Lung cancer: New biological insights and recent therapeutic advances

Reprogramming exosomes for immunity-remodeled photodynamic therapy against non-small cell lung cancer

Traditional treatments against advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with high morbidity and mortality continue to be dissatisfactory. Given this situation, there is an urgent requirement for alternative modalities that provide lower invasiveness, superior clinical effectiveness, and minimal adverse effects. The combination of photodynamic therapy (PDT) and immunotherapy gradually become a promising approach for high-grade malignant NSCLC. Nevertheless, owing to the absence of precise drug delivery techniques as well as the hypoxic and immunosuppressive characteristics of the tumor microenvironment (TME), the efficacy of this combination therapy approach is less than ideal. In this study, we construct a novel nanoplatform that indocyanine green (ICG), a photosensitizer, loads into hollow manganese dioxide (MnO2) nanospheres (NPs) (ICG@MnO2), and then encapsulated in PD-L1 monoclonal antibodies (anti-PD-L1) reprogrammed exosomes (named ICG@MnO2@Exo-anti-PD-L1), to effectively modulate the TME to oppose NSCLC by the synergy of PDT and immunotherapy modalities. The ICG@MnO2@Exo-anti-PD-L1 NPs are precisely delivered to the tumor sites by targeting specially PD-L1 highly expressed cancer cells to controllably release anti-PD-L1 in the acidic TME, thereby activating T cell response. Subsequently, upon endocytic uptake by cancer cells, MnO2 catalyzes the conversion of H2O2 to O2, thereby alleviating tumor hypoxia. Meanwhile, ICG further utilizes O2 to produce singlet oxygen (1O2) to kill tumor cells under 808 nm near-infrared (NIR) irradiation. Furthermore, a high level of intratumoral H2O2 reduces MnO2 to Mn2+, which remodels the immune microenvironment by polarizing macrophages from M2 to M1, further driving T cells. Taken together, the current study suggests that the ICG@MnO2@Exo-anti-PD-L1 NPs could act as a novel drug delivery platform for achieving multimodal therapy in treating NSCLC.

Case report: Long-term intracranial effect of zimberelimab monotherapy following surgical resection of high PD-L1-expressing brain metastases from NSCLC

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounted for the majority of lung cancer cases worldwide. Brain metastases (BM) frequently complicate NSCLC and portend a dismal prognosis. To control neurological symptoms, surgical resection is commonly followed by brain radiotherapy (RT). However, RT is often complicated by neurotoxicity. For patients with tumors that harbor positive driver genes, tyrosine kinase inhibitors are considered the standard of care. Nevertheless, treatment options for those without driver gene mutations are still debated. Programmed death receptor 1 (PD-1)/ligand 1 (PD-L1) inhibition has emerged as a novel therapeutic strategy for NSCLC patients with PD-L1-positive tumors, as well as for those with asymptomatic BM. However, the effect of anti-PD-1 antibodies on active BM within such specific populations is undetermined. Herein we present a case of a 65-year-old patient with NSCLC and high PD-L1-expressing BM. The patient underwent surgical resection of BM followed by first-line monotherapy with 31 cycles of zimberelimab, a novel anti-PD-1 antibody, and has already achieved 24 months of progression-free survival and intracranial recurrence-free survival. To our knowledge, this is the first report regarding the intracranial effect of zimberelimab on BM from primary lung cancer. This case report might facilitate an understanding of the intracranial effects of different anti-PD-1 antibodies for such populations.

Deciphering the molecular mechanistic paths describing the chemotherapeutic potential and epigenetic regulation of curcumin in lung cancer: a mini review

In an uncontrolled inflammatory environment, the complex process of lung carcinogenesis occurs. Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. The average 5-year survival rate is still low despite significant advancements in our knowledge of lung carcinogenesis and the development of innovative therapies in recent decades. Research on adjuvant treatment, lung carcinogenesis pathways, and possible prognostic indicators has to be refocused using an innovative approach. The majority of lung cancers are discovered at an advanced stage when there is little chance of recovery. It has grown in popularity in recent years to supplement already available chemotherapeutic therapies with adjuvant herbal medications, which may lessen toxicity and adverse effects without sacrificing therapeutic efficiency. One such prospective contender is curcumin. In-depth research has been done on curcumin as a multi-target anti-tumor and anti-inflammatory molecule. A pharmacologically active polyphenol produced from turmeric is called curcumin. Over the past few decades, curcumin's therapeutic potential has been thoroughly studied, and data indicate that curcumin may play a part in a variety of biological processes, most notably its potent anticancer activity. Being a pleiotropic chemical, curcumin regulates a variety of molecules that are key players in many cell signaling pathways. It has been shown to stifle transformation, restrain proliferation, and trigger apoptosis. Curcumin can reduce the development of non-small cell LC by downregulating Circular RNA hsa_circ_0007580, which in turn controls the expression of integrin subunit beta 1 by adsorbing miR-384. Nevertheless, despite all these advantages, curcumin's effectiveness is still restricted because of its weak bioavailability, poor absorption within the systemic circulation, and quick removal from the body. In an effort to overcome these constraints, scientists from all around the world are working to develop a synthetic and improved curcuminoid by appropriately altering the parent skeleton structurally. These curcuminoids will simultaneously improve the physicochemical properties and efficacy. This review presents evidence from the most recent clinical trials coupled with the molecular mechanisms of curcumin in LC.

Evolution of Diagnoses, Survival, and Costs of Oncological Medical Treatment for Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer over 20 Years in Osona, Catalonia

Non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) has experienced several diagnostic and therapeutic changes over the past two decades. However, there are few studies conducted with real-world data regarding the evolution of the cost of these new drugs and the corresponding changes in the survival of these patients. We collected data on patients diagnosed with NSCLC from the tumor registry of the University Hospital of Vic from 2002 to 2021. We analyzed the epidemiological and pathological characteristics of these patients, the diverse oncological treatments administered, and the survival outcomes extending at least 18 months post-diagnosis. We also collected data on pharmacological costs, aligning them with the treatments received by each patient to determine the cost associated with individualized treatments. Our study included 905 patients diagnosed with NSCLC. We observed a dynamic shift in histopathological subtypes from squamous carcinoma in the initial years to adenocarcinoma. Regarding the treatment approach, the use of chemotherapy declined over time, replaced by immunotherapy, while molecular therapy showed relative stability. An increase in survival at 18 months after diagnosis was observed in patients with advanced stages over the most recent years of this study, along with the advent of immunotherapy. Mean treatment costs per patient ranged from EUR 1413.16 to EUR 22,029.87 and reached a peak of EUR 48,283.80 in 2017 after the advent of immunotherapy. This retrospective study, based on real-world data, documents the evolution of pathological characteristics, survival rates, and medical treatment costs for NSCLC over the last two decades. After the introduction of immunotherapy, patients in advanced stages showed an improvement in survival at 18 months, coupled with an increase in treatment costs.

En bloc chest wall resection in locally advanced cT3N2 (stage IIIB) lung cancer involving the chest wall: Revisiting guidelines

Objectives

Current National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines recommend definitive chemoradiation rather than surgery for patients with locally advanced clinical stage T3 and N2 (stage IIIB) lung cancer involving the chest wall. The data supporting this recommendation are controversial. We studied whether surgery confers a survival advantage over definitive chemoradiation in the National Cancer Database.

Methods

We identified all patients with clinical stage T3 and N2 lung cancer in the National Cancer Database from 2004 to 2017 who underwent a lobectomy with en bloc chest wall resection and compared them with patients with clinical stage T3 and N2 lung cancer who had definitive chemoradiation. We used propensity score matching to minimize confounding by indication while excluding patients with tumors in the upper lobes to exclude Pancoast tumors. We used 1:1 propensity score matching and Kaplan-Meir survival analyses to estimate associations.

Results

Of 4467 patients meeting all inclusion/exclusion criteria, 210 (4.49%) had an en bloc chest wall resection. Patients undergoing surgical resection were younger (mean age = 60.3 ± 10.3 years vs 67.5 ± 10.4 years; P < .001) and had more adenocarcinoma (59.0% vs 44.5%; P < .001) but were otherwise similar in terms of sex (37.1% female vs 42.0%; P = .167) and race (Whites 84.3% vs 84.0%; P = .276) compared with the definitive chemoradiation group. After resection, there was an unadjusted 30- and 90-day mortality rate of 3.3% and 9.5%, respectively. A substantial survival benefit with surgical resection persisted after propensity score matching (log-rank P < .001).

Conclusions

In this large observational study, we found that in select patients, en bloc chest wall resection for locally advanced clinical stage T3 and N2 lung cancer was associated with improved survival compared with definitive chemoradiation. National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines should be revisited.

MRPS16 promotes lung adenocarcinoma growth via the PI3K/AKT/Frataxin signalling axis

Although MRPS16 is involved in cancer development, its mechanisms in developing LAUD remain unclear. Herein, qRT-PCR, WB and IHC were utilized for evaluating MRPS16 expression levels, while functional assays besides animal experiments were performed to measure MRPS16 effect on LAUD progression. Using WB, the MRPS16 effect on PI3K/AKT/Frataxin signalling pathway was tested. According to our study, MRPS16 was upregulated in LAUD and was correlated to the advanced TNM stage as well as poor clinical outcomes, which represent an independent prognostic factor. Based on functional assays, MRPS16 is involved in promoting LAUD growth, migration and invasion, which was validated further in subsequent analyses through PI3K/AKT/Frataxin pathway activation. Moreover, MRPS16-knockdown-mediated Frataxin overexpression was shown to restore the reduction in tumour cells proliferation, migration and invasion. Our results revealed that MRPS16 caused an aggressive phenotype to LAUD and was a poor prognosticator; thus, targeting MRPS16 may be effectual in LAUD treatment.

Annual review of PROTAC degraders as anticancer agents in 2022

Following nearly two decades of development, significant advancements have been achieved in PROTAC technology. As of the end of 2022, more than 20 drugs have entered clinical trials, with ARV-471 targeting estrogen receptor (ER) showing remarkable progress by entering phase III clinical studies. In 2022, significant progress has been made on multiple targets. The first reversible covalent degrader designed to target the KRASG12C mutant protein, based on cyclopropionamide, has been reported. Additionally, the activity HDCA1 degrader surpassed submicromolar levels during the same year. A novel FEM1B covalent ligand called EN106 was also discovered, expanding the range of available ligands. Furthermore, the first PROTAC drug targeting SOS1 was reported. Additionally, the first-in-class degraders that specifically target BRD4 isoforms (BRD4 L and BRD4 S) have recently been reported, providing a valuable tool for further investigating the biological functions of these isoforms. Lastly, a breakthrough was also achieved with the first degrader targeting both CDK9 and Cyclin T1. In this review, we aimed to update the PROTAC degraders as potential anticancer agents covering articles published in 2022. The design strategies, degradation effects, and anticancer activities were highlighted, which might provide an updated sight to develop novel PROTAC degraders with great potential as anticancer agents as well as favorable drug-like properties.

Recent progress in drug delivery systems for tyrosine kinase inhibitors in the treatment of lung cancer

Lung cancer ranks as the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in both men and women worldwide. Despite the availability of diverse diagnostic and treatment strategies, it remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally. The current treatment approaches for lung cancer involve the utilization of first generation (e.g., erlotinib, gefitinib) and second generation (e.g., afatinib) tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs). These TKIs exert their effects by inhibiting a crucial enzyme called tyrosine kinase, which is responsible for cell survival signaling. However, their clinical effectiveness is hindered by limited solubility and oral bioavailability. Nanotechnology has emerged as a significant application in modern cancer therapy. Nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems, including lipid, polymeric, hybrid, inorganic, dendrimer, and micellar nanoparticles, have been designed to enhance the bioavailability, stability, and retention of these drugs within the targeted lung area. Furthermore, these nanoparticle-based delivery systems offer several advantages, such as increased therapeutic efficacy and reduced side effects and toxicity. This review focuses on the recent advancements in drug delivery systems for some of the most important TKIs, shedding light on their potential in improving lung cancer treatment.

Conformational diversity and protein-protein interfaces in drug repurposing in Ras signaling pathway

We focus on drug repurposing in the Ras signaling pathway, considering structural similarities of protein-protein interfaces. The interfaces formed by physically interacting proteins are found from PDB if available and via PRISM (PRotein Interaction by Structural Matching) otherwise. The structural coverage of these interactions has been increased from 21 to 92% using PRISM. Multiple conformations of each protein are used to include protein dynamics and diversity. Next, we find FDA-approved drugs bound to structurally similar protein-protein interfaces. The results suggest that HIV protease inhibitors tipranavir, indinavir, and saquinavir may bind to EGFR and ERBB3/HER3 interface. Tipranavir and indinavir may also bind to EGFR and ERBB2/HER2 interface. Additionally, a drug used in Alzheimer's disease can bind to RAF1 and BRAF interface. Hence, we propose a methodology to find drugs to be potentially used for cancer using a dataset of structurally similar protein-protein interface clusters rather than pockets in a systematic way.

Correlation Analysis between T790M Status and Clinical Characteristics of Patients with EGFR-sensitive Mutation Advanced NSCLC who Progressed after the First Generation and First-line EGFR-TKIs Administration: A Real-world Exploratory Study

AIM

The present study is to investigate the association between T790M status and clinical characteristics of patients with EGFR-sensitive advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) who progressed the initial epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFRTKIs) administration.

METHODS

A total of 167 patients with EGFR-sensitive mutations advanced NSCLC who had successful genetic tests and progressed the initial EGFR-TKI treatment were included in this study retrospectively. The clinical and demographic characteristics of these patients were collected, which were manifested as pathological type, metastasis location, initial biopsy method, initial genetic test specimens, and baseline gene mutations status. Correlation analysis between T790M status and these characteristics was performed and prognostic analysis regarding the different subgroups was carried out accordingly.

RESULTS

The prevalence of secondary T790M after resistance to initial EGFR-TKIs among the 167 patients was 52.7%. Correlation analysis indicated that the median progression-free Survival (PFS) to initial EGFR-TKIs >12 months were more likely to develop secondary T790M in univariate analysis. However, the conclusion failed to show statistically significant in multivariate analysis. Additionally, patients with intracranial progression of initial EGFR-TKIs therapy were associated with secondary EGFR-T790M. However, it should be noted that those whose best overall response was partial response (PR) during the EGFR-TKI therapy were relevant to secondary T790M. Furthermore, The median PFS of the initial EGFR-TKIs administration was longer among patients with T790M positive mutation and patients with PR reaction than those without T790M mutation and patients with stable disease (SD), respectively (median PFS: 13.6 vs. 10.9 months, P=0.023) and (median PFS: 14.0 vs. 10.1 months, P=0.001).

CONCLUSION

This retrospective study highlighted the real-world evidence that the best efficacy and intracranial progression with initial EGFR-TKIs therapy among patients with advanced NSCLC might be the promising indicators to predict the occurrence of EGFR-T790M. Patients with PR reaction and T790M positive mutation conferred longer PFS of the initial EGFR-TKIs administration. Also, the conclusion should be confirmed in more patients with advanced NSCLC subsequently.

Synthesis and biological assessment of indole derivatives containing penta-heterocycles scaffold as novel anticancer agents towards A549 and K562 cells

Herein, a new series of 2-chloro-N-(5-(2-oxoindolin-3-yl)-4H-pyrazol-3-yl) acetamide derivatives containing 1,3,4-thiadiazole (10a-i) and 4H-1,2,4-triazol-4-amine (11a-r) moiety was designed, synthesised as novel anticancer agents. The antiproliferative activity values indicated that compound 10 b stood as the most potent derivative with IC₅₀ values of 12.0 nM and 10 nM against A549 and K562 cells, respectively. Mechanism investigation and docking studies of 10 b indicated that it possessed good apoptosis characteristic and dose-dependent growth arrest of A549 and K562 cells, blocked cell cycle into G2/M phase. Interestingly, 10 b suppressed the growth of A549 and K562 cells via modulation of EGFR and p53-MDM2 mediated pathway.

Lnc AC016727.1/BACH1/HIF-1 α signal loop promotes the progression of non-small cell lung cancer

BACKGROUND

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been reported to play vital roles in the development and progression of cancer. However, their biological significance and functional mechanisms in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) are mostly unclear.

METHODS

We performed RNA-sequencing to predict the differential expression of lncRNAs in clinical NSCLC and paired paracancerous lung tissues. To identify lncRNA expression, quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) was used. Using both cell and mouse models, We studied lncRNA AC016727.1's function in NSCLC growth and metastasis. Western blot assays, dual luciferase reporter assays, and chromatin immunoprecipitation were used to analyze the functional mechanism of lncRNA AC016727.1.

RESULTS

Our larger NSCLC cohorts validated that the lncRNA AC016727.1 was upregulated in 94 paired NSCLC tissues and correlated with poor survival. Functionally, lncRNA AC016727.1 downregulation inhibited NSCLC cell proliferation, aerobic glycolysis, EMT, and migration, inducing apoptosis. Conversely, upregulated lncRNA AC016727.1 expression exhibited the opposite effect, promoting NSCLC cell survival. Importantly, lncRNA AC016727.1 knockdown inhibited lung cancer growth and slowed the progression of lung metastasis in nude mouse models. Mechanistically, lncRNA AC016727.1 upregulated BACH1 target gene expression by acting as a sponge for miR-98-5p, thereby functioning as a competing endogenous RNA. The function of lncRNA AC016727.1 is mediated by the miR-98-5p/BACH1 axis in NSCLC cells. Meanwhile, the transcription factor HIF-1α can bind to the promoter and activate lncRNA AC016727.1 transcription. lncRNA AC016727.1 regulates HIF-1α expression via BACH1 in NSCLC and forms the lncRNA AC016727.1/BACH1/HIF-1α signaling loop under hypoxic conditions.

CONCLUSION

Our study reveals a novel lncRNA AC016727.1/BACH1/HIF-1α signaling loop in the progression of NSCLC under hypoxic conditions, suggesting that lncRNA AC016727.1 could act as a useful biomarker for NSCLC and a new therapeutic target.

Perception of subjective lived experiences of individuals with anorexia-cachexia in patients with advanced lung cancer

Objective

Cancer cachexia (CC) is a frequent and debilitating syndrome in patients with cancer. It has serious implications for patients, extending beyond physical problems into psychological, and social domains. The objective of our study was to qualitatively understand the experiences related to CC in patients with advanced lung cancer.

Methods

Patients with advanced lung cancer with anorexia (≤ 37 points on Functional Assessment of Anorexia/Cachexia Treatment-ACS) and weight loss were eligible. Patients participated in semi-structured interviews prior to study treatment (n = 19). Qualitative analysis was conducted using interpretative phenomenological approach.

Results

Two super-ordinate themes emerged (anorexia and weight loss). Patients reported experiencing distress related to anorexia, weight loss, lack of social eating, worsening function, body image, and eating habits. The encouragement to eat by the family was often distressing to the patient. The treatment recommendations by their oncologist for anorexia and weight loss was felt inadequate. Patients felt that the treatment for CC should improve appetite and weight gain as well as their mood and be independent.

Conclusions

The findings of the study suggests that anorexia and weight loss results in high levels of distress due to their effects on physical and psychosocial domains. Further studies are needed to better understand the experience of anorexia and weight loss to develop strategies to effectively treat CC.

Trial registration

NCT03637816.

System analysis based on glutamine catabolic-related enzymes identifies GPT2 as a novel immunotherapy target for lung adenocarcinoma

BACKGROUND

In recent years, targeting glutamine metabolism has gained attention as a promising therapeutic approach. Glutamine catabolic-related enzymes play a crucial role in modulating glutamine metabolism and influencing immune responses in the tumor immune microenvironment (TME). However, current literature on the function of glutamine catabolic enzymes in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is limited.

METHODS

We validated the glutamine dependency of LUAD cells in vitro, followed by transcriptome data to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs), with transcriptome and single-cell data analysis utilized to explore the role of such genes within the tumor immune microenvironment. We performed employed subcutaneous injection of lewis lung carcinoma cells in C57BL/6 mice to confirm the role of candidate genes in tumor growth and anti-tumor immunity.

RESULTS

Our study revealed that glutamine is essential for the growth of LUAD cells. Subsequently, we identified four DEGs - glutamate pyruvate transaminase 1 (GPT1), glutamate pyruvate transaminase 2 (GPT2), glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase 1 (GOT1), and glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase 2 (GOT2) - in LUAD patients, which were highly expressed in tumor tissue and associated with an immunosuppressive TME. Single-cell sequencing analysis detected high expression levels of GOT1 and GOT2 in immune and stromal cell subpopulations, while GPT1 and GPT2 showed relatively lower expression. Based on the lower immune score and lower expression in immune and stromal cells, we validated the role of GPT2 in vivo for modulating the TME and tumor growth. Inhibition of GPT2 resulted in suppressed tumor growth and increased the expression of CD4 and CD8. Additionally, GPT2 inhibitors induced a stronger antitumor immunity when used in combination with anti-programmed cell death ligand 1.

CONCLUSION

This study is the first to show the critical role of glutamine catabolic-related enzymes in the TME, and identified GPT2 as a promising therapeutic target for inhibiting tumor growth and improving anti-tumour immune responses for LUAD. Additional studies will be required to define the roles glutamine catabolic-related enzymes play in LUAD.

Antioxidative and ROS-dependent apoptotic effects of Cuscuta reflexa Roxb. stem against human lung cancer: network pharmacology and in vitro experimental validation

Lung cancer remains a formidable global health challenge, necessitating the exploration of novel therapeutic approaches. This study investigates the potential of Cuscuta reflexa Roxb. stem extract as an anticancer agent against human lung cancer, focusing on its antioxidative and ROS-dependent apoptotic effects. Utilizing a combination of network pharmacology and in-vitro experimental validation, we delineate the multifaceted molecular mechanisms underlying the observed effects. The antioxidant potential of C. reflexa stem extract was evaluated by the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH•), 2,2-azinobis (3-ethyl-benzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS•+) and ferric reducing/antioxidant power (FRAP), hydroxyl free radical scavenging, reactive nitrogen oxide scavenging and super oxide anion radical scavenging assays. Furthermore, the antiproliferative and proapoptotic effect of C. reflexa stem extract was evaluated against A549 lung adenocarcinoma cell line using the consecrated sulforhodamine B (SBR) and Annexin V-PI assays. Additionally, the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and the total reactive oxygen species (ROS) estimation assays were performed. As a result, network pharmacology analysis revealed a complex interaction network between the bioactive constituents of C. reflexa and key proteins implicated in lung cancer progression. The C. reflexa stem extract showed dose-dependent antioxidant activity against DPPH• (IC50 - 87.38 µg/mL), reactive nitrogen oxide (IC50 - 318.34 µg/mL), FRAP (IC50 - 359.96 µg/mL), hydroxy free radicals (IC50 - 526.12 µg/mL) than ABTS●+ (IC50 - 698.45 µg/mL) and super oxide anion (IC50 - 892.71 µg/mL) as well as cytotoxic activity against A549 cells (IC50 - 436.80 µg/mL). Observations of morphological features in treated cells have revealed hallmark of apoptosis properties. Furthermore, as a result of treatment with C. reflexa stem extract, ROS generation and mitochondrial depolarization were increased in A549 cells, suggesting that this treatment has significant apoptotic properties. . These findings highlight the potential utility of this natural extract as an innovative therapeutic strategy for lung cancer treatment. The integration of network pharmacology and experimental validation enhances our understanding of the underlying mechanisms and provide the way for further translational research.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Apoptotic Potential and Antitumor Efficacy of Trilliumoside A: A New Steroidal Saponin Isolated from Rhizomes of Trillium govanianum

Natural product-derived molecules exhibit potential as anticancer agents. Trilliumoside A, a new steroidal saponin, was obtained from rhizomes of Trillium govanianum, and its anticancer activity was investigated in the presented study. Trilliumoside A was investigated in a panel of cell lines, and it exhibited promising cytotoxic activity on the A549 cells (human lung cancer cells) with an IC50 of 1.83 μM. The mechanism of cell death induced by Trilliumoside A in A549 cells and its anticancer potential in murine tumor models (EAC and EAT) were presented in the current research. Trilliumoside A was found to induce apoptosis in A549 cells by increasing the expression of various apoptotic proteins, such as Bax, Puma, cytochrome C, cleaved PARP, and cleaved caspase 3. Additionally, Trilliumoside A regulates the expression of p53, CDK2, and Cyclin A by decreasing the mitochondrial membrane potential, elevating reactive oxygen species, and stopping the growth of A549 cells in the synthesis phase (S) of the cell cycle. Trilliumoside A showed a considerable reduction in the tumor volume, the amount of ascitic fluid, and the total cell number without affecting the body weight of animals. Our results demonstrate that Trilliumoside A inhibits the proliferation of human lung cancer cells by inducing DNA damage, arresting the cell cycle, and activating the mitochondrial signaling pathway. The study demonstrated the potential of Trilliumoside A as a potential anticancer agent.

Development and In Vitro Evaluation of Crizotinib-Loaded Lipid-Polymer Hybrid Nanoparticles Using Box-Behnken Design in Non-small Cell Lung Cancer

The goal of the study was to produce, optimize, characterize, and compare crizotinib-loaded lipid-polymer hybrid nanoparticles (CL-LPHNPs), representing a novel contribution to the existing literature, and to determine their anticancer activity in non-small cell lung cancer cells (NSCLC). Box-Behnken design was used to investigate the effect of three independent variables: polymer amount (X1), soy phosphatidylcholine (X2), and DSPE-PEG (X3), on three responses: particle size (Y1), polydispersity index (Y2), and zeta potential (Y3). Different parameters were evaluated on the optimized LPHNP formulations such as encapsulation efficiency, drug release study, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) image analysis, and in vitro cell evaluations. The mean particle size of the optimized formulation is between 120 and 220 nm with a PDI< 0.2 and a zeta potential of -10 to -15 mV. The encapsulation efficiency values of crizotinib-loaded PLGA-LPHNPs (CL-PLGA-LPHNPs) and crizotinib-loaded PCL-LPHNPs (CL-PCL-LPHNPs) were 79.25±0.07% and 70.93±1.81%, respectively. Drug release study of CL-PLGA-LPHNPs and CL-PCL-LPHNPs showed a controlled and sustained release pattern as a result of core-shell type. Additionally, after 48 h, CL-PLGA-LPHNPs and CL-PCL-LPHNPs significantly reduced the viability of NCI-H2228 cells compared to free crizotinib. Moreover, CL-PLGA-LPHNPs and CL-PCL-LPHNPs exhibited a significant decrease in RAS, RAF, MEK, and ERK gene/protein expression levels after 48-h incubation. In conclusion, this pioneering study introduces lipid-polymer hybrid nanoparticles containing crizotinib as a novel treatment approach, uniting the advantages of a polymeric core and a lipid shell. The successful formulation optimization using Box-Behnken design yielded nanoparticles with adjustable size, remarkable stability, high drug loading, and a customizable drug release profile. Extensive investigations of key parameters, including particle size, PDI, ZP, TEM analysis, drug release, EE%, and in vitro evaluations, validate the potential of these nanoparticles. Moreover, the examination of two different polymers, PLGA and PCL, highlights their distinct impacts on nanoparticle performance. This research opens up new prospects for advanced therapeutic interventions with lipid-polymer hybrid nanoparticles.

Expanding the role of combined immunochemotherapy and immunoradiotherapy in the management of head and neck cancer (Review)

Immunotherapy has become one of the most promising approaches in tumor therapy, and there are numerous associated clinical trials in China. As an immunosuppressive tumor, head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) carries a high mutation burden, making immune checkpoint inhibitors promising candidates in this field due to their unique mechanism of action. The present review outlines a comprehensive multidisciplinary cancer treatment approach and elaborates on how combining immunochemotherapy and immunoradiotherapy guidelines could enhance clinical efficacy in patients with HNSCC. Furthermore, the present review explores the immunology of HNSCC, current immunotherapeutic strategies to enhance antitumor activity, ongoing clinical trials and the future direction of the current immune landscape in HNSCC. Advanced-stage HNSCC presents with a poor prognosis, low survival rates and minimal improvement in patient survival trends over time. Understanding the potential of immunotherapy and ways to combine it with surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy confers good prospects for the management of human papillomavirus (HPV)-positive HNSCC, as well as other HPV-positive malignancies. Understanding the immune system and its effect on HNSCC progression and metastasis will help to uncover novel biomarkers for the selection of patients and to enhance the efficacy of treatments. Further research on why current immune checkpoint inhibitors and targeted drugs are only effective for some patients in the clinic is needed; therefore, further research is required to improve the overall survival of affected patients.

Crizotinib induces pulmonary toxicity by blocking autophagy flux in alveolar epithelial cells

Crizotinib is the first-line drug for advanced non-small cell lung cancer with the abnormal expression of anaplastic lymphoma kinase gene. Severe, life-threatening, or fatal interstitial lung disease/pneumonia has been reported in patients treated with crizotinib. The clinical benefit of crizotinib is limited by its pulmonary toxicity, but the underlying mechanisms have not been adequately studied, and protective strategies are relatively scarce. Here, we established an in vivo mouse model in which crizotinib was continuously administered to C57BL/6 at 100 mg/kg/day for 6 weeks and verified that crizotinib induced interstitial lung disease in vivo, which was consistent with the clinical observations. We further treated BEAS-2B and TC-1 cells, the alveolar epithelial cell lines, with crizotinib and found the increased apoptosis rate. We proved that crizotinib-blocked autophagic flux caused apoptosis of the alveolar epithelial cells and then promoted the recruitment of immune cells, suggesting that limited autophagy activity was the key reason for pulmonary injury and inflammation caused by crizotinib. Subsequently, we found that metformin could reduce the macrophage recruitment and pulmonary fibrosis by recovering the autophagy flux, thereby ameliorating impaired lung function caused by crizotinib. In conclusion, our study revealed the mechanism of crizotinib-induced apoptosis of alveolar epithelial cells and activation of inflammation during the onset of pulmonary toxicity and provided a promising therapeutic strategy for the treatment of crizotinib-induced pulmonary toxicity.

A fatty acid-rich fraction of an endolichenic fungus Phoma sp. suppresses immune checkpoint markers via AhR/ARNT and ESR1

Lung cancer has the highest mortality rates worldwide. The disease is caused by environmental pollutants, smoking, and many other factors. Recent treatments include immunotherapeutics, which have shown some success; however, the search for new therapeutics is ongoing. Endolichenic fungi produce a whale of a lot of secondary metabolites, the therapeutic effects of which are being evaluated. Here, we used a crude extract and subfractions of the endolichenic fungus, Phoma sp. (EL006848), isolated from the Pseudevernia furfuracea. It was identified the fatty acid components, palmitic acid, stearic acid, and oleic acid, exist in subfractions E1 and E2. In addition, EL006848 and its fatty acids fractions suppressed benzo[a]pyrene (an AhR ligand)- induced expression of PD-L1 to inhibit the activity of multiple immune checkpoints. E2 subfraction, which had a higher fatty acid content than E1, downregulated expression of AhR/ARNT and several human transcription factors related to ESR1. Moreover, E2 showed a strong inhibitory effect on STAT3 expression and mild effect on NF-kB activity. These results suggest that fatty acids extracted from an endolichenic fungus can exert strong immunotherapeutic effects.

METTL3 promotes the malignancy of non-small cell lung cancer by N6-methyladenosine modifying SFRP2

This study aimed to investigate the roles of METTL3, a regulator of m6A, in NSCLC. RT-qPCR was applied to determine mRNA of m6A-associated genes and SFRP2, and western blot were used for ZEB1 and MMP9 protein expression. Total m6A level was measured using methylated RNA immunoprecipitation (MeRIP) assay, and RIP was used to access m6A level of SFRP2. Cellular behaviors were detected using CCK-8 and tranwell assays. Xenograft assays were conducted to further verify the roles of METTL3 and SFRP2 in NSCLC. The expression level of METTL3 was higher in NSCLC than normal controls. However, downregulation of METTL3 restrained the proliferation, migration and invasion of NSCLC cells. Enhanced expression of METTL3 caused the inverse consequences. Moreover, SFRP2 was found to be negatively regulated by METTL3. Intriguingly, the anti-tumor functions of METTL3 knockdown in the phenotype of NSCLC cells and xenograft mice were overturned by inhibition of SFRP2. Silencing METTL3 resulted in the enhanced stability of SFRP2. Finally, downregulation of SFRP2 induced by METTL3 activated the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in NSCLC. METTL3 acted as an oncogene in the pathogenesis of NSCLC via suppressing SFRP2 to activate Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, indicating that METTL3 might be a promising predictor in NSCLC.

Dopamine agonists and risk of lung cancer in patients with restless legs syndrome

PURPOSE

To examine the association between long-term use of dopamine agonists (DAs) and the risk of lung cancer in patients with restless legs syndrome (RLS).

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study using Optum Clinformatics® database. We included adults ≥40 years diagnosed with RLS during the study period (1/2006-12/2016). Follow-up started with the first RLS diagnosis and ended on the earliest of: incident diagnosis of lung cancer, end of enrollment in the database or end of the study period. The exposure of interest was cumulative duration of DAs use, measured in a time-varying manner. We constructed a multivariable Cox regression model to estimate HRs and 95% CIs for the association between lung cancer and cumulative durations of DA use, adjusting for potential confounding variables.

RESULTS

We identified 295 042 patients with a diagnosis of RLS. The mean age of the cohort was 62.9; 66.6% were women and 82.3% were white. The prevalence of any DA exposure was 40.3%. Compared to the reference group (no use and ≤1 year), the crude HRs for lung cancer were 1.16 (95% CI 0.99-1.36) and 1.14 (95% CI 0.86-1.51) for 1-3 years and >3 years of cumulative DA use, respectively. The adjusted HR for lung cancer was 1.05 (95% CI 0.88-1.25) for 1-3 years and 1.02 (95% CI 0.76-1.37) for >3 years of cumulative DA use, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

At typical doses for the clinical management of RLS, long-term DA use was not associated with risk of lung cancer.

The XRCC1 and TP53 gene polymorphisms are associated with advanced-stage disease and early distant metastasis at diagnosis in non-small cell lung cancer

Background

Studies on single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) suggest that DNA repair capacity may have prognostic implications for disease recurrence and survival. However, there is no study investigating the relationship between SNPs and the risk of metastasis at the time of initial diagnosis in patients with NSCLC.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the potential predictive value of SNPs in detecting the risk of metastasis at the time of initial diagnosis and poor prognosis in patients with NSCLC.

Material and Methods

In this prospective cohort study, we evaluated 275 patients with NSCLC. Analysis of SNPs from peripheral blood cells was performed by a polymerase chain reaction. Excision repair cross-complementing group 1 (ERCC1)- Asn118Asn, excision repair cross-complementing group 2 (ERCC2)-Lys751Gln, X-ray repair cross-complementing group 1 (XRCC1)-Arg399Gln, and tumor protein 53 (TP53)-Arg72Pro polymorphisms were evaluated in conjunction with the development of metastasis.

Results

The ERCC1 normal genotype, ERCC2 heterozygote genotype, XRCC1 normal genotype, and TP53 normal genotype were associated with a higher stage and more advanced-stage disease at the time of initial diagnosis (P = 0.027, 0.005, <0.001, and 0.006, respectively). Also, XRCC1 normal genotype and TP53 normal genotype were associated with the risk of metastasis at the time of initial diagnosis (P = <0.001 and 0.002, respectively). Moreover, the XRCC1 normal genotype was associated with the risk of brain metastasis at the time of initial diagnosis (P = 0.031).

Conclusions

We showed that SNPs are related to a higher stage and more advanced-stage disease at the time of initial diagnosis in patients with NSCLC, and XRCC1 and TP53 gene polymorphisms are associated with the risk of metastasis. These results may contribute to the identification of high-risk groups and may help to earlier diagnosis and treatment in patients with NSCLC.

STAMBPL1 promotes the progression of lung adenocarcinoma by inhibiting DHRS2 expression

BACKGROUND

Lung cancer is responsible for the majority of cancer deaths in the world. We found a significant increase of STAMBPL1 expression in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) tissues and cells. However, its mechanism has not been clarified.

METHODS

LUAD tissues and adjacent normal tissues were collected from 62 patients treated in the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University from August 2018 to August 2021. In vivo, the clinical data and STAMBPL1 expression of 62 patients with LUAD were analyzed by qPCR. In vitro, cell experiments were carried out after STAMBPL1 knockdown in A549 and H1299 cells to determine cell growth, migration rate, evasiveness, colony-forming ability, and apoptosis. Gene sequencing was used to explore the expression of various genes in A549 and H1299 cells to verify that DHRS2 was up-regulated after STAMBPL1 knockdown; cell experiments further detected the role of the DHRS2 gene after DHRS2 overexpression in A549 and H1299 cells. A rescue experiment was conducted to certify that STAMBPL1 promotes NSCLC progression by regulating DHRS2 expression.

RESULTS

After STAMBPL1 knockdown by siRNA. Migration, invasion, colony formation, and proliferation of siRNA groups were suppressed than those of NC groups in A549 and H1299 cells, while the cell apoptosis rate of siRNA groups increased significantly. By using gene-sequence analysis, we found that the expression level of the DHRS2 gene was up-regulated in STAMBPL1 siRNA groups, compared with STAMBPL1 NC (negative control) groups in A549 and H1299, which was verified by qPCR and WB. Further experiments showed that the DHRS2 OE group was suppressed in cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in the A549 and H1299 cell lines compared to the DHRS2 NC group, while DHRS2 OE group was significantly enhanced in the cell apoptosis in the A549 and H1299 cell lines. According to the rescue experiment, cell proliferation, migration, and invasion of the STAMBPL1 SI+DHRS2 SI group were enhanced compared with the STAMBPL1 SI+DHRS2 NC group in A549 and H1299 cells, while the STAMBPL1 SI+DHRS2 OE group were further decreased.

CONCLUSIONS

The expression of STAMBPL1 mRNA is significantly up-regulated in LUAD, promoting the progression of LUAD by down-regulating the expression of DHRS2 and acting as a potential biomarker of LUAD.

The Effect of Prognostic Nutritional Index in Postoperative Infection Following Lobectomy in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Patients

Background The prognostic nutritional index (PNI) is a valuable marker for evaluating the nutritional status associated with postoperative complications and the prognosis of patients with cancer. However, the role and clinical value of PNI in infection after lung cancer surgery remains unclear. This study examined the association between PNI and infection after lobectomy for lung cancer, focusing on the predictive value of PNI. Methods We conducted this retrospective cohort study on 139 patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) who underwent surgery between September 2013 and December 2018. Two groups were composed according to their PNI values (≥ 50 or <50 ), and the relationship was assessed with infection after lobectomy. Results Only PNI values, atelectasis, and prolonged air leaks were significantly associated with the development of infection. The median preoperative PNI was 52.97±5.69. Postoperative infection was seen in patients (15.5%) with PNI≥ 50 and 38.1% in patients with PNI <50. The mean PNI in patients with postoperative infection, empyema, and prolonged air leakage was lower than in patients without these conditions. Conclusions Malnutrition is commonly seen in patients with malignancy. The overall malnutrition rate is 45% in lung cancer patients. Patients with metastatic diseases are malnourished in a 73% ratio compared to 5% for localized diseases. Furthermore, malnutrition increases the tendency of postoperative infection and reduces wound healing. We aim to determine whether PNI can be a predictive index marker for postoperative infection in patients with NSCLC who underwent lobectomy. Postoperative infection was seen in 15.5% of patients with PNI>50 and 38.1% in patients with PNI <50.

Heavy Ion-Responsive lncRNA EBLN3P Functions in the Radiosensitization of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Cells Mediated by TNPO1

In recent decades, the rapid development of radiotherapy has dramatically increased the cure rate of malignant tumors. Heavy-ion radiotherapy, which is characterized by the "Bragg Peak" because of its excellent physical properties, induces extensive unrepairable DNA damage in tumor tissues, while normal tissues in the path of ion beams suffer less damage. However, there are few prognostic molecular biomarkers that can be used to assess the efficacy of heavy ion radiotherapy. In this study, we focus on non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) radiotherapy and use RNA sequencing and bioinformatic analysis to investigate the gene expression profiles of A549 cells exposed to X-ray or carbon ion irradiation to screen the key genes involved in the stronger tumor-killing effect induced by carbon ions. The potential ceRNA network was predicted and verified by polymerase chain amplification, western blotting analysis, colony formation assay, and apoptosis assay. The results of the experiments indicated that lncRNA EBLN3P plays a critical role in inhibiting carbon ion-induced cell proliferation and inducing apoptosis of NSCLC cells. These functions were achieved by the EBLN3P/miR-144-3p/TNPO1 (transportin-1) ceRNA network. In summary, the lncRNA EBLN3P functions as a ceRNA to mediate lung cancer inhibition induced by carbon ion irradiation by sponging miR-144-3p to regulate TNPO1 expression, indicating that EBLN3P may be a promising target for increasing the treatment efficacy of conventional radiotherapy for NSCLC.

Functional characterization and development of novel human kinase insert domain receptor chimeric antigen receptor T-cells for immunotherapy of non-small cell lung cancer

CAR-T cell therapy, in which T cells are transfected or transduced with a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR), is a transformative type of cancer immunotherapy. Despite outstanding success in hematological malignancies, their efficacy against solid tumors has been limited. Here, we aimed to explore whether T cells modified by a CAR targeting the vascular endothelial growth factor 2 receptor/ kinase insert domain receptor (KDR) could destroy tumors and their vasculature. A second-generation KDR-CAR was constructed and transfected into T cells using lentivirus. The 3D structure of the CAR construct and target antigen was predicted. Moreover, in silico analysis, including molecular docking and molecular dynamics (MD) simulation, were used to evaluate the minimum energy of interaction and stability of the complex. The anti-cancer effect of KDR-specific CAR-T cells was tested with KDR-expressing and KDR overexpressing A549 cell line. The in-silico study suggested that this CAR construct could be effective for lung cancer therapy. We evaluated this using both in vitro and in vivo experiments. The KDR-CAR-T cells targeted and killed KDR-A549 with high efficiency by expressing IFN-γ and releasing granzyme B. The in vivo study showed that KDR-CAR-T cells dramatically inhibited the growth of lung cancer KDR-A549 xenografts in BALB/c-nu mice at day 10. The characterization of T cells modified by KDR-CAR by computational biology and wet-lab experiments suggested its applicability as a new treatment strategy for lung cancer and, potentially, for other vascularized solid tumors.

Cumulative antitumor effect of bismuth lipophilic nanoparticles and cetylpyridinium chloride in inhibiting the growth of lung cancer

OBJECTIVE

To determine the combined antitumor effect of bismuth lipophilic nanoparticles (BisBAL NP) and cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) on human lung tumor cells.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The human lung tumor cells A549 were exposed to 1-100 µM BisBAL NP or CPC, either separately or in a 1:1 combination. Cell viability was measured with the PrestoBlue assay, the LIVE/DEAD assay, and fluorescence microscopy. The integrity and morphology of cellular microtubules were analyzed by immunofluorescence.

RESULTS

A 24-h exposure to 1 µM solutions reduced A549 growth with 21.5% for BisBAL NP, 70.5% for CPC, and 92.4% for the combination (p < 0.0001), while a 50 µM BisBAL NP/CPC mixture inhibited cell growth with 99% (p < 0.0001). BisBAL NP-curcumin conjugates were internalized within 30 min of exposure and could be traced within the nucleus of tumor cells within 2 h. BisBAL NP, but not CPC, interfered with microtubule organization, thus interrupting cell replication, similar to the action mechanism of docetaxel.

CONCLUSION

The growth inhibition of A549 human tumor cells by BisBAL NP and CPC was cumulative as of 1 µM. The BisBAL NP/CPC combination may constitute an innovative and cost-effective alternative for treating human lung cancer.

Identification and validation of a novel phagocytosis regulators-related signature with potential prognostic and immunotherapeutic value in patients with lung adenocarcinoma

BACKGROUND

Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is a malignant tumor that seriously affects the prognosis of patients. Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) play a vital role in the tumor microenvironment and can be used as a potential target for tumor therapy, and phagocytosis regulators (PRs) are particularly important in this process. However, the PRs-related signature that can predict the potential prognostic and immunotherapeutic value in patients with LUAD has not been discovered.

METHODS

In this study, we mainly analyzed the effect of phagocytosis regulators on the prognosis of LUAD, and based on multiple screening analyses including differential analysis, univariate Cox analysis, and Lasso analysis, we constructed a prognostic risk model consisting of five genes. To verify the stability of the model, survival analysis and ROC curve verification were carried out through multiple data sets. In addition, we also combined many factors, such as immune infiltrating cells, clinical grouping characteristics, immune examination sites, pro-inflammatory factors, and other factors as well as in vitro cell experiments and clinical tissue samples for further validation analysis.

RESULTS

After identifying 29 differentially expressed PRs in LUAD samples, we further constructed a prognostic model consisting of five prognostic signatures (FURIN, KIF23, SASH3, GNPNAT1, and ITGAL). Further survival analysis tests, ROC verification, as well as univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that the risk score of the model could well predict the prognosis of LUAD patients and could be used as an independent prognostic factor. In addition, we further found that these phagocytic regulators-related signatures were closely related to the immune microenvironment and immunotherapy in LUAD patients, and could well predict the efficacy of immunotherapy in patients. In vitro cell experiments and Immunohistochemistry of clinical tissues showed that the expressions of FURIN, KIF23, SASH3, GNPNAT1 and ITGAL in normal lung cells/tissues and LUAD cells/tissues were consistent with bioinformatics results, and 3 of them had significant differences.

CONCLUSION

Our study identified a novel PRs-related signature that has potential application value in predicting the prognosis of LUAD patients and predicting the efficacy of immunotherapy. This provides a new basis for the prognosis assessment of LUAD patients and provides a novel target for immunotherapy of LUAD patients.

A spotlight on alkaloid nanoformulations for the treatment of lung cancer

Numerous naturally available phytochemicals have potential anti-cancer activities due to their vast structural diversity. Alkaloids have been extensively used in cancer treatment, especially lung cancers, among the plant-based compounds. However, their utilization is limited by their poor solubility, low bioavailability, and inadequacies such as lack of specificity to cancer cells and indiscriminate distribution in the tissues. Incorporating the alkaloids into nanoformulations can overcome the said limitations paving the way for effective delivery of the alkaloids to the site of action in sufficient concentrations, which is crucial in tumor targeting. Our review attempts to assess whether alkaloid nanoformulation can be an effective tool in lung cancer therapy. The mechanism of action of each alkaloid having potential is explored in great detail in the review. In general, Alkaloids suppress oncogenesis by modulating several signaling pathways involved in multiplication, cell cycle, and metastasis, making them significant component of many clinical anti-cancerous agents. The review also explores the future prospects of alkaloid nanoformulation in lung cancer. So, in conclusion, alkaloid based nanoformulation will emerge as a potential gamechanger in treating lung cancer in the near future.

Computational Analysis of the Behavior of BODIPY Decorated Monofunctional Platinum(II) Complexes in the Dark and under Light Irradiation

Dual-action drugs are occupying an important place in the scientific landscape of cancer research owing to the possibility to combine different therapeutic strategies into a single molecule. In the present work, the behavior of two BODIPY-appended monofunctional Pt(II) complexes, one mononuclear and one binuclear, recently synthesized and tested for their cytotoxicity have been explored both in the dark and under light irradiation. Quantum mechanical DFT calculations have been used to carry out the exploration of the key steps, aquation and guanine attack, of the mechanism of action of Pt(II) complexes in the dark. Due to the presence of the BODIPY chromophore and the potential capability of the two investigated complexes to work as photosensitizers in PDT, time dependent DFT has been employed to calculate their photophysical properties and to inspect how the sensitizing properties of BODIPY are affected by the presence of the platinum "heavy atom". Furthermore, also the eventual influence on of the photophysical properties due to the displacement of chlorido ligands by water and of water by guanine has been taken into consideration.

miR-29b Regulates Lung Cancer Progression by Downregulating FEM1B and Inhibiting the FOX01/AKT Pathway

Purpose

Lung cancer is a relatively common type of cancer, and the incidence rate has been on the rise in recent years. MicroRNAs are a class of endogenous small RNA molecules, which are essential for the posttranscriptional regulation of genes. miR-29b is closely related to the occurrence and development of tumors, including prostate cancer, colon cancer, and breast cancer. However, few studies have been performed to explore the expression and pathway of miR-29b in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Methods

Using bioinformatics analysis, we found that patients with low relative expression of the miR-29b gene have a low long-term survival rate. The results of in vitro research showed that when miR-29b expression was upregulated, the invasion, migration, and proliferation of A549 and NCI-H-1792 cells was inhibited, and the apoptosis was accelerated.

Results

The results showed that FEM1B is a miR-29b target gene, and the expressions of FEM1B and miR-29b were negatively correlated. Like the upregulation of miR-29b expression, silencing the FEM1B expression could also impair the invasion, migration, and proliferation abilities of A549 and NCI-H-1792 cells. When FEM1B expression was restored, the inhibitory effect of miR-29b could be reversed. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and western blot (WB) analysis showed that overexpression of miR-29b could inhibit the expression of FEM1B, AKT, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and Sirt3 in A549 and NCI-H-1792 cells and upregulate the expression of FOXO1 protein.

Conclusion

The results of this study indicate that miR-29b inhibits the proliferation and deterioration of NSCLC cells by targeting FEM1B and inhibiting the activation of the FOXO1/AKT pathway. miR-29b may become a new target for the clinical diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer, and it is expected to become a new inhibitor of NSCLC.

Circ_001042 Inhibits TGF-β1/P38 MAPK Signaling Axis-Mediated Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition and Metastasis in Lung Adenocarcinoma

Objective

To explore the role and molecular mechanism of circ_001042 in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD).

Methods

The expression level of circ_001042 and linear RNA MRPS35 in cells and clinical tissues was detected by real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). The expression of circ_001042 and transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) in LUAD cells was elevated by the respective transfection of overexpression vectors OE-circ_001042 and TGF-β1; MTT and transwell assays were applied to test the proliferation, migration, and invasion abilities of cells, respectively. The E-cadherin expression level in the cells was assessed by immunofluorescence staining, and western blot was utilized to determine the expression level of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and TGF-β1/P38 MAPK signaling axis-related proteins in the cells.

Results

Circ_001042 was significantly downregulated in LUAD tissues and cells, and high circ_001042 expression could inhibit the proliferation, invasion, and migration of LUAD cells. In addition, circ_001042 also inhibited the EMT process (the E-cadherin level was upregulated; and the levels of N-cadherin, vimentin, and Snail were downregulated) and TGF-β1/P38 MAPK signaling axis activity in LUAD cells. Moreover, circ_001042 could suppress the promotion of TGF-β1 on the proliferation, invasion, migration, and EMT process of LUAD cells and the activation of TGF-β1/P38 MAPK signaling axis.

Conclusion

By inhibiting TGF-β1, circ_001042 not only suppresses the proliferation, migration, invasion, and EMT of LUAD but also inhibits the activation of TGF-β1/P38 MAPK signaling axis. Therefore, circ_001042 can act as a potential target for early diagnosis and targeted therapy of LUAD.

KLF4 suppresses the proliferation and metastasis of NSCLC cells via inhibition of MSI2 and regulation of the JAK/STAT3 signaling pathway

•

KLF4 is downregulated, while MSI2 is upregulated in NSCLC tissues.

•

Overexpression of KLF4 suppresses NSCLC cell migration and invasion.

•

Knockdown of MSI2 suppresses the migration and invasion of NSCLC cells.

•

KLF4 inhibits the transcription of MSI2 in NSCLC cells.

•

KLF4 suppressed the invasion and migration of NSCLC cells via inhibition of JAK2/STAT3 signalling pathway.

Background

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remains an aggresive tumor with poor survival rates. Krüppel-like factor 4 (KLF4) is known to be involved in progression of NSCLC; however, the detailed mechanism by which KLF4 regulates the progression of NSCLC remains unclear.

Methods

In order to investigate the function of KLF4 in NSCLC, cell proliferation was measured by MTT and colony formation assays. The migration and invasion of NSCLC cells were detected via wound healing and Transwell assays, respectively. Then, the interaction between KLF4 and MSI2 was confirmed using a dual-luciferase reporter assay, and the mechanism by which KLF4 regulates the tumorigenesis of NSCLC was assessed by RT-qPCR and Western blotting.

Results

The results showed that KLF4 was downregulated, while MSI2 was upregulated in NSCLC. Additionally, KLF4 could inhibit transcription of MSI2, and overexpression of KLF4 or knockdown of MSI2 could inhibit the proliferation, migration and invasion of NSCLC cells. Moreover, KLF4 could inhibit JAK2/STAT3 signalling pathway.

Conclusions

In conclusion, KLF4 significantly inhibited the proliferation, invasion and migration of NSCLC cells via inactivation of MSI2/JAK2/STAT3 signalling pathway. Thereby, our finding might shed new lights on exploring the new strategies against NSCLC.

Evaluating the utility of an immune checkpoint-related lncRNA signature for identifying the prognosis and immunotherapy response of lung adenocarcinoma

Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is the most frequent subtype of lung cancer globally. However, the survival rate of lung adenocarcinoma patients remains low. Immune checkpoints and long noncoding RNAs are emerging as vital tools for predicting the immunotherapeutic response and outcomes of patients with lung adenocarcinoma. It is critical to identify lncRNAs associated with immune checkpoints in lung adenocarcinoma patients. In this study, immune checkpoint-related lncRNAs (IClncRNAs) were analysed and identified by coexpression. Based on the immune checkpoint-related lncRNAs, we divided patients with lung adenocarcinoma into two clusters and constructed a risk model. Kaplan–Meier analysis, Gene Set Enrichment Analysis, and nomogram analysis of the 2 clusters and the risk model were performed. Finally, the potential immunotherapeutic prediction value of this model was discussed. The risk model consisting of 6 immune checkpoint-related lncRNAs was an independent predictor of survival. Through regrouping the patients with this model, we can distinguish between them more effectively in terms of their immunotherapeutic response, tumour microenvironment, and chemotherapy response. This risk model based on immune checkpoint-based lncRNAs may have an excellent clinical value for predicting the immunotherapeutic response and outcomes of patients with LUAD.

Targeting ferroptosis as a vulnerability in pulmonary diseases

Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent regulated cell death marked by excessive oxidative phospholipids (PLs). The polyunsaturated fatty acids-containing phospholipids (PUFA-PLs) are highly susceptible to lipid peroxidation under oxidative stress. Numerous pulmonary diseases occurrences and degenerative pathologies are driven by ferroptosis. This review discusses the role of ferroptosis in the pathogenesis of pulmonary diseases including asthma, lung injury, lung cancer, fibrotic lung diseases, and pulmonary infection. Additionally, it is proposed that targeting ferroptosis is a potential treatment for pulmonary diseases, particularly drug-resistant lung cancer or antibiotic-resistant pulmonary infection, and reduces treatment-related adverse events.

Ubenimex Combined with Pemetrexed Upregulates SOCS1 to Inhibit Lung Adenocarcinoma Progression via the JAK2-STAT3 Signaling Pathway

To study the effects of ubenimex (UBE) combined with pemetrexed (PEM) on lung adenocarcinoma cell behavior and its molecular mechanism, the tissue samples from lung adenocarcinoma patients who received PEM chemotherapy, those with PEM combined with UBE chemotherapy, and healthy volunteers were retrieved and analyzed. The expression levels of the suppressor of cytokine signaling 1 (SOCS1) in the human lung adenocarcinoma cancer cell lines A549 and PC-9 and tissues were detected by qRT-PCR. MTT assay was performed for cell proliferation. Cell apoptosis was detected by flow cytometry. Cell invasion ability was assessed using the Transwell assay. The expression levels of the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway proteins and apoptosis-related proteins were detected by Western blot. The antitumor effect of PEM combined with UBE was tested in nude mice using the tumor formation assay. Our results showed that UBE treatment, alone or combined with PEM, inhibited lung adenocarcinoma cell migration, invasion, and proliferation; promoted apoptosis; significantly increased the G0/G1-phase cell ratio; reduced the S-phase cell ratio; and inhibited the in vivo growth of tumor cells. UBE alone or in combination with PEM also inhibited the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway in lung adenocarcinoma cells. In addition, UBE combined with PEM therapy was associated with increased SOCS1 expression in patients' serum and knocking down SOCS1 reversed the antitumor effects of UBE and PEM. Overall, combination therapy with UBE and PEM could inhibit the JAK2-STAT3 signaling pathway by upregulating SOCS1 expression to hinder the progression of lung adenocarcinoma cells.

Targeting brain lesions of non-small cell lung cancer by enhancing CCL2-mediated CAR-T cell migration

Metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remains largely incurable and the prognosis is extremely poor once it spreads to the brain. In particular, in patients with brain metastases, the blood brain barrier (BBB) remains a significant obstacle for the biodistribution of antitumor drugs and immune cells. Here we report that chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells targeting B7-H3 (B7-H3.CAR) exhibit antitumor activity in vitro against tumor cell lines and lung cancer organoids, and in vivo in xenotransplant models of orthotopic and metastatic NSCLC. The co-expression of the CCL2 receptor CCR2b in B7-H3.CAR-T cells, significantly improves their capability of passing the BBB, providing enhanced antitumor activity against brain tumor lesions. These findings indicate that leveraging T-cell chemotaxis through CCR2b co-expression represents a strategy to improve the efficacy of adoptive T-cell therapies in patients with solid tumors presenting with brain metastases.

PLOD3 regulates the expression of YAP1 to affect the progression of non-small cell lung cancer via the PKCδ/CDK1/LIMD1 signaling pathway

Procollagen-lysine, 2-oxoglutarate 5-dioxygenase (PLOD3) is a crucial oncogene in human lung cancer, whereas protein kinase C δ (PKCδ) acts as a tumor suppressor. In this study, we aimed to explore the regulation by PLOD3 on the expression of YAP1 to affect the progression of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) via the PKCδ/CDK1/LIMD1 signaling pathway. We found that PLOD3, CDK1, and YAP1 were highly expressed, while LIMD1 was poorly expressed in NSCLC tissues. Mechanistic investigation demonstrated that silencing PLOD3 promoted the cleavage of PKCδ in a caspase-dependent manner to generate a catalytically active fragment cleaved PKCδ, enhanced phosphorylation levels of CDK1, and LIMD1 but suppressed nuclear translocation of YAP1. Furthermore, functional experimental results suggested that loss of PLOD3 led to increased phosphorylation levels of CDK1 and LIMD1 and downregulated YAP1, thereby suppressing the proliferation, colony formation, cell cycle entry, and resistance to apoptosis of NSCLC cells in vitro and inhibiting tumor growth in vivo. Taken together, these results show that PLOD3 silencing activates the PKCδ/CDK1/LIMD1 signaling pathway to prevent the progression of NSCLC, thus providing novel insight into molecular targets for treating NSCLC.

Efficacy of Sirna-Loaded Nanoparticles in the Treatment of k-ras Mutant Lung Cancer in vitro

AIM

To design and develop K-RAS silencing small interfering RNA (siRNA)-loaded poly (D, L-lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles and evaluate their efficacy in the treatment of K-RAS mutant lung cancer.

METHODS

The nanoparticles prepared by the double emulsion solvent evaporation method were characterized by TEM, FTIR and XPS analyzes and evaluated in vitro by XTT, PCR, ELISA, and Western-Blot. Metabolomic analyzes were performed to evaluate the changes in metabolic profiles of the cells after nanoparticles treatment.

RESULTS

The nanoparticles were obtained with a particle size less than 250 nm, a polydispersity index around 0.1, a surface charge of (-12) - (+14) mV, and 80% of the siRNA encapsulation. The nanoparticles didn't affect cell viability of the cells after 72 hours. In cancer cells, KRAS expression was decreased by up to 50%, protein levels were decreased by more than 90%.

CONCLUSION

The formulated siRNA delivery nanoparticles can be promising treatment in lung cancer.

Immune checkpoints related-LncRNAs can identify different subtypes of lung cancer and predict immunotherapy and prognosis

BACKGROUND

Non-small cell lung cancer is the most common subtype of lung cancer in the world. However, the survival rate of non-small cell lung cancer patients remains low currently. Immune checkpoint and long non-coding RNAs are emerging as critical roles in prognostic significance and the immunotherapeutic response of non-small cell lung cancer. It is critical to discern LncRNAs related with immune checkpoints in patients with Non-small cell lung cancer.

METHODS

In this study, immune checkpoint-linked LncRNAs were determined and achieved by the co-expression analysis. Immune checkpoint-linked LncRNAs with noteworthy prognostic value (P < 0.05) gained were next utilized to separate into two cluster by non-negative matrix factorization (NMF). Univariate and a least absolute shrinkage and selection operator were applied to construct an immune checkpoint-linked LncRNAs model. Kaplan-Meier analysis, Gene Set Enrichment Analysis, and the nomogram were utilized to investigate the LncRNAs model. Lastly, the capability immunotherapy and chemotherapy prediction value of this risk model were also estimated.

RESULTS

The model consisting of ten immune checkpoint-related LncRNAs was acknowledged to be a self-determining predictor of prognosis. Through regrouping the NSCLC patients by this model, difference between them more efficiently on immunotherapeutic response, tumor microenvironment and chemotherapy response could be discovered. This risk model related to the immune checkpoint-based LncRNAs may have an excellent clinical prediction for prognosis and the immunotherapeutic response in patients with NSCLC.

CONCLUSIONS

We performed an integrative analysis of LncRNAs linked with immune checkpoints and emphasized the significance of NSCLC subtypes classification, immune checkpoints related LncRNAs in estimating the tumor microenvironment score, immune cell infiltration of the tumor, immunotherapy, and chemotherapy response.

SDK1-ALK Fusion in a Lung Adenocarcinoma Patient With Excellent Response to ALK Inhibitor Treatment: A Case Report

Background

Rearrangements of Anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) have been discovered as a novel driver mutation in patients with non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Patients’ responses to ALK tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) may vary depending on the variations of ALK rearrangements they have. It is imperative for clinicians to identify druggable ALK fusions in routine practice.

Case Presentation

In this study, we discovered a rare ALK rearrangement type (SDK1–ALK) in a Chinese lung adenocarcinoma patient who responded well to ALK inhibitor SAF-189s. The positive expression of ALK in lung biopsy tissue was verified by IHC analysis. A new SDK1-ALK fusion was discovered using NGS. The patient was treated with SAF-189s (160 mg per day) as a first-line therapy and went into continuous remission, with a 12 months progression-free survival at the last follow-up.

Conclusion

This is the first case of SDK1-ALK fusion with an excellent response to an ALK inhibitor, which will provide better understanding of ALK-TKI applications for NSCLC patients with ALK fusion in the future.

lncRNA HITT inhibits metastasis by attenuating Rab5-mediated endocytosis in lung adenocarcinoma

Endocytosis of cell surface receptors is essential for cell migration and cancer metastasis. Rab5, a small GTPase of the Rab family, is a key regulator of endosome dynamics and thus cell migration. However, how its activity is regulated still remains to be addressed. Here, we identified a Rab5 inhibitor, a long non-coding RNA, namely HITT (HIF-1α inhibitor at translation level). Our data show that HITT expression is inversely associated with advanced stages and poor prognosis of lung adenocarcinoma patients with area under receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve (AUC) 0.6473. Further study reveals that both endogenous and exogenous HITT inhibits single-cell migration by repressing β1 integrin endocytosis in lung adenocarcinoma. Mechanistically, HITT is physically associated with Rab5 at switch I via 1248-1347 nt and suppresses β1 integrin endocytosis and subsequent cancer metastasis by interfering with guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs) for Rab5 binding. Collectively, these findings suggest that HITT directly participates in the regulation of Rab5 activity, leading to a decreased integrin internalization and cancer metastasis, which provides important insights into a mechanistic understanding of endocytosis and cancer metastasis.

Nanomicelle-Microsphere Composite as a Drug Carrier to Improve Lung-Targeting Specificity for Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is the second-most common cancer and has the highest mortality among all cancer types. Nanoparticle (NP) drug delivery systems have been used to improve the therapeutic effectiveness of lung cancer, but rapid clearance and poor targeting limit their clinical utility. Here, we developed a nanomicelle-microsphere composite, in which doxorubicin (DOX) was loaded with spermine (Spm) modified poly (ethylene glycol)-poly(ε-caprolactone) (PEG-PCL) micelles, and then the nanomicelles were noncovalently adsorbed on the surface of poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microspheres. The attachment was confirmed by scanning electron microscopy and confocal microscopy. In vitro cell experiments, MTT assays and intracellular uptake assays were used to demonstrate the cytotoxicity and the cellular uptake of micelles in A549 cells. In vivo biodistribution studies were conducted, an orthotopic lung cancer implantation model based on C57BL/6 mice was established, and then real-time fluorescence imaging analysis was used to study the targeted efficacy of the complex. A nanomicelle-microsphere composite was successively constructed. Moreover, Spm-modified micelles significantly enhanced cytotoxicity and displayed more efficient cellular uptake. Notably, an orthotopic lung cancer implantation model based on C57BL/6 mice was also successively established, and in vivo biodistribution studies confirmed that the complex greatly improved the distribution of DOX in the lungs and displayed notable tumor targeting. These results suggested that the nanomicelle-microsphere composite has potential application prospects in the targeted treatment of lung cancer.

Cetuximab Combined With Sonodynamic Therapy Achieves Dual-Modal Image Monitoring for the Treatment of EGFR-Sensitive Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer

Background

Blocking signaling by epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), can effectively inhibit the proliferation and differentiation of non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Additionally, an increasing number of NSCLC patients have treatment limitations caused by EGFR overexpression or mutations. Therefore, we constructed a nanotherapy platform consisting of cetuximab (CTX) to target EGFR-sensitive NSCLC with an iron tetroxide core loading the sound-sensitive agent IR780 for dual-mode imaging diagnosis by combining targeting and sonodynamic therapy (SDT) to reshape the tumor microenvironment (TME), enhance the SDT antitumor effects and improve the therapeutic effects of EGFR sensitivity.

Methods

IR780@INPs were prepared by reverse rotary evaporation, CTX was adsorbed/coupled to obtain IR780@INPs-CTX, and the morphology and structure were characterized. Intracellular ROS levels and cell apoptosis first verified its killing effects against tumor cells. Then, a nude mouse lung cancer subcutaneous xenograft model was established with HCC827 cells. A real-time fluorescence IVIS imaging system determined the targeting and live distribution of IR780@INPs-CTX in the transplanted tumors and the imaging effects of the T2 sequence of the INPs by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) 0 h, 2 h, 4 h and 6 h after administration to confirm drug efficacy.

Results

In vitro, US+IR780@INPs-CTX produced a large amount of ROS after SDT to induce cell apoptosis, and significant cell death after live/dead staining was observed. In vivo fluorescence imaging showed the IR780@INPs-CTX was mainly concentrated in the tumor with a small amount in the liver. MRI displayed rapid enrichment of the IR780@INPs into tumor tissue 0h after injection and the T2 signal intensity gradually decreases with time without obvious drug enrichment in the surrounding tissues. In vivo, at the end of treatment, the US+IR780@INPs-CTX group showed disappearance or a continued decrease in tumor volume, indicating strong SDT killing effects.

Conclusion

The combination of CTX and SDT is expected to become a novel treatment for EGFR-sensitive NSCLC.

Dihydroartemisinin and Artesunate Inhibit Aerobic Glycolysis via Suppressing c-Myc Signaling in non-small Cell Lung Cancer

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells exhibit aberrant metabolism characterized by high glycolysis even in the presence of abundant oxygen. Inhibition of aerobic glycolysis remains challenging when identifying potential cancer-specific inhibitors while maintaining or even boosting the anti-cancer immunity. Artemisinin derivatives DHA and AS have shown excellent anti-tumor and immunoenhancing roles in numerous malignancies, but the molecular mechanism of DHA and AS in regulating cancer glucose metabolism is largely unknown. In this study, we proved that DHA and AS inhibit NSCLC growth via prohibiting cancer cell aerobic glycolysis through ERK/c-Myc pathway. First, we proved that DHA and AS have comparable anti-cancer growth roles in both NSCLC cell lines and mouse Lewis Lung Cancer model. Then, our data clearly showed that DHA and AS dose- and time-dependently reduce the uptake of glucose, the production of ATP, and the secretion of lactate, the expression of glucose transporter GLUT1 and two key glycolysis-related enzymes hexokinase and lactate dehydrogenase, as well as the level of c-Myc. Finally, we generated c-Myc^high stable-expressing NSCLC cell line and treated it with DHA or AS, respectively. Our data clearly showed that c-Myc overexpression can partially reverse the glycolysis-repressing role of DHA and AS which strongly supported our proposal that AS and DHA suppress aerobic glycolysis in a c-Myc-dependent manner in NSCLC cells. This study extends our knowledge of artemisinin derivatives in regulating tumor glucose metabolism and provides potential strategy in the therapy of lung cancer.

T7 Phage as an Emerging Nanobiomaterial with Genetically Tunable Target Specificity

Bacteriophages, also known as phages, are specific antagonists against bacteria. T7 phage has drawn massive attention in precision medicine owing to its distinctive advantages, such as short replication cycle, ease in displaying peptides and proteins, high stability and cloning efficiency, facile manipulation, and convenient storage. By introducing foreign gene into phage DNA, T7 phage can present foreign peptides or proteins site-specifically on its capsid, enabling it to become a nanoparticle that can be genetically engineered to screen and display a peptide or protein capable of recognizing a specific target with high affinity. This review critically introduces the biomedical use of T7 phage, ranging from the detection of serological biomarkers and bacterial pathogens, recognition of cells or tissues with high affinity, design of gene vectors or vaccines, to targeted therapy of different challenging diseases (e.g., bacterial infection, cancer, neurodegenerative disease, inflammatory disease, and foot-mouth disease). It also discusses perspectives and challenges in exploring T7 phage, including the understanding of its interactions with human body, assembly into scaffolds for tissue regeneration, integration with genome editing, and theranostic use in clinics. As a genetically modifiable biological nanoparticle, T7 phage holds promise as biomedical imaging probes, therapeutic agents, drug and gene carriers, and detection tools.