Mechanisms of normal and tumor-derived angiogenesis

Application of nanoparticles to target tumor blood vessels as a promising cancer treatment strategy

Cancer remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide and poses a significant challenge to effective treatment due to its complexity. Angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels, is a critical process in tumor growth and metastasis. The VEGF/VEGFR pathway plays a crucial role in regulating angiogenesis. Many anti-angiogenesis agents, including monoclonal antibodies and tyrosine kinase inhibitors, have been investigated for the treatment of various cancers. However, they face significant limitations such as limited bioavailability and drug resistance. Nanoparticles have emerged as a promising tool for effective drug delivery while minimizing systemic side effects. This review explores the application of nanoparticles dedicated to angiogenesis-targeted cancer therapy, particularly targeting the VEGF/VEGFR pathway. We describe drug delivery systems based on inorganic, lipid, and polymeric nanoparticles. Moreover, special attention is given to functionalized nanoparticles, which can precisely target numerous proteins that are significantly overexpressed on the surfaces of endothelial cells, tumors, or other cells in the tumor microenvironment. We summarize a series of nanoparticles designed for selective targeting of tumor vasculature, emphasizing the challenges faced by anti-angiogenic cancer therapies.

Interleukin-24: A Multidimensional Therapeutic for Treatment of Human Diseases

The field of targeted therapy exploits the selective expression of therapeutic genes or proteins in diseased cells. While this area is gaining attraction in the context of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and other major health disorders, it has been most extensively explored in the realm of cancer. Targeted therapy has gained significance in the cancer field for its potential to address the limitations of conventional treatments and enhance patient survival. Interleukin-24 (IL-24), a versatile cytokine, has been evaluated as a cancer therapeutic in various preclinical cancer models and clinical trials, and has yielded promising results. Consequently, multiple studies highlight IL-24 as a viable "anti-cancer" therapeutic, with successful outcomes observed in combination therapies involving small molecule inhibitors, chemotherapeutic drugs, and radiation. Despite the evidence validating the tumor-suppressing properties of IL-24 in cancer models, there is a dearth of information regarding its role in other human diseases. The objective of this review is to offer a synopsis of the potential role of IL-24 in diverse human diseases. Additionally, it provides a comprehensive review of the progress in cancer therapy utilizing IL-24. Finally, from the author's standpoint, the review also addresses some of the limitations that impede the translational potential of IL-24-based therapy in clinical settings. It offers arguments in favor of incorporating IL-24-based targeted therapy as an effective and safer alternative for current treatment modalities, thereby highlighting its potential to revolutionize the field of therapeutics.

Pretreatment arterial spin labeling combined with radiological depth of invasion predicts treatment outcome in nonmetastatic NPC

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

To investigate the value of arterial spin labeling (ASL) and radiological depth of invasion (rDOI) in predicting long-term treatment outcomes in nonmetastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 113 patients with NPC were included and randomly divided into training (n = 81) and validation (n = 32) cohorts. Tumor blood flow (TBF) parameters derived from the ASL (TBFMean, TBFSD, and nTBF) were obtained. Two radiologists independently measured the rDOI in both axial (rDOI_a) and coronal (rDOI_c) planes, subsequently categorizing patients into low-risk and high-risk groups. Spearman analysis was used to explore the correlation. In the training cohort, ASL-based, ASL + rDOI, and TNM models were constructed using univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses. Model performance, including calibration, robustness, discrimination, and clinical utility, was assessed in both training and validation cohorts. The net classification index (NRI) and integrated discrimination improvement (IDI) were calculated.

RESULTS

The median follow-up duration was 63.4 (56.2, 100.1) months. Disease progression and death occurred in 45 (39.8 %) and 32 (28.3 %) patients, respectively. TBFMean and rDOI were independent predictors of overall survival (OS) (hazard ratios [HR], 0.973 and 2.975, respectively) and progression-free survival (PFS) (HR, 0.985 and 2.207, respectively). rDOI_a and rDOI_c were significantly correlated with T stage (r = 0.538-0.738, P ≤ 0.002). The ASL + rDOI model demonstrated good robustness and clinical utility in both training and validation cohorts. Post-hoc subgroup analysis showed favorable results.

CONCLUSION

TBFMean and rDOI can predict survival outcomes in patients with NPC. Adding rDOI further improved the prediction performance.

Angiogenesis in Glioblastoma-Treatment Approaches

Glioblastoma, the most common primary malignant brain tumor in adults, carries a poor prognosis, with a median survival of just 15 months, significantly impacting patients' quality of life. The aggressive growth of these highly vascularized tumors relies heavily on angiogenesis, driven primarily by vascular endothelial growth factor-A. Therefore, VEGF signaling pathway has become a prime therapeutic target in GBM treatment over the past decade. While anti-angiogenic treatment showed promise, agents like bevacizumab have ultimately failed to improve overall survival. This highlights the presence of compensatory angiogenic mechanisms that bypass VEGF inhibition, necessitating further investigation into resistance mechanisms and the development of more effective therapeutic strategies. This review examined the current landscape of anti-angiogenic agents for GBM, analyzed the mechanisms driving resistance to these therapies, and explored potential strategies for enhancing their effectiveness.

Novel Anti-Tumor Effect of Natural Products from Aloe vera Resin and their In-Vitro/In-Silico Targeting Mechanism of Carbonic Anhydrase-II and IX

Human carbonic anhydrase (hCA) plays a vital role in the development and progression of tumors in hypoxic conditions. Herein we report the hCA-II and hCA-IX activities of natural products isolated from Aloe vera (L.) Burm.f., to know their potential in tumors. These isolated compounds (1-10) displayed varying degrees of inhibition against hCA-II and hCA-IX. All the compounds showed potent activity against hCA-IX with IC50 values in the range of 2.9-29.1 μM. While for hCA-II, compounds 1, 2, 5-10 exhibited IC50 in the range of 4.7-23.4 μM. The most effective hCA IX and II inhibitors, 2 and 5, were chosen for in vitro mechanism studies, revealing that they are competitive inhibitors. Furthermore, when tested for their cytotoxic effect on BJ (normal) cell line, all the compounds showed no cytotoxic behavior, while on Prostate cancer cells (PC-3), compounds 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9 exhibited significant antiproliferative activity. Molecular docking was also conducted within the hCA IX and hCA-II active sites to observe their binding capability. Compounds 1, 5, 7, and 9 were active against both isozymes of hCA and in the PC-3 cell line, therefore these are the best choices for further in vivo studies.

Uveal melanoma distant metastasis prediction system: A retrospective observational study based on machine learning

Uveal melanoma (UM) patients face a significant risk of distant metastasis, closely tied to a poor prognosis. Despite this, there is a dearth of research utilizing big data to predict UM distant metastasis. This study leveraged machine learning methods on the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database to forecast the risk probability of distant metastasis. Therefore, the information on UM patients from the SEER database (2000-2020) was split into a 7:3 ratio training set and an internal test set based on distant metastasis presence. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses assessed distant metastasis risk factors. Six machine learning methods constructed a predictive model post-feature variable selection. The model evaluation identified the multilayer perceptron (MLP) as optimal. Shapley additive explanations (SHAP) interpreted the chosen model. A web-based calculator personalized risk probabilities for UM patients. The results show that nine feature variables contributed to the machine learning model. The MLP model demonstrated superior predictive accuracy (Precision = 0.788; ROC AUC = 0.876; PR AUC = 0.788). Grade recode, age, primary site, time from diagnosis to treatment initiation, and total number of malignant tumors were identified as distant metastasis risk factors. Diagnostic method, laterality, rural-urban continuum code, and radiation recode emerged as protective factors. The developed web calculator utilizes the MLP model for personalized risk assessments. In conclusion, the MLP machine learning model emerges as the optimal tool for predicting distant metastasis in UM patients. This model facilitates personalized risk assessments, empowering early and tailored treatment strategies.

Role of MicroRNA-204 in Regulating the Hallmarks of Breast Cancer: An Update

microRNA-204-5p (miR-204) is a small noncoding RNA with diverse regulatory roles in breast cancer (BC) development and progression. miR-204 is implicated in the instauration of fundamental traits acquired during the multistep development of BC, known as the hallmarks of cancer. It may act as a potent tumor suppressor by inhibiting key cellular processes like angiogenesis, vasculogenic mimicry, invasion, migration, and metastasis. It achieves this by targeting multiple master genes involved in these processes, including HIF-1α, β-catenin, VEGFA, TGFBR2, FAK, FOXA1, among others. Additionally, miR-204 modulates signaling pathways like PI3K/AKT and interacts with HOTAIR and DSCAM-AS1 lncRNAs, further influencing tumor progression. Beyond its direct effects on tumor cells, miR-204 shapes the tumor microenvironment by regulating immune cell infiltration, suppressing pro-tumorigenic cytokine production, and potentially influencing immunotherapy response. Moreover, miR-204 plays a crucial role in metabolic reprogramming by directly suppressing metabolic genes within tumor cells, indirectly affecting metabolism through exosome signaling, and remodeling metabolic flux within the tumor microenvironment. This review aims to present an update on the current knowledge regarding the role of miR-204 in the hallmarks of BC. In conclusion, miR-204 is a potential therapeutic target and prognostic marker in BC, emphasizing the need for further research to fully elucidate its complex roles in orchestrating aggressive BC behavior.

From sweat to hope: The role of exercise-induced extracellular vesicles in cancer prevention and treatment

The benefits of regular physical exercise on cancer prevention, as well as reducing fatigue, treatment side effects and recurrence, and improving quality of life and overall survival of cancer patients, are increasingly recognised. Initial studies showed that the concentration of extracellular vesicles (EVs) increases during physical activity and that EVs carry biologically active cargo. These EVs are released by blood cells, skeletal muscle and other organs involved in exercise, thus suggesting that EVs may mediate tissue crosstalk during exercise. This possibility triggered a great interest in the study of the roles of EVs in systemic adaptation to exercise and in their potential applications in the prevention and treatment of various diseases, including cancer. This review presents studies exploring the concentration and molecular cargo of EVs released during exercise. Furthermore, we discuss putative stimuli that may trigger EV release from various cell types, the biological functions and the impact of exercise-induced EVs on cancer development and progression. Understanding the interplay between exercise, EVs, and cancer biology may offer insights into novel therapeutic strategies and preventive measures for cancer.

Identification of established and novel extracellular matrix components in glioblastoma as targets for angiogenesis and prognosis

Glioblastomas (GBM) are aggressive tumors known for their heterogeneity, rapid proliferation, treatment resistance, and extensive vasculature. Angiogenesis, the formation of new vessels, involves endothelial cell (EC) migration and proliferation. Various extracellular matrix (ECM) molecules regulate EC survival, migration, and proliferation. Culturing human brain EC (HBMEC) on GBM-derived ECM revealed a decrease in EC numbers compared to controls. Through in silico analysis, we explored ECM gene expression differences between GBM and brain normal glia cells and the impact of GBM microenvironment on EC ECM transcripts. ECM molecules such as collagen alpha chains (COL4A1, COL4A2, p < 0.0001); laminin alpha (LAMA4), beta (LAMB2), and gamma (LAMC1) chains (p < 0.0005); neurocan (NCAN), brevican (BCAN) and versican (VCAN) (p < 0.0005); hyaluronan synthase (HAS) 2 and metalloprotease (MMP) 2 (p < 0.005); MMP inhibitors (TIMP1-4, p < 0.0005), transforming growth factor beta-1 (TGFB1) and integrin alpha (ITGA3/5) (p < 0.05) and beta (ITGB1, p < 0.0005) chains showed increased expression in GBM. Additionally, GBM-influenced EC exhibited elevated expression of COL5A3, COL6A1, COL22A1 and COL27A1 (p < 0.01); LAMA1, LAMB1 (p < 0.001); fibulins (FBLN1/2, p < 0.01); MMP9, HAS1, ITGA3, TGFB1, and wingless-related integration site 9B (WNT9B) (p < 0.01) compared to normal EC. Some of these molecules: COL5A1/3, COL6A1, COL22/27A1, FBLN1/2, ITGA3/5, ITGB1 and LAMA1/B1 (p < 0.01); NCAN, HAS1, MMP2/9, TIMP1/2 and TGFB1 (p < 0.05) correlated with GBM patient survival. In conclusion, this study identified both established and novel ECM molecules regulating GBM angiogenesis, suggesting NCAN and COL27A1 are new potential prognostic biomarkers for GBM.

Phloridzin Docosahexaenoate, an Omega-3 Fatty Acid Ester of a Flavonoid Precursor, Inhibits Angiogenesis by Suppressing Endothelial Cell Proliferation, Migration, and Differentiation

Angiogenesis is a normal physiological process that also contributes to diabetic retinopathy-related complications and facilitates tumor metastasis by promoting the hematogenic dissemination of malignant cells from solid tumors. Here, we investigated the in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo anti-angiogenic activity of phloridzin docosahexaenoate (PZ-DHA), a novel ω-3 fatty acid ester of a flavonoid precursor. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) and human dermal microvascular endothelial cells (HMVEC) treated with a sub-cytotoxic concentration of PZ-DHA to assess in vitro anti-angiogenic activity showed impaired tubule formation on a Matrigel matrix. Ex vivo angiogenesis was measured using rat thoracic aortas, which exhibited reduced vessel sprouting and tubule formation in the presence of PZ-DHA. Female BALB/c mice bearing VEGF165- and basic fibroblast growth factor-containing Matrigel plugs showed a significant reduction in blood vessel development following PZ-DHA treatment. PZ-DHA inhibited HUVEC and HMVEC proliferation, as well as the migration of HUVECs in gap closure and trans-well cell migration assays. PZ-DHA inhibited upstream and downstream components of the Akt pathway and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF165)-induced overexpression of small molecular Rho GTPases in HUVECs, suggesting a decrease in actin cytoskeletal-mediated stress fiber formation and migration. Taken together, these findings reveal the potential of combined food biomolecules in PZ-DHA to inhibit angiogenesis.

A new label free spiral sensor using impedance spectroscopy to characterize hepatocellular carcinoma in tissue and serum samples

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) stands as the most prevalent form of primary liver cancer, predominantly affecting patients with chronic liver diseases such as hepatitis B or C-induced cirrhosis. Diagnosis typically involves blood tests (assessing liver functions and HCC biomarkers), imaging procedures such as Computed Tomography (CT) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), and liver biopsies requiring the removal of liver tissue for laboratory analysis. However, these diagnostic methods either entail lengthy lab processes, require expensive imaging equipment, or involve invasive techniques like liver biopsies. Hence, there exists a crucial need for rapid, cost-effective, and noninvasive techniques to characterize HCC, whether in serum or tissue samples. In this study, we developed a spiral sensor implemented on a printed circuit board (PCB) technology that utilizes impedance spectroscopy and applied it to 24 tissues and sera samples as proof of concept. This newly devised circuit has successfully characterized HCC and normal tissue and serum samples. Utilizing the distinct dielectric properties between HCC cells and serum samples versus the normal samples across a specific frequency range, the differentiation between normal and HCC samples is achieved. Moreover, the sensor effectively characterizes two HCC grades and distinguishes cirrhotic/non-cirrhotic samples from tissue specimens. In addition, the sensor distinguishes cirrhotic/non-cirrhotic samples from serum specimens. This pioneering study introduces Electrical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) spiral sensor for diagnosing HCC and liver cirrhosis in clinical serum-an innovative, low-cost, rapid (< 2 min), and precise PCB-based technology without elaborate sample preparation, offering a novel non-labeled screening approach for disease staging and liver conditions.

Assessment of Oxygen Saturation in Breast Lesions Using Photoacoustic Imaging: Correlation With Benign and Malignant Disease

BACKGROUND

Hypoxia is a hallmark of breast cancer (BC). Photoacoustic (PA) imaging, based on the use of laser-generated ultrasound (US), can detect oxygen saturation (So2) in the tissues of breast lesion patients.

PURPOSE

To measure the oxygenation status of tissue in and on both sides of the lesion in breast lesion participants using a multimodal Photoacoustic/ultrasound (PA/US) imaging system and to determine the correlation between So2 measured by PA imaging and benign or malignant disease.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Multimodal PA/US imaging and gray-scale US (GSUS) of breast lesion was performed in consecutive breast lesion participants imaged in the US Outpatient Clinic between 2022 and 2023. Dual-wavelength PA imaging was used to measure the So2 value inside the lesion and on both sides of the tissue, and to distinguish benign from malignant lesions based on the So2 value. The ability of So2 to distinguish benign from malignant breast lesions was evaluated by the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) and the De-Long test.

RESULTS

A total of 120 breast lesion participants (median age, 42.5 years) were included in the study. The malignant lesions exhibited lower So2 levels compared to benign lesions (malignant: 71.30%; benign: 83.81%; P < .01). Moreover, PA/US imaging demonstrates superior diagnostic results compared to GSUS, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.89 versus 0.70, sensitivity of 89.58% versus 85.42%, and specificity of 86.11% versus 55.56% at the So2 cut-off value of 78.85 (P < .001). The false positive rate in GSUS reduced by 30.75%, and the false negative rate diminished by 4.16% with PA /US diagnosis. Finally, the So2 on both sides tissues of malignant lesions are lower than that of benign lesions (P < .01).

CONCLUSION

PA imaging allows for the assessment of So2 within the lesions of breast lesion patients, thereby facilitating a superior distinction between benign and malignant lesions.

Cancer-on-chip models for metastasis: importance of the tumor microenvironment

Cancer-on-chip (CoC) models, based on microfluidic chips harboring chambers for 3D tumor-cell culture, enable us to create a controlled tumor microenvironment (TME). CoC models are therefore increasingly used to systematically study effects of the TME on the various steps in cancer metastasis. Moreover, CoC models have great potential for developing novel cancer therapies and for predicting patient-specific response to cancer treatments. We review recent developments in CoC models, focusing on three main TME components: (i) the anisotropic extracellular matrix (ECM) architectures, (ii) the vasculature, and (iii) the immune system. We aim to provide guidance to biologists to choose the best CoC approach for addressing questions about the role of the TME in metastasis, and to inspire engineers to develop novel CoC technologies.

A TRP to Pathological Angiogenesis and Vascular Normalization

Uncontrolled angiogenesis underlies various pathological conditions such as cancer, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), and proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR). Hence, targeting pathological angiogenesis has become a promising strategy for the treatment of cancer and neovascular ocular diseases. However, current pharmacological treatments that target VEGF signaling have met with limited success either due to acquiring resistance against anti-VEGF therapies with serious side effects including nephrotoxicity and cardiovascular-related adverse effects in cancer patients or retinal vasculitis and intraocular inflammation after intravitreal injection in patients with AMD or PDR. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop novel strategies which can control multiple aspects of the pathological microenvironment and regulate the process of abnormal angiogenesis. To this end, vascular normalization has been proposed as an alternative for antiangiogenesis approach; however, these strategies still focus on targeting VEGF or FGF or PDGF which has shown adverse effects. In addition to these growth factors, calcium has been recently implicated as an important modulator of tumor angiogenesis. This article provides an overview on the role of major calcium channels in endothelium, TRP channels, with a special focus on TRPV4 and its downstream signaling pathways in the regulation of pathological angiogenesis and vascular normalization. We also highlight recent findings on the modulation of TRPV4 activity and endothelial phenotypic transformation by tumor microenvironment through Rho/YAP/VEGFR2 mechanotranscriptional pathways. Finally, we provide perspective on endothelial TRPV4 as a novel VEGF alternative therapeutic target for vascular normalization and improved therapy. © 2024 American Physiological Society. Compr Physiol 14:5389-5406, 2024.

The VEGFs/VEGFRs system in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases: Pathophysiological roles and therapeutic implications

The vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs) and their cognate receptors (VEGFRs), besides their well-known involvement in physiological angiogenesis/lymphangiogenesis and in diseases associated to pathological vessel formation, play multifaceted functions in the central nervous system (CNS). In addition to shaping brain development, by controlling cerebral vasculogenesis and regulating neurogenesis as well as astrocyte differentiation, the VEGFs/VEGFRs axis exerts essential functions in the adult brain both in physiological and pathological contexts. In this article, after describing the physiological VEGFs/VEGFRs functions in the CNS, we focus on the VEGFs/VEGFRs involvement in neurodegenerative diseases by reviewing the current literature on the rather complex VEGFs/VEGFRs contribution to the pathogenic mechanisms of Alzheimer's (AD) and Parkinson's (PD) diseases. Thereafter, based on the outcome of VEGFs/VEGFRs targeting in animal models of AD and PD, we discuss the factual relevance of pharmacological VEGFs/VEGFRs modulation as a novel and potential disease-modifying approach for these neurodegenerative pathologies. Specific VEGFRs targeting, aimed at selective VEGFR-1 inhibition, while preserving VEGFR-2 signal transduction, appears as a promising strategy to hit the molecular mechanisms underlying AD pathology. Moreover, therapeutic VEGFs-based approaches can be proposed for PD treatment, with the aim of fine-tuning their brain levels to amplify neurotrophic/neuroprotective effects while limiting an excessive impact on vascular permeability.

Targeted Delivery of Diphtheria Toxin into VEGFR1/VEGFR2 Overexpressing Cells Induces Anti-angiogenesis Activity

BACKGROUND

Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptors (VEGFR1 and VEGFR2) are tyrosine kinase receptors expressed on endothelial cells and tumor vessels and play an important role in angiogenesis. In this study, three repeats of VEGFR1 and VEGFR2 binding peptide (VGB3) were genetically fused to the truncated diphtheria toxin (TDT), and its in vitro activity was evaluated.

METHODS

The recombinant construct (TDT-triVGB3) was expressed in bacteria cells and purified with nickel affinity chromatography. The binding capacity and affinity of TDT-triVGB3 were evaluated using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The inhibitory activity of TDT-triVGB3 on viability, migration, and tube formation of human endothelial cells was evaluated using MTT, migration, and tube formation assays.

RESULTS

TDT-triVGB3 selectively detected VEGFR1 and VEGFR2 with high affinity in an enzyme- linked immunosorbent assay and significantly inhibited viability, migration, and tube formation of human endothelial cells.

CONCLUSION

The developed TDT-triVGB3 is potentially a novel agent for targeting VEGFR1/ VEGFR2 over-expressing cancer cells.

Metformin: A Potential Treatment for Acne, Hidradenitis Suppurativa and Rosacea

Metformin is a widely used drug for treatment of diabetes mellitus, due to its safety and efficacy. In addition to its role as an antidiabetic drug, numerous beneficial effects of metformin have enabled its use in various diseases. Considering the anti-androgenic, anti-angiogenic, anti-fibrotic and antioxidant properties of metformin, it may have the potential to improve chronic inflammatory skin diseases. However, further evidence is needed to confirm the efficacy of metformin in dermatological conditions, This review focuses on exploring the therapeutic targets of metformin in acne vulgaris, hidradenitis suppurativa and rosacea, by studying their pathogeneses.

Novel 5-aminopyrazoles endowed with anti-angiogenetic properties: Design, synthesis and biological evaluation

The promising anti-angiogenetic properties of previously synthesized pyrazolyl ureas provided the rationale for the synthesis of novel 5-aminopyrazoles 2-5, differently decorated on the pyrazole nucleus. All the derivatives were tested by MTT assays and proved to be non-cytotoxic against eight different tumor cell lines and normal fibroblasts. An EdU proliferation assay was carried out on human foreskin fibroblasts and VEGF stimulated human umbilical vein endothelial cells which confirmed the absence of cytotoxicity of the compounds on human cells up to 20 μM concentration. To evaluate the influence of the newly synthesized pyrazoles on MAPK and PI3K signaling pathways, the phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and Akt was analyzed by Western blots from HFF and HUVEC cell lysates stimulated with growth factors in the presence or absence of the compounds. Pyrazoles 3b and 3c showed a significant inhibition of Akt phosphorylation in both tested cell lines with lower phosphorylation levels than the reference compound GeGe-3 in HUVEC. Furthermore, derivatives 2 and 3 appeared to strongly affect the migration of HFF cells in a wound healing assay, confirming their potential ability to interfere with the angiogenesis process. The new pyrazole library extends the structure-activity relationships of the previously isolated compounds and highlights the attractiveness of this chemical class for pathological cell migration and angiogenesis.

GK-1 effectively reduces angiogenesis and prevents T cell exhaustion in a breast cancer murine experimental model

Breast cancer is the leading malignancy in women worldwide, both in terms of incidence and mortality. Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the type with the worst clinical outcomes and with fewer therapeutic options than other types of breast cancer. GK-1 is a peptide that in the experimental model of the metastatic 4T1 breast cancer has demonstrated anti-tumor and anti-metastatic properties. Herein, GK-1 (5 mg/kg, i.v.) weekly administrated not only decreases tumor growth and the number of lung macro-metastases but also lung and lymph nodes micro-metastases. Histological analysis reveals that GK-1 reduced 57% of the intra-tumor vascular areas, diminished the leukemoid reaction's progression, and the spleens' weight and length. A significant reduction in VEGF-C, SDF-1, angiopoietin-2, and endothelin-1 angiogenic factors was induced. Moreover, GK-1 prevents T cell exhaustion in the tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) decreasing PD-1 expression. It also increased IFN-γ and granzyme-B expression and the cytotoxic activity of CD8+ TILs cells against tumor cells. All these features were found to be associated with a better antitumor response and prognosis. Altogether, these results reinforce the potential of GK-1 to improve the clinical outcome of triple-negative breast cancer immunotherapy. Translation research is ongoing towards its evaluation in humans.

Extracellular vesicle-cell adhesion molecules in tumours: biofunctions and clinical applications

Cell adhesion molecule (CAM) is an umbrella term for several families of molecules, including the cadherin family, integrin family, selectin family, immunoglobulin superfamily, and some currently unclassified adhesion molecules. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are important information mediators in cell-to-cell communication. Recent evidence has confirmed that CAMs transported by EVs interact with recipient cells to influence EV distribution in vivo and regulate multiple cellular processes. This review focuses on the loading of CAMs onto EVs, the roles of CAMs in regulating EV distribution, and the known and possible mechanisms of these actions. Moreover, herein, we summarize the impacts of CAMs transported by EVs to the tumour microenvironment (TME) on the malignant behaviour of tumour cells (proliferation, metastasis, immune escape, and so on). In addition, from the standpoint of clinical applications, the significance and challenges of using of EV-CAMs in the diagnosis and therapy of tumours are discussed. Finally, considering recent advances in the understanding of EV-CAMs, we outline significant challenges in this field that require urgent attention to advance research and promote the clinical applications of EV-CAMs. Video Abstract.

Neuropeptide substance P: A promising regulator of wound healing in diabetic foot ulcers

In the past, neuropeptide substance P (SP) was predominantly recognized as a neuroinflammatory factor, while its potent healing activity was overlooked. This paper aims to review the regulatory characteristics of neuropeptide SP in both normal and diabetic wound healing. SP actively in the regulation of wound healing-related cells directly and indirectly, exhibiting robust inflammatory properties, promoting cell proliferation and migration and restoring the activity and paracrine ability of skin cells under diabetic conditions. Furthermore, SP not only regulates healing-related cells but also orchestrates the immune environment, thereby presenting unique and promising application prospects in wound intervention. As new SP-based preparations are being explored, SP-related drugs are poised to become an effective therapeutic intervention for diabetic foot ulcers (DFU).

Fluid flow to mimic organ function in 3D in vitro models

Many different strategies can be found in the literature to model organ physiology, tissue functionality, and disease in vitro; however, most of these models lack the physiological fluid dynamics present in vivo. Here, we highlight the importance of fluid flow for tissue homeostasis, specifically in vessels, other lumen structures, and interstitium, to point out the need of perfusion in current 3D in vitro models. Importantly, the advantages and limitations of the different current experimental fluid-flow setups are discussed. Finally, we shed light on current challenges and future focus of fluid flow models applied to the newest bioengineering state-of-the-art platforms, such as organoids and organ-on-a-chip, as the most sophisticated and physiological preclinical platforms.

ROS in hepatocellular carcinoma: What we know

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), which is a primary liver cancer subtype, has a poor prognosis due to its high degree of malignancy. The lack of early diagnosis makes systemic therapy the only hope for HCC patients with advanced disease; however, resistance to drugs is a major obstacle. In recent years, targeted molecular therapy has gained popularity as a potential treatment for HCC. An increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are cancer markers and a potential target for HCC therapy, can both promote and inhibit the disease. At present, many studies have examined targeted regulation of ROS in the treatment of HCC. Here, we reviewed the latest drugs that are still in the experimental stage, including nanocarrier drugs, exosome drugs, antibody drugs, aptamer drugs and polysaccharide drugs, to provide new hope for the clinical treatment of HCC patients.

Is chimerism associated with cancer across the tree of life?

Chimerism is a widespread phenomenon across the tree of life. It is defined as a multicellular organism composed of cells from other genetically distinct entities. This ability to 'tolerate' non-self cells may be linked to susceptibility to diseases like cancer. Here we test whether chimerism is associated with cancers across obligately multicellular organisms in the tree of life. We classified 12 obligately multicellular taxa from lowest to highest chimerism levels based on the existing literature on the presence of chimerism in these species. We then tested for associations of chimerism with tumour invasiveness, neoplasia (benign or malignant) prevalence and malignancy prevalence in 11 terrestrial mammalian species. We found that taxa with higher levels of chimerism have higher tumour invasiveness, though there was no association between malignancy or neoplasia and chimerism among mammals. This suggests that there may be an important biological relationship between chimerism and susceptibility to tissue invasion by cancerous cells. Studying chimerism might help us identify mechanisms underlying invasive cancers and also could provide insights into the detection and management of emerging transmissible cancers.

Melatonin blunted the angiogenic activity in 3D colon cancer tumoroids by the reduction of endocan

BACKGROUND

Complexity and heterogeneity of the tumor niche are closely associated with the failure of therapeutic protocols. Unfortunately, most data have been obtained from conventional 2D culture systems which are not completely comparable to in vivo microenvironments. Reconstructed 3D cultures composed of multiple cells are valid cell-based tumor models to recapitulate in vivo-like interaction between the cancer cells and stromal cells and the oncostatic properties of therapeutics. Here, we aimed to assess the tumoricidal properties of melatonin on close-to-real colon cancer tumoroids in in vitro conditions.

METHODS

Using the hanging drop method, colon cancer tumoroids composed of three cell lines, including adenocarcinoma HT-29 cells, fibroblasts (HFFF2), and endothelial cells (HUVECs) at a ratio of 2: 1: 1, respectively were developed using 2.5% methylcellulose. Tumoroids were exposed to different concentrations of melatonin, from 0.005 to 0.8 mM and 4 to 10 mM, for 48 h. The survival rate was measured by MTT and LDH leakage assays. Protein levels of endocan and VEGF were assessed using western blotting. Using histological examination (H & E) staining, the integrity of cells within the tumoroid parenchyma was monitored.

RESULTS

Despite the reduction of viability rate in lower doses, the structure of tumoroids remained unchanged. In contrast, treatment of tumoroids with higher doses of melatonin, 4 and 10 mM, led to disaggregation of cells and reduction of tumoroid diameter compared to the non-treated control tumoroids (p < 0.05). By increasing melatonin concentration from 4 to 10 mM, the number of necrotic cells increased. Data showed the significant suppression of endocan in melatonin-treated tumoroids related to the non-treated controls (p < 0.05). According to our data, melatonin in higher doses did not alter protein levels of VEGF (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Melatonin can exert its tumoricidal properties on colon cancer tumoroids via the reduction of tumor cell viability and inhibition of the specific pro-angiogenesis factor.

Advances in PET imaging of cancer

Molecular imaging has experienced enormous advancements in the areas of imaging technology, imaging probe and contrast development, and data quality, as well as machine learning-based data analysis. Positron emission tomography (PET) and its combination with computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) as a multimodality PET-CT or PET-MRI system offer a wealth of molecular, functional and morphological data with a single patient scan. Despite the recent technical advances and the availability of dozens of disease-specific contrast and imaging probes, only a few parameters, such as tumour size or the mean tracer uptake, are used for the evaluation of images in clinical practice. Multiparametric in vivo imaging data not only are highly quantitative but also can provide invaluable information about pathophysiology, receptor expression, metabolism, or morphological and functional features of tumours, such as pH, oxygenation or tissue density, as well as pharmacodynamic properties of drugs, to measure drug response with a contrast agent. It can further quantitatively map and spatially resolve the intertumoural and intratumoural heterogeneity, providing insights into tumour vulnerabilities for target-specific therapeutic interventions. Failure to exploit and integrate the full potential of such powerful imaging data may lead to a lost opportunity in which patients do not receive the best possible care. With the desire to implement personalized medicine in the cancer clinic, the full comprehensive diagnostic power of multiplexed imaging should be utilized.

Advanced liposome and polymersome-based drug delivery systems: Considerations for physicochemical properties, targeting strategies and stimuli-sensitive approaches

Liposomes and polymersomes are colloidal vesicles that are self-assembled from lipids and amphiphilic polymers, respectively. Because of their ability to encapsulate both hydrophilic and hydrophobic therapeutics, they are of great interest in drug delivery research. Today, the applications of liposomes and polymersomes have expanded to a wide variety of complex therapeutic molecules, including nucleic acids, proteins and enzymes. Thanks to their chemical versatility, they can be tailored to different drug delivery applications to achieve maximum therapeutic index. This review article evaluates liposomes and polymersomes from a perspective that takes into account the physical and biological barriers that reduce the efficiency of the drug delivery process. In this context, the design approaches of liposomes and polymersomes are discussed with representative examples in terms of their physicochemical properties (size, shape, charge, mechanical), targeting strategies (passive and active) and response to different stimuli (pH, redox, enzyme, temperature, light, magnetic field, ultrasound). Finally, the challenges limiting the transition from laboratory to practice, recent clinical developments, and future perspectives are addressed.

Spatiotemporal dissection of tumor microenvironment via in situ sensing and monitoring in tumor-on-a-chip

Real-time monitoring in the tumor microenvironment provides critical insights of cancer progression and mechanistic understanding of responses to cancer treatments. However, clinical challenges and significant questions remain regarding assessment of limited clinical tissue samples, establishment of validated, controllable pre-clinical cancer models, monitoring of static versus dynamic markers, and the translation of insights gained from in vitro tumor microenvironments to systematic investigation and understanding in clinical practice. State-of-art tumor-on-a-chip strategies will be reviewed herein, and emerging real-time sensing and monitoring platforms for on-chip analysis of tumor microenvironment will also be examined. The integration of the sensors with tumor-on-a-chip platforms to provide spatiotemporal information of the tumor microenvironment and the associated challenges will be further evaluated. Though optimal integrated systems for in situ monitoring are still in evolution, great promises lie ahead that will open new paradigm for rapid, comprehensive analysis of cancer development and assist clinicians with powerful tools to guide the diagnosis, prognosis and treatment course in cancer.

The various role of microRNAs in breast cancer angiogenesis, with a special focus on novel miRNA-based delivery strategies

After skin malignancy, breast cancer is the most widely recognized cancer detected in women in the United States. Breast cancer (BCa) can happen in all kinds of people, but it's much more common in women. One in four cases of cancer and one in six deaths due to cancer are related to breast cancer. Angiogenesis is an essential factor in the growth of tumors and metastases in various malignancies. An expanded level of angiogenesis is related to diminished endurance in BCa patients. This function assumes a fundamental part inside the human body, from the beginning phases of life to dangerous malignancy. Various factors, referred to as angiogenic factors, work to make a new capillary. Expanding proof demonstrates that angiogenesis is managed by microRNAs (miRNAs), which are small non-coding RNA with 19-25 nucleotides. MiRNA is a post-transcriptional regulator of gene expression that controls many critical biological processes. Endothelial miRNAs, referred to as angiomiRs, are probably concerned with tumor improvement and angiogenesis via regulation of pro-and anti-angiogenic factors. In this article, we reviewed therapeutic functions of miRNAs in BCa angiogenesis, several novel delivery carriers for miRNA-based therapeutics, as well as CRISPR/Cas9 as a targeted therapy in breast cancer.

Recent Advances in Cell Sheet Engineering: From Fabrication to Clinical Translation

Cell sheet engineering, a scaffold-free tissue fabrication technique, has proven to be an important breakthrough technology in regenerative medicine. Over the past two decades, the field has developed rapidly in terms of investigating fabrication techniques and multipurpose applications in regenerative medicine and biological research. This review highlights the most important achievements in cell sheet engineering to date. We first discuss cell sheet harvesting systems, which have been introduced in temperature-responsive surfaces and other systems to overcome the limitations of conventional cell harvesting methods. In addition, we describe several techniques of cell sheet transfer for preclinical (in vitro and in vivo) and clinical trials. This review also covers cell sheet cryopreservation, which allows short- and long-term storage of cells. Subsequently, we discuss the cell sheet properties of angiogenic cytokines and vasculogenesis. Finally, we discuss updates to various applications, from biological research to clinical translation. We believe that the present review, which shows and compares fundamental technologies and recent advances in cell engineering, can potentially be helpful for new and experienced researchers to promote the further development of tissue engineering in different applications.

Inhalant cannabidiol impedes tumor growth through decreased tumor stemness and impaired angiogenic switch in NCI-H1437-induced human lung cancer model

Lung cancer remains the most chronic form of cancer and the leading cause of cancer mortality in the world. Despite significant improvements in the treatment of lung cancer, the current therapeutic interventions are only partially effective, necessitating the continued search for better, novel alternative treatments. Angiogenesis and cancer stem cells play a central role in the initiation and propagation of cancers. Tumor angiogenesis is triggered by an angiogenic switch when pro-angiogenic factors exceed anti-angiogenic components. Although many anti-angiogenic agents are used in cancer treatment, there are therapeutic limitations with significant side effects. In recent years, cannabinoids have been investigated extensively for their potential anti-neoplastic effects. Our previous findings showed that cannabidiol (CBD) could impede tumor growth in mouse models of melanoma and glioblastoma. Importantly, CBD has been suggested to possess anti-angiogenic activity. In this study, we tested, for the first time, inhalant CBD in the treatment of heterotopic lung cancer and whether such potential effects could reduce cancer stem cell numbers and inhibit tumor angiogenesis. We implanted NCI H1437 human lung cancer cells in nude mice and treated the mice with inhalant CBD or placebo. The outcomes were measured by tumor size and imaging, as well as by immunohistochemistry and flow cytometric analysis for CD44, VEGF, and P-selectin. Our findings showed that CBD decreased tumor growth rate and suppressed expression of CD44 and the angiogenic factors VEGF and P-selectin. These results suggest, for the first time, that inhalant CBD can impede lung cancer growth by suppressing CD44 and angiogenesis.

Gold nanoparticles as antiangiogenic and antimetastatic agents

Angiogenesis and metastasis are two interdependent cancer hallmarks, the latter of which is the key cause of treatment failure. Thus, establishing effective antiangiogenesis/antimetastasis agents is the final frontier in cancer research. Gold nanoparticles (GNPs) may provide disruptive advancements in this regard due to their intrinsic physical and physiological features. Here, we comprehensively discuss recent potential therapeutical strategies to treat angiogenesis and metastasis and present a critical review on the state-of-the-art in vitro and in vivo evaluations of the antiangiogenic/antimetastatic activity of GNPs. Finally, we provide perspectives on the contribution of GNPs to the advancement of cancer management.

Interaction of tumor‑associated macrophages with stromal and immune components in solid tumors: Research progress (Review)

Tumor‑associated macrophages (TAMs) are crucial cells of the tumor microenvironment (TME), which belong to the innate immune system and regulate primary tumor growth, immunosuppression, angiogenesis, extracellular matrix remodeling and metastasis. The review discusses current knowledge of essential cell‑cell interactions of TAMs within the TME of solid tumors. It summarizes the mechanisms of stromal cell (including cancer‑associated fibroblasts and endothelial cells)‑mediated monocyte recruitment and regulation of differentiation, as well as pro‑tumor and antitumor polarization of TAMs. Additionally, it focuses on the perivascular TAM subpopulations that regulate angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis. It describes the possible mechanisms of reciprocal interactions of TAMs with other immune cells responsible for immunosuppression. Finally, it highlights the perspectives for novel therapeutic approaches to use combined cellular targets that include TAMs and other stromal and immune cells in the TME. The collected data demonstrated the importance of understanding cell‑cell interactions in the TME to prevent distant metastasis and reduce the risk of tumor recurrence.

Y-27632 Impairs Angiogenesis on Extra-Embryonic Vasculature in Post-Gastrulation Chick Embryos

Y-27632 inhibits Rho-associated coiled-coil-containing protein kinase (ROCK) signaling, which is involved in various embryonic developmental processes, including angiogenesis, by controlling actin cytoskeleton assembly and cell contractility. Administration of Y-27632 impairs cytoskeletal arrangements in post-gastrulation chick embryos, leading to ventral body wall defects (VBWDs). Impaired angiogenesis has been hypothesized to contribute to VBWDs. ROCK is essential in transmitting signals downstream of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). VEGF-mediated angiogenesis induces gene expressions and alterations of the actin cytoskeleton upon binding to VEGF receptors (VEGFRs). The aim of this study was to investigate effects of Y-27632 on angiogenesis in post-gastrulation chick embryos during early embryogenesis. After 60 h incubation, embryos in shell-less culture were treated with Y-27632 or vehicle for controls. Y-27632-treated embryos showed reduced extra-embryonic blood vessel formation with impaired circulation of the yolk sac, confirmed by fractal analysis. Western blot confirmed impaired ROCK downstream signaling by decreased expression of phosphorylated myosin light chain. Interestingly, RT-PCR demonstrated increased gene expression of VEGF and VEGFR-2 1 h post-treatment. Protein levels of VEGF were higher in Y-27632-treated embryos at 8 h following treatment, whereas no difference was seen in membranes. We hypothesize that administration of Y-27632 impairs vessel formation during angiogenesis, which may contribute to failure of VWB closure, causing VBWDs.

A pilot study for a non-invasive system for detection of malignancy in canine subcutaneous and cutaneous masses using machine learning

Introduction

Early diagnosis of cancer enhances treatment planning and improves prognosis. Many masses presenting to veterinary clinics are difficult to diagnose without using invasive, time-consuming, and costly tests. Our objective was to perform a preliminary proof-of-concept for the HT Vista device, a novel artificial intelligence-based thermal imaging system, developed and designed to differentiate benign from malignant, cutaneous and subcutaneous masses in dogs.

Methods

Forty-five dogs with a total of 69 masses were recruited. Each mass was clipped and heated by the HT Vista device. The heat emitted by the mass and its adjacent healthy tissue was automatically recorded using a built-in thermal camera. The thermal data from both areas were subsequently analyzed using an Artificial Intelligence algorithm. Cytology and/or biopsy results were later compared to the results obtained from the HT Vista system and used to train the algorithm. Validation was done using a "Leave One Out" cross-validation to determine the algorithm's performance.

Results

The accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of the system were 90%, 93%, 88%, 83%, and 95%, respectively for all masses.

Conclusion

We propose that this novel system, with further development, could be used to provide a decision-support tool enabling clinicians to differentiate between benign lesions and those requiring additional diagnostics. Our study also provides a proof-of-concept for ongoing prospective trials for cancer diagnosis using advanced thermodynamics and machine learning procedures in companion dogs.

Deep Semantic Segmentation of Angiogenesis Images

Angiogenesis is the development of new blood vessels from pre-existing ones. It is a complex multifaceted process that is essential for the adequate functioning of human organisms. The investigation of angiogenesis is conducted using various methods. One of the most popular and most serviceable of these methods in vitro is the short-term culture of endothelial cells on Matrigel. However, a significant disadvantage of this method is the manual analysis of a large number of microphotographs. In this regard, it is necessary to develop a technique for automating the annotation of images of capillary-like structures. Despite the increasing use of deep learning in biomedical image analysis, as far as we know, there still has not been a study on the application of this method to angiogenesis images. To the best of our knowledge, this article demonstrates the first tool based on a convolutional Unet++ encoder-decoder architecture for the semantic segmentation of in vitro angiogenesis simulation images followed by the resulting mask postprocessing for data analysis by experts. The first annotated dataset in this field, AngioCells, is also being made publicly available. To create this dataset, participants were recruited into a markup group, an annotation protocol was developed, and an interparticipant agreement study was carried out.

Helicobacter pylori infection induces gastric precancerous lesions and persistent expression of Angpt2, Vegf-A and Tnf-A in a mouse model

Introduction

Helicobacter pylori colonizes the gastric mucosa and induces chronic inflammation.

Methods

Using a mouse model of H. pylori-induced gastritis, we evaluated the mRNA and protein expression levels of proinflammatory and proangiogenic factors, as well as the histopathological changes in gastric mucosa in response to infection. Five- to six-week-old female C57BL/6N mice were challenged with H. pylori SS1 strain. Animals were euthanized after 5-, 10-, 20-, 30-, 40- and 50-weeks post infection. mRNA and protein expression of Angpt1, Angpt2, VegfA, Tnf-α, bacterial colonization, inflammatory response and gastric lesions were evaluated.

Results

A robust bacterial colonization was observed in 30 to 50 weeks-infected mice, which was accompanied by immune cell infiltration in the gastric mucosa. Compared to non-infected animals, H. pylori-colonized animals showed an upregulation in the expression of Tnf-A, Angpt2 and VegfA at the mRNA and protein levels. In contrast, Angpt1 mRNA and protein expression was downregulated in H. pylori-colonized mice.

Conclusion

Our data show that H. pylori infection induces the expression of Angpt2, Tnf-A and Vegf-A in murine gastric epithelium. This may contribute to the pathogenesis of H. pylori-associated gastritis, however the significance of this should be further addressed.

Tumour microenvironment in pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma

Pheochromocytomas and Paragangliomas (Pheo/PGL) are rare catecholamine-producing tumours derived from adrenal medulla or from the extra-adrenal paraganglia respectively. Around 10-15% of Pheo/PGL develop metastatic forms and have a poor prognosis with a 37% of mortality rate at 5 years. These tumours have a strong genetic determinism, and the presence of succinate dehydrogenase B (SDHB) mutations are highly associated with metastatic forms. To date, no effective treatment is present for metastatic forms. In addition to cancer cells, the tumour microenvironment (TME) is also composed of non-neoplastic cells and non-cellular components, which are essential for tumour initiation and progression in multiple cancers, including Pheo/PGL. This review, for the first time, provides an overview of the roles of TME cells such as cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and tumour-associated macrophages (TAMs) on Pheo/PGL growth and progression. Moreover, the functions of the non-cellular components of the TME, among which the most representatives are growth factors, extracellular vesicles and extracellular matrix (ECM) are explored. The importance of succinate as an oncometabolite is emerging and since Pheo/PGL SDH mutated accumulate high levels of succinate, the role of succinate and of its receptor (SUCNR1) in the modulation of the carcinogenesis process is also analysed. Further understanding of the mechanism behind the complicated effects of TME on Pheo/PGL growth and spread could suggest novel therapeutic targets for further clinical treatments.

Detection of Possible Symmetries in Vascular Networks by Computer-Assisted Image Analysis

The possible forms that vascular networks may assume are significantly constrained by complex demands in terms of efficient delivery of oxygen and resources throughout the entire body. Because of these constraints the search for systematic patterns in the structural features of vascular networks and of their correlation with physiological needs and pathological conditions (such as tumor angiogenesis) represents an important line of morphological research. In this context, symmetry properties of vascular trees received limited attention, although symmetry is a widespread phenomenon, visible in all forms and scales in natural environments, and represents a significant information to describe a shape. In the present chapter three, image analysis-based methods allowing for the detection of possible symmetry features exhibited by vascular trees will be detailed and discussed.

Anticancer Effects of Fucoxanthin through Cell Cycle Arrest, Apoptosis Induction, Angiogenesis Inhibition, and Autophagy Modulation

Cancer accounts for one in seven deaths worldwide and is the second leading cause of death in the United States, after heart disease. One of the standard cancer treatments is chemotherapy which sometimes can lead to chemoresistance and treatment failure. Therefore, there is a great need for novel therapeutic approaches to treat these patients. Novel natural products have exhibited anticancer effects that may be beneficial in treating many kinds of cancer, having fewer side effects, low toxicity, and affordability. Numerous marine natural compounds have been found to inhibit molecular events and signaling pathways associated with various stages of cancer development. Fucoxanthin is a well-known marine carotenoid of the xanthophyll family with bioactive compounds. It is profusely found in brown seaweeds, providing more than 10% of the total creation of natural carotenoids. Fucoxanthin is found in edible brown seaweed macroalgae such as Undaria pinnatifida, Laminaria japonica, and Eisenia bicyclis. Many of fucoxanthin's pharmacological properties include antioxidant, anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory, antiobesity, anticancer, and antihypertensive effects. Fucoxanthin inhibits many cancer cell lines' proliferation, angiogenesis, migration, invasion, and metastasis. In addition, it modulates miRNA and induces cell cycle growth arrest, apoptosis, and autophagy. Moreover, the literature shows fucoxanthin's ability to inhibit cytokines and growth factors such as TNF-α and VEGF, which stimulates the activation of downstream signaling pathways such as PI3K/Akt autophagy, and pathways of apoptosis. This review highlights the different critical mechanisms by which fucoxanthin inhibits diverse cancer types, such as breast, prostate, gastric, lung, and bladder development and progression. Moreover, this article reviews the existing literature and provides critical supportive evidence for fucoxanthin's possible therapeutic use in cancer.

The VEGF/VEGFR Axis Revisited: Implications for Cancer Therapy

The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)/vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR) axis is indispensable in the process of angiogenesis and has been implicated as a key driver of tumor vascularization. Consequently, several strategies that target VEGF and its cognate receptors, VEGFR-1 and VEGFR-2, have been designed to treat cancer. While therapies targeting full-length VEGF have resulted in an improvement in both overall survival and progression-free survival in various cancers, these benefits have been modest. In addition, the inhibition of VEGFRs is associated with undesirable off-target effects. Moreover, VEGF splice variants that modulate sprouting and non-sprouting angiogenesis have been identified in recent years. Cues within the tumor microenvironment determine the expression patterns of these variants. Noteworthy is that the mechanisms of action of these variants challenge the established norm of VEGF signaling. Furthermore, the aberrant expression of some of these variants has been observed in several cancers. Herein, developments in the understanding of the VEGF/VEGFR axis and the splice products of these molecules, as well as the environmental cues that regulate these variants are reviewed. Furthermore, strategies that incorporate the targeting of VEGF variants to enhance the effectiveness of antiangiogenic therapies in the clinical setting are discussed.

Advances in Engineered Biomaterials Targeting Angiogenesis and Cell Proliferation for Cancer Therapy

Antiangiogenic therapy in combination with chemotherapeutic agents is an effective strategy for cancer treatment. However, this combination therapy is associated with several challenges including non-specific biodistribution leading to systemic toxicity. Biomaterial-mediated codelivery of chemotherapeutic and anti-angiogenic agents can exploit their passive and active targeting abilities, leading to improved drug accumulation at the tumor site and therapeutic outcomes. In this review, we present the progress made in the field of engineered biomaterials for codelivery of chemotherapeutic and antiangiogenic agents. We present advances in engineering of liposome/hydrogel/micelle-based biomaterials for delivery of combination of anticancer and anti-angiogenesis drugs, or combination of anticancer and siRNA targeting angiogenesis, and targeted nanoparticles. We then present our perspective on developing strategies for targeting angiogenesis and cell proliferation for cancer therapy.

The roles of metabolic profiles and intracellular signaling pathways of tumor microenvironment cells in angiogenesis of solid tumors

Innate and adaptive immune cells patrol and survey throughout the human body and sometimes reside in the tumor microenvironment (TME) with a variety of cell types and nutrients that may differ from those in which they developed. The metabolic pathways and metabolites of immune cells are rooted in cell physiology, and not only provide nutrients and energy for cell growth and survival but also influencing cell differentiation and effector functions. Nowadays, there is a growing awareness that metabolic processes occurring in cancer cells can affect immune cell function and lead to tumor immune evasion and angiogenesis. In order to safely treat cancer patients and prevent immune checkpoint blockade-induced toxicities and autoimmunity, we suggest using anti-angiogenic drugs solely or combined with Immune checkpoint blockers (ICBs) to boost the safety and effectiveness of cancer therapy. As a consequence, there is significant and escalating attention to discovering techniques that target metabolism as a new method of cancer therapy. In this review, a summary of immune-metabolic processes and their potential role in the stimulation of intracellular signaling in TME cells that lead to tumor angiogenesis, and therapeutic applications is provided. Video abstract.

Suppression of CCL2 angiocrine function by adrenomedullin promotes tumor growth

Within the tumor microenvironment, tumor cells and endothelial cells regulate each other. While tumor cells induce angiogenic responses in endothelial cells, endothelial cells release angiocrine factors, which act on tumor cells and other stromal cells. We report that tumor cell-derived adrenomedullin has a pro-angiogenic as well as a direct tumor-promoting effect, and that endothelium-derived CC chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2) suppresses adrenomedullin-induced tumor cell proliferation. Loss of the endothelial adrenomedullin receptor CALCRL or of the G-protein Gs reduced endothelial proliferation. Surprisingly, tumor cell proliferation was also reduced after endothelial deletion of CALCRL or Gs. We identified CCL2 as a critical angiocrine factor whose formation is inhibited by adrenomedullin. Furthermore, CCL2 inhibited adrenomedullin formation in tumor cells through its receptor CCR2. Consistently, loss of endothelial CCL2 or tumor cell CCR2 normalized the reduced tumor growth seen in mice lacking endothelial CALCRL or Gs. Our findings show tumor-promoting roles of adrenomedullin and identify CCL2 as an angiocrine factor controlling adrenomedullin formation by tumor cells.

Exploration of Site-Specific Drug Targeting-A Review on EPR-, Stimuli-, Chemical-, and Receptor-Based Approaches as Potential Drug Targeting Methods in Cancer Treatment

Cancer has been one of the most dominant causes of mortality globally over the last few decades. In cancer treatment, the selective targeting of tumor cells is indispensable, making it a better replacement for conventional chemotherapies by diminishing their adverse side effects. While designing a drug to be delivered selectively in the target organ, the drug development scientists should focus on various factors such as the type of cancer they are dealing with according to which drug, targeting moieties, and pharmaceutical carriers should be targeted. All published articles have been collected regarding cancer and drug-targeting approaches from well reputed databases including MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Library, CENTRAL and ClinicalTrials.gov, Science Direct, PubMed, Scopus, Wiley, and Springer. The articles published between January 2010 and December 2020 were considered. Due to the existence of various mechanisms, it is challenging to choose which one is appropriate for a specific case. Moreover, a combination of more than one approach is often utilized to achieve optimal drug effects. In this review, we have summarized and highlighted central mechanisms of how the targeted drug delivery system works in the specific diseased microenvironment, along with the strategies to make an approach more effective. We have also included some pictorial illustrations to have a precise idea about different types of drug targeting. The core contribution of this work includes providing a cancer drug development scientist with a broad preliminary idea to choose the appropriate approach among the various targeted drug delivery mechanisms. Also, the study will contribute to improving anticancer treatment approaches by providing a pathway for lesser side effects observed in conventional chemotherapeutic techniques.

Cancer Metabolism and Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury: Two Sides of the Same Coin

Cancer cells are characterized by the reprogramming of certain cell metabolisms via activation of definite pathways and regulation of gene signaling. Ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) is characterized by tissue damage and death following a lack of perfusion and oxygenation. It is most commonly seen in the setting of organ transplantation. Interestingly, the microenvironments seen in cancer and ischemic tissues are quite similar, especially due to the hypoxic state that occurs in both. As a consequence, there is genetic signaling involved in response to IRI that has common pathways with cancer. Some of these changes are seen across the board with many cancer cells and are known as Hallmarks of Cancer, among which are aerobic glycolysis and the induction of angiogenesis. This literature review aims to compare the metabolic pathways that are altered in cancer tissues and in normal tissues subjected to IRI in order to find common adaptive processes and to identify key pathways that could represent a therapeutic target in both pathologies. By increasing our understanding of this relationship, clinical correlations can be made and applied practically to improve outcomes of transplanted organs, given the known association with acute rejection, delayed graft function, and poor graft survival. The following metabolic pathways are discussed in our review, both in the setting of cancer and IRI: apoptosis, glycolysis, and angiogenesis. The role of the immune system in both pathologies as well as mitochondrial function and the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) are reviewed.

The hypoxia-dependent angiogenic process in dental pulp

BACKGROUND

In this review, we analyzed the existing literature to elucidate how the hypoxia-dependent angiogenic processes work in dental pulp. Angiogenesis is an essential biological process in the maturation and homeostasis of teeth. It involves multiple sequential steps such as endothelial cell proliferation and migration, cell-to-cell contact, and tube formation.

HIGHLIGHT

Clinical implications of understanding the process of angiogenesis include how the mineralization processes of dental pulp occur and how dental pulp maintains its homeostasis, preventing irreversible inflammation or necrosis.

CONCLUSION

The angiogenesis process in dental pulp regulates adequate concentrations of oxygen required for mineralization in root development and defense mechanisms against chronic stimuli.