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Tadić V, Zhang W, Brozovic A. The high-grade serous ovarian cancer metastasis and chemoresistance in 3D models. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2024; 1879:189052. [PMID: 38097143 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2023.189052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
High-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC) is the most frequent and aggressive type of epithelial ovarian cancer, with high recurrence rate and chemoresistance being the main issues in its clinical management. HGSOC is specifically challenging due to the metastatic dissemination via spheroids in the ascitic fluid. The HGSOC spheroids represent the invasive and chemoresistant cellular fraction, which is impossible to investigate in conventional two-dimensional (2D) monolayer cell cultures lacking critical cell-to-cell and cell-extracellular matrix interactions. Three-dimensional (3D) HGSOC cultures, where cells aggregate and exhibit relevant interactions, offer a promising in vitro model of peritoneal metastasis and multicellular drug resistance. This review summarizes recent studies of HGSOC in 3D culture conditions and highlights the role of multicellular HGSOC spheroids and ascitic environment in HGSOC metastasis and chemoresistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanja Tadić
- Division of Molecular Biology, Ruđer Bošković Institute, Bijenička Str. 54, Zagreb HR-10000, Croatia
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Engineering Mechanics, Dalian University of Technology, Linggong Road 2, Dalian CN-116024, China
| | - Anamaria Brozovic
- Division of Molecular Biology, Ruđer Bošković Institute, Bijenička Str. 54, Zagreb HR-10000, Croatia.
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2
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Ma R, Heim T, Schoedel K, Weiss KR. Patient-Derived Spheroid Culture Models Are Better Than Monolayer Models in Chondrosarcoma Research. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-3728259. [PMID: 38168175 PMCID: PMC10760310 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3728259/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Purpose Chondrosarcoma (CSA) are mesenchymal tissue-derived bone tumors. CSA mainly occurs in older people. CSA has demonstrated resistance to chemotherapy and radiation; complete surgical removal with negative margins is the only treatment option. In the case of metastatic CSA, the chance of survival is meager. Since the conventional two-dimensional cell culture models failed to retain tumor characteristics, developing preclinical models mimicking the disease with the highest fidelity is paramount for personalized treatments. Methods In this study, we established spherical cultured cells as new models for CSA. First, we demonstrated that CSA cells could form spheroids when cultured in ultra-low attachment plates. Next, tissue samples from CSA patients were collected and processed into primary cells, which were subsequently cultured as primary spheroids. The growth rate of primary spheroids was monitored and the histology of mature spheroids were characterized. These primary spheroids were used in drug susceptibility studies where traditional doxorubicin therapy and our novel disulfiram-copper therapy were tested. Results Compared with conventional monolayer cultures, spheroids better recapitulated the features of the in vivo tumor in the aspect of the formation of extracellular matrix. In the drug susceptibility study, spheroids demonstrated high resistance to the classic therapies, suggesting that monolayer cultures may give false positive results. Therefore, using spheroids for drug research and development in the CSA field should provide more accurate results. Conclusion In summary, our study of primary CSA spheroids brought new insight into their chemoresistance and demonstrated its potential for personalized treatment of CSA in clinical medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tanya Heim
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine
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Duarte Mendes A, Freitas AR, Vicente R, Vitorino M, Vaz Batista M, Silva M, Braga S. Adipocyte Microenvironment in Ovarian Cancer: A Critical Contributor? Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16589. [PMID: 38068912 PMCID: PMC10706733 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242316589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer is one of the most common gynecological malignancies and has low survival rates. One of the main determinants of this unfavorable prognosis is the high rate of peritoneal metastasis at diagnosis, closely related to its morbidity and mortality. The mechanism underlying peritoneal carcinomatosis is not clearly defined, but a clear preference for omental spread has been described. Growing evidence suggests that adipose tissue plays a role in promoting cancer onset and progression. Moreover, obesity can lead to changes in the original functions of adipocytes, resulting in metabolic and inflammatory changes in the adipose tissue microenvironment, potentially increasing the risk of tumor growth. However, the specific roles of adipocytes in ovarian cancer have not yet been fully elucidated. Due to the undeniable link between obesity and cancer, the adipose tissue microenvironment could also present a promising therapeutic target that warrants further research. This review discusses the complex relationship between ovarian cancer and the adipose tissue microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Duarte Mendes
- Medical Oncology Department, Hospital Prof. Doutor Fernando Fonseca, 2720-276 Amadora, Portugal; (A.R.F.); (R.V.); (M.V.); (M.V.B.); (M.S.); (S.B.)
| | - Ana Rita Freitas
- Medical Oncology Department, Hospital Prof. Doutor Fernando Fonseca, 2720-276 Amadora, Portugal; (A.R.F.); (R.V.); (M.V.); (M.V.B.); (M.S.); (S.B.)
| | - Rodrigo Vicente
- Medical Oncology Department, Hospital Prof. Doutor Fernando Fonseca, 2720-276 Amadora, Portugal; (A.R.F.); (R.V.); (M.V.); (M.V.B.); (M.S.); (S.B.)
| | - Marina Vitorino
- Medical Oncology Department, Hospital Prof. Doutor Fernando Fonseca, 2720-276 Amadora, Portugal; (A.R.F.); (R.V.); (M.V.); (M.V.B.); (M.S.); (S.B.)
| | - Marta Vaz Batista
- Medical Oncology Department, Hospital Prof. Doutor Fernando Fonseca, 2720-276 Amadora, Portugal; (A.R.F.); (R.V.); (M.V.); (M.V.B.); (M.S.); (S.B.)
- Haematology and Oncology Department, CUF Oncology 2710-204 Sintra, Portugal
| | - Michelle Silva
- Medical Oncology Department, Hospital Prof. Doutor Fernando Fonseca, 2720-276 Amadora, Portugal; (A.R.F.); (R.V.); (M.V.); (M.V.B.); (M.S.); (S.B.)
| | - Sofia Braga
- Medical Oncology Department, Hospital Prof. Doutor Fernando Fonseca, 2720-276 Amadora, Portugal; (A.R.F.); (R.V.); (M.V.); (M.V.B.); (M.S.); (S.B.)
- Haematology and Oncology Department, CUF Oncology 2710-204 Sintra, Portugal
- Haematology and Oncology Department, CUF Oncology, 1998-018 Lisbon, Portugal
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4
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Pawar NR, Buzza MS, Duru N, Strong AA, Antalis TM. Matriptase drives dissemination of ovarian cancer spheroids by a PAR-2/PI3K/Akt/MMP9 signaling axis. J Cell Biol 2023; 222:e202209114. [PMID: 37737895 PMCID: PMC10515437 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.202209114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The transmembrane serine protease matriptase is a key regulator of both barrier-disruptive and protective epithelial cell-cell interactions. Elevated matriptase is a consistent feature of epithelial ovarian cancers (OvCa), where multicellular spheroids shed from the primary tumor into the peritoneal cavity are critical drivers of metastasis. Dynamic cell-to-cell adhesive contacts are required for spheroid formation and maintenance. Here, we show that overactive matriptase, reflected in an increased ratio of matriptase to its inhibitor hepatocyte growth factor activator inhibitor 1 (HAI-1), disrupts cell-cell contacts to produce loose prometastatic spheroids that display increased mesothelial cell adhesion and submesothelial invasion. We show that these activities are dependent on the matriptase activation of a protease-activated receptor-2 (PAR-2) signaling pathway involving PI3K/Akt and MMP9-induced disruption of cell-cell adhesion by the release of the soluble E-cadherin ectodomain. These data reveal a novel pathological connection between matriptase activation of PAR-2 and disruption of cell-cell adhesion, and support the clinical investigation of this signaling axis as a therapeutic strategy for aggressive metastatic OvCa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nisha R. Pawar
- Center for Vascular and Inflammatory Diseases, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Marguerite S. Buzza
- Center for Vascular and Inflammatory Diseases, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Research and Development Service, VA Maryland Health Care System, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Nadire Duru
- Center for Vascular and Inflammatory Diseases, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Amando A. Strong
- Center for Vascular and Inflammatory Diseases, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Toni M. Antalis
- Center for Vascular and Inflammatory Diseases, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Research and Development Service, VA Maryland Health Care System, Baltimore, MD, USA
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5
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Gunay G, Maier KN, Hamsici S, Carvalho F, Timog TA, Acar H. Peptide aggregation-induced immunogenic cell death in a breast cancer spheroid model. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.10.31.565012. [PMID: 37961293 PMCID: PMC10635027 DOI: 10.1101/2023.10.31.565012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Utilizing multicellular aggregates (spheroids) for in vitro cancer research offers a physiologically relevant model that closely mirrors the intricate tumor microenvironment, capturing properties of solid tumors such as cell interactions and drug resistance. In this research, we investigated the Peptide-Aggregation Induced Immunogenic Response (PAIIR), an innovative method employing engineered peptides we designed specifically to induce immunogenic cell death (ICD). We contrasted PAIIR-induced ICD with standard ICD and non-ICD inducer chemotherapeutics within the context of three-dimensional breast cancer tumor spheroids. Our findings reveal that PAIIR outperforms traditional chemotherapeutics in its efficacy to stimulate ICD. This is marked by the release of key damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs), which bolster the phagocytic clearance of dying cancer cells by dendritic cells (DCs) and, in turn, activate powerful anti-tumor immune responses. Additionally, we observed that PAIIR results in elevated dendritic cell activation and increased antitumor cytokine presence. This study not only showcases the utility of tumor spheroids for efficient high-throughput screening but also emphasizes PAIIR's potential as a formidable immunotherapeutic strategy against breast cancer, setting the stage for deeper exploration and potential clinical implementation.
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Tang PW, Frisbie L, Hempel N, Coffman L. Insights into the tumor-stromal-immune cell metabolism cross talk in ovarian cancer. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2023; 325:C731-C749. [PMID: 37545409 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00588.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
The ovarian cancer tumor microenvironment (TME) consists of a constellation of abundant cellular components, extracellular matrix, and soluble factors. Soluble factors, such as cytokines, chemokines, structural proteins, extracellular vesicles, and metabolites, are critical means of noncontact cellular communication acting as messengers to convey pro- or antitumorigenic signals. Vast advancements have been made in our understanding of how cancer cells adapt their metabolism to meet environmental demands and utilize these adaptations to promote survival, metastasis, and therapeutic resistance. The stromal TME contribution to this metabolic rewiring has been relatively underexplored, particularly in ovarian cancer. Thus, metabolic activity alterations in the TME hold promise for further study and potential therapeutic exploitation. In this review, we focus on the cellular components of the TME with emphasis on 1) metabolic signatures of ovarian cancer; 2) understanding the stromal cell network and their metabolic cross talk with tumor cells; and 3) how stromal and tumor cell metabolites alter intratumoral immune cell metabolism and function. Together, these elements provide insight into the metabolic influence of the TME and emphasize the importance of understanding how metabolic performance drives cancer progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priscilla W Tang
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Leonard Frisbie
- Department of Integrative Systems Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Nadine Hempel
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Lan Coffman
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
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7
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Tunable hybrid hydrogels with multicellular spheroids for modeling desmoplastic pancreatic cancer. Bioact Mater 2023; 25:360-373. [PMID: 36879666 PMCID: PMC9984297 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2023.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment consists of diverse, complex etiological factors. The matrix component of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) plays an important role not only in physical properties such as tissue rigidity but also in cancer progression and therapeutic responsiveness. Although significant efforts have been made to model desmoplastic PDAC, existing models could not fully recapitulate the etiology to mimic and understand the progression of PDAC. Here, two major components in desmoplastic pancreatic matrices, hyaluronic acid- and gelatin-based hydrogels, are engineered to provide matrices for tumor spheroids composed of PDAC and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF). Shape analysis profiles reveals that incorporating CAF contributes to a more compact tissue formation. Higher expression levels of markers associated with proliferation, epithelial to mesenchymal transition, mechanotransduction, and progression are observed for cancer-CAF spheroids cultured in hyper desmoplastic matrix-mimicking hydrogels, while the trend can be observed when those are cultured in desmoplastic matrix-mimicking hydrogels with the presence of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1). The proposed multicellular pancreatic tumor model, in combination with proper mechanical properties and TGF-β1 supplement, makes strides in developing advanced pancreatic models for resembling and monitoring the progression of pancreatic tumors, which could be potentially applicable for realizing personalized medicine and drug testing applications.
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8
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Kutle I, Polten R, Hachenberg J, Klapdor R, Morgan M, Schambach A. Tumor Organoid and Spheroid Models for Cervical Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15092518. [PMID: 37173984 PMCID: PMC10177622 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15092518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Cervical cancer is one of the most common malignant diseases in women worldwide. Despite the global introduction of a preventive vaccine against the leading cause of cervical cancer, human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, the incidence of this malignant disease is still very high, especially in economically challenged areas. New advances in cancer therapy, especially the rapid development and application of different immunotherapy strategies, have shown promising pre-clinical and clinical results. However, mortality from advanced stages of cervical cancer remains a significant concern. Precise and thorough evaluation of potential novel anti-cancer therapies in pre-clinical phases is indispensable for efficient development of new, more successful treatment options for cancer patients. Recently, 3D tumor models have become the gold standard in pre-clinical cancer research due to their capacity to better mimic the architecture and microenvironment of tumor tissue as compared to standard two-dimensional (2D) cell cultures. This review will focus on the application of spheroids and patient-derived organoids (PDOs) as tumor models to develop novel therapies against cervical cancer, with an emphasis on the immunotherapies that specifically target cancer cells and modulate the tumor microenvironment (TME).
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivana Kutle
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Robert Polten
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Jens Hachenberg
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Rüdiger Klapdor
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Michael Morgan
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Axel Schambach
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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9
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Tosca EM, Ronchi D, Facciolo D, Magni P. Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement of Animal Experiments in Anticancer Drug Development: The Contribution of 3D In Vitro Cancer Models in the Drug Efficacy Assessment. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11041058. [PMID: 37189676 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11041058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
In the last decades three-dimensional (3D) in vitro cancer models have been proposed as a bridge between bidimensional (2D) cell cultures and in vivo animal models, the gold standards in the preclinical assessment of anticancer drug efficacy. 3D in vitro cancer models can be generated through a multitude of techniques, from both immortalized cancer cell lines and primary patient-derived tumor tissue. Among them, spheroids and organoids represent the most versatile and promising models, as they faithfully recapitulate the complexity and heterogeneity of human cancers. Although their recent applications include drug screening programs and personalized medicine, 3D in vitro cancer models have not yet been established as preclinical tools for studying anticancer drug efficacy and supporting preclinical-to-clinical translation, which remains mainly based on animal experimentation. In this review, we describe the state-of-the-art of 3D in vitro cancer models for the efficacy evaluation of anticancer agents, focusing on their potential contribution to replace, reduce and refine animal experimentations, highlighting their strength and weakness, and discussing possible perspectives to overcome current challenges.
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10
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Fang Y, Imoukhuede PI. Axl and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptors Exhibit Variations in Membrane Localization and Heterogeneity Across Monolayer and Spheroid High-Grade Serous Ovarian Cancer Models. GEN BIOTECHNOLOGY 2023; 2:43-56. [PMID: 36873811 PMCID: PMC9976349 DOI: 10.1089/genbio.2022.0034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor receptors (VEGFRs) and Axl are receptor tyrosine kinases (RTK) that are targeted in ovarian cancer therapy. Two-dimensional monolayer culture and three-dimensional spheroids are common models for RTK-targeted drug screening: monolayers are simple and economical while spheroids include several genetic and histological tumor features. RTK membrane localization dictates RTK signaling and drug response, however, it is not characterized in these models. We quantify plasma membrane RTK concentrations and show differential RTK abundance and heterogeneity in monolayers versus spheroids. We show VEGFR1 concentrations on the plasma membrane to be 10 times higher in OVCAR8 spheroids than in monolayers; OVCAR8 spheroids are more heterogeneous than monolayers, exhibiting a bimodal distribution of a low-Axl (6200/cell) and a high-Axl subpopulation (25,000/cell). In addition, plasma membrane Axl concentrations differ by 100 times between chemosensitive (OVCAR3) and chemoresistant (OVCAR8) cells and by 10 times between chemoresistant cell lines (OVCAR5 vs. OVCAR8). These systematic findings can guide ovarian cancer model selection for drug screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingye Fang
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
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11
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Mei S, Chen X, Wang K, Chen Y. Tumor microenvironment in ovarian cancer peritoneal metastasis. Cancer Cell Int 2023; 23:11. [PMID: 36698173 PMCID: PMC9875479 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-023-02854-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer (OC) is one of the most common gynecological malignancies with high morbidity and mortality. The peritoneum is one of the most common metastatic sites in ovarian cancer, involving large amounts of ascites. However, its mechanism is unclear. The peritoneal microenvironment composed of peritoneal effusion and peritoneum creates favorable conditions for ovarian cancer progression and metastasis. Here, we reviewed the peritoneal metastasis patterns and molecular mechanisms of ovarian cancer, as well as major components of the peritoneal microenvironment, peritoneal effusion, and immune microenvironment, and investigated the relationship between the peritoneal microenvironment and ovarian cancer metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuangshuang Mei
- grid.469636.8Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province Affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Xi Men Road, Taizhou, 317000 Zhejiang China
| | - Xing Chen
- grid.469636.8Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province Affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Xi Men Road, Taizhou, 317000 Zhejiang China
| | - Kai Wang
- grid.469636.8Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province Affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Xi Men Road, Taizhou, 317000 Zhejiang China
| | - Yuxin Chen
- grid.469636.8Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province Affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University (Enze Hospital, Taizhou Enze Medical Center Group), Tong Yang Road, Taizhou, 318053 Zhejiang China
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12
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Nowicki A, Wawrzyniak D, Czajkowski M, Józkowiak M, Pawlak M, Wierzchowski M, Rolle K, Skupin-Mrugalska P, Piotrowska-Kempisty H. Enhanced biological activity of liposomal methylated resveratrol analog 3'-hydroxy-3,4,5,4'-tetramethoxystilbene (DMU-214) in 3D patient-derived ovarian cancer model. Drug Deliv 2022; 29:2459-2468. [PMID: 35892260 PMCID: PMC9336483 DOI: 10.1080/10717544.2022.2103210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
3′-hydroxy-3,4,5,4′-tetramethoxystilbene (DMU-214) belongs to methoxystilbenes family and is an active metabolite of 3,4,5,4′-tetramethoxystilbene (DMU-212). In several of our previous studies, the anti-apoptotic activity of DMU-214 was significantly higher than that of the parent compound, especially in ovarian cancer cells. Due to increased lipophilicity and limited solubility, methoxystilbenes require a solubilization strategy enabling DMU-214 administration to the aqueous environment. In this study, DMU-214-loaded liposomes were developed for the first time, and its antitumor activity was tested in the ovarian cancer model. First, several liposomal formulations of DMU-214 were obtained by the thin lipid film hydration method followed by extrusion and then characterized. The diameter of the resulting vesicles was in the range of 118.0-155.5 nm, and samples presented monodisperse size distribution. The release of DMU-214 from the studied liposomes was governed by the contribution of two mechanisms, Fickian diffusion and liposome relaxation. Subsequently, in vitro activity of DMU-214 in the form of a free compound or liposome-bound was studied, including commercial cell line SK-OV-3 and patient-derived ovarian cancer cells in monolayer and spheroid cell culture models. DMU-214 liposomal formulations were found to be more potent (had lower IC50 values) than the free DMU-214 both in the monolayer and, more significantly, in both examined spheroid models. The above results, with particular emphasis on the patient-derived ovarian cancer model, indicate the importance of further development of liposomal DMU-214 as a potential anticancer formulation for ovarian cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrzej Nowicki
- Department of Toxicology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Dariusz Wawrzyniak
- Department of Molecular Neurooncology, Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Mikołaj Czajkowski
- Department of Inorganic & Analytical Chemistry, Collegium Pharmaceuticum, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | | | | | - Marcin Wierzchowski
- Department of Chemical Technology of Drugs, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, PL, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Rolle
- Department of Molecular Neurooncology, Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Paulina Skupin-Mrugalska
- Department of Inorganic & Analytical Chemistry, Collegium Pharmaceuticum, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Hanna Piotrowska-Kempisty
- Department of Toxicology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland.,Department of Basic and Preclinical Sciences, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Torun, Poland
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13
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Fabrication of Cell Spheroids for 3D Cell Culture and Biomedical Applications. BIOCHIP JOURNAL 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s13206-022-00086-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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14
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Schoutrop E, Moyano-Galceran L, Lheureux S, Mattsson J, Lehti K, Dahlstrand H, Magalhaes I. Molecular, cellular and systemic aspects of epithelial ovarian cancer and its tumor microenvironment. Semin Cancer Biol 2022; 86:207-223. [PMID: 35395389 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2022.03.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Ovarian cancer encompasses a heterogeneous group of malignancies that involve the ovaries, fallopian tubes and the peritoneal cavity. Despite major advances made within the field of cancer, the majority of patients with ovarian cancer are still being diagnosed at an advanced stage of the disease due to lack of effective screening tools. The overall survival of these patients has, therefore, not substantially improved over the past decades. Most patients undergo debulking surgery and treatment with chemotherapy, but often micrometastases remain and acquire resistance to the therapy, eventually leading to disease recurrence. Here, we summarize the current knowledge in epithelial ovarian cancer development and metastatic progression. For the most common subtypes, we focus further on the properties and functions of the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, including the extracellular matrix. Current and future treatment modalities are discussed and finally we provide an overview of the different experimental models used to develop novel therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esther Schoutrop
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lidia Moyano-Galceran
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Stephanie Lheureux
- University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Division of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jonas Mattsson
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Gloria and Seymour Epstein Chair in Cell Therapy and Transplantation, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kaisa Lehti
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Hanna Dahlstrand
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Medical unit Pelvic Cancer, Theme Cancer, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Isabelle Magalhaes
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.
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15
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Foglizzo V, Cocco E, Marchiò S. Advanced Cellular Models for Preclinical Drug Testing: From 2D Cultures to Organ-On-A-Chip Technology. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14153692. [PMID: 35954355 PMCID: PMC9367322 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14153692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Novel strategies that aim at personalizing cancer therapy are in rapid evolution. In the past decade, new methods to test for the efficacy of either standard-of-care medicines or novel targeted compounds have been implemented. In this review, we introduce the reader to experimental studies that employ patient-derived material to produce spheroids, organoids, or organs-on-a-chip as platforms that allow a more accurate representation of cancer complexity compared to bidimensional cell cultures. We discuss on the versatility and reliability of these model systems, provide evidence of their usage in drug screenings, and describe potential downfalls. The open question is whether or not tumor mimicry in vitro will be, in the near future, advanced enough to prospectively inform about treatment outcome on a certain patient. Abstract Cancer is a complex disease arising from a homeostatic imbalance of cell-intrinsic and microenvironment-related mechanisms. A multimodal approach to treat cancer that includes surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy often fails in achieving tumor remission and produces unbearable side effects including secondary malignancies. Novel strategies have been implemented in the past decades in order to replace conventional chemotherapeutics with targeted, less toxic drugs. Up to now, scientists have relied on results achieved in animal research before proceeding to clinical trials. However, the high failure rate of targeted drugs in early phase trials leaves no doubt about the inadequacy of those models. In compliance with the need of reducing, and possibly replacing, animal research, studies have been conducted in vitro with advanced cellular models that more and more mimic the tumor in vivo. We will here review those methods that allow for the 3D reconstitution of the tumor and its microenvironment and the implementation of the organ-on-a-chip technology to study minimal organ units in disease progression. We will make specific reference to the usability of these systems as predictive cancer models and report on recent applications in high-throughput screenings of innovative and targeted drug compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Foglizzo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (V.F.); (E.C.)
| | - Emiliano Cocco
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (V.F.); (E.C.)
| | - Serena Marchiò
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, 10060 Candiolo, Italy
- Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo, Italy
- Correspondence:
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16
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Zhou J, Wang X, Han Y, Chu Q, Zheng Y. lncRNA-CCAT2 Reduces the Drug Resistance of Ovarian Cancer Cells. J BIOMATER TISS ENG 2022. [DOI: 10.1166/jbt.2022.3044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
This study assesses lncRNA-CCAT2’s role in reducing the drug resistance of ovarian cancer cell lines. Cisplatin-resistant SKOV-3/DDP cells were established and assigned into CC group (transfected with lncRNA CCAT2 siRNA-NC) and CA group (transfected with lncRNA CCAT2 siRNA) followed
by analysis of cell proliferation, apoptosis, expression of CCAT2, ERK1/2, Sp1 and relationship between CCAT2 and ERK1/2 and Sp1. CCAT2 expression in SKOV-3/DDP was higher than IOSE80 and SKOV-3 (P < 0.001). ERK1/2 expression in SKOV-3 and SKOV-3/DDP was 0.67±0.09, 1.97±0.40
(t = 14.18, P < 0.001). Sp1 level in SKOV-3 and SKOV-3/DDP was 0.49±0.05, 1.07±0.11 (P = 21.47, P < 0.001). Transfection of CCAT2 reduced cell fluorescence activity of ERK1/2 and Sp1 (P < 0.001). Cell proliferation in CC group and CA
group had no difference at 0 h (P > 0.001) and the inhibition of cell proliferation was found at 24 h (P < 0.001). CC group (5.13±0.51) had lower cell apoptosis rate than CA group (20.52±2.24) (t = 29.96, P < 0.001) but higher ERK1/2 and Sp1
protein level CC group than CA group (P < 0.001). In conclusion, transfection of lncRNA-CCAT2 inhibits SKOV-3/DDP proliferation by targeting ERK1/2-Sp1 signaling pathway, promotes apoptosis and reduces drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianyun Zhou
- Department of Gynecology, Haian People’s Hospital Affiliated to Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, 226600, China
| | - Xiumei Wang
- Department of Gynecology, Haian People’s Hospital Affiliated to Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, 226600, China
| | - Yun Han
- Department of Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University (Nantong First People’s Hospital), Nantong, Jiangsu, 226006, China
| | - Qiaoxiang Chu
- Department of Gynecology, Haian People’s Hospital Affiliated to Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, 226600, China
| | - Yanli Zheng
- Department of Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University (Nantong First People’s Hospital), Nantong, Jiangsu, 226006, China
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17
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Gupta P, Miller A, Olayanju A, Madhuri TK, Velliou E. A Systematic Comparative Assessment of the Response of Ovarian Cancer Cells to the Chemotherapeutic Cisplatin in 3D Models of Various Structural and Biochemical Configurations-Does One Model Type Fit All? Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14051274. [PMID: 35267582 PMCID: PMC8909317 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14051274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Revised: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Epithelial Ovarian Cancer is considered to be a ‘silent killer’ and a challenge for gynaecological health across the world due to its asymptotic nature in the early stages, its late-stage diagnosis, high recurrence rate and resistance to currently available treatment methods (chemotherapy). These disheartening figures highlight the need for extensive in vitro studies to better understand this disease. A number of in vitro 3D models are currently available to aid in the study of ovarian cancer and its response to therapeutic methods. In this work, we report, for the first time, a comprehensive comparative study of three widely used 3D in vitro models for ovarian cancer, along with chemotherapy assessment of primary and metastatic cells. Our study highlights the importance of selecting an appropriate 3D in vitro platform, which is based on multiple factors including the origin of cells used, experimental time period and experimental design, even for one specific disease. Abstract Epithelial Ovarian Cancer (EOC) is a silent, deadly and aggressive gynaecological disease with a relatively low survival rate. This has been attributed, to some extent, to EOC’s high recurrence rate and resistance to currently available platinum-based chemotherapeutic treatment methods. Multiple groups have studied and reported the effect of chemotherapeutic agents on various EOC 3D in vitro models. However, there are very few studies wherein a direct comparative study has been carried out between the different in vitro 3D models of EOC and the effect of chemotherapy within them. Herein, we report, for the first time, a direct comprehensive systematic comparative study of three different 3D in vitro platforms, namely (i) spheroids, (ii) synthetic PeptiGels/hydrogels of various chemical configurations and (iii) polymeric scaffolds with coatings of various extracellular matrices (ECMs) on the cell growth and response to the chemotherapeutic (Cisplatin) for ovary-derived (A2780) and metastatic (SK-OV-3) EOC cell lines. We report that all three 3D models are able to support the growth of EOC, but for different time periods (varying from 7 days to 4 weeks). We have also reported that chemoresistance to Cisplatin, in vitro, observed especially for metastatic EOC cells, is platform-dependent, in terms of both the structural and biochemical composition of the model/platform. Our study highlights the importance of selecting an appropriate 3D platform for in vitro tumour model development. We have demonstrated that the selection of the best platform for producing in vitro tumour models depends on the cancer/cell type, the experimental time period and the application for which the model is intended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priyanka Gupta
- Centre for 3D Models of Health and Disease, Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, University College London, London W1W 7TY, UK;
- Bioprocess and Biochemical Engineering Group (BioProChem), Department of Chemical and Process Engineering, University of Surrey, Surrey GU2 7XH, UK
| | - Aline Miller
- Manchester BIOGEL, 19F4, Mereside, Alderley Park, Alderley Edge, Chesire SK10 4TG, UK; (A.M.); (A.O.)
| | - Adedamola Olayanju
- Manchester BIOGEL, 19F4, Mereside, Alderley Park, Alderley Edge, Chesire SK10 4TG, UK; (A.M.); (A.O.)
| | - Thumuluru Kavitha Madhuri
- Department of Gynaecological Oncology Royal Surrey NHS Foundation Trust, Egerton Road, Guildford GU2 7XX, UK;
- Honorary Senior Lecturer in Cancer Research, School of Applied Sciences, University of Brighton, Huxley Building, Lewes Road, Brighton BN2 4GJ, UK
| | - Eirini Velliou
- Centre for 3D Models of Health and Disease, Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, University College London, London W1W 7TY, UK;
- Bioprocess and Biochemical Engineering Group (BioProChem), Department of Chemical and Process Engineering, University of Surrey, Surrey GU2 7XH, UK
- Correspondence:
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18
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Dunn E, Chitcholtan K, Sykes P, Garrill A. The Anti-Proliferative Effect of PI3K/mTOR and ERK Inhibition in Monolayer and Three-Dimensional Ovarian Cancer Cell Models. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14020395. [PMID: 35053555 PMCID: PMC8773481 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14020395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Revised: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary In ovarian cancer patients the PI3K/AKT/mTOR and RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK kinase signaling pathways are frequently dysregulated, making them potential targets of therapeutic inhibitors. In this study, we used four human ovarian cancer cell lines grown in two- and three-dimensional models to investigate the potential efficacy of combining two inhibitors, which target these pathways, against ovarian cancer. The inhibitor combination was found to have cell line- and model-dependent synergistic antiproliferative effect. Abstract Most ovarian cancer patients are diagnosed with advanced stage disease, which becomes unresponsive to chemotherapeutic treatments. The PI3K/AKT/mTOR and the RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK kinase signaling pathways are attractive targets for potential therapeutic inhibitors, due to the high frequency of mutations to PTEN, PIK3CA, KRAS and BRAF in several ovarian cancer subtypes. However, monotherapies targeting one of these pathways have shown modest effects in clinical trials. This limited efficacy of the agents could be due to upregulation and increased signaling via the adjacent alternative pathway. In this study, the efficacy of combined PI3K/mTOR (BEZ235) and ERK inhibition (SCH772984) was investigated in four human ovarian cancer cell lines, grown as monolayer and three-dimensional cell aggregates. The inhibitor combination reduced cellular proliferation in a synergistic manner in OV-90 and OVCAR8 monolayers and in OV-90, OVCAR5 and SKOV3 aggregates. Sensitivity to the inhibitors was reduced in three-dimensional cell aggregates in comparison to monolayers. OV-90 cells cultured in large spheroids were sensitive to the inhibitors and displayed a robust synergistic antiproliferative response to the inhibitor combination. In contrast, OVCAR8 spheroids were resistant to the inhibitors. These findings suggest that combined PI3K/mTOR and ERK inhibition could be a useful strategy for overcoming treatment resistance in ovarian cancer and warrants further preclinical investigation. Additionally, in some cell lines the use of different three-dimensional models can influence cell line sensitivity to PI3K/mTOR and RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK pathway inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Dunn
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Canterbury, Christchurch 8041, New Zealand
- Correspondence: (E.D.); (A.G.)
| | - Kenny Chitcholtan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Otago, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand; (K.C.); (P.S.)
| | - Peter Sykes
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Otago, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand; (K.C.); (P.S.)
| | - Ashley Garrill
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Canterbury, Christchurch 8041, New Zealand
- Biomolecular Interaction Centre, School of Biological Sciences, University of Canterbury, Christchurch 8041, New Zealand
- Correspondence: (E.D.); (A.G.)
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19
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Ritch SJ, Telleria CM. The Transcoelomic Ecosystem and Epithelial Ovarian Cancer Dissemination. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:886533. [PMID: 35574025 PMCID: PMC9096207 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.886533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is considered the deadliest gynecological disease and is normally diagnosed at late stages, at which point metastasis has already occurred. Throughout disease progression, EOC will encounter various ecosystems and the communication between cancer cells and these microenvironments will promote the survival and dissemination of EOC. The primary tumor is thought to develop within the ovaries or the fallopian tubes, both of which provide a microenvironment with high risk of causing DNA damage and enhanced proliferation. EOC disseminates by direct extension from the primary tumors, as single cells or multicellular aggregates. Under the influence of cellular and non-cellular factors, EOC spheroids use the natural flow of peritoneal fluid to reach distant organs within the peritoneal cavity. These cells can then implant and seed distant organs or tissues, which develop rapidly into secondary tumor nodules. The peritoneal tissue and the omentum are two common sites of EOC metastasis, providing a microenvironment that supports EOC invasion and survival. Current treatment for EOC involves debulking surgery followed by platinum-taxane combination chemotherapy; however, most patients will relapse with a chemoresistant disease with tumors developed within the peritoneum. Therefore, understanding the role of the unique microenvironments that promote EOC transcoelomic dissemination is important in improving patient outcomes from this disease. In this review article, we address the process of ovarian cancer cellular fate at the site of its origin in the secretory cells of the fallopian tube or in the ovarian surface epithelial cells, their detachment process, how the cells survive in the peritoneal fluid avoiding cell death triggers, and how cancer- associated cells help them in the process. Finally, we report the mechanisms used by the ovarian cancer cells to adhere and migrate through the mesothelial monolayer lining the peritoneum. We also discuss the involvement of the transcoelomic ecosystem on the development of chemoresistance of EOC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina J. Ritch
- Experimental Pathology Unit, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Carlos M. Telleria
- Experimental Pathology Unit, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Cancer Research Program, Research Institute, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
- *Correspondence: Carlos M. Telleria, ; orcid.org/0000-0003-1070-3538
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20
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The Impact of Astrocytes and Endothelial Cells on Glioblastoma Stemness Marker Expression in Multicellular Spheroids. Cell Mol Bioeng 2021; 14:639-651. [PMID: 34900016 DOI: 10.1007/s12195-021-00691-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), the most common primary brain tumor in adults, is extremely malignant and lethal. GBM tumors are highly heterogenous, being comprised of cellular and matrix components, which contribute to tumor cell invasion, cancer stem cell maintenance, and drug resistance. Here, we developed a heterotypic 3D spheroid model integrating GBM cells with astrocytes and endothelial cells (ECs) to better simulate the cellular components of the tumor microenvironment and investigate their impact on the stemness marker expression of GBM cells, which has not been previously investigated. Methods We used U87 GBM cells, C8-D1A mouse astrocytes, and human umbilical vein ECs to construct co- and tri-culture spheroid models in low-attachment U-well plates. We characterized the expression of known stemness markers NESTIN, SOX2, CD133, NANOG, and OCT4 in these models and compared it to respective mixed monoculture spheroids (control) using qRT-PCR and immunostaining. Results We incorporated GBM cells and astrocytes/ECs in 1:1, 1:2, 1:4, and 1:9 ratio and observed spontaneous self-assembled spheroids in all coculture conditions. We observed changing spheroid size dynamics over 7 days and an increased expression in stemness markers in GBM-astrocyte and GBM-EC coculture spheroids in 1:4 and 1:9 coculture conditions, respectively. In a triculture model employing GBM cells, astrocytes, and ECs in a 1:4:9 ratio, we found an increased expression of all the stemness markers. Conclusions We elucidated the impact of astrocytes and ECs on GBM stemness marker expression. This multicellular spheroid model may provide an important tool for investigating the crosstalk between cell types in GBM. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12195-021-00691-y.
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21
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Hilliard TS, Kowalski B, Iwamoto K, Agadi EA, Liu Y, Yang J, Asem M, Klymenko Y, Johnson J, Shi Z, Marfowaa G, Yemc MG, Petrasko P, Stack MS. Host Mesothelin Expression Increases Ovarian Cancer Metastasis in the Peritoneal Microenvironment. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222212443. [PMID: 34830322 PMCID: PMC8623331 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222212443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Mesothelin (MSLN), a glycoprotein normally expressed by mesothelial cells, is overexpressed in ovarian cancer (OvCa) suggesting a role in tumor progression, although the biological function is not fully understood. OvCa has a high mortality rate due to diagnosis at advanced stage disease with intraperitoneal metastasis. Tumor cells detach from the primary tumor as single cells or multicellular aggregates (MCAs) and attach to the mesothelium of organs within the peritoneal cavity producing widely disseminated secondary lesions. To investigate the role of host MSLN in the peritoneal cavity we used a mouse model with a null mutation in the MSLN gene (MSLNKO). The deletion of host MSLN expression modified the peritoneal ultrastructure resulting in abnormal mesothelial cell surface architecture and altered omental collagen fibril organization. Co-culture of murine OvCa cells with primary mesothelial cells regardless of MSLN expression formed compact MCAs. However, co-culture with MSLNKO mesothelial cells resulted in smaller MCAs. An allograft tumor study, using wild-type mice (MSLNWT) or MSLNKO mice injected intraperitoneally with murine OvCa cells demonstrated a significant decrease in peritoneal metastatic tumor burden in MSLNKO mice compared to MSLNWT mice. Together, these data support a role for host MSLN in the progression of OvCa metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyvette S. Hilliard
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, USA; (B.K.); (E.A.A.); (M.A.); (M.S.S.)
- Harper Cancer Research Institute, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, USA; (Y.L.); (J.Y.); (Y.K.); (J.J.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-574-631-2453
| | - Brooke Kowalski
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, USA; (B.K.); (E.A.A.); (M.A.); (M.S.S.)
| | - Kyle Iwamoto
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, USA;
| | - Elizabeth A. Agadi
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, USA; (B.K.); (E.A.A.); (M.A.); (M.S.S.)
- Harper Cancer Research Institute, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, USA; (Y.L.); (J.Y.); (Y.K.); (J.J.)
- Integrated Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, USA
| | - Yueying Liu
- Harper Cancer Research Institute, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, USA; (Y.L.); (J.Y.); (Y.K.); (J.J.)
| | - Jing Yang
- Harper Cancer Research Institute, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, USA; (Y.L.); (J.Y.); (Y.K.); (J.J.)
| | - Marwa Asem
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, USA; (B.K.); (E.A.A.); (M.A.); (M.S.S.)
- Harper Cancer Research Institute, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, USA; (Y.L.); (J.Y.); (Y.K.); (J.J.)
| | - Yuliya Klymenko
- Harper Cancer Research Institute, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, USA; (Y.L.); (J.Y.); (Y.K.); (J.J.)
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, USA
| | - Jeff Johnson
- Harper Cancer Research Institute, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, USA; (Y.L.); (J.Y.); (Y.K.); (J.J.)
| | - Zonggao Shi
- St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA;
| | - Gifty Marfowaa
- Department of Pre-Professional Studies, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, USA;
| | - Madeleine G. Yemc
- Department of Science Business, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, USA; (M.G.Y.); (P.P.)
| | - Phillip Petrasko
- Department of Science Business, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, USA; (M.G.Y.); (P.P.)
| | - M. Sharon Stack
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, USA; (B.K.); (E.A.A.); (M.A.); (M.S.S.)
- Harper Cancer Research Institute, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, USA; (Y.L.); (J.Y.); (Y.K.); (J.J.)
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22
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Mendoza-Martinez AK, Loessner D, Mata A, Azevedo HS. Modeling the Tumor Microenvironment of Ovarian Cancer: The Application of Self-Assembling Biomaterials. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:5745. [PMID: 34830897 PMCID: PMC8616551 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13225745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Revised: 11/07/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer (OvCa) is one of the leading causes of gynecologic malignancies. Despite treatment with surgery and chemotherapy, OvCa disseminates and recurs frequently, reducing the survival rate for patients. There is an urgent need to develop more effective treatment options for women diagnosed with OvCa. The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a key driver of disease progression, metastasis and resistance to treatment. For this reason, 3D models have been designed to represent this specific niche and allow more realistic cell behaviors compared to conventional 2D approaches. In particular, self-assembling peptides represent a promising biomaterial platform to study tumor biology. They form nanofiber networks that resemble the architecture of the extracellular matrix and can be designed to display mechanical properties and biochemical motifs representative of the TME. In this review, we highlight the properties and benefits of emerging 3D platforms used to model the ovarian TME. We also outline the challenges associated with using these 3D systems and provide suggestions for future studies and developments. We conclude that our understanding of OvCa and advances in materials science will progress the engineering of novel 3D approaches, which will enable the development of more effective therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Karen Mendoza-Martinez
- School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London E1 4NS, UK;
- Institute of Bioengineering, Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London E1 4NS, UK
| | - Daniela Loessner
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3800, Australia;
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3800, Australia
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3800, Australia
- Max Bergmann Center of Biomaterials Dresden, Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research Dresden e.V., 01069 Dresden, Germany
| | - Alvaro Mata
- School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK;
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
- Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Helena S. Azevedo
- School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London E1 4NS, UK;
- Institute of Bioengineering, Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London E1 4NS, UK
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23
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Habanjar O, Diab-Assaf M, Caldefie-Chezet F, Delort L. 3D Cell Culture Systems: Tumor Application, Advantages, and Disadvantages. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:12200. [PMID: 34830082 PMCID: PMC8618305 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222212200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Revised: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The traditional two-dimensional (2D) in vitro cell culture system (on a flat support) has long been used in cancer research. However, this system cannot be fully translated into clinical trials to ideally represent physiological conditions. This culture cannot mimic the natural tumor microenvironment due to the lack of cellular communication (cell-cell) and interaction (cell-cell and cell-matrix). To overcome these limitations, three-dimensional (3D) culture systems are increasingly developed in research and have become essential for tumor research, tissue engineering, and basic biology research. 3D culture has received much attention in the field of biomedicine due to its ability to mimic tissue structure and function. The 3D matrix presents a highly dynamic framework where its components are deposited, degraded, or modified to delineate functions and provide a platform where cells attach to perform their specific functions, including adhesion, proliferation, communication, and apoptosis. So far, various types of models belong to this culture: either the culture based on natural or synthetic adherent matrices used to design 3D scaffolds as biomaterials to form a 3D matrix or based on non-adherent and/or matrix-free matrices to form the spheroids. In this review, we first summarize a comparison between 2D and 3D cultures. Then, we focus on the different components of the natural extracellular matrix that can be used as supports in 3D culture. Then we detail different types of natural supports such as matrigel, hydrogels, hard supports, and different synthetic strategies of 3D matrices such as lyophilization, electrospiding, stereolithography, microfluid by citing the advantages and disadvantages of each of them. Finally, we summarize the different methods of generating normal and tumor spheroids, citing their respective advantages and disadvantages in order to obtain an ideal 3D model (matrix) that retains the following characteristics: better biocompatibility, good mechanical properties corresponding to the tumor tissue, degradability, controllable microstructure and chemical components like the tumor tissue, favorable nutrient exchange and easy separation of the cells from the matrix.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ola Habanjar
- Université Clermont-Auvergne, INRAE, UNH, Unité de Nutrition Humaine, CRNH-Auvergne, 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France; (O.H.); (F.C.-C.)
| | - Mona Diab-Assaf
- Equipe Tumorigénèse Pharmacologie Moléculaire et Anticancéreuse, Faculté des Sciences II, Université Libanaise Fanar, Beyrouth 1500, Liban;
| | - Florence Caldefie-Chezet
- Université Clermont-Auvergne, INRAE, UNH, Unité de Nutrition Humaine, CRNH-Auvergne, 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France; (O.H.); (F.C.-C.)
| | - Laetitia Delort
- Université Clermont-Auvergne, INRAE, UNH, Unité de Nutrition Humaine, CRNH-Auvergne, 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France; (O.H.); (F.C.-C.)
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24
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Aguilar Cosme JR, Gagui DC, Green NH, Bryant HE, Claeyssens F. In Vitro Low-Fluence Photodynamic Therapy Parameter Screening Using 3D Tumor Spheroids Shows that Fractionated Light Treatments Enhance Phototoxicity. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2021; 7:5078-5089. [PMID: 34615346 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.1c00690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The evaluation of novel photosensitizers (PSs) for photodynamic therapy (PDT) is difficult due to the limitations of two-dimensional cell culture and multiple parameters (dose, light intensity, uptake time), which complicate progression to in vivo experiments and clinical translation. Three-dimensional (3D) cell culture models like multicellular cancer tumor spheroids (MCTS) show great similarities to in vivo avascular tumor conditions, improving the speed and accuracy of screening novel compounds with various treatment combinations. In this study, we utilize C8161 human melanoma spheroids to screen PDT treatment combinations using protoporphyrin IX (PpIX) and drug-loaded carbon dot (CD) conjugates PpIX-CD and PpIX@CD at ultralow fluence values (<10 J/cm2). Conjugates show equivalent light-induced damage to PpIX from 1 μg/mL with significantly less dark cytotoxicity up to 72 h after exposure, shown by LDH release and dsDNA content. Fractionated treatments, carried out by dividing light exposure with 24 h intervals, demonstrate an enhanced PDT effect compared to single exposure at equal concentrations. Light sheet fluorescence microscopy combined with live/dead staining demonstrates that spheroids sustain extensive damage after PDT, with PpIX and PpIX-CD showing improved uptake compared to PpIX@CD. We show that PDT parameter screening can be carried out using a low-cost and convenient combination of assays to improve the efficiency of evaluating novel compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose R Aguilar Cosme
- University of Sheffield, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Kroto Research Institute, Red Hill, Sheffield S3 7HQ, United Kingdom.,INSIGNEO Institute for In Silico Medicine, University of Sheffield, Pam Liversidge Building, Mappin Street, Sheffield S1 3JD, United Kingdom
| | - Dan C Gagui
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, The Medical School, University of Sheffield, Beech Hill Road, Sheffield S10 2RX, United Kingdom.,INSIGNEO Institute for In Silico Medicine, University of Sheffield, Pam Liversidge Building, Mappin Street, Sheffield S1 3JD, United Kingdom
| | - Nicola H Green
- University of Sheffield, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Kroto Research Institute, Red Hill, Sheffield S3 7HQ, United Kingdom.,INSIGNEO Institute for In Silico Medicine, University of Sheffield, Pam Liversidge Building, Mappin Street, Sheffield S1 3JD, United Kingdom
| | - Helen E Bryant
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, The Medical School, University of Sheffield, Beech Hill Road, Sheffield S10 2RX, United Kingdom
| | - Frederik Claeyssens
- University of Sheffield, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Kroto Research Institute, Red Hill, Sheffield S3 7HQ, United Kingdom.,INSIGNEO Institute for In Silico Medicine, University of Sheffield, Pam Liversidge Building, Mappin Street, Sheffield S1 3JD, United Kingdom
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25
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Development of Breast Cancer Spheroids to Evaluate Cytotoxic Response to an Anticancer Peptide. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13111863. [PMID: 34834277 PMCID: PMC8619419 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13111863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Revised: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women and one of the most common causes of cancer-related deaths. Despite intense research efforts, BC treatment still remains challenging. Improved drug development strategies are needed for impactful benefit to patients. Current preclinical studies rely mostly on cell-based screenings, using two-dimensional (2D) cell monolayers that do not mimic in vivo tumors properly. Herein, we explored the development and characterization of three-dimensional (3D) models, named spheroids, of the most aggressive BC subtypes (triple-negative breast cancer-TNBC; and human-epidermal growth receptor-2-HER2+), using the liquid overlay technique with several selected cell lines. In these cell line-derived spheroids, we studied cell density, proliferation, ultrastructure, apoptosis, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and cell permeabilization (live/dead). The results showed a formation of compact and homogeneous spheroids on day 7 after seeding 2000 cells/well for MDA-MB-231 and 5000 cells/well for BT-20 and BT-474. Next, we compared the efficacy of a model anticancer peptide (ACP) in cell monolayers and spheroids. Overall, the results demonstrated spheroids to be less sensitive to treatment than cell monolayers, revealing the need for more robust models in drug development.
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26
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Yan F, Gunay G, Valerio TI, Wang C, Wilson JA, Haddad MS, Watson M, Connell MO, Davidson N, Fung KM, Acar H, Tang Q. Characterization and quantification of necrotic tissues and morphology in multicellular ovarian cancer tumor spheroids using optical coherence tomography. BIOMEDICAL OPTICS EXPRESS 2021; 12:3352-3371. [PMID: 34221665 PMCID: PMC8221959 DOI: 10.1364/boe.425512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Revised: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
The three-dimensional (3D) tumor spheroid model is a critical tool for high-throughput ovarian cancer research and anticancer drug development in vitro. However, the 3D structure prevents high-resolution imaging of the inner side of the spheroids. We aim to visualize and characterize 3D morphological and physiological information of the contact multicellular ovarian tumor spheroids growing over time. We intend to further evaluate the distinctive evolutions of the tumor spheroid and necrotic tissue volumes in different cell numbers and determine the most appropriate mathematical model for fitting the growth of tumor spheroids and necrotic tissues. A label-free and noninvasive swept-source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT) imaging platform was applied to obtain two-dimensional (2D) and 3D morphologies of ovarian tumor spheroids over 18 days. Ovarian tumor spheroids of two different initial cell numbers (5,000- and 50,000- cells) were cultured and imaged (each day) over the time of growth in 18 days. Four mathematical models (Exponential-Linear, Gompertz, logistic, and Boltzmann) were employed to describe the growth kinetics of the tumor spheroids volume and necrotic tissues. Ovarian tumor spheroids have different growth curves with different initial cell numbers and their growths contain different stages with various growth rates over 18 days. The volumes of 50,000-cells spheroids and the corresponding necrotic tissues are larger than that of the 5,000-cells spheroids. The formation of necrotic tissue in 5,000-cells numbers is slower than that in the 50,000-cells ones. Moreover, the Boltzmann model exhibits the best fitting performance for the growth of tumor spheroids and necrotic tissues. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) can serve as a promising imaging modality to visualize and characterize morphological and physiological features of multicellular ovarian tumor spheroids. The Boltzmann model integrating with 3D OCT data of ovarian tumor spheroids provides great potential for high-throughput cancer research in vitro and aiding in drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Yan
- Stephenson School of Biomedical Engineering, University of Oklahoma, OK 73019, USA
- Equal contribution
| | - Gokhan Gunay
- Stephenson School of Biomedical Engineering, University of Oklahoma, OK 73019, USA
- Equal contribution
| | - Trisha I Valerio
- Stephenson School of Biomedical Engineering, University of Oklahoma, OK 73019, USA
- Equal contribution
| | - Chen Wang
- Stephenson School of Biomedical Engineering, University of Oklahoma, OK 73019, USA
| | - Jayla A Wilson
- Stephenson School of Biomedical Engineering, University of Oklahoma, OK 73019, USA
| | - Majood S Haddad
- Stephenson School of Biomedical Engineering, University of Oklahoma, OK 73019, USA
| | - Maegan Watson
- Stephenson School of Biomedical Engineering, University of Oklahoma, OK 73019, USA
| | - Michael O Connell
- Stephenson School of Biomedical Engineering, University of Oklahoma, OK 73019, USA
| | - Noah Davidson
- Stephenson School of Biomedical Engineering, University of Oklahoma, OK 73019, USA
| | - Kar-Ming Fung
- Department of Pathology, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City 73104, USA
- Stephenson Cancer Center, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City 73104, USA
| | - Handan Acar
- Stephenson School of Biomedical Engineering, University of Oklahoma, OK 73019, USA
- Stephenson Cancer Center, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City 73104, USA
| | - Qinggong Tang
- Stephenson School of Biomedical Engineering, University of Oklahoma, OK 73019, USA
- Stephenson Cancer Center, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City 73104, USA
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27
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Nowacka M, Sterzynska K, Andrzejewska M, Nowicki M, Januchowski R. Drug resistance evaluation in novel 3D in vitro model. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 138:111536. [PMID: 34311534 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.111536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Revised: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer rates the highest mortality among all gynecological malignancies. The main reason for high mortality is the development of drug resistance. It can be related to changes in the expression of many drug resistance genes as well as expression of extracellular matrix proteins and cell density in the tumor. We developed a simple two-dimensional and three-dimensional model of drug sensitive A2780 and resistant to cisplatin and paclitaxel variants of ovarian cancer cell line. Using MTT assay, we compared drug resistance in two-dimensional and three-dimensional cell culture conditions. Real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis was used to compare the expression of drug resistance genes. The expression of proteins in spheroids was determined by immunohistochemistry. We observed a moderate increase in cisplatin resistance and a significant increase in paclitaxel resistance between two-dimensional and three-dimensional cell culture conditions. Our findings show that changes in the expression of drug resistance genes may play a crucial role in the drug resistance of cancer cells in traditional cell culture. On the other hand, the drug resistance in spheroids may result from different mechanisms such as cell density in the spheroid, extracellular matrix proteins expression and drug capacity to diffuse into the spheroid.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Nowacka
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, PL-61-781 Poznan, Poland.
| | - Karolina Sterzynska
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, PL-61-781 Poznan, Poland.
| | - Malgorzata Andrzejewska
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, PL-61-781 Poznan, Poland.
| | - Michal Nowicki
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, PL-61-781 Poznan, Poland.
| | - Radoslaw Januchowski
- Institute of Health Sciences, Collegium Medicum, University of Zielona Gora, Zyty 28 St, 65-046 Zielona Gora, Poland.
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28
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Bensen RC, Gunay G, Finneran MC, Jhingan I, Acar H, Burgett AWG. Small Molecule Targeting of Oxysterol-Binding Protein (OSBP)-Related Protein 4 and OSBP Inhibits Ovarian Cancer Cell Proliferation in Monolayer and Spheroid Cell Models. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2021; 4:744-756. [PMID: 33860198 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.0c00207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The development of precision drugs for the selective treatment of ovarian cancer will require targeting proliferative factors selectively expressed in ovarian tumors or targeting unique physiological microenvironments specific for ovarian tumors. Here, we report that oxysterol-binding protein (OSBP)-related protein 4 (ORP4) is a potential druggable precision target in ovarian cancer cells. ORP4 has limited expression in normal tissues and was recently recognized to be a cancer-specific driver of cellular proliferation, including in patient-isolated leukemias. We demonstrate that ORP4 is strongly expressed in a panel of ovarian cancer cell lines. The antiproliferative natural product compound OSW-1 targets ORP4 and OSBP. Our results demonstrate that the OSW-1 compound has high antiproliferative potency in both monolayer and three-dimensional ovarian cancer spheroid models, especially compared to the standard-of-care agents cisplatin and paclitaxel. OSW-1 compound treatment induces a loss of ORP4 expression after 48 h, which is coincident with the cytotoxic effects of OSW-1. The absence of extracellular lipids markedly potentiated the cytotoxicity of OSW-1, which was reversed by addition of extracellular free cholesterol. OSBP, but not ORP4, is reported to transport cholesterol and other lipids between organelles. Our results indicate that the targeting of ORP4 is responsible for the antiproliferative activity of the OSW-1 compound, but that in the absence of exogenously supplied cholesterol, which might be similar to the in vivo ovarian cancer microenvironment, possible OSW-1 targeting of OSBP further potentiates the anticancer activity of the compound. Overall, ORP4 and potentially OSBP are revealed as potential druggable targets for the development of novel treatments for ovarian cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan C Bensen
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Oklahoma, Norman, Oklahoma 73019, United States
| | - Gokhan Gunay
- Stephenson School of Biomedical Engineering, University of Oklahoma, Norman, Oklahoma 73019, United States
| | - Matthew C Finneran
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Oklahoma, Norman, Oklahoma 73019, United States
| | - Isha Jhingan
- Stephenson School of Biomedical Engineering, University of Oklahoma, Norman, Oklahoma 73019, United States
| | - Handan Acar
- Stephenson School of Biomedical Engineering, University of Oklahoma, Norman, Oklahoma 73019, United States.,Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73104, United States
| | - Anthony W G Burgett
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Oklahoma, Norman, Oklahoma 73019, United States.,Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73117, United States.,Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73104, United States
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29
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Shen H, Cai S, Wu C, Yang W, Yu H, Liu L. Recent Advances in Three-Dimensional Multicellular Spheroid Culture and Future Development. MICROMACHINES 2021; 12:96. [PMID: 33477508 PMCID: PMC7831097 DOI: 10.3390/mi12010096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2020] [Revised: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Three-dimensional multicellular spheroids (MCSs) have received extensive attention in the field of biomedicine due to their ability to simulate the structure and function of tissues in vivo more accurately than traditional in vitro two-dimensional models and to simulate cell-cell and cell extracellular matrix (ECM) interactions. It has become an important in vitro three-dimensional model for tumor research, high-throughput drug screening, tissue engineering, and basic biology research. In the review, we first summarize methods for MCSs generation and their respective advantages and disadvantages and highlight the advances of hydrogel and microfluidic systems in the generation of spheroids. Then, we look at the application of MCSs in cancer research and other aspects. Finally, we discuss the development direction and prospects of MCSs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Honglin Shen
- School of Electromechanical and Automotive Engineering, Yantai University, Yantai 264005, China; (H.S.); (S.C.); (C.W.)
| | - Shuxiang Cai
- School of Electromechanical and Automotive Engineering, Yantai University, Yantai 264005, China; (H.S.); (S.C.); (C.W.)
| | - Chuanxiang Wu
- School of Electromechanical and Automotive Engineering, Yantai University, Yantai 264005, China; (H.S.); (S.C.); (C.W.)
| | - Wenguang Yang
- School of Electromechanical and Automotive Engineering, Yantai University, Yantai 264005, China; (H.S.); (S.C.); (C.W.)
| | - Haibo Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics, Shenyang Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang 110016, China; (H.Y.); (L.L.)
| | - Lianqing Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics, Shenyang Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang 110016, China; (H.Y.); (L.L.)
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30
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Natural and Synthetic Biomaterials for Engineering Multicellular Tumor Spheroids. Polymers (Basel) 2020; 12:polym12112506. [PMID: 33126468 PMCID: PMC7692845 DOI: 10.3390/polym12112506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Revised: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The lack of in vitro models that represent the native tumor microenvironment is a significant challenge for cancer research. Two-dimensional (2D) monolayer culture has long been the standard for in vitro cell-based studies. However, differences between 2D culture and the in vivo environment have led to poor translation of cancer research from in vitro to in vivo models, slowing the progress of the field. Recent advances in three-dimensional (3D) culture have improved the ability of in vitro culture to replicate in vivo conditions. Although 3D cultures still cannot achieve the complexity of the in vivo environment, they can still better replicate the cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions of solid tumors. Multicellular tumor spheroids (MCTS) are three-dimensional (3D) clusters of cells with tumor-like features such as oxygen gradients and drug resistance, and represent an important translational tool for cancer research. Accordingly, natural and synthetic polymers, including collagen, hyaluronic acid, Matrigel®, polyethylene glycol (PEG), alginate and chitosan, have been used to form and study MCTS for improved clinical translatability. This review evaluates the current state of biomaterial-based MCTS formation, including advantages and disadvantages of the different biomaterials and their recent applications to the field of cancer research, with a focus on the past five years.
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