1
|
Marcu LG, Dell’Oro M, Bezak E. Opportunities in Cancer Therapies: Deciphering the Role of Cancer Stem Cells in Tumour Repopulation. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:17258. [PMID: 38139085 PMCID: PMC10744048 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242417258] [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: 11/18/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumour repopulation during treatment is a well acknowledged yet still challenging aspect of cancer management. The latest research results show clear evidence towards the existence of cancer stem cells (CSCs) that are responsible for tumour repopulation, dissemination, and distant metastases in most solid cancers. Cancer stem cell quiescence and the loss of asymmetrical division are two powerful mechanisms behind repopulation. Another important aspect in the context of cancer stem cells is cell plasticity, which was shown to be triggered during fractionated radiotherapy, leading to cell dedifferentiation and thus reactivation of stem-like properties. Repopulation during treatment is not limited to radiotherapy, as there is clinical proof for repopulation mechanisms to be activated through other conventional treatment techniques, such as chemotherapy. The dynamic nature of stem-like cancer cells often elicits resistance to treatment by escaping drug-induced cell death. The aims of this scoping review are (1) to describe the main mechanisms used by cancer stem cells to initiate tumour repopulation during therapy; (2) to present clinical evidence for tumour repopulation during radio- and chemotherapy; (3) to illustrate current trends in the identification of CSCs using specific imaging techniques; and (4) to highlight novel technologies that show potential in the eradication of CSCs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Loredana G. Marcu
- UniSA Allied Health & Human Performance, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia;
- Faculty of Informatics and Science, University of Oradea, 410087 Oradea, Romania
| | - Mikaela Dell’Oro
- Australian Centre for Quantitative Imaging, School of Medicine, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia;
| | - Eva Bezak
- UniSA Allied Health & Human Performance, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia;
- Faculty of Chemistry & Physics, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Brisset M, Mehlen P, Meurette O, Hollande F. Notch receptor/ligand diversity: contribution to colorectal cancer stem cell heterogeneity. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1231416. [PMID: 37860822 PMCID: PMC10582728 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1231416] [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: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer cell heterogeneity is a key contributor to therapeutic failure and post-treatment recurrence. Targeting cell subpopulations responsible for chemoresistance and recurrence seems to be an attractive approach to improve treatment outcome in cancer patients. However, this remains challenging due to the complexity and incomplete characterization of tumor cell subpopulations. The heterogeneity of cells exhibiting stemness-related features, such as self-renewal and chemoresistance, fuels this complexity. Notch signaling is a known regulator of cancer stem cell (CSC) features in colorectal cancer (CRC), though the effects of its heterogenous signaling on CRC cell stemness are only just emerging. In this review, we discuss how Notch ligand-receptor specificity contributes to regulating stemness, self-renewal, chemoresistance and cancer stem cells heterogeneity in CRC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Morgan Brisset
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Centre for Cancer Research, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Cancer Cell Death Laboratory, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, INSERM U1052-CNRS UMR5286, Centre Léon Bérard, Université de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Patrick Mehlen
- Cancer Cell Death Laboratory, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, INSERM U1052-CNRS UMR5286, Centre Léon Bérard, Université de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Olivier Meurette
- Cancer Cell Death Laboratory, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, INSERM U1052-CNRS UMR5286, Centre Léon Bérard, Université de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Frédéric Hollande
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Centre for Cancer Research, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Fang Z, Meng Q, Xu J, Wang W, Zhang B, Liu J, Liang C, Hua J, Zhao Y, Yu X, Shi S. Signaling pathways in cancer-associated fibroblasts: recent advances and future perspectives. CANCER COMMUNICATIONS (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2022; 43:3-41. [PMID: 36424360 PMCID: PMC9859735 DOI: 10.1002/cac2.12392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
As a critical component of the tumor microenvironment (TME), cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) play important roles in cancer initiation and progression. Well-known signaling pathways, including the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), Hedgehog (Hh), Notch, Wnt, Hippo, nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB), Janus kinase (JAK)/signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT), mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), and phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT pathways, as well as transcription factors, including hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF), heat shock transcription factor 1 (HSF1), P53, Snail, and Twist, constitute complex regulatory networks in the TME to modulate the formation, activation, heterogeneity, metabolic characteristics and malignant phenotype of CAFs. Activated CAFs remodel the TME and influence the malignant biological processes of cancer cells by altering the transcriptional and secretory characteristics, and this modulation partially depends on the regulation of signaling cascades. The results of preclinical and clinical trials indicated that therapies targeting signaling pathways in CAFs demonstrated promising efficacy but were also accompanied by some failures (e.g., NCT01130142 and NCT01064622). Hence, a comprehensive understanding of the signaling cascades in CAFs might help us better understand the roles of CAFs and the TME in cancer progression and may facilitate the development of more efficient and safer stroma-targeted cancer therapies. Here, we review recent advances in studies of signaling pathways in CAFs and briefly discuss some future perspectives on CAF research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zengli Fang
- Department of Pancreatic SurgeryFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghai200032P. R. China,Department of OncologyShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer InstituteShanghai200032P. R. China,Pancreatic Cancer InstituteFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China
| | - Qingcai Meng
- Department of Pancreatic SurgeryFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghai200032P. R. China,Department of OncologyShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer InstituteShanghai200032P. R. China,Pancreatic Cancer InstituteFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China
| | - Jin Xu
- Department of Pancreatic SurgeryFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghai200032P. R. China,Department of OncologyShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer InstituteShanghai200032P. R. China,Pancreatic Cancer InstituteFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Pancreatic SurgeryFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghai200032P. R. China,Department of OncologyShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer InstituteShanghai200032P. R. China,Pancreatic Cancer InstituteFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China
| | - Bo Zhang
- Department of Pancreatic SurgeryFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghai200032P. R. China,Department of OncologyShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer InstituteShanghai200032P. R. China,Pancreatic Cancer InstituteFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China
| | - Jiang Liu
- Department of Pancreatic SurgeryFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghai200032P. R. China,Department of OncologyShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer InstituteShanghai200032P. R. China,Pancreatic Cancer InstituteFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China
| | - Chen Liang
- Department of Pancreatic SurgeryFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghai200032P. R. China,Department of OncologyShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer InstituteShanghai200032P. R. China,Pancreatic Cancer InstituteFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China
| | - Jie Hua
- Department of Pancreatic SurgeryFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghai200032P. R. China,Department of OncologyShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer InstituteShanghai200032P. R. China,Pancreatic Cancer InstituteFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China
| | - Yingjun Zhao
- Department of OncologyShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China,Institutes of Biomedical SciencesShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China
| | - Xianjun Yu
- Department of Pancreatic SurgeryFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghai200032P. R. China,Department of OncologyShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer InstituteShanghai200032P. R. China,Pancreatic Cancer InstituteFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China
| | - Si Shi
- Department of Pancreatic SurgeryFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghai200032P. R. China,Department of OncologyShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer InstituteShanghai200032P. R. China,Pancreatic Cancer InstituteFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Kciuk M, Gielecińska A, Budzinska A, Mojzych M, Kontek R. Metastasis and MAPK Pathways. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23073847. [PMID: 35409206 PMCID: PMC8998814 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide. In many cases, the treatment of the disease is limited due to the metastasis of cells to distant locations of the body through the blood and lymphatic drainage. Most of the anticancer therapeutic options focus mainly on the inhibition of tumor cell growth or the induction of cell death, and do not consider the molecular basis of metastasis. The aim of this work is to provide a comprehensive review focusing on cancer metastasis and the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway (ERK/JNK/P38 signaling) as a crucial modulator of this process.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mateusz Kciuk
- Doctoral School of Exact and Natural Sciences, University of Lodz, Banacha Street 12/16, 90-237 Lodz, Poland
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Genetics, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, 12/16 Banacha St., 90-237 Lodz, Poland; (A.G.); (R.K.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Adrianna Gielecińska
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Genetics, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, 12/16 Banacha St., 90-237 Lodz, Poland; (A.G.); (R.K.)
| | - Adrianna Budzinska
- Laboratory of Mitochondrial Biochemistry, Department of Bioenergetics, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University, 61-614 Poznan, Poland;
| | - Mariusz Mojzych
- Department of Chemistry, Siedlce University of Natural Sciences and Humanities, 3 Maja 54, 08-110 Siedlce, Poland;
| | - Renata Kontek
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Genetics, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, 12/16 Banacha St., 90-237 Lodz, Poland; (A.G.); (R.K.)
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Shah K, Kazi JU. Phosphorylation-Dependent Regulation of WNT/Beta-Catenin Signaling. Front Oncol 2022; 12:858782. [PMID: 35359365 PMCID: PMC8964056 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.858782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
WNT/β-catenin signaling is a highly complex pathway that plays diverse roles in various cellular processes. While WNT ligands usually signal through their dedicated Frizzled receptors, the decision to signal in a β-catenin-dependent or -independent manner rests upon the type of co-receptors used. Canonical WNT signaling is β-catenin-dependent, whereas non-canonical WNT signaling is β-catenin-independent according to the classical definition. This still holds true, albeit with some added complexity, as both the pathways seem to cross-talk with intertwined networks that involve the use of different ligands, receptors, and co-receptors. β-catenin can be directly phosphorylated by various kinases governing its participation in either canonical or non-canonical pathways. Moreover, the co-activators that associate with β-catenin determine the output of the pathway in terms of induction of genes promoting proliferation or differentiation. In this review, we provide an overview of how protein phosphorylation controls WNT/β-catenin signaling, particularly in human cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kinjal Shah
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Lund Stem Cell Center, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Julhash U. Kazi
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Lund Stem Cell Center, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- *Correspondence: Julhash U. Kazi,
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Liang X, Jin Q, Yang X, Jiang W. Dickkopf‑3 and β‑catenin play opposite roles in the Wnt/β‑catenin pathway during the abnormal subchondral bone formation of human knee osteoarthritis. Int J Mol Med 2022; 49:48. [PMID: 35137918 PMCID: PMC8904073 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2022.5103] [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: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Osteoarthritis (OA) is condition which poses a main concern to the aging population and its severity is expected to increase with the increasing life expectancy. In the future, several possible targets for OA treatment need to be defined. Dickkopf-related protein 3 (DKK3) is an atypical member of the Wnt-antagonistic dickkopf-related protein (DKK) family. The availability of research into the role of DKK3 in the abnormal remodeling of subchondral bone in human knee joints is currently limited. Thus, the aim of the present study was the evaluation of DKK3 expression in the abnormal bone remodeling of subchondral bone in human knee OA in order to clarify the role of DKK3 in subchondral bone remodeling and to acknowledge its potential relevance to β-catenin. In total, 38 specimens were collected from osteotomies of the medial tibial plateau of the human knee. The patient samples were then divided into the normal, mild, moderate and severe symptom groups, according to the Osteoarthritis Research Society International (OARSI) score. Following hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and Safranin O-fast green staining for alkaline phosphatase (AZO method), changes in the distribution and number of osteocytes in the subchondral bone and the degree of sclerosis of the subchondral bone were observed. Immunohistochemical staining, immunofluorescence, western blot analysis and reverse-transcription quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) were used for the detection of DKK3 and β-catenin expression level changes in osteoblasts in the subchondral bone of the medial tibial plateau. H&E and alkaline phosphatase staining revealed that the total number of osteocytes in the subchondral bone increased with the severity of the disease. The samples were also evaluated using Safranin O-Fast Green staining and were attributed a score according to the OARSI scoring system: The scoring number and cartilage damage increased along with OA severity. Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence assays demonstrated that β-catenin expression in osteocytes increased from mild to moderate, whereas DKK3 expression decreased with the development of arthritis from normal, mild to moderate. According to the results of western blot analysis, β-catenin expression was higher in moderate OA and then decreased in severe OA. On the other hand, the DKK3 levels decreased along with the progression from normal, mild to moderate OA. The results of RT-qPCR demonstrated that β-catenin and DKK3 gene expression differed with the degree of OA. On the whole, the present study demonstrates that DKK3 and β-catenin may play opposite roles in OA subchondral bone remodeling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xuegang Liang
- Department of Orthopedics, Ningxia Medical University General Hospital, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region 750000, P.R. China
| | - Qunhua Jin
- Department of Orthopedics, Ningxia Medical University General Hospital, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region 750000, P.R. China
| | - Xiaochun Yang
- Department of Orthopedics, Ningxia Medical University General Hospital, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region 750000, P.R. China
| | - Wenhui Jiang
- Clinical Medical College, Xi'an Medical College, Xi'an, Shanxi 710000, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Peng KY, Jiang SS, Lee YW, Tsai FY, Chang CC, Chen LT, Yen BL. Stromal Galectin-1 Promotes Colorectal Cancer Cancer-Initiating Cell Features and Disease Dissemination Through SOX9 and β-Catenin: Development of Niche-Based Biomarkers. Front Oncol 2021; 11:716055. [PMID: 34568045 PMCID: PMC8462299 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.716055] [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: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Over 90% of colorectal cancer (CRC) patients have mutations in the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, making the development of biomarkers difficult based on this critical oncogenic pathway. Recent studies demonstrate that CRC tumor niche-stromal cells can activate β-catenin in cancer-initiating cells (CICs), leading to disease progression. We therefore sought to elucidate the molecular interactions between stromal and CRC cells for the development of prognostically relevant biomarkers. Assessment of CIC induction and β-catenin activation in CRC cells with two human fibroblast cell-conditioned medium (CM) was performed with subsequent mass spectrometry (MS) analysis to identify the potential paracrine factors. In vitro assessment with the identified factor and in vivo validation using two mouse models of disease dissemination and metastasis was performed. Prediction of additional molecular players with Ingenuity pathway analysis was performed, with subsequent in vitro and translational validation using human CRC tissue microarray and multiple transcriptome databases for analysis. We found that fibroblast-CM significantly enhanced multiple CIC properties including sphere formation, β-catenin activation, and drug resistance in CRC cells. MS identified galectin-1 (Gal-1) to be the secreted factor and Gal-1 alone was sufficient to induce multiple CIC properties in vitro and disease progression in both mouse models. IPA predicted SOX9 to be involved in the Gal-1/β-catenin interactions, which was validated in vitro, with Gal-1 and/or SOX9—particularly Gal-1high/SOX9high samples—significantly correlating with multiple aspects of clinical disease progression. Stromal-secreted Gal-1 promotes CIC-features and disease dissemination in CRC through SOX9 and β-catenin, with Gal-1 and SOX9 having a strong clinical prognostic value.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kai-Yen Peng
- Regenerative Medicine Research Group, Institute of Cellular & System Medicine, National Health Research Institutes (NHRI), Zhunan, Taiwan
| | | | - Yu-Wei Lee
- Regenerative Medicine Research Group, Institute of Cellular & System Medicine, National Health Research Institutes (NHRI), Zhunan, Taiwan
| | - Fang-Yu Tsai
- National Institute of Cancer Research, NHRI, Zhunan, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Chi Chang
- Regenerative Medicine Research Group, Institute of Cellular & System Medicine, National Health Research Institutes (NHRI), Zhunan, Taiwan.,Graduate Institute of Life Sciences, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Li-Tzong Chen
- National Institute of Cancer Research, NHRI, Zhunan, Taiwan.,Department of Oncology, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan.,Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - B Linju Yen
- Regenerative Medicine Research Group, Institute of Cellular & System Medicine, National Health Research Institutes (NHRI), Zhunan, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Kahn M. Taking the road less traveled - the therapeutic potential of CBP/β-catenin antagonists. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2021; 25:701-719. [PMID: 34633266 PMCID: PMC8745629 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2021.1992386] [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: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
AREAS COVERED This perspective discusses the challenges of targeting the Wnt signaling cascade, the safety, efficacy, and therapeutic potential of specific CBP/β-catenin antagonists and a rationale for the pleiotropic effects of CBP/β-catenin antagonists beyond Wnt signaling. EXPERT OPINION CBP/β-catenin antagonists can correct lineage infidelity, enhance wound healing, both normal and aberrant (e.g. fibrosis) and force the differentiation and lineage commitment of stem cells and cancer stem cells by regulating enhancer and super-enhancer coactivator occupancy. Small molecule CBP/β-catenin antagonists rebalance the equilibrium between CBP/β-catenin versus p300/β-catenin dependent transcription and may be able to treat or prevent many diseases of aging, via maintenance of our somatic stem cell pool, and regulating mitochondrial function and metabolism involved in differentiation and immune cell function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Kahn
- Department of Molecular Medicine, City of Hope, Beckman Research Institute, 1500 East Duarte Road Flower Building, Duarte, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Koch S. Regulation of Wnt Signaling by FOX Transcription Factors in Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13143446. [PMID: 34298659 PMCID: PMC8307807 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13143446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Revised: 07/04/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Cancer is caused by a breakdown of cell-to-cell communication, which results in the unrestricted expansion of cells within a tissue. In many cases, tumor growth is maintained by the continuous activation of cell signaling programs that normally drive embryonic development and wound repair. In this review article, I discuss how one of the largest human protein families, namely FOX proteins, controls the activity of the Wnt pathway, a major regulatory signaling cascade in developing organisms and adult stem cells. Evidence suggests that there is considerable crosstalk between FOX proteins and the Wnt pathway, which contributes to cancer initiation and progression. A better understanding of FOX biology may therefore lead to the development of new targeted treatments for many types of cancer. Abstract Aberrant activation of the oncogenic Wnt signaling pathway is a hallmark of numerous types of cancer. However, in many cases, it is unclear how a chronically high Wnt signaling tone is maintained in the absence of activating pathway mutations. Forkhead box (FOX) family transcription factors are key regulators of embryonic development and tissue homeostasis, and there is mounting evidence that they act in part by fine-tuning the Wnt signaling output in a tissue-specific and context-dependent manner. Here, I review the diverse ways in which FOX transcription factors interact with the Wnt pathway, and how the ectopic reactivation of FOX proteins may affect Wnt signaling activity in various types of cancer. Many FOX transcription factors are partially functionally redundant and exhibit a highly restricted expression pattern, especially in adults. Thus, precision targeting of individual FOX proteins may lead to safe treatment options for Wnt-dependent cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Koch
- Wallenberg Centre for Molecular Medicine (WCMM), Linköping University, 58185 Linköping, Sweden; ; Tel.: +46-132-829-69
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (BKV), Linköping University, 58185 Linköping, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Poturnajova M, Furielova T, Balintova S, Schmidtova S, Kucerova L, Matuskova M. Molecular features and gene expression signature of metastatic colorectal cancer (Review). Oncol Rep 2021; 45:10. [PMID: 33649827 PMCID: PMC7876998 DOI: 10.3892/or.2021.7961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Uncontrollable metastatic outgrowth process is the leading cause of mortality worldwide, even in the case of colorectal cancer. Colorectal cancer (CRC) accounts for approximately 10% of all annually diagnosed cancers and 50% of CRC patients will develop metastases in the course of disease. Most patients with metastatic CRC have incurable disease. Even if patients undergo resection of liver metastases, the 5‑year survival rate ranges from 25 to 58%. Next‑generation sequencing of tumour specimens from large colorectal cancer patient cohorts has led to major advances in elucidating the genomic landscape of these tumours and paired metastases. The expression profiles of primary CRC and their metastatic lesions at both the gene and pathway levels were compared and led to the selection of early driver genes responsible for carcinogenesis and metastasis‑specific genes that increased the metastatic process. The genetic, transcriptional and epigenetic alteration encoded by these genes and their combination influence many pivotal signalling pathways, enabling the dissemination and outgrowth in distant organs. Therapeutic regimens affecting several different active pathways may have important implications for therapeutic efficacy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martina Poturnajova
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Cancer Research Institute, Biomedical Research Center of Slovak Academy of Sciences, University Science Park for Biomedicine, 84505 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Tatiana Furielova
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Comenius University, 84215 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Sona Balintova
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Comenius University, 84215 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Silvia Schmidtova
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Cancer Research Institute, Biomedical Research Center of Slovak Academy of Sciences, University Science Park for Biomedicine, 84505 Bratislava, Slovakia
- Translational Research Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, 81499 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Lucia Kucerova
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Cancer Research Institute, Biomedical Research Center of Slovak Academy of Sciences, University Science Park for Biomedicine, 84505 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Miroslava Matuskova
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Cancer Research Institute, Biomedical Research Center of Slovak Academy of Sciences, University Science Park for Biomedicine, 84505 Bratislava, Slovakia
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Lai KKY, Kahn M. Pharmacologically Targeting the WNT/β-Catenin Signaling Cascade: Avoiding the Sword of Damocles. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2021; 269:383-422. [PMID: 34463849 DOI: 10.1007/164_2021_523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
WNT/β-catenin signaling plays fundamental roles in numerous developmental processes and in adult tissue homeostasis and repair after injury, by controlling cellular self-renewal, activation, division, differentiation, movement, genetic stability, and apoptosis. As such, it comes as no surprise that dysregulation of WNT/β-catenin signaling is associated with various diseases, including cancer, fibrosis, neurodegeneration, etc. Although multiple agents that specifically target the WNT/β-catenin signaling pathway have been studied preclinically and a number have entered clinical trials, none has been approved by the FDA to date. In this chapter, we provide our insights as to the reason(s) it has been so difficult to safely pharmacologically target the WNT/β-catenin signaling pathway and discuss the significant efforts undertaken towards this goal.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Keane K Y Lai
- Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Michael Kahn
- Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope, Duarte, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Ding S, Xu S, Fang J, Jiang H. The Protective Effect of Polyphenols for Colorectal Cancer. Front Immunol 2020; 11:1407. [PMID: 32754151 PMCID: PMC7366338 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.01407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most prevalent cancers that threaten people in many countries. It is a multi-factorial chronic disease caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors, but it is mainly related to lifestyle factors, including diet. Plentiful plant foods and beverages are abundant in polyphenols with antioxidant, anti-atherosclerotic, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties. These compounds participate in host nutrition and disease pathology regulation in different ways. Polyphenolic compounds have been used to prevent and inhibit the development and prognosis of cancer, and examples include green tea polyphenol (-)epigallocatechin-3-O-gallate (EGCG), curcumin, and resveratrol. Of course, there are more known and unknown polyphenol compounds that need to be further explored for their anticancer properties. This article focuses on the fact that polyphenols affect the progression of CRC by controlling intestinal inflammation, epigenetics, and the intestinal microbe in the aspects of prevention, treatment, and prognosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sujuan Ding
- Hunan Provincial Engineering Research Center of Applied Microbial Resources Development for Livestock and Poultry, College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China
| | - Sheng Xu
- Hunan Provincial Engineering Research Center of Applied Microbial Resources Development for Livestock and Poultry, College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China
| | - Jun Fang
- Hunan Provincial Engineering Research Center of Applied Microbial Resources Development for Livestock and Poultry, College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China
| | - Hongmei Jiang
- Hunan Provincial Engineering Research Center of Applied Microbial Resources Development for Livestock and Poultry, College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Yang L, Shi P, Zhao G, Xu J, Peng W, Zhang J, Zhang G, Wang X, Dong Z, Chen F, Cui H. Targeting cancer stem cell pathways for cancer therapy. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2020; 5:8. [PMID: 32296030 PMCID: PMC7005297 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-020-0110-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 868] [Impact Index Per Article: 217.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2019] [Revised: 12/15/2019] [Accepted: 12/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Since cancer stem cells (CSCs) were first identified in leukemia in 1994, they have been considered promising therapeutic targets for cancer therapy. These cells have self-renewal capacity and differentiation potential and contribute to multiple tumor malignancies, such as recurrence, metastasis, heterogeneity, multidrug resistance, and radiation resistance. The biological activities of CSCs are regulated by several pluripotent transcription factors, such as OCT4, Sox2, Nanog, KLF4, and MYC. In addition, many intracellular signaling pathways, such as Wnt, NF-κB (nuclear factor-κB), Notch, Hedgehog, JAK-STAT (Janus kinase/signal transducers and activators of transcription), PI3K/AKT/mTOR (phosphoinositide 3-kinase/AKT/mammalian target of rapamycin), TGF (transforming growth factor)/SMAD, and PPAR (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor), as well as extracellular factors, such as vascular niches, hypoxia, tumor-associated macrophages, cancer-associated fibroblasts, cancer-associated mesenchymal stem cells, extracellular matrix, and exosomes, have been shown to be very important regulators of CSCs. Molecules, vaccines, antibodies, and CAR-T (chimeric antigen receptor T cell) cells have been developed to specifically target CSCs, and some of these factors are already undergoing clinical trials. This review summarizes the characterization and identification of CSCs, depicts major factors and pathways that regulate CSC development, and discusses potential targeted therapy for CSCs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liqun Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, 400716, Chongqing, China
- Cancer Center, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, 400716, Chongqing, China
| | - Pengfei Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, 400716, Chongqing, China
- Cancer Center, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, 400716, Chongqing, China
| | - Gaichao Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, 400716, Chongqing, China
- Cancer Center, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, 400716, Chongqing, China
| | - Jie Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, 400716, Chongqing, China
- Cancer Center, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, 400716, Chongqing, China
| | - Wen Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, 400716, Chongqing, China
- Cancer Center, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, 400716, Chongqing, China
| | - Jiayi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, 400716, Chongqing, China
- Cancer Center, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, 400716, Chongqing, China
| | - Guanghui Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, 400716, Chongqing, China
- Cancer Center, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, 400716, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaowen Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, 400716, Chongqing, China
- Cancer Center, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, 400716, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhen Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, 400716, Chongqing, China
- Cancer Center, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, 400716, Chongqing, China
| | - Fei Chen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
| | - Hongjuan Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, 400716, Chongqing, China.
- Cancer Center, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, 400716, Chongqing, China.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Igarashi H, Taniguchi H, Nosho K, Ishigami K, Koide H, Mitsuhashi K, Okita K, Takemasa I, Imai K, Nakase H. PRDM14 promotes malignant phenotype and correlates with poor prognosis in colorectal cancer. Clin Transl Oncol 2019; 22:1126-1137. [PMID: 31741141 DOI: 10.1007/s12094-019-02239-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2019] [Accepted: 10/27/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Emerging evidence suggests that stemness in cancer cells is a cause of drug resistance or metastasis and is an important therapeutic target. PR [positive regulatory domain I-binding factor 1 (PRDI-BF1) and retinoblastoma protein-interacting zinc finger gene (RIZ1)] domain containing 14 (PRDM14), that regulates pluripotency in primordial germ cell, has reported the overexpression and function of stemness in various malignancies, suggesting it as the possible therapeutic target. However, to our knowledge, there have been no reports on the expression and function of PRDM14 in colorectal cancer (CRC). Therefore, we investigated the expression and the role of PRDM14 in CRC. METHODS We performed immunohistochemistry evaluations and assessed PRDM14 expression on 414 primary CRC specimens. Colon cancer cell lines were subjected to functional and stemness assays in vitro and in vivo. RESULTS We found that PRDM14 positive staining exhibited heterogeneity in the CRC primary tumor, especially at the tumor invasion front. The aberrant expression of PRDM14 at the invasion front was associated with lymph node metastasis and disease stage in patients with CRC. Furthermore, the multivariate analysis revealed high PRDM14 expression as an independent prognostic factor in the patients with Stage III CRC. Overexpression of PRDM14 enhanced the invasive, drug-resistant and stem-like properties in colon cancer cells in vitro and tumorigenicity in vivo. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that PRDM14 is involved in progression and chemoresistance of CRC, and is a potential prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target in the CRC patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- H Igarashi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, S-1, W-16, Chou-ku, Sapporo, 060-8543, Japan.
| | - H Taniguchi
- The Center for Antibody and Vaccine Therapy, Research Hospital, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - K Nosho
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, S-1, W-16, Chou-ku, Sapporo, 060-8543, Japan
| | - K Ishigami
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, S-1, W-16, Chou-ku, Sapporo, 060-8543, Japan
| | - H Koide
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, S-1, W-16, Chou-ku, Sapporo, 060-8543, Japan
| | - K Mitsuhashi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, S-1, W-16, Chou-ku, Sapporo, 060-8543, Japan
| | - K Okita
- Department of Surgery, Surgical Oncology and Science, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - I Takemasa
- Department of Surgery, Surgical Oncology and Science, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - K Imai
- The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - H Nakase
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, S-1, W-16, Chou-ku, Sapporo, 060-8543, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Teeuwssen M, Fodde R. Cell Heterogeneity and Phenotypic Plasticity in Metastasis Formation: The Case of Colon Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11091368. [PMID: 31540068 PMCID: PMC6770401 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11091368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2019] [Revised: 09/09/2019] [Accepted: 09/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The adenoma-to-carcinoma progression in colon cancer is driven by a sequential accumulation of genetic alterations at specific tumor suppressors and oncogenes. In contrast, the multistage route from the primary site to metastasis formation is underlined by phenotypic plasticity, i.e., the capacity of disseminated tumor cells to undergo transiently and reversible transformations in order to adapt to the ever-changing environmental contexts. Notwithstanding the considerable body of evidence in support of the role played by epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT)/mesenchymal-to-epithelial transition (MET) in metastasis, its rate-limiting function, the detailed underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms, and the extension of the necessary morphologic and epigenetic changes are still a matter of debate. Rather than leading to a complete epithelial or mesenchymal state, the EMT/MET-program generates migrating cancer cells displaying intermediate phenotypes featuring both epithelial and mesenchymal characteristics. In this review, we will address the role of colon cancer heterogeneity and phenotypic plasticity in metastasis formation and the contribution of EMT to these processes. The alleged role of hybrid epithelial/mesenchymal (E/M) in collective and/or single-cell migration during local dissemination at the primary site and more systemic spreading will also be highlighted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Teeuwssen
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Riccardo Fodde
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Luo CW, Hsiao IL, Wang JY, Wu CC, Hung WC, Lin YH, Chen TY, Hsu YC, Cheng TL, Pan MR. Cell Motility Facilitated by Mono(2-ethylhexyl) Phthalate via Activation of the AKT-β-Catenin-IL-8 Axis in Colorectal Cancer. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2018; 66:9635-9644. [PMID: 30188700 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.8b03558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is a common plasticizer that is widely used in many consumer products and medical devices. Humans can be exposed to DEHP through ingestion, inhalation, or dermal absorption. Previous studies on DEHP have focused on its role as an endocrine-disrupting chemical leading to endocrine-related diseases. However, the correlation between DEHP exposure and the progression of colorectal cancer (CRC) is largely unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of mono(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP), an active metabolite of DEHP, on the progression of CRC. Our results showed that treatment with MEHP enriched the population of cancer-stem-cell (CSC)-like cells and upregulated IL-8 expression by inducing the AKT-β-catenin-TCF4 signaling pathway. Blocking β-catenin-TCF4-mediated IL-8 expression reversed the MEHP-induced migration and enrichment of CSC-like cells. Consistent with the in vitro data, DEHP treatment increased the levels of nuclear β-catenin, polyp formation, and invasive adenocarcinoma in a mouse model. Our results suggest that MEHP facilitates the progression of CRC through AKT-β-catenin signaling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chi-Wen Luo
- Division of Cardiology , Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical Center , Kaohsiung 833 , Taiwan
| | - I-Ling Hsiao
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine , Kaohsiung Medical University , Number 100, Tzyou First Road , Kaohsiung 807 , Taiwan
| | - Jaw-Yuan Wang
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine , Kaohsiung Medical University , Number 100, Tzyou First Road , Kaohsiung 807 , Taiwan
- Division of Colorectal Surgery, Department of Surgery , Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University , Kaohsiung 807 , Taiwan
| | - Chun-Chieh Wu
- Department of Pathology , Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University , Kaohsiung 807 , Taiwan
| | - Wen-Chun Hung
- National Institute of Cancer Research , National Health Research Institutes , Tainan 704 , Taiwan
| | - Yu-Han Lin
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine , Kaohsiung Medical University , Number 100, Tzyou First Road , Kaohsiung 807 , Taiwan
| | - Tzu-Yi Chen
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine , Kaohsiung Medical University , Number 100, Tzyou First Road , Kaohsiung 807 , Taiwan
| | - Yin-Chou Hsu
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine , Kaohsiung Medical University , Number 100, Tzyou First Road , Kaohsiung 807 , Taiwan
- Department of Emergency Medicine , E-Da Hospital, I-Shou University , Kaohsiung 824 , Taiwan
| | - Tian-Lu Cheng
- Center for Biomarkers and Biotech Drugs , Kaohsiung Medical University , Kaohsiung 807 , Taiwan
- Department of Biomedical Science and Environmental Biology , Kaohsiung Medical University , Kaohsiung 807 , Taiwan
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences , National Sun Yat-sen University , Kaohsiung 804 , Taiwan
| | - Mei-Ren Pan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine , Kaohsiung Medical University , Number 100, Tzyou First Road , Kaohsiung 807 , Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Abstract
Obesity has become epidemic worldwide, which triggers several obesity-associated complications. Obesity is characterized by excess fat storage mainly in the visceral white adipose tissue (vWAT), subcutaneous WAT (sWAT), and other tissues. Myriad studies have demonstrated the crucial role of canonical Wnt/β-catenin cascade in the development of organs and physiological homeostasis, whereas recent studies show that genetic variations/mutations in the Wnt/β-catenin pathway are associated with human metabolic diseases. In this review, we highlight the regulation of updated Wnt/β-catenin signaling in obesity, especially the distinctly depot-specific roles between subcutaneous and visceral adipose tissue under high-fed diet stimulation and WAT browning process.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Na Chen
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, China National Research Center for Metabolic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiqiu Wang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, China National Research Center for Metabolic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Duffy DJ, Krstic A, Schwarzl T, Halasz M, Iljin K, Fey D, Haley B, Whilde J, Haapa-Paananen S, Fey V, Fischer M, Westermann F, Henrich KO, Bannert S, Higgins DG, Kolch W. Wnt signalling is a bi-directional vulnerability of cancer cells. Oncotarget 2018; 7:60310-60331. [PMID: 27531891 PMCID: PMC5312386 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.11203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2015] [Accepted: 07/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Wnt signalling is involved in the formation, metastasis and relapse of a wide array of cancers. However, there is ongoing debate as to whether activation or inhibition of the pathway holds the most promise as a therapeutic treatment for cancer, with conflicting evidence from a variety of tumour types. We show that Wnt/β-catenin signalling is a bi-directional vulnerability of neuroblastoma, malignant melanoma and colorectal cancer, with hyper-activation or repression of the pathway both representing a promising therapeutic strategy, even within the same cancer type. Hyper-activation directs cancer cells to undergo apoptosis, even in cells oncogenically driven by β-catenin. Wnt inhibition blocks proliferation of cancer cells and promotes neuroblastoma differentiation. Wnt and retinoic acid co-treatments synergise, representing a promising combination treatment for MYCN-amplified neuroblastoma. Additionally, we report novel cross-talks between MYCN and β-catenin signalling, which repress normal β-catenin mediated transcriptional regulation. A β-catenin target gene signature could predict patient outcome, as could the expression level of its DNA binding partners, the TCF/LEFs. This β-catenin signature provides a tool to identify neuroblastoma patients likely to benefit from Wnt-directed therapy. Taken together, we show that Wnt/β-catenin signalling is a bi-directional vulnerability of a number of cancer entities, and potentially a more broadly conserved feature of malignant cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David J Duffy
- Systems Biology Ireland, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland.,Current address: The Whitney Laboratory for Marine Bioscience, University of Florida, St. Augustine, Florida, USA
| | - Aleksandar Krstic
- Systems Biology Ireland, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Thomas Schwarzl
- Systems Biology Ireland, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland.,Current address: European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Melinda Halasz
- Systems Biology Ireland, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Dirk Fey
- Systems Biology Ireland, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Bridget Haley
- Systems Biology Ireland, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Jenny Whilde
- Systems Biology Ireland, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Vidal Fey
- VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, Espoo, Finland
| | - Matthias Fischer
- Department of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology and Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Frank Westermann
- Division of NB Genomics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Kai-Oliver Henrich
- Division of NB Genomics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Steffen Bannert
- Division of NB Genomics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Desmond G Higgins
- Systems Biology Ireland, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland.,Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland.,School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Walter Kolch
- Systems Biology Ireland, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland.,Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland.,School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Kahn M. Wnt Signaling in Stem Cells and Cancer Stem Cells: A Tale of Two Coactivators. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2018; 153:209-244. [PMID: 29389517 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2017.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Wnt signaling in stem cells plays critical roles in development, normal adult physiology, and disease. In this chapter, we focus on the role of the Wnt signaling pathway in somatic stem cell biology and its critical role in normal tissue homeostasis and cancer. Wnt signaling can both maintain potency and initiate differentiation in somatic stem cells, depending on the cellular and environmental context. Based principally on studies from our lab, we will explain the dichotomous behavior of this signaling pathway in determining stem cell fate decisions, placing special emphasis on the interaction of β-catenin with either of the two highly homologous Kat3 coactivator proteins, CBP and p300. We will also discuss our results, both preclinical and clinical, demonstrating that small molecule modulators of the β-catenin/Kat3 coactivator interaction can be safely utilized to shift the balance between maintenance of potency and initiation of differentiation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Kahn
- Beckman Research Institute of the City of Hope, Duarte, CA, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Little CH, Combet E, McMillan DC, Horgan PG, Roxburgh CSD. The role of dietary polyphenols in the moderation of the inflammatory response in early stage colorectal cancer. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2017; 57:2310-2320. [PMID: 26066365 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2014.997866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Current focus in colorectal cancer (CRC) management is on reducing overall mortality by increasing the number of early-stage cancers diagnosed and treated with curative intent. Despite the success of screening programs in down-staging CRC, interval cancer rates are substantial and other strategies are desirable. Sporadic CRC is largely associated with lifestyle factors including diet. Polyphenols are phytochemicals ingested as part of a normal diet, which are abundant in plant foods including fruits/berries and vegetables. These may exert their anti-carcinogenic effects via the modulation of inflammatory pathways. Key signal transduction pathways are fundamental to the association of inflammation and disease progression including those mediated by NF-κB and STAT, PI3K and COX. Our aim was to examine the evidence for the effect of dietary polyphenols intake on tumor and host inflammatory responses to determine if polyphenols may be effective as part of a dietary intervention. There is good epidemiological evidence of a reduction in CRC risk from case-control and cohort studies assessing polyphenol intake. It would be premature to suggest a major public health intervention to promote their consumption; however, dietary change is safe and feasible, emphasizing the need for further investigation of polyphenols and CRC risk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C H Little
- a Academic Unit of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Glasgow, Royal Infirmary , Glasgow , UK
| | - E Combet
- b Department of Human Nutrition , School of Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary & Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Yorkhill Hospital , Glasgow , UK
| | - D C McMillan
- a Academic Unit of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Glasgow, Royal Infirmary , Glasgow , UK
| | - P G Horgan
- a Academic Unit of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Glasgow, Royal Infirmary , Glasgow , UK
| | - C S D Roxburgh
- a Academic Unit of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Glasgow, Royal Infirmary , Glasgow , UK
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Kim YM, Gang EJ, Kahn M. CBP/Catenin antagonists: Targeting LSCs' Achilles heel. Exp Hematol 2017; 52:1-11. [PMID: 28479420 PMCID: PMC5526056 DOI: 10.1016/j.exphem.2017.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2017] [Revised: 04/07/2017] [Accepted: 04/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs), including leukemia stem cells (LSCs), exhibit self-renewal capacity and differentiation potential and have the capacity to maintain or renew and propagate a tumor/leukemia. The initial isolation of CSCs/LSCs was in adult myelogenous leukemia, although more recently, the existence of CSCs in a wide variety of other cancers has been reported. CSCs, in general, and LSCs, specifically with respect to this review, are responsible for initiation of disease, therapeutic resistance and ultimately disease relapse. One key focus in cancer research over the past decade has been the development of therapies that safely eliminate the LSC/CSC population. One major obstacle to this goal is the identification of key mechanisms that distinguish LSCs from normal endogenous hematopoietic stem cells. An additional daunting feature that has recently come to light with advances in next-generation sequencing and single-cell sequencing is the heterogeneity within leukemias/tumors, with multiple combinations of mutations, gain and loss of function of genes, and so on being capable of driving disease, even within the CSC/LSC population. The focus of this review/perspective is on our work in identifying and validating, in both chronic myelogenous leukemia and acute lymphoblastic leukemia, a safe and efficacious mechanism to target an evolutionarily conserved signaling nexus, which constitutes a common "Achilles heel" for LSCs/CSCs, using small molecule-specific CBP/catenin antagonists.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yong-Mi Kim
- Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Blood and Bone Marrow Transplantation, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Eun-Ji Gang
- Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Blood and Bone Marrow Transplantation, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Michael Kahn
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA; Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA; Center for Molecular Pathways and Drug Discovery, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA; Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Hull MA, Cuthbert RJ, Ko CWS, Scott DJ, Cartwright EJ, Hawcroft G, Perry SL, Ingram N, Carr IM, Markham AF, Bonifer C, Coletta PL. Paracrine cyclooxygenase-2 activity by macrophages drives colorectal adenoma progression in the Apc Min/+ mouse model of intestinal tumorigenesis. Sci Rep 2017; 7:6074. [PMID: 28729694 PMCID: PMC5519705 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-06253-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2017] [Accepted: 06/12/2017] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Genetic deletion or pharmacological inhibition of cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 abrogates intestinal adenoma development at early stages of colorectal carcinogenesis. COX-2 is localised to stromal cells (predominantly macrophages) in human and mouse intestinal adenomas. Therefore, we tested the hypothesis that paracrine Cox-2-mediated signalling from macrophages drives adenoma growth and progression in vivo in the ApcMin/+ mouse model of intestinal tumorigenesis. Using a transgenic C57Bl/6 mouse model of Cox-2 over-expression driven by the chicken lysozyme locus (cLys-Cox-2), which directs integration site-independent, copy number-dependent transgene expression restricted to macrophages, we demonstrated that stromal macrophage Cox-2 in colorectal (but not small intestinal) adenomas from cLys-Cox-2 x ApcMin/+ mice was associated with significantly increased tumour size (P = 0.025) and multiplicity (P = 0.025), compared with control ApcMin/+ mice. Transgenic macrophage Cox-2 expression was associated with increased dysplasia, epithelial cell Cox-2 expression and submucosal tumour invasion, as well as increased nuclear β-catenin translocation in dysplastic epithelial cells. In vitro studies confirmed that paracrine macrophage Cox-2 signalling drives catenin-related transcription in intestinal epithelial cells. Paracrine macrophage Cox-2 activity drives growth and progression of ApcMin/+ mouse colonic adenomas, linked to increased epithelial cell β-catenin dysregulation. Stromal cell (macrophage) gene regulation and signalling represent valid targets for chemoprevention of colorectal cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mark A Hull
- Section of Molecular Gastroenterology, Leeds Institute of Biomedical & Clinical Sciences, University of Leeds, St James's University Hospital, Leeds, LS9 7TF, United Kingdom.
| | - Richard J Cuthbert
- Section of Molecular Gastroenterology, Leeds Institute of Biomedical & Clinical Sciences, University of Leeds, St James's University Hospital, Leeds, LS9 7TF, United Kingdom
| | - C W Stanley Ko
- Section of Molecular Gastroenterology, Leeds Institute of Biomedical & Clinical Sciences, University of Leeds, St James's University Hospital, Leeds, LS9 7TF, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel J Scott
- Section of Molecular Gastroenterology, Leeds Institute of Biomedical & Clinical Sciences, University of Leeds, St James's University Hospital, Leeds, LS9 7TF, United Kingdom
| | - Elizabeth J Cartwright
- Section of Molecular Gastroenterology, Leeds Institute of Biomedical & Clinical Sciences, University of Leeds, St James's University Hospital, Leeds, LS9 7TF, United Kingdom
| | - Gillian Hawcroft
- Section of Molecular Gastroenterology, Leeds Institute of Biomedical & Clinical Sciences, University of Leeds, St James's University Hospital, Leeds, LS9 7TF, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah L Perry
- Section of Molecular Gastroenterology, Leeds Institute of Biomedical & Clinical Sciences, University of Leeds, St James's University Hospital, Leeds, LS9 7TF, United Kingdom
| | - Nicola Ingram
- Section of Molecular Gastroenterology, Leeds Institute of Biomedical & Clinical Sciences, University of Leeds, St James's University Hospital, Leeds, LS9 7TF, United Kingdom
| | - Ian M Carr
- Section of Translational Medicine, Leeds Institute of Biomedical & Clinical Sciences, University of Leeds, St James's University Hospital, Leeds, LS9 7TF, United Kingdom
| | - Alexander F Markham
- Section of Translational Medicine, Leeds Institute of Biomedical & Clinical Sciences, University of Leeds, St James's University Hospital, Leeds, LS9 7TF, United Kingdom
| | - Constanze Bonifer
- Section of Experimental Haematology, Leeds Institute of Cancer and Pathology, University of Leeds, St James's University Hospital, Leeds, LS9 7TF, United Kingdom
| | - P Louise Coletta
- Section of Molecular Gastroenterology, Leeds Institute of Biomedical & Clinical Sciences, University of Leeds, St James's University Hospital, Leeds, LS9 7TF, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Fibroblast surface-associated FGF-2 promotes contact-dependent colorectal cancer cell migration and invasion through FGFR-SRC signaling and integrin αvβ5-mediated adhesion. Oncotarget 2016; 6:14300-17. [PMID: 25973543 PMCID: PMC4546468 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.3883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2014] [Accepted: 04/21/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Carcinoma-associated fibroblasts were reported to promote colorectal cancer (CRC) invasion by secreting motility factors and extracellular matrix processing enzymes. Less is known whether fibroblasts may induce CRC cancer cell motility by contact-dependent mechanisms. To address this question we characterized the interaction between fibroblasts and SW620 and HT29 colorectal cancer cells in 2D and 3D co-culture models in vitro. Here we show that fibroblasts induce contact-dependent cancer cell elongation, motility and invasiveness independently of deposited matrix or secreted factors. These effects depend on fibroblast cell surface-associated fibroblast growth factor (FGF) -2. Inhibition of FGF-2 or FGF receptors (FGFRs) signaling abolishes these effects. FGFRs activate SRC in cancer cells and inhibition or silencing of SRC in cancer cells, but not in fibroblasts, prevents fibroblasts-mediated effects. Using an RGD-based integrin antagonist and function-blocking antibodies we demonstrate that cancer cell adhesion to fibroblasts requires integrin αvβ5. Taken together, these results demonstrate that fibroblasts induce cell-contact-dependent colorectal cancer cell migration and invasion under 2D and 3D conditions in vitro through fibroblast cell surface-associated FGF-2, FGF receptor-mediated SRC activation and αvβ5 integrin-dependent cancer cell adhesion to fibroblasts. The FGF-2-FGFRs-SRC-αvβ5 integrin loop might be explored as candidate therapeutic target to block colorectal cancer invasion.
Collapse
|
24
|
Gajos-Michniewicz A, Czyz M. Modulation of WNT/β-catenin pathway in melanoma by biologically active components derived from plants. Fitoterapia 2016; 109:283-92. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fitote.2016.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2015] [Revised: 01/28/2016] [Accepted: 02/01/2016] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
|
25
|
Lichtenberger BM, Mastrogiannaki M, Watt FM. Epidermal β-catenin activation remodels the dermis via paracrine signalling to distinct fibroblast lineages. Nat Commun 2016; 7:10537. [PMID: 26837596 PMCID: PMC4742837 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms10537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2015] [Accepted: 12/23/2015] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Sustained epidermal Wnt/β-catenin signalling expands the stem cell compartment and induces ectopic hair follicles (EFs). This is accompanied by extensive fibroblast proliferation and extracellular matrix (ECM) remodelling in the underlying dermis. Here we show that epidermal Hedgehog (Hh) and Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) signalling mediate the dermal changes. Pharmacological inhibition or genetic deletion of these pathways prevents β-catenin-induced dermal reprogramming and EF formation. Epidermal Shh stimulates proliferation of the papillary fibroblast lineage, whereas TGF-β2 controls proliferation, differentiation and ECM production by reticular fibroblasts. Hh inhibitors do not affect TGF-β target gene expression in reticular fibroblasts, and TGF-β inhibition does not prevent Hh target gene induction in papillary fibroblasts. However, when Hh signalling is inhibited the reticular dermis does not respond to epidermal β-catenin activation. We conclude that the dermal response to epidermal Wnt/β-catenin signalling depends on distinct fibroblast lineages responding to different paracrine signals. The molecular mechanisms regulating skin dermal changes are unclear. Here, the authors show that deletion of Hedgehog (Hh) in the upper dermis alters the response to epidermal Wnt signalling, which, together with changes in extracellular matrix production, influences distinct fibroblast lineages differently.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Beate M Lichtenberger
- Centre for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, King's College London, Guy's Hospital, Great Maze Pond, London SE1 9RT, UK.,Wellcome Trust Centre for Stem Cell Research, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1QR, UK
| | - Maria Mastrogiannaki
- Centre for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, King's College London, Guy's Hospital, Great Maze Pond, London SE1 9RT, UK
| | - Fiona M Watt
- Centre for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, King's College London, Guy's Hospital, Great Maze Pond, London SE1 9RT, UK
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Thomas PD, Kahn M. Kat3 coactivators in somatic stem cells and cancer stem cells: biological roles, evolution, and pharmacologic manipulation. Cell Biol Toxicol 2016; 32:61-81. [PMID: 27008332 PMCID: PMC7458431 DOI: 10.1007/s10565-016-9318-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2016] [Accepted: 03/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Long-lived somatic stem cells regenerate adult tissues throughout our lifetime. However, with aging, there is a significant deterioration in the function of stem and progenitor cells, which contribute to diseases of aging. The decision for a long-lived somatic stem cell to become activated and subsequently to undergo either a symmetric or an asymmetric division is a critical cellular decision process. The decision to preferentially divide symmetrically or asymmetrically may be the major fundamental intrinsic difference between normal somatic stem cells and cancer stem cells. Based upon work done primarily in our laboratory over the past 15 years, this article provides a perspective on the critical role of somatic stem cells in aging. In particular, we discuss the importance of symmetric versus asymmetric divisions in somatic stem cells and the role of the differential usage of the highly similar Kat3 coactivators, CREB-binding protein (CBP) and p300, in stem cells. We describe and propose a more complete model for the biological mechanism and roles of these two coactivators, their evolution, and unique roles and importance in stem cell biology. Finally, we discuss the potential to pharmacologically manipulate Kat3 coactivator interactions in endogenous stem cells (both normal and cancer stem cells) to potentially ameliorate the aging process and common diseases of aging.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paul D Thomas
- Division of Bioinformatics, Department of Preventive Medicine, USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, 1450 Biggy Street, NRT 2501, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
| | - Michael Kahn
- USC Center for Molecular Pathways and Drug Discovery, USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, 1450 Biggy Street, NRT 4501, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Tissue invasion and metastasis: Molecular, biological and clinical perspectives. Semin Cancer Biol 2015; 35 Suppl:S244-S275. [PMID: 25865774 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2015.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 327] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2014] [Revised: 03/17/2015] [Accepted: 03/18/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Cancer is a key health issue across the world, causing substantial patient morbidity and mortality. Patient prognosis is tightly linked with metastatic dissemination of the disease to distant sites, with metastatic diseases accounting for a vast percentage of cancer patient mortality. While advances in this area have been made, the process of cancer metastasis and the factors governing cancer spread and establishment at secondary locations is still poorly understood. The current article summarizes recent progress in this area of research, both in the understanding of the underlying biological processes and in the therapeutic strategies for the management of metastasis. This review lists the disruption of E-cadherin and tight junctions, key signaling pathways, including urokinase type plasminogen activator (uPA), phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/v-akt murine thymoma viral oncogene (PI3K/AKT), focal adhesion kinase (FAK), β-catenin/zinc finger E-box binding homeobox 1 (ZEB-1) and transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β), together with inactivation of activator protein-1 (AP-1) and suppression of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) activity as key targets and the use of phytochemicals, or natural products, such as those from Agaricus blazei, Albatrellus confluens, Cordyceps militaris, Ganoderma lucidum, Poria cocos and Silybum marianum, together with diet derived fatty acids gamma linolenic acid (GLA) and eicosapentanoic acid (EPA) and inhibitory compounds as useful approaches to target tissue invasion and metastasis as well as other hallmark areas of cancer. Together, these strategies could represent new, inexpensive, low toxicity strategies to aid in the management of cancer metastasis as well as having holistic effects against other cancer hallmarks.
Collapse
|
28
|
Colorectal cancer and basement membranes: clinicopathological correlations. Gastroenterol Res Pract 2014; 2014:580159. [PMID: 25614736 PMCID: PMC4295340 DOI: 10.1155/2014/580159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2014] [Accepted: 12/16/2014] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in males and the second in females. In 2008, an estimated 1.2 million people were diagnosed with and 608,700 people died of CRC. Besides diagnosis and treatment, prognosis is an important matter for cancer patients. Today, clinicopathological correlations have many applications in cancer prognostication. Examples include the prediction of the medium patient survival and the screening for patients suitable for specific therapeutic approaches. Apart from traditional prognostic factors, such as tumor stage and grade, new markers may be useful in clinical practice. Possible markers may result from the study of basement membranes (BMs). BM seems to play a role in the pathogenesis of colorectal cancer, so BM alterations may have prognostic significance as well. The purpose of this review is to briefly describe BMs and their relationship with CRC, in the aspect of clinicopathological correlations.
Collapse
|
29
|
Buhrmann C, Kraehe P, Lueders C, Shayan P, Goel A, Shakibaei M. Curcumin suppresses crosstalk between colon cancer stem cells and stromal fibroblasts in the tumor microenvironment: potential role of EMT. PLoS One 2014; 9:e107514. [PMID: 25238234 PMCID: PMC4169561 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0107514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2014] [Accepted: 08/13/2014] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Interaction of stromal and tumor cells plays a dynamic role in initiating and enhancing carcinogenesis. In this study, we investigated the crosstalk between colorectal cancer (CRC) cells with stromal fibroblasts and the anti-cancer effects of curcumin and 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU), especially on cancer stem cell (CSC) survival in a 3D-co-culture model that mimics in vivo tumor microenvironment. METHODS Colon carcinoma cells HCT116 and MRC-5 fibroblasts were co-cultured in a monolayer or high density tumor microenvironment model in vitro with/without curcumin and/or 5-FU. RESULTS Monolayer tumor microenvironment co-cultures supported intensive crosstalk between cancer cells and fibroblasts and enhanced up-regulation of metastatic active adhesion molecules (β1-integrin, ICAM-1), transforming growth factor-β signaling molecules (TGF-β3, p-Smad2), proliferation associated proteins (cyclin D1, Ki-67) and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) factor (vimentin) in HCT116 compared with tumor mono-cultures. High density tumor microenvironment co-cultures synergistically increased tumor-promoting factors (NF-κB, MMP-13), TGF-β3, favored CSC survival (characterized by up-regulation of CD133, CD44, ALDH1) and EMT-factors (increased vimentin and Slug, decreased E-cadherin) in HCT116 compared with high density HCT116 mono-cultures. Interestingly, this synergistic crosstalk was even more pronounced in the presence of 5-FU, but dramatically decreased in the presence of curcumin, inducing biochemical changes to mesenchymal-epithelial transition (MET), thereby sensitizing CSCs to 5-FU treatment. CONCLUSION Enrichment of CSCs, remarkable activation of tumor-promoting factors and EMT in high density co-culture highlights that the crosstalk in the tumor microenvironment plays an essential role in tumor development and progression, and this interaction appears to be mediated at least in part by TGF-β and EMT. Modulation of this synergistic crosstalk by curcumin might be a potential therapy for CRC and suppress metastasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Constanze Buhrmann
- Institute of Anatomy, Ludwig-Maximilian-University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Patricia Kraehe
- Institute of Anatomy, Ludwig-Maximilian-University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Cora Lueders
- German Heart Institute Berlin, Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Laboratory for Tissue Engineering, Berlin, Germany
| | - Parviz Shayan
- Investigating Institute of Molecular Biological System Transfer, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ajay Goel
- Gastrointestinal Cancer Research Laboratory, Division of Gastroenterology, Baylor Research Institute and Charles A. Sammons Cancer Center, Baylor University Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, United States of America
- * E-mail: (AG); (MS)
| | - Mehdi Shakibaei
- Institute of Anatomy, Ludwig-Maximilian-University Munich, Munich, Germany
- * E-mail: (AG); (MS)
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Abstract
WNT-β-catenin signalling is involved in a multitude of developmental processes and the maintenance of adult tissue homeostasis by regulating cell proliferation, differentiation, migration, genetic stability and apoptosis, as well as by maintaining adult stem cells in a pluripotent state. Not surprisingly, aberrant regulation of this pathway is therefore associated with a variety of diseases, including cancer, fibrosis and neurodegeneration. Despite this knowledge, therapeutic agents specifically targeting the WNT pathway have only recently entered clinical trials and none has yet been approved. This Review examines the problems and potential solutions to this vexing situation and attempts to bring them into perspective.
Collapse
|
31
|
Lenz HJ, Kahn M. Safely targeting cancer stem cells via selective catenin coactivator antagonism. Cancer Sci 2014; 105:1087-92. [PMID: 24975284 PMCID: PMC4175086 DOI: 10.1111/cas.12471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 136] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2014] [Accepted: 06/24/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Throughout our life, long-lived somatic stem cells (SSC) regenerate adult tissues both during homeostatic processes and repair after injury. The role of aberrant regulation of SSC has also recently gained prominence in the field of cancer research. Following malignant transformation, so termed cancer stem cells (CSC), endowed with the same properties as SSC (i.e. the ability to both self-renew and generate differentiated progenitors), play a major part in tumor initiation, therapy resistance and ultimately relapse. The same signaling pathways involved in regulating SSC maintenance are involved in the regulation of CSC. CSC exist in a wide array of tumor types, including leukemias, and brain, breast, prostate and colon tumors. Consequently, one of the key goals in cancer research over the past decade has been to develop therapeutic strategies to safely eliminate the CSC population without damaging the endogenous SSC population. A major hurdle to this goal lies in the identification of the key mechanisms that distinguish CSC from the normal endogenous tissue stem cells. This review will discuss the discovery of the specific CBP/catenin antagonist ICG-001 and the ongoing clinical development of the second generation CBP/catenin antagonist PRI-724. Importantly, specific CBP/catenin antagonists appear to have the ability to safely eliminate CSC by taking advantage of an intrinsic differential preference in the way SSC and CSC divide.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Heinz-Josef Lenz
- USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, USC Center for Molecular Pathways and Drug Discovery, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Hu TH, Yao Y, Yu S, Han LL, Wang WJ, Guo H, Tian T, Ruan ZP, Kang XM, Wang J, Wang SH, Nan KJ. SDF-1/CXCR4 promotes epithelial-mesenchymal transition and progression of colorectal cancer by activation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Cancer Lett 2014; 354:417-26. [PMID: 25150783 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2014.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2014] [Revised: 08/02/2014] [Accepted: 08/08/2014] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Stromal cell-derived factor 1 (SDF-1) and its receptor, CXCR4, play an important role in angiogenesis and are associated with tumor progression. This study aimed to investigate the role of SDF-1/CXCR4-mediated epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and the progression of colorectal cancer (CRC) as well as the underlying mechanisms. The data showed that expression of CXCR4 and β-catenin mRNA and protein was significantly higher in CRC tissues than in distant normal tissues. CXCR4 expression was associated with β-catenin expression in CRC tissues, whereas high CXCR4 expression was strongly associated with low E-cadherin, high N-cadherin, and high vimentin expression, suggesting a cross talk between the SDF-1/CXCR4 axis and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in CRC. In vitro, SDF-1 induced CXCR4-positive colorectal cancer cell invasion and EMT by activation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. In contrast, SDF-1/CXCR4 axis activation-induced colorectal cancer invasion and EMT was effectively inhibited by the Wnt signaling pathway inhibitor Dickkopf-1. In conclusion, CXCR4-promoted CRC progression and EMT were regulated by the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Thus, targeting of the SDF-1/CXCR4 axis could have clinical applications in suppressing CRC progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ting-Hua Hu
- Department of Respiration, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Yu Yao
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Shuo Yu
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710004, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Li-Li Han
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Wen-Juan Wang
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Hui Guo
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Tao Tian
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Zhi-Pin Ruan
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Xiao-Min Kang
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Shu-Hong Wang
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, Shaanxi Province, China.
| | - Ke-Jun Nan
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, Shaanxi Province, China.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Lambrou GI, Remboutsika E. Proliferation versus regeneration: the good, the bad and the ugly. Front Physiol 2014; 5:10. [PMID: 24478722 PMCID: PMC3904080 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2014.00010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2013] [Accepted: 01/07/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- George I Lambrou
- Choremeio Research Laboratory, First Department of Pediatrics, University of Athens Athens, Greece
| | - Eumorphia Remboutsika
- Choremeio Research Laboratory, First Department of Pediatrics, University of Athens Athens, Greece ; Stem Cell Biology Laboratory, Biomedical Sciences Research Centre "Alexander Fleming" Vari-Attica, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Calcein-effluxing human colon cancer cells are enriched for self-renewal capacity and depend on β-catenin. Oncotarget 2014; 4:184-91. [PMID: 23468473 PMCID: PMC3712565 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Putative cancer stem cells are a subpopulation of cancer cells that give rise to chemotherapy resistance and are therefore of prognostic and therapeutic interest, though their identification remains elusive in colon cancer due to lack of reliable and accurate markers. We previously identified a p53-dependent putative cancer stem cell population, the calcein low population (C(lo)P), based on their exclusive efflux of the fluorescent dye Calcein. This functional identification method enables comparative live cell studies of subpopulations without differential toxicity that occurs with traditional Hoechst methods, which has confounded conclusions and limited the utility of this cancer stem cell marker. In this study, we examined the cancer stem cell-like properties of the C(lo)P population in vivo in comparison with the parental and calcein-high population (C(hi)P) in human colon cancer xenografts. Serial dilution xenograft experiments in NOD/SCID mice revealed that the C(lo)P is only marginally more tumorigenic compared to the C(hi)P or parental cells. However, serial passage of these tumors revealed that the C(lo)P is uniquely enriched for self-renewal capacity in vivo compared to the other populations. Immunohistochemical analysis of these tumors revealed that the C(lo)P possesses increased levels of nuclear β-catenin and furthermore, siRNA-mediated knockdown of β-catenin significantly reduced the C(lo)P population. These findings highlight the C(lo)P as an important subpopulation of tumor cells that are exclusively endowed with the ability to self-renew and propagate tumors. The dependency of the C(lo)P on β-catenin provides a molecular explanation for this ability and suggests that this population can and should be therapeutically targeted by inhibition of Wnt signaling.
Collapse
|
35
|
Hypoxia triggers a Nur77-β-catenin feed-forward loop to promote the invasive growth of colon cancer cells. Br J Cancer 2014; 110:935-45. [PMID: 24423919 PMCID: PMC3929893 DOI: 10.1038/bjc.2013.816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2013] [Revised: 11/20/2013] [Accepted: 12/10/2013] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: β-Catenin is a potent oncogenic protein in colorectal cancer (CRC), but the targets and regulation of this important signalling molecule are not completely understood. Hypoxia is a prominent feature of solid tumours that contributes to cancer progression. Methods: Here, we analysed the regulation between Nur77 and β-catenin under hypoxic conditions. Cell proliferation, migration, and invasion assays were performed to assess functional consequences. Results: We showed that hypoxia stimulated co-upregulation of β-catenin and Nur77 in a number of human CRC cell lines. Interestingly, expression of β-catenin and Nur77 by hypoxia formed a mutual feedback regulation circuits that conferred aggressive growth of CRC. Overexpression of β-catenin increased Nur77 transcription through hypoxia-inducible factor-1α rather than T-cell factor. Nur77-mediated activation of β-catenin by hypoxia was independent of both DNA binding and transactivation. Further, we showed that hypoxic activation of β-catenin was independent of the classical adenomatous polyposis coli and p53 pathways, but stimulated by phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/Akt in a Nur77-dependent manner. Under hypoxic conditions, enhanced β-catenin and Nur77 expression synergistically stimulated CRC cell migration, invasion, and epithelial–mesenchymal transition. Conclusion: These findings provide a novel molecular mechanism for hypoxic CRCs that may contribute to tumour progression, and its targeting may represent an effective therapeutic avenue.
Collapse
|
36
|
Wong MS, Sidik SM, Mahmud R, Stanslas J. Molecular targets in the discovery and development of novel antimetastatic agents: current progress and future prospects. Clin Exp Pharmacol Physiol 2013; 40:307-19. [PMID: 23534409 DOI: 10.1111/1440-1681.12083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2013] [Revised: 03/18/2013] [Accepted: 03/21/2013] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Tumour invasion and metastasis have been recognized as major causal factors in the morbidity and mortality among cancer patients. Many advances in the knowledge of cancer metastasis have yielded an impressive array of attractive drug targets, including enzymes, receptors and multiple signalling pathways. The present review summarizes the molecular pathogenesis of metastasis and the identification of novel molecular targets used in the discovery of antimetastatic agents. Several promising targets have been highlighted, including receptor tyrosine kinases, effector molecules involved in angiogenesis, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), urokinase plasminogen activator, adhesion molecules and their receptors, signalling pathways (e.g. phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase, phospholipase Cγ1, mitogen-activated protein kinases, c-Src kinase, c-Met kinases and heat shock protein. The discovery and development of potential novel therapeutics for each of the targets are also discussed in this review. Among these, the most promising agents that have shown remarkable clinical outcome are anti-angiogenic agents (e.g. bevacizumab). Newer agents, such as c-Met kinase inhibitors, are still undergoing preclinical studies and are yet to have their clinical efficacy proven. Some therapeutics, such as first-generation MMP inhibitors (MMPIs; e.g. marimastat) and more selective versions of them (e.g. prinomastat, tanomastat), have undergone clinical trials. Unfortunately, these drugs produced serious adverse effects that led to the premature termination of their development. In the future, third-generation MMPIs and inhibitors of signalling pathways and adhesion molecules could form valuable novel classes of drugs in the anticancer armamentarium to combat metastasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mei S Wong
- Pharmacotherapeutics Unit, Department of Medicine, University Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
Catalano V, Turdo A, Di Franco S, Dieli F, Todaro M, Stassi G. Tumor and its microenvironment: a synergistic interplay. Semin Cancer Biol 2013; 23:522-32. [PMID: 24012661 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2013.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 287] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2013] [Accepted: 08/27/2013] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The mutual and interdependent interaction between tumor and its microenvironment is a crucial topic in cancer research. Recently, it was reported that targeting stromal events could improve efficacies of current therapeutics and prevent metastatic spreading. Tumor microenvironment is a "complex network" of different cell types, soluble factors, signaling molecules and extracellular matrix components, which orchestrate the fate of tumor progression. As by definition, cancer stem cells (CSCs) are proposed to be the unique cell type able to maintain tumor mass and survive outside the primary tumor at metastatic sites. Being exposed to environmental stressors, including reactive oxygen species (ROS), CSCs have developed a GSH-dependent antioxidant system to improve ROS defense capability and acquire a malignant phenotype. Nevertheless, tumor progression is dependent on extracellular matrix remodeling, fibroblasts and macrophages activation in response to oxidative stress, as well as epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT)-inducing signals and endothelial and perivascular cells recruitment. Besides providing a survival advantage by inducing de novo angiogenesis, tumor-associated vessels contribute to successful dissemination by facilitating tumor cells entry into the circulatory system and driving the formation of pre-metastatic niche. In this review, we focus on the synergistic effect of hypoxia inducible factors (HIFs) and vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs) in the successful outgrowth of metastasis, integrating therefore many of the emerging models and theories in the field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Catalano
- University of Palermo, Department of Surgical and Oncological Sciences, Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Pathophysiology, Via Liborio Giuffrè, 5, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
38
|
Di Franco S, Todaro M, Dieli F, Stassi G. Colorectal cancer defeating? Challenge accepted! Mol Aspects Med 2013; 39:61-81. [PMID: 23927966 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2013.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2013] [Revised: 07/01/2013] [Accepted: 07/23/2013] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Colorectal tumours are actually considered as aberrant organs, within it is possible to notice a different stage of cell growth and differentiation. Their origin is reported to arise from a subpopulation of tumour cells endowed with, just like the healthy stem cells, self-renewal and aberrant multi-lineage differentiation capacity likely to be called colorectal cancer stem cells (CCSCs). Cancer stem cells (CSCs) fate, since their origin, reflects the influences from their microenvironment (or niche) both in the maintenance of stemness, in promoting their differentiation, and in inducing epithelial-mesenchymal transition, responsible of CSCs dissemination and subsequent formation of metastatic lesions. The tumour cells heterogeneity and their immuno-response resistance nowadays probably responsible of the failure of the conventional therapies, make this research field an open issue. Even more importantly, our increasing understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms that regulate CSC quiescence and cell cycle regulation, self-renewal, chemotaxis and resistance to cytotoxic agents, is expected to eventually result in tailor-made therapies with a significant impact on the morbidity and overall survival of colorectal cancer patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Di Franco
- Department of Surgical and Oncological Sciences, University of Palermo, Via Liborio Giuffre' 5, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - M Todaro
- Department of Surgical and Oncological Sciences, University of Palermo, Via Liborio Giuffre' 5, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - F Dieli
- Division of Immunology and Immunogenetics, Department of Biotechnology and Medical and Forensic Biopathological (DIBIMEF), Palermo, Italy
| | - G Stassi
- Department of Surgical and Oncological Sciences, University of Palermo, Via Liborio Giuffre' 5, 90127 Palermo, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Bcl-w Enhances Mesenchymal Changes and Invasiveness of Glioblastoma Cells by Inducing Nuclear Accumulation of β-Catenin. PLoS One 2013; 8:e68030. [PMID: 23826359 PMCID: PMC3694904 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0068030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2013] [Accepted: 05/24/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Bcl-w a pro-survival member of the Bcl-2 protein family, is expressed in a variety of cancer types, including gastric and colorectal adenocarcinomas, as well as glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), the most common and lethal brain tumor type. Previously, we demonstrated that Bcl-w is upregulated in gastric cancer cells, particularly those displaying infiltrative morphology. These reports propose that Bcl-w is strongly associated with aggressive characteristic, such as invasive or mesenchymal phenotype of GBM. However, there is no information from studies of the role of Bcl-w in GBM. In the current study, we showed that Bcl-w is upregulated in human glioblastoma multiforme (WHO grade IV) tissues, compared with normal and glioma (WHO grade III) tissues. Bcl-w promotes the mesenchymal traits of glioblastoma cells by inducing vimentin expression via activation of transcription factors, β-catenin, Twist1 and Snail in glioblastoma U251 cells. Moreover, Bcl-w induces invasiveness by promoting MMP-2 and FAK activation via the PI3K-p-Akt-p-GSK3β-β-catenin pathway. We further confirmed that Bcl-w has the capacity to induce invasiveness in several human cancer cell lines. In particular, Bcl-w-stimulated β-catenin is translocated into the nucleus as a transcription factor and promotes the expression of target genes, such as mesenchymal markers or MMPs, thereby increasing mesenchymal traits and invasiveness. Our findings collectively indicate that Bcl-w functions as a positive regulator of invasiveness by inducing mesenchymal changes and that trigger their aggressiveness of glioblastoma cells.
Collapse
|
40
|
Stewart CJR, McCluggage WG. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition in carcinomas of the female genital tract. Histopathology 2013; 62:31-43. [PMID: 23240668 DOI: 10.1111/his.12057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Invasion is a defining feature of malignancy, but the mechanisms of invasion in many common cancers, including gynaecological malignancies, remain unclear. However, it has been proposed that malignant cells may usurp a normal embryological process, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), as a means of acquiring migratory capacity. The synergistic role of the tumour microenvironment in EMT induction has also been explored and helps to explain the spatially restricted distribution of EMT at the deep tumour margin (invasive front). Furthermore, tumour cells undergoing EMT may acquire cancer stem cell characteristics, and this may be relevant to the entire metastatic process and to tumour recurrence and treatment failure. Nevertheless, doubts persist regarding the role of EMT in malignant progression in vivo, partly because few studies have correlated molecular and histological alterations in clinical pathology specimens. In the current review we summarize the evidence for EMT in the common gynaecological epithelial malignancies, and discuss the morphological and immunohistochemical changes occurring at the invasive tumour front that may represent EMT-like processes. The possibility that carcinosarcomas represent a variant type of EMT with 'fixed' mesenchymal differentiation is also considered. Diagnostic histopathologists are ideally placed to critically evaluate the role of EMT in gynaecological and other types of malignancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Colin J R Stewart
- Departments of Histopathology, King Edward Memorial Hospital, Perth, Australia.
| | | |
Collapse
|
41
|
Planutis K, Planutiene M, Nguyen AV, Moyer MP, Holcombe RF. Invasive colon cancer, but not non-invasive adenomas induce a gradient effect of Wnt pathway receptor frizzled 1 (Fz1) expression in the tumor microenvironment. J Transl Med 2013; 11:50. [PMID: 23442549 PMCID: PMC3605249 DOI: 10.1186/1479-5876-11-50] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2012] [Accepted: 02/20/2013] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Wnt signaling in the colon cancer tumor microenvironment (TME) may affect cancer biologic properties including invasion and metastatic dissemination. Prior reports have suggested that the expression of select frizzled (Fz) receptors may be altered in cancers and in the TME. Methods Colon cancer, colonic adenoma and normal colonic mucosal specimens were obtained under institutional review board approval and analyzed for the expression of Fz1 and Fz2 by confocal fluorescent immunohistochemistry and Wnt-specific membrane array. In vitro, the effect of Wnt3a on Fz1 expression was examined in normal-derived NCM460 cells by qRT-PCR and immunohistochemistry. Results Fz1 was expressed in colon cancer and villous adenomas but not in more benign tubular adenomas. Fz1 expression was seen in normal colonic mucosa in close proximity to colon cancer, but not villous or tubular adenomas. Normal colonic mucosa distant from colon cancer did not express Fz1. Fz2 was expressed ubiquitously in cancer, adenomas and normal colonic mucosa. Fz1 expression was induced by Wnt3a in a normal colon mucosa-derived cell line in vitro. Conclusions Fz1 is a Wnt responsive gene in colon-derived tissues. Fz1 expression exhibited increased expression in normal mucosa only in close proximity to colon cancer. This field effect was not seen with pre-malignant adenomas and may be due to Wnt/β-catenin signaling within the TME. Fz1 may represent a new TME-directed therapeutic target for patients with colon cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kestutis Planutis
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Tisch Cancer Institute, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
42
|
Distribution of residual cancer cells in the bowel wall after neoadjuvant chemoradiation in patients with rectal cancer. Dis Colon Rectum 2013; 56:142-9. [PMID: 23303141 PMCID: PMC4674069 DOI: 10.1097/dcr.0b013e31827541e2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The standard treatment for locally advanced rectal cancer is preoperative chemoradiation and total mesorectal excision. After surgery, tumors are classified according to the depth of tumor invasion, nodal involvement, and tumor regression grade. However, these staging systems do not provide information about the distribution of residual cancer cells within the bowel wall. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to determine the distribution of residual cancer cells in each layer of the bowel wall in rectal cancer specimens. DESIGN This was a secondary analysis of data from a prospective phase II study. SETTING This study was performed in a multi-institutional setting. PATIENTS Included were 153 patients with stage II or stage III rectal cancer. INTERVENTIONS Patients were treated with chemoradiation and surgery. The surgical specimen tumor tissue was analyzed, and the distribution of residual cancer cells in each layer of the bowel wall was determined. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Statistical analysis was used to examine the correlation of residual cancer cells in each layer of the bowel wall with the clinical/pathologic stage and tumor regression grade. RESULTS Forty-two of 153 (27%) patients had complete response in the bowel wall (ypT0). Of the remaining 111 patients who had residual cancer cells, 5 (3%) were ypTis, 12 (8%) were ypT1, 41 (27%) were ypT2, 50 (33%) were ypT3, and 3 (2%) were ypT4. Of the 94 patients with ypT2-4 tumors, 12 (13%) had cancer cells in the mucosa, and 53 (56%) had cancer cells in the submucosa; 92 (98%) had cancer cells in the muscularis propria. Pretreatment cT correlated with the distribution of residual cancer cells. Tumor regression grade was not associated with the distribution of residual cancer cells after chemoradiation. LIMITATIONS : Patients received different chemotherapy regimens. CONCLUSIONS Residual cancer cells in rectal cancer specimens after chemoradiation are preferentially located close to the invasive front. This should be considered when designing strategies to diagnose complete pathologic response and when investigating the mechanisms of tumor resistance to chemoradiation.
Collapse
|
43
|
Femia AP, Dolara P, Salvadori M, Caderni G. Expression of LGR-5, MSI-1 and DCAMKL-1, putative stem cell markers, in the early phases of 1,2-dimethylhydrazine-induced rat colon carcinogenesis: correlation with nuclear β-catenin. BMC Cancer 2013; 13:48. [PMID: 23374535 PMCID: PMC3566940 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2407-13-48] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2012] [Accepted: 01/30/2013] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Colon cancer stem cells may drive carcinogenesis and account for chemotherapeutic failure. Although many markers for these cells have been proposed, there is no complete agreement regarding them, nor has their presence in the early phases of carcinogenesis been characterized in depth. METHODS The expression of the putative markers LGR-5 (leucine-rich-repeat-containing G-protein-coupled receptor 5), MSI-1 (Musashi-1) and DCAMKL-1 (doublecortin and calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase-like-1) was studied in normal colon mucosa (NM), in the precancerous lesions Mucin Depleted Foci (MDF) and in macroscopic tumours (adenomas) of 1,2-dimethylhydrazine-treated rats. Co-localization between these markers and nuclear β-catenin (NBC), an attributed feature of cancer stem cells, was also determined. Moreover, since PGE2 could increase NBC, we tested whether short-term treatment with celecoxib, a COX-2 inhibitor (2 weeks, 250 ppm in the diet) could reduce the expression of these markers. RESULTS LGR-5 expression in NM was low (Labelling Index (LI): 0.22 ± 0.03 (means ± SE)) with positive cells located mainly at the base of the crypts. Compared to NM, LGR-5 was overexpressed in MDF and tumours (LI: 4.7 ± 2.0 and 2.9 ± 1.0 in MDF and tumours, respectively, P<0.01 compared to NM). DCAMKL-1 positive cells, distributed along the length of normal crypts, were reduced in MDF and tumours. Nuclear expression of MSI-1, located mainly at the base of normal crypts, was not observed in MDF or tumours. In both MDF and tumours, few cells co-expressed LGR-5 and NBC (LI: 1.0 ± 0.3 and 0.4 ± 0.2 in MDF and tumours, respectively). Notwithstanding the lower expression of DCAMKL-1 in tumours, the percentage of cells co-expressing DCAMKL-1 and NBC was higher than in NM (LI: 0.5 ± 0.1 and 0.04 ± 0.02 in tumours and NM, respectively). MSI-1 and NBC co-localization was not observed. Celecoxib did not reduce cells co-expressing LGR-5 and NBC. CONCLUSIONS Based on its prevalent localization at the base of normal crypts, as expected for stem cells, and on the overexpression in precancerous lesions and tumours, we support LGR-5, but not MSI-1 or DCAMKL-1, as putative neoplastic stem cell marker. In both MDF and tumours, we identified LGR-5-positive cells co-expressing NBC which could be a subpopulation with the highest stem cell features.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Angelo Pietro Femia
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Florence, 6 Viale Pieraccini, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
44
|
Karagiannis GS, Poutahidis T, Erdman SE, Kirsch R, Riddell RH, Diamandis EP. Cancer-associated fibroblasts drive the progression of metastasis through both paracrine and mechanical pressure on cancer tissue. Mol Cancer Res 2012; 10:1403-18. [PMID: 23024188 DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-12-0307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 396] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Neoplastic cells recruit fibroblasts through various growth factors and cytokines. These "cancer-associated fibroblasts" (CAF) actively interact with neoplastic cells and form a myofibroblastic microenvironment that promotes cancer growth and survival and supports malignancy. Several products of their paracrine signaling repertoire have been recognized as tumor growth and metastasis regulators. However, tumor-promoting cell signaling is not the only reason that makes CAFs key components of the "tumor microenvironment," as CAFs affect both the architecture and growth mechanics of the developing tumor. CAFs participate in the remodeling of peritumoral stroma, which is a prerequisite of neoplastic cell invasion, expansion, and metastasis. CAFs are not present peritumorally as individual cells but they act orchestrated to fully deploy a desmoplastic program, characterized by "syncytial" (or collective) configuration and altered cell adhesion properties. Such myofibroblastic cohorts are reminiscent of those encountered in wound-healing processes. The view of "cancer as a wound that does not heal" led to useful comparisons between wound healing and tumorigenesis and expanded our knowledge of the role of CAF cohorts in cancer. In this integrative model of cancer invasion and metastasis, we propose that the CAF-supported microenvironment has a dual tumor-promoting role. Not only does it provide essential signals for cancer cell dedifferentiation, proliferation, and survival but it also facilitates cancer cell local invasion and metastatic phenomena.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- George S Karagiannis
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
45
|
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) represent a subpopulation of tumour cells endowed with self-renewal and multi-lineage differentiation capacity but also with an innate resistance to cytotoxic agents, a feature likely to pose major clinical challenges towards the complete eradication of minimal residual disease in cancer patients. Operationally, CSCs are defined by their tumour-propagating ability when serially transplanted into immune-compromised mice and by their capacity to fully recapitulate the original heterogeneity of cell types observed in the primary lesions they are derived from. CSCs were first identified in haematopoietic malignancies and later in a broad spectrum of solid tumours including those of the breast, colon and brain. Notably, several CSC characteristics are relevant to metastasis, such as motility, invasiveness and, as mentioned above, resistance to DNA damage-induced apoptosis. Here, we have reviewed the current literature on the relation between CSCs and metastasis formation. Preliminary studies on cancer cell lines and patient-derived material suggest a rate-limiting role for stem-like cells in the processes of tumour cell dissemination and metastasis formation. However, additional studies are needed to deliver formal proof of their identity as the cell of origin of recurrences at distant organ sites. Nevertheless, several studies have already provided pre-clinical evidence of the efficacy of novel therapies directed against disseminated CSCs.
Collapse
|
46
|
Boehnke K, Falkowska-Hansen B, Stark HJ, Boukamp P. Stem cells of the human epidermis and their niche: composition and function in epidermal regeneration and carcinogenesis. Carcinogenesis 2012; 33:1247-58. [PMID: 22461521 DOI: 10.1093/carcin/bgs136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Skin, as the largest organ, has long been subject of excellent and pioneering studies on stem cells and their role in tissue regulation and tumor formation. In particular, intensive research on mouse skin, and here especially the hair follicle, has largely extended our knowledge. Surprisingly, human skin, although the most easily accessible tissue in man, is far less conceived with regard to its stem cells and their specific environment (the niche). In consequence, these features are as yet only insufficiently defined and it still has to be elucidated how insights in cutaneous stem cell biology gained in mice can be extrapolated to humans. In the last few years, human model systems such as humanized mice or in vitro organotypic cultures that support maintenance or reconstruction of human skin and long-term epidermal regeneration have been developed. These models allow lineage tracing experiments and can be modified by adopting genetically manipulated cell types. Accordingly, they represent proper tools for human stem cell research and will clearly help to improve our still incomplete understanding. Like normal skin, the non-melanoma skin cancers and their respective tumors have gained considerable interest in basic as well as in clinical research. Being the most frequent human tumors globally, basal cell carcinomas and cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs) continue to increase in incidence and specifically SCCs predominate in immunosuppressed transplant recipients. This review intends to compile the present knowledge on keratinocyte stem cells and their niches in normal skin and skin carcinomas with a special focus on the human situation. In particular, the role of the microenvironment, the niche, is emphasized, promoting our view of the decisive importance of the niche as a key regulatory element for controlling position, fate and regenerative potential of the stem cell population both in healthy skin and in carcinomas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karsten Boehnke
- Division of Genetics of Skin Carcinogenesis, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
47
|
Wnt/β-catenin signaling in embryonic stem cell self-renewal and somatic cell reprogramming. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2012; 7:836-46. [PMID: 21603945 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-011-9275-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Embryonic stem cells and induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells are characterized by their ability to self-renew and to generate differentiated cells of all three germ layers. This potential makes them an attractive source to address question of developmental and also for use in clinical regenerative medicine. Although the culture conditions to maintain pluripotency and reprogramming technologies have been established, the underlying molecular mechanisms are incompletely understood. Accumulating evidence indicates that the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway plays a pivotal role in the maintenance of pluripotency as well as in the process of somatic cell reprogramming. Reciprocally, Wnt/β-catenin signaling also plays a critical role in the lineage decision/commitment process. These dramatically different outcomes upon activation of the Wnt signaling cascade has fueled enormous controversy concerning the role of Wnt signaling in the maintenance of potency and induction of differentiation in stem cells. Here, we discuss and explore the divergent roles of the Wnt signaling pathways based on findings from our lab. Accumulated results from our lab indicate the usage of a critical switching mechanism that regulates the divergent Wnt/catenin transcriptional programs associated with either maintenance of potency or initiation of differentiation.
Collapse
|
48
|
Tsukamoto H, Zhu NL, Wang J, Asahina K, Machida K. Morphogens and hepatic stellate cell fate regulation in chronic liver disease. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2012; 27 Suppl 2:94-8. [PMID: 22320925 PMCID: PMC3337168 DOI: 10.1111/j.1440-1746.2011.07022.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Hepatic stellate cells (HSC) are the liver mesenchymal cell type which responds to hepatocellular damage and participates in wound healing. Although HSC myofibroblastic trans-differentiation (activation) is implicated in excessive extracellular matrix deposition, molecular understanding of this phenotypic switch from the viewpoint of cell fate regulation is limited. Recent studies demonstrate the roles of anti-adipogenic morphogens (Wnt, Necdin, Shh) in epigenetic repression of the HSC differentiation gene Pparγ as a causal event in HSC activation. These morphogens have positive cross-interactions which converge to epigenetic repression of Pparγ involving the methyl-CpG binding protein MeCP2. However, these morphogens expressed by activated HSC may also participate in cross-talk between HSC and hepatoblasts/hepatocytes to support liver regeneration, and their aberrant regulation may contribute to liver tumorigenesis. Implications of HSC-derived morphogens in these possibilities are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hidekazu Tsukamoto
- Southern California Research Center for ALPD and Cirrhosis, University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA,Department of Pathology, University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA,Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Nian-Ling Zhu
- Southern California Research Center for ALPD and Cirrhosis, University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA,Department of Pathology, University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Jiaohong Wang
- Southern California Research Center for ALPD and Cirrhosis, University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA,Department of Pathology, University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Kinji Asahina
- Southern California Research Center for ALPD and Cirrhosis, University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA,Department of Pathology, University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Keigo Machida
- Southern California Research Center for ALPD and Cirrhosis, University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA,Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Sleeman JP, Christofori G, Fodde R, Collard JG, Berx G, Decraene C, Rüegg C. Concepts of metastasis in flux: the stromal progression model. Semin Cancer Biol 2012; 22:174-86. [PMID: 22374376 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2012.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2012] [Accepted: 02/14/2012] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The ability of tumor cells to leave a primary tumor, to disseminate through the body, and to ultimately seed new secondary tumors is universally agreed to be the basis for metastasis formation. An accurate description of the cellular and molecular mechanisms that underlie this multistep process would greatly facilitate the rational development of therapies that effectively allow metastatic disease to be controlled and treated. A number of disparate and sometimes conflicting hypotheses and models have been suggested to explain various aspects of the process, and no single concept explains the mechanism of metastasis in its entirety or encompasses all observations and experimental findings. The exciting progress made in metastasis research in recent years has refined existing ideas, as well as giving rise to new ones. In this review we survey some of the main theories that currently exist in the field, and show that significant convergence is emerging, allowing a synthesis of several models to give a more comprehensive overview of the process of metastasis. As a result we postulate a stromal progression model of metastasis. In this model, progressive modification of the tumor microenvironment is equally as important as genetic and epigenetic changes in tumor cells during primary tumor progression. Mutual regulatory interactions between stroma and tumor cells modify the stemness of the cells that drive tumor growth, in a manner that involves epithelial-mesenchymal and mesenchymal-epithelial-like transitions. Similar interactions need to be recapitulated at secondary sites for metastases to grow. Early disseminating tumor cells can progress at the secondary site in parallel to the primary tumor, both in terms of genetic changes, as well as progressive development of a metastatic stroma. Although this model brings together many ideas in the field, there remain nevertheless a number of major open questions, underscoring the need for further research to fully understand metastasis, and thereby identify new and effective ways of treating metastatic disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan P Sleeman
- Universitätsmedizin Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Centre for Biomedicine and Medical Technology Mannheim (CBTM), TRIDOMUS-Gebäude Haus C, Ludolf-Krehl-Str. 13-17, D-68167 Mannheim, Germany.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
50
|
Leushacke M, Spörle R, Bernemann C, Brouwer-Lehmitz A, Fritzmann J, Theis M, Buchholz F, Herrmann BG, Morkel M. An RNA interference phenotypic screen identifies a role for FGF signals in colon cancer progression. PLoS One 2011; 6:e23381. [PMID: 21853123 PMCID: PMC3154943 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0023381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2011] [Accepted: 07/15/2011] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
In tumor cells, stepwise oncogenic deregulation of signaling cascades induces alterations of cellular morphology and promotes the acquisition of malignant traits. Here, we identified a set of 21 genes, including FGF9, as determinants of tumor cell morphology by an RNA interference phenotypic screen in SW480 colon cancer cells. Using a panel of small molecular inhibitors, we subsequently established phenotypic effects, downstream signaling cascades, and associated gene expression signatures of FGF receptor signals. We found that inhibition of FGF signals induces epithelial cell adhesion and loss of motility in colon cancer cells. These effects are mediated via the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and Rho GTPase cascades. In agreement with these findings, inhibition of the MEK1/2 or JNK cascades, but not of the PI3K-AKT signaling axis also induced epithelial cell morphology. Finally, we found that expression of FGF9 was strong in a subset of advanced colon cancers, and overexpression negatively correlated with patients' survival. Our functional and expression analyses suggest that FGF receptor signals can contribute to colon cancer progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marc Leushacke
- Department of Developmental Genetics, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Biology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, Free University Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ralf Spörle
- Department of Developmental Genetics, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin, Germany
| | - Christof Bernemann
- Department of Developmental Genetics, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin, Germany
| | - Antje Brouwer-Lehmitz
- Department of Developmental Genetics, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin, Germany
| | - Johannes Fritzmann
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Surgery, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Mirko Theis
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, Dresden, Germany
- University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus and Medical Faculty, University of Technology Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Frank Buchholz
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, Dresden, Germany
- University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus and Medical Faculty, University of Technology Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Bernhard G. Herrmann
- Department of Developmental Genetics, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin, Germany
- Institute for Medical Genetics, Charité Campus Benjamin Franklin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Markus Morkel
- Department of Developmental Genetics, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin, Germany
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|