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Xing Z, Xu Y, Xu X, Yang K, Qin S, Jiao Y, Wang L. Identification and validation of a novel risk model based on cuproptosis‑associated m6A for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. BMC Med Genomics 2024; 17:137. [PMID: 38778403 PMCID: PMC11110395 DOI: 10.1186/s12920-024-01916-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is a prevalent cancer with a poor survival rate due to anatomical limitations of the head and a lack of reliable biomarkers. Cuproptosis represents a novel cellular regulated death pathway, and N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is the most common internal RNA modification in mRNA. They are intricately connected to tumor formation, progression, and prognosis. This study aimed to construct a risk model for HNSCC using a set of mRNAs associated with m6A regulators and cuproptosis genes (mcrmRNA). METHODS RNA-seq and clinical data of HNSCC patients from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database were analyzed to develop a risk model through the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) analysis. Survival analysis and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis were performed for the high- and low-risk groups. Additionally, the model was validated using the GSE41613 dataset from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. GSEA and CIBERSORT were applied to investigate the immune microenvironment of HNSCC. RESULTS A risk model consisting of 32 mcrmRNA was developed using the LASSO analysis. The risk score of patients was confirmed to be an independent prognostic indicator by multivariate Cox analysis. The high-risk group exhibited a higher tumor mutation burden. Additionally, CIBERSORT analysis indicated varying levels of immune cell infiltration between the two groups. Significant disparities in drug sensitivity to common medications were also observed. Enrichment analysis further unveiled significant differences in metabolic pathways and RNA processing between the two groups. CONCLUSIONS Our risk model can predict outcomes for HNSCC patients and offers valuable insights for personalized therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongxu Xing
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 21500, China
| | - Yijun Xu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 21500, China
| | - Xiaoyan Xu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 21500, China
| | - Kaiwen Yang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 21500, China
| | - Songbing Qin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 21500, China
| | - Yang Jiao
- State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Collaborative Innovation Center of Radiological Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China.
| | - Lili Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 21500, China.
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Brunkhorst H, Schnellhardt S, Büttner-Herold M, Daniel C, Fietkau R, Distel LV. Neutrophils in HNSCC Can Be Associated with Both a Worse or Favorable Prognosis. Biomolecules 2024; 14:205. [PMID: 38397442 PMCID: PMC10886850 DOI: 10.3390/biom14020205] [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: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The prognostic significance of tumor-infiltrating neutrophils in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is poorly understood. It is unclear how the presence of neutrophils affects prognosis due to their polarization into cytotoxic N1 or immunosuppressive N2. Therefore, we determined the number of CD66b+ neutrophil granulocytes separately in the stromal and epithelial compartments in cancer tissues from 397 patients with HNSCC. Tumor samples from six historical patient groups were processed into tissue microarrays and stained immunohistochemically. In total, 21.9% were HPV positive (p16+). Neutrophil counts were much lower in the stromal compartment (372 ± 812) than in the epithelial cancer compartment (1040 ± 1477) (p < 0.001), with large differences between groups. In three groups with high neutrophil infiltration, high rates were associated with a favorable prognosis, whereas in two groups, high rates were a negative prognostic factor. In p16- oropharyngeal and hypopharyngeal cancer high infiltration was associated with a favorable prognosis. Cancers with an exclusion of neutrophils in the epithelial compartment were associated with improved prognosis. In oropharyngeal and hypopharyngeal HPV-negative cancer high neutrophil infiltration rates were clearly associated with prolonged survival. Neutrophil granulocytes in HNSCC may contribute to a favorable or unfavorable prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hendrik Brunkhorst
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN (CCC ER-EMN), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Sören Schnellhardt
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN (CCC ER-EMN), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Department of Radiotherapy and Radiation Oncology, Saarland University Medical Center, 66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Maike Büttner-Herold
- Department of Nephropathology, Institute of Pathology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Christoph Daniel
- Department of Nephropathology, Institute of Pathology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Rainer Fietkau
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN (CCC ER-EMN), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Luitpold V. Distel
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN (CCC ER-EMN), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
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Medeiros MCD, The S, Bellile E, Russo N, Schmitd L, Danella E, Singh P, Banerjee R, Bassis C, Murphy GR, Sartor MA, Lombaert I, Schmidt TM, Eisbruch A, Murdoch-Kinch CA, Rozek L, Wolf GT, Li G, Chen GY, D'Silva NJ. Salivary microbiome changes distinguish response to chemoradiotherapy in patients with oral cancer. MICROBIOME 2023; 11:268. [PMID: 38037123 PMCID: PMC10687843 DOI: 10.1186/s40168-023-01677-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oral squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is associated with oral microbial dysbiosis. In this unique study, we compared pre- to post-treatment salivary microbiome in patients with SCC by 16S rRNA gene sequencing and examined how microbiome changes correlated with the expression of an anti-microbial protein. RESULTS Treatment of SCC was associated with a reduction in overall bacterial richness and diversity. There were significant changes in the microbial community structure, including a decrease in the abundance of Porphyromonaceae and Prevotellaceae and an increase in Lactobacillaceae. There were also significant changes in the microbial community structure before and after treatment with chemoradiotherapy, but not with surgery alone. In patients treated with chemoradiotherapy alone, several bacterial populations were differentially abundant between responders and non-responders before and after therapy. Microbiome changes were associated with a change in the expression of DMBT1, an anti-microbial protein in human saliva. Additionally, we found that salivary DMBT1, which increases after treatment, could serve as a post-treatment salivary biomarker that links to microbial changes. Specifically, post-treatment increases in human salivary DMBT1 correlated with increased abundance of Gemella spp., Pasteurellaceae spp., Lactobacillus spp., and Oribacterium spp. This is the first longitudinal study to investigate treatment-associated changes (chemoradiotherapy and surgery) in the oral microbiome in patients with SCC along with changes in expression of an anti-microbial protein in saliva. CONCLUSIONS The composition of the oral microbiota may predict treatment responses; salivary DMBT1 may have a role in modulating the oral microbiome in patients with SCC. After completion of treatment, 6 months after diagnosis, patients had a less diverse and less rich oral microbiome. Leptotrichia was a highly prevalent bacteria genus associated with disease. Expression of DMBT1 was higher after treatment and associated with microbiome changes, the most prominent genus being Gemella Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcell Costa de Medeiros
- Periodontics and Oral Medicine, University of Michigan School of Dentistry, 1011 North University Ave, Room G018, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-1078, USA
| | - Stephanie The
- Cancer Data Science Shared Resource, University of Michigan Medical School, 1500 E. Medical Center Dr, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Emily Bellile
- Cancer Data Science Shared Resource, University of Michigan Medical School, 1500 E. Medical Center Dr, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Nickole Russo
- Periodontics and Oral Medicine, University of Michigan School of Dentistry, 1011 North University Ave, Room G018, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-1078, USA
| | - Ligia Schmitd
- Periodontics and Oral Medicine, University of Michigan School of Dentistry, 1011 North University Ave, Room G018, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-1078, USA
| | - Erika Danella
- Periodontics and Oral Medicine, University of Michigan School of Dentistry, 1011 North University Ave, Room G018, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-1078, USA
| | - Priyanka Singh
- Periodontics and Oral Medicine, University of Michigan School of Dentistry, 1011 North University Ave, Room G018, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-1078, USA
| | - Rajat Banerjee
- Periodontics and Oral Medicine, University of Michigan School of Dentistry, 1011 North University Ave, Room G018, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-1078, USA
| | - Christine Bassis
- Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, 1500 East Medical Center Drive, Ann Arbor, MI, 331248109, USA
| | - George R Murphy
- Biologic and Materials Sciences and Prosthodontics, University of Michigan School of Dentistry, 1011 N. University Ave, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Biointerfaces Institute, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Maureen A Sartor
- Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan Medical School, 1500 E. Medical Center Dr, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Isabelle Lombaert
- Biologic and Materials Sciences and Prosthodontics, University of Michigan School of Dentistry, 1011 N. University Ave, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Biointerfaces Institute, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Thomas M Schmidt
- Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan Medical School, 1500 E. Medical Center Dr, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Avi Eisbruch
- Radiation Oncology, University of Michigan Medical School, 1500 E. Medical Center Dr, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Carol Anne Murdoch-Kinch
- Oral Pathology, Medicine and Radiology, Indiana University School of Dentistry, 1011 North Michigan St, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Laura Rozek
- Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan Medical School, 1500 E. Medical Center Dr, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Gregory T Wolf
- Otolaryngology, University of Michigan Medical School, 1500 E. Medical Center Dr, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Gen Li
- Biostatistics, University of Michigan School of Public Health, University of Michigan Medical School, 1500 E. Medical Center Dr, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Grace Y Chen
- Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, 1500 East Medical Center Drive, Ann Arbor, MI, 331248109, USA.
| | - Nisha J D'Silva
- Periodontics and Oral Medicine, University of Michigan School of Dentistry, 1011 North University Ave, Room G018, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-1078, USA.
- Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, 1500 E. Medical Center Dr, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
- Rogel Cancer Center, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
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Guo S, Huang J, Li G, Chen W, Li Z, Lei J. The role of extracellular vesicles in circulating tumor cell-mediated distant metastasis. Mol Cancer 2023; 22:193. [PMID: 38037077 PMCID: PMC10688140 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-023-01909-5] [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: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Current research has demonstrated that extracellular vesicles (EVs) and circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are very closely related in the process of distant tumor metastasis. Primary tumors are shed and released into the bloodstream to form CTCs that are referred to as seeds to colonize and grow in soil-like distant target organs, while EVs of tumor and nontumor origin act as fertilizers in the process of tumor metastasis. There is no previous text that provides a comprehensive review of the role of EVs on CTCs during tumor metastasis. In this paper, we reviewed the mechanisms of EVs on CTCs during tumor metastasis, including the ability of EVs to enhance the shedding of CTCs, protect CTCs in circulation and determine the direction of CTC metastasis, thus affecting the distant metastasis of tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyin Guo
- Division of Thyroid Surgery, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China
| | - Jing Huang
- Division of Thyroid Surgery, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China
| | - Genpeng Li
- Division of Thyroid Surgery, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China
| | - Wenjie Chen
- Division of Thyroid Surgery, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China
| | - Zhihui Li
- Division of Thyroid Surgery, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China
| | - Jianyong Lei
- Division of Thyroid Surgery, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China.
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Han B, Li S, Huang S, Huang J, Wu T, Chen X. Cuproptosis-related lncRNA SNHG16 as a biomarker for the diagnosis and prognosis of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. PeerJ 2023; 11:e16197. [PMID: 37846311 PMCID: PMC10576967 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.16197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background We aim to investigate the potential value of cuproptosis-related lncRNA signaling in predicting clinical prognosis and immunotherapy and its relationship with drug sensitivity in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Methods We first identified the lncRNAs associated with cuproptosis genes in HNSCC and then conducted a series of analytical studies to investigate the expression and prognostic significance of these lncRNAs. Finally, we used RT-qPCR to validate our findings in a laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma cell line and 12 pairs of laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma and adjacent normal tissues. Results We identified 11 differentially expressed lncRNAs that were associated with cuproptosis genes in HNSCC and also served as prognostic markers for this cancer. Enrichment analysis revealed that these lncRNAs were related to immune-related functions that were suppressed in patients with oncogene mutations in the high-risk group. The patients with a high tumor mutation burden exhibited poor overall survival (OS). We used the tumor immune dysfunction and exclusion model to show that the patients in the high-risk group had great potential for immune evasion and less effective immunotherapy. We also identified several drugs that could be effective in treating HNSCC. Experimental validation showed that AC090587.1 and AC012184.3 exhibited differential expression between the TU686 and HBE cell lines, and SNHG16 showed differential expression among the TU686, TU212, and control HBE cells. Among the 12 pairs of cancer and adjacent tissues collected in the clinic, only SNHG16 showed differential expression. Targeted therapy against SNHG16 holds promise as a prospective novel strategy for the clinical management of HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baoai Han
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Shuang Li
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Shuo Huang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jing Huang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Tingting Wu
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiong Chen
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Sleep Medicine Centre, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
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6
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Chang CH, Chen CJ, Yu CF, Tsai HY, Chen FH, Chiang CS. Targeting M-MDSCs enhances the therapeutic effect of BNCT in the 4-NQO-induced murine head and neck squamous cell carcinoma model. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1263873. [PMID: 37886177 PMCID: PMC10598372 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1263873] [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: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Malignant head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is characterized by a poor prognosis and resistance to conventional radiotherapy. Infiltrating myeloid-derived suppressive cells (MDSCs) is prominent in HNSCC and is linked to immune suppression and tumor aggressiveness. This study aimed to investigate the impact of boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) on the MDSCs in the tumor microenvironment and peripheral blood and to explore the potential for MDSCs depletion combined with BNCT to reactivate antitumor immunity. Methods and materials Carcinogen, 4-NQO, -induced oral tumors were irradiated with a total physical dose of 2 Gy BNCT in Tsing Hua Open Reactor (THOR). Flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry accessed the dynamics of peripheral MDSCs and infiltrated MDSCs within the tumor microenvironment. Mice were injected with an inhibitor of CSF-1 receptor (CSF-1R), PLX3397, to determine whether modulating M-MDSCs could affect mice survival after BNCT. Results Peripheral CD11b+Ly6ChighLy6G- monocytic-MDSCs (M-MDSCs), but not CD11b+Ly6CloLy6Ghigh polymorphonuclear-MDSCs (PMN-MDSCs), increased as tumor progression. After BNCT treatment, there were temporarily decreased and persistent increases of M-MDSCs thereafter, either in peripheral blood or in tumors. The administration of PLX-3397 hindered BNCT-caused M-MDSCs infiltration, prolonged mice survival, and activated tumor immunity by decreasing tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) and increasing CD8+ T cells. Conclusion M-MDSCs were recruited into 4-NQO-induced tumors after BNCT, and their number was also increased in peripheral blood. Assessment of M-MDSCs levels in peripheral blood could be an index to determine the optimal intervention window. Their temporal alteration suggests an association with tumor recurrence after BNCT, making M-MDSCs a potential intervention target. Our preliminary results showed that PLX-3397 had strong M-MDSCs, TAMs, and TIL (tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte) modulating effects that could synergize tumor control when combined with BNCT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Hsiang Chang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Environment Sciences, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Jui Chen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Environment Sciences, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Fang Yu
- Institute for Radiological Research, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital Linkou Branch, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Hui-Yu Tsai
- Institute of Nuclear Engineering and Science, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Fang-Hsin Chen
- Institute of Nuclear Engineering and Science, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Shiun Chiang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Environment Sciences, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
- Institute of Nuclear Engineering and Science, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
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Ngamphaiboon N, Chairoungdua A, Dajsakdipon T, Jiarpinitnun C. Evolving role of novel radiosensitizers and immune checkpoint inhibitors in (chemo)radiotherapy of locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Oral Oncol 2023; 145:106520. [PMID: 37467684 DOI: 10.1016/j.oraloncology.2023.106520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 07/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
Chemoradiotherapy (CRT) remains the standard treatment for locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (LA-HNSCC), based on numerous randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses demonstrating that CRT improved locoregional control and overall survival. Achieving locoregional control is a crucial outcome for the treatment of HNSCC, as it directly affects patient quality of life and survival. Cisplatin is the recommended standard-of-care radiosensitizing agent for LA-HNSCC patients undergoing CRT, whereas cetuximab-radiotherapy is reserved for cisplatin-ineligible patients. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have shown promise in the treatment of recurrent or metastatic HNSCC. However, the combination of ICIs with standard-of-care radiotherapy or chemoradiotherapy in LA-HNSCC has not demonstrated significant improvement in survivals. Over the past few decades, significant advancements in radiotherapy techniques have allowed for more precise and effective radiation delivery while minimizing toxicity to surrounding normal tissues. These advances have led to improved treatment outcomes and quality of life for patients with LA-HNSCC. Despite these advancements, the development of novel radiosensitizing agents remains an unmet need. This review discusses the mechanism of radiotherapy and its impact on the immune system. We summarize the latest clinical development of novel radiosensitizing agents, such as SMAC mimetics, DDR pathway inhibitors, and CDK4/6 inhibitor. We also elucidate the emerging evidence of combining ICIs with radiotherapy or chemoradiotherapy in curative settings for LA-HNSCC, using both concurrent and sequential approaches. Lastly, we discuss the future direction of systemic therapy in combination with radiotherapy in treatment for LA-HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuttapong Ngamphaiboon
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.
| | - Arthit Chairoungdua
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand; Toxicology Graduate Program, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand; Excellent Center for Drug Discovery (ECDD), Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Thanate Dajsakdipon
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Chuleeporn Jiarpinitnun
- Division of Radiation Oncology, Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
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Daroonpan P, Ouchi R, Zhang C, Nagai S, Nishii N, Kashima Y, Tsushima F, Harada H, Hamagaki M, Ikeda T, Aida J, Kaomongkolgit R, Azuma M. Personal immune profiles: Diversity and prognostic value for oral tongue squamous cell carcinoma evaluated by comprehensive immune parameter analyses with multiplex immunofluorescence. Oral Oncol 2023; 143:106458. [PMID: 37329869 DOI: 10.1016/j.oraloncology.2023.106458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Understanding the tumor immune microenvironment is becoming increasingly necessary for risk prediction and treatment selection. In particular, oral cancer has various immunosuppressive characteristics in the tumor microenvironment. Therefore, we comprehensively assessed the immune profiles of oral tongue squamous cell carcinoma (OTSCC). MATERIALS AND METHODS Multiplex immunofluorescence and tissue imaging analyses were performed to evaluate immune profiles at the invasive tumor front of 60 OTSCC surgical specimens. We analyzed 58 immune parameters including the density and proportion (%) of total leukocytes (Leu) and T cells, six subsets of T and myeloid cells, and the expression of programmed cell death-1 (PD-1) and PD-1 ligand 1 (PD-L1). RESULTS The density, proportion, and location of CD45+ Leu, three T cell subsets (CD8+, Foxp3-CD4+ conventional, and Foxp3+CD4+ regulatory T cells), CD163-CD68+ M1 and CD163+CD68+ M2 macrophages, and neutrophils were highly variable at the individual level. The density and proportion of M2 macrophages were significantly lower in the T1 stage group. Risk prediction analyses for recurrence and/or metastasis (R/M) showed that R/M (+) T1 cases had significantly higher M2 density and percentages. CONCLUSIONS The immune profiles of OTSCC patients are diverse and cannot be predicted from clinicopathological information alone. The M2 macrophage abundance is a potential candidate biomarker for R/M in the early stage of OTSCC. Personal immune profiling may provide beneficial information for risk prediction and treatment selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pissacha Daroonpan
- Departments of Molecular Immunology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8549, Japan; Department of Oral Diagnosis, Naresuan University, Tha Pho, Mueang Phitsanulok District, Phitsanulok 65000, Thailand
| | - Ryo Ouchi
- Departments of Molecular Immunology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8549, Japan
| | - Chenyang Zhang
- Departments of Molecular Immunology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8549, Japan
| | - Shigenori Nagai
- Departments of Molecular Immunology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8549, Japan
| | - Naoto Nishii
- Departments of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgical Oncology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8549, Japan
| | - Yoshihisa Kashima
- Departments of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgical Oncology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8549, Japan
| | - Fumihiko Tsushima
- Departments of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgical Oncology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8549, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Harada
- Departments of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgical Oncology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8549, Japan
| | - Miwako Hamagaki
- Departments of Oral Pathology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8549, Japan
| | - Tohru Ikeda
- Departments of Oral Pathology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8549, Japan
| | - Jun Aida
- Departments of Oral Health Promotion, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8549, Japan
| | - Ruchadaporn Kaomongkolgit
- Department of Oral Diagnosis, Naresuan University, Tha Pho, Mueang Phitsanulok District, Phitsanulok 65000, Thailand
| | - Miyuki Azuma
- Departments of Molecular Immunology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8549, Japan.
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Knebel M, Körner S, Kühn JP, Wemmert S, Brust L, Smola S, Wagner M, Bohle RM, Morris LGT, Pandey A, Schick B, Linxweiler M. Prognostic impact of intra- and peritumoral immune cell subpopulations in head and neck squamous cell carcinomas - comprehensive analysis of the TCGA-HNSC cohort and immunohistochemical validation on 101 patients. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1172768. [PMID: 37383237 PMCID: PMC10294051 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1172768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Due to the expanding role of immune checkpoint inhibition in the treatment of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, understanding immunological processes in the tumor microevironment (TME) has strong translational importance. Though analytical methods for a comprehensive analysis of the immunological TME have constantly improved and expanded over the past years the prognostic relevance of immune cell composition in head and neck cancer TME largely remains ambiguous with most studies focusing on one or a small subset of immune cells. Methods The overall survival (OS) of the TCGA-HNSC patient cohort comprising 513 head and neck cancer patients was correlated with a total of 29 different immune metrics including a wide spectrum of immune cell subpopulations as well as immune checkpoint receptors and cytokines using RNAseq based immune deconvolution analyses. The most significant predictors of survival among these 29 immune metrics were validated on a separate HNSCC patient cohort (n=101) using immunohistochemistry: CD3, CD20+CXCR5, CD4+CXCR5, Foxp3 and CD68. Results Overall immune infiltration irrespective of immune cell composition showed no significant correlation with the patients' overall survival in the TCGA-HNSC cohort. However, when focusing on different immune cell subpopulations, naïve B cells (p=0.0006), follicular T-helper cells (p<0.0001), macrophages (p=0.0042), regulatory T cells (p=0.0306), lymphocytes (p=0.0001), and cytotoxic T cells (p=0.0242) were identified as highly significant predictors of improved patient survival. Using immunohistochemical detection of these immune cells in a second independent validation cohort of 101 HNSCC patients, we confirmed the prognostic relevance of follicular T helper cells, cytotoxic T cells and lymphocytes. In multivariable analysis, HPV negativity and advanced UICC stages were identified as additional prognostic biomarkers associated with poor outcome. Conclusion Our study highlights the prognostic relevance of the immunological tumor environment in head and neck cancer and demonstrates that a more detailed analysis of immune cell composition and immune cell subtypes is necessary to accurately prognosticate. We observed the highest prognostic relevance for lymphocytes, cytotoxic T cells, and follicular T helper cells, suggesting further investigations focusing on these specific immune cell subpopulations not only as predictors of patient prognosis but also as promising targets of new immunotherapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moritz Knebel
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg, Saar, Germany
| | - Sandrina Körner
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg, Saar, Germany
| | - Jan Philipp Kühn
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg, Saar, Germany
| | - Silke Wemmert
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg, Saar, Germany
| | - Lukas Brust
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg, Saar, Germany
| | - Sigrun Smola
- Institute of Virology, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg, Saar, Germany
| | - Mathias Wagner
- Department of General and Surgical Pathology, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg, Saar, Germany
| | - Rainer M. Bohle
- Department of General and Surgical Pathology, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg, Saar, Germany
| | - Luc G. T. Morris
- Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York City, NY, United States
| | - Abhinav Pandey
- Weill Cornell School of Medical Sciences, New York City, NY, United States
| | - Bernhard Schick
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg, Saar, Germany
| | - Maximilian Linxweiler
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg, Saar, Germany
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10
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Scheff NN, Nilsen ML, Li J, Harris AL, Acharya R, Swartz A, Hsieh RW, Anderson JL, Ferris RL, Menk AV, Delgoffe GM, Zandberg DP. The effect of opioids on the efficacy of immunotherapy in recurrent/metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck. Oral Oncol 2023; 140:106363. [PMID: 36963232 PMCID: PMC10450941 DOI: 10.1016/j.oraloncology.2023.106363] [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: 08/18/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/26/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) causes severe pain and opioids, the mainstay of pain management, may have immunomodulatory effects. We evaluated the effect of opioids on immunotherapy efficacy in recurrent/metastatic (R/M) HNSCC patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS In a retrospective study of 66 R/M HNSCC patients from 2015 to 2020, opioid dosage, calculated as mean morphine milligram equivalent per day, was assessed on the day of anti-PD-1 monoclonal antibody (mAb) treatment and most recent prior visit. Intratumoral T cells were evaluated by single cell RNAseq and immunohistochemistry prior to treatment. Univariable and multivariable Cox proportional hazards and logistic regression models were used to estimate the association between opioid usage, progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), disease control rate. RESULTS Patients were 79% male, 35% oropharynx, 35% oral cavity, 40% locoregional recurrence, and 56% platinum failure. Higher opioid dosage by continuous variable was significantly associated with lower PFS (p = 0.016) and OS (p < 0.001). In multivariable analysis, including platinum failure status and PD-L1, higher opioids were associated with lower OS. Opioid usage by categorical variable was associated with significantly lower intratumoral CD8+ T cells. Opioid receptor, OPRM1, expression was identified in intratumoral and circulating T cells. CONCLUSIONS In our study cohort of anti-PD-1 mAb treatment in R/M HNSCC patients, higher opioids were associated with significantly lower PFS and OS and lower CD8+ T cells in the tumor microenvironment. To our knowledge, this is the first analysis in R/M HNSCC patients and further research into the clinical and biologic effect of opioids is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole N Scheff
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States; Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh PA, United States
| | - Marci L Nilsen
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States; Department of Acute and Tertiary Care, University of Pittsburgh, School of Nursing, Pittsburgh, PA, United States; Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh PA, United States
| | - Jinhong Li
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Pittsburgh, School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Alexandria L Harris
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Rajesh Acharya
- Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh PA, United States
| | - Andrew Swartz
- Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh PA, United States
| | - Ronan W Hsieh
- Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh PA, United States
| | - Jennifer L Anderson
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Robert L Ferris
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States; Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh PA, United States
| | - Ashley V Menk
- Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh PA, United States
| | - Greg M Delgoffe
- Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh PA, United States
| | - Dan P Zandberg
- Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh PA, United States.
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11
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Starska-Kowarska K. The Role of Different Immunocompetent Cell Populations in the Pathogenesis of Head and Neck Cancer-Regulatory Mechanisms of Pro- and Anti-Cancer Activity and Their Impact on Immunotherapy. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:1642. [PMID: 36980527 PMCID: PMC10046400 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15061642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is one of the most aggressive and heterogeneous groups of human neoplasms. HNSCC is characterized by high morbidity, accounting for 3% of all cancers, and high mortality with ~1.5% of all cancer deaths. It was the most common cancer worldwide in 2020, according to the latest GLOBOCAN data, representing the seventh most prevalent human malignancy. Despite great advances in surgical techniques and the application of modern combinations and cytotoxic therapies, HNSCC remains a leading cause of death worldwide with a low overall survival rate not exceeding 40-60% of the patient population. The most common causes of death in patients are its frequent nodal metastases and local neoplastic recurrences, as well as the relatively low response to treatment and severe drug resistance. Much evidence suggests that the tumour microenvironment (TME), tumour infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) and circulating various subpopulations of immunocompetent cells, such regulatory T cells (CD4+CD25+Foxp3+Tregs), cytotoxic CD3+CD8+ T cells (CTLs) and CD3+CD4+ T helper type 1/2/9/17 (Th1/Th2/Th9/Th17) lymphocytes, T follicular helper cells (Tfh) and CD56dim/CD16bright activated natural killer cells (NK), carcinoma-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), tumour-associated neutrophils (N1/N2 TANs), as well as tumour-associated macrophages (M1/M2 phenotype TAMs) can affect initiation, progression and spread of HNSCC and determine the response to immunotherapy. Rapid advances in the field of immuno-oncology and the constantly growing knowledge of the immunosuppressive mechanisms and effects of tumour cancer have allowed for the use of effective and personalized immunotherapy as a first-line therapeutic procedure or an essential component of a combination therapy for primary, relapsed and metastatic HNSCC. This review presents the latest reports and molecular studies regarding the anti-tumour role of selected subpopulations of immunocompetent cells in the pathogenesis of HNSCC, including HPV+ve (HPV+) and HPV-ve (HPV-) tumours. The article focuses on the crucial regulatory mechanisms of pro- and anti-tumour activity, key genetic or epigenetic changes that favour tumour immune escape, and the strategies that the tumour employs to avoid recognition by immunocompetent cells, as well as resistance mechanisms to T and NK cell-based immunotherapy in HNSCC. The present review also provides an overview of the pre- and clinical early trials (I/II phase) and phase-III clinical trials published in this arena, which highlight the unprecedented effectiveness and limitations of immunotherapy in HNSCC, and the emerging issues facing the field of HNSCC immuno-oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Starska-Kowarska
- Department of Physiology, Pathophysiology and Clinical Immunology, Department of Clinical Physiology, Medical University of Lodz, Żeligowskiego 7/9, 90-752 Lodz, Poland; ; Tel.: +48-604-541-412
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, EnelMed Center Expert, Drewnowska 58, 91-001 Lodz, Poland
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12
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Vijayashree Priyadharsini J, Abilasha R, Anitha P, Paramasivam A. Engineered Dex: A promising therapeutic strategy for oral squamous cell carcinoma. JOURNAL OF STOMATOLOGY, ORAL AND MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY 2023; 124:101277. [PMID: 36058533 DOI: 10.1016/j.jormas.2022.08.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- J Vijayashree Priyadharsini
- Clinical Genetics Lab, Centre for Cellular and Molecular Research, Saveetha Dental College & Hospital, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences [SIMATS], Saveetha University, Chennai, India.
| | - R Abilasha
- Department of Oral Pathology, Saveetha Dental College & Hospital, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences [SIMATS], Saveetha University, Chennai, India
| | - P Anitha
- Clinical Genetics Lab, Centre for Cellular and Molecular Research, Saveetha Dental College & Hospital, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences [SIMATS], Saveetha University, Chennai, India
| | - A Paramasivam
- Molecular Biology Lab, Centre for Cellular and Molecular Research, Saveetha Dental College & Hospital, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences [SIMATS], Saveetha University, Chennai, India
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13
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Ding Y, Chu L, Cao Q, Lei H, Li X, Zhuang Q. A meta-validated immune infiltration-related gene model predicts prognosis and immunotherapy sensitivity in HNSCC. BMC Cancer 2023; 23:45. [PMID: 36639648 PMCID: PMC9837972 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-023-10532-y] [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: 06/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tumor microenvironment (TME) is of great importance to regulate the initiation and advance of cancer. The immune infiltration patterns of TME have been considered to impact the prognosis and immunotherapy sensitivity in Head and Neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Whereas, specific molecular targets and cell components involved in the HNSCC tumor microenvironment remain a twilight zone. METHODS Immune scores of TCGA-HNSCC patients were calculated via ESTIMATE algorithm, followed by weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) to filter immune infiltration-related gene modules. Univariate, the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO), and multivariate cox regression were applied to construct the prognostic model. The predictive capacity was validated by meta-analysis including external dataset GSE65858, GSE41613 and GSE686. Model candidate genes were verified at mRNA and protein levels using public database and independent specimens of immunohistochemistry. Immunotherapy-treated cohort GSE159067, TIDE and CIBERSORT were used to evaluate the features of immunotherapy responsiveness and immune infiltration in HNSCC. RESULTS Immune microenvironment was significantly associated with the prognosis of HNSCC patients. Total 277 immune infiltration-related genes were filtered by WGCNA and involved in various immune processes. Cox regression identified nine prognostic immune infiltration-related genes (MORF4L2, CTSL1, TBC1D2, C5orf15, LIPA, WIPF1, CXCL13, TMEM173, ISG20) to build a risk score. Most candidate genes were highly expressed in HNSCC tissues at mRNA and protein levels. Survival meta-analysis illustrated high prognostic accuracy of the model in the discovery cohort and validation cohort. Higher proportion of progression-free outcomes, lower TIDE scores and higher expression levels of immune checkpoint genes indicated enhanced immunotherapy responsiveness in low-risk patients. Decreased memory B cells, CD8+ T cells, follicular helper T cells, regulatory T cells, and increased activated dendritic cells and activated mast cells were identified as crucial immune cells in the TME of high-risk patients. CONCLUSIONS The immune infiltration-related gene model was well-qualified and provided novel biomarkers for the prognosis of HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinghe Ding
- grid.216417.70000 0001 0379 7164Transplantation Center, The 3rd Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410013 Hunan China
| | - Ling Chu
- grid.216417.70000 0001 0379 7164Department of Pathology, The 3rd Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410013 Hunan China
| | - Qingtai Cao
- grid.216417.70000 0001 0379 7164Transplantation Center, The 3rd Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410013 Hunan China
| | - Hanyu Lei
- grid.216417.70000 0001 0379 7164Transplantation Center, The 3rd Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410013 Hunan China
| | - Xinyu Li
- grid.216417.70000 0001 0379 7164Transplantation Center, The 3rd Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410013 Hunan China
| | - Quan Zhuang
- grid.216417.70000 0001 0379 7164Transplantation Center, The 3rd Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410013 Hunan China ,Research Center of National Health Ministry on Transplantation Medicine, Changsha, 410013 Hunan China
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14
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He Y, Li Y, Xiang J, Huang X, Zhao M, Wang Y, Chen R. TYK2 correlates with immune infiltration: A prognostic marker for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Front Genet 2022; 13:1081519. [DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.1081519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Tyrosine kinase 2 (TYK2) is a member of the Janus kinase (JAK) family and is involved in immune and inflammatory signaling. TYK2 is overexpressed in several types of cancers and promotes the invasion and proliferation of cancer cells. Nevertheless, the roles of TYK2 in the prognosis and immune infiltration of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) remain to be elucidated. In this study, the expression of TYK2 in HNSCC was evaluated based on the data retrieved from multiple databases and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) analysis. The prognostic potential of TYK2 in patients with HNSCC was analyzed by Kaplan-Meier curves and Cox regression analysis. A TYK2-related risk assessment model was subsequently constructed by Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) regression analysis and stepwise multivariate Cox regression analysis. The association between the expression of TYK2 and the tumor immune microenvironment, immune checkpoints, and drug sensitivity was explored various packages in R. Cell function assays were finally used for exploring the effects of TYK2 on the growth and metastasis of HNSCC tumors. The expression of TYK2 was significantly upregulated in HNSCC and was found to be closely correlated with HPV status, gender, clinical grade, and TP53 mutation status. Survival analysis suggested that TYK2 is associated with better survival outcomes and acts as an independent prognostic indicator of HNSCC. The model constructed herein also performed well in terms of predicting patient prognosis. The expression of TYK2 was positively associated with the population of tumor-infiltrating immune cells, expression of immune checkpoint genes, and antitumor drug susceptibility. Functionally, TYK2 knockdown significantly promoted the proliferation, migration, and invasion of HNSCC cell lines in vitro. The findings demonstrated that TYK2 could serve as a suppressor of tumor growth and holds significant promise as a novel biomarker for assessing the prognosis of patients with HNSCC and aid in immunotherapy against HNSCC.
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15
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Wang D, Tian M, Fu Y, Sun Y, Ding L, Zhang X, Jing Y, Sun G, Ni Y, Song Y. Halofuginone inhibits tumor migration and invasion by affecting cancer-associated fibroblasts in oral squamous cell carcinoma. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1056337. [PMID: 36506509 PMCID: PMC9726898 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1056337] [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: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is the most common malignant tumor in the oral and maxillofacial regions, with a high rate of metastasis. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) play critical roles in tumor growth, metastasis and invasion, making them attractive therapeutic targets for cancer treatment. As an old anti-coccidiosis drug for poultry, Halofuginone (HF) has also been reported to possess anti-fibrosis and anti-cancer activities in the recent decades. However, whether it works by targeting CAFs in OSCC, and the mechanisms involved remain unclear. In the present study, we observed HF dose-dependently inhibits OSCC-derived CAF viability and proliferation. Meanwhile, HF decreased the expressions of α-SMA, FSP-1 and PDGFRβ, markers of the malignant phenotype of CAFs, both at mRNA and protein levels. Furthermore, functional studies demonstrated that HF dramatically attenuates the promotion effect of CAFs on OSCC cell migration and invasion. Mechanistically, the inhibition of MMP2 secretion and the upstream TGF-β/Smad2/3 signaling pathway played an important role in these processes. In the orthotopic transplanted tongue carcinoma in mice model, we confirmed that HF administration inhibited tumor growth and lymph node metastasis (LNM) with reduced CAF population, MMP2 expression and collagen deposition in tumor. Altogether, these results indicate that HF can inhibit the migration and invasion of OSCC by targeting CAFs, which will provide new ideas for the treatment of OSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danni Wang
- Central Laboratory of Stomatology, Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China,Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Mei Tian
- Central Laboratory of Stomatology, Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China,Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yong Fu
- Central Laboratory of Stomatology, Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China,Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yawei Sun
- Central Laboratory of Stomatology, Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China,Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Liang Ding
- Central Laboratory of Stomatology, Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaoxin Zhang
- Central Laboratory of Stomatology, Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yue Jing
- Central Laboratory of Stomatology, Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Guowen Sun
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China,*Correspondence: Yuxian Song, ; Yanhong Ni, ; Guowen Sun,
| | - Yanhong Ni
- Central Laboratory of Stomatology, Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China,*Correspondence: Yuxian Song, ; Yanhong Ni, ; Guowen Sun,
| | - Yuxian Song
- Central Laboratory of Stomatology, Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China,*Correspondence: Yuxian Song, ; Yanhong Ni, ; Guowen Sun,
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16
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Xu QS, Shen ZZ, Yuan LQ. Identification and validation of a novel cuproptosis-related lncRNA signature for prognosis and immunotherapy of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:968590. [DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.968590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is a highly prevalent and heterogeneous malignancy with a dismal overall survival rate. Nevertheless, the effective biomarkers remain ambiguous and merit further investigation. Cuproptosis is a novel defined pathway of programmed cell death that contributes to the progression of cancers. Meanwhile, long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play a crucial role in the biological process of tumors. Nevertheless, the prognostic value of cuproptosis-related lncRNAs in HNSCC is still obscure. This study aimed to develop a new cuproptosis-related lncRNAs (CRLs) signature to estimate survival and tumor immunity in patients with HNSCC. Herein, 620 cuproptosis-related lncRNAs were identified from The Cancer Genome Atlas database through the co-expression method. To construct a risk model and validate the accuracy of the results, the samples were divided into two cohorts randomly and equally. Subsequently, a prognostic model based on five CRLs was constructed by the Cox regression analysis with the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) algorithm. In addition, the prognostic potential of the five-CRL signature was verified via Cox regression, survival analysis, the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, nomogram, and clinicopathologic characteristics correlation analysis. Furthermore, we explored the associations between the signature risk score (RS) and immune landscape, somatic gene mutation, and drug sensitivity. Finally, we gathered six clinical samples and different HNSCC cell lines to validate our bioinformatics results. Overall, the proposed novel five-CRL signature can predict prognosis and assess the efficacy of immunotherapy and targeted therapies to prolong the survival of patients with HNSCC.
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Venkatesiah SS, Augustine D, Mishra D, Gujjar N, Haragannavar VC, Awan KH, Patil S. Immunology of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma-A Comprehensive Insight with Recent Concepts. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:1807. [PMID: 36362963 PMCID: PMC9695443 DOI: 10.3390/life12111807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
This review aims to understand the concept of oral cancer immunology through the notion of immune profiling, immunoediting and immunotherapy, and to gain knowledge regarding its application for the management of oral cancer patients. Oral cancer is an immunogenic tumor where the cells of the tumor microenvironment play an important role in tumorigenesis. Understanding the mechanism of these modulations can help design immunotherapeutic strategies in oral cancer patients. This article gives an overview of immunomodulation in the oral cancer tumor microenvironment, with concepts of immune profiling, immunoediting and immunotherapy. English literature searches via Google Scholar, Web of Science, EBSCO, Scopus, and PubMed database were performed with the key words immunology, tumor microenvironment, cells, cross talk, immune profiling, biomarkers, inflammation, gene expression, techniques, immunoediting, immunosurveillance, tumor escape, immunotherapy, immune checkpoint inhibitors, vaccines in cancer, oral cancer, and head and neck cancer. Original research articles, reviews, and case reports published from 2016-2021 (n = 81) were included to appraise different topics, and were discussed under the following subsections. Literature published on oral cancer immunology reveals that oral cancer immune profiling with appropriate markers and techniques and knowledge on immunoediting concepts can help design and play an effective role in immunotherapeutic management of oral cancer patients. An evaluation of oral cancer immunology helps to determine its role in tumorigenesis, and immunotherapy could be the emerging drift in the effective management of oral cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sowmya Samudrala Venkatesiah
- Department of Oral Pathology & Microbiology, Faculty of Dental Sciences, Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences, MSR Nagar, Bengaluru 560054, India
| | - Dominic Augustine
- Department of Oral Pathology & Microbiology, Faculty of Dental Sciences, Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences, MSR Nagar, Bengaluru 560054, India
| | - Deepika Mishra
- Department of Oral Pathology & Microbiology, Centre for Dental Education and Research, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Delhi 110608, India
| | - Neethi Gujjar
- Department of Oral Pathology & Microbiology, Faculty of Dental Sciences, Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences, MSR Nagar, Bengaluru 560054, India
| | - Vanishri C. Haragannavar
- Department of Oral Pathology & Microbiology, Faculty of Dental Sciences, Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences, MSR Nagar, Bengaluru 560054, India
| | - Kamran Habib Awan
- College of Dental Medicine, Roseman University of Health Sciences, South Jordan, UT 84095, USA
| | - Shankargouda Patil
- College of Dental Medicine, Roseman University of Health Sciences, South Jordan, UT 84095, USA
- Centre of Molecular Medicine and Diagnostics (COMManD), Saveetha Dental College & Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences University, Chennai 600077, India
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Rutihinda C, Haroun R, Saidi NE, Ordoñez JP, Naasri S, Lévesque D, Boisvert FM, Fortier PH, Belzile M, Fradet L, Hubert-Tremblay V, Turgeon GA, Wang CS, Delage P, Rousseau É, Paquette B, Oweida AJ. Inhibition of the CCR6-CCL20 axis prevents regulatory T cell recruitment and sensitizes head and neck squamous cell carcinoma to radiation therapy. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2022; 72:1089-1102. [PMID: 36326893 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-022-03313-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Radioresistance of HNSCCs remains a major challenge for effective tumor control. Combined radiotherapy (RT) and immunotherapy (IT) treatment improved survival for a subset of patients with inflamed tumors or tumors susceptible to RT-induced inflammation. To overcome radioresistance and improve treatment outcomes, an understanding of factors that suppress anti-tumor immunity is necessary. In this regard, regulatory T cells (Tregs) are critical mediators of immune suppression in HNSCCs. In this study, we investigated how radiation modulates Treg infiltration in tumors through the chemokine CCL20. We hypothesized that radiation induces CCL20 secretion resulting in Treg infiltration and suppression of anti-tumor immunity. METHODS Human and mouse HNSCC cell lines with different immune phenotypes were irradiated at doses of 2 or 10 Gy. Conditioned media, RNA and protein were collected for assessment of CCL20. qPCR was used to determine CCL20 gene expression. In vivo, MOC2 cells were implanted into the buccal cavity of mice and the effect of neutralizing CCL20 antibody was determined alone and in combination with RT. Blood samples were collected before and after RT for analysis of CCL20. Tumor samples were analyzed by flow cytometry to determine immune infiltrates, including CD8 T cells and Tregs. Mass-spectrometry was performed to analyze proteomic changes in the tumor microenvironment after anti-CCL20 treatment. RESULTS Cal27 and MOC2 HNSCCs had a gene signature associated with Treg infiltration, whereas SCC9 and MOC1 tumors displayed a gene signature associated with an inflamed TME. In vitro, tumor irradiation at 10 Gy significantly induced CCL20 in Cal27 and MOC2 cells relative to control. The increase in CCL20 was associated with increased Treg migration. Neutralization of CCL20 reversed radiation-induced migration of Treg cells in vitro and decreased intratumoral Tregs in vivo. Furthermore, inhibition of CCL20 resulted in a significant decrease in tumor growth compared to control in MOC2 tumors. This effect was further enhanced after combination with RT compared to either treatment alone. CONCLUSION Our results suggest that radiation promotes CCL20 secretion by tumor cells which is responsible for the attraction of Tregs. Inhibition of the CCR6-CCL20 axis prevents infiltration of Tregs in tumors and suppresses tumor growth resulting in improved response to radiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cleopatra Rutihinda
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Radiobiology, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de La Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Ryma Haroun
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Radiobiology, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de La Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Nour Elhouda Saidi
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Radiobiology, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de La Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Juan Pablo Ordoñez
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Radiobiology, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de La Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Sahar Naasri
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Radiobiology, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de La Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Dominique Lévesque
- Department of Immunology and Cell Biology, Faculté de Médecine Et Des Sciences de La Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - François-Michel Boisvert
- Department of Immunology and Cell Biology, Faculté de Médecine Et Des Sciences de La Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Pierre-Hugues Fortier
- Department of Surgery, Faculté de Médecine Et Des Sciences de La Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Mathieu Belzile
- Department of Surgery, Faculté de Médecine Et Des Sciences de La Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Laurent Fradet
- Department of Surgery, Faculté de Médecine Et Des Sciences de La Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Vincent Hubert-Tremblay
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Radiobiology, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de La Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Guy Anne Turgeon
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Radiobiology, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de La Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Chang Shu Wang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Radiobiology, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de La Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Patrick Delage
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Radiobiology, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de La Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Étienne Rousseau
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Radiobiology, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de La Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Benoît Paquette
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Radiobiology, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de La Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Ayman J Oweida
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Radiobiology, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de La Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada.
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Zhao G, Newbury P, Ishi Y, Chekalin E, Zeng B, Glicksberg BS, Wen A, Paithankar S, Sasaki T, Suri A, Nazarian J, Pacold ME, Brat DJ, Nicolaides T, Chen B, Hashizume R. Reversal of cancer gene expression identifies repurposed drugs for diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma. Acta Neuropathol Commun 2022; 10:150. [PMID: 36274161 PMCID: PMC9590174 DOI: 10.1186/s40478-022-01463-z] [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: 03/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) is an aggressive incurable brainstem tumor that targets young children. Complete resection is not possible, and chemotherapy and radiotherapy are currently only palliative. This study aimed to identify potential therapeutic agents using a computational pipeline to perform an in silico screen for novel drugs. We then tested the identified drugs against a panel of patient-derived DIPG cell lines. Using a systematic computational approach with publicly available databases of gene signature in DIPG patients and cancer cell lines treated with a library of clinically available drugs, we identified drug hits with the ability to reverse a DIPG gene signature to one that matches normal tissue background. The biological and molecular effects of drug treatment was analyzed by cell viability assay and RNA sequence. In vivo DIPG mouse model survival studies were also conducted. As a result, two of three identified drugs showed potency against the DIPG cell lines Triptolide and mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) demonstrated significant inhibition of cell viability in DIPG cell lines. Guanosine rescued reduced cell viability induced by MMF. In vivo, MMF treatment significantly inhibited tumor growth in subcutaneous xenograft mice models. In conclusion, we identified clinically available drugs with the ability to reverse DIPG gene signatures and anti-DIPG activity in vitro and in vivo. This novel approach can repurpose drugs and significantly decrease the cost and time normally required in drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guisheng Zhao
- grid.137628.90000 0004 1936 8753Department of Pediatrics, New York University Langone Health, 160 East 32nd St., New York, NY 10016 USA
| | - Patrick Newbury
- grid.17088.360000 0001 2150 1785Department of Pediatrics and Human Development, Michigan State University, Secchia Center, Room 732, 15 Michigan St. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 USA
| | - Yukitomo Ishi
- grid.16753.360000 0001 2299 3507Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 303 East Superior St., Simpson Querrey 4-514, Chicago, IL 60611 USA ,grid.413808.60000 0004 0388 2248Division of Hematology, Oncology, Neuro-Oncology & Stem Cell Transplantation, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, 225 East Chicago Avenue, Box 205, Chicago, IL 60611 USA
| | - Eugene Chekalin
- grid.17088.360000 0001 2150 1785Department of Pediatrics and Human Development, Michigan State University, Secchia Center, Room 732, 15 Michigan St. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 USA
| | - Billy Zeng
- grid.17088.360000 0001 2150 1785Department of Pediatrics and Human Development, Michigan State University, Secchia Center, Room 732, 15 Michigan St. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 USA
| | - Benjamin S. Glicksberg
- grid.59734.3c0000 0001 0670 2351Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1 Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, NY 10029 USA ,grid.416167.30000 0004 0442 1996Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Hasso Plattner Institute for Digital Health at Mount Sinai, 1 Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, NY 10029 USA
| | - Anita Wen
- grid.17088.360000 0001 2150 1785Department of Pediatrics and Human Development, Michigan State University, Secchia Center, Room 732, 15 Michigan St. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 USA
| | - Shreya Paithankar
- grid.17088.360000 0001 2150 1785Department of Pediatrics and Human Development, Michigan State University, Secchia Center, Room 732, 15 Michigan St. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 USA
| | - Takahiro Sasaki
- grid.16753.360000 0001 2299 3507Department of Neurological Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 303 East Superior St., Chicago, IL 60611 USA ,grid.412857.d0000 0004 1763 1087Department of Neurological Surgery, Wakayama Medical University, 811-1 Kimiidera, Wakayama, Japan
| | - Amreena Suri
- grid.16753.360000 0001 2299 3507Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 303 East Superior St., Simpson Querrey 4-514, Chicago, IL 60611 USA ,grid.413808.60000 0004 0388 2248Division of Hematology, Oncology, Neuro-Oncology & Stem Cell Transplantation, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, 225 East Chicago Avenue, Box 205, Chicago, IL 60611 USA
| | - Javad Nazarian
- grid.239560.b0000 0004 0482 1586Children’s National Medical Center, 111 Michigan Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20010 USA ,grid.412341.10000 0001 0726 4330University Children’s Hospital Zurich, Steinwiesstrasse 75, 8032 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Michael E. Pacold
- grid.137628.90000 0004 1936 8753Department of Radiation Oncology, New York University Langone Health, 550 First Avenue, New York, NY 10016 USA
| | - Daniel J. Brat
- grid.16753.360000 0001 2299 3507Department of Pathology, Robert H. Lurie Cancer Center, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 303 E. Chicago Ave., Chicago, IL 60611 USA
| | - Theodore Nicolaides
- grid.137628.90000 0004 1936 8753Department of Pediatrics, New York University Langone Health, 160 East 32nd St., New York, NY 10016 USA
| | - Bin Chen
- Department of Pediatrics and Human Development, Michigan State University, Secchia Center, Room 732, 15 Michigan St. NE, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, USA. .,Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan State University, 1355 Bogue St, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA. .,Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Michigan State University, 428 S. Shaw Lane, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA.
| | - Rintaro Hashizume
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 303 East Superior St., Simpson Querrey 4-514, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA. .,Division of Hematology, Oncology, Neuro-Oncology & Stem Cell Transplantation, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, 225 East Chicago Avenue, Box 205, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA. .,Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 303 East Superior St., Chicago, IL, 60611, USA.
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20
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Li W, Zou Z, An N, Wang M, Liu X, Mei Z. A multifaceted and feasible prognostic model of amino acid metabolism-related genes in the immune response and tumor microenvironment of head and neck squamous cell carcinomas. Front Oncol 2022; 12:996222. [DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.996222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
We investigated the role of amino acid metabolism (AAM) in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) tissues to explore its prognostic value and potential therapeutic strategies. A risk score based on four AAM-related genes (AMG) was constructed that could predict the prognosis of HNSCC. These four genes were up-regulated in HNSCC tissues and might act as oncogenes. Internal validation in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) by bootstrapping showed that patients with high-risk scores had a poorer prognosis than patients with low-risk scores, and this was confirmed in the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) cohort. There were also differences between the high-risk and low-risk groups in clinical information and different anatomical sites such as age, sex, TNM stage, grade stage, surgery or no surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, no radiotherapy, neck lymph node dissection or not, and neck lymphovascular invasion, larynx, overlapping lesion of lip, and oral cavity and pharynx tonsil of overall survival (OS). Immune-related characteristics, tumor microenvironment (TME) characteristics, and immunotherapy response were significantly different between high- and low-risk groups. The four AMGs were also found to be associated with the expression of markers of various immune cell subpopulations. Therefore, our comprehensive approach revealed the characterization of AAM in HNSCC to predict prognosis and guide clinical therapy.
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21
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Berndt A, Gaßler N, Franz M. Invasion-Associated Reorganization of Laminin 332 in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinomas: The Role of the Laminin γ2 Chain in Tumor Biology, Diagnosis, and Therapy. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14194903. [PMID: 36230826 PMCID: PMC9564360 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14194903] [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: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The destructive growth of carcinomas is associated with crossing the border between the epithelial and the connective tissue parts of an organ. One component of this borderline, the basement membrane, is the heterotrimeric laminin 332, which mediates the adhesion of basal epithelial cells. This protein, in particular its gamma 2 chain, is fundamentally reorganized during tumor cell invasion. Specific deposition patterns of laminin 332 are also present in oral squamous cell carcinomas and have been shown to be of high diagnostic and predictive value. Furthermore, laminin 332 restructuring is associated with important tumor biological processes, e.g., stromal activation, the development of a motile phenotype, and tumor spreading. In this review, current knowledge in the field is summarized and the recommendation to consider laminin 332 as a promising grading and monitoring parameter and as a potential therapeutic target is discussed. Abstract Invasion of the connective tissue by carcinoma cells is accompanied by disintegration and reorganization of the hemidesmosomes, which connect the basement membrane to the basal epithelial cells. In terms of mediating the basement membrane, i.e., basal cell interactions, the heterotrimeric laminin 332 is the most important bridging molecule. Due to this distinct function, laminin 332, especially its gamma 2 chain, came into the focus of cancer research. Specific de novo synthesis and deposition patterns of laminin 332 are evident upon development and progression of oral squamous cell carcinomas (OSCCs). Loss from the basement membrane, cytoplasmic accumulation, and extracellular deposition are associated with crucial processes such as stromal activation and immune response, epithelial to mesenchymal transition, and tumor cell budding. In networks with components of the tumor microenvironment, altered expression of laminin 332 chains, proteolytic processing, and interaction with integrin receptors seem to promote cancer cell migration. Indeed, reorganization patterns are shown to have a high diagnostic and prognostic value. Here, we summarize the current knowledge on laminin 332 reorganization in OSCCs with special focus on its gamma 2 chain and provide, based on the current literature, evidence on its promising role as a grading and monitoring parameter and as a potential therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Berndt
- Section Pathology, Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Jena, 07747 Jena, Germany
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-3641-939-70-61
| | - Nikolaus Gaßler
- Section Pathology, Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Jena, 07747 Jena, Germany
| | - Marcus Franz
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Jena, 07747 Jena, Germany
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22
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Shao X, Hua S, Feng T, Ocansey DKW, Yin L. Hypoxia-Regulated Tumor-Derived Exosomes and Tumor Progression: A Focus on Immune Evasion. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231911789. [PMID: 36233088 PMCID: PMC9570495 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231911789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 09/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumor cells express a high quantity of exosomes packaged with unique cargos under hypoxia, an important characteristic feature in solid tumors. These hypoxic tumor-derived exosomes are, crucially, involved in the interaction of cancer cells with their microenvironment, facilitating not only immune evasion, but increased cell growth and survival, enhanced angiogenesis, epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), therapeutic resistance, autophagy, pre-metastasis, and metastasis. This paper explores the tumor microenvironment (TME) remodeling effects of hypoxic tumor-derived exosome towards facilitating the tumor progression process, particularly, the modulatory role of these factors on tumor cell immune evasion through suppression of immune cells, expression of surface recognition molecules, and secretion of antitumor soluble factor. Tumor-expressed exosomes educate immune effector cells, including macrophages, monocytes, T cells, natural killer (NK) cells, dendritic cells (DCs), γδ T lymphocytes, regulatory T cells (Tregs), myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), mast cells, and B cells, within the hypoxic TME through the release of factors that regulate their recruitment, phenotype, and function. Thus, both hypoxia and tumor-derived exosomes modulate immune cells, growth factors, cytokines, receptor molecules, and other soluble factors, which, together, collaborate to form the immune-suppressive milieu of the tumor environment. Exploring the contribution of exosomal cargos, such as RNAs and proteins, as indispensable players in the cross-talk within the hypoxic tumor microenvironmental provides a potential target for antitumor immunity or subverting immune evasion and enhancing tumor therapies.
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23
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Jumaniyazova E, Lokhonina A, Dzhalilova D, Kosyreva A, Fatkhudinov T. Immune Cells in Head-and-Neck Tumor Microenvironments. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12091521. [PMID: 36143308 PMCID: PMC9506052 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12091521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Revised: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Head-and-neck cancers constitute a heterogeneous group of aggressive tumors with high incidence and low survival rates, collectively being the sixth most prevalent cancer type globally. About 90% of head-and-neck cancers are classified as squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC). The innate and adaptive immune systems, indispensable for anti-cancer immune surveillance, largely define the rates of HNSCC emergence and progression. HNSCC microenvironments harbor multiple cell types that infiltrate the tumors and interact both with tumor cells and among themselves. Gradually, tumor cells learn to manipulate the immune system, either by adapting their own immunogenicity or through the release of immunosuppressive molecules. These interactions continuously evolve and shape the tumor microenvironment, both structurally and functionally, facilitating angiogenesis, proliferation and metastasis. Our understanding of this evolution is directly related to success in the development of advanced therapies. This review focuses on the key mechanisms that rule HNSCC infiltration, featuring particular immune cell types and their roles in the pathogenesis. A close focus on the tumor-immunity interactions will help identify new immunotherapeutic targets in patients with HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enar Jumaniyazova
- Department of Histology, Cytology and Embryology, Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University), 6 Miklukho-Maklaya Street, 117198 Moscow, Russia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +7-9254258360
| | - Anastasiya Lokhonina
- Department of Histology, Cytology and Embryology, Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University), 6 Miklukho-Maklaya Street, 117198 Moscow, Russia
- National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology Named after Academician V.I. Kulakov of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, 4 Oparina Street, 117997 Moscow, Russia
| | - Dzhuliia Dzhalilova
- Department of Histology, Cytology and Embryology, Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University), 6 Miklukho-Maklaya Street, 117198 Moscow, Russia
- Avtsyn Research Institute of Human Morphology of Petrovsky National Research Centre of Surgery, 3 Tsyurupy Street, 117418 Moscow, Russia
| | - Anna Kosyreva
- Department of Histology, Cytology and Embryology, Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University), 6 Miklukho-Maklaya Street, 117198 Moscow, Russia
- Avtsyn Research Institute of Human Morphology of Petrovsky National Research Centre of Surgery, 3 Tsyurupy Street, 117418 Moscow, Russia
| | - Timur Fatkhudinov
- Department of Histology, Cytology and Embryology, Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University), 6 Miklukho-Maklaya Street, 117198 Moscow, Russia
- Avtsyn Research Institute of Human Morphology of Petrovsky National Research Centre of Surgery, 3 Tsyurupy Street, 117418 Moscow, Russia
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24
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The Long Noncoding Transcript HNSCAT1 Activates KRT80 and Triggers Therapeutic Efficacy in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2022; 2022:4156966. [PMID: 35965679 PMCID: PMC9371835 DOI: 10.1155/2022/4156966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Head and neck squamous carcinoma (HNSC) is the most prevalent malignancy of the head and neck regions. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are vital in tumorigenesis regulation. However, the role of lncRNAs in HNSC requires further exploration. Herein, through bioinformatic assays using The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) datasets, rapid amplification of cDNA ends (RACE) assays, and RNA-FISH, we revealed that a novel cytoplasmic transcript, HNSC-associated transcript 1 (HNSCAT1, previously recognized as linc01269), was downregulated in tumor samples and advanced tumor stages and was also associated with favorable outcomes in HNSC. Overexpression of HNSCAT1 triggered treatment efficacy in HNSCs both in vivo and in vitro. More importantly, through high-throughput transcriptome analysis (RNA-seq, in NODE database, OEZ007550), we identified KRT80, a tumor suppressor in HNSC, as the target of HNSCAT1. KRT80 expression was modulated by lncRNA HNSCAT1 and presented a positive correlation in tumor samples (R = 0.52, p < 0.001). Intriguingly, we identified that miR-1245 simultaneously interacts with KRT80 and HNSCAT1, which bridges the regulatory function between KRT80 and HNSCAT1. Conclusively, our study demonstrated that lncRNA HNSCAT1 functions as a necessary tumor inhibitor in HNSC, which provides a novel mechanism of lncRNA function and provides alternative targets for the diagnosis and treatment of HNSC.
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25
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Xiang J, He Y, Li Y, Wu K, Cheng M, Wang Y, Chen R. A hypoxia-related lncRNA model for prediction of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma prognosis. Cancer Med 2022; 12:3773-3785. [PMID: 35920349 PMCID: PMC9939198 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.5102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Revised: 06/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is one of the most common and highly heterogeneous malignancies worldwide. Increasing studies have proven that hypoxia and related long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) are involved in the occurrence and prognosis of HNSCC. The goal of this work is to construct a risk assessment model using hypoxia-related lncRNAs (hrlncRNAs) for HNSCC prognosis prediction and personalized treatment. METHODS Transcriptome expression matrix, clinical follow-up data, and somatic mutation data of HNSCC patients were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). We used co-expression analysis to identify hrlncRNAs, then screened for differentially expressed lncRNAs (DEhrlncRNAs), and paired these DEhrlncRNAs. The risk model was established through univariate, least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO), and stepwise multivariate Cox regression. Finally, we assessed the model from multiple perspectives of tumor mutation burden (TMB), tumor immune infiltration, chemotherapeutic sensitivity, immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI), and functional enrichment. RESULTS The risk assessment model included 14 hrlncRNA pairs. The risk score was observed to be a reliable prognostic factor. The high-risk patients had an unfavorable prognosis and significant differences from the low-risk group in TMB and tumor immune infiltration. In the high-risk patients, the common immune checkpoints were down-regulated, including CTLA4 and PDCD1, and the sensibility to paclitaxel and docetaxel was higher. The functional enrichment analysis suggested that the low-risk group was accompanied by activated immune function. CONCLUSIONS The risk assessment model of 14-hrlncRNA-pairs demonstrated a promising prognostic prediction for HNSCC patients and can guide personalized clinical treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junwei Xiang
- Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Research of Anhui ProvinceCollege & Hospital of StomatologyHefeiChina
| | - Yaodong He
- Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Research of Anhui ProvinceCollege & Hospital of StomatologyHefeiChina
| | - Yunshan Li
- Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Research of Anhui ProvinceCollege & Hospital of StomatologyHefeiChina
| | - Kexuan Wu
- Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Research of Anhui ProvinceCollege & Hospital of StomatologyHefeiChina
| | - Mengxiang Cheng
- Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Research of Anhui ProvinceCollege & Hospital of StomatologyHefeiChina
| | - Yuanyin Wang
- Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Research of Anhui ProvinceCollege & Hospital of StomatologyHefeiChina
| | - Ran Chen
- Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Research of Anhui ProvinceCollege & Hospital of StomatologyHefeiChina
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26
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Kawata-Shimamura Y, Eguchi H, Kawabata-Iwakawa R, Nakahira M, Okazaki Y, Yoda T, Grénman R, Sugasawa M, Nishiyama M. Biomarker discovery for practice of precision medicine in hypopharyngeal cancer: a theranostic study on response prediction of the key therapeutic agents. BMC Cancer 2022; 22:779. [PMID: 35841085 PMCID: PMC9288037 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-022-09853-1] [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: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hypopharyngeal cancer is a relatively rare malignancy with poor prognosis. Current chemotherapeutic algorithm is still far from personalized medicine, and the identification of the truly active therapeutic biomarkers and/or targets is eagerly awaited. METHODS Venturing to focus on the conventional key chemotherapeutic drugs, we identified the most correlative genes (and/or proteins) with cellular sensitivity to docetaxel (TXT), cisplatin (CDDP) and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) in the expression levels, through 3 steps approach: genome-wide screening, confirmation study on the quantified expression levels, and knock-down and transfection analyses of the candidates. The probable action pathways of selected genes were examined by Ingenuity Pathway Analysis using a large-scale database, The Cancer Genome Atlas. RESULTS The first genome-wide screening study derived 16 highly correlative genes with cellular drug sensitivity in 15 cell lines (|R| > 0.8, P < 0.01 for CDDP and 5-FU; |R| > 0.5, P < 0.05 for TXT). Among 10 genes the observed correlations were confirmed in the quantified gene expression levels, and finally knock-down and transfection analyses provided 4 molecules as the most potent predictive markers-AGR2 (anterior gradient 2 homolog gene), and PDE4D (phosphodiesterase 4D, cAMP-specific gene) for TXT; NINJ2 (nerve Injury-induced protein 2); CDC25B (cell division cycle 25 homolog B gene) for 5-FU- in both gene and protein expression levels. Overexpression of AGR2, PDE4D signified worse response to TXT, and the repressed expression sensitized TXT activity. Contrary to the findings, in the other 2 molecules, NINJ2 and CDC25, there observed opposite relationship to cellular drug response to the relevant drugs. IPA raised the potential that each selected molecule functionally interacts with main action pathway (and/or targets) of the relevant drug such as tubulin β chain genes for TXT, DNA replication pathway for CDDP, and DNA synthesis pathway and thymidylate synthetase gene for 5-FU. CONCLUSION We newly propose 4 molecules -AGR2, PDE4D,NINJ2 and CDC25B) as the powerful exploratory markers for prediction of cellular response to 3 key chemotherapeutic drugs in hypopharyngeal cancers and also suggest their potentials to be the therapeutic targets, which could contribute to the development of precision medicine of the essential chemotherapy in hypopharyngeal patients. (339 words).
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Affiliation(s)
- Yumiko Kawata-Shimamura
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Saitama Medical University International Medical Center, 1397-1 Yamane, Hidaka, Saitama, 350-1298, Japan.,Research Center for Genomic Medicine, Saitama Medical University, 1397-1 Yamane, Hidaka, Saitama, 350-1298, Japan.,Department of Oral Surgery, Saitama Medical University, 38 Morohongo, Moroyama-machi, Iruma-gun, Saitama, 350-0495, Japan
| | - Hidetaka Eguchi
- Research Center for Genomic Medicine, Saitama Medical University, 1397-1 Yamane, Hidaka, Saitama, 350-1298, Japan.,Intractable Disease Research Center, Juntendo University, 2-1-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan
| | - Reika Kawabata-Iwakawa
- Division of Integrated Oncology Research, Gunma University Initiative for Advanced Research, 3-39-22 Showa-machi, Maebashi, Gunma, 371-8511, Japan
| | - Mitsuhiko Nakahira
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Saitama Medical University International Medical Center, 1397-1 Yamane, Hidaka, Saitama, 350-1298, Japan
| | - Yasushi Okazaki
- Research Center for Genomic Medicine, Saitama Medical University, 1397-1 Yamane, Hidaka, Saitama, 350-1298, Japan.,Intractable Disease Research Center, Juntendo University, 2-1-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Yoda
- Department of Oral Surgery, Saitama Medical University, 38 Morohongo, Moroyama-machi, Iruma-gun, Saitama, 350-0495, Japan.,Department of Maxillofacial Surgery, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8549, Japan
| | - Reidar Grénman
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, PO Box 52, 20521, Turku, Finland
| | - Masashi Sugasawa
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Saitama Medical University International Medical Center, 1397-1 Yamane, Hidaka, Saitama, 350-1298, Japan
| | - Masahiko Nishiyama
- Research Center for Genomic Medicine, Saitama Medical University, 1397-1 Yamane, Hidaka, Saitama, 350-1298, Japan. .,Gunma University, 3-39-22 Showa-machi, Maebashi, Gunma, 371-8511, Japan. .,Higashi Sapporo Hospital, 7-35, 3-3 Higashi-Sapporo, Shiroishi-ku, Sapporo, 003-8585, Japan.
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Bayrak AF, Eliyatkın NÖ, İşlek A, Özkul Y, Kılıç HS, Aktas S. Association of immune response with overall and disease-free survival in laryngeal squamous cell carcinomas. Am J Otolaryngol 2022; 43:103477. [PMID: 35537231 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjoto.2022.103477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to examine the relationship between checkpoint receptors (PD-1, PD-L1, PD-L2, CTLA-4) and lymphoid infiltration level (TILs) with prognostic features of patients with laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC). METHODS A retrospective study was designed at a tertiary referential university hospital between April 2008 and December 2020. The surgical specimen of the patients who met the eligibility criteria were re-examined histopathological, sociodemographic, clinical, pathological, and follow-up findings of patients were determined. The impact of PD-1, PD-L1, PD-L2, CTLA4, and TILs levels for the presence of cancer recurrence, disease-specific mortality, overall survival (OS), disease-free survival (DFS) was investigated. RESULTS Forty-five patients with LSCC were included in the study. The mean follow-up period was 48.3 ± 14.3 months (min: 36, max 84). TILs scores were detected significantly lower in patients with distant metastasis and recurrence (p = 0.046 and 0.010). Also, only TILs was a significant risk factor for recurrence and survival among the PD-1, PD-L1, PD-L2, CTLA-4, and TILs (HR = 0.217 CI: 0.070-0.679, p = 0.009 and HR = 0.566, CI: 0,321-980, p = 0.048). Similarly, for the TILs score: > 1 was significant for DFS. (Long-Rank = 0.009). The examined markers and TILs scores were not a significant predictive factor for OS. CONCLUSION An increase in TILs density in LSCCs is associated with a better prognosis. However, PD-1, PD-L1, PD-L2, CTLA-4 could not be associated with prognosis. Controlled studies combined with immunotherapy treatment results are needed to reveal their role as a marker and prognostic factor of the anti-tumor immune response.
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Precision Medicine in Head and Neck Cancers: Genomic and Preclinical Approaches. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12060854. [PMID: 35743639 PMCID: PMC9224778 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12060854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Head and neck cancers (HNCs) represent the sixth most widespread malignancy worldwide. Surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapeutic and immunotherapeutic drugs represent the main clinical approaches for HNC patients. Moreover, HNCs are characterised by an elevated mutational load; however, specific genetic mutations or biomarkers have not yet been found. In this scenario, personalised medicine is showing its efficacy. To study the reliability and the effects of personalised treatments, preclinical research can take advantage of next-generation sequencing and innovative technologies that have been developed to obtain genomic and multi-omic profiles to drive personalised treatments. The crosstalk between malignant and healthy components, as well as interactions with extracellular matrices, are important features which are responsible for treatment failure. Preclinical research has constantly implemented in vitro and in vivo models to mimic the natural tumour microenvironment. Among them, 3D systems have been developed to reproduce the tumour mass architecture, such as biomimetic scaffolds and organoids. In addition, in vivo models have been changed over the last decades to overcome problems such as animal management complexity and time-consuming experiments. In this review, we will explore the new approaches aimed to improve preclinical tools to study and apply precision medicine as a therapeutic option for patients affected by HNCs.
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Ding Z, Shen H, Xu K, Wu Y, Wang S, Yi F, Wang D, Liu Y. Comprehensive Analysis of mTORC1 Signaling Pathway–Related Genes in the Prognosis of HNSCC and the Response to Chemotherapy and Immunotherapy. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:792482. [PMID: 35573741 PMCID: PMC9100579 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.792482] [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: 10/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: The mammalian target of the rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) signaling pathway has emerged as a crucial player in the oncogenesis and development of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), however, to date, no relevant gene signature has been identified. Therefore, we aimed to construct a novel gene signature based on the mTORC1 pathway for predicting the outcomes of patients with HNSCC and their response to treatment. Methods: The gene expression and clinical data were retrieved from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases. The key prognostic genes associated with the mTORC1 pathway were screened by univariate Cox regression analyses. A prognostic signature was then established based on significant factors identified in the multivariate Cox regression analysis. The performance of the multigene signature was evaluated by the Kaplan–Meier (K–M) survival analysis and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. Based on the median risk score, patients were categorized into high- and low-risk groups. Subsequently, a hybrid prognostic nomogram was constructed and estimated by a calibration plot and decision curve analysis. Furthermore, immune cell infiltration and therapeutic responses were compared between the two risk groups. Finally, we measured the expression levels of seven genes by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and immunohistochemistry (IHC). Results: The mTORC1 pathway–based signature was constructed using the seven identified genes (SEC11A, CYB5B, HPRT1, SLC2A3, SC5D, CORO1A, and PIK3R3). Patients in the high-risk group exhibited a lower overall survival (OS) rate than those in the low-risk group in both datasets. Through the univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses, this gene signature was confirmed to be an independent prognostic risk factor for HNSCC. The constructed nomogram based on age, American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) stage, and the risk score exhibited satisfactory performance in predicting the OS. In addition, immune cell infiltration and chemotherapeutic and immunotherapeutic responses differed significantly between the two risk groups. The expression levels of SEC11A and CYB5B were higher in HNSCC tissues than in normal tissues. Conclusion: Our study established and verified an mTORC1 signaling pathway–related gene signature that could be used as a novel prognostic factor for HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhao Ding
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Graduate School of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Hailong Shen
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Graduate School of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Ke Xu
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Graduate School of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yu Wu
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Department of Otolaryngology, General Hospital of Anhui Wanbei Coal Power Group, Suzhou, China
| | - Shuhao Wang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Graduate School of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Fangzheng Yi
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Graduate School of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Daming Wang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yehai Liu
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- *Correspondence: Yehai Liu,
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Yan L, Song X, Yang G, Zou L, Zhu Y, Wang X. Identification and Validation of Immune Infiltration Phenotypes in Laryngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma by Integrative Multi-Omics Analysis. Front Immunol 2022; 13:843467. [PMID: 35281069 PMCID: PMC8907422 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.843467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) is one of the world’s most common head and neck cancer. However, the immune infiltration phenotypes of LSCC have not been well investigated. Methods The multi-omics data of LSCC were obtained from the TCGA (n=111) and GEO (n=57) datasets. The infiltrations of the 24 immune cell populations were calculated using the GSVA method. Then LSCC samples with different immune cell infiltrating patterns were clustered, and the multi-omics differences were investigated. Results Patients were clustered into the high-infiltration and low-infiltration groups. The infiltration scores of most immune cells were higher in the high-infiltration group. Patients with high-infiltration phenotype have high N and TNM stages but better survival, as well as less mutated COL11A1 and MUC17. Common targets of immunotherapies such as PD1, PDL1, LAG3, and CTLA4 were significantly up-regulated in the high-infiltration group. The differentially expressed genes were mainly enriched in several immune-related GOs and KEGG pathways. Based on the genes, miRNAs, and lncRNAs differentially expressed in both the TCGA and GEO cohorts, we built a ceRNA network, in which BTN3A1, CCR1, miR-149-5p, and so on, located at the center. A predictive model was also constructed to calculate a patient’s immune infiltration phenotype using 16 genes’ expression values, showing excellent accuracy and specificity in the TCGA and GEO cohorts. Conclusions In this study, the immune infiltration phenotypes of LSCC and the corresponding multi-omics differences were explored. Our model might be valuable to predicting immunotherapy’s outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Yan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaole Song
- Department of Otolaryngology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Gang Yang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lifen Zou
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi Zhu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoshen Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Zhao Z, Ju Q, Ji J, Li Y, Zhao Y. N6-Methyladenosine Methylation Regulator RBM15 is a Potential Prognostic Biomarker and Promotes Cell Proliferation in Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:842833. [PMID: 35223996 PMCID: PMC8864094 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.842833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA binding motif protein 15 (RBM15) is a key regulatory factor involved in N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methylation. It has been reported that RBM15 plays an important role in the progress of laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC), promoting LSCC migration and invasion. However, the role of RBM15 in human different cancers remains unknown. This study aims to analyze the prognostic value of RBM15, and to demonstrate the correlation between RBM15 expression and tumor immunity, as well as to provide clues for further mechanism research. The results showed that RBM15 was mutated or copy number varied in 25 types of cancer. RBM15 mRNA was abnormally up-regulated across various cancers. Survival analysis suggested high expression of RBM15 was associated with poor prognosis in many cancer types. Among these, it affected patients’ overall survival (OS) in 10 cancer types, disease-free interval (DFI) in 8 cancer types, progression-free interval (PFI) in 12 cancer types and disease-specific survival (DSS) in 7 cancer types. Importantly, in pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAAD), overexpression of RBM15 is associated with patients’ OS, DFI, PFI, or DSS. In addition, RBM15 expression was positively correlated with immune infiltrating cells in kidney renal clear cell carcinoma (KIRC), brain lower grade glioma (LGG), and PAAD. Moreover, RBM15 expression showed a strong correlation with immune checkpoint markers in PAAD. Cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay showed that knockdown of RBM15 significantly inhibited the proliferation of pancreatic cancer cells. PPI analysis showed USP10, USP24, SMG1, NRAS were closely connected with RBM15 alterations. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis showed that many biological processes (BP), cellular components (CC), molecular functions (MF), cancer related pathways including “sister chromatid cohesion”, “peptidyl-serine phosphorylation”, “cell division”, “nucleoplasm”, “nucleus”, “protein binding”, “protein serine/threonine kinase activity”, “T cell receptor signaling pathway”, “Cell cycle” were regulated by RBM15 alterations. Taken together, pan-cancer analysis of RBM15 suggested it may be served as a prognostic biomarker and immunotherapeutic target for PAAD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiying Zhao
- School of Public Health, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Qiang Ju
- Department of Blood Transfusion, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Jing Ji
- School of Public Health, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yutong Li
- School of Public Health, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yanjie Zhao
- School of Public Health, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
- *Correspondence: Yanjie Zhao,
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Huang ZD, Liu ZZ, Liu YY, Fu YC, Lin LL, Hu C, Gu HY, Wei RX. Molecular Subtypes Based on Cell Differentiation Trajectories in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Differential Prognosis and Immunotherapeutic Responses. Front Immunol 2022; 12:791621. [PMID: 35003112 PMCID: PMC8739483 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.791621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is one of the most common and lethal malignant tumors. We aimed to investigate the HNSCC cell differentiation trajectories and the corresponding clinical relevance. Methods Based on HNSCC cell differentiation-related genes (HDRGs) identified by single-cell sequencing analysis, the molecular subtypes and corresponding immunity, metabolism, and stemness characteristics of 866 HNSCC cases were comprehensively analyzed. Machine-learning strategies were used to develop a HNSCC cell differentiation score (HCDscore) in order to quantify the unique heterogeneity of individual samples. We also assessed the prognostic value and biological characteristics of HCDscore using the multi-omics data. Results HNSCCs were stratified into three distinct molecular subtypes based on HDRGs: active stroma (Cluster-A), active metabolism (Cluster-B), and active immune (Cluster-C) types. The three molecular subtypes had different characteristics in terms of biological phenotype, genome and epigenetics, prognosis, immunotherapy and chemotherapy responses. We then demonstrated the correlations between HCDscore and the immune microenvironment, subtypes, carcinogenic biological processes, genetic variation, and prognosis. The low-HCDscore group was characterized by activation of immunity, enhanced response to anti-PD-1/PD-L1 immunotherapy, and better survival compared to the high-HCDscore group. Finally, by integrating the HCDscore with prognostic clinicopathological characteristics, a nomogram with strong predictive performance and high accuracy was constructed. Conclusions This study revealed that the cell differentiation trajectories in HNSCC played a nonnegligible role in patient prognosis, biological characteristics, and immune responses. Evaluating cancer cell differentiation will help to develop more effective immunotherapy, metabolic therapy, and chemotherapy strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen-Dong Huang
- Department of Spine and Orthopedic Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Department of Stomatology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zi-Zhen Liu
- The Third Clinical School, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China
| | - Yan-Yi Liu
- Department of Stomatology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yong-Cheng Fu
- The Third Clinical School, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China
| | - Lu-Lu Lin
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Chao Hu
- Department of Spine and Orthopedic Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Hui-Yun Gu
- Department of Spine and Orthopedic Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Ren-Xiong Wei
- Department of Spine and Orthopedic Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
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Wang E, Li Y, Ming R, Wei J, Du P, Zhou P, Zong S, Xiao H. The Prognostic Value and Immune Landscapes of a m 6A/m 5C/m 1A-Related LncRNAs Signature in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:718974. [PMID: 34917609 PMCID: PMC8670092 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.718974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: N6-methyladenosine (m6A), 5-methylcytosine (m5C) and N1-methyladenosine (m1A) are the main RNA methylation modifications involved in the progression of cancer. However, it is still unclear whether m6A/m5C/m1A-related long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) affect the prognosis of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Methods: We summarized 52 m6A/m5C/m1A-related genes, downloaded 44 normal samples and 501 HNSCC tumor samples with RNA-seq data and clinical information from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database, and then searched for m6A/m5C/m1A-related genes co-expressed lncRNAs. We adopt the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) Cox regression to obtain m6A/m5C/m1A-related lncRNAs to construct a prognostic signature of HNSCC. Results: This prognostic signature is based on six m6A/m5C/m1A-related lncRNAs (AL035587.1, AC009121.3, AF131215.5, FMR1-IT1, AC106820.5, PTOV1-AS2). It was found that the high-risk subgroup has worse overall survival (OS) than the low-risk subgroup. Moreover, the results showed that most immune checkpoint genes were significantly different between the two risk groups (p < 0.05). Immunity microenvironment analysis showed that the contents of NK cell resting, macrophages M2, and neutrophils in samples of low-risk group were significantly lower than those of high-risk group (p < 0.05), while the contents of B cells navie, plasma cells, and T cells regulatory (Tregs) were on the contrary (p < 0.05). In addition, patients with high tumor mutational burden (TMB) had the worse overall survival than those with low tumor mutational burden. Conclusion: Our study elucidated how m6A/m5C/m1A-related lncRNAs are related to the prognosis, immune microenvironment, and TMB of HNSCC. In the future, these m6A/m5C/m1A-related lncRNAs may become a new choice for immunotherapy of HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enhao Wang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yang Li
- Department of Stomatology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ruijie Ming
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiahui Wei
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Peiyu Du
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Peng Zhou
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Shimin Zong
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Hongjun Xiao
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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Selvan SR, Brichetti JA, Thurber DB, Botting GM, Bertenshaw GP. Functional Profiling of Head and Neck/Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma to Predict Cetuximab Response. Cancer Biother Radiopharm 2021. [PMID: 34846938 DOI: 10.1089/cbr.2021.0283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Cetuximab, an epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-targeting antibody, remains the only Food and Drug Administration-approved targeted therapy for squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of head and neck/esophagus. However, in clinical trials, cetuximab only benefited a subset of patients and frequently caused toxicity. Predicting which patients respond to cetuximab remains unsolved. The authors sought to identify predictive biomarkers in EGFR signaling and autophagy pathways, which may be impacted by cetuximab under certain treatment conditions. Methods: In vitro responses of SCC cell lines to cetuximab under various nutrient conditions were assessed by WST-8 growth assay. Functional profiles of several EGFR signaling biomarkers were investigated by Luminex-based assays and corroborated with immunoblots. Autophagy markers were analyzed with immunoblots. Results: In vitro growth response assays identified cetuximab responder and nonresponder cell lines. Optimal growth conditions and growth factors enhanced responses, and even reversed nonresponsiveness in some cell lines. Strong correlation was found between response in growth assays (reference assay) and dynamic changes in p-Erk1/2 and LC3-II (index assays). Conclusions: This study indicates that nutrient modification may enhance cetuximab response in SCC patients. Biomarker results strengthen the hypothesis that dynamic biomarkers can be used to predict patient response to cetuximab. Future studies are warranted to test in more complex samples including patient-derived tumor tissues.
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Pan-Cancer Analysis Reveals FH as a Potential Prognostic and Immunological Biomarker in Lung Adenocarcinoma. DISEASE MARKERS 2021; 2021:8554844. [PMID: 34737838 PMCID: PMC8563123 DOI: 10.1155/2021/8554844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Fumarate hydratase (FH) is an important enzymatic component in the tricarboxylic acid cycle. Studies have reported that FH plays an important role in hereditary leiomyomatosis and renal cell cancer (HLRCC). However, the role of FH in human different cancers remains unknown. This study is aimed at analyzing the prognostic value of FH and demonstrating the correlation between FH expression and tumor immunity. Results showed that FH was mutated or copy number varied in 27 types of cancer. FH mRNA was abnormally upregulated across various cancers. Survival analysis suggested high expression of FH was associated with poor prognosis in many cancer types, including lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). Additionally, FH expression was associated with immune infiltration, including B cells, CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, neutrophils, macrophages, and dendritic cells, especially in liver hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC), LUAD, and lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC). Moreover, FH expression showed a strong correlation with immune checkpoint markers in LUAD and testicular germ cell tumors (TGCT). These results indicate that FH is an immunotherapeutic target and a potential prognostic biomarker in LUAD.
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Sun C, Zhang M, Qiao Q, Wang Y. Integrating Intrinsic Radiosensitivity and Immune Status for Predicting Benefits of Radiotherapy in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Med Sci Monit 2021; 27:e932126. [PMID: 34670999 PMCID: PMC8547194 DOI: 10.12659/msm.932126] [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] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background HNSCC (head and neck squamous cell carcinoma) is a heterogeneous disease for which radiotherapy is a main treatment. As intrinsic radiosensitivity and immune status affect the initial and effective stage of the radiation-induced cancer immunity cycle, respectively, it is important to consider both of them when we select patients who can benefit from radiotherapy. Material/Methods Our study included all HNSCC patients with complete survival and radiotherapy information in TCGA database. Patients were divided into RS (radiosensitive), RR (radioresistant), immune, and non-immune groups according to their RSI (radiosensitivity index) and immune score calculated by the ESTIMATE algorithm. Survival analysis was performed to compare OS (overall survival) between patients receiving and not receiving radiotherapy. GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis was performed for functional analysis. Univariate Cox and ridge regression analysis were performed to construct a predictive gene signature based on the combined stratification. Results Only patients in the RS-immune group could benefit from radiotherapy, and the survival analysis results remained consistent after we performed propensity score matching between patients receiving and not receiving radiotherapy. The differentially expressed genes between the RS-immune and non-RS-immune groups were mainly enriched in pathways related to immune process. The 3-gene signature we built exhibited predictive value in training and validation cohorts when treated as a binary or continuous variable. Conclusions The combined stratification of intrinsic radiosensitivity and immune status was superior to considering intrinsic radiosensitivity or immune status alone and could be used in preclinical evaluation to select patients or to decide whether radiotherapy sensitizers and immunotherapy should be used at the same time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuyao Sun
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China (mainland).,Department of Radiation Oncology, The Fourth Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China (mainland)
| | - Miao Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China (mainland)
| | - Qiao Qiao
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China (mainland)
| | - Yanli Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China (mainland)
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Kowalski A, Malinowska K, Olszewski J, Zielińska-Bliźniewska H. Expression of Programmed Death Receptor 1 (PD-1) Gene and Its Ligand (PD-L1) in Patients with Laryngeal Cancer. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11070970. [PMID: 34356594 PMCID: PMC8301886 DOI: 10.3390/biom11070970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: The interaction of the programmed death receptor (PD-1) with its ligand 1 (PD-L1) allows cancer cells to escape from the control of the immune system. Research evaluating the expression of immune checkpoint genes in the tissues of laryngeal tumors may contribute to the introduction of new effective immunotherapeutic methods in this group of neoplasms. The aim of this study was to evaluate the expression of the gene for the programmed death receptor (PD-1) and its ligand (PD-L1) in laryngeal tumors (T1, T2, T3) in patients without lymph node involvement and distant metastases. (2) Methods: The study included 73 patients: 39 of them were diagnosed with carcinoma planoepiteliale keratodes (study group) and 34 with nasal septal deviation undergoing septoplasty (control group). Biological material for molecular tests (Real time PCR) was collected during surgical procedures. Furthermore, all study participants completed a questionnaire regarding, among others, smoking and body weight. (3) Results: Gene expression for programmed death receptor 1 (PD-1) and its ligand 1 (PD-L1) was, statistically, significantly higher (p < 0.0001) in tumor tissue than in unchanged mucosa. Moreover, it was found that the greater the tumor size, the higher the expression level of the tested molecules. (4) Conclusions: Although further research on the role of the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway in laryngeal tumors is necessary, the presented reports are promising and may constitute a contribution to considerations on the introduction of targeted immunotherapy with anti-PD1 and anti-PD-L1 monoclonal antibodies in the treatment of these tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrzej Kowalski
- Department of Otolaryngology, Laryngological Oncology, Audiology and Phoniatrics, Medical University of Lodz, 90-549 Lodz, Poland;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-506271676
| | - Katarzyna Malinowska
- Department of Allergology and Respiratory Rehabilitation, Medical University of Lodz, 90-725 Lodz, Poland; (K.M.); (H.Z.-B.)
| | - Jurek Olszewski
- Department of Otolaryngology, Laryngological Oncology, Audiology and Phoniatrics, Medical University of Lodz, 90-549 Lodz, Poland;
| | - Hanna Zielińska-Bliźniewska
- Department of Allergology and Respiratory Rehabilitation, Medical University of Lodz, 90-725 Lodz, Poland; (K.M.); (H.Z.-B.)
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Yuan X, Yi M, Zhang W, Xu L, Chu Q, Luo S, Wu K. The biology of combination immunotherapy in recurrent metastatic head and neck cancer. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2021; 136:106002. [PMID: 33962022 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2021.106002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Revised: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Preclinical data suggest that head and neck cancer is an intrinsically immunosuppressive disease with abnormal inflammatory components in the tumor microenvironment. The development of immune checkpoint inhibitors, which are monoclonal antibodies capable of inhibiting immune suppressive signals to prime anticancer immunity, has revolutionized the therapeutic landscape in recurrent/metastatic head and neck cancer. However, patients with head and neck cancer present primary resistance to immunotherapy. Many ongoing trials include combinations of immunotherapy with different therapeutic interventions, aiming to improve response rates and overall survival. As novel therapy strategies are leveraged, the significance of immunotherapy in recurrent/metastatic head and neck cancer continues to be revealed. This review aims to summarize combinational immunotherapy in head and neck cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xun Yuan
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
| | - Ming Yi
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
| | - Linping Xu
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, China.
| | - Qian Chu
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
| | - Suxia Luo
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, China.
| | - Kongming Wu
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China; Department of Medical Oncology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, China.
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