1
|
Han Z, Wen L. G-quadruplex in cancer energy metabolism: A potential therapeutic target. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2025; 1869:130810. [PMID: 40254103 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2025.130810] [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: 01/27/2025] [Revised: 04/07/2025] [Accepted: 04/16/2025] [Indexed: 04/22/2025]
Abstract
In recent years, energy metabolism in cancer has received increasing attention as an important component of tumor biology, and the functions of transcription factors, mitochondria, reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the autophagy-lysosome system in which have been elucidated. G-quadruplex (G4) is a molecular switch that regulates gene transcription or translation. As an anticancer target, the effect of G4 on cancer cell proliferation, apoptosis, cycle and autophagy has been recognized. The energy metabolism system is a unified whole composed of transcription factors, metabolic regulators, metabolites and signaling pathways that run through the entire cancer process. However, the role of G4 in this complex metabolic network has not been systematically elucidated. In this review, we analyze the close correlation between G4 and transcription factors, mitochondria, ROS and the autophagy-lysosome system and suggest that G4 can exert a marked effect on cancer energy metabolism by regulating the above mentioned key regulatory elements. The anticancer effects of some G4 ligands through regulation of energy metabolism have also been summarized, confirming the clear involvement of G4 in energy metabolism. Although much more research is needed, we propose that G4 may play a critical role in the complex energy metabolism system of cancer, which is a promising target for anticancer strategies focusing on energy metabolism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zongqiang Han
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Beijing Xiaotangshan Hospital, Beijing 102211, China
| | - Lina Wen
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100038, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Zhuang Y, Liao X, Niu F, Li M, Yan Y, He C, Wu X, Tian R, Gao G. Single-nucleus and spatial signatures of the brainstem in normal brain and mild traumatic brain injury in male mice. Nat Commun 2025; 16:5082. [PMID: 40450008 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-59856-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2025] [Indexed: 06/03/2025] Open
Abstract
The mammalian brainstem is particularly vulnerable to mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), which is associated with prolonged autonomic dysfunction and coma. The spatial cellular connections within the brainstem or the mechanisms underlying its response to injury have been underestimated. Here, we performed single-nucleus RNA sequencing with spatial transcriptome sequencing in both normal and mTBI brainstems in male mice, revealing thirty-five neuron and non-neuron clusters. Typically, we identified subtypes of neurons that co-release multiple neurotransmitters, especially in the sagittal midline of the brainstem. Spatially adjacent neurons sharing similar gene expression patterns. The brainstem's response to mTBI has two features: (1) Oligodendrocytes around the fourth ventricle exhibit widespread disconnection at 1-h post-injury, and (2) Injury-related noradrenergic neurons, particularly in their interaction with neurons located in theIRt and the Sol. These findings provides a reference for further integrative investigations of cellular and circuit functions of brainstem.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Zhuang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xixian Liao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Fei Niu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Central Nervous System Injury, Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Ming Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yu Yan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Chuanhang He
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiang Wu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shanghai General Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Runfa Tian
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
| | - Guoyi Gao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Central Nervous System Injury, Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Thakur R, Mullen NJ, Mehla K, Singh PK. Tumor-stromal metabolic crosstalk in pancreatic cancer. Trends Cell Biol 2025:S0962-8924(25)00109-6. [PMID: 40425415 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcb.2025.04.007] [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: 10/24/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2025] [Accepted: 04/25/2025] [Indexed: 05/29/2025]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an aggressive malignancy with a dire prognosis. Standard-of-care chemotherapy regimens offer marginal survival benefit and carry risk of severe toxicity, while immunotherapy approaches have uniformly failed in clinical trials. Extensive desmoplasia in the PDAC tumor microenvironment (TME) disrupts blood flow to and from the tumor, thereby creating a nutrient-depleted, hypoxic, and acidic milieu that suppresses the function of antitumor immune cells and imparts chemotherapy resistance. Additionally, recent seminal studies have demonstrated crucial roles for metabolic crosstalk - the exchange of metabolites between PDAC cells and stromal cell populations in the TME - in establishing and maintaining core malignant behaviors of PDAC: tumor growth, metastasis, immune evasion, and therapy resistance. In this review, we provide a conceptual overview of metabolic crosstalk and how it evolves under various selection pressures in the TME, analyze the landscape of proposed tumorigenic metabolic crosstalk pathways, and highlight potentially druggable nodes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ravi Thakur
- Department of Oncology Science, University of Oklahoma College of Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Nicholas J Mullen
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Kamiya Mehla
- Department of Oncology Science, University of Oklahoma College of Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA; OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Pankaj K Singh
- Department of Oncology Science, University of Oklahoma College of Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA; OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Catacalos-Goad C, Hawkins J, Krueger Q, Foret N, Grdzelishvili VZ. METTL3 depletion blocks vesicular stomatitis virus replication in pancreatic cancer cells through the establishment of an intrinsic antiviral state. J Virol 2025; 99:e0228424. [PMID: 40214229 PMCID: PMC12090749 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.02284-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2025] [Indexed: 05/21/2025] Open
Abstract
Vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) is a promising oncolytic virus (OV) against different malignancies, including pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). In this study, we examined the role of methyltransferase-like 3 (METTL3), a catalytic subunit of the cellular writer complex that is responsible for N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA modification, as a potential host factor of VSV replication in PDAC cells. METTL3 was previously shown to be upregulated in PDAC, where it promotes cancer cell proliferation, invasion, and chemoresistance. The impact of METTL3 on life cycles of different viruses varies depending on both the virus and the cell type. Additionally, METTL3 plays a positive role in VSV replication in non-PDAC cells via m6A modification of VSV RNAs, which attenuates innate antiviral responses. In this study, we examined the role of METTL3 in 10 different human PDAC cell lines and uncovered two distinct outcomes. METTL3 depletion did not affect VSV replication in PDAC cell lines with defective innate antiviral signaling, suggesting that METTL3 is not directly involved in VSV replication. In contrast, METTL3 depletion dramatically inhibited VSV replication in PDAC cell lines with functional antiviral signaling. We show that this result is due to the RIG-I-dependent induction of a virus-independent, intrinsic antiviral state in METTL3-depleted PDAC cells. This intrinsic antiviral state was marked by type-III (but not type I or II) interferon secretion and constitutive overexpression of antiviral sensors [RIG-I (DDX58), MDA5 (IFIH1), and LGP2 (DHX58)], transactivators (STAT1, IRF7, and IRF9), and a diverse subset of antiviral effectors, including MX1, OAS1/2/3, and IFIT1/3.IMPORTANCEPancreatic cancer is a deadly and extremely challenging disease, making it essential to develop new treatment options and improve patient survival rates. One promising approach is the use of replication-competent "oncolytic viruses" designed to specifically target and destroy cancer cells while sparing healthy ones. To create effective oncolytic virus therapies for pancreatic cancer, it is crucial to identify host factors that influence the successful infection of cancer cells by these viruses. Here, we demonstrate that the cellular protein METTL3, which was previously shown to promote pancreatic cancer cell proliferation, invasion, and resistance to chemotherapy, plays a positive role in oncolytic virus replication in most of the tested human pancreatic cancer cell lines. We demonstrate that METTL3 depletion induces a chronic antiviral state that dramatically inhibits viral replication. Our study is important for understanding and improving oncolytic virus-based therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cassandra Catacalos-Goad
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jacob Hawkins
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
| | - Quinton Krueger
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
- Computational Intelligence to Predict Health and Environmental Risks (CIPHER) Center, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
| | - Nathaniel Foret
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
| | - Valery Z. Grdzelishvili
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Zhou Y, Lu Y, Czubayko F, Chen J, Zheng S, Mo H, Liu R, Weber GF, Grützmann R, Pilarsky C, David P. Identification of Cancer Associated Fibroblasts Related Genes Signature to Facilitate Improved Prediction of Prognosis and Responses to Therapy in Patients with Pancreatic Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2025; 26:4876. [PMID: 40430018 PMCID: PMC12112120 DOI: 10.3390/ijms26104876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2025] [Revised: 04/30/2025] [Accepted: 05/08/2025] [Indexed: 05/29/2025] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) is highly aggressive, with a 5-year survival rate of 12.8%, making early detection vital. However, non-specific symptoms and precursor lesions complicate diagnosis. Existing tools for the early detection of PC are limited. CAFs are crucial in cancer progression, invasion, and metastasis, yet their role in PC is poorly understood. This study analyzes mRNA data from PC samples to identify CAF-related genes and drugs for PC treatment using algorithms like EPIC, xCell, MCP-counter, and TIDE to quantify CAF infiltration. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) identified 26 hub genes. Our analyses revealed eight prognostic genes, leading to establishing a six-gene model for assessing prognosis. Correlation analysis showed that the CAF risk score correlates with CAF infiltration and related markers. We also identified six potential drugs, observing significant differences between high-CAF and low-CAF risk groups. High CAF risk scores were associated with lower responses to immunotherapy and higher tumor mutation burdens. GSEA indicated that these scores are enriched in tumor microenvironment pathways. In summary, these six model genes can predict overall survival and responses to chemotherapy and immunotherapy for pancreatic cancer, offering valuable insights for future clinical strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yong Zhou
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (Y.Z.); (Y.L.); (F.C.); (J.C.); (S.Z.); (H.M.); (R.L.); (G.F.W.); (R.G.)
| | - Yanxi Lu
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (Y.Z.); (Y.L.); (F.C.); (J.C.); (S.Z.); (H.M.); (R.L.); (G.F.W.); (R.G.)
| | - Franziska Czubayko
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (Y.Z.); (Y.L.); (F.C.); (J.C.); (S.Z.); (H.M.); (R.L.); (G.F.W.); (R.G.)
| | - Jisheng Chen
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (Y.Z.); (Y.L.); (F.C.); (J.C.); (S.Z.); (H.M.); (R.L.); (G.F.W.); (R.G.)
| | - Shuwen Zheng
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (Y.Z.); (Y.L.); (F.C.); (J.C.); (S.Z.); (H.M.); (R.L.); (G.F.W.); (R.G.)
| | - Huaqing Mo
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (Y.Z.); (Y.L.); (F.C.); (J.C.); (S.Z.); (H.M.); (R.L.); (G.F.W.); (R.G.)
| | - Rui Liu
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (Y.Z.); (Y.L.); (F.C.); (J.C.); (S.Z.); (H.M.); (R.L.); (G.F.W.); (R.G.)
| | - Georg F. Weber
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (Y.Z.); (Y.L.); (F.C.); (J.C.); (S.Z.); (H.M.); (R.L.); (G.F.W.); (R.G.)
- Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Bavarian Cancer Research Center (BZKF), 91052 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Robert Grützmann
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (Y.Z.); (Y.L.); (F.C.); (J.C.); (S.Z.); (H.M.); (R.L.); (G.F.W.); (R.G.)
- Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Bavarian Cancer Research Center (BZKF), 91052 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Christian Pilarsky
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (Y.Z.); (Y.L.); (F.C.); (J.C.); (S.Z.); (H.M.); (R.L.); (G.F.W.); (R.G.)
| | - Paul David
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (Y.Z.); (Y.L.); (F.C.); (J.C.); (S.Z.); (H.M.); (R.L.); (G.F.W.); (R.G.)
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Liu X, Qiu R, Gui P, Wei L, Lu Y, Deng Y, Xue Y, Su Y, Huang Q, Du Y. Osteoclast-derived arachidonic acid triggers dormant lung adenocarcinoma cell activation. iScience 2025; 28:112167. [PMID: 40271019 PMCID: PMC12018030 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2025.112167] [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: 10/15/2024] [Revised: 01/05/2025] [Accepted: 03/03/2025] [Indexed: 04/25/2025] Open
Abstract
Dormant lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) cells in the bone microenvironment can re-emerge as metastatic disease through osteoclast interactions. Using a 3D dormancy model and a mouse bone metastasis model, this study reveals that arachidonic acid (AA) is the initiating molecule transferred from osteoclasts to dormant LUAD cells, triggering their activation. Dormant LUAD cells uptake AA through CD36, which activates the PPARγ-ANGPTL4 pathway and activates tumor cells. There is a dose-response relationship in the activation effect of AA, and inhibiting AA metabolism prevents this reactivation. The study also finds that the serum levels of AA and ANGPTL4 are significantly elevated in patients with clinical bone metastases compared to those without. This research confirms that osteoclasts transmit AA via the CD36-PPARγ-ANGPTL4 axis to activate dormant LUAD cells, suggesting that AA and ANGPTL4 may serve as valuable biomarkers and potential clinical applications in treatment and prediction of LUAD bone metastasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xingyu Liu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Sixth People’s Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Rong Qiu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Sixth People’s Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Pengcheng Gui
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Sixth People’s Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Lirong Wei
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Sixth People’s Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yue Lu
- College of Fisheries and Life Science, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan Deng
- College of Fisheries and Life Science, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yang Xue
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Sixth People’s Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yingyang Su
- College of Fisheries and Life Science, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qin Huang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Sixth People’s Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuzhen Du
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Sixth People’s Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Zhao S, Zhang Y, Meng X, Wang Y, Li Y, Li H, Zhao X, Yang P, Liu S, Yang C. INHBA + macrophages and Pro-inflammatory CAFs are associated with distinctive immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment in submucous Fibrosis-Derived oral squamous cell carcinoma. BMC Cancer 2025; 25:857. [PMID: 40355814 PMCID: PMC12067746 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-025-14261-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2025] [Accepted: 05/02/2025] [Indexed: 05/15/2025] Open
Abstract
Transcriptomic and metabolic profiles of tumor cells and stromal cells in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC)-derived from oral submucosal fibrosis (OSF) (ODSCC) have been reported. However, the complex intercellular regulatory network within the tumor immunosuppressive microenvironment (TISME) in ODSCC remains poorly elucidated. Here, we utilized single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) and spatial transcriptomics (ST) data from GEO database and multiple immunofluorescence staining (mIF) to reveal distinctive TISME of ODSCC. Results found that compared to OSCC without OSF history (NODSCC), OSCC derived from OSF (ODSCC) showed a significant increase in exhausted CD8+T and Treg cells (Ro/e > 1, p < 0.05) and a decrease in cytotoxic T (CTL) (Ro/e < 1). ODSCC enriched in more Inhibin subunit beta A+ Macrophages (INHBA+Mac) and Proinflammatory Cancer-associated Fibroblast (iCAF) versus NODSCC. INHBA+Mac possessed strongest immune-suppressive functions, evidenced by highest immune checkpoint scores, lowest MHC scores and highest expression of SPP1 among macrophages. Moreover, INHBA+Mac in ODSCC presented stronger immune-suppressive functions than that in NODSCC. iCAF differentially highly expressed INHBA and enriched in immune-related pathways and collagen/ECM pathways across CAF subsets, and possessed stronger immune-suppressive functions, as shown by up-regulated gene expression of TDO2, IDO1 and DUSP4 in ODSCC versus in NODSCC. Furthermore, INHBA expression was higher in ODSCC than in NODSCC (p < 0.01). The classic OSF-inducing molecule arecoline significantly increases the expression of INHBA (p < 0.0001) in vitro experiments stimulating THP-1 cells. ST analysis revealed a close co-location of INHBA+Mac, iCAF and Treg and SpaGene identified INHBA-ACVR1/ACVR2A/ACVR2B interaction regions overlapping with distribution of three types of cells. Collectively, ODSCC shows a more severe TISME and potentially poorer sensitivity to immunotherapy than NODSCC. The increased INHBA+Mac and iCAF in ODSCC are associated with the observed more severe TISME. The upregulated INHBA in ODSCC and its interaction with INHBA-ACVR1/ACVR2A/ACVR2B may mediate the modulation effect of INHBA+ Mac and iCAF on Treg differentiation and functionality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Simin Zhao
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- School and Hospital of Stomatology, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Shandong, China
- Research Center for Basic Medical Sciences, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- School and Hospital of Stomatology, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Shandong, China
- Research Center for Basic Medical Sciences, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Xiaoqin Meng
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- School and Hospital of Stomatology, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Shandong, China
| | - Ye Wang
- Department of Stomatology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University &Department of Stomatology, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yahui Li
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- School and Hospital of Stomatology, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Shandong, China
| | - Hao Li
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- School and Hospital of Stomatology, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Shandong, China
| | - Xingyu Zhao
- School and Hospital of Stomatology, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Shandong, China
- Department of Plastic, Aesthetic, and Burn Surgery, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Pishan Yang
- Department of Periodontology, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong Key Laboratory of Oral Tissue Regeneration & Shandong Engineering Research Center of Dental Materials and Oral Tissue Regeneration & Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Shaopeng Liu
- Department of Stomatology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University &Department of Stomatology, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China.
| | - Chengzhe Yang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Guo H, Zhao Z, Liu L. HIF-1α modulates pancreatic cancer ECM proteins via the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway introduction. Front Oncol 2025; 15:1564655. [PMID: 40406267 PMCID: PMC12094911 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2025.1564655] [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: 01/21/2025] [Accepted: 04/14/2025] [Indexed: 05/26/2025] Open
Abstract
Introduction Pancreatic cancer is characterized by its aggressive nature and poor prognosis, ranking among the most lethal malignancies. The tumor microenvironment, particularly the extracellular matrix (ECM), plays a crucial role in cancer progression. This study investigated the relationship between hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) in regulating ECM protein expression in pancreatic cancer. Methods PANC-1 cells were cultured under both normoxic and hypoxic conditions. Pharmacological inhibition of HIF-1α and TGF-β1, as well as TGF-β1 stimulation, were employed to evaluate ECM protein expression. HIF-1α knockdown experiments and co-immunoprecipitation were performed to assess molecular interactions. Clinical specimens were analyzed for HIF-1α and TGF-β1 expression. Results HIF-1α was found to modulate ECM protein expression through the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway. Pharmacological inhibition of either HIF-1α or TGF-β1 significantly decreased the expression of ECM proteins, while TGF-β1 stimulation enhanced their production. HIF-1α knockdown abolished TGF-β1-induced ECM protein expression, indicating that HIF-1α is essential for TGF-β1-mediated ECM regulation. Co-immunoprecipitation experiments revealed a physical interaction between HIF-1α and TGF-β1. Clinical specimens showed significantly elevated expression of both HIF-1α and TGF-β1 in pancreatic cancer tissues compared to adjacent normal tissues, correlating with advanced disease stages. Discussion These findings elucidate a novel mechanism where HIF-1α and TGF-β1 cooperatively regulate ECM production in pancreatic cancer, providing potential therapeutic targets for intervention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Linxun Liu
- Qinghai Provincial People’s Hospital, Xining, Qinghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Seidel T, Ohri N, Glaß M, Sunami Y, Müller LP, Kleeff J. Stromal Cells in Early Inflammation-Related Pancreatic Carcinogenesis-Biology and Its Potential Role in Therapeutic Targeting. Cancers (Basel) 2025; 17:1541. [PMID: 40361466 DOI: 10.3390/cancers17091541] [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: 04/03/2025] [Revised: 04/28/2025] [Accepted: 04/28/2025] [Indexed: 05/15/2025] Open
Abstract
The stroma of healthy pancreases contains various non-hematopoietic, non-endothelial mesenchymal cells. It is altered by chronic inflammation which in turn is a major contributor to the development of pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC). In PDAC, the stroma plays a decisive and well-investigated role for tumor progression and therapy response. This review addresses the central role of stromal cells in the early inflammation-driven development of PDAC. It focuses on major subpopulations of pancreatic mesenchymal cells, i.e., fibroblasts, pancreatic stellate cells, and multipotent stroma cells, particularly their activation and functional alterations upon chronic inflammation including the development of different types of carcinoma-associated fibroblasts. In the second part, the current knowledge on the impact of activated stroma cells on acinar-to-ductal metaplasia and the transition to pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasia is summarized. Finally, putative strategies to target stroma cells and their signaling in early pancreatic carcinogenesis are reflected. In summary, the current data show that the activation of pancreatic stroma cells and the resulting fibrotic changes has pro- and anti-carcinogenetic effects but, overall, creates a carcinogenesis-promoting microenvironment. However, this is a dynamic process and the therapeutic targeting of specific pathways and cells requires in-depth knowledge of the molecular interplay of various cell types.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tina Seidel
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Halle, 06120 Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Nupur Ohri
- Department of Visceral, Vascular and Endocrine Surgery, University Hospital Halle, 06120 Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Markus Glaß
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06108 Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Yoshiaki Sunami
- Department of Visceral, Vascular and Endocrine Surgery, University Hospital Halle, 06120 Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Lutz P Müller
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Halle, 06120 Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Jörg Kleeff
- Department of Visceral, Vascular and Endocrine Surgery, University Hospital Halle, 06120 Halle (Saale), Germany
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Ding X, Wu Q, Du Y, Ji MM, Yang H, Hu Q, Ye Y. CDK16 + Luminal Progenitor Cell-Like Tumor Cells Interacted with POSTN + Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts Associate with Chemo-Resistance In Breast Cancer. SMALL METHODS 2025; 9:e2401192. [PMID: 39930931 DOI: 10.1002/smtd.202401192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2024] [Revised: 01/12/2025] [Indexed: 05/26/2025]
Abstract
Tumor heterogeneity and interaction with tumor microenvironment play a crucial role in neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) resistance in breast cancer (BRCA). Unraveling this dynamic interaction may help uncover novel therapeutic targets. Here, dynamic changes in tumor states and cellular composition are systemically characterized using 175,825 single-cell transcriptomics from naïve and post-treatment biopsies of BRCA patients receiving NAC. CDK16+ tumors are identified featured with luminal progenitor cell (LPC)-like tumor cells enriched in the triple-negative subtype of BRCA, associated with chemo-resistance. Integrating single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), spatial transcriptomics, and six independent public gene expression profiles that underwent chemotherapy revealed that POSTN+ cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are closely localized and interacted with CDK16+ LPC-like tumor cells to promote chemo-resistance. In vivo, CDK16 knockdown in tumor cells combined with chemotherapy significantly enhanced therapeutic efficacy. This in-house scRNA-seq from a mouse model validated that CDK16 knockdown reduced the LPC-like tumor cell signature, and the interaction of tumor featured with LPC-like tumor cells and POSTN+ CAFs. Together, the systematically integrated analyses uncovered an interaction network of CDK16+ tumor and POSTN+ CAFs that contributed to NAC- resistance, providing a new strategy for targeting CDK16 to enhance chemotherapy efficacy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xinyu Ding
- Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Center for Immune-Related Diseases Research at Ruijin Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine-Yale Institute for Immune Metabolism, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Qi Wu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Anhui Provincial Clinical Research Center for Hepatobiliary Diseases, Hefei, 230001, China
| | - Yanhua Du
- Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Center for Immune-Related Diseases Research at Ruijin Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine-Yale Institute for Immune Metabolism, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Meng-Meng Ji
- Department of Medical Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University, Hebei Key Laboratory of Cancer Radiotherapy and Chemotherapy, Baoding, 071000, China
| | - Hua Yang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University, Hebei Key Laboratory of Cancer Radiotherapy and Chemotherapy, Baoding, 071000, China
| | - Qingsong Hu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Anhui Provincial Clinical Research Center for Hepatobiliary Diseases, Hefei, 230001, China
| | - Youqiong Ye
- Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Center for Immune-Related Diseases Research at Ruijin Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine-Yale Institute for Immune Metabolism, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Liu S, Liu C, He Y, Li J. Benign non-immune cells in tumor microenvironment. Front Immunol 2025; 16:1561577. [PMID: 40248695 PMCID: PMC12003390 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2025.1561577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2025] [Accepted: 02/24/2025] [Indexed: 04/19/2025] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a highly complex and continuous evolving ecosystem, consisting of a diverse array of cellular and non-cellular components. Among these, benign non-immune cells, including cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), adipocytes, endothelial cells (ECs), pericytes (PCs), Schwann cells (SCs) and others, are crucial factors for tumor development. Benign non-immune cells within the TME interact with both tumor cells and immune cells. These interactions contribute to tumor progression through both direct contact and indirect communication. Numerous studies have highlighted the role that benign non-immune cells exert on tumor progression and potential tumor-promoting mechanisms via multiple signaling pathways and factors. However, these benign non-immune cells may play different roles across cancer types. Therefore, it is important to understand the potential roles of benign non-immune cells within the TME based on tumor heterogeneity. A deep understanding allows us to develop novel cancer therapies by targeting these cells. In this review, we will introduce several types of benign non-immune cells that exert on different cancer types according to tumor heterogeneity and their roles in the TME.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shaowen Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Basic Medicine and Clinical Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Chunhui Liu
- The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Clinical Medicine of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yuan He
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Basic Medicine and Clinical Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jun Li
- Henan Key Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Zhengzhou, China
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University and Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Zhao X, Wu G, Tao X, Dong D, Liu J. Targeted mitochondrial therapy for pancreatic cancer. Transl Oncol 2025; 54:102340. [PMID: 40048984 PMCID: PMC11928980 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2025.102340] [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: 09/17/2024] [Revised: 01/05/2025] [Accepted: 02/27/2025] [Indexed: 03/18/2025] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) is a highly invasive tumor characterized by delayed diagnosis, rapid progress, and resistance to chemotherapy. Mitochondria, as the "power chamber" of cells, not only play a central role in energy metabolism but also participate in the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), calcium signaling, regulation, and differentiation of the cell cycle. The abnormal activity of mitochondria is closely related to the development of PC. In this paper, we discussed the key role of mitochondria in PC, including mitochondrial DNA, mitochondrial biogenesis, mitochondrial dynamics, metabolic regulation, ROS generation, and mitochondrial-dependent apoptosis. We elaborated on the importance of these mitochondrial mechanisms in the development of PC and emphasized the potential of targeted mitochondrial therapy strategies for these mechanisms in the treatment of PC. In addition, this article also reviews the latest developments in innovative drug carriers such as cell-penetrating peptides, nucleic acid aptamers, and nanomaterials, which can achieve precise localization of mitochondria and drug delivery. Therefore, this article comprehensively analyzed the important role of mitochondria in the treatment of PC and clarified the effectiveness and necessity of targeting mitochondria in the treatment of PC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xinya Zhao
- Department of Pharmacy, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116011, China; College of Pharmacy, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116044, China
| | - Guoyu Wu
- Department of Pharmacy, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116011, China
| | - Xufeng Tao
- Department of Pharmacy, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116011, China.
| | - Deshi Dong
- Department of Pharmacy, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116011, China.
| | - Jing Liu
- Stem Cell Clinical Research Center, National Joint Engineering Laboratory, Regenerative Medicine Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, China.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Wang S, Van KV, Zheng M, Chen WL, Ma YS. High antigen-presenting CAF levels correlate with reduced glycosaminoglycan biosynthesis-heparan sulfate/heparin metabolism in immune cells and poor prognosis in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma: Insights from bulk and single-cell transcriptome profiling. Int J Biol Macromol 2025; 301:140418. [PMID: 39889995 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2025.140418] [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: 10/06/2024] [Revised: 01/05/2025] [Accepted: 01/26/2025] [Indexed: 02/03/2025]
Abstract
In esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC), the tumor microenvironment (TME) is characterized by a significant accumulation of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), which play a pivotal role in the host response against tumor cells. While fibroblasts are known to be crucial in the metabolic reprogramming of the TME, the specific metabolic alterations induced by these cells remain largely undefined. Utilizing single-cell RNA sequencing, we have identified a distinct subpopulation of antigen-presenting CAF (apCAF) within ESCC tumors. Our findings reveal that apCAF contribute to adverse patient outcomes by remodeling the tumor metabolic environment. Notably, apCAF modulate the glycosaminoglycan biosynthesis-heparan sulfate/heparin metabolism pathway in T cells, B cells, and macrophages. Disruption of this pathway may facilitate immune evasion by the tumor. These insights underscore the critical role of CAFs in shaping the metabolic landscape of the TME and lay the groundwork for developing therapeutic strategies aimed at enhancing anti-tumor immunity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Siliang Wang
- Cancer Institute, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 200032 China; Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Disease and Syndrome Biology of Inflammatory Cancer Transformation, Shanghai, 200032 China
| | - Kelly Van Van
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Miaomiao Zheng
- Cancer Institute, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 200032 China; Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Disease and Syndrome Biology of Inflammatory Cancer Transformation, Shanghai, 200032 China
| | - Wen-Lian Chen
- Cancer Institute, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 200032 China; Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Disease and Syndrome Biology of Inflammatory Cancer Transformation, Shanghai, 200032 China
| | - Yu-Shui Ma
- Cancer Institute, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 200032 China; Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Disease and Syndrome Biology of Inflammatory Cancer Transformation, Shanghai, 200032 China.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Drapela S, Garcia BM, Gomes AP, Correia AL. Metabolic landscape of disseminated cancer dormancy. Trends Cancer 2025; 11:321-333. [PMID: 39510896 PMCID: PMC11981868 DOI: 10.1016/j.trecan.2024.10.005] [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: 06/14/2024] [Revised: 09/25/2024] [Accepted: 10/09/2024] [Indexed: 11/15/2024]
Abstract
Cancer dormancy is a phenomenon defined by the entry of cancer cells into a reversible quiescent, nonproliferative state, and represents an essential part of the metastatic cascade responsible for cancer recurrence and mortality. Emerging evidence suggests that metabolic reprogramming plays a pivotal role in enabling entry, maintenance, and exit from dormancy in the face of the different environments of the metastatic cascade. Here, we review the current literature to understand the dynamics of metabolism during dormancy, highlighting its fine-tuning by the host micro- and macroenvironment, and put forward the importance of identifying metabolic vulnerabilities of the dormant state as therapeutic targets to eradicate recurrent disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stanislav Drapela
- Department of Molecular Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Bruna M Garcia
- Champalimaud Research, Champalimaud Foundation, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Ana P Gomes
- Department of Molecular Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Tang R, Zhang Z, Liu X, Liao Y, Chen Y, Xiao M, Li Y, Zhou C, Tan Z, Zhang C, Chen C, Rong Z, Liu Y, Li P, Du Q, He Q, Lei Y, Wu Z, Lu S, Xu J, Wang W, Shi S, Yu X. Stromal Stiffness-Regulated IGF2BP2 in Pancreatic Cancer Drives Immune Evasion via Sphingomyelin Metabolism. Gastroenterology 2025:S0016-5085(25)00542-6. [PMID: 40158738 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2025.03.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2024] [Revised: 02/12/2025] [Accepted: 03/04/2025] [Indexed: 04/02/2025]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Immunotherapy has shown promising results in cancer treatment; however, it remains largely ineffective for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). N6-methyladenosine (m6A), known for its crucial role in cancer biology, is not yet fully understood regarding immune evasion. This study aims to elucidate the associations and mechanisms linking m6A modification with immune evasion in PDAC and propose strategies for clinical intervention. METHODS A multimodal PDAC cohort of 122 patients was developed, integrating transcriptomic profiling, imaging mass cytometry, and m6A quantification to identify m6A regulators associated with immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) and clinical outcomes. Findings were validated across 6 independent PDAC cohorts. Assays including MeRIP, RIP, and RNA pull-down confirmed that IGF2BP2 binds to targets, whereas scRNA-seq, flow cytometry, and mIHC profiled the TME. Preclinical interventions were tested in PDAC organoids, patient-derived tissue fragments, and humanized mouse models. RESULTS Our comprehensive analysis identified the m6A reader protein IGF2BP2 as a critical factor associated with poor prognosis in PDAC, linked to reduced effector cell infiltration and a fibrotic TME. High matrix stiffness in PDAC stabilized IGF2BP2, which subsequently promoted sphingomyelin synthesis via SGMS2 up-regulation. This pathway facilitates PD-L1 localization on membrane lipid rafts, enhancing immune evasion. The elastographic properties of PDAC enabled noninvasive screening of patients with overexpressed IGF2BP2/SGMS2. Disrupting sphingomyelin synthesis improved antitumor immunity and suppressed PDAC growth in humanized mice, highlighting immunotherapeutic opportunities for PDAC. CONCLUSIONS These findings emphasize the critical interplay between extrinsic matrix stiffness and intrinsic IGF2BP2-regulated sphingomyelin synthesis, identifying a promising target for immunotherapeutic strategies in PDAC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rong Tang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zifeng Zhang
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Pancreatic Cancer, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaomeng Liu
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yingna Liao
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yueyue Chen
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Pancreatic Cancer, Shanghai, China
| | - Mingming Xiao
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Pancreatic Cancer, Shanghai, China
| | - Yangyi Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Pancreatic Cancer, Shanghai, China
| | - Cong Zhou
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhen Tan
- Department of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Chaoyi Zhang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Chen Chen
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zeyin Rong
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuan Liu
- Department of Endoscopy, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Pengcheng Li
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiong Du
- Department of Pharmacy, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Qing He
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yubin Lei
- Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Zijian Wu
- Department of General Surgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Siyuan Lu
- Department of Pancreato-Biliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Jin Xu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Si Shi
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Pancreatic Cancer, Shanghai, China.
| | - Xianjun Yu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Jia H, Chen X, Zhang L, Chen M. Cancer associated fibroblasts in cancer development and therapy. J Hematol Oncol 2025; 18:36. [PMID: 40156055 PMCID: PMC11954198 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-025-01688-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2025] [Accepted: 03/12/2025] [Indexed: 04/01/2025] Open
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are key players in cancer development and therapy, and they exhibit multifaceted roles in the tumor microenvironment (TME). From their diverse cellular origins, CAFs undergo phenotypic and functional transformation upon interacting with tumor cells and their presence can adversely influence treatment outcomes and the severity of the cancer. Emerging evidence from single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) studies have highlighted the heterogeneity and plasticity of CAFs, with subtypes identifiable through distinct gene expression profiles and functional properties. CAFs influence cancer development through multiple mechanisms, including regulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling, direct promotion of tumor growth through provision of metabolic support, promoting epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) to enhance cancer invasiveness and growth, as well as stimulating cancer stem cell properties within the tumor. Moreover, CAFs can induce an immunosuppressive TME and contribute to therapeutic resistance. In this review, we summarize the fundamental knowledge and recent advances regarding CAFs, focusing on their sophisticated roles in cancer development and potential as therapeutic targets. We discuss various strategies to target CAFs, including ECM modulation, direct elimination, interruption of CAF-TME crosstalk, and CAF normalization, as approaches to developing more effective treatments. An improved understanding of the complex interplay between CAFs and TME is crucial for developing new and effective targeted therapies for cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hongyuan Jia
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Radiation Oncology Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Cancer Center, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Xingmin Chen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Radiation Oncology Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Cancer Center, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Linling Zhang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care, Chengdu Third People's Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Meihua Chen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Radiation Oncology Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Cancer Center, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Zheng L, Cai W, Ke Y, Hu X, Yang C, Zhang R, Wu H, Liu D, Yu H, Wu C. Cancer‑associated fibroblasts: a pivotal regulator of tumor microenvironment in the context of radiotherapy. Cell Commun Signal 2025; 23:147. [PMID: 40114180 PMCID: PMC11927177 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-025-02138-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2025] [Indexed: 03/22/2025] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the course of tumor treatment, radiation therapy (RT) not only kills cancer cells, but also induces complex biological effects in non-malignant cells around cancer cells. These biological effects such as angiogenesis, changes in stromal composition and immune cell infiltration remodel the tumor microenvironment (TME). As one of the major components of the TME, Cancer‑associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are not only involved in tumorigenesis, progression, recurrence, and metastasis but also regulate the tumor-associated immune microenvironment. CAFs and tumor cells or immune cells have complex intercellular communication in the context of tumor radiation. MAIN CONTENT Different cellular precursors, spatial location differences, absence of specific markers, and advances in single-cell sequencing technology have gradually made the abundant heterogeneity of CAFs well known. Due to unique radioresistance properties, CAFs can survive under high doses of ionizing radiation. However, radiation can induce phenotypic and functional changes in CAFs and further act on tumor cells and immune cells to promote or inhibit tumor progression. To date, the effect of RT on CAFs and the effect of irradiated CAFs on tumor progression and TME are still not well defined. CONCLUSION In this review, we review the origin, phenotypic, and functional heterogeneity of CAFs and describe the effects of RT on CAFs, focusing on the mutual crosstalk between CAFs and tumor or immune cells after radiation. We also discuss emerging strategies for targeted CAFs therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Linhui Zheng
- Department of Radiation and Medical Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, 169, Donghu Road, Wuchang District, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China
| | - Wenqi Cai
- Department of Radiation and Medical Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, 169, Donghu Road, Wuchang District, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China
| | - Yuan Ke
- Department of Radiation and Medical Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, 169, Donghu Road, Wuchang District, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China
| | - Xiaoyan Hu
- Department of Radiation and Medical Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, 169, Donghu Road, Wuchang District, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China
| | - Chunqian Yang
- Department of Radiation and Medical Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, 169, Donghu Road, Wuchang District, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China
| | - Runze Zhang
- Department of Radiation and Medical Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, 169, Donghu Road, Wuchang District, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China
| | - Huachao Wu
- Department of Radiation and Medical Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, 169, Donghu Road, Wuchang District, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China
| | - Dong Liu
- Department of Radiation and Medical Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, 169, Donghu Road, Wuchang District, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China
| | - Haijun Yu
- Department of Radiation and Medical Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, 169, Donghu Road, Wuchang District, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China.
- Hubei Cancer Clinical Study Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China.
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Biological Behaviors, Wuhan, 430071, China.
| | - Chaoyan Wu
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, 169, Donghu Road, Wuchang District, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Cui J, Ruan S, Zhang Z, Wang H, Yan Q, Chen Y, Yang J, Fang J, Wu Q, Chen S, Huang S, Zhang C, Hou B. Pan-cancer analysis of the prognosis and immune infiltration of NSUN7 and its potential function in renal clear cell carcinoma. Discov Oncol 2025; 16:345. [PMID: 40100478 PMCID: PMC11920486 DOI: 10.1007/s12672-025-02061-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2025] [Indexed: 03/20/2025] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND NSUN7, an enzyme responsible for the RNA m5c modification, has been recognized as a valuable indicator for predicting and diagnosing an array of cancer. Nevertheless, there is still a scarcity of thorough analyses exploring its diagnostic, predictive, and immune system-related importance in various types of cancer. METHODS We integrated multiple publicly available databases, including TCGA, TISIDB, TISCH2, and UALCAN, to comprehensively investigate the role of NSUN7 in pan-cancer across various omics data types. The research included examining survival rates, genetic mutations, immune cell presence in tumors, analyzing differences in gene expression, and studying individual cells, among other things. RESULTS NSUN7 expression showed an increase across 12 cancer types and a decrease in another 12 types. NSUN7 was discovered to be linked with enhanced survival rates in bladder urothelial carcinoma (BLCA), kidney renal clear cell carcinoma (KIRC), kidney renal papillary cell carcinoma (KIRP), lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD), pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma (PCPG), skin cutaneous melanoma (SKCM), and uveal melanoma (UVM).On the other hand, NSUN7 seemed to have a detrimental impact on the prognosis of glioblastoma multiforme/brain lower grade glioma (GBMLGG), adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC),acute myeloid leukemia (LAML), stomach adenocarcinoma (STAD), and brain lower grade glioma (LGG). Furthermore, our experimental validation confirmed the inhibitory effect of NSUN7 on proliferation of renal clear cell carcinoma while elucidating its specific part in blocking cell cycle progression. CONCLUSIONS The findings underscore the potential utility of NSUN7 as a valuable prognostic indicator for patients and offer insights into the mechanisms underlying cancer initiation and progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jinwei Cui
- South China University of Technology School of Medicine, Guangzhou, 51000, China
- Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Shiye Ruan
- Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Zhongyan Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Hailiang Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Weihai Central Hospital, Qingdao University, Weihai, 264400, China
| | - Qian Yan
- Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Yubin Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Jiayu Yang
- Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Jike Fang
- Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Qianlong Wu
- Department of General Surgery, Heyuan People's Hospital, Heyuan, 517000, China
- Heyuan Key Laboratory of Molecular Diagnosis and Disease Prevention and Treatment, Heyuan People's Hospital, Heyuan, 517000, China
| | - Sheng Chen
- South China University of Technology School of Medicine, Guangzhou, 51000, China
- Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Shanzhou Huang
- South China University of Technology School of Medicine, Guangzhou, 51000, China.
- Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Guangzhou, 510080, China.
| | - Chuanzhao Zhang
- South China University of Technology School of Medicine, Guangzhou, 51000, China.
- Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Guangzhou, 510080, China.
| | - Baohua Hou
- South China University of Technology School of Medicine, Guangzhou, 51000, China.
- Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Guangzhou, 510080, China.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Jonker PB, Sadullozoda M, Cognet G, Saab JJA, Sokol KH, Wu VX, Kumari D, Sheehan C, Ozgurses ME, Agovino D, Croley G, Patel SA, Bock-Hughes A, Macleod KF, Shah H, Coloff JL, Lien EC, Muir A. Microenvironmental arginine restriction sensitizes pancreatic cancers to polyunsaturated fatty acids by suppression of lipid synthesis. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2025:2025.03.10.642426. [PMID: 40161789 PMCID: PMC11952453 DOI: 10.1101/2025.03.10.642426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/02/2025]
Abstract
Nutrient limitation is a characteristic feature of poorly perfused tumors. In contrast to well-perfused tissues, nutrient deficits in tumors perturb cellular metabolic activity, which imposes metabolic constraints on cancer cells. The metabolic constraints created by the tumor microenvironment can lead to vulnerabilities in cancers. Identifying the metabolic constraints of the tumor microenvironment and the vulnerabilities that arise in cancers can provide new insight into tumor biology and identify promising antineoplastic targets. To identify how the microenvironment constrains the metabolism of pancreatic tumors, we challenged pancreatic cancer cells with microenvironmental nutrient levels and analyzed changes in cell metabolism. We found that arginine limitation in pancreatic tumors perturbs saturated and monounsaturated fatty acid synthesis by suppressing the lipogenic transcription factor SREBP1. Synthesis of these fatty acids is critical for maintaining a balance of saturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated fatty acids in cellular membranes. As a consequence of microenvironmental constraints on fatty acid synthesis, pancreatic cancer cells and tumors are unable to maintain lipid homeostasis when exposed to polyunsaturated fatty acids, leading to cell death by ferroptosis. In sum, arginine restriction in the tumor microenvironment constrains lipid metabolism in pancreatic cancers, which renders these tumors vulnerable to polyunsaturatedenriched fat sources.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patrick B. Jonker
- Ben May Department for Cancer Research, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA, 60637
| | - Mumina Sadullozoda
- Ben May Department for Cancer Research, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA, 60637
| | - Guillaume Cognet
- Ben May Department for Cancer Research, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA, 60637
| | - Juan J. Apiz Saab
- Ben May Department for Cancer Research, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA, 60637
| | - Kelly H. Sokol
- Department of Metabolism and Nutritional Programming, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA, 49503
| | - Violet X. Wu
- Ben May Department for Cancer Research, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA, 60637
| | - Deepa Kumari
- Ben May Department for Cancer Research, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA, 60637
| | - Colin Sheehan
- Ben May Department for Cancer Research, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA, 60637
| | - Mete E. Ozgurses
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Illinois College of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA, 60612
| | - Darby Agovino
- Ben May Department for Cancer Research, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA, 60637
| | - Grace Croley
- Ben May Department for Cancer Research, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA, 60637
| | - Smit A. Patel
- Ben May Department for Cancer Research, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA, 60637
| | - Althea Bock-Hughes
- Ben May Department for Cancer Research, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA, 60637
| | - Kay F. Macleod
- Ben May Department for Cancer Research, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA, 60637
| | - Hardik Shah
- Metabolomics Platform, Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA, 60637
| | - Jonathan L. Coloff
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Illinois College of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA, 60612
| | - Evan C. Lien
- Department of Metabolism and Nutritional Programming, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA, 49503
| | - Alexander Muir
- Ben May Department for Cancer Research, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA, 60637
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Chang J, Lu J, Liu Q, Xiang T, Zhang S, Yi Y, Li D, Liu T, Liu Z, Chen X, Dong Z, Li C, Yi H, Yu S, Huang L, Qu F, Wang M, Wang D, Dong H, Cheng G, Zhu L, Li J, Li C, Wu P, Xie X, Teschendorff AE, Lin D, Wang X, Wu C. Single-cell multi-stage spatial evolutional map of esophageal carcinogenesis. Cancer Cell 2025; 43:380-397.e7. [PMID: 40068596 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccell.2025.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2024] [Revised: 01/09/2025] [Accepted: 02/10/2025] [Indexed: 05/13/2025]
Abstract
Cancer development involves the co-evolution of cancer cells and their surrounding microenvironment, yet the dynamics of this interaction within the physical architecture remains poorly understood. Here, we present a spatial transcriptomic map at single-cell resolution, encompassing 127 multi-stage fields of view from 43 patients, to chart the evolutionary trajectories of human esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). By analyzing 6.4 million cells, we reveal that ESCC progression is driven by a proliferative epithelial cell subpopulation that acquires dedifferentiated and invasive characteristics. At the late precancerous stage, these cells disrupt the epithelial-stromal interface and recruit normal fibroblasts via JAG1-NOTCH1 signaling, transforming them into cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). This interaction leads to the formation of a "CAF-Epi" (CAF and epithelial cell) niche at the tumor edge that shields the tumor from immune surveillance. The CAF-Epi niche formation is a key indicator of progression in ESCC and other squamous cell carcinomas and patient outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiang Chang
- Department of Health Toxicology, Key Laboratory for Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China.
| | - Junting Lu
- Department of Etiology and Carcinogenesis, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) and Peking Union Medical College (PUMC), Beijing 100021, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Genomic Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Qingyi Liu
- Department of Etiology and Carcinogenesis, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) and Peking Union Medical College (PUMC), Beijing 100021, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Genomic Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Tao Xiang
- Department of Etiology and Carcinogenesis, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) and Peking Union Medical College (PUMC), Beijing 100021, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Genomic Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Shaosen Zhang
- Department of Etiology and Carcinogenesis, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) and Peking Union Medical College (PUMC), Beijing 100021, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Genomic Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Yonglin Yi
- Department of Etiology and Carcinogenesis, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) and Peking Union Medical College (PUMC), Beijing 100021, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Genomic Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Dongxu Li
- Department of Etiology and Carcinogenesis, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) and Peking Union Medical College (PUMC), Beijing 100021, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Genomic Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Tianyuan Liu
- Department of Etiology and Carcinogenesis, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) and Peking Union Medical College (PUMC), Beijing 100021, China
| | - Zeyuan Liu
- Changping Laboratory, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Xinjie Chen
- Department of Etiology and Carcinogenesis, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) and Peking Union Medical College (PUMC), Beijing 100021, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Genomic Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Zhenghao Dong
- Department of Etiology and Carcinogenesis, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) and Peking Union Medical College (PUMC), Beijing 100021, China
| | - Cainan Li
- Department of Etiology and Carcinogenesis, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) and Peking Union Medical College (PUMC), Beijing 100021, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Genomic Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - HanZhang Yi
- Department of Etiology and Carcinogenesis, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) and Peking Union Medical College (PUMC), Beijing 100021, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Genomic Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Siqi Yu
- Department of Etiology and Carcinogenesis, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) and Peking Union Medical College (PUMC), Beijing 100021, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Genomic Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Luwei Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Science, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Fangfei Qu
- Changping Laboratory, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Mengdi Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Science, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Dehe Wang
- Changping Laboratory, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Hao Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Science, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Guoyu Cheng
- Department of Etiology and Carcinogenesis, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) and Peking Union Medical College (PUMC), Beijing 100021, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Genomic Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Liang Zhu
- Department of Etiology and Carcinogenesis, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) and Peking Union Medical College (PUMC), Beijing 100021, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Genomic Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Jiachen Li
- Department of Etiology and Carcinogenesis, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) and Peking Union Medical College (PUMC), Beijing 100021, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Genomic Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Chenying Li
- Department of Etiology and Carcinogenesis, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) and Peking Union Medical College (PUMC), Beijing 100021, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Genomic Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Pujie Wu
- Department of Etiology and Carcinogenesis, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) and Peking Union Medical College (PUMC), Beijing 100021, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Genomic Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Xiaoting Xie
- Department of Etiology and Carcinogenesis, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) and Peking Union Medical College (PUMC), Beijing 100021, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Genomic Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Andrew E Teschendorff
- CAS Key Laboratory of Computational Biology, Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China.
| | - Dongxin Lin
- Department of Etiology and Carcinogenesis, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) and Peking Union Medical College (PUMC), Beijing 100021, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Genomic Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangzhou 510060, China.
| | - Xiaoqun Wang
- Changping Laboratory, Beijing 102206, China; State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Science, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100875, China; State Key Laboratory of Cognitive Neuroscience and Learning, IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, New Cornerstone Science Laboratory, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China.
| | - Chen Wu
- Department of Etiology and Carcinogenesis, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) and Peking Union Medical College (PUMC), Beijing 100021, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Genomic Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; CAMS Oxford Institute, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100006, China.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Xie X, Liu W, Yuan Z, Chen H, Mao W. Bridging epigenomics and tumor immunometabolism: molecular mechanisms and therapeutic implications. Mol Cancer 2025; 24:71. [PMID: 40057791 PMCID: PMC11889836 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-025-02269-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/11/2025] [Indexed: 04/02/2025] Open
Abstract
Epigenomic modifications-such as DNA methylation, histone acetylation, and histone methylation-and their implications in tumorigenesis, progression, and treatment have emerged as a pivotal field in cancer research. Tumors undergo metabolic reprogramming to sustain proliferation and metastasis in nutrient-deficient conditions, while suppressing anti-tumor immunity in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Concurrently, immune cells within the immunosuppressive TME undergo metabolic adaptations, leading to alterations in their immune function. The complicated interplay between metabolites and epigenomic modulation has spotlighted the significance of epigenomic regulation in tumor immunometabolism. In this review, characteristics of the epigenomic modification associated with tumors are systematically summarized alongside with their regulatory roles in tumor metabolic reprogramming and immunometabolism. Classical and emerging approaches are delineated to broaden the boundaries of research on the crosstalk research on the crosstalk between tumor immunometabolism and epigenomics. Furthermore, we discuss potential therapeutic strategies that target tumor immunometabolism to modulate epigenomic modifications, highlighting the burgeoning synergy between metabolic therapies and immunotherapy as a promising avenue for cancer treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaowen Xie
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, the Affiliated Wuxi People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi People's Hospital, Wuxi Medical Center, Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, 214023, China
| | - Weici Liu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, the Affiliated Wuxi People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi People's Hospital, Wuxi Medical Center, Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, 214023, China
- Center of Clinical Research, the Affiliated Wuxi People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, 214023, China
| | - Zhiyuan Yuan
- Institute of Science and Technology for Brain-Inspired Intelligence; MOE Key Laboratory of Computational Neuroscience and Brain-Inspired Intelligence; MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China.
| | - Hanqing Chen
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China.
| | - Wenjun Mao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, the Affiliated Wuxi People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi People's Hospital, Wuxi Medical Center, Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, 214023, China.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Yang J, Zhou F, Luo X, Fang Y, Wang X, Liu X, Xiao R, Jiang D, Tang Y, Yang G, You L, Zhao Y. Enhancer reprogramming: critical roles in cancer and promising therapeutic strategies. Cell Death Discov 2025; 11:84. [PMID: 40032852 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-025-02366-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 01/24/2025] [Accepted: 02/19/2025] [Indexed: 03/05/2025] Open
Abstract
Transcriptional dysregulation is a hallmark of cancer initiation and progression, driven by genetic and epigenetic alterations. Enhancer reprogramming has emerged as a pivotal driver of carcinogenesis, with cancer cells often relying on aberrant transcriptional programs. The advent of high-throughput sequencing technologies has provided critical insights into enhancer reprogramming events and their role in malignancy. While targeting enhancers presents a promising therapeutic strategy, significant challenges remain. These include the off-target effects of enhancer-targeting technologies, the complexity and redundancy of enhancer networks, and the dynamic nature of enhancer reprogramming, which may contribute to therapeutic resistance. This review comprehensively encapsulates the structural attributes of enhancers, delineates the mechanisms underlying their dysregulation in malignant transformation, and evaluates the therapeutic opportunities and limitations associated with targeting enhancers in cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jinshou Yang
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, PR China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, PR China
| | - Feihan Zhou
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, PR China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, PR China
| | - Xiyuan Luo
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, PR China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, PR China
| | - Yuan Fang
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, PR China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, PR China
| | - Xing Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, PR China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, PR China
| | - Xiaohong Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, PR China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, PR China
| | - Ruiling Xiao
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, PR China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, PR China
| | - Decheng Jiang
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, PR China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, PR China
| | - Yuemeng Tang
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, PR China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, PR China
| | - Gang Yang
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, PR China.
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, PR China.
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, PR China.
| | - Lei You
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, PR China.
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, PR China.
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, PR China.
| | - Yupei Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, PR China.
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, PR China.
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Bathe OF. Tumor metabolism as a factor affecting diversity in cancer cachexia. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2025; 328:C908-C920. [PMID: 39870605 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00677.2024] [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: 09/16/2024] [Revised: 09/21/2024] [Accepted: 01/20/2025] [Indexed: 01/29/2025]
Abstract
Cancer cachexia is a multifaceted metabolic syndrome characterized by muscle wasting, fat redistribution, and metabolic dysregulation, commonly associated with advanced cancer but sometimes also evident in early-stage disease. More subtle body composition changes have also been reported in association with cancer, including sarcopenia, myosteatosis, and increased fat radiodensity. Emerging evidence reveals that body composition changes including sarcopenia, myosteatosis, and increased fat radiodensity, arise from distinct biological mechanisms and significantly impact survival outcomes. Importantly, these features often occur independently, with their combined presence exacerbating poor prognoses. Tumor plays a pivotal role in driving these host changes, either by acting as a metabolic parasite or by releasing mediators that disrupt normal tissue function. This review explores the diversity of tumor metabolism. It highlights the potential for tumor-specific metabolic phenotypes to influence systemic effects, including fat redistribution and sarcopenia. Addressing this tumor-host metabolic interplay requires personalized approaches that disrupt tumor metabolism while preserving host health. Promising strategies include targeted pharmacological interventions and anticachexia agents like growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF-15) inhibitors. Nutritional modifications such as ketogenic diets and omega-3 fatty acid supplementation also merit further investigation. In addition to preserving muscle, these therapies will need to be evaluated for their capability to improve survival and quality of life. This review underscores the need for further research into tumor-driven metabolic effects on the host and the development of integrative treatment strategies to address the interconnected challenges of cancer progression and cachexia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Oliver F Bathe
- Department of Surgery and Oncology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Arnie Charbonneau Cancer Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Shi J, Han W, Wang J, Kong X. Anti-Tumor Strategies Targeting Nutritional Deprivation: Challenges and Opportunities. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2025; 37:e2415550. [PMID: 39895165 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202415550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2024] [Revised: 01/04/2025] [Indexed: 02/04/2025]
Abstract
Higher and richer nutrient requirements are typical features that distinguish tumor cells from AU: cells, ensuring adequate substrates and energy sources for tumor cell proliferation and migration. Therefore, nutrient deprivation strategies based on targeted technologies can induce impaired cell viability in tumor cells, which are more sensitive than normal cells. In this review, nutrients that are required by tumor cells and related metabolic pathways are introduced, and anti-tumor strategies developed to target nutrient deprivation are described. In addition to tumor cells, the nutritional and metabolic characteristics of other cells in the tumor microenvironment (including macrophages, neutrophils, natural killer cells, T cells, and cancer-associated fibroblasts) and related new anti-tumor strategies are also summarized. In conclusion, recent advances in anti-tumor strategies targeting nutrient blockade are reviewed, and the challenges and prospects of these anti-tumor strategies are discussed, which are of theoretical significance for optimizing the clinical application of tumor nutrition deprivation strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jinsheng Shi
- Qingdao Key Lab of Common Diseases, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Qingdao, Shandong, 266000, China
| | - Wei Han
- Qingdao Key Lab of Common Diseases, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Qingdao, Shandong, 266000, China
| | - Jie Wang
- Pharmacy Department, Qingdao Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital (Qingdao Hiser Hospital), Qingdao, Shandong, 266000, China
| | - Xiaoying Kong
- Institute of Regenerative Medicine and Laboratory Technology Innovation, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, 266071, China
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Huang Z, Cong Z, Luo J, Qiu B, Wang K, Gao C, Xu Y, Yang N, Zou Z, Hu L, Shen Y. Association between cancer-associated fibroblasts and prognosis of neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma: a bioinformatics analysis based on single-cell RNA sequencing. Cancer Cell Int 2025; 25:74. [PMID: 40025479 PMCID: PMC11871762 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-025-03709-x] [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: 11/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2025] [Indexed: 03/04/2025] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is a prevalent and aggressive subtype of esophageal cancer, posing a significant mortality and economic burden, especially in East and Southeast Asia. Current therapeutic strategies have limitations in improving patient survival, particularly regarding disease progression and resistance. This study aimed to investigate the impact of neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (NCRT) on the ESCC microenvironment. METHODS We utilized single-cell RNA sequencing to systematically characterize the tumor and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) subtypes. Marker genes of myofibroblastic CAFs (myCAFs) were employed to establish a prognostic model and verify its application in other datasets. Other experiments were conducted on clinical samples to explore potential ESCC risk-related genes. RESULTS Our bioinformatics and statistical analyses revealed an increased proportion of fibroblasts and epithelial cells in NCRT and identified the Ep_c1 subtype associated with a better prognosis. Further results indicated a complex communication network between Ep_c1 and myCAFs. The top 30 marker genes of myCAFs were used to construct a prognostic signature with a significant response to immunotherapy. Finally, experiments identified Complement C1s subcomponent (C1S), Decorin (DCN), and Neuroblastoma suppression of tumorigenicity 1 (NBL1) as potential ESCC risk-related genes. CONCLUSION Our findings highlight the dynamic alterations in the post-NCRT ESCC microenvironment and provide a foundation for the development of personalized treatment and immunotherapeutic approaches. Future studies are warranted to further validate these findings and explore their clinical implications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhao Huang
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 210000, China
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The 960th Hospital of PLA, Jinan, Shandong Province, 250000, China
| | - Zhuangzhuang Cong
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 210000, China
| | - Jing Luo
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 210000, China
| | - Bingmei Qiu
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 210000, China
| | - Kang Wang
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 210000, China
| | - Chuan Gao
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 210000, China
| | - Yang Xu
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 210000, China
| | - Nan Yang
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 210000, China
| | - Zhiqiang Zou
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The 960th Hospital of PLA, Jinan, Shandong Province, 250000, China.
| | - Liwen Hu
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 210000, China.
| | - Yi Shen
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 210000, China.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Xiong X, Zheng LW, Ding Y, Chen YF, Cai YW, Wang LP, Huang L, Liu CC, Shao ZM, Yu KD. Breast cancer: pathogenesis and treatments. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2025; 10:49. [PMID: 39966355 PMCID: PMC11836418 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-02108-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2024] [Revised: 10/27/2024] [Accepted: 12/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2025] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer, characterized by unique epidemiological patterns and significant heterogeneity, remains one of the leading causes of malignancy-related deaths in women. The increasingly nuanced molecular subtypes of breast cancer have enhanced the comprehension and precision treatment of this disease. The mechanisms of tumorigenesis and progression of breast cancer have been central to scientific research, with investigations spanning various perspectives such as tumor stemness, intra-tumoral microbiota, and circadian rhythms. Technological advancements, particularly those integrated with artificial intelligence, have significantly improved the accuracy of breast cancer detection and diagnosis. The emergence of novel therapeutic concepts and drugs represents a paradigm shift towards personalized medicine. Evidence suggests that optimal diagnosis and treatment models tailored to individual patient risk and expected subtypes are crucial, supporting the era of precision oncology for breast cancer. Despite the rapid advancements in oncology and the increasing emphasis on the clinical precision treatment of breast cancer, a comprehensive update and summary of the panoramic knowledge related to this disease are needed. In this review, we provide a thorough overview of the global status of breast cancer, including its epidemiology, risk factors, pathophysiology, and molecular subtyping. Additionally, we elaborate on the latest research into mechanisms contributing to breast cancer progression, emerging treatment strategies, and long-term patient management. This review offers valuable insights into the latest advancements in Breast Cancer Research, thereby facilitating future progress in both basic research and clinical application.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xin Xiong
- Department of Breast Surgery, Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, Cancer Institute, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Le-Wei Zheng
- Department of Breast Surgery, Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, Cancer Institute, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Yu Ding
- Department of Breast and Thyroid, Guiyang Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital & Guiyang Children's Hospital, Guiyang, P. R. China
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, P. R. China
| | - Yu-Fei Chen
- Department of Breast Surgery, Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, Cancer Institute, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Yu-Wen Cai
- Department of Breast Surgery, Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, Cancer Institute, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Lei-Ping Wang
- Department of Breast and Urologic Medical Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Liang Huang
- Department of Breast Surgery, Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, Cancer Institute, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Cui-Cui Liu
- Department of Breast Surgery, Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, Cancer Institute, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Zhi-Ming Shao
- Department of Breast Surgery, Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, Cancer Institute, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Ke-Da Yu
- Department of Breast Surgery, Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, Cancer Institute, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P. R. China.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Liu H, Wang S, Wang J, Guo X, Song Y, Fu K, Gao Z, Liu D, He W, Yang LL. Energy metabolism in health and diseases. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2025; 10:69. [PMID: 39966374 PMCID: PMC11836267 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-025-02141-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2024] [Revised: 11/08/2024] [Accepted: 12/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2025] Open
Abstract
Energy metabolism is indispensable for sustaining physiological functions in living organisms and assumes a pivotal role across physiological and pathological conditions. This review provides an extensive overview of advancements in energy metabolism research, elucidating critical pathways such as glycolysis, oxidative phosphorylation, fatty acid metabolism, and amino acid metabolism, along with their intricate regulatory mechanisms. The homeostatic balance of these processes is crucial; however, in pathological states such as neurodegenerative diseases, autoimmune disorders, and cancer, extensive metabolic reprogramming occurs, resulting in impaired glucose metabolism and mitochondrial dysfunction, which accelerate disease progression. Recent investigations into key regulatory pathways, including mechanistic target of rapamycin, sirtuins, and adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase, have considerably deepened our understanding of metabolic dysregulation and opened new avenues for therapeutic innovation. Emerging technologies, such as fluorescent probes, nano-biomaterials, and metabolomic analyses, promise substantial improvements in diagnostic precision. This review critically examines recent advancements and ongoing challenges in metabolism research, emphasizing its potential for precision diagnostics and personalized therapeutic interventions. Future studies should prioritize unraveling the regulatory mechanisms of energy metabolism and the dynamics of intercellular energy interactions. Integrating cutting-edge gene-editing technologies and multi-omics approaches, the development of multi-target pharmaceuticals in synergy with existing therapies such as immunotherapy and dietary interventions could enhance therapeutic efficacy. Personalized metabolic analysis is indispensable for crafting tailored treatment protocols, ultimately providing more accurate medical solutions for patients. This review aims to deepen the understanding and improve the application of energy metabolism to drive innovative diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hui Liu
- Department of Stomatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Shuo Wang
- Department of Stomatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jianhua Wang
- Department of Stomatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xin Guo
- Department of Stomatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yujing Song
- Department of Stomatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Kun Fu
- Department of Stomatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zhenjie Gao
- Department of Stomatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Danfeng Liu
- Department of Stomatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.
| | - Wei He
- Department of Stomatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.
| | - Lei-Lei Yang
- Department of Stomatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Sun M, Wang K, Lu F, Yu D, Liu S. Regulatory role and therapeutic prospect of lactate modification in cancer. Front Pharmacol 2025; 16:1508552. [PMID: 40034817 PMCID: PMC11872897 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2025.1508552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/20/2025] [Indexed: 03/05/2025] Open
Abstract
Post-translational modifications (PTMs) of proteins refer to the process of adding chemical groups, sugars, or other molecules to specific residues of target proteins following their biosynthesis by ribosomes. PTMs play a crucial role in processes such as signal transduction, epigenetics, and disease development. Lactylation is a newly discovered PTM that, due to its close association with lactate-the end product of glycolytic metabolism-provides a new perspective on the connection between cellular metabolic reprogramming and epigenetic regulation. Studies have demonstrated that lactylation plays a significant role in tumor progression and is associated with poor clinical prognosis. Abnormal histone lactylation can influence gene expression in both tumor cells and immune cells, thereby regulating tumor progression and immunosuppression. Lactylation of non-histone proteins can also modulate processes such as tumor proliferation and drug resistance. This review summarizes the latest research progress in the field of lactylation, highlighting its roles and mechanisms in tumorigenesis, tumor development, the tumor microenvironment, and immunosuppression. It also explores the potential application value of lactylation in tumor-targeted therapy and combined immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mengdi Sun
- Graduate School, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Kejing Wang
- Graduate School, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Fang Lu
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Donghua Yu
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Shumin Liu
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Li B, Shi M, Wang Y, Li P, Yin X, Zhang G, Kang X, Wang H, Gao S, Zheng K, Shi X, Xu X, Zhou Y, Jiang H, Jing W, Guo S, Jin G. A practical distribution pattern of α-SMA-positive carcinoma associated fibroblasts indicates poor prognosis of patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Transl Oncol 2025; 52:102282. [PMID: 39808844 PMCID: PMC11782853 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2025.102282] [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: 09/10/2024] [Revised: 12/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/07/2025] [Indexed: 01/16/2025] Open
Abstract
Purpose The present study aimed to clarify the distribution pattern of carcinoma associated fibroblasts (CAFs) across pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and its prognostic prediction value. Methods Data of two cohorts were retrospectively collected from consecutive patients who underwent primary pancreatic resection from January 2015 to December 2017. We used tumor specimens to screen out the most suitable markers for the spatial distribution analysis for CAFs subpopulations. We utilized a tissue microarray to assess the spatial intensity of α-SMA expression within the tumor microenvironment. Specifically, we classified CAFs into two types based on their α-SMA spatial expression. Type II CAFs were designated as those located in the juxtatumoural stroma with α-SMA expression that was moderate or higher, and those in the peripheral stroma with α-SMA expression that was less than moderate. All other cases, where the α-SMA expression did not meet these criteria, were categorized as Type I CAFs. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression was used to assess risk factors associated with patient outcomes. RNA sequencing data were obtained from bulk tumor samples and isolated CAFs from patients to reveal the distinct pattern and elucidated their fundamental characteristics. Results The α-SMA spatial intensity was the most suitable variable for representative of CAFs spatial characteristics. Patients with Type Ⅰ CAFs were more likely to be allocated into N1 or N2 of the N stage and Ⅱ and Ⅲ of the TNM stage. The spatial distribution pattern of CAFs (Type Ⅰ v.s. Type Ⅱ: HR, 1.568; 95 % CI, 1.053-2.334; P = 0.027) was an independent prognostic factor in the discovery cohort, so as in the validation (Type Ⅰ vs. Type Ⅱ: HR, 2.197; 95 % CI, 1.410-3.422; P = 0.001). RNA sequencing analysis revealed that the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in Type I CAFs are closely associated with those in corresponding tumor tissues, highlighting the enhanced biological significance of immune-related and oncogenic invasive pathways. Conclusions Our findings that two types of α-SMA-positive CAFs with different spatial patterns present heterogeneously across tissues of PDACs and correlated with patients' outcomes. The spatial location of CAFs may facilitate patients' selection in precision medicine of PDACs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bo Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Surgery, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), 168 Changhai Road, Shanghai 200433, China; Department of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Surgery, Naval Medical Center, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), 338 West Huaihai Road, Shanghai, 200052, China
| | - Meilong Shi
- Department of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Surgery, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), 168 Changhai Road, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Yang Wang
- Department of Pathology, Shanghai Fourth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, 1279 Sanmen Road, Shanghai 200434, China
| | - Penghao Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Surgery, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), 168 Changhai Road, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Xiaoyi Yin
- Department of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Surgery, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), 168 Changhai Road, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Guoxiao Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Surgery, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), 168 Changhai Road, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Xiaochao Kang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Surgery, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), 168 Changhai Road, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Huan Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Surgery, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), 168 Changhai Road, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Suizhi Gao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Surgery, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), 168 Changhai Road, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Kailian Zheng
- Department of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Surgery, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), 168 Changhai Road, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Xiaohan Shi
- Department of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Surgery, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), 168 Changhai Road, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Xiongfei Xu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Surgery, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), 168 Changhai Road, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Yukun Zhou
- Department of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Surgery, Naval Medical Center, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), 338 West Huaihai Road, Shanghai, 200052, China
| | - Hui Jiang
- Department of Pathology, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), 168 Changhai Road, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Wei Jing
- Department of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Surgery, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), 168 Changhai Road, Shanghai 200433, China.
| | - Shiwei Guo
- Department of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Surgery, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), 168 Changhai Road, Shanghai 200433, China.
| | - Gang Jin
- Department of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Surgery, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), 168 Changhai Road, Shanghai 200433, China.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Cheng PSW, Zaccaria M, Biffi G. Functional heterogeneity of fibroblasts in primary tumors and metastases. Trends Cancer 2025; 11:135-153. [PMID: 39674792 DOI: 10.1016/j.trecan.2024.11.005] [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: 08/29/2024] [Revised: 10/29/2024] [Accepted: 11/18/2024] [Indexed: 12/16/2024]
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are abundant components of the tumor microenvironment (TME) of most solid malignancies and have emerged as key regulators of cancer progression and therapy response. Although recent technological advances have uncovered substantial CAF molecular heterogeneity at the single-cell level, defining functional roles for most described CAF populations remains challenging. With the aim of bridging CAF molecular and functional heterogeneity, this review focuses on recently identified functional interactions of CAF subtypes with malignant cells, immune cells, and other stromal cells in primary tumors and metastases. Dissecting the heterogeneous functional crosstalk of specific CAF populations with other components is starting to uncover candidate combinatorial strategies for therapeutically targeting the TME and cancer progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Priscilla S W Cheng
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0RE, UK
| | - Marta Zaccaria
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0RE, UK
| | - Giulia Biffi
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0RE, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Ghiglione N, Abbo D, Bushunova A, Costamagna A, Porporato PE, Martini M. Metabolic plasticity in pancreatic cancer: The mitochondrial connection. Mol Metab 2025; 92:102089. [PMID: 39736443 PMCID: PMC11846432 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmet.2024.102089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2024] [Revised: 12/18/2024] [Accepted: 12/23/2024] [Indexed: 01/01/2025] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cellular metabolism plays a pivotal role in the development and progression of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), with dysregulated metabolic pathways contributing to tumorigenesis and therapeutic resistance. Distinct metabolic heterogeneity in pancreatic cancer significantly impacts patient prognosis, as variations in metabolic profiles influence tumor behavior and treatment responses. SCOPE OF THE REVIEW This review explores the intricate interplay between mitochondrial dynamics, mitophagy, and cellular metabolism in PDAC. We discuss the significance of mitophagy dysregulation in PDAC pathogenesis, emphasizing its influence on treatment responses and prognosis. Furthermore, we analyze the impact of mitochondrial dynamics alterations, including fission and fusion processes, on PDAC progression and tumorigenesis. MAJOR CONCLUSION Targeting mitochondrial metabolism holds promise for advancing PDAC therapeutics. Ongoing clinical trials underscore the therapeutic potential of modulating key regulators of mitochondrial dynamics and mitophagy. Despite inherent challenges, these approaches offer diverse strategies to enhance treatment efficacy and improve patient outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Noemi Ghiglione
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center (MBC) Guido Tarone, University of Turin, Torino, Italy
| | - Damiano Abbo
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center (MBC) Guido Tarone, University of Turin, Torino, Italy
| | - Anastasia Bushunova
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center (MBC) Guido Tarone, University of Turin, Torino, Italy
| | - Andrea Costamagna
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center (MBC) Guido Tarone, University of Turin, Torino, Italy
| | - Paolo Ettore Porporato
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center (MBC) Guido Tarone, University of Turin, Torino, Italy
| | - Miriam Martini
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center (MBC) Guido Tarone, University of Turin, Torino, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Tost J, Ak-Aksoy S, Campa D, Corradi C, Farinella R, Ibáñez-Costa A, Dubrot J, Earl J, Melian EB, Kataki A, Kolnikova G, Madjarov G, Chaushevska M, Strnadel J, Tanić M, Tomas M, Dubovan P, Urbanova M, Buocikova V, Smolkova B. Leveraging epigenetic alterations in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma for clinical applications. Semin Cancer Biol 2025; 109:101-124. [PMID: 39863139 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2025.01.003] [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: 10/01/2024] [Revised: 01/10/2025] [Accepted: 01/13/2025] [Indexed: 01/27/2025]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a highly aggressive malignancy characterized by late detection and poor prognosis. Recent research highlights the pivotal role of epigenetic alterations in driving PDAC development and progression. These changes, in conjunction with genetic mutations, contribute to the intricate molecular landscape of the disease. Specific modifications in DNA methylation, histone marks, and non-coding RNAs are emerging as robust predictors of disease progression and patient survival, offering the potential for more precise prognostic tools compared to conventional clinical staging. Moreover, the detection of epigenetic alterations in blood and other non-invasive samples holds promise for earlier diagnosis and improved management of PDAC. This review comprehensively summarises current epigenetic research in PDAC and identifies persisting challenges. These include the complex nature of epigenetic profiles, tumour heterogeneity, limited access to early-stage samples, and the need for highly sensitive liquid biopsy technologies. Addressing these challenges requires the standardisation of methodologies, integration of multi-omics data, and leveraging advanced computational tools such as machine learning and artificial intelligence. While resource-intensive, these efforts are essential for unravelling the functional consequences of epigenetic changes and translating this knowledge into clinical applications. By overcoming these hurdles, epigenetic research has the potential to revolutionise the management of PDAC and improve patient outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jorg Tost
- Centre National de Recherche en Génomique Humaine, CEA - Institut de Biologie François Jacob, University Paris - Saclay, Evry, France.
| | - Secil Ak-Aksoy
- Bursa Uludag University Faculty of Medicine, Medical Microbiology, Bursa 16059, Turkey.
| | - Daniele Campa
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, via Derna 1, Pisa 56126, Italy.
| | - Chiara Corradi
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, via Derna 1, Pisa 56126, Italy.
| | - Riccardo Farinella
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, via Derna 1, Pisa 56126, Italy.
| | - Alejandro Ibáñez-Costa
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Cordoba (IMIBIC), Department of Cell Biology, Physiology, and Immunology, University of Cordoba, Reina Sofia University Hospital, Edificio IMIBIC, Avenida Men´endez Pidal s/n, Cordoba 14004, Spain.
| | - Juan Dubrot
- Solid Tumors Program, Cima Universidad de Navarra, Cancer Center Clínica Universidad de Navarra (CCUN), Pamplona, Spain.
| | - Julie Earl
- Biomarkers and Personalized Approach to Cancer (BIOPAC) Group, Ramón y Cajal Institute for Health Research (IRYCIS), Ctra Colmenar Viejo Km 9.100, CIBERONC, Madrid 28034, Spain.
| | - Emma Barreto Melian
- Biomarkers and Personalized Approach to Cancer (BIOPAC) Group, Ramón y Cajal Institute for Health Research (IRYCIS), Ctra Colmenar Viejo Km 9.100, CIBERONC, Madrid 28034, Spain
| | - Agapi Kataki
- A' Department of Propaedeutic Surgery, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Vas. Sofias 114, Athens 11527, Greece.
| | - Georgina Kolnikova
- Department of Pathology, National Cancer Institute in Bratislava, Klenova 1, Bratislava 83310, Slovakia.
| | - Gjorgji Madjarov
- Ss. Cyril and Methodius University - Faculty of Computer Science and Engineering, Rudjer Boshkovikj 16, Skopje 1000, Macedonia.
| | - Marija Chaushevska
- Ss. Cyril and Methodius University - Faculty of Computer Science and Engineering, Rudjer Boshkovikj 16, Skopje 1000, Macedonia; gMendel ApS, Fruebjergvej 3, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark.
| | - Jan Strnadel
- Biomedical Centre Martin, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, Martin 036 01, Slovakia.
| | - Miljana Tanić
- Experimental Oncology Department, Institute for Oncology and Radiology of Serbia, Serbia; UCL Cancer Institute, University College London, London WC1E 6DD, UK.
| | - Miroslav Tomas
- Department of Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Institute in Bratislava and Slovak Medical University in Bratislava, Klenova 1, Bratislava 83310, Slovakia.
| | - Peter Dubovan
- Department of Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Institute in Bratislava and Slovak Medical University in Bratislava, Klenova 1, Bratislava 83310, Slovakia.
| | - Maria Urbanova
- Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dubravska Cesta 9, Bratislava 84505, Slovakia.
| | - Verona Buocikova
- Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dubravska Cesta 9, Bratislava 84505, Slovakia.
| | - Bozena Smolkova
- Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dubravska Cesta 9, Bratislava 84505, Slovakia.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Liu G, Yang D, Meng J, He Q, Wu D. The combination of gemcitabine and albumin-bound paclitaxel effectively inhibits de novo lipogenesis in pancreatic cancer cells by targeting the AMPK/SREBP1 pathway. Biochem Pharmacol 2025; 232:116721. [PMID: 39694195 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2024.116721] [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: 09/30/2024] [Revised: 11/24/2024] [Accepted: 12/16/2024] [Indexed: 12/20/2024]
Abstract
Abnormal de novo lipogenesis and reprogramming of lipid metabolism have been associated with the development and progression of various cancers, including pancreatic cancer. Gemcitabine (GEM) combined with albumin-bound paclitaxel (nab-PTX) is the first-line chemotherapeutic agent for pancreatic cancer. There have been many studies on the molecular mechanisms of gemcitabine and paclitaxel in cancer treatment. Still, the effects of the combination on lipid metabolism and the specific mechanisms have not been explored. This study found that GEM combined with nab-PTX inhibited pancreatic cancer cell proliferation and de novo lipogenesis. The exact mechanism is that GEM combined with nab-PTX induces adenosine triphosphate (ATP) depletion and activates AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) in pancreatic cancer cells, which in turn inhibits sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1 (SREBP1) expression and nuclear translocation, and ultimately inhibits de novo lipogenesis in pancreatic cancer cells. In addition, we found that the novel lipid-lowering drug bempedoic acid (ETC-1002) significantly enhanced the inhibitory effect of GEM combined with nab-PTX on de novo lipogenesis in pancreatic cancer cells. These findings establish a link between GEM combined with nab-PTX and lipid metabolism, and the discovery of the novel lipid-lowering drug ETC-1002 provides a potential therapeutic strategy for pancreatic cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guiyan Liu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, China; Department of Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Dongxue Yang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, China; Department of Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Jiao Meng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, China; Department of Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Qihui He
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, China; Department of Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Dongyuan Wu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, China; Department of Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin 150040, China.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Su B, Fan Z, Wu J, Zhan H. Genetic association of lipid-lowering drug target genes with pancreatic cancer: a Mendelian randomization study. Sci Rep 2025; 15:3282. [PMID: 39863728 PMCID: PMC11762976 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-025-87490-x] [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: 10/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/20/2025] [Indexed: 01/27/2025] Open
Abstract
Previous studies have found that dyslipidemia is a risk factor for pancreatic cancer (PC), and that lipid-lowering drugs may reduce the risk of PC. However, it is not clear whether dyslipidemia causes PC. The Mendelian randomization (MR) study aimed to investigate the causal role of lipid traits in pancreatic cancer and to assess the potential impact of lipid-lowering drug targets on pancreatic cancer. Genetic variants associated with lipid traits and variants of genes encoding lipid-lowering drug targets were extracted from the Global Lipids Genetics Consortium genome-wide association study (GWAS). Summary statistics for PC were obtained from an independent GWAS datasets. Colocalization analyses were performed to validate the robustness of the results. No significant effect of lipid-lowering drug targets on PC risk was found. Genetic mimicry of lipoprotein lipase (LPL) was potentially associated with PC risks. Significant MR associations were observed in the discovery dataset (OR 1.64 [95% CI 1.24-2.16], p = 4.48*10-4) with PC in one dataset. However, the finding was not verified in the replication dataset. Our findings do not support dyslipidemia as a causal factor for PC. Among lipid-lowering drug targets, LPL is the potential drug target in PC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bohan Su
- Division of Pancreatic Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China
| | - Zhiyao Fan
- Division of Pancreatic Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China
| | - Jiexi Wu
- Division of Pancreatic Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China
| | - Hanxiang Zhan
- Division of Pancreatic Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Gu Q, Wang Y, Yi P, Cheng C. Theoretical framework and emerging challenges of lipid metabolism in cancer. Semin Cancer Biol 2025; 108:48-70. [PMID: 39674303 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2024.12.002] [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: 10/11/2024] [Revised: 11/14/2024] [Accepted: 12/11/2024] [Indexed: 12/16/2024]
Abstract
Elevated lipid metabolism is one of hallmarks of malignant tumors. Lipids not only serve as essential structural components of biological membranes but also provide energy and substrates for the proliferation of cancer cells and tumor growth. Cancer cells meet their lipid needs by coordinating the processes of lipid absorption, synthesis, transport, storage, and catabolism. As research in this area continues to deepen, numerous new discoveries have emerged, making it crucial for scientists to stay informed about the developments of cancer lipid metabolism. In this review, we first discuss relevant concepts and theories or assumptions that help us understand the lipid metabolism and -based cancer therapies. We then systematically summarize the latest advancements in lipid metabolism including new mechanisms, novel targets, and up-to-date pre-clinical and clinical investigations of anti-cancer treatment with lipid metabolism targeted drugs. Finally, we emphasize emerging research directions and therapeutic strategies, and discuss future prospective and emerging challenges. This review aims to provide the latest insights and guidance for research in the field of cancer lipid metabolism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qiuying Gu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 401120, China
| | - Yuan Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 401120, China
| | - Ping Yi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 401120, China.
| | - Chunming Cheng
- Department of Oncology Science, OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center at University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Meng Y, Chen C, Lin R, Zheng L, Fan Y, Zhang M, Zhang Z, Shi H, Zheng X, Chen J, Chen D, Teng T, Chen B. Mitochondria-Targeting Virus-Like Gold Nanoparticles Enhance Chemophototherapeutic Efficacy Against Pancreatic Cancer in a Xenograft Mouse Model. Int J Nanomedicine 2024; 19:14059-14074. [PMID: 39748900 PMCID: PMC11693971 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s497346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2024] [Accepted: 12/22/2024] [Indexed: 01/04/2025] Open
Abstract
Background The dense and fibrotic nature of the pancreatic tumor microenvironment significantly contributes to tumor invasion and metastasis. This challenging environment acts as a formidable barrier, hindering effective drug penetration and delivery, which ultimately limits the efficacy of conventional cancer treatments. Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have emerged as promising nanocarriers to overcome the extracellular matrix barrier; however, their limited targeting precision, poor delivery efficiency, and insufficient photothermal conversion present challenges. Methods We developed triphenyl phosphonium-functionalized high-branch gold nanoparticles, denoted as Dox@TPAu, to enhance drug delivery and targeting capabilities. The targeted penetration, biopharmaceutical and pharmacokinetic properties of Dox@TPAu were characterized, and the synergistic therapeutic effect was evaluated by the BxPC-3 xenograft tumor mouse model. Results Dox@TPAu exhibits superior photothermal conversion efficiency (91.0%) alongside a high drug loading efficiency (26%) and effective photo-triggered drug-release potential. This Dox@TPAu drug delivery system adeptly accumulates at tumor sites due to its unique properties, enabling targeted localization within cancer cells and the mitochondria of stromal fibroblasts. This localization disrupts mitochondrial function and transfer-processes crucial for energy production, metabolism, and cell signaling within the tumor microenvironment. Pharmacokinetic analyses revealed an optimal spatiotemporal distribution of Dox@TPAu at the tumor site. This strategic accumulation enables precise disruption of both the physical barrier and cancer cells, enhancing treatment efficacy through near-infrared light-triggered local chemo-photothermal synergistic therapy. Conclusion Our findings demonstrate that this innovative strategy effectively leverages the unique properties of mitochondria-targeting, virus-like AuNPs for precise and efficient stromal depletion, presenting a promising approach to enhance the efficacy of pancreatic cancer treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Youshuai Meng
- Key Laboratory of Nanomedical Technology (Education Department of Fujian Province), Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, School of Pharmacy, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350122, People’s Republic of China
| | - Chuan Chen
- Key Laboratory of Nanomedical Technology (Education Department of Fujian Province), Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, School of Pharmacy, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350122, People’s Republic of China
- Innovation Center for Enzyme Catalysis and Drug Synthesis, School of Pharmacy, Xiamen Medical College, Xiamen, 361023, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ronggui Lin
- Key Laboratory of Nanomedical Technology (Education Department of Fujian Province), Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, School of Pharmacy, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350122, People’s Republic of China
- Department of General Surgery/ Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, People’s Republic of China
| | - Linlin Zheng
- Department of Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Putian University, Putian, 351199, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yanying Fan
- Fuzhou Children’s Hospital of Fujian Province, Fuzhou, 350005, People’s Republic of China
| | - Mengdi Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Nanomedical Technology (Education Department of Fujian Province), Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, School of Pharmacy, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350122, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ziqi Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Nanomedical Technology (Education Department of Fujian Province), Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, School of Pharmacy, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350122, People’s Republic of China
| | - Han Shi
- Key Laboratory of Nanomedical Technology (Education Department of Fujian Province), Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, School of Pharmacy, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350122, People’s Republic of China
- Department of General Surgery/ Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaohan Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Nanomedical Technology (Education Department of Fujian Province), Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, School of Pharmacy, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350122, People’s Republic of China
- Department of General Surgery/ Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, People’s Republic of China
| | - Junyu Chen
- Key Laboratory of Nanomedical Technology (Education Department of Fujian Province), Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, School of Pharmacy, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350122, People’s Republic of China
| | - Dezhao Chen
- Key Laboratory of Nanomedical Technology (Education Department of Fujian Province), Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, School of Pharmacy, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350122, People’s Republic of China
- Department of General Surgery/ Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, People’s Republic of China
| | - Tianhong Teng
- Key Laboratory of Nanomedical Technology (Education Department of Fujian Province), Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, School of Pharmacy, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350122, People’s Republic of China
- Department of General Surgery/ Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, People’s Republic of China
| | - Bing Chen
- Key Laboratory of Nanomedical Technology (Education Department of Fujian Province), Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, School of Pharmacy, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350122, People’s Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Stone SH, Rathmell JC, Bader JE. Macrophages make "sense" of obesity-driven acidity in the TME. Cell Chem Biol 2024; 31:2021-2023. [PMID: 39706167 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2024.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2024] [Revised: 11/21/2024] [Accepted: 11/21/2024] [Indexed: 12/23/2024]
Abstract
Obesity is a leading risk factor and a negative prognostic indicator for many cancers. In a recent issue of Science Immunology, Bagchi et al. identified that tumor-associated macrophages upregulate GPR65 in response to obesity-driven intratumor acidity resulting in reduced effector function to promote tumor growth.1.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Spenser H Stone
- Department of Pathology Microbiology and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Jeffrey C Rathmell
- Department of Pathology Microbiology and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA; Vanderbilt Center for Immunobiology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Jackie E Bader
- Department of Pathology Microbiology and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Zhao K, Zhang J, Zhou L, Sun Z. Scutellaria baicalensis and its flavonoids in the treatment of digestive system tumors. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1483785. [PMID: 39654621 PMCID: PMC11625591 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1483785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2024] [Accepted: 11/12/2024] [Indexed: 12/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Scutellaria baicalensis has been used for the treatment of digestive system disorders for thousands of years in China and other regions. Modern research have revealed its therapeutic efforts in digestive system tumors. Thus, to review the updated progress of S. baicalensis and its main flavonoids in the treatment of digestive system tumors in the past 10 years, this article summarized the therapeutic effect and molecular mechanisms of S. baicalensis and its 5 flavonoids on tumors in oral cavity, esophagus, stomach, colon, liver, pancreas by inhibiting tumor cell proliferation, inducing autophagy, stimulating immune response, and increasing drug sensitivity. In conclusion, S. baicalensis and its flavonoids could be applied to treat digestive system tumors with different type of methods.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kangning Zhao
- The First Clinical Medical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Jinlong Zhang
- The First Clinical Medical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Lin Zhou
- The First Clinical Medical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Zhen Sun
- The Second Gastroenterology Department, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Liu S, Zhang X, Wang W, Li X, Sun X, Zhao Y, Wang Q, Li Y, Hu F, Ren H. Metabolic reprogramming and therapeutic resistance in primary and metastatic breast cancer. Mol Cancer 2024; 23:261. [PMID: 39574178 PMCID: PMC11580516 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-024-02165-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2024] [Accepted: 10/31/2024] [Indexed: 11/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Metabolic alterations, a hallmark of cancer, enable tumor cells to adapt to their environment by modulating glucose, lipid, and amino acid metabolism, which fuels rapid growth and contributes to treatment resistance. In primary breast cancer, metabolic shifts such as the Warburg effect and enhanced lipid synthesis are closely linked to chemotherapy failure. Similarly, metastatic lesions often display distinct metabolic profiles that not only sustain tumor growth but also confer resistance to targeted therapies and immunotherapies. The review emphasizes two major aspects: the mechanisms driving metabolic resistance in both primary and metastatic breast cancer, and how the unique metabolic environments in metastatic sites further complicate treatment. By targeting distinct metabolic vulnerabilities at both the primary and metastatic stages, new strategies could improve the efficacy of existing therapies and provide better outcomes for breast cancer patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shan Liu
- Department of oncological surgery, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Xingda Zhang
- Department of oncological surgery, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Wenzheng Wang
- Department of oncological surgery, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Xue Li
- Department of oncological surgery, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Xue Sun
- Department of oncological surgery, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Yuqian Zhao
- Department of oncological surgery, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Qi Wang
- Department of oncological surgery, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Yingpu Li
- Department of oncological surgery, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China.
| | - Fangjie Hu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
| | - He Ren
- Department of oncological surgery, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China.
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Zhao Y, Qin C, Lin C, Li Z, Zhao B, Li T, Zhang X, Wang W. Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma cells reshape the immune microenvironment: Molecular mechanisms and therapeutic targets. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2024; 1879:189183. [PMID: 39303859 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2024.189183] [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: 06/09/2024] [Revised: 08/23/2024] [Accepted: 09/13/2024] [Indexed: 09/22/2024]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a digestive system malignancy characterized by challenging early detection, limited treatment alternatives, and generally poor prognosis. Although there have been significant advancements in immunotherapy for hematological malignancies and various solid tumors in recent decades, with impressive outcomes in recent preclinical and clinical trials, the effectiveness of these therapies in treating PDAC continues to be modest. The unique immunological microenvironment of PDAC, especially the abnormal distribution, complex composition, and variable activation states of tumor-infiltrating immune cells, greatly restricts the effectiveness of immunotherapy. Undoubtedly, integrating data from both preclinical models and human studies helps accelerate the identification of reliable molecules and pathways responsive to targeted biological therapies and immunotherapies, thereby continuously optimizing therapeutic combinations. In this review, we delve deeply into how PDAC cells regulate the immune microenvironment through complex signaling networks, affecting the quantity and functional status of immune cells to promote immune escape and tumor progression. Furthermore, we explore the multi-modal immunotherapeutic strategies currently under development, emphasizing the transformation of the immunosuppressive environment into an anti-tumor milieu by targeting specific molecular and cellular pathways, providing insights for the development of novel treatment strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yutong Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100023, PR China; Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100023, PR China; National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing 100023, PR China
| | - Cheng Qin
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100023, PR China; Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100023, PR China; National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing 100023, PR China
| | - Chen Lin
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100023, PR China; Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100023, PR China; National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing 100023, PR China
| | - Zeru Li
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100023, PR China; Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100023, PR China; National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing 100023, PR China
| | - Bangbo Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100023, PR China; Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100023, PR China; National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing 100023, PR China
| | - Tianyu Li
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100023, PR China; Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100023, PR China; National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing 100023, PR China
| | - Xiangyu Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100023, PR China; Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100023, PR China; National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing 100023, PR China
| | - Weibin Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100023, PR China; Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100023, PR China; National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing 100023, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Xia B, Qiu L, Yue J, Si J, Zhang H. The metabolic crosstalk of cancer-associated fibroblasts and tumor cells: Recent advances and future perspectives. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2024; 1879:189190. [PMID: 39341468 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2024.189190] [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: 12/26/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2024] [Accepted: 09/23/2024] [Indexed: 10/01/2024]
Abstract
Tumor cells grow in a microenvironment with a lack of nutrients and oxygen. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) as one major component of tumor microenvironment have strong ability to survive under stressful conditions through metabolic remodelling. Furthermore, CAFs are educated by tumor cells and help them adapt to the hostile microenvironment through their metabolic communication. By inducing catabolism, CAFs release nutrients into the microenvironment which are taken up by tumor cells to satisfy their metabolic requirements. Furthermore, CAFs can recycle toxic metabolic wastes produced by cancer cells into energetic substances, allowing cancer cells to undergo biosynthesis. Their metabolic crosstalk also enhances CAFs' pro-tumor phenotype and reshape the microenvironment facilitating tumor cells' metastasis and immune escape. In this review, we have analyzed the effect and mechanisms of metabolic crosstalk between tumor cells and CAFs. We also analyzed the future perspectives in this area from the points of CAFs heterogeneity, spatial metabonomics and patient-derived tumor organoids (PDOs). These information may deepen the knowledge of tumor metabolism regulated by CAFs and provide novel insights into the development of metabolism-based anti-cancer strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bing Xia
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Key Laboratory of Clinical Cancer Pharmacology and Toxicology Research of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou 310002, China
| | - Liqing Qiu
- Hangzhou Cancer Institution, Hangzhou Cancer Hospital, 310002, China
| | - Jing Yue
- Hangzhou Cancer Institution, Hangzhou Cancer Hospital, 310002, China
| | - Jingxing Si
- Cancer Center, Department of Radiology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital), Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310014, China
| | - Hongfang Zhang
- Hangzhou Cancer Institution, Key Laboratory of Clinical Cancer Pharmacology and Toxicology Research of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Cancer Hospital, 310002, China.
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Tong Y, Han F, Liu M, Xu T, Zhang A, Qin J, Zhang Y, Qian X. Characteristics of Gut Microbiome in the Murine Model of Pancreatic Cancer with Damp-Heat Syndrome. Biomedicines 2024; 12:2360. [PMID: 39457673 PMCID: PMC11504882 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12102360] [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: 09/25/2024] [Revised: 10/07/2024] [Accepted: 10/12/2024] [Indexed: 10/28/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Murine models of pancreatic cancer with damp-heat syndrome were established based on two methods to explore the differences in the composition of intestinal flora and to seek characteristic genera with potential for model evaluation. METHODS In our study, thirty-four C57BL/6J male mice were randomly divided into a control group (Con), a model group (Mod), a classic damp-heat syndrome group (CDHS), and a climate-chamber group (CC). CDHS and CC groups were fed with a high-fat diet and glucose water, while the CDHS group was given 2.4 g/kg alcohol by gavage for 10 days, and the CC group was placed in a climatic chamber with a set temperature of (32 ± 1) °C and humidity of (92 ± 2)% for 10 days. The Mod group, CDHS group, and CC group underwent tumor-building experiments on day 11. Tumorigenicity was then assessed twice a week. After 4 weeks, feces, colon tissue, and tumor tissue were taken from the mice and were tested, and the mice were euthanized afterwards. RESULTS Mice in the CDHS and CC groups showed symptoms similar to the clinical damp-heat syndrome observed in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), and exhibited a worse general condition and more rapid tumor growth trend than those in the Mod group. The pathological examination indicated that inflammation was prevalent in the CDHS and CC groups. Both groups had a disrupted intestinal barrier and an overgrowth of pathogenic bacteria such as c_Gammaproteobacteria, o_Enterobacteriales, and g_Bacteroides. Their microbiota composition showed greater diversity. CONCLUSIONS Intestinal flora may have a promising future in the discovery of indicators for evaluating a model of damp-heat syndrome in pancreatic cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yangbo Tong
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China; (Y.T.); (M.L.); (T.X.)
| | - Fang Han
- Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou 310022, China; (F.H.); (A.Z.)
| | - Mengyao Liu
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China; (Y.T.); (M.L.); (T.X.)
| | - Tianyu Xu
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China; (Y.T.); (M.L.); (T.X.)
| | - Aiqin Zhang
- Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou 310022, China; (F.H.); (A.Z.)
| | - Jiangjiang Qin
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310018, China;
| | - Yuhua Zhang
- Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou 310022, China; (F.H.); (A.Z.)
| | - Xiang Qian
- Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou 310022, China; (F.H.); (A.Z.)
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Arpinati L, Carradori G, Scherz-Shouval R. CAF-induced physical constraints controlling T cell state and localization in solid tumours. Nat Rev Cancer 2024; 24:676-693. [PMID: 39251836 DOI: 10.1038/s41568-024-00740-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/05/2024] [Indexed: 09/11/2024]
Abstract
Solid tumours comprise cancer cells that engage in continuous interactions with non-malignant cells and with acellular components, forming the tumour microenvironment (TME). The TME has crucial and diverse roles in tumour progression and metastasis, and substantial efforts have been dedicated into understanding the functions of different cell types within the TME. These efforts highlighted the importance of non-cell-autonomous signalling in cancer, mediating interactions between the cancer cells, the immune microenvironment and the non-immune stroma. Much of this non-cell-autonomous signalling is mediated through acellular components of the TME, known as the extracellular matrix (ECM), and controlled by the cells that secrete and remodel the ECM - the cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). In this Review, we delve into the complex crosstalk among cancer cells, CAFs and immune cells, highlighting the effects of CAF-induced ECM remodelling on T cell functions and offering insights into the potential of targeting ECM components to improve cancer therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ludovica Arpinati
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, The Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Giulia Carradori
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, The Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Ruth Scherz-Shouval
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, The Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel.
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Li X, Hou W, Xiao C, Yang H, Zhao C, Cao D. Panoramic tumor microenvironment in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Cell Oncol (Dordr) 2024; 47:1561-1578. [PMID: 39008192 DOI: 10.1007/s13402-024-00970-6] [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] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is notorious for its resistance to various treatment modalities. The genetic heterogeneity of PDAC, coupled with the presence of a desmoplastic stroma within the tumor microenvironment (TME), contributes to an unfavorable prognosis. The mechanisms and consequences of interactions among different cell types, along with spatial variations influencing cellular function, potentially play a role in the pathogenesis of PDAC. Understanding the diverse compositions of the TME and elucidating the functions of microscopic neighborhoods may contribute to understanding the immune microenvironment status in pancreatic cancer. As we delve into the spatial biology of the microscopic neighborhoods within the TME, aiding in deciphering the factors that orchestrate this intricate ecosystem. This overview delineates the fundamental constituents and the structural arrangement of the PDAC microenvironment, highlighting their impact on cancer cell biology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoying Li
- Department of Abdominal Oncology, Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610017, People's Republic of China
| | - Wanting Hou
- Department of Abdominal Oncology, Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610017, People's Republic of China
| | - Chaoxin Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China HospitaL, Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610017, People's Republic of China
| | - Heqi Yang
- Department of Abdominal Oncology, Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610017, People's Republic of China
| | - Chengjian Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China HospitaL, Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610017, People's Republic of China
| | - Dan Cao
- Department of Abdominal Oncology, Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610017, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Ju Y, Xu D, Liao MM, Sun Y, Bao WD, Yao F, Ma L. Barriers and opportunities in pancreatic cancer immunotherapy. NPJ Precis Oncol 2024; 8:199. [PMID: 39266715 PMCID: PMC11393360 DOI: 10.1038/s41698-024-00681-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 08/27/2024] [Indexed: 09/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) presents a fatal clinical challenge characterized by a dismal 5-year overall survival rate, primarily due to the lack of early diagnosis and limited therapeutic efficacy. Immunotherapy, a proven success in multiple cancers, has yet to demonstrate significant benefits in PDAC. Recent studies have revealed the immunosuppressive characteristics of the PDAC tumor microenvironment (TME), including immune cells with suppressive properties, desmoplastic stroma, microbiome influences, and PDAC-specific signaling pathways. In this article, we review recent advances in understanding the immunosuppressive TME of PDAC, TME differences among various mouse models of pancreatic cancer, and the mechanisms underlying resistance to immunotherapeutic interventions. Furthermore, we discuss the potential of targeting cancer cell-intrinsic pathways and TME components to sensitize PDAC to immune therapies, providing insights into strategies and future perspectives to break through the barriers in improving pancreatic cancer treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yixin Ju
- Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, College of Biomedicine and Health, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430070, China
- Shenzhen Institute of Nutrition and Health, Huazhong Agricultural University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518000, China
| | - Dongzhi Xu
- Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, College of Biomedicine and Health, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430070, China
- Shenzhen Institute of Nutrition and Health, Huazhong Agricultural University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518000, China
| | - Miao-Miao Liao
- Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, College of Biomedicine and Health, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430070, China
| | - Yutong Sun
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Wen-Dai Bao
- Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, College of Biomedicine and Health, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430070, China
| | - Fan Yao
- Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, College of Biomedicine and Health, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430070, China.
- Shenzhen Institute of Nutrition and Health, Huazhong Agricultural University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518000, China.
- Shenzhen Branch, Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Genome Analysis Laboratory of the Ministry of Agriculture, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518000, China.
| | - Li Ma
- Department of Experimental Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Houston Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Rahman M, Akter K, Ahmed KR, Fahim MMH, Aktary N, Park MN, Shin SW, Kim B. Synergistic Strategies for Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer: Targeting AR-V7, Exploring Natural Compounds, and Optimizing FDA-Approved Therapies. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:2777. [PMID: 39199550 PMCID: PMC11352813 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16162777] [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: 07/01/2024] [Revised: 07/29/2024] [Accepted: 08/03/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) remains a significant therapeutic challenge due to its resistance to standard androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). The emergence of androgen receptor splice variant 7 (AR-V7) has been implicated in CRPC progression, contributing to treatment resistance. Current treatments, including first-generation chemotherapy, androgen receptor blockers, radiation therapy, immune therapy, and PARP inhibitors, often come with substantial side effects and limited efficacy. Natural compounds, particularly those derived from herbal medicine, have garnered increasing interest as adjunctive therapeutic agents against CRPC. This review explores the role of AR-V7 in CRPC and highlights the promising benefits of natural compounds as complementary treatments to conventional drugs in reducing CRPC and overcoming therapeutic resistance. We delve into the mechanisms of action underlying the anti-CRPC effects of natural compounds, showcasing their potential to enhance therapeutic outcomes while mitigating the side effects associated with conventional therapies. The exploration of natural compounds offers promising avenues for developing novel treatment strategies that enhance therapeutic outcomes and reduce the adverse effects of conventional CRPC therapies. These compounds provide a safer, more effective approach to managing CRPC, representing a significant advancement in improving patient care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Muntajin Rahman
- Department of Pathology, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea; (M.R.); (K.R.A.); (M.M.H.F.); (N.A.); (M.N.P.)
| | - Khadija Akter
- Department of Plasma Bio Display, Kwangwoon University, Seoul 01897, Republic of Korea;
| | - Kazi Rejvee Ahmed
- Department of Pathology, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea; (M.R.); (K.R.A.); (M.M.H.F.); (N.A.); (M.N.P.)
| | - Md. Maharub Hossain Fahim
- Department of Pathology, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea; (M.R.); (K.R.A.); (M.M.H.F.); (N.A.); (M.N.P.)
| | - Nahida Aktary
- Department of Pathology, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea; (M.R.); (K.R.A.); (M.M.H.F.); (N.A.); (M.N.P.)
| | - Moon Nyeo Park
- Department of Pathology, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea; (M.R.); (K.R.A.); (M.M.H.F.); (N.A.); (M.N.P.)
| | - Sang-Won Shin
- Department of Humanities & Social Medicine, School of Korean Medicine, Pusan National University, 49 Busandaehak-ro, Mulgeum-eup, Yangsan-si 50612, Republic of Korea
| | - Bonglee Kim
- Department of Pathology, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea; (M.R.); (K.R.A.); (M.M.H.F.); (N.A.); (M.N.P.)
- Department of Plasma Bio Display, Kwangwoon University, Seoul 01897, Republic of Korea;
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Fu Y, Tao J, Liu T, Liu Y, Qiu J, Su D, Wang R, Luo W, Cao Z, Weng G, Zhang T, Zhao Y. Unbiasedly decoding the tumor microenvironment with single-cell multiomics analysis in pancreatic cancer. Mol Cancer 2024; 23:140. [PMID: 38982491 PMCID: PMC11232163 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-024-02050-7] [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: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a highly aggressive malignancy with a poor prognosis and limited therapeutic options. Research on the tumor microenvironment (TME) of PDAC has propelled the development of immunotherapeutic and targeted therapeutic strategies with a promising future. The emergence of single-cell sequencing and mass spectrometry technologies, coupled with spatial omics, has collectively revealed the heterogeneity of the TME from a multiomics perspective, outlined the development trajectories of cell lineages, and revealed important functions of previously underrated myeloid cells and tumor stroma cells. Concurrently, these findings necessitated more refined annotations of biological functions at the cell cluster or single-cell level. Precise identification of all cell clusters is urgently needed to determine whether they have been investigated adequately and to identify target cell clusters with antitumor potential, design compatible treatment strategies, and determine treatment resistance. Here, we summarize recent research on the PDAC TME at the single-cell multiomics level, with an unbiased focus on the functions and potential classification bases of every cellular component within the TME, and look forward to the prospects of integrating single-cell multiomics data and retrospectively reusing bulk sequencing data, hoping to provide new insights into the PDAC TME.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yifan Fu
- General Surgery Department, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
- 4+4 Medical Doctor Program, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Jinxin Tao
- General Surgery Department, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Tao Liu
- General Surgery Department, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Yueze Liu
- General Surgery Department, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Jiangdong Qiu
- General Surgery Department, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Dan Su
- General Surgery Department, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Ruobing Wang
- General Surgery Department, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Wenhao Luo
- General Surgery Department, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Zhe Cao
- General Surgery Department, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Guihu Weng
- General Surgery Department, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Taiping Zhang
- General Surgery Department, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China.
- Clinical Immunology Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China.
| | - Yupei Zhao
- General Surgery Department, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China.
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Papavassiliou KA, Papavassiliou AG. Hungry for fat: Metabolic crosstalk with lipid-rich CAFs fuels pancreatic cancer. Cell Metab 2024; 36:1172-1174. [PMID: 38838639 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmet.2024.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
Some cancers prefer to metabolize lipids for their growth and metastasis. In a recent Cancer Cell study, Niu et al. revealed that SET domain containing 2, histone lysine methyltransferase (SETD2)-deficient pancreatic cancer cells induce the differentiation of lipid-laden cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), which, in turn, transport lipids to promote tumor growth.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kostas A Papavassiliou
- First University Department of Respiratory Medicine, "Sotiria" Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Athanasios G Papavassiliou
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece.
| |
Collapse
|