salamanca, IBSAL, Salamanca, Spain.,Center for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
| | - Elisa Herraez
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEPHARM), University of Salamanca, IBSAL, Salamanca, Spain.,Center for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
| | - Maitane Asensio
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEPHARM), University of Salamanca, IBSAL, Salamanca, Spain.,Center for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
| | - Sara Ortiz-Rivero
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEPHARM), University of Salamanca, IBSAL, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Anabel Sanchez-Martin
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEPHARM), University of Salamanca, IBSAL, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Luca Fabris
- Department of Molecular Medicine (DMM), University of Padua, Padua, Italy.,Department of Internal Medicine, Yale Liver Center (YLC), School of Medicine, Yale University New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Oscar Briz
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEPHARM), University of Salamanca, IBSAL, Salamanca, Spain.,Center for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
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8
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Jiguet-Jiglaire C, Boissonneau S, Denicolai E, Hein V, Lasseur R, Garcia J, Romain S, Appay R, Graillon T, Mason W, Carpentier AF, Brandes AA, Ouafik L, Wick W, Baaziz A, Gigan JP, Argüello RJ, Figarella-Branger D, Chinot O, Tabouret E. Plasmatic MMP9 released from tumor-infiltrating neutrophils is predictive for bevacizumab efficacy in glioblastoma patients: an AVAglio ancillary study. Acta Neuropathol Commun 2022; 10:1. [PMID: 34980260 PMCID: PMC8722051 DOI: 10.1186/s40478-021-01305-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
We previously identified matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2) and MMP9 plasma levels as candidate biomarkers of bevacizumab activity in patients with recurrent glioblastoma. The aim of this study was to assess the predictive value of MMP2 and MMP9 in a randomized phase III trial in patients with newly diagnosed glioblastoma and to explore their tumor source. In this post hoc analysis of the AVAglio trial (AVAGlio/NCT00943826), plasma samples from 577 patients (bevacizumab, n = 283; placebo, n = 294) were analyzed for plasma MMP9 and MMP2 levels by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. A prospective local cohort of 38 patients with newly diagnosed glioblastoma was developed for analysis of tumor characteristics by magnetic resonance imaging and measurement of plasma and tumor levels of MMP9 and MMP2. In this AVAglio study, MMP9, but not MMP2, was correlated with bevacizumab efficacy. Patients with low MMP9 derived a significant 5.2-month overall survival (OS) benefit with bevacizumab (HR 0.51, 95% CI 0.34-0.76, p = 0.0009; median 13.6 vs. 18.8 months). In multivariate analysis, a significant interaction was seen between treatment and MMP9 (p = 0.03) for OS. In the local cohort, we showed that preoperative MMP9 plasma levels decreased after tumor resection and were correlated with tumor levels of MMP9 mRNA (p = 0.03). However, plasma MMP9 was not correlated with tumor size, invasive pattern, or angiogenesis. Using immunohistochemistry, we showed that MMP9 was expressed by inflammatory cells but not by tumor cells. After cell sorting, we showed that MMP9 was expressed by CD45+ immune cells. Finally, using flow cytometry, we showed that MMP9 was expressed by tumor-infiltrating neutrophils. In conclusion, circulating MMP9 is predictive of bevacizumab efficacy and is released by tumor-infiltrating neutrophils.
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9
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Moldogazieva NT, Zavadskiy SP, Sologova SS, Mokhosoev IM, Terentiev AA. Predictive biomarkers for systemic therapy of hepatocellular carcinoma. Expert Rev Mol Diagn 2021; 21:1147-1164. [PMID: 34582293 DOI: 10.1080/14737159.2021.1987217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary liver cancer and the third cancer-related cause of death worldwide. In recent years, several systemic therapy drugs including sorafenib, lenvatinib, regorafenib, cabozantinib, ramucicurab, nivilumab, and pembrolizumab have been approved by FDA for advanced HCC. However, their insufficient efficacy, toxicity, and drug resistance require clinically applicable and validated predictive biomarkers.Areas covered: Our review covers the recent advancements in the identification of proteomic/genomic/epigenomic/transcriptomic biomarkers for predicting HCC treatment efficacy with the use of multi-kinase inhibitors (MKIs), CDK4/6 inhibitors, and immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). Alpha-fetoprotein, des-carboxyprothrombin, vascular endothelial growth factor, angiopoietin-2, and dysregulated MTOR, VEGFR2, c-KIT, RAF1, PDGFRβ have the potential of proteomic/genomic biomarkers for sorafenib treatment. Alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and albumin-bilirubin grade can predict the efficacy of other MKIs. Rb, p16, and Ki-67, and genes involved in cell cycle regulation, CDK1-4, CCND1, CDKN1A, and CDKN2A have been proposed for CD4/6 inhibitors, while dysregulated TERT, CTNNB1, TP53 FGF19, and TP53 are found to be predictors for ICI efficacy.Expert opinion: There are still limited clinically applicable and validated predictive biomarkers to identify HCC patients who benefit from systemic therapy. Further prospective biomarker validation studies for HCC personalized systemic therapy are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nurbubu T Moldogazieva
- Laboratory of Bioinformatics, Institute of Translational Medicine and Biotechnology, I.m. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University);, Moscow, Russia
| | - Sergey P Zavadskiy
- Department of Pharmacology, Nelyubin Institute of Pharmacy, I.m. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Russia, Russia
| | - Susanna S Sologova
- Department of Pharmacology, Nelyubin Institute of Pharmacy, I.m. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Russia, Russia
| | - Innokenty M Mokhosoev
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, N.i. Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Alexander A Terentiev
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, N.i. Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russia
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10
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Tumor Immune Microenvironment and Immunosuppressive Therapy in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Review. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22115801. [PMID: 34071550 PMCID: PMC8198390 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22115801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 266] [Impact Index Per Article: 66.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 05/15/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer has the fourth highest mortality rate of all cancers worldwide, with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) being the most prevalent subtype. Despite great advances in systemic therapy, such as molecular-targeted agents, HCC has one of the worst prognoses due to drug resistance and frequent recurrence and metastasis. Recently, new therapeutic strategies such as cancer immunosuppressive therapy have prolonged patients' lives, and the combination of an immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) and VEGF inhibitor is now positioned as the first-line therapy for advanced HCC. Since the efficacy of ICIs depends on the tumor immune microenvironment, it is necessary to elucidate the immune environment of HCC to select appropriate ICIs. In this review, we summarize the findings on the immune microenvironment and immunosuppressive approaches focused on monoclonal antibodies against cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated protein 4 and programmed cell death protein 1 for HCC. We also describe ongoing treatment modalities, including adoptive cell transfer-based therapies and future areas of exploration based on recent literature. The results of pre-clinical studies using immunological classification and animal models will contribute to the development of biomarkers that predict the efficacy of immunosuppressive therapy and aid in the selection of appropriate strategies for HCC treatment.
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11
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Liang Q, Zhou L, Li Y, Liu J, Liu Y. Nano drug delivery system reconstruct tumour vasculature for the tumour vascular normalisation. J Drug Target 2021; 30:119-130. [PMID: 33960252 DOI: 10.1080/1061186x.2021.1927056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The abnormal structure and function of blood vessels in the TME are obvious characteristics of the tumour. Abnormal blood vessels with high leakage support the occurrence of malignant tumours and increase the possibility of tumour cell invasion and metastasis. The formation of abnormal vascular also enhances immunosuppression and prevents the delivery of chemotherapy drugs to deeper tumours. Therefore, the normalisation of tumour blood vessels is a very promising approach to improve anti-tumour efficacy, aiming to restore the structural integrity of vessels and improve drug delivery efficiency and anti-tumour immunity. In this review, we have summarised strategies to improve cancer treatment that via nano drug delivery technology regulates the normalisation of tumour blood vessels. The treatment strategies related to the structure and function of tumour blood vessels such as angiogenesis factors, tumour-associated macrophages, tumour vascular endothelial cells, tumour-associated fibroblasts and immune checkpoints in the TME were mainly discussed. The normalisation of tumour blood vessels presents new opportunities and challenges for the more efficient delivery of nanoparticles to tumour tissues and cells and an innovative combination of treatments for cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiangwei Liang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Liyue Zhou
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Yifan Li
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Jinxia Liu
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Yanhua Liu
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China.,Key Laboratory of Hui Ethnic Medicine Modernization, Ministry of Education, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
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12
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Donisi C, Puzzoni M, Ziranu P, Lai E, Mariani S, Saba G, Impera V, Dubois M, Persano M, Migliari M, Pretta A, Liscia N, Astara G, Scartozzi M. Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors in the Treatment of HCC. Front Oncol 2021; 10:601240. [PMID: 33585218 PMCID: PMC7874239 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.601240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Accepted: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the typical inflammation-induced neoplasia. It often prospers where a chronic liver disease persists, thus leading a strong rationale for immune therapy. Several immune-based treatments, including immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI), cytokines, adoptive cell transfer, and vaccines, have been tested in the treatment of HCC. In this review, we summarize the role of the ICI in HCC patients in various sets of treatment. As for advanced HCC, the anti-Programmed cell Death protein 1 (PD1) antibodies and the anti-Cytotoxic T-Lymphocyte Antigen 4 (CTLA-4) antibodies have been examined in patients with enthusiastic results in phase I-II-III studies. Overall, this led the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to approve pembrolizumab, nivolumab, and nivolumab + ipilimumab in the second-line setting. The anti- Programmed Death-Ligand 1 (PDL-1) antibodies have also been evaluated. Thanks to the results obtained from phase III IMbrave study, atezolizumab + bevacizumab is now the standard of care in the first-line advanced setting of HCC. As for localized HCC, the putative immunological effect of locoregional therapies led to evaluate the combination strategy with ICI. This way, chemoembolization, ablation with radiofrequency, and radioembolization combined with ICI are currently under study. Likewise, the study of adjuvant immunotherapy following surgical resection is underway. In addition, the different ICI has been studied in combination with other ICI as well as with multikinase inhibitors and anti-angiogenesis monoclonal antibody. The evidence available suggests that combining systemic therapies and locoregional treatments with ICI may represent an effective strategy in this context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clelia Donisi
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Marco Puzzoni
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Pina Ziranu
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Eleonora Lai
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Stefano Mariani
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Giorgio Saba
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Valentino Impera
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
- Medical Oncology Unit, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Dubois
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Mara Persano
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Marco Migliari
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Andrea Pretta
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
- Medical Oncology Unit, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Nicole Liscia
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
- Medical Oncology Unit, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Giorgio Astara
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Mario Scartozzi
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
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13
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Miller H, Czigany Z, Lurje I, Reichelt S, Bednarsch J, Strnad P, Trautwein C, Roderburg C, Tacke F, Gaisa NT, Knüchel-Clarke R, Neumann UP, Lurje G. Impact of Angiogenesis- and Hypoxia-Associated Polymorphisms on Tumor Recurrence in Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma Undergoing Surgical Resection. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12123826. [PMID: 33352897 PMCID: PMC7767259 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12123826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2020] [Revised: 12/13/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Hepatocellular carcinoma remains a leading cause of cancer-related death and the most common primary hepatic malignancy in the Western hemisphere. Previous research found that angiogenesis-related cytokines and elevated levels of interleukin 8 and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) shorten the expected time of survival. Moreover, factors of tumor angiogenesis- and hypoxia-driven signaling pathways are already associated with worse outcome in disease-free survival in several tumor entities. Our study investigates the prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma patients based on a selection of ten different single-nucleotide polymorphisms from angiogenesis, carcinogenesis, and hypoxia pathways. Our study with 127 patients found supporting evidence that polymorphisms in angiogenesis-associated pathways corelate with disease-free survival and clinical outcome in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. Abstract Tumor angiogenesis plays a pivotal role in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) biology. Identifying molecular prognostic markers is critical to further improve treatment selection in these patients. The present study analyzed a subset of 10 germline polymorphisms involved in tumor angiogenesis pathways and their impact on prognosis in HCC patients undergoing partial hepatectomy in a curative intent. Formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissues were obtained from 127 HCC patients at a German primary care hospital. Genomic DNA was extracted, and genotyping was carried out using polymerase chain reaction (PCR)–restriction fragment length polymorphism-based protocols. Polymorphisms in interleukin-8 (IL-8) (rs4073; p = 0.047, log-rank test) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF C + 936T) (rs3025039; p = 0.045, log-rank test) were significantly associated with disease-free survival (DFS). After adjusting for covariates in the multivariable model, IL-8 T-251A (rs4073) (adjusted p = 0.010) and a combination of “high-expression” variants of rs4073 and rs3025039 (adjusted p = 0.034) remained significantly associated with DFS. High-expression variants of IL-8 T-251A may serve as an independent molecular marker of prognosis in patients undergoing surgical resection for HCC. Assessment of the patients’ individual genetic risks may help to identify patient subgroups at high risk for recurrence following curative-intent surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Miller
- Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Department of Surgery, Campus Charité Mitte|Campus Virchow-Klinikum, 13353 Berlin, Germany; (H.M.); (S.R.)
- Department of Surgery and Transplantation, University Hospital Rheinisch-Westfälische Technische Hochschule (RWTH) Aachen, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (Z.C.); (I.L.); (J.B.); (U.P.N.)
| | - Zoltan Czigany
- Department of Surgery and Transplantation, University Hospital Rheinisch-Westfälische Technische Hochschule (RWTH) Aachen, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (Z.C.); (I.L.); (J.B.); (U.P.N.)
| | - Isabella Lurje
- Department of Surgery and Transplantation, University Hospital Rheinisch-Westfälische Technische Hochschule (RWTH) Aachen, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (Z.C.); (I.L.); (J.B.); (U.P.N.)
- Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Campus Charité Mitte|Campus Virchow-Klinikum, 13353 Berlin, Germany; (C.R.); (F.T.)
| | - Sophie Reichelt
- Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Department of Surgery, Campus Charité Mitte|Campus Virchow-Klinikum, 13353 Berlin, Germany; (H.M.); (S.R.)
- Department of Surgery and Transplantation, University Hospital Rheinisch-Westfälische Technische Hochschule (RWTH) Aachen, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (Z.C.); (I.L.); (J.B.); (U.P.N.)
| | - Jan Bednarsch
- Department of Surgery and Transplantation, University Hospital Rheinisch-Westfälische Technische Hochschule (RWTH) Aachen, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (Z.C.); (I.L.); (J.B.); (U.P.N.)
| | - Pavel Strnad
- Department of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital Rheinisch-Westfälische Technische Hochschule (RWTH) Aachen, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (P.S.); (C.T.)
| | - Christian Trautwein
- Department of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital Rheinisch-Westfälische Technische Hochschule (RWTH) Aachen, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (P.S.); (C.T.)
| | - Christoph Roderburg
- Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Campus Charité Mitte|Campus Virchow-Klinikum, 13353 Berlin, Germany; (C.R.); (F.T.)
- Department of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital Rheinisch-Westfälische Technische Hochschule (RWTH) Aachen, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (P.S.); (C.T.)
| | - Frank Tacke
- Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Campus Charité Mitte|Campus Virchow-Klinikum, 13353 Berlin, Germany; (C.R.); (F.T.)
- Department of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital Rheinisch-Westfälische Technische Hochschule (RWTH) Aachen, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (P.S.); (C.T.)
| | - Nadine Therese Gaisa
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Rheinisch-Westfälische Technische Hochschule (RWTH) Aachen, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (N.T.G.); (R.K.-C.)
| | - Ruth Knüchel-Clarke
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Rheinisch-Westfälische Technische Hochschule (RWTH) Aachen, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (N.T.G.); (R.K.-C.)
| | - Ulf Peter Neumann
- Department of Surgery and Transplantation, University Hospital Rheinisch-Westfälische Technische Hochschule (RWTH) Aachen, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (Z.C.); (I.L.); (J.B.); (U.P.N.)
| | - Georg Lurje
- Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Department of Surgery, Campus Charité Mitte|Campus Virchow-Klinikum, 13353 Berlin, Germany; (H.M.); (S.R.)
- Department of Surgery and Transplantation, University Hospital Rheinisch-Westfälische Technische Hochschule (RWTH) Aachen, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (Z.C.); (I.L.); (J.B.); (U.P.N.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-30-450-652339
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14
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Lai E, Astara G, Ziranu P, Pretta A, Migliari M, Dubois M, Donisi C, Mariani S, Liscia N, Impera V, Persano M, Tolu S, Balconi F, Pinna G, Spanu D, Pireddu A, Saba G, Camera S, Musio F, Puzzoni M, Pusceddu V, Madeddu C, Casadei Gardini A, Scartozzi M. Introducing immunotherapy for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma patients: Too early or too fast? Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2020; 157:103167. [PMID: 33271389 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2020.103167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2020] [Revised: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most frequent liver cancer. Immunotherapy has been explored in this disease in order to improve survival outcomes. Nowadays, scientific research is focusing especially on immune checkpoint inhibitors, in particular anti-PD1, anti-PD-L1 and anti-CTLA4 monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), as single-agent or in combination with other immunotherapy agents, target therapies, anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and other agents targeting specific molecular pathways. Other immunotherapy strategies have been assessed or are under investigation in advanced HCC, namely cytokines, adoptive cell therapy, oncolytic virus, cancer vaccines. Each treatment presents specific efficacy and toxicity profiles, strictly related to their mechanism of action and to advanced HCC tumour microenvironment (TME). The aim of this review is to outline the state-of-the-art of immunotherapy in advanced HCC treatment, highlighting data on already investigated treatment strategies, safety and toxicity (including HBV/HCV-related HCC), and ongoing clinical trials focusing on new promising therapeutic weapons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora Lai
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy. Oncologia Medica, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria di Cagliari, Presidio Policlinico Universitario "Duilio Casula" S.S. 554, Km 4,500 Bivio per Sestu, 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Giorgio Astara
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy. Oncologia Medica, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria di Cagliari, Presidio Policlinico Universitario "Duilio Casula" S.S. 554, Km 4,500 Bivio per Sestu, 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Pina Ziranu
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy. Oncologia Medica, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria di Cagliari, Presidio Policlinico Universitario "Duilio Casula" S.S. 554, Km 4,500 Bivio per Sestu, 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Andrea Pretta
- Medical Oncology Unit, Sapienza University of Rome - University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy. Oncologia Medica, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria di Cagliari, Presidio Policlinico Universitario "Duilio Casula" S.S. 554, Km 4,500 Bivio per Sestu, 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Marco Migliari
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy. Oncologia Medica, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria di Cagliari, Presidio Policlinico Universitario "Duilio Casula" S.S. 554, Km 4,500 Bivio per Sestu, 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Marco Dubois
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy. Oncologia Medica, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria di Cagliari, Presidio Policlinico Universitario "Duilio Casula" S.S. 554, Km 4,500 Bivio per Sestu, 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Clelia Donisi
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy. Oncologia Medica, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria di Cagliari, Presidio Policlinico Universitario "Duilio Casula" S.S. 554, Km 4,500 Bivio per Sestu, 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Stefano Mariani
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy. Oncologia Medica, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria di Cagliari, Presidio Policlinico Universitario "Duilio Casula" S.S. 554, Km 4,500 Bivio per Sestu, 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Nicole Liscia
- Medical Oncology Unit, Sapienza University of Rome - University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy. Oncologia Medica, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria di Cagliari, Presidio Policlinico Universitario "Duilio Casula" S.S. 554, Km 4,500 Bivio per Sestu, 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Valentino Impera
- Medical Oncology Unit, Sapienza University of Rome - University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy. Oncologia Medica, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria di Cagliari, Presidio Policlinico Universitario "Duilio Casula" S.S. 554, Km 4,500 Bivio per Sestu, 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Mara Persano
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy. Oncologia Medica, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria di Cagliari, Presidio Policlinico Universitario "Duilio Casula" S.S. 554, Km 4,500 Bivio per Sestu, 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Simona Tolu
- Medical Oncology Unit, Sapienza University of Rome - University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy. Oncologia Medica, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria di Cagliari, Presidio Policlinico Universitario "Duilio Casula" S.S. 554, Km 4,500 Bivio per Sestu, 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Francesca Balconi
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy. Oncologia Medica, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria di Cagliari, Presidio Policlinico Universitario "Duilio Casula" S.S. 554, Km 4,500 Bivio per Sestu, 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Giovanna Pinna
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy. Oncologia Medica, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria di Cagliari, Presidio Policlinico Universitario "Duilio Casula" S.S. 554, Km 4,500 Bivio per Sestu, 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Dario Spanu
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy. Oncologia Medica, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria di Cagliari, Presidio Policlinico Universitario "Duilio Casula" S.S. 554, Km 4,500 Bivio per Sestu, 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Annagrazia Pireddu
- Medical Oncology Unit, Sapienza University of Rome - University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy. Oncologia Medica, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria di Cagliari, Presidio Policlinico Universitario "Duilio Casula" S.S. 554, Km 4,500 Bivio per Sestu, 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Giorgio Saba
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy. Oncologia Medica, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria di Cagliari, Presidio Policlinico Universitario "Duilio Casula" S.S. 554, Km 4,500 Bivio per Sestu, 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Silvia Camera
- Department of Medical Oncology, Università Vita-Salute, San Raffaele Hospital IRCCS, 20019, Milan, Italy. Dipartimento di Oncologia, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, via Olgettina 60, Milan, Italy.
| | - Francesca Musio
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy. Oncologia Medica, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria di Cagliari, Presidio Policlinico Universitario "Duilio Casula" S.S. 554, Km 4,500 Bivio per Sestu, 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Marco Puzzoni
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy. Oncologia Medica, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria di Cagliari, Presidio Policlinico Universitario "Duilio Casula" S.S. 554, Km 4,500 Bivio per Sestu, 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Valeria Pusceddu
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy. Oncologia Medica, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria di Cagliari, Presidio Policlinico Universitario "Duilio Casula" S.S. 554, Km 4,500 Bivio per Sestu, 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Clelia Madeddu
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy. Oncologia Medica, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria di Cagliari, Presidio Policlinico Universitario "Duilio Casula" S.S. 554, Km 4,500 Bivio per Sestu, 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Andrea Casadei Gardini
- Department of Medical Oncology, Università Vita-Salute, San Raffaele Hospital IRCCS, 20019, Milan, Italy. Dipartimento di Oncologia, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, via Olgettina 60, Milan, Italy.
| | - Mario Scartozzi
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy. Oncologia Medica, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria di Cagliari, Presidio Policlinico Universitario "Duilio Casula" S.S. 554, Km 4,500 Bivio per Sestu, 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy.
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Dal Bo M, De Mattia E, Baboci L, Mezzalira S, Cecchin E, Assaraf YG, Toffoli G. New insights into the pharmacological, immunological, and CAR-T-cell approaches in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma. Drug Resist Updat 2020; 51:100702. [DOI: 10.1016/j.drup.2020.100702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2020] [Revised: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Marin JJ, Macias RI, Monte MJ, Romero MR, Asensio M, Sanchez-Martin A, Cives-Losada C, Temprano AG, Espinosa-Escudero R, Reviejo M, Bohorquez LH, Briz O. Molecular Bases of Drug Resistance in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12061663. [PMID: 32585893 PMCID: PMC7352164 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12061663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Revised: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The poor outcome of patients with non-surgically removable advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most frequent type of primary liver cancer, is mainly due to the high refractoriness of this aggressive tumor to classical chemotherapy. Novel pharmacological approaches based on the use of inhibitors of tyrosine kinases (TKIs), mainly sorafenib and regorafenib, have provided only a modest prolongation of the overall survival in these HCC patients. The present review is an update of the available information regarding our understanding of the molecular bases of mechanisms of chemoresistance (MOC) with a significant impact on the response of HCC to existing pharmacological tools, which include classical chemotherapeutic agents, TKIs and novel immune-sensitizing strategies. Many of the more than one hundred genes involved in seven MOC have been identified as potential biomarkers to predict the failure of treatment, as well as druggable targets to develop novel strategies aimed at increasing the sensitivity of HCC to pharmacological treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose J.G. Marin
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEFARM) Group, University of Salamanca, IBSAL, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (R.I.R.M.); (M.J.M.); (M.R.R.); (M.A.); (A.S.-M.); (C.C.-L.); (A.G.T.); (R.E.-E.); (M.R.); (L.H.B.)
- Center for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Correspondence: (J.J.G.M.); (O.B.); Tel.: +34-663182872 (J.J.G.M.); +34-923294674 (O.B.)
| | - Rocio I.R. Macias
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEFARM) Group, University of Salamanca, IBSAL, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (R.I.R.M.); (M.J.M.); (M.R.R.); (M.A.); (A.S.-M.); (C.C.-L.); (A.G.T.); (R.E.-E.); (M.R.); (L.H.B.)
- Center for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Maria J. Monte
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEFARM) Group, University of Salamanca, IBSAL, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (R.I.R.M.); (M.J.M.); (M.R.R.); (M.A.); (A.S.-M.); (C.C.-L.); (A.G.T.); (R.E.-E.); (M.R.); (L.H.B.)
- Center for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta R. Romero
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEFARM) Group, University of Salamanca, IBSAL, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (R.I.R.M.); (M.J.M.); (M.R.R.); (M.A.); (A.S.-M.); (C.C.-L.); (A.G.T.); (R.E.-E.); (M.R.); (L.H.B.)
- Center for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Maitane Asensio
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEFARM) Group, University of Salamanca, IBSAL, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (R.I.R.M.); (M.J.M.); (M.R.R.); (M.A.); (A.S.-M.); (C.C.-L.); (A.G.T.); (R.E.-E.); (M.R.); (L.H.B.)
| | - Anabel Sanchez-Martin
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEFARM) Group, University of Salamanca, IBSAL, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (R.I.R.M.); (M.J.M.); (M.R.R.); (M.A.); (A.S.-M.); (C.C.-L.); (A.G.T.); (R.E.-E.); (M.R.); (L.H.B.)
| | - Candela Cives-Losada
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEFARM) Group, University of Salamanca, IBSAL, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (R.I.R.M.); (M.J.M.); (M.R.R.); (M.A.); (A.S.-M.); (C.C.-L.); (A.G.T.); (R.E.-E.); (M.R.); (L.H.B.)
| | - Alvaro G. Temprano
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEFARM) Group, University of Salamanca, IBSAL, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (R.I.R.M.); (M.J.M.); (M.R.R.); (M.A.); (A.S.-M.); (C.C.-L.); (A.G.T.); (R.E.-E.); (M.R.); (L.H.B.)
| | - Ricardo Espinosa-Escudero
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEFARM) Group, University of Salamanca, IBSAL, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (R.I.R.M.); (M.J.M.); (M.R.R.); (M.A.); (A.S.-M.); (C.C.-L.); (A.G.T.); (R.E.-E.); (M.R.); (L.H.B.)
| | - Maria Reviejo
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEFARM) Group, University of Salamanca, IBSAL, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (R.I.R.M.); (M.J.M.); (M.R.R.); (M.A.); (A.S.-M.); (C.C.-L.); (A.G.T.); (R.E.-E.); (M.R.); (L.H.B.)
| | - Laura H. Bohorquez
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEFARM) Group, University of Salamanca, IBSAL, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (R.I.R.M.); (M.J.M.); (M.R.R.); (M.A.); (A.S.-M.); (C.C.-L.); (A.G.T.); (R.E.-E.); (M.R.); (L.H.B.)
| | - Oscar Briz
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEFARM) Group, University of Salamanca, IBSAL, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (R.I.R.M.); (M.J.M.); (M.R.R.); (M.A.); (A.S.-M.); (C.C.-L.); (A.G.T.); (R.E.-E.); (M.R.); (L.H.B.)
- Center for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Correspondence: (J.J.G.M.); (O.B.); Tel.: +34-663182872 (J.J.G.M.); +34-923294674 (O.B.)
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Marin JJG, Serrano MA, Monte MJ, Sanchez-Martin A, Temprano AG, Briz O, Romero MR. Role of Genetic Variations in the Hepatic Handling of Drugs. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E2884. [PMID: 32326111 PMCID: PMC7215464 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21082884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Revised: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The liver plays a pivotal role in drug handling due to its contribution to the processes of detoxification (phases 0 to 3). In addition, the liver is also an essential organ for the mechanism of action of many families of drugs, such as cholesterol-lowering, antidiabetic, antiviral, anticoagulant, and anticancer agents. Accordingly, the presence of genetic variants affecting a high number of genes expressed in hepatocytes has a critical clinical impact. The present review is not an exhaustive list but a general overview of the most relevant variants of genes involved in detoxification phases. The available information highlights the importance of defining the genomic profile responsible for the hepatic handling of drugs in many ways, such as (i) impaired uptake, (ii) enhanced export, (iii) altered metabolism due to decreased activation of prodrugs or enhanced inactivation of active compounds, and (iv) altered molecular targets located in the liver due to genetic changes or activation/downregulation of alternative/compensatory pathways. In conclusion, the advance in this field of modern pharmacology, which allows one to predict the outcome of the treatments and to develop more effective and selective agents able to overcome the lack of effect associated with the existence of some genetic variants, is required to step forward toward a more personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose J. G. Marin
- HEVEFARM Group, Center for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, University of Salamanca, IBSAL, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (M.A.S.); (M.J.M.); (A.S.-M.); (A.G.T.); (O.B.); (M.R.R.)
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