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Liu H, Wang G, Li Z, Zhang X, Zhang W, Zhang X, Liu F, Gao J. Exosome-based immunotherapy in hepatocellular carcinoma. Clin Exp Med 2025; 25:127. [PMID: 40274634 PMCID: PMC12021721 DOI: 10.1007/s10238-025-01659-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2025] [Accepted: 03/29/2025] [Indexed: 04/26/2025]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a significant global health concern and ranks as the third leading cause of cancer-associated mortality. Systemic therapy faces the emergence of resistance, which hinders the clinical benefits. Recent evidence suggests that exosomes, measuring between 30 and 150 nm in size, which impact the antitumor immune responses, making them a promising candidate for cancer immunotherapy. Owing to their unique physical and chemical characteristics, exosomes can be tailored and engineered for a range of therapeutic objectives. In the present review, we outline the immunomodulatory functions of exosomes in the tumor microenvironment (TME) of HCC, aiming to decipher the underlying mechanisms of exosomes in remodeling suppressive TME. Moreover, we provide detailed and intuitive resource for leveraging the potential of exosomes in immunotherapy, presenting valuable strategies to improve and optimize HCC treatment. Despite the huge therapeutic potential of exosomes, significant challenges persist, including the need for standardization in exosome production, optimization of cargo loading techniques, and the assurance of safety and effectiveness in clinical applications. Addressing these challenges may pave the way for exosome-based immunotherapy for HCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Liu
- Department of Pathology, Xixi Hospital of Hangzhou, Hangzhou, 310023, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - GuoWei Wang
- Department of Radiology, Xixi Hospital of Hangzhou, Hangzhou, 310023, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - ZhaoYi Li
- Department of Scientific Research and Education, Xixi Hospital of Hangzhou, Hangzhou, 310023, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - XianTu Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Xixi Hospital of Hangzhou, Hangzhou, 310023, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - WeiDong Zhang
- Department of General Surgery I, Xixi Hospital of Hangzhou, Hangzhou, 310023, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Xia Zhang
- Medical Laboratory, Xixi Hospital of Hangzhou, Hangzhou, 310023, Zhejiang Province, China.
| | - Fang Liu
- Xixi Hospital Biobank, Xixi Hospital of Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310023, China.
| | - Jing Gao
- Department of Pathology, Xixi Hospital of Hangzhou, Hangzhou, 310023, Zhejiang Province, China.
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2
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Ge Y, Jiang L, Dong Q, Xu Y, Yam JWP, Zhong X. Exosome-mediated Crosstalk in the Tumor Immune Microenvironment: Critical Drivers of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Progression. J Clin Transl Hepatol 2025; 13:143-161. [PMID: 39917466 PMCID: PMC11797817 DOI: 10.14218/jcth.2024.00302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2024] [Revised: 11/05/2024] [Accepted: 11/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2025] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a significant global health issue, ranking as the sixth most prevalent malignancy and the fourth leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Despite advancements in therapeutic strategies, mortality rates for HCC remain high. The tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) plays a vital role in HCC progression by influencing tumor cell survival and growth. Recent studies highlight the essential role of exosomes in mediating intercellular communication within the TIME, particularly in interactions among tumor cells, immune cells, and fibroblasts. These interactions drive critical aspects of tumor development, including immune escape, angiogenesis, drug resistance, and metastasis. A detailed understanding of the molecular mechanisms by which exosomes modulate the TIME is essential for developing targeted therapies. This review systematically evaluated the roles and regulatory mechanisms of exosomes within the TIME of HCC, examining the impact of both HCC-derived and non-HCC-derived exosomes on various cellular components within the TIME. It emphasized their regulatory effects on cell phenotypes and functions, as well as their roles in HCC progression. The review also explored the potential applications of exosome-based immunotherapies, offering new insights into improving therapeutic strategies for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifei Ge
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Lixue Jiang
- Department of Breast Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Qingfu Dong
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Yi Xu
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnosis and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- State Key Laboratory of Targeting Oncology, National Center for International Research of Bio-targeting Theranostics, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Bio-targeting Theranostics, Collaborative Innovation Center for Targeting Tumor Diagnosis and Therapy, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Biotherapy, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Translational Cancer Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
- Department of Pathology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Judy Wai Ping Yam
- Department of Pathology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Xiangyu Zhong
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
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3
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Cheng L, Zhang L, Wang X, Wang Y, Yu J, Li M, Ma Z, Chi-Lui Ho P, Chen X, Wang L, Sethi G, Goh BC. Extracellular vesicles in the HCC microenvironment: Implications for therapy and biomarkers. Pharmacol Res 2024; 209:107419. [PMID: 39284428 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2024.107419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2024] [Revised: 09/10/2024] [Accepted: 09/12/2024] [Indexed: 09/20/2024]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) stands as the sixth most prevalent cancer and the third leading cause of cancer mortality globally. Despite surgical resection being the preferred approach for early-stage HCC, most patients are diagnosed at intermediate to advanced stages, limiting treatment options to chemotherapy and immunotherapy, which often yield poor outcomes. Extracellular vesicles (EVs), minute lipid-bilayered particles released by diverse cells under various physiological and pathological conditions, are crucial for mediating communication between cells. Mounting evidence indicates that EVs sourced from different cells can profoundly influence the HCC tumor microenvironment (TME), thereby affecting the progression of HCC. Given their immunogenicity and liver-targeting properties, these EVs not only hold promise for HCC treatment but also provide avenues for advancing early diagnostic methods and assessing prognosis. This review not only describes the function of EVs within the HCC tumor microenvironment but also analyzes their therapeutic advantages and explores their significance in various therapeutic approaches for HCC, including chemotherapy, immunotherapy, combination therapy, and their role as innovative drug delivery carriers. Furthermore, it highlights the potential of EVs as biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Le Cheng
- School of Basic Medicine, Health Science Center, Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434023, China
| | - Limin Zhang
- Jingzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jingzhou 434000, China; The Third Clinical Medical College of Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434000, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Wang
- School of Basic Medicine, Health Science Center, Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434023, China
| | - Yufei Wang
- School of Basic Medicine, Health Science Center, Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434023, China
| | - Jiahui Yu
- School of Basic Medicine, Health Science Center, Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434023, China
| | - Mengnan Li
- School of Basic Medicine, Health Science Center, Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434023, China
| | - Zhaowu Ma
- School of Basic Medicine, Health Science Center, Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434023, China
| | - Paul Chi-Lui Ho
- School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia, Subang Jaya 47500, Malaysia
| | - Xiaoguang Chen
- School of Basic Medicine, Health Science Center, Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434023, China.
| | - Lingzhi Wang
- NUS Centre for Cancer Research (N2CR), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117599, Singapore; Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117600, Singapore; Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117599, Singapore.
| | - Gautam Sethi
- NUS Centre for Cancer Research (N2CR), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117599, Singapore; Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117600, Singapore.
| | - Boon-Cher Goh
- NUS Centre for Cancer Research (N2CR), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117599, Singapore; Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117600, Singapore; Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117599, Singapore; Department of Haematology-Oncology, National University Cancer Institute, 119228, Singapore
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4
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Li D, Zhang T, Guo Y, Bi C, Liu M, Wang G. Biological impact and therapeutic implication of tumor-associated macrophages in hepatocellular carcinoma. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:498. [PMID: 38997297 PMCID: PMC11245522 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06888-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2024] [Revised: 06/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024]
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment is a complex space comprised of normal, cancer and immune cells. The macrophages are considered as the most abundant immune cells in tumor microenvironment and their function in tumorigenesis is interesting. Macrophages can be present as M1 and M2 polarization that show anti-cancer and oncogenic activities, respectively. Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) mainly have M2 polarization and they increase tumorigenesis due to secretion of factors, cytokines and affecting molecular pathways. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is among predominant tumors of liver that in spite of understanding its pathogenesis, the role of tumor microenvironment in its progression still requires more attention. The presence of TAMs in HCC causes an increase in growth and invasion of HCC cells and one of the reasons is induction of glycolysis that such metabolic reprogramming makes HCC distinct from normal cells and promotes its malignancy. Since M2 polarization of TAMs stimulates tumorigenesis in HCC, molecular networks regulating M2 to M1 conversion have been highlighted and moreover, drugs and compounds with the ability of targeting TAMs and suppressing their M2 phenotypes or at least their tumorigenesis activity have been utilized. TAMs increase aggressive behavior and biological functions of HCC cells that can result in development of therapy resistance. Macrophages can provide cell-cell communication in HCC by secreting exosomes having various types of biomolecules that transfer among cells and change their activity. Finally, non-coding RNA transcripts can mainly affect polarization of TAMs in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deming Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110032, PR China
| | - Ting Zhang
- Department of Surgical Oncology and General Surgery, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, PR China
| | - Ye Guo
- Department of Intervention, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110032, PR China
| | - Cong Bi
- Department of Radiology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, PR China.
| | - Ming Liu
- Department of Oral Radiology, School of Stomatology, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110002, PR China.
| | - Gang Wang
- Department of Intervention, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110032, PR China.
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5
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Li H, Wang S, Yang Z, Meng X, Niu M. Nanomaterials modulate tumor-associated macrophages for the treatment of digestive system tumors. Bioact Mater 2024; 36:376-412. [PMID: 38544737 PMCID: PMC10965438 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2024.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 02/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/03/2024] [Indexed: 11/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The treatment of digestive system tumors presents challenges, particularly in immunotherapy, owing to the advanced immune tolerance of the digestive system. Nanomaterials have emerged as a promising approach for addressing these challenges. They provide targeted drug delivery, enhanced permeability, high bioavailability, and low toxicity. Additionally, nanomaterials target immunosuppressive cells and reshape the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME). Among the various cells in the TIME, tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are the most abundant and play a crucial role in tumor progression. Therefore, investigating the modulation of TAMs by nanomaterials for the treatment of digestive system tumors is of great significance. Here, we present a comprehensive review of the utilization of nanomaterials to modulate TAMs for the treatment of gastric cancer, colorectal cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, and pancreatic cancer. We also investigated the underlying mechanisms by which nanomaterials modulate TAMs to treat tumors in the digestive system. Furthermore, this review summarizes the role of macrophage-derived nanomaterials in the treatment of digestive system tumors. Overall, this research offers valuable insights into the development of nanomaterials tailored for the treatment of digestive system tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Li
- Department of Interventional Radiology, First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Shuai Wang
- Department of Interventional Radiology, First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Zhengqiang Yang
- Department of Interventional Therapy, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xianwei Meng
- Laboratory of Controllable Preparation and Application of Nanomaterials, Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Meng Niu
- China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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6
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Liang C, Zhang Y, Wang S, Jiao W, Guo J, Zhang N, Liu X. Nanomaterials in modulating tumor-associated macrophages and enhancing immunotherapy. J Mater Chem B 2024; 12:4809-4823. [PMID: 38695349 DOI: 10.1039/d4tb00230j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2024]
Abstract
Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are predominantly present in the tumor microenvironment (TME) and play a crucial role in shaping the efficacy of tumor immunotherapy. These TAMs primarily exhibit a tumor-promoting M2-like phenotype, which is associated with the suppression of immune responses and facilitation of tumor progression. Interestingly, recent research has highlighted the potential of repolarizing TAMs from an M2 to a pro-inflammatory M1 status-a shift that has shown promise in impeding tumor growth and enhancing immune responsiveness. This concept is particularly intriguing as it offers a new dimension to cancer therapy by targeting the tumor microenvironment, which is a significant departure from traditional approaches that focus solely on tumor cells. However, the clinical application of TAM-modulating agents is often challenged by issues such as insufficient tumor accumulation and off-target effects, limiting their effectiveness and safety. In this regard, nanomaterials have emerged as a novel solution. They serve a dual role: as delivery vehicles that can enhance the accumulation of therapeutic agents in the tumor site and as TAM-modulators. This dual functionality of nanomaterials is a significant advancement as it addresses the key limitations of current TAM-modulating strategies and opens up new avenues for more efficient and targeted therapies. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the latest mechanisms and strategies involving nanomaterials in modulating macrophage polarization within the TME. It delves into the intricate interactions between nanomaterials and macrophages, elucidating how these interactions can be exploited to drive macrophage polarization towards a phenotype that is more conducive to anti-tumor immunity. Additionally, the review explores the burgeoning field of TAM-associated nanomedicines in combination with tumor immunotherapy. This combination approach is particularly promising as it leverages the strengths of both nanomedicine and immunotherapy, potentially leading to synergistic effects in combating cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Liang
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, The College of Life Sciences & School of Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710069, China.
| | - Yihan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Natural Functional Molecule of the Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710127, China
| | - Siyao Wang
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, The College of Life Sciences & School of Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710069, China.
| | - Wangbo Jiao
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Natural Functional Molecule of the Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710127, China
| | - Jingyi Guo
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, The College of Life Sciences & School of Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710069, China.
| | - Nan Zhang
- Institute of Regenerative and Reconstructive Medicine, Med-X Institute, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710049, China
| | - Xiaoli Liu
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, The College of Life Sciences & School of Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710069, China.
- Institute of Regenerative and Reconstructive Medicine, Med-X Institute, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710049, China
- National Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Precision Surgery & Regenerative Medicine, Shaanxi Provincial Center for Regenerative Medicine and Surgical Engineering, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, China
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7
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Huang Q, Zhong X, Li J, Hu R, Yi J, Sun J, Xu Y, Zhou X. Exosomal ncRNAs: Multifunctional contributors to the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment of hepatocellular carcinoma. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 173:116409. [PMID: 38460375 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a malignant liver cancer characterized by aggressive progression, unfavorable prognosis, and an increasing global health burden. Therapies that precisely target immunological checkpoints and immune cells have gained significant attention as possible therapeutics in recent years. In truth, the efficacy of immunotherapy is heavily contingent upon the tumor microenvironment (TME). Recent studies have indicated that exosomes serve as a sophisticated means of communication among biomolecules, executing an essential part in the TME of immune suppression. Exosomal non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) can induce the activation of tumor cells and immunosuppressive immune cells that suppress the immune system, such as cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), tumor-associated neutrophils (TANs), CD+8 T cells, regulatory T cells (Tregs), and regulatory B cells (Bregs). This cell-cell crosstalk triggered by exosomal ncRNAs promotes tumor proliferation and metastasis, angiogenesis, malignant phenotype transformation, and drug resistance. Hence, it is imperative to comprehend how exosomal ncRNAs regulate tumor cells or immune cells within the TME to devise more comprehensive and productive immunotherapy programs. This study discusses the features of exosomal ncRNAs in HCC and how the activation of the exosomes redefines the tumor's immunosuppressive microenvironment, hence facilitating the advancement of HCC. Furthermore, we also explored the potential of exosomal ncRNAs as a viable biological target or natural vehicle for HCC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Huang
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macao PR China; Department of Liver Disease, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China; Department of Liver Disease, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, PR China
| | - Xin Zhong
- Department of Liver Disease, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China; Department of Liver Disease, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, PR China
| | - Jing Li
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macao PR China; Department of Liver Disease, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China; Department of Liver Disease, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, PR China
| | - Rui Hu
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macao PR China; Department of Liver Disease, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China; Department of Liver Disease, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, PR China
| | - Jinyu Yi
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macao PR China; Department of Liver Disease, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China; Department of Liver Disease, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, PR China
| | - Jialing Sun
- Department of Liver Disease, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China; Department of Liver Disease, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, PR China
| | - Youhua Xu
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macao PR China.
| | - Xiaozhou Zhou
- Department of Liver Disease, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China; Department of Liver Disease, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, PR China.
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8
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Pan X, Ni S, Hu K. Nanomedicines for reversing immunosuppressive microenvironment of hepatocellular carcinoma. Biomaterials 2024; 306:122481. [PMID: 38286109 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2024.122481] [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: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Abstract
Although immunotherapeutic strategies such as immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have gained promising advances, their limited efficacy and significant toxicity remain great challenges for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) immunotherapy. The tumor immunosuppressive microenvironment (TIME) with insufficient T-cell infiltration and low immunogenicity accounts for most HCC patients' poor response to ICIs. Worse still, the current immunotherapeutics without precise delivery may elicit enormous autoimmune side effects and systemic toxicity in the clinic. With a better understanding of the TIME in HCC, nanomedicines have emerged as an efficient strategy to achieve remodeling of the TIME and superadditive antitumor effects via targeted delivery of immunotherapeutics or multimodal synergistic therapy. Based on the typical characteristics of the TIME in HCC, this review summarizes the recent advancements in nanomedicine-based strategies for TIME-reversing HCC treatment. Additionally, perspectives on the awaiting challenges and opportunities of nanomedicines in modulating the TIME of HCC are presented. Acquisition of knowledge of nanomedicine-mediated TIME reversal will provide researchers with a better opportunity for clinical translation of HCC immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xier Pan
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China; Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Shuting Ni
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Kaili Hu
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China.
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Wang S, Ding P, Shen L, Fan D, Cheng H, Huo J, Wei X, He H, Zhang G. Inhalable hybrid nanovaccines with virus-biomimetic structure boost protective immune responses against SARS-CoV-2 variants. J Nanobiotechnology 2024; 22:76. [PMID: 38414031 PMCID: PMC10898168 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-024-02345-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), with different antigenic variants, has posed a significant threat to public health. It is urgent to develop inhalable vaccines, instead of injectable vaccines, to elicit mucosal immunity against respiratory viral infections. METHODS We reported an inhalable hybrid nanovaccine (NVRBD-MLipo) to boost protective immunity against SARS-CoV-2 infection. Nanovesicles derived from genetically engineered 293T cells expressing RBD (NVRBD) were fused with pulmonary surfactant (PS)-biomimetic liposomes containing MPLA (MLipo) to yield NVRBD-MLipo, which possessed virus-biomimetic structure, inherited RBD expression and versatile properties. RESULTS In contrast to subcutaneous vaccination, NVRBD-MLipo, via inhalable vaccination, could efficiently enter the alveolar macrophages (AMs) to elicit AMs activation through MPLA-activated TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway. Moreover, NVRBD-MLipo induced T and B cells activation, and high level of RBD-specific IgG and secretory IgA (sIgA), thus elevating protective mucosal and systemic immune responses, while reducing side effects. NVRBD-MLipo also demonstrated broad-spectrum neutralization activity against SARS-CoV-2 (WT, Delta, Omicron) pseudovirus, and protected immunized mice against WT pseudovirus infection. CONCLUSIONS This inhalable NVRBD-MLipo, as an effective and safe nanovaccine, holds huge potential to provoke robust mucosal immunity, and might be a promising vaccine candidate to combat respiratory infectious diseases, including COVID-19 and influenza.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuqi Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, International Joint Research Center of National Animal Immunology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Peiyang Ding
- School of Life Science, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Lingli Shen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, International Joint Research Center of National Animal Immunology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Daopeng Fan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, International Joint Research Center of National Animal Immunology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Hanghang Cheng
- College of Veterinary Medicine, International Joint Research Center of National Animal Immunology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Jian Huo
- College of Veterinary Medicine, International Joint Research Center of National Animal Immunology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Xin Wei
- Joint National Laboratory for Antibody Drug Engineering, Henan University, Kaifeng, 475004, China
| | - Hua He
- College of Veterinary Medicine, International Joint Research Center of National Animal Immunology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China.
| | - Gaiping Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, International Joint Research Center of National Animal Immunology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China.
- Longhu Laboratory, Zhengzhou, 450046, China.
- School of Advanced Agriculture Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China.
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10
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Zhou Z, Wu B, Chen J, Shen Y, Wang J, Chen X, Fei F, Zhu M. A Lactic Acid Metabolism-Related Gene Signature for Predicting Clinical Outcome and Tumor Microenvironmental Status in Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Nutr Cancer 2024; 76:279-295. [PMID: 38226887 DOI: 10.1080/01635581.2024.2302202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/01/2024] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
This study aims to build a prognostic model based on lactic acid metabolism-related genes (LMRGs) to predict survival outcomes and tumor microenvironment status of Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients. The model was used to calculate riskscores of clinical samples. Survival analysis and Cox regression analysis were conducted to verify the independence and reliability of the riskscore to determine its clinical significance in prognosis evaluation of HCC. Additionally, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of tumor mutation burden (TMB), immune cell infiltration, and gene set molecular function in the high- and low-risk groups. We obtained 134 LMRGs mainly involved in cellular calcium homeostasis and calcium signaling pathways. The LMRGs in the risk assessment model included PFKFB4, SLC16A3, ADRA2B, SLC22A1, QRFPR, and PROK1. This study discovered much shorter overall survival and median survival time of patients with higher riskscores when compared to those with lower riskscores. It was indicated that for independent prediction of patients' prognosis, the riskscore had a significant clinical value. A remarkable difference was also found regarding TMB between the two groups. Finally, cell experiments demonstrated that the knockout of PFKFB4 and SLC16A3 genes suppressed lactate. Our research demonstrated that the riskscore, established based on LMRGs, is a promising biomarker.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongcheng Zhou
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Bin Wu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Jing Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Yiyu Shen
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Xujian Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Faming Fei
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Mingyuan Zhu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, Zhejiang Province, China
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11
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Ahmadi M, Abbasi R, Rezaie J. Tumor immune escape: extracellular vesicles roles and therapeutics application. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:9. [PMID: 38167133 PMCID: PMC10763406 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01370-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immune escape, a process by which tumor cells evade immune surveillance, remains a challenge for cancer therapy. Tumor cells produce extracellular vesicles (EVs) that participate in immune escape by transferring bioactive molecules between cells. EVs refer to heterogeneous vesicles that participate in intercellular communication. EVs from tumor cells usually carry tumor antigens and have been considered a source of tumor antigens to induce anti-tumor immunity. However, evidence also suggests that these EVs can accelerate immune escape by carrying heat shock proteins (HSPs), programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1), etc. to immune cells, suppressing function and exhausting the immune cells pool. EVs are progressively being evaluated for therapeutic implementation in cancer therapies. EVs-based immunotherapies involve inhibiting EVs generation, using natural EVs, and harnessing engineering EVs. All approaches are associated with advantages and disadvantages. The EVs heterogeneity and diverse physicochemical properties are the main challenges to their clinical applications. SHORT CONCLUSION Although EVs are criminal; they can be useful for overcoming immune escape. This review discusses the latest knowledge on EVs population and sheds light on the function of tumor-derived EVs in immune escape. It also describes EVs-based immunotherapies with a focus on engineered EVs, followed by challenges that hinder the clinical translation of EVs that are essential to be addressed in future investigations. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahdi Ahmadi
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Reza Abbasi
- Department of Biology, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran
| | - Jafar Rezaie
- Solid Tumor Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.
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12
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Li L, Wang C, Li Q, Guan Y, Zhang X, Kong F, Feng Z, Lu Y, Wang D, Wang N. Exosomes as a modulator of immune resistance in human cancers. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2023; 73:135-149. [PMID: 37543438 DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2023.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/07/2023]
Abstract
In the tumor microenvironment (TME), exosomes secreted by cells form interactive networks between the tumor cells and immune cells, thereby regulating immune signaling cascades in the TME. As key messengers of cell-to-cell communication in the TME, exosomes not only take charge of tumor cell antigen presentation to the immune cells, but also regulate the activities of immune cells, inhibit immune function, and, especially, promote immune resistance, all of which affects the therapeutic outcomes of tumors. Exosomes, which are small-sized vesicles, possess some remarkable advantages, including strong biological activity, a lack of immunogenicity and toxicity, and a strong targeting ability. Based on these characteristics, research on exosomes as biomarkers or carriers of tumor therapeutic drugs has become a research hotspot in related fields. This review describes the role of exosomes in cell communications in the TME, summarizes the effectiveness of exosome-based immunotherapy in overcoming immune resistance in cancer treatment, and systematically summarizes and discusses the characteristics of exosomes from different cell sources. Furthermore, the prospects and challenges of exosome-related therapies are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lanzhou Li
- Engineering Research Center of Chinese Ministry of Education for Edible and Medicinal Fungi, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, PR China
| | - Chunyue Wang
- Engineering Research Center of Chinese Ministry of Education for Edible and Medicinal Fungi, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, PR China
| | - Qiucheng Li
- School of Chinese Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam 999077, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China
| | - Yue Guan
- Engineering Research Center of Chinese Ministry of Education for Edible and Medicinal Fungi, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, PR China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Engineering Research Center of Chinese Ministry of Education for Edible and Medicinal Fungi, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, PR China
| | - Fange Kong
- Engineering Research Center of Chinese Ministry of Education for Edible and Medicinal Fungi, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, PR China
| | - Zixin Feng
- School of Chinese Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam 999077, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China
| | - Yuanjun Lu
- School of Chinese Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam 999077, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China
| | - Di Wang
- Engineering Research Center of Chinese Ministry of Education for Edible and Medicinal Fungi, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, PR China.
| | - Ning Wang
- School of Chinese Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam 999077, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China.
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13
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Xing L, Tang Y, Li L, Tao X. ROS in hepatocellular carcinoma: What we know. Arch Biochem Biophys 2023:109699. [PMID: 37499994 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2023.109699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), which is a primary liver cancer subtype, has a poor prognosis due to its high degree of malignancy. The lack of early diagnosis makes systemic therapy the only hope for HCC patients with advanced disease; however, resistance to drugs is a major obstacle. In recent years, targeted molecular therapy has gained popularity as a potential treatment for HCC. An increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are cancer markers and a potential target for HCC therapy, can both promote and inhibit the disease. At present, many studies have examined targeted regulation of ROS in the treatment of HCC. Here, we reviewed the latest drugs that are still in the experimental stage, including nanocarrier drugs, exosome drugs, antibody drugs, aptamer drugs and polysaccharide drugs, to provide new hope for the clinical treatment of HCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Xing
- Department of Pharmacy, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116011, China; School of Pharmacy, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116044, China
| | - Yuting Tang
- Department of Pharmacy, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116011, China; School of Pharmacy, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116044, China
| | - Lu Li
- Department of Pharmacy, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116011, China.
| | - Xufeng Tao
- Department of Pharmacy, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116011, China.
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14
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Lu X, Li Y, Li Y, Zhang X, Shi J, Feng H, Gao Y, Yu Z. Advances of multi-omics applications in hepatic precancerous lesions and hepatocellular carcinoma: The role of extracellular vesicles. Front Mol Biosci 2023; 10:1114594. [PMID: 37006626 PMCID: PMC10060991 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2023.1114594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Due to the lack of distinct early symptoms and specific biomarkers, most patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are usually diagnosed at advanced stages, rendering the treatment ineffective and useless. Therefore, recognition of the malady at precancerous lesions and early stages is particularly important for improving patient outcomes. The interest in extracellular vesicles (EVs) has been growing in recent years with the accumulating knowledge of their multiple cargoes and related multipotent roles in the modulation of immune response and tumor progression. By virtue of the rapid advancement of high-throughput techniques, multiple omics, including genomics/transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics/lipidomics, have been widely integrated to analyze the role of EVs. Comprehensive analysis of multi-omics data will provide useful insights for discovery of new biomarkers and identification of therapeutic targets. Here, we review the attainment of multi-omics analysis to the finding of the potential role of EVs in early diagnosis and the immunotherapy in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaona Lu
- Department of Liver Disease, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuyao Li
- Department of Liver Disease, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yue Li
- Department of Liver Disease, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xuemei Zhang
- Department of Liver Disease, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jia Shi
- Department of Liver Disease, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hai Feng
- Institute of Infectious Disease, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Hai Feng, ; Yueqiu Gao, ; Zhuo Yu,
| | - Yueqiu Gao
- Department of Liver Disease, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Infectious Disease, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Hai Feng, ; Yueqiu Gao, ; Zhuo Yu,
| | - Zhuo Yu
- Department of Liver Disease, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Hai Feng, ; Yueqiu Gao, ; Zhuo Yu,
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15
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Hu X, Zhu H, He X, Chen J, Xiong L, Shen Y, Li J, Xu Y, Chen W, Liu X, Cao D, Xu X. The application of nanoparticles in immunotherapy for hepatocellular carcinoma. J Control Release 2023; 355:85-108. [PMID: 36708880 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2023.01.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide, however, current clinical diagnostic and treatment approaches remain relatively limited, creating an urgent need for the development of effective technologies. Immunotherapy has emerged as a powerful treatment strategy for advanced cancer. The number of clinically approved drugs for HCC immunotherapy has been increasing. However, it remains challenging to improve their transport and therapeutic efficiency, control their targeting and release, and mitigate their adverse effects. Nanotechnology has recently gained attention for improving the effectiveness of precision therapy for HCC. We summarize the key features of HCC associated with nanoparticle (NPs) targeting, release, and uptake, the roles and limitations of several major immunotherapies in HCC, the use of NPs in immunotherapy, the properties of NPs that influence their design and application, and current clinical trials of NPs in HCC, with the aim of informing the design of delivery platforms that have the potential to improve the safety and efficacy of HCC immunotherapy,and thus, ultimately improve the prognosis of HCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyao Hu
- Cancer center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Hua Zhu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Xiaoqin He
- Cancer center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Jiayu Chen
- Cancer center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Lin Xiong
- Cancer center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Yang Shen
- Cancer center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Jiayi Li
- Cancer center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Yangtao Xu
- Cancer center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Wenliang Chen
- Cancer center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Xin Liu
- Cancer center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Dedong Cao
- Cancer center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China.
| | - Ximing Xu
- Cancer center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China.
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16
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Liu Q, Huang W, Liang W, Ye Q. Current Strategies for Modulating Tumor-Associated Macrophages with Biomaterials in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Molecules 2023; 28:2211. [PMID: 36903458 PMCID: PMC10004660 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28052211] [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: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fourth most common cause of cancer-related deaths in the world. However, there are currently few clinical diagnosis and treatment options available, and there is an urgent need for novel effective approaches. More research is being undertaken on immune-associated cells in the microenvironment because they play a critical role in the initiation and development of HCC. Macrophages are specialized phagocytes and antigen-presenting cells (APCs) that not only directly phagocytose and eliminate tumor cells, but also present tumor-specific antigens to T cells and initiate anticancer adaptive immunity. However, the more abundant M2-phenotype tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) at tumor sites promote tumor evasion of immune surveillance, accelerate tumor progression, and suppress tumor-specific T-cell immune responses. Despite the great success in modulating macrophages, there are still many challenges and obstacles. Biomaterials not only target macrophages, but also modulate macrophages to enhance tumor treatment. This review systematically summarizes the regulation of tumor-associated macrophages by biomaterials, which has implications for the immunotherapy of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiaoyun Liu
- Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Institute of Hepatobiliary Diseases of Wuhan University, Transplant Center of Wuhan University, National Quality Control Center for Donated Organ Procurement, Hubei Key Laboratory of Medical Technology on Transplantation, Hubei Clinical Research Center for Natural Polymer Biological Liver, Hubei Engineering Center of Natural Polymer-Based Medical Materials, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Wei Huang
- Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Institute of Hepatobiliary Diseases of Wuhan University, Transplant Center of Wuhan University, National Quality Control Center for Donated Organ Procurement, Hubei Key Laboratory of Medical Technology on Transplantation, Hubei Clinical Research Center for Natural Polymer Biological Liver, Hubei Engineering Center of Natural Polymer-Based Medical Materials, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Wenjin Liang
- Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Institute of Hepatobiliary Diseases of Wuhan University, Transplant Center of Wuhan University, National Quality Control Center for Donated Organ Procurement, Hubei Key Laboratory of Medical Technology on Transplantation, Hubei Clinical Research Center for Natural Polymer Biological Liver, Hubei Engineering Center of Natural Polymer-Based Medical Materials, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Qifa Ye
- Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Institute of Hepatobiliary Diseases of Wuhan University, Transplant Center of Wuhan University, National Quality Control Center for Donated Organ Procurement, Hubei Key Laboratory of Medical Technology on Transplantation, Hubei Clinical Research Center for Natural Polymer Biological Liver, Hubei Engineering Center of Natural Polymer-Based Medical Materials, Wuhan 430071, China
- The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Research Center of National Health Ministry on Transplantation Medicine Engineering and Technology, Changsha 410013, China
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17
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Yang LF, Zhang ZB, Wang L. S100A9 promotes tumor-associated macrophage for M2 macrophage polarization to drive human liver cancer progression: An in vitro study. Kaohsiung J Med Sci 2023; 39:345-353. [PMID: 36807724 DOI: 10.1002/kjm2.12651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) and M2 macrophage polarization have been documented for their implication in various malignancies, but their implication in liver cancer remains to be determined. This study is intended to explore the effect of S100A9 regulated TAMs and macrophage polarization in liver cancer progression. THP-1 cells were induced to differentiate into M1 and M2 macrophages, which were then cultured in liver cancer cell conditioned culture medium before the M1 and M2 macrophages were identified by measuring biomarkers using real-time polymerase chain reaction. The differential expressed genes in macrophages in Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases were screened. S100A9 overexpression and knockdown plasmid were transfected into macrophages to determine the effect of S100A9 on M2 macrophage polarization of TAMs and on proliferation ability of liver cancer cells. The proliferation, migration, invasion, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) abilities of liver cancer co-cultured with TAMs. M1 and M2 macrophages were successfully induced and liver cancer cell conditioned culture medium can increase polarization of macrophages into M2 macrophages, in which elevated expression of S100A9 was detected. Data in GEO database showed that tumor microenvironment (TME) upregulated S1000A9 expression. Suppression on S1000A9 can significantly suppress M2 macrophage polarization. TAM can provide the necessary microenvironment for liver cancer cells, HepG2 and MHCC97H by increasing cell proliferation, migration, and invasion ability, while suppression on S1000A9 can reverse this expression pattern. Suppression on S100A9 expression can regulate M2 macrophage polarization of TAMs to suppress the progression of liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lan-Fang Yang
- Department of Hepatopancreas Biliary, Hernia Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, People's Republic of China.,Department of Hepatopancreas Biliary, Hernia Surgery, National Regional Medical Center, Binhai Campus of the First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhi-Bo Zhang
- Department of Hepatopancreas Biliary, Hernia Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, People's Republic of China.,Department of Hepatopancreas Biliary, Hernia Surgery, National Regional Medical Center, Binhai Campus of the First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Liang Wang
- Department of Hepatopancreas Biliary, Hernia Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, People's Republic of China.,Department of Hepatopancreas Biliary, Hernia Surgery, National Regional Medical Center, Binhai Campus of the First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, People's Republic of China
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18
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Donoso‐Meneses D, Figueroa‐Valdés AI, Georges N, Tobar HE, Alcayaga‐Miranda F. Turning adversity into opportunity: Small extracellular vesicles as nanocarriers for tumor-associated macrophages re-education. Bioeng Transl Med 2023; 8:e10349. [PMID: 36684102 PMCID: PMC9842057 DOI: 10.1002/btm2.10349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Currently, small extracellular vesicles (sEV) as a nanoscale drug delivery system, are undergoing biotechnological scaling and clinical validation. Nonetheless, preclinical pharmacokinetic studies revealed that sEV are predominantly uptaken by macrophages. Although this "sEV-macrophage" propensity represents a disadvantage in terms of sEV targeting and their bioavailability as nanocarriers, it also represents a strategic advantage for those therapies that involve macrophages. Such is the case of tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), which can reprogram/repolarize their predominantly immunosuppressive and tumor-supportive phenotype toward an immunostimulatory and anti-tumor phenotype using sEV as nanocarriers of TAMs reprogramming molecules. In this design, sEV represents an advantageous delivery system, providing precision to the therapy by simultaneously matching their tropism to the therapeutic cell target. Here, we review the current knowledge of the role of TAMs in the tumoral microenvironment and the effect generated by the reprogramming of these phagocytic cells fate using sEV. Finally, we discuss how these vesicles can be engineered by different bioengineering techniques to improve their therapeutic cargo loading and preferential uptake by TAMs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dario Donoso‐Meneses
- Laboratory of Nano‐Regenerative Medicine, Centro de Investigación e Innovación Biomédica (CIIB), Faculty of MedicineUniversidad de Los AndesSantiagoChile
- Consorcio RegeneroChilean Consortium for Regenerative MedicineSantiagoChile
- IMPACTCenter of Interventional Medicine for Precision and Advanced Cellular TherapySantiagoChile
| | - Aliosha I. Figueroa‐Valdés
- Laboratory of Nano‐Regenerative Medicine, Centro de Investigación e Innovación Biomédica (CIIB), Faculty of MedicineUniversidad de Los AndesSantiagoChile
- Consorcio RegeneroChilean Consortium for Regenerative MedicineSantiagoChile
- IMPACTCenter of Interventional Medicine for Precision and Advanced Cellular TherapySantiagoChile
| | - Nicolás Georges
- Laboratory of Nano‐Regenerative Medicine, Centro de Investigación e Innovación Biomédica (CIIB), Faculty of MedicineUniversidad de Los AndesSantiagoChile
- Consorcio RegeneroChilean Consortium for Regenerative MedicineSantiagoChile
- IMPACTCenter of Interventional Medicine for Precision and Advanced Cellular TherapySantiagoChile
| | - Hugo E. Tobar
- Laboratory of Nano‐Regenerative Medicine, Centro de Investigación e Innovación Biomédica (CIIB), Faculty of MedicineUniversidad de Los AndesSantiagoChile
- IMPACTCenter of Interventional Medicine for Precision and Advanced Cellular TherapySantiagoChile
| | - Francisca Alcayaga‐Miranda
- Laboratory of Nano‐Regenerative Medicine, Centro de Investigación e Innovación Biomédica (CIIB), Faculty of MedicineUniversidad de Los AndesSantiagoChile
- Consorcio RegeneroChilean Consortium for Regenerative MedicineSantiagoChile
- IMPACTCenter of Interventional Medicine for Precision and Advanced Cellular TherapySantiagoChile
- School of Medicine, Faculty of MedicineUniversidad de Los AndesSantiagoChile
- Cells for CellsSantiagoChile
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19
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Hashemi M, Mirzaei S, Zandieh MA, Rezaei S, Amirabbas Kakavand, Dehghanpour A, Esmaeili N, Ghahremanzade A, Saebfar H, Heidari H, Salimimoghadam S, Taheriazam A, Entezari M, Ahn KS. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in hepatocellular carcinoma progression: Biological functions and new therapeutic targets. PROGRESS IN BIOPHYSICS AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2023; 177:207-228. [PMID: 36584761 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbiomolbio.2022.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Liver is an important organ in body that performs vital functions such as detoxification. Liver is susceptible to development of cancers, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is among them. 75-85% of liver cancer cases are related to HCC. Therefore, much attention has been directed towards understanding factors mediating HCC progression. LncRNAs are epigenetic factors with more than 200 nucleotides in length located in both nucleus and cytoplasm and they are promising candidates in cancer therapy. Directing studies towards understanding function of lncRNAs in HCC is of importance. LncRNAs regulate cell cycle progression and growth of HCC cells, and they can also induce/inhibit apoptosis in tumor cells. LncRNAs affect invasion and metastasis in HCC mainly by epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) mechanism. Revealing the association between lncRNAs and downstream signaling pathways in HCC is discussed in the current manuscript. Infectious diseases can affect lncRNA expression in mediating HCC development and then, altered expression level of lncRNA is associated with drug resistance and radio-resistance. Biomarker application of lncRNAs and their role in prognosis and diagnosis of HCC are also discussed to pave the way for treatment of HCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehrdad Hashemi
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Department of Genetics, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sepideh Mirzaei
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Arad Zandieh
- Department of Food Hygiene and Quality Control, Division of Epidemiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sahar Rezaei
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amirabbas Kakavand
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir Dehghanpour
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Negin Esmaeili
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Azin Ghahremanzade
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamidreza Saebfar
- European University Association, League of European Research Universities, University of Milan, Italy
| | - Hajar Heidari
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Public Health University at Albany State University of New York, Albany, NY, 12208, USA
| | - Shokooh Salimimoghadam
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Afshin Taheriazam
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Department of Orthopedics, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Maliheh Entezari
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Department of Genetics, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Kwang Seok Ahn
- College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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20
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Guan MC, Wang MD, Wang WY, Li C, Yao LQ, Zhu H, Yang T. Exosomes as mediators of tumor immune escape and immunotherapy in hepatocellular carcinoma. LIVER RESEARCH (BEIJING, CHINA) 2022; 6:132-138. [PMID: 39958202 PMCID: PMC11791807 DOI: 10.1016/j.livres.2022.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), a typical inflammatory-related cancer, mainly occurs in patients with chronic liver diseases. Moreover, the liver is an immunologically privileged apparatus with multiple immunosuppressive cell groups. The long process of inflammation-mediated carcinogenesis turns the HCC tumor microenvironment (TME) into one with strong immunosuppression, facilitating the immune escape of HCC cells. Accumulated data have manifested that tumor-associated cell-derived exosomes carry diverse molecular cargoes (e.g., proteins and nucleic acids) for mediating cell-to-cell communication and are implicated in TME remodeling to promote tumor-infiltrating immune cell reprogramming, ultimately creating a tumor-friendly microenvironment. Characterized by several intrinsic attributes, such as good stability (bilayer-like structure) and high biocompatibility (cell secretion), exosomes can be modified or engineered as nanocarriers to deliver tumor-specific antigens or antitumor drugs to targeted cells or organs, thus effectively triggering the HCC cell elimination by the immune system. This review aimed to highlight the pivotal role of exosomes in regulating immune escape mechanisms in HCC and recent advances in exosome-mediated immunotherapy for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming-Cheng Guan
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ming-Da Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University (Navy Medical University), Shanghai, China
- Eastern Hepatobiliary Clinical Research Institute, Third Affiliated Hospital of Navy Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wan-Yin Wang
- Eastern Hepatobiliary Clinical Research Institute, Third Affiliated Hospital of Navy Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chao Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University (Navy Medical University), Shanghai, China
- Eastern Hepatobiliary Clinical Research Institute, Third Affiliated Hospital of Navy Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lan-Qing Yao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University (Navy Medical University), Shanghai, China
- Eastern Hepatobiliary Clinical Research Institute, Third Affiliated Hospital of Navy Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hong Zhu
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Tian Yang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University (Navy Medical University), Shanghai, China
- Eastern Hepatobiliary Clinical Research Institute, Third Affiliated Hospital of Navy Medical University, Shanghai, China
- School of Clinical Medicine, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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21
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Tian BW, Han CL, Dong ZR, Tan SY, Wang DX, Li T. Role of Exosomes in Immunotherapy of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14164036. [PMID: 36011030 PMCID: PMC9406927 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14164036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Revised: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Hepatocellular carcinoma is one of the most lethal malignancies, having a significantly poor prognosis. Immunotherapy, as an emerging tumor treatment option, provides new hope for many cancer patients. However, a large proportion of patients do not benefit from immunotherapy. As a critical cell-to-cell communication mediator in the tumor immune microenvironment, exosomes may play a unique role in hepatocellular carcinoma immune response and thus affect the efficiency of immunotherapy. In this review, we discuss related research on the roles of exosomes in the current immunotherapy resistance mechanism of hepatocellular carcinoma. Furthermore, we also clarify the excellent predictive value of exosomes and the roles they play in improving immunotherapy efficacy for hepatocellular carcinoma patients. We hope that our review can help readers to gain a more comprehensive understanding of exosomes’ roles in hepatocellular carcinoma immunotherapy. Abstract Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most lethal malignancies, having a significantly poor prognosis and no sufficiently efficient treatments. Immunotherapy, especially immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), has provided new therapeutic approaches for HCC patients. Nevertheless, most patients with HCC do not benefit from immunotherapy. Exosomes are biologically active lipid bilayer nano-sized vesicles ranging in size from 30 to 150 nm and can be secreted by almost any cell. In the HCC tumor microenvironment (TME), numerous cells are involved in tumor progression, and exosomes—derived from tumor cells and immune cells—exhibit unique composition profiles and act as intercellular communicators by transporting various substances. Showing the dual characteristics of tumor promotion and suppression, exosomes exert multiple functions in shaping tumor immune responses in the crosstalk between tumor cells and surrounding immune cells, mediating immunotherapy resistance by affecting the PD-1/PD-L1 axis or the anti-tumor function of immune cells in the TME. Targeting exosomes or the application of exosomes as therapies is involved in many aspects of HCC immunotherapies (e.g., ICIs, tumor vaccines, and adoptive cell therapy) and may substantially enhance their efficacy. In this review, we discuss the impact of exosomes on the HCC TME and comprehensively summarize the role of exosomes in immunotherapy resistance and therapeutic application. We also discuss the potential of exosomes as biomarkers for predicting the efficacy of immunotherapy to help clinicians in identifying HCC patients who are amenable to immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bao-Wen Tian
- Department of General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan 250000, China
| | - Cheng-Long Han
- Department of General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan 250000, China
| | - Zhao-Ru Dong
- Department of General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan 250000, China
| | - Si-Yu Tan
- Department of General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan 250000, China
| | - Dong-Xu Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan 250000, China
| | - Tao Li
- Department of General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan 250000, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Second Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan 250000, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel./Fax: +86-531-8216-6651
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22
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Wang C, Qu Z, Chen L, Pan Y, Tang Y, Hu G, Gao R, Niu R, Liu Q, Gao X, Fang Y. Characterization of Lactate Metabolism Score in Breast and Thyroid Cancers to Assist Immunotherapy via Large-Scale Transcriptomic Data Analysis. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:928419. [PMID: 35873566 PMCID: PMC9301074 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.928419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) and thyroid cancer (TC) have the highest rate of incidence, especially in women. Previous studies have revealed that lactate provides energetic and anabolic support to cancer cells, thus serving as an important oncometabolite with both extracellular and intracellular signaling functions. However, the correlation of lactate metabolism scores with thyroid and breast cancer immune characteristics remains to be systematically analyzed. To investigate the role of lactate at the transcriptome level and its correlation with the clinical outcome of BC and TC, transcriptome data of 1,217 patients with breast cancer (BC) and 568 patients with thyroid cancer (TC) were collected from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) datasets with their corresponding clinical and somatic mutation data. The lactate metabolism score was calculated based on a single-sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA). The results showed that lactate metabolism-related genes and lactate metabolism scores was significantly associated with the survival of patients with BRCA and THCA. Notably, the lactate metabolism scores were strongly correlated with human leukocyte antigen (HLA) expression, tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) infiltration, and interferon (IFN) response in BC and TC. Furthermore, the lactate metabolism score was an independent prognostic factor and could serve as a reliable predictor of overall survival, clinical characteristics, and immune cell infiltration, with the potential to be applied in immunotherapy or precise chemotherapy of BC and TC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Wang
- Department of Breast Surgery, Huangpu Branch, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Cheng Wang, ; Yi Fang,
| | - Zheng Qu
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Li Chen
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yunhao Pan
- Department of Breast Surgery, Huangpu Branch, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yiqing Tang
- Department of Breast Surgery, Huangpu Branch, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Guangfu Hu
- Department of Breast Surgery, Huangpu Branch, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ran Gao
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Ruijie Niu
- Department of Breast Surgery, Huangpu Branch, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiang Liu
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xingyan Gao
- Department of Breast Surgery, Huangpu Branch, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi Fang
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Cheng Wang, ; Yi Fang,
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23
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Li Y, Mo H, Wu S, Liu X, Tu K. A Novel Lactate Metabolism-Related Gene Signature for Predicting Clinical Outcome and Tumor Microenvironment in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 9:801959. [PMID: 35047511 PMCID: PMC8762248 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.801959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the main subtype of primary liver cancer with high malignancy and poor prognosis. Metabolic reprogramming is a hallmark of cancer and has great importance on the tumor microenvironment (TME). As an abundant metabolite, lactate plays a crucial role in cancer progression and the immunosuppressive TME. Nonetheless, the potential roles of lactate in HCC remain unclear. In this study, we downloaded transcriptomic data of HCC patients with corresponding clinical information from the TCGA and ICGC portals. The TCGA-HCC dataset used as the training cohort, while the ICGC-LIRI-JP dataset was served as an external validation cohort. Cox regression analysis and the LASSO regression model were combined to construct the lactate metabolism-related gene signature (LMRGS). Then, we assessed the clinical significance of LMRGS in HCC. Besides, enriched molecular functions, tumor mutation burden (TMB), infiltrating immune cells, and immune checkpoint were comprehensively analyzed in different LMRGS subgroups. In total, 66 differentially expressed lactate metabolism-related genes (LMRGs) were screened. The functions of LMRGs were mainly enriched in mitochondrial activity and metabolic processes. The LMRGS comprised of six key LMRGs (FKTN, PDSS1, PET117, PUS1, RARS1, and RNASEH1) had significant clinical value for independently predicting the prognosis of HCC patients. The overall survival and median survival of patients in the LMRGS-high group were significantly shorter than in the LMRGS-low group. In addition, there were differences in TMB between the two LMRGS subgroups. The probability of genetic mutations was higher in the LMRGS-high group. Most importantly, the LMRGS reflected the TME characteristics. In the LMRGS-high group, the immune microenvironment presented a suppressed state, accompanied by more inhibitory immune cell infiltration, including follicular helper T cells and regulatory T cells. Additionally, the expression of inhibitory checkpoint molecules was much higher in the LMRGS-high group. Our study suggested that the LMRGS was a robust biomarker to predict the clinical outcomes and evaluate the TME of patients with HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Huanye Mo
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Shengli Wu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xin Liu
- The Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Diagnosis and Individualized Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Kangsheng Tu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
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