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Samuel T, Rapic S, O'Brien C, Edson M, Zhong Y, DaCosta RS. Quantitative intravital imaging for real-time monitoring of pancreatic tumor cell hypoxia and stroma in an orthotopic mouse model. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eade8672. [PMID: 37285434 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.ade8672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is a lethal disease with few successful treatment options. Recent evidence demonstrates that tumor hypoxia promotes pancreatic tumor invasion, metastasis, and therapy resistance. However, little is known about the complex relationship between hypoxia and the pancreatic tumor microenvironment (TME). In this study, we developed a novel intravital fluorescence microscopy platform with an orthotopic mouse model of pancreatic cancer to study tumor cell hypoxia within the TME in vivo, at cellular resolution, over time. Using a fluorescent BxPC3-DsRed tumor cell line with a hypoxia-response element (HRE)/green fluorescent protein (GFP) reporter, we showed that HRE/GFP is a reliable biomarker of pancreatic tumor hypoxia, responding dynamically and reversibly to changing oxygen concentrations within the TME. We also characterized the spatial relationships between tumor hypoxia, microvasculature, and tumor-associated collagen structures using in vivo second harmonic generation microscopy. This quantitative multimodal imaging platform enables the unprecedented study of hypoxia within the pancreatic TME in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy Samuel
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Sara Rapic
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
| | - Cristiana O'Brien
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Michael Edson
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
| | - Yuan Zhong
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
| | - Ralph S DaCosta
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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2
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Matellan C, Lachowski D, Cortes E, Chiam KN, Krstic A, Thorpe SD, Del Río Hernández AE. Retinoic acid receptor β modulates mechanosensing and invasion in pancreatic cancer cells via myosin light chain 2. Oncogenesis 2023; 12:23. [PMID: 37130839 PMCID: PMC10154384 DOI: 10.1038/s41389-023-00467-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the most common and lethal form of pancreatic cancer, characterised by stromal remodelling, elevated matrix stiffness and high metastatic rate. Retinoids, compounds derived from vitamin A, have a history of clinical use in cancer for their anti-proliferative and differentiation effects, and more recently have been explored as anti-stromal therapies in PDAC for their ability to induce mechanical quiescence in cancer associated fibroblasts. Here, we demonstrate that retinoic acid receptor β (RAR-β) transcriptionally represses myosin light chain 2 (MLC-2) expression in pancreatic cancer cells. As a key regulatory component of the contractile actomyosin machinery, MLC-2 downregulation results in decreased cytoskeletal stiffness and traction force generation, impaired response to mechanical stimuli via mechanosensing and reduced ability to invade through the basement membrane. This work highlights the potential of retinoids to target the mechanical drivers of pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Matellan
- Cellular and Molecular Biomechanics Laboratory, Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Dariusz Lachowski
- Cellular and Molecular Biomechanics Laboratory, Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Ernesto Cortes
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Autonomous University of Madrid, 28029, Madrid, Spain
| | - Kai Ning Chiam
- UCD School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Aleksandar Krstic
- UCD School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Systems Biology Ireland, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Stephen D Thorpe
- UCD School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.
- UCD Conway Institute of Biomolecular & Biomedical Research, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.
- Trinity Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.
| | - Armando E Del Río Hernández
- Cellular and Molecular Biomechanics Laboratory, Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, UK.
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3
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Akalın AA, Dedekargınoğlu B, Choi SR, Han B, Ozcelikkale A. Predictive Design and Analysis of Drug Transport by Multiscale Computational Models Under Uncertainty. Pharm Res 2023; 40:501-523. [PMID: 35650448 PMCID: PMC9712595 DOI: 10.1007/s11095-022-03298-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Computational modeling of drug delivery is becoming an indispensable tool for advancing drug development pipeline, particularly in nanomedicine where a rational design strategy is ultimately sought. While numerous in silico models have been developed that can accurately describe nanoparticle interactions with the bioenvironment within prescribed length and time scales, predictive design of these drug carriers, dosages and treatment schemes will require advanced models that can simulate transport processes across multiple length and time scales from genomic to population levels. In order to address this problem, multiscale modeling efforts that integrate existing discrete and continuum modeling strategies have recently emerged. These multiscale approaches provide a promising direction for bottom-up in silico pipelines of drug design for delivery. However, there are remaining challenges in terms of model parametrization and validation in the presence of variability, introduced by multiple levels of heterogeneities in disease state. Parametrization based on physiologically relevant in vitro data from microphysiological systems as well as widespread adoption of uncertainty quantification and sensitivity analysis will help address these challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Aykut Akalın
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Middle East Technical University, 06531, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Barış Dedekargınoğlu
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Middle East Technical University, 06531, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Sae Rome Choi
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Purdue University, 585 Purdue Mall, West Lafayette, Indiana, 47907, USA
| | - Bumsoo Han
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Purdue University, 585 Purdue Mall, West Lafayette, Indiana, 47907, USA.
- Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA.
- Center for Cancer Research, Purdue University, 585 Purdue Mall, West Lafayette, Indiana, 47907, USA.
| | - Altug Ozcelikkale
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Middle East Technical University, 06531, Ankara, Turkey.
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4
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Kpeglo D, Hughes MD, Dougan L, Haddrick M, Knowles MA, Evans SD, Peyman SA. Modeling the mechanical stiffness of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Matrix Biol Plus 2022; 14:100109. [PMID: 35399702 PMCID: PMC8990173 DOI: 10.1016/j.mbplus.2022.100109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Revised: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The PDAC stroma stiffness underlines its malignant behavior and drug resistance. 3D in vitro cultures must model the PDAC stroma to effectively drug efficacy. PSCs are responsible for the stroma, and its activity is increased with TGF-β. Develop a 3D culture model of PDAC, which includes PSCs and TGF-β. Assess the mechanical stiffness, stain for collagen, and investigate gemcitabine efficacy.
Despite improvements in the understanding of disease biology, pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remains the most malignant cancer of the pancreas. PDAC constitutes ∼95% of all pancreatic cancers, and it is highly resistant to therapeutics. The increased tissue rigidity, which stems from the rich fibrotic stroma in the tumor microenvironment, is central to disease development, physiology, and resistance to drug perfusion. Pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) are responsible for overproduction of extracellular matrix in the fibrotic stroma, and this is exacerbated by the overexpression of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β). However, there are few in vitro PDAC models, which include both PSCs and TGF-β or mimic in vivo-like tumor stiffness. In this study, we present a three-dimensional in vitro PDAC model, which includes PSCs and TGF-β, and recapitulates PDAC tissue mechanical stiffness. Using oscillatory shear rheology, we show the mechanical stiffness of the model is within range of the PDAC tissue stiffness by day 21 of culture and highlight that the matrix environment is essential to adequately capture PDAC disease. PDAC is a complex, aggressive disease with poor prognosis, and biophysically relevant in vitro PDAC models, which take into account tissue mechanics, will provide improved tumor models for effective therapeutic assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Delanyo Kpeglo
- Molecular and Nanoscale Physics Group, School of Physics and Astronomy, University of Leeds, LS2 9 JT, UK
| | - Matthew D.G. Hughes
- Molecular and Nanoscale Physics Group, School of Physics and Astronomy, University of Leeds, LS2 9 JT, UK
- Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology, University of Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK
| | - Lorna Dougan
- Molecular and Nanoscale Physics Group, School of Physics and Astronomy, University of Leeds, LS2 9 JT, UK
- Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology, University of Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK
| | - Malcolm Haddrick
- Medicines Discovery Catapult, Block 35, Mereside Alderley Park, Alderley Edge, SK10 4TG, UK
| | - Margaret A. Knowles
- Leeds Institute of Medical Research at St James’s (LIMR), School of Medicine, University of Leeds, LS2 9 JT, UK
| | - Stephen D. Evans
- Molecular and Nanoscale Physics Group, School of Physics and Astronomy, University of Leeds, LS2 9 JT, UK
- Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology, University of Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK
| | - Sally A. Peyman
- Molecular and Nanoscale Physics Group, School of Physics and Astronomy, University of Leeds, LS2 9 JT, UK
- Leeds Institute of Medical Research at St James’s (LIMR), School of Medicine, University of Leeds, LS2 9 JT, UK
- Corresponding author at: Molecular and Nanoscale Physics Group, School of Physics and Astronomy, University of Leeds, LS2 9 JT, UK.
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5
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Rao VS, Gu Q, Tzschentke S, Lin K, Ganig N, Thepkaysone ML, Wong FC, Polster H, Seifert L, Seifert AM, Buck N, Riediger C, Weiße J, Gutschner T, Michen S, Temme A, Schneider M, Baenke F, Weitz J, Kahlert C. Extravesicular TIMP-1 is a non-invasive independent prognostic marker and potential therapeutic target in colorectal liver metastases. Oncogene 2022; 41:1809-1820. [PMID: 35140332 PMCID: PMC8933275 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-022-02218-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Revised: 01/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Molecular reprogramming of stromal microarchitecture by tumour-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) is proposed to favour pre-metastatic niche formation. We elucidated the role of extravesicular tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP1EV) in pro-invasive extracellular matrix (ECM) remodelling of the liver microenvironment to aid tumour progression in colorectal cancer (CRC). Immunohistochemistry analysis revealed a high expression of stromal TIMP1 in the invasion front that was associated with poor progression-free survival in patients with colorectal liver metastases. Molecular analysis identified TIMP1EV enrichment in CRC-EVs as a major factor in the induction of TIMP1 upregulation in recipient fibroblasts. Mechanistically, we proved that EV-mediated TIMP1 upregulation in recipient fibroblasts induced ECM remodelling. This effect was recapitulated by human serum-derived EVs providing strong evidence that CRC release active EVs into the blood circulation of patients for the horizontal transfer of malignant traits to recipient cells. Moreover, EV-associated TIMP1 binds to HSP90AA, a heat-shock protein, and the inhibition of HSP90AA on human-derived serum EVs attenuates TIMP1EV-mediated ECM remodelling, rendering EV-associated TIMP1 a potential therapeutic target. Eventually, in accordance with REMARK guidelines, we demonstrated in three independent cohorts that EV-bound TIMP1 is a robust circulating biomarker for a non-invasive, preoperative risk stratification in patients with colorectal liver metastases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Venkatesh Sadananda Rao
- Department of Visceral, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Qianyu Gu
- Department of Visceral, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Sandra Tzschentke
- Department of Medicine, Haematology/Oncology, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Kuailu Lin
- Department of Visceral, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Nicole Ganig
- Department of Visceral, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - May-Linn Thepkaysone
- Department of Visceral, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Fang Cheng Wong
- Department of Visceral, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Heike Polster
- Department of Visceral, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Lena Seifert
- Department of Visceral, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany.,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Centre (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,National Center for Tumor Diseases, Partner site Dresden, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Adrian M Seifert
- Department of Visceral, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany.,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Centre (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,National Center for Tumor Diseases, Partner site Dresden, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Nathalie Buck
- Department of Visceral, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Carina Riediger
- Department of Visceral, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Jonas Weiße
- Junior Research Group 'RNA Biology and Pathogenesis', Medical Faculty, Martin-Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle/Saale, Germany
| | - Tony Gutschner
- Junior Research Group 'RNA Biology and Pathogenesis', Medical Faculty, Martin-Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle/Saale, Germany
| | - Susanne Michen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Section of Experimental Neurosurgery and Tumour Immunology, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Achim Temme
- Department of Neurosurgery, Section of Experimental Neurosurgery and Tumour Immunology, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Martin Schneider
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Franziska Baenke
- Department of Visceral, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Jürgen Weitz
- Department of Visceral, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany.,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Centre (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,National Center for Tumor Diseases, Partner site Dresden, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Christoph Kahlert
- Department of Visceral, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany. .,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Centre (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany. .,National Center for Tumor Diseases, Partner site Dresden, Heidelberg, Germany.
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6
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Lei Y, Bortolin L, Benesch-Lee F, Oguntolu T, Dong Z, Bondah N, Billiar K. Hyaluronic acid regulates heart valve interstitial cell contraction in fibrin-based scaffolds. Acta Biomater 2021; 136:124-136. [PMID: 34592445 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2021.09.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Revised: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Heart valve disease is associated with high morbidity and mortality worldwide resulting in hundreds of thousands of heart valve replacements each year. Tissue engineered heart valves (TEHVs) have the potential to overcome the major limitations of traditional replacement valves; however, leaflet retraction has led to the failure of TEHVs in preclinical studies. As native unmodified hyaluronic acid (HA) is known to promote healthy tissue development in native heart valves, we hypothesize that adding unmodified HA to fibrin-based scaffolds common to tissue engineering will reduce retraction by increasing cell-scaffold interactions and density of the scaffolds. Using a custom high-throughput culture system, we found that incorporating HA into millimeter-scale fibrin-based cell-populated scaffolds increases initial fiber diameter and cell-scaffold interactions, causing a cascade of mechanical, morphological, and cellular responses. These changes lead to higher levels of scaffold compaction and stiffness, increased cell alignment, and less bundling of fibrin fibers by the cells during culture. These effects significantly reduce scaffold retraction and total contractile force each by around 25%. These findings increase our understanding of how HA alters tissue remodeling and could inform the design of the next generation of tissue engineered heart valves to help reduce retraction. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Tissue engineered heart valves (TEHVs) have the potential to overcome the major limitations of traditional replacement valves; however, leaflet retraction induced by excessive myofibroblast activation has led to failure in preclinical studies. Developing valves are rich in hyaluronic acid (HA), which helps maintain a physiological environment for tissue remodeling without retraction. We hypothesized that adding unmodified HA to TEHVs would reduce retraction by increasing cell-scaffold interactions and density of the scaffolds. Using a high-throughput tissue culture platform, we demonstrate that HA incorporation into a fibrin-based scaffold can significantly reduce tissue retraction and total contractile force by increasing fiber bundling and altering cell-mediated matrix remodeling, therefore increasing gel density and stiffness. These finding increase our knowledge of native HA's effects within the extracellular matrix, and provide a new tool for TEHV design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Lei
- Biomedical Engineering Department, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Gateway Park 4008, 60 Prescott, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Luciano Bortolin
- Biomedical Engineering Department, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Gateway Park 4008, 60 Prescott, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Frank Benesch-Lee
- Biomedical Engineering Department, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Gateway Park 4008, 60 Prescott, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Teniola Oguntolu
- Biomedical Engineering Department, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Gateway Park 4008, 60 Prescott, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Zhijie Dong
- Biomedical Engineering Department, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Gateway Park 4008, 60 Prescott, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Narda Bondah
- Biomedical Engineering Department, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Gateway Park 4008, 60 Prescott, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Kristen Billiar
- Biomedical Engineering Department, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Gateway Park 4008, 60 Prescott, Worcester, MA 01605, USA.
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7
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Maneshi P, Mason J, Dongre M, Öhlund D. Targeting Tumor-Stromal Interactions in Pancreatic Cancer: Impact of Collagens and Mechanical Traits. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:787485. [PMID: 34901028 PMCID: PMC8656238 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.787485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has one of the worst outcomes among cancers with a 5-years survival rate of below 10%. This is a result of late diagnosis and the lack of effective treatments. The tumor is characterized by a highly fibrotic stroma containing distinct cellular components, embedded within an extracellular matrix (ECM). This ECM-abundant tumor microenvironment (TME) in PDAC plays a pivotal role in tumor progression and resistance to treatment. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), being a dominant cell type of the stroma, are in fact functionally heterogeneous populations of cells within the TME. Certain subtypes of CAFs are the main producer of the ECM components of the stroma, with the most abundant one being the collagen family of proteins. Collagens are large macromolecules that upon deposition into the ECM form supramolecular fibrillar structures which provide a mechanical framework to the TME. They not only bring structure to the tissue by being the main structural proteins but also contain binding domains that interact with surface receptors on the cancer cells. These interactions can induce various responses in the cancer cells and activate signaling pathways leading to epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and ultimately metastasis. In addition, collagens are one of the main contributors to building up mechanical forces in the tumor. These forces influence the signaling pathways that are involved in cell motility and tumor progression and affect tumor microstructure and tissue stiffness by exerting solid stress and interstitial fluid pressure on the cells. Taken together, the TME is subjected to various types of mechanical forces and interactions that affect tumor progression, metastasis, and drug response. In this review article, we aim to summarize and contextualize the recent knowledge of components of the PDAC stroma, especially the role of different collagens and mechanical traits on tumor progression. We furthermore discuss different experimental models available for studying tumor-stromal interactions and finally discuss potential therapeutic targets within the stroma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parniyan Maneshi
- Department of Radiation Sciences, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
- Wallenberg Centre for Molecular Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - James Mason
- Department of Radiation Sciences, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
- Wallenberg Centre for Molecular Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Mitesh Dongre
- Department of Radiation Sciences, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
- Wallenberg Centre for Molecular Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Daniel Öhlund
- Department of Radiation Sciences, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
- Wallenberg Centre for Molecular Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
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8
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Hypoxia induces stress fiber formation in adipocytes in the early stage of obesity. Sci Rep 2021; 11:21473. [PMID: 34728615 PMCID: PMC8563745 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-00335-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
In obese adipose tissue (AT), hypertrophic expansion of adipocytes is not matched by new vessel formation, leading to AT hypoxia. As a result, hypoxia inducible factor-1⍺ (HIF-1⍺) accumulates in adipocytes inducing a transcriptional program that upregulates profibrotic genes and biosynthetic enzymes such as lysyl oxidase (LOX) synthesis. This excess synthesis and crosslinking of extracellular matrix (ECM) components cause AT fibrosis. Although fibrosis is a hallmark of obese AT, the role of fibroblasts, cells known to regulate fibrosis in other fibrosis-prone tissues, is not well studied. Here we have developed an in vitro model of AT to study adipocyte-fibroblast crosstalk in a hypoxic environment. Further, this in vitro model was used to investigate the effect of hypoxia on adipocyte mechanical properties via ras homolog gene family member A (RhoA)/Rho-associated coiled-coil kinases (ROCK) signaling pathways. We confirmed that hypoxia creates a diseased phenotype by inhibiting adipocyte maturation and inducing actin stress fiber formation facilitated by myocardin-related transcription factor A (MRTF-A/MKL1) nuclear translocation. This work presents new potential therapeutic targets for obesity by improving adipocyte maturation and limiting mechanical stress in obese AT.
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9
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Hristu R, Stanciu SG, Dumitru A, Paun B, Floroiu I, Costache M, Stanciu GA. Influence of hematoxylin and eosin staining on the quantitative analysis of second harmonic generation imaging of fixed tissue sections. BIOMEDICAL OPTICS EXPRESS 2021; 12:5829-5843. [PMID: 34692218 PMCID: PMC8515976 DOI: 10.1364/boe.428701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Revised: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Second harmonic generation (SHG) microscopy has emerged over the past two decades as a powerful tool for tissue characterization and diagnostics. Its main applications in medicine are related to mapping the collagen architecture of in-vivo, ex-vivo and fixed tissues based on endogenous contrast. In this work we present how H&E staining of excised and fixed tissues influences the extraction and use of image parameters specific to polarization-resolved SHG (PSHG) microscopy, which are known to provide quantitative information on the collagen structure and organization. We employ a theoretical collagen model for fitting the experimental PSHG datasets to obtain the second order susceptibility tensor elements ratios and the fitting efficiency. Furthermore, the second harmonic intensity acquired under circular polarization is investigated. The evolution of these parameters in both forward- and backward-collected SHG are computed for both H&E-stained and unstained tissue sections. Consistent modifications are observed between the two cases in terms of the fitting efficiency and the second harmonic intensity. This suggests that similar quantitative analysis workflows applied to PSHG images collected on stained and unstained tissues could yield different results, and hence affect the diagnostic accuracy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Radu Hristu
- Center for Microcopy-Microanalysis and Information Processing, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 060042 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Stefan G. Stanciu
- Center for Microcopy-Microanalysis and Information Processing, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 060042 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Adrian Dumitru
- Department of Pathology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Bogdan Paun
- Faculty of Automation and Computer Science, Technical University of Cluj-Napoca, 40002 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Iustin Floroiu
- Center for Microcopy-Microanalysis and Information Processing, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 060042 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mariana Costache
- Department of Pathology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - George A. Stanciu
- Center for Microcopy-Microanalysis and Information Processing, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 060042 Bucharest, Romania
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10
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Self-Assembling Polypeptide Hydrogels as a Platform to Recapitulate the Tumor Microenvironment. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13133286. [PMID: 34209094 PMCID: PMC8267709 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13133286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2021] [Revised: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The tumor microenvironment is characterized by increased tissue stiffness, low (acidic) pH, and elevated temperature, all of which contribute to the development of cancer. Improving our in vitro models of cancer, therefore, requires the development of cell culture platforms that can mimic these microenvironmental properties. Here, we study a new biomaterial composed of short amino acid chains that self-assemble into a fibrous hydrogel network. This material enables simultaneous and independent tuning of substrate rigidity, extracellular pH, and temperature, allowing us to mimic both healthy tissues and the tumor microenvironment. We used this platform to study the effect of these conditions on pancreatic cancer cells and found that high substrate rigidity and low pH promote proliferation and survival of cancer cells and activate important signaling pathways associated with cancer progression. Abstract The tumor microenvironment plays a critical role in modulating cancer cell migration, metabolism, and malignancy, thus, highlighting the need to develop in vitro culture systems that can recapitulate its abnormal properties. While a variety of stiffness-tunable biomaterials, reviewed here, have been developed to mimic the rigidity of the tumor extracellular matrix, culture systems that can recapitulate the broader extracellular context of the tumor microenvironment (including pH and temperature) remain comparably unexplored, partially due to the difficulty in independently tuning these parameters. Here, we investigate a self-assembled polypeptide network hydrogel as a cell culture platform and demonstrate that the culture parameters, including the substrate stiffness, extracellular pH and temperature, can be independently controlled. We then use this biomaterial as a cell culture substrate to assess the effect of stiffness, pH and temperature on Suit2 cells, a pancreatic cancer cell line, and demonstrate that these microenvironmental factors can regulate two critical transcription factors in cancer: yes-associated protein 1 (YAP) and hypoxia inducible factor (HIF-1A).
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11
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Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma: Relating Biomechanics and Prognosis. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10122711. [PMID: 34205335 PMCID: PMC8234178 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10122711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 06/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the most common form of pancreatic cancer and carries a dismal prognosis. Resectable patients are treated predominantly with surgery while borderline resectable patients may receive neoadjuvant treatment (NAT) to downstage their disease prior to possible resection. PDAC tissue is stiffer than healthy pancreas, and tissue stiffness is associated with cancer progression. Another feature of PDAC is increased tissue heterogeneity. We postulate that tumour stiffness and heterogeneity may be used alongside currently employed diagnostics to better predict prognosis and response to treatment. In this review we summarise the biomechanical changes observed in PDAC, explore the factors behind these changes and describe the clinical consequences. We identify methods available for assessing PDAC biomechanics ex vivo and in vivo, outlining the relative merits of each. Finally, we discuss the potential use of radiological imaging for prognostic use.
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12
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Choi SR, Yang Y, Huang KY, Kong HJ, Flick MJ, Han B. Engineering of biomaterials for tumor modeling. MATERIALS TODAY. ADVANCES 2020; 8:100117. [PMID: 34541484 PMCID: PMC8448271 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtadv.2020.100117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Development of biomaterials mimicking tumor and its microenvironment has recently emerged for the use of drug discovery, precision medicine, and cancer biology. These biomimetic models have developed by reconstituting tumor and stroma cells within the 3D extracellular matrix. The models are recently extended to recapitulate the in vivo tumor microenvironment, including biological, chemical, and mechanical conditions tailored for specific cancer type and its microenvironment. In spite of the recent emergence of various innovative engineered tumor models, many of these models are still early stage to be adapted for cancer research. In this article, we review the current status of biomaterials engineering for tumor models considering three main aspects - cellular engineering, matrix engineering, and engineering for microenvironmental conditions. Considering cancer-specific variability in these aspects, our discussion is focused on pancreatic cancer, specifically pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). In addition, we further discussed the current challenges and future opportunities to create reliable and relevant tumor models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sae Rome Choi
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Yi Yang
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, and Blood Research Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Kai-Yu Huang
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Hyun Joon Kong
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Matthew J. Flick
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, and Blood Research Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Bumsoo Han
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
- Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering and Purdue Center for Cancer Research, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
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13
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Verloy R, Privat-Maldonado A, Smits E, Bogaerts A. Cold Atmospheric Plasma Treatment for Pancreatic Cancer-The Importance of Pancreatic Stellate Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12102782. [PMID: 32998311 PMCID: PMC7601057 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12102782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Revised: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 09/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary This review aims to highlight the potential of cold plasma, the fourth state of matter, as anti-cancer treatment for pancreatic cancer, and the importance of pancreatic stellate cells in the response to this treatment. Currently, a significant lack of basic research on cold plasma considering both pancreatic cancer and stellate cells exists. However, co-cultures of these populations can be advantageous, as they resemble the cell-to-cell interactions occurring in a tumor in response to therapy. Even more, these studies should be performed prior to clinical trials of cold plasma to avoid unforeseen responses to treatment. This review article provides a framework for future research of cold plasma therapies for pancreatic cancer, considering the critical role of pancreatic stellate cells in the disease and treatment outcome. Abstract Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a lethal disease with low five-year survival rates of 8% by conventional treatment methods, e.g., chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery. PDAC shows high resistance towards chemo- and radiotherapy and only 15–20% of all patients can have surgery. This disease is predicted to become the third global leading cause of cancer death due to its significant rise in incidence. Therefore, the development of an alternative or combinational method is necessary to improve current approaches. Cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) treatments could offer multiple advantages to this emerging situation. The plasma-derived reactive species can induce oxidative damage and a cascade of intracellular signaling pathways, which could lead to cell death. Previous reports have shown that CAP treatment also influences cells in the tumor microenvironment, such as the pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs). These PSCs, when activated, play a crucial role in the propagation, growth and survival of PDAC tumors. However, the effect of CAP on PSCs is not yet fully understood. This review focuses on the application of CAP for PDAC treatment and the importance of PSCs in the response to treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruben Verloy
- Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine-ANTwerp, University of Antwerp, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium;
- Center for Oncological Research, University of Antwerp, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium;
- Correspondence: (R.V.); (A.P.-M.); Tel.: +32-3265-2343 (R.V. & A.P.-M.)
| | - Angela Privat-Maldonado
- Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine-ANTwerp, University of Antwerp, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium;
- Center for Oncological Research, University of Antwerp, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium;
- Correspondence: (R.V.); (A.P.-M.); Tel.: +32-3265-2343 (R.V. & A.P.-M.)
| | - Evelien Smits
- Center for Oncological Research, University of Antwerp, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium;
| | - Annemie Bogaerts
- Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine-ANTwerp, University of Antwerp, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium;
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14
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Haak AJ, Kostallari E, Sicard D, Ligresti G, Choi KM, Caporarello N, Jones DL, Tan Q, Meridew J, Diaz Espinosa AM, Aravamudhan A, Maiers JL, Britt RD, Roden AC, Pabelick CM, Prakash YS, Nouraie SM, Li X, Zhang Y, Kass DJ, Lagares D, Tager AM, Varelas X, Shah VH, Tschumperlin DJ. Selective YAP/TAZ inhibition in fibroblasts via dopamine receptor D1 agonism reverses fibrosis. Sci Transl Med 2020; 11:11/516/eaau6296. [PMID: 31666402 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.aau6296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2018] [Revised: 03/01/2019] [Accepted: 09/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Tissue fibrosis is characterized by uncontrolled deposition and diminished clearance of fibrous connective tissue proteins, ultimately leading to organ scarring. Yes-associated protein (YAP) and transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ) have recently emerged as pivotal drivers of mesenchymal cell activation in human fibrosis. Therapeutic strategies inhibiting YAP and TAZ have been hindered by the critical role that these proteins play in regeneration and homeostasis in different cell types. Here, we find that the Gαs-coupled dopamine receptor D1 (DRD1) is preferentially expressed in lung and liver mesenchymal cells relative to other resident cells of these organs. Agonism of DRD1 selectively inhibits YAP/TAZ function in mesenchymal cells and shifts their phenotype from profibrotic to fibrosis resolving, reversing in vitro extracellular matrix stiffening and in vivo tissue fibrosis in mouse models. Aromatic l-amino acid decarboxylase [DOPA decarboxylase (DDC)], the enzyme responsible for the final step in biosynthesis of dopamine, is decreased in the lungs of subjects with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, and its expression inversely correlates with disease severity, consistent with an endogenous protective role for dopamine signaling that is lost in pulmonary fibrosis. Together, these findings establish a pharmacologically tractable and cell-selective approach to targeting YAP/TAZ via DRD1 that reverses fibrosis in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew J Haak
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Enis Kostallari
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Delphine Sicard
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Giovanni Ligresti
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Kyoung Moo Choi
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Nunzia Caporarello
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Dakota L Jones
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Qi Tan
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Jeffrey Meridew
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Ana M Diaz Espinosa
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Aja Aravamudhan
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Jessica L Maiers
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Rodney D Britt
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.,Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester MN 55905, USA.,Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital and Department of Pediatrics, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
| | - Anja C Roden
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester MN 55905, USA
| | - Christina M Pabelick
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.,Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester MN 55905, USA
| | - Y S Prakash
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.,Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester MN 55905, USA
| | - Seyed Mehdi Nouraie
- Dorothy P. and Richard P. Simmons Center for Interstitial Lung Disease and Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Xiaoyun Li
- Dorothy P. and Richard P. Simmons Center for Interstitial Lung Disease and Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Yingze Zhang
- Dorothy P. and Richard P. Simmons Center for Interstitial Lung Disease and Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Daniel J Kass
- Dorothy P. and Richard P. Simmons Center for Interstitial Lung Disease and Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - David Lagares
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Fibrosis Research Center, and Center for Immunology and Inflammatory Diseases, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Andrew M Tager
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Fibrosis Research Center, and Center for Immunology and Inflammatory Diseases, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Xaralabos Varelas
- Department of Biochemistry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Vijay H Shah
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Daniel J Tschumperlin
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
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15
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Padhi A, Singh K, Franco-Barraza J, Marston DJ, Cukierman E, Hahn KM, Kapania RK, Nain AS. Force-exerting perpendicular lateral protrusions in fibroblastic cell contraction. Commun Biol 2020; 3:390. [PMID: 32694539 PMCID: PMC7374753 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-020-01117-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2020] [Accepted: 06/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Aligned extracellular matrix fibers enable fibroblasts to undergo myofibroblastic activation and achieve elongated shapes. Activated fibroblasts are able to contract, perpetuating the alignment of these fibers. This poorly understood feedback process is critical in chronic fibrosis conditions, including cancer. Here, using fiber networks that serve as force sensors, we identify "3D perpendicular lateral protrusions" (3D-PLPs) that evolve from lateral cell extensions named twines. Twines originate from stratification of cyclic-actin waves traversing the cell and swing freely in 3D to engage neighboring fibers. Once engaged, a lamellum forms and extends multiple secondary twines, which fill in to form a sheet-like PLP, in a force-entailing process that transitions focal adhesions to activated (i.e., pathological) 3D-adhesions. The specific morphology of PLPs enables cells to increase contractility and force on parallel fibers. Controlling geometry of extracellular networks confirms that anisotropic fibrous environments support 3D-PLP formation and function, suggesting an explanation for cancer-associated desmoplastic expansion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abinash Padhi
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Karanpreet Singh
- Department of Aerospace and Ocean Engineering, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Janusz Franco-Barraza
- Cancer Biology Program, Marvin & Concetta Greenberg Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Daniel J Marston
- Department of Pharmacology, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Edna Cukierman
- Cancer Biology Program, Marvin & Concetta Greenberg Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - Klaus M Hahn
- Department of Pharmacology, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Rakesh K Kapania
- Department of Aerospace and Ocean Engineering, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Amrinder S Nain
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA.
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16
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Baumann HJ, Mahajan G, Ham TR, Betonio P, Kothapalli CR, Shriver LP, Leipzig ND. Softening of the chronic hemi-section spinal cord injury scar parallels dysregulation of cellular and extracellular matrix content. J Mech Behav Biomed Mater 2020; 110:103953. [PMID: 32957245 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2020.103953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2019] [Revised: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Regeneration following spinal cord injury (SCI) is challenging in part due to the modified tissue composition and organization of the resulting glial and fibrotic scar regions. Inhibitory cell types and biochemical cues present in the scar have received attention as therapeutic targets to promote regeneration. However, altered Young's modulus of the scar as a readout for potential impeding factors for regeneration are not as well-defined, especially in vivo. Although the decreased Young's modulus of surrounding tissue at acute stages post-injury is known, the causation and outcomes at chronic time points remain largely understudied and controversial, which motivates this work. This study assessed the glial and fibrotic scar tissue's Young's modulus and composition (scar morphometry, cell identity, extracellular matrix (ECM) makeup) that contribute to the tissue's stiffness. The spatial Young's modulus of a chronic (~18-wks, post-injury) hemi-section, including the glial and fibrotic regions, were significantly less than naïve tissue (~200 Pa; p < 0.0001). The chronic scar contained cystic cavities dispersed in areas of dense nuclei packing. Abundant CNS cell types such as astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and neurons were dysregulated in the scar, while epithelial markers such as vimentin were upregulated. The key ECM components in the CNS, namely sulfated proteoglycans (sPGs), were significantly downregulated following injury with concomitant upregulation of unsulfated glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) and hyaluronic acid (HA), likely altering the foundational ECM network that contributes to tissue stiffness. Our results reveal the Young's modulus of the chronic SCI scar as well as quantification of contributing elastic components that can provide a foundation for future study into their role in tissue repair and regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah J Baumann
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Akron, Akron, OH, 44325, USA
| | - Gautam Mahajan
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, OH, 44115, USA
| | - Trevor R Ham
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Akron, Akron, OH, 44325, USA
| | - Patricia Betonio
- School of Nursing, The University of Akron, Akron, OH, 44325, USA
| | - Chandrasekhar R Kothapalli
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, OH, 44115, USA
| | - Leah P Shriver
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Akron, Akron, OH, 44325, USA; Department of Biology, The University of Akron, Akron, OH, 44325, USA
| | - Nic D Leipzig
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Akron, Akron, OH, 44325, USA; Department of Chemical, Biomolecular, and Corrosion Engineering, The University of Akron, Akron, OH, 44325, USA.
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17
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Gole L, Yeong J, Lim JCT, Ong KH, Han H, Thike AA, Poh YC, Yee S, Iqbal J, Hong W, Lee B, Yu W, Tan PH. Quantitative stain-free imaging and digital profiling of collagen structure reveal diverse survival of triple negative breast cancer patients. Breast Cancer Res 2020; 22:42. [PMID: 32375854 PMCID: PMC7204022 DOI: 10.1186/s13058-020-01282-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2019] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Stromal and collagen biology has a significant impact on tumorigenesis and metastasis. Collagen is a major structural extracellular matrix component in breast cancer, but its role in cancer progression is the subject of historical debate. Collagen may represent a protective layer that prevents cancer cell migration, while increased stromal collagen has been demonstrated to facilitate breast cancer metastasis. Methods Stromal remodeling is characterized by collagen fiber restructuring and realignment in stromal and tumoral areas. The patients in our study were diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer in Singapore General Hospital from 2003 to 2015. We designed novel image processing and quantification pipelines to profile collagen structures using numerical imaging parameters. Our solution differentiated the collagen into two distinct modes: aggregated thick collagen (ATC) and dispersed thin collagen (DTC). Results Extracted parameters were significantly associated with bigger tumor size and DCIS association. Of numerical parameters, ATC collagen fiber density (CFD) and DTC collagen fiber length (CFL) were of significant prognostic value for disease-free survival and overall survival for the TNBC patient cohort. Using these two parameters, we built a predictive model to stratify the patients into four groups. Conclusions Our study provides a novel insight for the quantitation of collagen in the tumor microenvironment and will help predict clinical outcomes for TNBC patients. The identified collagen parameters, ATC CFD and DTC CFL, represent a new direction for clinical prognosis and precision medicine. We also compared our result with benign samples and DICS samples to get novel insight about the TNBC heterogeneity. The improved understanding of collagen compartment of TNBC may provide insights into novel targets for better patient stratification and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurent Gole
- Institute of Molecule and Cell Biology, A*STAR, 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Building, Singapore, 138673, Singapore
| | - Joe Yeong
- Institute of Molecule and Cell Biology, A*STAR, 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Building, Singapore, 138673, Singapore.,Department of Anatomical Pathology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore.,Singapore Immunology Network, A*STAR, 8A Biomedical Grove, Immunos Building, Biopolis, Singapore, 138648, Singapore
| | - Jeffrey Chun Tatt Lim
- Institute of Molecule and Cell Biology, A*STAR, 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Building, Singapore, 138673, Singapore.,Department of Anatomical Pathology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Kok Haur Ong
- Institute of Molecule and Cell Biology, A*STAR, 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Building, Singapore, 138673, Singapore
| | - Hao Han
- Institute of Molecule and Cell Biology, A*STAR, 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Building, Singapore, 138673, Singapore.,Department of Pathology, National University Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Aye Aye Thike
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yong Cheng Poh
- Diagnostic Development Hub (DxD), A*STAR, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Sidney Yee
- Diagnostic Development Hub (DxD), A*STAR, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jabed Iqbal
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Wanjin Hong
- Institute of Molecule and Cell Biology, A*STAR, 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Building, Singapore, 138673, Singapore.
| | - Bernett Lee
- Singapore Immunology Network, A*STAR, 8A Biomedical Grove, Immunos Building, Biopolis, Singapore, 138648, Singapore.
| | - Weimiao Yu
- Institute of Molecule and Cell Biology, A*STAR, 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Building, Singapore, 138673, Singapore.
| | - Puay Hoon Tan
- Division of Pathology, Singapore General Hospital, 20 College Road, Academia, Level 7, Diagnostics Tower, Singapore, 169856, Singapore.
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18
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Di Maggio F, El-Shakankery KH. Desmoplasia and Biophysics in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma: Can We Learn From Breast Cancer? Pancreas 2020; 49:313-325. [PMID: 32168249 DOI: 10.1097/mpa.0000000000001504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) treatments have historically focused on targeting tumor cells directly. However, in pancreatic masses, the stroma encasing the malignant epithelial cells constitutes up to 80% to 90% of the tumor bulk. This extracellular matrix, which was previously neglected when designing cancer therapies, is now considered fundamental for tumor progression and drug delivery. Desmoplastic tissue is extensively cross-linked, resulting in tremendous tensile strength. This key pathological feature is procarcinogenic, linking PDAC and breast cancer (BC). Physical forces exerted onto cellular surfaces are detected intracellularly and transduced via biochemical messengers in a process called mechanotransduction. Mechanotransduction and tensional homeostasis are linked, with an integral role in influencing tumor growth, metastasis, and interactions with the immune system. It is essential to enhance our knowledge of these integral elements of parenchymal tumors. We aim to review the topic, with a special emphasis on desmoplastic processes and their importance in pancreatic and BC development and treatments, mindful that innovative diagnostic and therapeutic strategies cannot focus on biochemical pathways alone. We then focus on common therapeutic targets identified in both PDAC and BC models and/or patients, aiming to understand these treatments and draw similarities between the two tumors.
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19
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Kuntze A, Goetsch O, Fels B, Najder K, Unger A, Wilhelmi M, Sargin S, Schimmelpfennig S, Neumann I, Schwab A, Pethő Z. Protonation of Piezo1 Impairs Cell-Matrix Interactions of Pancreatic Stellate Cells. Front Physiol 2020; 11:89. [PMID: 32116794 PMCID: PMC7033545 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2020.00089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2019] [Accepted: 01/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is characterized by an acidic and fibrotic stroma. The extracellular matrix (ECM) causing the fibrosis is primarily formed by pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs). The effects of the altered biomechanics and pH landscape in the pathogenesis of PDAC, however, are poorly understood. Mechanotransduction in cells has been linked to the function of mechanosensitive ion channels such as Piezo1. Here, we tested whether this channel plays crucial roles in transducing mechanical signals in the acidic PDAC microenvironment. We performed immunofluorescence, Ca2+ influx and intracellular pH measurements in PSCs and complemented them by live-cell imaging migration experiments in order to assess the function of Piezo1 channels in PSCs. We evaluated whether Piezo1 responds to changes of extracellular and/or intracellular pH in the pathophysiological range (pH 6.6 and pH 6.9, respectively). We validated our results using Piezo1-transfected HEK293 cells as a model system. Indeed, acidification of the intracellular space severely inhibits Piezo1-mediated Ca2+ influx into PSCs. In addition, stimulation of Piezo1 channels with its activator Yoda1 accelerates migration of PSCs on a two-dimensional ECM as well as in a 3D setting. Furthermore, Yoda1-activated PSCs transmit more force to the surrounding ECM under physiological pH, as revealed by measuring the dislocation of microbeads embedded in the surrounding matrix. This is paralleled by an enhanced phosphorylation of myosin light chain isoform 9 after Piezo1 stimulation. Intriguingly, upon acidification, Piezo1 activation leads to the initiation of cell death and disruption of PSC spheroids. In summary, stimulating Piezo1 activates PSCs by inducing Ca2+ influx which in turn alters the cytoskeletal architecture. This results in increased cellular motility and ECM traction, which can be useful for the cells to invade the surroundings and to detach from the tissue. However, in the presence of an acidic extracellular pH, although net Ca2+ influx is reduced, Piezo1 activation leads to severe cell stress also limiting cellular viability. In conclusion, our results indicate a strong interdependence between environmental pH, the mechanical output of PSCs and stromal mechanics, which promotes early local invasion of PDAC cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Kuntze
- Institute of Physiology II, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Ole Goetsch
- Institute of Physiology II, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Benedikt Fels
- Institute of Physiology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Karolina Najder
- Institute of Physiology II, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Andreas Unger
- Institute of Physiology II, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | | | - Sarah Sargin
- Institute of Physiology II, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | | | - Ilka Neumann
- Institute of Physiology II, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Albrecht Schwab
- Institute of Physiology II, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Zoltan Pethő
- Institute of Physiology II, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
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20
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Farran B, Nagaraju GP. The dynamic interactions between the stroma, pancreatic stellate cells and pancreatic tumor development: Novel therapeutic targets. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2019; 48:11-23. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2019.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2019] [Revised: 07/09/2019] [Accepted: 07/11/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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21
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Schnittert J, Bansal R, Prakash J. Targeting Pancreatic Stellate Cells in Cancer. Trends Cancer 2019; 5:128-142. [PMID: 30755305 DOI: 10.1016/j.trecan.2019.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2018] [Revised: 12/20/2018] [Accepted: 01/03/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) are the major contributor to the aggressive, metastatic, and resilient nature of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), which has a poor prognosis with a 5-year survival rate of 8%. PSCs constitute more than 50% of the tumor stroma in PDAC, where they induce extensive desmoplasia by secreting abundant extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins. In addition, they establish dynamic crosstalk with cancer cells and other stromal cells, which collectively supports tumor progression via various inter- and intracellular pathways. These cellular interactions and associated pathways may reveal novel therapeutic opportunities against this unmet clinical problem. In this review article, we discuss the role of PSCs in inducing tumor progression, their crosstalk with other cells, and therapeutic strategies to target PSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Schnittert
- Targeted Therapeutics, Department of Biomaterials Science and Technology, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Ruchi Bansal
- Targeted Therapeutics, Department of Biomaterials Science and Technology, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Jai Prakash
- Targeted Therapeutics, Department of Biomaterials Science and Technology, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands; ScarTec Therapeutics BV, Enschede, The Netherlands.
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22
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Cortes E, Lachowski D, Robinson B, Sarper M, Teppo JS, Thorpe SD, Lieberthal TJ, Iwamoto K, Lee DA, Okada-Hatakeyama M, Varjosalo MT, Del Río Hernández AE. Tamoxifen mechanically reprograms the tumor microenvironment via HIF-1A and reduces cancer cell survival. EMBO Rep 2019; 20:e46557. [PMID: 30538116 PMCID: PMC6322388 DOI: 10.15252/embr.201846557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2018] [Revised: 10/19/2018] [Accepted: 10/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment is fundamental to cancer progression, and the influence of its mechanical properties is increasingly being appreciated. Tamoxifen has been used for many years to treat estrogen-positive breast cancer. Here we report that tamoxifen regulates the level and activity of collagen cross-linking and degradative enzymes, and hence the organization of the extracellular matrix, via a mechanism involving both the G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) and hypoxia-inducible factor-1 alpha (HIF-1A). We show that tamoxifen reduces HIF-1A levels by suppressing myosin-dependent contractility and matrix stiffness mechanosensing. Tamoxifen also downregulates hypoxia-regulated genes and increases vascularization in PDAC tissues. Our findings implicate the GPER/HIF-1A axis as a master regulator of peri-tumoral stromal remodeling and the fibrovascular tumor microenvironment and offer a paradigm shift for tamoxifen from a well-established drug in breast cancer hormonal therapy to an alternative candidate for stromal targeting strategies in PDAC and possibly other cancers.
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MESH Headings
- Adenocarcinoma/drug therapy
- Adenocarcinoma/genetics
- Adenocarcinoma/pathology
- Animals
- Carcinoma, Pancreatic Ductal/drug therapy
- Carcinoma, Pancreatic Ductal/genetics
- Carcinoma, Pancreatic Ductal/pathology
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Cell Survival/drug effects
- Cellular Reprogramming/drug effects
- Fibroblasts/drug effects
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic/drug effects
- Humans
- Hypoxia-Inducible Factor 1, alpha Subunit/genetics
- Mice
- Myosins/genetics
- Neovascularization, Pathologic/drug therapy
- Neovascularization, Pathologic/genetics
- Neovascularization, Pathologic/pathology
- Receptors, Estrogen/genetics
- Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled/genetics
- Signal Transduction/drug effects
- Tamoxifen/administration & dosage
- Tumor Microenvironment/drug effects
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Affiliation(s)
- Ernesto Cortes
- Cellular and Molecular Biomechanics Laboratory, Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Dariusz Lachowski
- Cellular and Molecular Biomechanics Laboratory, Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Benjamin Robinson
- Cellular and Molecular Biomechanics Laboratory, Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Muge Sarper
- Cellular and Molecular Biomechanics Laboratory, Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Jaakko S Teppo
- Institute of Biotechnology, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Stephen D Thorpe
- Institute of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Tyler J Lieberthal
- Cellular and Molecular Biomechanics Laboratory, Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Kazunari Iwamoto
- Laboratory of Cell Systems, Institute for Protein Research, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
- Laboratory for Integrated Cellular Systems, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences (IMS), Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - David A Lee
- Institute of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Mariko Okada-Hatakeyama
- Laboratory of Cell Systems, Institute for Protein Research, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
- Laboratory for Integrated Cellular Systems, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences (IMS), Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
| | | | - Armando E Del Río Hernández
- Cellular and Molecular Biomechanics Laboratory, Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, UK
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23
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Stylianou A, Kontomaris SV, Grant C, Alexandratou E. Atomic Force Microscopy on Biological Materials Related to Pathological Conditions. SCANNING 2019; 2019:8452851. [PMID: 31214274 PMCID: PMC6535871 DOI: 10.1155/2019/8452851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2018] [Revised: 02/23/2019] [Accepted: 03/07/2019] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Atomic force microscopy (AFM) is an easy-to-use, powerful, high-resolution microscope that allows the user to image any surface and under any aqueous condition. AFM has been used in the investigation of the structural and mechanical properties of a wide range of biological matters including biomolecules, biomaterials, cells, and tissues. It provides the capacity to acquire high-resolution images of biosamples at the nanoscale and allows at readily carrying out mechanical characterization. The capacity of AFM to image and interact with surfaces, under physiologically relevant conditions, is of great importance for realistic and accurate medical and pharmaceutical applications. The aim of this paper is to review recent trends of the use of AFM on biological materials related to health and sickness. First, we present AFM components and its different imaging modes and we continue with combined imaging and coupled AFM systems. Then, we discuss the use of AFM to nanocharacterize collagen, the major fibrous protein of the human body, which has been correlated with many pathological conditions. In the next section, AFM nanolevel surface characterization as a tool to detect possible pathological conditions such as osteoarthritis and cancer is presented. Finally, we demonstrate the use of AFM for studying other pathological conditions, such as Alzheimer's disease and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), through the investigation of amyloid fibrils and viruses, respectively. Consequently, AFM stands out as the ideal research instrument for exploring the detection of pathological conditions even at very early stages, making it very attractive in the area of bio- and nanomedicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Stylianou
- Cancer Biophysics Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Cyprus, Nicosia 2238, Cyprus
| | - Stylianos-Vasileios Kontomaris
- Mobile Radio Communications Laboratory, School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, National Technical University of Athens, Iroon Polytechniou, Athens 15780, Greece
- Athens Metropolitan College, Sorou 74, Marousi 15125, Greece
| | - Colin Grant
- Hitachi High-Technologies Europe, Techspace One, Keckwick Lane, Warrington WA4 4AB, UK
| | - Eleni Alexandratou
- Biomedical Optics and Applied Biophysics Laboratory, School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, National Technical University of Athens, Iroon Polytechniou, Athens 15780, Greece
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24
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The emergence of solid stress as a potent biomechanical marker of tumour progression. Emerg Top Life Sci 2018; 2:739-749. [PMID: 33530664 DOI: 10.1042/etls20180049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2018] [Revised: 11/02/2018] [Accepted: 11/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Cancer is a disease of dysregulated mechanics which alters cell behaviour, compromises tissue structure, and promotes tumour growth and metastasis. In the context of tumour progression, the most widely studied of biomechanical markers is matrix stiffness as tumour tissue is typically stiffer than healthy tissue. However, solid stress has recently been identified as another marker of tumour growth, with findings strongly suggesting that its role in cancer is distinct from that of stiffness. Owing to the relative infancy of the field which draws from diverse disciplines, a comprehensive knowledge of the relationships between solid stress, tumorigenesis, and metastasis is likely to provide new and valuable insights. In this review, we discuss the micro- and macro-scale biomechanical interactions that give rise to solid stresses, and also examine the techniques developed to quantify solid stress within the tumour environment. Moreover, by reviewing the effects of solid stress on tissues, cancer and stromal cells, and signalling pathways, we also detail its mode of action at each level of the cancer cascade.
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25
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Tamoxifen mechanically deactivates hepatic stellate cells via the G protein-coupled estrogen receptor. Oncogene 2018; 38:2910-2922. [PMID: 30575816 PMCID: PMC6755965 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-018-0631-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2018] [Revised: 11/12/2018] [Accepted: 11/28/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Tamoxifen has been used for many years to target estrogen receptor signalling in breast cancer cells. Tamoxifen is also an agonist of the G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER), a GPCR ubiquitously expressed in tissues that mediates the acute response to estrogens. Here we report that tamoxifen promotes mechanical quiescence in hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), stromal fibroblast-like cells whose activation triggers and perpetuates liver fibrosis in hepatocellular carcinomas. This mechanical deactivation is mediated by the GPER/RhoA/myosin axis and induces YAP deactivation. We report that tamoxifen decreases the levels of hypoxia-inducible factor-1 alpha (HIF-1α) and the synthesis of extracellular matrix proteins through a mechanical mechanism that involves actomyosin-dependent contractility and mechanosensing of tissue stiffness. Our results implicate GPER-mediated estrogen signalling in the mechanosensory-driven activation of HSCs and put forward estrogenic signalling as an option for mechanical reprogramming of myofibroblast-like cells in the tumour microenvironment. Tamoxifen, with half a century of safe clinical use, might lead this strategy of drug repositioning.
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26
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Matellan C, Del Río Hernández AE. Where No Hand Has Gone Before: Probing Mechanobiology at the Cellular Level. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2018; 5:3703-3719. [PMID: 33405886 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.8b01206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Physical forces and other mechanical stimuli are fundamental regulators of cell behavior and function. Cells are also biomechanically competent: they generate forces to migrate, contract, remodel, and sense their environment. As the knowledge of the mechanisms of mechanobiology increases, the need to resolve and probe increasingly small scales calls for novel technologies to mechanically manipulate cells, examine forces exerted by cells, and characterize cellular biomechanics. Here, we review novel methods to quantify cellular force generation, measure cell mechanical properties, and exert localized piconewton and nanonewton forces on cells, receptors, and proteins. The combination of these technologies will provide further insight on the effect of mechanical stimuli on cells and the mechanisms that convert these stimuli into biochemical and biomechanical activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Matellan
- Cellular and Molecular Biomechanics Laboratory, Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, United Kingdom
| | - Armando E Del Río Hernández
- Cellular and Molecular Biomechanics Laboratory, Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, United Kingdom
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27
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Role of Extracellular Matrix in Development and Cancer Progression. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19103028. [PMID: 30287763 PMCID: PMC6213383 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19103028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 602] [Impact Index Per Article: 100.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2018] [Revised: 09/27/2018] [Accepted: 09/28/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The immense diversity of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins confers distinct biochemical and biophysical properties that influence cell phenotype. The ECM is highly dynamic as it is constantly deposited, remodelled, and degraded during development until maturity to maintain tissue homeostasis. The ECM’s composition and organization are spatiotemporally regulated to control cell behaviour and differentiation, but dysregulation of ECM dynamics leads to the development of diseases such as cancer. The chemical cues presented by the ECM have been appreciated as key drivers for both development and cancer progression. However, the mechanical forces present due to the ECM have been largely ignored but recently recognized to play critical roles in disease progression and malignant cell behaviour. Here, we review the ways in which biophysical forces of the microenvironment influence biochemical regulation and cell phenotype during key stages of human development and cancer progression.
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28
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Abstract
Stellate cells are resident lipid-storing cells of the pancreas and liver that transdifferentiate to a myofibroblastic state in the context of tissue injury. Beyond having roles in tissue homeostasis, stellate cells are increasingly implicated in pathological fibrogenic and inflammatory programs that contribute to tissue fibrosis and that constitute a growth-permissive tumor microenvironment. Although the capacity of stellate cells for extracellular matrix production and remodeling has long been appreciated, recent research efforts have demonstrated diverse roles for stellate cells in regulation of epithelial cell fate, immune modulation, and tissue health. Our present understanding of stellate cell biology in health and disease is discussed here, as are emerging means to target these multifaceted cells for therapeutic benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mara H Sherman
- Department of Cell, Developmental & Cancer Biology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97201, USA;
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29
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Malandrino A, Mak M, Kamm RD, Moeendarbary E. Complex mechanics of the heterogeneous extracellular matrix in cancer. EXTREME MECHANICS LETTERS 2018; 21:25-34. [PMID: 30135864 PMCID: PMC6097546 DOI: 10.1016/j.eml.2018.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2017] [Revised: 02/07/2018] [Accepted: 02/20/2018] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) performs many critical functions, one of which is to provide structural and mechanical integrity, and many of the constituent proteins have clear mechanical roles. The composition and structural characteristics of the ECM are widely variable among different tissues, suiting diverse functional needs. In diseased tissues, particularly solid tumors, the ECM is complex and influences disease progression. Cancer and stromal cells can significantly influence the matrix composition and structure and thus the mechanical properties of the tumor microenvironment (TME). In this review, we describe the interactions that give rise to the structural heterogeneity of the ECM and present the techniques that are widely employed to measure ECM properties and remodeling dynamics. Furthermore, we review the tools for measuring the distinct nature of cell-ECM interactions within the TME.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Malandrino
- Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia, Barcelona, Spain
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Michael Mak
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Roger D. Kamm
- Departments of Biological Engineering and Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Emad Moeendarbary
- Departments of Biological Engineering and Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University College London, London, UK
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30
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Lee YB, Lee JY, Byun H, Ahmad T, Akashi M, Matsusaki M, Shin H. One-step delivery of a functional multi-layered cell sheet using a thermally expandable hydrogel with controlled presentation of cell adhesive proteins. Biofabrication 2018; 10:025001. [DOI: 10.1088/1758-5090/aa9d43] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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31
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) play an integral role in the pathogenesis of pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer. With the developing knowledge of this important cell type, we are at the cusp of developing effective therapies for the above diseases based upon targeting the PSC and modulating its function. RECENT FINDINGS The major themes of the recent PSC literature include: PSC interactions with the extracellular matrix and other stromal components; intracellular calcium physiology as drivers of mechanical interactions and necrosis; the relationship between proinflammatory, protumoural, angiogenic, and metabolic pathways in pancreatic necrosis, fibrosis, and carcinogenesis; and targeting of the stroma for antitumoural and antifibrotic effects. SUMMARY Traditionally, there have been few treatment options for pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer. The elucidation of the wide-ranging functions of PSCs provide an opportunity for treatments based on stromal reprogramming.
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32
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Matrix stiffness induces epithelial-mesenchymal transition and promotes chemoresistance in pancreatic cancer cells. Oncogenesis 2017; 6:e352. [PMID: 28671675 PMCID: PMC5541706 DOI: 10.1038/oncsis.2017.54] [Citation(s) in RCA: 320] [Impact Index Per Article: 45.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2016] [Revised: 05/09/2017] [Accepted: 05/24/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Increased matrix rigidity associated with the fibrotic reaction is documented to stimulate intracellular signalling pathways that promote cancer cell survival and tumour growth. Pancreatic cancer is one of the stiffest of all human solid carcinomas and is characterised by a remarkable desmoplastic reaction. Here we use mouse models, genetically engineered to recapitulate human pancreatic cancer, and several pancreatic cancer cell lines as a model to investigate the effect of matrix stiffness in epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and resistance to chemotherapeutics. We found that recapitulation of the fibrotic rigidities found in pancreatic cancer tissues promote elements of EMT, including increases in vimentin expression, decreases in E-cadherin expression, nuclear localisation of β-catenin, YAP and TAZ and changes in cell shape towards a mesenchymal phenotype. We also report that stiffness induces chemoresistance to paclitaxel, but not to gemcitabine, both commonly used therapeutics, suggesting that environmental rigidity underlies an aspect of chemoresistance.
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33
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Lachowski D, Cortes E, Pink D, Chronopoulos A, Karim SA, P Morton J, Del Río Hernández AE. Substrate Rigidity Controls Activation and Durotaxis in Pancreatic Stellate Cells. Sci Rep 2017; 7:2506. [PMID: 28566691 PMCID: PMC5451433 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-02689-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2016] [Accepted: 04/18/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an aggressive malignancy characterised by the presence of extensive desmoplasia, thought to be responsible for the poor response of patients to systemic therapies. Pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) are key mediators in the production of this fibrotic stroma, upon activation transitioning to a myofibroblast-like, high matrix secreting phenotype. Given their importance in disease progression, characterisation of PSC activation has been extensive, however one aspect that has been overlooked is the mechano-sensing properties of the cell. Here, through the use of a physiomimetic system that recapitulates the mechanical microenvironment found within healthy and fibrotic pancreas, we demonstrate that matrix stiffness regulates activation and mechanotaxis in PSCs. We show the ability of PSCs to undergo phenotypic transition solely as a result of changes in extracellular matrix stiffness, whilst observing the ability of PSCs to durotactically respond to stiffness variations within their local environment. Our findings implicate the mechanical microenvironment as a potent contributor to PDAC progression and survival via induction of PSC activation and fibrosis, suggesting that direct mechanical reprogramming of PSCs may be a viable alternative in the treatment of this lethal disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dariusz Lachowski
- Cellular and Molecular Biomechanics Laboratory, Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, United Kingdom
| | - Ernesto Cortes
- Cellular and Molecular Biomechanics Laboratory, Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel Pink
- Cellular and Molecular Biomechanics Laboratory, Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, United Kingdom
| | - Antonios Chronopoulos
- Cellular and Molecular Biomechanics Laboratory, Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, United Kingdom
| | - Saadia A Karim
- Pancreatic Cancer Research Team, CRUK Beatson Institute, Glasgow, G61 1BD, United Kingdom
| | - Jennifer P Morton
- Pancreatic Cancer Research Team, CRUK Beatson Institute, Glasgow, G61 1BD, United Kingdom
| | - Armando E Del Río Hernández
- Cellular and Molecular Biomechanics Laboratory, Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, United Kingdom.
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34
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Chronopoulos A, Lieberthal TJ, del Río Hernández AE. Pancreatic cancer: a mechanobiology approach. CONVERGENT SCIENCE PHYSICAL ONCOLOGY 2017. [DOI: 10.1088/2057-1739/aa5d1b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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