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Peng Z, Wang S, Wen D, Mei Z, Zhang H, Liao S, Lv L, Li C. FEN1 upregulation mediated by SUMO2 via antagonizing proteasomal degradation promotes hepatocellular carcinoma stemness. Transl Oncol 2024; 44:101916. [PMID: 38513457 PMCID: PMC10966306 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2024.101916] [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: 09/24/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) critically impacts the survival prognosis of patients, with the pivotal role of hepatocellular carcinoma stem cells in initiating invasive metastatic behaviors. The Flap Endonuclease 1 (FEN1) is delineated as a metallonuclease, quintessential for myriad cellular processes including DNA replication, DNA synthesis, DNA damage rectification, Okazaki fragment maturation, baseexcision repair, and the preservation of genomic stability. Furthermore, it has been recognized as an oncogene in a diverse range of malignancies. Our antecedent research has highlighted a pronounced overexpression of protein FEN1 in hepatocellular carcinoma, where it amplifies the invasiveness and metastatic potential of liver cancer cells. However, its precise role in liver cancer stem cells (LCSCs) remains an enigma and requires further investigation. METHODS To rigorously evaluate the stemness attributes of LCSCs, we employed sphere formation assays and flow cytometric evaluations. Both CD133+ and CD133- cell populations were discerningly isolated utilizing immunomagnetic bead separation techniques. The expression levels of pertinent genes were assayed via real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) and western blot analyses, while the expression profiles in hepatocellular carcinoma tissues were gauged using immunohistochemistry. Subsequent immunoprecipitation, in conjunction with mass spectrometry, ascertained the concurrent binding of proteins FEN1 and Small ubiquitin-related modifier 2 (SUMO2) in HCC cells. Lastly, the impact of SUMO2 on proteasomal degradation pathway of FEN1 was validated by supplementing MG132. RESULTS Our empirical findings substantiate that protein FEN1 is profusely expressed in spheroids and CD133+ cells. In vitro investigations demonstrate that the upregulation of protein FEN1 unequivocally augments the stemness of LCSCs. In a congruent in vivo context, elevation of FEN1 noticeably enhances the tumorigenic potential of LCSCs. Conversely, inhibiting protein FEN1 resulted in a marked reduction in LCSC stemness. From a mechanistic perspective, there exists a salient positive correlation between the protein expression of FEN1 and SUMO2 in liver cancer tissues. Furthermore, the level of SUMO2-mediated modification of FEN1 is pronouncedly elevated in LCSCs. Interestingly, SUMO2 has the ability to bind to FEN1, leading to a inhibition in the proteasomal degradation pathway of FEN1 and an enhancement in its protein expression. However, it is noteworthy that this interaction does not affect the mRNA level of FEN1. CONCLUSION In summation, our research elucidates that protein FEN1 is an effector in augmenting the stemness of LCSCs. Consequently, strategic attenuation of protein FEN1 might proffer a pioneering approach for the efficacious elimination of LCSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenxiang Peng
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Linjiang Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing 400010, PR China
| | - Shuling Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Linjiang Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing 400010, PR China
| | - Diguang Wen
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Linjiang Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing 400010, PR China
| | - Zhechuan Mei
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Linjiang Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing 400010, PR China.
| | - Hao Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Linjiang Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing 400010, PR China.
| | - Shengtao Liao
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Linjiang Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing 400010, PR China.
| | - Lin Lv
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Linjiang Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing 400010, PR China.
| | - Chuanfei Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Linjiang Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing 400010, PR China.
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Qin Y, Han S, Yu Y, Qi D, Ran M, Yang M, Liu Y, Li Y, Lu L, Liu Y, Li Y. Lenvatinib in hepatocellular carcinoma: Resistance mechanisms and strategies for improved efficacy. Liver Int 2024. [PMID: 38700443 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15953] [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: 01/07/2024] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), one of the most prevalent and destructive causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide, approximately 70% of patients with HCC exhibit advanced disease at diagnosis, limiting the potential for radical treatment. For such patients, lenvatinib, a long-awaited alternative to sorafenib for first-line targeted therapy, has become a key treatment. Unfortunately, despite some progress, the prognosis for advanced HCC remains poor because of drug resistance development. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying lenvatinib resistance and ways to relief drug resistance in HCC are largely unknown and lack of systematic summary; thus, this review not only aims to explore factors contributing to lenvatinib resistance in HCC, but more importantly, summary potential methods to conquer or mitigate the resistance. The results suggest that abnormal activation of pathways, drug transport, epigenetics, tumour microenvironment, cancer stem cells, regulated cell death, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and other mechanisms are involved in the development of lenvatinib resistance in HCC and subsequent HCC progression. To improve the therapeutic outcomes of lenvatinib, inhibiting acquired resistance, combined therapies, and nano-delivery carriers may be possible approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongqing Qin
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai Clinical Medical College of Jinan University (Zhuhai People's Hospital), Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| | - Shisong Han
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai Clinical Medical College of Jinan University (Zhuhai People's Hospital), Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| | - Yahan Yu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai Clinical Medical College of Jinan University (Zhuhai People's Hospital), Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| | - Ding Qi
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai Clinical Medical College of Jinan University (Zhuhai People's Hospital), Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| | - Mengnan Ran
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai Clinical Medical College of Jinan University (Zhuhai People's Hospital), Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
- School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Mingqi Yang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai Clinical Medical College of Jinan University (Zhuhai People's Hospital), Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| | - Yanyan Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai Clinical Medical College of Jinan University (Zhuhai People's Hospital), Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| | - Yunyi Li
- Department of Nephrology, First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ligong Lu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai Clinical Medical College of Jinan University (Zhuhai People's Hospital), Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| | - Yu Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai Clinical Medical College of Jinan University (Zhuhai People's Hospital), Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| | - Yong Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai Clinical Medical College of Jinan University (Zhuhai People's Hospital), Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
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3
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Loh JJ, Ma S. Hallmarks of cancer stemness. Cell Stem Cell 2024; 31:617-639. [PMID: 38701757 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2024.04.004] [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: 12/31/2023] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
Cancer stemness is recognized as a key component of tumor development. Previously coined "cancer stem cells" (CSCs) and believed to be a rare population with rigid hierarchical organization, there is good evidence to suggest that these cells exhibit a plastic cellular state influenced by dynamic CSC-niche interplay. This revelation underscores the need to reevaluate the hallmarks of cancer stemness. Herein, we summarize the techniques used to identify and characterize the state of these cells and discuss their defining and emerging hallmarks, along with their enabling and associated features. We also highlight potential future directions in this field of research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Jian Loh
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Stephanie Ma
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; State Key Laboratory of Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; Laboratory of Synthetic Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Hong Kong Science and Technology Park, Hong Kong SAR, China; Centre for Translational and Stem Cell Biology, Hong Kong Science and Technology Park, Hong Kong SAR, China.
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4
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Ma Y, Lv H, Xing F, Xiang W, Wu Z, Feng Q, Wang H, Yang W. Cancer stem cell-immune cell crosstalk in the tumor microenvironment for liver cancer progression. Front Med 2024:10.1007/s11684-023-1049-z. [PMID: 38600350 DOI: 10.1007/s11684-023-1049-z] [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: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
Crosstalk between cancer cells and the immune microenvironment is determinant for liver cancer progression. A tumor subpopulation called liver cancer stem cells (CSCs) significantly accounts for the initiation, metastasis, therapeutic resistance, and recurrence of liver cancer. Emerging evidence demonstrates that the interaction between liver CSCs and immune cells plays a crucial role in shaping an immunosuppressive microenvironment and determining immunotherapy responses. This review sheds light on the bidirectional crosstalk between liver CSCs and immune cells for liver cancer progression, as well as the underlying molecular mechanisms after presenting an overview of liver CSCs characteristic and their microenvironment. Finally, we discuss the potential application of liver CSCs-targeted immunotherapy for liver cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Ma
- Cancer Research Center, First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
- National Center for Liver Cancer, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, 201805, China
| | - Hongwei Lv
- Cancer Research Center, First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
- National Center for Liver Cancer, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, 201805, China
- International Co-operation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Fuxue Xing
- Cancer Research Center, First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
- National Center for Liver Cancer, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, 201805, China
| | - Wei Xiang
- Cancer Research Center, First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
- National Center for Liver Cancer, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, 201805, China
| | - Zixin Wu
- Cancer Research Center, First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
- National Center for Liver Cancer, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, 201805, China
| | - Qiyu Feng
- Cancer Research Center, First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
- National Center for Liver Cancer, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, 201805, China
| | - Hongyang Wang
- Cancer Research Center, First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China.
- National Center for Liver Cancer, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, 201805, China.
- International Co-operation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, 200438, China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hepato-biliary Tumor Biology, Shanghai, 200438, China.
- Key Laboratory of Signaling Regulation and Targeting Therapy of Liver Cancer, Ministry of Education, Shanghai, 200438, China.
| | - Wen Yang
- Cancer Research Center, First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China.
- National Center for Liver Cancer, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, 201805, China.
- International Co-operation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, 200438, China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hepato-biliary Tumor Biology, Shanghai, 200438, China.
- Key Laboratory of Signaling Regulation and Targeting Therapy of Liver Cancer, Ministry of Education, Shanghai, 200438, China.
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Lamichhane A, Tavana H. Three-Dimensional Tumor Models to Study Cancer Stemness-Mediated Drug Resistance. Cell Mol Bioeng 2024; 17:107-119. [PMID: 38737455 PMCID: PMC11082110 DOI: 10.1007/s12195-024-00798-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Solid tumors often contain genetically different populations of cancer cells, stromal cells, various structural and soluble proteins, and other soluble signaling molecules. The American Cancer society estimated 1,958,310 new cancer cases and 609,820 cancer deaths in the United States in 2023. A major barrier against successful treatment of cancer patients is drug resistance. Gain of stem cell-like states by cancer cells under drug pressure or due to interactions with the tumor microenvironment is a major mechanism that renders therapies ineffective. Identifying approaches to target cancer stem cells is expected to improve treatment outcomes for patients. Most of our understanding of drug resistance and the role of cancer stemness is from monolayer cell cultures. Recent advances in cell culture technologies have enabled developing sophisticated three-dimensional tumor models that facilitate mechanistic studies of cancer drug resistance. This review summarizes the role of cancer stemness in drug resistance and highlights the various tumor models that are used to discover the underlying mechanisms and test potentially novel therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Astha Lamichhane
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Akron, Akron, OH 44325 USA
| | - Hossein Tavana
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Akron, Akron, OH 44325 USA
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Zhang R, Yao Y, Gao H, Hu X. Mechanisms of angiogenesis in tumour. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1359069. [PMID: 38590656 PMCID: PMC10999665 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1359069] [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: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Angiogenesis is essential for tumour growth and metastasis. Antiangiogenic factor-targeting drugs have been approved as first line agents in a variety of oncology treatments. Clinical drugs frequently target the VEGF signalling pathway during sprouting angiogenesis. Accumulating evidence suggests that tumours can evade antiangiogenic therapy through other angiogenesis mechanisms in addition to the vascular sprouting mechanism involving endothelial cells. These mechanisms include (1) sprouting angiogenesis, (2) vasculogenic mimicry, (3) vessel intussusception, (4) vascular co-option, (5) cancer stem cell-derived angiogenesis, and (6) bone marrow-derived angiogenesis. Other non-sprouting angiogenic mechanisms are not entirely dependent on the VEGF signalling pathway. In clinical practice, the conversion of vascular mechanisms is closely related to the enhancement of tumour drug resistance, which often leads to clinical treatment failure. This article summarizes recent studies on six processes of tumour angiogenesis and provides suggestions for developing more effective techniques to improve the efficacy of antiangiogenic treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Xin Hu
- China–Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, China
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7
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Huang H, Tsui YM, Ho DWH, Chung CYS, Sze KMF, Lee E, Cheung GCH, Zhang VX, Wang X, Lyu X, Ng IOL. LANCL1, a cell surface protein, promotes liver tumor initiation through FAM49B-Rac1 axis to suppress oxidative stress. Hepatology 2024; 79:323-340. [PMID: 37540188 PMCID: PMC10789379 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000523] [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: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS HCC is an aggressive cancer with a poor clinical outcome. Understanding the mechanisms that drive tumor initiation is important for improving treatment strategy. This study aimed to identify functional cell membrane proteins that promote HCC tumor initiation. APPROACH AND RESULTS Tailor-made siRNA library screening was performed for all membrane protein-encoding genes that are upregulated in human HCC (n = 134), with sphere formation as a surrogate readout for tumor initiation. Upon confirmation of membranous localization by immunofluorescence and tumor initiation ability by limiting dilution assay in vivo, LanC-like protein-1 (LANCL1) was selected for further characterization. LANCL1 suppressed intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and promoted tumorigenicity both in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, with mass spectrometry, FAM49B was identified as a downstream binding partner of LANCL1. LANCL1 stabilized FAM49B by blocking the interaction of FAM49B with the specific E3 ubiquitin ligase TRIM21, thus protecting FAM49B from ubiquitin-proteasome degradation. The LANCL1-FAM49B axis suppressed the Rac1-NADPH oxidase-driven ROS production, but this suppression of ROS was independent of the glutathione transferase function of LANCL1. Clinically, HCCs with high co-expression of LANCL1 and FAM49B were associated with more advanced tumor stage, poorer overall survival, and disease-free survival. In addition, anti-LANCL1 antibodies targeting the extracellular N-terminal domain were able to suppress the self-renewal ability, as demonstrated by the sphere formation ability of HCC cells. CONCLUSIONS Our data showed that LANCL1 is a cell surface protein and a key contributor to HCC initiation. Targeting the LANCL1-FAM49B-Rac1-NADPH oxidase-ROS signaling axis may be a promising therapeutic strategy for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyang Huang
- Department of Pathology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
- State Key Laboratory of Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Yu-Man Tsui
- Department of Pathology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
- State Key Laboratory of Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Daniel Wai-Hung Ho
- Department of Pathology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
- State Key Laboratory of Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Clive Yik-Sham Chung
- Department of Pathology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Karen Man-Fong Sze
- Department of Pathology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
- State Key Laboratory of Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Eva Lee
- Department of Pathology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
- State Key Laboratory of Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Gary Cheuk-Hang Cheung
- Department of Pathology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
- State Key Laboratory of Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Vanilla Xin Zhang
- Department of Pathology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
- State Key Laboratory of Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Xia Wang
- Department of Pathology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
- State Key Laboratory of Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Xueying Lyu
- Department of Pathology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
- State Key Laboratory of Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Irene Oi-Lin Ng
- Department of Pathology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
- State Key Laboratory of Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
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Soundararajan L, Warrier S, Dharmarajan A, Bhaskaran N. Predominant factors influencing reactive oxygen species in cancer stem cells. J Cell Biochem 2024; 125:3-21. [PMID: 37997702 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.30506] [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: 08/19/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and its related signaling pathways and regulating molecules play a major role in the growth and development of cancer stem cells. The concept of ROS and cancer stem cells (CSCs) has been gaining much attention since the past decade and the evidence show that these CSCs possess robust self-renewal and tumorigenic potential and are resistant to conventional chemo- and radiotherapy and believed to be responsible for tumor progression, metastasis, and recurrence. It seems reasonable to say that cancer can be cured only if the CSCs are eradicated. ROS are Janus-faced molecules that can regulate cellular physiology as well as induce cytotoxicity, depending on the magnitude, duration, and site of generation. Unlike normal cancer cells, CSCs expel ROS efficiently by upregulating ROS scavengers. This unique redox regulation in CSCs protects them from ROS-mediated cell death and nullifies the effect of radiation, leading to chemoresistance and radioresistance. However, how these CSCs control ROS production by scavenging free radicals and how they maintain low levels of ROS is a challenging to understand and these attributes make CSCs as prime therapeutic targets. Here, we summarize the mechanisms of redox regulation in CSCs, with a focus on therapy resistance, its various pathways and microRNAs regulation, and the potential therapeutic implications of manipulating the ROS levels to eradicate CSCs. A better understanding of these molecules, their interactions in the CSCs may help us to adopt proper control and treatment measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loshini Soundararajan
- Manipal Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Sudha Warrier
- Manipal Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Bangalore, Karnataka, India
- Division of Cancer Stem Cells and Cardiovascular Regeneration, Manipal Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
- Cuor Stem Cellutions Pvt Ltd., Manipal Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
- Department of Biotechnology, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences and Technology, Chennai, Tamil Nādu, India
| | - Arun Dharmarajan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research (SRIHER), Faculty of Biomedical Sciences and Technology, Chennai, Tamil Nādu, India
- Stem Cell and Cancer Biology laboratory, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Curtin Health and Innovation Research Institute, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- School of Human Sciences, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Natarajan Bhaskaran
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research (SRIHER), Faculty of Biomedical Sciences and Technology, Chennai, Tamil Nādu, India
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Rohan P, dos Santos EC, Abdelhay E, Binato R. High Expression of THY1 in Intestinal Gastric Cancer as a Key Factor in Tumor Biology: A Poor Prognosis-Independent Marker Related to the Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition Profile. Genes (Basel) 2023; 15:28. [PMID: 38254918 PMCID: PMC10815053 DOI: 10.3390/genes15010028] [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: 12/03/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer (GC) is an important cancer-related death worldwide. Among its histological subtypes, intestinal gastric cancer (IGC) is the most common. A previous work showed that increased expression of the THY1 gene was associated with poor overall survival in IGC. Furthermore, it was shown that IGC tumor cells with high expression of THY1 have a greater capacity for tumorigenesis and metastasis in vitro. This study aimed to identify molecular differences between IGC with high and low expression of THY1. Using a feature selection method, a group of 35 genes were found to be the most informative gene set for THY1high IGC tumors. Through a classification model, these genes differentiate THY1high from THY1low tumors with 100% of accuracy both in the test subset and the independent test set. Additionally, this group of 35 genes correctly clustered 100% of the samples. An extensive validation of this potential molecular signature in multiple cohorts successfully segregated between THY1high and THY1low IGC tumors (>95%), proving to be independent of the gene expression quantification methodology. These genes are involved in central processes to tumor biology, such as the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and remodeling of the tumor tissue composition. Moreover, patients with THY1high IGC demonstrated poor survival and a more advanced clinicopathological staging. Our findings revealed a molecular signature for IGC with high THY1 expression. This signature showed EMT and remodeling of the tumor tissue composition potentially related to the biology of IGC. Altogether, our results indicate that THY1high IGC tumors are a particular subset of tumors with a specific molecular and prognosis profile.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Renata Binato
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +55-21-3207-1874; Fax: +55-21-2509-2121
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10
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Zhang N, Chen R, Cao X, Wang L. Aberrantly expressed HIF-1α enhances HCC stem cell-like traits via Wnt/β-catenin signaling activation after insufficient radiofrequency ablation. J Cancer Res Ther 2023; 19:1517-1524. [PMID: 38156917 DOI: 10.4103/jcrt.jcrt_1458_21] [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: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Radiofrequency ablation has become a favorable treatment modality for small hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) recently; however, insufficient radiofrequency ablation (RFA) was shown to lead to enhanced invasiveness and metastasis of HCC in our previous study, while the underlying molecular mechanism has not been understood. MATERIALS AND METHODS In order to explore the influence of the hypoxic microenvironment on residual cancer and cancer stem cell (CSC)-like characteristics of HCC cells in this process, an in vitro hypoxic model and an insufficient RFA mouse model were established with HCC cancer cell lines. Immunochemistry staining and western blot were used to examine the expression of hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1α and liver CSC markers. The 3D colon formation assay, tumor cell invasion assay, and gene transfection assays were applied to test the change in liver CSC stemness and HCC cell invasion. RESULTS After insufficient RFA treatment, the upregulated HIF-1α expression was associated with an increase in the CSC-like population in residual cancer. In vitro, hypoxic tumor cells showed aggressive CSC-like properties and phenotypes. Wnt/β-catenin signaling activation was shown to be necessary for the acquisition of liver CSC-like characteristics under hypoxic conditions. CONCLUSION Overall, the aberrantly enhanced HIF-1α expression enhanced the liver CSC-like traits via abnormal Wnt/β-catenin signaling activation after insufficient RFA, and the overexpressed HIF-1α would be a vital factor and useful biomarker during the HCC recurrence and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Zhang
- Department of Hepatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Ruoxue Chen
- Zhongshan Hospital Institute of Clinical Science, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Cao
- Zhongshan Hospital Institute of Clinical Science, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai, China
| | - Lu Wang
- Department of Hepatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
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11
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Fernandes Q, Therachiyil L, Khan AQ, Bedhiafi T, Korashy HM, Bhat AA, Uddin S. Shrinking the battlefield in cancer therapy: Nanotechnology against cancer stem cells. Eur J Pharm Sci 2023; 191:106586. [PMID: 37729956 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2023.106586] [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: 06/24/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
Cancer remains one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide, presenting a significant healthcare challenge owing to the limited efficacy of current treatments. The application of nanotechnology in cancer treatment leverages the unique optical, magnetic, and electrical attributes of nanomaterials to engineer innovative, targeted therapies. Specifically, manipulating nanomaterials allows for enhanced drug loading efficiency, improved bioavailability, and targeted delivery systems, reducing the non-specific cytotoxic effects characteristic of conventional chemotherapies. Furthermore, recent advances in nanotechnology have demonstrated encouraging results in specifically targeting CSCs, a key development considering the role of these cells in disease recurrence and resistance to treatment. Despite these breakthroughs, the clinical approval rates of nano-drugs have not kept pace with research advances, pointing to existing obstacles that must be addressed. In conclusion, nanotechnology presents a novel, powerful tool in the fight against cancer, particularly in targeting the elusive and treatment-resistant CSCs. This comprehensive review delves into the intricacies of nanotherapy, explicitly targeting cancer stem cells, their markers, and associated signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Queenie Fernandes
- College of Medicine, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar; Translational Cancer Research Facility, Hamad Medical Corporation, National Center for Cancer Care and Research, PO. Box 3050, Doha, Qatar
| | - Lubna Therachiyil
- Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Translational Research Institute, Doha 3050, Qatar; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar
| | - Abdul Q Khan
- Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Translational Research Institute, Doha 3050, Qatar
| | - Takwa Bedhiafi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar
| | - Hesham M Korashy
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar
| | - Ajaz A Bhat
- Department of Human Genetics-Precision Medicine in Diabetes, Obesity and Cancer Program, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar
| | - Shahab Uddin
- College of Medicine, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar; Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Dermatology Institute, Doha 3050, Qatar; Laboratory of Animal Research Center, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar; Department of Biosciences, Integral University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh 22602, India.
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12
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Yang S, Ruan X, Hu B, Tu J, Cai H. lncRNA SNHG9 enhances liver cancer stem cell self-renewal and tumorigenicity by negatively regulating PTEN expression via recruiting EZH2. Cell Tissue Res 2023; 394:441-453. [PMID: 37851112 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-023-03834-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: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023]
Abstract
Liver cancer stem cell (CSC) self-renewal and tumorigenesis are important causes of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) recurrence. We purposed to investigate the function of long noncoding RNA small nucleolar RNA host gene 9 (SNHG9) in liver CSC self-renewal and tumorigenesis in this study. Flow cytometry was carried out to separate CD133+ Populations and CD133- Populations from HCC cell lines. A combination of CD133+ cells and Matrigel matrix was subcutaneously injected to create the NOD-SCID mouse xenograft tumor model. Colony formation test and spheroids formation assay were carried out to clarify the impact of SNHG9 on the self-renewal of liver CSCs. RNA immunoprecipitation, RNA-pull down, and chromatin immunoprecipitation were performed on CD133+ cells to elucidate the mechanism of SNHG9 regulating PTEN expression. We found that SNHG9 was highly expressed in HCC clinical samples, HCC cells, and CD133+ cells. In vitro, interference with SNHG9 prevented the formation of colonies and spheroids in liver CSC cells and primary HCC cells. In vivo, interference with SNHG9 reduced the tumor volume and weight. SNHG9 could bind to EZH2, and SNHG9 interference suppressed EZH2 recruitment and H3K27me3 levels in the PTEN promoter region. In addition, SNHG9 inhibition promoted PTEN expression while having little impact on EZH2 levels. Interference with SNHG9 inhibited liver CSC self-renewal and tumorigenesis by up-regulating PTEN levels. In conclusion, by binding to EZH2, SNHG9 down-regulated PTEN levels, promoting liver CSC self-renewal and tumor formation, and exacerbating HCC progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shouzhang Yang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Nan Bai Xiang Street, Ouhai District, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Xiaojiao Ruan
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Bingren Hu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Nan Bai Xiang Street, Ouhai District, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Jinfu Tu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Nan Bai Xiang Street, Ouhai District, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Huajie Cai
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Nan Bai Xiang Street, Ouhai District, Wenzhou, 325000, China.
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13
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Li YR, Fang Y, Lyu Z, Zhu Y, Yang L. Exploring the dynamic interplay between cancer stem cells and the tumor microenvironment: implications for novel therapeutic strategies. J Transl Med 2023; 21:686. [PMID: 37784157 PMCID: PMC10546755 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04575-9] [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: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) have emerged as key contributors to tumor initiation, growth, and metastasis. In addition, CSCs play a significant role in inducing immune evasion, thereby compromising the effectiveness of cancer treatments. The reciprocal communication between CSCs and the tumor microenvironment (TME) is observed, with the TME providing a supportive niche for CSC survival and self-renewal, while CSCs, in turn, influence the polarization and persistence of the TME, promoting an immunosuppressive state. Consequently, these interactions hinder the efficacy of current cancer therapies, necessitating the exploration of novel therapeutic approaches to modulate the TME and target CSCs. In this review, we highlight the intricate strategies employed by CSCs to evade immune surveillance and develop resistance to therapies. Furthermore, we examine the dynamic interplay between CSCs and the TME, shedding light on how this interaction impacts cancer progression. Moreover, we provide an overview of advanced therapeutic strategies that specifically target CSCs and the TME, which hold promise for future clinical and translational studies in cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Ruide Li
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.
| | - Ying Fang
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Zibai Lyu
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Yichen Zhu
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Lili Yang
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.
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14
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Liu HQ, Sun LX, Yu L, Liu J, Sun LC, Yang ZH, Shu X, Ran YL. HSP90, as a functional target antigen of a mAb 11C9, promotes stemness and tumor progression in hepatocellular carcinoma. Stem Cell Res Ther 2023; 14:273. [PMID: 37759328 PMCID: PMC10523703 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-023-03453-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: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Identification of promising targeted antigens that exhibited cancer-specific expression is a crucial step in the development of novel antibody-targeted therapies. We here aimed to investigate the anti-tumor activity of a novel monoclonal antibody (mAb) 11C9 and identify the antibody tractable target in the hepatocellular cancer stem cells (HCSCs). METHODS The identification of the targeted antigen was conducted using SDS-PAGE, western blot, mass spectrometry, and co-immunoprecipitation. Silence of HSP90 was induced by siRNA interference. Positive cells were sorted by fluorescence-activated cell sorting. Double-immunofluorescent (IF) staining and two-color flow cytometry detected the co-expression. Self-renewal, invasion, and drug resistance were assessed by sphere formation, matrigel-coated Transwell assay, and CCK-8 assay, respectively. Tumorigenicity was evaluated in mouse xenograft models. RNA-seq and bioinformatics analysis were performed to explore the mechanism of mAb 11C9 and potential targets. RESULTS MAb 11C9 inhibited invasion and self-renewal abilities of HCC cell lines and reversed the cisplatin resistance. HSP90 (~ 95 kDa) was identified as a targeted antigen of mAb 11C9. Tissue microarrays and online databases revealed that HSP90 was overexpressed in HCC and associated with a poor prognosis. FACS and double-IF staining showed the co-expression of HSP90 and CSCs markers (CD90 and ESA). In vitro and in vivo demonstrated the tumorigenic potentials of HSP90. The inhibition of HSP90 by siRNA interference or 17-AAG inhibitor both decreased the number of invasion, sphere cells, and CD90+ or ESA+ cells, as well as reversed the resistance. Bioinformatics analysis and western blot verified that HSP90 activated Wnt/β-catenin signaling. CONCLUSIONS The study preliminarily revealed the anti-tumor activity of mAb 11C9. More importantly, we identified HSP90 as a targeted antigen of mAb 11C9, which functions as an oncogene in phenotype shaping, stemness maintenance, and therapeutic resistance by activating Wnt/β-catenin signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Qi Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, No. 17 Panjiayuan Subdistrict, Chaoyang, Beijing, 100021 People’s Republic of China
| | - Li-Xin Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, No. 17 Panjiayuan Subdistrict, Chaoyang, Beijing, 100021 People’s Republic of China
| | - Long Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, No. 17 Panjiayuan Subdistrict, Chaoyang, Beijing, 100021 People’s Republic of China
| | - Jun Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, No. 17 Panjiayuan Subdistrict, Chaoyang, Beijing, 100021 People’s Republic of China
| | - Li-Chao Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, No. 17 Panjiayuan Subdistrict, Chaoyang, Beijing, 100021 People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhi-Hua Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, No. 17 Panjiayuan Subdistrict, Chaoyang, Beijing, 100021 People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiong Shu
- National Center for Orthopaedics, Beijing Research Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedics, Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, No. 31 Xinjiekou E Road, Xicheng, Beijing, 100035 People’s Republic of China
| | - Yu-Liang Ran
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, No. 17 Panjiayuan Subdistrict, Chaoyang, Beijing, 100021 People’s Republic of China
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15
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Kim MS, Lee WS, Jin W. TrkB inhibition of DJ-1 degradation promotes the growth and maintenance of cancer stem cell characteristics in hepatocellular carcinoma. Cell Mol Life Sci 2023; 80:303. [PMID: 37749450 PMCID: PMC10520132 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-023-04960-z] [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: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
Although TrkB may be associated with the pathogenesis of various cancer by upregulation, how upregulation of TrkB led to tumor progression in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and the signaling mechanisms by which TrkB induces motility, invasion, metastasis, drug resistance, and acquisition of self-renewal traits has remained unclear. Here, we demonstrated that TrkB was significantly upregulated in highly metastatic HCC cells and HCC patients. Also, the increased TrkB levels were significantly correlated with tumor stages and poor survival of HCC patients. Furthermore, the upregulated TrkB expression enhances the metastatic ability of HCC cells through reduced anoikis sensitivity, induced migration, and colony formation. Most strikingly, TrkB markedly enhances the activation of STAT3 by preventing DJ-1 degradation through the formation of the TrkB/DJ-1 complex. This signaling mechanism is responsible for triggering cellular traits of highly aggressive HCC. The activation of the EMT program of HCC via increasing DJ-1 stability by TrkB induces the gain of cancer stem cell states and chemoresistance via the upregulation of stem cells cell markers and ABC transporters. Also, TrkB-mediated inhibition of DJ-1 degradation promotes tumor formation and metastasizes to other organs in vivo. Our observations illustrate that TrkB is a prognostic and therapeutic targeting in promoting aggressiveness and metastasis of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Soo Kim
- Laboratory of Molecular Disease and Cell Regulation, Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Gachon University, Incheon, 21999, Republic of Korea
| | - Won Sung Lee
- Laboratory of Molecular Disease and Cell Regulation, Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Gachon University, Incheon, 21999, Republic of Korea
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, GAIHST, Gachon University, Incheon, 21999, Korea
| | - Wook Jin
- Laboratory of Molecular Disease and Cell Regulation, Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Gachon University, Incheon, 21999, Republic of Korea.
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16
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Chen X, Xu Z, Tang K, Hu G, Du P, Wang J, Zhang C, Xin Y, Li K, Zhang Q, Hu J, Zhang Z, Yang M, Wang G, Tan Y. The Mechanics of Tumor Cells Dictate Malignancy via Cytoskeleton-Mediated APC/Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling. RESEARCH (WASHINGTON, D.C.) 2023; 6:0224. [PMID: 37746658 PMCID: PMC10513157 DOI: 10.34133/research.0224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Tumor cells progressively remodel cytoskeletal structures and reduce cellular stiffness during tumor progression, implicating the correlation between cell mechanics and malignancy. However, the roles of tumor cell cytoskeleton and the mechanics in tumor progression remain incompletely understood. We report that softening/stiffening tumor cells by targeting actomyosin promotes/suppresses self-renewal in vitro and tumorigenic potential in vivo. Weakening/strengthening actin cytoskeleton impairs/reinforces the interaction between adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) and β-catenin, which facilitates β-catenin nuclear/cytoplasmic localization. Nuclear β-catenin binds to the promoter of Oct4, which enhances its transcription that is crucial in sustaining self-renewal and malignancy. These results demonstrate that the mechanics of tumor cells dictate self-renewal through cytoskeleton-APC-Wnt/β-catenin-Oct4 signaling, which are correlated with tumor differentiation and patient survival. This study unveils an uncovered regulatory role of cell mechanics in self-renewal and malignancy, and identifies tumor cell mechanics as a hallmark not only for cancer diagnosis but also for mechanotargeting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Chen
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, 518057, China
- Research Institute of Smart Ageing,
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering,
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Zichen Xu
- Key Laboratory for Biorheological Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, State and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Vascular Implants,
Bioengineering College of Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400030, China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering,
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Kai Tang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering,
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Guanshuo Hu
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, 518057, China
- Research Institute of Smart Ageing,
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering,
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Pengyu Du
- Department of Biomedical Engineering,
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Junfang Wang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering,
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Cunyu Zhang
- Research Institute of Smart Ageing,
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering,
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ying Xin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering,
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Keming Li
- Department of Biomedical Engineering,
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Qiantang Zhang
- Key Laboratory for Biorheological Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, State and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Vascular Implants,
Bioengineering College of Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400030, China
| | - Jianjun Hu
- Department of Pathology, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550002, China
| | - Zhuxue Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550002, China
| | - Mo Yang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering,
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Guixue Wang
- Key Laboratory for Biorheological Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, State and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Vascular Implants,
Bioengineering College of Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400030, China
| | - Youhua Tan
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, 518057, China
- Research Institute of Smart Ageing,
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering,
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
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17
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Rashid K, Ahmad A, Meerasa SS, Khan AQ, Wu X, Liang L, Cui Y, Liu T. Cancer stem cell-derived exosome-induced metastatic cancer: An orchestra within the tumor microenvironment. Biochimie 2023; 212:1-11. [PMID: 37011805 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2023.03.014] [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: 09/03/2022] [Revised: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
Although the mechanisms as well as pathways associated with cancer stem cell (CSC) maintenance, expansion, and tumorigenicity have been extensively studied and the role of tumor cell (TC)-derived exosomes in this process is well understood, there is a paucity of research focusing specifically on the functional mechanisms of CSC-derived exosomes (CSC-Exo)/-exosomal-ncRNAs and their impact on malignancy. This shortcoming needs to be addressed, given that these vesicular and molecular components of CSCs could have a great impact on the cancer initiation, progression, and recurrence through their interaction with other key tumor microenvironment (TME) components, such as MSCs/MSC-Exo and CAFs/CAF-Exo. In particular, understanding CSCs/CSC-Exo and its crosstalk with MSCs/MSC-Exo or CAFs/CAF-Exo that are associated with the proliferation, migration, differentiation, angiogenesis, and metastasis through an enhanced process of self-renewal, chemotherapy as well as radiotherapy resistance may aid cancer treatment. This review contributes to this endeavor by summarizing the characteristic features and functional mechanisms of CSC-Exo/MSC-Exo/CAF-Exo and their mutual impact on cancer progression and therapy resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khalid Rashid
- Department of Cancer Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA.
| | - Aqeel Ahmad
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Shaqra University, Shaqra, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Semmal Syed Meerasa
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, Shaqra University, Shaqra, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdul Q Khan
- Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Xiaobo Wu
- Department of Urology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Li Liang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuehong Cui
- Department of Medical Oncology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Tianshu Liu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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18
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Lv S, Liu Y, Xie C, Xue C, Du S, Yao J. Emerging role of interactions between tumor angiogenesis and cancer stem cells. J Control Release 2023; 360:468-481. [PMID: 37391031 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2023.06.036] [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: 02/20/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023]
Abstract
Tumor angiogenesis and cancer stem cells (CSCs) are two major hallmarks of solid tumors. They have long received attention for their critical roles in tumor progression, metastasis and recurrence. Meanwhile, plenty of evidence indicates the close association between CSCs and tumor vasculature. CSCs are proven to promote tumor angiogenesis, and the highly vascularized tumor microenvironment further maintains CSCs growth in return, thereby forming a hard-breaking vicious circle to promote tumor development. Hence, though monotherapy targeting tumor vasculature or CSCs has been extensively studied over the past decades, the poor prognosis has been limiting the clinical application. This review summarizes the crosstalk between tumor vasculature and CSCs with emphasis on small-molecule compounds and the associated biological signaling pathways. We also highlight the importance of linking tumor vessels to CSCs to disrupt the CSCs-angiogenesis vicious circle. More precise treatment regimens targeting tumor vasculature and CSCs are expected to benefit future tumor treatment development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Lv
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals, Department of Pharmaceutics, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yufei Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals, Department of Pharmaceutics, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Changheng Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals, Department of Pharmaceutics, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Chenyang Xue
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals, Department of Pharmaceutics, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Shi Du
- Division of Pharmaceutics & Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
| | - Jing Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals, Department of Pharmaceutics, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing 210009, China.
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19
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Choudhury A, Cady MA, Lucas CHG, Najem H, Phillips JJ, Palikuqi B, Zakimi N, Joseph T, Birrueta JO, Chen WC, Bush NAO, Hervey-Jumper SL, Klein OD, Toedebusch CM, Horbinski CM, Magill ST, Bhaduri A, Perry A, Dickinson PJ, Heimberger AB, Ashworth A, Crouch EE, Raleigh DR. NOTCH3 drives meningioma tumorigenesis and resistance to radiotherapy. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.07.10.548456. [PMID: 37503127 PMCID: PMC10369862 DOI: 10.1101/2023.07.10.548456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Meningiomas are the most common primary intracranial tumors1-3. Treatments for patients with meningiomas are limited to surgery and radiotherapy, and systemic therapies remain ineffective or experimental4,5. Resistance to radiotherapy is common in high-grade meningiomas6, and the cell types and signaling mechanisms driving meningioma tumorigenesis or resistance to radiotherapy are incompletely understood. Here we report NOTCH3 drives meningioma tumorigenesis and resistance to radiotherapy and find NOTCH3+ meningioma mural cells are conserved across meningiomas from humans, dogs, and mice. NOTCH3+ cells are restricted to the perivascular niche during meningeal development and homeostasis and in low-grade meningiomas but are expressed throughout high-grade meningiomas that are resistant to radiotherapy. Integrating single-cell transcriptomics with lineage tracing and imaging approaches across mouse genetic and xenograft models, we show NOTCH3 drives tumor initiating capacity, cell proliferation, angiogenesis, and resistance to radiotherapy to increase meningioma growth and reduce survival. An antibody stabilizing the extracellular negative regulatory region of NOTCH37,8 blocks meningioma tumorigenesis and sensitizes meningiomas to radiotherapy, reducing tumor growth and improving survival in preclinical models. In summary, our results identify a conserved cell type and signaling mechanism that underlie meningioma tumorigenesis and resistance to radiotherapy, revealing a new therapeutic vulnerability to treat meningiomas that are resistant to standard interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abrar Choudhury
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Martha A. Cady
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Tetrad Graduate Program, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Calixto-Hope G. Lucas
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Hinda Najem
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Joanna J. Phillips
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Brisa Palikuqi
- Department of Orofacial Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Naomi Zakimi
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Tara Joseph
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA,USA
| | - Janeth Ochoa Birrueta
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA,USA
| | - William C. Chen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Shawn L. Hervey-Jumper
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Ophir D. Klein
- Department of Orofacial Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Christine M. Toedebusch
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Craig M. Horbinski
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Pathology, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Stephen T. Magill
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Aparna Bhaduri
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Arie Perry
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Peter J. Dickinson
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Amy B. Heimberger
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Alan Ashworth
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Elizabeth E. Crouch
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA,USA
- The Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - David R. Raleigh
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
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20
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Xie M, Lin Z, Ji X, Luo X, Zhang Z, Sun M, Chen X, Zhang B, Liang H, Liu D, Feng Y, Wang Y, Li Y, Liu B, Huang W, Xia L. FGF19/FGFR4-mediated elevation of ETV4 facilitates hepatocellular carcinoma metastasis by upregulating PD-L1 and CCL2. J Hepatol 2023; 79:109-125. [PMID: 36907560 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2023.02.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Revised: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Metastasis remains the major reason for the high mortality of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This study was designed to investigate the role of E-twenty-six-specific sequence variant 4 (ETV4) in promoting HCC metastasis and to explore a new combination therapy strategy for ETV4-mediated HCC metastasis. METHODS PLC/PRF/5, MHCC97H, Hepa1-6, and H22 cells were used to establish orthotopic HCC models. Clodronate liposomes were used to clear macrophages in C57BL/6 mice. Gr-1 monoclonal antibody was used to clear myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) in C57BL/6 mice. Flow cytometry and immunofluorescence were used to detect the changes of key immune cells in the tumour microenvironment. RESULTS ETV4 expression was positively related to higher tumour-node-metastasis (TNM) stage, poor tumour differentiation, microvascular invasion, and poor prognosis in human HCC. Overexpression of ETV4 in HCC cells transactivated PD-L1 and CCL2 expression, which increased tumour-associated macrophage (TAM) and MDSC infiltration and inhibited CD8+ T-cell accumulation. Knockdown of CCL2 by lentivirus or CCR2 inhibitor CCX872 treatment impaired ETV4-induced TAM and MDSC infiltration and HCC metastasis. Furthermore, FGF19/FGFR4 and HGF/c-MET jointly upregulated ETV4 expression through the ERK1/2 pathway. Additionally, ETV4 upregulated FGFR4 expression, and downregulation of FGFR4 decreased ETV4-enhanced HCC metastasis, which created a FGF19-ETV4-FGFR4 positive feedback loop. Finally, anti-PD-L1 combined with FGFR4 inhibitor BLU-554 or MAPK inhibitor trametinib prominently inhibited FGF19-ETV4 signalling-induced HCC metastasis. CONCLUSIONS ETV4 is a prognostic biomarker, and anti-PD-L1 combined with FGFR4 inhibitor BLU-554 or MAPK inhibitor trametinib may be effective strategies to inhibit HCC metastasis. IMPACT AND IMPLICATIONS Here, we reported that ETV4 increased PD-L1 and chemokine CCL2 expression in HCC cells, which resulted in TAM and MDSC accumulation and CD8+ T-cell inhibition to facilitate HCC metastasis. More importantly, we found that anti-PD-L1 combined with FGFR4 inhibitor BLU-554 or MAPK inhibitor trametinib markedly inhibited FGF19-ETV4 signalling-mediated HCC metastasis. This preclinical study will provide a theoretical basis for the development of new combination immunotherapy strategies for patients with HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Xie
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhuoying Lin
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shangrao People's Hospital, Shangrao, China
| | - Xiaoyu Ji
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiangyuan Luo
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zerui Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Mengyu Sun
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaoping Chen
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Clinical Medicine Research Center for Hepatic Surgery of Hubei Province, Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Education and Ministry of Public Health, Wuhan, China
| | - Bixiang Zhang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Clinical Medicine Research Center for Hepatic Surgery of Hubei Province, Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Education and Ministry of Public Health, Wuhan, China
| | - Huifang Liang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Clinical Medicine Research Center for Hepatic Surgery of Hubei Province, Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Education and Ministry of Public Health, Wuhan, China
| | - Danfei Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yangyang Feng
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yijun Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yiwei Li
- The Key Laboratory for Biomedical Photonics of MOE at Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics-Hubei Bioinformatics and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory, Systems Biology Theme, Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Bifeng Liu
- The Key Laboratory for Biomedical Photonics of MOE at Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics-Hubei Bioinformatics and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory, Systems Biology Theme, Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Wenjie Huang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Clinical Medicine Research Center for Hepatic Surgery of Hubei Province, Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Education and Ministry of Public Health, Wuhan, China.
| | - Limin Xia
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Clinical Medicine Research Center for Hepatic Surgery of Hubei Province, Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Education and Ministry of Public Health, Wuhan, China.
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21
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Li Q, Tan G, Wu F. The functions and roles of C2H2 zinc finger proteins in hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1129889. [PMID: 37457025 PMCID: PMC10339807 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1129889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
C2H2 zinc finger (C2H2-ZF) proteins are the majority group of human transcription factors and they have many different molecular functions through different combinations of zinc finger domains. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most prevalent malignant tumors and the main reason for cancer-related deaths worldwide. More and more findings support the abnormal expression of C2H2-ZF protein in the onset and progression of HCC. The C2H2-ZF proteins are involved in various biological functions in HCC, such as EMT, stemness maintenance, metabolic reprogramming, cell proliferation and growth, apoptosis, and genomic integrity. The study of anti-tumor drug resistance also highlights the pivotal roles of C2H2-ZF proteins at the intersection of biological functions (EMT, stemness maintenance, autophagy)and chemoresistance in HCC. The involvement of C2H2-ZF protein found recently in regulating different molecules, signal pathways and pathophysiological activities indicate these proteins as the possible therapeutic targets, and diagnostic or prognostic biomarkers for HCC.
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22
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Huang Y, Zhang Z, Sui M, Li Y, Hu Y, Zhang H, Zhang F. A novel stemness classification in acute myeloid leukemia by the stemness index and the identification of cancer stem cell-related biomarkers. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1202825. [PMID: 37409118 PMCID: PMC10318110 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1202825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Stem cells play an important role in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). However, their precise effect on AML tumorigenesis and progression remains unclear. Methods The present study aimed to characterize stem cell-related gene expression and identify stemness biomarker genes in AML. We calculated the stemness index (mRNAsi) based on transcription data using the one-class logistic regression (OCLR) algorithm for patients in the training set. According to the mRNAsi score, we performed consensus clustering and identified two stemness subgroups. Eight stemness-related genes were identified as stemness biomarkers through gene selection by three machine learning methods. Results We found that patients in stemness subgroup I had a poor prognosis and benefited from nilotinib, MK-2206 and axitinib treatment. In addition, the mutation profiles of these two stemness subgroups were different, which suggested that patients in different subgroups had different biological processes. There was a strong significant negative correlation between mRNAsi and the immune score (r= -0.43, p<0.001). Furthermore, we identified eight stemness-related genes that have potential to be biomarkers, including SLC43A2, CYBB, CFP, GRN, CST3, TIMP1, CFD and IGLL1. These genes, except IGLL1, had a negative correlation with mRNAsi. SLC43A2 is expected to be a potential stemness-related biomarker in AML. Conclusion Overall, we established a novel stemness classification using the mRNAsi score and eight stemness-related genes that may be biomarkers. Clinical decision-making should be guided by this new signature in prospective studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Huang
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Zhuo Zhang
- National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Cell Transplantation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
- Department of Hematology, Southern University of Science and Technology Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Meijuan Sui
- Key Laboratory of Hepatosplenic Surgery, Ministry of Education, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Yang Li
- Medical Insurance Office, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Yi Hu
- Center for Bioinformatics, Faculty of Computing, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Haiyu Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease Acousto-Optic Electromagnetic Diagnosis and Treatment in Heilongjiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Fan Zhang
- National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Cell Transplantation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
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23
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Chen C, Hernandez JC, Uthaya Kumar DB, Machida T, Tahara SM, El‐Khoueiry A, Li M, Punj V, Swaminathan SK, Kirtane A, Chen Y, Panyam J, Machida K. Profiling of Circulating Tumor Cells for Screening of Selective Inhibitors of Tumor-Initiating Stem-Like Cells. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2206812. [PMID: 36949364 PMCID: PMC10190641 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202206812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
A critical barrier to effective cancer therapy is the improvement of drug selectivity, toxicity, and reduced recurrence of tumors expanded from tumor-initiating stem-like cells (TICs). The aim is to identify circulating tumor cell (CTC)-biomarkers and to identify an effective combination of TIC-specific, repurposed federal drug administration (FDA)-approved drugs. Three different types of high-throughput screens targeting the TIC population are employed: these include a CD133 (+) cell viability screen, a NANOG expression screen, and a drug combination screen. When combined in a refined secondary screening approach that targets Nanog expression with the same FDA-approved drug library, histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor(s) combined with all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) demonstrate the highest efficacy for inhibition of TIC growth in vitro and in vivo. Addition of immune checkpoint inhibitor further decreases recurrence and extends PDX mouse survival. RNA-seq analysis of TICs reveals that combined drug treatment reduces many Toll-like receptors (TLR) and stemness genes through repression of the lncRNA MIR22HG. This downregulation induces PTEN and TET2, leading to loss of the self-renewal property of TICs. Thus, CTC biomarker analysis would predict the prognosis and therapy response to this drug combination. In general, biomarker-guided stratification of HCC patients and TIC-targeted therapy should eradicate TICs to extend HCC patient survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia‐Lin Chen
- Departments of Molecular Microbiology and ImmunologyUniversity of Southern CaliforniaLos AngelesCA90033USA
- Present address:
Department of Life Sciences & Institute of Genome SciencesNational Yang Ming Chiao Tung University110TaipeiTaiwan
| | - Juan Carlos Hernandez
- Departments of Molecular Microbiology and ImmunologyUniversity of Southern CaliforniaLos AngelesCA90033USA
- California State UniversityChannel IslandsCamarilloCAUSA
| | - Dinesh Babu Uthaya Kumar
- Departments of Molecular Microbiology and ImmunologyUniversity of Southern CaliforniaLos AngelesCA90033USA
| | - Tatsuya Machida
- Departments of Molecular Microbiology and ImmunologyUniversity of Southern CaliforniaLos AngelesCA90033USA
| | - Stanley M. Tahara
- Departments of Molecular Microbiology and ImmunologyUniversity of Southern CaliforniaLos AngelesCA90033USA
| | - Anthony El‐Khoueiry
- Norris Comprehensive Cancer CenterUniversity of Southern CaliforniaKeck School of MedicineLos AngelesCA90033USA
| | - Meng Li
- Norris Medical Library2003 Zonal AveLos AngelesCA90089USA
| | - Vasu Punj
- Department of MedicineUniversity of Southern California Keck School of Medicine and Norris Comprehensive Cancer CenterLos AngelesCA90089USA
| | | | - Ameya Kirtane
- Department of PharmaceuticsUniversity of MinnesotaMinneapolisMN55455USA
| | - Yibu Chen
- Norris Medical Library2003 Zonal AveLos AngelesCA90089USA
| | - Jayanth Panyam
- Department of PharmaceuticsUniversity of MinnesotaMinneapolisMN55455USA
| | - Keigo Machida
- Departments of Molecular Microbiology and ImmunologyUniversity of Southern CaliforniaLos AngelesCA90033USA
- Southern California Research Center for ALPD and CirrhosisLos AngelesCA90033USA
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24
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Kim M, Jo KW, Kim H, Han ME, Oh SO. Genetic heterogeneity of liver cancer stem cells. Anat Cell Biol 2023; 56:94-108. [PMID: 36384888 PMCID: PMC9989795 DOI: 10.5115/acb.22.161] [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: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer cell heterogeneity is a serious problem in the control of tumor progression because it can cause chemoresistance and metastasis. Heterogeneity can be generated by various mechanisms, including genetic evolution of cancer cells, cancer stem cells (CSCs), and niche heterogeneity. Because the genetic heterogeneity of CSCs has been poorly characterized, the genetic mutation status of CSCs was examined using Exome-Seq and RNA-Seq data of liver cancer. Here we show that different surface markers for liver cancer stem cells (LCSCs) showed a unique propensity for genetic mutations. Cluster of differentiation 133 (CD133)-positive cells showed frequent mutations in the IRF2, BAP1, and ERBB3 genes. However, leucine-rich repeat-containing G protein-coupled receptor 5-positive cells showed frequent mutations in the CTNNB1, RELN, and ROBO1 genes. In addition, some genetic mutations were frequently observed irrespective of the surface markers for LCSCs. BAP1 mutations was frequently observed in CD133-, CD24-, CD13-, CD90-, epithelial cell adhesion molecule-, or keratin 19-positive LCSCs. ASXL2, ERBB3, IRF2, TLX3, CPS1, and NFATC2 mutations were observed in more than three types of LCSCs, suggesting that common mechanisms for the development of these LCSCs. The present study provides genetic heterogeneity depending on the surface markers for LCSCs. The genetic heterogeneity of LCSCs should be considered in the development of LCSC-targeting therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minjeong Kim
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Korea
| | - Kwang-Woo Jo
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Korea
| | - Hyojin Kim
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Korea
| | - Myoung-Eun Han
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Korea
| | - Sae-Ock Oh
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Korea
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25
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Microbiota-Derived Natural Products Targeting Cancer Stem Cells: Inside the Gut Pharma Factory. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24054997. [PMID: 36902427 PMCID: PMC10003410 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24054997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) have drawn much attention as important tumour-initiating cells that may also be crucial for recurrence after chemotherapy. Although the activity of CSCs in various forms of cancer is complex and yet to be fully elucidated, opportunities for therapies targeting CSCs exist. CSCs are molecularly distinct from bulk tumour cells, so they can be targeted by exploiting their signature molecular pathways. Inhibiting stemness has the potential to reduce the risk posed by CSCs by limiting or eliminating their capacity for tumorigenesis, proliferation, metastasis, and recurrence. Here, we briefly described the role of CSCs in tumour biology, the mechanisms involved in CSC therapy resistance, and the role of the gut microbiota in cancer development and treatment, to then review and discuss the current advances in the discovery of microbiota-derived natural compounds targeting CSCs. Collectively, our overview suggests that dietary intervention, toward the production of those identified microbial metabolites capable of suppressing CSC properties, is a promising approach to support standard chemotherapy.
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26
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Gao T, Yang X, Fujisawa M, Ohara T, Wang T, Tomonobu N, Sakaguchi M, Yoshimura T, Matsukawa A. SPRED2: A Novel Regulator of Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition and Stemness in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24054996. [PMID: 36902429 PMCID: PMC10003366 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24054996] [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: 01/03/2023] [Revised: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The downregulation of SPRED2, a negative regulator of the ERK1/2 pathway, was previously detected in human cancers; however, the biological consequence remains unknown. Here, we investigated the effects of SPRED2 loss on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cell function. Human HCC cell lines, expressing various levels of SPRED2 and SPRED2 knockdown, increased ERK1/2 activation. SPRED2-knockout (KO)-HepG2 cells displayed an elongated spindle shape with increased cell migration/invasion and cadherin switching, with features of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). SPRED2-KO cells demonstrated a higher ability to form spheres and colonies, expressed higher levels of stemness markers and were more resistant to cisplatin. Interestingly, SPRED2-KO cells also expressed higher levels of the stem cell surface markers CD44 and CD90. When CD44+CD90+ and CD44-CD90- populations from WT cells were analyzed, a lower level of SPRED2 and higher levels of stem cell markers were detected in CD44+CD90+ cells. Further, endogenous SPRED2 expression decreased when WT cells were cultured in 3D, but was restored in 2D culture. Finally, the levels of SPRED2 in clinical HCC tissues were significantly lower than those in adjacent non-HCC tissues and were negatively associated with progression-free survival. Thus, the downregulation of SPRED2 in HCC promotes EMT and stemness through the activation of the ERK1/2 pathway, and leads to more malignant phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong Gao
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Xu Yang
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Masayoshi Fujisawa
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Toshiaki Ohara
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Tianyi Wang
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Nahoko Tomonobu
- Department of Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Masakiyo Sakaguchi
- Department of Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Teizo Yoshimura
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Akihiro Matsukawa
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-86-235-7141
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27
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Yan ZJ, Chen L, Wang HY. To be or not to be: The double-edged sword roles of liver progenitor cells. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2023; 1878:188870. [PMID: 36842766 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2023.188870] [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: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/28/2023]
Abstract
Given the liver's remarkable and unique regenerative capacity, researchers have long focused on liver progenitor cells (LPCs) and liver cancer stem cells (LCSCs). LPCs can differentiate into both hepatocytes and cholangiocytes. However, the mechanism underlying cell conversion and its distinct contribution to liver homeostasis and tumorigenesis remain unclear. In this review, we discuss the complicated conversions involving LPCs and LCSCs. As the critical intermediate state in malignant transformation, LPCs play double-edged sword roles. LPCs are not only involved in hepatic wound-healing responses by supplementing liver cells and bile duct cells in the damaged liver but may transform into LCSCs under dysregulation of key signaling pathways, resulting in refractory malignant liver tumors. Because LPC lineages are temporally and spatially dynamic, we discuss crucial LPC subgroups and summarize regulatory factors correlating with the trajectories of LPCs and LCSCs in the liver tumor microenvironment. This review elaborates on the double-edged sword roles of LPCs to help understand the liver's regenerative potential and tumor heterogeneity. Understanding the sources and transformations of LPCs is essential in determining how to exploit their regenerative capacity in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zi-Jun Yan
- International Cooperation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital/National Center for Liver Cancer, Shanghai 200438, PR China; Key Laboratory of Signaling Regulation and Targeting Therapy of Liver Cancer (SMMU), Ministry of Education, Shanghai 200438, PR China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary Tumor Biology (EHBH), Shanghai 200438, PR China
| | - Lei Chen
- International Cooperation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital/National Center for Liver Cancer, Shanghai 200438, PR China; Key Laboratory of Signaling Regulation and Targeting Therapy of Liver Cancer (SMMU), Ministry of Education, Shanghai 200438, PR China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary Tumor Biology (EHBH), Shanghai 200438, PR China.
| | - Hong-Yang Wang
- International Cooperation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital/National Center for Liver Cancer, Shanghai 200438, PR China; Key Laboratory of Signaling Regulation and Targeting Therapy of Liver Cancer (SMMU), Ministry of Education, Shanghai 200438, PR China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary Tumor Biology (EHBH), Shanghai 200438, PR China.
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28
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Wu B, Shi X, Jiang M, Liu H. Cross-talk between cancer stem cells and immune cells: potential therapeutic targets in the tumor immune microenvironment. Mol Cancer 2023; 22:38. [PMID: 36810098 PMCID: PMC9942413 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-023-01748-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Ongoing research has revealed that the existence of cancer stem cells (CSCs) is one of the biggest obstacles in the current cancer therapy. CSCs make an influential function in tumor progression, recurrence and chemoresistance due to their typical stemness characteristics. CSCs are preferentially distributed in niches, and those niche sites exhibit characteristics typical of the tumor microenvironment (TME). The complex interactions between CSCs and TME illustrate these synergistic effects. The phenotypic heterogeneity within CSCs and the spatial interactions with the surrounding tumor microenvironment led to increased therapeutic challenges. CSCs interact with immune cells to protect themselves against immune clearance by exploiting the immunosuppressive function of multiple immune checkpoint molecules. CSCs also can protect themselves against immune surveillance by excreting extracellular vesicles (EVs), growth factors, metabolites and cytokines into the TME, thereby modulating the composition of the TME. Therefore, these interactions are also being considered for the therapeutic development of anti-tumor agents. We discuss here the immune molecular mechanisms of CSCs and comprehensively review the interplay between CSCs and the immune system. Thus, studies on this topic seem to provide novel ideas for reinvigorating therapeutic approaches to cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Wu
- grid.459742.90000 0004 1798 5889Department of General Surgery, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning Cancer Hospital & Institute, Shenyang, 110042 China
| | - Xiang Shi
- grid.459742.90000 0004 1798 5889Department of Thoracic Surgery, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning Cancer Hospital & Institute, Shenyang, 110042 China
| | - Meixi Jiang
- grid.412644.10000 0004 5909 0696Department of Neurology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110032 China
| | - Hongxu Liu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning Cancer Hospital & Institute, Shenyang, 110042, China.
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29
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Wang J, Yu H, Dong W, Zhang C, Hu M, Ma W, Jiang X, Li H, Yang P, Xiang D. N6-Methyladenosine-Mediated Up-Regulation of FZD10 Regulates Liver Cancer Stem Cells' Properties and Lenvatinib Resistance Through WNT/β-Catenin and Hippo Signaling Pathways. Gastroenterology 2023; 164:990-1005. [PMID: 36764493 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2023.01.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 57.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide, but there is a deficiency of early diagnosis biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Drug resistance accounts for most HCC-related deaths, yet the mechanisms underlying drug resistance remain poorly understood. METHODS Expression of Frizzled-10 (FZD10) in liver cancer stem cells (CSCs) was identified by means of RNA sequencing and validated by means of real-time polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry. In vitro and in vivo experiments were used to assess the effect of FZD10 on liver CSC expansion and lenvatinib resistance. RNA sequencing, RNA binding protein immunoprecipitation, and luciferase report assays were applied to explore the mechanism underlying FZD10-mediated liver CSCs expansion and lenvatinib resistance. RESULTS Activation of FZD10 in liver CSCs was mediated by METTL3-dependent N6-methyladenosine methylation of FZD10 messenger RNA. Functional studies revealed that FZD10 promotes self-renewal, tumorigenicity, and metastasis of liver CSCs via activating β-catenin and YAP1. The FZD10-β-catenin/YAP1 axis is activated in liver CSCs and predicts poor prognosis. Moreover, FZD10-β-catenin/c-Jun axis transcriptionally activates METTL3 expression, forming a positive feedback loop. Importantly, the FZD10/β-catenin/c-Jun/MEK/ERK axis determines the responses of hepatoma cells to lenvatinib treatment. Analysis of patient cohort, patient-derived tumor organoids, and patient-derived xenografts further suggest that FZD10 might predict lenvatinib clinical benefit in patients with HCC. Furthermore, treatment of lenvatinib-resistant HCC with adeno-associated virus targeting FZD10 or a β-catenin inhibitor restored lenvatinib response. CONCLUSIONS Elevated FZD10 expression promotes expansion of liver CSCs and lenvatinib resistance, indicating that FZD10 expression is a novel prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target for human HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinghan Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hongming Yu
- Department of Hepatic Surgery, Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Dong
- Department of Pathology, Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Cheng Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Bethune International Peace Hospital, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Mingtai Hu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wencong Ma
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoqing Jiang
- Department of Hepatic Surgery, Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Military Medical University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Hengyu Li
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Changhai Hospital, Naval Military Medical University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Pinghua Yang
- Department of Hepatic Surgery, Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Military Medical University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Daimin Xiang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China; State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
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30
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Al-Holou WN, Wang H, Ravikumar V, Shankar S, Oneka M, Fehmi Z, Verhaak RG, Kim H, Pratt D, Camelo-Piragua S, Speers C, Wahl DR, Hollon T, Sagher O, Heth JA, Muraszko KM, Lawrence TS, de Carvalho AC, Mikkelsen T, Rao A, Rehemtulla A. Subclonal evolution and expansion of spatially distinct THY1-positive cells is associated with recurrence in glioblastoma. Neoplasia 2023; 36:100872. [PMID: 36621024 PMCID: PMC9841165 DOI: 10.1016/j.neo.2022.100872] [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: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Glioblastoma(GBM) is a lethal disease characterized by inevitable recurrence. Here we investigate the molecular pathways mediating resistance, with the goal of identifying novel therapeutic opportunities. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN We developed a longitudinal in vivo recurrence model utilizing patient-derived explants to produce paired specimens(pre- and post-recurrence) following temozolomide(TMZ) and radiation(IR). These specimens were evaluated for treatment response and to identify gene expression pathways driving treatment resistance. Findings were clinically validated using spatial transcriptomics of human GBMs. RESULTS These studies reveal in replicate cohorts, a gene expression profile characterized by upregulation of mesenchymal and stem-like genes at recurrence. Analyses of clinical databases revealed significant association of this transcriptional profile with worse overall survival and upregulation at recurrence. Notably, gene expression analyses identified upregulation of TGFβ signaling, and more than one-hundred-fold increase in THY1 levels at recurrence. Furthermore, THY1-positive cells represented <10% of cells in treatment-naïve tumors, compared to 75-96% in recurrent tumors. We then isolated THY1-positive cells from treatment-naïve patient samples and determined that they were inherently resistant to chemoradiation in orthotopic models. Additionally, using image-guided biopsies from treatment-naïve human GBM, we conducted spatial transcriptomic analyses. This revealed rare THY1+ regions characterized by mesenchymal/stem-like gene expression, analogous to our recurrent mouse model, which co-localized with macrophages within the perivascular niche. We then inhibited TGFBRI activity in vivo which decreased mesenchymal/stem-like protein levels, including THY1, and restored sensitivity to TMZ/IR in recurrent tumors. CONCLUSIONS These findings reveal that GBM recurrence may result from tumor repopulation by pre-existing, therapy-resistant, THY1-positive, mesenchymal cells within the perivascular niche.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wajd N Al-Holou
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
| | - Hanxiao Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Michigan, NCRC 520, Room 1342, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, United States; AstraZeneca, United States
| | - Visweswaran Ravikumar
- Department of Computational Medicine & Bioinformatics, The University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
| | - Sunita Shankar
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
| | - Morgan Oneka
- Department of Computational Medicine & Bioinformatics, The University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
| | - Ziad Fehmi
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
| | | | - Hoon Kim
- The Jackson Laboratory, Farmington, CT 06032, United States; Department of Biopharmaceutical Convergence, Sungkyunkwan University, South Korea
| | - Drew Pratt
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, United States
| | | | - Corey Speers
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Michigan, NCRC 520, Room 1342, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, United States
| | - Daniel R Wahl
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Michigan, NCRC 520, Room 1342, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, United States
| | - Todd Hollon
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
| | - Oren Sagher
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
| | - Jason A Heth
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
| | - Karin M Muraszko
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
| | - Theodore S Lawrence
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Michigan, NCRC 520, Room 1342, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, United States
| | - Ana C de Carvalho
- Department of Neurosurgery, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI 48202, United States
| | - Tom Mikkelsen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI 48202, United States
| | - Arvind Rao
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Michigan, NCRC 520, Room 1342, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, United States; Department of Computational Medicine & Bioinformatics, The University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
| | - Alnawaz Rehemtulla
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Michigan, NCRC 520, Room 1342, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, United States.
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31
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Zhou XH, Li JR, Zheng TH, Chen H, Cai C, Ye SL, Gao B, Xue TC. Portal vein tumor thrombosis in hepatocellular carcinoma: molecular mechanism and therapy. Clin Exp Metastasis 2023; 40:5-32. [PMID: 36318440 DOI: 10.1007/s10585-022-10188-1] [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: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Portal vein tumor thrombosis (PVTT), a common complication of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), remains the bottleneck of the treatments. Liver cancer cells potentially experienced multi-steps during PVTT process, including cancer cells leave from cancer nest, migrate in extracellular matrix, invade the vascular barrier, and colonize in the portal vein. Accumulated evidences have revealed numerous of molecular mechanisms including genetic and epigenetic regulation, cancer stem cells, immunosuppressive microenvironment, hypoxia, et al. contributed to the PVTT formation. In this review, we discuss state-of-the-art PVTT research on the potential molecular mechanisms and experimental models. In addition, we summarize PVTT-associated clinical trials and current treatments for PVTT and suppose perspectives exploring the molecular mechanisms and improving PVTT-related treatment for the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing-Hao Zhou
- Liver Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Zhongshan Hospital, 136 Yi Xue Yuan Road, Shanghai, 200032, China.,Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion (Ministry of Education), Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.,Department of Hepatic Oncology, Fudan University, Zhongshan Hospital, Shanghai, 200032, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Interventional Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Jing-Ru Li
- Liver Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Zhongshan Hospital, 136 Yi Xue Yuan Road, Shanghai, 200032, China.,Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion (Ministry of Education), Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.,Department of Hepatic Oncology, Fudan University, Zhongshan Hospital, Shanghai, 200032, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Interventional Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Tang-Hui Zheng
- Liver Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Zhongshan Hospital, 136 Yi Xue Yuan Road, Shanghai, 200032, China.,Department of Hepatic Oncology, Xiamen Branch, Fudan University, Zhongshan Hospital, Xiamen, 361015, China
| | - Hong Chen
- Liver Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Zhongshan Hospital, 136 Yi Xue Yuan Road, Shanghai, 200032, China.,Department of Hepatic Oncology, Xiamen Branch, Fudan University, Zhongshan Hospital, Xiamen, 361015, China
| | - Chen Cai
- Liver Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Zhongshan Hospital, 136 Yi Xue Yuan Road, Shanghai, 200032, China.,Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion (Ministry of Education), Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.,Department of Hepatic Oncology, Fudan University, Zhongshan Hospital, Shanghai, 200032, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Interventional Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Sheng-Long Ye
- Liver Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Zhongshan Hospital, 136 Yi Xue Yuan Road, Shanghai, 200032, China.,Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion (Ministry of Education), Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.,Department of Hepatic Oncology, Fudan University, Zhongshan Hospital, Shanghai, 200032, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Interventional Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Bo Gao
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Tong-Chun Xue
- Liver Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Zhongshan Hospital, 136 Yi Xue Yuan Road, Shanghai, 200032, China. .,Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion (Ministry of Education), Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China. .,Department of Hepatic Oncology, Fudan University, Zhongshan Hospital, Shanghai, 200032, China. .,National Clinical Research Center for Interventional Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
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32
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Marcu LG, Moghaddasi L, Bezak E. Cannot Target What Cannot Be Seen: Molecular Imaging of Cancer Stem Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24021524. [PMID: 36675033 PMCID: PMC9864237 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Revised: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells are known to play a key role in tumour development, proliferation, and metastases. Their unique properties confer resistance to therapy, often leading to treatment failure. It is believed that research into the identification, targeting, and eradication of these cells can revolutionise oncological treatment. Based on the principle that what cannot be seen, cannot be targeted, a primary step in cancer management is the identification of these cells. The current review aims to encompass the state-of-the-art functional imaging techniques that enable the identification of cancer stem cells via various pathways and mechanisms. The paper presents in vivo molecular techniques that are currently available or await clinical implementation. Challenges and future prospects are highlighted to open new research avenues in cancer stem cell imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loredana G. Marcu
- Faculty of Informatics and Science, University of Oradea, 1 Universitatii Str., 410087 Oradea, Romania
- Cancer Research Institute, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia
- Correspondence:
| | - Leyla Moghaddasi
- Northern Sydney Cancer Centre, Royal North Shore Hospital, St. Leonards, NSW 2065, Australia
- School of Physical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | - Eva Bezak
- Cancer Research Institute, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia
- School of Physical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
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33
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Jeng KS, Chang CF, Sheen IS, Jeng CJ, Wang CH. Cellular and Molecular Biology of Cancer Stem Cells of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:1417. [PMID: 36674932 PMCID: PMC9861908 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the leading causes of cancer death globally. The cancer stem cells (CSCs) of HCC are responsible for tumor growth, invasion, metastasis, recurrence, chemoresistance, target therapy resistance and radioresistance. The reported main surface markers used to identify liver CSCs include epithelial cell adhesion/activating molecule (EpCAM), cluster differentiation 90 (CD90), CD44 and CD133. The main molecular signaling pathways include the Wnt/β-catenin, transforming growth factors-β (TGF-β), sonic hedgehog (SHH), PI3K/Akt/mTOR and Notch. Patients with EpCAM-positive alpha-fetoprotein (AFP)-positive HCC are usually young but have advanced tumor-node-metastasis (TNM) stages. CD90-positive HCCs are usually poorly differentiated with worse prognosis. Those with CD44-positive HCC cells develop early metastases. Those with CD133 expression have a higher recurrence rate and a shorter overall survival. The Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway triggers angiogenesis, tumor infiltration and metastasis through the enhancement of angiogenic factors. All CD133+ liver CSCs, CD133+/EpCAM+ liver CSCs and CD44+ liver CSCs contribute to sorafenib resistance. SHH signaling could protect HCC cells against ionizing radiation in an autocrine manner. Reducing the CSC population of HCC is crucial for the improvement of the therapy of advanced HCC. However, targeting CSCs of HCC is still challenging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuo-Shyang Jeng
- Department of Surgery, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City 22060, Taiwan
| | - Chiung-Fang Chang
- Department of Surgery, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City 22060, Taiwan
| | - I-Shyang Sheen
- Department of Hepato Gastroenterology, Linkou Medical Center, Chang-Gung University, Taoyuan City 33305, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Juei Jeng
- Postgraduate of Institute of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10617, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Hsuan Wang
- Department of Surgery, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City 22060, Taiwan
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34
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An J, Hu X, Liu F. Current understanding of cancer stem cells: Immune evasion and targeted immunotherapy in gastrointestinal malignancies. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1114621. [PMID: 36910604 PMCID: PMC9996315 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1114621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
As a relatively rare population of cancer cells existing in the tumor microenvironment, cancer stem cells (CSCs) possess properties of immune privilege to evade the attack of immune system, regulated by the microenvironment of CSCs, the so-called CSCs niche. The bidirectional interaction of CSCs with tumor microenvironment (TME) components favors an immunosuppressive shelter for CSCs' survival and maintenance. Gastrointestinal cancer stem cells (GCSCs) are broadly regarded to be intimately involved in tumor initiation, progression, metastasis and recurrence, with elevated tumor resistance to conventional therapies, which pose a major hindrance to the clinical efficacy for treated patients with gastrointestinal malignancies. Thus, a multitude of efforts have been made to combat and eradicate GCSCs within the tumor mass. Among diverse methods of targeting CSCs in gastrointestinal malignancies, immunotherapy represents a promising strategy. And the better understanding of GCSCs immunomodulation and immunoresistance mechanisms is beneficial to guide and design novel GCSCs-specific immunotherapies with enhanced immune response and clinical efficacy. In this review, we have gathered available and updated information to present an overview of the immunoevasion features harbored by cancer stem cells, and we focus on the description of immune escape strategies utilized by CSCs and microenvironmental regulations underlying CSCs immuno-suppression in the context of gastrointestinal malignancies. Importantly, this review offers deep insights into recent advances of CSC-targeting immunotherapeutic approaches in gastrointestinal cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junyi An
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaohua Hu
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Feng Liu
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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35
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Li L, Xun C, Yu CH. Role of microRNA-regulated cancer stem cells in recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma. World J Hepatol 2022; 14:1985-1996. [PMID: 36618329 PMCID: PMC9813843 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v14.i12.1985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Revised: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Among the most common cancers, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has a high rate of tumor recurrence, tumor dormancy, and drug resistance after initial successful chemotherapy or radiotherapy. A small subset of cancer cells, cancer stem cells (CSCs), exhibit stem cell characteristics and are present in various cancers, including HCC. The dysregulation of microRNAs (miRNAs) often accompanies the occurrence and development of HCC. miRNAs can influence tumorigenesis, progression, recurrence, and drug resistance by regulating CSCs properties, which supports their clinical utility in managing and treating HCC. This review summarizes the regulatory effects of miRNAs on CSCs in HCC with a special focus on their impact on HCC recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Li
- Department of Pathology, University of Otago, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand
| | - Chen Xun
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Zhuzhou Central Hospital, Zhuzhou 412000, Hunan Province, China
| | - Chun-Hong Yu
- School of Engineering Medicine, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China
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36
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Castaneda M, den Hollander P, Kuburich NA, Rosen JM, Mani SA. Mechanisms of cancer metastasis. Semin Cancer Biol 2022; 87:17-31. [PMID: 36354098 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2022.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Revised: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Metastatic cancer is almost always terminal, and more than 90% of cancer deaths result from metastatic disease. Combating cancer metastasis and post-therapeutic recurrence successfully requires understanding each step of metastatic progression. This review describes the current state of knowledge of the etiology and mechanism of cancer progression from primary tumor growth to the formation of new tumors in other parts of the body. Open questions, avenues for future research, and therapeutic approaches with the potential to prevent or inhibit metastasis through personalization to each patient's mutation and/or immune profile are also highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Castaneda
- Translational Molecular Pathology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Petra den Hollander
- Translational Molecular Pathology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Department of Pathology and Lab Medicine, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA; Legoretta Cancer Center, Brown University, Providence, RI 021912, USA
| | - Nick A Kuburich
- Translational Molecular Pathology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Department of Pathology and Lab Medicine, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA; Legoretta Cancer Center, Brown University, Providence, RI 021912, USA
| | - Jeffrey M Rosen
- Molecular & Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
| | - Sendurai A Mani
- Translational Molecular Pathology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Department of Pathology and Lab Medicine, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA; Legoretta Cancer Center, Brown University, Providence, RI 021912, USA.
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37
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Vishnubalaji R, Shaath H, Al-Alwan M, Abdelalim EM, Alajez NM. Reciprocal interplays between MicroRNAs and pluripotency transcription factors in dictating stemness features in human cancers. Semin Cancer Biol 2022; 87:1-16. [PMID: 36354097 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2022.10.007] [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: 06/14/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The interplay between microRNAs (miRNAs) and pluripotency transcription factors (TFs) orchestrates the acquisition of cancer stem cell (CSC) features during the course of malignant transformation, rendering them essential cancer cell dependencies and therapeutic vulnerabilities. In this review, we discuss emerging themes in tumor heterogeneity, including the clonal evolution and the CSC models and their implications in resistance to cancer therapies, and then provide thorough coverage on the roles played by key TFs in maintaining normal and malignant stem cell pluripotency and plasticity. In addition, we discuss the reciprocal interactions between miRNAs and MYC, OCT4, NANOG, SOX2, and KLF4 pluripotency TFs and their contributions to tumorigenesis. We provide our view on the potential to interfere with key miRNA-TF networks through the use of RNA-based therapeutics as single agents or in combination with other therapeutic strategies, to abrogate the CSC state and render tumor cells more responsive to standard and targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Radhakrishnan Vishnubalaji
- Translational Cancer and Immunity Center (TCIC), Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), Qatar Foundation (QF), PO Box 34110, Doha, Qatar
| | - Hibah Shaath
- Translational Cancer and Immunity Center (TCIC), Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), Qatar Foundation (QF), PO Box 34110, Doha, Qatar
| | - Monther Al-Alwan
- Stem Cell and Tissue Re-Engineering Program, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh 11211, Saudi Arabia; College of Medicine, Al-Faisal University, Riyadh 11533, Saudi Arabia
| | - Essam M Abdelalim
- Diabetes Research Center (DRC), Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), Qatar Foundation, PO Box 34110, Doha, Qatar; College of Health & Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), Qatar Foundation (QF), PO Box 34110, Doha, Qatar
| | - Nehad M Alajez
- Translational Cancer and Immunity Center (TCIC), Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), Qatar Foundation (QF), PO Box 34110, Doha, Qatar; College of Health & Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), Qatar Foundation (QF), PO Box 34110, Doha, Qatar.
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38
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Lee-Theilen M, Fadini DD, Hadhoud JR, van Dongen F, Kroll G, Rolle U, Fiegel HC. Hepatoblastoma Cancer Stem Cells Express PD-L1, Reveal Plasticity and Can Emerge upon Chemotherapy. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14235825. [PMID: 36497307 PMCID: PMC9736435 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14235825] [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: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The biology of cancer stem cells (CSCs) of pediatric cancers, such as hepatoblastoma, is sparsely explored. This is mainly due to the very immature nature of these tumors, which complicates the distinction of CSCs from the other tumor cells. Previously, we identified a CSC population in hepatoblastoma cell lines expressing the CSC markers CD34 and CD90, cell surface Vimentin (csVimentin) and binding of OV-6. In this study, we detected the co-expression of the immune escape factor PD-L1 in the CSC population, whereas the other tumor cells remained negative. FACS data revealed that non-CSCs give rise to CSCs, reflecting plasticity of CSCs and non-CSCs in hepatoblastoma as seen in other tumors. When we treated cells with cisplatin and decitabine, a new CD34+/lowOV-6lowCD90+ population emerged that lacked csVimentin and PD-L1 expression. Expression analyses showed that this new CSC subset shared similar pluripotency and EMT features with the already-known CSCs. FACS results further revealed that this subset is also generated from non-CSCs. In conclusion, we showed that hepatoblastoma CSCs express PD-L1 and that the biology of hepatoblastoma CSCs is of a plastic nature. Chemotherapeutic treatment leads to another CSC subset, which is highly chemoresistant and could be responsible for a poor prognosis after postoperative chemotherapy.
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Mishra A, Pathak Y, Mishra SK, Prakash H, Tripathi V. Natural compounds as a potential modifier of stem cells renewal: Comparative analysis. Eur J Pharmacol 2022; 938:175412. [PMID: 36427534 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2022.175412] [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: 06/16/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are indispensable for development, progression, drug resistance, and tumor metastasis. Current cancer-directed interventions target targeting rapidly dividing cancer cells and slow dividing CSCs, which are the root cause of cancer origin and recurrence. The most promising targets include several self-renewal pathways involved in the maintenance and renewal of CSCs, such as the Wnt/β-Catenin, Sonic Hedgehog, Notch, Hippo, Autophagy, and Ferroptosis. In view of safety, natural compounds are coming to the front line of treatment modalities for modifying various signaling pathways simultaneously involved in maintaining CSCs. Therefore, targeting CSCs with natural compounds is a promising approach to treating various types of cancers. In view of this, here we provide a comprehensive update on the current status of natural compounds that effectively tune key self-renewal pathways of CSCs. In addition, we highlighted surface expression markers in several types of cancer. We also emphasize how natural compounds target these self-renewal pathways to reduce therapy resistance and cancer recurrence properties of CSCs, hence providing valuable cancer therapeutic strategies. The inclusion of nutraceuticals is believed to enhance the therapeutic efficacy of current cancer-directed interventions significantly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amaresh Mishra
- School of Biotechnology, Gautam Buddha University, Greater Noida, 201310, India
| | - Yamini Pathak
- School of Biotechnology, Gautam Buddha University, Greater Noida, 201310, India
| | | | - Hridayesh Prakash
- Amity Institute of Virology and Immunology, Amity University, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Vishwas Tripathi
- School of Biotechnology, Gautam Buddha University, Greater Noida, 201310, India.
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Glioma Stem Cells: Novel Data Obtained by Single-Cell Sequencing. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232214224. [PMID: 36430704 PMCID: PMC9694247 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232214224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioma is the most common type of primary CNS tumor, composed of cells that resemble normal glial cells. Recent genetic studies have provided insight into the inter-tumoral heterogeneity of gliomas, resulting in the updated 2021 WHO classification of gliomas. Thorough understanding of inter-tumoral heterogeneity has already improved the prognosis and treatment outcomes of some types of gliomas. Currently, the challenge for researchers is to study the intratumoral cell heterogeneity of newly defined glioma subtypes. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) present in gliomas and many other tumors are an example of intratumoral heterogeneity of great importance. In this review, we discuss the modern concept of glioma stem cells and recent single-cell sequencing-driven progress in the research of intratumoral glioma cell heterogeneity. The particular emphasis was placed on the recently revealed variations of the cell composition of the subtypes of the adult-type diffuse gliomas, including astrocytoma, oligodendroglioma and glioblastoma. The novel data explain the inconsistencies in earlier glioma stem cell research and also provide insight into the development of more effective targeted therapy and the cell-based immunotherapy of gliomas. Separate sections are devoted to the description of single-cell sequencing approach and its role in the development of cell-based immunotherapies for glioma.
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Cancer Stem Cells in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Intrinsic and Extrinsic Molecular Mechanisms in Stemness Regulation. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232012327. [PMID: 36293184 PMCID: PMC9604119 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232012327] [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: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 09/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains the most predominant type of liver cancer with an extremely poor prognosis due to its late diagnosis and high recurrence rate. One of the culprits for HCC recurrence and metastasis is the existence of cancer stem cells (CSCs), which are a small subset of cancer cells possessing robust stem cell properties within tumors. CSCs play crucial roles in tumor heterogeneity constitution, tumorigenesis, tumor relapse, metastasis, and resistance to anti-cancer therapies. Elucidation of how these CSCs maintain their stemness features is essential for the development of CSCs-based therapy. In this review, we summarize the present knowledge of intrinsic molecules and signaling pathways involved in hepatic CSCs, especially the CSC surface markers and associated signaling in regulating the stemness characteristics and the heterogeneous subpopulations within the CSC pool. In addition, we recapitulate the effects of crucial extrinsic cellular components in the tumor microenvironment, including stromal cells and immune cells, on the modulation of hepatic CSCs. Finally, we synopsize the currently valuable CSCs-targeted therapy strategies based on intervention in these intrinsic and extrinsic molecular mechanisms, in the hope of shedding light on better clinical management of HCC patients.
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TrkC-mediated inhibition of DJ-1 degradation is essential for direct regulation of pathogenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:850. [PMID: 36202793 PMCID: PMC9537181 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-05298-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
None of the previous studies has systematically explored how upregulation of TrkC plays a central role in the pathogenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) by regulating the underlying mechanisms that promote invasion and metastasis. In this report, we demonstrated the possible association between upregulation of TrkC and acquisition of cancer stem cells traits or chemoresistance in HCC. We show that upregulation of TrkC is closely associated with the survival and progression of HCC in vivo and in vitro. Most strikingly, activation of STAT3 by TrkC-mediated inhibition of DJ-1 degradation significantly enhances the efficacy of invasion and metastasis during the progression of HCC cells. Acquiring the traits of cancer stem cells (CSCs) by TrkC/DJ-1/STAT3 signaling pathway leads to the induction of chemoresistance via upregulation of ABC transporters and anti-apoptotic genes. Also, activating the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) program by inducing EMT-transcription factor (TF)s by TrkC/DJ-1/STAT3 signaling pathway is the direct cause of multiple tumor malignancies of HCC. Thus, understanding the mechanisms by which acquisition of anticancer drug resistance by TrkC-mediated inhibition of DJ-1 degradation can help enhance the efficacy of anticancer therapies.
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Li Y, Hu J, Guo D, Ma W, Zhang X, Zhang Z, Lu G, He S. LncRNA SNHG5 promotes the proliferation and cancer stem cell-like properties of HCC by regulating UPF1 and Wnt-signaling pathway. Cancer Gene Ther 2022; 29:1373-1383. [PMID: 35338348 PMCID: PMC9576592 DOI: 10.1038/s41417-022-00456-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The role of long noncoding RNA (lncRNAs) had been demonstrated in different types of cancer, including hepatocellular carcinoma. This study was intended to investigate the role of lncRNA small nucleolar RNA host gene 5 (SNHG5) in HCC proliferation and the liver CSC-like properties. Through functional experiments, we determined that knockdown of SNHG5 repressed HCC cell proliferation and CSC-like properties, while over-expression of SNHG5 promoted cell growth. At the same time, CSC markers (CD44, CD133, and ALDH1) and related transcription factors (OCT4, SOX2, and NANOG) were downregulated when SNHG5 was knocked down. Mechanically, RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) and RNA pulldown assay showed that SNHG5 regulated the proliferation and CSC-like properties of HCC by binding UPF1. Further investigations showed that expression of critical components of Wnt/β-catenin pathway (β-catenin, TCF4, c-myc, cyclinD1, and c-Jun) were upregulated with depletion of UPF1 in liver CSCs, which were downregulated with depletion of SNHG5. After use of the inhibitor of Wnt/β-catenin pathway, the formation of liver CSCs sphere decreased. Taken together, SNHG5 plays a critical role to promote HCC cell proliferation and cancer stem cell-like properties via UPF1 and Wnt/β-catenin pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yarui Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, P.R. China
| | - Junbi Hu
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, P.R. China
| | - Dan Guo
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, P.R. China
| | - Wenhui Ma
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, P.R. China
| | - Xu Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, P.R. China
| | - Zhiyong Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, P.R. China
| | - Guifang Lu
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, P.R. China
| | - Shuixiang He
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, P.R. China.
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Claudin-6 increases SNAI1, NANOG and SOX2 gene expression in human gastric adenocarcinoma AGS cells. Mol Biol Rep 2022; 49:11663-11674. [PMID: 36169897 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-022-07976-z] [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: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gastric cancer is a heterogeneous disease associated to deregulated gastric epithelia tight junction barrier function and di novo expression of claudin-6; these changes are associated with epithelial-mesenchymal transition, enhanced invasiveness, metastatic progression, resistance to chemotherapy, and poor prognosis. Gastric cancer stem cells represent a rare population of cells within the tumor implicated in tumor growth and higher tumorigenic capacity. The possible relation between claudin-6 expression and the expression of some markers associated to epithelial mesenchymal transition and cancer stem cells in gastric cancer cells have never been explored. METHODS AND RESULTS CD44, CD24, Twist, Villin, DCLK1, claudin-6, NANOG, E-Cadherin, SOX2, and SNAI1 expression was evaluated by immunofluorescence and cytofluorometry in wild type and Claudin-6 transfected AGS cells. Cell migration assays were also performed. Differentially expressed genes and biological processes analysis was performed to determine gene preponderance. The results showed that claudin-6 overexpression enriched the CD44 + /CD24- subpopulation with an overall increase in the expression and the number of CD44 + cells. A significant increase in NANOG, SOX2 and SNAI1 expression and enhanced cell migration was observed in claudin-6 transfected cells. Transcriptome analysis revealed 271 genes involved in enhanced biological processes with only 31 with a significantly p value; thirteen of those genes are closely associated to epithelial mesenchymal transition processes and folding and unfolding processes of proteins in the endoplasmic reticulum. CONCLUSIONS The pro-tumorigenic effect of claudin-6 in gastric cancer could be associated to dedifferentiation of epithelial cells and an increase in di novo cancer stem cell genesis.
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Ding J, Zhao W. The Application of Liquid Biopsy Techniques in High-Risk Population for Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cancer Manag Res 2022; 14:2735-2748. [PMID: 36133739 PMCID: PMC9484767 DOI: 10.2147/cmar.s373165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignant tumors of the digestive system and has a 5-year overall survival rate of 14.1%. Many HCC patients are diagnosed at an advanced stage, and thus early screening is essential for reducing the mortality of HCC. In addition to commonly used detection indicators such as serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), lens culinaris agglutinin-reactive fraction of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP-L3) and abnormal prothrombin (protein induced by vitamin K absence II, PIVKA-II), liquid biopsy techniques have been demonstrated to have diagnostic value in HCC detection. Compared with invasive procedures, liquid biopsy can detect circulatory metabolites of malignant neoplasms. Liquid biopsy techniques can detect circulating tumor cells, circulating tumor DNA, circulating RNA and exosomes and have been used in the early screening, diagnosis and prognostic evaluation of HCC. This paper reviews the molecular biological characteristics and application of different liquid biopsy techniques, and aim to highlight promising biomarkers that may be feasible options for early-stage HCC evaluation to improve early screening in populations at high risk for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingnuo Ding
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, JiangSu Province, 215000, People's Republic of China
| | - Weifeng Zhao
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, JiangSu Province, 215000, People's Republic of China
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Machida K. HCV and tumor-initiating stem-like cells. Front Physiol 2022; 13:903302. [PMID: 36187761 PMCID: PMC9520593 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.903302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Neoplasms contain tumor-initiating stem-like cells (TICs) that are characterized by increased drug resistance. The incidence of many cancer types have trended downward except for few cancer types, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Therefore mechanism of HCC development and therapy resistance needs to be understood. These multiple hits by hepatitis C virus (HCV) eventually promotes transformation and TIC genesis, leading to HCC development. This review article describes links between HCV-associated HCC and TICs. This review discusses 1) how HCV promotes genesis of TICs and HCC development; 2) how this process avails itself as a novel therapeutic target for HCC treatment; and 3) ten hall marks of TIC oncogenesis and HCC development as targets for novel therapeutic modalities.
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FBXW7 Reduces the Cancer Stem Cell-Like Properties of Hepatocellular Carcinoma by Regulating the Ubiquitination and Degradation of ACTL6A. Stem Cells Int 2022; 2022:3242482. [PMID: 36159747 PMCID: PMC9492413 DOI: 10.1155/2022/3242482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) comprise a subset of tumor cells that can initiate tumorigenesis and promote tumor advance. A previous study showed that the expression of FBXW7 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) clinical samples was lower than that in the adjacent nontumor tissues and was negatively correlated with the invasion and migration of HCC cells. However, the biological characteristics and the underlying molecular mechanisms of FBXW7 in HCC stemness are yet to be elucidated. In present study, we found that FBXW7 participates in the self-renewal, tumorigenicity, sorafenib therapy, and stem cell-like properties of HCC cells in vivo and in vitro. The upregulation of FBXW7 inhibited the stemness and reduced the tumorigenicity and drug resistance of HCC cells. Mechanistically, proteins binding to FBXW7 were identified by coimmunoprecipitation and protein colocalization assays. We confirmed ACTL6A as a novel downstream target for FBXW7. The in vivo ubiquitination assay showed that FBXW7 repressed HCC malignancy by regulating the oncogenic activity of ACTL6A in a ubiquitin-dependent manner. Furthermore, we found that ACTL6A overexpression inversed the self-renewal abilities and tumorigenic abilities depressed by overexpressing FBXW7. The current findings suggested that FBXW7 reduces the stemness of HCC cells by targeting and degrading ACTL6A and provides a novel target for the diagnosis and treatment of HCC.
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Kim M, Hui KM, Shi M, Reau N, Aloman C. Differential expression of hepatic cancer stemness and hypoxia markers in residual cancer after locoregional therapies for hepatocellular carcinoma. Hepatol Commun 2022; 6:3247-3259. [PMID: 36097402 PMCID: PMC9592798 DOI: 10.1002/hep4.2079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) and transarterial radioembolization (TARE) treatment to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are effective tools to control tumor growth, prolong survival, palliate symptoms, and improve quality of life for patients with intermediate-stage HCC. Nevertheless, there is high variability of local HCC responses to locoregional therapies; therefore, better and personalized prediction of tumor response to TACE is necessary for management of patients with HCC, especially when these modalities of treatment are used to bridge patients for liver transplant. Here, we investigated differential expression of hepatic cancer stem cell and hypoxia in residual HCC after TACE treatment in comparison with TARE. A publicly available gene data set was screened for differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in TACE_Response compared with TACE_Non-response HCC. Analysis of the GSE104580 data set displayed a total of 406 DEGs, including 196 down-regulated and 210 up-regulated DEGs. Of the 196 down-regulated DEGs, three hepatic cancer stem cell (CSC) markers and 11 hypoxia-related genes were identified. Immunohistochemical staining of hepatic CSC and hypoxia markers on explant liver tissues exhibited more intense positive staining of hepatic CSC markers (CD24, EpCAM) and hypoxia marker carbonic anhydrase 9 (CA9) in residual tumor nodule from patients with HCC treated with TACE compared with nontreated patients. Furthermore, Pearson's correlation analysis revealed the significant correlation between hepatic CSC markers and hypoxia marker, CA9. Conclusion: Hepatic CSC and hypoxia markers predict nonresponse to TACE and are differentially expressed in residual tumor after TACE compared with TARE. In the long term, TACE-induced hypoxia may select an aggressive HCC phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miran Kim
- Division of Digestive Diseases and Nutrition, Section of HepatologyRush UniversityChicagoIllinoisUSA
| | - Kam Man Hui
- Department of Cellular & Molecular ResearchNational Cancer Center SingaporeSingapore,Department of BiochemistryYong Loo Lin School of MedicineNational University of SingaporeSingapore,Institute of Molecular and Cell BiologyA*STARSingapore,Duke‐NUS Medical SchoolSingapore
| | - Ming Shi
- Department of Liver SurgeryCancer Center, Sun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Nancy Reau
- Division of Digestive Diseases and Nutrition, Section of HepatologyRush UniversityChicagoIllinoisUSA
| | - Costica Aloman
- Division of Digestive Diseases and Nutrition, Section of HepatologyRush UniversityChicagoIllinoisUSA
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de Sousa Cabral LG, Hesse H, Freire KA, de Oliveira CS, Pedron CN, Alves MG, Carlstron JP, Poyet JL, Oliveira VX, Maria DA. The BR2 peptide associated with 2-aminoethyl dihydrogen phosphate is a formulation with antiproliferative potential for a triple-negative breast cancer model. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 153:113398. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
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50
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Small Molecule Inhibitors for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Advances and Challenges. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27175537. [PMID: 36080304 PMCID: PMC9457820 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27175537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 08/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
According to data provided by World Health Organization, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the sixth most common cause of deaths due to cancer worldwide. Tremendous progress has been achieved over the last 10 years developing novel agents for HCC treatment, including small-molecule kinase inhibitors. Several small molecule inhibitors currently form the core of HCC treatment due to their versatility since they would be more easily absorbed and have higher oral bioavailability, thus easier to formulate and administer to patients. In addition, they can be altered structurally to have greater volumes of distribution, allowing them to block extravascular molecular targets and to accumulate in a high concentration in the tumor microenvironment. Moreover, they can be designed to have shortened half-lives to control for immune-related adverse events. Most importantly, they would spare patients, healthcare institutions, and society as a whole from the burden of high drug costs. The present review provides an overview of the pharmaceutical compounds that are licensed for HCC treatment and other emerging compounds that are still investigated in preclinical and clinical trials. These molecules are targeting different molecular targets and pathways that are proven to be involved in the pathogenesis of the disease.
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