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de Araújo MA, Malafaia O, Ribas Filho JM, Fratini L, Roesler R, Isolan GR. Low Expression of the NRP1 Gene Is Associated with Shorter Overall Survival in Patients with Sonic Hedgehog and Group 3 Medulloblastoma. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11601. [PMID: 37511358 PMCID: PMC10380701 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411601] [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: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Medulloblastoma (MB) is the most common type of malignant pediatric brain tumor. Neuropilin-1 (NRP1), encoded by the NRP1 gene, is a transmembrane glycoprotein overexpressed in several types of cancer. Previous studies indicate that NRP1 inhibition displays antitumor effects in MB models and higher NRP1 levels are associated with poorer prognosis in MB patients. Here, we used a large MB tumor dataset to examine NRP1 gene expression in different molecular subgroups and subtypes of MB. We found overall widespread NRP1 expression across MB samples. Tumors in the sonic hedgehog (SHH) subgroup showed significantly higher NRP1 transcript levels in comparison with Group 3 and Group 4 tumors, with SHH samples belonging to the α, β, Δ, and γ subtypes. When all MB subgroups were combined, lower NRP1 expression was associated with significantly shorter patient overall survival (OS). Further analysis showed that low NRP1 was related to poorer OS, specifically in MB subgroups SHH and Group 3 MB. Our findings indicate that patients with SHH and Group 3 tumors that show lower expression of NRP1 in MB have a worse prognosis, which highlights the need for subgroup-specific investigation of the NRP1 role in MB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moisés Augusto de Araújo
- Graduate Program in Principles of Surgery, Mackenzie Evangelical University, Curitiba 80730-000, PR, Brazil
- The Center for Advanced Neurology and Neurosurgery (CEANNE), Porto Alegre 90560-010, RS, Brazil
| | - Osvaldo Malafaia
- Graduate Program in Principles of Surgery, Mackenzie Evangelical University, Curitiba 80730-000, PR, Brazil
| | - Jurandir M. Ribas Filho
- Graduate Program in Principles of Surgery, Mackenzie Evangelical University, Curitiba 80730-000, PR, Brazil
| | - Livia Fratini
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute for Basic Health Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre 90035-003, RS, Brazil
- Cancer and Neurobiology Laboratory, Experimental Research Center, Clinical Hospital (CPE-HCPA), Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre 90035-003, RS, Brazil
- National Science and Technology Institute for Children’s Cancer Biology and Pediatric Oncology–INCT BioOncoPed, Porto Alegre 90035-003, RS, Brazil
- Research Center, Moinhos de Vento Hospital, Porto Alegre 90035-001, RS, Brazil
| | - Rafael Roesler
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute for Basic Health Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre 90035-003, RS, Brazil
- Cancer and Neurobiology Laboratory, Experimental Research Center, Clinical Hospital (CPE-HCPA), Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre 90035-003, RS, Brazil
- National Science and Technology Institute for Children’s Cancer Biology and Pediatric Oncology–INCT BioOncoPed, Porto Alegre 90035-003, RS, Brazil
| | - Gustavo R. Isolan
- Graduate Program in Principles of Surgery, Mackenzie Evangelical University, Curitiba 80730-000, PR, Brazil
- The Center for Advanced Neurology and Neurosurgery (CEANNE), Porto Alegre 90560-010, RS, Brazil
- National Science and Technology Institute for Children’s Cancer Biology and Pediatric Oncology–INCT BioOncoPed, Porto Alegre 90035-003, RS, Brazil
- Spalt Therapeutics, Porto Alegre 90560-010, RS, Brazil
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Cao Y, Langer R, Ferrara N. Targeting angiogenesis in oncology, ophthalmology and beyond. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2023; 22:476-495. [PMID: 37041221 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-023-00671-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/13/2023]
Abstract
Angiogenesis is an essential process in normal development and in adult physiology, but can be disrupted in numerous diseases. The concept of targeting angiogenesis for treating diseases was proposed more than 50 years ago, and the first two drugs targeting vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), bevacizumab and pegaptanib, were approved in 2004 for the treatment of cancer and neovascular ophthalmic diseases, respectively. Since then, nearly 20 years of clinical experience with anti-angiogenic drugs (AADs) have demonstrated the importance of this therapeutic modality for these disorders. However, there is a need to improve clinical outcomes by enhancing therapeutic efficacy, overcoming drug resistance, defining surrogate markers, combining with other drugs and developing the next generation of therapeutics. In this Review, we examine emerging new targets, the development of new drugs and challenging issues such as the mode of action of AADs and elucidating mechanisms underlying clinical benefits; we also discuss possible future directions of the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yihai Cao
- Department of Microbiology, Tumour and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Robert Langer
- David H Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Napoleone Ferrara
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
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3
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Zhang J, Zhou X, Hao H. Macrophage phenotype-switching in cancer. Eur J Pharmacol 2022; 931:175229. [PMID: 36002039 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2022.175229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Tumour-associated macrophages (TAMs) have been found to be of great importance in tumorigenesis and in promoting malignant progression, including tumour angiogenesis and metastasis. Moreover, the TAM phenotype is more likely to be an M2 type. Transforming TAMs by M2-polarization into the tumour-suppressive M1-phenotype is an important approach for tumour therapy. In this review, we analysed the effects of the tumour microenvironment on macrophage phenotype-switching, including hypoxia and cytokines, and the mechanisms of drugs targeting TAMs. Furthermore, we analysed the effects of exosomes on macrophage polarization, phenotype switching of macrophages, and the mechanisms of lipid mediators targeting TAMs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiamin Zhang
- Department of Pathophysiology, Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330006, PR China
| | - Xiaoyan Zhou
- Department of Pathophysiology, Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330006, PR China.
| | - Hua Hao
- Department of Pathology, Yangpu Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200090, PR China.
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4
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Thakur A, Faujdar C, Sharma R, Sharma S, Malik B, Nepali K, Liou JP. Glioblastoma: Current Status, Emerging Targets, and Recent Advances. J Med Chem 2022; 65:8596-8685. [PMID: 35786935 PMCID: PMC9297300 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c01946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
![]()
Glioblastoma (GBM) is a highly malignant
brain tumor characterized
by a heterogeneous population of genetically unstable and highly infiltrative
cells that are resistant to chemotherapy. Although substantial efforts
have been invested in the field of anti-GBM drug discovery in the
past decade, success has primarily been confined to the preclinical
level, and clinical studies have often been hampered due to efficacy-,
selectivity-, or physicochemical property-related issues. Thus, expansion
of the list of molecular targets coupled with a pragmatic design of
new small-molecule inhibitors with central nervous system (CNS)-penetrating
ability is required to steer the wheels of anti-GBM drug discovery
endeavors. This Perspective presents various aspects of drug discovery
(challenges in GBM drug discovery and delivery, therapeutic targets,
and agents under clinical investigation). The comprehensively covered
sections include the recent medicinal chemistry campaigns embarked
upon to validate the potential of numerous enzymes/proteins/receptors
as therapeutic targets in GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amandeep Thakur
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, 250 Wuxing Street, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Chetna Faujdar
- Department of Biotechnology, Jaypee Institute of Information Technology, Noida 201307, India
| | - Ram Sharma
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, 250 Wuxing Street, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Sachin Sharma
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, 250 Wuxing Street, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Basant Malik
- Department of Sterile Product Development, Research and Development-Unit 2, Jubiliant Generics Ltd., Noida 201301, India
| | - Kunal Nepali
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, 250 Wuxing Street, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Jing Ping Liou
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, 250 Wuxing Street, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
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5
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Abd Wahab NA, Abas F, Othman I, Naidu R. Diarylpentanoid (1,5-bis(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-1,4-pentadiene-3-one) (MS13) Exhibits Anti-proliferative, Apoptosis Induction and Anti-migration Properties on Androgen-independent Human Prostate Cancer by Targeting Cell Cycle-Apoptosis and PI3K Signalling Pathways. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:707335. [PMID: 34366863 PMCID: PMC8343533 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.707335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Diarylpentanoids exhibit a high degree of anti-cancer activity and stability in vitro over curcumin in prostate cancer cells. Hence, this study aims to investigate the effects of a diarylpentanoid, 1,5-bis(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-1,4-pentadiene-3-one (MS13) on cytotoxicity, anti-proliferative, apoptosis-inducing, anti-migration properties, and the underlying molecular mechanisms on treated androgen-independent prostate cancer cells, DU 145 and PC-3. A cell viability assay has shown greater cytotoxicity effects of MS13-treated DU 145 cells (EC50 7.57 ± 0.2 µM) and PC-3 cells (EC50 7.80 ± 0.7 µM) compared to curcumin (EC50: DU 145; 34.25 ± 2.7 µM and PC-3; 27.77 ± 6.4 µM). In addition, MS13 exhibited significant anti-proliferative activity against AIPC cells compared to curcumin in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Morphological observation, increased caspase-3 activity, and reduced Bcl-2 protein levels in these cells indicated that MS13 induces apoptosis in a time- and dose-dependent. Moreover, MS13 effectively inhibited the migration of DU 145 and PC-3 cells. Our results suggest that cell cycle-apoptosis and PI3K pathways were the topmost significant pathways impacted by MS13 activity. Our findings suggest that MS13 may demonstrate the anti-cancer activity by modulating DEGs associated with the cell cycle-apoptosis and PI3K pathways, thus inhibiting cell proliferation and cell migration as well as inducing apoptosis in AIPC cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nurul Azwa Abd Wahab
- Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Science, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway, Malaysia
| | - Faridah Abas
- Laboratory of Natural Products, Faculty of Science, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Malaysia.,Department of Food Science, Faculty of Food Science and Technology, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Malaysia
| | - Iekhsan Othman
- Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Science, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway, Malaysia
| | - Rakesh Naidu
- Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Science, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway, Malaysia
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Gagliano T, Shah K, Gargani S, Lao L, Alsaleem M, Chen J, Ntafis V, Huang P, Ditsiou A, Vella V, Yadav K, Bienkowska K, Bresciani G, Kang K, Li L, Carter P, Benstead-Hume G, O’Hanlon T, Dean M, Pearl FM, Lee SC, Rakha EA, Green AR, Kontoyiannis DL, Song E, Stebbing J, Giamas G. PIK3Cδ expression by fibroblasts promotes triple-negative breast cancer progression. J Clin Invest 2020; 130:3188-3204. [PMID: 32125284 PMCID: PMC7260014 DOI: 10.1172/jci128313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2019] [Accepted: 02/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
As there is growing evidence for the tumor microenvironment's role in tumorigenesis, we investigated the role of fibroblast-expressed kinases in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Using a high-throughput kinome screen combined with 3D invasion assays, we identified fibroblast-expressed PIK3Cδ (f-PIK3Cδ) as a key regulator of cancer progression. Although PIK3Cδ was expressed in primary fibroblasts derived from TNBC patients, it was barely detectable in breast cancer (BC) cell lines. Genetic and pharmacological gain- and loss-of-function experiments verified the contribution of f-PIK3Cδ in TNBC cell invasion. Integrated secretomics and transcriptomics analyses revealed a paracrine mechanism via which f-PIK3Cδ confers its protumorigenic effects. Inhibition of f-PIK3Cδ promoted the secretion of factors, including PLGF and BDNF, that led to upregulation of NR4A1 in TNBC cells, where it acts as a tumor suppressor. Inhibition of PIK3Cδ in an orthotopic BC mouse model reduced tumor growth only after inoculation with fibroblasts, indicating a role of f-PIK3Cδ in cancer progression. Similar results were observed in the MMTV-PyMT transgenic BC mouse model, along with a decrease in tumor metastasis, emphasizing the potential immune-independent effects of PIK3Cδ inhibition. Finally, analysis of BC patient cohorts and TCGA data sets identified f-PIK3Cδ (protein and mRNA levels) as an independent prognostic factor for overall and disease-free survival, highlighting it as a therapeutic target for TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Gagliano
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedicine, School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Falmer, Brighton, United Kingdom
| | - Kalpit Shah
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Sofia Gargani
- Division of Immunology, Biomedical Sciences Research Center Alexander Fleming, Vari, Greece
| | - Liyan Lao
- Breast Tumor Center, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Mansour Alsaleem
- Nottingham Breast Cancer Research Centre, Division of Cancer and Stem Cells, School of Medicine, Nottingham City Hospital, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Jianing Chen
- Breast Tumor Center, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Vasileios Ntafis
- Division of Immunology, Biomedical Sciences Research Center Alexander Fleming, Vari, Greece
| | - Penghan Huang
- Breast Tumor Center, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Angeliki Ditsiou
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedicine, School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Falmer, Brighton, United Kingdom
| | - Viviana Vella
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedicine, School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Falmer, Brighton, United Kingdom
| | - Kritika Yadav
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Kamila Bienkowska
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedicine, School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Falmer, Brighton, United Kingdom
| | - Giulia Bresciani
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedicine, School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Falmer, Brighton, United Kingdom
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Kai Kang
- Biostatistics and Computational Biology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, NIH, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Leping Li
- Biostatistics and Computational Biology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, NIH, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Philip Carter
- Division of Cancer, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital Campus, London, United Kingdom
| | - Graeme Benstead-Hume
- Bioinformatics Group, School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Falmer, Brighton, United Kingdom
| | - Timothy O’Hanlon
- Cancer Genomics Research Laboratory, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Michael Dean
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Frances M.G. Pearl
- Bioinformatics Group, School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Falmer, Brighton, United Kingdom
| | - Soo-Chin Lee
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Haematology-Oncology, National University Cancer Institute, Singapore
- National University Health System, Singapore
| | - Emad A. Rakha
- Nottingham Breast Cancer Research Centre, Division of Cancer and Stem Cells, School of Medicine, Nottingham City Hospital, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew R. Green
- Nottingham Breast Cancer Research Centre, Division of Cancer and Stem Cells, School of Medicine, Nottingham City Hospital, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Dimitris L. Kontoyiannis
- Division of Immunology, Biomedical Sciences Research Center Alexander Fleming, Vari, Greece
- Department of Genetics, Development and Molecular Biology, School of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Erwei Song
- Breast Tumor Center, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Justin Stebbing
- Division of Cancer, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital Campus, London, United Kingdom
| | - Georgios Giamas
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedicine, School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Falmer, Brighton, United Kingdom
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7
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Placental growth factor regulates the generation of T H17 cells to link angiogenesis with autoimmunity. Nat Immunol 2019; 20:1348-1359. [PMID: 31406382 DOI: 10.1038/s41590-019-0456-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2018] [Accepted: 06/28/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Helper T cells actively communicate with adjacent cells by secreting soluble mediators, yet crosstalk between helper T cells and endothelial cells remains poorly understood. Here we found that placental growth factor (PlGF), a homolog of the vascular endothelial growth factor that enhances an angiogenic switch in disease, was selectively secreted by the TH17 subset of helper T cells and promoted angiogenesis. Interestingly, the 'angio-lymphokine' PlGF, in turn, specifically induced the differentiation of pathogenic TH17 cells by activating the transcription factor STAT3 via binding to its receptors and replaced the activity of interleukin-6 in the production of interleukin-17, whereas it suppressed the generation of regulatory T cells. Moreover, T cell-derived PlGF was required for the progression of autoimmune diseases associated with TH17 differentiation, including experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis and collagen-induced arthritis, in mice. Collectively, our findings provide insights into the PlGF-dictated links among angiogenesis, TH17 cell development and autoimmunity.
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8
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Albonici L, Giganti MG, Modesti A, Manzari V, Bei R. Multifaceted Role of the Placental Growth Factor (PlGF) in the Antitumor Immune Response and Cancer Progression. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20122970. [PMID: 31216652 PMCID: PMC6627047 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20122970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2019] [Revised: 06/10/2019] [Accepted: 06/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The sharing of molecules function that affects both tumor growth and neoangiogenesis with cells of the immune system creates a mutual interplay that impairs the host’s immune response against tumor progression. Increasing evidence shows that tumors are able to create an immunosuppressive microenvironment by recruiting specific immune cells. Moreover, molecules produced by tumor and inflammatory cells in the tumor microenvironment create an immunosuppressive milieu able to inhibit the development of an efficient immune response against cancer cells and thus fostering tumor growth and progression. In addition, the immunoediting could select cancer cells that are less immunogenic or more resistant to lysis. In this review, we summarize recent findings regarding the immunomodulatory effects and cancer progression of the angiogenic growth factor namely placental growth factor (PlGF) and address the biological complex effects of this cytokine. Different pathways of the innate and adaptive immune response in which, directly or indirectly, PlGF is involved in promoting tumor immune escape and metastasis will be described. PlGF is important for building up vascular structures and functions. Although PlGF effects on vascular and tumor growth have been widely summarized, its functions in modulating the immune intra-tumoral microenvironment have been less highlighted. In agreement with PlGF functions, different antitumor strategies can be envisioned.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loredana Albonici
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy.
| | - Maria Gabriella Giganti
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy.
| | - Andrea Modesti
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy.
| | - Vittorio Manzari
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy.
| | - Roberto Bei
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy.
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9
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Current opinions on PlGF and sFlt-1 as reliable markers for preeclampsia. GINECOLOGIA.RO 2019. [DOI: 10.26416/gine.26.4.2019.2707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
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10
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Wagner J, Kline CL, Zhou L, Khazak V, El-Deiry WS. Anti-tumor effects of ONC201 in combination with VEGF-inhibitors significantly impacts colorectal cancer growth and survival in vivo through complementary non-overlapping mechanisms. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2018; 37:11. [PMID: 29357916 PMCID: PMC5778752 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-018-0671-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2017] [Accepted: 01/01/2018] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Background Small molecule ONC201 is an investigational anti-tumor agent that upregulates intra-tumoral TRAIL expression and the integrated stress response pathway. A Phase I clinical trial using ONC201 therapy in advanced cancer patients has been completed and the drug has progressed into Phase II trials in several cancer types. Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains one of the leading causes of cancer worldwide and metastatic disease has a poor prognosis. Clinical trials in CRC and other tumor types have demonstrated that therapeutics targeting the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) pathway, such as bevacizumab, are effective in combination with certain chemotherapeutic agents. Methods We investigated the potential combination of VEGF inhibitors such as bevacizumab and its murine-counterpart; along with other anti-angiogenic agents and ONC201 in both CRC xenograft and patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models. We utilized non-invasive imaging and immunohistochemistry to determine potential mechanisms of action. Results Our results demonstrate significant tumor regression or complete tumor ablation in human xenografts with the combination of ONC201 with bevacizumab, and in syngeneic MC38 colorectal cancer xenografts using a murine VEGF-A inhibitor. Imaging demonstrated the impact of this combination on decreasing tumor growth and tumor metastasis. Our results indicate that ONC201 and anti-angiogenic agents act through distinct mechanisms while increasing tumor cell death and inhibiting proliferation. Conclusion With the use of both a murine VEGF inhibitor in syngeneic models, and bevacizumab in human cell line-derived xenografts, we demonstrate that ONC201 in combination with anti-angiogenic therapies such as bevacizumab represents a promising approach for further testing in the clinic for the treatment of CRC. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13046-018-0671-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Wagner
- Laboratory of Translational Oncology and Experimental Cancer Therapeutics, Molecular Therapeutics Program and Department of Hematology/Oncology, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - C Leah Kline
- Laboratory of Translational Oncology and Experimental Cancer Therapeutics, Molecular Therapeutics Program and Department of Hematology/Oncology, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Lanlan Zhou
- Laboratory of Translational Oncology and Experimental Cancer Therapeutics, Molecular Therapeutics Program and Department of Hematology/Oncology, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | - Wafik S El-Deiry
- Laboratory of Translational Oncology and Experimental Cancer Therapeutics, Molecular Therapeutics Program and Department of Hematology/Oncology, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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11
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Li Y, Lorca RA, Su EJ. Molecular and cellular underpinnings of normal and abnormal human placental blood flows. J Mol Endocrinol 2018; 60:R9-R22. [PMID: 29097590 PMCID: PMC5732864 DOI: 10.1530/jme-17-0139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2017] [Accepted: 11/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Abnormal placental function is well-established as a major cause for poor pregnancy outcome. Placental blood flow within the maternal uteroplacental compartment, the fetoplacental circulation or both is a vital factor in mediating placental function. Impairment in flow in either or both vasculatures is a significant risk factor for adverse pregnancy outcome, potentially impacting maternal well-being, affecting immediate neonatal health and even influencing the long-term health of the infant. Much remains unknown regarding the mechanistic underpinnings of proper placental blood flow. This review highlights the currently recognized molecular and cellular mechanisms in the development of normal uteroplacental and fetoplacental blood flows. Utilizing the entities of preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction as clinical phenotypes that are often evident downstream of abnormal placental blood flow, mechanisms underlying impaired uteroplacental and fetoplacental blood flows are also discussed. Deficiencies in knowledge, which limit the efficacy of clinical care, are also highlighted, underscoring the need for continued research on normal and abnormal placental blood flows.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingchun Li
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyDivision of Reproductive Sciences, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Ramón A Lorca
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyDivision of Reproductive Sciences, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Emily J Su
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyDivision of Maternal-Fetal Medicine/Division of Reproductive Sciences, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
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12
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Placental growth factor and pre-eclampsia. J Hum Hypertens 2017; 31:782-786. [PMID: 29115294 PMCID: PMC5680413 DOI: 10.1038/jhh.2017.61] [Citation(s) in RCA: 168] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2017] [Revised: 06/19/2017] [Accepted: 07/13/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Placental growth factor (PlGF) is an increasingly important molecule in the prediction, diagnosis and treatment of pre-eclampsia. It has pro-angiogenic effects on the feto-placental circulation and supports trophoblast growth. Mechanisms by which PlGF expression is regulated continue to be investigated. Low circulating PlGF precedes the manifestation of clinical disease in pre-eclamptic pregnancies and intrauterine growth restriction. This suggests that low PlGF is a marker of abnormal placentation, but it remains uncertain whether this is a cause or consequence. Prediction of pre-eclampsia using PlGF is promising and may assist in the targeting of resources to women at highest risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes. Promisingly, experimental animal models of pre-eclampsia have been successfully treated with supplemental PlGF. Treatment of pre-eclampsia with PlGF is a potential therapeutic option requiring further exploration. This review focuses specifically on the role of PlGF in normal and pathological placental development and in the clinical management of pre-eclampsia.
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Xu H, Zhang Y, Peña MM, Pirisi L, Creek KE. Six1 promotes colorectal cancer growth and metastasis by stimulating angiogenesis and recruiting tumor-associated macrophages. Carcinogenesis 2017; 38:281-292. [PMID: 28199476 DOI: 10.1093/carcin/bgw121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2016] [Accepted: 11/09/2016] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The homeoprotein Six1 is overexpressed in many human cancers and is associated with increased tumor progression and metastasis. Recent studies have shown that Six1 is associated with poorer overall survival in advanced-stage colorectal cancer (CRC). In the current study, we explored the functional changes and molecular events associated with Six1 overexpression in a mouse model of CRC. An orthotopic model and a splenic injection metastasis model were used to investigate the role of Six1 in CRC tumor growth and metastasis using mouse colon adenocarcinoma MC38 cells overexpressing Six1. We found that overexpression of Six1 dramatically promotes CRC tumor growth and metastasis in vivo. Six1 overexpression in MC38 increased protein levels of aldehyde dehydrogenase-1 and expanded CD44+/CD166+ populations, indicating Six1 increased features of cancer stem cells. In addition, Six1 overexpression stimulated angiogenesis by upregulating the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Six1-overexpressing tumor cells recruited tumor-associated macrophages (TAM) by increasing the expression of macrophage-specific colony stimulating factor, chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 2/5 and VEGF, further facilitating CRC tumor growth and metastasis. Furthermore, we determined that Six1 activated mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling in CRC cells. In summary, our studies strongly suggest that Six1 overexpression promotes CRC growth and metastasis and remodels tumor stroma by stimulating angiogenesis and recruiting TAM. MAPK activation may be a pivotal event in Six1-associated tumor progression, which may provide opportunities for pharmacologic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanwen Xu
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, South Carolina College of Pharmacy, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
| | - Yu Zhang
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
| | - Maria M Peña
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA.,Center for Colon Cancer Research, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
| | - Lucia Pirisi
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
| | - Kim E Creek
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, South Carolina College of Pharmacy, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
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Endothelial cell transplantation in tumors restores normal vasculature, reduces tumor hypoxia, and suppresses tumor outgrowth. J Oral Biosci 2016; 58:150-157. [DOI: 10.1016/j.job.2016.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2016] [Revised: 05/19/2016] [Accepted: 05/19/2016] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
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Vilsmaier T, Rack B, Janni W, Jeschke U, Weissenbacher T. Angiogenic cytokines and their influence on circulating tumour cells in sera of patients with the primary diagnosis of breast cancer before treatment. BMC Cancer 2016; 16:547. [PMID: 27464822 PMCID: PMC4964055 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-016-2612-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2015] [Accepted: 07/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Circulating tumour cells (CTCs) have been found to be a prognostic marker for reduced disease free survival, breast cancer–specific survival, and overall survival before the start of systemic treatment. Methods A total of 200 patients’ sera were included in this study, 100 patients being CTC positive and 100 patients being CTC negative. Matching criteria were histo-pathological grading, lymph node metastasis, hormone receptor status, TNM classification and survived breast cancer patients vs. deceased tumor associated patients. A multi cytokine/chemokine array was used to screen the sera for the angiogenic markers. Results Statistical significant correlation was exposed for sFlt1 values in regard to the CTC-Status. CTC negative patients displayed increased sFlt1 expression opposed to CTC positive breast cancer patients. Furthermore, significant enhanced PIGF values were also disclosed in CTC negative patients compared to patients being CTC positive. Analyzing the living patient collective we found significant differences in sFlt1 and PlGF values in regard to CTC negative and CTC positive patients. Conclusion Both vascular markers showed enhanced expression in the CTC negative patient collective. To continue, the collective graded G2 showed significantly enhanced sFlt1 expressions amongst patients with no CTCs. Moreover, the patient collective with no lymph node metastasis and CTC negativity indicated statistically significant increased sFlt1 values. A functional interaction of sFlt1 and PlGF was found, suggesting that their overexpression in tumour cells inhibits CTCs entering the peripheral blood. Furthermore, in regard to CTC negativity, sFlt1 and PlGF values may potentially serve as predictive markers. Trial registration The TRN of this study is NCT02181101 and the date of registration was the 4th of June 2014. The study was retrospectively registered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theresa Vilsmaier
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University of Munich, Maistrasse 11, 80337, Munich, Germany
| | - Brigitte Rack
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University of Munich, Maistrasse 11, 80337, Munich, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Janni
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Udo Jeschke
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University of Munich, Maistrasse 11, 80337, Munich, Germany.
| | - Tobias Weissenbacher
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University of Munich, Maistrasse 11, 80337, Munich, Germany
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Szabo E, Schneider H, Seystahl K, Rushing EJ, Herting F, Weidner KM, Weller M. Autocrine VEGFR1 and VEGFR2 signaling promotes survival in human glioblastoma models in vitro and in vivo. Neuro Oncol 2016; 18:1242-52. [PMID: 27009237 PMCID: PMC4998998 DOI: 10.1093/neuonc/now043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2015] [Accepted: 02/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Although the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)/VEGF receptor (VEGFR) system has become a prime target for antiangiogenic treatment, its biological role in glioblastoma beyond angiogenesis has remained controversial. Methods Using neutralizing antibodies to VEGF or placental growth factor (PlGF) or the tyrosine kinase inhibitor, cediranib, or lentiviral gene silencing, we delineated autocrine signaling in glioma cell lines. The in vivo effects of VEGFR1 and VEGFR2 depletion were evaluated in orthotopic glioma xenograft models. Results VEGFR1 and VEGFR2 modulated glioma cell clonogenicity, viability, and invasiveness in vitro in an autocrine, cell–line-specific manner. VEGFR1 silencing promoted mitogen-activated protein kinase/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (MAPK/ERK) signaling, whereas VEGFR2 silencing resulted in cell-type dependent activation of the protein kinase B (PKB)/AKT and MAPK/ERK pathways. These responses may represent specific escape mechanisms from VEGFR inhibition. The survival of orthotopic glioma-bearing mice was prolonged upon VEGFR1 silencing in the LNT-229, LN-308, and U87MG models and upon VEGFR2 silencing in LN-308 and U87MG. Disruption of VEGFR1 and VEGFR2 signaling was associated with decreased tumor size, increased tumor necrosis, or loss of matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9) immunoreactivity. Neutralizing VEGF and PlGF by specific antibodies was superior to either antibody treatment alone in the VEGFR1-dependent LNT-229 model. Conclusions Differential dependence on autocrine signaling through VEGFR1 and VEGFR2 suggests a need for biomarker–stratified VEGF(R)-based therapeutic approaches to glioblastoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emese Szabo
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuro-Oncology, Department of Neurology (E.S., H.S., K.S., M.W.), and Institute of Neuropathology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland (E.J.R); Roche Innovation Center Penzberg, Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Nonnenwald 2, Penzberg D-82372, Germany (F.H., K.M.W.)
| | - Hannah Schneider
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuro-Oncology, Department of Neurology (E.S., H.S., K.S., M.W.), and Institute of Neuropathology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland (E.J.R); Roche Innovation Center Penzberg, Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Nonnenwald 2, Penzberg D-82372, Germany (F.H., K.M.W.)
| | - Katharina Seystahl
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuro-Oncology, Department of Neurology (E.S., H.S., K.S., M.W.), and Institute of Neuropathology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland (E.J.R); Roche Innovation Center Penzberg, Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Nonnenwald 2, Penzberg D-82372, Germany (F.H., K.M.W.)
| | - Elisabeth Jane Rushing
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuro-Oncology, Department of Neurology (E.S., H.S., K.S., M.W.), and Institute of Neuropathology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland (E.J.R); Roche Innovation Center Penzberg, Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Nonnenwald 2, Penzberg D-82372, Germany (F.H., K.M.W.)
| | - Frank Herting
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuro-Oncology, Department of Neurology (E.S., H.S., K.S., M.W.), and Institute of Neuropathology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland (E.J.R); Roche Innovation Center Penzberg, Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Nonnenwald 2, Penzberg D-82372, Germany (F.H., K.M.W.)
| | - K Michael Weidner
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuro-Oncology, Department of Neurology (E.S., H.S., K.S., M.W.), and Institute of Neuropathology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland (E.J.R); Roche Innovation Center Penzberg, Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Nonnenwald 2, Penzberg D-82372, Germany (F.H., K.M.W.)
| | - Michael Weller
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuro-Oncology, Department of Neurology (E.S., H.S., K.S., M.W.), and Institute of Neuropathology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland (E.J.R); Roche Innovation Center Penzberg, Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Nonnenwald 2, Penzberg D-82372, Germany (F.H., K.M.W.)
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Abstract
Over the past decades, in vivo vascular permeability measurements have provided significant insight into vascular functions in physiological and pathophysiological conditions such as the response to pro- and anti-angiogenic signaling, abnormality of tumor vasculature and its normalization, and delivery and efficacy of therapeutic agents. Different approaches for vascular permeability measurements have been established. Here, we describe and discuss a conventional 2D imaging method to measure vascular permeability, which was originally documented by Gerlowski and Jain in 1986 (Microvasc Res 31:288-305, 1986) and further developed by Yuan et al. in the early 1990s (Microvasc Res 45:269-289, 1993; Cancer Res 54:352-3356, 1994), and our recently developed 3D imaging method, which advances the approach originally described by Brown et al. in 2001 (Nat Med 7:864-868, 2001).
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Anti-VEGF treatment improves neurological function and augments radiation response in NF2 schwannoma model. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2015; 112:14676-81. [PMID: 26554010 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1512570112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Hearing loss is the main limitation of radiation therapy for vestibular schwannoma (VS), and identifying treatment options that minimize hearing loss are urgently needed. Treatment with bevacizumab is associated with tumor control and hearing improvement in neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) patients; however, its effect is not durable and its mechanism of action on nerve function is unknown. We modeled the effect anti-VEGF therapy on neurological function in the sciatic nerve model and found that it improves neurological function by alleviating tumor edema, which may further improve results by decreasing muscle atrophy and increasing nerve regeneration. Using a cranial window model, we showed that anti-VEGF treatment may achieve these effects via normalizing the tumor vasculature, improving vessel perfusion, and delivery of oxygenation. It is known that oxygen is a potent radiosensitizer; therefore, we further demonstrated that combining anti-VEGF with radiation therapy can achieve a better tumor control and help lower the radiation dose and, thus, minimize radiation-related neurological toxicity. Our results provide compelling rationale for testing combined therapy in human VS.
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VEGF-B promotes cancer metastasis through a VEGF-A-independent mechanism and serves as a marker of poor prognosis for cancer patients. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2015; 112:E2900-9. [PMID: 25991856 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1503500112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The biological functions of VEGF-B in cancer progression remain poorly understood. Here, we report that VEGF-B promotes cancer metastasis through the remodeling of tumor microvasculature. Knockdown of VEGF-B in tumors resulted in increased perivascular cell coverage and impaired pulmonary metastasis of human melanomas. In contrast, the gain of VEGF-B function in tumors led to pseudonormalized tumor vasculatures that were highly leaky and poorly perfused. Tumors expressing high levels of VEGF-B were more metastatic, although primary tumor growth was largely impaired. Similarly, VEGF-B in a VEGF-A-null tumor resulted in attenuated primary tumor growth but substantial pulmonary metastases. VEGF-B also led to highly metastatic phenotypes in Vegfr1 tk(-/-) mice and mice treated with anti-VEGF-A. These data indicate that VEGF-B promotes cancer metastasis through a VEGF-A-independent mechanism. High expression levels of VEGF-B in two large-cohort studies of human patients with lung squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma correlated with poor survival. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that VEGF-B is a vascular remodeling factor promoting cancer metastasis and that targeting VEGF-B may be an important therapeutic approach for cancer metastasis.
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Iwamoto H, Zhang Y, Seki T, Yang Y, Nakamura M, Wang J, Yang X, Torimura T, Cao Y. PlGF-induced VEGFR1-dependent vascular remodeling determines opposing antitumor effects and drug resistance to Dll4-Notch inhibitors. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2015; 1:e1400244. [PMID: 26601163 PMCID: PMC4640632 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.1400244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2014] [Accepted: 03/11/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Inhibition of Dll4 (delta-like ligand 4)-Notch signaling-mediated tumor angiogenesis is an attractive approach in cancer therapy. However, inhibition of Dll4-Notch signaling has produced different effects in various tumors, and no biomarkers are available for predicting the anti-Dll4-Notch-associated antitumor activity. We show that human and mouse tumor cell-derived placental growth factor (PlGF) is a key determinant of the Dll4-Notch-induced vascular remodeling and tumor growth. In natural PlGF-expressing human tumors, inhibition of Dll4-Notch signaling markedly accelerated tumor growth by increasing blood perfusion in nonleaking tumor vasculatures. Conversely, in PlGF-negative tumors, Dll4 inhibition suppressed tumor growth by the formation of nonproductive and leaky vessels. Surprisingly, genetic inactivation of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 1 (VEGFR1) completely abrogated the PlGF-modulated vascular remodeling and tumor growth, indicating a crucial role for VEGFR1-mediated signals in modulating Dll4-Notch functions. These findings provide mechanistic insights on PlGF-VEGFR1 signaling in the modulation of the Dll4-Notch pathway in angiogenesis and tumor growth, and have therapeutic implications of PlGF as a biomarker for predicting the antitumor benefits of Dll4 and Notch inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hideki Iwamoto
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institute, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Yin Zhang
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institute, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Takahiro Seki
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institute, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Yunlong Yang
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institute, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Masaki Nakamura
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institute, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jian Wang
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institute, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Xiaojuan Yang
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institute, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
- Laboratory of Oral Biomedical Science and Translational Medicine, School of Stomatology, Tongji University, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Takuji Torimura
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Kurume University School of Medicine, 831 0011 Kurume, Japan
| | - Yihai Cao
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institute, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, 581 83 Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Leicester, and NIHR Leicester Cardiovascular Biomedical Research Unit, Glenfield Hospital, Leicester LE3 9QP, UK
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Jayasinghe C, Simiantonaki N, Kirkpatrick CJ. Cell type- and tumor zone-specific expression of pVEGFR-1 and its ligands influence colon cancer metastasis. BMC Cancer 2015; 15:104. [PMID: 25880726 PMCID: PMC4384349 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-015-1130-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2014] [Accepted: 02/24/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Detailed knowledge of the essential pro-angiogenic biomolecules, the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) family and its receptors, in the characteristically heterogeneous tumor tissue is a pre-requisite for an effective personalized target therapy. The effects of VEGF receptors after ligand binding are mediated through receptor tyrosine autophosphorylation. We determined the relevance of the VEGFR-1 activating pathway for colon cancer (CC) metastasis. Methods The expression profiles of VEGFR-1, phosphorylated (activated) VEGFR-1 (pVEGFR-1Tyr1048, pVEGFR-1Tyr1213 and pVEGFR-1Tyr1333) and the VEGFR-1 ligands (VEGF, PlGF and VEGF-B) were investigated using immunohistochemistry in different tumor compartments (intratumoral - invasive front - extratumoral), cell types (tumor cells – macro- (large and small vessels) and the microvasculature (capillaries) - inflammatory cells) in human sporadic non-metastatic, lymphogenous metastatic and haematogenous metastatic CC. Results VEGF and PlGF produced by tumor cells have an autocrine affinity for their receptor VEGFR-1. Subsequent PlGF-mediated receptor activation by autophosphorylation at Tyr1048 and Tyr1213 is a potential signaling pathway, which in turn seems to protect against distant metastasis and, in regions of tumor budding, additionally against lymph node metastasis. This autocrine link could be supported by possible formation of PlGF-VEGF heterodimers and PlGF-PlGF homodimers, which are known to have anti-metastatic properties. In contrast, in order to enhance their potential for distant metastasis tumor cells produce paracrine-acting VEGF-B. VEGFR-1 activation in tumor-associated macrovasculature but not capillaries appears to affect metastatic ability. Paracrine-mediated receptor autophosphorylation at Tyr1048 and Tyr1213 in small vessels located intratumorally and along the invasive front appears to be inversely correlated with metastasis, especially distant metastasis. Additionally, macrovessels are able to produce VEGFR-1 ligands, which influence the metastatic potential. Paracrine-acting VEGF-B production by intratumorally located small vessels and autocrine-acting PlGF production by extratumorally located small vessels seem to be associated with the non-metastatic phenotype. In contrast, VEGF-B-expressing extratumoral large and small vessels correlate with distant metastasis. Lymphocyte-associated VEGFR-1 expression in the invasive front without accompanying autophosphorylation could prevent against distant metastasis possibly by acting as a decoy and scavenger receptor. Conclusion VEGFR-1 and its ligands participate in vascular, tumor cell-mediated and immuno-inflammatory processes in a complex biomolecule-dependent and tumor zone-specific manner and hence could influence metastatic behavior in CC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caren Jayasinghe
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center, Johannes Gutenberg University, Langenbeckstr. 1, 55101, Mainz, Germany. .,Department of Pathology, Laboratory Dr. Wisplinghoff, Geibelstr. 2, 50931, Cologne, Germany.
| | - Nektaria Simiantonaki
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center, Johannes Gutenberg University, Langenbeckstr. 1, 55101, Mainz, Germany. .,Department of Pathology, Laboratory Dr. Wisplinghoff, Geibelstr. 2, 50931, Cologne, Germany.
| | - Charles James Kirkpatrick
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center, Johannes Gutenberg University, Langenbeckstr. 1, 55101, Mainz, Germany.
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Nedergaard MK, Michaelsen SR, Urup T, Broholm H, El Ali H, Poulsen HS, Stockhausen MT, Kjaer A, Lassen U. 18F-FET microPET and microMRI for anti-VEGF and anti-PlGF response assessment in an orthotopic murine model of human glioblastoma. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0115315. [PMID: 25680186 PMCID: PMC4332497 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0115315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2014] [Accepted: 11/21/2014] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Conflicting data exist for anti-cancer effects of anti-placental growth factor (anti-PlGF) in combination with anti-VEGF. Still, this treatment combination has not been evaluated in intracranial glioblastoma (GBM) xenografts. In clinical studies, position emission tomography (PET) using the radiolabeled amino acid O-(2-18F-fluoroethyl)-L-tyrosine (18F-FET) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) add complementary but distinct information about glioma growth; however, the value of 18F-FET MicroPET combined with MicroMRI has not been investigated preclinically. Here we examined the use of 18F-FET MicroPET and MicroMRI for evaluation of anti-VEGF and anti-PlGF treatment response in GBM xenografts. METHODS Mice with intracranial GBM were treated with anti-VEGF, anti-PlGF + anti-VEGF or saline. Bioluminescence imaging (BLI), 18F-FET MicroPET and T2-weighted (T2w)-MRI were used to follow tumour development. Primary end-point was survival, and tumours were subsequently analysed for Ki67 proliferation index and micro-vessel density (MVD). Further, PlGF and VEGFR-1 expression were examined in a subset of the xenograft tumours and in 13 GBM patient tumours. RESULTS Anti-VEGF monotherapy increased survival and decreased 18F-FET uptake, BLI and MVD, while no additive effect of anti-PlGF was observed. 18F-FET SUV max tumour-to-brain (T/B) ratio was significantly lower after one week (114 ± 6%, n = 11 vs. 143 ± 8%, n = 13; p = 0.02) and two weeks of treatment (116 ± 12%, n = 8 vs. 190 ± 24%, n = 5; p = 0.02) in the anti-VEGF group as compared with the control group. In contrast, T2w-MRI volume was unaffected by anti-VEGF. Gene expression of PlGF and VEGFR-1 in xenografts was significantly lower than in patient tumours. CONCLUSION 18F-FET PET was feasible for anti-angiogenic response evaluation and superior to T2w-MRI; however, no additive anti-cancer effect of anti-PlGF and anti-VEGF was observed. Thus, this study supports use of 18F-FET PET for response evaluation in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mette Kjoelhede Nedergaard
- Department of Clinical Physiology, Nuclear Medicine & PET and Cluster for Molecular Imaging, Rigshospitalet and University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- * E-mail:
| | | | - Thomas Urup
- Department of Radiation Biology, The Finsen Center, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Helle Broholm
- Department of Neuropathology, Center of Diagnostic Investigation, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Henrik El Ali
- Department of Clinical Physiology, Nuclear Medicine & PET and Cluster for Molecular Imaging, Rigshospitalet and University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | | | - Andreas Kjaer
- Department of Clinical Physiology, Nuclear Medicine & PET and Cluster for Molecular Imaging, Rigshospitalet and University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ulrik Lassen
- Phase 1 Unit, Department of Oncology, The Finsen Center, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Joosten SC, Hamming L, Soetekouw PM, Aarts MJ, Veeck J, van Engeland M, Tjan-Heijnen VC. Resistance to sunitinib in renal cell carcinoma: From molecular mechanisms to predictive markers and future perspectives. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2014; 1855:1-16. [PMID: 25446042 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2014.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2014] [Revised: 10/29/2014] [Accepted: 11/05/2014] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The introduction of agents that inhibit tumor angiogenesis by targeting vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) signaling has made a significant impact on the survival of patients with metastasized renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Sunitinib, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor of the VEGF receptor, has become the mainstay of treatment for these patients. Although treatment with sunitinib substantially improved patient outcome, the initial success is overshadowed by the occurrence of resistance. The mechanisms of resistance are poorly understood. Insight into the molecular mechanisms of resistance will help to better understand the biology of RCC and can ultimately aid the development of more effective therapies for patients with this infaust disease. In this review we comprehensively discuss molecular mechanisms of resistance to sunitinib and the involved biological processes, summarize potential biomarkers that predict response and resistance to treatment with sunitinib, and elaborate on future perspectives in the treatment of metastasized RCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- S C Joosten
- Division of Medical Oncology, GROW - School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University Medical Center, P.O. Box 5800, 6202 AZ, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
| | - L Hamming
- Division of Medical Oncology, GROW - School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University Medical Center, P.O. Box 5800, 6202 AZ, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
| | - P M Soetekouw
- Division of Medical Oncology, GROW - School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University Medical Center, P.O. Box 5800, 6202 AZ, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
| | - M J Aarts
- Division of Medical Oncology, GROW - School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University Medical Center, P.O. Box 5800, 6202 AZ, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
| | - J Veeck
- Division of Medical Oncology, GROW - School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University Medical Center, P.O. Box 5800, 6202 AZ, Maastricht, The Netherlands; Institute of Pathology, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Pauwelsstr. 30, 52074 Aachen, Germany.
| | - M van Engeland
- Dept. of Pathology, GROW-School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University Medical Center, P.O. Box 5800, 6202 AZ, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
| | - V C Tjan-Heijnen
- Division of Medical Oncology, GROW - School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University Medical Center, P.O. Box 5800, 6202 AZ, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
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Gacche RN, Meshram RJ. Angiogenic factors as potential drug target: Efficacy and limitations of anti-angiogenic therapy. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2014; 1846:161-79. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2014.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2014] [Revised: 05/05/2014] [Accepted: 05/07/2014] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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Zhou AY, Bai YJ, Zhao M, Yu WZ, Huang LZ, Li XX. Placental growth factor expression is reversed by antivascular endothelial growth factor therapy under hypoxic conditions. World J Pediatr 2014; 10:262-70. [PMID: 25124978 DOI: 10.1007/s12519-014-0502-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2012] [Accepted: 09/09/2013] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clinical trials have revealed that the antivascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapies are effective in retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). But the low level of VEGF was necessary as a survival signal in healthy conditions, and endogenous placental growth factor (PIGF) is redundant for development. The purpose of this study was to elucidate the PIGF expression under hypoxia as well as the influence of anti-VEGF therapy on PIGF. METHODS CoCl2-induced hypoxic human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were used for an in vitro study, and oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR) mice models were used for an in vivo study. The expression patterns of PIGF under hypoxic conditions and the influence of anti-VEGF therapy on PIGF were evaluated by quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RTPCR). The retinal avascular areas and neovascularization (NV) areas of anti-VEGF, anti-PIGF and combination treatments were calculated. Retina PIGF concentration was evaluated by ELISA after treatment. The vasoactive effects of exogenous PIGF on HUVECs were investigated by proliferation and migration studies. RESULTS PIGF mRNA expression was reduced by hypoxia in OIR mice, in HUVECs under hypoxia and anti-VEGF treatment. However, PIGF expression was reversed by anti-VEGF therapy in the OIR model and in HUVECs under hypoxia. Exogenous PIGF significantly inhibited HUVECs proliferation and migration under normal conditions, but it stimulated cell proliferation and migration under hypoxia. Anti-PIGF treatment was effective for neovascular tufts in OIR mice (P<0.05). CONCLUSION The finding that PIGF expression is iatrogenically up-regulated by anti-VEGF therapy provides a consideration to combine it with anti-PIGF therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ai-Yi Zhou
- Department of Ophthalmology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Medical College of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710004, Shaanxi Province, China
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The role of angiogenic factors in endometrial cancer. MENOPAUSE REVIEW 2014; 13:122-6. [PMID: 26327841 PMCID: PMC4520350 DOI: 10.5114/pm.2014.42714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2013] [Revised: 01/04/2014] [Accepted: 02/17/2014] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Endometrial cancer is the most common malignancy within the female reproductive system (37.7%). The incidence increases with age. Frequently this type of cancer is diagnosed in peri- and post-menopausal women. 60-70% of cancers occur in women over 60 years of age, and less than 5% in women below 40 years of age. Angiogenesis is a process of formation of new microvessels from existing capillaries. There are four different mechanisms of new vessel growth: sprouting, intussusception, vessel elongation and incorporation of endothelial progenitor cells into new microvessels. Angiogenesis plays important roles in growth of endometrial cancers. This process is controlled by many angiogenic factors, for example vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). VEGF is the most powerful and most specific endothelial cell growth factor. It plays a crucial role in the initiation of physiological and pathological angiogenesis, lymphangiogenesis, and vasculogenesis. The VEGF family consists of VEGF-A, VEGF-B, VEGF-C, VEGF-D, VEGF-E, VEGF-F and PLGF (placental growth factor). The effects of VEGF are mediated through binding to the two specific and homologous receptors VEGFR-1 (FLT-1) and VEGFR-2 (KDR). Placental growth factor (PLGF) belongs to the VEGF family and it is also a very important growth factor. So far four isoforms of PLGF have been identified: PLGF-1 (PLGF131), PLGF-2 (PLGF152), PLGF-3 (PLGF203) and PLGF-4 (PLGF224).
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Abstract
The combination of cytotoxic chemotherapy and antiangiogenic agents has become a conventional treatment option for patients with metastatic colorectal cancer. Ziv-aflibercept is a fusion protein which acts as a decoy receptor for vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-A, VEGF-B, and placental growth factor (PlGF); it was approved in combination with 5-fluorouracil, leucovorin, and irinotecan (FOLFIRI) for the treatment of patients with metastatic colorectal cancer that is resistant to or has progressed after an oxaliplatin-containing fluoropyrimidine-based regimen. Herein we review the role of tumor angiogenesis as the rationale for antiangiogenic therapy, the clinical data associated with ziv-aflibercept, and its current role as a treatment option compared to other antiangiogenic agents, such as bevacizumab and regorafenib.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anuj Patel
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Weijing Sun
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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Inhibition of stromal PlGF suppresses the growth of prostate cancer xenografts. Int J Mol Sci 2013; 14:17958-71. [PMID: 24005860 PMCID: PMC3794762 DOI: 10.3390/ijms140917958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2013] [Revised: 08/22/2013] [Accepted: 08/26/2013] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The growth and vascularization of prostate cancer is dependent on interactions between cancer cells and supporting stromal cells. The primary stromal cell type found in prostate tumors is the carcinoma-associated fibroblast, which produces placental growth factor (PlGF). PlGF is a member of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) family of angiogenic molecules and PlGF mRNA levels increase after androgen deprivation therapy in prostate cancer. In this study, we show that PlGF has a direct dose-dependent proliferative effect on human PC-3 prostate cancer cells in vitro and fibroblast-derived PlGF increases PC-3 proliferation in co-culture. In xenograft tumor models, intratumoral administration of murine PlGF siRNA reduced stromal-derived PlGF expression, reduced tumor burden and decreased the number of Ki-67 positive proliferating cells associated with reduced vascular density. These data show that targeting stromal PlGF expression may represent a therapeutic target for the treatment of prostate cancer.
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Vascular endothelial growth factor-dependent spatiotemporal dual roles of placental growth factor in modulation of angiogenesis and tumor growth. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2013; 110:13932-7. [PMID: 23918367 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1309629110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Placental growth factor (PlGF) remodels tumor vasculatures toward a normalized phenotype, which affects tumor growth, invasion and drug responses. However, the coordinative and spatiotemporal relation between PlGF and VEGF in modulation of tumor angiogenesis and vascular remodeling is less understood. Here we report that PlGF positively and negatively modulate tumor growth, angiogenesis, and vascular remodeling through a VEGF-dependent mechanism. In two independent tumor models, we show that PlGF inhibited tumor growth and angiogenesis and displayed a marked vascular remodeling effect, leading to normalized microvessels with infrequent vascular branches and increased perivascular cell coverage. Surprisingly, elimination of VEGF gene (i.e., VEGF-null) in PlGF-expressing tumors resulted in (i) accelerated tumor growth rates and angiogenesis and (ii) complete attenuation of PlGF-induced vascular normalization. Thus, PlGF positively and negatively modulates tumor growth, angiogenesis, and vascular remodeling through VEGF-dependent spatiotemporal mechanisms. Our data uncover molecular mechanisms underlying the complex interplay between PlGF and VEGF in modulation of tumor growth and angiogenesis, and have conceptual implication for antiangiogenic cancer therapy.
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Wei SC, Tsao PN, Weng MT, Cao Z, Wong JM. Flt-1 in colorectal cancer cells is required for the tumor invasive effect of placental growth factor through a p38-MMP9 pathway. J Biomed Sci 2013; 20:39. [PMID: 23799978 PMCID: PMC3704813 DOI: 10.1186/1423-0127-20-39] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2013] [Accepted: 06/04/2013] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Placenta growth factor (PlGF), a dimeric glycoprotein with 53% homology to VEGF, binds to VEGF receptor-1 (Flt-1), but not to VEGF receptor-2 (Flk-1), and may function by modulating VEGF activity. We previously have showed that PlGF displays prognostic value in colorectal cancer (CRC) but the mechanism remains elucidated. Results Overexpression of PlGF increased the invasive/migration ability and decreased apoptosis in CRC cells showing Flt-1 expression. Increased migration was associated with increasing MMP9 via p38 MAPK activation. Tumors grew faster, larger; with higher vascularity from PlGF over-expression cells in xenograft assay. In two independent human CRC tissue cohorts, PlGF, MMP9, and Flt-1 expressions were higher in the advanced than the localized disease group. PlGF expression correlated with MMP9, and Flt-1 expression. CRC patients with high PlGF and high Flt-1 expression in tissue had poor prognosis. Conclusion PlGF/Flt-1 signaling plays an important role in CRC progression, blocking PlGF/Flt-1 signaling maybe an alternative therapy for CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu-Chen Wei
- Departments of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine, Taipei 100, Taiwan
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Snuderl M, Batista A, Kirkpatrick ND, Ruiz de Almodovar C, Riedemann L, Walsh EC, Anolik R, Huang Y, Martin JD, Kamoun W, Knevels E, Schmidt T, Farrar CT, Vakoc BJ, Mohan N, Chung E, Roberge S, Peterson T, Bais C, Zhelyazkova BH, Yip S, Hasselblatt M, Rossig C, Niemeyer E, Ferrara N, Klagsbrun M, Duda DG, Fukumura D, Xu L, Carmeliet P, Jain RK. Targeting placental growth factor/neuropilin 1 pathway inhibits growth and spread of medulloblastoma. Cell 2013; 152:1065-76. [PMID: 23452854 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2013.01.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 149] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2011] [Revised: 06/09/2012] [Accepted: 01/18/2013] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Medulloblastoma is the most common pediatric malignant brain tumor. Although current therapies improve survival, these regimens are highly toxic and are associated with significant morbidity. Here, we report that placental growth factor (PlGF) is expressed in the majority of medulloblastomas, independent of their subtype. Moreover, high expression of PlGF receptor neuropilin 1 (Nrp1) correlates with poor overall survival in patients. We demonstrate that PlGF and Nrp1 are required for the growth and spread of medulloblastoma: PlGF/Nrp1 blockade results in direct antitumor effects in vivo, resulting in medulloblastoma regression, decreased metastasis, and increased mouse survival. We reveal that PlGF is produced in the cerebellar stroma via tumor-derived Sonic hedgehog (Shh) and show that PlGF acts through Nrp1-and not vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 1-to promote tumor cell survival. This critical tumor-stroma interaction-mediated by Shh, PlGF, and Nrp1 across medulloblastoma subtypes-supports the development of therapies targeting PlGF/Nrp1 pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matija Snuderl
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
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Tumor cell-derived placental growth factor sensitizes antiangiogenic and antitumor effects of anti-VEGF drugs. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2012; 110:654-9. [PMID: 23267058 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1209310110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The role of placental growth factor (PlGF) in modulation of tumor angiogenesis and tumor growth remains an enigma. Furthermore, anti-PlGF therapy in tumor angiogenesis and tumor growth remains controversial in preclinical tumor models. Here we show that in both human and mouse tumors, PlGF induced the formation of dilated and normalized vascular networks that were hypersensitive to anti-VEGF and anti-VEGFR-2 therapy, leading to dormancy of a substantial number of avascular tumors. Loss-of-function using plgf shRNA in a human choriocarcinoma significantly accelerated tumor growth rates and acquired resistance to anti-VEGF drugs, whereas gain-of-function of PlGF in a mouse tumor increased anti-VEGF sensitivity. Further, we show that VEGFR-2 and VEGFR-1 blocking antibodies displayed opposing effects on tumor angiogenesis. VEGFR-1 blockade and genetic deletion of the tyrosine kinase domain of VEGFR-1 resulted in enhanced tumor angiogenesis. These findings demonstrate that tumor-derived PlGF negatively modulates tumor angiogenesis and tumor growth and may potentially serve as a predictive marker of anti-VEGF cancer therapy.
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Dewerchin M, Carmeliet P. PlGF: a multitasking cytokine with disease-restricted activity. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2012; 2:cshperspect.a011056. [PMID: 22908198 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a011056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 161] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Placental growth factor (PlGF) is a member of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) family that also comprises VEGF-A (VEGF), VEGF-B, VEGF-C, and VEGF-D. Unlike VEGF, PlGF is dispensable for development and health but has diverse nonredundant roles in tissue ischemia, malignancy, inflammation, and multiple other diseases. Genetic and pharmacological gain-of-function and loss-of-function studies have identified molecular mechanisms of this multitasking cytokine and characterized the therapeutic potential of delivering or blocking PlGF for various disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mieke Dewerchin
- Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Neurovascular Link, VIB Vesalius Research Center, K.U. Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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Abstract
Accumulating evidences have documented that angiogenesis is closely linked to inflammation and regulators of angiogenesis play key roles in various inflammatory conditions. PlGF is an angiogenic protein belonging to the VEGF family and is upregulated mainly in pathologic conditions. Recently, PlGF was discovered having a proinflammatory role in inflammatory arthritis and its serum level drew attention not only as a useful surrogate biomarker but also a potential therapeutic target in atherosclerosis and various cancers. Particularly, PlGF has attractive clinical values because endogenous PlGF is redundant for vascular development and physiological vessel maintenance in healthy adults. However, there have been conflicting results about the efficacy of PlGF inhibition depending on the experimental and clinical settings. Further close investigations for resolving the puzzle of PlGF biology are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ki Jo Kim
- Research Institute of Immunobiology, Catholic Research Institute of Medical Science, Seoul, Korea
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Nielsen DL, Sengeløv L. Inhibition of placenta growth factor with TB-403: a novel antiangiogenic cancer therapy. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2012; 12:795-804. [PMID: 22506966 DOI: 10.1517/14712598.2012.679655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There is clinical evidence that therapies targeting the vascular endothelial growth factor pathway are effective in delaying cancer progression. However, tumors may be either intrinsically resistant or evolve resistance to such therapies. Hence, there is a need for new therapies targeting angiogenesis. AREAS COVERED The data are obtained by searching in the PubMed database. The search terms used included antiangiogenic therapy, TB-403 (RO5323441), placenta growth factor (PlGF) and VEGFR-1 (Flt-1). We review preclinical data concerning the function and inhibition of PlGF and summarize data on expression of PlGF in cancer patients. Data from early-phase clinical trials of TB-403 (RO5323441), a monoclonal antibody inhibiting PlGF, are discussed. Future development strategies, therapeutic potentials and limitations of TB-403 are further evaluated. EXPERT OPINION There are some conflicting data on the function of PlGF and the importance of its role in primary tumor growth. Data from some preclinical models of PlGF inhibition and early-phase clinical trials with TB-403 are, however, promising, although the true potential of the drug is yet to be determined. Further clinical development should be preceded by molecular studies in the context of well-designed preclinical models and/or small translational studies. Future challenges involve identifying predictive biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorte Lisbet Nielsen
- Department of Oncology, University of Copenhagen, Herlev Hospital, Herlev Ringvej 75, DK-2730 Herlev, Denmark.
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Rahbari NN, Reissfelder C, Mühlbayer M, Weidmann K, Kahlert C, Büchler MW, Weitz J, Koch M. Correlation of circulating angiogenic factors with circulating tumor cells and disease recurrence in patients undergoing curative resection for colorectal liver metastases. Ann Surg Oncol 2011; 18:2182-91. [PMID: 21598056 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-011-1761-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2010] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Circulating angiogenic factors (CAF) have been shown as therapeutic targets and prognostic biomarkers in metastatic colorectal cancer. However, their correlation with circulating tumor cells (CTC) is unknown, as is their role as prognostic biomarkers in patients amenable for curative resection. METHODS Preoperative blood samples were collected in patients undergoing potentially curative resection of colorectal liver metastases. Serum levels of eight CAF and CTC were analyzed by using ELISA and CK20 RT-PCR, respectively. Prognostic factors were identified by a Cox proportional hazards model. RESULTS A total of 107 patients were eligible for final analyses. Circulating levels of PlGF, EGF, and bFGF were increased, whereas PDGF-A and Ang-1 levels were decreased in patients compared with healthy control subjects. CTC were detected in 36 of 63 patients (57%) and were associated with significantly lower levels of EGF and bFGF. On univariate analyses, multiple metastases (p = 0.04), a MSKCC risk score >2 (p = 0.004), and detection of CTC (p = 0.05) were associated with disease recurrence. Multivariate analysis, including the panel of eight CAF, revealed a MSKCC score >2 [hazard ratio (HR), 2.01; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.11-3.82; p = 0.02] and low levels of circulating PlGF (HR, 0.26; 95% CI, 0.08-0.81; p = 0.02) as independent predictors of poor recurrence-free survival. CONCLUSIONS CAF may indicate patients who are at high risk for disease recurrence. The notion that CAF may identify patients who benefit from adjuvant therapy or antiangiogenic agents warrants further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuh N Rahbari
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.
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Liu J, Liao S, Huang Y, Samuel R, Shi T, Naxerova K, Huang P, Kamoun W, Jain RK, Fukumura D, Xu L. PDGF-D improves drug delivery and efficacy via vascular normalization, but promotes lymphatic metastasis by activating CXCR4 in breast cancer. Clin Cancer Res 2011; 17:3638-48. [PMID: 21459800 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-10-2456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Unlike platelet-derived growth factor-B (PDGF-B), the role of PDGF-D in tumor progression or treatment is largely unknown. To this end, we determined the role of PDGF-D in breast cancer progression, metastasis, and response to chemotherapy. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN We first examined PDGF-D expression in human breast carcinomas by immunohistochemical (IHC) staining. To mimic high PDGF-D expressing tumors, we stably transfected the breast cancer cell lines MDA-MB-231 and 4T1 with pdgf-d cDNA, and implanted these tumor cells orthtopically into nude mice. We monitored tumor growth by caliper measurement and bioluminescence imaging. We also used short hairpin RNA interference (shRNAi) and imatinib to block PDGF-D/PDGFRβ signaling. Finally, we studied the effect of PDGF-D on doxorubicin delivery and efficacy. RESULTS Human breast cancers express high levels of PDGF-D. Overexpression of PDGF-D promoted tumor growth and lymph node metastasis through increased proliferation, decreased apoptosis, and induction of CXCR4 expression. Blockade of CXCR4 signaling abolished PDGF-D-induced lymph node metastasis. Furthermore, overexpression of PDGF-D increased perivascular cell coverage and normalized tumor blood vessels. As a result, PDGF-D overexpression facilitated tissue penetration of doxorubicin and enhanced its treatment efficacy. CONCLUSIONS PDGF-D is highly expressed in human breast cancer and facilitates tumor growth and lymph node metastasis, making it a potential target in breast cancer. At the same time, PDGF-D increases drug delivery and hence improves the efficacy of chemotherapy through vessel normalization. Therefore, judicious use of PDGF-D/PDGFRβ blockers would be necessary to minimize the adverse effects on concomitantly administered cytotoxic therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jieqiong Liu
- Edwin L. Steele Laboratory, Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Tugues S, Koch S, Gualandi L, Li X, Claesson-Welsh L. Vascular endothelial growth factors and receptors: anti-angiogenic therapy in the treatment of cancer. Mol Aspects Med 2011; 32:88-111. [PMID: 21565214 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2011.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 158] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2011] [Accepted: 04/27/2011] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs) are critical regulators of vascular and lymphatic function during development, in health and in disease. There are five mammalian VEGF ligands and three VEGF receptor tyrosine kinases. In addition, several VEGF co-receptors that lack intrinsic catalytic activity, but that indirectly modulate the responsiveness to VEGF contribute to the final biological effect. This review describes the molecular features of VEGFs, VEGFRs and co-receptors with focus on their role in the treatment of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sònia Tugues
- Uppsala University, Dept. of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Rudbeck Laboratory, Dag Hammarskjöldsv. 20, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden
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Cai J, Wu L, Qi X, Shaw L, Li Calzi S, Caballero S, Jiang WG, Vinores SA, Antonetti D, Ahmed A, Grant MB, Boulton ME. Placenta growth factor-1 exerts time-dependent stabilization of adherens junctions following VEGF-induced vascular permeability. PLoS One 2011; 6:e18076. [PMID: 21464949 PMCID: PMC3064593 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0018076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2010] [Accepted: 02/24/2011] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Increased vascular permeability is an early event characteristic of tissue ischemia and angiogenesis. Although VEGF family members are potent promoters of endothelial permeability the role of placental growth factor (PlGF) is hotly debated. Here we investigated PlGF isoforms 1 and 2 and present in vitro and in vivo evidence that PlGF-1, but not PlGF-2, can inhibit VEGF-induced permeability but only during a critical window post-VEGF exposure. PlGF-1 promotes VE-cadherin expression via the trans-activating Sp1 and Sp3 interaction with the VE-cadherin promoter and subsequently stabilizes transendothelial junctions, but only after activation of endothelial cells by VEGF. PlGF-1 regulates vascular permeability associated with the rapid localization of VE-cadherin to the plasma membrane and dephosphorylation of tyrosine residues that precedes changes observed in claudin 5 tyrosine phosphorylation and membrane localization. The critical window during which PlGF-1 exerts its effect on VEGF-induced permeability highlights the importance of the translational significance of this work in that PLGF-1 likely serves as an endogenous anti-permeability factor whose effectiveness is limited to a precise time point following vascular injury. Clinical approaches that would pattern nature's approach would thus limit treatments to precise intervals following injury and bring attention to use of agents only during therapeutic windows.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Cai
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Lin Wu
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Xiaoping Qi
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Lynn Shaw
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Sergio Li Calzi
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Sergio Caballero
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Wen G. Jiang
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Stanley A. Vinores
- Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University, Wilmer Eye Institute, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - David Antonetti
- Cellular & Molecular Physiology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Asif Ahmed
- BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Queen's Medical Research Institute, College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Maria B. Grant
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Michael E. Boulton
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Ribatti D. The controversial role of placental growth factor in tumor growth. Cancer Lett 2011; 307:1-5. [PMID: 21429661 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2011.02.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2011] [Revised: 02/25/2011] [Accepted: 02/28/2011] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The significance of placental growth factor (PlGF) in tumor growth is still a matter of debate. Depending on the model, PlGF overexpression has been shown to result in tumor growth promotion or inhibition. This review article summarizes the most relevant literature data concerning this still unsolved important question.
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Affiliation(s)
- Domenico Ribatti
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histology, University of Bari Medical School, Bari, Italy.
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Placental growth factor contributes to micro-vascular abnormalization and blood-retinal barrier breakdown in diabetic retinopathy. PLoS One 2011; 6:e17462. [PMID: 21408222 PMCID: PMC3049767 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0017462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2010] [Accepted: 02/03/2011] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective There are controversies regarding the pro-angiogenic activity of placental growth factor (PGF) in diabetic retinopathy (DR). For a better understanding of its role on the retina, we have evaluated the effect of a sustained PGF over-expression in rat ocular media, using ciliary muscle electrotransfer (ET) of a plasmid encoding rat PGF-1 (pVAX2-rPGF-1). Materials and Methods pVAX2-rPGF-1 ET in the ciliary muscle (200 V/cm) was achieved in non diabetic and diabetic rat eyes. Control eyes received saline or naked plasmid ET. Clinical follow up was carried out over three months using slit lamp examination and fluorescein angiography. After the control of rPGF-1 expression, PGF-induced effects on retinal vasculature and on the blood-external barrier were evaluated respectively by lectin and occludin staining on flat-mounts. Ocular structures were visualized through histological analysis. Results After fifteen days of rPGF-1 over-expression in normal eyes, tortuous and dilated capillaries were observed. At one month, microaneurysms and moderate vascular sprouts were detected in mid retinal periphery in vivo and on retinal flat-mounts. At later stages, retinal pigmented epithelial cells demonstrated morphological abnormalities and junction ruptures. In diabetic retinas, PGF expression rose between 2 and 5 months, and, one month after ET, rPGF-1 over-expression induced glial activation and proliferation. Conclusion This is the first demonstration that sustained intraocular PGF production induces vascular and retinal changes similar to those observed in the early stages of diabetic retinopathy. PGF and its receptor Flt-1 may therefore be looked upon as a potential regulatory target at this stage of the disease.
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Disrupted balance of angiogenic and antiangiogenic signalings in preeclampsia. J Pregnancy 2011; 2011:123717. [PMID: 21490787 PMCID: PMC3065922 DOI: 10.1155/2011/123717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2010] [Accepted: 01/12/2011] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The placenta plays a central role in governing local circulatory system that mediates maternal condition and fetal growth. In early gestational phases, the placenta exerts properties of invasion and neovascularization for successful placentation. Extravillous invasive trophoblasts replace uterine endometrial vasculature and establish local blood pathway to obtain oxygen and nutrients from the mother. In later phases, the placenta promotes villous angiogenesis and vascular maturation that are finely controlled by angiogenic and antiangiogenic molecules. Among various molecules involved in placental neovascularization, vascular endothelial growth factor receptors (VEGFRs) and angiotensin II receptor type 1 (AT1) mediate important signaling pathways for maternal circulatory system and fetal growth. VEGFR1 and VEGFR2 are functional receptors for placental growth factor (PlGF) and VEGF, respectively, and PlGF-VEGFR1 and VEGF-VEGFR2 interactions are disturbed in many preeclamptic patients by excess amount of soluble form of VEGFR1 (also named sFlt1), a natural PlGF/VEGF antagonist. Recent studies have disclosed that excessive sFlt1 production in the placenta and aberrant AT1 signaling in the mother are closely associated with the pathology of preeclampsia and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). In this paper, neovascularization of the placenta and pathological events associated with disrupted balance between angiogenic and antiangiogenic signaling in preeclampsia are discussed.
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Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a fatal disease that represents the fifth most common human cancer. Although remarkable progress has been achieved in HCC treatment in China, the overall incidence and mortality rates of HCC show no obvious changes. Pharmacological treatment can not improve the prognosis of patients with unresectable HCC. This emphasizes the need to identify new targets for early diagnosis, chemoprevention, and treatment of the disease. An effort to understand the molecular mechanisms responsible for tumor initiation and progression has led to the identification of several potential molecular targets for HCC. The majority of these targets are involved in receptor tyrosine kinase-activated pathways, such as the Raf/MEK/ERK, PI-3K/Akt/mTOR, and Jak/Stat pathways. Sorafenib is a multikinase inhibitor that has attracted wide attention. This review describes the potential targets for HCC and recent progress in targeted therapy of the disease.
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Liao S, Liu J, Lin P, Shi T, Jain RK, Xu L. TGF-beta blockade controls ascites by preventing abnormalization of lymphatic vessels in orthotopic human ovarian carcinoma models. Clin Cancer Res 2011; 17:1415-24. [PMID: 21278244 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-10-2429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Ovarian cancer patients with malignant ascites have poor prognosis. The accumulation of ascites is caused by an imbalance between fluid extravasation from the blood vessels and reabsorption by lymphatic vessels. Whereas, the role of TGF-β in tumor progression has been well studied, the role of TGF-β in lymphatic vessel function is far from understood. Here, we sought to dissect the role of TGF-β blockade in the formation of ascites. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN We used soluble TGF-β Receptor II (sTβRII) to block TGF-β signaling in two orthotopic human ovarian carcinoma models: SKOV3ip1 and Hey-A8. We measured tumor proliferation, apoptosis, lymphangiogenesis, and angiogenesis by immunohistochemical staining, and examined diaphragm lymphatic vessel network by intraperitoneal injection of a fluorescent dye. Diaphragm lymphatic vessel function was assessed by tracking fluorescent beads in the diaphragm and measuring their drainage rate. RESULTS TGF-β blockade impaired tumor growth in both models, accompanied by a decreased tumor cell proliferation and angiogenesis. More strikingly, TGF-β blockade almost completely abolished ascites formation. TGF-β blockade significantly inhibited the expression of VEGF, which is the major contributor to ascites formation. At the same time, TGF-β blockade prevent 'abnormalization' of diaphragm lymphatic vessels and improved ascites drainage. CONCLUSIONS TGF-β blockade decreased ascites by both inhibiting ascites formation and improving ascites drainage. Based on our finding, it is reasonable to consider the use of TGF-β blockade as a palliative treatment for symptomatic ascites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan Liao
- Edwin L Steele Laboratory, Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, USA
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Placental growth factor neutralising antibodies give limited anti-angiogenic effects in an in vitro organotypic angiogenesis model. Angiogenesis 2010; 13:337-47. [DOI: 10.1007/s10456-010-9190-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2010] [Accepted: 09/25/2010] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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Niu G, Chen X. Vascular endothelial growth factor as an anti-angiogenic target for cancer therapy. Curr Drug Targets 2010; 11:1000-17. [PMID: 20426765 DOI: 10.2174/138945010791591395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 252] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2009] [Accepted: 04/14/2010] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
New blood vessel formation (angiogenesis) is fundamental to tumor growth, invasion, and metastatic dissemination. The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) signaling pathway plays pivotal roles in regulating tumor angiogenesis. VEGF as a therapeutic target has been validated in various types of human cancers. Different agents including antibodies, aptamers, peptides, and small molecules have been extensively investigated to block VEGF and its pro-angiogenic functions. Some of these agents have been approved by FDA and some are currently in clinical trials. Combination therapies are also being pursued for better tumor control. By providing comprehensive real-time information, molecular imaging of VEGF pathway may accelerate the drug development process. Moreover, the imaging will be of great help for patient stratification and therapeutic effect monitoring, which will promote effective personalized molecular cancer therapy. This review summarizes the current status of tumor therapeutic agents targeting to VEGF and the applications of VEGF related molecular imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gang Niu
- Laboratory of Molecular Imaging and Nanomedicine, National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering, National Institute of Health, 9 Memorial Drive, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
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Anti–Placental Growth Factor Reduces Bone Metastasis by Blocking Tumor Cell Engraftment and Osteoclast Differentiation. Cancer Res 2010; 70:6537-47. [DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-09-4092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Treatment of bone metastases is largely symptomatic and is still an unmet medical need. Current therapies mainly target the late phase of tumor-induced osteoclast activation and hereby inhibit further metastatic growth. This treatment method is, however, less effective in preventing initial tumor engraftment, a process that is supposed to depend on the bone microenvironment. We explored whether bone-derived placental growth factor (PlGF), a homologue of vascular endothelial growth factor-A, regulates osteolytic metastasis. Osteogenic cells secrete PlGF, the expression of which is enhanced by bone-metastasizing breast tumor cells. Selective neutralization of host-derived PlGF by anti-mouse PlGF (αPlGF) reduced the incidence, number, and size of bone metastases, and preserved bone mass. αPlGF did not affect metastatic tumor angiogenesis but inhibited osteoclast formation by preventing the upregulation of the osteoclastogenic cytokine receptor activator of NF-κB ligand in osteogenic cells, as well as by blocking the autocrine osteoclastogenic activity of PlGF. αPlGF also reduced the engraftment of tumor cells in the bone and inhibited their interaction with matrix components in the metastatic niche. αPlGF therefore inhibits not only the progression of metastasis but also the settlement of tumor in the bone. These findings identify novel properties of PlGF and suggest that αPlGF might offer opportunities for adjuvant therapy of bone metastasis. Cancer Res; 70(16); 6537–47. ©2010 AACR.
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r84, a novel therapeutic antibody against mouse and human VEGF with potent anti-tumor activity and limited toxicity induction. PLoS One 2010; 5:e12031. [PMID: 20700512 PMCID: PMC2917360 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0012031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2010] [Accepted: 07/13/2010] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is critical for physiological and pathological angiogenesis. Within the tumor microenvironment, VEGF functions as an endothelial cell survival factor, permeability factor, mitogen, and chemotactic agent. The majority of these functions are mediated by VEGF-induced activation of VEGF receptor 2 (VEGFR2), a high affinity receptor tyrosine kinase expressed by endothelial cells and other cell types in the tumor microenvironment. VEGF can also ligate other cell surface receptors including VEGFR1 and neuropilin-1 and -2. However, the importance of VEGF-induced activation of these receptors in tumorigenesis is still unclear. We report the development and characterization of r84, a fully human monoclonal antibody that binds human and mouse VEGF and selectively blocks VEGF from interacting with VEGFR2 but does not interfere with VEGF:VEGFR1 interaction. Selective blockade of VEGF binding to VEGFR2 by r84 is shown through ELISA, receptor binding assays, receptor activation assays, and cell-based functional assays. Furthermore, we show that r84 has potent anti-tumor activity and does not alter tissue histology or blood and urine chemistry after chronic high dose therapy in mice. In addition, chronic r84 therapy does not induce elevated blood pressure levels in some models. The ability of r84 to specifically block VEGF:VEGFR2 binding provides a valuable tool for the characterization of VEGF receptor pathway activation during tumor progression and highlights the utility and safety of selective blockade of VEGF-induced VEGFR2 signaling in tumors.
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Konson A, Pradeep S, Seger R. Phosphomimetic Mutants of Pigment Epithelium-Derived Factor with Enhanced Antiangiogenic Activity as Potent Anticancer Agents. Cancer Res 2010; 70:6247-57. [DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-10-0434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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