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Ceci C, Ruffini F, Falconi M, Grazia Atzori M, Falzon A, Lozzi F, Iacovelli F, D'Atri S, Graziani G, Miguel Lacal P. Pharmacological inhibition of PDGF-C/neuropilin-1 interaction: A novel strategy to reduce melanoma metastatic potential. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 176:116766. [PMID: 38788599 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Activation of neuropilin-1 (NRP-1) by platelet derived growth factor (PDGF)-C sustains melanoma invasiveness. Therefore, in the search of novel agents capable of reducing melanoma spreading, PDGF-C/NRP-1 interaction was investigated as a potential druggable target. Since the PDGF-C region involved in NRP-1 binding is not yet known, based on the sequence and structural homology between PDGF-C and vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A), we hypothesized that the NRP-1 b1 domain region involved in the interaction with VEGF-A might also be required for PDGF-C binding. Hence, this region was selected from the protein crystal structure and used as target in the molecular docking procedure. In the following virtual screening, compounds from a DrugBank database were used as query ligands to identify agents potentially capable of disrupting NRP-1/PDGF-C interaction. Among the top 45 candidates with the highest affinity, five drugs were selected based on the safety profile, lack of hormonal effects, and current availability in the market: the antipsychotic pimozide, antidiabetic gliclazide, antiallergic cromolyn sodium, anticancer tyrosine kinase inhibitor entrectinib, and antihistamine azelastine. Analysis of drug influence on PDGF-C in vitro binding to NRP-1 and PDGF-C induced migration of human melanoma cells expressing NRP-1, indicated gliclazide and entrectinib as the most specific agents that were active at clinically achievable and non-toxic concentrations. Both drugs also reverted PDGF-C ability to stimulate extracellular matrix invasion by melanoma cells resistant to BRAF inhibitors. The inhibitory effect on tumor cell motility involved a decrease of p130Cas phosphorylation, a signal transduction pathway activated by PDGF-C-mediated stimulation of NRP-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Ceci
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Mattia Falconi
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Andrea Falzon
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Flavia Lozzi
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Grazia Graziani
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
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Vela-Alcántara AM, Santiago-García J, Barragán-Palacios M, León-Chacón A, Domínguez-Pantoja M, Barceinas-Dávila I, Juárez-Aguilar E, Tamariz E. Differential modulation of cell morphology, migration, and Neuropilin-1 expression in cancer and non-cancer cell lines by substrate stiffness. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1352233. [PMID: 38903533 PMCID: PMC11188430 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1352233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Physical changes in the tumor microenvironment, such as increased stiffness, regulate cancer hallmarks and play an essential role in gene expression, cell morphology, migration, and malignancy. However, the response of cancer cells to stiffness is not homogeneous and varies depending on the cell type and its mechanosensitivity. In this study, we investigated the differential responses of cervical (HeLa) and prostate (PC-3) cancer cell lines, as well as non-tumoral cell lines (HEK293 and HPrEC), to stiffness using polyacrylamide hydrogels mimicking normal and tumoral tissues. We analyzed cell morphology, migration, and the expression of neuropilin 1 (NRP1), a receptor involved in angiogenesis, cell migration, and extracellular matrix remodeling, known to be associated with cancer progression and poor prognosis. Our findings reveal that NRP1 expression increases on substrates mimicking the high stiffness characteristic of tumoral tissue in the non-tumoral cell lines HPrEC and HEK293. Conversely, in tumoral PC-3 cells, stiffness resembling normal prostate tissue induces an earlier and more sustained expression of NRP1. Furthermore, we observed that stiffness influences cell spreading, pseudopodia formation, and the mode of cell protrusion during migration. Soft substrates predominantly trigger bleb cell protrusion, while pseudopodia protrusions increase on substrates mimicking normal and tumor-like stiffnesses in HPrEC cells compared to PC-3 cells. Stiffer substrates also enhance the percentage of migratory cells, as well as their velocity and total displacement, in both non-tumoral and tumoral prostate cells. However, they only improve the persistence of migration in tumoral PC-3 cells. Moreover, we found that NRP1 co-localizes with actin, and its suppression impairs tumoral PC-3 spreading while decreasing pseudopodia protrusion mode. Our results suggest that the modulation of NRP1 expression by the stiffness can be a feedback loop to promote malignancy in non-tumoral and cancer cells, contingent upon the mechanosensitivity of the cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Monserrat Vela-Alcántara
- Programa de Doctorado en Ciencias de la Salud, Instituto de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Veracruzana, Xalapa, Mexico
- Laboratorio de Cultivo Celular, Departamento de Biomedicina, Instituto de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Veracruzana, Xalapa, Mexico
| | - Juan Santiago-García
- Laboratorio de Biología Molecular, Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas, Universidad Veracruzana, Xalapa, Mexico
| | - Madeleine Barragán-Palacios
- Laboratorio de Cultivo Celular, Departamento de Biomedicina, Instituto de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Veracruzana, Xalapa, Mexico
- Programa de Maestría en Ciencias de la Salud, Instituto de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Veracruzana, Xalapa, Mexico
| | - Aylin León-Chacón
- Laboratorio de Cultivo Celular, Departamento de Biomedicina, Instituto de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Veracruzana, Xalapa, Mexico
| | | | - Irene Barceinas-Dávila
- Laboratorio de Cultivo Celular, Departamento de Biomedicina, Instituto de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Veracruzana, Xalapa, Mexico
- Programa de Maestría en Ciencias de la Salud, Instituto de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Veracruzana, Xalapa, Mexico
| | - Enrique Juárez-Aguilar
- Laboratorio de Cultivo Celular, Departamento de Biomedicina, Instituto de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Veracruzana, Xalapa, Mexico
| | - Elisa Tamariz
- Laboratorio de Cultivo Celular, Departamento de Biomedicina, Instituto de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Veracruzana, Xalapa, Mexico
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3
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Zong Y, Deng K, Chong WP. Regulation of Treg cells by cytokine signaling and co-stimulatory molecules. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1387975. [PMID: 38807592 PMCID: PMC11131382 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1387975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ regulatory T cells (Tregs), a vital component of the immune system, are responsible for maintaining immune homeostasis and preventing excessive immune responses. This review explores the signaling pathways of the cytokines that regulate Treg cells, including transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β), interleukin (IL)-2, IL-10, and IL-35, which foster the differentiation and enhance the immunosuppressive capabilities of Tregs. It also examines how, conversely, signals mediated by IL-6 and tumor necrosis factor -alpha (TNF-α) can undermine Treg suppressive functions or even drive their reprogramming into effector T cells. The B7 family comprises indispensable co-stimulators for T cell activation. Among its members, this review focuses on the capacity of CTLA-4 and PD-1 to regulate the differentiation, function, and survival of Tregs. As Tregs play an essential role in maintaining immune homeostasis, their dysfunction contributes to the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. This review delves into the potential of employing Treg-based immunotherapy for the treatment of autoimmune diseases, transplant rejection, and cancer. By shedding light on these topics, this article aims to enhance our understanding of the regulation of Tregs by cytokines and their therapeutic potential for various pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Zong
- School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
- Institute for Research and Continuing Education, Hong Kong Baptist University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Kaihang Deng
- School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Wai Po Chong
- School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
- Institute for Research and Continuing Education, Hong Kong Baptist University, Shenzhen, China
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4
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Ceci C, Lacal PM, Barbaccia ML, Mercuri NB, Graziani G, Ledonne A. The VEGFs/VEGFRs system in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases: Pathophysiological roles and therapeutic implications. Pharmacol Res 2024; 201:107101. [PMID: 38336311 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2024.107101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
The vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs) and their cognate receptors (VEGFRs), besides their well-known involvement in physiological angiogenesis/lymphangiogenesis and in diseases associated to pathological vessel formation, play multifaceted functions in the central nervous system (CNS). In addition to shaping brain development, by controlling cerebral vasculogenesis and regulating neurogenesis as well as astrocyte differentiation, the VEGFs/VEGFRs axis exerts essential functions in the adult brain both in physiological and pathological contexts. In this article, after describing the physiological VEGFs/VEGFRs functions in the CNS, we focus on the VEGFs/VEGFRs involvement in neurodegenerative diseases by reviewing the current literature on the rather complex VEGFs/VEGFRs contribution to the pathogenic mechanisms of Alzheimer's (AD) and Parkinson's (PD) diseases. Thereafter, based on the outcome of VEGFs/VEGFRs targeting in animal models of AD and PD, we discuss the factual relevance of pharmacological VEGFs/VEGFRs modulation as a novel and potential disease-modifying approach for these neurodegenerative pathologies. Specific VEGFRs targeting, aimed at selective VEGFR-1 inhibition, while preserving VEGFR-2 signal transduction, appears as a promising strategy to hit the molecular mechanisms underlying AD pathology. Moreover, therapeutic VEGFs-based approaches can be proposed for PD treatment, with the aim of fine-tuning their brain levels to amplify neurotrophic/neuroprotective effects while limiting an excessive impact on vascular permeability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Ceci
- Pharmacology Section, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Maria Luisa Barbaccia
- Pharmacology Section, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Nicola Biagio Mercuri
- Neurology Section, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy; IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Department of Experimental Neuroscience, Rome, Italy; Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, USA
| | - Grazia Graziani
- Pharmacology Section, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy.
| | - Ada Ledonne
- Pharmacology Section, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy; IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Department of Experimental Neuroscience, Rome, Italy; Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, USA
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5
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Lima AGF, Mignone VW, Vardiero F, Kozlowski EO, Fernandes LR, Motta JM, Pavão MSG, Figueiredo CC, Mourão PAS, Morandi V. Direct antitumoral effects of sulfated fucans isolated from echinoderms: a possible role of neuropilin-1/β1 integrin endocytosis and focal adhesion kinase degradation. Glycobiology 2023; 33:715-731. [PMID: 37289485 PMCID: PMC10627248 DOI: 10.1093/glycob/cwad044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Hypercoagulability, a major complication of metastatic cancers, has usually been treated with heparins from natural sources, or with their synthetic derivatives, which are under intense investigation in clinical oncology. However, the use of heparin has been challenging for patients with risk of severe bleeding. While the systemic administration of heparins, in preclinical models, has shown primarily attenuating effects on metastasis, their direct effect on established solid tumors has generated contradictory outcomes. We investigated the direct antitumoral properties of two sulfated fucans isolated from marine echinoderms, FucSulf1 and FucSulf2, which exhibit anticoagulant activity with mild hemorrhagic potential. Unlike heparin, sulfated fucans significantly inhibited tumor cell proliferation (by ~30-50%), and inhibited tumor migration and invasion in vitro. We found that FucSulf1 and FucSulf2 interacted with fibronectin as efficiently as heparin, leading to loss of prostate cancer and melanoma cell spreading. The sulfated fucans increased the endocytosis of β1 integrin and neuropilin-1 chains, two cell receptors implicated in fibronectin-dependent adhesion. The treatment of cancer cells with both sulfated fucans, but not with heparin, also triggered intracellular focal adhesion kinase (FAK) degradation, with a consequent overall decrease in activated focal adhesion kinase levels. Finally, only sulfated fucans inhibited the growth of B16-F10 melanoma cells implanted in the dermis of syngeneic C57/BL6 mice. FucSulf1 and FucSulf2 arise from this study as candidates for the design of possible alternatives to long-term treatments of cancer patients with heparins, with the advantage of also controlling local growth and invasion of malignant cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio G F Lima
- Laboratório de Biologia da Célula Endotelial e da Angiogênese (LabAngio), Departamento de Biologia Celular/IBRAG, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (UERJ), Rio de Janeiro, 20550-013, Brazil
- Laboratório do Tecido Conjuntivo, Instituto de Bioquímica Médica (IBqM) - Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Hospital Universitário Clementino Fraga Filho, Rio de Janeiro, 21941-913, Brazil
| | - Viviane W Mignone
- Laboratório de Biologia da Célula Endotelial e da Angiogênese (LabAngio), Departamento de Biologia Celular/IBRAG, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (UERJ), Rio de Janeiro, 20550-013, Brazil
| | - Francisco Vardiero
- Laboratório de Biologia da Célula Endotelial e da Angiogênese (LabAngio), Departamento de Biologia Celular/IBRAG, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (UERJ), Rio de Janeiro, 20550-013, Brazil
| | - Eliene O Kozlowski
- Laboratório do Tecido Conjuntivo, Instituto de Bioquímica Médica (IBqM) - Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Hospital Universitário Clementino Fraga Filho, Rio de Janeiro, 21941-913, Brazil
| | - Laila R Fernandes
- Laboratório de Biologia da Célula Endotelial e da Angiogênese (LabAngio), Departamento de Biologia Celular/IBRAG, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (UERJ), Rio de Janeiro, 20550-013, Brazil
| | - Juliana M Motta
- Laboratório do Tecido Conjuntivo, Instituto de Bioquímica Médica (IBqM) - Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Hospital Universitário Clementino Fraga Filho, Rio de Janeiro, 21941-913, Brazil
| | - Mauro S G Pavão
- Laboratório do Tecido Conjuntivo, Instituto de Bioquímica Médica (IBqM) - Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Hospital Universitário Clementino Fraga Filho, Rio de Janeiro, 21941-913, Brazil
| | - Camila C Figueiredo
- Laboratório de Biologia da Célula Endotelial e da Angiogênese (LabAngio), Departamento de Biologia Celular/IBRAG, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (UERJ), Rio de Janeiro, 20550-013, Brazil
| | - Paulo A S Mourão
- Laboratório do Tecido Conjuntivo, Instituto de Bioquímica Médica (IBqM) - Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Hospital Universitário Clementino Fraga Filho, Rio de Janeiro, 21941-913, Brazil
| | - Verônica Morandi
- Laboratório de Biologia da Célula Endotelial e da Angiogênese (LabAngio), Departamento de Biologia Celular/IBRAG, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (UERJ), Rio de Janeiro, 20550-013, Brazil
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6
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Potokar M, Zorec R, Jorgačevski J. Astrocytes Are a Key Target for Neurotropic Viral Infection. Cells 2023; 12:2307. [PMID: 37759529 PMCID: PMC10528686 DOI: 10.3390/cells12182307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes are increasingly recognized as important viral host cells in the central nervous system. These cells can produce relatively high quantities of new virions. In part, this can be attributed to the characteristics of astrocyte metabolism and its abundant and dynamic cytoskeleton network. Astrocytes are anatomically localized adjacent to interfaces between blood capillaries and brain parenchyma and between blood capillaries and brain ventricles. Moreover, astrocytes exhibit a larger membrane interface with the extracellular space than neurons. These properties, together with the expression of various and numerous viral entry receptors, a relatively high rate of endocytosis, and morphological plasticity of intracellular organelles, render astrocytes important target cells in neurotropic infections. In this review, we describe factors that mediate the high susceptibility of astrocytes to viral infection and replication, including the anatomic localization of astrocytes, morphology, expression of viral entry receptors, and various forms of autophagy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maja Potokar
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology–Molecular Cell Physiology, Institute of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Zaloška 4, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Celica Biomedical, Tehnološki Park 24, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Robert Zorec
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology–Molecular Cell Physiology, Institute of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Zaloška 4, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Celica Biomedical, Tehnološki Park 24, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Jernej Jorgačevski
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology–Molecular Cell Physiology, Institute of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Zaloška 4, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Celica Biomedical, Tehnološki Park 24, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
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7
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Norouzi A, Liaghat M, Bakhtiyari M, Noorbakhsh Varnosfaderani SM, Zalpoor H, Nabi-Afjadi M, Molania T. The potential role of COVID-19 in progression, chemo-resistance, and tumor recurrence of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Oral Oncol 2023; 144:106483. [PMID: 37421672 DOI: 10.1016/j.oraloncology.2023.106483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/10/2023]
Abstract
Numerous studies have revealed that cancer patients are more likely to develop severe Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19), which can cause mortality, as well as cancer progression and treatment failure. Among these patients who may be particularly vulnerable to severe COVID-19 and COVID-19-associated cancer progression are those with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). In this regard, therapeutic approaches must be developed to lower the risk of cancer development, chemo-resistance, tumor recurrence, and death in OSCC patients with COVID-19. It may be helpful to comprehend the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) contributes to these problems. In this line, in this review, we described the potential cellular and molecular mechanisms that SARS-CoV-2 can exert its role and based on them pharmacological targeted therapies were suggested. However, in this study, we encourage more investigations in the future to uncover other cellular and molecular mechanisms of action of SARS-CoV-2 to develop beneficial therapeutic strategies for such patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Norouzi
- Department of Oral Medicine, Dental Research Center, Faculty of Dentistry, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Mahsa Liaghat
- Department of Medical Laboratory sciences, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Kazerun Branch, Islamic Azad University, Kazerun, Iran; Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy & Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education & Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Bakhtiyari
- Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy & Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education & Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran; Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Allied Medicine, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | | | - Hamidreza Zalpoor
- Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy & Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education & Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran; Shiraz Neuroscience Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
| | - Mohsen Nabi-Afjadi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of biological sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Tahereh Molania
- Department of Oral Medicine, Dental Research Center, Faculty of Dentistry, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran.
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Ruffini F, Ceci C, Atzori MG, Caporali S, Levati L, Bonmassar L, Cappellini GCA, D'Atri S, Graziani G, Lacal PM. TARGETING OF PDGF-C/NRP-1 AUTOCRINE LOOP AS A NEW STRATEGY FOR COUNTERACTING THE INVASIVENESS OF MELANOMA RESISTANT TO BRAF INHIBITORS. Pharmacol Res 2023; 192:106782. [PMID: 37127213 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2023.106782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Melanoma resistance to BRAF inhibitors (BRAFi) is often accompanied by a switch from a proliferative to an invasive phenotype. Therefore, the identification of signaling molecules involved in the development of metastatic properties by resistant melanoma cells is of primary importance. We have previously demonstrated that activation of neuropilin-1 (NRP-1) by platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-C confers melanoma cells with an invasive behavior similar to that of BRAFi resistant tumors. Aims of the present study were to evaluate the role of PDGF-C/NRP-1 autocrine loop in the acquisition of an invasive and BRAFi-resistant phenotype by melanoma cells and the effect of its inhibition on drug resistance and extracellular matrix (ECM) invasion. Furthermore, we investigated whether PDGF-C serum levels were differentially modulated by drug treatment in metastatic melanoma patients responsive or refractory to BRAFi as a single agent or in combination with MEK inhibitors (MEKi). The results indicated that human melanoma cells resistant to BRAFi express higher levels of PDGF-C and NRP-1 as compared to their susceptible counterparts. Overexpression occurs early during development of drug resistance and contributes to the invasive properties of resistant cells. Accordingly, silencing of NRP-1 or PDGF-C reduces tumor cell invasiveness. Analysis of PDGF-C in the serum collected from patients treated with BRAFi or BRAFi+MEKi, showed that in responders PDGF-C levels decrease after treatment and raise again at tumor progression. Conversely, in non-responders treatment does not affect PDGF-C serum levels. Thus, blockade of NRP-1 activation by PDGF-C might represent a new therapeutic approach to counteract the invasiveness of BRAFi-resistant melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Ruffini
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Claudia Ceci
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy; Departmental Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, Saint Camillus International University of Health Sciences, Via di Sant'Alessandro, 8, 00131 Rome, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Grazia Graziani
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
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Marchetti L, Simon-Gracia L, Lico C, Mancuso M, Baschieri S, Santi L, Teesalu T. Targeting of Tomato Bushy Stunt Virus with a Genetically Fused C-End Rule Peptide. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 13:1428. [PMID: 37111013 PMCID: PMC10143547 DOI: 10.3390/nano13081428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Homing peptides are widely used to improve the delivery of drugs, imaging agents, and nanoparticles (NPs) to their target sites. Plant virus-based particles represent an emerging class of structurally diverse nanocarriers that are biocompatible, biodegradable, safe, and cost-effective. Similar to synthetic NPs, these particles can be loaded with imaging agents and/or drugs and functionalized with affinity ligands for targeted delivery. Here we report the development of a peptide-guided Tomato Bushy Stunt Virus (TBSV)-based nanocarrier platform for affinity targeting with the C-terminal C-end rule (CendR) peptide, RPARPAR (RPAR). Flow cytometry and confocal microscopy demonstrated that the TBSV-RPAR NPs bind specifically to and internalize in cells positive for the peptide receptor neuropilin-1 (NRP-1). TBSV-RPAR particles loaded with a widely used anticancer anthracycline, doxorubicin, showed selective cytotoxicity on NRP-1-expressing cells. Following systemic administration in mice, RPAR functionalization conferred TBSV particles the ability to accumulate in the lung tissue. Collectively, these studies show the feasibility of the CendR-targeted TBSV platform for the precision delivery of payloads.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Marchetti
- Laboratory of Biomedical Technologies, Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development, ENEA, Casaccia Research Center, Via Anguillarese 301, 00123 Rome, Italy
- Department of Agriculture and Forest Sciences (DAFNE), University of Tuscia, Via S. Camillo De Lellis, 01100 Viterbo, Italy
| | - Lorena Simon-Gracia
- Laboratory of Precision and Nanomedicine, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Ravila 14b, 50090 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Chiara Lico
- Laboratory of Biotechnologies, Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development, ENEA, Casaccia Research Center, Via Anguillarese 301, 00123 Rome, Italy
| | - Mariateresa Mancuso
- Laboratory of Biomedical Technologies, Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development, ENEA, Casaccia Research Center, Via Anguillarese 301, 00123 Rome, Italy
| | - Selene Baschieri
- Laboratory of Biotechnologies, Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development, ENEA, Casaccia Research Center, Via Anguillarese 301, 00123 Rome, Italy
| | - Luca Santi
- Department of Agriculture and Forest Sciences (DAFNE), University of Tuscia, Via S. Camillo De Lellis, 01100 Viterbo, Italy
| | - Tambet Teesalu
- Laboratory of Precision and Nanomedicine, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Ravila 14b, 50090 Tartu, Estonia
- Materials Research Laboratory, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
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10
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Choi J, Choi JH, Lee HW, Seo D, Lkhagvasuren G, Kim JW, Seo SB, Lee K, Lee KH. KPNA3 promotes epithelial-mesenchymal transition by regulating TGF-β and AKT signaling pathways in MDA-MB-231, a triple-negative breast cancer cell line. BMB Rep 2023; 56:120-125. [PMID: 36593106 PMCID: PMC9978358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Karyopherin-α3 (KPNA3), a karyopherin- α isoform, is intimately associated with metastatic progression via epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). However, the molecular mechanism underlying how KPNA3 acts as an EMT inducer remains to be elucidated. In this report, we identified that KPNA3 was significantly upregulated in cancer cells, particularly in triple-negative breast cancer, and its knockdown resulted in the suppression of cell proliferation and metastasis. The comprehensive transcriptome analysis from KPNA3 knockdown cells indicated that KPNA3 is involved in the regulation of numerous EMTrelated genes, including the downregulation of GATA3 and E-cadherin and the up-regulation of HAS2. Moreover, it was found that KPNA3 EMT-mediated metastasis can be achieved by TGF-β or AKT signaling pathways; this suggests that the novel independent signaling pathways KPNA3-TGF-β-GATA3-HAS2/E-cadherin and KPNA3-AKT-HAS2/E-cadherin are involved in the EMT-mediated progress of TNBC MDA-MB-231 cells. These findings provide new insights into the divergent EMT inducibility of KPNA3 according to cell and cancer type. [BMB Reports 2023; 56(2): 120-125].
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaesung Choi
- Department of Life Science, College of Natural Sciences, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Korea, Seoul 06974, Korea
| | - Jee-Hye Choi
- Department of Life Science, College of Natural Sciences, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Korea, Seoul 06974, Korea
| | - Ho Woon Lee
- Department of Life Science, College of Natural Sciences, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Korea, Seoul 06974, Korea
| | - Dongbeom Seo
- Department of Life Science, College of Natural Sciences, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Korea, Seoul 06974, Korea
| | - Gavaachimed Lkhagvasuren
- Department of Science of Cultural Heritage, Graduate School, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Korea
| | - Jung-Woong Kim
- Department of Life Science, College of Natural Sciences, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Korea, Seoul 06974, Korea
| | - Sang-Beom Seo
- Department of Life Science, College of Natural Sciences, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Korea, Seoul 06974, Korea
| | - Kangseok Lee
- Department of Life Science, College of Natural Sciences, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Korea, Seoul 06974, Korea
| | - Kwang-Ho Lee
- Department of Life Science, College of Natural Sciences, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Korea, Seoul 06974, Korea,Department of Science of Cultural Heritage, Graduate School, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Korea,Corresponding author. Tel: +82-2-820-5213; Fax: +82-2-825-5206; E-mail:
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11
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Dong Y, Yang K, Xu Z, Li X, Wang F, Zhang Y. Effective Delivery of Paclitaxel-Loaded Ferritin via Inverso CendR Peptide for Enhanced Cancer Therapy. Mol Pharm 2023; 20:942-952. [PMID: 36574345 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.2c00616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The application of drug delivery systems based on ferritin nanocarrier has been developed as a potential strategy in cancer therapy. The limited permeability of ferritin remains a challenge for drug penetration into the deeper tumor tissues. CendR peptides have been reported to bear tumor-specific penetration by recognizing neuropilin (NRP-1) receptor that overexpressed on a wide range of cancer cells. Herein, we modified CendR peptide L(RGERPPR), its retro-inverso peptide D(RPPREGR), and inverso peptide D(RGERPPR) on the outer surface of human H chain ferritin by sulfhydryl-maleimide coupling reaction. Approximately 45 paclitaxel (PTX) molecules could be loaded into each ferritin inner cavity by a thermal-triggered method at a specific ionic strength. The penetration ability of three peptide-modified ferritin constructs showed that D(RGERPPR)-modified HFtn was able to be engulfed by A549 and MCF-7 tumor cells and spheroids at the highest level. Due to the dual-targeting effect of ferritin and modified peptides, the PTX-loaded nanocomposites could effectively enter the cells with high expression of TfR1 and NRP-1 receptors and enhanced the cytotoxicity against tumor cells. Remarkably, H-D(RGE)-PTX displayed a superior tumor growth suppression efficacy in A549 tumor-bearing nude mice. The inverso CendR peptide-modified HFtn nanocarrier was first generated and could provide an effective dual-targeting platform for treatment of cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yixin Dong
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center of Efficient Processing and Utilization of Forest Resources, College of Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu Provincial Key Lab for the Chemistry and Utilization of Agro-Forest Biomass, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing210037, P. R. China
| | - Kun Yang
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center of Efficient Processing and Utilization of Forest Resources, College of Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu Provincial Key Lab for the Chemistry and Utilization of Agro-Forest Biomass, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing210037, P. R. China
| | - Zicheng Xu
- The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, Nanjing210009, P. R. China
| | - Xun Li
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center of Efficient Processing and Utilization of Forest Resources, College of Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu Provincial Key Lab for the Chemistry and Utilization of Agro-Forest Biomass, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing210037, P. R. China
| | - Fei Wang
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center of Efficient Processing and Utilization of Forest Resources, College of Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu Provincial Key Lab for the Chemistry and Utilization of Agro-Forest Biomass, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing210037, P. R. China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center of Efficient Processing and Utilization of Forest Resources, College of Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu Provincial Key Lab for the Chemistry and Utilization of Agro-Forest Biomass, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing210037, P. R. China
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12
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Sheikh-Ahmad M, Shalata Y, Bejar J, Kreizman Shefer H, Sirhan MF, Laniado M, Matter I, Agbarya A, Reut M, Yovanovich E, Saiegh L. The Correlation between Proliferative Immunohistochemical Markers and Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma Aggressiveness. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:medicina59010110. [PMID: 36676734 PMCID: PMC9862399 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59010110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) is one of the most common malignancies of the endocrine system. In order to improve the ability to predict tumor behavior, several studies have been conducted to search for surrogate prognostic immunohistochemical tumor markers. Objective: To evaluate the correlation between the intensity of different immunohistochemical marker staining in PTC and the risk for extrathyroidal extension and metastases. Materials and Methods: The study comprised patients who underwent hemi- or total thyroidectomy. Thyroid tissues were immunohistochemically stained for different tumor proliferative markers: Minichromosome maintenance proteins 2 (MCM2), Ki-67 labeling index, E-Cadherin, Neuropilin-1 and Metallothionein. The correlation between the intensity of each marker staining and the final diagnosis (benign neoplasm and PTC) and the correlation between the intensity of each staining and tumor extrathyroidal extension and metastases were evaluated. Results: The study included 66 patients. Staining for Metallothionein, E-Cadherin and MCM2 significantly differed between benign neoplasm (n = 22) and thyroid-confined PTC (n = 21) (p = 0.002, 0.004 and 0.005, respectively), between benign neoplasm and PTC with extrathyroidal extension (n = 11) (p = 0.001, 0.006 and 0.01, respectively), and between benign neoplasm and PTC with metastases (n = 12) (p = 0.01, <0.001 and 0.037, respectively). No staining correlated with extrathyroidal extension. The intensity of E-Cadherin staining was significantly lower in PTC with metastases than thyroid confined PTC and PTC with extrathyroidal extension (p = 0.028 and 0.021, respectively). Conclusions: Immunohistochemical staining for Metallothionein, E-Cadherin and MCM2 significantly distinguished between benign thyroid tumor and PTC. E-Cadherin staining significantly and inversely correlated with the presence of metastases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Sheikh-Ahmad
- Institute of Endocrinology, Bnai Zion Medical Center, 47 Golomb St., Haifa 31048, Israel
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +972-4-8359510; Fax: +972-4-8359519
| | - Yara Shalata
- Institute of Endocrinology, Bnai Zion Medical Center, 47 Golomb St., Haifa 31048, Israel
| | - Jacob Bejar
- Department of Pathology, Bnai Zion Medical Center, 47 Golomb St., Haifa 31048, Israel
| | - Hila Kreizman Shefer
- Department of Pathology, Bnai Zion Medical Center, 47 Golomb St., Haifa 31048, Israel
| | - Majd F. Sirhan
- Department of Pathology, Bnai Zion Medical Center, 47 Golomb St., Haifa 31048, Israel
| | - Monica Laniado
- Department of Surgery, Bnai Zion Medical Center, 47 Golomb St., Haifa 31048, Israel
| | - Ibrahim Matter
- Department of Surgery, Bnai Zion Medical Center, 47 Golomb St., Haifa 31048, Israel
| | - Abed Agbarya
- Department of Oncology, Bnai Zion Medical Center, 47 Golomb St., Haifa 31048, Israel
| | - Maria Reut
- Institute of Endocrinology, Bnai Zion Medical Center, 47 Golomb St., Haifa 31048, Israel
| | - Ekaterina Yovanovich
- Institute of Endocrinology, Bnai Zion Medical Center, 47 Golomb St., Haifa 31048, Israel
| | - Leonard Saiegh
- Institute of Endocrinology, Bnai Zion Medical Center, 47 Golomb St., Haifa 31048, Israel
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13
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Impaired VEGF-A-Mediated Neurovascular Crosstalk Induced by SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein: A Potential Hypothesis Explaining Long COVID-19 Symptoms and COVID-19 Vaccine Side Effects? Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10122452. [PMID: 36557705 PMCID: PMC9784975 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10122452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 12/03/2022] [Accepted: 12/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Long coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) is a newly discovered syndrome characterized by multiple organ manifestations that persist for weeks to months, following the recovery from acute disease. Occasionally, neurological and cardiovascular side effects mimicking long COVID-19 have been reported in recipients of COVID-19 vaccines. Hypothetically, the clinical similarity could be due to a shared pathogenic role of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) spike (S) protein produced by the virus or used for immunization. The S protein can bind to neuropilin (NRP)-1, which normally functions as a coreceptor for the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-A. By antagonizing the docking of VEGF-A to NRP-1, the S protein could disrupt physiological pathways involved in angiogenesis and nociception. One consequence could be the increase in unbound forms of VEGF-A that could bind to other receptors. SARS-CoV-2-infected individuals may exhibit increased plasma levels of VEGF-A during both acute illness and convalescence, which could be responsible for diffuse microvascular and neurological damage. A few studies suggest that serum VEGF-A may also be a potential biomarker for long COVID-19, whereas evidence for COVID-19 vaccines is lacking and merits further investigation.
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14
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Neuropilin-1 is a valuable biomarker for predicting response of advanced non-small cell lung cancer patients to hypofractionated radiotherapy and PD-1 blockade. Int Immunopharmacol 2022; 109:108732. [DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2022.108732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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15
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Aliouat H, Peng Y, Waseem Z, Wang S, Zhou W. Pure DNA scaffolded drug delivery systems for cancer therapy. Biomaterials 2022; 285:121532. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2022.121532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2021] [Revised: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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16
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Chapoval SP, Keegan AD. Perspectives and potential approaches for targeting neuropilin 1 in SARS-CoV-2 infection. Mol Med 2021; 27:162. [PMID: 34961486 PMCID: PMC8711287 DOI: 10.1186/s10020-021-00423-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a novel type b coronavirus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic. With over 224 million confirmed infections with this virus and more than 4.6 million people dead because of it, it is critically important to define the immunological processes occurring in the human response to this virus and pathogenetic mechanisms of its deadly manifestation. This perspective focuses on the contribution of the recently discovered interaction of SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein with neuropilin 1 (NRP1) receptor, NRP1 as a virus entry receptor for SARS-CoV-2, its role in different physiologic and pathologic conditions, and the potential to target the Spike-NRP1 interaction to combat virus infectivity and severe disease manifestations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Svetlana P Chapoval
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Center for Vascular and Inflammatory Diseases, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 800 West Baltimore Street, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA.
- Program in Oncology at the Greenebaum Cancer Center, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- SemaPlex LLC, Ellicott City, MD, USA.
| | - Achsah D Keegan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Center for Vascular and Inflammatory Diseases, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 800 West Baltimore Street, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
- Program in Oncology at the Greenebaum Cancer Center, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- VA Maryland Health Care System, Baltimore VA Medical Center, Baltimore, MD, USA
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17
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Colotti G, Failla CM, Lacal PM, Ungarelli M, Ruffini F, Di Micco P, Orecchia A, Morea V. Neuropilin-1 is required for endothelial cell adhesion to soluble vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 1. FEBS J 2021; 289:183-198. [PMID: 34252269 PMCID: PMC9290910 DOI: 10.1111/febs.16119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2019] [Revised: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Neuropilin‐1 (NRP‐1) is a semaphorin receptor involved in neuron guidance, and a co‐receptor for selected isoforms of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) family. NRP‐1 binding to several VEGF‐A isoforms promotes growth factor interaction with VEGF receptor (VEGFR)‐2, increasing receptor phosphorylation. Additionally, NRP‐1 directly interacts with VEGFR‐1, but this interaction competes with NRP‐1 binding to VEGF‐A165 and does not enhance VEGFR‐1 activation. In this work, we investigated in detail the role of NRP‐1 interaction with the soluble isoform of VEGFR‐1 (sVEGFR‐1) in angiogenesis. sVEGFR‐1 acts both as a decoy receptor for VEGFs and as an extracellular matrix protein directly binding to α5β1 integrin on endothelial cells. By combining cell adhesion assays and surface plasmon resonance experiments on purified proteins, we found that sVEGFR‐1/NRP‐1 interaction is required both for α5β1 integrin binding to sVEGFR‐1 and for endothelial cell adhesion to a sVEGFR‐1‐containing matrix. We also found that a previously reported anti‐angiogenic peptide (Flt2‐11), which maps in the second VEGFR‐1 Ig‐like domain, specifically binds NRP‐1 and inhibits NRP‐1/sVEGFR‐1 interaction, a process that likely contributes to its anti‐angiogenic activity. In view of potential translational applications, we developed a five‐residue‐long peptide, derived from Flt2‐11, which has the same ability as the parent Flt2‐11 peptide to inhibit cell adhesion to, and migration towards, sVEGFR‐1. Therefore, the Flt2‐5 peptide represents a potential anti‐angiogenic compound per se, as well as an attractive lead for the development of novel angiogenesis inhibitors acting with a different mechanism with respect to currently used therapeutics, which interfere with VEGF‐A165 binding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianni Colotti
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Pathology (IBPM) of the National Research Council (CNR), Rome, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | - Patrizio Di Micco
- Department of Biochemical Sciences 'A. Rossi Fanelli', Sapienza' University of Rome, Italy
| | - Angela Orecchia
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cell Biology, IDI-IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Veronica Morea
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Pathology (IBPM) of the National Research Council (CNR), Rome, Italy
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18
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Douyère M, Chastagner P, Boura C. Neuropilin-1: A Key Protein to Consider in the Progression of Pediatric Brain Tumors. Front Oncol 2021; 11:665634. [PMID: 34277411 PMCID: PMC8281001 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.665634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuropilins are transmembrane glycoproteins that play important roles in cardiovascular and neuronal development, as well as in immunological system regulations. NRP1 functions as a co-receptor, binding numerous ligands, such as SEMA 3 or VEGF and, by doing so, reinforcing their signaling pathways and can also interface with the cytoplasmic protein synectin. NRP1 is expressed in many cancers, such as brain cancers, and is associated with poor prognosis. The challenge today for patients with pediatric brain tumors is to improve their survival rate while minimizing the toxicity of current treatments. The aim of this review is to highlight the involvement of NRP1 in pediatric brain cancers, focusing essentially on the roles of NRP1 in cancer stem cells and in the regulation of the immune system. For this purpose, recent literature and tumor databases were analyzed to show correlations between NRP1 and CD15 (a stem cancer cells marker), and between NRP1 and PDL1, for various pediatric brain tumors, such as high- and low-grade gliomas, medulloblastomas, and ependymomas. Finally, this review suggests a relevant role for NRP1 in pediatric brain tumors progression and identifies it as a potential diagnostic or therapeutic target to improve survival and life quality of these young patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Pascal Chastagner
- Université de Lorraine, CNRS, CRAN, Nancy, France.,Service d'Onco-Hématologie Pédiatrique, CHRU-Nancy, Nancy, France
| | - Cédric Boura
- Université de Lorraine, CNRS, CRAN, Nancy, France
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19
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Weidle UH, AuslÄnder S, Brinkmann U. Micro RNAs Promoting Growth and Metastasis in Preclinical In Vivo Models of Subcutaneous Melanoma. Cancer Genomics Proteomics 2021; 17:651-667. [PMID: 33099468 DOI: 10.21873/cgp.20221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Revised: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
During the last years a considerable therapeutic progress in melanoma patients with the RAF V600E mutation via RAF/MEK pathway inhibition and immuno-therapeutic modalities has been witnessed. However, the majority of patients relapse after therapy. Therefore, a deeper understanding of the pathways driving oncogenicity and metastasis of melanoma is of paramount importance. In this review, we summarize microRNAs modulating tumor growth, metastasis, or both, in preclinical melanoma-related in vivo models and possible clinical impact in melanoma patients as modalities and targets for treatment of melanoma. We have identified miR-199a (ApoE, DNAJ4), miR-7-5p (RelA), miR-98a (IL6), miR-219-5p (BCL2) and miR-365 (NRP1) as possible targets to be scrutinized in further target validation studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrich H Weidle
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development (pRED), Large Molecule Research, Roche Innovation Center Munich, Penzberg, Germany
| | - Simon AuslÄnder
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development (pRED), Large Molecule Research, Roche Innovation Center Munich, Penzberg, Germany
| | - Ulrich Brinkmann
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development (pRED), Large Molecule Research, Roche Innovation Center Munich, Penzberg, Germany
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20
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Valentini E, Di Martile M, Del Bufalo D, D'Aguanno S. SEMAPHORINS and their receptors: focus on the crosstalk between melanoma and hypoxia. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2021; 40:131. [PMID: 33858502 PMCID: PMC8050914 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-021-01929-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Hypoxia, a condition of oxygen deprivation, is considered a hallmark of tumor microenvironment regulating several pathways and promoting cancer progression and resistance to therapy. Semaphorins, a family of about 20 secreted, transmembrane and GPI-linked glycoproteins, and their cognate receptors (plexins and neuropilins) play a pivotal role in the crosstalk between cancer and stromal cells present in the tumor microenvironment. Many studies reported that some semaphorins are involved in the development of a permissive tumor niche, guiding cell-cell communication and, consequently, the development and progression, as well as the response to therapy, of different cancer histotypes, including melanoma. In this review we will summarize the state of art of semaphorins regulation by hypoxic condition in cancer with different origin. We will also describe evidence about the ability of semaphorins to affect the expression and activity of transcription factors activated by hypoxia, such as hypoxia-inducible factor-1. Finally, we will focus our attention on findings reporting the role of semaphorins in melanocytes transformation, melanoma progression and response to therapy. Further studies are necessary to understand the mechanisms through which semaphorins induce their effect and to shed light on the possibility to use semaphorins or their cognate receptors as prognostic markers and/or therapeutic targets in melanoma or other malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Valentini
- Preclinical Models and New Therapeutic Agents Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Via Chianesi 53 (00144), Rome, Italy
| | - Marta Di Martile
- Preclinical Models and New Therapeutic Agents Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Via Chianesi 53 (00144), Rome, Italy
| | - Donatella Del Bufalo
- Preclinical Models and New Therapeutic Agents Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Via Chianesi 53 (00144), Rome, Italy.
| | - Simona D'Aguanno
- Preclinical Models and New Therapeutic Agents Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Via Chianesi 53 (00144), Rome, Italy
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21
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Du B, Du Q, Bai Y, Yu L, Wang Y, Huang J, Zheng M, Shen G, Zhou J, Yao H. Chemotherapy based on "Domino-effect" combined with immunotherapy amplifying the efficacy of an anti-metastatic treatment. J Mater Chem B 2020; 8:9139-9150. [PMID: 32945310 DOI: 10.1039/d0tb01061h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
In tumor immunotherapy, Treg cells are immunosuppressive cells. In general, the main strategy of chemo immune-therapy for Treg cells is to eliminate them using chemotherapy drugs combined with immune checkpoint inhibitors. However, the dead Treg cells still exert immunosuppressive effects via the nucleoside adenosine pathway. To improve immunosuppression, we designed a nanosystem to deliver synthetic chemotherapeutics and immune activators. The homemade curcumin analog (CA) was encapsulated by α-lactalbumin (α-LA), and the Treg cell specific antibody (mAb), as a therapeutic agent, was linked to the drug-loaded protein via matrix metalloproteinase-responded peptide (P). After the cleavage peptide responded to matrix metalloproteinase (MMP-2), the CA@α-LA-P-mAb nanoparticles were separated into CA@α-LA and antibody, which can specifically enter cancer cells and Treg cells via membrane fusion and Nrp-1 receptors, respectively. Finally, we found that CA can not only lead to cell death by the chondriosome apoptosis approach but also reduce the production of Treg cells by inhibiting the expression of foxp3 (a key transcription factor of Treg cells). In addition, specific antibodies can improve the immunosuppression of existing Treg cells. The combined effect of CA and antibodies amplifies the role of chemotherapy in metastatic breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Du
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China and Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan Province, China.
| | - Qian Du
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China and Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan Province, China.
| | - Yimeng Bai
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China and Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan Province, China.
| | - Lili Yu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China and Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan Province, China.
| | - Yuehua Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China and Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan Province, China.
| | - Jingshu Huang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China and Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan Province, China.
| | - Mei Zheng
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China and Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan Province, China.
| | - Guopeng Shen
- School of Chemical Engineering and Energy, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Jie Zhou
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China and Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan Province, China.
| | - Hanchun Yao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China and Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan Province, China.
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22
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Bockamp E, Rosigkeit S, Siegl D, Schuppan D. Nano-Enhanced Cancer Immunotherapy: Immunology Encounters Nanotechnology. Cells 2020; 9:E2102. [PMID: 32942725 PMCID: PMC7565449 DOI: 10.3390/cells9092102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2020] [Revised: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy utilizes the immune system to fight cancer and has already moved from the laboratory to clinical application. However, and despite excellent therapeutic outcomes in some hematological and solid cancers, the regular clinical use of cancer immunotherapies reveals major limitations. These include the lack of effective immune therapy options for some cancer types, unresponsiveness to treatment by many patients, evolving therapy resistance, the inaccessible and immunosuppressive nature of the tumor microenvironment (TME), and the risk of potentially life-threatening immune toxicities. Given the potential of nanotechnology to deliver, enhance, and fine-tune cancer immunotherapeutic agents, the combination of cancer immunotherapy with nanotechnology can overcome some of these limitations. In this review, we summarize innovative reports and novel strategies that successfully combine nanotechnology and cancer immunotherapy. We also provide insight into how nanoparticular combination therapies can be used to improve therapy responsiveness, to reduce unwanted toxicity, and to overcome adverse effects of the TME.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ernesto Bockamp
- Institute of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (E.B.); (S.R.); (D.S.)
- Research Center for Immunotherapy, University Medical Center, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Sebastian Rosigkeit
- Institute of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (E.B.); (S.R.); (D.S.)
- Research Center for Immunotherapy, University Medical Center, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Dominik Siegl
- Institute of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (E.B.); (S.R.); (D.S.)
- Research Center for Immunotherapy, University Medical Center, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Detlef Schuppan
- Institute of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (E.B.); (S.R.); (D.S.)
- Research Center for Immunotherapy, University Medical Center, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, 55131 Mainz, Germany
- Division of Gastroenterology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
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Ashrafizadeh M, Hushmandi K, Rahmani Moghadam E, Zarrin V, Hosseinzadeh Kashani S, Bokaie S, Najafi M, Tavakol S, Mohammadinejad R, Nabavi N, Hsieh CL, Zarepour A, Zare EN, Zarrabi A, Makvandi P. Progress in Delivery of siRNA-Based Therapeutics Employing Nano-Vehicles for Treatment of Prostate Cancer. Bioengineering (Basel) 2020; 7:E91. [PMID: 32784981 PMCID: PMC7552721 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering7030091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Revised: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PCa) accounts for a high number of deaths in males with no available curative treatments. Patients with PCa are commonly diagnosed in advanced stages due to the lack of symptoms in the early stages. Recently, the research focus was directed toward gene editing in cancer therapy. Small interfering RNA (siRNA) intervention is considered as a powerful tool for gene silencing (knockdown), enabling the suppression of oncogene factors in cancer. This strategy is applied to the treatment of various cancers including PCa. The siRNA can inhibit proliferation and invasion of PCa cells and is able to promote the anti-tumor activity of chemotherapeutic agents. However, the off-target effects of siRNA therapy remarkably reduce its efficacy in PCa therapy. To date, various carriers were designed to improve the delivery of siRNA and, among them, nanoparticles are of importance. Nanoparticles enable the targeted delivery of siRNAs and enhance their potential in the downregulation of target genes of interest. Additionally, nanoparticles can provide a platform for the co-delivery of siRNAs and anti-tumor drugs, resulting in decreased growth and migration of PCa cells. The efficacy, specificity, and delivery of siRNAs are comprehensively discussed in this review to direct further studies toward using siRNAs and their nanoscale-delivery systems in PCa therapy and perhaps other cancer types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milad Ashrafizadeh
- Department of Basic Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tabriz, Tabriz 5166616471, Iran;
| | - Kiavash Hushmandi
- Department of Food Hygiene and Quality Control, Division of Epidemiology & Zoonoses, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran 1419963114, Iran; (K.H.); (S.B.)
| | - Ebrahim Rahmani Moghadam
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Student Research Committee, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz 7134814336, Iran;
| | - Vahideh Zarrin
- Laboratory for Stem Cell Research, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz 7134814336, Iran;
| | | | - Saied Bokaie
- Department of Food Hygiene and Quality Control, Division of Epidemiology & Zoonoses, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran 1419963114, Iran; (K.H.); (S.B.)
| | - Masoud Najafi
- Radiology and Nuclear Medicine Department, School of Paramedical Sciences, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah 6715847141, Iran;
| | - Shima Tavakol
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1449614525, Iran;
| | - Reza Mohammadinejad
- Pharmaceutics Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kermaan 55425147, Iran;
| | - Noushin Nabavi
- Research Services, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8W 2Y2, Canada;
| | - Chia-Ling Hsieh
- Ph.D. Program for Translational Medicine, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei City 110, Taiwan;
| | - Atefeh Zarepour
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Biological Science and Technology, University of Isfahan, Isfahan 8174673441, Iran;
| | | | - Ali Zarrabi
- Sabanci University Nanotechnology Research and Application Center (SUNUM), Tuzla, Istanbul 34956, Turkey
- Center of Excellence for Functional Surfaces and Interfaces (EFSUN), Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Sabanci University, Tuzla, Istanbul 34956, Turkey
| | - Pooyan Makvandi
- Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Centre for Micro-BioRobotics, viale Rinaldo Piaggio 34, 56025 Pontedera, Pisa, Italy
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz 61537-53843, Iran
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Neuropilin1 Expression Acts as a Prognostic Marker in Stomach Adenocarcinoma by Predicting the Infiltration of Treg Cells and M2 Macrophages. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9051430. [PMID: 32408477 PMCID: PMC7290937 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9051430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Revised: 04/27/2020] [Accepted: 05/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuropilin1 (NRP1) plays a critical role in tumor progression and immune responses. Although the roles of NRP1 in various tumors have been investigated, the clinical relevance of NRP1 expression in stomach adenocarcinoma (STAD) has not been studied. To investigate the use of NRP1 as a prognostic biomarker of STAD, we analyzed NRP1 mRNA expression and its correlation with patient survival and immune cell infiltration using various databases. NRP1 mRNA expression was significantly higher in STAD than normal tissues, and Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed that NRP1 expression was significantly associated with poor prognosis in patients with STAD. To elucidate the related mechanism, we analyzed the correlation between NRP1 expression and immune cell infiltration level. In particular, the infiltration of immune-suppressive cells, such as regulatory T (Treg) cells and M2 macrophage, was significantly increased by NRP1 expression. In addition, the expression of interleukin (IL)-35, IL-10, and TGF-β1 was also positively correlated with NRP1 expression, resulting in the immune suppression. Collectively in this study, our integrated analysis using various clinical databases shows that the significant correlation between NRP1 expression and the infiltration of Treg cells and M2 macrophage explains poor prognosis mechanism in STAD, suggesting the clinical relevance of NRP1 expression as a prognostic biomarker for STAD patients.
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Resistance of melanoma cells to anticancer treatment: a role of vascular endothelial growth factor. Postepy Dermatol Alergol 2020; 37:11-18. [PMID: 32467677 PMCID: PMC7247075 DOI: 10.5114/ada.2020.93378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2019] [Accepted: 02/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is one of the most aggressive and resistant to treatment neoplasms. There are still many challenges despite many promising advances in anticancer treatment. Currently, the main problem for all types of treatment is associated with heterogeneity. Due to heterogeneity of cancer cells, "precise" targeting of a medicine against a single phenotype limits the efficacy of treatment and affects resistance to applied therapy. Therefore it is important to understand aetiology and reasons for heterogeneity in order to develop effective and long-lasting treatment. This review summarises roles of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) that may stimulate growth of a melanoma tumour irrespective of its proangiogenic effects, contributing to cancer heterogeneity. VEGF triggers processes associated with extracellular matrix remodelling, cell migration, invasion, angiogenesis, inhibition of immune responses and favours phenotypic plasticity and epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Consequently, it participates in mechanisms of interactions between melanoma cancer cells and microenvironment and it can modify sensitivity to therapeutic factors.
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Ceci C, Atzori MG, Lacal PM, Graziani G. Role of VEGFs/VEGFR-1 Signaling and its Inhibition in Modulating Tumor Invasion: Experimental Evidence in Different Metastatic Cancer Models. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E1388. [PMID: 32085654 PMCID: PMC7073125 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21041388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2020] [Revised: 02/13/2020] [Accepted: 02/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) family members, VEGF-A, placenta growth factor (PlGF), and to a lesser extent VEGF-B, play an essential role in tumor-associated angiogenesis, tissue infiltration, and metastasis formation. Although VEGF-A can activate both VEGFR-1 and VEGFR-2 membrane receptors, PlGF and VEGF-B exclusively interact with VEGFR-1. Differently from VEGFR-2, which is involved both in physiological and pathological angiogenesis, in the adult VEGFR-1 is required only for pathological angiogenesis. Besides this role in tumor endothelium, ligand-mediated stimulation of VEGFR-1 expressed in tumor cells may directly induce cell chemotaxis and extracellular matrix invasion. Furthermore, VEGFR-1 activation in myeloid progenitors and tumor-associated macrophages favors cancer immune escape through the release of immunosuppressive cytokines. These properties have prompted a number of preclinical and clinical studies to analyze VEGFR-1 involvement in the metastatic process. The aim of the present review is to highlight the contribution of VEGFs/VEGFR-1 signaling in the progression of different tumor types and to provide an overview of the therapeutic approaches targeting VEGFR-1 currently under investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Ceci
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy; (C.C.); (M.G.A.)
| | - Maria Grazia Atzori
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy; (C.C.); (M.G.A.)
| | - Pedro Miguel Lacal
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, “Istituto Dermopatico dell’Immacolata-Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico”, IDI-IRCCS, Via dei Monti di Creta 104, 00167 Rome, Italy;
| | - Grazia Graziani
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy; (C.C.); (M.G.A.)
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Neuropilin: Handyman and Power Broker in the Tumor Microenvironment. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2020; 1223:31-67. [PMID: 32030684 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-35582-1_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Neuropilin-1 and neuropilin-2 form a small family of transmembrane receptors, which, due to the lack of a cytosolic protein kinase domain, act primarily as co-receptors for various ligands. Performing at the molecular level both the executive and organizing functions of a handyman as well as of a power broker, they are instrumental in controlling the signaling of various receptor tyrosine kinases, integrins, and other molecules involved in the regulation of physiological and pathological angiogenic processes. In this setting, the various neuropilin ligands and interaction partners on various cells of the tumor microenvironment, such as cancer cells, endothelial cells, cancer-associated fibroblasts, and immune cells, are surveyed. The suitability of various neuropilin-targeting substances and the intervention in neuropilin-mediated interactions is considered as a possible building block of tumor therapy.
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Wakamatsu K, Fukushima S, Minagawa A, Omodaka T, Hida T, Hatta N, Takata M, Uhara H, Okuyama R, Ihn H. Significance of 5- S-Cysteinyldopa as a Marker for Melanoma. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E432. [PMID: 31936623 PMCID: PMC7013534 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21020432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2019] [Revised: 01/07/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is one of the most lethal and malignant cancers and its incidence is increasing worldwide, and Japan is not an exception. Although there are numerous therapeutic options for melanoma, the prognosis is still poor once it has metastasized. The main concern after removal of a primary melanoma is whether it has metastasized, and early detection of metastatic melanoma would be effective in improving the prognosis of patients. Thus, it is very important to identify reliable methods to detect metastases as early as possible. Although many prognostic biomarkers (mainly for metastases) of melanoma have been reported, there are very few effective for an early diagnosis. Serum and urinary biomarkers for melanoma diagnosis have especially received great interest because of the relative ease of sample collection and handling. Several serum and urinary biomarkers appear to have significant potential both as prognostic indicators and as targets for future therapeutic methods, but still there are no efficient serum and urinary biomarkers for early detection, accurate diagnosis and prognosis, efficient monitoring of the disease and reliable prediction of survival and recurrence. Levels of 5-S-cysteinyldopa (5SCD) in the serum or urine as biomarkers of melanoma have been found to be significantly elevated earlier and to reflect melanoma progression better than physical examinations, laboratory tests and imaging techniques, such as scintigraphy and echography. With recent developments in the treatment of melanoma, studies reporting combinations of 5SCD levels and new applications for the treatment of melanoma are gradually increasing. This review summarizes the usefulness of 5SCD, the most widely used and well-known melanoma marker in the serum and urine, compares 5SCD and other useful markers, and finally its application to other fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazumasa Wakamatsu
- Department of Chemistry, Fujita Health University School of Medical Sciences, 1-98 Dengakugakubo, Kutsukake-cho, Toyoake, Aichi 470-1192, Japan
| | - Satoshi Fukushima
- Department of Dermatology and Plastic Surgery, Faculty of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, 1-1-1 Honjo, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto 860-8556, Japan; (S.F.); (H.I.)
| | - Akane Minagawa
- Department of Dermatology, Shinshu University School of Medicine, 3-1-1 Asahi, Matsumoto, Nagano 390-8621, Japan; (A.M.); (T.O.); (R.O.)
| | - Toshikazu Omodaka
- Department of Dermatology, Shinshu University School of Medicine, 3-1-1 Asahi, Matsumoto, Nagano 390-8621, Japan; (A.M.); (T.O.); (R.O.)
| | - Tokimasa Hida
- Department of Dermatology, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, South 1, West 16, Chuo-ku, Sapporo 060-8543, Japan; (T.H.); (H.U.)
| | - Naohito Hatta
- Department of Dermatology, Toyama Prefectural Central Hospital, 2-2-78 Nishinagae, Toyama, Toyama 930-8550, Japan;
| | - Minoru Takata
- Department of Dermatology, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2-5-1 Shikada-cho, Kita-Ku, Okayama 700-8558, Japan;
| | - Hisashi Uhara
- Department of Dermatology, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, South 1, West 16, Chuo-ku, Sapporo 060-8543, Japan; (T.H.); (H.U.)
| | - Ryuhei Okuyama
- Department of Dermatology, Shinshu University School of Medicine, 3-1-1 Asahi, Matsumoto, Nagano 390-8621, Japan; (A.M.); (T.O.); (R.O.)
| | - Hironobu Ihn
- Department of Dermatology and Plastic Surgery, Faculty of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, 1-1-1 Honjo, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto 860-8556, Japan; (S.F.); (H.I.)
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Gensicka-Kowalewska M, Cichorek M, Ronowska A, Deptuła M, Klejbor I, Dzierzbicka K. Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Acridine/Acridone Analogs as Potential Anticancer Agents. Med Chem 2019; 15:729-737. [PMID: 30324889 DOI: 10.2174/1573406414666181015145120] [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: 04/24/2018] [Revised: 08/18/2018] [Accepted: 09/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The lack of efficacious therapy for advanced melanoma and neuroblastoma makes new approaches necessary. Therefore, many scientists seek new, more effective, more selective and less toxic anticancer drugs. OBJECTIVE We propose the synthesis of the new functionalized analogs of 1-nitroacridine/4- nitroacridone connected to tuftsin/retro-tuftsin derivatives as potential anticancer agents. METHODS Acridine and acridone analogues were prepared by Ullmann condensation and then cyclization reaction. As a result of nucleophilic substitution reaction 1-nitro-9-phenoxyacridine or 1- chloro-4-nitro-9(10H)-acridone with the corresponding peptides, the planned acridine derivatives (10a-c, 12, 17-a-d, 19) have been obtained. The cytotoxic activity of the newly obtained analogs were evaluated against melanotic (Ma) and amelanotic (Ab) melanoma cell lines and neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y by using the XTT method. Apoptosis and cell cycle were analyzed by flow cytometry. RESULTS Among the investigated analogs compound 12 exhibited the highest potency comparable to dacarbazine action for amelanotic Ab melanoma cells. FLICA test (flurochrome-labeled inhibitors of caspases) showed that this analog significantly increased the content of cells with activated caspases (C+) among both neuroblastoma lines and only Ab melanoma line. Using phosphatidylserine (PS) externalization assay, 12 induced changes in the Ab melanoma plasma membrane structure as the externalization of phosphatidylserine (An+ cells). These changes in neuroblastoma cells were less pronounced. CONCLUSION Analog 12 could be proposed as the new potential chemotherapeutic against amelanotic melanoma form especially.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Gensicka-Kowalewska
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Gdansk University of Technology, G. Narutowicza St 11/12, PL 80-233 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Mirosława Cichorek
- Department of Embryology, Medical University of Gdansk, Debinki St. 1, 80-210 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Anna Ronowska
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Medical University of Gdansk, Debinki 7 Bldg 27, PL-80-211 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Milena Deptuła
- Department of Embryology, Medical University of Gdansk, Debinki St. 1, 80-210 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Ilona Klejbor
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Medical University of Gdansk, Debinki St. 1, 80-210 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Krystyna Dzierzbicka
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Gdansk University of Technology, G. Narutowicza St 11/12, PL 80-233 Gdansk, Poland
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Kim DY, Park JA, Kim Y, Noh M, Park S, Lie E, Kim E, Kim YM, Kwon YG. SALM4 regulates angiogenic functions in endothelial cells through VEGFR2 phosphorylation at Tyr1175. FASEB J 2019; 33:9842-9857. [PMID: 31170000 PMCID: PMC6704462 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201802516rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Angiogenesis depends on VEGF-mediated signaling. However, the regulatory mechanisms and functions of individual VEGF receptor 2 (VEGFR2) phosphorylation sites remain unclear. Here, we report that synaptic adhesion-like molecule 4 (SALM4) regulates a specific VEGFR2 phosphorylation site. SALM4 silencing in HUVECs and Salm4 knockout (KO) in lung endothelial cells (ECs) of Salm4−/− mice suppressed phosphorylation of VEGFR2 tyrosine (Y) 1175 (Y1173 in mice) and downstream signaling upon VEGF-A stimulation. However, VEGFR2 phosphorylation at Y951 (Y949 in mice) and Y1214 (Y1212 in mice) remained unchanged. Knockdown and KO of SALM4 inhibited VEGF-A–induced angiogenic functions of ECs. SALM4 depletion reduced endothelial leakage, sprouting, and migratory activities. Furthermore, in an ischemia and reperfusion (I/R) model, brain injury was attenuated in Salm4−/− mice compared with wild-type (WT) mice. In brain lysates after I/R, VEGFR2 phosphorylation at Y949, Y1173, and Y1212 were induced in WT brains, but only Y1173 phosphorylation of VEGFR2 was reduced in Salm4−/− brains. Taken together, our results demonstrate that SALM4 specifically regulates VEGFR2 phosphorylation at Y1175 (Y1173 in mice), thereby fine-tuning VEGF signaling in ECs.—Kim, D. Y., Park, J. A., Kim, Y., Noh, M., Park, S., Lie, E., Kim, E., Kim, Y.-M., Kwon, Y.-G. SALM4 regulates angiogenic functions in endothelial cells through VEGFR2 phosphorylation at Tyr1175.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Young Kim
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jeong Ae Park
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Yeomyung Kim
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Minyoung Noh
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Songyi Park
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Eunkyung Lie
- Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute for Science and Technology, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Eunjoon Kim
- Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute for Science and Technology, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Young-Myeong Kim
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon-si, South Korea
| | - Young-Guen Kwon
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea
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Adil AAM, Bommanabonia AK, Vaithy A, Kumar S, Waseem M, Jamal S, Ahmed N. Differential expression of Helios, Neuropilin-1 and FoxP3 in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) patients. 3 Biotech 2019; 9:178. [PMID: 30997315 DOI: 10.1007/s13205-019-1707-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2018] [Accepted: 04/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, studies have begun to explore the immune involvement in head and neck tumors. Advanced stage head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) has a poor prognosis with low survival rates with high level of immune infiltrates. Tregs (regulatory T cells) play a crucial role in constructing an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. In the present study, we highlighted specific Treg markers and its factors in HNSCC solid tumors and peripheral blood of cancer patients. By histopathology and immunofluorescence staining, we observed differential expression of CD4, CD25, Foxp3, Helios and Neuropilin-1. Further, we analyzed the expression of Foxp3, Helios, Neuropilin-1 and GARP by qPCR and flow cytometry in whole blood and found to be elevated in HNSCC patients in comparison with healthy donors. Additionally, IFN-γ, TGF-β, IL-6, IL-2, IL-10 and TNF-α expressions were also found to be relatively increased in the head and neck cancer patients when compared with healthy donors. Our findings emphasize that Tregs may be involved in promoting tumor progression. Helios and Neuropilin-1 could be potent markers in identifying subsets of Tregs. Association of soluble factors could sculpture the activity of Tregs. With further research, Treg markers and its associated soluble factors could be employed to block Tregs trafficking to the tumor, thus enlightening a potential strategy for targeting human cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- A A Mohamed Adil
- School of Life Sciences, B S Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology, GST Road, Vandalur, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600048 India
| | - Anil Kumar Bommanabonia
- School of Life Sciences, B S Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology, GST Road, Vandalur, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600048 India
| | - Anandraj Vaithy
- School of Life Sciences, B S Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology, GST Road, Vandalur, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600048 India
- Diagnostic Research Laboratory, Gorimedu, Puducherry 605001 India
| | - Sateesh Kumar
- 3Departmentof Oral Pathology and Microbiology, Indira Gandhi Institute of Dental Sciences, Pillayarkuppam, Puducherry 607402 India
| | - Mohammad Waseem
- 4School of Medicine, University of Alabama, Birmingham, 35205 USA
| | - Shazia Jamal
- School of Life Sciences, B S Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology, GST Road, Vandalur, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600048 India
| | - Neesar Ahmed
- School of Life Sciences, B S Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology, GST Road, Vandalur, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600048 India
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Pawar A, Prabhu P. Nanosoldiers: A promising strategy to combat triple negative breast cancer. Biomed Pharmacother 2019; 110:319-341. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2018.11.122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2018] [Revised: 11/10/2018] [Accepted: 11/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
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Niland S, Eble JA. Neuropilins in the Context of Tumor Vasculature. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20030639. [PMID: 30717262 PMCID: PMC6387129 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20030639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2018] [Revised: 01/23/2019] [Accepted: 01/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuropilin-1 and Neuropilin-2 form a small family of plasma membrane spanning receptors originally identified by the binding of semaphorin and vascular endothelial growth factor. Having no cytosolic protein kinase domain, they function predominantly as co-receptors of other receptors for various ligands. As such, they critically modulate the signaling of various receptor tyrosine kinases, integrins, and other molecules involved in the regulation of physiological and pathological angiogenic processes. This review highlights the diverse neuropilin ligands and interacting partners on endothelial cells, which are relevant in the context of the tumor vasculature and the tumor microenvironment. In addition to tumor cells, the latter contains cancer-associated fibroblasts, immune cells, and endothelial cells. Based on the prevalent neuropilin-mediated interactions, the suitability of various neuropilin-targeted substances for influencing tumor angiogenesis as a possible building block of a tumor therapy is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephan Niland
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry, University of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany.
| | - Johannes A Eble
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry, University of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany.
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Ceci C, Lacal PM, Tentori L, De Martino MG, Miano R, Graziani G. Experimental Evidence of the Antitumor, Antimetastatic and Antiangiogenic Activity of Ellagic Acid. Nutrients 2018; 10:E1756. [PMID: 30441769 PMCID: PMC6266224 DOI: 10.3390/nu10111756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 138] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2018] [Revised: 11/11/2018] [Accepted: 11/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Ellagic acid (EA) is a naturally occurring polyphenolic compound endowed with strong antioxidant and anticancer properties that is present in high quantity in a variety of berries, pomegranates, and dried fruits. The antitumor activity of EA has been mostly attributed to direct antiproliferative and apoptotic effects. Moreover, EA can inhibit tumour cell migration, extra-cellular matrix invasion and angiogenesis, all processes that are crucial for tumour infiltrative behaviour and the metastatic process. In addition, EA may increase tumour sensitivity to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. The aim of this review is to summarize the in vitro and in vivo experimental evidence supporting the anticancer activity of pure EA, its metabolites, and EA-containing fruit juice or extracts in a variety of solid tumour models. The EA oral administration as supportive therapy to standard chemotherapy has been recently evaluated in small clinical studies with colorectal or prostate cancer patients. Novel formulations with improved solubility and bioavailability are expected to fully develop the therapeutic potential of EA derivatives in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Ceci
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00173 Rome, Italy.
| | - Pedro M Lacal
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Istituto Dermopatico dell'Immacolata, IDI-IRCCS, 00167 Rome, Italy.
| | - Lucio Tentori
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00173 Rome, Italy.
| | - Maria Gabriella De Martino
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry, Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00173 Rome, Italy.
| | - Roberto Miano
- Urology Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00173 Rome, Italy.
| | - Grazia Graziani
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00173 Rome, Italy.
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Auriau J, Roujeau C, Belaid Choucair Z, Oishi A, Derviaux C, Roux T, Trinquet E, Hermine O, Jockers R, Dam J. Gain of affinity for VEGF165 binding within the VEGFR2/NRP1 cellular complex detected by an HTRF-based binding assay. Biochem Pharmacol 2018; 158:45-59. [PMID: 30236477 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2018.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2018] [Accepted: 09/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Neuroplin 1 (NRP1), a transmembrane protein interacting with Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor VEGF-A165 (called here VEGF165) and the tyrosine kinase Receptor 2 (VEGFR2) promote angiogenesis and vascular homeostasis. In a pathophysiological context, several studies suggested that VEGFR2 and NRP1 mediate tumor development and progression. Given the involvement of the VEGF165 network in promoting tumor angiogenesis, NRP1, VEGFR2 and VEGF165 have been identified as targets for anti-angiogenic therapy. No binding assay exists to monitor specifically the binding of VEGF165 to the VEGFR2/NRP1 complex in intact cells. We established a binding assay based on the homogenous time-resolved fluorescence (HTRF®) technology. This unique binding assay enables to assess the interaction of VEGF165 with VEGFR2 or NRP1 within the VEGFR2/NRP1 complex. Ligand binding saturation experiments revealed that VEGF165 binds the VEGFR2/NRP1 complex at the cell surface with a ten to twenty-fold higher affinity compared to SNAP-VEGFR2 or SNAP-NRP1 receptors alone not engaged in the heteromeric complex. The assay allows characterizing the impact of NRP1 ligands on VEGF165 to the complex. It shows high specificity, reproducibility and robustness, making it compatible with high throughput screening (HTS) applications for identifying new VEGF165 antagonists selective for NRP1 or the VEGFR2/NRP1 complex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Auriau
- Institut Cochin, Inserm U1016, CNRS UMR 8104, University Paris Descartes, University Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Clara Roujeau
- Institut Cochin, Inserm U1016, CNRS UMR 8104, University Paris Descartes, University Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Zakia Belaid Choucair
- Hôpital Necker, CNRS UMR 8147, Université Paris Descartes, Université Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France And THERANOVIR, Pépinière Genopole Entreprise, Evry, France
| | - Atsuro Oishi
- Institut Cochin, Inserm U1016, CNRS UMR 8104, University Paris Descartes, University Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Carine Derviaux
- Institut Cochin, Inserm U1016, CNRS UMR 8104, University Paris Descartes, University Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Thomas Roux
- Cisbio Bioassays, Parc Technologique Marcel Boiteux, BP84175, 30200 Codolet, France
| | - Eric Trinquet
- Cisbio Bioassays, Parc Technologique Marcel Boiteux, BP84175, 30200 Codolet, France
| | | | - Ralf Jockers
- Institut Cochin, Inserm U1016, CNRS UMR 8104, University Paris Descartes, University Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Julie Dam
- Institut Cochin, Inserm U1016, CNRS UMR 8104, University Paris Descartes, University Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France.
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Lacal PM, Graziani G. Therapeutic implication of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-1 (VEGFR-1) targeting in cancer cells and tumor microenvironment by competitive and non-competitive inhibitors. Pharmacol Res 2018; 136:97-107. [PMID: 30170190 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2018.08.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2018] [Revised: 08/24/2018] [Accepted: 08/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-1 (VEGFR-1) is a tyrosine kinase receptor for VEGF-A, VEGF-B, and placental growth factor (PlGF) ligands that is expressed in endothelial, myelomonocytic and tumor cells. VEGF-B and PlGF exclusively bind to VEGFR-1, whereas VEGF-A also binds to VEGFR-2. At variance with VEGFR-2, VEGFR-1 does not play a relevant role in physiological angiogenesis in the adult, while it is important in tumor-associated angiogenesis. VEGFR-1 and PlGF are expressed in a variety of tumors, promote invasiveness and contribute to resistance to anti-VEGF-A therapy. The currently approved antiangiogenic therapies for the treatment of a variety of solid tumors hamper VEGF-A signaling mediated by both VEGFR-2 and VEGFR-1 [i.e., the monoclonal antibody (mAb) anti-VEGF-A bevacizumab, the chimeric molecule aflibercept and several small molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitors] or exclusively by VEGFR-2 (i.e., the mAb anti-VEGFR-2 ramucirumab). However, molecules that interfere with VEGF-A/VEGFR-2 signaling determine severe adverse effects due to inhibition of physiological angiogenesis and their efficacy is hampered by tumor infiltration of protumoral myeloid cells. Blockade of VEGFR-1 may exert anti-tumor activity by multiple mechanisms: a) inhibition of tumor-associated angiogenesis; b) reduction of myeloid progenitor mobilization and tumor infiltration by VEGFR-1 expressing M2 macrophages, which contribute to tumor progression and spreading; c) inhibition of invasiveness, vasculogenic mimicry and survival of VEGFR-1 positive tumor cells. As a consequence of these properties, molecules targeting VEGFR-1 are expected to produce less adverse effects and to counteract resistance towards anti-VEGF-A therapies. More interestingly, selective VEGFR-1 inhibition might enhance the efficacy of immunotherapy with immune checkpoint inhibitors. In this review, we will examine the experimental evidence available so far that supports targeting VEGFR-1 signal transduction pathway for cancer treatment by competitive inhibitors that prevent growth factor interaction with the receptor and non-competitive inhibitors that hamper receptor activation without affecting ligand binding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Miguel Lacal
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Istituto Dermopatico dell'Immacolata, IDI-IRCCS, Via Monti di Creta 104, 00167 Rome, Italy.
| | - Grazia Graziani
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy.
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Ou W, Thapa RK, Jiang L, Soe ZC, Gautam M, Chang JH, Jeong JH, Ku SK, Choi HG, Yong CS, Kim JO. Regulatory T cell-targeted hybrid nanoparticles combined with immuno-checkpoint blockage for cancer immunotherapy. J Control Release 2018; 281:84-96. [PMID: 29777794 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2018.05.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 133] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2018] [Revised: 04/28/2018] [Accepted: 05/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Immunosuppression in tumor microenvironments induced by regulatory T (Treg) cells is regarded a critical mechanism of tumor immune escape and poses a major impediment to cancer immunotherapy. In this study, we developed tLyp1 peptide-conjugated hybrid nanoparticles for targeting Treg cells in the tumor microenvironment. The tLyp1 peptide-modified hybrid nanoparticles presented good stability and effective targeting to Treg cells, and they enhanced the effect of imatinib in downregulating Treg cell suppression through inhibition of STAT3 and STAT5 phosphorylation. In addition, an in vivo study revealed high tumor accumulation of the hybrid nanoparticle. Specifically, prolonged survival rate, enhanced tumor inhibition, reduced intratumoral Treg cells, and elevated intratumoral CD8+ T cells against tumor were observed when combined with checkpoint-blockade by using anti-cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen-4 antibody. This study provided groundwork for a repertoire of nanoparticle-based drugs for targeting and modulating Treg cell function in the tumor microenvironment and for improving antitumor immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenquan Ou
- College of Pharmacy, Yeungnam University, 214-1, Dae-Dong, Gyeongsan 712-749, South Korea
| | - Raj Kumar Thapa
- College of Pharmacy, Yeungnam University, 214-1, Dae-Dong, Gyeongsan 712-749, South Korea
| | - Liyuan Jiang
- College of Pharmacy, Yeungnam University, 214-1, Dae-Dong, Gyeongsan 712-749, South Korea
| | - Zar Chi Soe
- College of Pharmacy, Yeungnam University, 214-1, Dae-Dong, Gyeongsan 712-749, South Korea
| | - Milan Gautam
- College of Pharmacy, Yeungnam University, 214-1, Dae-Dong, Gyeongsan 712-749, South Korea
| | - Jae-Hoon Chang
- College of Pharmacy, Yeungnam University, 214-1, Dae-Dong, Gyeongsan 712-749, South Korea
| | - Jee-Heon Jeong
- College of Pharmacy, Yeungnam University, 214-1, Dae-Dong, Gyeongsan 712-749, South Korea
| | - Sae Kwang Ku
- Department of Anatomy and Histology, College of Korean Medicine, Daegu Haany University, Gyeongsan 712-715, South Korea
| | - Han-Gon Choi
- College of Pharmacy, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hanyang University, 55, Hanyangdaehak-ro, Sangnok-gu, Ansan 426-791, South Korea
| | - Chul Soon Yong
- College of Pharmacy, Yeungnam University, 214-1, Dae-Dong, Gyeongsan 712-749, South Korea.
| | - Jong Oh Kim
- College of Pharmacy, Yeungnam University, 214-1, Dae-Dong, Gyeongsan 712-749, South Korea.
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Powell J, Mota F, Steadman D, Soudy C, Miyauchi JT, Crosby S, Jarvis A, Reisinger T, Winfield N, Evans G, Finniear A, Yelland T, Chou YT, Chan AWE, O'Leary A, Cheng L, Liu D, Fotinou C, Milagre C, Martin JF, Jia H, Frankel P, Djordjevic S, Tsirka SE, Zachary IC, Selwood DL. Small Molecule Neuropilin-1 Antagonists Combine Antiangiogenic and Antitumor Activity with Immune Modulation through Reduction of Transforming Growth Factor Beta (TGFβ) Production in Regulatory T-Cells. J Med Chem 2018; 61:4135-4154. [PMID: 29648813 PMCID: PMC5957473 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.8b00210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
![]()
We
report the design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of some
potent small-molecule neuropilin-1 (NRP1) antagonists. NRP1 is implicated
in the immune response to tumors, particularly in Treg cell fragility,
required for PD1 checkpoint blockade. The design of these compounds
was based on a previously identified compound EG00229. The design
of these molecules was informed and supported by X-ray crystal structures.
Compound 1 (EG01377) was identified as having properties
suitable for further investigation. Compound 1 was then
tested in several in vitro assays and was shown to have antiangiogenic,
antimigratory, and antitumor effects. Remarkably, 1 was
shown to be selective for NRP1 over the closely related protein NRP2.
In purified Nrp1+, FoxP3+, and CD25+ populations of Tregs from mice, 1 was able to block
a glioma-conditioned medium-induced increase in TGFβ production.
This comprehensive characterization of a small-molecule NRP1 antagonist
provides the basis for future in vivo studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Powell
- NCE Discovery (Domainex Ltd) , Chesterford Research Park, Little Chesterford , Saffron Walden , Essex CB10 1XL , U.K
| | - Filipa Mota
- The Wolfson Institute for Biomedical Research , University College London , Gower Street , London WC1E 6BT , U.K
| | - David Steadman
- The Wolfson Institute for Biomedical Research , University College London , Gower Street , London WC1E 6BT , U.K
| | - Christelle Soudy
- The Wolfson Institute for Biomedical Research , University College London , Gower Street , London WC1E 6BT , U.K
| | - Jeremy T Miyauchi
- Department of Pharmacology , Stony Brook University , Stony Brook , New York 11794 , United States
| | - Stuart Crosby
- NCE Discovery (Domainex Ltd) , Chesterford Research Park, Little Chesterford , Saffron Walden , Essex CB10 1XL , U.K
| | - Ashley Jarvis
- NCE Discovery (Domainex Ltd) , Chesterford Research Park, Little Chesterford , Saffron Walden , Essex CB10 1XL , U.K
| | - Tifelle Reisinger
- NCE Discovery (Domainex Ltd) , Chesterford Research Park, Little Chesterford , Saffron Walden , Essex CB10 1XL , U.K
| | - Natalie Winfield
- NCE Discovery (Domainex Ltd) , Chesterford Research Park, Little Chesterford , Saffron Walden , Essex CB10 1XL , U.K
| | - Graham Evans
- Park Place Research Ltd , Unit 5/6 Willowbrook Technology Park, Llandogo Road, St. Mellons , Cardiff CF3 0EF , U.K
| | - Aled Finniear
- Park Place Research Ltd , Unit 5/6 Willowbrook Technology Park, Llandogo Road, St. Mellons , Cardiff CF3 0EF , U.K
| | | | - Yi-Tai Chou
- The Wolfson Institute for Biomedical Research , University College London , Gower Street , London WC1E 6BT , U.K
| | - A W Edith Chan
- The Wolfson Institute for Biomedical Research , University College London , Gower Street , London WC1E 6BT , U.K
| | - Andrew O'Leary
- Centre for Cardiovascular Biology and Medicine, Division of Medicine , University College London , 5 University Street , London WC1E 6JJ , U.K
| | - Lili Cheng
- Centre for Cardiovascular Biology and Medicine, Division of Medicine , University College London , 5 University Street , London WC1E 6JJ , U.K
| | - Dan Liu
- Centre for Cardiovascular Biology and Medicine, Division of Medicine , University College London , 5 University Street , London WC1E 6JJ , U.K
| | - Constantina Fotinou
- Institute of Structural and Molecular Biology , University College London , Gower Street , London WC1E 6BT , U.K
| | - Carla Milagre
- Centre for Cardiovascular Biology and Medicine, Division of Medicine , University College London , 5 University Street , London WC1E 6JJ , U.K
| | - John F Martin
- Centre for Cardiovascular Biology and Medicine, Division of Medicine , University College London , 5 University Street , London WC1E 6JJ , U.K
| | - Haiyan Jia
- Centre for Cardiovascular Biology and Medicine, Division of Medicine , University College London , 5 University Street , London WC1E 6JJ , U.K
| | - Paul Frankel
- Centre for Cardiovascular Biology and Medicine, Division of Medicine , University College London , 5 University Street , London WC1E 6JJ , U.K
| | - Snezana Djordjevic
- Institute of Structural and Molecular Biology , University College London , Gower Street , London WC1E 6BT , U.K
| | - Stella E Tsirka
- Department of Pharmacology , Stony Brook University , Stony Brook , New York 11794 , United States
| | - Ian C Zachary
- Centre for Cardiovascular Biology and Medicine, Division of Medicine , University College London , 5 University Street , London WC1E 6JJ , U.K
| | - David L Selwood
- The Wolfson Institute for Biomedical Research , University College London , Gower Street , London WC1E 6BT , U.K
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Semaphorin 3C and Its Receptors in Cancer and Cancer Stem-Like Cells. Biomedicines 2018; 6:biomedicines6020042. [PMID: 29642487 PMCID: PMC6027460 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines6020042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2018] [Revised: 03/27/2018] [Accepted: 04/03/2018] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurodevelopmental programs are frequently dysregulated in cancer. Semaphorins are a large family of guidance cues that direct neuronal network formation and are also implicated in cancer. Semaphorins have two kinds of receptors, neuropilins and plexins. Besides their role in development, semaphorin signaling may promote or suppress tumors depending on their context. Sema3C is a secreted semaphorin that plays an important role in the maintenance of cancer stem-like cells, promotes migration and invasion, and may facilitate angiogenesis. Therapeutic strategies that inhibit Sema3C signaling may improve cancer control. This review will summarize the current research on the Sema3C pathway and its potential as a therapeutic target.
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Vivekanandhan S, Mukhopadhyay D. Genetic status of KRAS influences Transforming Growth Factor-beta (TGF-β) signaling: An insight into Neuropilin-1 (NRP1) mediated tumorigenesis. Semin Cancer Biol 2018; 54:72-79. [PMID: 29409705 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2018.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2018] [Accepted: 01/25/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Oncogenic RAS and deregulated transforming growth factor-beta (TGF)-β signaling have been implicated in several cancers. So far, attempts to target either one of them therapeutically have been futile as both of them are involved in multiple fundamental cellular processes and the normal forms are expressed by almost all cells. Hence, their inhibition would disrupt several physiological processes. Besides, their downregulation stimulates the tumor cells to develop adaptive mechanisms and would most likely be ineffective as therapeutic targets. Furthermore, growing literature suggests that both of these signaling pathways converge to enhance tumor development. Therefore, a lot of interest has been generated to explore the areas where these pathways interface that might identify new molecules that could potentially serve as novel therapeutic targets. In this review, we focus on such convergent signaling and cross-interaction that is mediated by neuropilin-1 (NRP1), a receptor that can interact with multiple growth factors including TGF-β for promoting tumorigenesis process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sneha Vivekanandhan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Jacksonville, FL, United States
| | - Debabrata Mukhopadhyay
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Jacksonville, FL, United States.
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Collateral Damage Intended-Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts and Vasculature Are Potential Targets in Cancer Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18112355. [PMID: 29112161 PMCID: PMC5713324 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18112355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2017] [Revised: 10/25/2017] [Accepted: 11/02/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
After oncogenic transformation, tumor cells rewire their metabolism to obtain sufficient energy and biochemical building blocks for cell proliferation, even under hypoxic conditions. Glucose and glutamine become their major limiting nutritional demands. Instead of being autonomous, tumor cells change their immediate environment not only by their metabolites but also by mediators, such as juxtacrine cell contacts, chemokines and other cytokines. Thus, the tumor cells shape their microenvironment as well as induce resident cells, such as fibroblasts and endothelial cells (ECs), to support them. Fibroblasts differentiate into cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), which produce a qualitatively and quantitatively different extracellular matrix (ECM). By their contractile power, they exert tensile forces onto this ECM, leading to increased intratumoral pressure. Moreover, along with enhanced cross-linkage of the ECM components, CAFs thus stiffen the ECM. Attracted by tumor cell- and CAF-secreted vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), ECs sprout from pre-existing blood vessels during tumor-induced angiogenesis. Tumor vessels are distinct from EC-lined vessels, because tumor cells integrate into the endothelium or even mimic and replace it in vasculogenic mimicry (VM) vessels. Not only the VM vessels but also the characteristically malformed EC-lined tumor vessels are typical for tumor tissue and may represent promising targets in cancer therapy.
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Abstract
Recent studies suggest that neuropilin-1 (NRP-1) promotes angiogenesis mainly via VEGF and its receptors. It promotes tumorigenesis via formation of the NRP-1/ VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor)/VEGFR2 (vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2) complex. In addition to VEGF and its receptors, NRP-1 also binds with other growth factors such as platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) and platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR). PDGF plays important roles in cellular proliferation and, in particular, blood vessel formation. Moreover, recent studies show that NRP-1 promotes angiogenesis via the NRP-1-ABL pathway, but independent of VEGF-VEGFR2. RAD51 is a protein involved in the signaling pathways of NRP1-ABL and PDGF(R), the expression of which is positively associated with cell radioresistance and chemoresistance. NRP-1 activates the signaling pathways of ABL and PDGF(R) to upregulate RAD51, which induces resistance to radiotherapy and chemotherapy in cancer cells. Furthermore, NRP-1 activates the tumor microenvironment by binding with fibronectin and activating ABL, thereby promoting tumor growth. Inhibition of NRP-1 may overcome the limitations of individually inhibiting the VEGF-VEGFR2 pathway in cancer therapy and provide new ideas for cancer treatment. Therefore, we review the role of NRP-1 in VEGF-VEGFR2-independent tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenxi Hu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Lianyungang First People's Hospital, No.182, Tongguan Road, Lianyungang City, 222002, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xiaodong Jiang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Lianyungang First People's Hospital, No.182, Tongguan Road, Lianyungang City, 222002, Jiangsu Province, China.
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Genetic status of KRAS modulates the role of Neuropilin-1 in tumorigenesis. Sci Rep 2017; 7:12877. [PMID: 29018205 PMCID: PMC5635066 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-12992-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2017] [Accepted: 09/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuropilin-1 (NRP1), a non-tyrosine kinase receptor, is overexpressed in many cancers including pancreatic and lung cancers. Inhibition of NRP1 expression, however, has differing pro-tumor vs. anti-tumor effects, depending on the cancer types. To understand the differential role of NRP1 in tumorigenesis process, we utilized cells from two different cancer types, pancreatic and lung, each containing either wild type KRAS (KRAS wt) or mutant KRAS (KRAS mt). Inhibition of NRP1 expression by shRNA in both pancreatic and lung cancer cells containing dominant active KRAS mt caused increased cell viability and tumor growth. On the contrary, inhibition of NRP1, in the tumor cells containing KRAS wt showed decreased tumor growth. Importantly, concurrent inhibition of KRAS mt and NRP1 in the tumor cells reverses the increased viability and leads to tumor inhibition. We found that NRP1 shRNA expressing KRAS mt tumor cells caused increased cell viability by decreasing SMAD2 phosphorylation. Our findings demonstrate that the effects of NRP1 knockdown in cancer cells are dependent on the genetic status of KRAS.
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Thomas E, Colombeau L, Gries M, Peterlini T, Mathieu C, Thomas N, Boura C, Frochot C, Vanderesse R, Lux F, Barberi-Heyob M, Tillement O. Ultrasmall AGuIX theranostic nanoparticles for vascular-targeted interstitial photodynamic therapy of glioblastoma. Int J Nanomedicine 2017; 12:7075-7088. [PMID: 29026302 PMCID: PMC5627731 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s141559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite combined treatments, glioblastoma outcome remains poor with frequent local recurrences, indicating that a more efficient and local therapy is needed. In this way, vascular-targeted photodynamic therapy (VTP) could help tumor eradication by destroying its neovessels. In this study, we designed a polysiloxane-based nanoparticle (NP) combining a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agent, a photosensitizer (PS) and a new ligand peptide motif (KDKPPR) targeting neuropilin-1 (NRP-1), a receptor overexpressed by angiogenic endothelial cells of the tumor vasculature. This structure achieves the detection of the tumor tissue and its proliferating part by MRI analysis, followed by its treatment by VTP. The photophysical properties of the PS and the peptide affinity for NRP-1 recombinant protein were preserved after the functionalization of NPs. Cellular uptake of NPs by human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) was increased twice compared to NPs without the KDKPPR peptide moiety or conjugated with a scramble peptide. NPs induced no cytotoxicity without light exposure but conferred a photocytotoxic effect to cells after photodynamic therapy (PDT). The in vivo selectivity, evaluated using a skinfold chamber model in mice, confirms that the functionalized NPs with KDKPPR peptide moiety were localized in the tumor vessel wall.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eloïse Thomas
- Université Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Institut Lumière Matière, Lyon
| | - Ludovic Colombeau
- Laboratoire Réactions et Génie des Procédés, Université de Lorraine-CNRS, Nancy
| | - Mickaël Gries
- Université de Lorraine, Research Center for Automatic Control of Nancy (CRAN)
- CNRS, CRAN, Vandoeuvre-lès-Nancy
| | - Thibaut Peterlini
- Université de Lorraine, Research Center for Automatic Control of Nancy (CRAN)
- CNRS, CRAN, Vandoeuvre-lès-Nancy
| | - Clélia Mathieu
- Université Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Institut Lumière Matière, Lyon
| | - Noémie Thomas
- Université de Lorraine, Research Center for Automatic Control of Nancy (CRAN)
- CNRS, CRAN, Vandoeuvre-lès-Nancy
| | - Cédric Boura
- Université de Lorraine, Research Center for Automatic Control of Nancy (CRAN)
- CNRS, CRAN, Vandoeuvre-lès-Nancy
| | - Céline Frochot
- Laboratoire Réactions et Génie des Procédés, Université de Lorraine-CNRS, Nancy
| | - Régis Vanderesse
- Laboratoire de Chimie Physique Macromoléculaire, Université de Lorraine-CNRS, Nancy, France
| | - François Lux
- Université Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Institut Lumière Matière, Lyon
| | - Muriel Barberi-Heyob
- Université de Lorraine, Research Center for Automatic Control of Nancy (CRAN)
- CNRS, CRAN, Vandoeuvre-lès-Nancy
| | - Olivier Tillement
- Université Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Institut Lumière Matière, Lyon
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Evans JC, Malhotra M, Sweeney K, Darcy R, Nelson CC, Hollier BG, O'Driscoll CM. Folate-targeted amphiphilic cyclodextrin nanoparticles incorporating a fusogenic peptide deliver therapeutic siRNA and inhibit the invasive capacity of 3D prostate cancer tumours. Int J Pharm 2017; 532:511-518. [PMID: 28916296 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2017.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2017] [Revised: 09/05/2017] [Accepted: 09/07/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
The main barrier to the development of an effective RNA interference (RNAi) therapy is the lack of a suitable delivery vector. Modified cyclodextrins have emerged in recent years for the delivery of siRNA. In the present study, a folate-targeted amphiphilic cyclodextrin was formulated using DSPE-PEG5000-folate to target prostate cancer cells. The fusogenic peptide GALA was included in the formulation to aid in the endosomal release of siRNA. Targeted nanoparticles were less than 200nm in size with a neutral surface charge. The complexes were able to bind siRNA and protect it from serum nucleases. Incubation with excess free folate resulted in a significant decrease in the uptake of targeted nanoparticles in LNCaP and PC3 cells, both of which have been reported to have differing pathways of folate uptake. There was a significant reduction in the therapeutic targets, ZEB1 and NRP1 at mRNA and protein level following treatment with targeted complexes. In preliminary functional assays using 3D spheroids, treatment of PC3 tumours with targeted complexes with ZEB1 and NRP1 siRNA resulted in more compact colonies relative to the untargeted controls and inhibited infiltration into the Matrigel™ layer.
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Affiliation(s)
- James C Evans
- Pharmacodelivery Group, School of Pharmacy, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Meenakshi Malhotra
- Pharmacodelivery Group, School of Pharmacy, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Katrina Sweeney
- Australian Prostate Cancer Research Centre - Queensland, School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Princess Alexandra Hospital, Translational Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Raphael Darcy
- Pharmacodelivery Group, School of Pharmacy, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Colleen C Nelson
- Australian Prostate Cancer Research Centre - Queensland, School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Princess Alexandra Hospital, Translational Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Brett G Hollier
- Australian Prostate Cancer Research Centre - Queensland, School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Princess Alexandra Hospital, Translational Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
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Ni Q, Sun J, Ma C, Li Y, Ju J, Sun M. The Neuropilins and Their Ligands in Hematogenous Metastasis of Salivary Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma-An Immunohistochemical Study. J Oral Maxillofac Surg 2017; 76:569-579. [PMID: 28961428 DOI: 10.1016/j.joms.2017.08.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2017] [Revised: 08/23/2017] [Accepted: 08/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE We investigated the expression of neuropilin-1 (NRP1), neuropilin-2 (NRP2), vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A), semaphorin-3A (Sema-3A), and semaphorin-3F (Sema-3F) in normal salivary gland (NSG) tissue, nonmetastatic salivary adenoid cystic carcinoma (SACC), and metastatic SACC to better understand their role in intratumoral angiogenesis and hematogenous metastasis of SACC. PATIENTS AND METHODS The study included 60 SACC patients, equally divided between nonmetastatic SACC and metastatic SACC. We used 30 NSG samples as the control. The expression of cytokines was studied by immunohistochemistry and compared using the integrated optical density. The relationship between NRP1, NRP2, VEGF-A, and Sema-3A expression and microvessel density (MVD) was analyzed in the 3 groups. RESULTS In metastatic SACC, the expression levels of NRP1 and VEGF-A were significantly greater than those in nonmetastatic SACC and NSG. The expression of Sema-3A and Sema-3F was significantly lower in metastatic SACC than that in nonmetastatic SACC and NSG (P < .0001). No significant differences were found in NRP2 expression among the 3 groups (P = .43). The MVD of metastatic SACC was significantly greater than that of nonmetastatic SACC and NSG (P < .0001). However, the lymphatic vessel density of the 3 groups was not significantly different statistically. The relationship between MVD and NRP1 or VEGF-A showed a significant positive correlation (P < .0001, for both). However, a significant negative correlation was found between the MVD and Sema-3A or Sema-3F expression (P < .0001, for both). CONCLUSIONS Hematogenous metastasis of SACC is correlated with high expression of NRP1 and VEGF-A and low expression of Sema-3A and Sema-3F. The increased numbers of microvessels induced by VEGF-A signaling, combined with NRP1, could be one of the key reasons leading to the enhanced hematogenous metastasis in SACC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianwei Ni
- Resident, State Key Laboratory of Military Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shaanxi Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, School of Stomatology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China; and Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, General Hospital of Xinjiang Military Region, Urumqi, People's Republic of China
| | - Jinlong Sun
- Resident, Department of Stomatology, Navy General Hospital, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Chao Ma
- Resident, State Key Laboratory of Military Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shaanxi Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, School of Stomatology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
| | - Yun Li
- Resident, State Key Laboratory of Military Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shaanxi Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, School of Stomatology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun Ju
- Resident, Center of Otolaryngology of PLA, Navy General Hospital, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Moyi Sun
- Professor, State Key Laboratory of Military Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shaanxi Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, School of Stomatology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China.
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Ruffini F, Levati L, Graziani G, Caporali S, Atzori MG, D'Atri S, Lacal PM. Platelet-derived growth factor-C promotes human melanoma aggressiveness through activation of neuropilin-1. Oncotarget 2017; 8:66833-66848. [PMID: 28977999 PMCID: PMC5620139 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.18706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2017] [Accepted: 05/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite recent progress in advanced melanoma therapy, identification of signalling pathways involved in melanoma switch from proliferative to invasive states is still crucial to uncover new therapeutic targets for improving the outcome of metastatic disease. Neuropilin-1 (NRP-1), a co-receptor for vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A) tyrosine kinase receptors (VEGFRs), has been suggested to play a relevant role in melanoma progression. NRP-1 can be activated by VEGF-A also in the absence of VEGFRs, triggering specific signal transduction pathways (e.g. p130Cas phosphorylation). Since melanoma cells co-expressing high levels of NRP-1 and platelet derived growth factor-C (PDGF-C) show a highly invasive behaviour and PDGF-C shares homology with VEGF-A, in this study we have investigated whether PDGF-C directly interacts with NRP-1 and promotes melanoma aggressiveness. Results demonstrate that PDGF-C specifically binds in vitro to NRP-1. In melanoma cells expressing NRP-1 but lacking PDGFRα, PDGF-C stimulates extra-cellular matrix (ECM) invasion and induces p130Cas phosphorylation. Blockade of PDGF-C function by neutralizing antibodies or reduction of its secretion by specific siRNA inhibit ECM invasion and vasculogenic mimicry. Moreover, PDGF-C silencing significantly down-modulates the expression of Snail, a transcription factor involved in tumour invasiveness that is highly expressed in NRP-1 positive melanoma cells. In conclusion, our results demonstrate for the first time a direct activation of NRP-1 by PDGF-C and strongly suggest that autocrine and/or paracrine stimulation of NRP-1 by PDGF-C might contribute to the acquisition of a metastatic phenotype by melanoma cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Ruffini
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, "Istituto Dermopatico dell'Immacolata"-IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Lauretta Levati
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, "Istituto Dermopatico dell'Immacolata"-IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Grazia Graziani
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Simona Caporali
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, "Istituto Dermopatico dell'Immacolata"-IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Stefania D'Atri
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, "Istituto Dermopatico dell'Immacolata"-IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Pedro M Lacal
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, "Istituto Dermopatico dell'Immacolata"-IRCCS, Rome, Italy
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Epigenetic Regulation of the Biosynthesis & Enzymatic Modification of Heparan Sulfate Proteoglycans: Implications for Tumorigenesis and Cancer Biomarkers. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18071361. [PMID: 28672878 PMCID: PMC5535854 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18071361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2017] [Revised: 06/05/2017] [Accepted: 06/22/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Emerging evidence suggests that the enzymes in the biosynthetic pathway for the synthesis of heparan sulfate moieties of heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs) are epigenetically regulated at many levels. As the exact composition of the heparan sulfate portion of the resulting HSPG molecules is critical to the broad spectrum of biological processes involved in oncogenesis, the epigenetic regulation of heparan sulfate biosynthesis has far-reaching effects on many cellular activities related to cancer progression. Given the current focus on developing new anti-cancer therapeutics focused on epigenetic targets, it is important to understand the effects that these emerging therapeutics may have on the synthesis of HSPGs as alterations in HSPG composition may have profound and unanticipated effects. As an introduction, this review will briefly summarize the variety of important roles which HSPGs play in a wide-spectrum of cancer-related cellular and physiological functions and then describe the biosynthesis of the heparan sulfate chains of HSPGs, including how alterations observed in cancer cells serve as potential biomarkers. This review will then focus on detailing the multiple levels of epigenetic regulation of the enzymes in the heparan sulfate synthesis pathway with a particular focus on regulation by miRNA and effects of epigenetic therapies on HSPGs. We will also explore the use of lectins to detect differences in heparan sulfate composition and preview their potential diagnostic and prognostic use in the clinic.
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Leng Q, Woodle MC, Mixson AJ. NRP1 transport of cancer therapeutics mediated by tumor-penetrating peptides. DRUG FUTURE 2017; 42:95-104. [PMID: 28603338 DOI: 10.1358/dof.2017.042.02.2564106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Whereas uptake of low molecular weight agents is generally inhibited in tumors due to high interstitial pressure, tumor uptake of macromolecules is increased due to enhanced permeability and retention (EPR). Small molecule drugs alone or incorporated in nanoparticles (NP) have largely been dependent on such physical tumor uptake (passive) for therapeutic activity. Although passive targeted NP such as Stealth Liposomal Doxorubicin (Doxil ®) are effective with improved safety, drug delivery to tumors is still significantly limited. To improve tumor delivery and efficacy, tumor-penetrating peptides (TPP), which contain sequences that target the tumor and activate the neuropilin-1 receptor (NRP1), have either been co-administered with or conjugated to both small and large therapeutic molecules. In this review, we will discuss TPP-mediated therapeutics which target the NRP1 transport system of tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qixin Leng
- Department of Pathology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | | | - A James Mixson
- Department of Pathology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
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Discoidin Domains as Emerging Therapeutic Targets. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2016; 37:641-659. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2016.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2016] [Revised: 06/06/2016] [Accepted: 06/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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