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Dorna D, Paluszczak J. Targeting cancer stem cells as a strategy for reducing chemotherapy resistance in head and neck cancers. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2023; 149:13417-13435. [PMID: 37453969 PMCID: PMC10587253 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-023-05136-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Resistance to chemotherapy and radiotherapy is the primary cause of a poor prognosis in oncological patients. Researchers identified many possible mechanisms involved in gaining a therapy-resistant phenotype by cancer cells, including alterations in intracellular drug accumulation, detoxification, and enhanced DNA damage repair. All these features are characteristic of stem cells, making them the major culprit of chemoresistance. This paper reviews the most recent evidence regarding the association between the stemness phenotype and chemoresistance in head and neck cancers. It also investigates the impact of pharmacologically targeting cancer stem cell populations in this subset of malignancies. METHODS This narrative review was prepared based on the search of the PubMed database for relevant papers. RESULTS Head and neck cancer cells belonging to the stem cell population are distinguished by the high expression of certain surface proteins (e.g., CD10, CD44, CD133), pluripotency-related transcription factors (SOX2, OCT4, NANOG), and increased activity of aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH). Chemotherapy itself increases the percentage of stem-like cells. Importantly, the intratumor heterogeneity of stem cell subpopulations reflects cell plasticity which has great importance for chemoresistance induction. CONCLUSIONS Evidence points to the advantage of combining classical chemotherapeutics with stemness modulators thanks to the joint targeting of the bulk of proliferating tumor cells and chemoresistant cancer stem cells, which could cause recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dawid Dorna
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biochemistry, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Ul. Święcickiego 4, 60-781 Poznan, Poland
| | - Jarosław Paluszczak
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biochemistry, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Ul. Święcickiego 4, 60-781 Poznan, Poland
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2
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Olmedo I, Martínez D, Carrasco-Rojas J, Jara JA. Mitochondria in oral cancer stem cells: Unraveling the potential drug targets for new and old drugs. Life Sci 2023; 331:122065. [PMID: 37659591 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.122065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/04/2023]
Abstract
Head and neck cancer is a major health problem worldwide, with most cases arising in the oral cavity. Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is the most common type of oral cancer, accounting for over 90% of all cases. Compared to other types of cancer, OSCC, has the worse prognosis, with a 5-year survival rate of 50%. Additionally, OSCC is characterized by a high rate of resistance to chemotherapy treatment, which may be partly explained by the presence of cancer stem cells (CSC) subpopulation. CSC can adapt to harmful environmental condition and are highly resistant to both chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatments, thus contributing to tumor relapse. The aim of this review is to highlight the role of mitochondria in oral CSC as a potential target for oral cancer treatment. For this purpose, we reviewed some fundamental aspects of the most validated protein markers of stemness, autophagy, the mitochondrial function and energy metabolism in oral CSC. Moreover, a discussion will be made on why energy metabolism, especially oxidative phosphorylation in CSC, may offer such a diverse source of original pharmacological target for new drugs. Finally, we will describe some drugs able to disturb mitochondrial function, with emphasis on those aimed to interrupt the electron transport chain function, as novel therapeutic strategies in multidrug-resistant oral CSC. The reutilization of old drugs approved for clinical use as new antineoplastics, in cancer treatment, is also matter of revision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivonne Olmedo
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences (ICBM), Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Daniela Martínez
- Institute for Research in Dental Sciences (ICOD), Faculty of Dentistry, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Javiera Carrasco-Rojas
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, Clínica Alemana-Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago, Chile
| | - José A Jara
- Institute for Research in Dental Sciences (ICOD), Faculty of Dentistry, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile; Department of Toxicological and Pharmacological Chemistry, Faculty of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile.
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Khedkar HN, Chen LC, Kuo YC, Wu ATH, Huang HS. Multi-Omics Identification of Genetic Alterations in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma and Therapeutic Efficacy of HNC018 as a Novel Multi-Target Agent for c-MET/STAT3/AKT Signaling Axis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10247. [PMID: 37373393 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241210247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Amongst the most prevalent malignancies worldwide, head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is characterized by high morbidity and mortality. The failure of standard treatment modalities, such as surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy, demands the need for in-depth understanding of the complex signaling networks involved in the development of treatment resistance. A tumor's invasive growth and high levels of intrinsic or acquired treatment resistance are the primary causes of treatment failure. This may be a result of the presence of HNSCC's cancer stem cells, which are known to have self-renewing capabilities that result in therapeutic resistance. Using bioinformatics methods, we discovered that elevated expressions of MET, STAT3, and AKT were associated with poor overall survival in HNSCC patients. We then evaluated the therapeutic potential of our newly synthesized small molecule HNC018 towards its potential as a novel anticancer drug. Our computer-aided structure characterization and target identification study predicted that HNC018 could target these oncogenic markers implicated in HNSCC. Subsequently, the HNC018 has demonstrated its anti-proliferative and anticancer activities towards the head and neck squamous cell carcinoma cell lines, along with displaying the stronger binding affinities towards the MET, STAT3, and AKT than the standard drug cisplatin. Reduction in the clonogenic and tumor-sphere-forming ability displays HNC018's role in decreasing the tumorigenicity. Importantly, an vivo study has shown a significant delay in tumor growth in HNC018 alone or in combination with cisplatin-treated xenograft mice model. Collectively with our findings, HNC018 highlights the desirable properties of a drug-like candidate and could be considered as a novel small molecule for treating head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harshita Nivrutti Khedkar
- Ph.D. Program for Cancer Molecular Biology and Drug Discovery, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, and Academia Sinica, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute for Cancer Biology & Drug Discovery, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Lung-Ching Chen
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Shin Kong Wu Ho-Su Memorial Hospital, Taipei 11101, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, Fu Jen Catholic University, New Taipei 24205, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Cheng Kuo
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- School of Post-Baccalaureate Chinese Medicine, College of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
| | - Alexander T H Wu
- Ph.D. Program for Translational Medicine, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- Taipei Heart Institute (THI), Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- Clinical Research Center, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- International Ph.D. Program for Translational Science, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, National Defense Medical Centre, Taipei 11490, Taiwan
| | - Hsu-Shan Huang
- Ph.D. Program for Cancer Molecular Biology and Drug Discovery, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, and Academia Sinica, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute for Cancer Biology & Drug Discovery, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, National Defense Medical Centre, Taipei 11490, Taiwan
- School of Pharmacy, National Defense Medical Centre, Taipei 11490, Taiwan
- Ph.D. Program in Drug Discovery and Development Industry, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
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Joshi P, Waghmare S. Molecular signaling in cancer stem cells of tongue squamous cell carcinoma: Therapeutic implications and challenges. World J Stem Cells 2023; 15:438-452. [PMID: 37342225 PMCID: PMC10277967 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v15.i5.438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Revised: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma is the seventh most common cancer worldwide with high mortality rates. Amongst oral cavity cancers, tongue carcinoma is a very common and aggressive oral cavity carcinoma. Despite the implementation of a multimodality treatment regime including surgical intervention, chemo-radiation as well as targeted therapy, tongue carcinoma shows a poor overall 5-year survival pattern, which is attributed to therapy resistance and recurrence of the disease. The presence of a rare population, i.e., cancer stem cells (CSCs) within the tumor, are involved in therapy resistance, recurrence, and distant metastasis that results in poor survival patterns. Therapeutic agents targeting CSCs have been in clinical trials, although they are unable to reach into therapy stage which is due to their failure in trials. A more detailed understanding of the CSCs is essential for identifying efficient targets. Molecular signaling pathways, which are differentially regulated in the CSCs, are one of the promising targets to manipulate the CSCs that would provide an improved outcome. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of molecular signaling associated with the maintenance and regulation of CSCs in tongue squamous cell carcinoma in order to emphasize the need of the hour to get a deeper understanding to unravel novel targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priyanka Joshi
- Stem Cell Biology Group, Cancer Research Institute, Advanced Centre for Treatment Research and Education in Cancer, Tata Memorial Centre, Navi Mumbai 410210, India
| | - Sanjeev Waghmare
- Stem Cell Biology Group, Cancer Research Institute, Advanced Centre for Treatment Research and Education in Cancer, Tata Memorial Centre, Navi Mumbai 410210, India
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Zisis V, Andreadis D, Anastasiadou P, Vahtsevanos K, Akrivou M, Vizirianakis IS, Poulopoulos A. Preliminary Study of the Cancer Stem Cells' Biomarker CD147 in Leukoplakia: Dysplasia and Squamous Cell Carcinoma of Oral Epithelial Origin. Cureus 2023; 15:e38807. [PMID: 37303447 PMCID: PMC10256256 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.38807] [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] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are responsible for initiating the process of carcinogenesis de novo, as well as through the transformation of oral potential malignant disorders (OPMDs) to oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). The aim of our study was to detect the expression of stemness-type CSC marker CD147 in oral leukoplakias (OLs), the most common OPMD, and OSCCs as well. Materials and methods This study focuses on the semiquantitative immunohistochemical pattern of the expression of the CSC protein biomarker CD147 in paraffin-embedded samples of 20 OSCCs of different grades of differentiation and 30 cases of OLs without or with different grades of dysplasia, compared to the normal oral epithelium in terms of cells' stain positivity. Statistical analysis was performed through Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25.0 (IBM SPSS Statistics, Armonk, NY) with Pearson chi-square test, and the significance level was set at 0.05 (p=0.05). In addition, the study clarified the expression of the respective gene of CD147 through quantitative polymerase chain (qPCR), in paraffin-embedded samples of the two extreme graduations: OLs of mildly dysplastic or non-dysplastic cases (n=10 cases) and OSCCs of moderately/poorly differentiated cases (n=17). Statistical analysis was then performed through SPSS version 25.0 with an independent paired t-test, and the significance level was set at 0.05 (p=0.05). Results The gene CD147 was expressed in all cases, although no statistically significant correlations were established. Regarding its protein products, the characteristic membranous staining of CD147 was noticed in the majority of the samples, mostly in the basal and parabasal layers of the epithelium. CD147 was upregulated significantly in the moderately and severely dysplastic OLs than in the mildly dysplastic and non-dysplastic OLs (p=0.008). Also, CD147 was upregulated significantly in the mildly dysplastic and non-dysplastic OLs than in the normal oral epithelium (p=0.012). Discussion The characteristic expression of CD147 in OLs and OSCCs' lesions suggests the presence of stemlike cancer cells, illustrating an underlying effect on the early stages of oral dysplasia, in the OL stage. The clinical application of CD147 as prognostic factor requires the experimental evaluation in larger number of samples. Conclusion Stem cells play an important role in the process of carcinogenesis. A major goal in cancer research is the identification of specific biomarkers for the detection of cancer stem cells. CD147 is considered as an innovative stem cell marker. Our findings in oral mucosal potentially malignant disorders showed that CD147 is expressed more intensely in parallel with the progression of the grade of dysplasia in OL. On the other hand, in oral squamous cell carcinoma, CD147 expression remains stable regardless of the degree of differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasileios Zisis
- Oral Medicine/Pathology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, GRC
| | - Dimitrios Andreadis
- Oral Medicine/Pathology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, GRC
| | | | | | - Meni Akrivou
- Pharmacology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, GRC
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Li Q, Tie Y, Alu A, Ma X, Shi H. Targeted therapy for head and neck cancer: signaling pathways and clinical studies. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:31. [PMID: 36646686 PMCID: PMC9842704 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-022-01297-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Head and neck cancer (HNC) is malignant, genetically complex and difficult to treat and is the sixth most frequent cancer, with tobacco, alcohol and human papillomavirus being major risk factors. Based on epigenetic data, HNC is remarkably heterogeneous, and treatment remains challenging. There is a lack of significant improvement in survival and quality of life in patients with HNC. Over half of HNC patients experience locoregional recurrence or distal metastasis despite the current multiple traditional therapeutic strategies and immunotherapy. In addition, resistance to chemotherapy, radiotherapy and some targeted therapies is common. Therefore, it is urgent to explore more effective and tolerable targeted therapies to improve the clinical outcomes of HNC patients. Recent targeted therapy studies have focused on identifying promising biomarkers and developing more effective targeted therapies. A well understanding of the pathogenesis of HNC contributes to learning more about its inner association, which provides novel insight into the development of small molecule inhibitors. In this review, we summarized the vital signaling pathways and discussed the current potential therapeutic targets against critical molecules in HNC, as well as presenting preclinical animal models and ongoing or completed clinical studies about targeted therapy, which may contribute to a more favorable prognosis of HNC. Targeted therapy in combination with other therapies and its limitations were also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingfang Li
- grid.13291.380000 0001 0807 1581Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yan Tie
- grid.13291.380000 0001 0807 1581Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Aqu Alu
- grid.13291.380000 0001 0807 1581Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xuelei Ma
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
| | - Huashan Shi
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
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7
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Kim SI, Woo SR, Noh JK, Lee MK, Lee YC, Lee JW, Kong M, Ko SG, Eun YG. Association between cancer stem cell gene expression signatures and prognosis in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. BMC Cancer 2022; 22:1077. [PMID: 36261806 PMCID: PMC9583594 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-022-10184-4] [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: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Various cancer stem cell (CSC) biomarkers and the genes encoding them in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) have been identified and evaluated. However, the validity of these factors in the prognosis of HNSCC has been questioned and remains unclear. In this study, we examined the clinical significance of CSC biomarker genes in HNSCC, using five publicly available HNSCC cohorts. Methods To predict the prognosis of patients with HNSCC, we developed and validated the expression signatures of CSC biomarker genes whose mRNA expression levels correlated with at least one of the four CSC genes (CD44, MET, ALDH1A1, and BMI1). Results Patients in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) HNSCC cohort were classified into CSC gene expression-associated high-risk (CSC-HR; n = 285) and CSC gene expression-associated low-risk (CSC-LR; n = 281) subgroups. The 5-year overall survival and recurrence-free survival rates were significantly lower in the CSC-HR subgroup than in the CSC-LR subgroup (p = 0.04 and 0.02, respectively). The clinical significance of the CSC gene expression signature was validated using four independent cohorts. Analysis using Cox proportional hazards models showed that the CSC gene expression signature was an independent prognostic factor of non-oropharyngeal HNSCC which mostly indicates HPV (–) status. Furthermore, the CSC gene expression signature was associated with the prognosis of HNSCC patients who received radiotherapy. Conclusion The CSC gene expression signature is associated with the prognosis of HNSCC and may help in personalized treatments for patients with HNSCC, especially in cases with HPV (–) status who were classified in more detail. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12885-022-10184-4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Su Il Kim
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Kyung Hee University Medical Center, #1 Hoegi-dong, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, 02447, Korea
| | - Seon Rang Woo
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Kyung Hee University Medical Center, #1 Hoegi-dong, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, 02447, Korea
| | - Joo Kyung Noh
- Department of Biomedical Science and Technology, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Min Kyeong Lee
- Department of Biomedical Science and Technology, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Young Chan Lee
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Kyung Hee University Medical Center, #1 Hoegi-dong, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, 02447, Korea
| | - Jung Woo Lee
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, School of Dentistry, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Moonkyoo Kong
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Division of Lung & Head and Neck Oncology, Kyung Hee University Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Seong-Gyu Ko
- Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Young-Gyu Eun
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Kyung Hee University Medical Center, #1 Hoegi-dong, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, 02447, Korea. .,Department of Biomedical Science and Technology, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Korea.
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Cirillo N, Wu C, Prime SS. Heterogeneity of Cancer Stem Cells in Tumorigenesis, Metastasis, and Resistance to Antineoplastic Treatment of Head and Neck Tumours. Cells 2021; 10:cells10113068. [PMID: 34831291 PMCID: PMC8619944 DOI: 10.3390/cells10113068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Revised: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The discovery of a small subset of cancer cells with self-renewal properties that can give rise to phenotypically diverse tumour populations has shifted our understanding of cancer biology. Targeting cancer stem cells (CSCs) is becoming a promising therapeutic strategy in various malignancies, including head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Diverse sub-populations of head and neck cancer stem cells (HNCSCs) have been identified previously using CSC specific markers, the most common being CD44, Aldehyde Dehydrogenase 1 (ALDH1), and CD133, or by side population assays. Interestingly, distinct HNCSC subsets play different roles in the generation and progression of tumours. This article aims to review the evidence for a role of specific CSCs in HNSCC tumorigenesis, invasion, and metastasis, together with resistance to treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Cirillo
- Melbourne Dental School, The University of Melbourne, Carlton, VIC 3053, Australia;
- Correspondence:
| | - Carmen Wu
- Melbourne Dental School, The University of Melbourne, Carlton, VIC 3053, Australia;
| | - Stephen S. Prime
- Centre for Immunology and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Dentistry, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 4NS, UK;
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Kukal S, Guin D, Rawat C, Bora S, Mishra MK, Sharma P, Paul PR, Kanojia N, Grewal GK, Kukreti S, Saso L, Kukreti R. Multidrug efflux transporter ABCG2: expression and regulation. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 78:6887-6939. [PMID: 34586444 PMCID: PMC11072723 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-021-03901-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Revised: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The adenosine triphosphate (ATP)-binding cassette efflux transporter G2 (ABCG2) was originally discovered in a multidrug-resistant breast cancer cell line. Studies in the past have expanded the understanding of its role in physiology, disease pathology and drug resistance. With a widely distributed expression across different cell types, ABCG2 plays a central role in ATP-dependent efflux of a vast range of endogenous and exogenous molecules, thereby maintaining cellular homeostasis and providing tissue protection against xenobiotic insults. However, ABCG2 expression is subjected to alterations under various pathophysiological conditions such as inflammation, infection, tissue injury, disease pathology and in response to xenobiotics and endobiotics. These changes may interfere with the bioavailability of therapeutic substrate drugs conferring drug resistance and in certain cases worsen the pathophysiological state aggravating its severity. Considering the crucial role of ABCG2 in normal physiology, therapeutic interventions directly targeting the transporter function may produce serious side effects. Therefore, modulation of transporter regulation instead of inhibiting the transporter itself will allow subtle changes in ABCG2 activity. This requires a thorough comprehension of diverse factors and complex signaling pathways (Kinases, Wnt/β-catenin, Sonic hedgehog) operating at multiple regulatory levels dictating ABCG2 expression and activity. This review features a background on the physiological role of transporter, factors that modulate ABCG2 levels and highlights various signaling pathways, molecular mechanisms and genetic polymorphisms in ABCG2 regulation. This understanding will aid in identifying potential molecular targets for therapeutic interventions to overcome ABCG2-mediated multidrug resistance (MDR) and to manage ABCG2-related pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samiksha Kukal
- Genomics and Molecular Medicine Unit, Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (IGIB), Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Mall Road, Delhi, 110007, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Debleena Guin
- Genomics and Molecular Medicine Unit, Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (IGIB), Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Mall Road, Delhi, 110007, India
- Department of Biotechnology, Delhi Technological University, Shahbad Daulatpur, Main Bawana Road, Delhi, 110042, India
| | - Chitra Rawat
- Genomics and Molecular Medicine Unit, Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (IGIB), Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Mall Road, Delhi, 110007, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Shivangi Bora
- Genomics and Molecular Medicine Unit, Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (IGIB), Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Mall Road, Delhi, 110007, India
- Department of Biotechnology, Delhi Technological University, Shahbad Daulatpur, Main Bawana Road, Delhi, 110042, India
| | - Manish Kumar Mishra
- Genomics and Molecular Medicine Unit, Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (IGIB), Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Mall Road, Delhi, 110007, India
- Department of Biotechnology, Delhi Technological University, Shahbad Daulatpur, Main Bawana Road, Delhi, 110042, India
| | - Priya Sharma
- Genomics and Molecular Medicine Unit, Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (IGIB), Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Mall Road, Delhi, 110007, India
| | - Priyanka Rani Paul
- Genomics and Molecular Medicine Unit, Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (IGIB), Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Mall Road, Delhi, 110007, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Neha Kanojia
- Genomics and Molecular Medicine Unit, Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (IGIB), Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Mall Road, Delhi, 110007, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Gurpreet Kaur Grewal
- Department of Biotechnology, Kanya Maha Vidyalaya, Jalandhar, Punjab, 144004, India
| | - Shrikant Kukreti
- Nucleic Acids Research Lab, Department of Chemistry, University of Delhi (North Campus), Delhi, 110007, India
| | - Luciano Saso
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "Vittorio Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, P. le Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Ritushree Kukreti
- Genomics and Molecular Medicine Unit, Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (IGIB), Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Mall Road, Delhi, 110007, India.
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India.
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Cancer Stem Cells in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma-Treatment Modalities. BALKAN JOURNAL OF DENTAL MEDICINE 2021. [DOI: 10.2478/bjdm-2021-0012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Summary
Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) belongs to the most frequent cancer subtypes in the world. Mutations due to genetic and chromosomal instability, syndromes such as Fanconi anemia and the Bloom syndrome, environmental risk factors such as tobacco smoking, alcohol and human papillomavirus infection (HPV) subtypes 16,18,31,33,35,52,58 are implicated in its pathogenesis. The HNSCC belongs to the solid tumors of epithelial origin and consists of stromal, inflammatory, cancer cells and most importantly a fraction of them, the cancer stem cells (CSCs). The identification of the CSCs through their biomarkers such as CD44, CD10, CD166, CD133, CD271, ALDH, Oct4, Nanog, Sox2 and Bmi1, the maintenance of their subpopulation through epithelial to mesenchymal transition, the role of HPV infection regarding their prognosis and of their microenvironment regarding their resistance to therapy, all constitute key elements that must be taken thoroughly into consideration in order to develop an effective targeted therapy. There are already therapies in place targeting specific related biomarkers, important biochemical pathways and growth factors. The aim of this literature review is to illustrate the treatment modalities available against the cancer stem cells of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.
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Wang G, Zhang M, Cheng M, Wang X, Li K, Chen J, Chen Z, Chen S, Chen J, Xiong G, Xu X, Wang C, Chen D. Tumor microenvironment in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: Functions and regulatory mechanisms. Cancer Lett 2021; 507:55-69. [PMID: 33741424 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2021.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2020] [Revised: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment has been recently reported to play a pivotal role in sustaining tumor cells survival and protecting them from immunotherapy and chemotherapy-induced death. It remains largely unknown how the specific signaling pathway exerts the tumor microenvironment in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma though previous studies have elucidated the regulatory mechanisms involve in tumor immune microenvironment, stromal cells, tumor angiogenesis and cancer stem cell. These components are responsible for tumor progression as well as anti-cancer therapy resistance, leading to rapid tumor growth and treatment failure. In this review, we focus on discussing the interaction between tumor cells and the surrounding components for better understanding of anti-cancer treatment ineffectiveness and its underlying molecular mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ganping Wang
- Center for Translational Medicine, Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Ming Zhang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Hospital of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510030, China
| | - Maosheng Cheng
- Center for Translational Medicine, Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Xiaochen Wang
- Center for Translational Medicine, Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Kang Li
- Center for Translational Medicine, Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Jianwen Chen
- Center for Translational Medicine, Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Zhi Chen
- Center for Translational Medicine, Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Shuang Chen
- Center for Translational Medicine, Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Jie Chen
- Center for Translational Medicine, Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Gan Xiong
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Hospital of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510030, China
| | - Xiuyun Xu
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Hospital of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510030, China
| | - Cheng Wang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Hospital of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510030, China
| | - Demeng Chen
- Center for Translational Medicine, Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China.
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12
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HNC0014, a Multi-Targeted Small-Molecule, Inhibits Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma by Suppressing c-Met/STAT3/CD44/PD-L1 Oncoimmune Signature and Eliciting Antitumor Immune Responses. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12123759. [PMID: 33327484 PMCID: PMC7764918 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12123759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2020] [Revised: 12/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Cancer stem cells (CSCs) in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) possess unlimited self-renewal capacity, resist treatments and induce tumor repopulation after interventions. Here, we observed HNSCC CSCs secreted exosomes containing c-Met, STAT3 (also the phosphorylated form of c-Met and STAT3), CD44, and PD-L1 oncogenic signaling molecules. CSC-derived exosomes, in part, transform fibroblasts (NFs) into cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), establish drug resistance, and an immune-evasive tumor microenvironment (TME). We demonstrated HNC0014, a novel small-molecule drug, suppresses HNSCC tumorigenesis, CSC generation and prevents CAF transformation by decreasing the aforementioned oncogenic signaling molecules’ expression in both HNSCC cells and CSC-derived exosomes. Abstract Despite advancements in diagnostic and standard treatment modalities, including surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy, overall survival rates of advanced-stage head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) patients have remained stagnant for over three decades. Failure of these treatment modalities, coupled with post-therapy complications, underscores the need for alternative interventions and an in-depth understanding of the complex signaling networks involved in developing treatment resistance. Using bioinformatics tools, we identified an increased expression of c-Met, STAT3, and CD44 corresponding to a poor prognosis and malignant phenotype of HNSCC. Subsequently, we showed that tumorsphere-derived exosomes promoted cisplatin (CDDP) resistance and colony and tumorsphere formation in parental HNSCC cells, accompanied by an increased level of oncogenic/immune evasive markers, namely, c-Met, STAT3, CD44, and PD-L1. We then evaluated the therapeutic potential of a new small molecule, HNC0014. The molecular docking analysis suggested strong interactions between HNC0014 and oncogenic molecules; c-Met, STAT3, CD44, and PD-L1. Subsequently, we demonstrated that HNC0014 treatment suppressed HNSCC tumorigenic and expression of stemness markers; HNC0014 also reduced cancer-associated fibroblast (CAF) transformation by Exosp- and CAF-induced tumorigenic properties. HNC0014 treatment alone suppressed tumor growth in a cisplatin-resistant (SAS tumorspheres) mouse xenograft model and with higher inhibitory efficacy when combined with CDDP. More importantly, HNC0014 treatment significantly delayed tumor growth in a syngeneic mouse HNSCC model, elicited an antitumor immune profile, and reduced the total c-Met, STAT3, and their phosphorylated forms, PD-L1 and CD44, contents in serum exosomes. Collectively, our findings provide supports for HNC0014 as a multi-targeted immunotherapeutic lead compound for further development.
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13
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Molecular phenotypes of circulating tumor cells and efficacy of nivolumab treatment in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Sci Rep 2020; 10:21573. [PMID: 33299117 PMCID: PMC7726556 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-78741-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The emergence of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has revolutionized the treatment of recurrent/metastatic (R/M) head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Biomarkers of the therapeutic efficacy of ICIs have been extensively investigated. In this study, we aimed to analyze whether molecular phenotypes of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are associated with treatment responses and clinical outcomes in patients with R/M HNSCC treated with nivolumab. Peripheral blood samples were collected before treatment initiation and after four infusions of nivolumab. CTCs isolated by depletion of CD45-positive cells were analyzed to determine the expression of EPCAM, MET, KRT19, and EGFR using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. CTC-positive samples were analyzed to determine the expression of PIK3CA, CCND1, SNAI1, VIM, ZEB2, CD44, NANOG, ALDH1A1, CD47, CD274, and PDCD1LG2. Of 30 patients treated with nivolumab, 28 (93.3%) were positive for CTCs. In 20 CTC-positive patients, molecular alterations in CTCs before and after nivolumab treatment were investigated. Patients with MET-positive CTCs had significantly shorter overall survival than those with MET-negative CTCs (p = 0.027). The expression level of CCND1 in CTCs of disease-controlled patients was significantly higher than that of disease-progressed patients (p = 0.034). In disease-controlled patients, the expression level of CCND1 in CTCs significantly decreased after nivolumab treatment (p = 0.043). The NANOG expression in CTCs was significantly increased in disease-controlled patients after nivolumab treatment (p = 0.036). Our findings suggest that the molecular profiling of CTCs is a promising tool to predict the treatment efficacy of nivolumab.
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14
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Shirvani P, Fassihi A. Molecular modelling study on pyrrolo[2,3-b]pyridine derivatives as c-Met kinase inhibitors: a combined approach using molecular docking, 3D-QSAR modelling and molecular dynamics simulation. MOLECULAR SIMULATION 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/08927022.2020.1810853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Pouria Shirvani
- Department of medicinal Chemistry, Isfahan University of Medical Science, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Afshin Fassihi
- Department of medicinal Chemistry, Isfahan University of Medical Science, Isfahan, Iran
- Bioinformatic Research Centre, Isfahan University of Medical Science, Isfahan, Iran
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15
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Auto QSAR‐ A Fast Approach for Creation and Application of QSAR Models through Automation. ChemistrySelect 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/slct.202000744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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16
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Chen D, Wang CY. Targeting cancer stem cells in squamous cell carcinoma. PRECISION CLINICAL MEDICINE 2019; 2:152-165. [PMID: 31598386 PMCID: PMC6770277 DOI: 10.1093/pcmedi/pbz016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2019] [Revised: 08/14/2019] [Accepted: 08/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is a highly aggressive tumor and the sixth
most common cancer worldwide. Current treatment strategies for HNSCC are surgery,
radiotherapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy or combinatorial therapies. However, the overall
5-year survival rate of HNSCC patients remains at about 50%. Cancer stem cells (CSCs), a
small population among tumor cells, are able to self-renew and differentiate into
different tumor cell types in a hierarchical manner, similar to normal tissue. In HNSCC,
CSCs are proposed to be responsible for tumor initiation, progression, metastasis, drug
resistance, and recurrence. In this review, we discuss the molecular and cellular
characteristics of CSCs in HNSCC. We summarize current approaches used in the literature
for identification of HNSCC CSCs, and mechanisms required for CSC regulation. We also
highlight the role of CSCs in treatment failure and therapeutic targeting options for
eliminating CSCs in HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Demeng Chen
- Laboratory of Molecular Signaling, Division of Oral Biology and Medicine, School of Dentistry, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Cun-Yu Wang
- Laboratory of Molecular Signaling, Division of Oral Biology and Medicine, School of Dentistry, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.,Department of Bioengineering, Henry Samueli School of Engineering and Applied Science, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.,Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center and Broad Stem Cell Research Center, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
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17
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Peitzsch C, Nathansen J, Schniewind SI, Schwarz F, Dubrovska A. Cancer Stem Cells in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Identification, Characterization and Clinical Implications. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11050616. [PMID: 31052565 PMCID: PMC6562868 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11050616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2019] [Revised: 04/21/2019] [Accepted: 04/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is the sixth most commonly diagnosed cancer worldwide. Despite advances in the treatment management, locally advanced disease has a poor prognosis, with a 5-year survival rate of approximately 50%. The growth of HNSCC is maintained by a population of cancer stem cells (CSCs) which possess unlimited self-renewal potential and induce tumor regrowth if not completely eliminated by therapy. The population of CSCs is not only a promising target for tumor treatment, but also an important biomarker to identify the patients at risk for therapeutic failure and disease progression. This review aims to provide an overview of the recent pre-clinical and clinical studies on the biology and potential therapeutic implications of HNSCC stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Peitzsch
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Partner Site Dresden, Germany: German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.
- OncoRay-National Center for Radiation Research in Oncology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany.
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner site Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany.
| | - Jacqueline Nathansen
- OncoRay-National Center for Radiation Research in Oncology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany.
| | - Sebastian I Schniewind
- OncoRay-National Center for Radiation Research in Oncology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany.
| | - Franziska Schwarz
- OncoRay-National Center for Radiation Research in Oncology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany.
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner site Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany.
- Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Institute of Radiooncology-OncoRay, 01307 Dresden, Germany.
| | - Anna Dubrovska
- OncoRay-National Center for Radiation Research in Oncology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany.
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner site Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany.
- Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Institute of Radiooncology-OncoRay, 01307 Dresden, Germany.
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18
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Hu J, Mirshahidi S, Simental A, Lee SC, De Andrade Filho PA, Peterson NR, Duerksen-Hughes P, Yuan X. Cancer stem cell self-renewal as a therapeutic target in human oral cancer. Oncogene 2019; 38:5440-5456. [PMID: 30936460 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-019-0800-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2018] [Revised: 03/12/2019] [Accepted: 03/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Tumor recurrence following treatment remains a major clinical challenge in oral cavity cancer. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) have been isolated from human oral cancers and been considered as the driving force of tumor recurrence and metastasis. However, it still remains unclear whether targeting CSCs in oral cancer is a clinically relevant strategy to combat cancer recurrence and metastasis. Here, using clinical cancer specimens and patient-derived xenografts, we show that the self-renewal regulator BMI1 is highly expressed in CSCs of oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma. Inhibition of BMI1 decreases oral CSCs' self-renewal and tumor-initiating potential. Treatment of pre-established human oral cancer xenografts with a BMI1 inhibitor resulted in abrogation of tumor progression and reduced the frequency of CSCs in the xenografts. Remarkably, the BMI1 inhibitor has therapeutic effects in cisplatin-resistant tumors and can reduce metastases initiated by circulating CSCs. Mechanistically, BMI1-inhibition leads to oral CSC necroptotic cell death, which underlies the self-renewal impairment after inhibiting BMI1. Our data provide a pre-clinical proof-of-concept that targeting BMI1-related CSC self-renewal is a clinically relevant anti-cancer therapy in human oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinwei Hu
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Loma Linda University Medical Center, Loma Linda, CA, 92354, USA.,Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Fontana Medical Center, Kaiser Permanente, Fontana, CA, 92335, USA
| | - Saied Mirshahidi
- Cancer Center Biospecimen Laboratory, Loma Linda University Medical Center, Loma Linda, CA, 92354, USA.,Department of Basic Sciences, School of Medicine, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, 92354, USA
| | - Alfred Simental
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Loma Linda University Medical Center, Loma Linda, CA, 92354, USA
| | - Steve C Lee
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Loma Linda University Medical Center, Loma Linda, CA, 92354, USA
| | - Pedro A De Andrade Filho
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Loma Linda University Medical Center, Loma Linda, CA, 92354, USA
| | - Nathaniel R Peterson
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Loma Linda University Medical Center, Loma Linda, CA, 92354, USA
| | - Penelope Duerksen-Hughes
- Department of Basic Sciences, School of Medicine, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, 92354, USA
| | - Xiangpeng Yuan
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Loma Linda University Medical Center, Loma Linda, CA, 92354, USA. .,Department of Basic Sciences, School of Medicine, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, 92354, USA.
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19
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Cancer-associated fibroblasts promote the stemness of CD24 + liver cells via paracrine signaling. J Mol Med (Berl) 2018; 97:243-255. [PMID: 30564864 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-018-1731-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2018] [Revised: 11/12/2018] [Accepted: 12/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs), which support tumor progress in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) developed in fibrotic or cirrhotic livers, are regulated by the tumor microenvironment. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are the major component of the tumor stroma in HCC; however, the mechanisms by which CAFs contribute to stemness maintenance remain largely unknown. Here, we found that the expression of CD24 was high in HCC tissues compared with adjacent normal liver tissues, and positively correlated with the poor prognosis and α-SMA expression in CAFs. CD24+ cells isolated from HCC cell lines exhibited stemness properties of self-renewal, chemotherapy resistance, metastasis, and tumorigenicity in NOD/SCID mice. Moreover, CAF-derived HGF and IL6 enhanced the stemness properties of CD24+ cells via activating STAT3 Tyr705 phosphorylation. Blockade of HGF/c-Met or IL6/IL6R signaling significantly abolished the effect of CAFs on stemness properties, which compromised the activation of STAT3 pathway in CD24+ cells. Meanwhile, knockdown of STAT3 in CD24+ cells notably attenuated CAF-induced stemness characteristics of CD24+ cells. Furthermore, in HCC patients, higher expression of phospho-STAT3 was also demonstrated to be positively correlated with poor clinical outcomes. In summary, HGF and IL6 secreted by CAFs promoted the stemness properties of CD24+ cells through the phosphorylation of STAT3 signaling, and targeting the paracrine pathways may provide a new therapeutic strategy for HCC. KEY MESSAGES: CD24, identified as a marker for HCC CSCs, was positively correlated with the poor prognosis and α-SMA expression in CAFs. CAFs promoted self-renewal, chemotherapy resistance, metastasis, and tumorigenicity of CD24+ HCC cells. HGF and IL6 secreted by CAFs promoted the stemness properties of CD24+ HCC cells through the phosphorylation of STAT3.
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20
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Zhang QW, Ye ZD, Shen C, Tie HX, Wang L, Shi L. Synthesis of novel 6,7-dimethoxy-4-anilinoquinolines as potent c-Met inhibitors. J Enzyme Inhib Med Chem 2018; 34:124-133. [PMID: 30422010 PMCID: PMC6237173 DOI: 10.1080/14756366.2018.1533822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
HGF/c-Met signalling pathway plays an important role in the development of cancers. A series of 6,7-dimethoxy-4-anilinoquinolines possessing benzimidazole moiety were synthesised and identified as potent inhibitors of the tyrosine kinase c-Met. Their in vitro biological activities against three cancer cell lines (A549, MCF-7, and MKN-45) were also evaluated. Most of these compounds exhibited moderate to remarkable potency. Among them, compound 12n showed the most potent inhibitory activity against c-Met with IC50 value of 0.030 ± 0.008 µM and it also showed excellent anticancer activity against the tested cancer cell lines at low micromolar concentration. Molecular docking verified the results and revealed the possible binding mode of the most promising compound 12n into the ATP-binding site of c-Met kinase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing-Wen Zhang
- a Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry , China Pharmaceutical University , Nanjing , P. R. China
| | - Zi-Dan Ye
- a Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry , China Pharmaceutical University , Nanjing , P. R. China
| | - Chang Shen
- a Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry , China Pharmaceutical University , Nanjing , P. R. China
| | - Hong-Xia Tie
- a Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry , China Pharmaceutical University , Nanjing , P. R. China
| | - Lei Wang
- a Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry , China Pharmaceutical University , Nanjing , P. R. China
| | - Lei Shi
- a Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry , China Pharmaceutical University , Nanjing , P. R. China
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21
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Lin YM, Lu CC, Hsiang YP, Pi SC, Chen CI, Cheng KC, Pan HL, Chien PH, Chen YJ. c-Met inhibition is required for the celecoxib-attenuated stemness property of human colorectal cancer cells. J Cell Physiol 2018; 234:10336-10344. [PMID: 30480806 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.27701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2018] [Accepted: 10/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) is frequently overexpressed and enhances colorectal cancer (CRC) tumorigenesis, including cancer stem cell (CSC) regulation. Accordingly, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), inhibiting COX-1/2 activity, are viewed as potential drugs for CRC treatment. Accumulated evidence indicates that celecoxib has the most potency for antitumor growth among NSAIDs and the underlying mechanism is only partly dependent on COX-2 inhibition. However, the potency of these NSAIDs on CSC inhibition is still not known. In this study, we found that among these NSAIDs, celecoxib has the most potency for CSC inhibition of CRC cells, largely correlating to inhibition of c-Met, not COX-2. Further analysis reveals that c-Met activity was required for basal CSC property. Silence of c-Met blocked whereas overexpression of c-Met enhanced the celecoxib-inhibited CSC property. Collectively, these results not only first elucidate the mechanism underlying celecoxib-inhibited CSC but also indicate c-Met as a critical factor for the CSC property of CRC cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yueh-Ming Lin
- Department of Surgery, Division of Colorectal Surgery, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Chien-Chang Lu
- Department of Surgery, Division of Colorectal Surgery, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Yi-Ping Hsiang
- Department of Pharmacy, E-Da Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Shu-Chuan Pi
- Department of Pharmacy, E-Da Cancer Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Chih-I Chen
- Department of Surgery, Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, E-Da Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, ROC.,School of Medicine for International Students, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Kung-Chuan Cheng
- Department of Surgery, Division of Colorectal Surgery, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Hsiao-Lin Pan
- Department of Medical Research, E-Da Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Pei-Hsuan Chien
- Department of Medical Research, E-Da Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Yun-Ju Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, E-Da Cancer Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, ROC.,School of Medicine for International Students, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, ROC.,Department of Medical Research, E-Da Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, ROC
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22
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Nikitakis NG, Gkouveris I, Aseervatham J, Barahona K, Ogbureke KUE. DSPP-MMP20 gene silencing downregulates cancer stem cell markers in human oral cancer cells. Cell Mol Biol Lett 2018; 23:30. [PMID: 30002682 PMCID: PMC6040065 DOI: 10.1186/s11658-018-0096-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2018] [Accepted: 06/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent findings indicate that dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP) and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) 20 interact in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). The objective of this study was to determine the effects of DSPP/MMP20 gene silencing on oral cancer stem cell (OCSC) markers. METHODS The expression of well-established OCSC markers: ABCG2; ALDH1; CD133; CD44; BMI1; LGR4, and Podoplanin in DSPP/MMP20-silenced OSCC cell line, OSC2, and controls were assayed by western blot (WB), and flow cytometry techniques. The sensitivity of OSC2 cells to cisplatin following DSPP/MMP20 silencing was also determined. RESULTS DSPP/MMP20 silencing resulted in downregulation of OCSC markers, more profoundly ABCG2 (84%) and CD44 (81%), following double silencing. Furthermore, while treatment of parent (pre-silenced) OSC2 cells with cisplatin resulted in upregulation of OCSC markers, DSPP/MMP20-silenced OSC2 cells similarly treated resulted in profound downregulation of OCSC markers (72 to 94% at 50 μM of cisplatin), and a marked reduction in the proportion of ABCG2 and ALDH1 positive cells (~ 1%). CONCLUSIONS We conclude that the downregulation of OCSC markers may signal a reduction in OCSC population following MMP20/DSPP silencing in OSCC cells, while also increasing their sensitivity to cisplatin. Thus, our findings suggest a potential role for DSPP and MMP20 in sustaining OCSC population in OSCCs, possibly, through mechanism(s) that alter OCSC sensitivity to treatment with chemotherapeutic agents such as cisplatin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaos G. Nikitakis
- Department of Diagnostic and Biomedical Sciences, University of Texas Health Sciences Center at Houston School of Dentistry, 7500 Cambridge Street, Houston, TX 77054 USA
- Department of Oral Pathology and Medicine, School of Dentistry, University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Ioannis Gkouveris
- Department of Diagnostic and Biomedical Sciences, University of Texas Health Sciences Center at Houston School of Dentistry, 7500 Cambridge Street, Houston, TX 77054 USA
| | - Jaya Aseervatham
- Department of Diagnostic and Biomedical Sciences, University of Texas Health Sciences Center at Houston School of Dentistry, 7500 Cambridge Street, Houston, TX 77054 USA
| | - Kelvin Barahona
- Department of Diagnostic and Biomedical Sciences, University of Texas Health Sciences Center at Houston School of Dentistry, 7500 Cambridge Street, Houston, TX 77054 USA
| | - Kalu U. E. Ogbureke
- Department of Diagnostic and Biomedical Sciences, University of Texas Health Sciences Center at Houston School of Dentistry, 7500 Cambridge Street, Houston, TX 77054 USA
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23
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Sundaram GM, Quah S, Sampath P. Cancer: the dark side of wound healing. FEBS J 2018; 285:4516-4534. [PMID: 29905002 DOI: 10.1111/febs.14586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2018] [Revised: 05/17/2018] [Accepted: 06/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Complex multicellular organisms have evolved sophisticated mechanisms to rapidly resolve epithelial injuries. Epithelial integrity is critical to maintaining internal homeostasis. An epithelial breach represents the potential for pathogen ingress and fluid loss, both of which may have severe consequences if not limited. The mammalian wound healing response involves a finely tuned, self-limiting series of cellular and molecular events orchestrated by the transient activation of specific signalling pathways. Accurate regulation of these events is essential; failure to initiate key steps at the right time delays healing and leads to chronic wounds, while aberrant initiation of wound healing processes may produce cell behaviours that promote cancer progression. In this review, we discuss how wound healing pathways co-opted in cancer lose their stringent regulation and become compromised in their reversibility. We hypothesize on how the commandeering of wound healing 'master regulators' is involved in this process, and also highlight the implications of these findings in the treatment of both chronic wounds and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gopinath M Sundaram
- Institute of Medical Biology, Agency for Science Technology & Research (A*STAR), Singapore City, Singapore
| | - Shan Quah
- Institute of Medical Biology, Agency for Science Technology & Research (A*STAR), Singapore City, Singapore
| | - Prabha Sampath
- Institute of Medical Biology, Agency for Science Technology & Research (A*STAR), Singapore City, Singapore.,Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore City, Singapore.,Program in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore City, Singapore
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24
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Snyder V, Reed-Newman TC, Arnold L, Thomas SM, Anant S. Cancer Stem Cell Metabolism and Potential Therapeutic Targets. Front Oncol 2018; 8:203. [PMID: 29922594 PMCID: PMC5996058 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2018.00203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2018] [Accepted: 05/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Malignant tumors contain heterogeneous populations of cells in various states of proliferation and differentiation. The presence of cancer stem or initiating cells is a well-established concept wherein quiescent and poorly differentiated cells within a tumor mass contribute to drug resistance, and under permissive conditions, are responsible for tumor recurrence and metastasis. A number of studies have identified molecular markers that are characteristic of tissue-specific cancer stem cells (CSCs). Isolation of CSCs has enabled studies on the metabolic status of CSCs. As metabolic plasticity is a hallmark of cancer cell adaptation, the intricacies of CSC metabolism and their phenotypic behavior are critical areas of research. Unlike normal stem cells, which rely heavily on oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) as their primary source of energy, or cancer cells, which are primarily glycolytic, CSCs demonstrate a unique metabolic flexibility. CSCs can switch between OXPHOS and glycolysis in the presence of oxygen to maintain homeostasis and, thereby, promote tumor growth. Here, we review key factors that impact CSC metabolic phenotype including heterogeneity of CSCs across different histologic tumor types, tissue-specific variations, tumor microenvironment, and CSC niche. Furthermore, we discuss how targeting key players of glycolytic and mitochondrial pathways has shown promising results in cancer eradication and attenuation of disease recurrence in preclinical models. In addition, we highlight studies on other potential therapeutic targets including complex interactions within the microenvironment and cellular communications in the CSC niche to interfere with CSC growth, resistance, and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vusala Snyder
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, United States
| | - Tamika C Reed-Newman
- Department of General Surgery, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, United States
| | - Levi Arnold
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, United States
| | - Sufi Mary Thomas
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, United States.,Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, United States.,Cancer Biology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, United States
| | - Shrikant Anant
- Department of General Surgery, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, United States.,Cancer Biology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, United States
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25
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Demkova L, Kucerova L. Role of the HGF/c-MET tyrosine kinase inhibitors in metastasic melanoma. Mol Cancer 2018; 17:26. [PMID: 29455657 PMCID: PMC5817811 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-018-0795-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2017] [Accepted: 02/01/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Metastatic disease in a cancer patient still remains a therapeutic challenge. Metastatic process involves many steps, during which malignant cells succeed to activate cellular pathways promoting survival in hostile environment, engraftment and growth at the distant site from the primary tumor. Melanoma is known for its high propensity to produce metastases even at the early stages of the disease. Here we summarize the most important molecular mechanisms which were associated with the melanoma metastasis. Then, we specifically focus on the signaling pathway mediated by hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and its receptor c-Met, which play an important role during physiological processes and were been associated with tumorigenesis. We also focus on the effect of the small molecule inhibitors of the tyrosine kinase domain of the c-Met receptor and its effects on properties of melanoma cell. We summarize recent studies, which involved inhibition of the HGF/c-Met signaling in order to decrease melanoma growth and metastatic capacity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Demkova
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Cancer Research Institute, Biomedical Research Center of the Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dubravska cesta 9, 845 05, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Lucia Kucerova
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Cancer Research Institute, Biomedical Research Center of the Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dubravska cesta 9, 845 05, Bratislava, Slovakia.
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26
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D'Amico L, Belisario D, Migliardi G, Grange C, Bussolati B, D'Amelio P, Perera T, Dalmasso E, Dalle Carbonare L, Godio L, Comoglio P, Trusolino L, Ferracini R, Roato I. C-met inhibition blocks bone metastasis development induced by renal cancer stem cells. Oncotarget 2018; 7:45525-45537. [PMID: 27322553 PMCID: PMC5216739 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.9997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2016] [Accepted: 05/29/2016] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are key players in bone metastasis. In some renal tumors CSCs overexpress the HGF receptor c-MET, speculating that c-MET targeting could lead to bone metastasis inhibition. To address this hypothesis we isolated renal CD105+/CD24−CSCs, expressing c-MET receptor from a primary renal carcinoma. Then, to study their ability to metastasize to bone, we injected renal CSCs in NOD/SCID mice implanted with a human bone and we tested the effect of a c-MET inhibitor (JNJ-38877605) on bone metastasis development. JNJ-38877605 inhibited the formation of metastases at bone implant site. We showed that JNJ-38877605 inhibited the activation of osteoclasts induced by RCC stem cells and it stimulated osteoblast activity, finally resulting in a reduction of bone turnover consistent with the inhibition of bone metastases. We measured the circulating levels of osteotropic factors induced by RCC stem cells in the sera of mice treated with c-Met inhibitor, showing that IL-11 and CCL20 were reduced in mice treated with JNJ-38877605, strongly supporting the involvement of c-MET in the regulation of this process. To address the clinical relevance of c-MET upregulation during tumor progression, we analysed c-MET in renal cancer patients detecting an increased expression in the bone metastatic lesions by IHC. Then, we dosed CCL20 serum levels resulting significantly increased in patients with bone metastases compared to non-metastatic ones. Collectively, our data highlight the importance of the c-MET pathway in the pathogenesis of bone metastases induced by RCC stem cells in mice and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia D'Amico
- Cancer Immunology, Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,CeRMS, A.O. Città della Salute e della Scienza, Torino, Italy
| | - Dimas Belisario
- Cancer Immunology, Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Giorgia Migliardi
- IRCC, Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment, Candiolo, Torino, Italy
| | - Cristina Grange
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Torino, Italy
| | - Benedetta Bussolati
- Molecular Biotechnology and Health Science, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Turin, Torino, Italy
| | - Patrizia D'Amelio
- Gerontology Section, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | | | - Ettore Dalmasso
- Urology Section, A.O. Città della Salute e della Scienza, Torino, Italy
| | - Luca Dalle Carbonare
- Clinic of Internal Medicine, Section D, Policlinico G.B. Rossi Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Laura Godio
- Department of Pathology, A.O. Città della Salute e della Scienza, Torino, Italy
| | - Paolo Comoglio
- IRCC, Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment, Candiolo, Torino, Italy
| | - Livio Trusolino
- IRCC, Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment, Candiolo, Torino, Italy
| | | | - Ilaria Roato
- CeRMS, A.O. Città della Salute e della Scienza, Torino, Italy
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27
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Wang X, Cheng W, Liu C, Li J. Tall cell variant of papillary thyroid carcinoma: current evidence on clinicopathologic features and molecular biology. Oncotarget 2018; 7:40792-40799. [PMID: 27008708 PMCID: PMC5130045 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.8215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2015] [Accepted: 03/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Tall cell variant (TCV) of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) has been recognized for the past few decades as an entity showing aggressive biological behavior; however, there is considerable controversy regarding the definition, clinical and pathological features of TCV because of its rarity and difficult diagnosis. No clinical features can accurately diagnose TCV. Thus, the results of histocytology, immunohistochemistry and molecular genetics tests have important clinical implications for diagnosis. Given the aggressiveness and the increased recurrence and poor survival rates, more aggressive treatment approach and rigorous follow-up is required for patients with TCV. In the present article, we undertook a comprehensive review to summarize and discuss the various aspects of this variant, from morphology to immunohistochemistry, and molecular abnormalities from a practical and daily practice-oriented point of view.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaofei Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Wenli Cheng
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Chongqing Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Jingdong Li
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
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28
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Konstorum A, Lowengrub JS. Activation of the HGF/c-Met axis in the tumor microenvironment: A multispecies model. J Theor Biol 2017; 439:86-99. [PMID: 29203124 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtbi.2017.11.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2017] [Revised: 10/24/2017] [Accepted: 11/30/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment is an integral component in promoting tumor development. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), which reside in the tumor stroma, produce Hepatocyte Growth Factor (HGF), an important trigger for invasive and metastatic tumor behavior. HGF contributes to a pro-tumorigenic environment by activating its cognate receptor, c-Met, on tumor cells. Tumor cells, in turn, secrete growth factors that upregulate HGF production in CAFs, thereby establishing a dynamic tumor-host signaling program. Using a spatiotemporal multispecies model of tumor growth, we investigate how the development and spread of a tumor is impacted by the initiation of a dynamic interaction between tumor-derived growth factors and CAF-derived HGF. We show that establishment of such an interaction results in increased tumor growth and morphological instability, the latter due in part to increased cell species heterogeneity at the tumor-host boundary. Invasive behavior is further increased if the tumor lowers responsiveness to paracrine pro-differentiation signals, which is a hallmark of neoplastic development. By modeling anti-HGF and anti-c-Met therapy, we show how disruption of the HGF/c-Met axis can reduce tumor invasiveness and growth, thereby providing theoretical evidence that targeting tumor-microenvironment interactions is a promising avenue for therapeutic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Konstorum
- Center for Quantitative Medicine, UConn Health, Farmington, CT, USA.
| | - John S Lowengrub
- Department of Mathematics, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA; Center for Complex Biological Systems, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA; Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Irvine, USA.
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29
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Nozaki Y, Tamori S, Inada M, Katayama R, Nakane H, Minamishima O, Onodera Y, Abe M, Shiina S, Tamura K, Kodama D, Sato K, Hara Y, Abe R, Takasawa R, Yoshimori A, Shinomiya N, Tanuma SI, Akimoto K. Correlation between c-Met and ALDH1 contributes to the survival and tumor-sphere formation of ALDH1 positive breast cancer stem cells and predicts poor clinical outcome in breast cancer. Genes Cancer 2017; 8:628-639. [PMID: 28966724 PMCID: PMC5620008 DOI: 10.18632/genesandcancer.148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
c-Met is a receptor-type tyrosine kinase, which is involved in a wide range of cellular responses such as proliferation, motility, migration and invasion. It has been reported to be overexpressed in various cancers. However, the role of c-Met in breast cancer stem cells (CSCs) still remains unclear. We herein, show that c-Met expression is significantly elevated in Basal-like type of breast cancer in comparison with other subtypes. High expression of c-Met strongly correlated with the expression of two CSC markers, ALDH1A3 and CD133 in breast cancers. In addition, breast cancers at tumor stage III-IV expressing both c-Methigh and ALDH1A3high had poor prognosis. Furthermore, treatment with c-Met inhibitors (Crizotinib, Foretinib, PHA-665752 and Tivantinib) in MDA-MB157 cells with high c-Met protein expression resulted in significant suppression in cell viability, contrary to MDA-MB468 cells with low c-Met protein expression. These c-Met inhibitors also suppressed cell viability and tumor-sphere formation of ALDH1high breast cancer cells with high c-Met expression. These results suggest that c-Met in ALDH1 positive CSCs seems to play an important role in breast cancer repopulation. Therefore, we conclude that c-Met is a potential therapeutic target in ALDH1 positive breast CSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuka Nozaki
- Department of Medicinal and Life Science, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science, Chiba, Japan.,Translational Research Center, Research Institute for Science& Technology, Tokyo University of Science, Chiba, Japan
| | - Shoma Tamori
- Department of Medicinal and Life Science, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science, Chiba, Japan.,Translational Research Center, Research Institute for Science& Technology, Tokyo University of Science, Chiba, Japan
| | - Masahiro Inada
- Department of Medicinal and Life Science, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science, Chiba, Japan
| | - Reika Katayama
- Department of Medicinal and Life Science, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science, Chiba, Japan
| | - Hiromi Nakane
- Department of Medicinal and Life Science, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science, Chiba, Japan
| | - Osamu Minamishima
- Department of Medicinal and Life Science, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science, Chiba, Japan
| | - Yuka Onodera
- Department of Medicinal and Life Science, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science, Chiba, Japan
| | - Makoto Abe
- Department of Medicinal and Life Science, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science, Chiba, Japan
| | - Shota Shiina
- Department of Medicinal and Life Science, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science, Chiba, Japan
| | - Kei Tamura
- Department of Medicinal and Life Science, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science, Chiba, Japan
| | - Daichi Kodama
- Department of Medicinal and Life Science, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science, Chiba, Japan
| | - Keiko Sato
- Department of Information Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, Tokyo University of Science, Chiba, Japan
| | - Yasushi Hara
- Research Institute for Biochemical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science, Chiba, Japan
| | - Ryo Abe
- Research Institute for Biochemical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science, Chiba, Japan
| | - Ryoko Takasawa
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science, Chiba, Japan
| | | | - Nariyoshi Shinomiya
- Department of Integrative Physiology and Bio-Nano Medicine, National Defense Medical College, Saitama, Japan
| | - Sei-Ichi Tanuma
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science, Chiba, Japan
| | - Kazunori Akimoto
- Department of Medicinal and Life Science, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science, Chiba, Japan.,Translational Research Center, Research Institute for Science& Technology, Tokyo University of Science, Chiba, Japan
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30
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Yan H, Konstorum A, Lowengrub JS. Three-Dimensional Spatiotemporal Modeling of Colon Cancer Organoids Reveals that Multimodal Control of Stem Cell Self-Renewal is a Critical Determinant of Size and Shape in Early Stages of Tumor Growth. Bull Math Biol 2017; 80:1404-1433. [PMID: 28681151 DOI: 10.1007/s11538-017-0294-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2016] [Accepted: 05/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
We develop a three-dimensional multispecies mathematical model to simulate the growth of colon cancer organoids containing stem, progenitor and terminally differentiated cells, as a model of early (prevascular) tumor growth. Stem cells (SCs) secrete short-range self-renewal promoters (e.g., Wnt) and their long-range inhibitors (e.g., Dkk) and proliferate slowly. Committed progenitor (CP) cells proliferate more rapidly and differentiate to produce post-mitotic terminally differentiated cells that release differentiation promoters, forming negative feedback loops on SC and CP self-renewal. We demonstrate that SCs play a central role in normal and cancer colon organoids. Spatial patterning of the SC self-renewal promoter gives rise to SC clusters, which mimic stem cell niches, around the organoid surface, and drive the development of invasive fingers. We also study the effects of externally applied signaling factors. Applying bone morphogenic proteins, which inhibit SC and CP self-renewal, reduces invasiveness and organoid size. Applying hepatocyte growth factor, which enhances SC self-renewal, produces larger sizes and enhances finger development at low concentrations but suppresses fingers at high concentrations. These results are consistent with recent experiments on colon organoids. Because many cancers are hierarchically organized and are subject to feedback regulation similar to that in normal tissues, our results suggest that in cancer, control of cancer stem cell self-renewal should influence the size and shape in similar ways, thereby opening the door to novel therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huaming Yan
- Department of Mathematics, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Anna Konstorum
- Center for Quantitative Medicine, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT, 06030, USA
| | - John S Lowengrub
- Department of Mathematics, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Center for Complex Biological Systems, and Chao Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA.
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31
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Chen D, Wu M, Li Y, Chang I, Yuan Q, Ekimyan-Salvo M, Deng P, Yu B, Yu Y, Dong J, Szymanski JM, Ramadoss S, Li J, Wang CY. Targeting BMI1 + Cancer Stem Cells Overcomes Chemoresistance and Inhibits Metastases in Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Cell Stem Cell 2017; 20:621-634.e6. [PMID: 28285905 PMCID: PMC5419860 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2017.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 177] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2015] [Revised: 08/08/2016] [Accepted: 02/06/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Squamous cell carcinoma in the head and neck (HNSCC) is a common yet poorly understood cancer, with adverse clinical outcomes due to treatment resistance, recurrence, and metastasis. Putative cancer stem cells (CSCs) have been identified in HNSCC, and BMI1 expression has been linked to these phenotypes, but optimal treatment strategies to overcome chemotherapeutic resistance and eliminate metastases have not yet been identified. Here we show through lineage tracing and genetic ablation that BMI1+ CSCs mediate invasive growth and cervical lymph node metastasis in a mouse model of HNSCC. This model and primary human HNSCC samples contain highly tumorigenic, invasive, and cisplatin-resistant BMI1+ CSCs, which exhibit increased AP-1 activity that drives invasive growth and metastasis of HNSCC. Inhibiting AP-1 or BMI1 sensitized tumors to cisplatin-based chemotherapy, and it eliminated lymph node metastases by targeting CSCs and the tumor bulk, suggesting potential regimens to overcome resistance to treatments and eradicate HNSCC metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Demeng Chen
- Laboratory of Molecular Signaling, Division of Oral Biology and Medicine, School of Dentistry, Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center and Broad Stem Cell Research Center, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Mansi Wu
- Laboratory of Molecular Signaling, Division of Oral Biology and Medicine, School of Dentistry, Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center and Broad Stem Cell Research Center, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Yang Li
- Laboratory of Molecular Signaling, Division of Oral Biology and Medicine, School of Dentistry, Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center and Broad Stem Cell Research Center, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Insoon Chang
- Laboratory of Molecular Signaling, Division of Oral Biology and Medicine, School of Dentistry, Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center and Broad Stem Cell Research Center, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Quan Yuan
- Laboratory of Molecular Signaling, Division of Oral Biology and Medicine, School of Dentistry, Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center and Broad Stem Cell Research Center, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Mari Ekimyan-Salvo
- Laboratory of Molecular Signaling, Division of Oral Biology and Medicine, School of Dentistry, Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center and Broad Stem Cell Research Center, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Peng Deng
- Laboratory of Molecular Signaling, Division of Oral Biology and Medicine, School of Dentistry, Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center and Broad Stem Cell Research Center, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Bo Yu
- Laboratory of Molecular Signaling, Division of Oral Biology and Medicine, School of Dentistry, Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center and Broad Stem Cell Research Center, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Yongxin Yu
- Laboratory of Molecular Signaling, Division of Oral Biology and Medicine, School of Dentistry, Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center and Broad Stem Cell Research Center, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Jiaqiang Dong
- Laboratory of Molecular Signaling, Division of Oral Biology and Medicine, School of Dentistry, Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center and Broad Stem Cell Research Center, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - John M Szymanski
- Laboratory of Molecular Signaling, Division of Oral Biology and Medicine, School of Dentistry, Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center and Broad Stem Cell Research Center, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Sivakumar Ramadoss
- Laboratory of Molecular Signaling, Division of Oral Biology and Medicine, School of Dentistry, Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center and Broad Stem Cell Research Center, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Jiong Li
- Laboratory of Molecular Signaling, Division of Oral Biology and Medicine, School of Dentistry, Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center and Broad Stem Cell Research Center, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Cun-Yu Wang
- Laboratory of Molecular Signaling, Division of Oral Biology and Medicine, School of Dentistry, Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center and Broad Stem Cell Research Center, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Department of Bioengineering, Henry Samueli School of Engineering and Applied Science, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
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32
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Szturz P, Raymond E, Abitbol C, Albert S, de Gramont A, Faivre S. Understanding c-MET signalling in squamous cell carcinoma of the head & neck. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2017; 111:39-51. [DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2017.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2016] [Revised: 10/28/2016] [Accepted: 01/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
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33
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Marcucci F, Ghezzi P, Rumio C. The role of autophagy in the cross-talk between epithelial-mesenchymal transitioned tumor cells and cancer stem-like cells. Mol Cancer 2017; 16:3. [PMID: 28137290 PMCID: PMC5282816 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-016-0573-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2016] [Accepted: 12/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and cancer stem-like cells (CSC) are becoming highly relevant targets in anticancer drug discovery. A large body of evidence suggests that epithelial-mesenchymal transitioned tumor cells (EMT tumor cells) and CSCs have similar functions. There is also an overlap regarding the stimuli that can induce the generation of EMT tumor cells and CSCs. Moreover, direct evidence has been brought that EMT can give rise to CSCs. It is unclear however, whether EMT tumor cells should be considered CSCs or if they have to undergo further changes. In this article we summarize available evidence suggesting that, indeed, additional programs must be engaged and we propose that macroautophagy (hereafter, autophagy) represents a key trait distinguishing CSCs from EMT tumor cells. Thus, CSCs have often been reported to be in an autophagic state and blockade of autophagy inhibits CSCs. On the other hand, there is ample evidence showing that EMT and autophagy are distinct events. CSCs, however, represent, by themselves, a heterogeneous population. Thus, CSCs have been distinguished in predominantly non-cycling and cycling CSCs, the latter representing CSCs that self-renew and replenish the pool of differentiated tumor cells. We now suggest that the non-cycling CSC subpopulation is in an autophagic state. We propose also two models to explain the relationship between EMT tumor cells and these two major CSC subpopulations: a branching model in which EMT tumor cells can give rise to cycling or non-cycling CSCs, respectively, and a hierarchical model in which EMT tumor cells are first induced to become autophagic CSCs and, subsequently, cycling CSCs. Finally, we address the therapeutic consequences of these insights.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabrizio Marcucci
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, University of Milano, via Trentacoste 2, 20133, Milan, Italy.
| | - Pietro Ghezzi
- Brighton & Sussex Medical School, Trafford Centre, University of Sussex, Falmer, Brighton, BN1 9RY, UK
| | - Cristiano Rumio
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, University of Milano, via Trentacoste 2, 20133, Milan, Italy
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34
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Cortini M, Massa A, Avnet S, Bonuccelli G, Baldini N. Tumor-Activated Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Promote Osteosarcoma Stemness and Migratory Potential via IL-6 Secretion. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0166500. [PMID: 27851822 PMCID: PMC5112800 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0166500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2016] [Accepted: 10/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Osteosarcoma (OS) is an aggressive bone malignancy with a high relapse rate despite combined treatment with surgery and multiagent chemotherapy. As for other cancers, OS-associated microenvironment may contribute to tumor initiation, growth, and metastasis. We consider mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) as a relevant cellular component of OS microenvironment, and have previously found that the interaction between MSC and tumor cells is bidirectional: tumor cells can modulate their peripheral environment that in turn becomes more favorable to tumor growth through metabolic reprogramming. Here, we determined the effects of MSC on OS stemness and migration, two major features associated with recurrence and chemoresistance. The presence of stromal cells enhanced the number of floating spheres enriched in cancer stem cells (CSC) of the OS cell population. Furthermore, the co-culturing with MSC stimulated the migratory capacity of OS via TGFβ1 and IL-6 secretion, and the neutralizing antibody anti-IL-6 impaired this effect. Thus, stromal cells in combination with OS spheres exploit a vicious cycle where the presence of CSC stimulates mesenchymal cytokine secretion, which in turn increases stemness, proliferation, migration, and metastatic potential of CSC, also through the increase of expression of adhesion molecules like ICAM-1. Altogether, our data corroborate the concept that a comprehensive knowledge of the interplay between tumor and stroma that also includes the stem-like fraction of tumor cells is needed to develop novel and effective anti-cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margherita Cortini
- Orthopaedic Pathophysiology and Regenerative Medicine Unit, Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli (IOR), 40136, Bologna, Italy
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, 40126, Bologna, Italy
| | - Annamaria Massa
- Orthopaedic Pathophysiology and Regenerative Medicine Unit, Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli (IOR), 40136, Bologna, Italy
| | - Sofia Avnet
- Orthopaedic Pathophysiology and Regenerative Medicine Unit, Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli (IOR), 40136, Bologna, Italy
| | - Gloria Bonuccelli
- Orthopaedic Pathophysiology and Regenerative Medicine Unit, Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli (IOR), 40136, Bologna, Italy
| | - Nicola Baldini
- Orthopaedic Pathophysiology and Regenerative Medicine Unit, Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli (IOR), 40136, Bologna, Italy
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, 40126, Bologna, Italy
- * E-mail:
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Qian G, Wang D, Magliocca KR, Hu Z, Nannapaneni S, Kim S, Chen Z, Sun SY, Shin DM, Saba NF, Chen ZG. Human papillomavirus oncoprotein E6 upregulates c-Met through p53 downregulation. Eur J Cancer 2016; 65:21-32. [PMID: 27451021 PMCID: PMC5002257 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2016.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2016] [Revised: 05/18/2016] [Accepted: 06/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Human papillomavirus (HPV)-associated oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) carries a distinct clinical behaviour. c-Met oncogene is an important driver for tumour progression and its relationship with HPV in OPSCC was explored in the present study. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN Knockdown of HPV oncogene E6 or p53 alone and in combination was performed to examine their effects on c-Met expression by Western blot and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. The effects of c-Met inhibition on cell proliferation, migration, and colony formation were examined in HPV-positive head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) cells. Retrospectively collected OPSCC patient specimens (N = 78) were stained for c-Met by immunohistochemistry and the staining levels were correlated with HPV status and patient outcomes. RESULTS E6 knockdown decreased c-Met protein and mRNA expression in HPV-positive HNSCC cells, which was partially abolished by the elimination of p53. Reducing c-Met decreased cell proliferation, migration, and colony formation in HPV-positive HNSCC cells. In OPSCC patient samples, high c-Met expression was associated with HPV-positive status (OR = 4.11, 95%CI: 1.16-14.55, P = 0.028) and tumour stage (OR = 0.27, 95%CI: 0.08-0.93, P = 0.039) by multivariable analysis. In T3/T4 stage patients, high c-Met expression was associated with HPV positivity and low p53 levels, supporting an axis of E6-p53-c-Met regulation. Furthermore, high c-Met expression was marginally associated with poor disease-free survival in HPV-positive patients. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that c-Met may serve as a novel target for treating HPV-associated OPSCC. The data also demonstrate that HPV E6 upregulates c-Met expression partially through p53 downregulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guoqing Qian
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Dongsheng Wang
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | | | - Zhongliang Hu
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; Department of Pathology, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410078, China
| | - Sreenivas Nannapaneni
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Sungjin Kim
- Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Zhengjia Chen
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Shi-Yong Sun
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Dong M Shin
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Nabil F Saba
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
| | - Zhuo G Chen
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
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Skrzypek K, Kusienicka A, Szewczyk B, Adamus T, Lukasiewicz E, Miekus K, Majka M. Constitutive activation of MET signaling impairs myogenic differentiation of rhabdomyosarcoma and promotes its development and progression. Oncotarget 2016; 6:31378-98. [PMID: 26384300 PMCID: PMC4741613 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.5145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2015] [Accepted: 08/27/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is a soft tissue sarcoma, which may originate from impaired differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSC). Expression of MET receptor is elevated in alveolar RMS subtype (ARMS) which is associated with worse prognosis, compared to embryonal RMS (ERMS). Forced differentiation of ARMS cells diminishes MET level and, as shown previously, MET silencing induces differentiation of ARMS. In ERMS cells introduction of TPR-MET oncogene leads to an uncontrolled overstimulation of the MET receptor downstream signaling pathways. In vivo, tumors formed by those cells in NOD-SCID mice display inhibited differentiation, enhanced proliferation, diminished apoptosis and increased infiltration of neutrophils. Consequently, tumors grow significantly faster and they display enhanced ability to metastasize to lungs and to vascularize due to elevated VEGF, MMP9 and miR-378 expression. In vitro, TPR-MET ERMS cells display enhanced migration, chemotaxis and invasion toward HGF and SDF-1. Introduction of TPR-MET into MSC increases survival and may induce expression of early myogenic factors depending on the genetic background, and it blocks terminal differentiation of skeletal myoblasts. To conclude, our results suggest that activation of MET signaling may cause defects in myogenic differentiation leading to rhabdomyosarcoma development and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klaudia Skrzypek
- Department of Transplantation, Polish-American Institute of Pediatrics, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 30-663 Krakow, Poland
| | - Anna Kusienicka
- Department of Transplantation, Polish-American Institute of Pediatrics, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 30-663 Krakow, Poland
| | - Barbara Szewczyk
- Department of Transplantation, Polish-American Institute of Pediatrics, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 30-663 Krakow, Poland
| | - Tomasz Adamus
- Department of Transplantation, Polish-American Institute of Pediatrics, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 30-663 Krakow, Poland
| | - Ewa Lukasiewicz
- Department of Transplantation, Polish-American Institute of Pediatrics, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 30-663 Krakow, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Miekus
- Department of General Biochemistry, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - Marcin Majka
- Department of Transplantation, Polish-American Institute of Pediatrics, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 30-663 Krakow, Poland
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Baschnagel AM, Tonlaar N, Eskandari M, Kumar T, Williams L, Hanna A, Pruetz BL, Wilson GD. Combined CD44, c-MET, and EGFR expression in p16-positive and p16-negative head and neck squamous cell carcinomas. J Oral Pathol Med 2016; 46:208-213. [PMID: 27442811 DOI: 10.1111/jop.12478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/21/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S) To examine the association between CD44 and c-MET expression in relation to p16 and EGFR in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). MATERIALS/METHODS Immunohistochemical staining of CD44, p16, EGFR, and c-MET was performed on 105 locally advanced HNSCC patients treated with chemoradiation. CD44 expression was correlated with c-MET, EGFR, and p16, locoregional control (LRC), distant metastases (DM), disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS). RESULTS High CD44 expression was present in 33% of patients and was associated with non-oropharynx primaries (P < 0.001), high c-MET expression (P < 0.001), p16-negative (P < 0.001) and EGFR-positive tumors (P < 0.001). Fifty-seven percent of CD44 high expressing tumors had high c-MET expression compared to 21% of CD44 low expressing tumors (P < 0.001). High CD44 expression predicted for worse LRC (HR: 2.44; 95% CI: 1.16-5.13; P = 0.018), DFS (HR: 2.61; 95% CI: 1.46-4.67; P = 0.001), and OS (HR: 2.52; 95% CI: 1.30-4.92; P = 0.007) but not DM (P = 0.57) on univariate analysis. Patients with both high CD44 and c-MET expression had a poor prognosis with a 2-year DFS of 30% compared to 70% in the rest of the cohort (P = 0.003). On multivariable analysis, after adjusting for site, T-stage, smoking history, and EGFR status, high c-MET (P = 0.039) and negative p16 status (P = 0.034) predicted for worse DFS, while high CD44 expression did not (P = 0.43). CONCLUSIONS High CD44 expression is associated with high c-MET expression, p16-negative tumors, and EGFR-positive tumors. The combination of these markers predicts for poor prognosis in HNSCC patients treated with chemoradiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew M Baschnagel
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Nathan Tonlaar
- Department of Radiation Oncology, William Beaumont Hospital, Royal Oak, MI, USA
| | | | - Tripti Kumar
- Department of Pathology, William Beaumont Hospital, Royal Oak, MI, USA
| | - Lindsay Williams
- Department of Pathology, William Beaumont Hospital, Royal Oak, MI, USA
| | - Alaa Hanna
- Department of Radiation Oncology, William Beaumont Hospital, Royal Oak, MI, USA
| | | | - George D Wilson
- Department of Radiation Oncology, William Beaumont Hospital, Royal Oak, MI, USA.,Beaumont BioBank, William Beaumont Hospital, Royal Oak, MI, USA
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Hartmann S, Bhola NE, Grandis JR. HGF/Met Signaling in Head and Neck Cancer: Impact on the Tumor Microenvironment. Clin Cancer Res 2016; 22:4005-13. [PMID: 27370607 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-16-0951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2016] [Accepted: 06/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Studies to date have revealed several major molecular alterations that contribute to head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) initiation, progression, metastatic spread, and therapeutic failure. The EGFR is the only FDA-approved therapeutic target, yet responses to cetuximab have been limited. Activation and cross-talk of cellular receptors and consequent activation of different signaling pathways contribute to limited activity of blockade of a single pathway. The hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) receptor, Met, has been implicated in HNSCC tumorigenesis and EGFR inhibitor resistance. HGF, the sole ligand of Met, is overexpressed in the tumor microenvironment. The role of HGF/Met signaling in proliferation, metastasis, and angiogenesis has been investigated in HNSCC, leading to clinical trials with various Met inhibitors and HGF antibodies. However, the role of the HGF/Met signaling axis in mediating the tumor microenvironment has been relatively understudied in HNSCC. In this review, we discuss the functional roles of Met and HGF in HNSCC with a focus on the tumor microenvironment and the immune system. Clin Cancer Res; 22(16); 4005-13. ©2016 AACR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Hartmann
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California. Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Plastic Surgery, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Neil E Bhola
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Jennifer R Grandis
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California.
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Copy number gain of PIK3CA and MET is associated with poor prognosis in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Virchows Arch 2016; 468:579-87. [DOI: 10.1007/s00428-016-1905-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2015] [Revised: 01/01/2016] [Accepted: 01/12/2016] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
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Linge A, Löck S, Gudziol V, Nowak A, Lohaus F, von Neubeck C, Jütz M, Abdollahi A, Debus J, Tinhofer I, Budach V, Sak A, Stuschke M, Balermpas P, Rödel C, Avlar M, Grosu AL, Bayer C, Belka C, Pigorsch S, Combs SE, Welz S, Zips D, Buchholz F, Aust DE, Baretton GB, Thames HD, Dubrovska A, Alsner J, Overgaard J, Baumann M, Krause M. Low Cancer Stem Cell Marker Expression and Low Hypoxia Identify Good Prognosis Subgroups in HPV(-) HNSCC after Postoperative Radiochemotherapy: A Multicenter Study of the DKTK-ROG. Clin Cancer Res 2016; 22:2639-49. [PMID: 26755529 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-15-1990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2015] [Accepted: 12/11/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the impact of hypoxia-induced gene expression and cancer stem cell (CSC) marker expression on outcome of postoperative cisplatin-based radiochemotherapy (PORT-C) in patients with locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN Expression of the CSC markers CD44, MET, and SLC3A2, and hypoxia gene signatures were analyzed in the resected primary tumors using RT-PCR and nanoString technology in a multicenter retrospective cohort of 195 patients. CD44 protein expression was further analyzed in tissue microarrays. Primary endpoint was locoregional tumor control. RESULTS Univariate analysis showed that hypoxia-induced gene expression was significantly associated with a high risk of locoregional recurrence using the 15-gene signature (P = 0.010) or the 26-gene signature (P = 0.002). In multivariate analyses, in patients with HPV16 DNA-negative but not with HPV16 DNA-positive tumors the effect of hypoxia-induced genes on locoregional control was apparent (15-gene signature: HR 4.54, P = 0.006; 26-gene signature: HR 10.27, P = 0.024). Furthermore, MET, SLC3A2, CD44, and CD44 protein showed an association with locoregional tumor control in multivariate analyses (MET: HR 3.71, P = 0.016; SLC3A2: HR 8.54, P = 0.037; CD44: HR 3.36, P = 0.054; CD44 protein n/a because of no event in the CD44-negative group) in the HPV16 DNA-negative subgroup. CONCLUSIONS We have shown for the first time that high hypoxia-induced gene expression and high CSC marker expression levels correlate with tumor recurrence after PORT-C in patients with HPV16 DNA-negative HNSCC. After validation in a currently ongoing prospective trial, these parameters may help to further stratify patients for individualized treatment de-escalation or intensification strategies. Clin Cancer Res; 22(11); 2639-49. ©2016 AACR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annett Linge
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Dresden, Germany. Department of Radiation Oncology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany. OncoRay - National Center for Radiation Research in Oncology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Steffen Löck
- OncoRay - National Center for Radiation Research in Oncology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Volker Gudziol
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Alexander Nowak
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Fabian Lohaus
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Dresden, Germany. Department of Radiation Oncology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany. OncoRay - National Center for Radiation Research in Oncology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Cläre von Neubeck
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Dresden, Germany. OncoRay - National Center for Radiation Research in Oncology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Martin Jütz
- OncoRay - National Center for Radiation Research in Oncology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Amir Abdollahi
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany. Heidelberg Institute of Radiation Oncology (HIRO), National Center for Radiation Research in Oncology (NCRO), University of Heidelberg Medical School and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany. Heidelberg Ion Therapy Center (HIT), Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Heidelberg Medical School, Heidelberg, Germany. National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), University of Heidelberg Medical School and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany. Translational Radiation Oncology, University of Heidelberg Medical School and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jürgen Debus
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany. Heidelberg Institute of Radiation Oncology (HIRO), National Center for Radiation Research in Oncology (NCRO), University of Heidelberg Medical School and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany. Heidelberg Ion Therapy Center (HIT), Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Heidelberg Medical School, Heidelberg, Germany. National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), University of Heidelberg Medical School and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany. Clinical Cooperation Unit Radiation Oncology, University of Heidelberg Medical School and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Inge Tinhofer
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Berlin, Germany. Department of Radiooncology and Radiotherapy, Charité University Hospital, Berlin, Germany
| | - Volker Budach
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Berlin, Germany. Department of Radiooncology and Radiotherapy, Charité University Hospital, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ali Sak
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Essen, Germany. Department of Radiotherapy, Medical Faculty, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Martin Stuschke
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Essen, Germany. Department of Radiotherapy, Medical Faculty, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Panagiotis Balermpas
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Frankfurt, Germany. Department of Radiotherapy and Oncology, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Claus Rödel
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Frankfurt, Germany. Department of Radiotherapy and Oncology, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Melanie Avlar
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Freiburg, Germany. Department of Radiation Oncology, Clinical Study Section, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Anca-Ligia Grosu
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Freiburg, Germany. Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Christine Bayer
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Munich, Germany
| | - Claus Belka
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Munich, Germany. Department of Radiotherapy and Radiation Oncology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
| | - Steffi Pigorsch
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Munich, Germany. Department of Radiation Oncology, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Stephanie E Combs
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Munich, Germany. Department of Radiation Oncology, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Stefan Welz
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Tübingen, Germany. Department of Radiation Oncology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Tübingen, Eberhard Karls Universität, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Daniel Zips
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Tübingen, Germany. Department of Radiation Oncology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Tübingen, Eberhard Karls Universität, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Frank Buchholz
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Dresden, Germany. University Cancer Center (UCC), Medical Systems Biology, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Daniela E Aust
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Dresden, Germany. Institute of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany. Tumor- and Normal Tissue Bank, University Cancer Center (UCC), University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Gustavo B Baretton
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Dresden, Germany. Institute of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany. Tumor- and Normal Tissue Bank, University Cancer Center (UCC), University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Howard D Thames
- Department of Biostatistics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Anna Dubrovska
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Dresden, Germany. OncoRay - National Center for Radiation Research in Oncology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Jan Alsner
- Department of Experimental Clinical Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Jens Overgaard
- Department of Experimental Clinical Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Michael Baumann
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Dresden, Germany. Department of Radiation Oncology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany. OncoRay - National Center for Radiation Research in Oncology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany. Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden - Rossendorf, Institute of Radiooncology, Dresden, Germany. National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Mechthild Krause
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Dresden, Germany. Department of Radiation Oncology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany. OncoRay - National Center for Radiation Research in Oncology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany. Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden - Rossendorf, Institute of Radiooncology, Dresden, Germany. National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany.
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Cancer Stem Cell Signaling during Repopulation in Head and Neck Cancer. Stem Cells Int 2016; 2016:1894782. [PMID: 26880935 PMCID: PMC4736761 DOI: 10.1155/2016/1894782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2015] [Revised: 10/07/2015] [Accepted: 11/15/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the study was to investigate cancer stem signaling during the repopulation response of a head and neck squamous cell cancer (HNSCC) xenograft after radiation treatment. Xenografts were generated from low passage HNSCC cells and were treated with either sham radiation or 15 Gy in one fraction. At different time points, days 0, 3, and 10 for controls and days 4, 7, 12, and 21, after irradiation, 3 tumors per group were harvested for global gene expression, pathway analysis, and immunohistochemical evaluation. 316 genes were identified that were associated with a series of stem cell-related genes and were differentially expressed (p ≤ 0.01 and 1.5-fold) at a minimum of one time point in UT-SCC-14 xenografts after radiation. The largest network of genes that showed significant changes after irradiation was associated with CD44, NOTCH1, and MET. c-MET and ALDH1A3 staining correlated with the changes in gene expression. A clear pattern emerged that was consistent with the growth inhibition data in that genes associated with stem cell pathways were most active at day 7 and day 12 after irradiation. The MET/CD44 axis seemed to be an important component of the repopulation response.
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Chang JW, Gwak SY, Shim GA, Liu L, Lim YC, Kim JM, Jung MG, Koo BS. EZH2 is associated with poor prognosis in head-and-neck squamous cell carcinoma via regulating the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and chemosensitivity. Oral Oncol 2015; 52:66-74. [PMID: 26604082 DOI: 10.1016/j.oraloncology.2015.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2015] [Revised: 10/26/2015] [Accepted: 11/04/2015] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Increasing evidence suggests that epigenetic regulation is responsible for tumor initiation and progression in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Although the polycomb group protein enhancer zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) is upregulated and a key epigenetic modifier implicated in various cancers, its molecular mechanism in HNSCC remains unknown. Herein, we investigated the role of EZH2 in HNSCC progression and its clinical implication as an HNSCC risk predictor. MATERIALS AND METHOD A retrospective analysis was performed on 90 HNSCC patients who had curative surgery between 1999 and 2011. Patients with high and low EZH2 expression were compared by the various clinicopathological factors. Survival rates were estimated by the Kaplan-Meier method and log-rank test was used to determine significance. For functional in vitro analysis, migration/invasion assay and Western blotting were performed after EZH2 knockdown using siRNA. In addition, cell proliferation was measured to clarify the role of EZH2 on cisplatin chemotherapy. RESULTS In patients with HNSCC, high EZH2 expression was correlated with advanced T stage and poor survival outcome. RNAi analysis revealed that EZH2 silencing increased E-cadherin expression while decreasing that of N-cadherin and Vimentin without altering Snail/Slug signaling, which led to decreased cell migration/invasion. EZH2 is also associated with tumor aggressiveness via regulating the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. Furthermore, we show that high EZH2 expression decreases sensitivity to cisplatin-based chemotherapy. CONCLUSION Our results indicate that EZH2 may not be only a predictive and prognostic biomarker but also a potential personalized therapeutic target for the treatment of HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jae Won Chang
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Research Institute for Medical Science, Chungnam National University College of Medicine, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Seo Young Gwak
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Research Institute for Medical Science, Chungnam National University College of Medicine, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Geun-Ae Shim
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Research Institute for Medical Science, Chungnam National University College of Medicine, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Lihua Liu
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Research Institute for Medical Science, Chungnam National University College of Medicine, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Chang Lim
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Research Institute of Medical Science, Konkuk University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Man Kim
- Research Institute for Medical Sciences and Pathology, Chungnam National University College of Medicine, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Min Gyu Jung
- Research Institute for Medical Sciences and Pathology, Chungnam National University College of Medicine, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Bon Seok Koo
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Research Institute for Medical Science, Chungnam National University College of Medicine, Daejeon, Republic of Korea.
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Hultberg A, Morello V, Huyghe L, De Jonge N, Blanchetot C, Hanssens V, De Boeck G, Silence K, Festjens E, Heukers R, Roux B, Lamballe F, Ginestier C, Charafe-Jauffret E, Maina F, Brouckaert P, Saunders M, Thibault A, Dreier T, de Haard H, Michieli P. Depleting MET-Expressing Tumor Cells by ADCC Provides a Therapeutic Advantage over Inhibiting HGF/MET Signaling. Cancer Res 2015; 75:3373-83. [DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-15-0356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2015] [Accepted: 05/29/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Vasconcelos AC, Wagner VP, Meurer L, Vargas PA, de Souza LB, Fonseca FP, Squarize CH, Castilho RM, Martins MD. Immunoprofile of c-MET/PI3K signaling in human salivary gland tumors. Oral Surg Oral Med Oral Pathol Oral Radiol 2015; 120:238-47. [PMID: 26117810 DOI: 10.1016/j.oooo.2015.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2014] [Revised: 02/11/2015] [Accepted: 04/08/2015] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to analyze the expression pattern of proteins in the HGF/c-MET/PI3K signaling pathway in salivary gland tumors (SGTs) and to correlate the findings with the proliferative index and clinical parameters. STUDY DESIGN We assembled tissue microarrays (TMAs) of 108 cases of SGTs, including 69 cases of pleomorphic adenoma (PA), 24 cases of adenoid cystic carcinoma (AdCC), and 15 cases of mucoepidermoid carcinoma (MEC). An immunohistochemical analysis of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), MET phosphorylation (p-MET), protein kinase B (AKT) phosphorylation (p-AKT), and Ki-67 proteins was performed. RESULTS Benign and malignant SGTs presented similar scores of HGF-positive cells (P = .36), whereas, malignant SGTs exhibited higher levels of p-MET (P = .001) and p-AKT (P = .001) than benign SGTs. No correlation of HGF, p-MET, or p-AKT expression was observed with clinical parameters. PA had a lower proliferative index than either AdCC (P = .001) or MEC (P = .001). CONCLUSIONS The salivary gland carcinomas exhibited increased activation of the HGF pathway, as evidenced by the phosphorylation of the MET receptor, and increased activation of the PI3K pathway, as indicated by p-AKT. These data suggest that the HGF/c-MET/PI3K signaling pathway is active in SGTs, especially in malignant neoplasms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Artur Cunha Vasconcelos
- Department of Oral Pathology, School of Dentistry, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Vivian Petersen Wagner
- Department of Oral Pathology, School of Dentistry, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Luise Meurer
- Department of Pathology, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre (HCPA/UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, RS, Brazil
| | - Pablo Agustin Vargas
- Department of Oral Diagnosis, Piracicaba Dental School, University of Campinas, Piracicaba, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Lélia Batista de Souza
- Department of Oral Pathology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil
| | - Felipe Paiva Fonseca
- Department of Oral Diagnosis, Piracicaba Dental School, University of Campinas, Piracicaba, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Cristiane Helena Squarize
- Laboratory of Epithelial Biology, Department of Periodontics and Oral Medicine, University of Michigan School of Dentistry, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Rogerio Moraes Castilho
- Laboratory of Epithelial Biology, Department of Periodontics and Oral Medicine, University of Michigan School of Dentistry, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Manoela Domingues Martins
- Department of Oral Pathology, School of Dentistry, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.
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AKT and MET signalling mediates antiapoptotic radioresistance in head neck cancer cell lines. Oral Oncol 2014; 51:158-63. [PMID: 25499462 DOI: 10.1016/j.oraloncology.2014.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2014] [Revised: 10/27/2014] [Accepted: 11/07/2014] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Induction of apoptosis is a major mechanism of radiosensitivity in different types of cancer. In contrast, EGFR/PI3K/AKT signalling and recently the presence of so-called cancer stem cells are discussed as reasons for radioresistance. MATERIALS AND METHODS The study investigates mechanisms of apoptosis, key oncogenes of the PI3K/AKT pathway and the presence of cancer cells with stem cell properties during irradiation in two cell lines (PCI-9A, and PCI-15) of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. WST-1-tests, qRT-PCR, western blots and FACS analysis were performed for analysis. RESULTS The two cell lines presented different degrees of cell death upon irradiation. The radiosensitive cell line PCI-9A showed increased apoptosis after irradiation measured by expressed cleaved caspases 3 and 7 while the radioresistant cell line PCI-15 upregulated antiapoptotic Survivin and BCL2A1 mRNA. Besides, increased PI3K/AKT- and ERK1/2-signalling was associated with radioresistance accompanied by loss of PTEN function through phosphorylation on S380. Blockade of pAKT increased radiation-induced cell death, and moreover, led to an upregulation of pMET in the radioresistant cell line. The percentage of ALDH-positive tumour cells was markedly decreased after irradiation in the radiosensitive cell line. CONCLUSIONS Functional apoptosis is mandatory for sensitivity to irradiation in head neck cancer cells. Upregulation of the AKT-pathway seems to be one reason for poor radioresponse. Activated MET may also predict radioresistance, possibly through ERK1/2 signalling. Moreover MET may indicate the presence of cancer stem cells facilitating radioresistance as shown by increased ALDH expression.
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Chou MY, Hu FW, Yu CH, Yu CC. Sox2 expression involvement in the oncogenicity and radiochemoresistance of oral cancer stem cells. Oral Oncol 2014; 51:31-9. [PMID: 25456004 DOI: 10.1016/j.oraloncology.2014.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2014] [Revised: 09/17/2014] [Accepted: 10/06/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Sox2, a high-mobility-group DNA binding protein, is part of the key set of transcription factors that are involved in the maintenance of pluripotency and self-renewal in undifferentiated stem cells. A recent study has further suggested cancer stem cells (CSCs) are key contributors to radiochemoresistance and are responsible for oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) progression. The aim of this study was to determine the emerging role of Sox2 in radiochemosensitivity of oral CSCs. METHODS We determined the function of Sox2 on oncogenicity and radiochemosensitivity of OSCC by overexpression or silencing Sox2 in vitro and in vivo. RESULTS Initially, Sox2 expression was increased in OSCC cell lines and OSCC specimens. Upregulated Sox2 is correlated with poor survival outcome of OSCC patients. Overexpression of Sox2 was demonstrated to enhance invasiveness, anchorage-independent growth, xenotransplantation tumourigenicity in OSCC cells. Targeting Sox2 to spheroid cells (SC) and ALDH1+CD44+ cells from OSCC significantly inhibited their CSCs and tumorigenic abilities. Down regulation of SOX2 in OSCC-SC was found to repress invasiveness and diminish epithelail-mesenchymal transition (EMT) traits. Furthermore, silencing Sox2 effectively suppressed the expression of drug-resistance and anti-apoptotic genes and increased the sensitivity of the cells to radiation combined cisplatin treatment. Finally, the in vivo therapeutic efficacy of targeting Sox2 synergistically suppressed tumorigenesis and improved the survival rate when used in combination with radiotherapy and cisplatin in OSCC-SC-transplanted immunocompromised mice. CONCLUSION Sox2-mediated CSCs property is associated with the regulation of EMT and Sox2 s as therapeutic target in OSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming-Yung Chou
- School of Dentistry, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan; Department of Dentistry, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan; Institute of Oral Sciences, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Fang-Wei Hu
- School of Dentistry, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan; Department of Dentistry, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Chuan-Hang Yu
- School of Dentistry, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan; Department of Dentistry, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Chia Yu
- School of Dentistry, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan; Department of Dentistry, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan; Institute of Oral Sciences, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.
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