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Constantinescu DR, Sorop A, Ghionescu AV, Lixandru D, Herlea V, Bacalbasa N, Dima SO. EM-transcriptomic signature predicts drug response in advanced stages of high-grade serous ovarian carcinoma based on ascites-derived primary cultures. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1363142. [PMID: 38510654 PMCID: PMC10953505 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1363142] [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: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: High-grade serous ovarian carcinoma (HGSOC) remains a medical challenge despite considerable improvements in the treatment. Unfortunately, over 75% of patients have already metastasized at the time of diagnosis. Advances in understanding the mechanisms underlying how ascites cause chemoresistance are urgently needed to derive novel therapeutic strategies. This study aimed to identify the molecular markers involved in drug sensitivity and highlight the use of ascites as a potential model to investigate HGSOC treatment options. Methods: After conducting an in silico analysis, eight epithelial-mesenchymal (EM)-associated genes related to chemoresistance were identified. To evaluate differences in EM-associated genes in HGSOC samples, we analyzed ascites-derived HGSOC primary cell culture (AS), tumor (T), and peritoneal nodule (NP) samples. Moreover, in vitro experiments were employed to measure tumor cell proliferation and cell migration in AS, following treatment with doxorubicin (DOX) and cisplatin (CIS) and expression of these markers. Results: Our results showed that AS exhibits a mesenchymal phenotype compared to tumor and peritoneal nodule samples. Moreover, DOX and CIS treatment leads to an invasive-intermediate epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) state of the AS by different EM-associated marker expression. For instance, the treatment of AS showed that CDH1 and GATA6 decreased after CIS exposure and increased after DOX treatment. On the contrary, the expression of KRT18 has an opposite pattern. Conclusion: Taken together, our study reports a comprehensive investigation of the EM-associated genes after drug exposure of AS. Exploring ascites and their associated cellular and soluble components is promising for understanding the HGSOC progression and treatment response at a personalized level.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Andrei Sorop
- Center of Excellence in Translational Medicine, Fundeni Clinical Institute, Bucharest, Romania
| | | | - Daniela Lixandru
- Center of Excellence in Translational Medicine, Fundeni Clinical Institute, Bucharest, Romania
- University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila”, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Vlad Herlea
- Center of Excellence in Translational Medicine, Fundeni Clinical Institute, Bucharest, Romania
- University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila”, Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Pathology-Fundeni Clinical Institute, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Nicolae Bacalbasa
- Center of Excellence in Translational Medicine, Fundeni Clinical Institute, Bucharest, Romania
- University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila”, Bucharest, Romania
- Center of Digestive Diseases and Liver Transplantation, Fundeni Clinical Institute, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Simona Olimpia Dima
- Center of Excellence in Translational Medicine, Fundeni Clinical Institute, Bucharest, Romania
- University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila”, Bucharest, Romania
- Center of Digestive Diseases and Liver Transplantation, Fundeni Clinical Institute, Bucharest, Romania
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2
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Zhang L, Cascio S, Mellors JW, Buckanovich RJ, Osmanbeyoglu HU. Single-cell analysis reveals the stromal dynamics and tumor-specific characteristics in the microenvironment of ovarian cancer. Commun Biol 2024; 7:20. [PMID: 38182756 PMCID: PMC10770164 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-05733-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: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024] Open
Abstract
High-grade serous ovarian carcinoma (HGSOC) is a heterogeneous disease, and a highstromal/desmoplastic tumor microenvironment (TME) is associated with a poor outcome. Stromal cell subtypes, including fibroblasts, myofibroblasts, and cancer-associated mesenchymal stem cells, establish a complex network of paracrine signaling pathways with tumor-infiltrating immune cells that drive effector cell tumor immune exclusion and inhibit the antitumor immune response. In this work, we integrate single-cell transcriptomics of the HGSOC TME from public and in-house datasets (n = 20) and stratify tumors based upon high vs. low stromal cell content. Although our cohort size is small, our analyses suggest a distinct transcriptomic landscape for immune and non-immune cells in high-stromal vs. low-stromal tumors. High-stromal tumors have a lower fraction of certain T cells, natural killer (NK) cells, and macrophages, and increased expression of CXCL12 in epithelial cancer cells and cancer-associated mesenchymal stem cells (CA-MSCs). Analysis of cell-cell communication indicate that epithelial cancer cells and CA-MSCs secrete CXCL12 that interacte with the CXCR4 receptor, which is overexpressed on NK and CD8+ T cells. Dual IHC staining show that tumor infiltrating CD8 T cells localize in proximity of CXCL12+ tumor area. Moreover, CXCL12 and/or CXCR4 antibodies confirm the immunosuppressive role of CXCL12-CXCR4 in high-stromal tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linan Zhang
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, 15206, USA
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15232, USA
- Department of Applied Mathematics, School of Mathematics and Statistics, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315211, China
| | - Sandra Cascio
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15232, USA
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - John W Mellors
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - Ronald J Buckanovich
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15232, USA
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, 15232, USA
| | - Hatice Ulku Osmanbeyoglu
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, 15206, USA.
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15232, USA.
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh School of Engineering, Pittsburgh, PA, 15219, USA.
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA.
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3
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Beddows I, Fan H, Heinze K, Johnson BK, Leonova A, Senz J, Djirackor S, Cho KR, Pearce CL, Huntsman DG, Anglesio MS, Shen H. Cell State of Origin Impacts Development of Distinct Endometriosis-Related Ovarian Carcinoma Histotypes. Cancer Res 2024; 84:26-38. [PMID: 37874327 PMCID: PMC10758692 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-23-1362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
Clear cell ovarian carcinoma (CCOC) and endometrioid ovarian carcinoma (ENOC) are ovarian carcinoma histotypes, which are both thought to arise from ectopic endometrial (or endometrial-like) cells through an endometriosis intermediate. How the same cell type of origin gives rise to two morphologically and biologically different histotypes has been perplexing, particularly given that recurrent genetic mutations are common to both and present in nonmalignant precursors. We used RNA transcription analysis to show that the expression profiles of CCOC and ENOC resemble those of normal endometrium at secretory and proliferative phases of the menstrual cycle, respectively. DNA methylation at the promoter of the estrogen receptor (ER) gene (ESR1) was enriched in CCOC, which could potentially lock the cells in the secretory state. Compared with normal secretory-type endometrium, CCOC was further defined by increased expression of cysteine and glutathione synthesis pathway genes and downregulation of the iron antiporter, suggesting iron addiction and highlighting ferroptosis as a potential therapeutic target. Overall, these findings suggest that while CCOC and ENOC arise from the same cell type, these histotypes likely originate from different cell states. This "cell state of origin" model may help to explain the presence of histologic and molecular cancer subtypes arising in other organs. SIGNIFICANCE Two cancer histotypes diverge from a common cell of origin epigenetically locked in different cell states, highlighting the importance of considering cell state to better understand the cell of origin of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian Beddows
- Department of Epigenetics, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, Michigan
| | - Huihui Fan
- Department of Epigenetics, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, Michigan
| | - Karolin Heinze
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | | | - Anna Leonova
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Janine Senz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | | | - Kathleen R. Cho
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Celeste Leigh Pearce
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - David G. Huntsman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Michael S. Anglesio
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Hui Shen
- Department of Epigenetics, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, Michigan
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4
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Chehelgerdi M, Behdarvand Dehkordi F, Chehelgerdi M, Kabiri H, Salehian-Dehkordi H, Abdolvand M, Salmanizadeh S, Rashidi M, Niazmand A, Ahmadi S, Feizbakhshan S, Kabiri S, Vatandoost N, Ranjbarnejad T. Exploring the promising potential of induced pluripotent stem cells in cancer research and therapy. Mol Cancer 2023; 22:189. [PMID: 38017433 PMCID: PMC10683363 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-023-01873-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The advent of iPSCs has brought about a significant transformation in stem cell research, opening up promising avenues for advancing cancer treatment. The formation of cancer is a multifaceted process influenced by genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors. iPSCs offer a distinctive platform for investigating the origin of cancer, paving the way for novel approaches to cancer treatment, drug testing, and tailored medical interventions. This review article will provide an overview of the science behind iPSCs, the current limitations and challenges in iPSC-based cancer therapy, the ethical and social implications, and the comparative analysis with other stem cell types for cancer treatment. The article will also discuss the applications of iPSCs in tumorigenesis, the future of iPSCs in tumorigenesis research, and highlight successful case studies utilizing iPSCs in tumorigenesis research. The conclusion will summarize the advancements made in iPSC-based tumorigenesis research and the importance of continued investment in iPSC research to unlock the full potential of these cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matin Chehelgerdi
- Novin Genome (NG) Lab, Research and Development Center for Biotechnology, Shahrekord, Iran
- Young Researchers and Elite Club, Shahrekord Branch, Islamic Azad University, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Fereshteh Behdarvand Dehkordi
- Novin Genome (NG) Lab, Research and Development Center for Biotechnology, Shahrekord, Iran
- Young Researchers and Elite Club, Shahrekord Branch, Islamic Azad University, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Mohammad Chehelgerdi
- Novin Genome (NG) Lab, Research and Development Center for Biotechnology, Shahrekord, Iran.
- Young Researchers and Elite Club, Shahrekord Branch, Islamic Azad University, Shahrekord, Iran.
| | - Hamidreza Kabiri
- Novin Genome (NG) Lab, Research and Development Center for Biotechnology, Shahrekord, Iran
- Young Researchers and Elite Club, Shahrekord Branch, Islamic Azad University, Shahrekord, Iran
| | | | - Mohammad Abdolvand
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Science, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Sharareh Salmanizadeh
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology and Microbiology, Faculty of Biological Science and Technology, University of Isfahan, Hezar-Jereeb Street, Isfahan, 81746-73441, Iran
| | - Mohsen Rashidi
- Department Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
- The Health of Plant and Livestock Products Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Anoosha Niazmand
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Science, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Saba Ahmadi
- Department of Molecular and Medical Genetics, Tbilisi State Medical University, Tbilisi, Georgia
| | - Sara Feizbakhshan
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Science, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Saber Kabiri
- Novin Genome (NG) Lab, Research and Development Center for Biotechnology, Shahrekord, Iran
- Young Researchers and Elite Club, Shahrekord Branch, Islamic Azad University, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Nasimeh Vatandoost
- Pediatric Inherited Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Primordial Prevention of Non-Communicable Disease, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Tayebeh Ranjbarnejad
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Science, Isfahan, Iran
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Atiya HI, Gorecki G, Garcia GL, Frisbie LG, Baruwal R, Coffman L. Stromal-Modulated Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition in Cancer Cells. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1604. [PMID: 38002286 PMCID: PMC10669774 DOI: 10.3390/biom13111604] [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: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The ability of cancer cells to detach from the primary site and metastasize is the main cause of cancer- related death among all cancer types. Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is the first event of the metastatic cascade, resulting in the loss of cell-cell adhesion and the acquisition of motile and stem-like phenotypes. A critical modulator of EMT in cancer cells is the stromal tumor microenvironment (TME), which can promote the acquisition of a mesenchymal phenotype through direct interaction with cancer cells or changes to the broader microenvironment. In this review, we will explore the role of stromal cells in modulating cancer cell EMT, with particular emphasis on the function of mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSCs) through the activation of EMT-inducing pathways, extra cellular matrix (ECM) remodeling, immune cell alteration, and metabolic rewiring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huda I. Atiya
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Grace Gorecki
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Geyon L. Garcia
- Medical Scientist Training Program, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Leonard G. Frisbie
- Department of Integrative Systems Biology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Roja Baruwal
- Molecular Pharmacology Graduate Program, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Lan Coffman
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Magee Women’s Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA15213, USA
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6
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Ji R, Wu C, Yao J, Xu J, Lin J, Gu H, Fu M, Zhang X, Li Y, Zhang X. IGF2BP2-meidated m 6A modification of CSF2 reprograms MSC to promote gastric cancer progression. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:693. [PMID: 37865637 PMCID: PMC10590395 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-06163-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/23/2023]
Abstract
The interaction between tumor cells and stromal cells within the tumor microenvironment plays a critical role in cancer progression. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are important tumor stromal cells that exhibit pro-oncogenic activities when reprogrammed by the tumor. However, the precise mechanisms underlying MSC reprogramming in gastric cancer remain not well understood. QRT-PCR, western blot, and immunohistochemistry were used to examine gene and protein expression levels. In vitro and in vivo experiments were conducted to assess the biological functions of gastric cancer cells. RNA-sequencing, RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP), and meRIP assays were performed to investigate underlying molecular mechanisms. We found a significant increase in the expression and N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification levels of colony-stimulating factor 2 (CSF2) in gastric cancer MSCs. CSF2 gene overexpression induced the reprogramming of normal MSCs into cancer-promoting MSCs, thereby enhancing the proliferation, migration, and drug resistance of gastric cancer cells through the secretion of various pro-inflammatory factors. Additionally, we demonstrated that the m6A reader IGF2BP2 bound to and stabilized CSF2 mRNA in gastric cancer MSCs. Notably, overexpression of IGF2BP2 mimicked the effect of CSF2 on MSCs, promoting gastric cancer progression. Finally, we unveiled that CSF2 induced the ubiquitination of Notch1 to reprogram MSCs. Our study highlights a critical role of IGF2BP2-mediated m6A modification of CSF2 in reprogramming MSCs, which presents a promising therapeutic target for gastric cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Runbi Ji
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Digestive Diseases, The Affiliated People's Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212002, Jiangsu, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Affiliated People's Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212002, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chenxi Wu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Digestive Diseases, The Affiliated People's Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212002, Jiangsu, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Affiliated People's Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212002, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jun Yao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Digestive Diseases, The Affiliated People's Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212002, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jiajin Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Digestive Diseases, The Affiliated People's Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212002, Jiangsu, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Affiliated People's Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212002, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jiang Lin
- Department of Central Laboratory, The Affiliated People's Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212002, Jiangsu, China
| | - Hongbing Gu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Affiliated People's Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212002, Jiangsu, China
| | - Min Fu
- Department of Central Laboratory, The Affiliated People's Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212002, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiaoxin Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yongkang Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Affiliated People's Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212002, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xu Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, China.
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7
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Tang PW, Frisbie L, Hempel N, Coffman L. Insights into the tumor-stromal-immune cell metabolism cross talk in ovarian cancer. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2023; 325:C731-C749. [PMID: 37545409 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00588.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
The ovarian cancer tumor microenvironment (TME) consists of a constellation of abundant cellular components, extracellular matrix, and soluble factors. Soluble factors, such as cytokines, chemokines, structural proteins, extracellular vesicles, and metabolites, are critical means of noncontact cellular communication acting as messengers to convey pro- or antitumorigenic signals. Vast advancements have been made in our understanding of how cancer cells adapt their metabolism to meet environmental demands and utilize these adaptations to promote survival, metastasis, and therapeutic resistance. The stromal TME contribution to this metabolic rewiring has been relatively underexplored, particularly in ovarian cancer. Thus, metabolic activity alterations in the TME hold promise for further study and potential therapeutic exploitation. In this review, we focus on the cellular components of the TME with emphasis on 1) metabolic signatures of ovarian cancer; 2) understanding the stromal cell network and their metabolic cross talk with tumor cells; and 3) how stromal and tumor cell metabolites alter intratumoral immune cell metabolism and function. Together, these elements provide insight into the metabolic influence of the TME and emphasize the importance of understanding how metabolic performance drives cancer progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priscilla W Tang
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Leonard Frisbie
- Department of Integrative Systems Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Nadine Hempel
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Lan Coffman
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
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8
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Yang X, Zheng M, Ning Y, Sun J, Yu Y, Zhang S. Prognostic risk factors of serous ovarian carcinoma based on mesenchymal stem cell phenotype and guidance for therapeutic efficacy. J Transl Med 2023; 21:456. [PMID: 37434173 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04284-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epithelial ovarian cancer is the leading cause of death from gynecologic cancer, in which serous ovarian carcinoma (SOC) is the most common histological subtype. Although PARP inhibitors (PARPi) and antiangiogenics have been accepted as maintenance treatment in SOC, response to immunotherapy of SOC patients is limited. METHODS The source of transcriptomic data of SOC was from the Cancer Genome Atlas database and Gene Expression Omnibus. The abundance scores of mesenchymal stem cells (MSC scores) were estimated for each sample by xCell. Weighted correlation network analysis is correlated the significant genes with MSC scores. Based on prognostic risk model construction with Cox regression analysis, patients with SOC were divided into low- and high-risk groups. And distribution of immune cells, immunosuppressors and pro-angiogenic factors in different risk groups was achieved by single-sample gene set enrichment analysis. The risk model of MSC scores was further validated in datasets of immune checkpoint blockade and antiangiogenic therapy. In the experiment, the mRNA expression of prognostic genes related to MSC scores was detected by real-time polymerase chain reaction, while the protein level was evaluated by immunohistochemistry. RESULTS Three prognostic genes (PER1, AKAP12 and MMP17) were the constituents of risk model. Patients classified as high-risk exhibited worse prognosis, presented with an immunosuppressive phenotype, and demonstrated high micro-vessel density. Additionally, these patients were insensitive to immunotherapy and would achieve a longer overall survival with antiangiogenesis treatment. The validation experiments showed that the mRNA of PER1, AKAP12, and MMP17 was highly expressed in normal ovarian epithelial cells compared to SOC cell lines and there was a positive correlation between protein levels of PER1, AKAP12 and MMP17 and metastasis in human ovarian serous tumors. CONCLUSION This prognostic model established on MSC scores can predict prognosis of patients and provide the guidance for patients receiving immunotherapy and molecular targeted therapy. Because the number of prognostic genes was fewer than other signatures of SOC, it will be easily accessible on clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohui Yang
- Nankai University School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, People's Republic of China
| | - Minying Zheng
- Department of Pathology, Tianjin Union Medical Center, Tianjin, 300121, People's Republic of China
| | - Yidi Ning
- Nankai University School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, People's Republic of China
| | - Jie Sun
- Nankai University School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, People's Republic of China
| | - Yongjun Yu
- Nankai University School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, People's Republic of China
| | - Shiwu Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Tianjin Union Medical Center, Tianjin, 300121, People's Republic of China.
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9
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Zhang L, Cascio S, Mellors JW, Buckanovich RJ, Osmanbeyoglu HU. Single-cell analysis reveals the stromal dynamics and tumor-specific characteristics in the microenvironment of ovarian cancer. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.06.07.544095. [PMID: 37333262 PMCID: PMC10274812 DOI: 10.1101/2023.06.07.544095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
High-grade serous ovarian carcinoma (HGSOC) is a heterogeneous disease, and a high stromal/desmoplastic tumor microenvironment (TME) is associated with a poor outcome. Stromal cell subtypes, including fibroblasts, myofibroblasts, and cancer-associated mesenchymal stem cells, establish a complex network of paracrine signaling pathways with tumor-infiltrating immune cells that drive effector cell tumor immune exclusion and inhibit the antitumor immune response. Single-cell transcriptomics of the HGSOC TME from public and in-house datasets revealed a distinct transcriptomic landscape for immune and non-immune cells in high-stromal vs. low-stromal tumors. High-stromal tumors had a lower fraction of certain T cells, natural killer (NK) cells, and macrophages and increased expression of CXCL12 in epithelial cancer cells and cancer-associated mesenchymal stem cells (CA-MSCs). Analysis of cell-cell communication indicated that epithelial cancer cells and CA-MSCs secreted CXCL12 that interacted with the CXCR4 receptor, which was overexpressed on NK and CD8 + T cells. CXCL12 and/or CXCR4 antibodies confirmed the immunosuppressive role of CXCL12-CXCR4 in high-stromal tumors.
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10
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Reivan Ortiz GG, Ciongradi CI, Chaitanya MVNL, Narayanan J, Mohany M, Al-Rejaie SS, Arias-Gonzáles JL, Sârbu I, Assefi M, Akram SV, Döğüş Y, Bahrami A, Akhavan-Sigari R. Identification of novel candidate targets for suppressing ovarian cancer progression through IL-33/ST2 axis components using the system biology approach. Front Mol Biosci 2023; 10:1189527. [PMID: 37333018 PMCID: PMC10272621 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2023.1189527] [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: 03/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) of ovarian cancer (OvC) are the most prevalent element of the tumor microenvironment (TM). By promoting angiogenesis, immunological suppression, and invasion, CAFs speed up the growth of tumors by changing the extracellular matrix's structure and composition and/or initiating the epithelial cells (EPT). IL-33/ST2 signaling has drawn a lot of attention since it acts as a pro-tumor alarmin and encourages spread by altering TM. Methods: Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) of the OvC tumor microenvironment were found in the GEO database, qRT-PCR, western blotting, and immunohistochemistry, and their presence and changes in healthy and tumor tissue content were examined. Primary cultures of healthy fibroblasts and CAFs obtained from healthy and tumor tissues retrieved from OvC samples were used for in vitro and in vivo investigations. Cultured primary human CAFs were utilized to investigate the regulation and the IL-33/ST2 axis role in the inflammation reactions. Results: Although ST2 and IL-33 expression was detected in both epithelial (EPT) and fibroblast cells of ovarian cancer, they are more abundant in CAFs. Lipopolysaccharides, serum amyloid A1, and IL-1β, the inflammatory mediators, could all induce IL-33 expression through NF-κB activation in human CAFs. In turn, via the ST2 receptor, IL-33 affected the production of IL-6, IL-1β, and PTGS2 in human CAFs via the MAPKs-NF-κB pathway. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that IL-33/ST2 is affected by the interaction of CAFs and epithelial cells inside the tumor microenvironment. Activation of this axis leads to increased expression of inflammatory factors in tumor CAFs and EPT cells. Therefore, targeting the IL-33/ST2 axis could have potential value in the prevention of OvC progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geovanny Genaro Reivan Ortiz
- Laboratory of Basic Psychology, Behavioral Analysis and Programmatic Development (PAD-LAB), Catholic University of Cuenca, Cuenca, Ecuador
| | - Carmen Iulia Ciongradi
- Department of Surgery-Pediatric Surgery and Orthopedics, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iași, Romania
| | - M. V. N. L. Chaitanya
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, India
| | - Jayasankar Narayanan
- Department of Pharmacology, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, SRM College of Pharmacy, Kattankulathu, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Mohamed Mohany
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Salim S. Al-Rejaie
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - José Luis Arias-Gonzáles
- Department of Social Sciences, Faculty of Social Studies, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Ioan Sârbu
- Department of Surgery-Pediatric Surgery and Orthopedics, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iași, Romania
| | - Marjan Assefi
- University of North Carolina, Greensboro, NC, United States
| | | | - Yusuf Döğüş
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Cukurova University, Adana, Türkiye
| | - Abolfazl Bahrami
- Biomedical Center for Systems Biology Science Munich, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
| | - Reza Akhavan-Sigari
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Medical Center Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
- Department of Healthcare Management and Clinical Research, Collegium Humanum Warsaw Management University, Warsaw, Poland
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11
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Tang H, Fayomi AP, Bai S, Gupta N, Cascio S, Yang D, Buckanovich RJ. Generation and characterization of humanized affinity-matured EGFL6 antibodies for ovarian cancer therapy. Gynecol Oncol 2023; 171:49-58. [PMID: 36804621 PMCID: PMC10040429 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2023.02.004] [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: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Epidermal growth factor EGF-like domain multiple-6 (EGFL6) is highly expressed in high grade serous ovarian cancer and promotes both endothelial cell proliferation/angiogenesis and cancer cell proliferation/metastasis. As such it has been implicated as a therapeutic target. As a secreted factor, EGFL6 is a candidate for antibody therapy. The objectives of this study were to create and validate humanized affinity-matured EGFL6 neutralizing antibodies for clinical development. METHODS A selected murine EGFL6 antibody was humanized using CDR grafting to create 26 variant humanized antibodies. These were screened and the lead candidate was affinity matured. Seven humanized affinity-matured EGFL6 antibodies were screened for their ability to block EGFL6 activity on cancer cells in vitro, two of which were selected and tested their therapeutic activity in vivo. RESULTS Humanized affinity matured antibodies demonstrated high affinity for EGFL6 (150 pM to 2.67 nM). We found that several humanized affinity-matured EGFL6 antibodies specifically bound to recombinant, and native human EGFL6. Two lead antibodies were able to inhibit EGFL6-mediated (i) cancer cell migration, (ii) proliferation, and (iii) increase in ERK phosphorylation in cancer cells in vitro. Both lead antibodies restricted growth of an EGFL6 expressing ovarian cancer patient derived xenograft. Analysis of treated human tumor xenografts indicated that anti-EGFL6 therapy suppressed angiogenesis, inhibited tumor cell proliferation, and promoted tumor cell apoptosis. CONCLUSIONS Our studies confirm the ability of these humanized affinity-matured antibodies to neutralize EGFL6 and acting as a therapeutic to restrict cancer growth. This work supports the development of these antibody for first-in-human clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huijuan Tang
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center and the Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Adetunji P Fayomi
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center and the Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Shoumei Bai
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center and the Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Navneet Gupta
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center and the Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Sandra Cascio
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center and the Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Dongli Yang
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center and the Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Ronald J Buckanovich
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center and the Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
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12
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Wieder R. Fibroblasts as Turned Agents in Cancer Progression. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15072014. [PMID: 37046676 PMCID: PMC10093070 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15072014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 03/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Differentiated epithelial cells reside in the homeostatic microenvironment of the native organ stroma. The stroma supports their normal function, their G0 differentiated state, and their expansion/contraction through the various stages of the life cycle and physiologic functions of the host. When malignant transformation begins, the microenvironment tries to suppress and eliminate the transformed cells, while cancer cells, in turn, try to resist these suppressive efforts. The tumor microenvironment encompasses a large variety of cell types recruited by the tumor to perform different functions, among which fibroblasts are the most abundant. The dynamics of the mutual relationship change as the sides undertake an epic battle for control of the other. In the process, the cancer “wounds” the microenvironment through a variety of mechanisms and attracts distant mesenchymal stem cells to change their function from one attempting to suppress the cancer, to one that supports its growth, survival, and metastasis. Analogous reciprocal interactions occur as well between disseminated cancer cells and the metastatic microenvironment, where the microenvironment attempts to eliminate cancer cells or suppress their proliferation. However, the altered microenvironmental cells acquire novel characteristics that support malignant progression. Investigations have attempted to use these traits as targets of novel therapeutic approaches.
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13
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Atiya HI, Frisbie L, Goldfeld E, Orellana T, Donnellan N, Modugno F, Calderon M, Watkins S, Zhang R, Elishaev E, Soong TR, Vlad A, Coffman L. Endometriosis-Associated Mesenchymal Stem Cells Support Ovarian Clear Cell Carcinoma through Iron Regulation. Cancer Res 2022; 82:4680-4693. [PMID: 36219681 PMCID: PMC9755968 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-22-1294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Ovarian clear cell carcinoma (OCCC) is a deadly and treatment-resistant cancer, which arises within the unique microenvironment of endometriosis. In this study, we identified a subset of endometriosis-derived mesenchymal stem cells (enMSC) characterized by loss of CD10 expression that specifically support OCCC growth. RNA sequencing identified alterations in iron export in CD10-negative enMSCs and reciprocal changes in metal transport in cocultured OCCC cells. CD10-negative enMSCs exhibited elevated expression of iron export proteins hephaestin and ferroportin and donate iron to associated OCCCs, functionally increasing the levels of labile intracellular iron. Iron is necessary for OCCC growth, and CD10-negative enMSCs prevented the growth inhibitory effects of iron chelation. In addition, enMSC-mediated increases in OCCC iron resulted in a unique sensitivity to ferroptosis. In vitro and in vivo, treatment with the ferroptosis inducer erastin resulted in significant death of cancer cells grown with CD10-negative enMSCs. Collectively, this work describes a novel mechanism of stromal-mediated tumor support via iron donation. This work also defines an important role of endometriosis-associated MSCs in supporting OCCC growth and identifies a critical therapeutic vulnerability of OCCC to ferroptosis based on stromal phenotype. SIGNIFICANCE Endometriosis-derived mesenchymal stem cells support ovarian clear cell carcinoma via iron donation necessary for cancer growth, which also confers sensitivity to ferroptosis-inducing therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huda I. Atiya
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Leonard Frisbie
- Department of Integrative Systems Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Ester Goldfeld
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Taylor Orellana
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Nicole Donnellan
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Magee Women's Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Francesmary Modugno
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Magee Women's Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Michael Calderon
- Center for Biologic Imaging, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Simon Watkins
- Center for Biologic Imaging, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Rugang Zhang
- Immunology, Microenvironment and Metastasis Program, The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Esther Elishaev
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Thing Rinda Soong
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Anda Vlad
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Lan Coffman
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.,Division of Gynecologic Oncology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.,Corresponding Author: Lan Coffman, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, 204 Craft Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213. E-mail:
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14
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Xu M, Zhang T, Xia R, Wei Y, Wei X. Targeting the tumor stroma for cancer therapy. Mol Cancer 2022; 21:208. [PMID: 36324128 PMCID: PMC9628074 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-022-01670-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumors are comprised of both cancer cells and surrounding stromal components. As an essential part of the tumor microenvironment, the tumor stroma is highly dynamic, heterogeneous and commonly tumor-type specific, and it mainly includes noncellular compositions such as the extracellular matrix and the unique cancer-associated vascular system as well as a wide variety of cellular components including activated cancer-associated fibroblasts, mesenchymal stromal cells, pericytes. All these elements operate with each other in a coordinated fashion and collectively promote cancer initiation, progression, metastasis and therapeutic resistance. Over the past few decades, numerous studies have been conducted to study the interaction and crosstalk between stromal components and neoplastic cells. Meanwhile, we have also witnessed an exponential increase in the investigation and recognition of the critical roles of tumor stroma in solid tumors. A series of clinical trials targeting the tumor stroma have been launched continually. In this review, we introduce and discuss current advances in the understanding of various stromal elements and their roles in cancers. We also elaborate on potential novel approaches for tumor-stroma-based therapeutic targeting, with the aim to promote the leap from bench to bedside.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maosen Xu
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Sichuan University, No. 17, Block 3, Southern Renmin Road, 610041, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Tao Zhang
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Sichuan University, No. 17, Block 3, Southern Renmin Road, 610041, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Ruolan Xia
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Sichuan University, No. 17, Block 3, Southern Renmin Road, 610041, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Yuquan Wei
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Sichuan University, No. 17, Block 3, Southern Renmin Road, 610041, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Xiawei Wei
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Sichuan University, No. 17, Block 3, Southern Renmin Road, 610041, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China.
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15
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Li JP, Liu YJ, Zeng SH, Gao HJ, Chen YG, Zou X. Identification of COX4I2 as a hypoxia-associated gene acting through FGF1 to promote EMT and angiogenesis in CRC. Cell Mol Biol Lett 2022; 27:76. [PMID: 36064310 PMCID: PMC9446847 DOI: 10.1186/s11658-022-00380-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Current evidence suggests that the hypoxic tumor microenvironment further aggravates tumor progression, leading to poor therapeutic outcomes. There is as yet no biomarker capable of evaluating the hypoxic state of the tumor. The cytochrome c oxidase (COX) subunit is crucial to the mitochondrial respiratory chain. Methods We investigated the potential oncogenic role of COX subunit 4 isoform 2 gene (COX4I2) in colorectal cancer (CRC) by least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) and COX regression analysis to examine whether COX4I2 overexpression can predict colorectal cancer (CRC) prognosis. The association of COX4I2 levels with clinical features and its biological actions were evaluated both in vitro and in vivo. Results Our analysis showed that elevated COX4I2 levels were correlated with poor clinical outcomes. We also observed that that COX4I2 may be involved in epithelial-mesenchymal transition, activation of cancer-related fibroblasts and angiogenesis in relation to fibroblast growth factor 1. Conclusions The COX4I2 level may be a predictor of outcome in CRC and may represent a novel target for treatment development. Graphical Abstract ![]()
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s11658-022-00380-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie-Pin Li
- Zhangjiagang TCM Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Zhangjiagang, 215600, Jiangsu, China.,Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu, China.,No. 1 Clinical Medical College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yuan-Jie Liu
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu, China.,No. 1 Clinical Medical College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, Jiangsu, China
| | - Shu-Hong Zeng
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu, China.,No. 1 Clinical Medical College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, Jiangsu, China
| | - Hai-Jian Gao
- Zhangjiagang TCM Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Zhangjiagang, 215600, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yu-Gen Chen
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Xi Zou
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu, China. .,No. 1 Clinical Medical College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, Jiangsu, China. .,Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Tumor, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China.
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16
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Ramuta TŽ, Kreft ME. Mesenchymal Stem/Stromal Cells May Decrease Success of Cancer Treatment by Inducing Resistance to Chemotherapy in Cancer Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14153761. [PMID: 35954425 PMCID: PMC9367361 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14153761] [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: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Tumours consist of different cell types and an extracellular matrix, all of which together form a complex microenvironment. The tumour microenvironment plays a critical role in various aspects of tumour development and progression. Mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) are multipotent stem cells that have a tri-lineage differentiation capacity and are one of the key stromal cells in the tumour microenvironment. Following the interaction with cancer cells, they are transformed from naïve MSCs to tumour-associated MSCs, which substantially affect tumour growth and progression as well as the development of chemoresistance in cancer cells. The aim of this review article is to provide an overview of studies that have investigated how MSCs affect the susceptibility of cancer cells to chemotherapeutics. Their results show that MSCs protect cancer cells from chemotherapeutics by influencing several signalling pathways. This knowledge is crucial for the development of new treatment approaches that will lead to improved treatment outcomes. Abstract The tumour microenvironment, which is comprised of various cell types and the extracellular matrix, substantially impacts tumour initiation, progression, and metastasis. Mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) are one of the key stromal cells in the tumour microenvironment, and their interaction with cancer cells results in the transformation of naïve MSCs to tumour-associated MSCs. The latter has an important impact on tumour growth and progression. Recently, it has been shown that they can also contribute to the development of chemoresistance in cancer cells. This review provides an overview of 42 studies published between 1 January 2001 and 1 January 2022 that examined the effect of MSCs on the susceptibility of cancer cells to chemotherapeutics. The studies showed that MSCs affect various signalling pathways in cancer cells, leading to protection against chemotherapy-induced damage. Promising results emerged from the use of inhibitors of various signalling pathways that are affected in cancer cells due to interactions with MSCs in the tumour microenvironment. These studies present a good starting point for the investigation of novel treatment approaches and demonstrate the importance of targeting the stroma in the tumour microenvironment to improve treatment outcomes.
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17
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Xie T, Tan M, Gao Y, Yang H. CRABP2 accelerates epithelial mesenchymal transition in serous ovarian cancer cells by promoting TRIM16 methylation via upregulating EZH2 expression. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2022; 37:1957-1967. [PMID: 35442568 DOI: 10.1002/tox.23542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Revised: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/10/2022] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Recently, it was covered that cellular retinoic acid-binding protein 2 (CRABP2) is upregulated in ovarian cancer and participates in tumor progression, however, the specific mechanism remains to be explored. The pcDNA-CRABP2 or si-CRABP2 was transfected into SKOV3 and OVCAR3 ovarian cancer cells, respectively, and we observed that overexpression of CRABP2 inhibited cell apoptosis, promoted cell invasion and expression of epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) marker proteins, and transfection of si-CRABP2 had the opposite effect. Furthermore, we predicted that EZH2 interacted with CRABP2, and overexpression of CRABP2 promoted EZH2 expression, knockdown of CRABP2 inhibited EZH2 expression, and co-immunoprecipitation assay confirmed their binding relationship. The SKOV3 and OVCAR3 cells were then incubated with pcDNA-CRABP2 alone together with si-EZH2, and we found that si-EZH2 reversed the effect of pcDNA-CRABP2 on promotion of EZH2 expression, cell invasion and EMT maker protein levels. Next, we found that EZH2 could bind to DNMT1, and overexpression of EZH2 inhibited TRIM16 expression and knockdown of EZH2 promoted TRIM16 expression. Moreover, the promoter of TRIM16 contains the CpG island, and ChIP assay observed enriched DNMT1 on the promoter of TRIM16, and overexpression of EZH2 increased the promoter methylation level of TRIM16 and knockdown of EZH2 suppressed the methylation. The SKOV3 cells were incubated with si-EZH2 alone or combined with si-TRIM16, and we found that si-TRIM16 reversed the effect of si-EZH2. In vivo studies showed that knockdown of CRABP2 inhibited tumor volume and weight, suppressed the expression of EZH2 and EMT related proteins vimentin and snail, and increased the expression of TRIM16 and E-cadherin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Xie
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Minghua Tan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yang Gao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Hong Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
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18
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Wang KH, Ding DC. Role of cancer-associated mesenchymal stem cells in the tumor microenvironment: A review. Tzu Chi Med J 2022; 35:24-30. [PMID: 36866340 PMCID: PMC9972927 DOI: 10.4103/tcmj.tcmj_138_22] [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: 05/10/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) were applied to the therapy for degenerative diseases, immune, and inflammation. In tumor microenvironments (TME), different sources of MSCs showed that tumor-promoting and -inhibiting effects were mediated by different signaling pathways. Cancer-associated MSCs (CaMSCs) could be recruited from bone marrow or local tissues and mainly showed tumor-promoting and immunosuppressive effects. The transformed CaMSCs preserve the characteristics of stem cells, but the properties of regulating TME are different. Hence, we specifically focus on CaMSCs and discuss the detailed mechanisms of regulating the development of cancer cells and immune cells. CaMSCs could be a potential therapeutic target in various types of cancer. However, the detailed mechanisms of CaMSCs in the TME are relatively less known and need further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai-Hung Wang
- Department of Medical Research, Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Dah-Ching Ding
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation and Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan,Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan,Address for correspondence: Dr. Dah-Ching Ding, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, 707, Section 3, Chung-Yang Road, Hualien, Taiwan. E-mail:
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19
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Zhou W, Hinoue T, Barnes B, Mitchell O, Iqbal W, Lee SM, Foy KK, Lee KH, Moyer EJ, VanderArk A, Koeman JM, Ding W, Kalkat M, Spix NJ, Eagleson B, Pospisilik JA, Szabó PE, Bartolomei MS, Vander Schaaf NA, Kang L, Wiseman AK, Jones PA, Krawczyk CM, Adams M, Porecha R, Chen BH, Shen H, Laird PW. DNA methylation dynamics and dysregulation delineated by high-throughput profiling in the mouse. CELL GENOMICS 2022; 2:100144. [PMID: 35873672 PMCID: PMC9306256 DOI: 10.1016/j.xgen.2022.100144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 03/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
We have developed a mouse DNA methylation array that contains 296,070 probes representing the diversity of mouse DNA methylation biology. We present a mouse methylation atlas as a rich reference resource of 1,239 DNA samples encompassing distinct tissues, strains, ages, sexes, and pathologies. We describe applications for comparative epigenomics, genomic imprinting, epigenetic inhibitors, patient-derived xenograft assessment, backcross tracing, and epigenetic clocks. We dissect DNA methylation processes associated with differentiation, aging, and tumorigenesis. Notably, we find that tissue-specific methylation signatures localize to binding sites for transcription factors controlling the corresponding tissue development. Age-associated hypermethylation is enriched at regions of Polycomb repression, while hypomethylation is enhanced at regions bound by cohesin complex members. Apc Min/+ polyp-associated hypermethylation affects enhancers regulating intestinal differentiation, while hypomethylation targets AP-1 binding sites. This Infinium Mouse Methylation BeadChip (version MM285) is widely accessible to the research community and will accelerate high-sample-throughput studies in this important model organism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanding Zhou
- Center for Computational and Genomic Medicine, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Corresponding author
| | - Toshinori Hinoue
- Department of Epigenetics, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
| | - Bret Barnes
- Illumina, Inc., Bioinformatics and Instrument Software Department, San Diego, CA 92122, USA
| | - Owen Mitchell
- Department of Epigenetics, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
| | - Waleed Iqbal
- Center for Computational and Genomic Medicine, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Sol Moe Lee
- Center for Computational and Genomic Medicine, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Kelly K. Foy
- Department of Epigenetics, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
| | - Kwang-Ho Lee
- Department of Epigenetics, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
| | - Ethan J. Moyer
- Center for Computational and Genomic Medicine, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Alexandra VanderArk
- Department of Metabolism and Nutritional Programming, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
| | - Julie M. Koeman
- Genomics Core, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
| | - Wubin Ding
- Center for Computational and Genomic Medicine, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Manpreet Kalkat
- Department of Epigenetics, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
| | - Nathan J. Spix
- Department of Epigenetics, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
| | - Bryn Eagleson
- Vivarium and Transgenics Core, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
| | | | - Piroska E. Szabó
- Department of Epigenetics, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
| | - Marisa S. Bartolomei
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Epigenetics Institute, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | | | - Liang Kang
- Department of Epigenetics, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
| | - Ashley K. Wiseman
- Department of Epigenetics, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
| | - Peter A. Jones
- Department of Epigenetics, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
| | - Connie M. Krawczyk
- Department of Metabolism and Nutritional Programming, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
| | - Marie Adams
- Genomics Core, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
| | - Rishi Porecha
- Illumina, Inc., Bioinformatics and Instrument Software Department, San Diego, CA 92122, USA
| | | | - Hui Shen
- Department of Epigenetics, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
- Corresponding author
| | - Peter W. Laird
- Department of Epigenetics, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
- Corresponding author
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20
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Frisbie L, Buckanovich RJ, Coffman L. Carcinoma Associated Mesenchymal Stem/Stromal Cells - Architects of the Pro-tumorigenic tumor microenvironment. Stem Cells 2022; 40:705-715. [PMID: 35583414 PMCID: PMC9406606 DOI: 10.1093/stmcls/sxac036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
The interaction between tumor cells and non-malignant hosts cells within the tumor microenvironment (TME) is critical to the pathophysiology of cancer. These non-malignant host cells, consisting of a variety of stromal, immune and endothelial cells, engage in a complex bidirectional crosstalk with the malignant tumor cells. Mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) are one of these host cells, and they play a critical role in directing the formation and function of the entire TME. These MSCs are epigenetically reprogrammed by cancer cells to assume a strongly pro-tumorigenic phenotype and are referred to as carcinoma-associated mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (CA-MSCs). Studies over the last decade demonstrate that CA-MSCs not only directly interact with cancer cells to promote tumor growth and metastasis, but also orchestrate the formation of the TME. CA-MSCs can differentiate into virtually all stromal sub-lineages present in the TME, including pro-tumorigenic cancer associated fibroblasts (CAF), myofibroblasts, and adipocytes. CA-MSCs and the CAFs they produce, secrete much of the extracellular matrix in the TME. Furthermore, CA-MSC secreted factors promote angiogenesis, and recruit immunosuppressive myeloid cells effectively driving tumor immune exclusion. Thus CA-MSCs impact nearly every aspect of the TME. Despite their influence on cancer biology, as CA-MSCs represent a heterogenous population without a single definitive marker, significant confusion remains regarding the origin and proper identification CA-MSCs. This review will focus on the impact of CA-MSCs on cancer progression and metastasis and the ongoing work on CA-MSC identification, nomenclature and mechanism of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Len Frisbie
- Department of Integrative Systems Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Ronald J Buckanovich
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA.,Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Magee Women's Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Lan Coffman
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA.,Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Magee Women's Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
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21
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Taylor SE, Chan DK, Yang D, Bruno T, Lieberman R, Siddiqui J, Soong TR, Coffman L, Buckanovich RJ. Shifting the Soil: Metformin Treatment Decreases the Protumorigenic Tumor Microenvironment in Epithelial Ovarian Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:2298. [PMID: 35565427 PMCID: PMC9104826 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14092298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Revised: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Controversy persists regarding metformin's role in cancer therapy. Our recent work suggested metformin acts by impacting the tumor microenvironment (TME), normalizing the epigenetic profile of cancer-associated mesenchymal stem cells (CA-MSC). As CA-MSC can negatively impact tumor immune infiltrates, we evaluated metformin's impact on the human TME, focusing on the interplay of stroma and immune infiltrates. Tumor samples from (i) 38 patients treated with metformin and chemotherapy and (ii) 44 non-metformin matched controls were included in a tissue microarray (TMA). The TMA was used to compare the presence of CA-MSC, desmoplasia and immune infiltrates in the TME. In vitro and in vivo models examined metformin's role in alteration of the CA-MSC phenotype. The average percentage of CA-MSC was significantly lower in metformin-treated than in chemotherapy alone-treated tumors (p = 0.006). There were fewer regulatory T-cells in metformin-treated tumors (p = 0.043). Consistent with CA-MSC's role in excluding T-cells from tumor islets, the T-cells were primarily present within the tumor stroma. Evaluation of metformin's impact in vitro suggested that metformin cannot reverse a CA-MSC phenotype; however, the in vivo model where metformin was introduced prior to the establishment of the CA-MSC phenotype supported that metformin can partially prevent the reprogramming of normal MSC into CA-MSC. Metformin treatment led to a decrease in both the presence of protumorigenic CA-MSC and in immune exclusion of T cells, leading to a more immune-permissive environment. This suggests clinical utility in prevention and in treatment for early-stage disease and putatively in immune therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah E. Taylor
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; (D.K.C.); (L.C.); (R.J.B.)
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA;
| | - Daniel K. Chan
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; (D.K.C.); (L.C.); (R.J.B.)
| | - Dongli Yang
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA;
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Tulia Bruno
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA;
- Tumor Microenvironment Center, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
- Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy Program, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Richard Lieberman
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA;
| | - Javed Siddiqui
- Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA;
| | - Thing Rinda Soong
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA;
| | - Lan Coffman
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; (D.K.C.); (L.C.); (R.J.B.)
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA;
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Ronald J. Buckanovich
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; (D.K.C.); (L.C.); (R.J.B.)
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA;
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
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22
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Wilson MR, Reske JJ, Koeman J, Adams M, Joshi NR, Fazleabas AT, Chandler RL. SWI/SNF Antagonism of PRC2 Mediates Estrogen-Induced Progesterone Receptor Expression. Cells 2022; 11:1000. [PMID: 35326450 PMCID: PMC8946988 DOI: 10.3390/cells11061000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Revised: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometrial cancer (EC) is characterized by high estrogen levels unopposed by progesterone. Treatment with progestins is standard for early EC, but the response to progestins is dependent on progesterone receptor (PGR) expression. Here, we show that the expression of PGR in endometrial epithelial cells is dependent on ARID1A, a DNA-binding subunit of the SWI/SNF chromatin-remodeling complex that is commonly mutated in EC. In endometrial epithelial cells with estrogen receptor overexpression, we find that ARID1A promotes estrogen signaling and regulates common gene expression programs. Normally, endometrial epithelial cells expressing estrogen receptors respond to estrogen by upregulating the PGR. However, when ARID1A expression is lost, upregulation of PGR expression is significantly reduced. This phenomenon can also occur following the loss of the SWI/SNF subunit BRG1, suggesting a role for ARID1A- and BRG1-containing complexes in PGR regulation. We find that PGR is regulated by a bivalent promoter, which harbors both H3K4me3 and H3K27me3 histone tail modifications. H3K27me3 is deposited by EZH2, and inhibition of EZH2 in the context of ARID1A loss results in restoration of estrogen-induced PGR expression. Our results suggest a role for ARID1A deficiency in the loss of PGR in late-stage EC and a therapeutic utility for EZH2 inhibitors in this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mike R. Wilson
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA; (M.R.W.); (J.J.R.); (N.R.J.); (A.T.F.)
| | - Jake J. Reske
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA; (M.R.W.); (J.J.R.); (N.R.J.); (A.T.F.)
| | - Julie Koeman
- Genomics Core Facility, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA; (J.K.); (M.A.)
| | - Marie Adams
- Genomics Core Facility, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA; (J.K.); (M.A.)
| | - Niraj R. Joshi
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA; (M.R.W.); (J.J.R.); (N.R.J.); (A.T.F.)
| | - Asgerally T. Fazleabas
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA; (M.R.W.); (J.J.R.); (N.R.J.); (A.T.F.)
- Department of Women’s Health, Spectrum Health System, Grand Rapids, MI 49341, USA
| | - Ronald L. Chandler
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA; (M.R.W.); (J.J.R.); (N.R.J.); (A.T.F.)
- Department of Women’s Health, Spectrum Health System, Grand Rapids, MI 49341, USA
- Center for Epigenetics, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
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23
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Sun S, Yu F, Xu D, Zheng H, Li M. EZH2, a prominent orchestrator of genetic and epigenetic regulation of solid tumor microenvironment and immunotherapy. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2022; 1877:188700. [PMID: 35217116 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2022.188700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) is regarded as a promising strategy for cancer therapy. The histone methyltransferase, Enhancer of Zeste Homolog 2 (EZH2), has been implicated in the carcinogenesis of numerous solid tumors. However, the underlying mechanism of EZH2 in cancer immunotherapeutic resistance remains unknown. EZH2 orchestrates the regulation of the innate and adaptive immune systems of the tumor microenvironment (TME). Profound epigenetic and transcriptomic changes induced by EZH2 in tumor cells and immune cells mobilize the elements of the TME, leading to immune-suppressive activity of solid tumors. In this review, we summarized the dynamic functions of EZH2 on the different components of the TME, including tumor cells, T cells, macrophages, natural killer cells, myeloid-derived suppressor cells, dendritic cells, fibroblasts, and mesenchymal stem cells. Several ongoing anti-tumor clinical trials using EZH2 inhibitors have also been included as translational perspectives. In conclusion, based combinational therapy to enable ICB could offer a survival benefit in patients with cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanshan Sun
- Department of Breast Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China; Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Immune Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China; Cancer Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China; Department of Medicine, the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States of America; Department of Surgery, the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States of America
| | - Feng Yu
- Cancer Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China; Department of Colorectal Surgery and Oncology, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Danying Xu
- Department of Breast Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China; Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Immune Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China; Cancer Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
| | - Haiyan Zheng
- Department of Breast Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Min Li
- Department of Medicine, the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States of America; Department of Surgery, the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States of America.
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24
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Smith JP, Corces MR, Xu J, Reuter VP, Chang HY, Sheffield NC. PEPATAC: an optimized pipeline for ATAC-seq data analysis with serial alignments. NAR Genom Bioinform 2021; 3:lqab101. [PMID: 34859208 PMCID: PMC8632735 DOI: 10.1093/nargab/lqab101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Revised: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
As chromatin accessibility data from ATAC-seq experiments continues to expand, there is continuing need for standardized analysis pipelines. Here, we present PEPATAC, an ATAC-seq pipeline that is easily applied to ATAC-seq projects of any size, from one-off experiments to large-scale sequencing projects. PEPATAC leverages unique features of ATAC-seq data to optimize for speed and accuracy, and it provides several unique analytical approaches. Output includes convenient quality control plots, summary statistics, and a variety of generally useful data formats to set the groundwork for subsequent project-specific data analysis. Downstream analysis is simplified by a standard definition format, modularity of components, and metadata APIs in R and Python. It is restartable, fault-tolerant, and can be run on local hardware, using any cluster resource manager, or in provided Linux containers. We also demonstrate the advantage of aligning to the mitochondrial genome serially, which improves the accuracy of alignment statistics and quality control metrics. PEPATAC is a robust and portable first step for any ATAC-seq project. BSD2-licensed code and documentation are available at https://pepatac.databio.org.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason P Smith
- Center for Public Health Genomics, University of Virginia, VA,22908, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Virginia, VA 22908 USA
| | - M Ryan Corces
- Center for Personal Dynamic Regulomes, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94304, USA
| | - Jin Xu
- Center for Personal Dynamic Regulomes, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94304, USA
| | - Vincent P Reuter
- Genomics and Computational Biology Graduate Group, University of Pennsylvania, PA 19087, USA
| | - Howard Y Chang
- Center for Personal Dynamic Regulomes, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94304, USA
| | - Nathan C Sheffield
- Center for Public Health Genomics, University of Virginia, VA,22908, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Virginia, VA 22908 USA
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Virginia, VA 22908, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, VA 22908, USA
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25
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Liu M, Yang J, Xu B, Zhang X. Tumor metastasis: Mechanistic insights and therapeutic interventions. MedComm (Beijing) 2021; 2:587-617. [PMID: 34977870 PMCID: PMC8706758 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer metastasis is responsible for the vast majority of cancer-related deaths worldwide. In contrast to numerous discoveries that reveal the detailed mechanisms leading to the formation of the primary tumor, the biological underpinnings of the metastatic disease remain poorly understood. Cancer metastasis is a complex process in which cancer cells escape from the primary tumor, settle, and grow at other parts of the body. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition and anoikis resistance of tumor cells are the main forces to promote metastasis, and multiple components in the tumor microenvironment and their complicated crosstalk with cancer cells are closely involved in distant metastasis. In addition to the three cornerstones of tumor treatment, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy, novel treatment approaches including targeted therapy and immunotherapy have been established in patients with metastatic cancer. Although the cancer survival rate has been greatly improved over the years, it is still far from satisfactory. In this review, we provided an overview of the metastasis process, summarized the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in the dissemination and distant metastasis of cancer cells, and reviewed the important advances in interventions for cancer metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengmeng Liu
- Melanoma and Sarcoma Medical Oncology UnitState Key Laboratory of Oncology in South ChinaCollaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouChina
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South ChinaCollaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouChina
| | - Jing Yang
- Melanoma and Sarcoma Medical Oncology UnitState Key Laboratory of Oncology in South ChinaCollaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouChina
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South ChinaCollaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouChina
| | - Bushu Xu
- Melanoma and Sarcoma Medical Oncology UnitState Key Laboratory of Oncology in South ChinaCollaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouChina
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South ChinaCollaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouChina
| | - Xing Zhang
- Melanoma and Sarcoma Medical Oncology UnitState Key Laboratory of Oncology in South ChinaCollaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouChina
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26
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Freeman DW, Rodrigues Sousa E, Karkampouna S, Zoni E, Gray PC, Salomon DS, Kruithof-de Julio M, Spike BT. Whence CRIPTO: The Reemergence of an Oncofetal Factor in 'Wounds' That Fail to Heal. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:10164. [PMID: 34576327 PMCID: PMC8472190 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221810164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Revised: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
There exists a set of factors termed oncofetal proteins that play key roles in ontogeny before they decline or disappear as the organism's tissues achieve homeostasis, only to then re-emerge in cancer. Although the unique therapeutic potential presented by such factors has been recognized for more than a century, their clinical utility has yet to be fully realized1. This review highlights the small signaling protein CRIPTO encoded by the tumor derived growth factor 1 (TDGF1/Tdgf1) gene, an oft cited oncofetal protein whose presence in the cancer literature as a tumor promoter, diagnostic marker and viable therapeutic target continues to grow. We touch lightly on features well established and well-reviewed since its discovery more than 30 years ago, including CRIPTO's early developmental roles and modulation of SMAD2/3 activation by a selected set of transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) family ligands. We predominantly focus instead on more recent and less well understood additions to the CRIPTO signaling repertoire, on its potential upstream regulators and on new conceptual ground for understanding its mode of action in the multicellular and often stressful contexts of neoplastic transformation and progression. We ask whence it re-emerges in cancer and where it 'hides' between the time of its fetal activity and its oncogenic reemergence. In this regard, we examine CRIPTO's restriction to rare cells in the adult, its potential for paracrine crosstalk, and its emerging role in inflammation and tissue regeneration-roles it may reprise in tumorigenesis, acting on subsets of tumor cells to foster cancer initiation and progression. We also consider critical gaps in knowledge and resources that stand between the recent, exciting momentum in the CRIPTO field and highly actionable CRIPTO manipulation for cancer therapy and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- David W. Freeman
- Department of Oncological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84113, USA;
| | - Elisa Rodrigues Sousa
- Urology Research Laboratory, Department for BioMedical Research DBMR, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland; (E.R.S.); (S.K.); (E.Z.)
| | - Sofia Karkampouna
- Urology Research Laboratory, Department for BioMedical Research DBMR, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland; (E.R.S.); (S.K.); (E.Z.)
| | - Eugenio Zoni
- Urology Research Laboratory, Department for BioMedical Research DBMR, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland; (E.R.S.); (S.K.); (E.Z.)
| | - Peter C. Gray
- Peptide Biology Laboratory, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA;
| | - David S. Salomon
- Mouse Cancer Genetics Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD 20893, USA;
| | - Marianna Kruithof-de Julio
- Urology Research Laboratory, Department for BioMedical Research DBMR, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland; (E.R.S.); (S.K.); (E.Z.)
- Translational Organoid Models, Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
- Bern Center for Precision Medicine, Inselspital, University Hospital of Bern, 3010 Bern, Switzerland
- Department of Urology, Inselspital, University Hospital of Bern, 3010 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Benjamin T. Spike
- Department of Oncological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84113, USA;
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27
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Li W, Yang J, Zheng P, Li H, Zhao S. The Origins and Generation of Cancer-Associated Mesenchymal Stromal Cells: An Innovative Therapeutic Target for Solid Tumors. Front Oncol 2021; 11:723707. [PMID: 34513701 PMCID: PMC8427299 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.723707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer-associated mesenchymal stromal cells (CA-MSCs) have been isolated from various types of tumors and are characterized by their vigorous pro-tumorigenic functions. However, very little is known about the origins and generating process of CA-MSCs, which may facilitate the identification of biomarkers for diagnosis or innovative targets for anti-cancer therapy to restrain the tumor growth, spread and chemotherapy resistance. Current evidences have indicated that both distally recruited and local resident MSCs are the primary origins of CA-MSCs. In a tissue type-dependent mode, tumor cells together with the TME components prompt the malignant transition of tumor “naïve” MSCs into CA-MSCs in a direct cell-to-cell contact, paracrine or exosome-mediated manner. In this review, we discuss the transition of phenotypes and functions of naïve MSCs into CA-MSCs influenced by tumor cells or non-tumor cells in the TME. The key areas remaining poorly understood are also highlighted and concluded herein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Li
- Center of Research Laboratory, Department of Laboratory Medicine, The First People's Hospital of Lianyungang, Lianyungang, China
| | - Jin Yang
- Center of Research Laboratory, Department of Laboratory Medicine, The First People's Hospital of Lianyungang, Lianyungang, China
| | - Ping Zheng
- Center of Research Laboratory, Department of Laboratory Medicine, The First People's Hospital of Lianyungang, Lianyungang, China
| | - Haining Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Diagnostics, Kangda College of Nanjing Medical University, Lianyungang, China
| | - Shaolin Zhao
- Center of Research Laboratory, Department of Laboratory Medicine, The First People's Hospital of Lianyungang, Lianyungang, China
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28
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Gagliano T, Brancolini C. Epigenetic Mechanisms beyond Tumour-Stroma Crosstalk. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13040914. [PMID: 33671588 PMCID: PMC7926949 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13040914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Revised: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite cancer having been usually considered the result of genetic mutations, it is now well established that epigenetic dysregulations play pivotal roles in cancer onset and progression. Hence, inactivation of tumour suppressor genes can be gained not only by genetic mutations, but also by epigenetic mechanisms such as DNA methylation and histone modifications. To occur, epigenetic events need to be triggered by genetic alterations of the epigenetic regulators, or they can be mediated by intracellular and extracellular stimuli. In this last setting, the tumour microenvironment (TME) plays a fundamental role. Therefore, to decipher how epigenetic changes are associated with TME is a challenge still open. The complex signalling between tumour cells and stroma is currently under intensive investigation, and most of the molecules and pathways involved still need to be identified. Neoplastic initiation and development are likely to involve a back-and-forth crosstalk among cancer and stroma cells. An increasing number of studies have highlighted that the cancer epigenome can be influenced by tumour microenvironment and vice versa. Here, we discuss about the recent literature on tumour-stroma interactions that focus on epigenetic mechanisms and the reciprocal regulation between cancer and TME cells.
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29
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Ramarao-Milne P, Kondrashova O, Barry S, Hooper JD, Lee JS, Waddell N. Histone Modifying Enzymes in Gynaecological Cancers. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13040816. [PMID: 33669182 PMCID: PMC7919659 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13040816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Epigenetics is a process that allows genetic control, without the involvement of sequence changes to DNA or genes. In cancer, epigenetics is a key event in tumour development that can alter the expression of cancer driver genes and result in genomic instability. Due to the critical role of epigenetics in malignant transformation, therapies that target these processes have been developed to treat cancer. Here, we provide a summary of the epigenetic changes that have been described in a variety of gynaecological cancers. We then highlight how these changes are being targeted in preclinical models and clinical trials for gynaecological cancers. Abstract Genetic and epigenetic factors contribute to the development of cancer. Epigenetic dysregulation is common in gynaecological cancers and includes altered methylation at CpG islands in gene promoter regions, global demethylation that leads to genome instability and histone modifications. Histones are a major determinant of chromosomal conformation and stability, and unlike DNA methylation, which is generally associated with gene silencing, are amenable to post-translational modifications that induce facultative chromatin regions, or condensed transcriptionally silent regions that decondense resulting in global alteration of gene expression. In comparison, other components, crucial to the manipulation of chromatin dynamics, such as histone modifying enzymes, are not as well-studied. Inhibitors targeting DNA modifying enzymes, particularly histone modifying enzymes represent a potential cancer treatment. Due to the ability of epigenetic therapies to target multiple pathways simultaneously, tumours with complex mutational landscapes affected by multiple driver mutations may be most amenable to this type of inhibitor. Interrogation of the actionable landscape of different gynaecological cancer types has revealed that some patients have biomarkers which indicate potential sensitivity to epigenetic inhibitors. In this review we describe the role of epigenetics in gynaecological cancers and highlight how it may exploited for treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priya Ramarao-Milne
- Medical Genomics Group, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia; (P.R.-M.); (O.K.); (N.W.)
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia
| | - Olga Kondrashova
- Medical Genomics Group, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia; (P.R.-M.); (O.K.); (N.W.)
| | - Sinead Barry
- Department of Gynaecological Oncology, Mater Hospital Brisbane, Brisbane, QLD 4101, Australia;
- Mater Research Institute, The University of Queensland, Translational Research Institute, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia;
| | - John D. Hooper
- Mater Research Institute, The University of Queensland, Translational Research Institute, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia;
| | - Jason S. Lee
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia
- Epigenetics and Disease Laboratory, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4000, Australia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +61-7-38453951
| | - Nicola Waddell
- Medical Genomics Group, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia; (P.R.-M.); (O.K.); (N.W.)
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia
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