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Feng P, Zhang X, Gao J, Jiang L, Li Y. The Roles of Exosomes in Anti-Cancer Drugs. Cancer Med 2025; 14:e70897. [PMID: 40298189 PMCID: PMC12038748 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.70897] [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: 11/25/2024] [Revised: 04/03/2025] [Accepted: 04/09/2025] [Indexed: 04/30/2025] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer is an escalating global health issue, with rising incidence rates annually. Chemotherapy, a primary cancer treatment, often exhibits low tumor-targeting efficiency and severe side effects, limiting its effectiveness. Recent research indicates that exosomes, due to their immunogenicity and molecular delivery capabilities, hold significant potential as drug carriers for tumor treatment. METHODS This review summarizes the current status, powerful therapeutic potential, and challenges of using exosomes for the treatment of tumors. RESULTS Exosomes are crucial in tumor diagnosis, onset, and progression. To improve the efficacy of exosome-based treatments, researchers are exploring various biological, physical, and chemical approaches to engineer exosomes as a new nanomedicine translational therapy platform with broad and alterable therapeutic capabilities. Numerous clinical trials are currently underway investigating the safety and tolerability of exosomes carrying drugs to specific sites for the treatment of tumors. CONCLUSIONS Exosomes can be engineered as carriers to deliver therapeutic molecules to specific cells and tissues, offering a novel approach for disease treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panpan Feng
- Department of RadiotherapyThe First Affiliated Hospital of Jinzhou Medical UniversityJinzhouChina
| | - Xiaodong Zhang
- Department of General SurgeryBeijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Jian Gao
- Science Experiment Center of China Medical UniversityShenyangChina
| | - Lei Jiang
- Department of General SurgeryThe First Affiliated Hospital of Jinzhou Medical UniversityJinzhouChina
| | - Yan Li
- Department of RadiotherapyThe First Affiliated Hospital of Jinzhou Medical UniversityJinzhouChina
- Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Oncology MetabonomicsThe First Affiliated Hospital of Jinzhou Medical UniversityJinzhouChina
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2
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Chen L, Zhang J, Huang Y, Zhang X, Zhang G, Kong S, Gao J, Zhang X, Ding B. Drug Delivery Systems Based on Dendritic-Cell-Derived Exosomes. Pharmaceutics 2025; 17:326. [PMID: 40142991 PMCID: PMC11946698 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics17030326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2025] [Revised: 02/25/2025] [Accepted: 02/26/2025] [Indexed: 03/28/2025] Open
Abstract
Exosomes, spherical lipid-bilayered particles secreted by cells, have recently emerged as a novel and highly promising drug delivery system, attracting extensive attention in the field of biomedical research. Dendritic-cell-derived exosomes (DC-Exos) possess surface protein and ligands characteristic of DC cells, such as functional MHC-I and MHC-II, CD80, CD86. These components play a crucial role in immune responses, facilitating antigen uptake, presentation, and the activation of antigen-specific CD4 and CD8 T cells. These properties make them striking and excellent drug delivery vehicles for use in various immune diseases and cancer therapy. This review summarizes and discusses the characteristics, current methods and types of drug loading of DC-Exos. Its surface modifications and application in disease treatment were also discussed, aiming to motivate the development of exosome-based theranostic nanoplatforms and nanotechnology for improved healthcare treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lihua Chen
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China; (L.C.); (G.Z.); (S.K.)
| | - Jie Zhang
- Jiaxing Key Laboratory for Photonanomedicine and Experimental Therapeutics, Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Medicine, Jiaxing University, No. 118 Jiahang Road, Jiaxing 314001, China; (J.Z.); (Y.H.); (X.Z.); (J.G.)
| | - Yueyan Huang
- Jiaxing Key Laboratory for Photonanomedicine and Experimental Therapeutics, Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Medicine, Jiaxing University, No. 118 Jiahang Road, Jiaxing 314001, China; (J.Z.); (Y.H.); (X.Z.); (J.G.)
| | - Xiaoqin Zhang
- Jiaxing Key Laboratory for Photonanomedicine and Experimental Therapeutics, Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Medicine, Jiaxing University, No. 118 Jiahang Road, Jiaxing 314001, China; (J.Z.); (Y.H.); (X.Z.); (J.G.)
| | - Guoqing Zhang
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China; (L.C.); (G.Z.); (S.K.)
- Jiaxing Key Laboratory for Photonanomedicine and Experimental Therapeutics, Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Medicine, Jiaxing University, No. 118 Jiahang Road, Jiaxing 314001, China; (J.Z.); (Y.H.); (X.Z.); (J.G.)
| | - Shuaizhi Kong
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China; (L.C.); (G.Z.); (S.K.)
- Jiaxing Key Laboratory for Photonanomedicine and Experimental Therapeutics, Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Medicine, Jiaxing University, No. 118 Jiahang Road, Jiaxing 314001, China; (J.Z.); (Y.H.); (X.Z.); (J.G.)
| | - Jianqing Gao
- Jiaxing Key Laboratory for Photonanomedicine and Experimental Therapeutics, Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Medicine, Jiaxing University, No. 118 Jiahang Road, Jiaxing 314001, China; (J.Z.); (Y.H.); (X.Z.); (J.G.)
- Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, Institute of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Xiaojuan Zhang
- Jiaxing Key Laboratory for Photonanomedicine and Experimental Therapeutics, Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Medicine, Jiaxing University, No. 118 Jiahang Road, Jiaxing 314001, China; (J.Z.); (Y.H.); (X.Z.); (J.G.)
| | - Baoyue Ding
- Jiaxing Key Laboratory for Photonanomedicine and Experimental Therapeutics, Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Medicine, Jiaxing University, No. 118 Jiahang Road, Jiaxing 314001, China; (J.Z.); (Y.H.); (X.Z.); (J.G.)
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Qian W, Chen Y, Li C, Li X, Lv C, Jia Y, Hu S, Zhang M, Wang T, Yan W, Qi M. Neospora caninum Inhibits Lewis Cancer and B16f10 Melanoma Lung Metastasis Development by Activating the Immune Response in Murine Models. Acta Parasitol 2025; 70:52. [PMID: 39918646 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-025-00996-2] [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: 11/13/2024] [Accepted: 01/20/2025] [Indexed: 02/09/2025]
Abstract
Malignant tumors are prevalent with high mortality rates in humans, dogs, and cats. Some microorganisms have been shown to inhibit cancer progression. The objective of this study is to evaluate the inhibitory effects of Neospora caninum, a livestock parasite, on three different tumor models in C57BL/6 mice, including Lewis subcutaneous tumors, Lewis and B16F10 melanoma lung metastasis. The results showed that a sufficient amount of N. caninum tachyzoites can significantly inhibit the development of subcutaneous tumors and lung metastasis (P < 0.001), and induce more than 50% tumor cell death in Lewis subcutaneous tumors. N. caninum treatment can significantly increases the infiltration of macrophages, NK cells, and CD8+ T cells (P < 0.0001) in Lewis subcutaneous tumors detected by immunohistochemistry, and the percentage of these immunocytes in the spleen (P < 0.05) of mice bearing B16F10 melanoma metastasis detected by flow cytometry. And with these changes, the mRNA expression levels of IL-12, IFN-γ, IL-2, IL-10, TNF-α and PD-L1 in tumor microenvironment and IL-12, IFN-γ, IL-2 in spleen were also significantly increased (P < 0.05). Altogether, our results indicate that a sufficient amount N. caninum tachyzoites not only inhibits the growth of Lewis subcutaneous tumors, but inhibits the development of Lewis and B16F10 melanomas lung metastatic in mice by activating potent immune responses. N. caninum and its anti-tumor properties may be an effective anti-tumor tool.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weifeng Qian
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, 471023, China.
| | - Yaqi Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, 471023, China
| | - Chen Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, 471023, China
| | - Xiaojin Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, 471023, China
- China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Chaochao Lv
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, 471023, China
| | - Yanyan Jia
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, 471023, China
| | - Suhui Hu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, 471023, China
| | - Min Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, 471023, China
| | - Tianqi Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, 471023, China
| | - Wenchao Yan
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, 471023, China
| | - Meng Qi
- College of Animal Science, Tarim University, Alar, Xinjiang, 843300, China.
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Du S, Yang Y, Wu T, Zhang L, Li H, Lv Y. Culture supernatant of Toxoplasma gondii tachyzoites inhibits the proliferation and metastasis of bladder cancer cells. Oncol Lett 2025; 29:12. [PMID: 39534704 PMCID: PMC11555465 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2024.14757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2024] [Accepted: 09/26/2024] [Indexed: 11/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Bladder cancer is the most common type of tumor in the urinary system and has a high incidence and mortality rate. Protozoan parasites have recently gained popularity as a research topic for cancer therapy. The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of T. gondii tachyzoite culture supernatants on bladder cancer cells. Bladder cancer 5637 cells were infected with two different genotypes of T. gondii tachyzoite culture supernatants, RH and ToxoDB#9. The effects of T. gondii tachyzoite culture supernatant on cell proliferation were detected using a Cell Counting Kit-8 assay. The effects on cell migration and invasion were evaluated using wound healing and Transwell assays. The effect on the apoptosis rate of the cells was assessed using a TUNEL assay, while the protein levels of Bax and Bcl-2 were analyzed by western blotting. The results indicated that the culture supernatant of T. gondii tachyzoites altered the morphology of bladder cancer 5637 cells, inhibited cell proliferation, reduced cell migration and invasion and promoted apoptosis. The ToxoDB#9-type experimental group showed higher efficacy than the RH-type experimental group in inhibiting bladder cancer cell proliferation, reducing cell migration and invasion and promoting apoptosis. These results indicated that the culture supernatant of T. gondii tachyzoites could be a promising therapeutic agent for the treatment of bladder cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shutong Du
- Department of Parasitology, School of Basic Medicine, Dali University, Dali, Yunnan 671000, P.R. China
- Pathogenic Biology Laboratory, Dali University, Dali, Yunnan 671000, P.R. China
| | - Yiwei Yang
- Department of Parasitology, School of Basic Medicine, Dali University, Dali, Yunnan 671000, P.R. China
- Pathogenic Biology Laboratory, Dali University, Dali, Yunnan 671000, P.R. China
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Blood Central Station, Health Committee, Yuxi, Yunnan 653100, P.R. China
| | - Tianfei Wu
- Department of Parasitology, School of Basic Medicine, Dali University, Dali, Yunnan 671000, P.R. China
- Pathogenic Biology Laboratory, Dali University, Dali, Yunnan 671000, P.R. China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Parasitology, School of Basic Medicine, Dali University, Dali, Yunnan 671000, P.R. China
- Pathogenic Biology Laboratory, Dali University, Dali, Yunnan 671000, P.R. China
| | - Hailong Li
- Department of Parasitology, School of Basic Medicine, Dali University, Dali, Yunnan 671000, P.R. China
- Pathogenic Biology Laboratory, Dali University, Dali, Yunnan 671000, P.R. China
| | - Yan Lv
- Department of Parasitology, School of Basic Medicine, Dali University, Dali, Yunnan 671000, P.R. China
- Pathogenic Biology Laboratory, Dali University, Dali, Yunnan 671000, P.R. China
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5
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Zhao LX, Sun Q, Wang C, Liu JJ, Yan XR, Shao MC, Yu L, Xu WH, Xu R. Toxoplasma gondii-Derived Exosomes: A Potential Immunostimulant and Delivery System for Tumor Immunotherapy Superior to Toxoplasma gondii. Int J Nanomedicine 2024; 19:12421-12438. [PMID: 39600411 PMCID: PMC11590659 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s483626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2024] [Accepted: 10/23/2024] [Indexed: 11/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapies such as immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapy and chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapy have ushered in a new era of tumor treatment. However, most patients do not benefit from immunotherapy due to limitations such as narrow indications, low response rates, and high rates of adverse effects. Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii), a specialized intracellular protozoan, can modulate host immune responses by inhibiting or stimulating cytokines. The ability of T. gondii to enhance an organism's immune response was found to have a direct anti-tumor effect and enhance the sensitivity of patients with tumors to ICB therapy. However, the application of T. gondii for tumor therapy faces several challenges, such as biosafety concerns. Exosomes, a subtype of extracellular vesicle that contains active components such as proteins, nucleic acids, and lipids, have become effective therapeutic tools for various diseases, including tumors. Parasites, such as T. gondii, mediate the communication of pathogens with immune cells and modulate host cellular immune responses through exosomes. Growing evidence indicates that T. gondii-derived exosomes mediate communication between pathogens and immune cells, modulate host immune responses, and have great potential as new tools for tumor therapy. In this review, we highlight recent advances in isolation and identification techniques, profiling analysis, host immunomodulatory mechanisms, and the role of T. gondii-derived exosomes in tumor immunotherapy. Additionally, we emphasize the potential of T. gondii-derived exosomes as delivery platform to enhance anti-tumor efficacy in combination with other therapies. This review proposes that T. gondii-derived exosomes may serve as a novel tool for tumor immunotherapy owing to their ability to activate host immune function and properties such as high modifiability, stability, and low toxicity. This work will assist in promoting the application of parasite exosomes in tumor therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lai-Xi Zhao
- College & Hospital of Stomatology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Research of Anhui Province, Hefei, 230032, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qiong Sun
- Department of Stomatology, Anhui Province Direct Subordinate Hospital, Hefei, 230601, People’s Republic of China
| | - Chong Wang
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Zoonoses, The Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonoses of High Institutions in Anhui, Hefei, Anhui Province, 230032, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jia-Jia Liu
- College & Hospital of Stomatology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Research of Anhui Province, Hefei, 230032, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiao-Rong Yan
- College & Hospital of Stomatology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Research of Anhui Province, Hefei, 230032, People’s Republic of China
| | - Meng-Ci Shao
- College & Hospital of Stomatology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Research of Anhui Province, Hefei, 230032, People’s Republic of China
| | - Li Yu
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Zoonoses, The Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonoses of High Institutions in Anhui, Hefei, Anhui Province, 230032, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wen-Hua Xu
- College & Hospital of Stomatology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Research of Anhui Province, Hefei, 230032, People’s Republic of China
| | - Rui Xu
- College & Hospital of Stomatology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Research of Anhui Province, Hefei, 230032, People’s Republic of China
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6
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Eissa MM, Salem AE, El Skhawy N. Parasites revive hope for cancer therapy. Eur J Med Res 2024; 29:489. [PMID: 39367471 PMCID: PMC11453045 DOI: 10.1186/s40001-024-02057-2] [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: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 09/10/2024] [Indexed: 10/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Parasites have attained a life-long stigma of being detrimental organisms with deleterious outcomes. Yet, recently, a creditable twist was verified that can dramatically change our perception of those parasites from being a source of misery to millions of people to a useful anti-cancerous tool. Various parasites have shown promise to combat cancer in different experimental models, including colorectal, lung, and breast cancers, among others. Helminths and protozoan parasites, as well as their derivatives such as Echinococcus granulosus protein KI-1, Toxoplasma gondii GRA15II, and Trypanosoma cruzi calreticulin, have demonstrated the ability to inhibit tumor growth, angiogenesis, and metastasis. This article provides an overview of the literature on various cancer types that have shown promising responses to parasite therapy in both in vitro and in vivo animal studies. Parasites have shown anti-neoplastic activity through a variety of mechanisms that collectively contribute to their anti-cancer properties. These include immunomodulation, inhibition of angiogenesis, and molecular mimicry with cancer cells. This review article sheds light on this intriguing emerging field and emphasizes the value of collaborative multidisciplinary research projects with funding agencies and pharmaceutical companies. Thus, these strategies would secure continuous exploration of this new avenue and accelerate the advancement of cancer therapy research. Although experimental studies are heavily conducted by leaps and bounds, further steps are definitely lagging. Upgrading research from the experimental level to the clinical trial would be a wise progression toward efficient exploitation of the anti-neoplastic capabilities of parasites, ultimately saving countless lives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maha M Eissa
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt.
| | - Ahmed Ebada Salem
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, School of Medicine, Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, 48123, USA
| | - Nahla El Skhawy
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
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Han B, Han X, Luo H, Nasir J, Chen C, Shao Z, Ling H, Hu X. Multiomics and single-cell sequencings reveal the specific biological characteristics of low Ki-67 triple-negative breast cancer. CANCER INNOVATION 2024; 3:e146. [PMID: 39301202 PMCID: PMC11411700 DOI: 10.1002/cai2.146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2024] [Revised: 07/08/2024] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 09/22/2024]
Abstract
Background Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) displays high heterogeneity. The majority of TNBC cases are characterized by high Ki-67 expression. TNBC with low Ki-67 expression accounts for only a small fraction of cases and has been relatively less studied. Methods This study analyzed a large single-center multiomics TNBC data set, combined with a single-cell data set. The clinical, genomic, and metabolic characteristics of patients with low Ki-67 TNBC were analyzed. Results The clinical and pathological characteristics were analyzed in 2217 TNBC patients. Low Ki-67 TNBC was associated with a higher patient age at diagnosis, a lower proportion of invasive ductal carcinoma, increased alterations in the PI3K-AKT-mTOR pathway, upregulated lipid metabolism pathways, and enhanced infiltration of M2 macrophages. High Ki-67 TNBC exhibited a higher prevalence of TP53 gene mutations, elevated nucleotide metabolism, and increased infiltration of M1 macrophages. Conclusions We identified specific genomic and metabolic characteristics unique to low Ki-67 TNBC, which have implications for the development of precision therapies and patient stratification strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boyue Han
- Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, Department of Breast Surgery Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center Shanghai China
- Department of Oncology Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University Shanghai China
- Precision Cancer Medical Center Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center Shanghai China
| | - Xiangchen Han
- Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, Department of Breast Surgery Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center Shanghai China
- Department of Oncology Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University Shanghai China
- Precision Cancer Medical Center Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center Shanghai China
| | - Hong Luo
- Precision Cancer Medical Center Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center Shanghai China
| | - Javaria Nasir
- Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, Department of Breast Surgery Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center Shanghai China
- Department of Oncology Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University Shanghai China
| | - Chao Chen
- Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, Department of Breast Surgery Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center Shanghai China
- Department of Oncology Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University Shanghai China
| | - Zhiming Shao
- Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, Department of Breast Surgery Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center Shanghai China
- Department of Oncology Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University Shanghai China
- Precision Cancer Medical Center Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center Shanghai China
| | - Hong Ling
- Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, Department of Breast Surgery Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center Shanghai China
- Department of Oncology Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University Shanghai China
| | - Xin Hu
- Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, Department of Breast Surgery Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center Shanghai China
- Department of Oncology Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University Shanghai China
- Precision Cancer Medical Center Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center Shanghai China
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8
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Xie Y, Wang J, Wang Y, Wen Y, Pu Y, Wang B. Parasite-enhanced immunotherapy: transforming the "cold" tumors to "hot" battlefields. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:448. [PMID: 39327550 PMCID: PMC11426008 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-024-01822-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2024] [Accepted: 09/08/2024] [Indexed: 09/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy has emerged as a highly effective treatment for various tumors. However, the variable response rates associated with current immunotherapies often restrict their beneficial impact on a subset of patients. Therefore, more effective treatment approaches that can broaden the scope of therapeutic benefits to a larger patient population are urgently needed. Studies have shown that some parasites and their products, for example, Plasmodium, Toxoplasma, Trypanosoma, and Echinococcus, can effectively transform "cold" tumors into "hot" battlefields and reshape the tumor microenvironment, thereby stimulating innate and adaptive antitumor immune responses. These parasitic infections not only achieve the functional reversal of innate immune cells, such as neutrophils, macrophages, myeloid-derived suppressor cells, regulatory T cells, and dendritic cells, in tumors but also successfully activate CD4+/CD8+ T cells and even B cells to produce antibodies, ultimately resulting in an antitumor-specific immune response and antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity. Animal studies have confirmed these findings. This review discusses the abovementioned content and the challenges faced in the future clinical application of antitumor treatment strategies based on parasitic infections. With the potential of these parasites and their byproducts to function as anticancer agents, we anticipate that further investigations in this field could yield significant advancements in cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujun Xie
- Laboratory of Tumor Immunobiology, Department of Public Health and Pathogen Biology, College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine (College of Life Science), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, 230012, China
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, 230012, China
- Graduate School, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, 230012, China
| | - Jinyan Wang
- College of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110122, China
| | - Yafei Wang
- Faculty of Arts and Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 3G3, Canada
| | - Yalin Wen
- Laboratory of Tumor Immunobiology, Department of Public Health and Pathogen Biology, College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine (College of Life Science), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, 230012, China
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, 230012, China
- Graduate School, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, 230012, China
| | - Yanping Pu
- Graduate School, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, 230012, China
| | - Benfan Wang
- Laboratory of Tumor Immunobiology, Department of Public Health and Pathogen Biology, College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine (College of Life Science), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, 230012, China.
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, 230012, China.
- Institute of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, 230038, China.
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9
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Yang S, Wei S, Wei F. Extracellular vesicles mediated gastric cancer immune response: tumor cell death or immune escape? Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:377. [PMID: 38816455 PMCID: PMC11139918 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06758-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
Gastric cancer (GC) is a major global health issue, being the fifth most prevalent cancer and the third highest contributor to cancer-related deaths. Although treatment strategies for GC have diversified, the prognosis for advanced GC remains poor. Hence, there is a critical need to explore new directions for GC treatment to enhance diagnosis, treatment, and patient prognosis. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have emerged as key players in tumor development and progression. Different sources of EVs carry different molecules, resulting in distinct biological functions. For instance, tumor-derived EVs can promote tumor cell proliferation, alter the tumor microenvironment and immune response, while EVs derived from immune cells carry molecules that regulate immune function and possess tumor-killing capabilities. Numerous studies have demonstrated the crucial role of EVs in the development, immune escape, and immune microenvironment remodeling in GC. In this review, we discuss the role of GC-derived EVs in immune microenvironment remodeling and EVs derived from immune cells in GC development. Furthermore, we provide an overview of the potential uses of EVs in immunotherapy for GC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuo Yang
- Department of the Seventh General surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110000̥, Liaoning Province, PR China
| | - Shibo Wei
- Department of the Seventh General surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110000̥, Liaoning Province, PR China.
| | - Fang Wei
- Department of the Seventh General surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110000̥, Liaoning Province, PR China.
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10
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Morimoto K, Ishitobi J, Noguchi K, Kira R, Kitayama Y, Goto Y, Fujiwara D, Michigami M, Harada A, Takatani-Nakase T, Fujii I, Futaki S, Kanada M, Nakase I. Extracellular Microvesicles Modified with Arginine-Rich Peptides for Active Macropinocytosis Induction and Delivery of Therapeutic Molecules. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:17069-17079. [PMID: 38563247 PMCID: PMC11011658 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c14592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 03/02/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs), including exosomes and microvesicles (MVs), transfer bioactive molecules from donor to recipient cells in various pathophysiological settings, thereby mediating intercellular communication. Despite their significant roles in extracellular signaling, the cellular uptake mechanisms of different EV subpopulations remain unknown. In particular, plasma membrane-derived MVs are larger vesicles (100 nm to 1 μm in diameter) and may serve as efficient molecular delivery systems due to their large capacity; however, because of size limitations, receptor-mediated endocytosis is considered an inefficient means for cellular MV uptake. This study demonstrated that macropinocytosis (lamellipodia formation and plasma membrane ruffling, causing the engulfment of large fluid volumes outside cells) can enhance cellular MV uptake. We developed experimental techniques to induce macropinocytosis-mediated MV uptake by modifying MV membranes with arginine-rich cell-penetrating peptides for the intracellular delivery of therapeutic molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenta Morimoto
- Department
of Biological Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Osaka Metropolitan University, 1-1, Gakuen-cho, Naka-ku, Sakai 599-8531, Osaka, Japan
| | - Jojiro Ishitobi
- Department
of Biological Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Osaka Metropolitan University, 1-1, Gakuen-cho, Naka-ku, Sakai 599-8531, Osaka, Japan
| | - Kosuke Noguchi
- Department
of Biological Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Osaka Metropolitan University, 1-1, Gakuen-cho, Naka-ku, Sakai 599-8531, Osaka, Japan
| | - Ryoichi Kira
- Department
of Biological Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Osaka Metropolitan University, 1-1, Gakuen-cho, Naka-ku, Sakai 599-8531, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yukiya Kitayama
- Department
of Applied Chemistry, Graduate School of
Engineering, Osaka Metropolitan University, 1-1 Gakuen-cho,
Naka-ku, Sakai 599-8531, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yuto Goto
- Department
of Applied Chemistry, Graduate School of
Engineering, Osaka Metropolitan University, 1-1 Gakuen-cho,
Naka-ku, Sakai 599-8531, Osaka, Japan
| | - Daisuke Fujiwara
- Department
of Biological Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Osaka Metropolitan University, 1-1, Gakuen-cho, Naka-ku, Sakai 599-8531, Osaka, Japan
| | - Masataka Michigami
- Department
of Biological Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Osaka Metropolitan University, 1-1, Gakuen-cho, Naka-ku, Sakai 599-8531, Osaka, Japan
| | - Atsushi Harada
- Department
of Applied Chemistry, Graduate School of
Engineering, Osaka Metropolitan University, 1-1 Gakuen-cho,
Naka-ku, Sakai 599-8531, Osaka, Japan
| | - Tomoka Takatani-Nakase
- Department
of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Mukogawa Women’s University, 11-68, Koshien Kyuban-cho, Nishinomiya 663-8179, Hyogo, Japan
- Institute
for Bioscience, Mukogawa Women’s University, 11-68, Koshien Kyuban-cho, Nishinomiya 663-8179, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Ikuo Fujii
- Department
of Biological Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Osaka Metropolitan University, 1-1, Gakuen-cho, Naka-ku, Sakai 599-8531, Osaka, Japan
| | - Shiroh Futaki
- Institute
for Chemical Research, Kyoto University, Uji 611-0011, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Masamitsu Kanada
- Institute
for Quantitative Health Science and Engineering (IQ), Michigan State
University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824, United States
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824, United States
| | - Ikuhiko Nakase
- Department
of Biological Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Osaka Metropolitan University, 1-1, Gakuen-cho, Naka-ku, Sakai 599-8531, Osaka, Japan
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11
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Zheng Z, Lu X, Zhou D, Deng XF, Liu QX, Liu XB, Zhang J, Li YQ, Zheng H, Dai JG. A novel enemy of cancer: recent investigations into protozoan anti-tumor properties. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2024; 13:1325144. [PMID: 38274735 PMCID: PMC10808745 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1325144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer remains a significant global health issue, despite advances in screening and treatment. While existing tumor treatment protocols such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy have proven effective in enhancing the prognosis for some patients, these treatments do not benefit all patients. Consequently, certain types of cancer continue to exhibit a relatively low 5-year survival rate. Therefore, the pursuit of novel tumor intervention strategies may help improve the current effectiveness of tumor treatment. Over the past few decades, numerous species of protozoa and their components have exhibited anti-tumor potential via immune and non-immune mechanisms. This discovery introduces a new research direction for the development of new and effective cancer treatments. Through in vitro experiments and studies involving tumor-bearing mice, the anti-tumor ability of Toxoplasma gondii, Plasmodium, Trypanosoma cruzi, and other protozoa have unveiled diverse mechanisms by which protozoa combat cancer, demonstrating encouraging prospects for their application. In this review, we summarize the anti-tumor ability and anti-tumor mechanisms of various protozoa and explore the potential for their clinical development and application.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Hong Zheng
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Xinqiao Hospital, Army (Third Military) Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ji-gang Dai
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Xinqiao Hospital, Army (Third Military) Medical University, Chongqing, China
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12
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Chen J, Liao W, Peng H. Toxoplasma gondii infection possibly reverses host immunosuppression to restrain tumor growth. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:959300. [PMID: 36118042 PMCID: PMC9470863 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.959300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumor cells can successfully escape the host immune attack by inducing the production of immunosuppressive cells and molecules, leading to an ineffective tumor treatment and poor prognosis. Although immunotherapies have improved the survival rate of cancer patients in recent years, more effective drugs and therapies still need to be developed. As an intracellular parasite, Toxoplasma gondii can trigger a strong Th1 immune response in host cells, including upregulating the expression of interleukin-12 (IL-12) and interferon-γ (IFN-γ). Non-replicating uracil auxotrophic strains of T. gondii were used to safely reverse the immunosuppression manipulated by the tumor microenvironment. In addition to the whole lysate antigens, T. gondii-secreted effectors, including Toxoplasma profilin, rhoptry proteins (ROPs), and dense granule antigens (GRAs), are involved in arousing the host’s antigen presentation system to suppress tumors. When T. gondii infection relieves immunosuppression, tumor-related myeloid cells, including macrophages and dendritic cells (DCs), are transformed into immunostimulatory phenotypes, showing a powerful Th1 immune response mediated by CD8+ T cells. Afterwards, they target and kill the tumor cells, and ultimately reduce the size and weight of tumor tissues. This article reviews the latest applications of T. gondii in tumor therapy, including the activation of cellular immunity and the related signal pathways, which will help us understand why T. gondii infection can restrain tumor growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiating Chen
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Public Health, Guangdong Provincial Key laboratory of Tropical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wenzhong Liao
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Public Health, Guangdong Provincial Key laboratory of Tropical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - HongJuan Peng
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Public Health, Guangdong Provincial Key laboratory of Tropical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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