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Merteroglu M, Santoro MM. Exploiting the metabolic vulnerability of circulating tumour cells. Trends Cancer 2024; 10:541-556. [PMID: 38580535 DOI: 10.1016/j.trecan.2024.03.004] [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: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024]
Abstract
Metastasis has a major part in the severity of disease and lethality of cancer. Circulating tumour cells (CTCs) represent a reservoir of metastatic precursors in circulation, most of which cannot survive due to hostile conditions in the bloodstream. Surviving cells colonise a secondary site based on a combination of physical, metabolic, and oxidative stress protection states required for that environment. Recent advances in CTC isolation methods and high-resolution 'omics technologies are revealing specific metabolic pathways that support this selection of CTCs. In this review, we discuss recent advances in our understanding of CTC biology and discoveries of adaptations in metabolic pathways during their selection. Understanding these traits and delineating mechanisms by which they confer acquired resistance or vulnerability in CTCs is crucial for developing successful prognostic and therapeutic strategies in cancer.
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Xu H, Zuo Y, Gao S, Liu Y, Liu T, He S, Wang M, Hu L, Li C, Yu Y. Circulating Tumor Cell Phenotype Detection and Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition Tracking Based on Dual Biomarker Co-Recognition in an Integrated PDMS Chip. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024:e2310360. [PMID: 38698606 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202310360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 04/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are widely considered as a reliable and promising class of markers in the field of liquid biopsy. As CTCs undergo epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), phenotype detection of heterogeneous CTCs based on EMT markers is of great significance. In this report, an integrated analytical strategy that can simultaneously capture and differentially detect epithelial- and mesenchymal-expressed CTCs in bloods of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLS) patients is proposed. First, a commercial biomimetic polycarbonate (PCTE) microfiltration membrane is employed as the capture interface for heterogenous CTCs. Meanwhile, differential detection of the captured CTCs is realized by preparing two distinct CdTe quantum dots (QDs) with red and green emissions, attached with EpCAM and Vimentin aptamers, respectively. For combined analysis, a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) chip with simple structure is designed, which integrates the membrane capture and QDs-based phenotype detection of CTCs. This chip not only implements the analysis of the number of CTCs down to 2 cells mL-1, but enables EMT process tracking according to the specific signals of the two QDs. Finally, this method is successfully applied to inspect the correlations of numbers or proportions of heterogenous CTCs in 94 NSCLS patients with disease stage and whether there is distant metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Xu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of New Drug Research and Clinical Pharmacy, Xuzhou Medical University, 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, 221004, China
| | - Yingchun Zuo
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of New Drug Research and Clinical Pharmacy, Xuzhou Medical University, 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, 221004, China
| | - Shuai Gao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of New Drug Research and Clinical Pharmacy, Xuzhou Medical University, 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, 221004, China
| | - Yuping Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of New Drug Research and Clinical Pharmacy, Xuzhou Medical University, 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, 221004, China
| | - Tingting Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of New Drug Research and Clinical Pharmacy, Xuzhou Medical University, 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, 221004, China
| | - Shiyu He
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of New Drug Research and Clinical Pharmacy, Xuzhou Medical University, 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, 221004, China
| | - Mengjiao Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, China
| | - Lili Hu
- Department of Pharmacy, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, China
| | - Chenglin Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of New Drug Research and Clinical Pharmacy, Xuzhou Medical University, 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, 221004, China
| | - Yanyan Yu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of New Drug Research and Clinical Pharmacy, Xuzhou Medical University, 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, 221004, China
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Xu Y, Cao L, Chen Y, Zhang Z, Liu W, Li H, Ding C, Pu J, Qian K, Xu W. Integrating Machine Learning in Metabolomics: A Path to Enhanced Diagnostics and Data Interpretation. SMALL METHODS 2024:e2400305. [PMID: 38682615 DOI: 10.1002/smtd.202400305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2024] [Revised: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
Metabolomics, leveraging techniques like NMR and MS, is crucial for understanding biochemical processes in pathophysiological states. This field, however, faces challenges in metabolite sensitivity, data complexity, and omics data integration. Recent machine learning advancements have enhanced data analysis and disease classification in metabolomics. This study explores machine learning integration with metabolomics to improve metabolite identification, data efficiency, and diagnostic methods. Using deep learning and traditional machine learning, it presents advancements in metabolic data analysis, including novel algorithms for accurate peak identification, robust disease classification from metabolic profiles, and improved metabolite annotation. It also highlights multiomics integration, demonstrating machine learning's potential in elucidating biological phenomena and advancing disease diagnostics. This work contributes significantly to metabolomics by merging it with machine learning, offering innovative solutions to analytical challenges and setting new standards for omics data analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yudian Xu
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China
| | - Linlin Cao
- State Key Laboratory for Oncogenes and Related Genes, Division of Cardiology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 160 Pujian Road, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China
| | - Yifan Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Oncogenes and Related Genes, Division of Cardiology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 160 Pujian Road, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China
| | - Ziyue Zhang
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Institute of Medical Robotics and Med-X Research Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200030, P. R. China
| | - Wanshan Liu
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Institute of Medical Robotics and Med-X Research Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200030, P. R. China
| | - He Li
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China
| | - Chenhuan Ding
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China
| | - Jun Pu
- State Key Laboratory for Oncogenes and Related Genes, Division of Cardiology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 160 Pujian Road, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China
| | - Kun Qian
- State Key Laboratory for Oncogenes and Related Genes, Division of Cardiology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 160 Pujian Road, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Institute of Medical Robotics and Med-X Research Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200030, P. R. China
| | - Wei Xu
- State Key Laboratory for Oncogenes and Related Genes, Division of Cardiology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 160 Pujian Road, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China
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Abramova A, Rivandi M, Yang L, Stamm N, Cieslik JP, Honisch E, Niederacher D, Fehm T, Neubauer H, Franken A. A workflow for the enrichment, the identification, and the isolation of non-apoptotic single circulating tumor cells for RNA sequencing analysis. Cytometry A 2024; 105:242-251. [PMID: 38054742 DOI: 10.1002/cyto.a.24816] [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] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are constantly shed by tumor tissue and can serve as a valuable analyte for a gene expression analysis from a liquid biopsy. However, a high proportion of CTCs can be apoptotic leading to rapid mRNA decay and challenging the analysis of their transcriptome. We established a workflow to enrich, to identify, and to isolate single CTCs including the discrimination of apoptotic and non-apoptotic CTCs for further single CTC transcriptome analysis. Viable tumor cells-we first used cells from breast cancer cell lines followed by CTCs from metastatic breast cancer patients-were enriched with the CellSearch system from diagnostic leukapheresis products, identified by immunofluorescence analysis for neoplastic markers, and isolated by micromanipulation. Then, their cDNA was generated, amplified, and sequenced. In order to exclude early apoptotic tumor cells, staining with Annexin V coupled to a fluorescent dye was used. Annexin V staining intensity was associated with decreased RNA integrity as well as lower numbers of total reads, exon reads, and detected genes in cell line cells and CTCs. A comparative RNA analysis of single cells from MDA-MB-231 and MCF7 cell lines revealed the expected differential transcriptome profiles. Enrichment and staining procedures of cell line cells that were spiked into blood had only little effect on the obtained RNA sequencing data compared to processing of naïve cells. Further, the detection of transcripts of housekeeping genes such as GAPDH was associated with a significantly higher quality of expression data from CTCs. This workflow enables the enrichment, detection, and isolation of single CTCs for individual transcriptome analyses. The discrimination of apoptotic and non-apoptotic cells allows to focus on CTCs with a high RNA integrity to ensure a successful transcriptome analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Abramova
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital and Medical Faculty of the Heinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Mahdi Rivandi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital and Medical Faculty of the Heinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Liwen Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital and Medical Faculty of the Heinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Nadia Stamm
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital and Medical Faculty of the Heinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Jan-Philipp Cieslik
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital and Medical Faculty of the Heinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Ellen Honisch
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital and Medical Faculty of the Heinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Dieter Niederacher
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital and Medical Faculty of the Heinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Tanja Fehm
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital and Medical Faculty of the Heinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Hans Neubauer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital and Medical Faculty of the Heinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - André Franken
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital and Medical Faculty of the Heinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf, Duesseldorf, Germany
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Liu W, Ma J, Zhang J, Cao J, Hu X, Huang Y, Wang R, Wu J, Di W, Qian K, Yin X. Identification and validation of serum metabolite biomarkers for endometrial cancer diagnosis. EMBO Mol Med 2024; 16:988-1003. [PMID: 38355748 PMCID: PMC11018850 DOI: 10.1038/s44321-024-00033-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Endometrial cancer (EC) stands as the most prevalent gynecological tumor in women worldwide. Notably, differentiation diagnosis of abnormity detected by ultrasound findings (e.g., thickened endometrium or mass in the uterine cavity) is essential and remains challenging in clinical practice. Herein, we identified a metabolic biomarker panel for differentiation diagnosis of EC using machine learning of high-performance serum metabolic fingerprints (SMFs) and validated the biological function. We first recorded the high-performance SMFs of 191 EC and 204 Non-EC subjects via particle-enhanced laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (PELDI-MS). Then, we achieved an area-under-the-curve (AUC) of 0.957-0.968 for EC diagnosis through machine learning of high-performance SMFs, outperforming the clinical biomarker of cancer antigen 125 (CA-125, AUC of 0.610-0.684, p < 0.05). Finally, we identified a metabolic biomarker panel of glutamine, glucose, and cholesterol linoleate with an AUC of 0.901-0.902 and validated the biological function in vitro. Therefore, our work would facilitate the development of novel diagnostic biomarkers for EC in clinics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanshan Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Institute of Medical Robotics and Shanghai Academy of Experimental Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200030, P. R. China
- Division of Cardiology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China
| | - Jinglan Ma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China
| | - Juxiang Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Institute of Medical Robotics and Shanghai Academy of Experimental Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200030, P. R. China
- Division of Cardiology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China
| | - Jing Cao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Institute of Medical Robotics and Shanghai Academy of Experimental Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200030, P. R. China
- Division of Cardiology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China
| | - Xiaoxiao Hu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China
| | - Yida Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Institute of Medical Robotics and Shanghai Academy of Experimental Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200030, P. R. China
- Division of Cardiology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China
| | - Ruimin Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Institute of Medical Robotics and Shanghai Academy of Experimental Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200030, P. R. China
- Division of Cardiology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China
| | - Jiao Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Institute of Medical Robotics and Shanghai Academy of Experimental Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200030, P. R. China
- Division of Cardiology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China
| | - Wen Di
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China.
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China.
| | - Kun Qian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China.
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China.
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Institute of Medical Robotics and Shanghai Academy of Experimental Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200030, P. R. China.
- Division of Cardiology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China.
| | - Xia Yin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China.
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China.
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Sun X, Yu Y, Qian K, Wang J, Huang L. Recent Progress in Mass Spectrometry-Based Single-Cell Metabolic Analysis. SMALL METHODS 2024; 8:e2301317. [PMID: 38032130 DOI: 10.1002/smtd.202301317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Single-cell analysis enables the measurement of biomolecules at the level of individual cells, facilitating in-depth investigations into cellular heterogeneity and precise interpretation of the related biological mechanisms. Among these biomolecules, cellular metabolites exhibit remarkable sensitivity to environmental and biochemical changes, unveiling a hidden world underlying cellular heterogeneity and allowing for the determination of cell physiological states. However, the metabolic analysis of single cells is challenging due to the extremely low concentrations, substantial content variations, and rapid turnover rates of cellular metabolites. Mass spectrometry (MS), characterized by its high sensitivity, wide dynamic range, and excellent selectivity, is employed in single-cell metabolic analysis. This review focuses on recent advances and applications of MS-based single-cell metabolic analysis, encompassing three key steps of single-cell isolation, detection, and application. It is anticipated that MS will bring profound implications in biomedical practices, serving as advanced tools to depict the single-cell metabolic landscape.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuming Sun
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200030, P. R. China
- Shanghai Institute of Thoracic Oncology, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200030, P. R. China
- School of Medical Engineering, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, P. R. China
- Engineering Technology Research Center of Neurosense and Control of Henan Province, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, P. R. China
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Neurobiosensor, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, P. R. China
| | - Yi Yu
- School of Medical Engineering, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, P. R. China
- Engineering Technology Research Center of Neurosense and Control of Henan Province, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, P. R. China
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Neurobiosensor, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, P. R. China
| | - Kun Qian
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Institute of Medical Robotics and Med X Research Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200030, P. R. China
| | - Jiayi Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200030, P. R. China
- Shanghai Institute of Thoracic Oncology, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200030, P. R. China
| | - Lin Huang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200030, P. R. China
- Shanghai Institute of Thoracic Oncology, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200030, P. R. China
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Xie Q, Liu S, Zhang S, Liao L, Xiao Z, Wang S, Zhang P. Research progress on the multi-omics and survival status of circulating tumor cells. Clin Exp Med 2024; 24:49. [PMID: 38427120 PMCID: PMC10907490 DOI: 10.1007/s10238-024-01309-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
In the dynamic process of metastasis, circulating tumor cells (CTCs) emanate from the primary solid tumor and subsequently acquire the capacity to disengage from the basement membrane, facilitating their infiltration into the vascular system via the interstitial tissue. Given the pivotal role of CTCs in the intricate hematogenous metastasis, they have emerged as an essential resource for a deeper comprehension of cancer metastasis while also serving as a cornerstone for the development of new indicators for early cancer screening and new therapeutic targets. In the epoch of precision medicine, as CTC enrichment and separation technologies continually advance and reach full fruition, the domain of CTC research has transcended the mere straightforward detection and quantification. The rapid advancement of CTC analysis platforms has presented a compelling opportunity for in-depth exploration of CTCs within the bloodstream. Here, we provide an overview of the current status and research significance of multi-omics studies on CTCs, including genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics. These studies have contributed to uncovering the unique heterogeneity of CTCs and identifying potential metastatic targets as well as specific recognition sites. We also review the impact of various states of CTCs in the bloodstream on their metastatic potential, such as clustered CTCs, interactions with other blood components, and the phenotypic states of CTCs after undergoing epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Within this context, we also discuss the therapeutic implications and potential of CTCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingming Xie
- NHC Key Laboratory of Cancer Proteomics, Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People's Republic of China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Shilei Liu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Cancer Proteomics, Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People's Republic of China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Sai Zhang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Cancer Proteomics, Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People's Republic of China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Liqiu Liao
- Department of Breast Surgery, Hunan Clinical Meditech Research Center for Breast Cancer, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhi Xiao
- Department of Breast Surgery, Hunan Clinical Meditech Research Center for Breast Cancer, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Shouman Wang
- Department of Breast Surgery, Hunan Clinical Meditech Research Center for Breast Cancer, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People's Republic of China.
| | - Pengfei Zhang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Cancer Proteomics, Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People's Republic of China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People's Republic of China.
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8
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Fonseca Teixeira A, Wu S, Luwor R, Zhu HJ. A New Era of Integration between Multiomics and Spatio-Temporal Analysis for the Translation of EMT towards Clinical Applications in Cancer. Cells 2023; 12:2740. [PMID: 38067168 PMCID: PMC10706093 DOI: 10.3390/cells12232740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is crucial to metastasis by increasing cancer cell migration and invasion. At the cellular level, EMT-related morphological and functional changes are well established. At the molecular level, critical signaling pathways able to drive EMT have been described. Yet, the translation of EMT into efficient diagnostic methods and anti-metastatic therapies is still missing. This highlights a gap in our understanding of the precise mechanisms governing EMT. Here, we discuss evidence suggesting that overcoming this limitation requires the integration of multiple omics, a hitherto neglected strategy in the EMT field. More specifically, this work summarizes results that were independently obtained through epigenomics/transcriptomics while comprehensively reviewing the achievements of proteomics in cancer research. Additionally, we prospect gains to be obtained by applying spatio-temporal multiomics in the investigation of EMT-driven metastasis. Along with the development of more sensitive technologies, the integration of currently available omics, and a look at dynamic alterations that regulate EMT at the subcellular level will lead to a deeper understanding of this process. Further, considering the significance of EMT to cancer progression, this integrative strategy may enable the development of new and improved biomarkers and therapeutics capable of increasing the survival and quality of life of cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adilson Fonseca Teixeira
- Department of Surgery, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3050, Australia (S.W.); (R.L.)
- Huagene Institute, Kecheng Science and Technology Park, Pukou District, Nanjing 211800, China
| | - Siqi Wu
- Department of Surgery, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3050, Australia (S.W.); (R.L.)
- Huagene Institute, Kecheng Science and Technology Park, Pukou District, Nanjing 211800, China
| | - Rodney Luwor
- Department of Surgery, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3050, Australia (S.W.); (R.L.)
- Huagene Institute, Kecheng Science and Technology Park, Pukou District, Nanjing 211800, China
- Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute, Ballarat, VIC 3350, Australia
- Health, Innovation and Transformation Centre, Federation University, Ballarat, VIC 3350, Australia
| | - Hong-Jian Zhu
- Department of Surgery, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3050, Australia (S.W.); (R.L.)
- Huagene Institute, Kecheng Science and Technology Park, Pukou District, Nanjing 211800, China
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9
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Bowley TY, Merkley SD, Lagutina IV, Ortiz MC, Lee M, Tawfik B, Marchetti D. Targeting Translation and the Cell Cycle Inversely Affects CTC Metabolism but Not Metastasis. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:5263. [PMID: 37958436 PMCID: PMC10650766 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15215263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Melanoma brain metastasis (MBM) is significantly associated with poor prognosis and is diagnosed in 80% of patients at autopsy. Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are "seeds" of metastasis and the smallest functional units of cancer. Our multilevel approach has previously identified a CTC RPL/RPS gene signature directly linked to MBM onset. We hypothesized that targeting ribogenesis prevents MBM/metastasis in CTC-derived xenografts. We treated parallel cohorts of MBM mice with FDA-approved protein translation inhibitor omacetaxine with or without CDK4/CDK6 inhibitor palbociclib, and monitored metastatic development and cell proliferation. Necropsies and IVIS imaging showed decreased MBM/extracranial metastasis in drug-treated mice, and RNA-Seq on mouse-blood-derived CTCs revealed downregulation of four RPL/RPS genes. However, mitochondrial stress tests and RT-qPCR showed that omacetaxine and palbociclib inversely affected glycolytic metabolism, demonstrating that dual targeting of cell translation/proliferation is critical to suppress plasticity in metastasis-competent CTCs. Equally relevant, we provide the first-ever functional metabolic characterization of patient-derived circulating neoplastic cells/CTCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tetiana Y. Bowley
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA; (T.Y.B.); (S.D.M.); (M.C.O.); (M.L.)
| | - Seth D. Merkley
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA; (T.Y.B.); (S.D.M.); (M.C.O.); (M.L.)
| | - Irina V. Lagutina
- Animal Models Shared Resource, University of New Mexico Comprehensive Cancer Center, Albuquerque, NM 87120, USA;
| | - Mireya C. Ortiz
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA; (T.Y.B.); (S.D.M.); (M.C.O.); (M.L.)
| | - Margaret Lee
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA; (T.Y.B.); (S.D.M.); (M.C.O.); (M.L.)
| | - Bernard Tawfik
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico Comprehensive Cancer Center, Albuquerque, NM 87120, USA;
| | - Dario Marchetti
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA; (T.Y.B.); (S.D.M.); (M.C.O.); (M.L.)
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Payne K, Brooks J, Batis N, Khan N, El-Asrag M, Nankivell P, Mehanna H, Taylor G. Feasibility of mass cytometry proteomic characterisation of circulating tumour cells in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma for deep phenotyping. Br J Cancer 2023; 129:1590-1598. [PMID: 37735243 PMCID: PMC10645808 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-023-02428-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Circulating tumour cells (CTCs) are a potential cancer biomarker, but current methods of CTC analysis at single-cell resolution are limited. Here, we describe high-dimensional single-cell mass cytometry proteomic analysis of CTCs in HNSCC. METHODS Parsortix microfluidic-enriched CTCs from 14 treatment-naïve HNSCC patients were analysed by mass cytometry analysis using 41 antibodies. Immune cell lineage, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), stemness, proliferation and immune checkpoint expression was assessed alongside phosphorylation status of multiple signalling proteins. Patient-matched tumour gene expression and CTC EMT profiles were compared. Standard bulk CTC RNAseq was performed as a baseline comparator to assess mass cytometry data. RESULTS CTCs were detected in 13/14 patients with CTC counts of 2-24 CTCs/ml blood. Unsupervised clustering separated CTCs into epithelial, early EMT and advanced EMT groups that differed in signalling pathway activation state. Patient-specific CTC cluster patterns separated into immune checkpoint low and high groups. Patient tumour and CTC EMT profiles differed. Mass cytometry outperformed bulk RNAseq to detect CTCs and characterise cell phenotype. DISCUSSION We demonstrate mass cytometry allows high-plex proteomic characterisation of CTCs at single-cell resolution and identify common CTC sub-groups with potential for novel biomarker development and immune checkpoint inhibitor treatment stratification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karl Payne
- Institute of Head and Neck Studies and Education, Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Jill Brooks
- Institute of Head and Neck Studies and Education, Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Nikolaos Batis
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Clinical Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Naeem Khan
- Clinical Immunology Service, Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Mohammed El-Asrag
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Paul Nankivell
- Institute of Head and Neck Studies and Education, Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Hisham Mehanna
- Institute of Head and Neck Studies and Education, Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Graham Taylor
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.
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