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Qiao X, Wu X, Chen S, Niu MM, Hua H, Zhang Y. Discovery of novel and potent dual-targeting AXL/HDAC2 inhibitors for colorectal cancer treatment via structure-based pharmacophore modelling, virtual screening, and molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulation studies, and biological evaluation. J Enzyme Inhib Med Chem 2024; 39:2295241. [PMID: 38134358 PMCID: PMC10763849 DOI: 10.1080/14756366.2023.2295241] [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: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common cancers worldwide. Nowadays, owing to the complex mechanism of tumorigenesis, simultaneous inhibition of multiple targets is an important anticancer strategy. Recent studies have demonstrated receptor tyrosine kinase AXL (AXL) and histone deacetylase 2 (HDAC2) are closely associated with colorectal cancer. Herein, we identified five hit compounds concurrently targeting AXL and HDAC2 using virtual screening. Inhibitory experiments revealed these hit compounds potently inhibited AXL and HDAC2 in the nanomolar range. Among them, Hit-3 showed the strongest inhibitory effects which were better than that of the positive control groups. Additionally, MD assays showed that Hit-3 could bind stably to the AXL and HDAC2 active pockets. Further MTT assays demonstrated that Hit-3 showed potent anti-proliferative activity. Most importantly, Hit-3 exhibited significant in vivo antitumor efficacy in xenograft models. Collectively, this study is the first discovery of dual-targeting AXL/HDAC2 inhibitors for colorectal cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Qiao
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Huaian Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Huaian, China
| | - Xiangyu Wu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Huaian Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Huaian, China
| | - Shutong Chen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Miao-Miao Niu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Huilian Hua
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Taizhou People’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Taizhou, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Taizhou People’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Taizhou, China
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2
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Gholizadeh N, Rokni GR, Zaresharifi S, Gheisari M, Tabari MAK, Zoghi G. Revolutionizing non-melanoma skin cancer treatment: Receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors take the stage. J Cosmet Dermatol 2024. [PMID: 38812406 DOI: 10.1111/jocd.16355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Innovative treatments for non-melanoma skin cancers (NMSCs) are required to enhance patient outcomes. AIMS This review examines the effectiveness and safety of receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors (RTKIs). METHODS A comprehensive review was conducted on the treatment potential of several RTKIs, namely cetuximab, erlotinib, gefitinib, panitumumab, and lapatinib. RESULTS The findings indicate that these targeted therapies hold great promise for the treatment of NMSCs. However, it is crucial to consider relapse rates and possible adverse effects. Further research is needed to improve treatment strategies, identify patient groups that would benefit the most, and assess the long-term efficacy and safety, despite the favorable results reported in previous studies. Furthermore, it is crucial to investigate the potential benefits of integrating RTKIs with immunotherapy and other treatment modalities to enhance the overall efficacy of therapy for individuals with NMSC. CONCLUSIONS Targeted therapies for NMSCs may be possible with the use of RTKIs. The majority of studies focused on utilizing epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors as the primary class of RTKIs for the treatment of NMSC. Other RTKIs were only employed in experimental investigations. Research indicates that RTKIs could potentially serve as a suitable alternative for elderly patients who are unable to undergo chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nasim Gholizadeh
- Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Ghasem Rahmatpour Rokni
- Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Shirin Zaresharifi
- Skin Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Gheisari
- Skin Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Amin Khazeei Tabari
- Student Research Committee, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
- USERN Office, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Ghazal Zoghi
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran
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3
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Miao YR, Rankin EB, Giaccia AJ. Therapeutic targeting of the functionally elusive TAM receptor family. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2024; 23:201-217. [PMID: 38092952 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-023-00846-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
The TAM receptor family of TYRO3, AXL and MERTK regulates tissue and immune homeostasis. Aberrant TAM receptor signalling has been linked to a range of diseases, including cancer, fibrosis and viral infections. Specifically, the dysregulation of TAM receptors can enhance tumour growth and metastasis due to their involvement in multiple oncogenic pathways. For example, TAM receptors have been implicated in the epithelial-mesenchymal transition, maintaining the stem cell phenotype, immune modulation, proliferation, angiogenesis and resistance to conventional and targeted therapies. Therapeutically, multiple TAM receptor inhibitors are in preclinical and clinical development for cancers and other indications, with those targeting AXL being the most clinically advanced. Although there has been notable clinical advancement in recent years, challenges persist. This Review aims to provide both biological and clinical insights into the current therapeutic landscape of TAM receptor inhibitors, and evaluates their potential for the treatment of cancer and non-malignant diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Rebecca Miao
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Erinn B Rankin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
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Zhuo L, Guo M, Zhang S, Wu J, Wang M, Shen Y, Peng X, Wang Z, Jiang W, Huang W. Structure-activity relationship study of 1,6-naphthyridinone derivatives as selective type II AXL inhibitors with potent antitumor efficacy. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 265:116090. [PMID: 38169272 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.116090] [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: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
The role of AXL in various oncogenic processes has made it an attractive target for cancer therapy. Currently, kinase selectivity profiles, especially circumventing MET inhibition, remain a scientific issue of great interest in the discovery of selective type II AXL inhibitors. Starting from a dual MET/AXL-targeted lead structure from our previous work, we optimized a 1,6-naphthyridinone series using molecular modeling-assisted compound design to improve AXL potency and selectivity over MET, resulting in the potent and selective type II AXL-targeted compound 25c. This showed excellent AXL inhibitory activity (IC50 = 1.1 nM) and 343-fold selectivity over the highly homologous kinase MET in biochemical assays. Moreover, compound 25c significantly inhibited AXL-driven cell proliferation, dose-dependently suppressed 4T1 cell migration and invasion, and induced apoptosis. Compound 25c also showed noticeable antitumor efficacy in a BaF3/TEL-AXL xenograft model at well-tolerated doses. Overall, this study presented a potent and selective type II AXL-targeted lead compound for further drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linsheng Zhuo
- Postdoctoral Station for Basic Medicine, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China; School of Pharmaceutical Science, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China.
| | - Mengqin Guo
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China
| | - Siyi Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China
| | - Junbo Wu
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Hengyang Central Hospital, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China
| | - Mingshu Wang
- Key Laboratory of Pesticide & Chemical Biology of Ministry of Education, International Joint Research Center for Intelligent Biosensor Technology and Health, College of Chemistry, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, 430079, China
| | - Yang Shen
- Postdoctoral Station for Basic Medicine, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China
| | - Xue Peng
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China
| | - Zhen Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China
| | - Weifan Jiang
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China.
| | - Wei Huang
- Key Laboratory of Pesticide & Chemical Biology of Ministry of Education, International Joint Research Center for Intelligent Biosensor Technology and Health, College of Chemistry, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, 430079, China.
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5
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Im K, Choi YJ, Kim DH, Kim DS, Ban K, Ji W, Baek IJ, Choi CM, Lee JC, Rho JK. AXL receptor tyrosine kinase inhibition improves the anti-tumor effects of CD8 + T cells by inducing CD103 + dendritic cell-mediated T cell priming. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2023; 680:7-14. [PMID: 37703603 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2023.09.021] [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: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
AXL is a member of TAM receptor family and has been highlighted as a potential target for cancer treatment. Accumulating evidence has uncovered the critical role of the AXL signaling pathway in tumor growth, metastasis, and resistance against anti-cancer drugs, as well as its association with cancer immune escape. However, the function of AXL as a manipulator of the immune system in the tumor microenvironment (TME) remains unclear. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the impact of AXL on immune cells in the TME of a syngeneic tumor model using AXL knockout (AXL-/-) mice. Compared to AXL wild-type (AXL+/+) mice, tumor growth was significantly suppressed in AXL-/- mice, and an induced population of tumor-infiltrated CD8+ T cells and CD103+ dendritic cells (DCs) was observed. The change of CD8+ T cells and CD103+ DCs was also confirmed in tumor-draining lymph nodes (TdLN). In addition, the clonal expansion of OVA-specific CD8+ T cells was dominant in AXL-/- mice. Finally, anti-PD-1 treatment evidenced synergistic anti-cancer effects in AXL-/- mice. Overall, our data indicate that AXL signaling may inhibit the clonal expansion of tumor-specific CD8+ T cells through the regulation of the migration of CD8+ T cells and DCs in TME. Thus, AXL may be a powerful molecular target to improve anti-cancer effects through single or combined therapy with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI).
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyungtaek Im
- Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan, College of Medicine, Seoul, 05505, South Korea
| | - Yun Jung Choi
- Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan, College of Medicine, Seoul, 05505, South Korea
| | - Dong Ha Kim
- Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan, College of Medicine, Seoul, 05505, South Korea
| | - Da-Som Kim
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Asan Medical Center, AMIST, University of Ulsan, College of Medicine, Seoul, 05505, South Korea
| | - Kyosun Ban
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Asan Medical Center, AMIST, University of Ulsan, College of Medicine, Seoul, 05505, South Korea
| | - Wonjun Ji
- Department of Pulmonology and Critical Care Medicine, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan, College of Medicine, Seoul, 05505, South Korea
| | - In-Jeoung Baek
- Department of Cell and Genetic Engineering, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan, College of Medicine, Seoul, 05505, South Korea
| | - Chang-Min Choi
- Department of Pulmonology and Critical Care Medicine, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan, College of Medicine, Seoul, 05505, South Korea
| | - Jae Cheol Lee
- Department of Oncology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan, College of Medicine, Seoul, 05505, South Korea
| | - Jin Kyung Rho
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan, College of Medicine, Seoul, 05505, South Korea.
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6
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DeRyckere D, Huelse JM, Earp HS, Graham DK. TAM family kinases as therapeutic targets at the interface of cancer and immunity. Nat Rev Clin Oncol 2023; 20:755-779. [PMID: 37667010 DOI: 10.1038/s41571-023-00813-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
Novel treatment approaches are needed to overcome innate and acquired mechanisms of resistance to current anticancer therapies in cancer cells and the tumour immune microenvironment. The TAM (TYRO3, AXL and MERTK) family receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) are potential therapeutic targets in a wide range of cancers. In cancer cells, TAM RTKs activate signalling pathways that promote cell survival, metastasis and resistance to a variety of chemotherapeutic agents and targeted therapies. TAM RTKs also function in innate immune cells, contributing to various mechanisms that suppress antitumour immunity and promote resistance to immune-checkpoint inhibitors. Therefore, TAM antagonists provide an unprecedented opportunity for both direct and immune-mediated therapeutic activity provided by inhibition of a single target, and are likely to be particularly effective when used in combination with other cancer therapies. To exploit this potential, a variety of agents have been designed to selectively target TAM RTKs, many of which have now entered clinical testing. This Review provides an essential guide to the TAM RTKs for clinicians, including an overview of the rationale for therapeutic targeting of TAM RTKs in cancer cells and the tumour immune microenvironment, a description of the current preclinical and clinical experience with TAM inhibitors, and a perspective on strategies for continued development of TAM-targeted agents for oncology applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah DeRyckere
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Department of Paediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Justus M Huelse
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Department of Paediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - H Shelton Earp
- Department of Medicine, UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Douglas K Graham
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, USA.
- Department of Paediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA.
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7
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Gopinatha Pillai MS, Aiswarya SU, Keerthana CK, Rayginia TP, Anto RJ. Targeting receptor tyrosine kinase signaling: Avenues in the management of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. iScience 2023; 26:106816. [PMID: 37235052 PMCID: PMC10206193 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.106816] [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: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) is the most frequently diagnosed cancer worldwide. Among the various types of NMSCs, cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) exhibits more aggressive phenotype and is also the second-most prevalent type. Receptor tyrosine kinases (RTK) triggers key signaling events that play critical roles in the development of various cancers including cSCC. Unsurprisingly, for this reason, this family of proteins has become the cynosure of anti-cancer drug discovery pipelines and is also being considered as attractive targets against cSCC. Though inhibition of RTKs in cSCC has yielded favourable results, there is still scope for bettering the therapeutic outcome. In this review, we discuss the relevance of RTK signaling in the progression of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma, and observations from clinical trials that used RTK inhibitors against cSCC. Backed by results from preclinical studies, including those from our lab, we also give insights into the scope of using some natural products as effective suppressors of RTK signaling and skin carcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sreekumar U. Aiswarya
- Division of Cancer Research, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
| | - Chenicheri K. Keerthana
- Division of Cancer Research, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
| | - Tennyson P. Rayginia
- Division of Cancer Research, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
| | - Ruby John Anto
- Division of Cancer Research, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
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Zhai X, Pu D, Wang R, Zhang J, Lin Y, Wang Y, Zhai N, Peng X, Zhou Q, Li L. Gas6/AXL pathway: immunological landscape and therapeutic potential. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1121130. [PMID: 37265798 PMCID: PMC10231434 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1121130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a disease with ecological and evolutionary unity, which seriously affects the survival and quality of human beings. Currently, many reports have suggested Gas6 plays an important role in cancer. Binding of gas6 to TAM receptors is associated with the carcinogenetic mechanisms of multiple malignancies, such as in breast cancer, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, non-small cell lung cancer, melanoma, prostate cancer, etc., and shortened overall survival. It is accepted that the Gas6/TAM pathway can promote the malignant transformation of various types of cancer cells. Gas6 has the highest affinity for Axl, an important member of the TAM receptor family. Knockdown of the TAM receptors Axl significantly affects cell cycle progression in tumor cells. Interestingly, Gas6 also has an essential function in the tumor microenvironment. The Gas6/AXL pathway regulates angiogenesis, immune-related molecular markers and the secretion of certain cytokines in the tumor microenvironment, and also modulates the functions of a variety of immune cells. In addition, evidence suggests that the Gas6/AXL pathway is involved in tumor therapy resistance. Recently, multiple studies have begun to explore in depth the importance of the Gas6/AXL pathway as a potential tumor therapeutic target as well as its broad promise in immunotherapy; therefore, a timely review of the characteristics of the Gas6/AXL pathway and its value in tumor treatment strategies is warranted. This comprehensive review assessed the roles of Gas6 and AXL receptors and their associated pathways in carcinogenesis and cancer progression, summarized the impact of Gas6/AXL on the tumor microenvironment, and highlighted the recent research progress on the relationship between Gas6/AXL and cancer drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqian Zhai
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Lung Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Dan Pu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Lung Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Rulan Wang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Lung Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Jiabi Zhang
- Department of Nutrition and Integrative Physiology, College of Health, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Yiyun Lin
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, MD Anderson Cancer Center UT Health, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Yuqing Wang
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Ni Zhai
- Neurosurgery Intensive Care Unit, The 987th Hospital of the Joint Logistics Support Force of the Chinese People's Liberation Army, Baoji, Shanxi, China
| | - Xuan Peng
- Department of Pathophysiology, Hubei Minzu University, Enshi, Hubei, China
| | - Qinghua Zhou
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Lung Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Lu Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Lung Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
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Wang D, Zhang W, Zhang C, Wang L, Chen H, Xu J. Exosomal non-coding RNAs have a significant effect on tumor metastasis. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2022; 29:16-35. [PMID: 35784014 PMCID: PMC9207556 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2022.05.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/10/2023]
Abstract
Exosomes are produced by the majority of eukaryotic cells and are capable of transporting a variety of substances, including non-coding RNAs, between cells. Metastasis is a significant cause of death from cancer. Numerous studies have established an important role for exosomal non-coding RNAs in tumor metastasis. Exosomal non-coding RNAs from a variety of cells have been shown to affect tumor metastasis via several mechanisms. Exosomes transmit non-coding RNAs between tumor cells, fibroblasts, endothelial cells, and immune cells within the tumor microenvironment. Exosomal non-coding RNAs also have an effect on epithelial-mesenchymal transition, angiogenesis, and lymphangiogenesis. Exosomes derived from tumor cells have the ability to transport non-coding RNAs to distant organs, thereby facilitating the formation of the metastatic niche. Due to their role in tumor metastasis, exosomal non-coding RNAs have the potential to serve as diagnostic or prognostic markers as well as therapeutic targets for tumors. The purpose of this paper is to review and discuss the mechanisms of exosomal non-coding RNAs, their role in tumor metastasis, and their clinical utility, aiming to establish new directions for tumor metastasis, diagnosis, and treatment research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Di Wang
- Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310016, P.R. China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310016, P.R. China
| | - Chunxi Zhang
- Women’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, P.R. China
| | - Liwei Wang
- Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310016, P.R. China
| | - Heng Chen
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Special Functional Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Shenzhen University, Nanshan District, Shenzhen 518060, P.R. China
- Corresponding author Heng Chen, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Special Functional Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Shenzhen University, Nanshan District, Shenzhen 518060, P.R. China.
| | - Jianbin Xu
- Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310016, P.R. China
- Corresponding author Jianbin Xu, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310016, P.R. China.
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10
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Malvankar C, Kumar D. AXL kinase inhibitors- A prospective model for medicinal chemistry strategies in anticancer drug discovery. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2022; 1877:188786. [PMID: 36058379 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2022.188786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Deviant expressions of the tyrosine kinase AXL receptor are strongly correlated with a plethora of malignancies. Henceforth, the topic of targeting AXL is beginning to gain prominence due to mounting evidence of the protein's substantial connection to poor prognosis and treatment resistance. This year marked a milestone in clinical testing for AXL as an anti-carcinogenic target, with the start of the first AXL-branded inhibitor study. It is critical to emphasize that AXL is a primary and secondary target in various kinase inhibitors that have been approved or are on the verge of being approved while interpreting the present benefits and future potential effects of AXL suppression in the clinical setting. Several research arenas across the globe resolutely affirm the crucial significance of AXL receptors in the case study of several pathophysiologies including AML, prostate cancer, and breast cancer. This review endeavors to delve deeply into the biological, chemical, and structural features of AXL kinase; primary AXL inhibitors that target the enzyme (either purposefully or unintentionally); and the prospects and barriers for turning AXL inhibitors into a feasible treatment alternative. Furthermore, we analyse the co-crystal structure of AXL, which remains extensively unexplored, as well as the mutations of AXL that may be valuable in the development of novel inhibitors in the upcoming future and take a comprehensive look at the medicinal chemistry of AXL inhibitors of recent years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chinmay Malvankar
- Poona College of Pharmacy, Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be) University, Pune, Maharashtra 411038, India
| | - Dileep Kumar
- Poona College of Pharmacy, Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be) University, Pune, Maharashtra 411038, India; Department of Entomology, University of California, Davis, One Shields Ave, Davis, CA 95616, USA; UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Davis, One Shields Ave, Davis, CA 95616, USA.
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11
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Russo I, Sartor E, Fagotto L, Colombo A, Tiso N, Alaibac M. The Zebrafish model in dermatology: an update for clinicians. Discov Oncol 2022; 13:48. [PMID: 35713744 PMCID: PMC9206045 DOI: 10.1007/s12672-022-00511-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently, the zebrafish has been established as one of the most important model organisms for medical research. Several studies have proved that there is a high level of similarity between human and zebrafish genomes, which encourages the use of zebrafish as a model for understanding human genetic disorders, including cancer. Interestingly, zebrafish skin shows several similarities to human skin, suggesting that this model organism is particularly suitable for the study of neoplastic and inflammatory skin disorders. This paper appraises the specific characteristics of zebrafish skin and describes the major applications of the zebrafish model in dermatological research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Russo
- Unit of Dermatology, University of Padua, Via Gallucci 4, 35128, Padua, Italy
| | - Emma Sartor
- Unit of Dermatology, University of Padua, Via Gallucci 4, 35128, Padua, Italy
| | - Laura Fagotto
- Unit of Dermatology, University of Padua, Via Gallucci 4, 35128, Padua, Italy
| | - Anna Colombo
- Unit of Dermatology, University of Padua, Via Gallucci 4, 35128, Padua, Italy
| | - Natascia Tiso
- Department of Biology, University of Padua, Via U. Bassi 58/B, 35131, Padua, Italy
| | - Mauro Alaibac
- Unit of Dermatology, University of Padua, Via Gallucci 4, 35128, Padua, Italy.
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12
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Genenger B, Perry JR, Ashford B, Ranson M. A tEMTing target? Clinical and experimental evidence for epithelial-mesenchymal transition in the progression of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (a scoping systematic review). Discov Oncol 2022; 13:42. [PMID: 35666359 PMCID: PMC9170863 DOI: 10.1007/s12672-022-00510-4] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) is a disease with globally rising incidence and poor prognosis for patients with advanced or metastatic disease. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a driver of metastasis in many carcinomas, and cSCC is no exception. We aimed to provide a systematic overview of the clinical and experimental evidence for EMT in cSCC, with critical appraisal of type and quality of the methodology used. We then used this information as rationale for potential drug targets against advanced and metastatic cSCC. All primary literature encompassing clinical and cell-based or xenograft experimental studies reporting on the role of EMT markers or related signalling pathways in the progression of cSCC were considered. A screen of 3443 search results yielded 86 eligible studies comprising 44 experimental studies, 22 clinical studies, and 20 studies integrating both. From the clinical studies a timeline illustrating the alteration of EMT markers and related signalling was evident based on clinical progression of the disease. The experimental studies reveal connections of EMT with a multitude of factors such as genetic disorders, cancer-associated fibroblasts, and matrix remodelling via matrix metalloproteinases and urokinase plasminogen activator. Additionally, EMT was found to be closely tied to environmental factors as well as to stemness in cSCC via NFκB and β-catenin. We conclude that the canonical EGFR, canonical TGF-βR, PI3K/AKT and NFκB signalling are the four signalling pillars that induce EMT in cSCC and could be valuable therapeutic targets. Despite the complexity, EMT markers and pathways are desirable biomarkers and drug targets for the treatment of advanced or metastatic cSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Genenger
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.
| | - Jay R Perry
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Bruce Ashford
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
- School of Medicine, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Marie Ranson
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.
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13
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Quadri M, Marconi A, Sandhu SK, Kiss A, Efimova T, Palazzo E. Investigating Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma in vitro and in vivo: Novel 3D Tools and Animal Models. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:875517. [PMID: 35646967 PMCID: PMC9131878 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.875517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma (cSCC) represents the second most common type of skin cancer, which incidence is continuously increasing worldwide. Given its high frequency, cSCC represents a major public health problem. Therefore, to provide the best patients’ care, it is necessary having a detailed understanding of the molecular processes underlying cSCC development, progression, and invasion. Extensive efforts have been made in developing new models allowing to study the molecular pathogenesis of solid tumors, including cSCC tumors. Traditionally, in vitro studies were performed with cells grown in a two-dimensional context, which, however, does not represent the complexity of tumor in vivo. In the recent years, new in vitro models have been developed aiming to mimic the three-dimensionality (3D) of the tumor, allowing the evaluation of tumor cell-cell and tumor-microenvironment interaction in an in vivo-like setting. These models include spheroids, organotypic cultures, skin reconstructs and organoids. Although 3D models demonstrate high potential to enhance the overall knowledge in cancer research, they lack systemic components which may be solved only by using animal models. Zebrafish is emerging as an alternative xenotransplant model in cancer research, offering a high-throughput approach for drug screening and real-time in vivo imaging to study cell invasion. Moreover, several categories of mouse models were developed for pre-clinical purpose, including xeno- and syngeneic transplantation models, autochthonous models of chemically or UV-induced skin squamous carcinogenesis, and genetically engineered mouse models (GEMMs) of cSCC. These models have been instrumental in examining the molecular mechanisms of cSCC and drug response in an in vivo setting. The present review proposes an overview of in vitro, particularly 3D, and in vivo models and their application in cutaneous SCC research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marika Quadri
- DermoLAB, Department of Surgical, Medical, Dental and Morphological Science, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Alessandra Marconi
- DermoLAB, Department of Surgical, Medical, Dental and Morphological Science, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Simran K Sandhu
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, United States.,The George Washington Cancer Center, George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, United States.,Department of Dermatology, George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Alexi Kiss
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, United States.,The George Washington Cancer Center, George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Tatiana Efimova
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, United States.,The George Washington Cancer Center, George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, United States.,Department of Dermatology, George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Elisabetta Palazzo
- DermoLAB, Department of Surgical, Medical, Dental and Morphological Science, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
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14
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Research Techniques Made Simple: Zebrafish Models for Human Dermatologic Disease. J Invest Dermatol 2022; 142:499-506.e1. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2021.10.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Revised: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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15
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Antibody–Drug Conjugates as an Emerging Therapy in Oncodermatology. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14030778. [PMID: 35159045 PMCID: PMC8833781 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14030778] [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: 01/04/2022] [Revised: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Currently, the therapeutic arsenal to fight cancers is extensive. Among these, antibody–drug conjugates (ADCs) consist in an antibody linked to a cytotoxic agent, allowing a specific delivery to tumor cells. ADCs are an emerging class of therapeutics, with twelve FDA- and EMA-approved drugs for hematological and solid cancers. In recent years, tremendous progress has been observed in therapeutic approaches for advanced skin cancer patients. ADCs appear as an emerging therapeutic option in oncodermatology. After providing an overview of ADC design and development, the goal of this article is to review the potential ADC indications in the field of oncodermatology. Abstract Antibody–drug conjugates (ADCs) are an emerging class of therapeutics, with twelve FDA- and EMA-approved drugs for hematological and solid cancers. Such drugs consist in a monoclonal antibody linked to a cytotoxic agent, allowing a specific cytotoxicity to tumor cells. In recent years, tremendous progress has been observed in therapeutic approaches for advanced skin cancer patients. In this regard, targeted therapies (e.g., kinase inhibitors) or immune checkpoint-blocking antibodies outperformed conventional chemotherapy, with proven benefit to survival. Nevertheless, primary and acquired resistances as well as adverse events remain limitations of these therapies. Therefore, ADCs appear as an emerging therapeutic option in oncodermatology. After providing an overview of ADC design and development, the goal of this article is to review the potential ADC indications in the field of oncodermatology.
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16
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Yan D, Earp HS, DeRyckere D, Graham DK. Targeting MERTK and AXL in EGFR Mutant Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:5639. [PMID: 34830794 PMCID: PMC8616094 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13225639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
MERTK and AXL are members of the TAM family of receptor tyrosine kinases and are abnormally expressed in 69% and 93% of non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLCs), respectively. Expression of MERTK and/or AXL provides a survival advantage for NSCLC cells and correlates with lymph node metastasis, drug resistance, and disease progression in patients with NSCLC. The TAM receptors on host tumor infiltrating cells also play important roles in the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Thus, MERTK and AXL are attractive biologic targets for NSCLC treatment. Here, we will review physiologic and oncologic roles for MERTK and AXL with an emphasis on the potential to target these kinases in NSCLCs with activating EGFR mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Yan
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; (D.Y.); (D.D.)
| | - H. Shelton Earp
- UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Department of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA;
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Deborah DeRyckere
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; (D.Y.); (D.D.)
| | - Douglas K. Graham
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; (D.Y.); (D.D.)
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17
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Therapeutic Targeting of the Gas6/Axl Signaling Pathway in Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22189953. [PMID: 34576116 PMCID: PMC8469858 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22189953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Revised: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Many signaling pathways are dysregulated in cancer cells and the host tumor microenvironment. Aberrant receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) pathways promote cancer development, progression, and metastasis. Hence, numerous therapeutic interventions targeting RTKs have been actively pursued. Axl is an RTK that belongs to the Tyro3, Axl, MerTK (TAM) subfamily. Axl binds to a high affinity ligand growth arrest specific 6 (Gas6) that belongs to the vitamin K-dependent family of proteins. The Gas6/Axl signaling pathway has been implicated to promote progression, metastasis, immune evasion, and therapeutic resistance in many cancer types. Therapeutic agents targeting Gas6 and Axl have been developed, and promising results have been observed in both preclinical and clinical settings when such agents are used alone or in combination therapy. This review examines the current state of therapeutics targeting the Gas6/Axl pathway in cancer and discusses Gas6- and Axl-targeting agents that have been evaluated preclinically and clinically.
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18
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Henry KA, Nguyen TD, Baral TN, Hussack G, Raphael S, Arbabi-Ghahroudi M, Robert A, Durocher Y, Wu C, Jaramillo ML, MacKenzie CR. Biparatopic single-domain antibodies against Axl achieve ultra-high affinity through intramolecular engagement. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2021; 562:154-161. [PMID: 34058562 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2021.05.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Overexpression of Axl, a TAM-family receptor tyrosine kinase, plays key roles in the formation, growth, and spread of tumors as well as resistance to targeted therapies and chemotherapies. We identified novel llama VHHs against human Axl using multiple complementary phage display selection strategies and characterized a subset of high-affinity VHHs. The VHHs targeted multiple sites in Ig-like domains 1 and 2 of the Axl extracellular domain, including an immunodominant epitope overlapping the site of Gas6 interaction and two additional non-Gas6 competitive epitopes recognized by murine monoclonal antibodies. Only a subset of VHHs cross-reacted with cynomolgus monkey Axl and none recognized mouse Axl. As fusions to human IgG1 Fc, VHH-Fcs bound Axl+ tumor cell lines and mertansine-loaded VHH-Fcs were cytotoxic in vitro against Axl+ cells in proportion to their binding affinities. Engineered biparatopic VHH-VHH heterodimers bound Axl avidly, and a subset of molecules showed dramatically enhanced association rates indicative of intramolecular binding. These VHHs may have applications as modular elements of biologic drugs such as antibody-drug conjugates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin A Henry
- Human Health Therapeutics Research Centre, National Research Council Canada, 100 Sussex Drive, Ottawa, Ontario, K1A 0R6, Canada; Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, Ontario, K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Thanh-Dung Nguyen
- Human Health Therapeutics Research Centre, National Research Council Canada, 100 Sussex Drive, Ottawa, Ontario, K1A 0R6, Canada
| | - Toya Nath Baral
- Human Health Therapeutics Research Centre, National Research Council Canada, 100 Sussex Drive, Ottawa, Ontario, K1A 0R6, Canada
| | - Greg Hussack
- Human Health Therapeutics Research Centre, National Research Council Canada, 100 Sussex Drive, Ottawa, Ontario, K1A 0R6, Canada
| | - Shalini Raphael
- Human Health Therapeutics Research Centre, National Research Council Canada, 100 Sussex Drive, Ottawa, Ontario, K1A 0R6, Canada
| | - Mehdi Arbabi-Ghahroudi
- Human Health Therapeutics Research Centre, National Research Council Canada, 100 Sussex Drive, Ottawa, Ontario, K1A 0R6, Canada; Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, Ontario, K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Alma Robert
- Human Health Therapeutics Research Centre, National Research Council Canada, 6100 Royalmount Ave, Montréal, Québec, H4P 2R2, Canada
| | - Yves Durocher
- Human Health Therapeutics Research Centre, National Research Council Canada, 6100 Royalmount Ave, Montréal, Québec, H4P 2R2, Canada
| | - Cunle Wu
- Human Health Therapeutics Research Centre, National Research Council Canada, 6100 Royalmount Ave, Montréal, Québec, H4P 2R2, Canada
| | - Maria L Jaramillo
- Human Health Therapeutics Research Centre, National Research Council Canada, 6100 Royalmount Ave, Montréal, Québec, H4P 2R2, Canada
| | - C Roger MacKenzie
- Human Health Therapeutics Research Centre, National Research Council Canada, 100 Sussex Drive, Ottawa, Ontario, K1A 0R6, Canada.
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19
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Hughes LD, Wang Y, Meli AP, Rothlin CV, Ghosh S. Decoding Cell Death: From a Veritable Library of Babel to Vade Mecum? Annu Rev Immunol 2021; 39:791-817. [PMID: 33902311 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-immunol-102819-072601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Programmed cell death (PCD) is a requisite feature of development and homeostasis but can also be indicative of infections, injuries, and pathologies. In concordance with these heterogeneous contexts, an array of disparate effector responses occur downstream of cell death and its clearance-spanning tissue morphogenesis, homeostatic turnover, host defense, active dampening of inflammation, and tissue repair. This raises a fundamental question of how a single contextually appropriate response ensues after an event of PCD. To explore how complex inputs may together tailor the specificity of the resulting effector response, here we consider (a) the varying contexts during which different cell death modalities are observed, (b) the nature of the information that can be passed on by cell corpses, and (c) the ways by which efferocyte populations synthesize signals from dying cells with those from the surrounding microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey D Hughes
- Department of Immunobiology, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut 06520, USA; , , ,
| | - Yaqiu Wang
- Department of Immunobiology, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut 06520, USA; , , ,
| | - Alexandre P Meli
- Department of Immunobiology, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut 06520, USA; , , ,
| | - Carla V Rothlin
- Department of Immunobiology, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut 06520, USA; , , , .,Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut 06520, USA;
| | - Sourav Ghosh
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut 06520, USA; .,Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut 06520, USA
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20
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Growth and Viability of Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cell Lines Display Different Sensitivities to Isoform-Specific Phosphoinositide 3-Kinase Inhibitors. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22073567. [PMID: 33808215 PMCID: PMC8036316 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22073567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas (cSCCs) account for about 20% of keratinocyte carcinomas, the most common cancer in the UK. Therapeutic options for cSCC patients who develop metastasis are limited and a better understanding of the biochemical pathways involved in cSCC development/progression is crucial to identify novel therapeutic targets. Evidence indicates that the phosphoinositide 3-kinases (PI3Ks)/Akt pathway plays an important role, in particular in advanced cSCC. Questions remain of whether all four PI3K isoforms able to activate Akt are involved and whether selective inhibition of specific isoform(s) might represent a more targeted strategy. Here we determined the sensitivity of four patient-derived cSCC cell lines to isoform-specific PI3K inhibitors to start investigating their potential therapeutic value in cSCC. Parallel experiments were performed in immortalized keratinocyte cell lines. We observed that pan PI3Ks inhibition reduced the growth/viability of all tested cell lines, confirming the crucial role of this pathway. Selective inhibition of the PI3K isoform p110α reduced growth/viability of keratinocytes and of two cSCC cell lines while affecting the other two only slightly. Importantly, p110α inhibition reduced Akt phosphorylation in all cSCC cell lines. These data indicate that growth and viability of the investigated cSCC cells display differential sensitivity to isoform-specific PI3K inhibitors.
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21
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Aehnlich P, Powell RM, Peeters MJW, Rahbech A, thor Straten P. TAM Receptor Inhibition-Implications for Cancer and the Immune System. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13061195. [PMID: 33801886 PMCID: PMC7998716 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13061195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary TAM receptors are a family of receptor tyrosine kinases, comprising Tyro3, Axl and MerTK. Their primary role is in digestion of dying cells by macrophages without alarming the immune system. TAM receptors are also expressed by cancer cells in which signaling is oncogenic, and for this reason there is growing interest and research into TAM inhibition. This approach to cancer treatment may, however, come into conflict with beneficial and costimulatory TAM receptor signaling in T cells and natural killer (NK) cells. The aim of this review is to explore in detail the effects of TAM receptor inhibition on cancer cells and immune cells, and how the ramifications of this inhibition may affect cancer treatment in humans. Abstract Tyro3, Axl and MerTK (TAM) receptors are receptor tyrosine kinases which play important roles in efferocytosis and in the balancing of immune responses and inflammation. TAM receptor activation is induced upon binding of the ligands protein S (Pros1) or growth arrest-specific protein 6 (Gas6) which act as bridging molecules for binding of phosphatidyl serine (PtdSer) exposed on apoptotic cell membranes. Upon clearance of apoptotic cell material, TAM receptor activation on innate cells suppresses proinflammatory functions, thereby ensuring the immunologically silent removal of apoptotic material in the absence of deleterious immune responses. However, in T cells, MerTK signaling is costimulatory and promotes activation and functional output of the cell. MerTK and Axl are also aberrantly expressed in a range of both hematological and solid tumor malignancies, including breast, lung, melanoma and acute myeloid leukemia, where they have a role in oncogenic signaling. Consequently, TAM receptors are being investigated as therapeutic targets using small molecule inhibitors and have already demonstrated efficacy in mouse tumor models. Thus, inhibition of TAM signaling in cancer cells could have therapeutic value but given the opposing roles of TAM signaling in innate cells and T cells, TAM inhibition could also jeopardize anticancer immune responses. This conflict is discussed in this review, describing the effects of TAM inhibition on cancer cells as well as immune cells, while also examining the intricate interplay of cancer and immune cells in the tumor microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pia Aehnlich
- National Center for Cancer Immune Therapy (CCIT-DK), Department of Oncology, Copenhagen University Hospital Herlev, 2730 Herlev, Denmark; (M.J.W.P.); (A.R.)
- Correspondence: (P.A.); (R.M.P.); (P.t.S.)
| | - Richard Morgan Powell
- National Center for Cancer Immune Therapy (CCIT-DK), Department of Oncology, Copenhagen University Hospital Herlev, 2730 Herlev, Denmark; (M.J.W.P.); (A.R.)
- Correspondence: (P.A.); (R.M.P.); (P.t.S.)
| | - Marlies J. W. Peeters
- National Center for Cancer Immune Therapy (CCIT-DK), Department of Oncology, Copenhagen University Hospital Herlev, 2730 Herlev, Denmark; (M.J.W.P.); (A.R.)
| | - Anne Rahbech
- National Center for Cancer Immune Therapy (CCIT-DK), Department of Oncology, Copenhagen University Hospital Herlev, 2730 Herlev, Denmark; (M.J.W.P.); (A.R.)
| | - Per thor Straten
- National Center for Cancer Immune Therapy (CCIT-DK), Department of Oncology, Copenhagen University Hospital Herlev, 2730 Herlev, Denmark; (M.J.W.P.); (A.R.)
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Correspondence: (P.A.); (R.M.P.); (P.t.S.)
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22
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Targen S, Kaya T, Avci ME, Gunes D, Keskus AG, Konu O. ZenoFishDb v1.1: A Database for Xenotransplantation Studies in Zebrafish. Zebrafish 2020; 17:305-318. [PMID: 32931381 DOI: 10.1089/zeb.2020.1869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Rapidly accumulating literature has proven feasibility of the zebrafish xenograft models in cancer research. Nevertheless, online databases for searching the current zebrafish xenograft literature are in great demand. Herein, we have developed a manually curated database, called ZenoFishDb v1.1 (https://konulab.shinyapps.io/zenofishdb), based on R Shiny platform aiming to provide searchable information on ever increasing collection of zebrafish studies for cancer cell line transplantation and patient-derived xenografts (PDXs). ZenoFishDb v1.1 user interface contains four modules: DataTable, Visualization, PDX Details, and PDX Charts. The DataTable and Visualization pages represent xenograft study details, including injected cell lines, PDX injections, molecular modifications of cell lines, zebrafish strains, as well as technical aspects of the xenotransplantation procedures in table, bar, and/or pie chart formats. The PDX Details module provides comprehensive information on the patient details in table format and can be searched and visualized. Overall, ZenoFishDb v1.1 enables researchers to effectively search, list, and visualize different technical and biological attributes of zebrafish xenotransplantation studies particularly focusing on the new trends that make use of reporters, RNA interference, overexpression, or mutant gene constructs of transplanted cancer cells, stem cells, and PDXs, as well as distinguished host modifications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seniye Targen
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Bilkent University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Tuğberk Kaya
- Interdisciplinary Program in Neuroscience, Bilkent University, Ankara, Turkey.,Institute of Neuronal Cell Biology, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - M Ender Avci
- Izmir Biomedicine and Genome Center, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Damla Gunes
- Interdisciplinary Program in Neuroscience, Bilkent University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Ayse Gokce Keskus
- Interdisciplinary Program in Neuroscience, Bilkent University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Ozlen Konu
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Bilkent University, Ankara, Turkey.,Interdisciplinary Program in Neuroscience, Bilkent University, Ankara, Turkey.,UNAM-Institute of Materials Science and Nanotechnology, Bilkent University, Ankara, Turkey
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23
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Quirico L, Orso F, Esposito CL, Bertone S, Coppo R, Conti L, Catuogno S, Cavallo F, de Franciscis V, Taverna D. Axl-148b chimeric aptamers inhibit breast cancer and melanoma progression. Int J Biol Sci 2020; 16:1238-1251. [PMID: 32174798 PMCID: PMC7053324 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.39768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 12/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
microRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs acting as negative regulators of gene expression and involved in tumor progression. We recently showed that inhibition of the pro-metastatic miR-214 and simultaneous overexpression of its downstream player, the anti-metastatic miR-148b, strongly reduced metastasis formation. To explore the therapeutic potential of miR-148b, we generated a conjugated molecule aimed to target miR-148b expression selectively to tumor cells. Precisely, we linked miR-148b to GL21.T, an aptamer able to specifically bind to AXL, an oncogenic tyrosine kinase receptor highly expressed on cancer cells. Axl-148b conjugate was able to inhibit migration and invasion of AXL-positive, but not AXL-negative, cancer cells, demonstrating high efficacy and selectivity in vitro. In parallel, expression of ALCAM and ITGA5, two miR-148b direct targets, was reduced. More importantly, axl-148b chimeric aptamers were able to inhibit formation and growth of 3D-mammospheres, to induce necrosis and apoptosis of treated xenotransplants, as well as to block breast cancer and melanoma dissemination and metastatization in mice. Relevantly, axl aptamer acted as specific delivery tool for miR-148b, but it also actively contributed to inhibit metastasis formation, together with miR-148b. In conclusion, our data show that axl-148b conjugate is able to inhibit tumor progression in an axl- and miR-148b-dependent manner, suggesting its potential development as therapeutic molecule.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorena Quirico
- Molecular Biotechnology Center (MBC), University of Torino, Torino, Italy.,Dept. Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Francesca Orso
- Molecular Biotechnology Center (MBC), University of Torino, Torino, Italy.,Dept. Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy.,Center for Complex Systems in Molecular Biology and Medicine, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Carla L Esposito
- Institute of Endocrinology and Experimental Oncology, CNR, Napoli, Italy
| | - Sofia Bertone
- Molecular Biotechnology Center (MBC), University of Torino, Torino, Italy.,Dept. Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Roberto Coppo
- Molecular Biotechnology Center (MBC), University of Torino, Torino, Italy.,Dept. Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Laura Conti
- Molecular Biotechnology Center (MBC), University of Torino, Torino, Italy.,Dept. Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Silvia Catuogno
- Institute of Endocrinology and Experimental Oncology, CNR, Napoli, Italy
| | - Federica Cavallo
- Molecular Biotechnology Center (MBC), University of Torino, Torino, Italy.,Dept. Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | | | - Daniela Taverna
- Molecular Biotechnology Center (MBC), University of Torino, Torino, Italy.,Dept. Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy.,Center for Complex Systems in Molecular Biology and Medicine, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
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Belfiore A, Busico A, Bozzi F, Brich S, Dallera E, Conca E, Capone I, Gloghini A, Volpi CC, Cabras AD, Pilotti S, Baratti D, Guaglio M, Deraco M, Kusamura S, Perrone F. Molecular Signatures for Combined Targeted Treatments in Diffuse Malignant Peritoneal Mesothelioma. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20225817. [PMID: 31752449 PMCID: PMC6888071 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20225817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2019] [Revised: 11/08/2019] [Accepted: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background—There are currently no effective therapies for diffuse malignant peritoneal mesothelioma (DMPM) patients with disease recurrence. In this study, we investigated the biology of DMPM by analyzing the EGFR family, Axl, and MET, in order to assess the presence of cross-talk between these receptors, suggesting the effectiveness of combined targeted treatments in DMPM. Method—We analyzed a series of 22 naïve epithelioid DMPM samples from a single institute, two of which showed higher-grade malignancy (“progressed”). EGFR, HER2, HER3, Axl, and MET activation and expression were investigated by biochemical analysis, real-time PCR immunofluorescence, immunohistochemistry, next-generation sequencing, miRNA, and mRNA in situ hybridization. Results—In most DMPMs, a strong EGFR activation was associated with HER2, HER3, Axl, and MET co-activation, mediated mainly by receptor heterodimerization and autocrine-paracrine loops induced by the expression of their cognate ligands. Axl expression was downregulated by miRNA34a. Mutations in MET Sema domain were exclusively found in two “progressed” DMPMs, and the combined Axl and MET inhibition reduced cellular motility in a DMPM cell line obtained from a “progressed” DMPM. Conclusion—The results indicate that the coordinated activity of multiple cross-talks between RTKs is directly involved in the biology of DMPM, suggesting the combined inhibition of PIK3 and mTOR as an effective strategy that may be easily implemented in clinical practice, and indicating that the combined inhibition of EGFR/HER2 and HER3 and of Axl and MET deserves further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonino Belfiore
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Pathology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, via Venezian 1, 20133 Milan, Italy; (A.B.); (A.B.); (F.B.); (S.B.); (E.D.); (E.C.); (I.C.); (A.G.); (C.C.V.); (S.P.)
| | - Adele Busico
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Pathology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, via Venezian 1, 20133 Milan, Italy; (A.B.); (A.B.); (F.B.); (S.B.); (E.D.); (E.C.); (I.C.); (A.G.); (C.C.V.); (S.P.)
| | - Fabio Bozzi
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Pathology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, via Venezian 1, 20133 Milan, Italy; (A.B.); (A.B.); (F.B.); (S.B.); (E.D.); (E.C.); (I.C.); (A.G.); (C.C.V.); (S.P.)
| | - Silvia Brich
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Pathology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, via Venezian 1, 20133 Milan, Italy; (A.B.); (A.B.); (F.B.); (S.B.); (E.D.); (E.C.); (I.C.); (A.G.); (C.C.V.); (S.P.)
| | - Elena Dallera
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Pathology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, via Venezian 1, 20133 Milan, Italy; (A.B.); (A.B.); (F.B.); (S.B.); (E.D.); (E.C.); (I.C.); (A.G.); (C.C.V.); (S.P.)
| | - Elena Conca
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Pathology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, via Venezian 1, 20133 Milan, Italy; (A.B.); (A.B.); (F.B.); (S.B.); (E.D.); (E.C.); (I.C.); (A.G.); (C.C.V.); (S.P.)
| | - Iolanda Capone
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Pathology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, via Venezian 1, 20133 Milan, Italy; (A.B.); (A.B.); (F.B.); (S.B.); (E.D.); (E.C.); (I.C.); (A.G.); (C.C.V.); (S.P.)
| | - Annunziata Gloghini
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Pathology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, via Venezian 1, 20133 Milan, Italy; (A.B.); (A.B.); (F.B.); (S.B.); (E.D.); (E.C.); (I.C.); (A.G.); (C.C.V.); (S.P.)
| | - Chiara C. Volpi
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Pathology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, via Venezian 1, 20133 Milan, Italy; (A.B.); (A.B.); (F.B.); (S.B.); (E.D.); (E.C.); (I.C.); (A.G.); (C.C.V.); (S.P.)
| | - Antonello D. Cabras
- Department of Pathology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, via Venezian 1, 20133 Milan, Italy;
| | - Silvana Pilotti
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Pathology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, via Venezian 1, 20133 Milan, Italy; (A.B.); (A.B.); (F.B.); (S.B.); (E.D.); (E.C.); (I.C.); (A.G.); (C.C.V.); (S.P.)
| | - Dario Baratti
- Peritoneal Surface Malignancy Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, via Venezian 1, 20133 Milan, Italy; (D.B.); (M.G.); (M.D.); (S.K.)
| | - Marcello Guaglio
- Peritoneal Surface Malignancy Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, via Venezian 1, 20133 Milan, Italy; (D.B.); (M.G.); (M.D.); (S.K.)
| | - Marcello Deraco
- Peritoneal Surface Malignancy Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, via Venezian 1, 20133 Milan, Italy; (D.B.); (M.G.); (M.D.); (S.K.)
| | - Shigeki Kusamura
- Peritoneal Surface Malignancy Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, via Venezian 1, 20133 Milan, Italy; (D.B.); (M.G.); (M.D.); (S.K.)
| | - Federica Perrone
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Pathology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, via Venezian 1, 20133 Milan, Italy; (A.B.); (A.B.); (F.B.); (S.B.); (E.D.); (E.C.); (I.C.); (A.G.); (C.C.V.); (S.P.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-02-2390-2614; Fax: +39-02-2390-2877
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AXL receptor tyrosine kinase as a promising anti-cancer approach: functions, molecular mechanisms and clinical applications. Mol Cancer 2019; 18:153. [PMID: 31684958 PMCID: PMC6827209 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-019-1090-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 266] [Impact Index Per Article: 53.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2019] [Accepted: 10/18/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Molecular targeted therapy for cancer has been a research hotspot for decades. AXL is a member of the TAM family with the high-affinity ligand growth arrest-specific protein 6 (GAS6). The Gas6/AXL signalling pathway is associated with tumour cell growth, metastasis, invasion, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), angiogenesis, drug resistance, immune regulation and stem cell maintenance. Different therapeutic agents targeting AXL have been developed, typically including small molecule inhibitors, monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), nucleotide aptamers, soluble receptors, and several natural compounds. In this review, we first provide a comprehensive discussion of the structure, function, regulation, and signalling pathways of AXL. Then, we highlight recent strategies for targeting AXL in the treatment of cancer.AXL-targeted drugs, either as single agents or in combination with conventional chemotherapy or other small molecule inhibitors, are likely to improve the survival of many patients. However, future investigations into AXL molecular signalling networks and robust predictive biomarkers are warranted to select patients who could receive clinical benefit and to avoid potential toxicities.
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Fujino N, Brand OJ, Morgan DJ, Fujimori T, Grabiec AM, Jagger CP, Maciewicz RA, Yamada M, Itakura K, Sugiura H, Ichinose M, Hussell T. Sensing of apoptotic cells through Axl causes lung basal cell proliferation in inflammatory diseases. J Exp Med 2019; 216:2184-2201. [PMID: 31289116 PMCID: PMC6719415 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20171978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2017] [Revised: 03/18/2019] [Accepted: 06/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Epithelial cell proliferation, division, and differentiation are critical for barrier repair following inflammation, but the initial trigger for this process is unknown. Here we define that sensing of apoptotic cells by the TAM receptor tyrosine kinase Axl is a critical indicator for tracheal basal cell expansion, cell cycle reentry, and symmetrical cell division. Furthermore, once the pool of tracheal basal cells has expanded, silencing of Axl is required for their differentiation. Genetic depletion of Axl triggers asymmetrical cell division, leading to epithelial differentiation and ciliated cell regeneration. This discovery has implications for conditions associated with epithelial barrier dysfunction, basal cell hyperplasia, and continued turnover of dying cells in patients with chronic inflammatory pulmonary diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naoya Fujino
- Manchester Collaborative Centre for Inflammation Research, the University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Oliver J Brand
- Manchester Collaborative Centre for Inflammation Research, the University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Lydia Becker Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, the University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - David J Morgan
- Manchester Collaborative Centre for Inflammation Research, the University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Lydia Becker Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, the University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Toshifumi Fujimori
- Manchester Collaborative Centre for Inflammation Research, the University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Aleksander M Grabiec
- Manchester Collaborative Centre for Inflammation Research, the University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
| | - Christopher P Jagger
- Manchester Collaborative Centre for Inflammation Research, the University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Lydia Becker Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, the University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Rose A Maciewicz
- Respiratory, Inflammation, and Autoimmunity Innovative Medicines and Early Development Biotech Unit, AstraZeneca, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Institute of Infection, Immunity, and Inflammation, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Mitsuhiro Yamada
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Koji Itakura
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Hisatoshi Sugiura
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Masakazu Ichinose
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Tracy Hussell
- Manchester Collaborative Centre for Inflammation Research, the University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Lydia Becker Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, the University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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Hassan S, Purdie KJ, Wang J, Harwood CA, Proby CM, Pourreyron C, Mladkova N, Nagano A, Dhayade S, Athineos D, Caley M, Mannella V, Blyth K, Inman GJ, Leigh IM. A Unique Panel of Patient-Derived Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cell Lines Provides a Preclinical Pathway for Therapeutic Testing. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:E3428. [PMID: 31336867 PMCID: PMC6678499 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20143428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2019] [Revised: 06/28/2019] [Accepted: 07/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) incidence continues to rise with increasing morbidity and mortality, with limited treatment options for advanced disease. Future improvements in targeted therapy will rely on advances in genomic/transcriptomic understanding and the use of model systems for basic research. We describe here the panel of 16 primary and metastatic cSCC cell lines developed and characterised over the past three decades in our laboratory in order to provide such a resource for future preclinical research and drug screening. METHODS Primary keratinocytes were isolated from cSCC tumours and metastases, and cell lines were established. These were characterised using short tandem repeat (STR) profiling and genotyped by whole exome sequencing. Multiple in vitro assays were performed to document their morphology, growth characteristics, migration and invasion characteristics, and in vivo xenograft growth. RESULTS STR profiles of the cSCC lines allow the confirmation of their unique identity. Phylogenetic trees derived from exome sequence analysis of the matched primary and metastatic lines provide insight into the genetic basis of disease progression. The results of in vivo and in vitro analyses allow researchers to select suitable cell lines for specific experimentation. CONCLUSIONS There are few well-characterised cSCC lines available for widespread preclinical experimentation and drug screening. The described cSCC cell line panel provides a critical tool for in vitro and in vivo experimentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sakinah Hassan
- Blizard Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, QMUL, London E1 2AT, UK
| | - Karin J Purdie
- Blizard Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, QMUL, London E1 2AT, UK
| | - Jun Wang
- Barts Cancer Institute, QMUL, London EC1M 6BQ, UK
| | - Catherine A Harwood
- Blizard Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, QMUL, London E1 2AT, UK
| | - Charlotte M Proby
- Division of Cancer, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 9SY, UK
| | - Celine Pourreyron
- Division of Cancer, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 9SY, UK
| | - Nikol Mladkova
- Blizard Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, QMUL, London E1 2AT, UK
| | - Ai Nagano
- Barts Cancer Institute, QMUL, London EC1M 6BQ, UK
| | - Sandeep Dhayade
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Garscube Estate, Switchback Rd, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK
| | - Dimitris Athineos
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Garscube Estate, Switchback Rd, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK
| | - Matthew Caley
- Blizard Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, QMUL, London E1 2AT, UK
| | - Viviana Mannella
- Blizard Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, QMUL, London E1 2AT, UK
| | - Karen Blyth
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Garscube Estate, Switchback Rd, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK
| | - Gareth J Inman
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Garscube Estate, Switchback Rd, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK
- Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1GH, UK
| | - Irene M Leigh
- Blizard Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, QMUL, London E1 2AT, UK.
- Division of Cancer, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 9SY, UK.
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Zhang H, Xiong F, Qian K, Liu Y, Liang B, Xiong B, Yang F, Zheng C. Transcatheter arterial embolization combined with hypoxia-replicative oncolytic adenovirus perfusion enhances the therapeutic effect of hepatic carcinoma. Cancer Manag Res 2019; 11:981-996. [PMID: 30774426 PMCID: PMC6350642 DOI: 10.2147/cmar.s189208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Transcatheter arterial embolization or transcatheter arterial chemoembolization has become a critical therapy for unresectable hepatocarcinoma. Although hypoxia caused by embolization can induce apoptosis and necrosis of the majority of tumor cells, a small proportion of cells can survive with hypoxia and chemotherapy resistance. HIF-1α induced by hypoxia is the key factor rendering surviving tumor cells invasive and metastatic properties. Thus, we generated a synthetic hypoxia-replicative oncolytic adenovirus (HYAD) expecting to further eliminate the surviving tumor cells, which expressed HIF-1α. Materials and methods In our study, we detected protein expression, proliferation, apoptosis, and necrosis of hepatic tumor cell line when infected with HYAD under hypoxia and normoxia. And we constructed VX2 hepatic cancer rabbit models to explore the therapeutic effect of transcatheter arterial embolization combined with HYAD perfusion under digital subtraction angiography. Inhibition of tumor growth and invasion was detected by histopathological examination and contrast-enhanced CT scan. Results Experiments in vitro verified that HYAD expressed and replicated along with HIF-1α expression or hypoxia. Compared with wild adenovirus type 5 (WT), HYAD expressed much more under hypoxia, which was the main principle of HYAD killing surviving tumor cells posttransarterial embolization. In vivo experiment of VX2 models, HYAD perfusion combined with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) embolization achieved the highest expression quantity and the longest expression duration compared with simple HYAD perfusion, WT perfusion combined with PVA embolization, and simple WT perfusion. Because adenovirus expression protein E1A had the properties of promoting apoptosis, inhibiting invasion, and inhibiting metastasis, HYAD perfusion combined with PVA embolization group efficiently repressed tumor growth and intrahepatic metastases compared to other processing groups. Conclusion HYAD can overcome the hypoxic tumor microenvironment postembolization and target the surviving tumor cells with specificity. In turn, HYAD perfusion combined with PVA embolization can bring out the best effect in each other.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongsen Zhang
- Department of Radiology, Union Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China, ;
| | - Fu Xiong
- Department of Radiology, Union Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China, ;
| | - Kun Qian
- Department of Radiology, Union Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China, ;
| | - Yiming Liu
- Department of Radiology, Union Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China, ;
| | - Bin Liang
- Department of Radiology, Union Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China, ;
| | - Bin Xiong
- Department of Radiology, Union Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China, ;
| | - Fan Yang
- Department of Radiology, Union Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China, ;
| | - Chuansheng Zheng
- Department of Radiology, Union Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China, ;
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Integrated analysis of multiple receptor tyrosine kinases identifies Axl as a therapeutic target and mediator of resistance to sorafenib in hepatocellular carcinoma. Br J Cancer 2019; 120:512-521. [PMID: 30765873 PMCID: PMC6461770 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-018-0373-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2018] [Revised: 11/29/2018] [Accepted: 12/14/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aberrant activation of Axl is implicated in the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We explored the biologic significance and preclinical efficacy of Axl inhibition as a therapeutic strategy in sorafenib-naive and resistant HCC. METHODS We evaluated Axl expression in sorafenib-naive and resistant (SR) clones of epithelial (HuH7) and mesenchymal origin (SKHep-1) using antibody arrays and confirmed tissue expression. We tested the effect of Axl inhibition with RNA-interference and pharmacologically with R428 on a number of phenotypic assays. RESULTS Axl mRNA overexpression in cell lines (n = 28) and RNA-seq tissue datasets (n = 373) correlated with epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Axl was overexpressed in HCC compared to cirrhosis and normal liver. We confirmed sorafenib resistance to be associated with EMT and enhanced motility in both HuH7-SR and SKHep-1-SR cells documenting a 4-fold increase in Axl phosphorylation as an adaptive feature of chronic sorafenib treatment in SKHep-1-SR cells. Axl inhibition reduced motility and enhanced sensitivity to sorafenib in SKHep-1SR cells. In patients treated with sorafenib (n = 40), circulating Axl levels correlated with shorter survival. CONCLUSIONS Suppression of Axl-dependent signalling influences the transformed phenotype in HCC cells and contributes to adaptive resistance to sorafenib, providing a pre-clinical rationale for the development of Axl inhibitors as a measure to overcome sorafenib resistance.
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Niu ZS, Niu XJ, Wang WH. Role of the receptor tyrosine kinase Axl in hepatocellular carcinoma and its clinical relevance. Future Oncol 2019; 15:653-662. [PMID: 30648886 DOI: 10.2217/fon-2018-0528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The receptor tyrosine kinase Axl and its ligand Gas6 regulate fundamental biological processes, including cell proliferation, survival and motility, through multiple downstream signaling pathways. Evidence to date suggests that aberrant Axl expression frequently occurs in many malignancies, including hepatocellular carcinoma, and that this is critical for promoting cell proliferation, migration, angiogenesis and metastasis. Moreover, deregulated Axl expression or activation is reportedly associated with resistance to cancer drugs and targeted cancer therapies. Thus, Axl inhibitors may represent a novel therapeutic approach for cancer treatment. This Review summarizes the latest advances concerning the biological role of Axl in hepatocellular carcinoma and its potential clinical relevance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhao-Shan Niu
- Laboratory of Micromorphology, School of Basic Medicine, Medical Department of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, Shandong Province, PR China
| | - Xiao-Jun Niu
- Oncology Specialty, Medical Department of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, Shandong Province, PR China
| | - Wen-Hong Wang
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medicine, Medical Department of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, Shandong Province, PR China
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Du W, Brekken RA. Does Axl have potential as a therapeutic target in pancreatic cancer? Expert Opin Ther Targets 2018; 22:955-966. [PMID: 30244621 PMCID: PMC6292430 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2018.1527315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pancreatic cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related death. Metastasis, therapy resistance, and immunosuppression are dominant characteristics of pancreatic tumors. Strategies that enhance the efficacy of standard of care and/or immune therapy are likely the most efficient route to improve overall survival in this disease. Areas covered: Axl, a member of the TAM (Tyro3, Axl, MerTK) family of receptor tyrosine kinases, is involved in cell plasticity, chemoresistance, immune suppression, and metastasis in various cancers, including pancreatic cancer. This review provides an overview of Axl and its function in normal conditions, summarizes the regulation and function of Axl in cancer, and highlights the contribution of Axl to pancreatic cancer as well as its potential as a therapeutic target. Expert opinion: Axl is an attractive therapeutic target in pancreatic cancer because it contributes to many of the roadblocks that hamper therapeutic efficacy. Clinical evidence supporting Axl inhibition in pancreatic cancer is currently limited; however, multiple clinical trials have been initiated or are in the planning phase to test the effect of inhibiting Axl in conjunction with standard therapy in pancreatic cancer patients. We anticipate that these studies will provide robust validation of Axl as a therapeutic target in pancreatic cancer.
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Li YY, Tao YW, Gao S, Li P, Zheng JM, Zhang SE, Liang J, Zhang Y. Cancer-associated fibroblasts contribute to oral cancer cells proliferation and metastasis via exosome-mediated paracrine miR-34a-5p. EBioMedicine 2018; 36:209-220. [PMID: 30243489 PMCID: PMC6197737 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2018.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 218] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2018] [Revised: 08/20/2018] [Accepted: 09/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) play an important role in regulating tumor progression by transferring exosomes to neighboring cells. Our aim was to clarify the role of microRNA encapsulated in the exosomes derived from CAFs in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Methods We examined the microRNA expression profiles of exosomes derived from CAFs and donor-matched normal fibroblasts (NFs) from patients with OSCC. We used confocal microscopy to examine the transportation of exosomal miR-34a-5p between CAFs and OSCC cells. Next, luciferase reporter and its mutant plasmids were used to confirm direct target gene of miR-34a-5p. Phenotypic assays and in vivo tumor growth experiments were used to investigate the functional significance of exosomal miR-34a-5p. Findings We found that the expression of miR-34a-5p in CAF-derived exosomes was significantly reduced, and fibroblasts could transfer exosomal miR-34a-5p to OSCC cells. In xenograft experiments, miR-34a-5p overexpression in CAFs could inhibit the tumorigenesis of OSCC cells. We further revealed that miR-34a-5p binds to its direct downstream target AXL to suppress OSCC cell proliferation and metastasis. Stable ectopic expression of AXL in OSCC cells overexpressing miR-34a-5p restored proliferation and motility abolished by the miRNA. The miR-34a-5p/AXL axis promoted OSCC progression via the AKT/GSK-3β/β-catenin signaling pathway, which could induce the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) to promote cancer cells metastasis. The miR-34a-5p/AXL axis enhanced nuclear translocation of β-catenin and then induced transcriptional upregulation of SNAIL, which in turn activated both MMP-2 and MMP-9. Interpretation The miR-34a-5p/AXL axis confers aggressiveness in oral cancer cells through the AKT/GSK-3β/β-catenin/Snail signaling cascade and might represent a therapeutic target for OSCC. Fund National Natural Science Foundation of China. CAFs transfer miR-34a-5p-devoid exosomes to OSCC cells. Exosomal miR-34a-5p mediates the proliferation and motility of OSCC cells through regulating AXL. MiR-34a-5p/AXL axis confers aggressiveness in OSCC through AKT/GSK-3β/β-catenin/Snail signaling cascade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao-Yin Li
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510055, China; Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, China.
| | - Yi-Wei Tao
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, China; Department of Operative Dentistry and Endodontics, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510055, China
| | - Shuo Gao
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510055, China
| | - Pei Li
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510055, China
| | - Jian-Mao Zheng
- Department of Operative Dentistry and Endodontics, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510055, China
| | - Si-En Zhang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510055, China
| | - Jianfeng Liang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510055, China
| | - Yuejiao Zhang
- Department of Operative Dentistry and Endodontics, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510055, China
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Chen H, Pan J, Zhang L, Chen L, Qi H, Zhong M, Shi X, Du J, Li Q. Downregulation of estrogen-related receptor alpha inhibits human cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma cell proliferation and migration by regulating EMT via fibronectin and STAT3 signaling pathways. Eur J Pharmacol 2018; 825:133-142. [PMID: 29476880 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2018.02.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2017] [Revised: 02/09/2018] [Accepted: 02/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Estrogen-related receptor alpha (ERRα), one of orphan nuclear receptors, has been recently revealed as an oncogenic regulator in a variety of cancers. However, the linking gain of ERRα expression and cancer progression in cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) is largely unknown. Here, we showed that the mRNA and protein expression levels of ERRα were markedly higher in A431 cells compared with human keratinocyte cell line HaCaT, and targeted inhibition of ERRα by shRNA or its inverse agonist XCT790 significantly suppressed A431 cells proliferation and migration, while overexpression of ERRα promoted cell proliferation and migration. In addition, the data revealed that ERRα downregulation markedly inhibited the epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) of A431 cells with increasing the expression of E-cadherin and decreasing fibronectin (FN) and vimentin. Results from further experiments using Western blot suggested that ERRα suppression inhibited signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT3) protein expression. In contrast, overexpression of ERRα promoted EMT and the activation of STAT3 pathway. Moreover, treatment with specific STAT3 inhibitor reversed EMT markers in ERRα-overexpressing A431 cells. In tumor xenografts of A431 cells, we further showed that ERRα depletion inhibited cSCC tumor growth in vivo. Taken together, these results demonstrate, for the first time, that ERRα may function as an oncoprotein in cSCC to accelerate tumor aggressiveness by promoting EMT via FN and STAT3 pathway, and it could be a novel target for cSCC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haifei Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Huashan Hospital North, Fudan University, Shanghai 201907, China
| | - Jiewen Pan
- Department of Dermatology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Liudi Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Huashan Hospital North, Fudan University, Shanghai 201907, China
| | - Lu Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Huashan Hospital North, Fudan University, Shanghai 201907, China
| | - Huijie Qi
- Department of Pharmacy, Huashan Hospital North, Fudan University, Shanghai 201907, China
| | - Mingkang Zhong
- Department of Pharmacy, Huashan Hospital North, Fudan University, Shanghai 201907, China; Department of Pharmacy, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Xiaojin Shi
- Department of Pharmacy, Huashan Hospital North, Fudan University, Shanghai 201907, China; Department of Pharmacy, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Juan Du
- Department of Dermatology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China.
| | - Qunyi Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Huashan Hospital North, Fudan University, Shanghai 201907, China; Department of Pharmacy, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China.
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Meel MH, Schaper SA, Kaspers GJL, Hulleman E. Signaling pathways and mesenchymal transition in pediatric high-grade glioma. Cell Mol Life Sci 2018; 75:871-887. [PMID: 29164272 PMCID: PMC5809527 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-017-2714-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2017] [Revised: 10/24/2017] [Accepted: 11/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Pediatric high-grade gliomas (pHGG), including diffuse intrinsic pontine gliomas (DIPG), are the most lethal types of cancer in children. In recent years, it has become evident that these tumors are driven by epigenetic events, mainly mutations involving genes encoding Histone 3, setting them apart from their adult counterparts. These tumors are exceptionally resistant to chemotherapy and respond only temporarily to radiotherapy. Moreover, their delicate location and diffuse growth pattern make complete surgical resection impossible. In many other forms of cancer, chemo- and radioresistance, in combination with a diffuse, invasive phenotype, are associated with a transcriptional program termed the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Activation of this program allows cancer cells to survive individually, invade surrounding tissues and metastasize. It also enables them to survive exposure to cytotoxic therapy, including chemotherapeutic drugs and radiation. We here suggest that EMT plays an important, yet poorly understood role in the biology and therapy resistance of pHGG and DIPG. This review summarizes the current knowledge on the major signal transduction pathways and transcription factors involved in the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition in cancer in general and in pediatric HGG and DIPG in particular. Despite the fact that the mesenchymal transition has not yet been specifically studied in pHGG and DIPG, activation of pathways and high levels of transcription factors involved in EMT have been described. We conclude that the mesenchymal transition is likely to be an important element of the biology of pHGG and DIPG and warrants further investigation for the development of novel therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michaël H Meel
- Departments of Pediatric Oncology/Hematology, Neuro-oncology Research Group, Cancer Center Amsterdam, VU University Medical Center, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sophie A Schaper
- Departments of Pediatric Oncology/Hematology, Neuro-oncology Research Group, Cancer Center Amsterdam, VU University Medical Center, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Gertjan J L Kaspers
- Departments of Pediatric Oncology/Hematology, Neuro-oncology Research Group, Cancer Center Amsterdam, VU University Medical Center, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Uppsalalaan 8, 3584CT, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Esther Hulleman
- Departments of Pediatric Oncology/Hematology, Neuro-oncology Research Group, Cancer Center Amsterdam, VU University Medical Center, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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Cho JH, Okuma A, Al-Rubaye D, Intisar E, Junghans RP, Wong WW. Engineering Axl specific CAR and SynNotch receptor for cancer therapy. Sci Rep 2018; 8:3846. [PMID: 29497107 PMCID: PMC5832765 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-22252-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2017] [Accepted: 02/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Axl is a tyrosine kinase receptor that is commonly overexpressed in many cancers. As such, Axl represents an attractive therapeutic target. The transfer of engineered T cell expressing chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) is an exciting cancer therapeutic approach that shows high efficacy against cancers in clinical trials, especially for B cell malignancies. Furthermore, recently developed synthetic Notch (synNotch) receptor has demonstrated potential in enhancing the specificity of CAR T cell therapy and delivering therapeutic payloads to tumors in an antigen-dependent manner. Therefore, a CAR or synNotch against Axl could be a valuable therapeutic reagent against many cancers. Here, we develop a single-chain variable fragment from a humanized monoclonal antibody against Axl. The scFv is attached to CD3ζ, CD28, and 4-1BB signaling domains to generate an anti-Axl CAR. When introduced into human primary T cells, the anti-Axl CAR can lead to cytokine production and cell killing in response to tumor cells expressing Axl. Moreover, an anti-Axl synNotch generated using the same scFv can be activated with Axl expressing tumor cells. Given the fact that Axl is an important cancer therapeutic target, these receptors could be valuable reagents for developing anti-Axl therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jang Hwan Cho
- 0000 0004 1936 7558grid.189504.1Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215 USA ,0000 0004 1936 7558grid.189504.1Biological Design Center, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215 USA
| | - Atsushi Okuma
- 0000 0004 1936 7558grid.189504.1Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215 USA ,0000 0004 1936 7558grid.189504.1Biological Design Center, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215 USA
| | - Dalal Al-Rubaye
- 0000 0004 1936 7558grid.189504.1Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215 USA ,0000 0004 1936 7558grid.189504.1Biological Design Center, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215 USA ,0000 0001 2108 8169grid.411498.1Biotechnology Department, College of Science, University of Baghdad, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Ejaj Intisar
- 0000 0004 1936 7558grid.189504.1Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215 USA ,0000 0004 1936 7558grid.189504.1Biological Design Center, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215 USA
| | - Richard P. Junghans
- 0000 0004 1936 7531grid.429997.8School of Medicine, Tufts University, Boston, MA 02111 USA
| | - Wilson W. Wong
- 0000 0004 1936 7558grid.189504.1Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215 USA ,0000 0004 1936 7558grid.189504.1Biological Design Center, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215 USA
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Kashyap MK, Abdel-Rahman O. Expression, regulation and targeting of receptor tyrosine kinases in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Mol Cancer 2018. [PMID: 29455652 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-018-0790-4,] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Esophageal cancer is one of the most common types of cancer, which is a leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Based on histological behavior, it is mainly of two types (i) Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC), and (ii) esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAD or EAC). In astronomically immense majority of malignancies, receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) have been kenned to play a consequential role in cellular proliferation, migration, and metastasis of the cells. The post-translational modifications (PTMs) including phosphorylation of tyrosine (pY) residue of the tyrosine kinase (TK) domain have been exploited for treatment in different malignancies. Lung cancer where pY residues of EGFR have been exploited for treatment purpose in lung adenocarcinoma patients, but we do not have such kind of felicitously studied and catalogued data in ESCC patients. Thus, the goal of this review is to summarize the studies carried out on ESCC to explore the role of RTKs, tyrosine kinase inhibitors, and their pertinence and consequentiality for the treatment of ESCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manoj Kumar Kashyap
- School of Life and Allied Health Sciences, Glocal University, Saharanpur, UP, 247121, India. .,Department of Applied Sciences and Biotechnology, Shoolini University of Biotechnology and Management Sciences, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India.
| | - Omar Abdel-Rahman
- Clinical Oncology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
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Kashyap MK, Abdel-Rahman O. Expression, regulation and targeting of receptor tyrosine kinases in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Mol Cancer 2018; 17:54. [PMID: 29455652 PMCID: PMC5817798 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-018-0790-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2017] [Accepted: 02/01/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Esophageal cancer is one of the most common types of cancer, which is a leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Based on histological behavior, it is mainly of two types (i) Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC), and (ii) esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAD or EAC). In astronomically immense majority of malignancies, receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) have been kenned to play a consequential role in cellular proliferation, migration, and metastasis of the cells. The post-translational modifications (PTMs) including phosphorylation of tyrosine (pY) residue of the tyrosine kinase (TK) domain have been exploited for treatment in different malignancies. Lung cancer where pY residues of EGFR have been exploited for treatment purpose in lung adenocarcinoma patients, but we do not have such kind of felicitously studied and catalogued data in ESCC patients. Thus, the goal of this review is to summarize the studies carried out on ESCC to explore the role of RTKs, tyrosine kinase inhibitors, and their pertinence and consequentiality for the treatment of ESCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manoj Kumar Kashyap
- grid.449790.7School of Life and Allied Health Sciences, Glocal University, Saharanpur, UP 247121 India
- grid.430140.2Department of Applied Sciences and Biotechnology, Shoolini University of Biotechnology and Management Sciences, Solan, Himachal Pradesh India
| | - Omar Abdel-Rahman
- 0000 0004 0621 1570grid.7269.aClinical Oncology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
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Cooperative targeting of melanoma heterogeneity with an AXL antibody-drug conjugate and BRAF/MEK inhibitors. Nat Med 2018; 24:203-212. [DOI: 10.1038/nm.4472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 136] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2017] [Accepted: 12/15/2017] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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Wang Z, Zhao K, Hackert T, Zöller M. CD44/CD44v6 a Reliable Companion in Cancer-Initiating Cell Maintenance and Tumor Progression. Front Cell Dev Biol 2018; 6:97. [PMID: 30211160 PMCID: PMC6122270 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2018.00097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2018] [Accepted: 08/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Metastasis is the leading cause of cancer death, tumor progression proceeding through emigration from the primary tumor, gaining access to the circulation, leaving the circulation, settling in distant organs and growing in the foreign environment. The capacity of a tumor to metastasize relies on a small subpopulation of cells in the primary tumor, so called cancer-initiating cells (CIC). CIC are characterized by sets of markers, mostly membrane anchored adhesion molecules, CD44v6 being the most frequently recovered marker. Knockdown and knockout models accompanied by loss of tumor progression despite unaltered primary tumor growth unraveled that these markers are indispensable for CIC. The unexpected contribution of marker molecules to CIC-related activities prompted research on underlying molecular mechanisms. This review outlines the contribution of CD44, particularly CD44v6 to CIC activities. A first focus is given to the impact of CD44/CD44v6 to inherent CIC features, including the crosstalk with the niche, apoptosis-resistance, and epithelial mesenchymal transition. Following the steps of the metastatic cascade, we report on supporting activities of CD44/CD44v6 in migration and invasion. These CD44/CD44v6 activities rely on the association with membrane-integrated and cytosolic signaling molecules and proteases and transcriptional regulation. They are not restricted to, but most pronounced in CIC and are tightly regulated by feedback loops. Finally, we discuss on the engagement of CD44/CD44v6 in exosome biogenesis, loading and delivery. exosomes being the main acteurs in the long-distance crosstalk of CIC with the host. In brief, by supporting the communication with the niche and promoting apoptosis resistance CD44/CD44v6 plays an important role in CIC maintenance. The multifaceted interplay between CD44/CD44v6, signal transducing molecules and proteases facilitates the metastasizing tumor cell journey through the body. By its engagement in exosome biogenesis CD44/CD44v6 contributes to disseminated tumor cell settlement and growth in distant organs. Thus, CD44/CD44v6 likely is the most central CIC biomarker.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhe Wang
- Department of Oncology, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangdong, China
| | - Kun Zhao
- Pancreas Section, University Hospital of Surgery, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Thilo Hackert
- Pancreas Section, University Hospital of Surgery, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Margot Zöller
- Pancreas Section, University Hospital of Surgery, Heidelberg, Germany
- *Correspondence: Margot Zöller
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40
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Cell softening in malignant progression of human lung cancer cells by activation of receptor tyrosine kinase AXL. Sci Rep 2017; 7:17770. [PMID: 29259259 PMCID: PMC5736582 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-18120-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2017] [Accepted: 12/05/2017] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
To study the role of cell softening in malignant progression, Transwell assay and atomic force microscope were used to classify six human non-small cell lung cancer cell lines into two groups: a high motility-low stiffness (HMLS) group and a low motility-high stiffness (LMHS) group. We found a significant role of activity of the AXL receptor tyrosine kinase, which belongs to the TAM (Tyro3, AXL, Mer) family, in the stimulation of motility and cell softening. HMLS cells expressed higher AXL levels than LMHS cells and contained phosphorylated AXL. H1703 LMHS cells transfected with exogenous AXL exhibited increased motility and decreased stiffness, with low levels of actin stress fibre formation. Conversely, the AXL-specific inhibitor R428 and AXL-targeting siRNA reduced motility and increased stiffness in H1299 HMLS cells. Knockdown of AXL stimulated actin stress fibre formation, which inhibited tumour formation in a mouse xenograft model. The Ras/Rac inhibitor SCH 51344, which blocks disruption of actin stress fibres, exerted similar effects to AXL inactivation. We therefore propose that the Ras/Rac pathway operates downstream of AXL. Thus, AXL activation-induced cell softening promotes malignant progression in non-small cell lung cancer and represents a key biophysical property of cancer cells.
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41
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Phenotypic screening identifies Axl kinase as a negative regulator of an alveolar epithelial cell phenotype. J Transl Med 2017; 97:1047-1062. [PMID: 28553934 DOI: 10.1038/labinvest.2017.52] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2017] [Revised: 04/02/2017] [Accepted: 04/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Loss of epithelial barrier integrity is implicated in a number of human lung diseases. However, the molecular pathways underlying this process are poorly understood. In a phenotypic screen, we identified Axl kinase as a negative regulator of epithelial phenotype and function. Furthermore, suppression of Axl activity by a small molecule kinase inhibitor or downregulation of Axl expression by small interfering RNA led to: (1) the increase in epithelial surfactant protein expression; (2) a cell morphology transition from front-rear polarity to cuboidal shape; (3) the cytoskeletal re-organization resulting in decreased cell mobility; and (4) the acquisition of epithelial junctions. Loss of Axl activity reduced activation of the Axl canonical pathway members, Akt and extracellular signal-regulated kinase-1/2 and resulted in the loss of gene expression of a unique profile of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition transcription factors including SNAI2, HOXA5, TBX2 or TBX3. Finally, we observed that Axl was activated in hyperplasia of epithelial cells in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis where epithelial barrier integrity was lost. These results suggest that the Axl kinase signaling pathway is associated with the loss integrity of alveolar epithelium in pathological remodeling of human lung diseases.
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Abstract
A major challenge in anticancer treatment is the pre-existence or emergence of resistance to therapy. AXL and MER are two members of the TAM (TYRO3-AXL-MER) family of receptor tyrosine kinases, which, when activated, can regulate tumor cell survival, proliferation, migration and invasion, angiogenesis, and tumor-host interactions. An increasing body of evidence strongly suggests that these receptors play major roles in resistance to targeted therapies and conventional cytotoxic agents. Multiple resistance mechanisms exist, including the direct and indirect crosstalk of AXL and MER with other receptors and the activation of feedback loops regulating AXL and MER expression and activity. These mechanisms may be innate, adaptive, or acquired. A principal role of AXL appears to be in sustaining a mesenchymal phenotype, itself a major mechanism of resistance to diverse anticancer therapies. Both AXL and MER play a role in the repression of the innate immune response which may also limit response to treatment. Small molecule and antibody inhibitors of AXL and MER have recently been described, and some of these have already entered clinical trials. The optimal design of treatment strategies to maximize the clinical benefit of these AXL and MER targeting agents are discussed in relation to the different cancer types and the types of resistance encountered. One of the major challenges to successful development of these therapies will be the application of robust predictive biomarkers for clear-cut patient stratification.
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Bootorabi F, Manouchehri H, Changizi R, Barker H, Palazzo E, Saltari A, Parikka M, Pincelli C, Aspatwar A. Zebrafish as a Model Organism for the Development of Drugs for Skin Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18071550. [PMID: 28718799 PMCID: PMC5536038 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18071550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2017] [Revised: 07/05/2017] [Accepted: 07/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Skin cancer, which includes melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma, represents the most common type of cutaneous malignancy worldwide, and its incidence is expected to rise in the near future. This condition derives from acquired genetic dysregulation of signaling pathways involved in the proliferation and apoptosis of skin cells. The development of animal models has allowed a better understanding of these pathomechanisms, with the possibility of carrying out toxicological screening and drug development. In particular, the zebrafish (Danio rerio) has been established as one of the most important model organisms for cancer research. This model is particularly suitable for live cell imaging and high-throughput drug screening in a large-scale fashion. Thanks to the recent advances in genome editing, such as the clustered regularly-interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated protein 9 (Cas9) methodologies, the mechanisms associated with cancer development and progression, as well as drug resistance can be investigated and comprehended. With these unique tools, the zebrafish represents a powerful platform for skin cancer research in the development of target therapies. Here, we will review the advantages of using the zebrafish model for drug discovery and toxicological and phenotypical screening. We will focus in detail on the most recent progress in the field of zebrafish model generation for the study of melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), including cancer cell injection and transgenic animal development. Moreover, we will report the latest compounds and small molecules under investigation in melanoma zebrafish models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Bootorabi
- Biosensor Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Molecular-Cellular Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, 14114 Tehran, Iran.
| | - Hamed Manouchehri
- Department of Aquaculture, Babol Branch, Islamic Azad University, 47134 Babol, Iran.
| | - Reza Changizi
- Department of Aquaculture, Babol Branch, Islamic Azad University, 47134 Babol, Iran.
| | - Harlan Barker
- Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, University of Tampere, 33014 Tampere, Finland.
| | - Elisabetta Palazzo
- Laboratory of Cutaneous Biology, Department of Surgical, Medical, Dental and Morphological Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41100 Modena, Italy.
| | - Annalisa Saltari
- Laboratory of Cutaneous Biology, Department of Surgical, Medical, Dental and Morphological Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41100 Modena, Italy.
| | - Mataleena Parikka
- Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, University of Tampere, Oral and Maxillofacial Unit, Tampere University Hospital, 33014 Tampere, Finland.
| | - Carlo Pincelli
- Laboratory of Cutaneous Biology, Department of Surgical, Medical, Dental and Morphological Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41100 Modena, Italy.
| | - Ashok Aspatwar
- Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, University of Tampere, 33014 Tampere, Finland.
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Gustafsson A, Fritz HK, Dahlbäck B. Gas6-Axl signaling in presence of Sunitinib is enhanced, diversified and sustained in renal tumor cells, resulting in tumor-progressive advantages. Exp Cell Res 2017; 355:47-56. [DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2017.03.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2016] [Revised: 02/26/2017] [Accepted: 03/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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n-Butylidenephthalide Regulated Tumor Stem Cell Genes EZH2/AXL and Reduced Its Migration and Invasion in Glioblastoma. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18020372. [PMID: 28208648 PMCID: PMC5343907 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18020372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2016] [Accepted: 02/06/2017] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is one of the most common and aggressive types of brain tumor. Due to its highly recurrent rate and poor prognosis, the overall survival time with this type of tumor is only 20–21 months. Recent knowledge suggests that its recurrence is in part due to the presence of cancer stem cells (CSCs), which display radioresistant, chemoresistant, self-renewal and tumorigenic potential. Enhancers of Zeste 2 (EZH2) and AXL receptor tyrosine kinase (AXL) are both highly expressed in GBM. Additionally, they are an essential regulator involved in CSCs maintenance, migration, invasion, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), stemness, metastasis and patient survival. In this study, we used a small molecule, n-butylidenephthalide (BP), to assess the anti-GBM stem-like cells potential, and then tried to find out the associated genes involved with regulation in migration and invasion. We demonstrated that BP reduced the expression of AXL and stemness related genes in a dose-dependent manner. The migratory and invasive capabilities of GBM stem-like cells could be reduced by AXL/EZH2. Finally, in the overexpression of AXL, EZH2 and Sox2 by transfection in GBM stem-like cells, we found that AXL/EZH2/TGF-β1, but not Sox2, might be a key regulator in tumor invasion, migration and EMT. These results might help in the development of a new anticancer compound and can be a target for treating GBM.
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Gay CM, Balaji K, Byers LA. Giving AXL the axe: targeting AXL in human malignancy. Br J Cancer 2017; 116:415-423. [PMID: 28072762 PMCID: PMC5318970 DOI: 10.1038/bjc.2016.428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 214] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2016] [Revised: 11/21/2016] [Accepted: 11/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The receptor tyrosine kinase AXL, activated by a complex interaction between its ligand growth arrest-specific protein 6 and phosphatidylserine, regulates various vital cellular processes, including proliferation, survival, motility, and immunologic response. Although not implicated as an oncogenic driver itself, AXL, a member of the TYRO3, AXL, and MERTK family of receptor tyrosine kinases, is overexpressed in several haematologic and solid malignancies, including acute myeloid leukaemia, non-small cell lung cancer, gastric and colorectal adenocarcinomas, and breast and prostate cancers. In the context of malignancy, evidence suggests that AXL overexpression drives wide-ranging processes, including epithelial to mesenchymal transition, tumour angiogenesis, resistance to chemotherapeutic and targeted agents, and decreased antitumor immune response. As a result, AXL is an attractive candidate not only as a prognostic biomarker in malignancy but also as a target for anticancer therapies. Several AXL inhibitors are currently in preclinical and clinical development. This article reviews the structure, regulation, and function of AXL; the role of AXL in the tumour microenvironment; the development of AXL as a therapeutic target; and areas of ongoing and future investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carl M Gay
- Department of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd., Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Kavitha Balaji
- Department of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd., Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Lauren Averett Byers
- Department of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd., Houston, TX 77030, USA
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47
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The Receptor Tyrosine Kinase AXL in Cancer Progression. Cancers (Basel) 2016; 8:cancers8110103. [PMID: 27834845 PMCID: PMC5126763 DOI: 10.3390/cancers8110103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2016] [Revised: 10/26/2016] [Accepted: 11/03/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The AXL receptor tyrosine kinase (AXL) has emerged as a promising therapeutic target for cancer therapy. Recent studies have revealed a central role of AXL signaling in tumor proliferation, survival, stem cell phenotype, metastasis, and resistance to cancer therapy. Moreover, AXL is expressed within cellular components of the tumor microenvironment where AXL signaling contributes to the immunosuppressive and protumorigenic phenotypes. A variety of AXL inhibitors have been developed and are efficacious in preclinical studies. These agents offer new opportunities for therapeutic intervention in the prevention and treatment of advanced disease. Here we review the literature that has illuminated the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which AXL signaling promotes tumor progression and we will discuss the therapeutic potential of AXL inhibition for cancer therapy.
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WNT Signaling in Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Future Treatment Strategy? J Invest Dermatol 2016; 136:1760-1767. [PMID: 27448706 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2016.05.108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2015] [Revised: 05/10/2016] [Accepted: 05/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The molecular mechanisms underlying cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma are less well established than those for other common skin cancers, but recent evidence has highlighted a potentially critical role for WNT signaling in both the development and progression of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. WNT pathways are aberrantly regulated in multiple tumor types (albeit in a context-dependent manner), and this has stimulated the development of WNT inhibitory compounds for cancer treatment. In this review, we examine existing evidence for a role of WNT signaling in cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma and discuss if WNT inhibition represents a realistic therapeutic strategy for the future.
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Sato K, Suda K, Shimizu S, Sakai K, Mizuuchi H, Tomizawa K, Takemoto T, Nishio K, Mitsudomi T. Clinical, Pathological, and Molecular Features of Lung Adenocarcinomas with AXL Expression. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0154186. [PMID: 27100677 PMCID: PMC4839706 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0154186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2015] [Accepted: 04/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The receptor tyrosine kinase AXL is a member of the Tyro3-Axl-Mer receptor tyrosine kinase subfamily. AXL affects several cellular functions, including growth and migration. AXL aberration is reportedly a marker for poor prognosis and treatment resistance in various cancers. In this study, we analyzed clinical, pathological, and molecular features of AXL expression in lung adenocarcinomas (LADs). We examined 161 LAD specimens from patients who underwent pulmonary resections. When AXL protein expression was quantified (0, 1+, 2+, 3+) according to immunohistochemical staining intensity, results were 0: 35%; 1+: 20%; 2+: 37%; and 3+: 7% for the 161 samples. AXL expression status did not correlate with clinical features, including smoking status and pathological stage. However, patients whose specimens showed strong AXL expression (3+) had markedly poorer prognoses than other groups (P = 0.0033). Strong AXL expression was also significantly associated with downregulation of E-cadherin (P = 0.025) and CD44 (P = 0.0010). In addition, 9 of 12 specimens with strong AXL expression had driver gene mutations (6 with EGFR, 2 with KRAS, 1 with ALK). In conclusion, we found that strong AXL expression in surgically resected LADs was a predictor of poor prognosis. LADs with strong AXL expression were characterized by mesenchymal status, higher expression of stem-cell-like markers, and frequent driver gene mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katsuaki Sato
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Kinki University Faculty of Medicine, Osaka-Sayama, Japan
| | - Kenichi Suda
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Kinki University Faculty of Medicine, Osaka-Sayama, Japan
| | - Shigeki Shimizu
- Department of Pathology, Hyogo College of Medicine, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Kazuko Sakai
- Department of Genome Biology, Kinki University Faculty of Medicine, Osaka-Sayama, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Mizuuchi
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Kinki University Faculty of Medicine, Osaka-Sayama, Japan
| | - Kenji Tomizawa
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Kinki University Faculty of Medicine, Osaka-Sayama, Japan
| | - Toshiki Takemoto
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Kinki University Faculty of Medicine, Osaka-Sayama, Japan
| | - Kazuto Nishio
- Department of Genome Biology, Kinki University Faculty of Medicine, Osaka-Sayama, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Mitsudomi
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Kinki University Faculty of Medicine, Osaka-Sayama, Japan
- * E-mail:
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Akhtar MT, Mushtaq MY, Verpoorte R, Richardson MK, Choi YH. Zebrafish as a Model for Systems Medicine R&D: Rethinking the Metabolic Effects of Carrier Solvents and Culture Buffers Determined by (1)H NMR Metabolomics. OMICS-A JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE BIOLOGY 2015; 20:42-52. [PMID: 26669610 DOI: 10.1089/omi.2015.0119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Zebrafish is a frequently employed model organism in systems medicine and biomarker discovery. A crosscutting fundamental question, and one that has been overlooked in the field, is the "system-wide" (omics) effects induced in zebrafish by metabolic solvents and culture buffers. Indeed, any bioactivity or toxicity test requires that the target compounds are dissolved in an appropriate nonpolar solvent or aqueous media. It is important to know whether the solvent or the buffer itself has an effect on the zebrafish model organism. We evaluated the effects of two organic carrier solvents used in research with zebrafish, as well as in drug screening: dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and ethanol, and two commonly used aqueous buffers (egg water and Hank's balanced salt solution). The effects of three concentrations (0.01, 0.1, and 1%) of DMSO and ethanol were tested in the 5-day-old zebrafish embryo using proton nuclear magnetic resonance ((1)H NMR) based metabolomics. DMSO (1% and 0.1%, but not 0.01%) exposure significantly decreased the levels of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), betaine, alanine, histidine, lactate, acetate, and creatine (p < 0.05). By contrast, ethanol exposure did not alter the embryos' metabolome at any concentration tested. The two different aqueous media noted above impacted the zebrafish embryo metabolome as evidenced by changes in valine, alanine, lactate, acetate, betaine, glycine, glutamate, adenosine triphosphate, and histidine. These results show that DMSO has greater effects on the embryo metabolome than ethanol, and thus is used with caution as a carrier solvent in zebrafish biomarker research and oral medicine. Moreover, the DMSO concentration should not be higher than 0.01%. Careful attention is also warranted for the use of the buffers egg water and Hank's balanced salt solution in zebrafish. In conclusion, as zebrafish is widely used as a model organism in life sciences, metabolome changes induced by solvents and culture buffers warrant further attention for robust systems science, and precision biomarkers that will stand the test of time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad T Akhtar
- 1 Natural Products Laboratory, Leiden University , Leiden, the Netherlands .,3 Laboratory of Natural Products, Institute of Bioscience, University Putra Malaysia , Serdang, Malaysia
| | - Mian Y Mushtaq
- 1 Natural Products Laboratory, Leiden University , Leiden, the Netherlands .,4 Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, International Islamic University , Kuantan, Malaysia
| | - Robert Verpoorte
- 1 Natural Products Laboratory, Leiden University , Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Michael K Richardson
- 2 Sylvius Laboratory, Institute of Biology, Leiden University , Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Young H Choi
- 1 Natural Products Laboratory, Leiden University , Leiden, the Netherlands
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