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Lewis MT, Caldas C. The Power and Promise of Patient-Derived Xenografts of Human Breast Cancer. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2024; 14:a041329. [PMID: 38052483 PMCID: PMC10982691 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a041329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
In 2016, a group of researchers engaged in the development of patient-derived xenografts (PDXs) of human breast cancer provided a comprehensive review of the state of the field. In that review, they summarized the clinical problem that PDXs might address, the technical approaches to their generation (including a discussion of host animals and transplant conditions tested), and presented transplantation success (take) rates across groups and across transplantation conditions. At the time, there were just over 500 unique PDX models created by these investigators representing all three clinically defined subtypes (ER+, HER2+, and TNBC). Today, many of these PDX resources have at least doubled in size, and several more PDX development groups now exist, such that there may be well upward of 1000 PDX models of human breast cancer in existence worldwide. They also presented a series of open questions for the field. Many of these questions have been addressed. However, several remain open, or only partially addressed. Herein, we revisit these questions, and recount the progress that has been made in a number of areas with respect to generation, characterization, and use of PDXs in translational research, and re-present questions that remain open. These open questions, and others, are now being addressed not only by individual investigators, but also large, well-funded consortia including the PDXNet program of the National Cancer Institute in the United States, and the EuroPDX Consortium, an organization of PDX developers across Europe. Finally, we discuss the new opportunities in PDX-based research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael T Lewis
- Baylor College of Medicine, The Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center, Departments of Molecular and Cellular Biology and Radiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Carlos Caldas
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Li Ka Shing Centre, Cambridge CB2 0RE, United Kingdom
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2
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Yang Y, Li J, Li D, Zhou W, Yan F, Wang W. Humanized mouse models: A valuable platform for preclinical evaluation of human cancer. Biotechnol Bioeng 2024; 121:835-852. [PMID: 38151887 DOI: 10.1002/bit.28618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
Animal models are routinely employed to assess the treatments for human cancer. However, due to significant differences in genetic backgrounds, traditional animal models are unable to meet bioresearch needs. To overcome this restriction, researchers have generated and optimized immunodeficient mice, and then engrafted human genes, cells, tissues, or organs in mice so that the responses in the model mice could provide a more reliable reference for treatments. As a bridge connecting clinical application and basic research, humanized mice are increasingly used in the preclinical evaluation of cancer treatments, particularly after gene interleukin 2 receptor gamma mutant mice were generated. Human cancer models established in humanized mice support exploration of the mechanism of cancer occurrence and provide an efficient platform for drug screening. However, it is undeniable that the further application of humanized mice still faces multiple challenges. This review summarizes the construction approaches for humanized mice and their existing limitations. We also report the latest applications of humanized mice in preclinical evaluation for the treatment of cancer and point out directions for future optimization of these models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuening Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jiaqian Li
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Dan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Weilin Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Feiyang Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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3
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Her Y, Yun J, Son HY, Heo W, Kim JI, Moon HG. Potential Perturbations of Critical Cancer-regulatory Genes in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cells Within the Humanized Microenvironment of Patient-derived Xenograft Models. J Breast Cancer 2024; 27:37-53. [PMID: 38233337 PMCID: PMC10912577 DOI: 10.4048/jbc.2023.0177] [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: 07/30/2023] [Revised: 10/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE In this study, we aimed to establish humanized patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) using cord blood (CB) hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). Additionally, we attempted to characterize the immune microenvironment of the humanized PDX model to understand the potential implications of altered tumor-immune interactions in the humanized PDX model on the behavior of TNBC cells. METHODS To establish a humanized mouse model, high-purity CD34+ HSCs from CB were transplanted into immunodeficient NOD scid γ mice. Peripheral and intratumoral immune cell compositions of humanized and non-humanized mice were compared. Additionally, RNA sequencing of the tumor tissues was performed to characterize the gene expression features associated with humanization. RESULTS After transplanting the CD34+ HSCs, CD45+ human immune cells appeared within five weeks. A humanized mouse model showed viable human immune cells in the peripheral blood, lymphoid organs, and in the tumor microenvironment. Humanized TNBC PDX models showed varying rates of tumor growth compared to that of non-humanized mice. RNA sequencing of the tumor tissue showed significant alterations in tumor tissues from the humanized models. tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily member 11B (TNFRSF11B) is a shared downregulated gene in tumor tissues from humanized models. Silencing of TNFRSF11B in TNBC cell lines significantly reduced cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in vitro. Additionally, TNFRSF11B silenced cells showed decreased tumorigenicity and metastatic capacity in vivo. CONCLUSION Humanized PDX models successfully recreated tumor-immune interactions in TNBC. TNFRSF11B, a commonly downregulated gene in humanized PDX models, may play a key role in tumor growth and metastasis. Differential tumor growth rates and gene expression patterns highlighted the complexities of the immune response in the tumor microenvironment of humanized PDX models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujeong Her
- Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Cancer Biology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jihui Yun
- Genomic Medicine Institute, Medical Research Center, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hye-Youn Son
- Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Woohang Heo
- Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jong-Il Kim
- Genomic Medicine Institute, Medical Research Center, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyeong-Gon Moon
- Genomic Medicine Institute, Medical Research Center, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
- Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Surgery, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Surgery, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
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4
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Quail DF, Park M, Welm AL, Ekiz HA. Breast Cancer Immunity: It is TIME for the Next Chapter. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2024; 14:a041324. [PMID: 37188526 PMCID: PMC10835621 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a041324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Our ability to interrogate the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) at an ever-increasing granularity has uncovered critical determinants of disease progression. Not only do we now have a better understanding of the immune response in breast cancer, but it is becoming possible to leverage key mechanisms to effectively combat this disease. Almost every component of the immune system plays a role in enabling or inhibiting breast tumor growth. Building on early seminal work showing the involvement of T cells and macrophages in controlling breast cancer progression and metastasis, single-cell genomics and spatial proteomics approaches have recently expanded our view of the TIME. In this article, we provide a detailed description of the immune response against breast cancer and examine its heterogeneity in disease subtypes. We discuss preclinical models that enable dissecting the mechanisms responsible for tumor clearance or immune evasion and draw parallels and distinctions between human disease and murine counterparts. Last, as the cancer immunology field is moving toward the analysis of the TIME at the cellular and spatial levels, we highlight key studies that revealed previously unappreciated complexity in breast cancer using these technologies. Taken together, this article summarizes what is known in breast cancer immunology through the lens of translational research and identifies future directions to improve clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela F Quail
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Institute, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 1A3, Canada
- Department of Physiology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3G 1Y6, Canada
| | - Morag Park
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Institute, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 1A3, Canada
- Departments of Biochemistry, Oncology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3G 1Y6, Canada
| | - Alana L Welm
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, USA
| | - H Atakan Ekiz
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Izmir Institute of Technology, Gulbahce, 35430 Urla, Izmir, Turkey
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Ahn S, Park JH, Grimm SL, Piyarathna DWB, Samanta T, Putluri V, Mezquita D, Fuqua SA, Putluri N, Coarfa C, Kaipparettu BA. Metabolomic Rewiring Promotes Endocrine Therapy Resistance in Breast Cancer. Cancer Res 2024; 84:291-304. [PMID: 37906431 PMCID: PMC10842725 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-23-0184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
Approximately one-third of endocrine-treated women with estrogen receptor alpha-positive (ER+) breast cancers are at risk of recurrence due to intrinsic or acquired resistance. Thus, it is vital to understand the mechanisms underlying endocrine therapy resistance in ER+ breast cancer to improve patient treatment. Mitochondrial fatty acid β-oxidation (FAO) has been shown to be a major metabolic pathway in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) that can activate Src signaling. Here, we found metabolic reprogramming that increases FAO in ER+ breast cancer as a mechanism of resistance to endocrine therapy. A metabolically relevant, integrated gene signature was derived from transcriptomic, metabolomic, and lipidomic analyses in TNBC cells following inhibition of the FAO rate-limiting enzyme carnitine palmitoyl transferase 1 (CPT1), and this TNBC-derived signature was significantly associated with endocrine resistance in patients with ER+ breast cancer. Molecular, genetic, and metabolomic experiments identified activation of AMPK-FAO-oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) signaling in endocrine-resistant ER+ breast cancer. CPT1 knockdown or treatment with FAO inhibitors in vitro and in vivo significantly enhanced the response of ER+ breast cancer cells to endocrine therapy. Consistent with the previous findings in TNBC, endocrine therapy-induced FAO activated the Src pathway in ER+ breast cancer. Src inhibitors suppressed the growth of endocrine-resistant tumors, and the efficacy could be further enhanced by metabolic priming with CPT1 inhibition. Collectively, this study developed and applied a TNBC-derived signature to reveal that metabolic reprogramming to FAO activates the Src pathway to drive endocrine resistance in ER+ breast cancer. SIGNIFICANCE Increased fatty acid oxidation induced by endocrine therapy activates Src signaling to promote endocrine resistance in breast cancer, which can be overcome using clinically approved therapies targeting FAO and Src.
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Affiliation(s)
- Songyeon Ahn
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Jun Hyoung Park
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Sandra L. Grimm
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | | | - Tagari Samanta
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Vasanta Putluri
- Advanced Technology Core, Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Dereck Mezquita
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Suzanne A.W. Fuqua
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
- Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
- Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Nagireddy Putluri
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
- Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Cristian Coarfa
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
- Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Benny Abraham Kaipparettu
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
- Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
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Zhang T, Liu J, Wang M, Liu X, Qu J, Zhang H. Prognosis stratification and response to treatment in breast cancer based on one-carbon metabolism-related signature. Front Oncol 2024; 13:1288909. [PMID: 38239641 PMCID: PMC10794736 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1288909] [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: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Breast cancer (BC) is the most common malignant tumor in the female population. Despite staging and treatment consensus guidelines, significant heterogeneity exists in BC patients' prognosis and treatment efficacy. Alterations in one-carbon (1C) metabolism are critical for tumor growth, but the value of the role of 1C metabolism in BC has not been fully investigated. Methods To investigate the prognostic value of 1C metabolism-related genes in BC, 72 1C metabolism-related genes from GSE20685 dataset were used to construct a risk-score model via univariate Cox regression analysis and the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression algorithm, which was validated on three external datasets. Based on the risk score, all BC patients were categorized into high-risk and low-risk groups. The predictive ability of the model in the four datasets was verified by plotting Kaplan-Meier curve and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. The candidate genes were then analyzed in relation to gene mutations, gene enrichment pathways, immune infiltration, immunotherapy, and drug sensitivity. Results We identified a 7-gene 1C metabolism-related signature for prognosis and structured a prognostic model. ROC analysis demonstrated that the model accurately predicted the 2-, 3-, and 5-year overall survival rate of BC patients in the four cohorts. Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed that survival time of high-risk patients was markedly shorter than that of low-risk patients (p < 0.05). Meanwhile, high-risk patients had a higher tumor mutational burden (TMB), enrichment of tumor-associated pathways such as the IL-17 signaling pathway, lower levels of T follicular helper (Tfh) and B cells naive infiltration, and poorer response to immunotherapy. Furthermore, a strong correlation was found between MAT2B and CHKB and immune checkpoints. Discussion These findings offer new insights into the effect of 1C metabolism in the onset, progression, and therapy of BC and can be used to assess BC patients' prognosis, study immune infiltration, and develop potentially more effective clinical treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Jia Qu
- Department of Ultrasound, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Huawei Zhang
- Department of Ultrasound, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China
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Chamorro DF, Somes LK, Hoyos V. Engineered Adoptive T-Cell Therapies for Breast Cancer: Current Progress, Challenges, and Potential. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 16:124. [PMID: 38201551 PMCID: PMC10778447 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16010124] [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: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer remains a significant health challenge, and novel treatment approaches are critically needed. This review presents an in-depth analysis of engineered adoptive T-cell therapies (E-ACTs), an innovative frontier in cancer immunotherapy, focusing on their application in breast cancer. We explore the evolving landscape of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) and T-cell receptor (TCR) T-cell therapies, highlighting their potential and challenges in targeting breast cancer. The review addresses key obstacles such as target antigen selection, the complex breast cancer tumor microenvironment, and the persistence of engineered T-cells. We discuss the advances in overcoming these barriers, including strategies to enhance T-cell efficacy. Finally, our comprehensive analysis of the current clinical trials in this area provides insights into the future possibilities and directions of E-ACTs in breast cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego F. Chamorro
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (D.F.C.); (L.K.S.)
| | - Lauren K. Somes
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (D.F.C.); (L.K.S.)
| | - Valentina Hoyos
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (D.F.C.); (L.K.S.)
- Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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8
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Wang W, Li Y, Lin K, Wang X, Tu Y, Zhuo Z. Progress in building clinically relevant patient-derived tumor xenograft models for cancer research. Animal Model Exp Med 2023; 6:381-398. [PMID: 37679891 PMCID: PMC10614132 DOI: 10.1002/ame2.12349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Patient-derived tumor xenograft (PDX) models, a method involving the surgical extraction of tumor tissues from cancer patients and subsequent transplantation into immunodeficient mice, have emerged as a pivotal approach in translational research, particularly in advancing precision medicine. As the first stage of PDX development, the patient-derived orthotopic xenograft (PDOX) models implant tumor tissue in mice in the corresponding anatomical locations of the patient. The PDOX models have several advantages, including high fidelity to the original tumor, heightened drug sensitivity, and an elevated rate of successful transplantation. However, the PDOX models present significant challenges, requiring advanced surgical techniques and resource-intensive imaging technologies, which limit its application. And then, the humanized mouse models, as well as the zebrafish models, were developed. Humanized mouse models contain a human immune environment resembling the tumor and immune system interplay. The humanized mouse models are a hot topic in PDX model research. Regarding zebrafish patient-derived tumor xenografts (zPDX) and patient-derived organoids (PDO) as promising models for studying cancer and drug discovery, zPDX models are used to transplant tumors into zebrafish as novel personalized medical animal models with the advantage of reducing patient waiting time. PDO models provide a cost-effective approach for drug testing that replicates the in vivo environment and preserves important tumor-related information for patients. The present review highlights the functional characteristics of each new phase of PDX and provides insights into the challenges and prospective developments in this rapidly evolving field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weijing Wang
- Department of Clinical MedicineShantou University Medical CollegeShantouChina
| | - Yongshu Li
- College of Life SciencesHubei Normal UniversityHuangshiChina
- Shenzhen Institute for Technology InnovationNational Institute of MetrologyShenzhenChina
| | - Kaida Lin
- Department of Clinical MedicineShantou University Medical CollegeShantouChina
| | - Xiaokang Wang
- Department of PharmacyShenzhen Longhua District Central HospitalShenzhenChina
| | - Yanyang Tu
- Research Center, Huizhou Central People's HospitalGuangdong Medical UniversityHuizhou CityChina
| | - Zhenjian Zhuo
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, School of Chemical Biology and BiotechnologyPeking University Shenzhen Graduate SchoolShenzhenChina
- Laboratory Animal Center, School of Chemical Biology and BiotechnologyPeking University Shenzhen Graduate SchoolShenzhenChina
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9
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Olukoya AO, Stires H, Bahnassy S, Persaud S, Guerra Y, Ranjit S, Ma S, Cruz MI, Benitez C, Rozeboom AM, Ceuleers H, Berry DL, Jacobsen BM, Raj GV, Riggins RB. Riluzole Suppresses Growth and Enhances Response to Endocrine Therapy in ER+ Breast Cancer. J Endocr Soc 2023; 7:bvad117. [PMID: 37766843 PMCID: PMC10521904 DOI: 10.1210/jendso/bvad117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Resistance to endocrine therapy in estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) breast cancer remains a significant clinical problem. Riluzole is FDA-approved for the treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. A benzothiazole-based glutamate release inhibitor with several context-dependent mechanism(s) of action, riluzole has shown antitumor activity in multiple malignancies, including melanoma, glioblastoma, and breast cancer. We previously reported that the acquisition of tamoxifen resistance in a cellular model of invasive lobular breast cancer is accompanied by the upregulation of GRM mRNA expression and growth inhibition by riluzole. Methods We tested the ability of riluzole to reduce cell growth, alone and in combination with endocrine therapy, in a diverse set of ER+ invasive ductal and lobular breast cancer-derived cell lines, primary breast tumor explant cultures, and the estrogen-independent, ESR1-mutated invasive lobular breast cancer patient-derived xenograft model HCI-013EI. Results Single-agent riluzole suppressed the growth of ER+ invasive ductal and lobular breast cancer cell lines in vitro, inducing a histologic subtype-associated cell cycle arrest (G0-G1 for ductal, G2-M for lobular). Riluzole induced apoptosis and ferroptosis and reduced phosphorylation of multiple prosurvival signaling molecules, including Akt/mTOR, CREB, and Fak/Src family kinases. Riluzole, in combination with either fulvestrant or 4-hydroxytamoxifen, additively suppressed ER+ breast cancer cell growth in vitro. Single-agent riluzole significantly inhibited HCI-013EI patient-derived xenograft growth in vivo, and the combination of riluzole plus fulvestrant significantly reduced proliferation in ex vivo primary breast tumor explant cultures. Conclusion Riluzole may offer therapeutic benefits in diverse ER+ breast cancers, including lobular breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayodeji O Olukoya
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Hillary Stires
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Shaymaa Bahnassy
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Sonali Persaud
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Yanira Guerra
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Suman Ranjit
- Department of Biochemistry, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Shihong Ma
- Departments of Urology and Pharmacology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - M Idalia Cruz
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Carlos Benitez
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Aaron M Rozeboom
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Hannah Ceuleers
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Deborah L Berry
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Britta M Jacobsen
- Department of Pathology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Denver, CO 80045, USA
| | - Ganesh V Raj
- Departments of Urology and Pharmacology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Rebecca B Riggins
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057, USA
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10
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Zhou B, Feng Z, Xu J, Xie J. Organoids: approaches and utility in cancer research. Chin Med J (Engl) 2023; 136:1783-1793. [PMID: 37365679 PMCID: PMC10406116 DOI: 10.1097/cm9.0000000000002477] [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: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT Organoids are three-dimensional cellular structures with self-organizing and self-differentiation capacities. They faithfully recapitulate structures and functions of in vivo organs as represented by functionality and microstructural definitions. Heterogeneity in in vitro disease modeling is one of the main reasons for anti-cancer therapy failures. Establishing a powerful model to represent tumor heterogeneity is crucial for elucidating tumor biology and developing effective therapeutic strategies. Tumor organoids can retain the original tumor heterogeneity and are commonly used to mimic the cancer microenvironment when co-cultured with fibroblasts and immune cells; therefore, considerable effort has been made recently to promote the use of this new technology from basic research to clinical studies in tumors. In combination with gene editing technology and microfluidic chip systems, engineered tumor organoids show promising abilities to recapitulate tumorigenesis and metastasis. In many studies, the responses of tumor organoids to various drugs have shown a positive correlation with patient responses. Owing to these consistent responses and personalized characteristics with patient data, tumor organoids show excellent potential for preclinical research. Here, we summarize the properties of different tumor models and review their current state and progress in tumor organoids. We further discuss the substantial challenges and prospects in the rapidly developing tumor organoid field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingrui Zhou
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect and Cell Regeneration, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030001, China
| | - Zhiwei Feng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect and Cell Regeneration, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030001, China
| | - Jun Xu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery and Liver Transplant Center, The First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030001, China
| | - Jun Xie
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect and Cell Regeneration, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030001, China
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11
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Parodi M, Astigiano S, Carrega P, Pietra G, Vitale C, Damele L, Grottoli M, Guevara Lopez MDLL, Ferracini R, Bertolini G, Roato I, Vitale M, Orecchia P. Murine models to study human NK cells in human solid tumors. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1209237. [PMID: 37388731 PMCID: PMC10301748 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1209237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Since the first studies, the mouse models have provided crucial support for the most important discoveries on NK cells, on their development, function, and circulation within normal and tumor tissues. Murine tumor models were initially set to study murine NK cells, then, ever more sophisticated human-in-mice models have been developed to investigate the behavior of human NK cells and minimize the interferences from the murine environment. This review presents an overview of the models that have been used along time to study NK cells, focusing on the most popular NOG and NSG models, which work as recipients for the preparation of human-in-mice tumor models, the study of transferred human NK cells, and the evaluation of various enhancers of human NK cell function, including cytokines and chimeric molecules. Finally, an overview of the next generation humanized mice is also provided along with a discussion on how traditional and innovative in-vivo and in-vitro approaches could be integrated to optimize effective pre-clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Parodi
- Unità Operativa UO Patologia e Immunologia Sperimentale, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Simonetta Astigiano
- Animal Facility, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Paolo Carrega
- Laboratory of Immunology and Biotherapy, Department of Human Pathology, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Gabriella Pietra
- Unità Operativa UO Patologia e Immunologia Sperimentale, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Università di Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Chiara Vitale
- Unità Operativa UO Patologia e Immunologia Sperimentale, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Università di Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Laura Damele
- Unità Operativa UO Patologia e Immunologia Sperimentale, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Melania Grottoli
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Università di Genova, Genova, Italy
| | | | - Riccardo Ferracini
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Bone and Dental Bioengineering Laboratory, C.I.R Dental School, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
- Department of Surgical Sciences (DISC), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Giulia Bertolini
- “Epigenomics and Biomarkers of Solid Tumors”, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Ilaria Roato
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Bone and Dental Bioengineering Laboratory, C.I.R Dental School, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Massimo Vitale
- Unità Operativa UO Patologia e Immunologia Sperimentale, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Paola Orecchia
- Unità Operativa UO Patologia e Immunologia Sperimentale, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
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12
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Chen A, Neuwirth I, Herndler-Brandstetter D. Modeling the Tumor Microenvironment and Cancer Immunotherapy in Next-Generation Humanized Mice. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15112989. [PMID: 37296949 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15112989] [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: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy has brought significant clinical benefits to numerous patients with malignant disease. However, only a fraction of patients experiences complete and durable responses to currently available immunotherapies. This highlights the need for more effective immunotherapies, combination treatments and predictive biomarkers. The molecular properties of a tumor, intratumor heterogeneity and the tumor immune microenvironment decisively shape tumor evolution, metastasis and therapy resistance and are therefore key targets for precision cancer medicine. Humanized mice that support the engraftment of patient-derived tumors and recapitulate the human tumor immune microenvironment of patients represent a promising preclinical model to address fundamental questions in precision immuno-oncology and cancer immunotherapy. In this review, we provide an overview of next-generation humanized mouse models suitable for the establishment and study of patient-derived tumors. Furthermore, we discuss the opportunities and challenges of modeling the tumor immune microenvironment and testing a variety of immunotherapeutic approaches using human immune system mouse models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Chen
- Center for Cancer Research, Medical University of Vienna and Comprehensive Cancer Center, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Ines Neuwirth
- Center for Cancer Research, Medical University of Vienna and Comprehensive Cancer Center, 1090 Vienna, Austria
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13
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Salemme V, Centonze G, Avalle L, Natalini D, Piccolantonio A, Arina P, Morellato A, Ala U, Taverna D, Turco E, Defilippi P. The role of tumor microenvironment in drug resistance: emerging technologies to unravel breast cancer heterogeneity. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1170264. [PMID: 37265795 PMCID: PMC10229846 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1170264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is a highly heterogeneous disease, at both inter- and intra-tumor levels, and this heterogeneity is a crucial determinant of malignant progression and response to treatments. In addition to genetic diversity and plasticity of cancer cells, the tumor microenvironment contributes to tumor heterogeneity shaping the physical and biological surroundings of the tumor. The activity of certain types of immune, endothelial or mesenchymal cells in the microenvironment can change the effectiveness of cancer therapies via a plethora of different mechanisms. Therefore, deciphering the interactions between the distinct cell types, their spatial organization and their specific contribution to tumor growth and drug sensitivity is still a major challenge. Dissecting intra-tumor heterogeneity is currently an urgent need to better define breast cancer biology and to develop therapeutic strategies targeting the microenvironment as helpful tools for combined and personalized treatment. In this review, we analyze the mechanisms by which the tumor microenvironment affects the characteristics of tumor heterogeneity that ultimately result in drug resistance, and we outline state of the art preclinical models and emerging technologies that will be instrumental in unraveling the impact of the tumor microenvironment on resistance to therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Salemme
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
- Molecular Biotechnology Center (MBC) “Guido Tarone”, Turin, Italy
| | - Giorgia Centonze
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
- Molecular Biotechnology Center (MBC) “Guido Tarone”, Turin, Italy
| | - Lidia Avalle
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
- Molecular Biotechnology Center (MBC) “Guido Tarone”, Turin, Italy
| | - Dora Natalini
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
- Molecular Biotechnology Center (MBC) “Guido Tarone”, Turin, Italy
| | - Alessio Piccolantonio
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
- Molecular Biotechnology Center (MBC) “Guido Tarone”, Turin, Italy
| | - Pietro Arina
- UCL, Bloomsbury Institute of Intensive Care Medicine, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Alessandro Morellato
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
- Molecular Biotechnology Center (MBC) “Guido Tarone”, Turin, Italy
| | - Ugo Ala
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Grugliasco, TO, Italy
| | - Daniela Taverna
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
- Molecular Biotechnology Center (MBC) “Guido Tarone”, Turin, Italy
| | - Emilia Turco
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Paola Defilippi
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
- Molecular Biotechnology Center (MBC) “Guido Tarone”, Turin, Italy
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14
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Cao C, Lu X, Guo X, Zhao H, Gao Y. Patient-derived models: Promising tools for accelerating the clinical translation of breast cancer research findings. Exp Cell Res 2023; 425:113538. [PMID: 36871856 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2023.113538] [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: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer has become the highest incidence of cancer in women. It was extensively and deeply studied by biologists and medical workers worldwide. However, the meaningful results in lab researches cannot be realized in clinical, and a part of new drugs in clinical experiments do not obtain as good results as the preclinical researches. It is urgently that promote a kind of breast cancer research models that can get study results closer to the physiological condition of the human body. Patient-derived models (PDMs) originating from clinical tumor, contain primary elements of tumor and maintain key clinical features of tumor. So they are promising research models to facilitate laboratory researches translate to clinical application, and predict the treatment outcome of patients. In this review, we summarize the establishment of PDMs of breast cancer, reviewed the application of PDMs in clinical translational researches and personalized precision medicine with breast cancer as an example, to improve the understanding of PDMs among researchers and clinician, facilitate them to use PDMs on a large scale of breast cancer researches and promote the clinical translation of laboratory research and new drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changqing Cao
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Air Force Medical University, China; State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Biotechnology Center, School of Pharmacy, The Fourth Military Medical University, China
| | - Xiyan Lu
- Department of Outpatient, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Air Force Medical University, China
| | - Xinyan Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Biotechnology Center, School of Pharmacy, The Fourth Military Medical University, China
| | - Huadong Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Air Force Medical University, China.
| | - Yuan Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Biotechnology Center, School of Pharmacy, The Fourth Military Medical University, China.
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15
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Wang J, Zhou Z. Estrogen-dependent activation of NCOA3 couples with p300 and NF-κB to mediate antiapoptotic genes in ER-positive breast cancer cells. Discov Oncol 2023; 14:28. [PMID: 36853387 PMCID: PMC9975134 DOI: 10.1007/s12672-023-00635-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Circumvention of apoptosis by the elevation of antiapoptotic proteins is an important cause of carcinogenesis. The induction of antiapoptotic genes, including B-cell CLL/lymphoma 2 (BCL2), BCL2 related protein A1 (BCL2A1), BCL2 like 1 (BCL2L1), BCL2L2, and myeloid cell leukemia 1 (MCL1), has been observed in multiple cancers, including breast cancer. However, the underlying mechanisms of their overexpression are still being investigated. Here, we revealed that BCL2, BCL2A1, BCL2L2, and MCL1 but not BCL2L1 were overexpressed in estrogen receptor (ER)-positive breast cancer cells and clinical biopsies. Stimulation with estrogen in ER-positive cell lines resulted in a dose-dependent increase in BCL2, BCL2A1, BCL2L2, and MCL1 mRNA levels. Molecular investigation revealed that nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) recruited histone acetyltransferase p300 and nuclear receptor coactivator 3 (NCOA3) to form a transcriptional complex. This complex docked the promoters of BCL2, BCL2A1, BCL2L2, and MCL1 and activated their expression. Interestingly, estrogen exposure dose-dependently activated NCOA3. Depletion of the NCOA3-p300-NF-κB components or blockage of NCOA3 function with inhibitors (gossypol and bufalin) in ER-positive cells suppressed BCL2, BCL2A1, BCL2L2, and MCL1 expression, while also decreasing cell viability, colony formation, cell invasion, and tumor growth. Collectively, our results demonstrate an upstream signaling that activates four antiapoptotic genes in ER-positive breast cancer cells. Importantly, our results also imply that targeting NCOA3 or blocking the assembly of the NCOA3-p300-NF-κB complex may be promising therapeutic strategies for treating ER-positive breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Wang
- Department of Breast Surgery, Jiangxi Provincial People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Zhiyong Zhou
- Department of Oncology, Jiangxi Provincial People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, 92 Aiguo Rd, Donghu District, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, China.
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16
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Li M, Zhou X, Wang W, Ji B, Shao Y, Du Q, Yao J, Yang Y. Selecting an Appropriate Experimental Animal Model for Cholangiocarcinoma Research. J Clin Transl Hepatol 2022; 10:700-710. [PMID: 36062286 PMCID: PMC9396327 DOI: 10.14218/jcth.2021.00374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2021] [Revised: 12/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a highly aggressive biliary tree malignancy with intrahepatic and extra-hepatic subtypes that differ in molecular pathogeneses, epidemiology, clinical manifestations, treatment, and prognosis. The overall prognosis and patient survival remains poor because of lack of early diagnosis and effective treatments. Preclinical in vivo studies have become increasingly paramount as they are helpful not only for the study of the fundamental molecular mechanisms of CCA but also for developing novel and effective therapeutic approaches of this fatal cancer. Recent advancements in cell and molecular biology have made it possible to mimic the pathogenicity of human CCA in chemical-mechanical, infection-induced inflammatory, implantation, and genetically engineered animal models. This review is intended to help investigators understand the particular strengths and weaknesses of the currently used in vivo animal models of human CCA and their related modeling techniques to aid in the selection of the one that is the best for their research needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Man Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui, China
| | - Xueli Zhou
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui, China
| | - Baoan Ji
- Department of Cancer Biology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
| | - Yu Shao
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui, China
| | - Qianyu Du
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui, China
| | - Jinghao Yao
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui, China
| | - Yan Yang
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui, China
- Correspondence to: Yan Yang, Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui 233004, China. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0887-2770. Tel: +86-552-3086178, Fax: +86-552-3074480, E-mail:
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17
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Xie X, Lee J, Iwase T, Kai M, Ueno NT. Emerging drug targets for triple-negative breast cancer: A guided tour of the preclinical landscape. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2022; 26:405-425. [PMID: 35574694 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2022.2077188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most fatal molecular subtype of breast cancer because of its aggressiveness and resistance to chemotherapy. FDA-approved therapies for TNBC are limited to poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors, immune checkpoint inhibitors, and trophoblast cell surface antigen 2-targeted antibody-drug conjugate. Therefore, developing a novel effective targeted therapy for TNBC is an urgent unmet need. AREAS COVERED In this narrative review, we discuss emerging targets for TNBC treatment discovered in early translational studies. We focus on cancer cell membrane molecules, hyperactive intracellular signaling pathways, and the tumor microenvironment (TME) based on their druggability, therapeutic potency, specificity to TNBC, and application in immunotherapy. EXPERT OPINION The significant challenges in the identification and validation of TNBC-associated targets are 1) application of appropriate genetic, molecular, and immunological approaches for modulating the target, 2) establishment of a proper mouse model that accurately represents the human immune TME, 3) TNBC molecular heterogeneity, and 4) failure translation of preclinical findings to clinical practice. To overcome those difficulties, future research needs to apply novel technology, such as single-cell RNA sequencing, thermostable group II intron reverse transcriptase sequencing, and humanized mouse models. Further, combination treatment targeting multiple pathways in both the TNBC tumor and its TME is essential for effective disease control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuemei Xie
- Section of Translational Breast Cancer Research, Morgan Welch Inflammatory Breast Cancer Research Program and Clinic, Department of Breast Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Jangsoon Lee
- Section of Translational Breast Cancer Research, Morgan Welch Inflammatory Breast Cancer Research Program and Clinic, Department of Breast Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Toshiaki Iwase
- Section of Translational Breast Cancer Research, Morgan Welch Inflammatory Breast Cancer Research Program and Clinic, Department of Breast Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Megumi Kai
- Section of Translational Breast Cancer Research, Morgan Welch Inflammatory Breast Cancer Research Program and Clinic, Department of Breast Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Naoto T Ueno
- Section of Translational Breast Cancer Research, Morgan Welch Inflammatory Breast Cancer Research Program and Clinic, Department of Breast Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
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18
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Li Z, McGinn O, Wu Y, Bahreini A, Priedigkeit NM, Ding K, Onkar S, Lampenfeld C, Sartorius CA, Miller L, Rosenzweig M, Cohen O, Wagle N, Richer JK, Muller WJ, Buluwela L, Ali S, Bruno TC, Vignali DAA, Fang Y, Zhu L, Tseng GC, Gertz J, Atkinson JM, Lee AV, Oesterreich S. ESR1 mutant breast cancers show elevated basal cytokeratins and immune activation. Nat Commun 2022; 13:2011. [PMID: 35440136 PMCID: PMC9019037 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-29498-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Estrogen receptor alpha (ER/ESR1) is frequently mutated in endocrine resistant ER-positive (ER+) breast cancer and linked to ligand-independent growth and metastasis. Despite the distinct clinical features of ESR1 mutations, their role in intrinsic subtype switching remains largely unknown. Here we find that ESR1 mutant cells and clinical samples show a significant enrichment of basal subtype markers, and six basal cytokeratins (BCKs) are the most enriched genes. Induction of BCKs is independent of ER binding and instead associated with chromatin reprogramming centered around a progesterone receptor-orchestrated insulated neighborhood. BCK-high ER+ primary breast tumors exhibit a number of enriched immune pathways, shared with ESR1 mutant tumors. S100A8 and S100A9 are among the most induced immune mediators and involve in tumor-stroma paracrine crosstalk inferred by single-cell RNA-seq from metastatic tumors. Collectively, these observations demonstrate that ESR1 mutant tumors gain basal features associated with increased immune activation, encouraging additional studies of immune therapeutic vulnerabilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheqi Li
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Womens Cancer Research Center, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Olivia McGinn
- Womens Cancer Research Center, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Yang Wu
- Womens Cancer Research Center, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Amir Bahreini
- Womens Cancer Research Center, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Nolan M Priedigkeit
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Womens Cancer Research Center, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Kai Ding
- Womens Cancer Research Center, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Sayali Onkar
- Womens Cancer Research Center, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy Program, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Tumor Microenvironment Center, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Caleb Lampenfeld
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy Program, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Tumor Microenvironment Center, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Carol A Sartorius
- Department of Pathology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Lori Miller
- Womens Cancer Research Center, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | | | - Ofir Cohen
- Department of Medical Oncology and Center for Cancer Precision Medicine, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Nikhil Wagle
- Department of Medical Oncology and Center for Cancer Precision Medicine, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jennifer K Richer
- Department of Pathology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - William J Muller
- Goodman Cancer Centre and Departments of Biochemistry and Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Laki Buluwela
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital Campus, London, UK
| | - Simak Ali
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital Campus, London, UK
| | - Tullia C Bruno
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy Program, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Tumor Microenvironment Center, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Dario A A Vignali
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy Program, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Tumor Microenvironment Center, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Yusi Fang
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Li Zhu
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - George C Tseng
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Jason Gertz
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Jennifer M Atkinson
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Womens Cancer Research Center, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Adrian V Lee
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Womens Cancer Research Center, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Steffi Oesterreich
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
- Womens Cancer Research Center, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
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19
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Bahnassy S, Sikora MJ, Riggins RB. Unlocking the Mysteries of Lobular Breast Cancer Biology Needs the Right Combination of Preclinical Models. Mol Cancer Res 2022; 20:837-840. [PMID: 35276005 DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-22-0018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2022] [Revised: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Preclinical model systems are essential research tools that help us understand the biology of invasive lobular carcinoma of the breast (ILC). The number of well-established ILC models are increasing but remain limited. Lower incidence of ILC, under-representation of ILC patients in clinical trials, and intrinsic ILC tumor characteristics all contribute to this challenge. Hence, there is significant need to continually develop better model systems to recapitulate the essential characteristics of ILC biology, genetics, and histology, and empower preclinical therapeutic studies to be translated back into the clinic. In this Perspective, we highlight recent advances in in vivo experimental models, which recapitulate key features of ILC biology and disease progression and potentially reshape the future of ILC translational research. We assert that all existing in vitro and in vivo ILC preclinical models have their strengths and weaknesses, and that it is necessary to bridge key deficiencies in each model context as we move forward with ILC research. Thus, unlocking the mysteries of ILC will be best achieved by choosing the right combination of preclinical model systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaymaa Bahnassy
- Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, United States
| | - Matthew J Sikora
- University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Rebecca B Riggins
- Georgetown University Medical Center - Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Washington, District of Columbia, United States
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20
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Pial MMH, Tomitaka A, Pala N, Roy U. Implantable Devices for the Treatment of Breast Cancer. JOURNAL OF NANOTHERANOSTICS 2022; 3:19-38. [PMID: 37600442 PMCID: PMC10438892 DOI: 10.3390/jnt3010003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of death in the female population worldwide. Standard treatments such as chemotherapy show noticeable results. However, along with killing cancer cells, it causes systemic toxicity and apoptosis of the nearby healthy cells, therefore patients must endure side effects during the treatment process. Implantable drug delivery devices that enhance therapeutic efficacy by allowing localized therapy with programmed or controlled drug release can overcome the shortcomings of conventional treatments. An implantable device can be composed of biopolymer materials, nanocomposite materials, or a combination of both. This review summarizes the recent research and current state-of-the art in these types of implantable devices and gives perspective for future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Asahi Tomitaka
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33174, USA
- Department of Immunology and Nano-Medicine, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA
- Department of Computer Science, University of Houston-Victoria, Victoria, TX 77901, USA
| | - Nezih Pala
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33174, USA
| | - Upal Roy
- Department of Health and Biomedical Sciences, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, Edinburg, TX 78539, USA
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