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Hillier J, Zhao Y, Carrique L, Malinauskas T, Ruza RR, Chang TH, Yi G, Duyvesteyn HME, Yu J, Lu W, Pardon E, Steyaert J, Zhu Y, Ni T, Jones EY. Structural insights into Frizzled3 through nanobody modulators. Nat Commun 2024; 15:7228. [PMID: 39174501 PMCID: PMC11341715 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-51451-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2024] [Indexed: 08/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The Wnt receptor Frizzled3 (FZD3) is important for brain axonal development and cancer progression. We report structures of FZD3 in complex with extracellular and intracellular binding nanobodies (Nb). The crystal structure of Nb8 in complex with the FZD3 cysteine-rich domain (CRD) reveals that the nanobody binds at the base of the lipid-binding groove and can compete with Wnt5a. Nb8 fused with the Dickkopf-1 C-terminal domain behaves as a FZD3-specific Wnt surrogate, activating β-catenin signalling. The cryo-EM structure of FZD3 in complex with Nb9 reveals partially resolved density for the CRD, which exhibits positional flexibility, and a transmembrane conformation that resembles active GPCRs. Nb9 binds to the cytoplasmic region of FZD3 at the putative Dishevelled (DVL) or G protein-binding site, competes with DVL binding, and inhibits GαS coupling. In combination, our FZD3 structures with nanobody modulators map extracellular and intracellular interaction surfaces of functional, and potentially therapeutic, relevance.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Hillier
- Division of Structural Biology, Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Yuguang Zhao
- Division of Structural Biology, Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
| | - Loic Carrique
- Division of Structural Biology, Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Tomas Malinauskas
- Division of Structural Biology, Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Reinis R Ruza
- Division of Structural Biology, Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Tao-Hsin Chang
- Division of Structural Biology, Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Gangshun Yi
- Division of Structural Biology, Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Helen M E Duyvesteyn
- Division of Structural Biology, Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Jing Yu
- Division of Structural Biology, Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Weixian Lu
- Division of Structural Biology, Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Els Pardon
- Structural Biology Brussels, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, VUB, Brussels, Belgium
- VIB-VUB Centre for Structural Biology, VIB, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jan Steyaert
- Structural Biology Brussels, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, VUB, Brussels, Belgium
- VIB-VUB Centre for Structural Biology, VIB, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Yanan Zhu
- Division of Structural Biology, Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Tao Ni
- Division of Structural Biology, Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - E Yvonne Jones
- Division of Structural Biology, Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
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2
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Yu J, Liao PJ, Keller TH, Cherian J, Virshup DM, Xu W. Ultra-large scale virtual screening identifies a small molecule inhibitor of the Wnt transporter Wntless. iScience 2024; 27:110454. [PMID: 39104418 PMCID: PMC11298631 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.110454] [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: 09/03/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Wnts are lipid-modified glycoproteins that play key roles in both embryonic development and adult homeostasis. Wnt signaling is dysregulated in many cancers and preclinical data shows that targeting Wnt biosynthesis and secretion can be effective in Wnt-addicted cancers. An integral membrane protein known as Wntless (WLS/Evi) is essential for Wnt secretion. However, WLS remains undrugged thus far. The cryo-EM structure of WLS in complex with WNT8A shows that WLS has a druggable G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR) domain. Using Active Learning/Glide, we performed an ultra-large scale virtual screening from Enamine's REAL 350/3 Lead-Like library containing nearly 500 million compounds. 68 hits were examined after on-demand synthesis in cell-based Wnt reporter and other functional assays. ETC-451 emerged as a potential first-in-class WLS inhibitor. ETC-451 blocked WLS-WNT3A interaction and decreased Wnt-addicted pancreatic cancer cell line proliferation. The current hit provides a starting chemical scaffold for further structure or ligand-based drug discovery targeting WLS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Yu
- Programme in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore
| | - Pei-Ju Liao
- Programme in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore
| | - Thomas H. Keller
- Experimental Drug Development Centre, 10 Biopolis Road, Chromos, Singapore 138670, Singapore
| | - Joseph Cherian
- Experimental Drug Development Centre, 10 Biopolis Road, Chromos, Singapore 138670, Singapore
| | - David M. Virshup
- Programme in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore
- Department of Pediatrics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Weijun Xu
- Experimental Drug Development Centre, 10 Biopolis Road, Chromos, Singapore 138670, Singapore
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3
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Zheng S, Sheng R. The emerging understanding of Frizzled receptors. FEBS Lett 2024; 598:1939-1954. [PMID: 38744670 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.14903] [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: 03/04/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
The Wnt signaling pathway is a huge network governing development and homeostasis, dysregulation of which is associated with a myriad of human diseases. The Frizzled receptor (FZD) family comprises receptors for Wnt ligands, which indispensably mediate Wnt signaling jointly with a variety of co-receptors. Studies of FZDs have revealed that 10 FZD subtypes play diverse roles in physiological processes. At the same time, dysregulation of FZDs is also responsible for various diseases, in particular human cancers. Enormous attention has been paid to the molecular understanding and targeted therapy of FZDs in the past decade. In this review, we summarize the latest research on FZD structure, function, regulation and targeted therapy, providing a basis for guiding future research in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaoqin Zheng
- College of Life and Health Science, Northeastern University, Shenyang, China
| | - Ren Sheng
- College of Life and Health Science, Northeastern University, Shenyang, China
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4
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Liu HY, Sun XJ, Xiu SY, Zhang XY, Wang ZQ, Gu YL, Yi CX, Liu JY, Dai YS, Yuan X, Liao HP, Liu ZM, Pang XC, Li TC. Frizzled receptors (FZDs) in Wnt signaling: potential therapeutic targets for human cancers. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2024; 45:1556-1570. [PMID: 38632318 PMCID: PMC11272778 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-024-01270-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Frizzled receptors (FZDs) are key contributors intrinsic to the Wnt signaling pathway, activation of FZDs triggering the Wnt signaling cascade is frequently observed in human tumors and intimately associated with an aggressive carcinoma phenotype. It has been shown that the abnormal expression of FZD receptors contributes to the manifestation of malignant characteristics in human tumors such as enhanced cell proliferation, metastasis, chemotherapy resistance as well as the acquisition of cancer stemness. Given the essential roles of FZD receptors in the Wnt signaling in human tumors, this review aims to consolidate the prevailing knowledge on the specific status of FZD receptors (FZD1-10) and elucidate their respective functions in tumor progression. Furthermore, we delineate the structural basis for binding of FZD and its co-receptors to Wnt, and provide a better theoretical foundation for subsequent studies on related mechanisms. Finally, we describe the existing biological classes of small molecule-based FZD inhibitors in detail in the hope that they can provide useful assistance for design and development of novel drug candidates targeted FZDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Yu Liu
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China
| | - Xiao-Jiao Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Si-Yu Xiu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Xiang-Yu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Zhi-Qi Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Yan-Lun Gu
- Department of Pharmacy, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China
| | - Chu-Xiao Yi
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Jun-Yan Liu
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China
| | - Yu-Song Dai
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China
| | - Xia Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Hua-Peng Liao
- Yizhang County People's Hospital, Chenzhou, 424200, China
| | - Zhen-Ming Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China.
| | - Xiao-Cong Pang
- Department of Pharmacy, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China.
| | - Tian-Cheng Li
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China.
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100034, China.
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5
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Chuan J, Li W, Pan S, Jiang Z, Shi J, Yang Z. Progress in the development of modulators targeting Frizzleds. Pharmacol Res 2024; 206:107286. [PMID: 38936522 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2024.107286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2024] [Revised: 06/08/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
The Frizzleds (FZDs) receptors on the cell surface belong to the class F of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) which are the major receptors of WNT protein that mediates the classical WNT signaling pathway and other non-classical pathways. Besides, the FZDs also play a core role in tissue regeneration and tumor occurrence. With the structure and mechanism of FZDs activation becoming clearer, a series of FZDs modulators (inhibitors and agonists) have been developed, with the hope of bringing benefits to the treatment of cancer and degenerative diseases. Most of the FZDs inhibitors (small molecules, antibodies or designed protein inhibitors) block WNT signaling through binding to the cysteine-rich domain (CRD) of FZDs. Several small molecules impede FZDs activation by targeting to the third intracellular domain or the transmembrane domain of FZDs. However, three small molecules (FZM1.8, SAG1.3 and purmorphamine) activate the FZDs through direct interaction with the transmembrane domain. Another type of FZDs agonists are bivalent or tetravalent antibodies which activate the WNT signaling via inducing FZD-LRP5/6 heterodimerization. In this article, we reviewed the FZDs modulators reported in recent years, summarized the critical molecules' discovery processes and the elucidated relevant structural and pharmacological mechanisms. We believe the summaried molecular mechanisms of the relevant modulators could provide important guidance and reference for the future development of FZD modulators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junlan Chuan
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Disease Gene Study and Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Department of Pharmacy, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences and Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Wei Li
- Center for Natural Products Research, Chengdu Institute of Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 9, Section 4, Renmin South Road, Chengdu 610041, China; The University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 380 Huaibeizhuang, Huairou District, Beijing 101408, China
| | - Shengliu Pan
- Center for Natural Products Research, Chengdu Institute of Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 9, Section 4, Renmin South Road, Chengdu 610041, China; The University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 380 Huaibeizhuang, Huairou District, Beijing 101408, China
| | - Zhongliang Jiang
- Hematology Department, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, USA
| | - Jianyou Shi
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Disease Gene Study and Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Department of Pharmacy, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences and Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China.
| | - Zhenglin Yang
- Research Unit for Blindness Prevention, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU026), Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences and Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China; Jinfeng Laboratory, Chongqing, China.
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6
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Griffiths SC, Tan J, Wagner A, Blazer LL, Adams JJ, Srinivasan S, Moghisaei S, Sidhu SS, Siebold C, Ho HYH. Structure and function of the ROR2 cysteine-rich domain in vertebrate noncanonical WNT5A signaling. eLife 2024; 13:e71980. [PMID: 38780011 PMCID: PMC11219042 DOI: 10.7554/elife.71980] [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: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The receptor tyrosine kinase ROR2 mediates noncanonical WNT5A signaling to orchestrate tissue morphogenetic processes, and dysfunction of the pathway causes Robinow syndrome, brachydactyly B, and metastatic diseases. The domain(s) and mechanisms required for ROR2 function, however, remain unclear. We solved the crystal structure of the extracellular cysteine-rich (CRD) and Kringle (Kr) domains of ROR2 and found that, unlike other CRDs, the ROR2 CRD lacks the signature hydrophobic pocket that binds lipids/lipid-modified proteins, such as WNTs, suggesting a novel mechanism of ligand reception. Functionally, we showed that the ROR2 CRD, but not other domains, is required and minimally sufficient to promote WNT5A signaling, and Robinow mutations in the CRD and the adjacent Kr impair ROR2 secretion and function. Moreover, using function-activating and -perturbing antibodies against the Frizzled (FZ) family of WNT receptors, we demonstrate the involvement of FZ in WNT5A-ROR signaling. Thus, ROR2 acts via its CRD to potentiate the function of a receptor super-complex that includes FZ to transduce WNT5A signals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel C Griffiths
- Division of Structural Biology, Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of OxfordOxfordUnited Kingdom
| | - Jia Tan
- Department of Cell Biology and Human Anatomy, University of California, Davis School of MedicineDavisUnited States
| | - Armin Wagner
- Science Division, Diamond Light Source, Harwell Science and Innovation CampusDidcotUnited Kingdom
| | - Levi L Blazer
- School of Pharmacy, University of WaterlooWaterlooCanada
| | | | - Srisathya Srinivasan
- Department of Cell Biology and Human Anatomy, University of California, Davis School of MedicineDavisUnited States
| | - Shayan Moghisaei
- Department of Cell Biology and Human Anatomy, University of California, Davis School of MedicineDavisUnited States
| | | | - Christian Siebold
- Division of Structural Biology, Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of OxfordOxfordUnited Kingdom
| | - Hsin-Yi Henry Ho
- Department of Cell Biology and Human Anatomy, University of California, Davis School of MedicineDavisUnited States
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7
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Yuan Y, Wu D, Hou Y, Zhang Y, Tan C, Nie X, Zhao Z, Hou J. Wnt signaling: Modulating tumor-associated macrophages and related immunotherapeutic insights. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 223:116154. [PMID: 38513742 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2024.116154] [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: 12/26/2023] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
Wnt signaling pathways are highly conserved cascades that mediate multiple biological processes through canonical or noncanonical pathways, from embryonic development to tissue maintenance, but they also contribute to the pathogenesis of numerous cancers. Recent studies have revealed that Wnt signaling pathways critically control the interplay between cancer cells and tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) in the tumor microenvironment (TME) and potentially impact the efficacy of cancer immunotherapy. In this review, we summarize the evidence that Wnt signaling pathways boost the maturation and infiltration of macrophages for immune surveillance in the steady state but also polarize TAMs toward immunosuppressive M2-like phenotypes for immune escape in the TME. Both cancer cells and TAMs utilize Wnt signaling to transmit signals, and this interaction is crucial for the carcinogenesis and progression of common solid cancers, such as colorectal, gastric, hepatocellular, breast, thyroid, prostate, kidney, and lung cancers; osteosarcoma; and glioma. Specifically, compared with those in solid cancers, Wnt signaling pathways play a distinct role in the pathogenesis of leukemia. Efforts to develop Wnt-based drugs for cancer treatment are still ongoing, and some indeed enhance the anticancer immune response. We believe that the combination of Wnt signaling-based therapy with conventional or immune therapies is a promising therapeutic approach and can facilitate personalized treatment for most cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yimeng Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation and Drug Discovery, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Department of Urinary Surgery, Huaihe Hospital, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Dapeng Wu
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation and Drug Discovery, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Department of Urinary Surgery, Huaihe Hospital, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Yifan Hou
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation and Drug Discovery, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Department of Urinary Surgery, Huaihe Hospital, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation and Drug Discovery, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Department of Urinary Surgery, Huaihe Hospital, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Cong Tan
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation and Drug Discovery, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Department of Urinary Surgery, Huaihe Hospital, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Xiaobo Nie
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation and Drug Discovery, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Department of Urinary Surgery, Huaihe Hospital, Henan University, Kaifeng, China; Henan Provincial Research Center for the Prevention and Diagnosis of Prostate Diseases, Henan University, Kaifeng, China.
| | - Zhenhua Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation and Drug Discovery, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Department of Urinary Surgery, Huaihe Hospital, Henan University, Kaifeng, China; Henan Provincial Research Center for the Prevention and Diagnosis of Prostate Diseases, Henan University, Kaifeng, China.
| | - Junqing Hou
- Kaifeng 155 Hospital, China RongTong Medical Healthcare Group Co. Ltd., Kaifeng, China; Henan Provincial Research Center for the Prevention and Diagnosis of Prostate Diseases, Henan University, Kaifeng, China.
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8
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MacLean MR, Walker OL, Arun RP, Fernando W, Marcato P. Informed by Cancer Stem Cells of Solid Tumors: Advances in Treatments Targeting Tumor-Promoting Factors and Pathways. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4102. [PMID: 38612911 PMCID: PMC11012648 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25074102] [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: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 03/30/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) represent a subpopulation within tumors that promote cancer progression, metastasis, and recurrence due to their self-renewal capacity and resistance to conventional therapies. CSC-specific markers and signaling pathways highly active in CSCs have emerged as a promising strategy for improving patient outcomes. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the therapeutic targets associated with CSCs of solid tumors across various cancer types, including key molecular markers aldehyde dehydrogenases, CD44, epithelial cellular adhesion molecule, and CD133 and signaling pathways such as Wnt/β-catenin, Notch, and Sonic Hedgehog. We discuss a wide array of therapeutic modalities ranging from targeted antibodies, small molecule inhibitors, and near-infrared photoimmunotherapy to advanced genetic approaches like RNA interference, CRISPR/Cas9 technology, aptamers, antisense oligonucleotides, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells, CAR natural killer cells, bispecific T cell engagers, immunotoxins, drug-antibody conjugates, therapeutic peptides, and dendritic cell vaccines. This review spans developments from preclinical investigations to ongoing clinical trials, highlighting the innovative targeting strategies that have been informed by CSC-associated pathways and molecules to overcome therapeutic resistance. We aim to provide insights into the potential of these therapies to revolutionize cancer treatment, underscoring the critical need for a multi-faceted approach in the battle against cancer. This comprehensive analysis demonstrates how advances made in the CSC field have informed significant developments in novel targeted therapeutic approaches, with the ultimate goal of achieving more effective and durable responses in cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya R. MacLean
- Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada; (M.R.M.); (O.L.W.); (R.P.A.); (W.F.)
| | - Olivia L. Walker
- Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada; (M.R.M.); (O.L.W.); (R.P.A.); (W.F.)
| | - Raj Pranap Arun
- Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada; (M.R.M.); (O.L.W.); (R.P.A.); (W.F.)
| | - Wasundara Fernando
- Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada; (M.R.M.); (O.L.W.); (R.P.A.); (W.F.)
- Department of Biology, Acadia University, Wolfville, NS B4P 2R6, Canada
| | - Paola Marcato
- Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada; (M.R.M.); (O.L.W.); (R.P.A.); (W.F.)
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
- Nova Scotia Health Authority, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
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9
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Veggiani G, Sidhu SS. Beyond Natural Immune Repertoires: Synthetic Antibodies. Cold Spring Harb Protoc 2024; 2024:107768. [PMID: 37295822 DOI: 10.1101/pdb.top107768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic antibody libraries, in which the antigen-binding sites are precisely designed, offer unparalleled precision in antibody engineering, exceeding the potential of natural immune repertoires and constituting a novel generation of research tools and therapeutics. Recent advances in artificial intelligence-driven technologies and their integration into synthetic antibody discovery campaigns hold the promise to further streamline and effectively develop antibodies. Here, we provide an overview of synthetic antibodies. Our associated protocol describes how to develop highly diverse and functional synthetic antibody phage display libraries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianluca Veggiani
- The Anvil Institute, Kitchener, Ontario N2G 1H6, Canada
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70803, USA
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10
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Yang A, Chidiac R, Russo E, Steenland H, Pauli Q, Bonin R, Blazer LL, Adams JJ, Sidhu SS, Goeva A, Salahpour A, Angers S. Exploiting spatiotemporal regulation of FZD5 during neural patterning for efficient ventral midbrain specification. Development 2024; 151:dev202545. [PMID: 38358799 PMCID: PMC10946437 DOI: 10.1242/dev.202545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
The Wnt/β-catenin signaling governs anterior-posterior neural patterning during development. Current human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC) differentiation protocols use a GSK3 inhibitor to activate Wnt signaling to promote posterior neural fate specification. However, GSK3 is a pleiotropic kinase involved in multiple signaling pathways and, as GSK3 inhibition occurs downstream in the signaling cascade, it bypasses potential opportunities for achieving specificity or regulation at the receptor level. Additionally, the specific roles of individual FZD receptors in anterior-posterior patterning are poorly understood. Here, we have characterized the cell surface expression of FZD receptors in neural progenitor cells with different regional identity. Our data reveal unique upregulation of FZD5 expression in anterior neural progenitors, and this expression is downregulated as cells adopt a posterior fate. This spatial regulation of FZD expression constitutes a previously unreported regulatory mechanism that adjusts the levels of β-catenin signaling along the anterior-posterior axis and possibly contributes to midbrain-hindbrain boundary formation. Stimulation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in hPSCs, using a tetravalent antibody that selectively triggers FZD5 and LRP6 clustering, leads to midbrain progenitor differentiation and gives rise to functional dopaminergic neurons in vitro and in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andy Yang
- Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3E1, Canada
- Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3M2, Canada
| | - Rony Chidiac
- Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3E1, Canada
- Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3M2, Canada
| | - Emma Russo
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Hendrik Steenland
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
- NeuroTek Innovative Technology, Toronto, ON M6C 3A2, Canada
| | - Quinn Pauli
- Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3M2, Canada
| | - Robert Bonin
- Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3M2, Canada
| | - Levi L. Blazer
- Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3E1, Canada
| | - Jarrett J. Adams
- Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3E1, Canada
| | - Sachdev S. Sidhu
- Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3E1, Canada
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Aleksandrina Goeva
- Broad Institute of Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Ali Salahpour
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Stephane Angers
- Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3E1, Canada
- Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3M2, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
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11
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Cao J, Zhang Z, Zhou L, Luo M, Li L, Li B, Nice EC, He W, Zheng S, Huang C. Oncofetal reprogramming in tumor development and progression: novel insights into cancer therapy. MedComm (Beijing) 2023; 4:e427. [PMID: 38045829 PMCID: PMC10693315 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Emerging evidence indicates that cancer cells can mimic characteristics of embryonic development, promoting their development and progression. Cancer cells share features with embryonic development, characterized by robust proliferation and differentiation regulated by signaling pathways such as Wnt, Notch, hedgehog, and Hippo signaling. In certain phase, these cells also mimic embryonic diapause and fertilized egg implantation to evade treatments or immune elimination and promote metastasis. Additionally, the upregulation of ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters, including multidrug resistance protein 1 (MDR1), multidrug resistance-associated protein 1 (MRP1), and breast cancer-resistant protein (BCRP), in drug-resistant cancer cells, analogous to their role in placental development, may facilitate chemotherapy efflux, further resulting in treatment resistance. In this review, we concentrate on the underlying mechanisms that contribute to tumor development and progression from the perspective of embryonic development, encompassing the dysregulation of developmental signaling pathways, the emergence of dormant cancer cells, immune microenvironment remodeling, and the hyperactivation of ABC transporters. Furthermore, we synthesize and emphasize the connections between cancer hallmarks and embryonic development, offering novel insights for the development of innovative cancer treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiangjun Cao
- West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, and Department of Biotherapy Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduChina
| | - Zhe Zhang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Diseasethe First Affiliated HospitalSchool of MedicineZhejiang UniversityZhejiangChina
| | - Li Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases (Ministry of Education)Department of Infectious Diseasesthe Second Affiliated HospitalInstitute for Viral Hepatitis, Chongqing Medical UniversityChongqingChina
| | - Maochao Luo
- West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, and Department of Biotherapy Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduChina
| | - Lei Li
- Department of anorectal surgeryHospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese MedicineChengduChina
| | - Bowen Li
- West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, and Department of Biotherapy Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduChina
| | - Edouard C. Nice
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyMonash UniversityClaytonVICAustralia
| | - Weifeng He
- State Key Laboratory of TraumaBurn and Combined InjuryInstitute of Burn Research, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University)ChongqingChina
| | - Shaojiang Zheng
- Hainan Cancer Medical Center of The First Affiliated Hospital, the Hainan Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Hainan Engineering Research Center for Biological Sample Resources of Major DiseasesHainan Medical UniversityHaikouChina
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Cardiovascular Diseases Research of Hainan Province, Hainan Women and Children's Medical Center, Key Laboratory of Emergency and Trauma of Ministry of EducationHainan Medical UniversityHaikouChina
| | - Canhua Huang
- West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, and Department of Biotherapy Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduChina
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12
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Bakhtiyari M, Liaghat M, Aziziyan F, Shapourian H, Yahyazadeh S, Alipour M, Shahveh S, Maleki-Sheikhabadi F, Halimi H, Forghaniesfidvajani R, Zalpoor H, Nabi-Afjadi M, Pornour M. The role of bone marrow microenvironment (BMM) cells in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) progression: immune checkpoints, metabolic checkpoints, and signaling pathways. Cell Commun Signal 2023; 21:252. [PMID: 37735675 PMCID: PMC10512514 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01282-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) comprises a multifarious and heterogeneous array of illnesses characterized by the anomalous proliferation of myeloid cells in the bone marrow microenvironment (BMM). The BMM plays a pivotal role in promoting AML progression, angiogenesis, and metastasis. The immune checkpoints (ICs) and metabolic processes are the key players in this process. In this review, we delineate the metabolic and immune checkpoint characteristics of the AML BMM, with a focus on the roles of BMM cells e.g. tumor-associated macrophages, natural killer cells, dendritic cells, metabolic profiles and related signaling pathways. We also discuss the signaling pathways stimulated in AML cells by BMM factors that lead to AML progression. We then delve into the roles of immune checkpoints in AML angiogenesis, metastasis, and cell proliferation, including co-stimulatory and inhibitory ICs. Lastly, we discuss the potential therapeutic approaches and future directions for AML treatment, emphasizing the potential of targeting metabolic and immune checkpoints in AML BMM as prognostic and therapeutic targets. In conclusion, the modulation of these processes through the use of directed drugs opens up new promising avenues in combating AML. Thereby, a comprehensive elucidation of the significance of these AML BMM cells' metabolic and immune checkpoints and signaling pathways on leukemic cells can be undertaken in the future investigations. Additionally, these checkpoints and cells should be considered plausible multi-targeted therapies for AML in combination with other conventional treatments in AML. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Bakhtiyari
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Allied Medicine, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
- Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy & Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education & Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahsa Liaghat
- Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy & Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education & Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Kazerun Branch, Islamic Azad University, Kazerun, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Aziziyan
- Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy & Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education & Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hooriyeh Shapourian
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Sheida Yahyazadeh
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Maedeh Alipour
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Shaghayegh Shahveh
- American Association of Naturopath Physician (AANP), Washington, DC, USA
| | - Fahimeh Maleki-Sheikhabadi
- Department of Hematology and Blood Banking, School of Paramedical Sciences, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Hossein Halimi
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Razieh Forghaniesfidvajani
- Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy & Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education & Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamidreza Zalpoor
- Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy & Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education & Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran.
- Shiraz Neuroscience Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
| | - Mohsen Nabi-Afjadi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Majid Pornour
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.
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13
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Nabhan AN, Webster JD, Adams JJ, Blazer L, Everrett C, Eidenschenk C, Arlantico A, Fleming I, Brightbill HD, Wolters PJ, Modrusan Z, Seshagiri S, Angers S, Sidhu SS, Newton K, Arron JR, Dixit VM. Targeted alveolar regeneration with Frizzled-specific agonists. Cell 2023; 186:2995-3012.e15. [PMID: 37321220 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2023.05.022] [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: 07/28/2022] [Revised: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Wnt ligands oligomerize Frizzled (Fzd) and Lrp5/6 receptors to control the specification and activity of stem cells in many species. How Wnt signaling is selectively activated in different stem cell populations, often within the same organ, is not understood. In lung alveoli, we show that distinct Wnt receptors are expressed by epithelial (Fzd5/6), endothelial (Fzd4), and stromal (Fzd1) cells. Fzd5 is uniquely required for alveolar epithelial stem cell activity, whereas fibroblasts utilize distinct Fzd receptors. Using an expanded repertoire of Fzd-Lrp agonists, we could activate canonical Wnt signaling in alveolar epithelial stem cells via either Fzd5 or, unexpectedly, non-canonical Fzd6. A Fzd5 agonist (Fzd5ag) or Fzd6ag stimulated alveolar epithelial stem cell activity and promoted survival in mice after lung injury, but only Fzd6ag promoted an alveolar fate in airway-derived progenitors. Therefore, we identify a potential strategy for promoting regeneration without exacerbating fibrosis during lung injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad N Nabhan
- Department of Physiological Chemistry, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA.
| | - Joshua D Webster
- Department of Pathology, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Jarret J Adams
- AntlerA Therapeutics, 348 Hatch Drive, Foster City, CA 94404, USA
| | - Levi Blazer
- AntlerA Therapeutics, 348 Hatch Drive, Foster City, CA 94404, USA
| | - Christine Everrett
- Department of Molecular Discovery and Cancer Cell Biology, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Celine Eidenschenk
- Department of Molecular Discovery and Cancer Cell Biology, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Alexander Arlantico
- Department of Translational Immunology, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Isabel Fleming
- Department of Physiological Chemistry, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Hans D Brightbill
- Department of Translational Immunology, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Paul J Wolters
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Zora Modrusan
- Department of Microchemistry, Proteomics, Lipidomics and Next Generation Sequencing, Genentech, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | | | - Stephane Angers
- AntlerA Therapeutics, 348 Hatch Drive, Foster City, CA 94404, USA; Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A2, Canada; Department of Biochemistry, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada; Donnelly Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Sachdev S Sidhu
- AntlerA Therapeutics, 348 Hatch Drive, Foster City, CA 94404, USA; School of Pharmacy, University of Waterloo, Kitchener, ON N2G 1C5, Canada
| | - Kim Newton
- Department of Physiological Chemistry, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA.
| | - Joseph R Arron
- Department of Immunology, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Vishva M Dixit
- Department of Physiological Chemistry, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA.
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14
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O'Brien S, Chidiac R, Angers S. Modulation of Wnt-β-catenin signaling with antibodies: therapeutic opportunities and challenges. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2023; 44:354-365. [PMID: 37085400 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2023.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/23/2023]
Abstract
Since the recognition that mutations in components of the Wnt-β-catenin pathway underlie some human cancers, considerable attention has been dedicated to developing therapeutic modalities to block its activity. Despite numerous efforts, no drug directly inhibiting Wnt signaling is currently clinically available. Conversely, activating the Wnt pathway in a specific manner has recently been made possible with new molecules mimicking the activity of Wnt proteins, thus offering new possibilities for controlling tissue stem cell activity and for the rational treatment of various degenerative conditions. We describe the landscape of antibody modalities that modulate the Wnt-β-catenin pathway, and detail the advances and challenges in both cancer and regenerative medicine drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siobhan O'Brien
- Terrence Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; Department of Biochemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Rony Chidiac
- Terrence Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Stephane Angers
- Terrence Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; Department of Biochemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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15
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Pećina-Šlaus N, Aničić S, Bukovac A, Kafka A. Wnt Signaling Inhibitors and Their Promising Role in Tumor Treatment. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24076733. [PMID: 37047705 PMCID: PMC10095594 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24076733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023] Open
Abstract
In a continuous search for the improvement of antitumor therapies, the inhibition of the Wnt signaling pathway has been recognized as a promising target. The altered functioning of the Wnt signaling in human tumors points to the strategy of the inhibition of its activity that would impact the clinical outcomes and survival of patients. Because the Wnt pathway is often mutated or epigenetically altered in tumors, which promotes its activation, inhibitors of Wnt signaling are being intensively investigated. It has been shown that knocking down specific components of the Wnt pathway has inhibitory effects on tumor growth in vivo and in vitro. Thus, similar effects are expected from the application of Wnt inhibitors. In the last decades, molecules acting as inhibitors on the pathway’s specific molecular levels have been identified and characterized. This review will discuss the inhibitors of the canonical Wnt pathway, summarize knowledge on their effectiveness as therapeutics, and debate their side effects. The role of the components frequently mutated in various tumors that are principal targets for Wnt inhibitors is also going to be brought to the reader’s attention. Some of the molecules identified as Wnt pathway inhibitors have reached early stages of clinical trials, and some have only just been discovered. All things considered, inhibition of the Wnt signaling pathway shows potential for the development of future therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nives Pećina-Šlaus
- Laboratory of Neuro-Oncology, Croatian Institute for Brain Research, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Šalata 12, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Biology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Sara Aničić
- Department of Physiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Laboratory for Molecular Immunology, Croatian Institute for Brain Research, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Anja Bukovac
- Laboratory of Neuro-Oncology, Croatian Institute for Brain Research, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Šalata 12, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Biology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Anja Kafka
- Laboratory of Neuro-Oncology, Croatian Institute for Brain Research, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Šalata 12, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Biology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
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16
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Krohl PJ, Fine J, Yang H, VanDyke D, Ang Z, Kim KB, Thomas-Tikhonenko A, Spangler JB. Discovery of antibodies targeting multipass transmembrane proteins using a suspension cell-based evolutionary approach. CELL REPORTS METHODS 2023; 3:100429. [PMID: 37056366 PMCID: PMC10088246 DOI: 10.1016/j.crmeth.2023.100429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/15/2023]
Abstract
Due to their critical functions in cell sensing and signal processing, membrane proteins are highly preferred as pharmacological targets, and antibody drugs constitute the fastest growing category of therapeutic agents on the pharmaceutical market. However, major limitations exist in developing antibodies that recognize complex, multipass transmembrane proteins, such as G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). These challenges, largely due to difficulties with recombinant expression of multipass transmembrane proteins, can be overcome using whole-cell screening techniques, which enable presentation of the functional antigen in its native conformation. Here, we developed suspension cell-based whole-cell panning methodologies to screen for specific binders against GPCRs within a naive yeast-displayed antibody library. We implemented our strategy to discover high-affinity antibodies against four distinct GPCR target proteins, demonstrating the potential for our cell-based screening workflow to advance the discovery of antibody therapeutics targeting membrane proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick J. Krohl
- Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21208, USA
| | - Justyn Fine
- Program in Molecular Biophysics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21208, USA
| | - Huilin Yang
- Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21208, USA
| | - Derek VanDyke
- Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21208, USA
| | - Zhiwei Ang
- Division of Cancer Pathobiology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Kook Bum Kim
- Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21208, USA
| | - Andrei Thomas-Tikhonenko
- Division of Cancer Pathobiology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Jamie B. Spangler
- Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21208, USA
- Department of Biology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21208, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21208, USA
- Translational Tissue Engineering Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
- Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
- Bloomberg∼Kimmel Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
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17
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Merhi M, Ahmad F, Taib N, Inchakalody V, Uddin S, Shablak A, Dermime S. The complex network of transcription factors, immune checkpoint inhibitors and stemness features in colorectal cancer: A recent update. Semin Cancer Biol 2023; 89:1-17. [PMID: 36621515 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2023.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Cancer immunity is regulated by several mechanisms that include co-stimulatory and/or co-inhibitory molecules known as immune checkpoints expressed by the immune cells. In colorectal cancer (CRC), CTLA-4, LAG3, TIM-3 and PD-1 are the major co-inhibitory checkpoints involved in tumor development and progression. On the other hand, the deregulation of transcription factors and cancer stem cells activity plays a major role in the development of drug resistance and in the spread of metastatic disease in CRC. In this review, we describe how the modulation of such transcription factors affects the response of CRC to therapies. We also focus on the role of cancer stem cells in tumor metastasis and chemoresistance and discuss both preclinical and clinical approaches for targeting stem cells to prevent their tumorigenic effect. Finally, we provide an update on the clinical applications of immune checkpoint inhibitors in CRC and discuss the regulatory effects of transcription factors on the expression of the immune inhibitory checkpoints with specific focus on the PD-1 and PD-L1 molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maysaloun Merhi
- Translational Cancer Research Facility, Translational Research Institute, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar; National Center for Cancer Care and Research, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Fareed Ahmad
- Translational Research Institute and Dermatology Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Nassiba Taib
- Translational Cancer Research Facility, Translational Research Institute, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Varghese Inchakalody
- Translational Cancer Research Facility, Translational Research Institute, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar; National Center for Cancer Care and Research, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Shahab Uddin
- Translational Research Institute and Dermatology Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar; Laboratory Animal Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Alaaeldin Shablak
- National Center for Cancer Care and Research, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Said Dermime
- Translational Cancer Research Facility, Translational Research Institute, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar; National Center for Cancer Care and Research, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar; College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar.
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18
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Sanmukh SG, Dos Santos NJ, Nascimento Barquilha C, De Carvalho M, Pintor Dos Reis P, Delella FK, Carvalho HF, Latek D, Fehér T, Felisbino SL. Bacterial RNA virus MS2 exposure increases the expression of cancer progression genes in the LNCaP prostate cancer cell line. Oncol Lett 2023; 25:86. [PMID: 36760518 PMCID: PMC9878357 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2023.13672] [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: 09/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Bacteriophages effectively counteract diverse bacterial infections, and their ability to treat most types of cancer has been explored using phage engineering or phage-virus hybrid platforms. In the present study, it was demonstrated that the bacteriophage MS2 can affect the expression of genes associated with the proliferation and survival of LNCaP prostate epithelial cells. LNCaP cells were exposed to bacteriophage MS2 at a concentration of 1×107 plaque forming units/ml for 24-48 h. After exposure, various cellular parameters, including cell viability, morphology, and changes in gene expression, were examined. MS2 affected cell viability adversely, reducing viability by 25% in the first 4 h of treatment; however, cell viability recovered within 24-48 h. Similarly, the AKT, androgen receptor, integrin α5, integrin β1, MAPK1, MAPK3, STAT3, and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ coactivator 1α genes, which are involved in various normal cellular processes and tumor progression, were significantly upregulated, whereas the expression levels of HSP90, ITGB5, ITGB3, HSP27, ITGAV, and PI3K genes were unchanged. Therefore, based on viability and gene expression changes, bacteriophage MS2 severely impaired LNCaP cells by reducing anchorage-dependent survival and androgen signaling. A caveolin-mediated endocytosis mechanism for MS2-mediated signaling in prostate cancer cells was proposed based on reports involving bacteriophages T4, M13, and MS2, and their interactions with LNCaP and PC3 cell lines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swapnil Ganesh Sanmukh
- Laboratory of Extracellular Matrix Biology, Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biosciences of Botucatu, Sao Paulo State University, Botucatu, São Paulo 18618-689, Brazil,Synthetic and Systems Biology Unit, Biological Research Center, Eötvös Loránd Research Network, 6726 Szeged, Hungary,Faculty of Chemistry, University of Warsaw, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Nilton José Dos Santos
- Laboratory of Extracellular Matrix Biology, Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biosciences of Botucatu, Sao Paulo State University, Botucatu, São Paulo 18618-689, Brazil,Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo 13083-970, Brazil
| | - Caroline Nascimento Barquilha
- Laboratory of Extracellular Matrix Biology, Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biosciences of Botucatu, Sao Paulo State University, Botucatu, São Paulo 18618-689, Brazil,Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo 13083-970, Brazil
| | - Márcio De Carvalho
- Department of Surgery and Orthopedics, Faculty of Medicine, Sao Paulo State University, Botucatu, São Paulo 18618-687, Brazil
| | - Patricia Pintor Dos Reis
- Department of Surgery and Orthopedics, Faculty of Medicine, Sao Paulo State University, Botucatu, São Paulo 18618-687, Brazil
| | - Flávia Karina Delella
- Laboratory of Extracellular Matrix Biology, Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biosciences of Botucatu, Sao Paulo State University, Botucatu, São Paulo 18618-689, Brazil
| | - Hernandes F. Carvalho
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo 13083-970, Brazil
| | - Dorota Latek
- Faculty of Chemistry, University of Warsaw, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Tamás Fehér
- Synthetic and Systems Biology Unit, Biological Research Center, Eötvös Loránd Research Network, 6726 Szeged, Hungary
| | - Sérgio Luis Felisbino
- Laboratory of Extracellular Matrix Biology, Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biosciences of Botucatu, Sao Paulo State University, Botucatu, São Paulo 18618-689, Brazil,Correspondence to: Professor Sérgio Luis Felisbino, Laboratory of Extracellular Matrix Biology, Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biosciences of Botucatu, Sao Paulo State University, 250 Antônio Celso Wagner Zanin, Botucatu, São Paulo 18618-689, Brazil, E-mail:
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19
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Ge Q, Teng M, Li X, Guo Q, Tao Y. An epitope-directed selection strategy facilitating the identification of Frizzled receptor selective antibodies. Structure 2023; 31:33-43.e5. [PMID: 36513066 DOI: 10.1016/j.str.2022.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Revised: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The lack of incorporating epitope information into the selection process makes the conventional antibody screening method less effective in identifying antibodies with desired functions. Here, we developed an epitope-directed antibody selection method by designing a directed library favoring the target epitope and a precise "counter" antigen for clearing irrelevant binders in the library. With this method, we successfully isolated an antibody, pF7_A5, that targets the less conserved region on the FZD2/7 CRD as designed. Guided by the structure of pF7_A5-FZD2CRD, a further round of evolution was conducted together with the "counter" antigen selection strategy, and ultimately, an FZD2-specific antibody and an FZD7-preferred antibody were obtained. Because of targeting the predefined functional site, all these antibodies exhibited the expected modulatory activity on the Wnt pathway. Together, the method developed here will be useful in antibody drug discovery, and the identified FZD antibodies will have clinical potential in FZD-related cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiangqiang Ge
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Membraneless Organelles & Cellular Dynamics, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, 230027 Hefei, P.R. China
| | - Maikun Teng
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Membraneless Organelles & Cellular Dynamics, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, 230027 Hefei, P.R. China.
| | - Xu Li
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Membraneless Organelles & Cellular Dynamics, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, 230027 Hefei, P.R. China.
| | - Qiong Guo
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Membraneless Organelles & Cellular Dynamics, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, 230027 Hefei, P.R. China.
| | - Yuyong Tao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Membraneless Organelles & Cellular Dynamics, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, 230027 Hefei, P.R. China; Joint Laboratory of Innovation in Life Sciences University of Science and Technology of China (USTC) and Changchun Zhuoyi Biological Co. Ltd., 130616 Changchun, P.R. China.
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20
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Alvarez-Rodrigo I, Willnow D, Vincent JP. The logistics of Wnt production and delivery. Curr Top Dev Biol 2023; 153:1-60. [PMID: 36967191 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ctdb.2023.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
Wnts are secreted proteins that control stem cell maintenance, cell fate decisions, and growth during development and adult homeostasis. Wnts carry a post-translational modification not seen in any other secreted protein: during biosynthesis, they are appended with a palmitoleoyl moiety that is required for signaling but also impairs solubility and hence diffusion in the extracellular space. In some contexts, Wnts act only in a juxtacrine manner but there are also instances of long range action. Several proteins and processes ensure that active Wnts reach the appropriate target cells. Some, like Porcupine, Wntless, and Notum are dedicated to Wnt function; we describe their activities in molecular detail. We also outline how the cell infrastructure (secretory, endocytic, and retromer pathways) contribute to the progression of Wnts from production to delivery. We then address how Wnts spread in the extracellular space and form a signaling gradient despite carrying a hydrophobic moiety. We highlight particularly the role of lipid-binding Wnt interactors and heparan sulfate proteoglycans. Finally, we briefly discuss how evolution might have led to the emergence of this unusual signaling pathway.
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21
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Eguchi A, Iwasa M, Sugimoto R, Tempaku M, Yoshikawa K, Yoshizawa N, Povero D, Sugimoto K, Hasegawa H, Takei Y, Nakagawa H. Complement complex 1 subunit q-mediated hepatic stellate cell activation with connective tissue growth factor elevation is a prognostic factor for survival in rat and human chronic liver diseases. Hepatol Commun 2022; 6:3515-3527. [PMID: 36199236 PMCID: PMC9701491 DOI: 10.1002/hep4.2097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Complement complex 1 subunit q (C1q) has multiple functions, including cell migration, in addition to its traditional complement-activating effect. Research shows C1q is a ligand for frizzled receptors (FZDs). FZD-induced yes-associated protein (YAP)/transcriptional co-activator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ) alternate Wnt signaling activation induces connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) production and hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation. However, no study exists in which C1q directly induces CTGF in HSCs. Here, we investigated the role of C1q in HSC activation. Human HSCs (LX2) were incubated with C1q to assess HSC activation. C1q and fibrotic markers were assessed using immunohistochemistry, immunoblotting, and quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction in cirrhotic rats administered CCl4 for 21 weeks. Serum C1q, liver function, and fibrosis score were measured in 91 patients with chronic liver disease. The correlations between serum C1q and liver function, fibrosis score, and survival prognosis were examined. C1q-activated LX2s showed morphologic changes, up-regulation of CTGF, tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMP-1), and alternate Wnt signal genes FZD2, TAZ, and cysteine-rich angiogenic inducer 61 (Cyr61). Cirrhotic rat liver C1q expression correlated with the Azan-positive area and expression of CTGF, TIMP-1, hyaluronan synthase (HAS)1, HAS3, and CD44. Expression of C1q protein and C1q, CTGF, and TIMP-1 genes were higher in deceased cirrhotic rat livers compared to surviving rats. Human serum C1q levels increased in liver cirrhosis compared to chronic hepatitis and correlated with liver fibrosis and functional markers. Ten patients suffered liver-related death over a 66-month observation period. The C1q cut-off value (11 mg/dl) showed patients with serum values < 11 mg/dl had longer rates of survival compared to C1q ≥ 11 mg/dl. Conclusion: C1q-mediated HSC activation in liver fibrosis is associated with CTGF elevation. Additionally, serum C1q may be diagnostic for survival in human chronic liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akiko Eguchi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, School of MedicineMie UniversityTsuJapan
| | - Motoh Iwasa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, School of MedicineMie UniversityTsuJapan
| | - Ryosuke Sugimoto
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, School of MedicineMie UniversityTsuJapan
| | - Mina Tempaku
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, School of MedicineMie UniversityTsuJapan
| | - Kyoko Yoshikawa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, School of MedicineMie UniversityTsuJapan
| | - Naohiko Yoshizawa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, School of MedicineMie UniversityTsuJapan
| | - Davide Povero
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyMayo ClinicRochesterMinnesotaUSA
| | - Kazushi Sugimoto
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, School of MedicineMie UniversityTsuJapan
| | - Hiroshi Hasegawa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, School of MedicineMie UniversityTsuJapan
| | - Yoshiyuki Takei
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, School of MedicineMie UniversityTsuJapan
| | - Hayato Nakagawa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, School of MedicineMie UniversityTsuJapan
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22
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Current Opportunities for Targeting Dysregulated Neurodevelopmental Signaling Pathways in Glioblastoma. Cells 2022; 11:cells11162530. [PMID: 36010607 PMCID: PMC9406959 DOI: 10.3390/cells11162530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Revised: 08/06/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common and highly lethal type of brain tumor, with poor survival despite advances in understanding its complexity. After current standard therapeutic treatment, including tumor resection, radiotherapy and concomitant chemotherapy with temozolomide, the median overall survival of patients with this type of tumor is less than 15 months. Thus, there is an urgent need for new insights into GBM molecular characteristics and progress in targeted therapy in order to improve clinical outcomes. The literature data revealed that a number of different signaling pathways are dysregulated in GBM. In this review, we intended to summarize and discuss current literature data and therapeutic modalities focused on targeting dysregulated signaling pathways in GBM. A better understanding of opportunities for targeting signaling pathways that influences malignant behavior of GBM cells might open the way for the development of novel GBM-targeted therapies.
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23
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Wu SY, Wu FG, Chen X. Antibody-Incorporated Nanomedicines for Cancer Therapy. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2022; 34:e2109210. [PMID: 35142395 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202109210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2021] [Revised: 02/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Antibody-based cancer therapy, one of the most significant therapeutic strategies, has achieved considerable success and progress over the past decades. Nevertheless, obstacles including limited tumor penetration, short circulation half-lives, undesired immunogenicity, and off-target side effects remain to be overcome for the antibody-based cancer treatment. Owing to the rapid development of nanotechnology, antibody-containing nanomedicines that have been extensively explored to overcome these obstacles have already demonstrated enhanced anticancer efficacy and clinical translation potential. This review intends to offer an overview of the advancements of antibody-incorporated nanoparticulate systems in cancer treatment, together with the nontrivial challenges faced by these next-generation nanomedicines. Diverse strategies of antibody immobilization, formats of antibodies, types of cancer-associated antigens, and anticancer mechanisms of antibody-containing nanomedicines are provided and discussed in this review, with an emphasis on the latest applications. The current limitations and future research directions on antibody-containing nanomedicines are also discussed from different perspectives to provide new insights into the construction of anticancer nanomedicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shun-Yu Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, 2 Sipailou Road, Nanjing, 210096, P. R. China
| | - Fu-Gen Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, 2 Sipailou Road, Nanjing, 210096, P. R. China
| | - Xiaoyuan Chen
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine and Faculty of Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 119077, Singapore
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24
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Abstract
The Wnt pathway is central to a host of developmental and disease-related processes. The remarkable conservation of this intercellular signaling cascade throughout metazoan lineages indicates that it coevolved with multicellularity to regulate the generation and spatial arrangement of distinct cell types. By regulating cell fate specification, mitotic activity, and cell polarity, Wnt signaling orchestrates development and tissue homeostasis, and its dysregulation is implicated in developmental defects, cancer, and degenerative disorders. We review advances in our understanding of this key pathway, from Wnt protein production and secretion to relay of the signal in the cytoplasm of the receiving cell. We discuss the evolutionary history of this pathway as well as endogenous and synthetic modulators of its activity. Finally, we highlight remaining gaps in our knowledge of Wnt signal transduction and avenues for future research. Expected final online publication date for the Annual Review of Biochemistry, Volume 91 is June 2022. Please see http://www.annualreviews.org/page/journal/pubdates for revised estimates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen Youngsoo Rim
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Department of Developmental Biology, and Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA;
| | - Hans Clevers
- Hubrecht Institute and Oncode Institute, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW), Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Roel Nusse
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Department of Developmental Biology, and Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA;
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25
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Philpott D, Gomis S, Wang H, Atwal R, Kelil A, Sack T, Morningstar B, Burnie C, Sargent EH, Angers S, Sidhu S, Kelley SO. Rapid On-Cell Selection of High-Performance Human Antibodies. ACS CENTRAL SCIENCE 2022; 8:102-109. [PMID: 35106377 PMCID: PMC8796304 DOI: 10.1021/acscentsci.1c01205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Phage display is a critical tool for developing antibodies. However, existing approaches require many time-consuming rounds of biopanning and screening of potential candidates due to a high rate of failure during validation. Herein, we present a rapid on-cell phage display platform which recapitulates the complex in vivo binding environment to produce high-performance human antibodies in a short amount of time. Selection is performed in a highly stringent heterogeneous mixture of cells to quickly remove nonspecific binders. A microfluidic platform then separates antigen-presenting cells with high throughput and specificity. An unsupervised machine learning algorithm analyzes sequences of phage from all pools to identify the structural trends that contribute to affinity and proposes ideal candidates for validation. In a proof-of-concept screen against human Frizzled-7, a key ligand in the Wnt signaling pathway, antibodies with picomolar affinity were discovered in two rounds of selection that outperformed current gold-standard reagents. This approach, termed μCellect, is low cost, high throughput, and compatible with a wide variety of cell types, enabling widespread adoption for antibody development.
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Affiliation(s)
- David
N. Philpott
- Edward
S. Rogers Sr. Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3G8, Canada
| | - Surath Gomis
- Edward
S. Rogers Sr. Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3G8, Canada
| | - Hansen Wang
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of
Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3M2, Canada
| | - Randy Atwal
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of
Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3M2, Canada
| | - Abdellali Kelil
- Donnelly
Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3E1, Canada
| | - Tanja Sack
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of
Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3M2, Canada
| | - Brandon Morningstar
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of
Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3M2, Canada
| | - Chris Burnie
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of
Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3M2, Canada
| | - Edward H. Sargent
- Edward
S. Rogers Sr. Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3G8, Canada
| | - Stephane Angers
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of
Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3M2, Canada
| | - Sachdev Sidhu
- Donnelly
Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3E1, Canada
| | - Shana O. Kelley
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of
Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3M2, Canada
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26
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Khatun B, Kamath V, Sathyanarayana MB, Pai A, Gupta R, Malviya R. Emerging Role of Wnt/Beta-Catenin Signalling Pathways in Cancer Progression and Role of Small Molecule Tankyrase Inhibitors in Combating Multistage Cancers. CURRENT CANCER THERAPY REVIEWS 2021. [DOI: 10.2174/1573394717666210628122306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
In the present review, an attempt has been made to summarize the development of various
Tankyrase inhibitors focussing on Wnt/beta-Catenin pathways along with other cancer targets.
The last decade witnessed a plethora of research related to the role of various genetic and epigenetic
events that are responsible for the progression of multistage cancers. As a result, the discovery of
various signalling pathways responsible for the development of different types of cancers has resulted
in the development of molecularly targeted anticancer agents. Out of the many signalling pathways,
the Wnt/beta-Catenin pathways have attracted the attention of many research groups owing
to their involvement in cell proliferation, role in apoptosis induction, cellular differentiation and also
cell migration. The abnormal activation of this pathways has been documented in a variety of tumour
cells. Another crucial factor that makes this pathway attractive to the researches is its direct
involvement with poly ADP ribose polymerases. Tankyrases are poly ADP (Adenosine Diphosphate)
ribose polymerases that have the capacity to inhibit Wnt/beta-Catenin pathways and become
an attractive target for anticancer drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Babli Khatun
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal-576104, Karnataka,India
| | - Venkatesh Kamath
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal-576104, Karnataka,India
| | - Muddukrishna Badamane Sathyanarayana
- Department of Pharmaceutical Quality Assurance, Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal-576104, Karnataka,India
| | - Aravinda Pai
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal-576104, Karnataka,India
| | - Ramji Gupta
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medical and Allied Sciences, Galgotias University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh,India
| | - Rishabha Malviya
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medical and Allied Sciences, Galgotias University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh,India
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27
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Sompel K, Elango A, Smith AJ, Tennis MA. Cancer chemoprevention through Frizzled receptors and EMT. Discov Oncol 2021; 12:32. [PMID: 34604862 PMCID: PMC8429367 DOI: 10.1007/s12672-021-00429-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Frizzled (FZD) transmembrane receptors are well known for their role in β-catenin signaling and development and now understanding of their role in the context of cancer is growing. FZDs are often associated with the process of epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) through β-catenin, but some also influence EMT through non-canonical pathways. With ten different FZDs, there is a wide range of activity from oncogenic to tumor suppressive depending on the tissue context. Alterations in FZD signaling can occur during development of premalignant lesions, supporting their potential as targets of chemoprevention agents. Agonizing or antagonizing FZD activity may affect EMT, which is a key process in lesion progression often targeted by chemoprevention agents. Recent studies identified a specific FZD as important for activity of an EMT inhibiting chemopreventive agent and other studies have highlighted the previously unrecognized potential for targeting small molecules to FZD receptors. This work demonstrates the value of investigating FZDs in chemoprevention and here we provide a review of FZDs in cancer EMT and their potential as chemoprevention targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- K. Sompel
- Division of Pulmonary Sciences and Critical Care Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12700 E 19th AVE, RC2 Box C272, Aurora, CO 80045 USA
| | - A. Elango
- Division of Pulmonary Sciences and Critical Care Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12700 E 19th AVE, RC2 Box C272, Aurora, CO 80045 USA
| | - A. J. Smith
- Division of Pulmonary Sciences and Critical Care Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12700 E 19th AVE, RC2 Box C272, Aurora, CO 80045 USA
| | - M. A. Tennis
- Division of Pulmonary Sciences and Critical Care Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12700 E 19th AVE, RC2 Box C272, Aurora, CO 80045 USA
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28
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Yu F, Yu C, Li F, Zuo Y, Wang Y, Yao L, Wu C, Wang C, Ye L. Wnt/β-catenin signaling in cancers and targeted therapies. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2021; 6:307. [PMID: 34456337 PMCID: PMC8403677 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-021-00701-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 238] [Impact Index Per Article: 79.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Revised: 06/19/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Wnt/β-catenin signaling has been broadly implicated in human cancers and experimental cancer models of animals. Aberrant activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling is tightly linked with the increment of prevalence, advancement of malignant progression, development of poor prognostics, and even ascendence of the cancer-associated mortality. Early experimental investigations have proposed the theoretical potential that efficient repression of this signaling might provide promising therapeutic choices in managing various types of cancers. Up to date, many therapies targeting Wnt/β-catenin signaling in cancers have been developed, which is assumed to endow clinicians with new opportunities of developing more satisfactory and precise remedies for cancer patients with aberrant Wnt/β-catenin signaling. However, current facts indicate that the clinical translations of Wnt/β-catenin signaling-dependent targeted therapies have faced un-neglectable crises and challenges. Therefore, in this study, we systematically reviewed the most updated knowledge of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in cancers and relatively targeted therapies to generate a clearer and more accurate awareness of both the developmental stage and underlying limitations of Wnt/β-catenin-targeted therapies in cancers. Insights of this study will help readers better understand the roles of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in cancers and provide insights to acknowledge the current opportunities and challenges of targeting this signaling in cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fanyuan Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Department of Endodontics, West China Stomatology Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Changhao Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Department of Endodontics, West China Stomatology Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Feifei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yanqin Zuo
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Department of Endodontics, West China Stomatology Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yitian Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Lin Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Department of Endodontics, West China Stomatology Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Chenzhou Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Chenglin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Department of Endodontics, West China Stomatology Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ling Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
- Department of Endodontics, West China Stomatology Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
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29
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Giacomini E, Minetto S, Li Piani L, Pagliardini L, Somigliana E, Viganò P. Genetics and Inflammation in Endometriosis: Improving Knowledge for Development of New Pharmacological Strategies. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22169033. [PMID: 34445738 PMCID: PMC8396487 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22169033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Revised: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
According to a rich body of literature, immune cell dysfunctions, both locally and systemically, and an inflammatory environment characterize all forms of endometriosis. Alterations in transcripts and proteins involved in the recruitment of immune cells, in the interaction between cytokines and their receptors, cellular adhesion and apoptosis have been demonstrated in endometriotic lesions. The objective of this narrative review is to provide an overview of the components and mechanisms at the intersection between inflammation and genetics that may constitute vanguard therapeutic approaches in endometriosis. The GWAS technology and pathway-based analysis highlighted the role of the MAPK and the WNT/β-catenin cascades in the pathogenesis of endometriosis. These signaling pathways have been suggested to interfere with the disease establishment via several mechanisms, including apoptosis, migration and angiogenesis. Extracellular vesicle-associated molecules may be not only interesting to explain some aspects of endometriosis progression, but they may also serve as therapeutic regimens per se. Immune/inflammatory dysfunctions have always represented attractive therapeutic targets in endometriosis. These would be even more interesting if genetic evidence supported the involvement of functional pathways at the basis of these alterations. Targeting these dysfunctions through next-generation inhibitors can constitute a therapeutic alternative for endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Giacomini
- Reproductive Sciences Laboratory, Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, 20132 Milan, Italy; (E.G.); (L.P.)
| | - Sabrina Minetto
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, 20132 Milan, Italy;
| | - Letizia Li Piani
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20122 Milan, Italy; (L.L.P.); (E.S.)
| | - Luca Pagliardini
- Reproductive Sciences Laboratory, Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, 20132 Milan, Italy; (E.G.); (L.P.)
| | - Edgardo Somigliana
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20122 Milan, Italy; (L.L.P.); (E.S.)
| | - Paola Viganò
- Infertility Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-02-5503-4302
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30
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Bonnet C, Brahmbhatt A, Deng SX, Zheng JJ. Wnt signaling activation: targets and therapeutic opportunities for stem cell therapy and regenerative medicine. RSC Chem Biol 2021; 2:1144-1157. [PMID: 34458828 PMCID: PMC8341040 DOI: 10.1039/d1cb00063b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Wnt proteins are secreted morphogens that play critical roles in embryonic development, stem cell proliferation, self-renewal, tissue regeneration and remodeling in adults. While aberrant Wnt signaling contributes to diseases such as cancer, activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling is a target of interest in stem cell therapy and regenerative medicine. Recent high throughput screenings from chemical and biological libraries, combined with improved gene expression reporter assays of Wnt/β-catenin activation together with rational drug design, led to the development of a myriad of Wnt activators, with different mechanisms of actions. Among them, Wnt mimics, antibodies targeting Wnt inhibitors, glycogen-synthase-3β inhibitors, and indirubins and other natural product derivatives are emerging modalities to treat bone, neurodegenerative, eye, and metabolic disorders, as well as prevent ageing. Nevertheless, the creation of Wnt-based therapies has been hampered by challenges in developing potent and selective Wnt activators without off-target effects, such as oncogenesis. On the other hand, to avoid these risks, their use to promote ex vivo expansion during tissue engineering is a promising application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clémence Bonnet
- Stein Eye Institute, University of California Los Angeles CA USA +1-3107947906 +1-3102062173
- INSERM, UMRS1138, Team 17, From Physiopathology of Ocular Diseases to Clinical Development, Paris University, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, and Cornea Departement, Cochin Hospital, AP-HP F-75014 Paris France
| | - Anvi Brahmbhatt
- Stein Eye Institute, University of California Los Angeles CA USA +1-3107947906 +1-3102062173
| | - Sophie X Deng
- Stein Eye Institute, University of California Los Angeles CA USA +1-3107947906 +1-3102062173
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California Los Angeles CA USA
| | - Jie J Zheng
- Stein Eye Institute, University of California Los Angeles CA USA +1-3107947906 +1-3102062173
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California Los Angeles CA USA
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31
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Low JL, Du W, Gocha T, Oguz G, Zhang X, Chen MW, Masirevic S, Yim DGR, Tan IBH, Ramasamy A, Fan H, DasGupta R. Molecular docking-aided identification of small molecule inhibitors targeting β-catenin-TCF4 interaction. iScience 2021; 24:102544. [PMID: 34142050 PMCID: PMC8184503 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2021.102544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Revised: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Here we report a molecular docking-based approach to identify small molecules that can target the β-catenin (β-cat)-TCF4 protein-protein interaction (PPI), a key effector complex for nuclear Wnt signaling activity. Specifically, we developed and optimized a computational model of β-cat using publicly available β-cat protein crystal structures, and existing β-cat-TCF4 interaction inhibitors as the training set. Using our computational model to an in silico screen predicted 27 compounds as good binders to β-cat, of which 3 were identified to be effective against a Wnt-responsive luciferase reporter. In vitro functional validation experiments revealed GB1874 as an inhibitor of the Wnt pathway that targets the β-cat-TCF4 PPI. GB1874 also affected the proliferation and stemness of Wnt-addicted colorectal cancer (CRC) cells in vitro. Encouragingly, GB1874 inhibited the growth of CRC tumor xenografts in vivo, thus demonstrating its potential for further development into therapeutics against Wnt-associated cancer indications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joo-Leng Low
- Laboratory of Precision Oncology and Cancer Evolution, Genome Institute of Singapore, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), Singapore 138672, Singapore
| | - Weina Du
- Structure-Based Ligand Discovery and Design, Bioinformatics Institute, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), Singapore 138671, Singapore
| | - Tenzin Gocha
- Laboratory of Precision Oncology and Cancer Evolution, Genome Institute of Singapore, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), Singapore 138672, Singapore
| | - Gokce Oguz
- Bioinformatics Consulting and Training Platform, Genome Institute of Singapore, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), Singapore 138672, Singapore
| | - Xiaoqian Zhang
- Laboratory of Precision Oncology and Cancer Evolution, Genome Institute of Singapore, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), Singapore 138672, Singapore
| | - Ming Wei Chen
- Biomolecular Interactions Platform, School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore 637551, Singapore
| | - Srdan Masirevic
- Structure-Based Ligand Discovery and Design, Bioinformatics Institute, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), Singapore 138671, Singapore
| | - Daniel Guo Rong Yim
- Laboratory of Precision Oncology and Cancer Evolution, Genome Institute of Singapore, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), Singapore 138672, Singapore
| | - Iain Bee Huat Tan
- Division of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore (NCCS), Singapore 169610, Singapore
- Laboratory of Applied Cancer Genomics, Genome Institute of Singapore, Singapore 138672, Singapore
- Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore
| | - Adaikalavan Ramasamy
- Bioinformatics Consulting and Training Platform, Genome Institute of Singapore, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), Singapore 138672, Singapore
| | - Hao Fan
- Structure-Based Ligand Discovery and Design, Bioinformatics Institute, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), Singapore 138671, Singapore
| | - Ramanuj DasGupta
- Laboratory of Precision Oncology and Cancer Evolution, Genome Institute of Singapore, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), Singapore 138672, Singapore
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Kumar B, Ahmad R, Sharma S, Gowrikumar S, Primeaux M, Rana S, Natarajan A, Oupicky D, Hopkins CR, Dhawan P, Singh AB. PIK3C3 Inhibition Promotes Sensitivity to Colon Cancer Therapy by Inhibiting Cancer Stem Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13092168. [PMID: 33946505 PMCID: PMC8124755 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13092168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 04/24/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Colorectal cancer (CRC) represents a heterogeneous population of tumor cells and cancer stem cells (CSCs) where CSCs are postulated to resist the chemotherapy, and support cancer malignancy. Eliminating CSC can therefore improve CRC therapy and patient survival; however, such strategies have not yielded the desired outcome. Inhibiting autophagy has shown promise in suppressing therapy resistance; however, current autophagy inhibitors have failed in the clinical trials. In the current study, we provided data supporting the efficacy of 36-077, a potent inhibitor of PIK3C3/VPS34, in inhibiting autophagy to kill the CSC to promote the efficacy of colon cancer therapy. Abstract Background: Despite recent advances in therapies, resistance to chemotherapy remains a critical problem in the clinical management of colorectal cancer (CRC). Cancer stem cells (CSCs) play a central role in therapy resistance. Thus, elimination of CSCs is crucial for effective CRC therapy; however, such strategies are limited. Autophagy promotes resistance to cancer therapy; however, whether autophagy protects CSCs to promote resistance to CRC-therapy is not well understood. Moreover, specific and potent autophagy inhibitors are warranted as clinical trials with hydroxychloroquine have not been successful. Methods: Colon cancer cells and tumoroids were used. Fluorescent reporter-based analysis of autophagy flux, spheroid and side population (SP) culture, and qPCR were done. We synthesized 36-077, a potent inhibitor of PIK3C3/VPS34 kinase, to inhibit autophagy. Combination treatments were done using 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and 36-077. Results: The 5-FU treatment induced autophagy only in a subset of the treated colon cancer. These autophagy-enriched cells also showed increased expression of CSC markers. Co-treatment with 36-077 significantly improved efficacy of the 5-FU treatment. Mechanistic studies revealed that combination therapy inhibited GSK-3β/Wnt/β-catenin signaling to inhibit CSC population. Conclusion: Autophagy promotes resistance to CRC-therapy by specifically promoting GSK-3β/Wnt/β-catenin signaling to promote CSC survival, and 36-077, a PIK3C3/VPS34 inhibitor, helps promote efficacy of CRC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Balawant Kumar
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, 985870 Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-6125, USA; (B.K.); (R.A.); (S.G.); (M.P.); (P.D.)
| | - Rizwan Ahmad
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, 985870 Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-6125, USA; (B.K.); (R.A.); (S.G.); (M.P.); (P.D.)
| | - Swagat Sharma
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-6125, USA; (S.S.); (D.O.); (C.R.H.)
| | - Saiprasad Gowrikumar
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, 985870 Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-6125, USA; (B.K.); (R.A.); (S.G.); (M.P.); (P.D.)
| | - Mark Primeaux
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, 985870 Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-6125, USA; (B.K.); (R.A.); (S.G.); (M.P.); (P.D.)
| | - Sandeep Rana
- Eppley Institute for Cancer Research Program, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-6125, USA; (S.R.); (A.N.)
| | - Amarnath Natarajan
- Eppley Institute for Cancer Research Program, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-6125, USA; (S.R.); (A.N.)
- Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5870, USA
| | - David Oupicky
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-6125, USA; (S.S.); (D.O.); (C.R.H.)
| | - Corey R. Hopkins
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-6125, USA; (S.S.); (D.O.); (C.R.H.)
| | - Punita Dhawan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, 985870 Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-6125, USA; (B.K.); (R.A.); (S.G.); (M.P.); (P.D.)
- Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5870, USA
- VA Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE 68105-1850, USA
| | - Amar B. Singh
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, 985870 Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-6125, USA; (B.K.); (R.A.); (S.G.); (M.P.); (P.D.)
- Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5870, USA
- VA Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE 68105-1850, USA
- Correspondence:
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Takam Kamga P, Bazzoni R, Dal Collo G, Cassaro A, Tanasi I, Russignan A, Tecchio C, Krampera M. The Role of Notch and Wnt Signaling in MSC Communication in Normal and Leukemic Bone Marrow Niche. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 8:599276. [PMID: 33490067 PMCID: PMC7820188 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.599276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Notch and Wnt signaling are highly conserved intercellular communication pathways involved in developmental processes, such as hematopoiesis. Even though data from literature support a role for these two pathways in both physiological hematopoiesis and leukemia, there are still many controversies concerning the nature of their contribution. Early studies, strengthened by findings from T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL), have focused their investigation on the mutations in genes encoding for components of the pathways, with limited results except for B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL); in because in other leukemia the two pathways could be hyper-expressed without genetic abnormalities. As normal and malignant hematopoiesis require close and complex interactions between hematopoietic cells and specialized bone marrow (BM) niche cells, recent studies have focused on the role of Notch and Wnt signaling in the context of normal crosstalk between hematopoietic/leukemia cells and stromal components. Amongst the latter, mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSCs) play a pivotal role as multipotent non-hematopoietic cells capable of giving rise to most of the BM niche stromal cells, including fibroblasts, adipocytes, and osteocytes. Indeed, MSCs express and secrete a broad pattern of bioactive molecules, including Notch and Wnt molecules, that support all the phases of the hematopoiesis, including self-renewal, proliferation and differentiation. Herein, we provide an overview on recent advances on the contribution of MSC-derived Notch and Wnt signaling to hematopoiesis and leukemia development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Takam Kamga
- Stem Cell Research Laboratory, Section of Hematology, Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
- EA4340-BCOH, Biomarker in Cancerology and Onco-Haematology, UVSQ, Université Paris Saclay, Boulogne-Billancourt, France
| | - Riccardo Bazzoni
- Stem Cell Research Laboratory, Section of Hematology, Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Giada Dal Collo
- Department of Immunology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Adriana Cassaro
- Hematology Unit, Department of Oncology, Niguarda Hospital, Milan, Italy
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Ilaria Tanasi
- Stem Cell Research Laboratory, Section of Hematology, Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Anna Russignan
- Stem Cell Research Laboratory, Section of Hematology, Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Cristina Tecchio
- Stem Cell Research Laboratory, Section of Hematology, Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Mauro Krampera
- Stem Cell Research Laboratory, Section of Hematology, Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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Zhang Y, Wang X. Targeting the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in cancer. J Hematol Oncol 2020; 13:165. [PMID: 33276800 PMCID: PMC7716495 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-020-00990-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 660] [Impact Index Per Article: 165.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The aberrant Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway facilitates cancer stem cell renewal, cell proliferation and differentiation, thus exerting crucial roles in tumorigenesis and therapy response. Accumulated investigations highlight the therapeutic potential of agents targeting Wnt/β-catenin signaling in cancer. Wnt ligand/ receptor interface, β-catenin destruction complex and TCF/β-catenin transcription complex are key components of the cascade and have been targeted with interventions in preclinical and clinical evaluations. This scoping review aims at outlining the latest progress on the current approaches and perspectives of Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway targeted therapy in various cancer types. Better understanding of the updates on the inhibitors, antagonists and activators of Wnt/β-catenin pathway rationalizes innovative strategies for personalized cancer treatment. Further investigations are warranted to confirm precise and secure targeted agents and achieve optimal use with clinical benefits in malignant diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya Zhang
- Department of Hematology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China.,Department of Hematology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China.,School of medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China.,Shandong Provincial Engineering Research Center of Lymphoma, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China.,Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 250021, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Hematology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China. .,Department of Hematology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China. .,School of medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China. .,Shandong Provincial Engineering Research Center of Lymphoma, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China. .,Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China. .,National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 250021, China.
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35
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Yu J, Yusoff PAM, Woutersen DTJ, Goh P, Harmston N, Smits R, Epstein DM, Virshup DM, Madan B. The Functional Landscape of Patient-Derived RNF43 Mutations Predicts Sensitivity to Wnt Inhibition. Cancer Res 2020; 80:5619-5632. [PMID: 33067269 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-20-0957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2020] [Revised: 08/23/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
A subset of Wnt-addicted cancers are sensitive to targeted therapies that block Wnt secretion or receptor engagement. RNF43 loss-of-function (LOF) mutations that increase cell surface Wnt receptor abundance cause sensitivity to Wnt inhibitors. However, it is not clear which of the clinically identified RNF43 mutations affect its function in vivo. We assayed 119 missense and 45 truncating RNF43 mutations found in human cancers using a combination of cell-based reporter assays, genome editing, flow cytometry, and immunofluorescence microscopy. Five common germline variants of RNF43 exhibited wild-type activity. Cancer-associated missense mutations in the RING ubiquitin ligase domain and a subset of mutations in the extracellular domain hyperactivate Wnt/β-catenin signaling through formation of inactive dimers with endogenous RNF43 or ZNRF3. RNF43 C-terminal truncation mutants, including the common G659fs mutant are LOF specifically when endogenous mutations are examined, unlike their behavior in transient transfection assays. Patient-derived xenografts and cell lines with C-terminal truncations showed increased cell surface Frizzled and Wnt/β-catenin signaling and were responsive to porcupine (PORCN) inhibition in vivo, providing clear evidence of RNF43 impairment. Our study provides potential guidelines for patient assignment, as virtually all RNF43 nonsense and frameshift mutations, including those in the C-terminal domain and a large number of patient-associated missense mutations in the RING domain and N-terminal region compromise its activity, and therefore predict response to upstream Wnt inhibitors in cancers without microsatellite instability. This study expands the landscape of actionable RNF43 mutations, extending the benefit of these therapies to additional patients. SIGNIFICANCE: Systematic examination of patient-derived RNF43 mutations identifies rules to guide patient selection, including that truncation or point mutations in well-defined functional domains sensitize cancers to PORCN inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Yu
- Program in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | | | - Daniëlle T J Woutersen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC-University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Pamela Goh
- Center for Technology and Development, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Nathan Harmston
- Program in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore.,Science Division, Yale-NUS College, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Ron Smits
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC-University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - David M Epstein
- Program in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore.,Center for Technology and Development, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - David M Virshup
- Program in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore. .,Department of Pediatrics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Babita Madan
- Program in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore.
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36
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Sun Y, Wang W, Zhao C. Frizzled Receptors in Tumors, Focusing on Signaling, Roles, Modulation Mechanisms, and Targeted Therapies. Oncol Res 2020; 28:661-674. [PMID: 32998794 PMCID: PMC7962935 DOI: 10.3727/096504020x16014648664459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Wnt molecules play crucial roles in development and adult homeostasis through their receptors Frizzled proteins (Fzds). Fzds mediate canonical β-catenin pathway and various noncanonical β-catenin-independent pathways. Aberrant Fzd signaling is involved in many diseases including cancer. Wnt/β-catenin is a well-established oncogenic pathway involved in almost every aspect of tumor development. However, Fzd-mediated noncanonical Wnt pathways function as both tumor promoters and tumor suppressors depending on cellular context. Fzd-targeted therapies have proven to be effective on cultured tumor cells, tumor cell xenografts, mouse tumor models, and patient-derived xenografts (PDX). Moreover, Fzd-targeted therapies synergize with chemotherapy in preclinical models. However, the occurrence of fragility fractures in patients treated with Fzd-targeted agents such as OMP-54F28 and OMP-18R5 limits the development of this combination. Along with new insights on signaling, roles, and modulation mechanisms of Fzds in human tumors, more Fzd-related therapeutic targets will be developed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Sun
- Department of Pathophysiology, College of Basic Medical Science, China Medical UniversityShenyangP.R. China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Pathophysiology, College of Basic Medical Science, China Medical UniversityShenyangP.R. China
| | - Chenghai Zhao
- Department of Pathophysiology, College of Basic Medical Science, China Medical UniversityShenyangP.R. China
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37
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Wnt Signaling in Gynecologic Malignancies. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21124272. [PMID: 32560059 PMCID: PMC7348953 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21124272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 06/12/2020] [Accepted: 06/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Gynecologic malignancies, including ovarian cancer, endometrial cancer, and cervical cancer, affect hundreds of thousands of women worldwide every year. Wnt signaling, specifically Wnt/β-catenin signaling, has been found to play an essential role in many oncogenic processes in gynecologic malignancies, including tumorigenesis, metastasis, recurrence, and chemotherapy resistance. As such, the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway has the potential to be a target for effective treatment, improving patient outcomes. In this review, we discuss the evidence supporting the importance of the Wnt signaling pathways in the development, progression, and treatment of gynecologic malignancies.
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38
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Zhang Y, Zu D, Chen Z, Ying G. An update on Wnt signaling pathway in cancer. Transl Cancer Res 2020; 9:1246-1252. [PMID: 35117469 PMCID: PMC8797977 DOI: 10.21037/tcr.2019.12.50] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2019] [Accepted: 12/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Wnt signaling involves many aspects of development, cell biology and physiology. Mutations in the Wnt gene can lead to abnormal embryonic development and cancer formation, including various aspects that affect proliferation, morphogenesis, and differentiation. The occurrence and development of tumors is a complex process involving multiple factors. The Wnt signaling pathway participates in this process as an anti-tumor target by activating multiple gene transcriptions. The emergence of Wnt pathway inhibitors and targeted drugs has opened up a new world of cancer treatment. This review focuses on the mechanism of action of the Wnt signaling pathway in different cancers. Secondly, we have organized and introduced the latest Wnt anti-tumor drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanlu Zhang
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Dan Zu
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Zhe Chen
- First Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Guoqing Ying
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
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Jarman EJ, Boulter L. Targeting the Wnt signaling pathway: the challenge of reducing scarring without affecting repair. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2020; 29:179-190. [DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2020.1718105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Edward J. Jarman
- MRC Human Genetics Unit, MRC Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Luke Boulter
- MRC Human Genetics Unit, MRC Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Edinburgh, UK
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40
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Tao Y, Mis M, Blazer L, Ustav M, Steinhart Z, Chidiac R, Kubarakos E, O'Brien S, Wang X, Jarvik N, Patel N, Adams J, Moffat J, Angers S, Sidhu SS. Tailored tetravalent antibodies potently and specifically activate Wnt/Frizzled pathways in cells, organoids and mice. eLife 2019; 8:e46134. [PMID: 31452509 PMCID: PMC6711705 DOI: 10.7554/elife.46134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2019] [Accepted: 08/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Secreted Wnt proteins regulate development and adult tissue homeostasis by binding and activating cell-surface Frizzled receptors and co-receptors including LRP5/6. The hydrophobicity of Wnt proteins has complicated their purification and limited their use in basic research and as therapeutics. We describe modular tetravalent antibodies that can recruit Frizzled and LRP5/6 in a manner that phenocopies the activities of Wnts both in vitro and in vivo. The modular nature of these synthetic Frizzled and LRP5/6 Agonists, called FLAgs, enables tailored engineering of specificity for one, two or multiple members of the Frizzled family. We show that FLAgs underlie differentiation of pluripotent stem cells, sustain organoid growth, and activate stem cells in vivo. Activation of Wnt signaling circuits with tailored FLAgs will enable precise delineation of functional outcomes directed by distinct receptor combinations and could provide a new class of therapeutics to unlock the promise of regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuyong Tao
- Donnelly CentreUniversity of TorontoTorontoCanada
| | - Monika Mis
- Department of Pharmaceutical SciencesLeslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of TorontoTorontoCanada
| | - Levi Blazer
- Donnelly CentreUniversity of TorontoTorontoCanada
| | - Mart Ustav
- Donnelly CentreUniversity of TorontoTorontoCanada
| | - Zachary Steinhart
- Department of Pharmaceutical SciencesLeslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of TorontoTorontoCanada
| | - Rony Chidiac
- Department of Pharmaceutical SciencesLeslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of TorontoTorontoCanada
| | - Elli Kubarakos
- Department of Pharmaceutical SciencesLeslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of TorontoTorontoCanada
| | - Siobhan O'Brien
- Department of BiochemistryUniversity of TorontoTorontoCanada
| | - Xiaomei Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutical SciencesLeslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of TorontoTorontoCanada
| | - Nick Jarvik
- Donnelly CentreUniversity of TorontoTorontoCanada
| | - Nish Patel
- Donnelly CentreUniversity of TorontoTorontoCanada
| | | | - Jason Moffat
- Donnelly CentreUniversity of TorontoTorontoCanada
- Department of Molecular GeneticsUniversity of TorontoTorontoCanada
- Canadian Institute for Advanced ResearchTorontoCanada
| | - Stephane Angers
- Department of Pharmaceutical SciencesLeslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of TorontoTorontoCanada
- Department of BiochemistryUniversity of TorontoTorontoCanada
| | - Sachdev S Sidhu
- Donnelly CentreUniversity of TorontoTorontoCanada
- Department of Molecular GeneticsUniversity of TorontoTorontoCanada
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Du FY, Zhou QF, Sun WJ, Chen GL. Targeting cancer stem cells in drug discovery: Current state and future perspectives. World J Stem Cells 2019; 11:398-420. [PMID: 31396368 PMCID: PMC6682504 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v11.i7.398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2019] [Revised: 06/18/2019] [Accepted: 06/27/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent decades, cancer stem cells (CSCs) have been increasingly identified in many malignancies. CSC-related signaling pathways and their functions provide new strategies for treating cancer. The aberrant activation of related signaling pathways (e.g., Wnt, Notch, and Hedgehog pathways) has been linked to multiple types of malignant tumors, which makes these pathways attractive targets for cancer therapy. CSCs display many characteristic features, such as self-renewal, differentiation, high tumorigenicity, and drug resistance. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop new therapeutic strategies to target these pathways to control stem cell replication, survival, and differentiation. Notable crosstalk occurs among different signaling pathways and potentially leads to compensatory escape. Therefore, multitarget inhibitors will be one of the main methods to overcome the drug resistance of CSCs. Many small molecule inhibitors of components of signaling pathways in CSCs have entered clinical trials, and some inhibitors, such as vismodegib, sonidegib, and glasdegib, have been approved. Tumor cells are susceptible to sonidegib and vismodegib resistance due to mutations in the Smo protein. The signal transducers and activators of transcription 3 (STAT3) inhibitor BBI608 is being evaluated in a phase III trial for a variety of cancers. Structural derivatives of BBI608 are the main focus of STAT3 inhibitor development, which is another strategy for CSC therapy. In addition to the potential pharmacological inhibitors targeting CSC-related signaling pathways, other methods of targeting CSCs are available, such as nano-drug delivery systems, mitochondrion targeting, autophagy, hyperthermia, immunotherapy, and CSC microenvironment targeting. In addition, we summarize the latest advances in the clinical development of agents targeting CSC-related signaling pathways and other methods of targeting CSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang-Yu Du
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design and Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Qi-Fan Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design and Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Wen-Jiao Sun
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design and Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Guo-Liang Chen
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design and Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, Liaoning Province, China
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Structure-guided design fine-tunes pharmacokinetics, tolerability, and antitumor profile of multispecific frizzled antibodies. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2019; 116:6812-6817. [PMID: 30894493 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1817246116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Aberrant activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling occurs frequently in cancer. However, therapeutic targeting of this pathway is complicated by the role of Wnt in stem cell maintenance and tissue homeostasis. Here, we evaluated antibodies blocking 6 of the 10 human Wnt/Frizzled (FZD) receptors as potential therapeutics. Crystal structures revealed a common binding site for these monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) on FZD, blocking the interaction with the Wnt palmitoleic acid moiety. However, these mAbs displayed gastrointestinal toxicity or poor plasma exposure in vivo. Structure-guided engineering was used to refine the binding of each mAb for FZD receptors, resulting in antibody variants with improved in vivo tolerability and developability. Importantly, the lead variant mAb significantly inhibited tumor growth in the HPAF-II pancreatic tumor xenograft model. Taken together, our data demonstrate that anti-FZD cancer therapeutic antibodies with broad specificity can be fine-tuned to navigate in vivo exposure and tolerability while driving therapeutic efficacy.
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