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Lou W, Xiao S, Lin K. Identification of a hypoxia-suppressed lncRNA RAMP2-AS1 in breast cancer. Noncoding RNA Res 2024; 9:782-795. [PMID: 38590436 PMCID: PMC10999373 DOI: 10.1016/j.ncrna.2024.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Hypoxia is a critical feature of solid tumors and exerts crucial roles in cancers, including breast cancer. However, the detailed relationship between lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA triple network and hypoxia in breast cancer is still indistinct. In this study, a series of in silico analyses and online databases or tools were employed to establish a hypoxia-related lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA network in breast cancer based on competing endogenous RNA mechanism at single-cell resolution. RAMP2-AS1 was, eventually, identified as the most potential lncRNA, which was significantly negatively associated with hypoxia in breast cancer. Compared with normal controls, RAMP2-AS1 was markedly downregulated in breast cancer. Moreover, survival analysis revealed favorable prognostic values of RAMP2-AS1 in total or in specific clinicopathological breast cancer patients. Next, miR-660-5p, miR-2277-5p and miR-1301-3p, upregulated and possessed poor prognostic values in breast cancer, were identified as three potential downstream miRNAs of RAMP2-AS1. Then, the most potential downstream hypoxia-related genes (ATM and MYH11) of RAMP2-AS1/miRNA axis in breast cancer were screened out. Intriguingly, in vitro experiments confirmed that RAMP2-AS1 was a hypoxia-suppressed lncRNA and miR-660-5p/ATM was a potential downstream axis of RAMP2-AS1 in breast cancer. Collectively, our current data elucidated a key hypoxia-suppressed lncRNA RAMP2-AS1 and its possible miRNA-mRNA regulatory mechanism in breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiyang Lou
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China
| | - Shuyuan Xiao
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310003, China
| | - Kuailu Lin
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325015, China
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Dong H, Zeng X, Xu J, He C, Sun Z, Liu L, Huang Y, Sun Z, Cao Y, Peng Z, Qiu YA, Yu T. Advances in immune regulation of the G protein-coupled estrogen receptor. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 136:112369. [PMID: 38824903 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2024] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
Estrogen and related receptors have been shown to have a significant impact on human development, reproduction, metabolism and immune regulation and to play a critical role in tumor development and treatment. Traditionally, the nuclear estrogen receptors (nERs) ERα and ERβ have been thought to be involved in mediating the estrogenic effects. However, our group and others have previously demonstrated that the G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) is the third independent ER, and estrogen signaling mediated by GPER is known to play an important role in normal physiology and a variety of abnormal diseases. Interestingly, recent studies have progressively revealed GPER involvement in the maintenance of the normal immune system, abnormal immune diseases, and inflammatory lesions, which may be of significant clinical value primarily in the immunotherapy of tumors. In this article, we review current advances in GPER-related immunomodulators and provide a theoretical basis and potential clinical targets to ameliorate immune-related diseases and immunotherapy for tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanzhi Dong
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330000, China
| | - Xiaoqiang Zeng
- Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330000, China
| | - Jiawei Xu
- Department of Breast Surgery, Jiangxi Cancer Hospital, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Nanchang 330029, China
| | - Chongwu He
- Department of Breast Surgery, Jiangxi Cancer Hospital, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Nanchang 330029, China
| | - Zhengkui Sun
- Department of Breast Surgery, Jiangxi Cancer Hospital, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Nanchang 330029, China
| | - Liyan Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, Jiangxi Cancer Hospital, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Nanchang 330029, China
| | - Yanxiao Huang
- Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330000, China
| | - Zhe Sun
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330000, China
| | - Yuan Cao
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330000, China
| | - Zhiqiang Peng
- Department of Lymphohematology, Jiangxi Cancer Hospital, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Nanchang 330029, China.
| | - Yu-An Qiu
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Jiangxi Cancer Hospital, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Nanchang 330029, China.
| | - Tenghua Yu
- Department of Breast Surgery, Jiangxi Cancer Hospital, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Nanchang 330029, China.
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Talia M, Cirillo F, Scordamaglia D, Di Dio M, Zicarelli A, De Rosis S, Miglietta AM, Capalbo C, De Francesco EM, Belfiore A, Grande F, Rizzuti B, Occhiuzzi MA, Fortino G, Guzzo A, Greco G, Maggiolini M, Lappano R. The G Protein Estrogen Receptor (GPER) is involved in the resistance to the CDK4/6 inhibitor palbociclib in breast cancer. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2024; 43:171. [PMID: 38886784 PMCID: PMC11184778 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-024-03096-7] [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: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The cyclin D1-cyclin dependent kinases (CDK)4/6 inhibitor palbociclib in combination with endocrine therapy shows remarkable efficacy in the management of estrogen receptor (ER)-positive and HER2-negative advanced breast cancer (BC). Nevertheless, resistance to palbociclib frequently arises, highlighting the need to identify new targets toward more comprehensive therapeutic strategies in BC patients. METHODS BC cell lines resistant to palbociclib were generated and used as a model system. Gene silencing techniques and overexpression experiments, real-time PCR, immunoblotting and chromatin immunoprecipitation studies as well as cell viability, colony and 3D spheroid formation assays served to evaluate the involvement of the G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) in the resistance to palbociclib in BC cells. Molecular docking simulations were also performed to investigate the potential interaction of palbociclib with GPER. Furthermore, BC cells co-cultured with cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) isolated from mammary carcinoma, were used to investigate whether GPER signaling may contribute to functional cell interactions within the tumor microenvironment toward palbociclib resistance. Finally, by bioinformatics analyses and k-means clustering on clinical and expression data of large cohorts of BC patients, the clinical significance of novel mediators of palbociclib resistance was explored. RESULTS Dissecting the molecular events that characterize ER-positive BC cells resistant to palbociclib, the down-regulation of ERα along with the up-regulation of GPER were found. To evaluate the molecular events involved in the up-regulation of GPER, we determined that the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) interacts with the promoter region of GPER and stimulates its expression toward BC cells resistance to palbociclib treatment. Adding further cues to these data, we ascertained that palbociclib does induce pro-inflammatory transcriptional events via GPER signaling in CAFs. Of note, by performing co-culture assays we demonstrated that GPER contributes to the reduced sensitivity to palbociclib also facilitating the functional interaction between BC cells and main components of the tumor microenvironment named CAFs. CONCLUSIONS Overall, our results provide novel insights on the molecular events through which GPER may contribute to palbociclib resistance in BC cells. Additional investigations are warranted in order to assess whether targeting the GPER-mediated interactions between BC cells and CAFs may be useful in more comprehensive therapeutic approaches of BC resistant to palbociclib.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianna Talia
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, 87036, Italy
| | - Francesca Cirillo
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, 87036, Italy
| | - Domenica Scordamaglia
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, 87036, Italy
| | - Marika Di Dio
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, 87036, Italy
| | - Azzurra Zicarelli
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, 87036, Italy
| | - Salvatore De Rosis
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, 87036, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Miglietta
- Breast and General Surgery Unit, Regional Hospital Cosenza, Cosenza, 87100, Italy
| | - Carlo Capalbo
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, 87036, Italy
- Complex Operative Oncology Unit, Regional Hospital Cosenza, Cosenza, 87100, Italy
| | | | - Antonino Belfiore
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, Catania, 95122, Italy
| | - Fedora Grande
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, 87036, Italy
| | - Bruno Rizzuti
- Department of Physics, CNR-NANOTEC, SS Rende (CS), University of Calabria, Rende, CS, 87036, Italy
- Institute of Biocomputation and Physics of Complex Systems (BIFI), Joint Unit GBsC-CSIC-BIFI, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, 50018, Spain
| | | | - Giancarlo Fortino
- Department of Informatics, Modeling, Electronic, and System Engineering, University of Calabria, Rende, 87036, Italy
| | - Antonella Guzzo
- Department of Informatics, Modeling, Electronic, and System Engineering, University of Calabria, Rende, 87036, Italy
| | - Gianluigi Greco
- Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, University of Calabria, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Marcello Maggiolini
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, 87036, Italy.
| | - Rosamaria Lappano
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, 87036, Italy.
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Zhou J, Ottewell PD. The role of IL-1B in breast cancer bone metastasis. J Bone Oncol 2024; 46:100608. [PMID: 38800348 PMCID: PMC11127524 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbo.2024.100608] [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: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Interleukin-1B (IL-1B) is a potent pro-inflammatory cytokine that plays multiple, pivotal roles, in the complex interplay between breast cancer cells and the bone microenvironment. IL-1B is involved in the growth of the primary tumours, regulation of inflammation within the tumour microenvironment, promotion of epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), migration and invasion. Moreover, when breast cancer cells arrive in the bone microenvironment there is an upregulation of IL-1B which promotes the creation of a conducive niche for metastatic breast cancer cells as well as stimulating initiation of the vicious cycle of bone metastasis. Pre-clinical studies have demonstrated that inhibition of IL-1 signalling reduces bone metastasis from oestrogen receptor positive/triple-negative breast cancers in various mouse models. However, effects on primary tumours and soft tissue metastasis remain controversial with some studies showing increased tumour growth in these sites, whilst others show no effects. Notably, combining anti-IL-1 therapy with standard-of-care treatments, such as chemotherapy and immunotherapy, has been demonstrated to reduce the growth of primary tumours, bone metastasis, as well as metastatic outgrowth in other organs. This review focuses on the mechanisms by which IL-1B promotes breast cancer bone metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiabao Zhou
- Division of Clinical Medicine, University of Sheffield, Beech Hill Road, Sheffield S10 2RX, United Kingdom
| | - Penelope D. Ottewell
- Division of Clinical Medicine, University of Sheffield, Beech Hill Road, Sheffield S10 2RX, United Kingdom
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Yuan J, Lin M, Yang S, Yin H, Ouyang S, Xie H, Tang H, Ou X, Zeng Z. The therapeutic effect and targets of herba Sarcandrae on breast cancer and the construction of a prognostic signature consisting of inflammation-related genes. Heliyon 2024; 10:e31137. [PMID: 38778969 PMCID: PMC11109893 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e31137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The prevalence of breast cancer (BRCA), which is common among women, is on the rise. This study applied network pharmacology to explore the potential mechanism of action of herba sarcandrae in BRCA and construct a prognostic signature composed of inflammation-related genes. Methods The active ingredients of herba sarcandrae were screened using the SymMap, TCMID, and TCMSP platforms, and the molecular targets were determined in the UniProt database. The "drug-active compound-potential target" network was established with Cytoscape 3.7.2. The molecular targets were subjected to disease ontology, gene ontology (GO), and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes (KEGG) analyses. AutoDock software was used for molecular docking. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) related to inflammation were obtained from the BRCA Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. In the training cohort, the univariate Cox regression model was applied to preliminarily screen prognostic genes. A multigene signature was built by the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression model, followed by validation through Kaplan‒Meier, Cox, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analyses. Results Forty-one active compounds were identified, and 265 therapeutic targets for herba sarcandrae were predicted. GO enrichment results revealed significant enrichment of biological processes, such as response to xenobiotic stimuli, response to nutrient levels, and response to lipopolysaccharide. KEGG analysis revealed significant enrichment of pathways such as AGE-RAGE and chemical carcinogenesis receptor activation signaling pathways. In addition, the herbs Marc-Andre and rutin were shown to mediate BRCA cell proliferation and apoptosis via the interferon regulatory factor 1 (IRF1)/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3)/programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) pathway. Sixteen inflammatory signatures, including BST2, GPR132, IL12B, IL18, IL1R1, IL2RB, IRF1, and others, were constructed, and the risk score was found to be a strong independent prognostic factor for overall survival in BRCA patients. The 16-inflammation signature was associated with several clinical features (age, clinical stage, T, and N classifications) and could reflect immune cell infiltration in tumor microenvironments with different immune cells. Conclusions Herba sarcandrae and rutin were shown to mediate BRCA cell proliferation and apoptosis via the IRF1/STAT3/PD-L1 pathway, and the 16-member inflammatory signature might be a novel biomarker for predicting BRCA patient prognosis, providing more accurate guidance for clinical treatment prognosis evaluation and having important reference value for individualized treatment selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Yuan
- Department of General Surgery, Foshan Clinical Medical School, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Foshan, China
- Department of General Surgery, Foshan Fosun Chancheng Hospital, Foshan, China
| | - Minxia Lin
- Department of General Surgery, Foshan Clinical Medical School, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Foshan, China
| | - Shaohua Yang
- Department of General Surgery, Foshan Clinical Medical School, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Foshan, China
- Department of General Surgery, Foshan Fosun Chancheng Hospital, Foshan, China
| | - Hao Yin
- Department of General Surgery, Foshan Fosun Chancheng Hospital, Foshan, China
| | - Shaoyong Ouyang
- Department of General Surgery, Foshan Fosun Chancheng Hospital, Foshan, China
| | - Hong Xie
- Department of General Surgery, Foshan Fosun Chancheng Hospital, Foshan, China
| | - Hongmei Tang
- Pharmaceutical Department, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaowei Ou
- Department of General Surgery, Foshan Fosun Chancheng Hospital, Foshan, China
| | - Zhiqiang Zeng
- Department of General Surgery, Foshan Clinical Medical School, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Foshan, China
- Department of General Surgery, Foshan Fosun Chancheng Hospital, Foshan, China
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6
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Cirillo F, Spinelli A, Talia M, Scordamaglia D, Santolla MF, Grande F, Rizzuti B, Maggiolini M, Gérard C, Lappano R. Estetrol/GPER/SERPINB2 transduction signaling inhibits the motility of triple-negative breast cancer cells. J Transl Med 2024; 22:450. [PMID: 38741146 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-05269-6] [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: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Estetrol (E4) is a natural estrogen produced by the fetal liver during pregnancy. Due to its favorable safety profile, E4 was recently approved as estrogenic component of a new combined oral contraceptive. E4 is a selective ligand of estrogen receptor (ER)α and ERβ, but its binding to the G Protein-Coupled Estrogen Receptor (GPER) has not been described to date. Therefore, we aimed to explore E4 action in GPER-positive Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) cells. METHODS The potential interaction between E4 and GPER was investigated by molecular modeling and binding assays. The whole transcriptomic modulation triggered by E4 in TNBC cells via GPER was explored through high-throughput RNA sequencing analyses. Gene and protein expression evaluations as well as migration and invasion assays allowed us to explore the involvement of the GPER-mediated induction of the plasminogen activator inhibitor type 2 (SERPINB2) in the biological responses triggered by E4 in TNBC cells. Furthermore, bioinformatics analysis was aimed at recognizing the biological significance of SERPINB2 in ER-negative breast cancer patients. RESULTS After the molecular characterization of the E4 binding capacity to GPER, RNA-seq analysis revealed that the plasminogen activator inhibitor type 2 (SERPINB2) is one of the most up-regulated genes by E4 in a GPER-dependent manner. Worthy, we demonstrated that the GPER-mediated increase of SERPINB2 is engaged in the anti-migratory and anti-invasive effects elicited by E4 in TNBC cells. In accordance with these findings, a correlation between SERPINB2 levels and a good clinical outcome was found in ER-negative breast cancer patients. CONCLUSIONS Overall, our results provide new insights into the mechanisms through which E4 can halt migratory and invasive features of TNBC cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Cirillo
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, 87036, Italy
| | - Asia Spinelli
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, 87036, Italy
| | - Marianna Talia
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, 87036, Italy
| | - Domenica Scordamaglia
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, 87036, Italy
| | - Maria Francesca Santolla
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, 87036, Italy
| | - Fedora Grande
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, 87036, Italy
| | - Bruno Rizzuti
- Department of Physics, CNR-NANOTEC, SS Rende (CS), University of Calabria, Rende, CS, 87036, Italy
- Institute of Biocomputation and Physics of Complex Systems (BIFI), University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, 50018, Spain
| | - Marcello Maggiolini
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, 87036, Italy
| | - Céline Gérard
- Mithra Pharmaceutical, Rue Saint-Georges 5, Liège, 4000, Belgium.
| | - Rosamaria Lappano
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, 87036, Italy.
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Cai H, Lin Y, Wu Y, Wang Y, Li S, Zhang Y, Zhuang J, Liu X, Guan G. The prognostic model and immune landscape based on cancer-associated fibroblast features for patients with locally advanced rectal cancer. Heliyon 2024; 10:e28673. [PMID: 38590874 PMCID: PMC11000021 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e28673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Background This study aimed to construct a nomogram based on CAF features to predict the cancer-specific survival (CSS) rates of locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC) patients. Methods The EPIC algorithm was employed to calculate the proportion of CAFs. based on the differentially expressed genes between the high and low CAF proportion subgroups, prognostic genes were identified via LASSO and Cox regression analyses. They were then used to construct a prognostic risk signature. Moreover, the GSE39582 and GGSE38832 datasets were used for external validation. Lastly, the level of immune infiltration was evaluated using ssGSEA, ESTIMATE, CIBERSORTx, and TIMER. Results A higher level of CAF infiltration was associated with a worse prognosis. Additionally, the number of metastasized lymph nodes and distant metastases, as well as the level of immune infiltration were higher in the high CAF proportion subgroup. Five prognostic genes (SMOC2, TUBAL3, C2CD4A, MAP1B, BMP8A) were identified and subsequently incorporated into the prognostic risk signature to predict the 1-, 3-, and 5-year CSS rates in the training and validation sets. Differences in survival rates were also determined in the external validation cohort. Furthermore, independent prognostic factors, including TNM stage and risk score, were combined to established a nomogram. Notably, our results revealed that the proportions of macrophages and neutrophils and the levels of cytokines secreted by M2 macrophages were higher in the high-risk subgroup. Finally, the prognostic genes were significantly associated with the level of immune cell infiltration. Conclusion Herein, a nomogram based on CAF features was developed to predict the CSS rate of LARC patients. The risk model was capable of reflecting differences in the level of immune cell infiltration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huajun Cai
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Yijuan Lin
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Yong Wu
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Ye Wang
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Shoufeng Li
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Yiyi Zhang
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Jinfu Zhuang
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Xing Liu
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Guoxian Guan
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, National Regional Medical Center, Binhai Campus of The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
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Villareal LB, Xue X. The emerging role of hypoxia and environmental factors in inflammatory bowel disease. Toxicol Sci 2024; 198:169-184. [PMID: 38200624 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfae004] [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] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic and debilitating disorder characterized by inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. Despite extensive research, the exact cause of IBD remains unknown, hampering the development of effective therapies. However, emerging evidence suggests that hypoxia, a condition resulting from inadequate oxygen supply, plays a crucial role in intestinal inflammation and tissue damage in IBD. Hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs), transcription factors that regulate the cellular response to low oxygen levels, have gained attention for their involvement in modulating inflammatory processes and maintaining tissue homeostasis. The two most studied HIFs, HIF-1α and HIF-2α, have been implicated in the development and progression of IBD. Toxicological factors encompass a wide range of environmental and endogenous agents, including dietary components, microbial metabolites, and pollutants. These factors can profoundly influence the hypoxic microenvironment within the gut, thereby exacerbating the course of IBD and fostering the progression of colitis-associated colorectal cancer. This review explores the regulation of hypoxia signaling at the molecular, microenvironmental, and environmental levels, investigating the intricate interplay between toxicological factors and hypoxic signaling in the context of IBD, focusing on its most concerning outcomes: intestinal fibrosis and colorectal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke B Villareal
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131, USA
| | - Xiang Xue
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131, USA
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9
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Zhang D, Chen H, Wang J, Ji J, Imam M, Zhang Z, Yan S. Current progress and prospects for G protein-coupled estrogen receptor in triple-negative breast cancer. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1338448. [PMID: 38476263 PMCID: PMC10928007 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1338448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a biologically and clinically heterogeneous disease. The G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) plays a crucial role in mediating the effect of estrogen and estrogen-like compounds in TNBC cells. Compared with other subtypes, GPER has a higher expression in TNBC. The GPER mechanisms have been thoroughly characterized and analyzed in estrogen receptor α (ERα) positive breast cancer, but not in TNBC. Our previous work revealed that a higher expression of GPER mRNA indicates a better prognosis for ERα-positive breast cancer; however, its effects in TNBC differ. Whether GPER could serve as a predictive prognostic marker or therapeutic target for TNBC remains unclear. In this review, we provide a detailed introduction to the subcellular localization of GPER, the different effects of various ligands, and the interactions between GPER and closely associated factors in TNBC. We focused on the internal molecular mechanisms specific to TNBC and thoroughly explored the role of GPER in promoting tumor development. We also discussed the interaction of GPER with specific cytokines and chemokines, and the relationship between GPER and immune evasion. Additionally, we discussed the feasibility of using GPER as a therapeutic target in the context of existing studies. This comprehensive review highlights the effects of GPER on TNBC, providing a framework and directions for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Shunchao Yan
- Department of Oncology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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10
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Fang Z, Jiang J, Zheng X. Interleukin-1 receptor antagonist: An alternative therapy for cancer treatment. Life Sci 2023; 335:122276. [PMID: 37977354 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.122276] [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: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
The interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra) is an anti-inflammatory cytokine and a naturally occurring antagonist of the IL-1 receptor. It effectively counteracts the IL-1 signaling pathway mediated by IL-1α/β. Over the past few decades, accumulating evidence has suggested that IL-1 signaling plays an essential role in tumor formation, growth, and metastasis. Significantly, anakinra, the first United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved IL-1Ra drug, has demonstrated promising antitumor effects in animal studies. Numerous clinical trials have subsequently incorporated anakinra into their cancer treatment protocols. In this review, we comprehensively discuss the research progress on the role of IL-1 in tumors and summarize the significant contribution of IL-1Ra (anakinra) to tumor immunity. Additionally, we analyze the potential value of IL-1Ra as a biomarker from a clinical perspective. This review is aimed to highlight the important link between inflammation and cancer and provide potential drug targets for future cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhang Fang
- Department of Tumor Biological Treatment, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu, China; Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for Tumor Immunotherapy, Changzhou, Jiangsu, China; Institute for Cell Therapy of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jingting Jiang
- Department of Tumor Biological Treatment, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu, China; Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for Tumor Immunotherapy, Changzhou, Jiangsu, China; Institute for Cell Therapy of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Xiao Zheng
- Department of Tumor Biological Treatment, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu, China; Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for Tumor Immunotherapy, Changzhou, Jiangsu, China; Institute for Cell Therapy of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu, China.
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11
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Zhu QM, Li HX, Ma PQ, Wu LX, Wang TH, Li WB, Zhang L, Yang X, Kong X, Sun YL, Yan T. A potential immunotherapy target for breast cancer: parenchymal and immune-stromal expression of the NLRP3 inflammasome pathway. BMC Cancer 2023; 23:1163. [PMID: 38031068 PMCID: PMC10685553 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-023-11609-4] [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: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The NOD-, LRR- and pyrin domain‑containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome is a critical component of the innate immune system. It has been known to play an important role in the carcinogenesis and prognosis of breast cancer patients. While the clinical evidence of the relationship between NLRP3 inflammasome activation and long-term survival is still limited, the possible roles of parenchymal or immune-stromal cells of breast cancer tissues in contributing to such carcinogenesis and progression still need to be clarified. This study is an analysis of patients receiving breast cancer surgery in a previous clinical trial. METHODS Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was used to detect the expression levels of NLRP3 inflammasome pathway-related proteins, including NLRP3, caspase-1, apoptosis-associated speck-like protein (ASC), IL-1β, and IL-18, in parenchymal and immune-stromal cells of breast cancer tissues compared to those of adjacent normal tissues, respectively. The relationship between NLRP3 inflammasome expression and clinicopathological characteristics, as well as 5-year survivals were analyzed using the Chi-square test, Kaplan-Meier survival curves, and Cox regression analysis. RESULTS In the parenchymal cells, ASC and IL-18 protein levels were significantly up-regulated in breast cancer tissues compared with adjacent normal tissues (P<0.05). In the immune-stromal cells, all the five NLRP3 inflammasome pathway-related proteins were significantly elevated in breast cancer tissues compared with adjacent normal tissues (P < 0.05). Carcinoma cell embolus was found to significantly correlate with high NLRP3 expression in parenchymal cells of the tumor (x2=4.592, P=0.032), while the expression of caspase-1 was negatively correlated with tumor progression. Histological grades were found to have a positive correlation with IL-18 expression in immune-stromal cells of the tumor (x2=14.808, P=0.001). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis revealed that high IL-18 expression in the immune-stromal cells and the positive carcinoma cell embolus were both associated with poor survival (P < 0.05). The multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression model implied that the high IL-18 expression and positive carcinoma cell embolus were both independent risk factors for unfavorable prognosis. CONCLUSIONS The activation of NLRP3 inflammasome pathways in immune-stromal and tumor parenchymal cells in the innate immune system was not isotropic and the main functions are somewhat different in breast cancer patients. Caspase-1 in parenchymal cells of the tumor was negatively correlated with tumor progression, and upregulation of IL-18 in immune-stromal cells of breast cancer tissues is a promising prognostic biomarker and a potential immunotherapy target. TRIAL REGISTRATION This clinical trial has been registered at the Chictr.org.cn registry system on 21/08/2018 (ChiCTR1800017910).
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian-Mei Zhu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Hui-Xian Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, China
| | - Pei-Qing Ma
- Department of Pathology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, China
| | - Lin-Xin Wu
- Department of Anesthesiology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, China
| | - Tai-Hang Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, China
| | - Wen-Bin Li
- Department of Pathology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, China
| | - Lin Zhang
- Suzhou Industrial Park Monash Research Institute of Science and Technology, Suzhou, China
- The School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Xue Yang
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, China
| | - Xiangyi Kong
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, China
| | - Yu-Lin Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/ National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, China.
| | - Tao Yan
- Department of Anesthesiology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, China.
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12
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Tengesdal IW, Dinarello CA, Marchetti C. NLRP3 and cancer: Pathogenesis and therapeutic opportunities. Pharmacol Ther 2023; 251:108545. [PMID: 37866732 PMCID: PMC10710902 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2023.108545] [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: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
More than a decade ago IL-1 blockade was suggested as an add-on therapy for the treatment of cancer. This proposal was based on the overall safety record of anti-IL-1 biologics and the anti-tumor properties of IL-1 blockade in animal models of cancer. Today, a new frontier in IL-1 activity regulation has developed with several orally active NLRP3 inhibitors currently in clinical trials, including cancer. Despite an increasing body of evidence suggesting a role of NLRP3 and IL-1-mediated inflammation driving cancer initiation, immunosuppression, growth, and metastasis, NLRP3 activation in cancer remains controversial. In this review, we discuss the recent advances in the understanding of NLRP3 activation in cancer. Further, we discuss the current opportunities for NLRP3 inhibition in cancer intervention with novel small molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isak W Tengesdal
- Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Charles A Dinarello
- Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Carlo Marchetti
- Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, CO 80045, USA.
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13
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Choi J, Cho EJ, Yang MJ, Noh H, Park SH, Kim S, Kim Y, Sung CO, Lee D. Hypoxic microenvironment determines the phenotypic plasticity and spatial distribution of cancer-associated fibroblasts. Clin Transl Med 2023; 13:e1438. [PMID: 37837402 PMCID: PMC10576443 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.1438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/16/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jae‐Il Choi
- Department of PathologyAjou University School of MedicineSuwonSouth Korea
- Department of Biomedical SciencesAjou University Graduate School of MedicineSuwonSouth Korea
| | - Eun Jeong Cho
- Department of Medical ScienceAsan Medical Institute of Convergence Science and TechnologyUniversity of Ulsan College of MedicineAsan Medical CenterSeoulRepublic of Korea
- Department of PathologyAsan Medical CenterUniversity of Ulsan College of MedicineSeoulRepublic of Korea
| | - Min Jae Yang
- Department of Internal MedicineAjou University School of MedicineSuwonSouth Korea
| | - Hyun‐Jin Noh
- Department of Biomedical SciencesAjou University Graduate School of MedicineSuwonSouth Korea
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyAjou University School of MedicineSuwonSouth Korea
| | - So Hyun Park
- Department of PathologyAjou University School of MedicineSuwonSouth Korea
- Department of Biomedical SciencesAjou University Graduate School of MedicineSuwonSouth Korea
| | - Seokhwi Kim
- Department of PathologyAjou University School of MedicineSuwonSouth Korea
- Department of Biomedical SciencesAjou University Graduate School of MedicineSuwonSouth Korea
| | - You‐Sun Kim
- Department of Biomedical SciencesAjou University Graduate School of MedicineSuwonSouth Korea
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyAjou University School of MedicineSuwonSouth Korea
| | - Chang Ohk Sung
- Department of Medical ScienceAsan Medical Institute of Convergence Science and TechnologyUniversity of Ulsan College of MedicineAsan Medical CenterSeoulRepublic of Korea
- Department of PathologyAsan Medical CenterUniversity of Ulsan College of MedicineSeoulRepublic of Korea
| | - Dakeun Lee
- Department of PathologyAjou University School of MedicineSuwonSouth Korea
- Department of Biomedical SciencesAjou University Graduate School of MedicineSuwonSouth Korea
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14
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Cirillo F, Talia M, Santolla MF, Pellegrino M, Scordamaglia D, Spinelli A, De Rosis S, Giordano F, Muglia L, Zicarelli A, Di Dio M, Rigiracciolo DC, Miglietta AM, Filippelli G, De Francesco EM, Belfiore A, Lappano R, Maggiolini M. GPER deletion triggers inhibitory effects in triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells through the JNK/c-Jun/p53/Noxa transduction pathway. Cell Death Discov 2023; 9:353. [PMID: 37749101 PMCID: PMC10520078 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-023-01654-0] [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: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) mediates estrogen action in different pathophysiological conditions, including cancer. GPER expression and signaling have been found to join in the progression of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), even though controversial data have been reported. In present study, we aimed at providing new mechanistic and biological discoveries knocking out (KO) GPER expression by CRISPR/Cas9 technology in MDA-MB-231 TNBC cells. GPER KO whole transcriptome respect to wild type (WT) MDA-MB-231 cells was determined through total RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) and gene ontology (GO) enrichment analysis. We ascertained that anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic gene signatures characterize GPER KO MDA-MB-231 cells. Thereafter, we determined that these cells exhibit a reduced proliferative, clonogenic and self-renewal potential along with an increased mitochondria-dependent apoptosis phenotype. In addition, we recognized that decreased cAMP levels trigger the JNK/c-Jun/p53/Noxa axis, which in turn orchestrates the pro-apoptotic effects observed in GPER KO cells. In accordance with these data, survival analyses in TNBC patients of the Molecular Taxonomy of Breast Cancer International Consortium (METABRIC) dataset indicated that high Noxa expression correlates with improved outcomes in TNBC patients. Furthermore, we demonstrated that GPER KO in TNBC cells impairs the expression and secretion of the well-acknowledged GPER target gene named CTGF, thus resulting in the inhibition of migratory effects in cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). Overall, the present study provides novel mechanistic and biological insights on GPER KO in TNBC cells suggesting that GPER may be considered as a valuable target in comprehensive therapeutic approaches halting TNBC progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Cirillo
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036, Rende, Italy
| | - Marianna Talia
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036, Rende, Italy
| | - Maria Francesca Santolla
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036, Rende, Italy
| | - Michele Pellegrino
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036, Rende, Italy
| | - Domenica Scordamaglia
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036, Rende, Italy
| | - Asia Spinelli
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036, Rende, Italy
| | - Salvatore De Rosis
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036, Rende, Italy
| | - Francesca Giordano
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036, Rende, Italy
| | - Lucia Muglia
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036, Rende, Italy
| | - Azzurra Zicarelli
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036, Rende, Italy
| | - Marika Di Dio
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036, Rende, Italy
| | - Damiano Cosimo Rigiracciolo
- Department of Experimental Oncology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Via Adamello 16, 20139, Milano, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Miglietta
- Breast and General Surgery Unit, Regional Hospital Cosenza, 87100, Cosenza, Italy
| | | | - Ernestina Marianna De Francesco
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, 95122, Catania, Italy
| | - Antonino Belfiore
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, 95122, Catania, Italy
| | - Rosamaria Lappano
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036, Rende, Italy.
| | - Marcello Maggiolini
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036, Rende, Italy.
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15
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Talia M, Cirillo F, Spinelli A, Zicarelli A, Scordamaglia D, Muglia L, De Rosis S, Rigiracciolo DC, Filippelli G, Perrotta ID, Davoli M, De Rosa R, Macirella R, Brunelli E, Miglietta AM, Nardo B, Tosoni D, Pece S, De Francesco EM, Belfiore A, Maggiolini M, Lappano R. The Ephrin tyrosine kinase a3 (EphA3) is a novel mediator of RAGE-prompted motility of breast cancer cells. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2023; 42:164. [PMID: 37434266 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-023-02747-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The receptor for advanced glycation-end products (RAGE) and its ligands have been implicated in obesity and associated inflammatory processes as well as in metabolic alterations like diabetes. In addition, RAGE-mediated signaling has been reported to contribute to the metastatic progression of breast cancer (BC), although mechanistic insights are still required. Here, we provide novel findings regarding the transcriptomic landscape and the molecular events through which RAGE may prompt aggressive features in estrogen receptor (ER)-positive BC. METHODS MCF7 and T47D BC cells stably overexpressing human RAGE were used as a model system to evaluate important changes like cell protrusions, migration, invasion and colony formation both in vitro through scanning electron microscopy, clonogenic, migration and invasion assays and in vivo through zebrafish xenografts experiments. The whole transcriptome of RAGE-overexpressing BC cells was screened by high-throughput RNA sequencing. Thereafter, Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses allowed the prediction of potential functions of differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Flow cytometry, real time-PCR, chromatin immunoprecipitation, immunofluorescence and western blot assays were performed to investigate the molecular network involved in the regulation of a novel RAGE target gene namely EphA3. The clinical significance of EphA3 was explored in the TCGA cohort of patients through the survivALL package, whereas the pro-migratory role of EphA3 signaling was ascertained in both BC cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). Statistical analysis was performed by t-tests. RESULTS RNA-seq findings and GSEA analysis revealed that RAGE overexpression leads to a motility-related gene signature in ER-positive BC cells. Accordingly, we found that RAGE-overexpressing BC cells exhibit long filopodia-like membrane protrusions as well as an enhanced dissemination potential, as determined by the diverse experimental assays. Mechanistically, we established for the first time that EphA3 signaling may act as a physical mediator of BC cells and CAFs motility through both homotypic and heterotypic interactions. CONCLUSIONS Our data demonstrate that RAGE up-regulation leads to migratory ability in ER-positive BC cells. Noteworthy, our findings suggest that EphA3 may be considered as a novel RAGE target gene facilitating BC invasion and scattering from the primary tumor mass. Overall, the current results may provide useful insights for more comprehensive therapeutic approaches in BC, particularly in obese and diabetic patients that are characterized by high RAGE levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianna Talia
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036, Rende, Italy
| | - Francesca Cirillo
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036, Rende, Italy
| | - Asia Spinelli
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036, Rende, Italy
| | - Azzurra Zicarelli
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036, Rende, Italy
| | - Domenica Scordamaglia
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036, Rende, Italy
| | - Lucia Muglia
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036, Rende, Italy
| | - Salvatore De Rosis
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036, Rende, Italy
| | | | | | - Ida Daniela Perrotta
- Department of Biology, Ecology and Earth Science, University of Calabria, 87036, Rende, Italy
| | - Mariano Davoli
- Department of Biology, Ecology and Earth Science, University of Calabria, 87036, Rende, Italy
| | - Rosanna De Rosa
- Department of Biology, Ecology and Earth Science, University of Calabria, 87036, Rende, Italy
| | - Rachele Macirella
- Department of Biology, Ecology and Earth Science, University of Calabria, 87036, Rende, Italy
| | - Elvira Brunelli
- Department of Biology, Ecology and Earth Science, University of Calabria, 87036, Rende, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Miglietta
- Breast and General Surgery Unit, Regional Hospital Cosenza, 87100, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Bruno Nardo
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036, Rende, Italy
- Breast and General Surgery Unit, Regional Hospital Cosenza, 87100, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Daniela Tosoni
- European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Via Ripamonti 435, 20141, Milan, Italy
| | - Salvatore Pece
- European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Via Ripamonti 435, 20141, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, Università Degli Studi Di Milano, 20142, Milan, Italy
| | - Ernestina Marianna De Francesco
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, Catania, 95122, Italy
| | - Antonino Belfiore
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, Catania, 95122, Italy
| | - Marcello Maggiolini
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036, Rende, Italy.
| | - Rosamaria Lappano
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036, Rende, Italy.
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16
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Schwörer S, Cimino FV, Ros M, Tsanov KM, Ng C, Lowe SW, Carmona-Fontaine C, Thompson CB. Hypoxia Potentiates the Inflammatory Fibroblast Phenotype Promoted by Pancreatic Cancer Cell-Derived Cytokines. Cancer Res 2023; 83:1596-1610. [PMID: 36912618 PMCID: PMC10658995 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-22-2316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023]
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) are a major cell type in the stroma of solid tumors and can exert both tumor-promoting and tumor-restraining functions. CAF heterogeneity is frequently observed in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), a tumor characterized by a dense and hypoxic stroma that features myofibroblastic CAFs (myCAF) and inflammatory CAFs (iCAF) that are thought to have opposing roles in tumor progression. While CAF heterogeneity can be driven in part by tumor cell-produced cytokines, other determinants shaping CAF identity and function are largely unknown. In vivo, we found that iCAFs displayed a hypoxic gene expression and biochemical profile and were enriched in hypoxic regions of PDAC tumors, while myCAFs were excluded from these regions. Hypoxia led fibroblasts to acquire an inflammatory gene expression signature and synergized with cancer cell-derived cytokines to promote an iCAF phenotype in a HIF1α-dependent fashion. Furthermore, HIF1α stabilization was sufficient to induce an iCAF phenotype in stromal cells introduced into PDAC organoid cocultures and to promote PDAC tumor growth. These findings indicate hypoxia-induced HIF1α as a regulator of CAF heterogeneity and promoter of tumor progression in PDAC. SIGNIFICANCE Hypoxia in the tumor microenvironment of pancreatic cancer potentiates the cytokine-induced inflammatory CAF phenotype and promotes tumor growth. See related commentary by Fuentes and Taniguchi, p. 1560.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Schwörer
- Section of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Francesco V Cimino
- Cancer Biology and Genetics Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Manon Ros
- Center for Genomics and Systems Biology, New York University, New York, New York
| | - Kaloyan M Tsanov
- Cancer Biology and Genetics Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Charles Ng
- Cancer Biology and Genetics Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Scott W Lowe
- Cancer Biology and Genetics Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase, Maryland
| | | | - Craig B Thompson
- Cancer Biology and Genetics Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
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17
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Firatligil-Yildirir B, Yalcin-Ozuysal O, Nonappa. Recent advances in lab-on-a-chip systems for breast cancer metastasis research. NANOSCALE ADVANCES 2023; 5:2375-2393. [PMID: 37143816 PMCID: PMC10153489 DOI: 10.1039/d2na00823h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2022] [Accepted: 03/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in women. Multiple molecular subtypes, heterogeneity, and their ability to metastasize from the primary site to distant organs make breast cancer challenging to diagnose, treat, and obtain the desired therapeutic outcome. As the clinical importance of metastasis is dramatically increasing, there is a need to develop sustainable in vitro preclinical platforms to investigate complex cellular processes. Traditional in vitro and in vivo models cannot mimic the highly complex and multistep process of metastasis. Rapid progress in micro- and nanofabrication has contributed to soft lithography or three-dimensional printing-based lab-on-a-chip (LOC) systems. LOC platforms, which mimic in vivo conditions, offer a more profound understanding of cellular events and allow novel preclinical models for personalized treatments. Their low cost, scalability, and efficiency have resulted in on-demand design platforms for cell, tissue, and organ-on-a-chip platforms. Such models can overcome the limitations of two- and three-dimensional cell culture models and the ethical challenges involved in animal models. This review provides an overview of breast cancer subtypes, various steps and factors involved in metastases, existing preclinical models, and representative examples of LOC systems used to study and understand breast cancer metastasis and diagnosis and as a platform to evaluate advanced nanomedicine for breast cancer metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ozden Yalcin-Ozuysal
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Izmir Institute of Technology Urla 35430 Izmir Turkey
| | - Nonappa
- Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Tampere University FI-33720 Tampere Finland
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18
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Nguyen HM, Paulishak W, Oladejo M, Wood L. Dynamic tumor microenvironment, molecular heterogeneity, and distinct immunologic portrait of triple-negative breast cancer: an impact on classification and treatment approaches. Breast Cancer 2023; 30:167-186. [PMID: 36399321 DOI: 10.1007/s12282-022-01415-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Heterogeneity of the tumor microenvironment (TME) and the lack of a definite targetable receptor in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) has carved a niche for this cancer as a particularly therapeutically challenging form of breast cancer. However, recent advances in high-throughput genomic analysis have provided new insights into the unique microenvironment and defining characteristics of various subsets of TNBC. This improved understanding has contributed to the development of novel therapeutic strategies including targeted therapies such as PARP inhibitors and CDK inhibitors. Moreover, the recent FDA approval of the immune checkpoint inhibitor against programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1), pembrolizumab and atezolizumab, holds the promise of improving the quality of life and increasing the overall survival of TNBC patients. This recent approval is one of the many therapeutically novel strategies that are currently being exploited in clinical trials toward eventual contribution to the oncologist's toolbox against TNBC. In this review, we comprehensively discuss TNBC's distinct TME and its immunophenotype. Furthermore, we highlight the histological and molecular classification of this cancer. More importantly, we describe how these characteristics and classifications contribute to the current standards of care and how they steer the development of newer and more targeted therapies toward achieving peak therapeutic goals in the treatment of TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-My Nguyen
- Department of Immunotherapeutics and Biotechnology, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Jerry H. Hodge School of Pharmacy, Abilene, TX, 79601, USA
| | - Wyatt Paulishak
- Department of Immunotherapeutics and Biotechnology, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Jerry H. Hodge School of Pharmacy, Abilene, TX, 79601, USA
| | - Mariam Oladejo
- Department of Immunotherapeutics and Biotechnology, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Jerry H. Hodge School of Pharmacy, Abilene, TX, 79601, USA
| | - Laurence Wood
- Department of Immunotherapeutics and Biotechnology, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Jerry H. Hodge School of Pharmacy, Abilene, TX, 79601, USA.
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19
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Lappano R, Maggiolini M. Role of the G Protein-Coupled Receptors in Cancer and Stromal Cells: From Functions to Novel Therapeutic Perspectives. Cells 2023; 12:cells12040626. [PMID: 36831293 PMCID: PMC9954232 DOI: 10.3390/cells12040626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are transmembrane signal transducers that regulate a plethora of physiological and pathological processes [...].
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20
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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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21
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GPER-mediated stabilization of HIF-1α contributes to upregulated aerobic glycolysis in tamoxifen-resistant cells. Oncogene 2023; 42:184-197. [PMID: 36400971 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-022-02506-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Revised: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Tamoxifen is a first-line therapeutic drug for oestrogen-receptor positive breast cancer; however, like other therapeutics, its clinical use is limited by acquired resistance. Tamoxifen-resistant cells have demonstrated enhanced aerobic glycolysis; however, the mechanisms underlying this upregulation remain unclear. Here, we demonstrated that G-protein coupled oestrogen receptor (GPER) was involved in the upregulation of aerobic glycolysis via induction of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) expression and transcriptional activity in tamoxifen-resistant cells. Additionally, GPER stabilized HIF-1α through inhibiting its hydroxylation and ubiquitin-mediated degradation, which were associated with upregulation of C-terminal hydrolase-L1 (UCH-L1), downregulation of prolyl hydroxylase 2 (PHD2) and von Hippel-Lindau tumour suppressor protein (pVHL), induction of HIF-1α/UCH-L1 interaction, and suppression of HIF-1α/PHD2-pVHL association. The GPER/HIF-1α axis was functionally responsible for regulating tamoxifen sensitivity both in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, there was a positive correlation between GPER and HIF-1α expression in clinical breast cancer tissues, and high levels of GPER combined with nuclear HIF-1α indicated poor overall survival. High levels of the GPER/HIF-1α axis were also correlated with shorter relapse-free survival in patients receiving tamoxifen. Hence, our findings support a critical role of GPER/HIF-1α axis in the regulation of aerobic glycolysis in tamoxifen-resistant cells, offering a potential therapeutic target for tamoxifen-resistant breast cancer.
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22
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Xu A, Xu XN, Luo Z, Huang X, Gong RQ, Fu DY. Identification of prognostic cancer-associated fibroblast markers in luminal breast cancer using weighted gene co-expression network analysis. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1191660. [PMID: 37207166 PMCID: PMC10191114 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1191660] [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: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) play a pivotal role in cancer progression and are known to mediate endocrine and chemotherapy resistance through paracrine signaling. Additionally, they directly influence the expression and growth dependence of ER in Luminal breast cancer (LBC). This study aims to investigate stromal CAF-related factors and develop a CAF-related classifier to predict the prognosis and therapeutic outcomes in LBC. Methods The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases were utilized to obtain mRNA expression and clinical information from 694 and 101 LBC samples, respectively. CAF infiltrations were determined by estimating the proportion of immune and cancer cells (EPIC) method, while stromal scores were calculated using the Estimation of STromal and Immune cells in MAlignant Tumors using Expression data (ESTIMATE) algorithm. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was used to identify stromal CAF-related genes. A CAF risk signature was developed through univariate and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator method (LASSO) Cox regression model. The Spearman test was used to evaluate the correlation between CAF risk score, CAF markers, and CAF infiltrations estimated through EPIC, xCell, microenvironment cell populations-counter (MCP-counter), and Tumor Immune Dysfunction and Exclusion (TIDE) algorithms. The TIDE algorithm was further utilized to assess the response to immunotherapy. Additionally, Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) was applied to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying the findings. Results We constructed a 5-gene prognostic model consisting of RIN2, THBS1, IL1R1, RAB31, and COL11A1 for CAF. Using the median CAF risk score as the cutoff, we classified LBC patients into high- and low-CAF-risk groups and found that those in the high-risk group had a significantly worse prognosis. Spearman correlation analyses demonstrated a strong positive correlation between the CAF risk score and stromal and CAF infiltrations, with the five model genes showing positive correlations with CAF markers. In addition, the TIDE analysis revealed that high-CAF-risk patients were less likely to respond to immunotherapy. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) identified significant enrichment of ECM receptor interaction, regulation of actin cytoskeleton, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and TGF-β signaling pathway gene sets in the high-CAF-risk group patients. Conclusion The five-gene prognostic CAF signature presented in this study was not only reliable for predicting prognosis in LBC patients, but it was also effective in estimating clinical immunotherapy response. These findings have significant clinical implications, as the signature may guide tailored anti-CAF therapy in combination with immunotherapy for LBC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- An Xu
- Medical College of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiang-Nan Xu
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Northern Jiangsu People’s Hospital, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhou Luo
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Northern Jiangsu People’s Hospital, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiao Huang
- Medical College of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Rong-Quan Gong
- Medical College of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - De-Yuan Fu
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Northern Jiangsu People’s Hospital, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
- *Correspondence: De-Yuan Fu,
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Frenay J, Bellaye PS, Oudot A, Helbling A, Petitot C, Ferrand C, Collin B, Dias AMM. IL-1RAP, a Key Therapeutic Target in Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232314918. [PMID: 36499246 PMCID: PMC9735758 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232314918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a major cause of death worldwide and especially in high- and upper-middle-income countries. Despite recent progress in cancer therapies, such as chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) cells or antibody-drug conjugate (ADC), new targets expressed by the tumor cells need to be identified in order to selectively drive these innovative therapies to tumors. In this context, IL-1RAP recently showed great potential to become one of these new targets for cancer therapy. IL-1RAP is highly involved in the inflammation process through the interleukins 1, 33, and 36 (IL-1, IL-33, IL-36) signaling pathways. Inflammation is now recognized as a hallmark of carcinogenesis, suggesting that IL-1RAP could play a role in cancer development and progression. Furthermore, IL-1RAP was found overexpressed on tumor cells from several hematological and solid cancers, thus confirming its potential involvement in carcinogenesis. This review will first describe the structure and genetics of IL-1RAP as well as its role in tumor development. Finally, a focus will be made on the therapies based on IL-1RAP targeting, which are now under preclinical or clinical development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jame Frenay
- Plateforme d'Imagerie et Radiothérapie Précliniques, Médecine Nucléaire, Centre Georges-François Leclerc, 21000 Dijon, France
| | - Pierre-Simon Bellaye
- Plateforme d'Imagerie et Radiothérapie Précliniques, Médecine Nucléaire, Centre Georges-François Leclerc, 21000 Dijon, France
| | - Alexandra Oudot
- Plateforme d'Imagerie et Radiothérapie Précliniques, Médecine Nucléaire, Centre Georges-François Leclerc, 21000 Dijon, France
| | - Alex Helbling
- Plateforme d'Imagerie et Radiothérapie Précliniques, Médecine Nucléaire, Centre Georges-François Leclerc, 21000 Dijon, France
| | - Camille Petitot
- Plateforme d'Imagerie et Radiothérapie Précliniques, Médecine Nucléaire, Centre Georges-François Leclerc, 21000 Dijon, France
| | - Christophe Ferrand
- INSERM UMR1098, EFS BFC, Université de Bourgogne Franche-Comté, 25000 Besançon, France
- CanCell Therapeutics, 25000 Besançon, France
| | - Bertrand Collin
- Plateforme d'Imagerie et Radiothérapie Précliniques, Médecine Nucléaire, Centre Georges-François Leclerc, 21000 Dijon, France
- Institut de Chimie Moléculaire de l'Université de Bourgogne, UMR CNRS 6302, 21000 Dijon, France
| | - Alexandre M M Dias
- Plateforme d'Imagerie et Radiothérapie Précliniques, Médecine Nucléaire, Centre Georges-François Leclerc, 21000 Dijon, France
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Cheng W, Xiao X, Liao Y, Cao Q, Wang C, Li X, Jia Y. Conducive target range of breast cancer: Hypoxic tumor microenvironment. Front Oncol 2022; 12:978276. [PMID: 36226050 PMCID: PMC9550190 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.978276] [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: 06/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is a kind of malignant tumor disease that poses a serious threat to human health. Its biological characteristics of rapid proliferation and delayed angiogenesis, lead to intratumoral hypoxia as a common finding in breast cancer. HIF as a transcription factor, mediate a series of reactions in the hypoxic microenvironment, including metabolic reprogramming, tumor angiogenesis, tumor cell proliferation and metastasis and other important physiological and pathological processes, as well as gene instability under hypoxia. In addition, in the immune microenvironment of hypoxia, both innate and acquired immunity of tumor cells undergo subtle changes to support tumor and inhibit immune activity. Thus, the elucidation of tumor microenvironment hypoxia provides a promising target for the resistance and limited efficacy of current breast cancer therapies. We also summarize the hypoxic mechanisms of breast cancer treatment related drug resistance, as well as the current status and prospects of latest related drugs targeted HIF inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Cheng
- Department of Oncology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Xian Xiao
- Department of Oncology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Yang Liao
- Department of Oncology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Qingqing Cao
- Department of Oncology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Chaoran Wang
- Department of Oncology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiaojiang Li
- Department of Oncology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
- *Correspondence: Xiaojiang Li, ; Yingjie Jia,
| | - Yingjie Jia
- Department of Oncology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
- *Correspondence: Xiaojiang Li, ; Yingjie Jia,
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The AGEs/RAGE Transduction Signaling Prompts IL-8/CXCR1/2-Mediated Interaction between Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts (CAFs) and Breast Cancer Cells. Cells 2022; 11:cells11152402. [PMID: 35954247 PMCID: PMC9368521 DOI: 10.3390/cells11152402] [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: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and the cognate receptor, named RAGE, are involved in metabolic disorders characterized by hyperglycemia, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and obesity. Moreover, the AGEs/RAGE transduction pathway prompts a dysfunctional interaction between breast cancer cells and tumor stroma toward the acquisition of malignant features. However, the action of the AGEs/RAGE axis in the main players of the tumor microenvironment, named breast cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), remains to be fully explored. In the present study, by chemokine array, we first assessed that interleukin-8 (IL-8) is the most up-regulated pro-inflammatory chemokine upon AGEs/RAGE activation in primary CAFs, obtained from breast tumors. Thereafter, we ascertained that the AGEs/RAGE signaling promotes a network cascade in CAFs, leading to the c-Fos-dependent regulation of IL-8. Next, using a conditioned medium from AGEs-exposed CAFs, we determined that IL-8/CXCR1/2 paracrine activation induces the acquisition of migratory and invasive features in MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. Altogether, our data provide new insights on the involvement of IL-8 in the AGEs/RAGE transduction pathway among the intricate connections linking breast cancer cells to the surrounding stroma. Hence, our findings may pave the way for further investigations to define the role of IL-8 as useful target for the better management of breast cancer patients exhibiting metabolic disorders.
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De Francesco EM, Cirillo F, Vella V, Belfiore A, Maggiolini M, Lappano R. Triple-negative breast cancer drug resistance, durable efficacy, and cure: How advanced biological insights and emerging drug modalities could transform progress. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2022; 26:513-535. [PMID: 35761781 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2022.2094762] [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] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a heterogeneous disease characterized by the lack of estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR) and epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) and often associated with poor survival outcomes. The backbone of current treatments for TNBC relies on chemotherapy; however, resistance to cytotoxic agents is a commonly encountered hurdle to overcome. AREAS COVERED : Current understanding on the mechanisms involved in TNBC chemoresistance is evaluated and novel potential actionable targets and recently explored modalities for carrying and delivering chemotherapeutics are highlighted. EXPERT OPINION : A comprehensive identification of both genomic and functional TNBC signatures is required for a more definite categorization of the patients in order to prevent insensitivity to chemotherapy and therefore realize the full potential of precision-medicine approaches. In this scenario, cell-line-derived xenografts (CDX), patient-derived xenografts (PDX), patient-derived orthotopic xenografts (PDOX) and patient-derived organoids (PDO) are indispensable experimental models for evaluating the efficacy of drug candidates and predicting the therapeutic response. The combination of increasingly sensitive "omics" technologies, computational algorithms and innovative drug modalities may accelerate the successful translation of novel candidate TNBC targets from basic research to clinical settings, thus contributing to reach optimal clinical output, with lower side effects and reduced resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ernestina Marianna De Francesco
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, 95122 Catania, Italy
| | - Francesca Cirillo
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy
| | - Veronica Vella
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, 95122 Catania, Italy
| | - Antonino Belfiore
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, 95122 Catania, Italy
| | - Marcello Maggiolini
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy
| | - Rosamaria Lappano
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy
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27
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Scordamaglia D, Cirillo F, Talia M, Santolla MF, Rigiracciolo DC, Muglia L, Zicarelli A, De Rosis S, Giordano F, Miglietta AM, De Francesco EM, Vella V, Belfiore A, Lappano R, Maggiolini M. Metformin counteracts stimulatory effects induced by insulin in primary breast cancer cells. J Transl Med 2022; 20:263. [PMID: 35672854 PMCID: PMC9172136 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-022-03463-y] [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: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Metabolic disorders are associated with increased incidence, aggressive phenotype and poor outcome of breast cancer (BC) patients. For instance, hyperinsulinemia is an independent risk factor for BC and the insulin/insulin receptor (IR) axis is involved in BC growth and metastasis. Of note, the anti-diabetic metformin may be considered in comprehensive therapeutic approaches in BC on the basis of its antiproliferative effects obtained in diverse pre-clinical and clinical studies. Methods Bioinformatics analysis were performed using the information provided by The Invasive Breast Cancer Cohort of The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) project. The naturally immortalized BC cell line, named BCAHC-1, as well as cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) derived from BC patients were used as model systems. In order to identify further mechanisms that characterize the anticancer action of metformin in BC, we performed gene expression and promoter studies as well as western blotting experiments. Moreover, cell cycle analysis, colony and spheroid formation, actin cytoskeleton reorganization, cell migration and matrigel drops evasion assays were carried out to provide novel insights on the anticancer properties of metformin. Results We first assessed that elevated expression and activation of IR correlate with a worse prognostic outcome in estrogen receptor (ER)-positive BC. Thereafter, we established that metformin inhibits the insulin/IR-mediated activation of transduction pathways, gene changes and proliferative responses in BCAHC-1 cells. Then, we found that metformin interferes with the insulin-induced expression of the metastatic gene CXC chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4), which we found to be associated with poor disease-free survival in BC patients exhibiting high levels of IR. Next, we ascertained that metformin prevents a motile phenotype of BCAHC-1 cells triggered by the paracrine liaison between tumor cells and CAFs upon insulin activated CXCL12/CXCR4 axis. Conclusions Our findings provide novel mechanistic insights regarding the anti-proliferative and anti-migratory effects of metformin in both BC cells and important components of the tumor microenvironment like CAFs. Further investigations are warranted to corroborate the anticancer action of metformin on the tumor mass toward the assessment of more comprehensive strategies halting BC progression, in particular in patients exhibiting metabolic disorders and altered insulin/IR functions. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12967-022-03463-y.
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Identification and validation of a prognostic signature related to hypoxic tumor microenvironment in cervical cancer. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0269462. [PMID: 35657977 PMCID: PMC9165826 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0269462] [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: 08/22/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Hypoxia is a common microenvironment condition in most malignant tumors and has been shown to be associated with adverse outcomes of cervical cancer patients. In this study, we investigated the effects of hypoxia-related genes on tumor progress to characterize the tumor hypoxic microenvironment. Methods We retrieved a set of hypoxia-related genes from the Molecular Signatures Database and evaluated their prognostic value for cervical cancer. A hypoxia-based prognostic signature for cervical cancer was then developed and validated using tumor samples from two independent cohorts (TCGA-CESC and CGCI-HTMCP-CC cohorts). Finally, we validated the hypoxia prediction of ccHPS score in eight human cervical cancer cell lines treated with the hypoxic and normoxic conditions, and 286 tumor samples with hypoxic category (more or less) from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database with accession GSE72723. Results A risk signature model containing nine hypoxia-related genes was developed and validated in cervical cancer. Further analysis showed that this risk model could be an independent prognosis factor of cervical cancer, which reflects the condition of the hypoxic tumor microenvironment and its remodeling of cell metabolism and tumor immunity. Furthermore, a nomogram integrating the novel risk model and lymphovascular invasion status was developed, accurately predicting the 1-, 3- and 5-year prognosis with AUC values of 0.928, 0.916 and 0.831, respectively. These findings provided a better understanding of the hypoxic tumor microenvironment in cervical cancer and insights into potential new therapeutic strategies in improving cancer therapy.
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Hypoxia as a Modulator of Inflammation and Immune Response in Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14092291. [PMID: 35565420 PMCID: PMC9099524 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14092291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
A clear association between hypoxia and cancer has heretofore been established; however, it has not been completely developed. In this sense, the understanding of the tumoral microenvironment is critical to dissect the complexity of cancer, including the reduction in oxygen distribution inside the tumoral mass, defined as tumoral hypoxia. Moreover, hypoxia not only influences the tumoral cells but also the surrounding cells, including those related to the inflammatory processes. In this review, we analyze the participation of HIF, NF-κB, and STAT signaling pathways as the main components that interconnect hypoxia and immune response and how they modulate tumoral growth. In addition, we closely examine the participation of the immune cells and how they are affected by hypoxia, the effects of the progression of cancer, and some innovative applications that take advantage of this knowledge, to suggest potential therapies. Therefore, we contribute to the understanding of the complexity of cancer to propose innovative therapeutic strategies in the future.
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Abstract
Bone is the most common site for advanced breast cancer to metastasise. The proinflammatory cytokine, interleukin-1β (IL-1β) plays a complex and contradictory role in this process. Recent studies have demonstrated that breast cancer patients whose primary tumours express IL-1β are more likely to experience relapse in bone or other organs. Importantly, IL-1β affects different stages of the metastatic process including growth of the primary tumour, epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), dissemination of tumour cells into the blood stream, tumour cell homing to the bone microenvironment and, once in bone, this cytokine participates in the interaction between cancer cells and bone cells, promoting metastatic outgrowth at this site. Interestingly, although inhibition of IL-1β signalling has been shown to have potent anti-metastatic effects, inhibition of the activity of this cytokine has contradictory effects on primary tumours, sometimes reducing but often promoting their growth. In this review, we focus on the complex roles of IL-1β on breast cancer bone metastasis: specifically, we discuss the distinct effects of IL-1β derived from tumour cells and/or microenvironment on inhibition/induction of primary breast tumour growth, induction of the metastatic process through the EMT, promotion of tumour cell dissemination into the bone metastatic niche and formation of overt metastases.
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Zhang G, Xu Z, Yu M, Gao H. Bcl-2 interacting protein 3 (BNIP3) promotes tumor growth in breast cancer under hypoxic conditions through an autophagy-dependent pathway. Bioengineered 2022; 13:6280-6292. [PMID: 35200106 PMCID: PMC8973668 DOI: 10.1080/21655979.2022.2036399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypoxia-induced autophagy has been implicated in many cancers. Bcl-2 interacting protein 3 (BNIP3) has been associated with hypoxia, whose aberrant expression is involved in the carcinogenesis of breast cancer (BC). Here, we aim to investigate the role of hypoxia-induced autophagy and the mechanistic actions of the bioinformatically identified BNIP3 in BC. The expression pattern of BNIP3 in BC tissues and cell lines was examined using RT-qPCR and Western blot analyses. The binding affinity among BNIP3, BECN1 and BCL-2 was characterized by co-immunoprecipitation. BNIP3 expression was manipulated to assess its effects on BC cell malignant phenotypes, evaluated by cell counting kit-8, Transwell and wound healing assays, and on BC autophagy under hypoxic conditions. A BC tumor xenografts mouse model was further established to substantiate in vitro findings. Up-regulated expression of BNIP3 was found in BC tissues and cell lines, and BNIP3 expression was positively correlated with hypoxia exposure duration. BNIP3 knockdown restricted BC cell proliferation, invasion, and migration under hypoxic conditions. BNIP3 activated BC cell autophagy by inhibiting the binding between BCL-2 and BECN1 under hypoxic conditions. BNIP3-induced autophagy activation enhanced malignant phenotypes of BC cells, thus accelerating the tumorigenesis of BC cells in vivo. These data collectively supported the tumor-promoting role of BNIP3 in autophagy activation of BC under hypoxic conditions, highlighting a potential therapeutic target against BC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guipu Zhang
- Department of Breast Surgery, Changzhou Cancer Hospital, Changzhou, China
| | - Zhiyi Xu
- Department of Pathology, Changzhou Cancer Hospital, Changzhou, China
| | - Minjing Yu
- Department of Breast Surgery, Changzhou Cancer Hospital, Changzhou, China
| | - Haiyan Gao
- Department of Breast Surgery, Changzhou Cancer Hospital, Changzhou, China
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Multifaceted Interplay between Hormones, Growth Factors and Hypoxia in the Tumor Microenvironment. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14030539. [PMID: 35158804 PMCID: PMC8833523 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14030539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Hormones and growth factors impact many processes in the cell. Moreover, these molecules influence tumor growth, as does a lack of oxygen (hypoxia) that characterizes cancer progression. Proteins that are stabilized by low oxygen tension, known as hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs), help tumor cells to adapt to their environment. Of note, hormones and growth factors regulate the activity of HIFs toward malignant aggressiveness, including the resistance to therapy. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge regarding the role of hormones and growth factors in cancer development with a particular focus on their interplay with hypoxia and HIFs and comment on how these factors influence the response to cancer immunotherapy. Abstract Hormones and growth factors (GFs) are signaling molecules implicated in the regulation of a variety of cellular processes. They play important roles in both healthy and tumor cells, where they function by binding to specific receptors on target cells and activating downstream signaling cascades. The stages of tumor progression are influenced by hormones and GF signaling. Hypoxia, a hallmark of cancer progression, contributes to tumor plasticity and heterogeneity. Most solid tumors contain a hypoxic core due to rapid cellular proliferation that outgrows the blood supply. In these circumstances, hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs) play a central role in the adaptation of tumor cells to their new environment, dramatically reshaping their transcriptional profile. HIF signaling is modulated by a variety of factors including hormones and GFs, which activate signaling pathways that enhance tumor growth and metastatic potential and impair responses to therapy. In this review, we summarize the role of hormones and GFs during cancer onset and progression with a particular focus on hypoxia and the interplay with HIF proteins. We also discuss how hypoxia influences the efficacy of cancer immunotherapy, considering that a hypoxic environment may act as a determinant of the immune-excluded phenotype and a major hindrance to the success of adoptive cell therapies.
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Chen Z, Zhuo S, He G, Tang J, Hao W, Gao WQ, Yang K, Xu H. Prognosis and Immunotherapy Significances of a Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts-Related Gene Signature in Gliomas. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:721897. [PMID: 34778248 PMCID: PMC8586504 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.721897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
As a cold tumor, malignant glioma has strong immunosuppression and immune escape characteristics. The tumor microenvironment (TME) provides the "soil" for the survival of malignant tumors, and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are the architects of matrix remodeling in TME. Therefore, CAFs have potent regulatory effects on the recruitment and functional differentiation of immune cells, whereby they synthesize and secrete numerous collagens, cytokines, chemokines, and other soluble factors whose interaction with tumor cells creates an immunosuppressive TME. This consequently facilitates the immune escape of tumor cells. Targeting CAFs would improve the TME and enhance the efficacy of immunotherapy. Thus, regulation of CAFs and CAFs-related genes holds promise as effective immunotherapies for gliomas. Here, by analyzing the Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas and the Cancer Genome Atlas database, the proportion of CAFs in the tumor was revealed to be associated with clinical and immune characteristics of gliomas. Moreover, a risk model based on the expression of CAFs-related six-gene for the assessment of glioma patients was constructed using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator and the results showed that a high-risk group had a higher expression of the CAFs-related six-genes and lower overall survival rates compared with those in the low-risk group. Additionally, patients in the high-risk group exhibited older age, high tumor grade, isocitrate dehydrogenase wildtype, 1p/19q non-codeletion, O-6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase promoter unmethylation and poor prognosis. The high-risk subtype had a high proportion CAFs in the TME of glioma, and a high expression of immune checkpoint genes. Analysis of the Submap algorithm indicated that the high-risk patients could show potent response to anti-PD-1 therapy. The established risk prediction model based on the expression of six CAFs-related genes has application prospects as an independent prognostic indicator and a predictor of the response of patients to immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhimin Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji-MedX Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shenghua Zhuo
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
| | - Guiying He
- Department of Neurology, Shenzhen Nanshan People's Hospital, The 6th Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jingzhi Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji-MedX Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Weijie Hao
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji-MedX Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei-Qiang Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji-MedX Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Kun Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
| | - Huiming Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji-MedX Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
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Ma W, Chen Y, Xiong W, Li W, Xu Z, Wang Y, Wei Z, Mou T, Wu Z, Cheng M, Zou Y, Zhu Y, Zhou W, Liu F, Geng Y. STOML2 interacts with PHB through activating MAPK signaling pathway to promote colorectal Cancer proliferation. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2021; 40:359. [PMID: 34781982 PMCID: PMC8591804 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-021-02116-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Highly expressed STOML2 has been reported in a variety of cancers, yet few have detailed its function and regulatory mechanism. This research aims to reveal regulatory mechanism of STOML2 and to provide evidence for clinical therapeutics, via exploration of its role in colorectal cancer, and identification of its interacting protein. METHODS Expression level of STOML2 in normal colon and CRC tissue from biobank in Nanfang Hospital was detected by pathologic methods. The malignant proliferation of CRC induced by STOML2 was validated via gain-of-function and loss-of-function experiments, with novel techniques applied, such as organoid culture, orthotopic model and endoscopy monitoring. Yeast two-hybrid assay screened interacting proteins of STOML2, followed by bioinformatics analysis to predict biological function and signaling pathway of candidate proteins. Target protein with most functional similarity to STOML2 was validated with co-immunoprecipitation, and immunofluorescence were conducted to co-localize STOML2 and PHB. Pathway regulated by STOML2 was detected with immunoblotting, and subsequent experimental therapy was conducted with RAF inhibitor Sorafenib. RESULTS STOML2 was significantly overexpressed in colorectal cancer and its elevation was associated with unfavorable prognosis. Knockdown of STOML2 suppressed proliferation of colorectal cancer, thus attenuated subcutaneous and orthotopic tumor growth, while overexpressed STOML2 promoted proliferation in cell lines and organoids. A list of 13 interacting proteins was screened out by yeast two-hybrid assay. DTYMK and PHB were identified to be most similar to STOML2 according to bioinformatics in terms of biological process and signaling pathways; however, co-immunoprecipitation confirmed interaction between STOML2 and PHB, rather than DTYMK, despite its highest rank in previous analysis. Co-localization between STOML2 and PHB was confirmed in cell lines and tissue level. Furthermore, knockdown of STOML2 downregulated phosphorylation of RAF1, MEK1/2, and ERK1/2 on the MAPK signaling pathway, indicating common pathway activated by STOML2 and PHB in colorectal cancer proliferation. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrated that in colorectal cancer, STOML2 expression is elevated and interacts with PHB through activating MAPK signaling pathway, to promote proliferation both in vitro and in vivo. In addition, combination of screening assay and bioinformatics marks great significance in methodology to explore regulatory mechanism of protein of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenhui Ma
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Shunde Hospital, Southern Medical University (The First People's Hospital of Shunde), No. 1 Jiazi Road, Lunjiao, Shunde District, Foshan City, 528308, Guangdong Province, China.,Departments of General Surgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Gastrointestinal Tumor, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Tumor Pathology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yuehong Chen
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Shunde Hospital, Southern Medical University (The First People's Hospital of Shunde), No. 1 Jiazi Road, Lunjiao, Shunde District, Foshan City, 528308, Guangdong Province, China.,Departments of General Surgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Gastrointestinal Tumor, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Tumor Pathology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Wenjun Xiong
- Departments of General Surgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Gastrointestinal Tumor, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Wenyi Li
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Tumor Pathology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhuoluo Xu
- Departments of General Surgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Gastrointestinal Tumor, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Tumor Pathology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Departments of Oncology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhigang Wei
- Departments of General Surgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Gastrointestinal Tumor, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tingyu Mou
- Departments of General Surgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Gastrointestinal Tumor, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhaokun Wu
- Departments of General Surgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Gastrointestinal Tumor, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Tumor Pathology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Mingzhen Cheng
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Tumor Pathology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yini Zou
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Tumor Pathology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yu Zhu
- Departments of General Surgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Gastrointestinal Tumor, Guangzhou, China
| | - Weijie Zhou
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Shunde Hospital, Southern Medical University (The First People's Hospital of Shunde), No. 1 Jiazi Road, Lunjiao, Shunde District, Foshan City, 528308, Guangdong Province, China. .,Departments of General Surgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China. .,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Gastrointestinal Tumor, Guangzhou, China. .,Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China. .,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Tumor Pathology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
| | - Feng Liu
- Departments of General Surgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China. .,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Gastrointestinal Tumor, Guangzhou, China. .,Department of Colorectal and Anal Surgery, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510180, Guangdong, China.
| | - Yan Geng
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Shunde Hospital, Southern Medical University (The First People's Hospital of Shunde), No. 1 Jiazi Road, Lunjiao, Shunde District, Foshan City, 528308, Guangdong Province, China.
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Li Z, Zhang X, Liu C, Ma J. Non-immune Cell Components in the Gastrointestinal Tumor Microenvironment Influencing Tumor Immunotherapy. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:729941. [PMID: 34722510 PMCID: PMC8549829 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.729941] [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: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Interactions of genetic susceptibility factors, immune microenvironment, and microbial factors contribute to gastrointestinal tumorigenesis. The suppressive immune microenvironment reshaped by the tumors during gastrointestinal tumorigenesis directly contributes to T-cell depletion in tumor immunotherapy. Soluble factors secreted by tumor cells or stromal cells collectively shape the suppressive immune environment. Here, we reviewed the key factors in the gastrointestinal tumor microenvironment that influence tumor immunotherapy, focusing on the effects of fibroblasts, neuronal cells, soluble cytokines, exosomes, and the microbiome in tumor microenvironment. Research in this field has helped to identify more precise and effective biomarkers and therapeutic targets in the era of tumor immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengshuo Li
- Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Cancer Research Institute and School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Changsha, China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Nonresolving Inflammation and Cancer, Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Key Laboratory of Translational Radiation Oncology, Changsha, China
| | - Xiaoyue Zhang
- Cancer Research Institute and School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Changsha, China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Nonresolving Inflammation and Cancer, Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Key Laboratory of Translational Radiation Oncology, Changsha, China
| | - Can Liu
- Cancer Research Institute and School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Changsha, China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Nonresolving Inflammation and Cancer, Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Key Laboratory of Translational Radiation Oncology, Changsha, China
| | - Jian Ma
- Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Cancer Research Institute and School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Changsha, China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Nonresolving Inflammation and Cancer, Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Key Laboratory of Translational Radiation Oncology, Changsha, China
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Wei J, Chen Z, Hu M, He Z, Jiang D, Long J, Du H. Characterizing Intercellular Communication of Pan-Cancer Reveals SPP1+ Tumor-Associated Macrophage Expanded in Hypoxia and Promoting Cancer Malignancy Through Single-Cell RNA-Seq Data. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:749210. [PMID: 34676217 PMCID: PMC8523849 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.749210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypoxia is a characteristic of tumor microenvironment (TME) and is a major contributor to tumor progression. Yet, subtype identification of tumor-associated non-malignant cells at single-cell resolution and how they influence cancer progression under hypoxia TME remain largely unexplored. Here, we used RNA-seq data of 424,194 single cells from 108 patients to identify the subtypes of cancer cells, stromal cells, and immune cells; to evaluate their hypoxia score; and also to uncover potential interaction signals between these cells in vivo across six cancer types. We identified SPP1+ tumor-associated macrophage (TAM) subpopulation potentially enhanced epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) by interaction with cancer cells through paracrine pattern. We prioritized SPP1 as a TAM-secreted factor to act on cancer cells and found a significant enhanced migration phenotype and invasion ability in A549 lung cancer cells induced by recombinant protein SPP1. Besides, prognostic analysis indicated that a higher expression of SPP1 was found to be related to worse clinical outcome in six cancer types. SPP1 expression was higher in hypoxia-high macrophages based on single-cell data, which was further validated by an in vitro experiment that SPP1 was upregulated in macrophages under hypoxia-cultured compared with normoxic conditions. Additionally, a differential analysis demonstrated that hypoxia potentially influences extracellular matrix remodeling, glycolysis, and interleukin-10 signal activation in various cancer types. Our work illuminates the clearer underlying mechanism in the intricate interaction between different cell subtypes within hypoxia TME and proposes the guidelines for the development of therapeutic targets specifically for patients with high proportion of SPP1+ TAMs in hypoxic lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinfen Wei
- School of Biology and Biological Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zixi Chen
- School of Biology and Biological Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Meiling Hu
- School of Biology and Biological Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ziqing He
- School of Biology and Biological Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Dawei Jiang
- School of Biology and Biological Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jie Long
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hongli Du
- School of Biology and Biological Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
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Yang X, Weng X, Yang Y, Zhang M, Xiu Y, Peng W, Liao X, Xu M, Sun Y, Liu X. A combined hypoxia and immune gene signature for predicting survival and risk stratification in triple-negative breast cancer. Aging (Albany NY) 2021; 13:19486-19509. [PMID: 34341184 PMCID: PMC8386525 DOI: 10.18632/aging.203360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Background: Increasing evidence showed that the clinical significance of the interaction between hypoxia and immune status in tumor microenvironment. However, reliable biomarkers based on the hypoxia and immune status in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) have not been well established. This study aimed to explore a gene signature based on the hypoxia and immune status for predicting prognosis, risk stratification, and individual treatment in TNBC. Methods: Hypoxia-related genes (HRGs) and Immune-related genes (IRGs) were identified using the weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) method and the single-sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA Z-score) with the transcriptomic profiles from Molecular Taxonomy of Breast Cancer International Consortium (METABRIC) cohort. Then, prognostic hypoxia and immune based genes were identified in TNBC patients from the METABRIC (N = 221), The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) (N = 142), and GSE58812 (N = 107) using univariate cox regression model. A robust hypoxia-immune based gene signature for prognosis was constructed using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) method. Based on the cross-cohort prognostic hypoxia–immune related gene signature, a comprehensive index of hypoxia and immune was developed and two risk groups with distinct hypoxia–immune status were identified. The prognosis value, hypoxia and immune status, and therapeutic response in different risk groups were analyzed. Furthermore, a nomogram was constructed to predict the prognosis for individual patients, and an independent cohort from the gene expression omnibus (GEO) database was used for external validation. Results: Six cross-cohort prognostic hypoxia–immune related genes were identified to establish the comprehensive index of hypoxia and immune. Then, patients were clustered into high- and low-risk groups based on the hypoxia–immune status. Patients in the high-risk group showed poorer prognoses to their low-risk counterparts, and the nomogram we constructed yielded favorable performance to predict survival and risk stratification. Besides, the high-risk group had a higher expression of hypoxia-related genes and correlated with hypoxia status in tumor microenvironment. The high-risk group had lower fractions of activated immune cells, and exhibited lower expression of immune checkpoint markers. Furthermore, the ratio of complete response (CR) was greatly declined, and the ratio of breast cancer related events were significantly elevated in the high-risk group. Conclusion: The hypoxia–immune based gene signature we constructed for predicting prognosis was developed and validated, which may contribute to the optimization of risk stratification for prognosis and personalized treatment in TNBC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xia Yang
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shen Zhen University, Shenzhen, China.,Department of Pathology, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xin Weng
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shen Zhen University, Shenzhen, China.,Department of Pathology, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yajie Yang
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shen Zhen University, Shenzhen, China.,Department of Pathology, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Meng Zhang
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shen Zhen University, Shenzhen, China.,Department of Pathology, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yingjie Xiu
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shen Zhen University, Shenzhen, China.,Department of Pathology, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Wenfeng Peng
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shen Zhen University, Shenzhen, China.,Department of Pathology, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xuhui Liao
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shen Zhen University, Shenzhen, China.,Department of Pathology, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Meiquan Xu
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shen Zhen University, Shenzhen, China.,Department of Pathology, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yanhua Sun
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shen Zhen University, Shenzhen, China.,Department of Pathology, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xia Liu
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shen Zhen University, Shenzhen, China.,Department of Pathology, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
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Lu M, Qiu S, Jiang X, Wen D, Zhang R, Liu Z. Development and Validation of Epigenetic Modification-Related Signals for the Diagnosis and Prognosis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Front Oncol 2021; 11:649093. [PMID: 34235075 PMCID: PMC8256693 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.649093] [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: 01/03/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Increasing evidence has indicated that abnormal epigenetic factors such as RNA m6A modification, histone modification, DNA methylation, RNA binding proteins and transcription factors are correlated with hepatocarcinogenesis. However, it is unknown how epigenetic modification-associated genes contribute to the occurrence and clinical outcome of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Thus, we constructed the epigenetic modification-associated models that may enhance the diagnosis and prognosis of HCC. Methods In this study, we focused on the clinical value of epigenetic modification-associated genes for HCC. Our gene expression data were collected from TCGA and HCC data sets from the GEO database to ensure the reliability of the data. Their functions were analyzed by bioinformatics methods. We used lasso regression, Support vector machine (SVM), logistic regression and Cox regression to construct the diagnostic and prognostic models. We also constructed a nomogram of the practicability of the above-mentioned prognostic model. The above results were verified in an independent liver cancer data set from the ICGC database and clinical samples. Furthermore, we carried out pan-cancer analysis to verify the specificity of the above model and screened a wide range of drug candidates. Results Many epigenetic modification-associated genes were significantly different in HCC and normal liver tissues. The gene signatures showed a good ability to predict the occurrence and survival of HCC patients, as verified by DCA and ROC curve analysis. Conclusion Gene signatures based on epigenetic modification-associated genes can be used to identify the occurrence and prognosis of liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maoqing Lu
- Department of Endocrinology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Sheng Qiu
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xianyao Jiang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Diguang Wen
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ronggui Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zuojin Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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Du Y, Jiang X, Wang B, Cao J, Wang Y, Yu J, Wang X, Liu H. The cancer-associated fibroblasts related gene CALD1 is a prognostic biomarker and correlated with immune infiltration in bladder cancer. Cancer Cell Int 2021; 21:283. [PMID: 34051818 PMCID: PMC8164301 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-021-01896-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Stromal components of the tumor microenvironment contribute to bladder cancer progression, and Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts (CAFs) were reported to play an important role. Accumulating pieces of evidence indicate that CAFs participate in the crosstalk with tumor cells and have a complex interaction network with immune components. Further studies on the role of CAFs in the bladder cancer microenvironment and searching for possible specific markers are important for a deeper understanding of CAFs in bladder cancer progression and immunomodulation. METHODS In the present study, we examined the abundance of CAFs in the TCGA and GEO datasets using the MCP-COUNTER algorithm. Additionally, the expression of genes related to CAFs was analyzed through the Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA). The CIBERSORT and ESTIMATE algorithms were used to discuss the correlation of the key CAFs-related gene and the tumor microenvironment components. Immunohistochemistry analysis in clinical samples was used to validate the results of bioinformatics analysis. RESULTS The results showed that CAFs were closely associated with the progression and prognosis of bladder cancer. WGCNA also revealed that CALD1 was a key CAFs-related gene in bladder cancer. Moreover, further in-depth analysis showed that CALD1 significantly affected the progression and prognosis of bladder cancer. The CIBERSORT and ESTIMATE algorithms demonstrated significant correlations between CALD1 and the tumor microenvironment components, including CAFs, macrophages, T cells, and multiple immune checkpoint related genes. Finally, immunohistochemistry results validated the strong association of CALD1 with CAFs and macrophages. CONCLUSIONS In the present study, we confirmed the cancer-promoting roles of CAFs in bladder cancer. Being a key gene associated with CAFs, CALD1 may promote bladder cancer progression by remodeling the tumor microenvironment. The bioinformatics methods, including the CIBERSORT, MCP-COUNTER and ESTIMATE algorithms, may provide important value for studying the tumor microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- YiHeng Du
- Department of Urology, Suzhou Kowloon Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 215028, Suzhou, China
| | - Xiang Jiang
- Department of Pathology, Suzhou Kowloon Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 215028, Suzhou, China
| | - Bo Wang
- Department of Urology, Suzhou Kowloon Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 215028, Suzhou, China
| | - Jin Cao
- Department of Pathology, Suzhou Kowloon Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 215028, Suzhou, China
| | - Yi Wang
- Department of Urology, Suzhou Kowloon Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 215028, Suzhou, China
| | - Jiang Yu
- Department of Urology, Suzhou Kowloon Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 215028, Suzhou, China
| | - XiZhi Wang
- Department of Urology, Suzhou Kowloon Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 215028, Suzhou, China
| | - HaiTao Liu
- Department of Urology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine (originally named "Shanghai First Hospital"), 200080, Shanghai, China.
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Rigiracciolo DC, Cirillo F, Talia M, Muglia L, Gutkind JS, Maggiolini M, Lappano R. Focal Adhesion Kinase Fine Tunes Multifaced Signals toward Breast Cancer Progression. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13040645. [PMID: 33562737 PMCID: PMC7915897 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13040645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2021] [Revised: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer represents the most common diagnosed malignancy and the main leading cause of tumor-related death among women worldwide. Therefore, several efforts have been made in order to identify valuable molecular biomarkers for the prognosis and prediction of therapeutic responses in breast tumor patients. In this context, emerging discoveries have indicated that focal adhesion kinase (FAK), a non-receptor tyrosine kinase, might represent a promising target involved in breast tumorigenesis. Of note, high FAK expression and activity have been tightly correlated with a poor clinical outcome and metastatic features in several tumors, including breast cancer. Recently, a role for the integrin-FAK signaling in mechanotransduction has been suggested and the function of FAK within the breast tumor microenvironment has been ascertained toward tumor angiogenesis and vascular permeability. FAK has been also involved in cancer stem cells (CSCs)-mediated initiation, maintenance and therapeutic responses of breast tumors. In addition, the potential of FAK to elicit breast tumor-promoting effects has been even associated with the capability to modulate immune responses. On the basis of these findings, several agents targeting FAK have been exploited in diverse preclinical tumor models. Here, we recapitulate the multifaceted action exerted by FAK and its prognostic significance in breast cancer. Moreover, we highlight the recent clinical evidence regarding the usefulness of FAK inhibitors in the treatment of breast tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damiano Cosimo Rigiracciolo
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy; (F.C.); (M.T.); (L.M.); (R.L.)
- Correspondence: (D.C.R.); (M.M.)
| | - Francesca Cirillo
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy; (F.C.); (M.T.); (L.M.); (R.L.)
| | - Marianna Talia
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy; (F.C.); (M.T.); (L.M.); (R.L.)
| | - Lucia Muglia
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy; (F.C.); (M.T.); (L.M.); (R.L.)
| | - Jorge Silvio Gutkind
- Department of Pharmacology, Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA;
| | - Marcello Maggiolini
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy; (F.C.); (M.T.); (L.M.); (R.L.)
- Correspondence: (D.C.R.); (M.M.)
| | - Rosamaria Lappano
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy; (F.C.); (M.T.); (L.M.); (R.L.)
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Kwon Y. Possible Beneficial Effects of N-Acetylcysteine for Treatment of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:169. [PMID: 33498875 PMCID: PMC7911701 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10020169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Revised: 01/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is a widely used antioxidant with therapeutic potential. However, the cancer-promoting effect of NAC observed in some preclinical studies has raised concerns regarding its clinical use. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) can mediate signaling that results in both cancer-promoting and cancer-suppressing effects. The beneficial effect of NAC may depend on whether the type of cancer relies on ROS signaling for its survival and metastasis. Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) has aggressive phenotypes and is currently treated with standard chemotherapy as the main systemic treatment option. Particularly, basal-like TNBC cells characterized by inactivated BRCA1 and mutated TP53 produce high ROS levels and rely on ROS signaling for their survival and malignant progression. In addition, the high ROS levels in TNBC cells can mediate the interplay between cancer cells and the tissue microenvironment (TME) to trigger the recruitment and conversion of stromal cells and induce hypoxic responses, thus leading to the creation of cancer-supportive TMEs and increased cancer aggressiveness. However, NAC treatment effectively reduces the ROS production and ROS-mediated signaling that contribute to cell survival, metastasis, and drug resistance in TNBC cells. Therefore, the inclusion of NAC in standard chemotherapy could probably provide additional benefits for TNBC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youngjoo Kwon
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 03760, Korea
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Akman M, Belisario DC, Salaroglio IC, Kopecka J, Donadelli M, De Smaele E, Riganti C. Hypoxia, endoplasmic reticulum stress and chemoresistance: dangerous liaisons. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2021; 40:28. [PMID: 33423689 PMCID: PMC7798239 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-020-01824-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Solid tumors often grow in a micro-environment characterized by < 2% O2 tension. This condition, together with the aberrant activation of specific oncogenic patwhays, increases the amount and activity of the hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α), a transcription factor that controls up to 200 genes involved in neoangiogenesis, metabolic rewiring, invasion and drug resistance. Hypoxia also induces endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, a condition that triggers cell death, if cells are irreversibly damaged, or cell survival, if the stress is mild.Hypoxia and chronic ER stress both induce chemoresistance. In this review we discuss the multiple and interconnected circuitries that link hypoxic environment, chronic ER stress and chemoresistance. We suggest that hypoxia and ER stress train and select the cells more adapted to survive in unfavorable conditions, by activating pleiotropic mechanisms including apoptosis inhibition, metabolic rewiring, anti-oxidant defences, drugs efflux. This adaptative process unequivocally expands clones that acquire resistance to chemotherapy.We believe that pharmacological inhibitors of HIF-1α and modulators of ER stress, although characterized by low specificty and anti-cancer efficacy when used as single agents, may be repurposed as chemosensitizers against hypoxic and chemorefractory tumors in the next future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhlis Akman
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, via Santena 5/bis, 10126, Torino, Italy
| | | | | | - Joanna Kopecka
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, via Santena 5/bis, 10126, Torino, Italy
| | - Massimo Donadelli
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Biochemistry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Enrico De Smaele
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Roma, Roma, Italy
| | - Chiara Riganti
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, via Santena 5/bis, 10126, Torino, Italy.
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Vella V, De Francesco EM, Lappano R, Muoio MG, Manzella L, Maggiolini M, Belfiore A. Microenvironmental Determinants of Breast Cancer Metastasis: Focus on the Crucial Interplay Between Estrogen and Insulin/Insulin-Like Growth Factor Signaling. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:608412. [PMID: 33364239 PMCID: PMC7753049 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.608412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The development and progression of the great majority of breast cancers (BCs) are mainly dependent on the biological action elicited by estrogens through the classical estrogen receptor (ER), as well as the alternate receptor named G-protein–coupled estrogen receptor (GPER). In addition to estrogens, other hormones and growth factors, including the insulin and insulin-like growth factor system (IIGFs), play a role in BC. IIGFs cooperates with estrogen signaling to generate a multilevel cross-communication that ultimately facilitates the transition toward aggressive and life-threatening BC phenotypes. In this regard, the majority of BC deaths are correlated with the formation of metastatic lesions at distant sites. A thorough scrutiny of the biological and biochemical events orchestrating metastasis formation and dissemination has shown that virtually all cell types within the tumor microenvironment work closely with BC cells to seed cancerous units at distant sites. By establishing an intricate scheme of paracrine interactions that lead to the expression of genes involved in metastasis initiation, progression, and virulence, the cross-talk between BC cells and the surrounding microenvironmental components does dictate tumor fate and patients’ prognosis. Following (i) a description of the main microenvironmental events prompting BC metastases and (ii) a concise overview of estrogen and the IIGFs signaling and their major regulatory functions in BC, here we provide a comprehensive analysis of the most recent findings on the role of these transduction pathways toward metastatic dissemination. In particular, we focused our attention on the main microenvironmental targets of the estrogen-IIGFs interplay, and we recapitulated relevant molecular nodes that orientate shared biological responses fostering the metastatic program. On the basis of available studies, we propose that a functional cross-talk between estrogens and IIGFs, by affecting the BC microenvironment, may contribute to the metastatic process and may be regarded as a novel target for combination therapies aimed at preventing the metastatic evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Vella
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, Catania, Italy
| | - Ernestina Marianna De Francesco
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, Catania, Italy
| | - Rosamaria Lappano
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Muoio
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, Catania, Italy.,Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, Italy
| | - Livia Manzella
- Center of Experimental Oncology and Hematology, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria (A.O.U.) Policlinico Vittorio Emanuele, Catania, Italy.,Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Marcello Maggiolini
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, Italy
| | - Antonino Belfiore
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, Catania, Italy
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Ragunathan K, Upfold NLE, Oksenych V. Interaction between Fibroblasts and Immune Cells Following DNA Damage Induced by Ionizing Radiation. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21228635. [PMID: 33207781 PMCID: PMC7696681 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21228635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2020] [Revised: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) form the basis of tumor microenvironment and possess immunomodulatory functions by interacting with other cells surrounding tumor, including T lymphocytes, macrophages, dendritic cells and natural killer cells. Ionizing radiation is a broadly-used method in radiotherapy to target tumors. In mammalian cells, ionizing radiation induces various types of DNA damages and DNA damage response. Being unspecific, radiotherapy affects all the cells in tumor microenvironment, including the tumor itself, CAFs and immune cells. CAFs are extremely radio-resistant and do not initiate apoptosis even at high doses of radiation. However, following radiation, CAFs become senescent and produce a distinct combination of immunoregulatory molecules. Radiosensitivity of immune cells varies depending on the cell type due to inefficient DNA repair in, for example, monocytes and granulocytes. In this minireview, we are summarizing recent findings on the interaction between CAF, ionizing radiation and immune cells in the tumor microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kalaiyarasi Ragunathan
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), 7028 Trondheim, Norway; (K.R.); (N.L.E.U.)
| | - Nikki Lyn Esnardo Upfold
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), 7028 Trondheim, Norway; (K.R.); (N.L.E.U.)
| | - Valentyn Oksenych
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), 7028 Trondheim, Norway; (K.R.); (N.L.E.U.)
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT-The Arctic University of Norway, 9037 Tromsø, Norway
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition (BioNuT), Karolinska Institutet, 14183 Huddinge, Sweden
- KG Jebsen Centre for B Cell Malignancies, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, N-0316 Oslo, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, 0318 Oslo, Norway
- Correspondence:
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