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Waldron RT, Lugea A, Chang HH, Su HY, Quiros C, Lewis MS, Che M, Ramanujan VK, Rozengurt E, Eibl G, Pandol SJ. Upregulated Matrisomal Proteins and Extracellular Matrix Mechanosignaling Underlie Obesity-Associated Promotion of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1593. [PMID: 38672675 PMCID: PMC11048773 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16081593] [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: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Diet-induced obesity (DIO) promotes pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) in mice expressing KRasG12D in the pancreas (KC mice), but the precise mechanisms remain unclear. Here, we performed multiplex quantitative proteomic and phosphoproteomic analysis by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry and further bioinformatic and spatial analysis of pancreas tissues from control-fed versus DIO KC mice after 3, 6, and 9 months. Normal pancreatic parenchyma and associated proteins were steadily eliminated and the novel proteins, phosphoproteins, and signaling pathways associated with PDAC tumorigenesis increased until 6 months, when most males exhibited cancer, but females did not. Differentially expressed proteins and phosphoproteins induced by DIO revealed the crucial functional role of matrisomal proteins, which implies the roles of upstream regulation by TGFβ, extracellular matrix-receptor signaling to downstream PI3K-Akt-mTOR-, MAPK-, and Yap/Taz activation, and crucial effects in the tumor microenvironment such as metabolic alterations and signaling crosstalk between immune cells, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), and tumor cells. Staining tissues from KC mice localized the expression of several prognostic PDAC biomarkers and elucidated tumorigenic features, such as robust macrophage infiltration, acinar-ductal metaplasia, mucinous PanIN, distinct nonmucinous atypical flat lesions (AFLs) surrounded by smooth muscle actin-positive CAFs, invasive tumors with epithelial-mesenchymal transition arising close to AFLs, and expanding deserted areas by 9 months. We next used Nanostring GeoMX to characterize the early spatial distribution of specific immune cell subtypes in distinct normal, stromal, and PanIN areas. Taken together, these data richly contextualize DIO promotion of Kras-driven PDAC tumorigenesis and provide many novel insights into the signaling pathways and processes involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard T. Waldron
- Karsh Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Aurelia Lugea
- Karsh Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Hui-Hua Chang
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Hsin-Yuan Su
- Karsh Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Crystal Quiros
- Karsh Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Michael S. Lewis
- Department of Medicine and Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, VA Greater Los Angeles Health System, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90073, USA;
| | - Mingtian Che
- Biobank and Research Pathology Resource, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - V. Krishnan Ramanujan
- Biobank and Research Pathology Resource, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Enrique Rozengurt
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Guido Eibl
- Department of Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Stephen J. Pandol
- Karsh Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
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2
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Sato H, Hara T, Meng S, Tsuji Y, Arao Y, Saito Y, Sasaki K, Kobayashi S, Doki Y, Eguchi H, Ishii H. Multifaced roles of desmoplastic reaction and fibrosis in pancreatic cancer progression: Current understanding and future directions. Cancer Sci 2023; 114:3487-3495. [PMID: 37480223 PMCID: PMC10475783 DOI: 10.1111/cas.15890] [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: 02/05/2023] [Revised: 05/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Desmoplastic reaction is a fibrosis reaction that is characterized by a large amount of dense extracellular matrix (ECM) and dense fibrous stroma. Fibrotic stroma around the tumor has several different components, including myofibroblasts, collagen, and other ECM molecules. This stromal reaction is a natural response to the tissue injury process, and fibrosis formation is a key factor in pancreatic cancer development. The fibrotic stroma of pancreatic cancer is associated with tumor progression, metastasis, and poor prognosis. Reportedly, multiple processes are involved in fibrosis, which is largely associated with the upregulation of various cytokines, chemokines, matrix metalloproteinases, and other growth factors that promote tumor growth and metastasis. Fibrosis is also associated with immunosuppressive cell recruitment, such as regulatory T cells (Tregs) with suppressing function to antitumor immunity. Further, dense fibrosis restricts the flow of nutrients and oxygen to the tumor cells, which can contribute to drug resistance. Furthermore, the dense collagen matrix can act as a physical barrier to block the entry of drugs into the tumor, thereby further contributing to drug resistance. Thus, understanding the mechanism of desmoplastic reaction and fibrosis in pancreatic cancer will open an avenue to innovative medicine and improve the prognosis of patients suffering from this disease.
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Grants
- 17cm0106414h0002 Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research from the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology
- JP21lm0203007 Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research from the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology
- 18KK0251 Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research from the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology
- 19K2265 Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research from the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology
- 20H00541 Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research from the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology
- 21K19526 Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research from the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology
- 22H03146 Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research from the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology
- 22K19559 Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research from the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology
- 16H06279 Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research from the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology
- Mitsubishi Foundation
- Mitsubishi Foundation
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiromichi Sato
- Department of Medical Data ScienceCenter of Medical Innovation and Translational ResearchOsaka University Graduate School of MedicineOsakaJapan
- Department of Gastrointestinal SurgeryOsaka University Graduate School of MedicineOsakaJapan
| | - Tomoaki Hara
- Department of Medical Data ScienceCenter of Medical Innovation and Translational ResearchOsaka University Graduate School of MedicineOsakaJapan
| | - Sikun Meng
- Department of Medical Data ScienceCenter of Medical Innovation and Translational ResearchOsaka University Graduate School of MedicineOsakaJapan
| | - Yoshiko Tsuji
- Department of Medical Data ScienceCenter of Medical Innovation and Translational ResearchOsaka University Graduate School of MedicineOsakaJapan
| | - Yasuko Arao
- Department of Medical Data ScienceCenter of Medical Innovation and Translational ResearchOsaka University Graduate School of MedicineOsakaJapan
| | - Yoshiko Saito
- Department of Medical Data ScienceCenter of Medical Innovation and Translational ResearchOsaka University Graduate School of MedicineOsakaJapan
| | - Kazuki Sasaki
- Department of Medical Data ScienceCenter of Medical Innovation and Translational ResearchOsaka University Graduate School of MedicineOsakaJapan
- Department of Gastrointestinal SurgeryOsaka University Graduate School of MedicineOsakaJapan
| | - Shogo Kobayashi
- Department of Gastrointestinal SurgeryOsaka University Graduate School of MedicineOsakaJapan
| | - Yuichiro Doki
- Department of Gastrointestinal SurgeryOsaka University Graduate School of MedicineOsakaJapan
| | - Hidetoshi Eguchi
- Department of Gastrointestinal SurgeryOsaka University Graduate School of MedicineOsakaJapan
| | - Hideshi Ishii
- Department of Medical Data ScienceCenter of Medical Innovation and Translational ResearchOsaka University Graduate School of MedicineOsakaJapan
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3
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Neuendorf HM, Simmons JL, Boyle GM. Therapeutic targeting of anoikis resistance in cutaneous melanoma metastasis. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1183328. [PMID: 37181747 PMCID: PMC10169659 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1183328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The acquisition of resistance to anoikis, the cell death induced by loss of adhesion to the extracellular matrix, is an absolute requirement for the survival of disseminating and circulating tumour cells (CTCs), and for the seeding of metastatic lesions. In melanoma, a range of intracellular signalling cascades have been identified as potential drivers of anoikis resistance, however a full understanding of the process is yet to be attained. Mechanisms of anoikis resistance pose an attractive target for the therapeutic treatment of disseminating and circulating melanoma cells. This review explores the range of small molecule, peptide and antibody inhibitors targeting molecules involved in anoikis resistance in melanoma, and may be repurposed to prevent metastatic melanoma prior to its initiation, potentially improving the prognosis for patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah M. Neuendorf
- Cancer Drug Mechanisms Group, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, QLD, Australia
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Jacinta L. Simmons
- Cancer Drug Mechanisms Group, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, QLD, Australia
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Glen M. Boyle
- Cancer Drug Mechanisms Group, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, QLD, Australia
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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4
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Chhabra Y, Weeraratna AT. Fibroblasts in cancer: Unity in heterogeneity. Cell 2023; 186:1580-1609. [PMID: 37059066 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2023.03.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 04/16/2023]
Abstract
Tumor cells do not exist in isolation in vivo, and carcinogenesis depends on the surrounding tumor microenvironment (TME), composed of a myriad of cell types and biophysical and biochemical components. Fibroblasts are integral in maintaining tissue homeostasis. However, even before a tumor develops, pro-tumorigenic fibroblasts in close proximity can provide the fertile 'soil' to the cancer 'seed' and are known as cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). In response to intrinsic and extrinsic stressors, CAFs reorganize the TME enabling metastasis, therapeutic resistance, dormancy and reactivation by secreting cellular and acellular factors. In this review, we summarize the recent discoveries on CAF-mediated cancer progression with a particular focus on fibroblast heterogeneity and plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yash Chhabra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
| | - Ashani T Weeraratna
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
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5
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Bourn MD, Mohajerani SZ, Mavria G, Ingram N, Coletta PL, Evans SD, Peyman SA. Tumour associated vasculature-on-a-chip for the evaluation of microbubble-mediated delivery of targeted liposomes. LAB ON A CHIP 2023; 23:1674-1693. [PMID: 36779251 PMCID: PMC10013341 DOI: 10.1039/d2lc00963c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The vascular system is the primary route for the delivery of therapeutic drugs throughout the body and is an important barrier at the region of disease interest, such as a solid tumour. The development of complex 3D tumour cultures has progressed significantly in recent years however, the generation of perfusable vascularised tumour models still presents many challenges. This study presents a microfluidic-based vasculature system that can be induced to display properties of tumour-associated blood vessels without direct incorporation of tumour cells. Conditioning healthy endothelial-fibroblast cell vasculature co-cultures with media taken from tumour cell cultures was found to result in the formation of disorganised, tortuous networks which display characteristics consistent with those of tumour-associated vasculature. Integrin αvβ3, a cell adhesion receptor associated with angiogenesis, was found to be upregulated in vasculature co-cultures conditioned with tumour cell media (TCM) - consistent with the reported αvβ3 expression pattern in angiogenic tumour vasculature in vivo. Increased accumulation of liposomes (LSs) conjugated to antibodies against αvβ3 was observed in TCM networks compared to non-conditioned networks, indicating αvβ3 may be a potential target for the delivery of drugs specifically to tumour vasculature. Furthermore, the use of microbubbles (MBs) and ultrasound (US) to further enhance the delivery of LSs to TCM-conditioned vasculature was investigated. Quantification of fluorescent LS accumulation post-perfusion of the vascular network showed 3-fold increased accumulation with the use of MBs and US, suggesting that targeted LS delivery could be further improved with the use of locally administered MBs and US.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew D Bourn
- School of Physics and Astronomy, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK.
- Leeds Institute for Medical Research, Wellcome Trust Brenner Building, St James' University Hospital, Leeds, LS9 7TF, UK
| | - Safoura Zahed Mohajerani
- Leeds Institute for Medical Research, Wellcome Trust Brenner Building, St James' University Hospital, Leeds, LS9 7TF, UK
| | - Georgia Mavria
- Leeds Institute for Medical Research, Wellcome Trust Brenner Building, St James' University Hospital, Leeds, LS9 7TF, UK
| | - Nicola Ingram
- Leeds Institute for Medical Research, Wellcome Trust Brenner Building, St James' University Hospital, Leeds, LS9 7TF, UK
| | - P Louise Coletta
- Leeds Institute for Medical Research, Wellcome Trust Brenner Building, St James' University Hospital, Leeds, LS9 7TF, UK
| | - Stephen D Evans
- School of Physics and Astronomy, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK.
| | - Sally A Peyman
- School of Physics and Astronomy, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK.
- Leeds Institute for Medical Research, Wellcome Trust Brenner Building, St James' University Hospital, Leeds, LS9 7TF, UK
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6
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Tanaka HY, Nakazawa T, Enomoto A, Masamune A, Kano MR. Therapeutic Strategies to Overcome Fibrotic Barriers to Nanomedicine in the Pancreatic Tumor Microenvironment. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15030724. [PMID: 36765684 PMCID: PMC9913712 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15030724] [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: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is notorious for its dismal prognosis. The enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect theory posits that nanomedicines (therapeutics in the size range of approximately 10-200 nm) selectively accumulate in tumors. Nanomedicine has thus been suggested to be the "magic bullet"-both effective and safe-to treat pancreatic cancer. However, the densely fibrotic tumor microenvironment of pancreatic cancer impedes nanomedicine delivery. The EPR effect is thus insufficient to achieve a significant therapeutic effect. Intratumoral fibrosis is chiefly driven by aberrantly activated fibroblasts and the extracellular matrix (ECM) components secreted. Fibroblast and ECM abnormalities offer various potential targets for therapeutic intervention. In this review, we detail the diverse strategies being tested to overcome the fibrotic barriers to nanomedicine in pancreatic cancer. Strategies that target the fibrotic tissue/process are discussed first, which are followed by strategies to optimize nanomedicine design. We provide an overview of how a deeper understanding, increasingly at single-cell resolution, of fibroblast biology is revealing the complex role of the fibrotic stroma in pancreatic cancer pathogenesis and consider the therapeutic implications. Finally, we discuss critical gaps in our understanding and how we might better formulate strategies to successfully overcome the fibrotic barriers in pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroyoshi Y. Tanaka
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biomedicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, 1-1-1 Tsushima-naka, Kita-ku, Okayama-shi 700-8530, Okayama, Japan
| | - Takuya Nakazawa
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biomedicine, Graduate School of Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering in Health Systems, Okayama University, 1-1-1 Tsushima-naka, Kita-ku, Okayama-shi 700-8530, Okayama, Japan
| | - Atsushi Enomoto
- Department of Pathology, Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya University, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya-shi 466-8550, Aichi, Japan
| | - Atsushi Masamune
- Division of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Tohoku University, 1-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai-shi 980-8574, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Mitsunobu R. Kano
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biomedicine, Graduate School of Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering in Health Systems, Okayama University, 1-1-1 Tsushima-naka, Kita-ku, Okayama-shi 700-8530, Okayama, Japan
- Correspondence:
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7
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Liu C, Li C, Liu Y. The role of metabolic reprogramming in pancreatic cancer chemoresistance. Front Pharmacol 2023; 13:1108776. [PMID: 36699061 PMCID: PMC9868425 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1108776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is characterized by hidden onset, high malignancy, and early metastasis. Although a few cases meet the surgical indications, chemotherapy remains the primary treatment, and the resulting chemoresistance has become an urgent clinical problem that needs to be solved. In recent years, the importance of metabolic reprogramming as one of the hallmarks of cancers in tumorigenesis has been validated. Metabolic reprogramming involves glucose, lipid, and amino acid metabolism and interacts with oncogenes to affect the expression of key enzymes and signaling pathways, modifying the tumor microenvironment and contributing to the occurrence of drug tolerance. Meanwhile, the mitochondria are hubs of the three major nutrients and energy metabolisms, which are also involved in the development of drug resistance. In this review, we summarized the characteristic changes in metabolism during the progression of pancreatic cancer and their impact on chemoresistance, outlined the role of the mitochondria, and summarized current studies on metabolic inhibitors.
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8
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Skorupan N, Palestino Dominguez M, Ricci SL, Alewine C. Clinical Strategies Targeting the Tumor Microenvironment of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:4209. [PMID: 36077755 PMCID: PMC9454553 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14174209] [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: 07/12/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer has a complex tumor microenvironment which engages in extensive crosstalk between cancer cells, cancer-associated fibroblasts, and immune cells. Many of these interactions contribute to tumor resistance to anti-cancer therapies. Here, new therapeutic strategies designed to modulate the cancer-associated fibroblast and immune compartments of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas are described and clinical trials of novel therapeutics are discussed. Continued advances in our understanding of the pancreatic cancer tumor microenvironment are generating stromal and immune-modulating therapeutics that may improve patient responses to anti-tumor treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nebojsa Skorupan
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
- Medical Oncology Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Mayrel Palestino Dominguez
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Samuel L. Ricci
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Christine Alewine
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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9
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Fraunhoffer NA, Abuelafia AM, Dusetti N, Iovanna J. Limitation and challenges in using pancreatic cancer-derived organoids as a preclinical tool. CANCER COMMUNICATIONS (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2022; 42:1028-1031. [PMID: 35848462 PMCID: PMC9558692 DOI: 10.1002/cac2.12335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas A Fraunhoffer
- Cancer Research Center of Marseille, Inserm, Paoli-Calmettes Institut, Aix-Marseille University, Scientific and Technological Park of Luminy, Marseille, 13288, France.,Buenos Aires University, Center for Pharmacological and Botanical Studies, Faculty of Medicine, National Council for Scientific and Technical Research, Buenos Aires, C1121ABG, Argentina
| | - Analía Meilerman Abuelafia
- Cancer Research Center of Marseille, Inserm, Paoli-Calmettes Institut, Aix-Marseille University, Scientific and Technological Park of Luminy, Marseille, 13288, France
| | - Nelson Dusetti
- Cancer Research Center of Marseille, Inserm, Paoli-Calmettes Institut, Aix-Marseille University, Scientific and Technological Park of Luminy, Marseille, 13288, France
| | - Juan Iovanna
- Cancer Research Center of Marseille, Inserm, Paoli-Calmettes Institut, Aix-Marseille University, Scientific and Technological Park of Luminy, Marseille, 13288, France
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10
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Li J, Peng L, Chen Q, Ye Z, Zhao T, Hou S, Gu J, Hang Q. Integrin β1 in Pancreatic Cancer: Expressions, Functions, and Clinical Implications. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14143377. [PMID: 35884437 PMCID: PMC9318555 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14143377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 07/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Pancreatic cancer (PC) is a highly aggressive malignant tumor with an extremely poor prognosis. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to improving the survival rate of PC patients. Emerging studies show that integrins might contribute to the pathogenesis of PC. This review presents the various signaling pathways that are mediated by integrins in PC and emphasizes the multiple functions of integrin β1 in malignant behaviors of PC. It also discusses the clinical significance of integrin β1 as well as integrin β1-based therapy in PC patients. Abstract Pancreatic cancer (PC) is characterized by rapid progression and a high mortality rate. The current treatment is still based on surgical treatment, supplemented by radiotherapy and chemotherapy, and new methods of combining immune and molecular biological treatments are being explored. Despite this, the survival rate of PC patients is still very disappointing. Therefore, clarifying the molecular mechanism of PC pathogenesis and developing precisely targeted drugs are key to improving PC prognosis. As the most common β subunit of the integrin family, integrin β1 has been proved to be closely related to the vascular invasion, distant metastasis, and survival of PC patients, and treatment targeting integrin β1 in PC has gained initial success in animal models. In this review, we summarize the various signaling pathways by which integrins are involved in PC, focusing on the roles of integrin β1 in the malignant behaviors of PC. Additionally, recent studies regarding the feasibility of integrin β1 as a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker in PC are also discussed. Finally, we present the progress of several integrin β1-based clinical trials to highlight the potential of integrin β1 as a target for personalized therapy in PC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiajia Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China; (J.L.); (S.H.)
| | - Liyao Peng
- Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing 210000, China;
| | - Qun Chen
- Pancreas Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210000, China;
| | - Ziping Ye
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China;
| | - Tiantian Zhao
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225001, China;
| | - Sicong Hou
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China; (J.L.); (S.H.)
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225001, China;
| | - Jianguo Gu
- Division of Regulatory Glycobiology, Institute of Molecular Biomembrane and Glycobiology, Tohoku Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Sendai 81-8558, Japan
- Correspondence: (J.G.); (Q.H.); Tel.: +86-13-8145-8885 (Q.H.)
| | - Qinglei Hang
- Division of Regulatory Glycobiology, Institute of Molecular Biomembrane and Glycobiology, Tohoku Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Sendai 81-8558, Japan
- Department of Experimental Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Correspondence: (J.G.); (Q.H.); Tel.: +86-13-8145-8885 (Q.H.)
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11
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Kim I, Choi S, Yoo S, Lee M, Kim IS. Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts in the Hypoxic Tumor Microenvironment. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14143321. [PMID: 35884382 PMCID: PMC9320406 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14143321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Cancers have regions of low oxygen concentration where hypoxia-related signaling pathways are activated. The hypoxic tumor microenvironment has been widely accepted as a hallmark of cancer and shown to be a critical factor in the crosstalk between cancer and stromal cells. Fibroblasts are one of the most abundant cellular components in the tumor stroma and are also significantly affected by oxygen deprivation. In this case, we discuss the molecular and cellular mechanisms that regulate fibroblasts under hypoxic conditions and their effect on cancer development and progression. Unraveling these regulatory mechanisms could be exploited in developing potential fibroblast-specific therapeutics for cancer. Abstract Solid cancers are composed of malignant cells and their surrounding matrix components. Hypoxia plays a critical role in shaping the tumor microenvironment that contributes to cancer progression and treatment failure. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are one of the most prominent components of the tumor microenvironment. CAFs are highly sensitive to hypoxia and participates in the crosstalk with cancer cells. Hypoxic CAFs modulate several mechanisms that induce cancer malignancy, such as extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling, immune evasion, metabolic reprogramming, angiogenesis, metastasis, and drug resistance. Key signaling molecules regulating CAFs in hypoxia include transforming growth factor (TGF-β) and hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs). In this article, we summarize the mechanisms underlying the hypoxic regulation of CAFs and how hypoxic CAFs affect cancer development and progression. We also discuss the potential therapeutic strategies focused on targeting CAFs in the hypoxic tumor microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iljin Kim
- Department of Pharmacology and Research Center for Controlling Intercellular Communication, Inha University College of Medicine, Incheon 22212, Korea; (S.C.); (S.Y.)
- Correspondence: (I.K.); (I.-S.K.)
| | - Sanga Choi
- Department of Pharmacology and Research Center for Controlling Intercellular Communication, Inha University College of Medicine, Incheon 22212, Korea; (S.C.); (S.Y.)
| | - Seongkyeong Yoo
- Department of Pharmacology and Research Center for Controlling Intercellular Communication, Inha University College of Medicine, Incheon 22212, Korea; (S.C.); (S.Y.)
| | - Mingyu Lee
- Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA;
| | - In-San Kim
- KU-KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Korea
- Medicinal Materials Research Center, Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Korea
- Correspondence: (I.K.); (I.-S.K.)
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12
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Management of Pancreatic Cancer and Its Microenvironment: Potential Impact of Nano-Targeting. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14122879. [PMID: 35740545 PMCID: PMC9221065 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14122879] [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: 05/05/2022] [Revised: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The poor prognosis and survival rates associated with pancreatic cancer show that there is a clear unmet need for better disease management. The heterogeneity of the tumor and its microenvironment, including stroma and fibrosis, creates a challenge for current therapy. The pathogenesis of pancreatic cancer is mediated by several factors, such as severed communication between pancreatic stellate cells and stroma and the consequences of hypoxia-inducible factors that aid in the survival of the pancreatic tumor. Given the multiple limitations of molecular targeting, multiple functional nano-targeting offers a breakthrough in pancreatic cancer treatment through its ability to overcome the physical challenges posed by the tumor microenvironment, amongst many others. Abstract Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is rare and difficult to treat, making it a complicated diagnosis for every patient. These patients have a low survival rate along with a poor quality of life under current pancreatic cancer therapies that adversely affect healthy cells due to the lack of precise drug targeting. Additionally, chemoresistance and radioresistance are other key challenges in PDAC, which might be due in part to the lack of tumor-targeted delivery of sufficient levels of different chemotherapies because of their low therapeutic index. Thus, instead of leaving a trail of off-target damage when killing these cancer cells, it is best to find a way that targets them directly. More seriously, metastatic relapse often occurs after surgery, and therefore, achieving improved outcomes in the management of PDAC in the absence of strategies preventing metastasis is likely to be impossible. Nano-targeting of the tumor and its microenvironment has shown promise for treating various cancers, which might be a promising approach for PDAC. This review updates the advancements in treatment modalities for pancreatic cancer and highlights future directions that warrant further investigation to increase pancreatic patients’ overall survival.
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Triazole Modified Tetraiodothyroacetic Acid Conjugated to Polyethylene Glycol, a Thyrointegrin αvβ3 Antagonist as a Radio- and Chemo-Sensitizer in Pancreatic Cancer. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10040795. [PMID: 35453545 PMCID: PMC9032383 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10040795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Thyroid hormone L thyroxine stimulates pancreatic carcinoma cell proliferation via thyrointegrin αvβ3 receptors, and antagonist tetraiodothyroacetic acid (tetrac) inhibits cancer cell growth. Chemically modified bis-triazole-tetrac conjugated with polyethylene glycol (P-bi-TAT) has higher binding affinity to αvβ3 receptors compared to tetrac. We investigated the antiproliferation effect of P-bi-TAT in pancreatic cancer cells (SUIT2) and its radio- and chemo-sensitizing roles in a mouse model of pancreatic cancer. P-bi-TAT treatment increased tumor-targeted radiation-induced cell death and decreased tumor size. P-bi-TAT acted as a chemo-sensitizer and enhanced the 5-fluorouracil (5FU) effect in decreasing pancreatic tumor weight compared to 5FU monotherapy. Withdrawal of treatment continued the tumor regression; however, the 5FU group showed tumor regrowth. The mechanisms of the anti-cancer activity of P-bi-TAT on SUIT2 cells were assessed by microarray experiments, and genome-wide profiling identified significant alterations of 1348 genes’ expression. Both down-regulated and up-regulated transcripts suggest that a molecular interference at the signaling pathway-associated gene expression is the prevalent mode of P-bi-TAT anti-cancer activity. Our data indicate that non-cytotoxic P-bi-TAT is not only an anti-cancer agent but also a radio-sensitizer and chemo-sensitizer that acts on the extracellular domain of the cell surface αvβ3 receptor.
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14
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van Dam MA, Vuijk FA, Stibbe JA, Houvast RD, Luelmo SAC, Crobach S, Shahbazi Feshtali S, de Geus-Oei LF, Bonsing BA, Sier CFM, Kuppen PJK, Swijnenburg RJ, Windhorst AD, Burggraaf J, Vahrmeijer AL, Mieog JSD. Overview and Future Perspectives on Tumor-Targeted Positron Emission Tomography and Fluorescence Imaging of Pancreatic Cancer in the Era of Neoadjuvant Therapy. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:6088. [PMID: 34885196 PMCID: PMC8656821 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13236088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Revised: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite recent advances in the multimodal treatment of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), overall survival remains poor with a 5-year cumulative survival of approximately 10%. Neoadjuvant (chemo- and/or radio-) therapy is increasingly incorporated in treatment strategies for patients with (borderline) resectable and locally advanced disease. Neoadjuvant therapy aims to improve radical resection rates by reducing tumor mass and (partial) encasement of important vascular structures, as well as eradicating occult micrometastases. Results from recent multicenter clinical trials evaluating this approach demonstrate prolonged survival and increased complete surgical resection rates (R0). Currently, tumor response to neoadjuvant therapy is monitored using computed tomography (CT) following the RECIST 1.1 criteria. Accurate assessment of neoadjuvant treatment response and tumor resectability is considered a major challenge, as current conventional imaging modalities provide limited accuracy and specificity for discrimination between necrosis, fibrosis, and remaining vital tumor tissue. As a consequence, resections with tumor-positive margins and subsequent early locoregional tumor recurrences are observed in a substantial number of patients following surgical resection with curative intent. Of these patients, up to 80% are diagnosed with recurrent disease after a median disease-free interval of merely 8 months. These numbers underline the urgent need to improve imaging modalities for more accurate assessment of therapy response and subsequent re-staging of disease, thereby aiming to optimize individual patient's treatment strategy. In cases of curative intent resection, additional intra-operative real-time guidance could aid surgeons during complex procedures and potentially reduce the rate of incomplete resections and early (locoregional) tumor recurrences. In recent years intraoperative imaging in cancer has made a shift towards tumor-specific molecular targeting. Several important molecular targets have been identified that show overexpression in PDAC, for example: CA19.9, CEA, EGFR, VEGFR/VEGF-A, uPA/uPAR, and various integrins. Tumor-targeted PET/CT combined with intraoperative fluorescence imaging, could provide valuable information for tumor detection and staging, therapy response evaluation with re-staging of disease and intraoperative guidance during surgical resection of PDAC. METHODS A literature search in the PubMed database and (inter)national trial registers was conducted, focusing on studies published over the last 15 years. Data and information of eligible articles regarding PET/CT as well as fluorescence imaging in PDAC were reviewed. Areas covered: This review covers the current strategies, obstacles, challenges, and developments in targeted tumor imaging, focusing on the feasibility and value of PET/CT and fluorescence imaging for integration in the work-up and treatment of PDAC. An overview is given of identified targets and their characteristics, as well as the available literature of conducted and ongoing clinical and preclinical trials evaluating PDAC-targeted nuclear and fluorescent tracers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martijn A. van Dam
- Department of Surgery, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands; (F.A.V.); (J.A.S.); (R.D.H.); (B.A.B.); (C.F.M.S.); (P.J.K.K.); (J.B.); (A.L.V.); (J.S.D.M.)
| | - Floris A. Vuijk
- Department of Surgery, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands; (F.A.V.); (J.A.S.); (R.D.H.); (B.A.B.); (C.F.M.S.); (P.J.K.K.); (J.B.); (A.L.V.); (J.S.D.M.)
| | - Judith A. Stibbe
- Department of Surgery, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands; (F.A.V.); (J.A.S.); (R.D.H.); (B.A.B.); (C.F.M.S.); (P.J.K.K.); (J.B.); (A.L.V.); (J.S.D.M.)
| | - Ruben D. Houvast
- Department of Surgery, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands; (F.A.V.); (J.A.S.); (R.D.H.); (B.A.B.); (C.F.M.S.); (P.J.K.K.); (J.B.); (A.L.V.); (J.S.D.M.)
| | - Saskia A. C. Luelmo
- Department of Medical Oncology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands;
| | - Stijn Crobach
- Department of Pathology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands;
| | | | - Lioe-Fee de Geus-Oei
- Department of Radiology, Section of Nuclear Medicine, University Medical Center Leiden, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands;
- Biomedical Photonic Imaging Group, University of Twente, 7522 NB Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Bert A. Bonsing
- Department of Surgery, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands; (F.A.V.); (J.A.S.); (R.D.H.); (B.A.B.); (C.F.M.S.); (P.J.K.K.); (J.B.); (A.L.V.); (J.S.D.M.)
| | - Cornelis F. M. Sier
- Department of Surgery, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands; (F.A.V.); (J.A.S.); (R.D.H.); (B.A.B.); (C.F.M.S.); (P.J.K.K.); (J.B.); (A.L.V.); (J.S.D.M.)
- Percuros B.V., 2333 CL Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Peter J. K. Kuppen
- Department of Surgery, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands; (F.A.V.); (J.A.S.); (R.D.H.); (B.A.B.); (C.F.M.S.); (P.J.K.K.); (J.B.); (A.L.V.); (J.S.D.M.)
| | | | - Albert D. Windhorst
- Department of Radiology, Section of Nuclear Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Location VUmc, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Jacobus Burggraaf
- Department of Surgery, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands; (F.A.V.); (J.A.S.); (R.D.H.); (B.A.B.); (C.F.M.S.); (P.J.K.K.); (J.B.); (A.L.V.); (J.S.D.M.)
- Centre for Human Drug Research, 2333 CL Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Alexander L. Vahrmeijer
- Department of Surgery, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands; (F.A.V.); (J.A.S.); (R.D.H.); (B.A.B.); (C.F.M.S.); (P.J.K.K.); (J.B.); (A.L.V.); (J.S.D.M.)
| | - J. Sven D. Mieog
- Department of Surgery, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands; (F.A.V.); (J.A.S.); (R.D.H.); (B.A.B.); (C.F.M.S.); (P.J.K.K.); (J.B.); (A.L.V.); (J.S.D.M.)
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15
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Turaga RC, Satyanarayana G, Sharma M, Yang JJ, Wang S, Liu C, Li S, Yang H, Grossniklaus H, Farris AB, Gracia-Sancho J, Liu ZR. Targeting integrin αvβ3 by a rationally designed protein for chronic liver disease treatment. Commun Biol 2021; 4:1087. [PMID: 34531529 PMCID: PMC8445973 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-021-02611-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic Liver Diseases (CLD) are characterized by abnormal accumulation of collagen fibrils, neo-angiogenesis, and sinusoidal remodeling. Collagen deposition along with intrahepatic angiogenesis and sinusoidal remodeling alters sinusoid structure resulting in portal hypertension, liver failure, and other complications. Efforts were made to develop treatments for CLDs. However, the success of such treatments is limited and unpredictable. We report a strategy for CLD treatment by induction of integrin αvβ3 mediated cell apoptosis using a rationally designed protein (ProAgio). ProAgio is designed to target integrin αvβ3 at a novel site. Integrin αvβ3 is highly expressed in activated Hepatic Stellate Cells (HSC), angiogenic endothelium, and capillarized Liver Sinusoidal Endothelial Cells (LSEC). ProAgio induces apoptosis of these disease causative cells. Tests with liver fibrosis mouse models demonstrate that ProAgio reverses liver fibrosis and relieves blood flow resistance by depleting activated HSC and capillarized LSEC. Our studies demonstrate an effective approach for CLD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ravi Chakra Turaga
- Department of Biology, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, 30324, USA
| | | | - Malvika Sharma
- Department of Biology, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, 30324, USA
| | - Jenny J Yang
- Department of Chemistry, Georgia State University, Atlanta, USA
| | | | | | - Sun Li
- Department of Chemistry, Georgia State University, Atlanta, USA
| | - Hua Yang
- Department Ophthalmology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | | | | | | | - Zhi-Ren Liu
- Department of Biology, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, 30324, USA.
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16
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Karimnia V, Slack FJ, Celli JP. Photodynamic Therapy for Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13174354. [PMID: 34503165 PMCID: PMC8431269 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13174354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is among the most lethal of human cancers. Numerous clinical trials evaluating various combinations of chemotherapy and targeted agents and radiotherapy have failed to provide meaningful improvements in survival. A growing number of studies however have indicated that photodynamic therapy (PDT) may be a viable approach for treatment of some pancreatic tumors. PDT, which uses light to activate a photosensitizing agent in target tissue, has seen widespread adoption primarily for dermatological and other applications where superficial light delivery is relatively straightforward. Advances in fiber optic light delivery and dosimetry however have been leveraged to enable PDT even for challenging internal sites, including the pancreas. The aim of this article is to help inform future directions by reviewing relevant literature on the basic science, current clinical status, and potential challenges in the development of PDT as a treatment for PDAC. Abstract Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is among the most lethal of human cancers. Clinical trials of various chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted agents and combination strategies have generally failed to provide meaningful improvement in survival for patients with unresectable disease. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a photochemistry-based approach that enables selective cell killing using tumor-localizing agents activated by visible or near-infrared light. In recent years, clinical studies have demonstrated the technical feasibility of PDT for patients with locally advanced PDAC while a growing body of preclinical literature has shown that PDT can overcome drug resistance and target problematic and aggressive disease. Emerging evidence also suggests the ability of PDT to target PDAC stroma, which is known to act as both a barrier to drug delivery and a tumor-promoting signaling partner. Here, we review the literature which indicates an emergent role of PDT in clinical management of PDAC, including the potential for combination with other targeted agents and RNA medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vida Karimnia
- Department of Physics, University of Massachusetts at Boston, Boston, MA 02125, USA;
| | - Frank J. Slack
- Department of Pathology, BIDMC Cancer Center/Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA;
| | - Jonathan P. Celli
- Department of Physics, University of Massachusetts at Boston, Boston, MA 02125, USA;
- Correspondence:
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17
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Heinrich MA, Mostafa AMRH, Morton JP, Hawinkels LJAC, Prakash J. Translating complexity and heterogeneity of pancreatic tumor: 3D in vitro to in vivo models. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2021; 174:265-293. [PMID: 33895214 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.04.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Revised: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an extremely aggressive type of cancer with an overall survival rate of less than 7-8%, emphasizing the need for novel effective therapeutics against PDAC. However only a fraction of therapeutics which seemed promising in the laboratory environment will eventually reach the clinic. One of the main reasons behind this low success rate is the complex tumor microenvironment (TME) of PDAC, a highly fibrotic and dense stroma surrounding tumor cells, which supports tumor progression as well as increases the resistance against the treatment. In particular, the growing understanding of the PDAC TME points out a different challenge in the development of efficient therapeutics - a lack of biologically relevant in vitro and in vivo models that resemble the complexity and heterogeneity of PDAC observed in patients. The purpose and scope of this review is to provide an overview of the recent developments in different in vitro and in vivo models, which aim to recapitulate the complexity of PDAC in a laboratory environment, as well to describe how 3D in vitro models can be integrated into drug development pipelines that are already including sophisticated in vivo models. Hereby a special focus will be given on the complexity of in vivo models and the challenges in vitro models face to reach the same levels of complexity in a controllable manner. First, a brief introduction of novel developments in two dimensional (2D) models and ex vivo models is provided. Next, recent developments in three dimensional (3D) in vitro models are described ranging from spheroids, organoids, scaffold models, bioprinted models to organ-on-chip models including a discussion on advantages and limitations for each model. Furthermore, we will provide a detailed overview on the current PDAC in vivo models including chemically-induced models, syngeneic and xenogeneic models, highlighting hetero- and orthotopic, patient-derived tissues (PDX) models, and genetically engineered mouse models. Finally, we will provide a discussion on overall limitations of both, in vitro and in vivo models, and discuss necessary steps to overcome these limitations to reach an efficient drug development pipeline, as well as discuss possibilities to include novel in silico models in the process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcel A Heinrich
- Department of Biomaterials Science and Technology, Section Targeted Therapeutics, Technical Medical Centre, University of Twente, 7500AE Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - Ahmed M R H Mostafa
- Department of Biomaterials Science and Technology, Section Targeted Therapeutics, Technical Medical Centre, University of Twente, 7500AE Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - Jennifer P Morton
- Cancer Research UK, Beatson Institute, Garscube Estate, Switchback Rd, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK; Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Garscube Estate, Switchback Rd, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
| | - Lukas J A C Hawinkels
- Department of Gastroenterology-Hepatology, Leiden University Medical Centre, PO-box 9600, 2300 RC Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Jai Prakash
- Department of Biomaterials Science and Technology, Section Targeted Therapeutics, Technical Medical Centre, University of Twente, 7500AE Enschede, the Netherlands.
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18
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Dzobo K. Integrins Within the Tumor Microenvironment: Biological Functions, Importance for Molecular Targeting, and Cancer Therapeutics Innovation. OMICS-A JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE BIOLOGY 2021; 25:417-430. [PMID: 34191612 DOI: 10.1089/omi.2021.0069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Many cellular functions important for solid tumor initiation and progression are mediated by members of the integrin family, a diverse family of cell attachment receptors. With recent studies emphasizing the role of the tumor microenvironment (TME) in tumor initiation and progression, it is not surprising that considerable attention is being paid to integrins. Several integrin antagonists are under clinical trials, with many demonstrating promising activity in patients with different cancers. A deeper knowledge of the functions of integrins within the TME is still required and might lead to better inhibitors being discovered. Integrin expression is commonly dysregulated in many tumors with integrins playing key roles in signaling as well as promotion of tumor cell invasion and migration. Integrins also play a major role in adhesion of circulating tumor cells to new sites and the resulting formation of secondary tumors. Furthermore, integrins have demonstrated the ability to promoting stem cell-like properties in tumor cells as well as drug resistance. Anti-integrin therapies rely heavily on the doses or concentrations used as these determine whether the drugs act as antagonists or as integrin agonists. This expert review offers the latest synthesis in terms of the current knowledge of integrins functions within the TME and as potential molecular targets for cancer therapeutics innovation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Dzobo
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Cape Town Component, Cape Town, South Africa.,Division of Medical Biochemistry and Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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19
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Wu Y, Zhang C, Jiang K, Werner J, Bazhin AV, D'Haese JG. The Role of Stellate Cells in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma: Targeting Perspectives. Front Oncol 2021; 10:621937. [PMID: 33520728 PMCID: PMC7841014 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.621937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a gastrointestinal malignancy with a dismal clinical outcome. Accumulating evidence suggests that activated pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs), the major producers of extracellular matrix (ECM), drive the severe stromal/desmoplastic reaction in PDAC. Furthermore, the crosstalk among PSCs, pancreatic cancer cells (PCCs) as well as other stroma cells can establish a growth-supportive tumor microenvironment (TME) of PDAC, thereby enhancing tumor growth, metastasis, and chemoresistance via various pathways. Recently, targeting stroma has emerged as a promising strategy for PDAC therapy, and several novel strategies have been proposed. The aim of our study is to give a profound review of the role of PSCs in PDAC progression and recent advances in stroma-targeting strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Wu
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplant Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Chun Zhang
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplant Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Kuirong Jiang
- Pancreas Center and Pancreas Institute, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jens Werner
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplant Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany.,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Alexandr V Bazhin
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplant Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany.,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Jan G D'Haese
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplant Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
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