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Gupta P, Bermejo-Rodriguez C, Kocher H, Pérez-Mancera PA, Velliou EG. Chemotherapy Assessment in Advanced Multicellular 3D Models of Pancreatic Cancer: Unravelling the Importance of Spatiotemporal Mimicry of the Tumor Microenvironment. Adv Biol (Weinh) 2024:e2300580. [PMID: 38327154 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202300580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a challenge for global health with very low survival rate and high therapeutic resistance. Hence, advanced preclinical models for treatment screening are of paramount importance. Herein, chemotherapeutic (gemcitabine) assessment on novel (polyurethane) scaffold-based spatially advanced 3D multicellular PDAC models is carried out. Through comprehensive image-based analysis at the protein level, and expression analysis at the mRNA level, the importance of stromal cells is confirmed, primarily activated stellate cells in the chemoresistance of PDAC cells within the models. Furthermore, it is demonstrated that, in addition to the presence of activated stellate cells, the spatial architecture of the scaffolds, i.e., segregation/compartmentalization of the cancer and stromal zones, affect the cellular evolution and is necessary for the development of chemoresistance. These results highlight that, further to multicellularity, mapping the tumor structure/architecture and zonal complexity in 3D cancer models is important for better mimicry of the in vivo therapeutic response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priyanka Gupta
- Centre for 3D Models of Health and Disease, Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, University College London, London, W1W 7TY, UK
| | - Camino Bermejo-Rodriguez
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, Ashton Street, Liverpool, L69 3GE, UK
| | - Hemant Kocher
- Centre for Tumour Biology and Experimental Cancer Medicine, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK
| | - Pedro A Pérez-Mancera
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, Ashton Street, Liverpool, L69 3GE, UK
| | - Eirini G Velliou
- Centre for 3D Models of Health and Disease, Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, University College London, London, W1W 7TY, UK
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2
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Trossbach M, Åkerlund E, Langer K, Seashore-Ludlow B, Joensson HN. High-throughput cell spheroid production and assembly analysis by microfluidics and deep learning. SLAS Technol 2023; 28:423-432. [PMID: 36990352 DOI: 10.1016/j.slast.2023.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Revised: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
Abstract
3D cell culture models are important tools in translational research but have been out of reach for high-throughput screening due to complexity, requirement of large cell numbers and inadequate standardization. Microfluidics and culture model miniaturization technologies could overcome these challenges. Here, we present a high-throughput workflow to produce and characterize the formation of miniaturized spheroids using deep learning. We train a convolutional neural network (CNN) for cell ensemble morphology classification for droplet microfluidic minispheroid production, benchmark it against more conventional image analysis, and characterize minispheroid assembly determining optimal surfactant concentrations and incubation times for minispheroid production for three cell lines with different spheroid formation properties. Notably, this format is compatible with large-scale spheroid production and screening. The presented workflow and CNN offer a template for large scale minispheroid production and analysis and can be extended and re-trained to characterize morphological responses in spheroids to additives, culture conditions and large drug libraries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Trossbach
- KTH Royal Institute of Technology, and Science for Life Laboratory, Sweden.
| | - Emma Åkerlund
- Karolinska Institutet, and Science for Life Laboratory, Sweden
| | - Krzysztof Langer
- KTH Royal Institute of Technology, and Science for Life Laboratory, Sweden; Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California San Francisco, United States
| | | | - Haakan N Joensson
- KTH Royal Institute of Technology, and Science for Life Laboratory, Sweden.
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3
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Abbasi Aval N, Lahchaichi E, Tudoran O, Fayazbakhsh F, Heuchel R, Löhr M, Pettersson T, Russom A. Assessing the Layer-by-Layer Assembly of Cellulose Nanofibrils and Polyelectrolytes in Pancreatic Tumor Spheroid Formation. Biomedicines 2023; 11:3061. [PMID: 38002061 PMCID: PMC10669291 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11113061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Three-dimensional (3D) tumor spheroids are regarded as promising models for utilization as preclinical assessments of chemo-sensitivity. However, the creation of these tumor spheroids presents challenges, given that not all tumor cell lines are able to form consistent and regular spheroids. In this context, we have developed a novel layer-by-layer coating of cellulose nanofibril-polyelectrolyte bilayers for the generation of spheroids. This technique builds bilayers of cellulose nanofibrils and polyelectrolytes and is used here to coat two distinct 96-well plate types: nontreated/non-sterilized and Nunclon Delta. In this work, we optimized the protocol aimed at generating and characterizing spheroids on difficult-to-grow pancreatic tumor cell lines. Here, diverse parameters were explored, encompassing the bilayer count (five and ten) and multiple cell-seeding concentrations (10, 100, 200, 500, and 1000 cells per well), using four pancreatic tumor cell lines-KPCT, PANC-1, MiaPaCa-2, and CFPAC-I. The evaluation includes the quantification (number of spheroids, size, and morphology) and proliferation of the produced spheroids, as well as an assessment of their viability. Notably, our findings reveal a significant influence from both the number of bilayers and the plate type used on the successful formation of spheroids. The novel and simple layer-by-layer-based coating method has the potential to offer the large-scale production of spheroids across a spectrum of tumor cell lines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Negar Abbasi Aval
- Division of Fibre Technology, Department of Fibre and Polymer Technology, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, 10044 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ekeram Lahchaichi
- Science for Life Laboratory, Division of Nanobiotechnology, Department of Protein Science, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, 17165 Solna, Sweden
| | - Oana Tudoran
- Department of Genetics, Genomics and Experimental Pathology, The Oncology Institute “Prof. Dr. I. Chiricuta”, 400015 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Farzaneh Fayazbakhsh
- Science for Life Laboratory, Division of Nanobiotechnology, Department of Protein Science, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, 17165 Solna, Sweden
| | - Rainer Heuchel
- Pancreas Cancer Research Lab, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institutet, 17177 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Matthias Löhr
- Pancreas Cancer Research Lab, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institutet, 17177 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Torbjörn Pettersson
- Division of Fibre Technology, Department of Fibre and Polymer Technology, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, 10044 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Aman Russom
- Science for Life Laboratory, Division of Nanobiotechnology, Department of Protein Science, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, 17165 Solna, Sweden
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4
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Muzzolini M, Belhabib I, Cardot V, Tijeras-Raballand A, Neuzillet C, Bousquet C, Lupinacci RM, Jean C. Pancreatic cancer orthotopic graft in a murine model. Acta Cir Bras 2023; 38:e382823. [PMID: 37556720 PMCID: PMC10403245 DOI: 10.1590/acb382823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the deadliest cancers with increasing incidence. Even if progress have been made, the five-year overall survival remains lower than 10%. There is a desperate need in therapeutic improvements. In the last two decades, new in-vitro models have been developed and improved, including tridimensional-culture spheroids and organoids. However, animal studies remain mandatory in the upscaling before clinical studies. Orthotopic and syngeneic grafting is a robust model to test a drug efficiency in a tumor and its microenvironment. METHODS We described a method for orthotopic and syngeneic graft of KRAS mutated, p53 wildtype, 8305 cells in a C57BL/6J mouse model. RESULTS With this microsurgical method, 30 mice were grafted, 24 by a junior and six by a senior, resulting in 95,8 and 100% of (partial and total) successful tumoral implantation, respectively. Twenty mice underwent ultrasound follow-up. It was an efficient method for the tumoral growth evaluation. At day 16 after grafting, 85% of the tumors were detectable by ultrasound, and at day 22 all tumors were detected. CONCLUSIONS The presented method appears to be a robust and reliable method for pre-clinical studies. A junior master student can provide positive results using this technique, which can be improved with training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milena Muzzolini
- Ambroise Paré Hospital – Oncologic and Metabolic Surgery – Department of Digestive – Boulogne-Billancourt, France
- Paris Cité University Santé, France – Université des Sciences de la Santé – Santé, France
| | - Ismahane Belhabib
- Université Toulouse III-Paul Sabatier – Université de Toulouse – Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Toulouse – Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale – Toulouse, France
| | | | | | - Cindy Neuzillet
- Ambroise Paré Hospital – Oncologic and Metabolic Surgery – Department of Digestive – Boulogne-Billancourt, France
- Versailles St-Quentin en-Yvelines/Paris Saclay University – UFR Simone Veil – Santé, France
- Institut Curie Saint Cloud – Saint-Cloud, France
| | - Corinne Bousquet
- Université Toulouse III-Paul Sabatier – Université de Toulouse – Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Toulouse – Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale – Toulouse, France
| | - Renato Micelli Lupinacci
- Ambroise Paré Hospital – Oncologic and Metabolic Surgery – Department of Digestive – Boulogne-Billancourt, France
- Versailles St-Quentin en-Yvelines/Paris Saclay University – UFR Simone Veil – Santé, France
| | - Christine Jean
- Université Toulouse III-Paul Sabatier – Université de Toulouse – Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Toulouse – Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale – Toulouse, France
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5
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Vakhshiteh F, Bagheri Z, Soleimani M, Ahvaraki A, Pournemat P, Alavi SE, Madjd Z. Heterotypic tumor spheroids: a platform for nanomedicine evaluation. J Nanobiotechnology 2023; 21:249. [PMID: 37533100 PMCID: PMC10398970 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-023-02021-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Nanomedicine has emerged as a promising therapeutic approach, but its translation to the clinic has been hindered by the lack of cellular models to anticipate how tumor cells will respond to therapy. Three-dimensional (3D) cell culture models are thought to more accurately recapitulate key features of primary tumors than two-dimensional (2D) cultures. Heterotypic 3D tumor spheroids, composed of multiple cell types, have become more popular than homotypic spheroids, which consist of a single cell type, as a superior model for mimicking in vivo tumor heterogeneity and physiology. The stromal interactions demonstrated in heterotypic 3D tumor spheroids can affect various aspects, including response to therapy, cancer progression, nanomedicine penetration, and drug resistance. Accordingly, to design more effective anticancer nanomedicinal therapeutics, not only tumor cells but also stromal cells (e.g., fibroblasts and immune cells) should be considered to create a more physiologically relevant in vivo microenvironment. This review aims to demonstrate current knowledge of heterotypic 3D tumor spheroids in cancer research, to illustrate current advances in utilizing these tumor models as a novel and versatile platform for in vitro evaluation of nanomedicine-based therapeutics in cancer research, and to discuss challenges, guidelines, and future directions in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faezeh Vakhshiteh
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Zeinab Bagheri
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, 1983969411, Iran.
| | - Marziye Soleimani
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, 1983969411, Iran
| | - Akram Ahvaraki
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, 1983969411, Iran
| | - Parisa Pournemat
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, 1983969411, Iran
| | - Seyed Ebrahim Alavi
- Faculty of Medicine, Frazer Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4102, Australia
| | - Zahra Madjd
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran
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6
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Urzì O, Gasparro R, Costanzo E, De Luca A, Giavaresi G, Fontana S, Alessandro R. Three-Dimensional Cell Cultures: The Bridge between In Vitro and In Vivo Models. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12046. [PMID: 37569426 PMCID: PMC10419178 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241512046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Although historically, the traditional bidimensional in vitro cell system has been widely used in research, providing much fundamental information regarding cellular functions and signaling pathways as well as nuclear activities, the simplicity of this system does not fully reflect the heterogeneity and complexity of the in vivo systems. From this arises the need to use animals for experimental research and in vivo testing. Nevertheless, animal use in experimentation presents various aspects of complexity, such as ethical issues, which led Russell and Burch in 1959 to formulate the 3R (Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement) principle, underlying the urgent need to introduce non-animal-based methods in research. Considering this, three-dimensional (3D) models emerged in the scientific community as a bridge between in vitro and in vivo models, allowing for the achievement of cell differentiation and complexity while avoiding the use of animals in experimental research. The purpose of this review is to provide a general overview of the most common methods to establish 3D cell culture and to discuss their promising applications. Three-dimensional cell cultures have been employed as models to study both organ physiology and diseases; moreover, they represent a valuable tool for studying many aspects of cancer. Finally, the possibility of using 3D models for drug screening and regenerative medicine paves the way for the development of new therapeutic opportunities for many diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ornella Urzì
- Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics (Bi.N.D), Section of Biology and Genetics, University of Palermo, 90133 Palermo, Italy; (O.U.); (R.G.); (E.C.); (R.A.)
| | - Roberta Gasparro
- Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics (Bi.N.D), Section of Biology and Genetics, University of Palermo, 90133 Palermo, Italy; (O.U.); (R.G.); (E.C.); (R.A.)
| | - Elisa Costanzo
- Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics (Bi.N.D), Section of Biology and Genetics, University of Palermo, 90133 Palermo, Italy; (O.U.); (R.G.); (E.C.); (R.A.)
| | - Angela De Luca
- IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, SC Scienze e Tecnologie Chirurgiche, 40136 Bologna, Italy; (A.D.L.); (G.G.)
| | - Gianluca Giavaresi
- IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, SC Scienze e Tecnologie Chirurgiche, 40136 Bologna, Italy; (A.D.L.); (G.G.)
| | - Simona Fontana
- Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics (Bi.N.D), Section of Biology and Genetics, University of Palermo, 90133 Palermo, Italy; (O.U.); (R.G.); (E.C.); (R.A.)
| | - Riccardo Alessandro
- Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics (Bi.N.D), Section of Biology and Genetics, University of Palermo, 90133 Palermo, Italy; (O.U.); (R.G.); (E.C.); (R.A.)
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7
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Giustarini G, Teng G, Pavesi A, Adriani G. Characterization of 3D heterocellular spheroids of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma for the study of cell interactions in the tumor immune microenvironment. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1156769. [PMID: 37519820 PMCID: PMC10375712 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1156769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the deadliest malignancies nowadays. The available chemo- and immunotherapies are often ineffective in treating PDAC due to its immunosuppressive and highly desmoplastic tumor immune microenvironment (TIME), which is hardly reproduced in the existing preclinical models. The PDAC TIME results from a peculiar spatial organization between different cell types. For this reason, developing new human models recapitulating the tissue organization and cell heterogeneity of PDAC is highly desirable. We developed human 3D heterocellular tumor spheroids of PDAC formed by cancer cells, endothelial cells, pancreatic stellate cells (PSC), and monocytes. As a control, we formed spheroids using immortalized epithelial pancreatic ductal cells (non-cancerous spheroids) with cellular heterogeneity similar to the tumor spheroids. Normal spheroids containing endothelial cells formed a complex 3D endothelial network significantly compromised in tumor spheroids. Monocyte/macrophages within the 4-culture tumor spheroids were characterized by a higher expression of CD163, CD206, PD-L1, and CD40 than those in the non-cancerous spheroids suggesting their differentiation towards an immunosuppressive phenotype. The heterocellular tumor spheroids presented a hypoxic core populated with PSC and monocytes/macrophages. The 4-culture tumor spheroids were characterized by spatial proximity of PSC and monocytes to the endothelial cells and a cytokine signature with increased concentrations of CXCL10, CCL2, and IL-6, which have been observed in PDAC patients and associated with poor survival. Further, 4-culture tumor spheroids decreased the concentrations of T-cell chemoattracting cytokines, i.e., CCL4, CCL5, and CXCL9, when compared with the non-cancerous spheroids, revealing a critical immunosuppressive feature of the different types of cells forming the tumor spheroids. Our results showed that the 4-culture tumor spheroids better resembled some critical features of patients' PDAC TIME than monoculture tumor spheroids. Using the proposed human 3D spheroid model for therapy testing at the preclinical stage may reveal pitfalls of chemo- and immuno-therapies to help the development of better anti-tumor therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulio Giustarini
- Singapore Immunology Network (SIgN), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (ASTAR), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Germaine Teng
- Singapore Immunology Network (SIgN), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (ASTAR), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Andrea Pavesi
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (ASTAR), Singapore, Singapore
- Mechanobiology Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Giulia Adriani
- Singapore Immunology Network (SIgN), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (ASTAR), Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
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8
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Brumskill S, Barrera LN, Calcraft P, Phillips C, Costello E. Inclusion of cancer-associated fibroblasts in drug screening assays to evaluate pancreatic cancer resistance to therapeutic drugs. J Physiol Biochem 2023; 79:223-234. [PMID: 34865180 PMCID: PMC9905179 DOI: 10.1007/s13105-021-00857-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is characterised by a pro-inflammatory stroma and multi-faceted microenvironment that promotes and maintains tumorigenesis. However, the models used to test new and emerging therapies for PDAC have not increased in complexity to keep pace with our understanding of the human disease. Promising therapies that pass pre-clinical testing often fail in pancreatic cancer clinical trials. The objective of this study was to investigate whether changes in the drug-dosing regimen or the addition of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) to current existing models can impact the efficacy of chemotherapy drugs used in the clinic. Here, we reveal that gemcitabine and paclitaxel markedly reduce the viability of pancreatic cell lines, but not CAFs, when cultured in 2D. Following the use of an in vitro drug pulsing experiment, PDAC cell lines showed sensitivity to gemcitabine and paclitaxel. However, CAFs were less sensitive to pulsing with gemcitabine compared to their response to paclitaxel. We also identify that a 3D co-culture model of MIA PaCa-2 or PANC-1 with CAFs showed an increased chemoresistance to gemcitabine when compared to standard 2D mono-cultures a difference to paclitaxel which showed no measurable difference between the 2D and 3D models, suggesting a complex interaction between the drug in study and the cell type used. Changes to standard 2D mono-culture-based assays and implementation of 3D co-culture assays lend complexity to established models and could provide tools for identifying therapies that will match clinically the success observed with in vitro models, thereby aiding in the discovery of novel therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Brumskill
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, 2nd Floor Sherrington Building, Ashton Street, Liverpool, L69 3GE, UK
- Redx Oncology, Alderley Park, Macclesfield, Cheshire, UK
| | - Lawrence N Barrera
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, 2nd Floor Sherrington Building, Ashton Street, Liverpool, L69 3GE, UK
| | - Peter Calcraft
- Redx Oncology, Alderley Park, Macclesfield, Cheshire, UK
| | | | - Eithne Costello
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, 2nd Floor Sherrington Building, Ashton Street, Liverpool, L69 3GE, UK.
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9
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McKenna MK, Ozcan A, Brenner D, Watanabe N, Legendre M, Thomas DG, Ashwood C, Cummings RD, Bonifant C, Markovitz DM, Brenner MK. Novel banana lectin CAR-T cells to target pancreatic tumors and tumor-associated stroma. J Immunother Cancer 2023; 11:jitc-2022-005891. [PMID: 36653070 PMCID: PMC9853244 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2022-005891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cell therapies for solid tumors are thwarted by the hostile tumor microenvironment (TME) and by heterogeneous expression of tumor target antigens. We address both limitations with a novel class of chimeric antigen receptors based on plant lectins, which recognize the aberrant sugar residues that are a 'hallmark' of both malignant and associated stromal cells. We have expressed in T cells a modified lectin from banana, H84T BanLec, attached to a chimeric antigen receptor (H84T-CAR) that recognizes high-mannose (asparagine residue with five to nine mannoses). Here, we tested the efficacy of our novel H84T CAR in models of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), intractable tumors with aberrant glycosylation and characterized by desmoplastic stroma largely contributed by pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs). METHODS We transduced human T cells with a second-generation retroviral construct expressing the H84T BanLec chimeric receptor, measured T-cell expansion, characterized T-cell phenotype, and tested their efficacy against PDAC tumor cells lines by flow cytometry quantification. In three-dimensional (3D) spheroid models, we measured H84T CAR T-cell disruption of PSC architecture, and T-cell infiltration by live imaging. We tested the activity of H84T CAR T cells against tumor xenografts derived from three PDAC cell lines. Antitumor activity was quantified by caliper measurement and bioluminescence signal and used anti-human vimentin to measure residual PSCs. RESULTS H84T BanLec CAR was successfully transduced and expressed by T cells which had robust expansion and retained central memory phenotype in both CD4 and CD8 compartments. H84T CAR T cells targeted and eliminated PDAC tumor cell lines. They also disrupted PSC architecture in 3D models in vitro and reduced total tumor and stroma cells in mixed co-cultures. H84T CAR T cells exhibited improved T-cell infiltration in multicellular spheroids and had potent antitumor effects in the xenograft models. We observed no adverse effects against normal tissues. CONCLUSIONS T cells expressing H84T CAR target malignant cells and their stroma in PDAC tumor models. The incorporation of glycan-targeting lectins within CARs thus extends their activity to include both malignant cells and their supporting stromal cells, disrupting the TME that otherwise diminishes the activity of cellular therapies against solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary K McKenna
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Ada Ozcan
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Daniel Brenner
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Norihiro Watanabe
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Maureen Legendre
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Dafydd G Thomas
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | | | - Richard D Cummings
- Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Challice Bonifant
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - David M Markovitz
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Malcolm K Brenner
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
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10
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Kfoury S, Michl P, Roth L. Modeling Obesity-Driven Pancreatic Carcinogenesis-A Review of Current In Vivo and In Vitro Models of Obesity and Pancreatic Carcinogenesis. Cells 2022; 11:cells11193170. [PMID: 36231132 PMCID: PMC9563584 DOI: 10.3390/cells11193170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Revised: 10/01/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the most common pancreatic malignancy with a 5-year survival rate below 10%, thereby exhibiting the worst prognosis of all solid tumors. Increasing incidence together with a continued lack of targeted treatment options will cause PDAC to be the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the western world by 2030. Obesity belongs to the predominant risk factors for pancreatic cancer. To improve our understanding of the impact of obesity on pancreatic cancer development and progression, novel laboratory techniques have been developed. In this review, we summarize current in vitro and in vivo models of PDAC and obesity as well as an overview of a variety of models to investigate obesity-driven pancreatic carcinogenesis. We start by giving an overview on different methods to cultivate adipocytes in vitro as well as various in vivo mouse models of obesity. Moreover, established murine and human PDAC cell lines as well as organoids are summarized and the genetically engineered models of PCAC compared to xenograft models are introduced. Finally, we review published in vitro and in vivo models studying the impact of obesity on PDAC, enabling us to decipher the molecular basis of obesity-driven pancreatic carcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sally Kfoury
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Martin-Luther University Halle/Wittenberg, Ernst-Grube-Strasse 40, D-06120 Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Patrick Michl
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Martin-Luther University Halle/Wittenberg, Ernst-Grube-Strasse 40, D-06120 Halle (Saale), Germany
- Department of Medicine, Internal Medicine IV, University Hospital Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 410, D-69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Correspondence:
| | - Laura Roth
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Martin-Luther University Halle/Wittenberg, Ernst-Grube-Strasse 40, D-06120 Halle (Saale), Germany
- Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
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11
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Bou Zerdan M, Shatila M, Sarwal D, Bouferraa Y, Bou Zerdan M, Allam S, Ramovic M, Graziano S. Single Cell RNA Sequencing: A New Frontier in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14194589. [PMID: 36230515 PMCID: PMC9559389 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14194589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Pancreatic cancer has a very low survival rate for several reasons. One of those is primarily due to the difficulty in diagnosing it at an early stage. For this reason, it is important to refine our understanding of this disease to guide the development of new diagnostic and therapeutic modalities to combat this fatal illness. Here we attempt to provide a review of current progress in utilizing single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) techniques in the molecular profiling of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Abstract Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma is a malignancy with a high mortality rate. It exhibits significant heterogeneity in metabolic pathways which are associated with its progression. In this review, we discuss the role of single cell RNA sequencing in unraveling the metabolic and clinical features of these highly malignant tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maroun Bou Zerdan
- Department of Internal Medicine, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA
| | - Malek Shatila
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Dhruv Sarwal
- Department of Internal Medicine, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA
| | - Youssef Bouferraa
- Department of Internal Medicine, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH 44118, USA
| | | | - Sabine Allam
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Balamand, Beirut 0000, Lebanon
| | - Merima Ramovic
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA
- Correspondence: (M.R.); (S.G.)
| | - Stephen Graziano
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA
- Correspondence: (M.R.); (S.G.)
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12
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Henrique RBL, Lima RRM, Monteiro CAP, Oliveira WF, Pereira G, Cabral Filho PE, Fontes A. Advances in the study of spheroids as versatile models to evaluate biological interactions of inorganic nanoparticles. Life Sci 2022; 302:120657. [PMID: 35609631 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.120657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Spheroids are in vitro three-dimensional multicellular microstructures able to mimic the biological microenvironment, including the complexity of tumor architecture. Therefore, results closer to those expected for in vivo organisms can be reached using spheroids compared to the cell culture monolayer model. Inorganic nanoparticles (NPs) have also been playing relevant roles in the comprehension of biological processes. Moreover, they have been probed as novel diagnostic and therapeutical nanosystems. In this context, in this review, we present applications, published in the last five years, which show that spheroids can be versatile models to study and evaluate biological interactions involving inorganic NPs. Applications of spheroids associated with (i) basic studies to assess the penetration profile of nanostructures, (ii) the evaluation of NP toxicity, and (iii) NP-based therapeutical approaches are described. Fundamentals of spheroids and their formation methods are also included. We hope that this review can be a reference and guide future investigations related to this interesting three-dimensional biological model, favoring advances to Nanobiotechnology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafaella B L Henrique
- Departamento de Biofísica e Radiobiologia, Centro de Biociências, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, PE, Brazil
| | - Rennan R M Lima
- Departamento de Biofísica e Radiobiologia, Centro de Biociências, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, PE, Brazil
| | - Camila A P Monteiro
- Departamento de Biofísica e Radiobiologia, Centro de Biociências, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, PE, Brazil
| | - Weslley F Oliveira
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Centro de Biociências, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, PE, Brazil
| | - Goreti Pereira
- Departamento de Química Fundamental, Centro de Ciências Exatas e da Natureza, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, PE, Brazil
| | - Paulo E Cabral Filho
- Departamento de Biofísica e Radiobiologia, Centro de Biociências, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, PE, Brazil.
| | - Adriana Fontes
- Departamento de Biofísica e Radiobiologia, Centro de Biociências, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, PE, Brazil.
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13
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Humphries JD, Zha J, Burns J, Askari JA, Below CR, Chastney MR, Jones MC, Mironov A, Knight D, O'Reilly DA, Dunne MJ, Garrod DR, Jorgensen C, Humphries MJ. Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma cells employ integrin α6β4 to form hemidesmosomes and regulate cell proliferation. Matrix Biol 2022; 110:16-39. [PMID: 35405272 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2022.03.010] [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: 08/16/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has a dismal prognosis due to its aggressive progression, late detection and lack of druggable driver mutations, which often combine to result in unsuitability for surgical intervention. Together with activating mutations of the small GTPase KRas, which are found in over 90% of PDAC tumours, a contributory factor for PDAC tumour progression is formation of a rigid extracellular matrix (ECM) and associated desmoplasia. This response leads to aberrant integrin signalling, and accelerated proliferation and invasion. To identify the integrin adhesion systems that operate in PDAC, we analysed a range of pancreatic ductal epithelial cell models using 2D, 3D and organoid culture systems. Proteomic analysis of isolated integrin receptor complexes from human pancreatic ductal epithelial (HPDE) cells predominantly identified integrin α6β4 and hemidesmosome components, rather than classical focal adhesion components. Electron microscopy, together with immunofluorescence, confirmed the formation of hemidesmosomes by HPDE cells, both in 2D and 3D culture systems. Similar results were obtained for the human PDAC cell line, SUIT-2. Analysis of HPDE cell secreted proteins and cell-derived matrices (CDM) demonstrated that HPDE cells secrete a range of laminin subunits and form a hemidesmosome-specific, laminin 332-enriched ECM. Expression of mutant KRas (G12V) did not affect hemidesmosome composition or formation by HPDE cells. Cell-ECM contacts formed by mouse and human PDAC organoids were also assessed by electron microscopy. Organoids generated from both the PDAC KPC mouse model and human patient-derived PDAC tissue displayed features of acinar-ductal cell polarity, and hemidesmosomes were visible proximal to prominent basement membranes. Furthermore, electron microscopy identified hemidesmosomes in normal human pancreas. Depletion of integrin β4 reduced cell proliferation in both SUIT-2 and HPDE cells, reduced the number of SUIT-2 cells in S-phase, and induced G1 cell cycle arrest, suggesting a requirement for α6β4-mediated adhesion for cell cycle progression and growth. Taken together, these data suggest that laminin-binding adhesion mechanisms in general, and hemidesmosome-mediated adhesion in particular, may be under-appreciated in the context of PDAC. Proteomic data are available via ProteomeXchange with the identifiers PXD027803, PXD027823 and PXD027827.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan D Humphries
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - Junzhe Zha
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - Jessica Burns
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - Janet A Askari
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - Christopher R Below
- Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute, The University of Manchester, Alderley Park, Cheshire SK10 4TG, UK
| | - Megan R Chastney
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - Matthew C Jones
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - Aleksandr Mironov
- Electron Microscopy Core Facility (RRID: SCR_021147), Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - David Knight
- Biological Mass Spectrometry Core Facility (RRID: SCR_020987), Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - Derek A O'Reilly
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Manchester Royal Infirmary, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9WL, UK; Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - Mark J Dunne
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - David R Garrod
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - Claus Jorgensen
- Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute, The University of Manchester, Alderley Park, Cheshire SK10 4TG, UK
| | - Martin J Humphries
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK.
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14
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Shichi Y, Gomi F, Sasaki N, Nonaka K, Arai T, Ishiwata T. Epithelial and Mesenchymal Features of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma Cell Lines in Two- and Three-Dimensional Cultures. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12050746. [PMID: 35629168 PMCID: PMC9146102 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12050746] [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: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 05/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an intractable cancer that is difficult to diagnose early, and there is no cure other than surgery. PDAC is classified as an adenocarcinoma that has limited effective anticancer drug and molecular-targeted therapies compared to adenocarcinoma found in other organs. A large number of cancer cell lines have been established from patients with PDAC that have different genetic abnormalities, including four driver genes; however, little is known about the differences in biological behaviors among these cell lines. Recent studies have shown that PDAC cell lines can be divided into epithelial and mesenchymal cell lines. In 3D cultures, morphological and functional differences between epithelial and mesenchymal PDAC cell lines were observed as well as the drug effects of different anticancer drugs. These effects included gemcitabine causing an increased growth inhibition of epithelial PDAC cells, while nab-paclitaxel caused greater mesenchymal PDAC cell inhibition. Thus, examining the characteristics of epithelial or mesenchymal PDAC cells with stromal cells using a 3D co-culture may lead to the development of new anticancer drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuuki Shichi
- Division of Aging and Carcinogenesis, Research Team for Geriatric Pathology, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, Tokyo 173-0015, Japan; (Y.S.); (F.G.); (K.N.)
| | - Fujiya Gomi
- Division of Aging and Carcinogenesis, Research Team for Geriatric Pathology, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, Tokyo 173-0015, Japan; (Y.S.); (F.G.); (K.N.)
| | - Norihiko Sasaki
- Research Team for Geriatric Medicine (Vascular Medicine), Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, Tokyo 173-0015, Japan;
| | - Keisuke Nonaka
- Division of Aging and Carcinogenesis, Research Team for Geriatric Pathology, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, Tokyo 173-0015, Japan; (Y.S.); (F.G.); (K.N.)
| | - Tomio Arai
- Department of Pathology, Tokyo Metropolitan Hospital and Institute of Gerontology, Tokyo 173-0015, Japan;
| | - Toshiyuki Ishiwata
- Division of Aging and Carcinogenesis, Research Team for Geriatric Pathology, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, Tokyo 173-0015, Japan; (Y.S.); (F.G.); (K.N.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-3-3964-1141 (ext. 4414)
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15
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Germain N, Dhayer M, Dekiouk S, Marchetti P. Current Advances in 3D Bioprinting for Cancer Modeling and Personalized Medicine. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23073432. [PMID: 35408789 PMCID: PMC8998835 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor cells evolve in a complex and heterogeneous environment composed of different cell types and an extracellular matrix. Current 2D culture methods are very limited in their ability to mimic the cancer cell environment. In recent years, various 3D models of cancer cells have been developed, notably in the form of spheroids/organoids, using scaffold or cancer-on-chip devices. However, these models have the disadvantage of not being able to precisely control the organization of multiple cell types in complex architecture and are sometimes not very reproducible in their production, and this is especially true for spheroids. Three-dimensional bioprinting can produce complex, multi-cellular, and reproducible constructs in which the matrix composition and rigidity can be adapted locally or globally to the tumor model studied. For these reasons, 3D bioprinting seems to be the technique of choice to mimic the tumor microenvironment in vivo as closely as possible. In this review, we discuss different 3D-bioprinting technologies, including bioinks and crosslinkers that can be used for in vitro cancer models and the techniques used to study cells grown in hydrogels; finally, we provide some applications of bioprinted cancer models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Germain
- UMR 9020–UMR-S 1277–Canther–Cancer Heterogeneity, Plasticity and Resistance to Therapies, Institut de Recherche Contre le Cancer de Lille, University Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, F-59000 Lille, France; (M.D.); (S.D.)
- Banque de Tissus, Centre de Biologie-Pathologie, CHU Lille, F-59000 Lille, France
- Correspondence: (N.G.); (P.M.); Tel.: +33-3-20-16-92-20 (P.M.)
| | - Melanie Dhayer
- UMR 9020–UMR-S 1277–Canther–Cancer Heterogeneity, Plasticity and Resistance to Therapies, Institut de Recherche Contre le Cancer de Lille, University Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, F-59000 Lille, France; (M.D.); (S.D.)
| | - Salim Dekiouk
- UMR 9020–UMR-S 1277–Canther–Cancer Heterogeneity, Plasticity and Resistance to Therapies, Institut de Recherche Contre le Cancer de Lille, University Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, F-59000 Lille, France; (M.D.); (S.D.)
| | - Philippe Marchetti
- UMR 9020–UMR-S 1277–Canther–Cancer Heterogeneity, Plasticity and Resistance to Therapies, Institut de Recherche Contre le Cancer de Lille, University Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, F-59000 Lille, France; (M.D.); (S.D.)
- Banque de Tissus, Centre de Biologie-Pathologie, CHU Lille, F-59000 Lille, France
- Correspondence: (N.G.); (P.M.); Tel.: +33-3-20-16-92-20 (P.M.)
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16
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Demirtürk N, Bilensoy E. Nanocarriers targeting the diseases of the pancreas. Eur J Pharm Biopharm 2022; 170:10-23. [PMID: 34852262 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2021.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2021] [Revised: 11/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Diseases of the pancreas include acute and chronic pancreatitis, exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, diabetes and pancreatic cancer. These pathologies can be difficult to treat due to the innate properties of the pancreas, its structure and localization. The need for effective targeting of the pancreatic tissue by means of nanoparticles delivering therapeutics is a major focus area covered and discussed in this review. Most common diseases of the pancreas do not have specific and direct medical treatment option, and existing treatment options are generally aimed at relieving symptoms. Diabetes has different treatment options for different subtypes based on insulin having stability problems and requiring injections reducing patient compliance. Pancreatic cancer progresses silently and can only be diagnosed in advanced stages. Therefore, survival rate of patients is very low. Gemcitabine and FOLFIRINOX treatment regimens, the most commonly used clinical standard treatments, are generally insufficient due to the chemoresistance that develops in cancer cells and also various side effects. Therefore new treatment options for pancreatic cancer are also under focus. Overcoming drug resistance and pancreatic targeting can be achieved with active and passive targeting methods, and a more effective and safer treatment regimen can be provided at lower drug doses. This review covers the current literature and clinical trials concerning pancreatic drug delivery systems in the nanoscale focusing on the challenges and opportunities provided by these smart delivery systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nurbanu Demirtürk
- Hacettepe University, Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, 06100 Ankara, Turkey
| | - Erem Bilensoy
- Hacettepe University, Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, 06100 Ankara, Turkey.
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17
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Hrabák P, Kalousová M, Krechler T, Zima T. Pancreatic stellate cells - rising stars in pancreatic pathologies. Physiol Res 2021. [DOI: 10.33549//physiolres.934783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Pluripotent pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) receive growing interest in past decades. Two types of PSCs are recognized –vitamin A accumulating quiescent PSCs and activated PSCs- the main producents of extracellular matrix in pancreatic tissue. PSCs plays important role in pathogenesis of pancreatic fibrosis in pancreatic cancer and chronic pancreatitis. PSCs are intensively studied as potential therapeutical target because of their important role in developing desmoplastic stroma in pancreatic cancer. There also exists evidence that PSC are involved in other pathologies like type-2 diabetes mellitus. This article brings brief characteristics of PSCs and recent advances in research of these cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - M Kalousová
- 2Institute of Medical Biochemistry and Laboratory Diagnostics, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Czech Republic.
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18
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Narayanan S, Vicent S, Ponz-Sarvisé M. PDAC as an Immune Evasive Disease: Can 3D Model Systems Aid to Tackle This Clinical Problem? Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:787249. [PMID: 34957115 PMCID: PMC8703167 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.787249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an aggressive cancer with a high mortality rate. The presence of a dense desmoplastic stroma rich in fibroblasts, extracellular matrix, and immune cells plays a critical role in disease progression, therapy response and is a distinguishing feature of PDAC. PDAC is currently treated with a combination of surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy in selected cases which results in long-term survival only in a small percentage of patients. Cancer therapies that incorporate immunotherapy-based techniques have become increasingly common in recent years. While such a strategy has been shown to be effective for immunogenic, “hot” tumors like melanoma and lung cancer, thus far PDAC patients display poor responses to this therapeutic approach. Various factors, such as low tumor mutational burden, increased infiltration of immunosuppressive cells, like MDSCs and Treg cells promote tolerance and immune deviation, further aggravating adaptive immunity in PDAC. In this review we will elaborate on the ability of PDAC tumors to evade immune detection. We will also discuss various 3D model system that can be used as a platform in preclinical research to investigate rational combinations of immunotherapy with chemotherapy or targeted therapy, to prime the immune microenvironment to enhance antitumor activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shruthi Narayanan
- Clinica Universidad de Navarra, Medical Oncology Department, Pamplona, Spain
- Program in Solid Tumors, Center for Applied Medical Research, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Silve Vicent
- Program in Solid Tumors, Center for Applied Medical Research, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research, Pamplona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Madrid, Spain
- Department of Pathology, Anatomy and Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- *Correspondence: Silve Vicent, ; Mariano Ponz-Sarvisé,
| | - Mariano Ponz-Sarvisé
- Clinica Universidad de Navarra, Medical Oncology Department, Pamplona, Spain
- Program in Solid Tumors, Center for Applied Medical Research, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research, Pamplona, Spain
- Department of Pathology, Anatomy and Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- *Correspondence: Silve Vicent, ; Mariano Ponz-Sarvisé,
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19
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Modi U, Makwana P, Vasita R. Molecular insights of metastasis and cancer progression derived using 3D cancer spheroid co-culture in vitro platform. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2021; 168:103511. [PMID: 34740822 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2021.103511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The multistep metastasis process is carried out by the combinatorial effect of the stromal cells and the cancerous cells and plays vital role in the cancer progression. The scaffold/physical cues aided 3D cancer spheroid imitates the spatiotemporal organization and physiological properties of the tumor. Understanding the role of the key players in different stages of metastasis, the molecular cross-talk between the stromal cells and the cancer cells contributing in the advancement of the metastasis through 3D cancer spheroid co-culture in vitro platform is the center of discussion in the present review. This state-of-art in vitro platform utilized to study the cancer cell host defence and the role of exosomes in the cross talk leading to cancer progression has been critically examined here. 3D cancer spheroid co-culture technique is the promising next-generation in vitro approach for exploring potent treatments and personalized medicines to combat cancer metastasis leading to cancer progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Unnati Modi
- Biomaterials & Biomimetics Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Gujarat, Gandhinagar, India
| | - Pooja Makwana
- Biomaterials & Biomimetics Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Gujarat, Gandhinagar, India
| | - Rajesh Vasita
- Biomaterials & Biomimetics Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Gujarat, Gandhinagar, India.
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20
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Gündel B, Liu X, Löhr M, Heuchel R. Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma: Preclinical in vitro and ex vivo Models. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:741162. [PMID: 34746135 PMCID: PMC8569794 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.741162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the most overlooked cancers despite its dismal median survival time of 6 months. The biggest challenges in improving patient survival are late diagnosis due to lack of diagnostic markers, and limited treatment options due to almost complete therapy resistance. The past decades of research identified the dense stroma and the complex interplay/crosstalk between the cancer- and the different stromal cells as the main culprits for the slow progress in improving patient outcome. For better ex vivo simulation of this complex tumor microenvironment the models used in PDAC research likewise need to become more diverse. Depending on the focus of the investigation, several in vitro and in vivo models for PDAC have been established in the past years. Particularly, 3D cell culture such as spheroids and organoids have become more frequently used. This review aims to examine current PDAC in vitro models, their inherent limitations, and their successful implementations in research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beate Gündel
- Pancreas Cancer Research Lab, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Xinyuan Liu
- Pancreas Cancer Research Lab, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Matthias Löhr
- Pancreas Cancer Research Lab, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
- Department of Upper GI, C1:77, Karolinska Comprehensive Cancer Center, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Rainer Heuchel
- Pancreas Cancer Research Lab, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
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21
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RNAi-Based Approaches for Pancreatic Cancer Therapy. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13101638. [PMID: 34683931 PMCID: PMC8541396 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13101638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is one of the most lethal forms of cancer, predicted to be the second leading cause of cancer-associated death by 2025. Despite intensive research for effective treatment strategies and novel anticancer drugs over the past decade, the overall patient survival rate remains low. RNA interference (RNAi) is capable of interfering with expression of specific genes and has emerged as a promising approach for pancreatic cancer because genetic aberrations and dysregulated signaling are the drivers for tumor formation and the stromal barrier to conventional therapy. Despite its therapeutic potential, RNA-based drugs have remaining hurdles such as poor tumor delivery and susceptibility to serum degradation, which could be overcome with the incorporation of nanocarriers for clinical applications. Here we summarize the use of small interfering RNA (siRNA) and microRNA (miRNA) in pancreatic cancer therapy in preclinical reports with approaches for targeting either the tumor or tumor microenvironment (TME) using various types of nanocarriers. In these studies, inhibition of oncogene expression and induction of a tumor suppressive response in cancer cells and surrounding immune cells in TME exhibited a strong anticancer effect in pancreatic cancer models. The review discusses the remaining challenges and prospective strategies suggesting the potential of RNAi-based therapeutics for pancreatic cancer.
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22
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Liu X, Gündel B, Li X, Liu J, Wright A, Löhr M, Arvidsson G, Heuchel R. 3D heterospecies spheroids of pancreatic stroma and cancer cells demonstrate key phenotypes of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Transl Oncol 2021; 14:101107. [PMID: 33946033 PMCID: PMC8111319 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2021.101107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the most lethal malignancies, partly due to the dense desmoplasia and a lack of suitable model systems to study. In the present work, we developed a 3D heterospecies spheroid model to study the microenvironmental interactions between tumor cells and stellate cells which can also be employed to test therapeutic regimens. We set up monospheroids and heterospheroids made up from murine pancreatic stellate cells (mPSCs) and human PDAC cells (Panc1), which allowed for direct isolation of mRNA from a mixed cell population followed by an in silico separation of the RNA-seq reads. Global transcript level changes for cells in heterospheroids versus monospheroids were calculated, followed by gene set enrichment analysis and molecular subtype analysis. We observed an apparent shift of Panc1 from the classical to the squamous/basal-like phenotype upon co-culture with mPSCs. Moreover, mPSCs acquired a different cancer-associated fibroblast-related phenotype upon co-culture with Panc1. We analyzed the tumor cell-specific chemosensitivities towards gemcitabine, paclitaxel and SN38 and compared these to published pharmacotranscriptomic signatures. In conclusion, our heterospecies spheroid model reflected key aspects of PDAC and facilitated the study of intercellular interactions between tumor and stroma while additionally proving to be a good model for studying therapeutic responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyuan Liu
- Pancreas Cancer Research Lab, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge SE 141 86, Sweden
| | - Beate Gündel
- Pancreas Cancer Research Lab, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge SE 141 86, Sweden
| | - Xidan Li
- Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge SE 141 86, Sweden
| | - Jianping Liu
- Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge SE 141 86, Sweden
| | - Anthony Wright
- Division of Biomolecular and Cellular Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge SE 141 86, Sweden
| | - Matthias Löhr
- Pancreas Cancer Research Lab, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge SE 141 86, Sweden
| | - Gustav Arvidsson
- Division of Biomolecular and Cellular Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge SE 141 86, Sweden
| | - Rainer Heuchel
- Pancreas Cancer Research Lab, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge SE 141 86, Sweden.
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23
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Heinrich MA, Mostafa AMRH, Morton JP, Hawinkels LJAC, Prakash J. Translating complexity and heterogeneity of pancreatic tumor: 3D in vitro to in vivo models. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2021; 174:265-293. [PMID: 33895214 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.04.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Revised: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an extremely aggressive type of cancer with an overall survival rate of less than 7-8%, emphasizing the need for novel effective therapeutics against PDAC. However only a fraction of therapeutics which seemed promising in the laboratory environment will eventually reach the clinic. One of the main reasons behind this low success rate is the complex tumor microenvironment (TME) of PDAC, a highly fibrotic and dense stroma surrounding tumor cells, which supports tumor progression as well as increases the resistance against the treatment. In particular, the growing understanding of the PDAC TME points out a different challenge in the development of efficient therapeutics - a lack of biologically relevant in vitro and in vivo models that resemble the complexity and heterogeneity of PDAC observed in patients. The purpose and scope of this review is to provide an overview of the recent developments in different in vitro and in vivo models, which aim to recapitulate the complexity of PDAC in a laboratory environment, as well to describe how 3D in vitro models can be integrated into drug development pipelines that are already including sophisticated in vivo models. Hereby a special focus will be given on the complexity of in vivo models and the challenges in vitro models face to reach the same levels of complexity in a controllable manner. First, a brief introduction of novel developments in two dimensional (2D) models and ex vivo models is provided. Next, recent developments in three dimensional (3D) in vitro models are described ranging from spheroids, organoids, scaffold models, bioprinted models to organ-on-chip models including a discussion on advantages and limitations for each model. Furthermore, we will provide a detailed overview on the current PDAC in vivo models including chemically-induced models, syngeneic and xenogeneic models, highlighting hetero- and orthotopic, patient-derived tissues (PDX) models, and genetically engineered mouse models. Finally, we will provide a discussion on overall limitations of both, in vitro and in vivo models, and discuss necessary steps to overcome these limitations to reach an efficient drug development pipeline, as well as discuss possibilities to include novel in silico models in the process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcel A Heinrich
- Department of Biomaterials Science and Technology, Section Targeted Therapeutics, Technical Medical Centre, University of Twente, 7500AE Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - Ahmed M R H Mostafa
- Department of Biomaterials Science and Technology, Section Targeted Therapeutics, Technical Medical Centre, University of Twente, 7500AE Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - Jennifer P Morton
- Cancer Research UK, Beatson Institute, Garscube Estate, Switchback Rd, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK; Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Garscube Estate, Switchback Rd, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
| | - Lukas J A C Hawinkels
- Department of Gastroenterology-Hepatology, Leiden University Medical Centre, PO-box 9600, 2300 RC Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Jai Prakash
- Department of Biomaterials Science and Technology, Section Targeted Therapeutics, Technical Medical Centre, University of Twente, 7500AE Enschede, the Netherlands.
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24
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Fontana F, Marzagalli M, Sommariva M, Gagliano N, Limonta P. In Vitro 3D Cultures to Model the Tumor Microenvironment. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13122970. [PMID: 34199324 PMCID: PMC8231786 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13122970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2021] [Revised: 06/06/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Tumor stroma is known to significantly influence cancer initiation and progression. In the last decade, 3D cell cultures have shown potential in modeling the tumor microenvironment. This review summarizes the main features of current 3D models, shedding light on their importance in the study of cancer biology and treatment. Abstract It is now well established that the tumor microenvironment plays a key role in determining cancer growth, metastasis and drug resistance. Thus, it is fundamental to understand how cancer cells interact and communicate with their stroma and how this crosstalk regulates disease initiation and progression. In this setting, 3D cell cultures have gained a lot of interest in the last two decades, due to their ability to better recapitulate the complexity of tumor microenvironment and therefore to bridge the gap between 2D monolayers and animal models. Herein, we present an overview of the 3D systems commonly used for studying tumor–stroma interactions, with a focus on recent advances in cancer modeling and drug discovery and testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabrizio Fontana
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133 Milan, Italy; (M.M.); (P.L.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-02-503-18427
| | - Monica Marzagalli
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133 Milan, Italy; (M.M.); (P.L.)
| | - Michele Sommariva
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Via Mangiagalli 31, 20133 Milan, Italy; (M.S.); (N.G.)
| | - Nicoletta Gagliano
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Via Mangiagalli 31, 20133 Milan, Italy; (M.S.); (N.G.)
| | - Patrizia Limonta
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133 Milan, Italy; (M.M.); (P.L.)
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25
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Delle Cave D, Rizzo R, Sainz B, Gigli G, del Mercato LL, Lonardo E. The Revolutionary Roads to Study Cell-Cell Interactions in 3D In Vitro Pancreatic Cancer Models. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:930. [PMID: 33672435 PMCID: PMC7926501 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13040930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 02/07/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer, the fourth most common cancer worldwide, shows a highly unsuccessful therapeutic response. In the last 10 years, neither important advancements nor new therapeutic strategies have significantly impacted patient survival, highlighting the need to pursue new avenues for drug development discovery and design. Advanced cellular models, resembling as much as possible the original in vivo tumor environment, may be more successful in predicting the efficacy of future anti-cancer candidates in clinical trials. In this review, we discuss novel bioengineered platforms for anticancer drug discovery in pancreatic cancer, from traditional two-dimensional models to innovative three-dimensional ones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donatella Delle Cave
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics “A. Buzzati-Traverso”, National Research Council (CNR-IGB), Via Pietro Castellino 111, 80131 Naples, Italy;
| | - Riccardo Rizzo
- Institute of Nanotechnology, National Research Council (CNR-NANOTEC), c/o Campus Ecotekne, via Monteroni, 73100 Lecce, Italy; (R.R.); (G.G.); (L.L.d.M.)
| | - Bruno Sainz
- Department of Cancer Biology, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomedicas “Alberto Sols” (IIBM), CSIC-UAM, 28029 Madrid, Spain;
- Spain and Chronic Diseases and Cancer, Area 3-Instituto Ramon y Cajal de Investigacion Sanitaria (IRYCIS), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Giuseppe Gigli
- Institute of Nanotechnology, National Research Council (CNR-NANOTEC), c/o Campus Ecotekne, via Monteroni, 73100 Lecce, Italy; (R.R.); (G.G.); (L.L.d.M.)
- Department of Mathematics and Physics “Ennio De Giorgi”, University of Salento, via Arnesano, 73100 Lecce, Italy
| | - Loretta L. del Mercato
- Institute of Nanotechnology, National Research Council (CNR-NANOTEC), c/o Campus Ecotekne, via Monteroni, 73100 Lecce, Italy; (R.R.); (G.G.); (L.L.d.M.)
| | - Enza Lonardo
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics “A. Buzzati-Traverso”, National Research Council (CNR-IGB), Via Pietro Castellino 111, 80131 Naples, Italy;
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26
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Humphries M, Maxwell P, Salto-Tellez M. QuPath: The global impact of an open source digital pathology system. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2021; 19:852-859. [PMID: 33598100 PMCID: PMC7851421 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2021.01.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Revised: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
QuPath, originally created at the Centre for Cancer Research & Cell Biology at Queen's University Belfast as part of a research programme in digital pathology (DP) funded by Invest Northern Ireland and Cancer Research UK, is arguably the most wildly used image analysis software program in the world. On the back of the explosion of DP and a need to comprehensively visualise and analyse whole slides images (WSI), QuPath was developed to address the many needs associated with tissue based image analysis; these were several fold and, predominantly, translational in nature: from the requirement to visualise images containing billions of pixels from files several GBs in size, to the demand for high-throughput reproducible analysis, which the paradigm of routine visual pathological assessment continues to struggle to deliver. Resultantly, large-scale biomarker quantification must increasingly be augmented with DP. Here we highlight the impact of the open source Quantitative Pathology & Bioimage Analysis DP system since its inception, by discussing the scope of scientific research in which QuPath has been cited, as the system of choice for researchers.
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Affiliation(s)
- M.P. Humphries
- Precision Medicine Centre of Excellence, The Patrick G Johnston Centre for Cancer Research, Queen’s University, Belfast, UK
| | - P. Maxwell
- Precision Medicine Centre of Excellence, The Patrick G Johnston Centre for Cancer Research, Queen’s University, Belfast, UK
| | - M. Salto-Tellez
- Precision Medicine Centre of Excellence, The Patrick G Johnston Centre for Cancer Research, Queen’s University, Belfast, UK
- Integrated Pathology Programme, Division of Molecular Pathology, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
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27
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Three-Dimensional Spheroids as In Vitro Preclinical Models for Cancer Research. Pharmaceutics 2020; 12:pharmaceutics12121186. [PMID: 33291351 PMCID: PMC7762220 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics12121186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 156] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Revised: 11/29/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Most cancer biologists still rely on conventional two-dimensional (2D) monolayer culture techniques to test in vitro anti-tumor drugs prior to in vivo testing. However, the vast majority of promising preclinical drugs have no or weak efficacy in real patients with tumors, thereby delaying the discovery of successful therapeutics. This is because 2D culture lacks cell–cell contacts and natural tumor microenvironment, important in tumor signaling and drug response, thereby resulting in a reduced malignant phenotype compared to the real tumor. In this sense, three-dimensional (3D) cultures of cancer cells that better recapitulate in vivo cell environments emerged as scientifically accurate and low cost cancer models for preclinical screening and testing of new drug candidates before moving to expensive and time-consuming animal models. Here, we provide a comprehensive overview of 3D tumor systems and highlight the strategies for spheroid construction and evaluation tools of targeted therapies, focusing on their applicability in cancer research. Examples of the applicability of 3D culture for the evaluation of the therapeutic efficacy of nanomedicines are discussed.
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28
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Suri R, Zimmerman JW, Burkhart RA. Modeling human pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma for translational research: current options, challenges, and prospective directions. ANNALS OF PANCREATIC CANCER 2020; 3:17. [PMID: 33889840 PMCID: PMC8059695 DOI: 10.21037/apc-20-29] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a devastating malignancy with one of the lowest survival rates. Early detection, an improved understanding of tumor biology, and novel therapeutic discoveries are needed in order to improve overall patient survival. Scientific progress towards meeting these goals relies upon accurate modeling of the human disease. From two-dimensional (2D) cell lines to the advanced modeling available today, we aim to characterize the critical tools in efforts to further understand PDAC biology. The National Center for Biotechnology Information's PubMed and the Elsevier's SCOPUS were used to perform a comprehensive literature review evaluating preclinical human-derived PDAC models. Keywords included pancreatic cancer, PDAC, preclinical models, KRAS mutations, xenograft, co-culturing fibroblasts, co-culturing lymphocytes and PDAC immunotherapy Initial search was limited to articles about PDAC and was then expanded to include other gastrointestinal malignancies where information may complement our effort. A supervised review of the key literature's references was utilized to augment the capture of relevant data. The discovery and refinement of techniques enabling immortalized 2D cell culture provided the cornerstone for modern cancer biology research. Cell lines have been widely used to represent PDAC in vitro but are limited in capacity to model three-dimensional (3D) tumor attributes and interactions within the tumor microenvironment. Xenografts are an alternative method to model PDAC with improved capacity to understand certain aspects of 3D tumor biology in vivo while limited by the use of immunodeficient mice. Advances of in vitro modeling techniques have led to 3D organoid models for PDAC biology. Co-culturing models in the 3D environment have been proposed as an efficient modeling system for improving upon the limitations encountered in the standard 2D and xenograft tumor models. The integrated network of cells and stroma that comprise PDAC in vivo need to be accurately depicted ex vivo to continue to make progress in this disease. Recapitulating the complex tumor microenvironment in a preclinical model of human disease is an outstanding and urgent need in PDAC. Definitive characterization of available human models for PDAC serves to further the core mission of pancreatic cancer translational research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reecha Suri
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jacquelyn W. Zimmerman
- Department of Medical Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Richard A. Burkhart
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
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29
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Chen H, Zhuo Q, Ye Z, Xu X, Ji S. Organoid model: A new hope for pancreatic cancer treatment? Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2020; 1875:188466. [PMID: 33160014 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2020.188466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Revised: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/31/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is a rapidly progressing disease with a poor prognosis. We still have many questions about the pathogenesis, early diagnosis and precise treatment of this disease. Organoids, a rapidly emerging technology, can simulate the characteristics of pancreatic tumors. Using the organoid model of pancreatic cancer, we can study and explore the characteristics of pancreatic cancer, thereby effectively guiding clinical practice and improving patient prognosis. This review introduces the development of organoids, comparisons of organoids with other preclinical models and the status of organoids in basic research and clinical applications for pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haidi Chen
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, No. 270 Dong'An Road, Shanghai, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, No. 270 Dong'An Road, Shanghai 200032, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qifeng Zhuo
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, No. 270 Dong'An Road, Shanghai, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, No. 270 Dong'An Road, Shanghai 200032, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zeng Ye
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, No. 270 Dong'An Road, Shanghai, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, No. 270 Dong'An Road, Shanghai 200032, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaowu Xu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, No. 270 Dong'An Road, Shanghai, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, No. 270 Dong'An Road, Shanghai 200032, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shunrong Ji
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, No. 270 Dong'An Road, Shanghai, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, No. 270 Dong'An Road, Shanghai 200032, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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30
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Doctor A, Seifert V, Ullrich M, Hauser S, Pietzsch J. Three-Dimensional Cell Culture Systems in Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12102765. [PMID: 32993034 PMCID: PMC7600608 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12102765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In preclinical cancer research, three-dimensional (3D) cell culture systems such as multicellular spheroids and organoids are becoming increasingly important. They provide valuable information before studies on animal models begin and, in some cases, are even suitable for reducing or replacing animal experiments. Furthermore, they recapitulate microtumors, metastases, and the tumor microenvironment much better than monolayer culture systems could. Three-dimensional models show higher structural complexity and diverse cell interactions while reflecting (patho)physiological phenomena such as oxygen and nutrient gradients in the course of their growth or development. These interactions and properties are of great importance for understanding the pathophysiological importance of stromal cells and the extracellular matrix for tumor progression, treatment response, or resistance mechanisms of solid tumors. Special emphasis is placed on co-cultivation with tumor-associated cells, which further increases the predictive value of 3D models, e.g., for drug development. The aim of this overview is to shed light on selected 3D models and their advantages and disadvantages, especially from the radiopharmacist's point of view with focus on the suitability of 3D models for the radiopharmacological characterization of novel radiotracers and radiotherapeutics. Special attention is paid to pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) as a predestined target for the development of new radionuclide-based theranostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alina Doctor
- Department of Radiopharmaceutical and Chemical Biology, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, 01328 Dresden, Germany; (A.D.); (V.S.); (M.U.); (S.H.)
- School of Science, Faculty of Chemistry and Food Chemistry, Technische Universität Dresden, 01069 Dresden, Germany
| | - Verena Seifert
- Department of Radiopharmaceutical and Chemical Biology, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, 01328 Dresden, Germany; (A.D.); (V.S.); (M.U.); (S.H.)
- School of Science, Faculty of Chemistry and Food Chemistry, Technische Universität Dresden, 01069 Dresden, Germany
| | - Martin Ullrich
- Department of Radiopharmaceutical and Chemical Biology, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, 01328 Dresden, Germany; (A.D.); (V.S.); (M.U.); (S.H.)
| | - Sandra Hauser
- Department of Radiopharmaceutical and Chemical Biology, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, 01328 Dresden, Germany; (A.D.); (V.S.); (M.U.); (S.H.)
| | - Jens Pietzsch
- Department of Radiopharmaceutical and Chemical Biology, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, 01328 Dresden, Germany; (A.D.); (V.S.); (M.U.); (S.H.)
- School of Science, Faculty of Chemistry and Food Chemistry, Technische Universität Dresden, 01069 Dresden, Germany
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-351-260-2622
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