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Wang M, Yu F, Zhang Y, Li P. Novel insights into Notch signaling in tumor immunity: potential targets for cancer immunotherapy. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1352484. [PMID: 38444855 PMCID: PMC10912471 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1352484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Notch signaling pathway is a highly conserved system of cell-to-cell communication that participates in various biological processes, such as stem cell maintenance, cell fate decision, cell proliferation and death during homeostasis and development. Dysregulation of Notch signaling has been associated with many aspects of cancer biology, such as maintenance of cancer stem-like cells (CSCs), cancer cell metabolism, angiogenesis and tumor immunity. Particularly, Notch signaling can regulate antitumor or pro-tumor immune cells within the tumor microenvironment (TME). Currently, Notch signaling has drawn significant attention in the therapeutic development of cancer treatment. In this review, we focus on the role of Notch signaling pathway in remodeling tumor immune microenvironment. We describe the impact of Notch signaling on the efficacy of cancer immunotherapies. Furthermore, we summarize the results of relevant preclinical and clinical trials of Notch-targeted therapeutics and discuss the challenges in their clinical application in cancer therapy. An improved understanding of the involvement of Notch signaling in tumor immunity will open the door to new options in cancer immunotherapy treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Man Wang
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | | | | | - Peifeng Li
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
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2
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Kim JY, Hong N, Park S, Ham SW, Kim EJ, Kim SO, Jang J, Kim Y, Kim JK, Kim SC, Park JW, Kim H. Jagged1 intracellular domain/SMAD3 complex transcriptionally regulates TWIST1 to drive glioma invasion. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:822. [PMID: 38092725 PMCID: PMC10719344 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-06356-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Jagged1 (JAG1) is a Notch ligand that correlates with tumor progression. Not limited to its function as a ligand, JAG1 can be cleaved, and its intracellular domain translocates to the nucleus, where it functions as a transcriptional cofactor. Previously, we showed that JAG1 intracellular domain (JICD1) forms a protein complex with DDX17/SMAD3/TGIF2. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying JICD1-mediated tumor aggressiveness remains unclear. Here, we demonstrate that JICD1 enhances the invasive phenotypes of glioblastoma cells by transcriptionally activating epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related genes, especially TWIST1. The inhibition of TWIST1 reduced JICD1-driven tumor aggressiveness. Although SMAD3 is an important component of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β signaling, the JICD1/SMAD3 transcriptional complex was shown to govern brain tumor invasion independent of TGF-β signaling. Moreover, JICD1-TWIST1-MMP2 and MMP9 axes were significantly correlated with clinical outcome of glioblastoma patients. Collectively, we identified the JICD1/SMAD3-TWIST1 axis as a novel inducer of invasive phenotypes in cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jung Yun Kim
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Animal Molecular Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Nayoung Hong
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Animal Molecular Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Sehyeon Park
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Animal Molecular Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Seok Won Ham
- MEDIFIC Inc., Hwaseong-si, Gyeonggi-do, 18469, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun-Jung Kim
- MEDIFIC Inc., Hwaseong-si, Gyeonggi-do, 18469, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Ok Kim
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Chuncheon, 24252, Republic of Korea
| | - Junseok Jang
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Animal Molecular Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoonji Kim
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Animal Molecular Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Jun-Kyum Kim
- MEDIFIC Inc., Hwaseong-si, Gyeonggi-do, 18469, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Chan Kim
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Chuncheon, 24252, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong-Whi Park
- Department of Life Sciences, Gachon University, Incheon, 21999, Republic of Korea.
| | - Hyunggee Kim
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea.
- Institute of Animal Molecular Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea.
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3
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Platonova N, Lazzari E, Colombo M, Falleni M, Tosi D, Giannandrea D, Citro V, Casati L, Ronchetti D, Bolli N, Neri A, Torricelli F, Crews LA, Jamieson CHM, Chiaramonte R. The Potential of JAG Ligands as Therapeutic Targets and Predictive Biomarkers in Multiple Myeloma. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14558. [PMID: 37834003 PMCID: PMC10572399 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241914558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The NOTCH ligands JAG1 and JAG2 have been correlated in vitro with multiple myeloma (MM) cell proliferation, drug resistance, self-renewal and a pathological crosstalk with the tumor microenvironment resulting in angiogenesis and osteoclastogenesis. These findings suggest that a therapeutic approach targeting JAG ligands might be helpful for the care of MM patients and lead us to explore the role of JAG1 and JAG2 in a MM in vivo model and primary patient samples. JAG1 and JAG2 protein expression represents a common feature in MM cell lines; therefore, we assessed their function through JAG1/2 conditional silencing in a MM xenograft model. We observed that JAG1 and JAG2 showed potential as therapeutic targets in MM, as their silencing resulted in a reduction in the tumor burden. Moreover, JAG1 and JAG2 protein expression in MM patients was positively correlated with the presence of MM cells in patients' bone marrow biopsies. Finally, taking advantage of the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation (MMRF) CoMMpass global dataset, we showed that JAG2 gene expression level was a predictive biomarker associated with patients' overall survival and progression-free survival, independently from other main molecular or clinical features. Overall, these results strengthened the rationale for the development of a JAG1/2-tailored approach and the use of JAG2 as a predictive biomarker in MM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Platonova
- Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20142 Milan, Italy; (N.P.); (E.L.); (M.C.); (M.F.); (D.T.); (D.G.); (V.C.); (L.C.)
| | - Elisa Lazzari
- Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20142 Milan, Italy; (N.P.); (E.L.); (M.C.); (M.F.); (D.T.); (D.G.); (V.C.); (L.C.)
- Division of Regenerative Medicine, Department of Medicine, Moores Cancer Center, University of California, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; (L.A.C.); (C.H.M.J.)
- UC San Diego Sanford, Stem Cell Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Michela Colombo
- Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20142 Milan, Italy; (N.P.); (E.L.); (M.C.); (M.F.); (D.T.); (D.G.); (V.C.); (L.C.)
| | - Monica Falleni
- Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20142 Milan, Italy; (N.P.); (E.L.); (M.C.); (M.F.); (D.T.); (D.G.); (V.C.); (L.C.)
- Unit of Pathology A.O. San Paolo, Via A. Di Rudinì 8, 20142 Milan, Italy
| | - Delfina Tosi
- Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20142 Milan, Italy; (N.P.); (E.L.); (M.C.); (M.F.); (D.T.); (D.G.); (V.C.); (L.C.)
- Unit of Pathology A.O. San Paolo, Via A. Di Rudinì 8, 20142 Milan, Italy
| | - Domenica Giannandrea
- Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20142 Milan, Italy; (N.P.); (E.L.); (M.C.); (M.F.); (D.T.); (D.G.); (V.C.); (L.C.)
| | - Valentina Citro
- Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20142 Milan, Italy; (N.P.); (E.L.); (M.C.); (M.F.); (D.T.); (D.G.); (V.C.); (L.C.)
| | - Lavinia Casati
- Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20142 Milan, Italy; (N.P.); (E.L.); (M.C.); (M.F.); (D.T.); (D.G.); (V.C.); (L.C.)
| | - Domenica Ronchetti
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20122 Milan, Italy; (D.R.); (N.B.)
| | - Niccolò Bolli
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20122 Milan, Italy; (D.R.); (N.B.)
- Hematology, Fondazione Cà Granda IRCCS Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Antonino Neri
- Scientific Directorate, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy;
| | - Federica Torricelli
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy;
| | - Leslie A. Crews
- Division of Regenerative Medicine, Department of Medicine, Moores Cancer Center, University of California, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; (L.A.C.); (C.H.M.J.)
| | - Catriona H. M. Jamieson
- Division of Regenerative Medicine, Department of Medicine, Moores Cancer Center, University of California, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; (L.A.C.); (C.H.M.J.)
- UC San Diego Sanford, Stem Cell Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Raffaella Chiaramonte
- Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20142 Milan, Italy; (N.P.); (E.L.); (M.C.); (M.F.); (D.T.); (D.G.); (V.C.); (L.C.)
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Novel scFv against Notch Ligand JAG1 Suitable for Development of Cell Therapies toward JAG1-Positive Tumors. Biomolecules 2023; 13:biom13030459. [PMID: 36979394 PMCID: PMC10046313 DOI: 10.3390/biom13030459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The Notch signaling ligand JAG1 is overexpressed in various aggressive tumors and is associated with poor clinical prognosis. Hence, therapies targeting oncogenic JAG1 hold great potential for the treatment of certain tumors. Here, we report the identification of specific anti-JAG1 single-chain variable fragments (scFvs), one of them endowing chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells with cytotoxicity against JAG1-positive cells. Anti-JAG1 scFvs were identified from human phage display libraries, reformatted into full-length monoclonal antibodies (Abs), and produced in mammalian cells. The characterization of these Abs identified two specific anti-JAG1 Abs (J1.B5 and J1.F1) with nanomolar affinities. Cloning the respective scFv sequences in our second- and third-generation CAR backbones resulted in six anti-JAG1 CAR constructs, which were screened for JAG1-mediated T-cell activation in Jurkat T cells in coculture assays with JAG1-positive cell lines. Studies in primary T cells demonstrated that one CAR harboring the J1.B5 scFv significantly induced effective T-cell activation in the presence of JAG1-positive, but not in JAG1-knockout, cancer cells, and enabled specific killing of JAG1-positive cells. Thus, this new anti-JAG1 scFv represents a promising candidate for the development of cell therapies against JAG1-positive tumors.
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5
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Guo M, Niu Y, Xie M, Liu X, Li X. Notch signaling, hypoxia, and cancer. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1078768. [PMID: 36798826 PMCID: PMC9927648 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1078768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Notch signaling is involved in cell fate determination and deregulated in human solid tumors. Hypoxia is an important feature in many solid tumors, which activates hypoxia-induced factors (HIFs) and their downstream targets to promote tumorigenesis and cancer development. Recently, HIFs have been shown to trigger the Notch signaling pathway in a variety of organisms and tissues. In this review, we focus on the pro- and anti-tumorigenic functions of Notch signaling and discuss the crosstalk between Notch signaling and cellular hypoxic response in cancer pathogenesis, including epithelia-mesenchymal transition, angiogenesis, and the maintenance of cancer stem cells. The pharmacological strategies targeting Notch signaling and hypoxia in cancer are also discussed in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingzhou Guo
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China,Key Laboratory of Pulmonary Diseases of National Health Commission, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Sciences and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yang Niu
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China,Key Laboratory of Pulmonary Diseases of National Health Commission, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Sciences and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Min Xie
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China,Key Laboratory of Pulmonary Diseases of National Health Commission, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Sciences and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiansheng Liu
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China,Key Laboratory of Pulmonary Diseases of National Health Commission, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Sciences and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaochen Li
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China,Key Laboratory of Pulmonary Diseases of National Health Commission, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Sciences and Technology, Wuhan, China,*Correspondence: Xiaochen Li,
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6
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He J, Li L, Lv L, Chen X, Ge M, Ren Y, Tang X, Liu P, Gao W. JAG1 is correlated to suppressive immune microenvironment and predicts immunotherapy resistance in lung adenocarcinoma. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1091488. [PMID: 36923423 PMCID: PMC10009168 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1091488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The current exploration of the tumor immune microenvironment is enthusiastic, but few studies explored the impact of angiogenesis on the immune microenvironment. Immunotherapy combined with anti-angiogenesis therapy has become one of the first-line treatment for lung adenocarcinoma. Our study aimed to explore the reasons for resistance of immunotherapy, and explore markers for immunotherapy combined with anti-angiogenesis therapy. Methods First, by unsupervised clustering of 36 angiogenesis-related genes in lung adenocarcinoma patients from TCGA database, AGS1 and AGS2 groups were distinguished with significantly different clinical outcomes. Secondly, the immune microenvironment and metabolic characteristics were analyzed. Next, we used the GDSC and GEO database to analyze therapeutic responses. Then, through multivariate Cox regression, the hub gene: JAG1, significantly related to prognosis was selected, and further verified by multi-omics data. Finally, we validated that patient with high JAG1 expression had a low immune-infiltrating tumor microenvironment through single-cell transcriptomic data. Results Compared with the AGS1 group, AGS2 showed an immune "cold" phenotype with lower lymphocyte infiltration, and was associated with worse prognoses. At the same time, the immunosuppressive TGF-β response was significantly higher in AGS2. Furthermore, the glycolysis ability of the AGS2 was stronger than AGS1. The expression of JAG1 was significantly higher in the AGS2, and was significantly negatively correlated with the degree of immune infiltration, accompanying with higher glycolytic capacity. The above results indicate that patients with high expression of JAG1 may lead to immunosuppressive phenotype due to its strong glycolytic capacity, thus making immunotherapy resistance. Conclusion Patients with high expression of JAG1 enhanced glycolytic capacity was likely to cause suppressed immune microenvironment. JAG1 may be a marker for resistance of immunotherapy. Combining anti-angiogenesis therapy could be considered to improve the prognosis of those patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing He
- Department of Oncology, Jiangsu Province Hospital and Nanjing Medical University First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Lu Li
- State Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine and Innovative Drug Development, Jiangsu Sincere Diagnostics Co., Ltd., Nanjing, China.,Nanjing Sincere Medical Laboratory Science Co., Ltd., Nanjing, China
| | - Lulu Lv
- Department of Oncology, Jiangsu Province Hospital and Nanjing Medical University First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaoyan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine and Innovative Drug Development, Jiangsu Sincere Diagnostics Co., Ltd., Nanjing, China.,Nanjing Sincere Medical Laboratory Science Co., Ltd., Nanjing, China
| | - Minghui Ge
- State Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine and Innovative Drug Development, Jiangsu Sincere Diagnostics Co., Ltd., Nanjing, China.,Nanjing Sincere Medical Laboratory Science Co., Ltd., Nanjing, China
| | - Yong Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine and Innovative Drug Development, Jiangsu Sincere Diagnostics Co., Ltd., Nanjing, China.,Nanjing Sincere Medical Laboratory Science Co., Ltd., Nanjing, China
| | - Xinyu Tang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Jiangsu Province Hospital and Nanjing Medical University First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Ping Liu
- Department of Oncology, Jiangsu Province Hospital and Nanjing Medical University First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Wen Gao
- Department of Oncology, Jiangsu Province Hospital and Nanjing Medical University First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing, China
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Zhang L, Chen W, Liu S, Chen C. Targeting Breast Cancer Stem Cells. Int J Biol Sci 2023; 19:552-570. [PMID: 36632469 PMCID: PMC9830502 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.76187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The potential roles of breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) in tumor initiation and recurrence have been recognized for many decades. Due to their strong capacity for self-renewal and differentiation, BCSCs are the major reasons for poor clinical outcomes and low therapeutic response. Several hypotheses on the origin of cancer stem cells have been proposed, including critical gene mutations in stem cells, dedifferentiation of somatic cells, and cell plasticity remodeling by epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and the tumor microenvironment. Moreover, the tumor microenvironment, including cellular components and cytokines, modulates the self-renewal and therapeutic resistance of BCSCs. Small molecules, antibodies, and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cells targeting BCSCs have been developed, and their applications in combination with conventional therapies are undergoing clinical trials. In this review, we focus on the features of BCSCs, emphasize the major factors and tumor environment that regulate the stemness of BCSCs, and discuss potential BCSC-targeting therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Zhang
- Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center & Institutes of Biomedical Sciences; State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering; Cancer Institutes; Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai; The Shanghai paracrine Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology; The International Co-laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Ministry of Science and Technology; Shanghai Medical College; Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Wenmin Chen
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of Chinese Academy of Sciences and Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Kunming 650201, China.,Kunming College of Life Sciences, the University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650201, China
| | - Suling Liu
- Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center & Institutes of Biomedical Sciences; State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering; Cancer Institutes; Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai; The Shanghai paracrine Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology; The International Co-laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Ministry of Science and Technology; Shanghai Medical College; Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.,Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China.,✉ Corresponding authors: Ceshi Chen, E-mail: or Suling Liu, E-mail:
| | - Ceshi Chen
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of Chinese Academy of Sciences and Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Kunming 650201, China.,Academy of Biomedical Engineering, Kunming Medical University, Kunming 650500, China.,The Third Affiliated Hospital, Kunming Medical University, Kunming 650118, China.,✉ Corresponding authors: Ceshi Chen, E-mail: or Suling Liu, E-mail:
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Chen X, Wan H, Bai Y, Zhang Y, Hua Q. Advances in Understanding the Notch Signaling Pathway in the Cochlea. Curr Pharm Des 2023; 29:3266-3273. [PMID: 37990430 DOI: 10.2174/0113816128273532231103110910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
The cochlear structure is highly complex and specific, and its development is regulated by multiple signaling pathways. Abnormalities in cochlear development can lead to different degrees of loss of function. Hair cells (HCs), which are difficult to regenerate in the mature mammalian cochlea, are susceptible to damage from noise and ototoxic drugs, and damage to HCs can cause hearing loss to varying degrees. Notch, a classical developmental signaling molecule, has been shown to be closely associated with embryonic cochlear development and plays an important role in HC regeneration in mammals, suggesting that the Notch signaling pathway may be a potential therapeutic target for cochlear development and hearing impairment due to HC damage. In recent years, the important role of the Notch signaling pathway in the cochlea has received increasing attention. In this paper, we review the role of Notch signaling in cochlear development and HC regeneration, with the aim of providing new research ideas for the prevention and treatment of related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoying Chen
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Huanzhi Wan
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Yutong Bai
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Yuanyuan Zhang
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Qingquan Hua
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China
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9
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Shen M, Kang Y. Cancer fitness genes: emerging therapeutic targets for metastasis. Trends Cancer 2023; 9:69-82. [PMID: 36184492 DOI: 10.1016/j.trecan.2022.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Development of cancer therapeutics has traditionally focused on targeting driver oncogenes. Such an approach is limited by toxicity to normal tissues and treatment resistance. A class of 'cancer fitness genes' with crucial roles in metastasis have been identified. Elevated or altered activities of these genes do not directly cause cancer; instead, they relieve the stresses that tumor cells encounter and help them adapt to a changing microenvironment, thus facilitating tumor progression and metastasis. Importantly, as normal cells do not experience high levels of stress under physiological conditions, targeting cancer fitness genes is less likely to cause toxicity to noncancerous tissues. Here, we summarize the key features and function of cancer fitness genes and discuss their therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minhong Shen
- Department of Pharmacology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Michigan, MI, USA; Department of Oncology, Wayne State University School of Medicine and Tumor Biology and Microenvironment Research Program, Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Michigan, MI, USA.
| | - Yibin Kang
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA; Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research Princeton Branch, Princeton, NJ, USA.
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10
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Pollini T, Adsay V, Capurso G, Molin MD, Esposito I, Hruban R, Luchini C, Maggino L, Matthaei H, Marchegiani G, Scarpa A, Wood LD, Bassi C, Salvia R, Mino-Kenudson M, Maker AV. The tumour immune microenvironment and microbiome of pancreatic intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms. Lancet Gastroenterol Hepatol 2022; 7:1141-1150. [PMID: 36057265 PMCID: PMC9844533 DOI: 10.1016/s2468-1253(22)00235-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Revised: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMNs) have gained substantial attention because they represent one of the only radiographically identifiable precursors of invasive pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Although most of these neoplasms have low-grade dysplasia and will remain indolent, a subset of IPMNs will progress to invasive cancer. The role of the immune system in the progression of IPMNs is unclear, but understanding its role could reveal the mechanism of neoplastic progression and targets for immunotherapy to inhibit progression or treat invasive disease. The available evidence supports a shift in the immune composition of IPMNs during neoplastic progression. Although low-grade lesions contain a high proportion of effector T cells, high-grade IPMNs, and IPMNs with an associated invasive carcinoma lose the T-cell infiltrate and are characterised by a predominance of immunosuppressive elements. Several possible therapeutic strategies emerge from this analysis that are unique to IPMNs and its microbiome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tommaso Pollini
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA,Department of General and Pancreatic Surgery, The Pancreas Institute, Section of Pathology University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Volcan Adsay
- Department of Pathology, Koç University Hospital and Koç University Research Center for Translational Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Gabriele Capurso
- Department of Pancreatobiliary Endoscopy and Endosonography, Pancreas Translational and Clinical Research Center, IRCCS San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Dal Molin
- Department of Surgery, University of Maryland Medical Center, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Irene Esposito
- Department of Pathology, Heinrich Heine University and University Hospital of Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Ralph Hruban
- Department of Pathology, the Sol Goldman Pancreatic Cancer Research Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MA, USA
| | - Claudio Luchini
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Section of Pathology University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Laura Maggino
- Department of General and Pancreatic Surgery, The Pancreas Institute, Section of Pathology University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Hanno Matthaei
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Giovanni Marchegiani
- Department of General and Pancreatic Surgery, The Pancreas Institute, Section of Pathology University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Aldo Scarpa
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Section of Pathology University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Laura D Wood
- Department of Pathology, the Sol Goldman Pancreatic Cancer Research Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MA, USA
| | - Claudio Bassi
- Department of General and Pancreatic Surgery, The Pancreas Institute, Section of Pathology University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Roberto Salvia
- Department of General and Pancreatic Surgery, The Pancreas Institute, Section of Pathology University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Mari Mino-Kenudson
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ajay V Maker
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
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11
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Ye M, Du J, Wang X, Xiu L, Liu X, Gu Y, Pei B, Sun D, Yue X. Xiaotansanjiefang inhibits the viability of colorectal cancer cells via Jagged 1/Notch 3/Snail signaling pathway. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2022; 37:2957-2964. [PMID: 36039874 PMCID: PMC9804677 DOI: 10.1002/tox.23651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to explore the anti-colorectal cancer of Xiaotansanjiefang, a famous traditional Chinese medicine, and its potential anti-cancer mechanism. In this study, the HCT116 cell spheres were prepared as in vitro study model. We found the Xiaotansanjiefang medication was able to inhibit the proliferation of HCT116 cell spheres in a dose-dependent manner, especially in 3 and 6 mg/ml Xiaotansanjiefang medication treated groups. We also found the high concentration of Xiaotansanjiefang medication could suppress the migration and promote the apoptosis of HCT116 cell spheres. Moreover, we found the expression of Jagged 1, Notch 3, Snail, and Hes 1 were decreased in HCT116 cell spheres treated with Xiaotansanjiefang medication. Furthermore, the proliferation and apoptosis behaviors of HCT116 cell spheres treated with Xiaotansanjiefang medication were reversed with the addition of Jagged 1 Fc chimera protein. The expression of Jagged 1, Notch 3, Snail, and Hes 1 were also increased again in HCT116 cells treated with Xiaotansanjiefang medication plus with Jagged 1 Fc chimera protein. The presented study may provide a promising strategy to treat and prevent colorectal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Ye
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changzheng HospitalSecond Military Medical UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Jiaqi Du
- Department of Bai's Proctology, Shuguang HospitalShanghai University of Traditional Chinese MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Xiaowei Wang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changzheng HospitalSecond Military Medical UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Lijuan Xiu
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changzheng HospitalSecond Military Medical UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Xuan Liu
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changzheng HospitalSecond Military Medical UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Yufang Gu
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changzheng HospitalSecond Military Medical UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Bei Pei
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changzheng HospitalSecond Military Medical UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Dazhi Sun
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changzheng HospitalSecond Military Medical UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Xiaoqiang Yue
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changzheng HospitalSecond Military Medical UniversityShanghaiChina
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12
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Meng Y, Sanlidag S, Jensen SA, Burnap SA, Struwe WB, Larsen AH, Feng X, Mittal S, Sansom MSP, Sahlgren C, Handford PA. An N-glycan on the C2 domain of JAGGED1 is important for Notch activation. Sci Signal 2022; 15:eabo3507. [PMID: 36219682 DOI: 10.1126/scisignal.abo3507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
The canonical members of the Jagged/Serrate and Delta families of transmembrane ligands have an extracellular, amino-terminal C2 domain that binds to phospholipids and is required for optimal activation of the Notch receptor. Somatic mutations that cause amino substitutions in the C2 domain in human JAGGED1 (JAG1) have been identified in tumors. We found in reporter cell assays that mutations affecting an N-glycosylation site reduced the ligand's ability to activate Notch. This N-glycosylation site located in the C2 domain is conserved in the Jagged/Serrate family but is lacking in the Delta family. Site-specific glycan analysis of the JAG1 amino terminus demonstrated that occupancy of this site by either a complex-type or high-mannose N-glycan was required for full Notch activation in reporter cell assays. Similarly to JAG1 variants with defects in Notch binding, N-glycan removal, either by mutagenesis of the glycosylation site or by endoglycosidase treatment, reduced receptor activation. The N-glycan variants also reduced receptor activation in a Notch signaling-dependent vascular smooth muscle cell differentiation assay. Loss of the C2 N-glycan reduced JAG1 binding to liposomes to a similar extent as the loss of the entire C2 domain. Molecular dynamics simulations suggested that the presence of the N-glycan limits the orientation of JAG1 relative to the membrane, thus facilitating Notch binding. These data are consistent with a critical role for the N-glycan in promoting a lipid-binding conformation that is required to orient Jagged at the cell membrane for full Notch activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Meng
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX1 3QU, UK
| | - Sami Sanlidag
- Faculty for Science and Engineering, Biosciences, Åbo Akademi University, Turku, Finland.,Turku Bioscience Centre, Åbo Akademi University and University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Sacha A Jensen
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX1 3QU, UK
| | - Sean A Burnap
- Kavli Institute for NanoScience Discovery and Physical and Theoretical Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Weston B Struwe
- Kavli Institute for NanoScience Discovery and Physical and Theoretical Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Andreas H Larsen
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX1 3QU, UK
| | - Xinyi Feng
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX1 3QU, UK
| | - Shruti Mittal
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX1 3QU, UK
| | - Mark S P Sansom
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX1 3QU, UK
| | - Cecilia Sahlgren
- Faculty for Science and Engineering, Biosciences, Åbo Akademi University, Turku, Finland.,Turku Bioscience Centre, Åbo Akademi University and University of Turku, Turku, Finland.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, Netherlands.,Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, Netherlands
| | - Penny A Handford
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX1 3QU, UK
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13
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The cell-line-derived subcutaneous tumor model in preclinical cancer research. Nat Protoc 2022; 17:2108-2128. [PMID: 35859135 DOI: 10.1038/s41596-022-00709-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Tumor-bearing experimental animals are essential for preclinical cancer drug development. A broad range of tumor models is available, with the simplest and most widely used involving a tumor of mouse or human origin growing beneath the skin of a mouse: the subcutaneous tumor model. Here, we outline the different types of in vivo tumor model, including some of their advantages and disadvantages and how they fit into the drug-development process. We then describe in more detail the subcutaneous tumor model and key steps needed to establish it in the laboratory, namely: choosing the mouse strain and tumor cells; cell culture, preparation and injection of tumor cells; determining tumor volume; mouse welfare; and an appropriate experimental end point. The protocol leads to subcutaneous tumor growth usually within 1-3 weeks of cell injection and is suitable for those with experience in tissue culture and mouse experimentation.
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14
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Danielpour D, Corum S, Leahy P, Bangalore A. Jagged-1 is induced by mTOR inhibitors in renal cancer cells through an Akt/ALK5/Smad4-dependent mechanism. CURRENT RESEARCH IN PHARMACOLOGY AND DRUG DISCOVERY 2022; 3:100117. [PMID: 35992379 PMCID: PMC9389240 DOI: 10.1016/j.crphar.2022.100117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) plays an important role in the aggressiveness and therapeutic resistance of many cancers. Targeting mTOR continues to be under clinical investigation for cancer therapy. Despite the notable clinical success of mTOR inhibitors in extending the overall survival of patients with certain malignancies including metastatic renal cell carcinomas (RCCs), the overall impact of mTOR inhibitors on cancers has been generally disappointing and attributed to various compensatory responses. Here we provide the first report that expression of the Notch ligand Jagged-1 (JAG1), which is associated with aggressiveness of RCCs, is induced by several inhibitors of mTOR (rapamycin (Rap), BEZ235, KU-0063794) in human clear cell RCC (ccRCC) cells. Using both molecular and chemical inhibitors of PI3K, Akt, and TGF-β signaling, we provide evidence that the induction of JAG1 expression by mTOR inhibitors in ccRCC cells depends on the activation of Akt and occurs through an ALK5 kinase/Smad4-dependent mechanism. Furthermore, we show that mTOR inhibitors activate Notch1 and induce the expression of drivers of epithelial-mesenchymal transition, notably Hic-5 and Slug. Silencing JAG1 with selective shRNAs blocked the ability of KU-0063794 and Rap to induce Hic-5 in ccRCC cells. Moreover, Rap enhanced TGF-β-induced expression of Hic-5 and Slug, both of which were repressed in JAG1-silenced ccRCC cells. Silencing JAG1 selectively decreased the motility of ccRCC cells treated with Rap or TGF-β1. Moreover, inhibition of Notch signaling with γ-secretase inhibitors enhanced or permitted mTOR inhibitors to suppress the motility of ccRCC cells. We suggest targeting JAG1 may enhance therapeutic responses to mTOR inhibitors in ccRCCs.
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Key Words
- ALK5, Activin-like kinase 5 (TGF-β type I receptor)
- ANOVA, Analysis of variance
- Akt
- BEZ235
- BSA, Bovine serum albumin
- EDTA, Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid
- EMT
- FBS, Fetal bovine serum
- Hic-5
- Hic-5, Hydrogen peroxide-inducible clone 5, also known as transforming growth factor beta induced transcript
- IRS-1, Insulin receptor substrate-1
- JAG1, Jagged-1
- KU-0063794
- MAML-1, Mastermind-like protein-1
- Myr, Myristoylated
- PI3K
- PI3K, Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase
- RCC, RCC
- Rap, Rapamycin
- Rapamycin
- Renal cancer
- Rheb, Ras homologue enriched in brain
- SE, Standard error
- Slug
- Slug, Snail family of transcription factors encoded by the SNAI2 gene
- Smad, Mothers against decapentaplegic homolog
- Smad4
- TGF-beta
- TGF-β, Transforming growth factor-beta
- TSC, Tuberous Sclerosis Complex
- TβRI, Transforming growth factor β receptor type 1
- TβRII, Transforming growth factor β receptor type 2
- ccRCC, Clear cell renal cell carcinoma
- mRCC, Metastatic renal cell carcinoma
- mTOR
- mTORC1, Mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1
- mTORC2, Mammalian target of rapamycin complex 2
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Affiliation(s)
- David Danielpour
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center Research Laboratories, The Division of General Medical Sciences-Oncology Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
- Department of Pharmacology Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
- Department of Urology University Hospitals of Cleveland, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Sarah Corum
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center Research Laboratories, The Division of General Medical Sciences-Oncology Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Patrick Leahy
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center Research Laboratories, The Division of General Medical Sciences-Oncology Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Anusha Bangalore
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center Research Laboratories, The Division of General Medical Sciences-Oncology Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
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15
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Anti-Jagged-1 immunotherapy in cancer. Adv Med Sci 2022; 67:196-202. [PMID: 35421813 DOI: 10.1016/j.advms.2022.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Notch signaling is a highly conserved pathway and it plays an essential role in regulating cellular proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. The human Notch family includes four receptors, Notch 1-4, and five ligands, delta-like ligand 1 (DLL1), delta-like ligand 3 (DLL3), delta-like ligand 4 (DLL4), Jagged-1 (JAG1), and Jagged-2 (JAG2). It is widely known, that Notch signaling components are often mutated and have deregulated expression in many types of cancer and other diseases. Thus, various therapeutic approaches targeting receptors and ligands of the Notch pathway are being investigated. Human JAG1 is closely related to tumor biology among the Notch ligands, and recent studies have shown potential for monoclonal antibodies targeting JAG1 in cancer therapy. Therefore, this review focuses on current reports on the significance of JAG1 directed cancer treatment, emphasizing immunotherapy.
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16
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Notch signaling pathway: architecture, disease, and therapeutics. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2022; 7:95. [PMID: 35332121 PMCID: PMC8948217 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-022-00934-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 231] [Impact Index Per Article: 115.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The NOTCH gene was identified approximately 110 years ago. Classical studies have revealed that NOTCH signaling is an evolutionarily conserved pathway. NOTCH receptors undergo three cleavages and translocate into the nucleus to regulate the transcription of target genes. NOTCH signaling deeply participates in the development and homeostasis of multiple tissues and organs, the aberration of which results in cancerous and noncancerous diseases. However, recent studies indicate that the outcomes of NOTCH signaling are changeable and highly dependent on context. In terms of cancers, NOTCH signaling can both promote and inhibit tumor development in various types of cancer. The overall performance of NOTCH-targeted therapies in clinical trials has failed to meet expectations. Additionally, NOTCH mutation has been proposed as a predictive biomarker for immune checkpoint blockade therapy in many cancers. Collectively, the NOTCH pathway needs to be integrally assessed with new perspectives to inspire discoveries and applications. In this review, we focus on both classical and the latest findings related to NOTCH signaling to illustrate the history, architecture, regulatory mechanisms, contributions to physiological development, related diseases, and therapeutic applications of the NOTCH pathway. The contributions of NOTCH signaling to the tumor immune microenvironment and cancer immunotherapy are also highlighted. We hope this review will help not only beginners but also experts to systematically and thoroughly understand the NOTCH signaling pathway.
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17
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FAS receptor regulates NOTCH activity through ERK-JAG1 axis activation and controls oral cancer stemness ability and pulmonary metastasis. Cell Death Dis 2022; 8:101. [PMID: 35249111 PMCID: PMC8898312 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-022-00899-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
AbstractPulmonary metastasis occurring via the colonization of circulating cancer stem cells is a major cause of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC)-related death. Thus, understanding the mechanism of OSCC pulmonary metastasis may provide a new opportunity for OSCC treatment. FAS, a well-known apoptosis-inducing death receptor, has multiple nonapoptotic, protumorigenic functions. Previously, we found that SAS OSCC cells with FAS receptor knockout did not affect orthotopic tumor growth or cervical lymph node metastasis. However, FAS knockout cells could not colonize in distant organs to form metastases upon intravenous injection, which hinted at the cancer stemness function of the FAS receptor. Immunohistochemistry staining indicated that the FAS receptor serves as a poor prognosis marker in OSCC patients. FAS knockout inhibited in vitro cancer spheroid formation, migration and invasion, and prevented mesenchymal transition in OSCC cells and inhibited OSCC pulmonary metastasis in vivo. To determine the regulatory mechanism by which the FAS receptor exerts its oncogenic function, we utilized cDNA microarrays and phosphoprotein arrays to discover key candidate genes and signaling pathway regulators. JAG1 expression and NOTCH pathway activation were controlled by the FAS receptor through ERK phosphorylation. Both JAG1 and NOTCH1 silencing decreased in vitro cancer spheroid formation. In OSCC cells, FAS ligand or JAG1 protein treatment increased NOTCH pathway activity, which could be abolished by FAS receptor knockout. In FAS knockout cells, restoring the NOTCH1 intracellular domain stimulated cancer spheroid formation. Both JAG1 and NOTCH1 silencing decreased in vivo OSCC growth. In conclusion, we found a novel FAS-ERK-JAG1-NOTCH1 axis that may contribute to OSCC stemness and pulmonary metastasis.
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18
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Dahn ML, Walsh HR, Dean CA, Giacomantonio MA, Fernando W, Murphy JP, Walker OL, Wasson MCD, Gujar S, Pinto DM, Marcato P. Metabolite profiling reveals a connection between aldehyde dehydrogenase 1A3 and GABA metabolism in breast cancer metastasis. Metabolomics 2022; 18:9. [PMID: 34989902 PMCID: PMC8739322 DOI: 10.1007/s11306-021-01864-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 12/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Aldehyde dehydrogenase 1A3 (ALDH1A3) is a cancer stem cell (CSC) marker and in breast cancer it is associated with triple-negative/basal-like subtypes and aggressive disease. Studies on the mechanisms of ALDH1A3 in cancer have primarily focused on gene expression changes induced by the enzyme; however, its effects on metabolism have thus far been unstudied and may reveal novel mechanisms of pathogenesis. OBJECTIVE Determine how ALDH1A3 alters the metabolite profile in breast cancer cells and assess potential impacts. METHOD Triple-negative MDA-MB-231 tumors and cells with manipulated ALDH1A3 levels were assessed by HPLC-MS metabolomics and metabolite data was integrated with transcriptome data. Mice harboring MDA-MB-231 tumors with or without altered ALDH1A3 expression were treated with γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) or placebo. Effects on tumor growth, and lungs and brain metastasis were quantified by staining of fixed thin sections and quantitative PCR. Breast cancer patient datasets from TCGA, METABRIC and GEO were used to assess the co-expression of GABA pathway genes with ALDH1A3. RESULTS Integrated metabolomic and transcriptome data identified GABA metabolism as a primary dysregulated pathway in ALDH1A3 expressing breast tumors. Both ALDH1A3 and GABA treatment enhanced metastasis. Patient dataset analyses revealed expression association between ALDH1A3 and GABA pathway genes and corresponding increased risk of metastasis. CONCLUSION This study revealed a novel pathway affected by ALDH1A3, GABA metabolism. Like ALDH1A3 expression, GABA treatment promotes metastasis. Given the clinical use of GABA mimics to relieve chemotherapy-induced peripheral nerve pain, further study of the effects of GABA in breast cancer progression is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret L Dahn
- Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Hayley R Walsh
- Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Cheryl A Dean
- Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | | | | | - J Patrick Murphy
- Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Department of Biology, University of Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown, PEI, Canada
| | - Olivia L Walker
- Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | | | - Shashi Gujar
- Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Devanand M Pinto
- Human Health Therapeutics Research Centre, National Research Council of Canada, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Paola Marcato
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada.
- Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Rm 11C1, 5850 College Street, Halifax, NS, B3H 4R2, Canada.
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19
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Seguro Paula F, Delgado Alves J. The role of the Notch pathway in the pathogenesis of systemic sclerosis: clinical implications. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2021; 17:1257-1267. [PMID: 34719325 DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2021.2000391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a chronic debilitating disease characterized by vascular insufficiency, widespread fibrosis and immune activation. Current understanding of its pathophysiology remains incomplete, which translates into inefficient therapies. Notch signaling is a central player in the development of physiological and pathological fibrosis not only in general but also in the context of SSc and is most likely involved in the vascular dysfunction that characterizes the disease. AREAS COVERED This review explores the role of the Notch pathway in the pathophysiology of SSc and the potential implications for the diagnosis, evaluation, and management of this yet incurable disease. EXPERT OPINION Although major issues still exist about the comprehension of SSc and the design of effective treatments, the knowledge of the role of the Notch pathway in fibrogenesis and vascular biology has shed light and enthusiasm over the field. Drugs that target components of Notch signaling are currently in development including already some in clinical trials. As such, Notch may become a very important topic in the near future (considering both the pathophysiology and treatment perspectives), not only in the context of SSc but also in the vascular-dependent fibrotic processes present in a multitude of diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filipe Seguro Paula
- Immune Response and Vascular Disease, Chronic Diseases Research Center (CEDOC), Nova Medical School, Lisbon, Portugal.,Systemic Immune-mediated Diseases Unit, Fernando Fonseca Hospital, Amadora, Portugal
| | - José Delgado Alves
- Immune Response and Vascular Disease, Chronic Diseases Research Center (CEDOC), Nova Medical School, Lisbon, Portugal.,Systemic Immune-mediated Diseases Unit, Fernando Fonseca Hospital, Amadora, Portugal
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20
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Zhdanovskaya N, Firrincieli M, Lazzari S, Pace E, Scribani Rossi P, Felli MP, Talora C, Screpanti I, Palermo R. Targeting Notch to Maximize Chemotherapeutic Benefits: Rationale, Advanced Strategies, and Future Perspectives. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13205106. [PMID: 34680255 PMCID: PMC8533696 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13205106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 10/03/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The Notch signaling pathway regulates cell proliferation, apoptosis, stem cell self-renewal, and differentiation in a context-dependent fashion both during embryonic development and in adult tissue homeostasis. Consistent with its pleiotropic physiological role, unproper activation of the signaling promotes or counteracts tumor pathogenesis and therapy response in distinct tissues. In the last twenty years, a wide number of studies have highlighted the anti-cancer potential of Notch-modulating agents as single treatment and in combination with the existent therapies. However, most of these strategies have failed in the clinical exploration due to dose-limiting toxicity and low efficacy, encouraging the development of novel agents and the design of more appropriate combinations between Notch signaling inhibitors and chemotherapeutic drugs with improved safety and effectiveness for distinct types of cancer. Abstract Notch signaling guides cell fate decisions by affecting proliferation, apoptosis, stem cell self-renewal, and differentiation depending on cell and tissue context. Given its multifaceted function during tissue development, both overactivation and loss of Notch signaling have been linked to tumorigenesis in ways that are either oncogenic or oncosuppressive, but always context-dependent. Notch signaling is critical for several mechanisms of chemoresistance including cancer stem cell maintenance, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, tumor-stroma interaction, and malignant neovascularization that makes its targeting an appealing strategy against tumor growth and recurrence. During the last decades, numerous Notch-interfering agents have been developed, and the abundant preclinical evidence has been transformed in orphan drug approval for few rare diseases. However, the majority of Notch-dependent malignancies remain untargeted, even if the application of Notch inhibitors alone or in combination with common chemotherapeutic drugs is being evaluated in clinical trials. The modest clinical success of current Notch-targeting strategies is mostly due to their limited efficacy and severe on-target toxicity in Notch-controlled healthy tissues. Here, we review the available preclinical and clinical evidence on combinatorial treatment between different Notch signaling inhibitors and existent chemotherapeutic drugs, providing a comprehensive picture of molecular mechanisms explaining the potential or lacking success of these combinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadezda Zhdanovskaya
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy; (N.Z.); (M.F.); (S.L.); (E.P.); (P.S.R.); (C.T.)
| | - Mariarosaria Firrincieli
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy; (N.Z.); (M.F.); (S.L.); (E.P.); (P.S.R.); (C.T.)
- Center for Life Nano Science, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Sara Lazzari
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy; (N.Z.); (M.F.); (S.L.); (E.P.); (P.S.R.); (C.T.)
| | - Eleonora Pace
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy; (N.Z.); (M.F.); (S.L.); (E.P.); (P.S.R.); (C.T.)
| | - Pietro Scribani Rossi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy; (N.Z.); (M.F.); (S.L.); (E.P.); (P.S.R.); (C.T.)
| | - Maria Pia Felli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy;
| | - Claudio Talora
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy; (N.Z.); (M.F.); (S.L.); (E.P.); (P.S.R.); (C.T.)
| | - Isabella Screpanti
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy; (N.Z.); (M.F.); (S.L.); (E.P.); (P.S.R.); (C.T.)
- Correspondence: (I.S.); (R.P.)
| | - Rocco Palermo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy; (N.Z.); (M.F.); (S.L.); (E.P.); (P.S.R.); (C.T.)
- Center for Life Nano Science, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 00161 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: (I.S.); (R.P.)
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21
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Silva G, Sales-Dias J, Casal D, Alves S, Domenici G, Barreto C, Matos C, Lemos AR, Matias AT, Kucheryava K, Ferreira A, Moita MR, Braga S, Brito C, Cabral MG, Casalou C, Barral DC, Sousa PMF, Videira PA, Bandeiras TM, Barbas A. Development of Dl1.72, a Novel Anti-DLL1 Antibody with Anti-Tumor Efficacy against Estrogen Receptor-Positive Breast Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13164074. [PMID: 34439228 PMCID: PMC8392387 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13164074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Over 70% of breast cancers (BCs) are estrogen receptor-positive (ER+). The development of endocrine therapy has considerably improved patient outcomes. However, there is a clinical need for novel effective therapies against ER+ BCs, since many of these do not respond to standard therapy, and more than one-third of responders acquire resistance, experience relapse and metastasize. The Notch ligand Delta-like 1 (DLL1) is a key player in ER+ BC development and aggressiveness. Contrary to complete Notch pharmacological inhibitors, antibody-targeting of individual Notch components is expected to have superior therapeutic efficacy and be better tolerated. In this study, we developed and characterized a novel specific anti-DLL1 antibody with efficacy in inhibiting BC cell proliferation, mammosphere formation and angiogenesis, as well as anti-tumor and anti-metastatic efficacy in an ER+ BC mouse model without side effects. Thus, our data suggest that this anti-DLL1 antibody is a promising candidate for ER+ BC treatment. Abstract The Notch-signaling ligand DLL1 has emerged as an important player and promising therapeutic target in breast cancer (BC). DLL1-induced Notch activation promotes tumor cell proliferation, survival, migration, angiogenesis and BC stem cell maintenance. In BC, DLL1 overexpression is associated with poor prognosis, particularly in estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) subtypes. Directed therapy in early and advanced BC has dramatically changed the natural course of ER+ BC; however, relapse is a major clinical issue, and new therapeutic strategies are needed. Here, we report the development and characterization of a novel monoclonal antibody specific to DLL1. Using phage display technology, we selected an anti-DLL1 antibody fragment, which was converted into a full human IgG1 (Dl1.72). The Dl1.72 antibody exhibited DLL1 specificity and affinity in the low nanomolar range and significantly impaired DLL1-Notch signaling and expression of Notch target genes in ER+ BC cells. Functionally, in vitro treatment with Dl1.72 reduced MCF-7 cell proliferation, migration, mammosphere formation and endothelial tube formation. In vivo, Dl1.72 significantly inhibited tumor growth, reducing both tumor cell proliferation and liver metastases in a xenograft mouse model, without apparent toxicity. These findings suggest that anti-DLL1 Dl1.72 could be an attractive agent against ER+ BC, warranting further preclinical investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Silva
- iBET, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, Apartado 12, 2781-901 Oeiras, Portugal; (J.S.-D.); (G.D.); (C.B.); (C.M.); (A.R.L.); (K.K.); (M.R.M.); (C.B.); (P.M.F.S.); (T.M.B.); (A.B.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +351-214-469-419
| | - Joana Sales-Dias
- iBET, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, Apartado 12, 2781-901 Oeiras, Portugal; (J.S.-D.); (G.D.); (C.B.); (C.M.); (A.R.L.); (K.K.); (M.R.M.); (C.B.); (P.M.F.S.); (T.M.B.); (A.B.)
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Av. da República, 2780-157 Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Diogo Casal
- Departamento de Anatomia, NOVA Medical School (NMS), Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 1150-082 Lisbon, Portugal; (D.C.); (S.A.)
- iNOVA4Health, CEDOC, NOVA Medical School (NMS), Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 1150-082 Lisbon, Portugal; (A.T.M.); (A.F.); (S.B.); (M.G.C.); (C.C.); (D.C.B.)
| | - Sara Alves
- Departamento de Anatomia, NOVA Medical School (NMS), Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 1150-082 Lisbon, Portugal; (D.C.); (S.A.)
- Serviço de Anatomia Patológica, Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Central-Hospital de São José, 1150-199 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Giacomo Domenici
- iBET, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, Apartado 12, 2781-901 Oeiras, Portugal; (J.S.-D.); (G.D.); (C.B.); (C.M.); (A.R.L.); (K.K.); (M.R.M.); (C.B.); (P.M.F.S.); (T.M.B.); (A.B.)
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Av. da República, 2780-157 Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Clara Barreto
- iBET, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, Apartado 12, 2781-901 Oeiras, Portugal; (J.S.-D.); (G.D.); (C.B.); (C.M.); (A.R.L.); (K.K.); (M.R.M.); (C.B.); (P.M.F.S.); (T.M.B.); (A.B.)
| | - Carolina Matos
- iBET, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, Apartado 12, 2781-901 Oeiras, Portugal; (J.S.-D.); (G.D.); (C.B.); (C.M.); (A.R.L.); (K.K.); (M.R.M.); (C.B.); (P.M.F.S.); (T.M.B.); (A.B.)
| | - Ana R. Lemos
- iBET, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, Apartado 12, 2781-901 Oeiras, Portugal; (J.S.-D.); (G.D.); (C.B.); (C.M.); (A.R.L.); (K.K.); (M.R.M.); (C.B.); (P.M.F.S.); (T.M.B.); (A.B.)
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Av. da República, 2780-157 Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Ana T. Matias
- iNOVA4Health, CEDOC, NOVA Medical School (NMS), Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 1150-082 Lisbon, Portugal; (A.T.M.); (A.F.); (S.B.); (M.G.C.); (C.C.); (D.C.B.)
| | - Khrystyna Kucheryava
- iBET, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, Apartado 12, 2781-901 Oeiras, Portugal; (J.S.-D.); (G.D.); (C.B.); (C.M.); (A.R.L.); (K.K.); (M.R.M.); (C.B.); (P.M.F.S.); (T.M.B.); (A.B.)
| | - Andreia Ferreira
- iBET, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, Apartado 12, 2781-901 Oeiras, Portugal; (J.S.-D.); (G.D.); (C.B.); (C.M.); (A.R.L.); (K.K.); (M.R.M.); (C.B.); (P.M.F.S.); (T.M.B.); (A.B.)
| | - Maria Raquel Moita
- iBET, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, Apartado 12, 2781-901 Oeiras, Portugal; (J.S.-D.); (G.D.); (C.B.); (C.M.); (A.R.L.); (K.K.); (M.R.M.); (C.B.); (P.M.F.S.); (T.M.B.); (A.B.)
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Av. da República, 2780-157 Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Sofia Braga
- iNOVA4Health, CEDOC, NOVA Medical School (NMS), Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 1150-082 Lisbon, Portugal; (A.T.M.); (A.F.); (S.B.); (M.G.C.); (C.C.); (D.C.B.)
- Unidade de Mama, Instituto CUF de Oncologia, 1998-018 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Catarina Brito
- iBET, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, Apartado 12, 2781-901 Oeiras, Portugal; (J.S.-D.); (G.D.); (C.B.); (C.M.); (A.R.L.); (K.K.); (M.R.M.); (C.B.); (P.M.F.S.); (T.M.B.); (A.B.)
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Av. da República, 2780-157 Oeiras, Portugal
| | - M. Guadalupe Cabral
- iNOVA4Health, CEDOC, NOVA Medical School (NMS), Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 1150-082 Lisbon, Portugal; (A.T.M.); (A.F.); (S.B.); (M.G.C.); (C.C.); (D.C.B.)
| | - Cristina Casalou
- iNOVA4Health, CEDOC, NOVA Medical School (NMS), Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 1150-082 Lisbon, Portugal; (A.T.M.); (A.F.); (S.B.); (M.G.C.); (C.C.); (D.C.B.)
| | - Duarte C. Barral
- iNOVA4Health, CEDOC, NOVA Medical School (NMS), Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 1150-082 Lisbon, Portugal; (A.T.M.); (A.F.); (S.B.); (M.G.C.); (C.C.); (D.C.B.)
| | - Pedro M. F. Sousa
- iBET, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, Apartado 12, 2781-901 Oeiras, Portugal; (J.S.-D.); (G.D.); (C.B.); (C.M.); (A.R.L.); (K.K.); (M.R.M.); (C.B.); (P.M.F.S.); (T.M.B.); (A.B.)
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Av. da República, 2780-157 Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Paula A. Videira
- UCIBIO, Departamento Ciências da Vida, Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal;
| | - Tiago M. Bandeiras
- iBET, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, Apartado 12, 2781-901 Oeiras, Portugal; (J.S.-D.); (G.D.); (C.B.); (C.M.); (A.R.L.); (K.K.); (M.R.M.); (C.B.); (P.M.F.S.); (T.M.B.); (A.B.)
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Av. da República, 2780-157 Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Ana Barbas
- iBET, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, Apartado 12, 2781-901 Oeiras, Portugal; (J.S.-D.); (G.D.); (C.B.); (C.M.); (A.R.L.); (K.K.); (M.R.M.); (C.B.); (P.M.F.S.); (T.M.B.); (A.B.)
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22
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Sales-Dias J, Ferreira A, Lamy M, Domenici G, Monteiro SMS, Pires A, Lemos AR, Kucheryava K, Nobre LS, Sousa PMF, Bandeiras TM, Silva G, Barbas A. Development of antibodies against the notch ligand Delta-Like-1 by phage display with activity against breast cancer cells. N Biotechnol 2021; 64:17-26. [PMID: 33992842 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbt.2021.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Notch signalling is a well-established oncogenic pathway, and its ligand Delta-like 1 (DLL1) is overexpressed in estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) breast cancers and associated with poor patient prognosis. Hence, DLL1 has become an interesting therapeutic target for breast cancer. Here, the development of specific functional blocking anti-DLL1 antibodies with potential activity against ER+ breast cancer cells is reported. Human DLL1 proteins, containing the essential regions for binding to the Notch receptor and Notch signalling activation, were produced and used to select specific scFv antibody fragments by phage display. Fifteen unique scFvs were identified and reformatted into full IgGs. Characterization of these antibodies by ELISA, surface plasmon resonance and flow cytometry enabled selection of three specific anti-DLL1 IgGs, sharing identical VH regions, with nM affinities. Cellular assays on ER+ breast cancer MCF-7 cells showed that one of the IgGs (IgG-69) was able to partially impair DLL1-mediated activation of the Notch pathway, as determined by Notch reporter and RT-qPCR assays, and to attenuate cell growth. Treatment of MCF-7 cells with IgG-69 reduced mammosphere formation, suggesting that it decreases the breast cancer stem cell subpopulation. These results support the use of this strategy to develop and identify potential anti-DLL1 antibodies candidates against breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Sales-Dias
- iBET, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, (Institute of Experimental and Technological Biology), Oeiras, Portugal; ITQB, Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, (Institute of Chemical and Biological Technology António Xavier), Nova University Lisbon, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Andreia Ferreira
- iBET, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, (Institute of Experimental and Technological Biology), Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Márcia Lamy
- iBET, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, (Institute of Experimental and Technological Biology), Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Giacomo Domenici
- iBET, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, (Institute of Experimental and Technological Biology), Oeiras, Portugal; ITQB, Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, (Institute of Chemical and Biological Technology António Xavier), Nova University Lisbon, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Sandra M S Monteiro
- iBET, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, (Institute of Experimental and Technological Biology), Oeiras, Portugal
| | - António Pires
- iBET, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, (Institute of Experimental and Technological Biology), Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Ana R Lemos
- iBET, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, (Institute of Experimental and Technological Biology), Oeiras, Portugal; ITQB, Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, (Institute of Chemical and Biological Technology António Xavier), Nova University Lisbon, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Khrystyna Kucheryava
- iBET, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, (Institute of Experimental and Technological Biology), Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Lígia S Nobre
- iBET, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, (Institute of Experimental and Technological Biology), Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Pedro M F Sousa
- iBET, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, (Institute of Experimental and Technological Biology), Oeiras, Portugal; ITQB, Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, (Institute of Chemical and Biological Technology António Xavier), Nova University Lisbon, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Tiago M Bandeiras
- iBET, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, (Institute of Experimental and Technological Biology), Oeiras, Portugal; ITQB, Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, (Institute of Chemical and Biological Technology António Xavier), Nova University Lisbon, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Gabriela Silva
- iBET, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, (Institute of Experimental and Technological Biology), Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Ana Barbas
- iBET, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, (Institute of Experimental and Technological Biology), Oeiras, Portugal; Bayer Portugal, LDA, Rua Quinta Do Pinheiro, Carnaxide, 2790-143, Portugal.
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23
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Condorelli AG, El Hachem M, Zambruno G, Nystrom A, Candi E, Castiglia D. Notch-ing up knowledge on molecular mechanisms of skin fibrosis: focus on the multifaceted Notch signalling pathway. J Biomed Sci 2021; 28:36. [PMID: 33966637 PMCID: PMC8106838 DOI: 10.1186/s12929-021-00732-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis can be defined as an excessive and deregulated deposition of extracellular matrix proteins, causing loss of physiological architecture and dysfunction of different tissues and organs. In the skin, fibrosis represents the hallmark of several acquired (e.g. systemic sclerosis and hypertrophic scars) and inherited (i.e. dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa) diseases. A complex series of interactions among a variety of cellular types and a wide range of molecular players drive the fibrogenic process, often in a context-dependent manner. However, the pathogenetic mechanisms leading to skin fibrosis are not completely elucidated. In this scenario, an increasing body of evidence has recently disclosed the involvement of Notch signalling cascade in fibrosis of the skin and other organs. Despite its apparent simplicity, Notch represents one of the most multifaceted, strictly regulated and intricate pathways with still unknown features both in health and disease conditions. Starting from the most recent advances in Notch activation and regulation, this review focuses on the pro-fibrotic function of Notch pathway in fibroproliferative skin disorders describing molecular networks, interplay with other pro-fibrotic molecules and pathways, including the transforming growth factor-β1, and therapeutic strategies under development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelo Giuseppe Condorelli
- Genodermatosis Unit, Genetics and Rare Diseases Research Division, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Piazza Sant' Onofrio 4, 00165, Rome, Italy.
| | - May El Hachem
- Dermatology Unit and Genodermatosis Unit, Genetics and Rare Diseases Research Division, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Piazza Sant' Onofrio 4, 00165, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanna Zambruno
- Genodermatosis Unit, Genetics and Rare Diseases Research Division, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Piazza Sant' Onofrio 4, 00165, Rome, Italy
| | - Alexander Nystrom
- Department of Dermatology, Medical Faculty, Medical Center, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Eleonora Candi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", via Montpellier, 1, 00133, Rome, Italy.,IDI-IRCCS, via Monti di Creta 104, 00167, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniele Castiglia
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cell Biology, IDI-IRCCS, via Monti di Creta 104, 00167, Rome, Italy
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24
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Christopoulos PF, Gjølberg TT, Krüger S, Haraldsen G, Andersen JT, Sundlisæter E. Targeting the Notch Signaling Pathway in Chronic Inflammatory Diseases. Front Immunol 2021; 12:668207. [PMID: 33912195 PMCID: PMC8071949 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.668207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The Notch signaling pathway regulates developmental cell-fate decisions and has recently also been linked to inflammatory diseases. Although therapies targeting Notch signaling in inflammation in theory are attractive, their design and implementation have proven difficult, at least partly due to the broad involvement of Notch signaling in regenerative and homeostatic processes. In this review, we summarize the supporting role of Notch signaling in various inflammation-driven diseases, and highlight efforts to intervene with this pathway by targeting Notch ligands and/or receptors with distinct therapeutic strategies, including antibody designs. We discuss this in light of lessons learned from Notch targeting in cancer treatment. Finally, we elaborate on the impact of individual Notch members in inflammation, which may lay the foundation for development of therapeutic strategies in chronic inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Torleif T. Gjølberg
- Institute of Clinical Medicine and Department of Pharmacology, University of Oslo and Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Centre for Eye Research and Department of Ophthalmology, University of Oslo and Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Immunology, University of Oslo and Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Stig Krüger
- Department of Pathology, University of Oslo and Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Guttorm Haraldsen
- Department of Pathology, University of Oslo and Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Jan Terje Andersen
- Institute of Clinical Medicine and Department of Pharmacology, University of Oslo and Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Immunology, University of Oslo and Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Eirik Sundlisæter
- Department of Pathology, University of Oslo and Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
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25
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Giovannini C, Fornari F, Piscaglia F, Gramantieri L. Notch Signaling Regulation in HCC: From Hepatitis Virus to Non-Coding RNAs. Cells 2021; 10:cells10030521. [PMID: 33804511 PMCID: PMC8000248 DOI: 10.3390/cells10030521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The Notch family includes evolutionary conserved genes that encode for single-pass transmembrane receptors involved in stem cell maintenance, development and cell fate determination of many cell lineages. Upon activation by different ligands, and depending on the cell type, Notch signaling plays pleomorphic roles in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) affecting neoplastic growth, invasion capability and stem like properties. A specific knowledge of the deregulated expression of each Notch receptor and ligand, coupled with resultant phenotypic changes, is still lacking in HCC. Therefore, while interfering with Notch signaling might represent a promising therapeutic approach, the complexity of Notch/ligands interactions and the variable consequences of their modulations raises concerns when performed in undefined molecular background. The gamma-secretase inhibitors (GSIs), representing the most utilized approach for Notch inhibition in clinical trials, are characterized by important adverse effects due to the non-specific nature of GSIs themselves and to the lack of molecular criteria guiding patient selection. In this review, we briefly summarize the mechanisms involved in Notch pathway activation in HCC supporting the development of alternatives to the γ-secretase pan-inhibitor for HCC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catia Giovannini
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
- Center for Applied Biomedical Research (CRBA), S.Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, 40138 Bologna, Italy;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-051-2144903; Fax: +39-051-2143902
| | - Francesca Fornari
- Center for Applied Biomedical Research (CRBA), S.Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, 40138 Bologna, Italy;
- Department for Life Quality Studies, University of Bologna, 47921 Rimini, Italy
| | - Fabio Piscaglia
- Division of Internal Medicine, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (F.P.); (L.G.)
- Department of Medical and Surgical Science (DIMEC), University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Laura Gramantieri
- Division of Internal Medicine, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (F.P.); (L.G.)
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26
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Geng Y, Fan J, Chen L, Zhang C, Qu C, Qian L, Chen K, Meng Z, Chen Z, Wang P. A Notch-Dependent Inflammatory Feedback Circuit between Macrophages and Cancer Cells Regulates Pancreatic Cancer Metastasis. Cancer Res 2020; 81:64-76. [PMID: 33172931 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-20-0256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Revised: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Notch activation has been detected in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). However, its role in PDAC metastasis remains unknown. In this study, we identify a Notch-dependent feedback circuit between pancreatic cancer cells and macrophages, which contributes to PDAC metastasis. In this circuit, miR-124 regulated Notch signaling in cancer cells by directly targeting the Notch ligand Jagged 1. Autoamplified Notch signaling promoted the recruitment and activation of macrophages to a tumor-supporting M2-like phenotype via downstream IL8, CCL2, IL1α, and uPA paracrine signaling. In turn, activated macrophage-derived IL6 activated the oncogenic transcription factor STAT3 that directly repressed miR-124 genes via a conserved STAT3-binding site in their promoters, thereby promoting cancer cell epithelial-mesenchymal transition and invasion. Disrupting this circuit suppressed liver metastasis in mouse models. Thus, our study suggests that manipulation of this Notch-dependent circuit has a therapeutic potential for the treatment of PDAC metastasis. SIGNIFICANCE: This study provided potential therapeutic targets and robust preclinical evidence for PDAC treatment by interrupting feedback signaling between cancer cells and macrophages with targeted inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yawen Geng
- Department of Integrative Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jie Fan
- Department of Pathology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lianyu Chen
- Department of Integrative Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chenyue Zhang
- Department of Integrative Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chao Qu
- Department of Integrative Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ling Qian
- Department of Integrative Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Kun Chen
- Department of Integrative Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhiqiang Meng
- Department of Integrative Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhen Chen
- Department of Integrative Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Peng Wang
- Department of Integrative Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China. .,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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27
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Palano MT, Giannandrea D, Platonova N, Gaudenzi G, Falleni M, Tosi D, Lesma E, Citro V, Colombo M, Saltarella I, Ria R, Amodio N, Taiana E, Neri A, Vitale G, Chiaramonte R. Jagged Ligands Enhance the Pro-Angiogenic Activity of Multiple Myeloma Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12092600. [PMID: 32932949 PMCID: PMC7565520 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12092600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Revised: 09/05/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The Jagged family of ligands are aberrantly expressed during multiple myeloma progression and contributes to activate Notch signaling both in myeloma cells and in the nearby bone marrow cell populations activating several pro-tumor effects. This work elucidates, in vitro, in vivo as well as in patients’ bone marrow biopsies, different mechanisms by which tumor cell-derived Jagged1 and 2 contribute to myeloma-associated angiogenesis. These include the ability to induce myeloma and bone marrow stromal cell secretion of VEGF along with a direct activation of the pro-angiogenic Notch signaling pathway in endothelial cells. This research provides a rational for a Jagged-directed therapy in multiple myeloma. Abstract Multiple myeloma (MM) is an incurable plasma cell malignancy arising primarily within the bone marrow (BM). During MM progression, different modifications occur in the tumor cells and BM microenvironment, including the angiogenic shift characterized by the increased capability of endothelial cells to organize a network, migrate and express angiogenic factors, including vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Here, we studied the functional outcome of the dysregulation of Notch ligands, Jagged1 and Jagged2, occurring during disease progression, on the angiogenic potential of MM cells and BM stromal cells (BMSCs). Jagged1–2 expression was modulated by RNA interference or soluble peptide administration, and the effects on the MM cell lines’ ability to induce human pulmonary artery cells (HPAECs) angiogenesis or to indirectly increase the BMSC angiogenic potential was analyzed in vitro; in vivo validation was performed on a zebrafish model and MM patients’ BM biopsies. Overall, our results indicate that the MM-derived Jagged ligands (1) increase the tumor cell angiogenic potential by directly triggering Notch activation in the HPAECs or stimulating the release of angiogenic factors, i.e., VEGF; and (2) stimulate the BMSCs to promote angiogenesis through VEGF secretion. The observed pro-angiogenic effect of Notch activation in the BM during MM progression provides further evidence of the potential of a therapy targeting the Jagged ligands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Teresa Palano
- Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20142 Milano, Italy; (M.T.P.); (D.G.); (N.P.); (M.F.); (D.T.); (E.L.); (V.C.); (M.C.)
| | - Domenica Giannandrea
- Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20142 Milano, Italy; (M.T.P.); (D.G.); (N.P.); (M.F.); (D.T.); (E.L.); (V.C.); (M.C.)
| | - Natalia Platonova
- Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20142 Milano, Italy; (M.T.P.); (D.G.); (N.P.); (M.F.); (D.T.); (E.L.); (V.C.); (M.C.)
| | - Germano Gaudenzi
- Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Laboratory of Geriatric and Oncologic Neuroendocrinology Research, 20095 Cusano Milanino, Italy; (G.G.); (G.V.)
| | - Monica Falleni
- Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20142 Milano, Italy; (M.T.P.); (D.G.); (N.P.); (M.F.); (D.T.); (E.L.); (V.C.); (M.C.)
| | - Delfina Tosi
- Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20142 Milano, Italy; (M.T.P.); (D.G.); (N.P.); (M.F.); (D.T.); (E.L.); (V.C.); (M.C.)
| | - Elena Lesma
- Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20142 Milano, Italy; (M.T.P.); (D.G.); (N.P.); (M.F.); (D.T.); (E.L.); (V.C.); (M.C.)
| | - Valentina Citro
- Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20142 Milano, Italy; (M.T.P.); (D.G.); (N.P.); (M.F.); (D.T.); (E.L.); (V.C.); (M.C.)
| | - Michela Colombo
- Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20142 Milano, Italy; (M.T.P.); (D.G.); (N.P.); (M.F.); (D.T.); (E.L.); (V.C.); (M.C.)
| | - Ilaria Saltarella
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, Unit of Internal Medicine and Clinical Oncology, University of Bari Medical School, 70124 Bari, Italy; (I.S.); (R.R.)
| | - Roberto Ria
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, Unit of Internal Medicine and Clinical Oncology, University of Bari Medical School, 70124 Bari, Italy; (I.S.); (R.R.)
| | - Nicola Amodio
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy;
| | - Elisa Taiana
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milano. Hematology, Fondazione Ca’ Granda IRCCS Policlinico, 20122 Milano, Italy; (E.T.); (A.N.)
| | - Antonino Neri
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milano. Hematology, Fondazione Ca’ Granda IRCCS Policlinico, 20122 Milano, Italy; (E.T.); (A.N.)
| | - Giovanni Vitale
- Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Laboratory of Geriatric and Oncologic Neuroendocrinology Research, 20095 Cusano Milanino, Italy; (G.G.); (G.V.)
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health (DISCCO), University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Raffaella Chiaramonte
- Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20142 Milano, Italy; (M.T.P.); (D.G.); (N.P.); (M.F.); (D.T.); (E.L.); (V.C.); (M.C.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-02-50323249
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The oncogenic role of Jagged1/Notch signaling in cancer. Biomed Pharmacother 2020; 129:110416. [PMID: 32593969 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2020.110416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Revised: 06/12/2020] [Accepted: 06/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Aberrant activation of Notch signaling plays an oncogenic role in cancer development. Jagged1 (JAG1) is an important Notch ligand that triggers Notch signaling through cell-cell interactions. JAG1 overexpression has been reported in many different types of cancer and correlates with a poor clinical prognosis. JAG1/Notch signaling controls oncogenic processes in different cell types and cellular contexts. Furthermore, JAG1/Notch signaling cascades activate a number of oncogenic factors that regulate cellular functions such as proliferation, metastasis, drug-resistance, and angiogenesis. To suppress the severe toxicity of pan-Notch inhibitors, JAG1 is attracting increasing attention as a source of therapeutic targets for cancers. In this review, the oncogenic role of JAG1/Notch signaling in cancer is discussed, as well as implications of strategies to inhibit JAG1/Notch signaling activity.
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