1
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Zhu T, Alves SM, Adamo A, Wen X, Corn KC, Shostak A, Johnson S, Shaub ND, Martello SE, Hacker BC, D'Amore A, Bardhan R, Rafat M. Mammary tissue-derived extracellular matrix hydrogels reveal the role of irradiation in driving a pro-tumor and immunosuppressive microenvironment. Biomaterials 2024; 308:122531. [PMID: 38531198 PMCID: PMC11065579 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2024.122531] [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: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 03/03/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
Radiation therapy (RT) is essential for triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) treatment. However, patients with TNBC continue to experience recurrence after RT. The role of the extracellular matrix (ECM) of irradiated breast tissue in tumor recurrence is still unknown. In this study, we evaluated the structure, molecular composition, and mechanical properties of irradiated murine mammary fat pads (MFPs) and developed ECM hydrogels from decellularized tissues (dECM) to assess the effects of RT-induced ECM changes on breast cancer cell behavior. Irradiated MFPs were characterized by increased ECM deposition and fiber density compared to unirradiated controls, which may provide a platform for cell invasion and proliferation. ECM component changes in collagens I, IV, and VI, and fibronectin were observed following irradiation in both MFPs and dECM hydrogels. Encapsulated TNBC cell proliferation and invasive capacity was enhanced in irradiated dECM hydrogels. In addition, TNBC cells co-cultured with macrophages in irradiated dECM hydrogels induced M2 macrophage polarization and exhibited further increases in proliferation. Our study establishes that the ECM in radiation-damaged sites promotes TNBC invasion and proliferation as well as an immunosuppressive microenvironment. This work represents an important step toward elucidating how changes in the ECM after RT contribute to breast cancer recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian Zhu
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Steven M Alves
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Arianna Adamo
- Ri.MED Foundation, Palermo, Italy; McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Xiaona Wen
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Kevin C Corn
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Anastasia Shostak
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | | | - Nicholas D Shaub
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Shannon E Martello
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Benjamin C Hacker
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Antonio D'Amore
- Ri.MED Foundation, Palermo, Italy; McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Rizia Bardhan
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA; Nanovaccine Institute, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA
| | - Marjan Rafat
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA; Department of Radiation Oncology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA.
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2
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Xiao C, Xie N, Shu Q, Liang X, Wang Z, Wu J, Shi N, Huang X, Wei ZC, Gao X, Liu H, Wu K, Xu J, Wang JH, Liu N, Xu F. Synergistic Effects of Matrix Biophysical Properties on Gastric Cancer Cell Behavior via Integrin-Mediated Cell-ECM Interactions. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024:e2309907. [PMID: 38712486 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202309907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
The biophysical properties of the extracellular matrix (ECM) play a pivotal role in modulating cancer progression via cell-ECM interactions. However, the biophysical properties specific to gastric cancer (GC) remain largely unexplored. Pertinently, GC ECM shows significantly heterogeneous metamorphoses, such as matrix stiffening and intricate restructuring. By combining collagen I and alginate, this study designs an in vitro biomimetic hydrogel platform to independently modulate matrix stiffness and structure across a physiological stiffness spectrum while preserving consistent collagen concentration and fiber topography. With this platform, this study assesses the impacts of matrix biophysical properties on cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and other pivotal dynamics of AGS. The findings spotlight a compelling interplay between matrix stiffness and structure, influencing both cellular responses and ECM remodeling. Furthermore, this investigation into the integrin/actin-collagen interplay reinforces the central role of integrins in mediating cell-ECM interactions, reciprocally sculpting cell conduct, and ECM adaptation. Collectively, this study reveals a previously unidentified role of ECM biophysical properties in GC malignant potential and provides insight into the bidirectional mechanical cell-ECM interactions, which may facilitate the development of novel therapeutic horizons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cailan Xiao
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
- The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
- Bioinspired Engineering and Biomechanics Center (BEBC), Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
| | - Ning Xie
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
- The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
- Bioinspired Engineering and Biomechanics Center (BEBC), Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
| | - Qiuai Shu
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
| | - Xiru Liang
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
| | - Ziwei Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
- The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
- Bioinspired Engineering and Biomechanics Center (BEBC), Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
| | - Jian Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, P. R. China
| | - Nianyuan Shi
- The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
- Bioinspired Engineering and Biomechanics Center (BEBC), Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
- National Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Precision Surgery & Regenerative Medicine, Shaanxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Magnetic Medicine, Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, China
| | - Xindi Huang
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
| | - Zhong-Cao Wei
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
| | - Xiaoliang Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, P. R. China
| | - Hao Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, P. R. China
| | - Kaichun Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, P. R. China
| | - Jingyuan Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, 215001, P. R. China
| | - Jin-Hai Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
| | - Na Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hainan General Hospital (Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University), Haikou, 570311, P. R. China
| | - Feng Xu
- The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
- Bioinspired Engineering and Biomechanics Center (BEBC), Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
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3
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Shukla P, Bera AK, Yeleswarapu S, Pati F. High Throughput Bioprinting Using Decellularized Adipose Tissue-Based Hydrogels for 3D Breast Cancer Modeling. Macromol Biosci 2024:e2400035. [PMID: 38685795 DOI: 10.1002/mabi.202400035] [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: 01/29/2024] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
3D bioprinting allows rapid automated fabrication and can be applied for high throughput generation of biomimetic constructs for in vitro drug screening. Decellularized extracellular matrix (dECM) hydrogel is a popular biomaterial choice for tissue engineering and studying carcinogenesis as a tumor microenvironmental mimetic. This study proposes a method for high throughput bioprinting with decellularized adipose tissue (DAT) based hydrogels for 3D breast cancer modeling. A comparative analysis of decellularization protocol using detergent-based and detergent-free decellularization methods for caprine-origin adipose tissue is performed, and the efficacy of dECM hydrogel for 3D cancer modeling is assessed. Histological, biochemical, morphological, and biological characterization and analysis showcase the cytocompatibility of DAT hydrogel. The rheological property of DAT hydrogel and printing process optimization is assessed to select a bioprinting window to attain 3D breast cancer models. The bioprinted tissues are characterized for cellular viability and tumor cell-matrix interactions. Additionally, an approach for breast cancer modeling is shown by performing rapid high throughput bioprinting in a 96-well plate format, and in vitro drug screening using 5-fluorouracil is performed on 3D bioprinted microtumors. The results of this study suggest that high throughput bioprinting of cancer models can potentially have downstream clinical applications like multi-drug screening platforms and personalized disease models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priyanshu Shukla
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Sangareddy, Telangana, 502284, India
| | - Ashis Kumar Bera
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Sangareddy, Telangana, 502284, India
| | - Sriya Yeleswarapu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Sangareddy, Telangana, 502284, India
| | - Falguni Pati
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Sangareddy, Telangana, 502284, India
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4
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Asim S, Hayhurst E, Callaghan R, Rizwan M. Ultra-low content physio-chemically crosslinked gelatin hydrogel improves encapsulated 3D cell culture. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 264:130657. [PMID: 38458282 PMCID: PMC11003839 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.130657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 02/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
Gelatin-based hydrogels are extensively used for 3D cell culture, bioprinting, and tissue engineering due to their cell-adhesive nature and tunable physio-chemical properties. Gelatin hydrogels for 3D cell culture are often developed using high-gelatin content (frequently 10-15 % w/v) to ensure fast gelation and improved stability. While highly stable, such matrices restrict the growth of encapsulated cells due to creating a dense, restrictive environment around the encapsulated cells. Hydrogels with lower polymer content are known to improve 3D cell growth, yet fabrication of ultra-low concentration gelatin hydrogels is challenging while ensuring fast gelation and stability. Here, we demonstrate that physical gelation and photo-crosslinking in gelatin results in a fast-gelling hydrogel at a remarkably low gelatin concentration of 1 % w/v (GelPhy/Photo). The GelPhy/Photo hydrogel was highly stable, allowed uniform 3D distribution of cells, and significantly improved the spreading of encapsulated 3T3 fibroblast cells. Moreover, human cholangiocarcinoma (HuCCT-1) cells encapsulated in 1 % GelPhy/Photo matrix grew and self-assembled into epithelial cysts with lumen, which could not be achieved in a traditional high-concentration gelatin hydrogel. These findings pave the way to significantly improve existing gelatin hydrogels for 3D cell culture applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saad Asim
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Michigan Technological University, Houghton, MI 49931, USA
| | - Emma Hayhurst
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Michigan Technological University, Houghton, MI 49931, USA
| | - Rachel Callaghan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Michigan Technological University, Houghton, MI 49931, USA
| | - Muhammad Rizwan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Michigan Technological University, Houghton, MI 49931, USA; Health Research Institute (HRI), Michigan Technological University, USA.
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5
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Tahara S, Sharma S, de Faria FCC, Sarchet P, Tomasello L, Rentsch S, Karna R, Calore F, Pollock RE. Comparison of three-dimensional cell culture techniques of dedifferentiated liposarcoma and their integration with future research. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1362696. [PMID: 38500686 PMCID: PMC10945377 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1362696] [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: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Dedifferentiated liposarcoma is a formidable sarcoma subtype due to its high local recurrence rate and resistance to medical treatment. While 2D cell cultures are still commonly used, 3D cell culture systems have emerged as a promising alternative, particularly scaffold-based techniques that enable the creation of 3D models with more accurate cell-stroma interactions. Objective: To investigate how 3D structures with or without the scaffold existence would affect liposarcoma cell lines growth morphologically and biologically. Methods: Lipo246 and Lipo863 cell lines were cultured in 3D using four different methods; Matrigel® ECM scaffold method, Collagen ECM scaffold method, ULA plate method and Hanging drop method, in addition to conventional 2D cell culture methods. All samples were processed for histopathological analysis (HE, IHC and DNAscope™), Western blot, and qPCR; moreover, 3D collagen-based models were treated with different doses of SAR405838, a well-known inhibitor of MDM2, and cell viability was assessed in comparison to 2D model drug response. Results: Regarding morphology, cell lines behaved differently comparing the scaffold-based and scaffold-free methods. Lipo863 formed spheroids in Matrigel® but not in collagen, while Lipo246 did not form spheroids in either collagen or Matrigel®. On the other hand, both cell lines formed spheroids using scaffold-free methods. All samples retained liposarcoma characteristic, such as high level of MDM2 protein expression and MDM2 DNA amplification after being cultivated in 3D. 3D collagen samples showed higher cell viability after SAR40538 treatment than 2D models, while cells sensitive to the drug died by apoptosis or necrosis. Conclusion: Our results prompt us to extend our investigation by applying our 3D models to further oncological relevant applications, which may help address unresolved questions about dedifferentiated liposarcoma biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sayumi Tahara
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Soumya Sharma
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Fernanda Costas Casal de Faria
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Patricia Sarchet
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Luisa Tomasello
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Sydney Rentsch
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Roma Karna
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Federica Calore
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Raphael E. Pollock
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States
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6
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Shu J, Deng H, Zhang Y, Wu F, He J. Cancer cell response to extrinsic and intrinsic mechanical cue: opportunities for tumor apoptosis strategies. Regen Biomater 2024; 11:rbae016. [PMID: 38476678 PMCID: PMC10932484 DOI: 10.1093/rb/rbae016] [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: 12/17/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Increasing studies have revealed the importance of mechanical cues in tumor progression, invasiveness and drug resistance. During malignant transformation, changes manifest in either the mechanical properties of the tissue or the cellular ability to sense and respond to mechanical signals. The major focus of the review is the subtle correlation between mechanical cues and apoptosis in tumor cells from a mechanobiology perspective. To begin, we focus on the intracellular force, examining the mechanical properties of the cell interior, and outlining the role that the cytoskeleton and intracellular organelle-mediated intracellular forces play in tumor cell apoptosis. This article also elucidates the mechanisms by which extracellular forces guide tumor cell mechanosensing, ultimately triggering the activation of the mechanotransduction pathway and impacting tumor cell apoptosis. Finally, a comprehensive examination of the present status of the design and development of anti-cancer materials targeting mechanotransduction is presented, emphasizing the underlying design principles. Furthermore, the article underscores the need to address several unresolved inquiries to enhance our comprehension of cancer therapeutics that target mechanotransduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Shu
- National Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials, College of Biomedical Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, PR China
| | - Huan Deng
- National Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials, College of Biomedical Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, PR China
| | - Yu Zhang
- College of Food and Biological Engineering, Chengdu University, Chengdu 610106, PR China
| | - Fang Wu
- National Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials, College of Biomedical Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, PR China
| | - Jing He
- National Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials, College of Biomedical Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, PR China
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7
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Oliveto S, Ritter P, Deroma G, Miluzio A, Cordiglieri C, Benvenuti MR, Mutti L, Raimondi MT, Biffo S. The Impact of 3D Nichoids and Matrix Stiffness on Primary Malignant Mesothelioma Cells. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:199. [PMID: 38397189 PMCID: PMC10887956 DOI: 10.3390/genes15020199] [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: 12/24/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Malignant mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the mesothelium. It is an aggressive and deadly form of cancer that is often caused by exposure to asbestos. At the molecular level, it is characterized by a low number of genetic mutations and high heterogeneity among patients. In this work, we analyzed the plasticity of gene expression of primary mesothelial cancer cells by comparing their properties on 2D versus 3D surfaces. First, we derived from primary human samples four independent primary cancer cells. Then, we used Nichoids, which are micro-engineered 3D substrates, as three-dimensional structures. Nichoids limit the dimension of adhering cells during expansion by counteracting cell migration between adjacent units of a substrate with their microarchitecture. Tumor cells grow effectively on Nichoids, where they show enhanced proliferation. We performed RNAseq analyses on all the samples and compared the gene expression pattern of Nichoid-grown tumor cells to that of cells grown in a 2D culture. The PCA analysis showed that 3D samples were more transcriptionally similar compared to the 2D ones. The 3D Nichoids induced a transcriptional remodeling that affected mainly genes involved in extracellular matrix assembly. Among these genes responsible for collagen formation, COL1A1 and COL5A1 exhibited elevated expression, suggesting changes in matrix stiffness. Overall, our data show that primary mesothelioma cells can be effectively expanded in Nichoids and that 3D growth affects the cells' tensegrity or the mechanical stability of their structure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Oliveto
- Department of Biosciences, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy; (S.O.); (G.D.)
- National Institute of Molecular Genetics, Fondazione Romeo ed Enrica Invernizzi, INGM, 20122 Milan, Italy; (P.R.); (A.M.); (C.C.)
| | - Paolo Ritter
- National Institute of Molecular Genetics, Fondazione Romeo ed Enrica Invernizzi, INGM, 20122 Milan, Italy; (P.R.); (A.M.); (C.C.)
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering “Giulio Natta”, Politecnico di Milano, 20133 Milano, Italy;
| | - Giorgia Deroma
- Department of Biosciences, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy; (S.O.); (G.D.)
- National Institute of Molecular Genetics, Fondazione Romeo ed Enrica Invernizzi, INGM, 20122 Milan, Italy; (P.R.); (A.M.); (C.C.)
| | - Annarita Miluzio
- National Institute of Molecular Genetics, Fondazione Romeo ed Enrica Invernizzi, INGM, 20122 Milan, Italy; (P.R.); (A.M.); (C.C.)
| | - Chiara Cordiglieri
- National Institute of Molecular Genetics, Fondazione Romeo ed Enrica Invernizzi, INGM, 20122 Milan, Italy; (P.R.); (A.M.); (C.C.)
| | - Mauro Roberto Benvenuti
- Thoracic Surgery Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties Radiological Sciences and Public Health, Medical Oncology, University of Brescia, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy;
| | - Luciano Mutti
- Department of Applied Clinical Sciences and Biotechnology, DISCAB, Aquila University, 67100 L’ Aquila, Italy;
- Department of Biotechnology, SHRO, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA
| | - Manuela Teresa Raimondi
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering “Giulio Natta”, Politecnico di Milano, 20133 Milano, Italy;
| | - Stefano Biffo
- Department of Biosciences, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy; (S.O.); (G.D.)
- National Institute of Molecular Genetics, Fondazione Romeo ed Enrica Invernizzi, INGM, 20122 Milan, Italy; (P.R.); (A.M.); (C.C.)
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8
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Kim H, Wirasaputra A, Mohammadi F, Kundu AN, Esteves JAE, Heiser LM, Meyer AS, Peyton SR. Live Cell Lineage Tracing of Dormant Cancer Cells. Adv Healthc Mater 2023; 12:e2202275. [PMID: 36625629 PMCID: PMC10238615 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202202275] [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: 09/05/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer is a leading cause of global cancer-related deaths, and metastasis is the overwhelming culprit of poor patient prognosis. The most nefarious aspect of metastasis is dormancy, a prolonged period between primary tumor resection and relapse. Current therapies are insufficient at killing dormant cells; thus, they can remain quiescent in the body for decades until eventually undergoing a phenotypic switch, resulting in metastases that are more adaptable and drug resistant. Unfortunately, dormancy has few in vitro models, largely because lab-derived cell lines are highly proliferative. Existing models address tumor dormancy, not cellular dormancy, because tracking individual cells is technically challenging. To combat this problem, a live cell lineage approach to find and track individual dormant cells, distinguishing them from proliferative and dying cells over multiple days, is adapted. This approach is applied across a range of different in vitro microenvironments. This approach reveals that the proportion of cells that exhibit long-term quiescence is regulated by both cell intrinsic and extrinsic factors, with the most dormant cells found in 3D collagen gels. This paper envisions that this approach will prove useful to biologists and bioengineers in the dormancy community to identify, quantify, and study dormant tumor cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyuna Kim
- Molecular and Cell Biology Graduate Program, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, 01002, USA
| | - Anna Wirasaputra
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, 01002, USA
| | - Farnaz Mohammadi
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Aritra Nath Kundu
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, 01002, USA
| | - Jennifer A E Esteves
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, 01002, USA
| | - Laura M Heiser
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
| | - Aaron S Meyer
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Shelly R Peyton
- Molecular and Cell Biology Graduate Program, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, 01002, USA
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, 01002, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, 01002, USA
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9
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Xu JJ, Lucero MY, Herndon NL, Lee MC, Chan J. Comparison of a Minimally Invasive Transthoracic Approach and a Surgical Method for Intrapleural Injection of Tumor Cells in Mice. Comp Med 2023; 73:120-126. [PMID: 36922006 PMCID: PMC10162381 DOI: 10.30802/aalas-cm-22-000044] [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: 04/30/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 03/17/2023]
Abstract
Intrapleural injections can be used in mice to deliver therapeutic and diagnostic agents and to model human disease processes (for example, pleural fluid accumulation, malignant pleural disease, and lung cancers). In the context of establishing cancer models, minimally invasive methods of intrapleural injection are desirable because inflammation at the injection site can have a major impact on tumor growth and progression. Common approaches for intrapleural injection include surgical exposure of the thoracic wall or the diaphragm prior to injection; however, these invasive procedures require tissue dissection that triggers an undesirable inflammatory response and increases the risk of pneumothorax. While nonsurgical procedures can minimize this concern, 'blind' injections may lead to off target inoculation. In this study, we hypothesized that a minimally invasive transthoracic approach (MI-TT) would produce a tumor distribution and burden similar to that of a surgical transabdominal approach (SX-TA). Prior to performing the procedures on live mice, surgeons were trained using cadavers and terminal procedures. Then a total of 14 nude mice (female, 4 to 6 wk old) were injected with 50 μL (5 million) A549-Luc2 human cancer cells either using the MI-TT (n = 8) or SX-TA (n = 6) approach under carprofen analgesia and isoflurane anesthesia. Our results indicate that with training, a minimally invasive transthoracic approach for intrapleural injection provides more consistent tumor placement and a greater tumor burden than does the surgical method. However, additional studies are necessary to confirm anatomic placement and characterize tumor profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiajie Jessica Xu
- Division of Animal Resources
- Department of Clinical Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, and
| | - Melissa Y Lucero
- Department of Chemistry, Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, and Cancer Center at Illinois, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois
| | - Nicole L Herndon
- Division of Animal Resources
- Department of Clinical Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, and
| | - Michael C Lee
- Department of Chemistry, Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, and Cancer Center at Illinois, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois
| | - Jefferson Chan
- Department of Chemistry, Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, and Cancer Center at Illinois, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois
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10
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Identification of the Collagen Types Essential for Mammalian Breast Acinar Structures. Gels 2022; 8:gels8120837. [PMID: 36547361 PMCID: PMC9777629 DOI: 10.3390/gels8120837] [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: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Modeling human breast tissue architecture is essential to study the pathophysiological conditions of the breast. We report that normal mammary epithelial cells grown in human breast extracellular matrix (ECM) hydrogel formed acini structurally similar to those of human and pig mammary tissues. Type I, II, III and V collagens were commonly identified in human, pig, and mouse breast ECM. Mammary epithelial cells formed acini on certain types or combinations of the four collagens at normal levels of breast tissue elasticity. Comparison of the collagen species in mouse normal breast and breast tumor ECM revealed common and distinct sets of collagens within the two types of tissues. Elevated expression of collagen type I alpha 1 chain (Col1a1) was found in mouse and human breast cancers. Collagen type XXV alpha 1 chain (Col25a1) was identified in mouse breast tumors but not in normal breast tissues. Our data provide strategies for modeling human breast pathophysiological structures and functions using native tissue-derived hydrogels and offer insight into the potential contributions of different collagen types in breast cancer development.
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11
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Blanco-Fernandez B, Rey-Vinolas S, Bağcı G, Rubi-Sans G, Otero J, Navajas D, Perez-Amodio S, Engel E. Bioprinting Decellularized Breast Tissue for the Development of Three-Dimensional Breast Cancer Models. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2022; 14:29467-29482. [PMID: 35735173 PMCID: PMC9264314 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c00920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
The tumor extracellular matrix (ECM) plays a vital role in tumor progression and drug resistance. Previous studies have shown that breast tissue-derived matrices could be an important biomaterial to recreate the complexity of the tumor ECM. We have developed a method for decellularizing and delipidating a porcine breast tissue (TDM) compatible with hydrogel formation. The addition of gelatin methacrylamide and alginate allows this TDM to be bioprinted by itself with good printability, shape fidelity, and cytocompatibility. Furthermore, this bioink has been tuned to more closely recreate the breast tumor by incorporating collagen type I (Col1). Breast cancer cells (BCCs) proliferate in both TDM bioinks forming cell clusters and spheroids. The addition of Col1 improves the printability of the bioink as well as increases BCC proliferation and reduces doxorubicin sensitivity due to a downregulation of HSP90. TDM bioinks also allow a precise three-dimensional printing of scaffolds containing BCCs and stromal cells and could be used to fabricate artificial tumors. Taken together, we have proven that these novel bioinks are good candidates for biofabricating breast cancer models.
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12
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Herring B, Jang S, Whitt J, Goliwas K, Aburjania Z, Dudeja V, Ren B, Berry J, Bibb J, Frost A, Chen H, Rose JB, Jaskula-Sztul R. Ex Vivo Modeling of Human Neuroendocrine Tumors in Tissue Surrogates. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:710009. [PMID: 35002949 PMCID: PMC8734644 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.710009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Few models exist for studying neuroendocrine tumors (NETs), and there are mounting concerns that the currently available array of cell lines is not representative of NET biology. The lack of stable patient-derived NET xenograft models further limits the scientific community's ability to make conclusions about NETs and their response to therapy in patients. To address these limitations, we propose the use of an ex vivo 3D flow-perfusion bioreactor system for culturing and studying patient-derived NET surrogates. Herein, we demonstrate the utility of the bioreactor system for culturing NET surrogates and provide methods for evaluating the efficacy of therapeutic agents on human NET cell line xenograft constructs and patient-derived NET surrogates. We also demonstrate that patient-derived NET tissues can be propagated using the bioreactor system and investigate the near-infrared (NIR) dye IR-783 for its use in monitoring their status within the bioreactor. The results indicate that the bioreactor system and similar 3D culture models may be valuable tools for culturing patient-derived NETs and monitoring their response to therapy ex vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brendon Herring
- Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Samuel Jang
- Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Jason Whitt
- Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Kayla Goliwas
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Zviadi Aburjania
- Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Vikas Dudeja
- Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Bin Ren
- Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Joel Berry
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - James Bibb
- Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Andra Frost
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Herbert Chen
- Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - John Bart Rose
- Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Renata Jaskula-Sztul
- Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
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13
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Keller CR, Hu Y, Ruud KF, VanDeen AE, Martinez SR, Kahn BT, Zhang Z, Chen RK, Li W. Human Breast Extracellular Matrix Microstructures and Protein Hydrogel 3D Cultures of Mammary Epithelial Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13225857. [PMID: 34831010 PMCID: PMC8616054 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13225857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2021] [Revised: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Human breast tissue extracellular matrix (ECM) is a microenvironment essential for the survival and biological activities of mammary epithelial cells. The ECM structural features of human breast tissues remain poorly defined. In this study, we identified the structural and mechanical properties of human normal breast and invasive ductal carcinoma tissue ECM using histological methods and atomic force microscopy. Additionally, a protein hydrogel was generated using human breast tissue ECM and defined for its microstructural features using immunofluorescence imaging and machine learning. Furthermore, we examined the three-dimensional growth of normal mammary epithelial cells or breast cancer cells cultured on the ECM protein hydrogel, where the cells exhibited biological phenotypes like those seen in native breast tissues. Our data provide novel insights into cancer cell biology, tissue microenvironment mimicry and engineering, and native tissue ECM-based biomedical and pharmaceutical applications. Abstract Tissue extracellular matrix (ECM) is a structurally and compositionally unique microenvironment within which native cells can perform their natural biological activities. Cells grown on artificial substrata differ biologically and phenotypically from those grown within their native tissue microenvironment. Studies examining human tissue ECM structures and the biology of human tissue cells in their corresponding tissue ECM are lacking. Such investigations will improve our understanding about human pathophysiological conditions for better clinical care. We report here human normal breast tissue and invasive ductal carcinoma tissue ECM structural features. For the first time, a hydrogel was successfully fabricated using whole protein extracts of human normal breast ECM. Using immunofluorescence staining of type I collagen (Col I) and machine learning of its fibrous patterns in the polymerized human breast ECM hydrogel, we have defined the microstructural characteristics of the hydrogel and compared the microstructures with those of other native ECM hydrogels. Importantly, the ECM hydrogel supported 3D growth and cell-ECM interaction of both normal and cancerous mammary epithelial cells. This work represents further advancement toward full reconstitution of the human breast tissue microenvironment, an accomplishment that will accelerate the use of human pathophysiological tissue-derived matrices for individualized biomedical research and therapeutic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chandler R. Keller
- Department of Translational Medicine and Physiology, Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University, Spokane, WA 99202, USA; (C.R.K.); (K.F.R.)
| | - Yang Hu
- Department of Crop and Soil Sciences, College of Agricultural, Human, and Natural Resources Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, USA; (Y.H.); (Z.Z.)
| | - Kelsey F. Ruud
- Department of Translational Medicine and Physiology, Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University, Spokane, WA 99202, USA; (C.R.K.); (K.F.R.)
| | - Anika E. VanDeen
- School of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, USA; (A.E.V.); (R.K.C.)
| | - Steve R. Martinez
- Department of Surgery, The Everett Clinic and Providence Regional Cancer Partnership, Everett, WA 98201, USA;
- Department of Medical Education and Clinical Sciences, Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University, Spokane, WA 99202, USA
| | - Barry T. Kahn
- CellNetix Pathology & Laboratories, Seattle, WA 98104, USA;
- Providence Regional Medical Center, Everett, WA 98201, USA
| | - Zhiwu Zhang
- Department of Crop and Soil Sciences, College of Agricultural, Human, and Natural Resources Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, USA; (Y.H.); (Z.Z.)
| | - Roland K. Chen
- School of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, USA; (A.E.V.); (R.K.C.)
| | - Weimin Li
- Department of Translational Medicine and Physiology, Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University, Spokane, WA 99202, USA; (C.R.K.); (K.F.R.)
- Correspondence:
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14
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Vernerey FJ, Lalitha Sridhar S, Muralidharan A, Bryant SJ. Mechanics of 3D Cell-Hydrogel Interactions: Experiments, Models, and Mechanisms. Chem Rev 2021; 121:11085-11148. [PMID: 34473466 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.1c00046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Hydrogels are highly water-swollen molecular networks that are ideal platforms to create tissue mimetics owing to their vast and tunable properties. As such, hydrogels are promising cell-delivery vehicles for applications in tissue engineering and have also emerged as an important base for ex vivo models to study healthy and pathophysiological events in a carefully controlled three-dimensional environment. Cells are readily encapsulated in hydrogels resulting in a plethora of biochemical and mechanical communication mechanisms, which recapitulates the natural cell and extracellular matrix interaction in tissues. These interactions are complex, with multiple events that are invariably coupled and spanning multiple length and time scales. To study and identify the underlying mechanisms involved, an integrated experimental and computational approach is ideally needed. This review discusses the state of our knowledge on cell-hydrogel interactions, with a focus on mechanics and transport, and in this context, highlights recent advancements in experiments, mathematical and computational modeling. The review begins with a background on the thermodynamics and physics fundamentals that govern hydrogel mechanics and transport. The review focuses on two main classes of hydrogels, described as semiflexible polymer networks that represent physically cross-linked fibrous hydrogels and flexible polymer networks representing the chemically cross-linked synthetic and natural hydrogels. In this review, we highlight five main cell-hydrogel interactions that involve key cellular functions related to communication, mechanosensing, migration, growth, and tissue deposition and elaboration. For each of these cellular functions, recent experiments and the most up to date modeling strategies are discussed and then followed by a summary of how to tune hydrogel properties to achieve a desired functional cellular outcome. We conclude with a summary linking these advancements and make the case for the need to integrate experiments and modeling to advance our fundamental understanding of cell-matrix interactions that will ultimately help identify new therapeutic approaches and enable successful tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franck J Vernerey
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Colorado at Boulder, 1111 Engineering Drive, Boulder, Colorado 80309-0428, United States.,Materials Science and Engineering Program, University of Colorado at Boulder, 4001 Discovery Drive, Boulder, Colorado 80309-613, United States
| | - Shankar Lalitha Sridhar
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Colorado at Boulder, 1111 Engineering Drive, Boulder, Colorado 80309-0428, United States
| | - Archish Muralidharan
- Materials Science and Engineering Program, University of Colorado at Boulder, 4001 Discovery Drive, Boulder, Colorado 80309-613, United States
| | - Stephanie J Bryant
- Materials Science and Engineering Program, University of Colorado at Boulder, 4001 Discovery Drive, Boulder, Colorado 80309-613, United States.,Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado at Boulder, 3415 Colorado Avenue, Boulder, Colorado 80309-0596, United States.,BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado at Boulder, 3415 Colorado Avenue, Boulder, Colorado 80309-0596, United States
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15
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Cunningham JJ, Bukkuri A, Brown JS, Gillies RJ, Gatenby RA. Coupled Source-Sink Habitats Produce Spatial and Temporal Variation of Cancer Cell Molecular Properties as an Alternative to Branched Clonal Evolution and Stem Cell Paradigms. Front Ecol Evol 2021. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2021.676071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Intratumoral molecular cancer cell heterogeneity is conventionally ascribed to the accumulation of random mutations that occasionally generate fitter phenotypes. This model is built upon the “mutation-selection” paradigm in which mutations drive ever-fitter cancer cells independent of environmental circumstances. An alternative model posits spatio-temporal variation (e.g., blood flow heterogeneity) drives speciation by selecting for cancer cells adapted to each different environment. Here, spatial genetic variation is the consequence rather than the cause of intratumoral evolution. In nature, spatially heterogenous environments are frequently coupled through migration. Drawing from ecological models, we investigate adjacent well-perfused and poorly-perfused tumor regions as “source” and “sink” habitats, respectively. The source habitat has a high carrying capacity resulting in more emigration than immigration. Sink habitats may support a small (“soft-sink”) or no (“hard-sink”) local population. Ecologically, sink habitats can reduce the population size of the source habitat so that, for example, the density of cancer cells directly around blood vessels may be lower than expected. Evolutionarily, sink habitats can exert a selective pressure favoring traits different from those in the source habitat so that, for example, cancer cells adjacent to blood vessels may be suboptimally adapted for that habitat. Soft sinks favor a generalist cancer cell type that moves between the environment but can, under some circumstances, produce speciation events forming source and sink habitat specialists resulting in significant molecular variation in cancer cells separated by small distances. Finally, sink habitats, with limited blood supply, may receive reduced concentrations of systemic drug treatments; and local hypoxia and acidosis may further decrease drug efficacy allowing cells to survive treatment and evolve resistance. In such cases, the sink transforms into the source habitat for resistant cancer cells, leading to treatment failure and tumor progression. We note these dynamics will result in spatial variations in molecular properties as an alternative to the conventional branched evolution model and will result in cellular migration as well as variation in cancer cell phenotype and proliferation currently described by the stem cell paradigm.
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